Page:1 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 News Page:2 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 LOCALNewNews NEWSs ‘Rhapsody of the Seas’ arrives for Safe Harbouring

By Loshaun Dixon They would have to Walwyn staff and the Rhapsody of the Seas docked in Basseterre complete a RT-PCR test crew. The Royal Caribbean at the end of the 14 day- vessel ‘Rhapsody of the quarantine period or man- The Crew exchange will Seas’, originating from dated quarantine period, be done via air and all St. Maarten, arrived based on their transition crew embarking ships in St. Kitts for “Safe time for their last port, and disembarking must Harbouring on Sunday and in the event a crew adhere to the Federation’s and docked at Port Zante, member tests positive for travel requirements for where it would be sta- COVID-19 on entry into arrival and departure. All tioned for the next two St. Kitts, the vessel will crew members arriving months. have to leave Port Zante by air must under the for International waters. mandatory 14-day quar- The St. Kitts Tourism antine on the vessel. Authority (SKTA) The SKTA said that very said the vessel arrived limited physical interac- “If the ship received with “adherence to the tion will be made with ship-to-ship transfers Federation’s COVID-19 people on the ground and within the past 28 days, regulations, including ar- crew members during crew must have come rival travel requirements, the mandatory quaran- from a ship that had no and health and safety pro- tine and that SCASPA’s confirmed COVID-19 tocols for all international Pilots were not required or COVID-like illness travelers.” to provide any physical within the 28 days before assistance to facilitate the transfer occurred. The SKTA said the berthing. Coast Guard If land-based crew em- ‘Rhapsody of the Seas’ assistance will not be re- barked, they were imme- came alongside Port quired, unless in the case diately quarantined for 14 Zante, PZ1 at 8:10am of an emergency. days upon embarking the local time with 78 crew ship.” members. Royal Caribbean’s ship agent, Delisle Walwyn, Minister of Tourism The crew for ‘Rhapsody will be provisioning the Lindsay Grant said the of the Seas’ is required to cruise vessel and contain- priority was to ensure the do a mandatory 14-day ers of supplies will be safety, security and health quarantine onboard the imported and delivered of citizens, and they were vessel or quarantine for to it.The items will be having daily contact with the number of days as per dropped off on the Pier Royal Caribbean to en- their transition time from without any physical in- sure all the protocols are their last port. teraction between Delisle in place. LOCALNew NEWSs The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:3

Premier Brantley presents $237M budget for 2021 - no new taxes, but increases in old taxes and fees Hon. Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis and Minister of Finance in the Nevis Island Administration delivering the 2021 Budget Address in the Nevis Island Assembly on December 8.

By Monique Washington will be new fees for ser- our surroundings clean, will be whether or not in make a concerted effort to provision of goods or ser- vices provided at the and therefore this fee in- the absence of the vehicle, persuade our people to be vices to the government Premier of Nevis and Alexandra Hospital, but crease is justified. the core functions of the responsible citizens, and must be current with their Minister of Finance Mark the government will also business cease to exist,” to honour their tax obliga- payment of all fees and Brantley on Tuesday pre- try to help who are “at a Premier Brantley stated. tions. To this end, we will taxes or must have made sented a budget with no disadvantage”. continue to enforce our suitable arrangements for new taxes, as promised, The increases of fees and existing policy, whereby the payment of their taxes but increases in several “Every effort will be taxes for 2021 budget will all persons or entities before entering into such fees and old taxes. made to ensure that the also see the Government “We will continue to seeking to contract for the contracts,” he said. most vulnerable are not implement “aggressive” According to Brantley, disadvantaged or denied collection policy in taxes, for the upcoming fiscal access to any of these crit- and also “streamline our year 2021, the budget is ical services. Therefore, policy for tax concessions set at $237.2 million. He where persons lack the and limit exemptions noted that though there resources to pay the full from the various taxes were no new taxes, the price for these services, only to areas as prescribed NIA Cabinet did approve special arrangements will in relevant legislation, a number of measures. apply,” Brantley said. cabinet policies, or when necessary to be used as “There is the implemen- He also noted that there a short term tool to drive tation of an increase will be an increase in the the long term benefits of in the fee structure for monthly fee payable for increase in business activ- The NIA will also discontinue the random policy of granting duty-free concessions on vehicles simply because someone is the holder of a business license. all services provided at the Solid Waste Disposal ity, ultimately leading to our Financial Services Levy from $10.00 to increase in employment Registry. Additionally, $25.00 for domestic con- opportunities for our there will be an increase in sumers and $75.00 for people”. the Annual Licensing Fee small business operators, for all Service Providers with effect from April 1, The NIA will also discon- as well. This new fee 2021. This is in addition tinue the random policy structure, which will take to a 20% increase in the of granting duty-free con- effect from 1st July 2021, tipping fees payable for cessions on vehicles sim- will be finalized and com- the disposal of waste at ply because someone is municated to Service the Solid Waste Disposal the holder of a business Providers in January Site. license. 2021, so that their clients can be granted ample no- “We must admit that our “Concessions now would tice of these fee changes,” officers at the Solid Waste only be favourably con- he said. Management Authority sidered where the vehicle continue to provide an ex- forms part of the business He also noted that there cellent service in keeping activity. The deciding test Page:4 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 EDITORIALNewNewss EDitorial LIAT Again! The announcement that the Federation has forgiven $11M debt to LIAT and vice versa; thereby resulting in parallel crews, each of which took us by surprise. We didn’t know that LIAT owed us so much money; seemingly were under-employed but properly paid. We cannot say what and we didn’t understand why we allowed LIAT to owe us so much happened to all the charges that were added to the tickets; all we know is money. We were not told how it came to be and over what period. But that they sometimes equaled or exceeded the actual air fare. that doesn’t matter now. The attitude of the staff at the hub airports didn’t help LIAT either. These However, from where we stand, the saga of LIAT and our relationship were the same persons, who gave excellent customer service to the with it is an interesting one. “international airline” but lousy service to local travelers. It definitely affected LIAT’s profitability. When we had our 2x4 airports, LIAT was our main means of inter-island air travel. It operated 48 seaters (the Avro), 19 seaters (the twin otter) Meanwhile, there was a Board of Directors that oversaw these decisions and the 9 seaters (the islander). At one time, we are told LIAT also had that seemingly were not in the best interest of the carrier. jets. There was a hub in Antigua (and maybe Barbados, we are unsure). In those days, a ticket covered the cost of the airlift and nothing else. LIAT has been re-invented several times since its initial founding LIAT had no problem carrying our bags and boxes, weighing up to 70 in 1956; each time with a promise to do better. We trust that in this pounds each. We heard no talk then of debt. iteration, they will. Then we built large runway airports and courted larger, externally For the record, we fully support LIAT as our regional airline. We accept owned airlines, and wooed them with seat guarantees. Then we accepted that some routes would be more profitable than others but believe that all international rules without adjustment and determined that tickets must routes should be serviced. Thus, we welcome the debt relief offered by now have added charges to pay for our underused long-runway airports. our government. But we must get better management from the airline or We no longer wanted boxes, but suitcases that weighed no more than our sacrifices will be in vain. 50lbs, and only one per passenger. As a result, the cost of inter-regional We cannot afford that. travel skyrocketed. Simultaneously, LIAT got rid of the smaller airplanes (except the Avro) and invested in the larger 60+ seater (the Dash 8 & ATR) even as its passenger load between islands was eroded by the presence of the large jets that now operated on our airports. (For example, BA offered flights between St. Kitts and Antigua twice weekly at a competitive price). Pilots specialize: those who flew the Avro could not fly the other aircrafts LOCALNew NEWSs The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:5 BVI Opposition Leader Not Loving Last-Minute Decision To Delay Opening Of

