THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.03 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

Fees for Exit Opposition in No fire from Tributes to Arise Test the dark Soufriere Randy D Dr. Frankie Page 3 Page 5 Page 14 Page 12&13 Page 24 COVID-19 NUMBERS RISING: TWO DEATHS RECORDED

Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA

PRIME MINISTER DR. RALPH GONSALVES has admitted that the raw data on COVID-19 told a “worrying story.” In an address to the nation January 18, the Prime Minister said that between March and December 2020, St Vincent and the Grenadines recorded 110 Dr. Ralph Gonsalves admitted to positive PCR a worry story and detailed test results. measures taken to respond to However, the increasing numbers of between COVID-cases. December 28, 2020 and Continued on Page 3. The summary of the COVID-19 situation as of Jan. 19. (Source: MOH) January 17, 2021 NO CURFEW, NO LOCKDOWN, PM DECLARES GOVERNMENT DOES address to the nation. the Prime Minister that the nuance and NOT INTEND to impose Instead of ‘those referenced the targeted approaches are any State of Emergency draconian measures’, Dr. experiences of countries no less effective,” he Instead of (SoE) or curfew Gonsalves said the within CARICOM and said. having measures, far less a government had taken globally, which “But these nuances ‘draconian’ national lockdown at the decision to tighten suggested that States of and targeted restrictions measures this point, despite the and manage more closely Emergencies, curfews and regulations must be like curfews recent spike in COVID- the existing restrictions and total lockdowns properly policed,” imposed 19 cases in the country and regulations, and have not been as Gonsalves continued. upon them, particularly among those where it was deemed effective in stemming And so, the residents locals without any recent necessary and desirable, the rise or spread of the government had taken have been history of travel. to ramp up the virus as was anticipated. the decision that it will urged to Prime Minister Dr. restrictions and controls “Other experiences not order any State of adhere to Ralph Gonsalves made further. elsewhere including here Emergency, lockdown the existing the point crystal clear on In support of his in St Vincent and the and/or curfew. regulations. January 18 during an government’s position, Grenadines have proven 2. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V News Rehab for Bequia Markets