Seaports. Photo: Road Town Ferry Terminal, Tortola British Virgin Islands. (Photo credit: Franklyn Skerritt/GIS)

ROAD TOWN, BVI– Town Ferry Terminal, He also reminded per- not gotten things right in stories in the regional and (charter companies, ferry December 10th, 2020– and private and charter sons that the borders of many respects. international press and we operators, etcetera) as Premier and Minister of vessels unless previously the British Virgin Islands must get our act together well as travelers who pre- Finance, Andrew Fahie approved. are still open to welcome “It signals that we are and improve our image,” pared for the December 8 has announced that the residents and visitors, but not prepared and this Penn stated. opening to learn less than seaports of the British it will only be through damages our global im- 12 hours before that plans Virgin Islands will be the Terrance B. Lettsome age, which has taken “It also provides further have changed at the last opened to international The Premier said, “We do International Airport at a hit lately with many financial strain on already minute,” he added. travel on January 21, not want to compromise this time. negative and damaging cash-strapped businesses 2021. Previously the in- the safety and health of tention had been to open the people of the Virgin the ports on December Islands. We do not want to 8th. retard our progress in hav- The Premier concluded ing low or no COVID-19 by saying, “The world is Premier Fahie made the in the Virgin Islands.” experiencing spikes and announcement during a we must ensure that we live update on the reopen- He added, “We have set do all we can and ex- ing of the Territory’s bor- a target date of January haust all efforts to keep ders on Monday evening, 21 for the reopening of everyone safe including however his explanation the Road Town Ferry persons living here and for the delay was lack- Terminal only to incom- persons visiting.” ing in specific details ing international visitors regarding the last-minute until all performance ob- change of plan, other jectives for the reopening than saying that the BVI are met.” The last-minute defer- had been surprised by the ral of the reopening of number of arrivals at the The Premier said the aim the territory’s seaports airport. is to ensure that all visi- to January 2021 came as tors experience an authen- no surprise to Opposition The Premier said, “Given tic BVILOVE welcome Leader Marlon Penn who the number of persons that from the moment they said he believes the tim- have been coming into the begin their journey to the ing of the announcement T.B. Lettsome Airport, Territory and throughout will reflect poorly on the which far exceeds our the entire entry process BVI as a destination and projection in this era, whether it be the airport as a brand. we see an opportunity or seaport. to further strengthen our Penn made the comment seaports to successfully Premier Fahie said the while speaking to BVI balance lives and liveli- main seaport is still in need News on Wednesday as hood. We want the team of further adjustments and he first acknowledged there to be fully equipped physical improvements what he described as the as we COVID-19 proof for both the arrival and ‘good work by the gov- the Territory.” departure processes in the ernment and hard-work- era of COVID-19. The ing public servants’ to get Fahie said that the Cabinet Premier said this observa- the territory to this point. of the Virgin Islands tion was made as a result decided to delay the of the recent reopening at However, he said the many Territory’s December 8 the Terrance B. Lettsome discrepancies shown by opening to marine traffic International Airport the government through from international visitors which he said is a learn- their decision-making is including via the Road ing curve. a clear indicator they have Page:6 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 LOCALNewNews NEWSs “It was worth it” - PM Harris celebrates with constituents

PM Harris at the celebration

By Loshaun Dixon you for all those years elections were called in challenging elections, af- people of St. Kitts and Team Unity construct. of support, and for the 1993, he came back home ter he was thrown out of Nevis, who knew the time Prime Minister of St. strong bonds of friend- to decline the opportunity the Labour Party, only to had come for something “I want to thank them for Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the ship and love which we to run in that election, and form his party and form different - for a reuniting believing and for giving Honourable Timothy have developed, and the indicate that he had com- a coalition dubbed Team of the country, and for us their support. We have Harris, celebrated his unbreakable connection mitted to the University. Unity bringing back positive accomplished quite a lot. birthday and 27th an- between all of you and He noted, however, that energy for an attempt to We have accomplished niversary as constitu- myself and my family. after seeing the support “One of the most difficult take the country some- more than any govern- ency representative of St. You have become my ex- that had come out for him, elections was the elec- place better, someplace ment has in its first term Christopher 7, on Sunday tended family and you are it had changed his mind. tions of 2015, because by stronger, someplace more in office anywhere in the morning last at the Mount a real blessing.” then I had parted from the united, someplace where world.” Carmel Baptist Church, “In 1993 I came from natural base of the Labour the hopes and dreams of hailing his fellow con- He noted that he had Canada, and when I got Party, and it was a very people could be realized.” He said the accomplish- stituents for placing their wanted to be a teacher, here, shortly after the difficult time, because ment was a first in St. confidence in him for following his encounters general elections were everything was being He hailed his Deputy Kitts and Nevis, where a seven straight elections. with teachers growing up. called, and I couldn’t go done to prove the point Prime Minister Shawn political candidate would to Trinidad. It was as if it that we shall not prevail Richards and former have left a party, founded Dr. Harris said that al- “Growing up I had won- was meant to be. Again, and could not prevail, and cabinet colleague, Vance a party, contested an elec- though he never consid- derful teachers, I could you the people of Number Timothy Harris, in par- Amory, for their unwav- tion and won. ered his future would be see them, I could hear 7 never disappointed me, ticular, could not prevail ering support and believ- one involved in politics, them, and I know what so from the bottom of my outside the umbrella of ing in the vision. “It would have been one he got to where he is each one did for me. heart, thank you seven the Labour Party. I have of the first times that a mi- thanks to the love of the Back then it was alright times over.” over the last 27 years “With the leadership nority party would have constituency. for teachers to comb your developed and honed cer- Shawn Richards gave led the team into an elec- hair, fix your uniform col- Dr Harris reflected on tain lessons about politics. and the leadership Vance tion, and then be appoint- “At school, I was shy, lar, and basically to take some of this achieve- Essentially, in the end, the Amory gave, Team Unity ed as Prime Minister. We and I did not anticipate care of you - substituting ment as a constituency politics is about people; a became a reality. I want to have been able to keep it this journey which I em- themselves for the parents representative. determined people, a con- thank them both. I want together, and will succeed barked upon, but I know who either were too busy, fident people.” to thank so many people to keep it together for the how I got here. I got here or didn’t have time to see “It is refreshing when who gave us support.” second, third, fourth and largely on the wings of how you left home to go you go through from Dr. Harris thanked his fifth term, if we remem- love of the good people of to school.” community to commu- family for their support ber the E in Team Unity.” St. Christopher 7.” nity, you can see the ac- during the highs and lows Dr Harris said he was con- complishments of our of his political career. Dr Harris praised the peo- He noted that he remains He said back in November tracted by the University tenure of service together. ple of St. Kitts and Nevis committed to the Team 1993 when he was “called of the West Indies to go The houses, the new “Every pain I would have who gave him the oppor- Unity construct. home to duty” the people back and teach for 15 schools that were built, gone through my family tunity to serve as Prime gave him “outstanding” to 20 years in Trinidad, and we can go on and on would have felt, and they Minister. support, and for that, he shortly after he started his cataloguing a long list of stood with me through would always be eternally PhD in Canada. things…how Belle Vue all the years. Before I en- “I went house to house “Every unit must be indebted to the wonderful has been transformed; tered politics, my family with candidates and on strong to deliver; what people of St. Christopher “I was doing what was and you get a sense that generally was not a politi- my own accord, talking the other lacks some other 7. my first inclination, albeit it has been worth it. It has cal family. I want to say to people...everywhere must have, so we can fill at a different level and cir- been worth it because the thank you to all of them.” encouraging them - some the void. That is why as “Time after time, through cumstances, because we people of Number 7 had a of them very staunch the leader, I took time and several general elections, don’t know what tomor- strong faith and rallied on The prime minister also Labour Party support- went into all the constitu- you have never let me row holds – sometimes every occasion when they thanked the “Team Unity ers - and over time I had encies, directly and indi- down. It has never been there is a changed and needed to rally.” family” and the people of developed a connection rectly, doing what I could a question of whether altered course.” St. Kitts and Nevis. with them, and had gone do to ensure that as a team we will win, but by how He recognized 2015 to them to speak and say we triumph.” much we will win. I thank He said when the as one of the most “I want to thank the why we need to have this LOCALNew NEWSs The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:7

2020 BON Right Excellent Dr Sir Simeon Daniel Scholarships Recipients display “potential to excel”

Adrian Daniel ( Simeon’s son) awardee Webbe and Clarke , Janice Daniel Hodge ( Simeon daughter)

By Monique Washington Candidates then had to be we will be investing in the bank for allowing him so, I will make Dr the she will “strive to do my interviewed by the schol- them for a long time. We to “prove myself through Hon. Sir Simeon Daniel best and make the Bank The “potential to excel” arship committee. will be following you. awarding me this scholar- and my family proud,” he of Nevis proud”. is what was seen in the We believe in you and we ship” He also thanked his said. two newest recipients expect you to work hard,” family and church com- The recipients also re- of the Bank of Nevis she said. munity for their support ceived a copy of ‘The (BON) Limited’s Right The scholarship pro- over the years Legacy of Sir Simeon Excellent Dr Sir Simeon vides for textbooks and PS Barrett applauded the Recipient Webbe also Daniel’ which was pre- Daniel Scholarships uniforms, and would be bank and its scholarship “I hope to reach full aca- expressed her gratitude to sented to them by Janice for 2020, Benjamin continued throughout program, and congratu- demic potential. In doing the BON, and noted that Daniel–Hodge. Clarke of the Gingerland the child’s enrollment in lated them on 10 years of Secondary School and school, barring there are maintaining it. “Anything Adeille Webbe of the no negative reports given Sir Simeon could have Charlestown Secondary as it relates to their con- done to better the life for The scholarship provides for textbooks and uniforms, and would be continued throughout the child’s enrollment in school, barring there are no negative reports given as it relates to their conduct. An average grade of 85 percent must also be maintained.

School, according to duct. An average grade of the people of Nevis, he the daughter of the late 85 percent must also be would have put things in Sir Simeon, Dr. Janice maintained. place so that things were Daniel-Hodge. looked after,” he said. Dr. Daniel-Hodge told On Friday, December 4, both recipients that they “We know what could parents, the Scholarship have the “potential to happen when assistance board members, excel” is given to the right peo- Permanent Secretary in ple at the right time. This Education Kevin Barrett, “We are providing these is just the first step. This and children of the late Sir scholarships because we is the foundation. I want Simeon Daniel, gathered feel that you have the po- you as the recipients to at the meeting room at tential to excel. When stu- recognize that, you have the Bank Of Nevis for the dents know that there are a whole world ahead. scholarship presentation. expectations it helps them And with assistance such to work hard. Compare a as those, we want you to The Scholarship program child that feels that they use it for the benefit of is now in its tenth year. are not appreciated, or yourself and the benefit of The recipients were se- feels that there is nothing your family, and eventu- lected after their names that is expected of them, ally for the benefit of your were submitted to the compared to those chil- island.” Bank of Nevis by the dren who know that they Department of Education. have been recognized and Recipient Clarke thanked Page:8 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 LOCALNew NEWSs

Intriguing times ahead for St. Paul’s as NRP selects Caines

New Candidate for the NRP Jaedee Caines

By Monique Washington had beaten Hector in her opponent Keith “Dis She said that Daniel- “historic moment” for levels. the 2017 Nevis Island and Dat” Scarborough Hodge’s entrance into the Nevisians and Kittitians The constituency of St Assembly election by of the CCM and be- political sphere was one because, for the first time The party has not named Paul’s will undoubtedly 11 votes. It will be a came the representative of the latest indications in the Federation’s his- its candidates for St. experience a stimulating monumental challenge of St. Thomas’, as well of the ongoing political tory, a woman had been George’s or St. Johns, contest in the Nevis Island for Caines to become the as the lone Nevis Island evolution in St. Kitts and elected to lead a political but it was hinted to the Assembly election, due in area representative, given Assembly parliamentar- Nevis, particularly where party. “It warms in the Observer that Dr. Patricia 2022. This prognosis was Brand’s status and popu- ian for the party. women are concerned. heart,” she said, to see Bartlett has been touted given an even more en- larity, but nevertheless, that people are now mak- as the proposed candidate ticing element, when the her party has the confi- Janice Daniel-Hodge, ing the first steps toward for St. John’s. Nevis Reformation Party dence that she will be a daughter of the late Sir gender equity on one of (NRP) St. Paul’s con- formidable opponent. Simeon Daniel, was She noted that it was a the most important social stituency group elected its chosen as the leader in newest candidate, Jaedee Caines is the third female September. During the Caines. candidate that the NRP Party’s convention, both has taken in less than a Daniel-Hodge and Cleone Caines, a Communication year, with one of them Stapleton-Simmonds

Caines is the third female candidate that the NRP has taken in less than a year, with one of them being named leader of the Party.

Specialist, was elected on being named leader of the were nominated for Wednesday (December 9) Party. party leader, with Daniel- evening, when the group Hodge eventually receiv- met and voted on who Earlier this year, Cleone ing the most votes. would be replacing their Stapleton-Simmonds was former leader and candi- chosen as the new can- date Robelto Hector. The didate for St. Thomas’ Observer understands Parish. Stapleton- With Daniel-Hodge as that two other people, Simmonds replaced out- the leader, Junior Minister along with Caines, were going representative and Hazel Brandy-Williams nominated. leader of the NRP, Hon. of the Concerned Citizens Joseph Parry. Movement said that it Currently, the Concerned is a historic moment for Citizens Movement In March, Stapleton- Nevisians and Kittitians, (CCM) Candidate, Hon. Simmonds was success- and a testament to Spencer Brand, holds the ful in a by-election in the changing political seat in St Paul’s. Brand St. Thomas. She beat landscape. SPORTSNews The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:9 Village and St. Paul’s set to renew rivalry in football finals

Action from Wednesday’s Super Six Playoffs encounter between Village and St. Paul’s

By Loshaun Dixon points. round of games Tuesday half, St. Paul’s added two St. Paul’s took their foot The first encounter in the and Wednesday, Cayon more goals to set up a off the pedal and settled best-of-three finals is slat- Rams Village Superstars In the second encounter only needed a point nervy finish in the end for for the 3-0 victory which ed for Saturday at Warner and S L Hosford St. last weekend, St. Paul’s from the already elimi- Village. After some injury set up the finals match-up. Park. Paul’s will face off in the had to come from be- nated Spurs, with Village concerns with Freeman, Finals of the 2019-2020 hind to beat HE Garden Superstars and St. Paul’s St. Kitts Nevis Football Hotspurs. Spurs went to play the final game of Association [SKNFA] ahead through a moment the playoffs. Premier Division, after of individual brilliance finishing the Super Six from Rasheed Sargeant in Playoffs in the top two the third minute. spots. Cayon, however, lost to Spurs 2-0 thanks to goals from Steve Francis and St. Paul’s, however, hit Akio Benjamin. St. Paul’s will leave the back through goals from Super Six as the top team, Akimba Lawrence in the having amassed 10 points 25th minute and Keithroy from five games, includ- Freeman in the 46th min- Heading into the final ing a convincing 3-0 ute, as the win pushed game St. Paul’s needed victory over their finals them onto 7 points. just a draw to make the opponent in the last game Finals, and Village need- of the Super Six Playoffs. ed merely to avoid defeat by four clear goals. Going into last weekend it In the final game, Rams was still an open race for Village Superstars de- Cayon needed a Village the top two teams. Flow feated Sol Island Auto win or a St. Paul’s win by 4g Cayon Rockets and Conaree 2-1. Village took four goals to make it to Rams Village Superstars an early lead through the Finals. were both on five points, Diquan Johnson in the while St. Paul’s, HE 25th minute. Conaree Garden Hotspurs and St. eventually lost Jazzil Peter’s were all on four Francis in the 53rd min- The physical encounter points. ute through a red card, but was dominated by St. with 10 men they hit back Paul’s who late on had to equalize in the 78th Village on the edge and minute from a Dakari questioning if they could The first matchup of the Phipps strike. hold on to make the finals. weekend featured Flow 4g Cayon Rockets fac- However, Ordell ing off against St. Peter’s. Flemming got the winner Cayon in that game all but with just four minutes of St. Paul’s jumped out to ended St. Peter’s hopes regulation time to play, a 1-0 lead at halftime, of a finals appearance for Village Superstars, thanks to their talisman with a 1-0 victory. The and to move them on to Freeman, who spun webs goal came from Malik eight points. around the Village de- Hendrickson in the 13th fence, and could have had minute to put Cayon on 8 Heading into the final many more. In the second Page:10 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 News LOCALNew NEWSs The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:11 Concerns expressed over fire officers’ living, working conditions

fire hall at the Vance Amory International airport Wet roof inside the building Fire Officer Hodge

By Monique Washington fire hall,” Hodge said. the police station will be floors, broken windows, tank soakaway, but a hole for weeks. Some have a welcome improvement, wet personal items, remains from the old sep- dizziness, chest pains, Divisional officer of Hodge pleaded with Prime but a problem still exists. among other issues, in- tic tank and the soakaway coughing. There is a mold St Kitts and Nevis Fire Minister Dr. Timothy Several officers explained cluding ailments. water runs back into it. infestation. Things are not and Rescue Services Harris and Ministers of to the Observer, that there Persons are getting sick. good here,” one officer (Nevis Division) Garfield Government present, that is a notable difference “They built a new septic Persons are on sick leave explained. Hodge, has made a plea more needed to be done between aerodrome fire for the living and working for the fire officers. services and structural fire conditions for fire officers services, and the existing stationed at the Vance Prime Minister Harris arrangement would not be Amory International previously announced suitable for the former. Airport (VAIA) to be that soon the technical addressed. team would get together “We (aerodrome fire ser-

Hodge pleaded with Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris and Ministers of Government present, that more needed to be done for the fire officers.

The deplorable condition to bring about a new facil- vices staff) are on shift of the fire hall has been ity in Nevis. He met with for 48 hours, only when ongoing for over a de- Fire Staff at the Vance the last flight comes in, cade. Over one year ago, Amory International we can leave… but some officers at the VAIA fire Airport, and announced don’t, because of the dis- hall spoke to the Observer that they would be tem- tance to get to the tempo- about the poor living porarily relocated un- rary housing. Aerodrome conditions. til the police station is and structural firefighting completed. are different. If anything The divisional officer happens at the airport expressed his concerns, “So far the Prime Minister we have a 90-second re- and highlighted the fact would have made a gener- sponse time - get in gear that officers are becoming ous contribution. In fact, and be at the problem in sick because of those con- he would have removed 90 seconds. We cannot do ditions. He did so during us partially from the ex- it from another location, the opening of the newly isting structure to a more that would be impracti- constructed Newcastle comfortable structure. cal,” they said. Police Station. But we need something more permanent. I want According to the officers, “It has become a very to thank the Permanent although there has been concerning matter, and a Secretary, Mr. Wakely some measure of inter- very serious matter for me Daniel; he has been work- vention, the situation has as the commander for the ing along with us,” Hodge not changed but has got- division. Right now we said. ten worse. They claim that are dealing with several they are still living with sick leave and sick reports Accommodating struc- wet ceilings, unfinished from the Vance Amory tural fire services staff at bathrooms, water-soaked Page:12 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 NewNewss

ST KITTS-NEVIS CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT PROGRAMME CONCEPT TO CREATION

A strong CBI Programme aims to:

• Create job opportunities • Upgrade the interior airport terminal building • Complete the construction of the Old Road Bay realignment project • Install a new runway and lighting at the RLB International Airport • Construct more hotels • Construct better roads • Construct the bus terminals • Complete the second cruise pier

Prosperity for our country, a bright future for our people. ciu.gov.kn News The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:13 Page:14 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 SPORTSNewNewss ‘Sugar Boyz’ World Cup qualification campaign set

By Loshaun Dixon and October 2021 and 2020. The 30 men’s na- June 8. The Final Round of the The eight teams will play January and March 2022 tional teams were drawn Concacaf Qualifiers for each other home and The World Cup FIFA international match into six groups of five, The Second Round will the FIFA World Cup away, with each team Qualification Schedule windows. as St. Kitts and Nevis are be played between the Qatar 2022 will see playing 14 matches for St. Kitts and Nevis has in Group F with Trinidad six group winners from the three winners from been confirmed, after the “This will enable and Tobago, Guyana, the first round, with the the Second Round join At the end of the Final Confederation of North, Concacaf to begin its Puerto Rico and the pre-determined match- the Concacaf Member Round, the top three fin- Central America and eight-team Final Round of Bahamas. ups. “The teams will play Associations ranked 1-5, ishing teams will qual- Caribbean Association the Concacaf Qualifiers in home and away, in a di- who had already gained ify directly to the FIFA Football (Concacaf) final- September 2021, follow- rect elimination format, enough FIFA ranking World Cup Qatar 2022. ized the dates earlier this ing a First Round played during the second FIFA points to guarantee their The fourth-placed team week. in March and June 2021 In round one, each team match window of June place in the Final Round will qualify for the FIFA and a Second Round in will play every other 2021. The three winners before the development Intercontinental Playoff, June 2021 (June 2021 in- team in their group once, will progress to the final of a new format. scheduled to be played in cludes two FIFA interna- playing a total of four round.” June 2022. Concacaf announced that tional match windows).” matches; two home and the World governing body two away. These games FIFA, announced that cer- The draw for the Concacaf will be played in the FIFA tain international match Qualifiers for FIFA World match windows of March windows will be extended Cup Qatar 2022 took 2021 and the first FIFA to enable Confederations place in August 2020, and match Window of June to schedule triple-match with the certainty pro- 2021. At the end of the dates. vided by FIFA’s decision First Round, the six group regarding the triple-win- winners will progress to dows, Concacaf can now the Second Round. confirm the schedule. “This is due to the challenges faced by The First Round of global football due to matches will be played According to the sched- COVID-19, in particular between March 2021 ule, the ‘Sugar Boyz’ for those regions where and June 2021 with four will open their campaign several 2020 FIFA inter- match-dates. with a home game against national match windows Puerto Rico on March 24. were suspended.” The First Round will Three days later they trav- be played between the el to the The Bahamas. On CONCACAF said the Concacaf Member June 4, they welcome to news means they can Associations ranked 6-35, Guyana to Warner Park, schedule three matches based on the FIFA Men’s then travel to Trinidad in each of the September Ranking as of July 16, and Tobago for a game on SPORTSNews The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:15 Tennis Association focuses on junior development with camp

Action from Day One of the SKNTA’s Junior Camp

By Loshaun Dixon General Manager of it may bear some fruit for the RAMS Group of you in the future or if it is The St. Kitts-Nevis Companies, Hamir just for fun.” Tennis Association Sabnani, speaking at the (SKNTA) launched opening ceremony of the Vice President of the their RAMS-sponsored camp, said that his com- St. Kitts-Nevis Tennis Junior Tennis Camp, at pany will always back Association, Walwyn the Warner Park Tennis young people who take Chiverton, said the camp facility this week, aimed up a hobby that would was necessary to develop at young players between ensure that they remain the skills of young tennis the ages of 8-18, to teach physically active in their players in the Federation, the basic skills in tennis. lives. to prepare them for com- petition on the Junior Just under 50 participants “The reason that we at circuit, and the formation participated in the week- RAMS agree to spon- of the national representa- long camp that falls under sor events like these, is tive team in the future. the long-term strategy of that we really believe in the SKNTA, with more you and the growth of emphasis on the develop- this Federation, whether ment of junior players. it be in sports, business, “This is an initiative that or whatever it is that you has been undertaken by The SKNTA will host do.” the St. Kitts-Nevis Tennis several junior pro- Association because we grammes and events, in- He encouraged the young believe in having this - a cluding the International tennis players to continue grassroots programme – J5 Tournament, to give on the path of sport and developed, so that in the local junior players ex- being physically active. years to come, we will see posure to competitive some of you on the junior tennis. “Whatever you do, circuit, and even perhaps whether in personal life on the world stage, show- The second Liamuiga/ or sport, will affect the ing the talents you have Oualie J5 World Tour country. So I encourage gleaned from camps like event was cancelled you all to continue on this.” after the International your path. You have great Tennis Federation (ITF) coaches, your parents are He also thanked the par- pulled the plug on this very supportive for bring- ents for allowing their year’s calendar due to the ing you here, and apply children to take part in the COVID-19 pandemic. all your hard work into camp that wraps up today this camp, and hopefully (December 11). Page:16 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 COMMENTARYLOCALNewNews NEWSs SKN takes big leap into renewable energy

PM Harris, Minister Richards and officials from Leclanché break ground for the US$70M solar farm facility

By Loshaun Dixon He hailed former was delighted to be part Minister of Energy Ian of the energy future of Sod was broken on ‘Patches’ Liburd as a key St. Kitts and Nevis. Thursday to signal the visionary towards the start of construction of project, and for imple- “The project is about a US$70M solar panel menting the policy to- harnessing the power - project that will take on wards renewable energy. the energy from the sun the bulk of the electric- through solar panels ity load in St. Kitts and “This is a momentous which will be installed Nevis when completed step towards that. It is is close to the ground an honour to have him you’re on today.” The project, Basseterre involved in that. He has Valley Solar and Storage been guiding SKELEC Srivastava also ex- Project, is located next and leadership through- plained how the proj- to the Kim Collins out the last two years.” ect will operate when Highway, and will sig- completed. nify St. Kitts and Nevis’ CEO of Leclanché , Anil thrust towards renewable Srivastava, speaking “At the heart of the proj- energy. The microgrid is virtually noted that with ect is an energy manage- being built by Leclanché the groundbreaking, ment software which SA, a leading energy St. Kitts was leapfrog- binds this energy to storage company, in con- ging into a green energy Leclanché energy stor- junction with SKELEC future. age systems. This green and the government of power plant will gener- St. Kitts and Nevis. ”We are here to celebrate ate green electricity to the start of the project. SKELEC when needed, Bryan Urban, We are also here to set an 24-7. Leclanché’s Executive example of what a good Vice President, speak- public and private part- He explained what it ing at the ceremony, said nership should be about. means for energy in St. that is was an honour to It has been two years of Kitts and Nevis finally reach this point collaborating; there have and they look forward to been ups and downs “We will power your the time ahead along the way, but here homes in the night with we are. It is also a day solar energy. Your air “Today is a memorable to celebrate St. Kitts and conditioning, tourism occasion, we have had Nevis’ leapfrog to secure resorts, your businesses. two years that we have a clean energy future. We will do so in a way been working through so that Leclanche and this project.” He said his company its partners will fund the LOCALNew NEWSs The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:17 complete project.” federation, thus assisting greater Caribbean region. for our business sector in meeting our obliga- and the economy at large He said the project would tions under the Paris cli- “We all not only know benefitting from a US$70 not require any invest- mate agreement. of, but mostly agree with million investment proj- ment from SKELEC or the worldwide need for ect within the island of the government. “The project will also an urgent and systematic St. Kitts, but importantly, reduce our exposure to move to renewable green there is no capital outlay “SKELEC will not have unpredictable fossil fuel energy. This means not from the federal govern- to put up any upfront prices, and simplify the only for us to reduce reli- ment or SKELEC. It is capital investment. The process of long-term ance on depleting fossil simply for the investor to people of St. Kitts and financial planning for fuels, but more impor- carry.” Nevis get clean, green SKELEC. It will also tantly, for arresting the energy without SKELEC make an increase in elec- real, clear and present The Prime Minister de- investment .” tricity tariff less likely, danger of climate change, tailed some aspects of and employ locals.” and adverse impact on how the economy can Minister of Energy lives and livelihoods.” benefit. Shawn Richards said The project, he said, will that one of the goals of help SKELEC to stabi- He said developing coun- his ministry’s strategic lize the price it charges tries like St. Kitts and energy policy is the pro- its consumers Nevis contribute 39 to 47 “Approximately $30M duction of 100% of elec- percent to the increase in will be spent on local tricity from renewable He noted that the project global air temperature, materials and services sources. started with a proposal upper oceanic warming, - this following my ad- in 2016 and progressed and sea ice reduction. ministration’s policy that “We are here today to to this point as a result whatever can be procured celebrate a significant of intense negotiations “Developing states, locally must be procured milestone in this journey. between Leclanché , therefore, have the op- locally. This will pro- This is the groundbreak- the Ministry of Public portunity to change and vide immediate stimulus ing ceremony for a solar Infrastructure and adopt the practices in through the economy. I farm. This solar farm SKELEC. such a manner that we am advised upwards of represents a giant leap in avoid the harmful effects 200 jobs in construction an endeavour to become “In the process, we have of climate change with may become available - an island nation with a consulted with many its air pollution, high- construction being one sustainable energy sector stakeholders such as the temperature variability, of the sectors we will where reliable, renew- Ministry of Finance, the rise in sea levels in years look to as a driver as we able, clean and affordable Ministry of Sustainable to come. Once this proj- restart and reboot our energy services are pro- Development, and the ect succeeds, the rest of economy.” vided to all its citizens. Ministry of Environment. the world will look to Where energy efficiency our leadership and our and the replacement of This is not only such a success in alternative fossil energy by renew- project being pursued green energy, and they He continued, “The land able energy sources will by the government and will point to St. Kitts and lease executed is an on- be promoted in all sectors SKELEC, according to Nevis as their model. going benefit of the about of the economy.” Richards. 100 acres of land for us. He said that his admin- On this particular project He explained that when “My Ministry and istration recognizes the there will be hundreds completed, the facility SKELEC are at an ad- direct risk of climate of hours of heavy ma- will have a capacity of 34 vanced stage of negotia- change negatively im- chinery for land clearing, megawatts of 45 mega- tions for the construction pacting agriculture, grading and site prepara- watts hours of energy of a wind farm with an fisheries, forestry, and tion of the property for storage, making it the American company. We healthcare systems. hosting the solar panel, as largest solar generation are still actively pursu- well as cranes, trucking plus energy storage proj- ing the development of “Whatever we in St. Kitts and heavy equipment for ect in the Caribbean. geothermal energy, and and Nevis do in this fight, the material movement.” waste to energy is being it is not only our duty to “It is expected to sup- considered.” humanity as inhabitants ply up to 18 megawatts of this planet that we all of power to the grid be- share, but is in our own He said in the short term tween the hours of 8:00 national interests as a there will be a significant am to 9:00 pm, which is Prime Minister Dr. small island developing economic activity, where approximately 25 to 30 Timothy Harris hailed state.” “the small man and the percent of the island’s the occasion as momen- big man will also be electricity needs.” tous in the history of St. Dr. Harris disclosed benefitting. Kitts and Nevis. that the project was Richards said the suc- prioritized. cessful completion of “I hope all will under- this project will provide stand the importance, the “We are here today be- Leclanché SA is a several benefits to the earth-shattering moment cause we appreciate Switzerland-based country. in history which this that the benefits of this company that provides project represents.” project to our island, high-quality energy stor- “The resources it uses is people and the world are age solutions based on indigenous; we are aware He said the project marks multidimensional.” lithium-ion cell technol- that the source is the sun. another signal achieve- ogy. Construction of No pollution is associ- ment by his administra- He said that it will assist the solar generation and ated with energy from tion, in which St. Kitts the economy of St. Kitts energy storage facility is this, and will reduce the and Nevis continues to and Nevis immediately. expected to be completed amount of greenhouse be a leader in the eco- within 12-18 months. gasses emitted in the nomic union and the “This project will see Page:18 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 COMMENTARYNewnewss

TAX POLICIES MATTER: Dr. Everson Hull is a business economist. He currently serves as Permanent Representative for St. HOW PRESIDENT-ELECT BIDEN CAN HELP Kitts and Nevis to the Organization of American States (OAS). He ST. KITTS AND NEVIS graduated from Howard University in 1977, becoming the first-ever recipient of the University’s Ph.D. award in Economics. For more By Everson W. Hull Ph.D. on holding the line on VAT tax- the number of visitors to our percent. than 20 years, he served as Adjunct es, increasing the VAT holiday shores (1,298,385 in 2018); Professor in the Department of Economics. In the private sector, Tax policies matter. Tax hikes from one to two days. (2) the number of stay-over he has served as Senior Economist for the American Petroleum are “Contractionary”. They visitors from the USA (80,509 Institute, TRW Inc. and Fannie Mae. Dr. Hull also served at the reduce the available pool of in 2018); (3) the number of Regrettably, there is an im- Congressional Research Service as Head of Money and Banking. disposable income available cruise ship calls (525 in 2018); portant lesson that the U.S. This latter tour of duty led to a U.S. Presidential Appointment as to households for taking to The two dominant US fis- (4) the dollar expenditures by President-elect has not learned. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Research at the U.S. the grocery store, resulting in cal policies that were suffi- visitors to our shores (EC$546 His fiscal policy aimed at “pun- Department of Labor. a build-up of inventories of ciently large to propel the US. million); and (5) receipts from ishing the rich“ will exert a unsold items on grocery store economy forward were (1) the Citizenship By Investment contractionary force on the St. shelves. They are particularly a record of lower taxes in the program. Kitts and Nevis economy that damaging to small Mom and US. that boosted household retards its economic growth. Pop establishments struggling consumption expenditures, ac- The proposed high tax policy hustling the graveyard shift on against the Governments of to survive. Facing declining companied by (2) a reduction that focuses on primary income the mean streets of Washington Venezuela and Cuba, the harm- sales, they are left with few al- in burdensome government While these phenomenal earners shows little recognition DC driving a taxicab to make ful spill-over effects on the ternatives, other than to release regulations which spurred achievements were being of the devastating secondary his tuition payments also re- Little Man on the Street are workers, sending them to the business capital investment. realized by the small island effects that are harmful to the gard the generosity of one inescapable and so too is the unemployment lines. These two forces were of suf- developing states, this new masses on the Street who rely wealthy donor as crumbs? I inevitable human capital flight ficient magnitude and scope to age of tax-induced Golden on the rich for feeding their am a product of those so-called that follows. expand the massive (US)$20 Age of Capital Accumulation families and keeping a roof “crumbs” from the rich man’s trillion US Economy. It is an also descended on the mega over their heads. table as are all of us, without If the announced threats by By contrast, tax cuts are economy that is overwhelming tourism destinations. All- exception, whose pay-check the President-Elect to invoke “Expansionary”. They in- driven by household consumer time record high scores in It is regrettable that one highly results from the expenditures a “Punish-the-Rich High-Tax crease the pool of available expenditures and business the number of visitor arriv- regarded observer would re- of someone else. In my case Policy” on US. households and funds in your wallet, allowing capital investment. Combined, als for 2018 were recorded gard the spill-over benefits that it was a wealthy donor who I businesses is imposed, there you to proudly show up at the they account for 86 percent of for: the USA (79,745,920), accrue to St. Kitts and Nevis as picked up in my taxicab for will likely be challenging times grocery store, holding your the US. economy. Mexico (41,313,000), crumbs. The observer pejora- a run to Dulles International ahead. Policy actions that are head high and offering to ex- Canada (21,134,000), tively described the benefits Airport 26 miles from down- aimed at “punishing the rich” change a few extra dollars in Argentina (6,942,000), Brazil that have catapulted St. Kitts town DC. He was fascinated have both primary and second- exchange for a basket of goods. (6,621,000), the Dominican and Nevis to the head of the by the research that I was in- ary effects; with the secondary With the stock of inventories World Bank data indicates Republic (6,569,000), Chile regional performance class volved in on the Sugar industry effects often accounting for on grocery shelves rapidly be- that the pre-pandemic years (5,723,000). All-time record as: “promoting a form of gov- of St. Kitts and the challenges multiples of the initial primary ing depleted, the grocer is left -- 2017, 2018 and 2019 -- high visitor arrivals for 2018 ernance that is all about the encountered in accessing the harmful effects. with no alternative, other than were the best-ever economic are also reported for Peru, richest getting richer with just data to be used for my Master’s to issue a call to producers ask- performing years in the entire Columbia and Uruguay. enough crumbs falling to the thesis. ing them to increase their ship- history of (a) the USA and (b) less well-off to make them feel ments to meet your demand. It the hospitality centers of St. something is happening”. The contractionary high tax is a proud day for the Mom and Kitts and Nevis, the remain- forces will return the U.S. to- Pop operator and for the em- ing OECS member states The combined U.S. spill- It leaves one to wonder how He asked me to stop by his of- wards an average annual lethar- ployees. The unemployment and the Bahamas. Each of over benefits thrust St. Kitts the students and parents at fice on his return. He provided gic growth rate of 1.6 percent lines grow shorter as those who these tourist-centered Western and Nevis close to the head Morehouse College reacted me an airline ticket to travel to per annum, of the prior Biden have been out of work enjoy Hemispheric states reported of the 34-member Western when black billionaire phi- Basseterre on Pan American 8-year term. It is the slowest the pleasure of using their own their best-ever performance in Hemispheric Performance lanthropist Robert Morris Airlines to collect the required annual average growth rate of hard-earned money for pur- recorded human history. class. With the exception of announced in May of 2019 to data. Upon my return, he took any U.S. presidential term over chasing the full range of goods Canada and the USA, St. Kitts the graduating class at his alma me to meet a number of execu- the last 67 years; resulting in and services that meets their and Nevis now holds the presti- mater that he would pay off the tives at one of the largest firms record high unemployment needs. gious Number Three per capita outstanding student debt of the in DC. I was hired. It was my rates in the U.S.; wiping out the As is often stated, when the US income ranking in the Western entire graduating class of 400 first professional job in the record low rates of unemploy- sneezes those of us in small is- Hemispheric region. Only students. Would the students U.S.A. This to me was by no ment realized for Blacks and land developing states catch a the Bahamas and Panama are and parents who are strug- means “crumbs”. It is the gen- Hispanics in 2017 thru 2019. The elegance of the tax cut cold. But, the converse is also higher. gling to pay their academic erosity of human beings who This lethargic growth will spill approach is that the employee true. When the U.S. economy tuition and housing costs view have done well, sharing their over and will be harmful to the can now use his or her own is impacted by a record high this very generous $34 million income and wealth with those outstanding achievements that hard-earned money. He is tax cut, it not only spurs a donation as “crumbs” from who are the least among us. have been realized in St. Kitts vested with the FREEDOM surge in economic activity in It is to be noted that the IMF’s Robert Morris’ table? and Nevis over the past three TO CHOOSE from the full the U.S. But, there are also Regional Economic Outlook years 2017, 2018 and 2019. range of products and services significant spill-over benefits for October 2020 provides that are within his or her budget to the region. In the case of St. additional good news on the St. Kitts and Nevis is a low-tax constraints. It is a very simple Kitts and Nevis. The spillover outstanding performance of the Was the donation made by sovereign state. We are fully message that the Government benefits are largely reflected in St. Kitts and Nevis economy. black billionaire Tyler Perry aware of the human capital By contrast, if the new govern- of St. Kitts and Nevis under- US. household and business The IMF forecasts a sharp re- to pay the groceries for seniors exodus that has been long ment sets aside its announced stands well. It has sustained expenditures on leisure travel. bound in economic growth of and high-risk shoppers at 44 underway as the masses flee high tax policy commitment, St. Kitts and Nevis as a low-tax Indeed, the vast majority of 8.0 percent for 2021. The only Atlanta Kroger stores also to the “PUNISH THE RICH“ there will likely be sustained state, that encourages inves- visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis states that are higher are Aruba be viewed as “crumbs”. high-tax rates of New York and strong economic growth in the tors and visitors to come to its were from the USA. at 9.1 percent and Belize at Los Angeles to seek refuge in U.S. that will yield significant shores. And, it has embodied 8.1 percent. All other Western the low-tax lone star State of spill-over benefits to St. Kitts this low-tax policy at the local The benefits are reflected in Hemispheric states are ex- Texas. We are also aware of the and Nevis, as was the case in level by taking deliberate steps all-time record highs in: (1) pected to grow at less than 8.0 Or, should a struggling student devastating effects of sanctions 2017, 2018 and 2019. LOCALNew sNEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:19

On the Record with ‘Jeezy Sparta’

Jevon Lynch also known as ‘Mighty J’ and ‘Jeezy Sparta’

By Petra Mc Sheene Jeezy Sparta commends of which he recorded is weeks, as he has many Productions, Ras Divi, his parents, his son, his ‘Mention’ of the Nu ‘Sugar Mas is Calling’ projects that he is cur- Big City Productions, as manager Alicia, his icon Jevon Lynch, also known Vybes Band for being his from Sugar Mas 48. rently working on. When well as his father’s studio. Tommy Lee Sparta, as ‘Jeezy Sparta’, took favourite soca artist when it is time to record mu- Chubby, KT Dan, Ras time out of his schedule to growing up, and his father “I would love to work sic, Sparta’s choices of Lynch finished the inter- Stickle, and everyone have a candid interview for being his favourite with Tommy Lee, Bunji studios are Yard Tune view by saying special who supported ‘Jeezy with the Observer, about calypsonian. His father’s Garlin, Marchel Montana, Productions, Chabo thanks to the Almighty, Sparta’ over the years. the beginning of his ca- song ‘Killer on the Road’ or Kes in the future, in or- reer and what is in store was one of his favourite der to bring more music to for the future. songs to listen to in his the scene,” Sparta stated youth, and also one of the during the interview. Lynch doesn’t only per- things that motivated him form in the soca arena but to want to be a performer. His advice to youth who also in the calypso arena, want to start a career in under the name ‘Mighty “Listening to Chubby KT the music industry is to J’, and has been compet- Dan, Mention, Smiley, never forget where you ing in various shows since Bunji Garlin and other came from, and never 2000. He competed in the artists from all over and forget who was there with National Junior Calypso looking at them perform- and for you from day one. Monarch in 2004, and ing on stage, made me re- placed 1st runner up with alize that is what I wanted When asked why people his song ‘Give the Youths to do,” Sparta reflected. should listen to his mu- a Break.’ He entered the sic, Sparta stated, “I have senior calypso monarch He noted that his musi- a different style in soca and managed to reach to cal journey has not been and calypso, and although the semi-finals, with his a bed of roses, as he has people think I have a dark song, ‘Don’t Bring Your had to face “many hills style, that is just an on- Guns to Town’. and devils”. “Being a re- stage persona.” cording artist, you have to Sparta entered the soca know what songs people Like many other perform- monarch arena for the will like and not like, ing artists, the Coronavirus first time in 2014, where and it was a hard task.” pandemic has adversely he performed a song He stated that his song in affected Jeezy Sparta in with Rucas called ‘Teef 2015 ‘Bududup’ elevated a very significant way, as Me Style’, that made it him to stardom. many shows that he was to the finals. He has been scheduled to perform at performing since and has Jeezy Sparta has per- had to be cancelled. But entered all competitions formed on many different on the brighter side, he is available to him. stages such as Bagnall’s attempting to reach to the Fun Day, Culturama, calypso monarch finals He stated that he writes Carnival shows, commu- with his song ‘Rope’, and his own music when it nity festivals, and a few he also has a song up- comes to soca, but his other smaller shows. He coming in the soca arena father, Calypso Monarch said that his favourite per- called ‘Gothic Wine’ fea- King, Socrates, assists formance over the years turing Chubby. him in writing calypso was in 2014 when per- music. forming ‘Teef Me Style’ Jeezy Sparta will be very and his favourite song active in the upcoming Page:20 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 NewNewss News The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:21 Page:22 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 ADVERTISEMENTSLOCALNewNews NEWSs News The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020 Page:23

From the Supervisor of Elections Vol II Issue 4: Performance Reports

This article presents a period of enrollment. In the period, the Revised report on the activities Annual Register of Voters of the Electoral office for Activation refers to those was published. It con- April to September 2020. persons who whose en- tained 253 less names It helps when reading it rollment passed public than the Annual Register to remember the role of scrutiny for the manda- that gave rise to it. Of the electoral office as it tory two- month period. the removed names, 136 relates to maintenance For the period 1,041 were were certified to have of the voter register. It is activated. The numbers died and the other 117 to enroll persons, to ac- by constituency were persons were considered tivate voters, to respond 188, 129, 103, 57, 44, 69, ineligible to remain on to claims and objections 58, 163, 105, 21 & 104. the register as their reg- that had been decided by istration was successfully the Registration Officers. challenged. Each quarter, a report of activities is produced; that By island, on St Kitts, of the 2nd & 3rd quarters there were 811 activa- (combined) are presented tions; with Constituencies The office dealt with 115 in this article. 1, 8 and 2 having 23%, claims during the period. 20% & 16% of the ac- tivations. On Nevis, of the 230 activations A total of 608 persons Constituencies 9 & 11 Each month, as required were enrolled for the pe- accounted for all but 21 by law, the various lists riod. By constituency 1 to activations (91%). were put in the public do- 11, the enrollments were main within the time stip- 116, 65, 62, 27, 22, 43, 27, ulated by the Registration 78, 83, 15 and 70. These Officers. Again, we wish are the persons whose Two things must be to thank the public mind- names appear on the noted with the activated ed persons who allow us monthly lists. There were voters (which is the re- to post at their business 440 enrollments in St vised monthly lists): i) it places. Without them Kitts, with Constituencies is possible that the num- we would not be able to 1 and 8 accounting for ber of activated persons, achieve our aim of one 44% of the enrollments. i.e. those whose names person one vote in the In Nevis, where the re- appear on the revised right place, and fairness maining 168 enrollments monthly list is NOT the to all. took place, 49% took same number as those place in Constituency 9 which appeared on the monthly lists as not all . persons who enrolled We must also condemn are “activable” and ii) those persons who con- We suspect that enroll- the revised list published sistently remove these ment was affected by the in the month is not for lists almost immediately pandemic, but between the month in which it is after they are posted. One the announcement and published but rather for 2 day, with the help of the the holding of elections, months prior. CCTV cameras, we may there was an intense be able to prosecute! Page:24 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday December 11th, 2020