THE FISH AND VEGETABLE in Bequia has had a full compliments the MARKET in Port Elizabeth refurbishment, Roads, Buildings and General The Bequia Fish and Services Vegetable Market cuts a Authority The new Barrimore road. ‘pretty’ picture after a (BRAGSA). full renovation job by BRAGSA BRAGSA. informed recently that it Right: The interior of had completed the market now boasts a major improved stalls. Market, and replacement being the upgrade of overhaul at the of the toilets, light Barrimore road, facility, after windows and repairs to fixtures, plugs and commonly known as the some eight stalls. outlets. Arnos Vale/Fountain link weeks of Both the interior and All taken, the road in West St. George. ongoing work. the exterior of the refurbishment of the The project saw the The work structure had full paint Market cost $105,000. construction of 328 feet included major jobs. Meanwhile, BRAGSA of road, along with repairs to the In addition, BRAGSA continued with its road Slipper drains, and a roof, saw to the installation of repair/construction 100-foot long retaining replacement of new water pumps, lines programme with its wall, at a total cost of doors and and pipes in the Fish latest completed project $166,000. V News 3 lHE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 3. Fees for exit screening PERSONS REQUIRING EXIT As of January 18, the Prime SCREENING as it relates to COVID- Minister said, the molecular 19 can now access this service at testing facility had conducted private laboratories. 24,705 tests. This, as the Ministry of Health Elliot Samuel, Chief Laboratory moved to outsource testing to Technician explained at a press Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has private laboratories, in light of the briefing on January 13 that the acknowledge that the New Year will be lined surge in the number of samples testing facility had initially with many challenges and ‘worries’. coming into the government’s responded to testing around 300 molecular testing facility, where samples per day. PCR tests are conducted. Since the recent spike and the In for a difficult Prime Minister Dr Ralph requirements for exit screening by Gonsalves, in his address to the Canada, the United States, nation on January 18, said that United Kingdom and Barbados, ride: Gonsalves private sector labs are being that number has increased to an approached to handle exit average of 500 samples per day. VINCENTIANS have been warned to prepare screenings, and that those persons This increased demand has themselves for some hard times this year. The requiring the labs’ service will be resulted in delays in getting Elliot Samuel, Chief Laboratory advice came from Prime Minister Dr Ralph required to pay a fee. results within the 24-to-48-hour Technician, in the interim before Gonsalves in his weekly address to the nation, That fee will be determined by period, Samuel admitted. a firm arrangement is delivered last Wednesday January 20. the labs, the PM said. According to Samuel, at one established with private labs, His comments came in the wake of On Wednesday, this publication point they were 921 samples urged persons requiring exit consultations by Finance Minister Camillo was able to ascertain that one behind — but as of January 12 screenings to make their Gonsalves and Agriculture and Fisheries Minister private laboratory here had fixed they were able to bring the figure applications early. Saboto Caesar, bankers, persons in the hotel its rates at EC$195.00 for a rapid down to 394, and it had been industry, business/commerce and insurance. antigen test, and EC$400.00 for anticipated that by January 13 which was expected to minimize The Vincentian Prime Minister pointed to the PCR test. they would have cleared the these delays. adjustments that will be made in the budgetary backlog. And as a result of the recent presentations slated for next week. However a release issued by spike in cases among locals with “We are in for a difficult ride,” Gonsalves Lab overwhelmed the Ministry of Health on January no history of recent travel and the confessed. 19 stated that as a result of the focus on contact tracing and He pointed to expenditure caused by payments According to Dr. Gonsalves, the robust contact tracing and active testing local samples, persons made to persons affected by the COVID crisis. testing capacity of the one flu clinics, the Molecular requiring an exit screening were Some $3.9M will be spent on meeting government facility had been Laboratory was still reporting being encouraged to make their commitments in the first instance. Providing challenged in responding to the delays in the processing and applications early, in order to meals for children at school have been a cost to increased volumes of samples, reporting of results for RT-PCR have their samples in and the the government. But the suspension of face to face stemming from the required exit tests. results returned within the activities have given the matter a different screening for persons leaving the It stated that some additional required time of 72 hours, Samuel outlook. Gonsalves is worried about “child hunger” country and the rise in local cases. equipment was to be installed said. (DD) and the safety of children while they are out of school. Salaries to government workers are also matters of concern as COVID-19 numbers rising: Two deaths recorded attempts to cope with an expanding list of COVID cases surfaces. Continued from Front page. persons and mass gatherings, including immigration, were adequate for the Increases in government the: tightening of quarantine task at hand. expenditure will come from the number jumped to 384, with the measures for nationals and non- He commended the nation saying employing two professionals to help majority of new cases among locals who nationals; temporary closure of schools that the people acted very responsibly with monitoring activities at the had not recently travelled, and worse, and recommencement of online and in a disciplined manner by staying Soufriere volcano. Contributions to the recording of its first COVID-19 schooling; closure of all seaports in the off the road, staying away from the Seismic Research Centre based attributed deaths, two. Grenadines. beaches, picnics and parties, and at the St. Augustine Campus of the As of January 19, with an additional Other measures include: a ban on stayed home, between Good Friday and University of the West Indies is 62 cases reported that day, the total the playing of amplified music; the Easter Monday of 2020. adding to the government’s number of recorded cases of COVID-19 reduction in numbers permitted at They exhibited the same behavior expenditure column. was 602. Of that total, there were 464 mass gatherings; decrease in the when public holidays were announced “We have to do more with less,” cases under review, supposedly persons number of passengers allowed on in August during the days designated the Prime Minister stated. who had had no recent travel history, public transportation; rotation of staff for the time off for Carnival which was He is looking to agriculture, and 481 active cases. in some government departments and cancelled in 2020. fisheries, the medical cannabis According to the Prime Minister, the other statutory corporations; and the “Perhaps it is the appropriate time industry, construction and road to do so again,” he said. recent spread/spike has been attributed tightening of protocols in respect of the works to help drive the economy And towards this end, he disclosed to a number of factors: recurrent movement of persons within hotel and soften the impact of the that he had instructed the Governor economic woes. breaches in quarantine protocol; bubbles, especially as it related to the General to prepare and cause to be More nurses and personnel to increased arrivals by air and sea Grenadines. The local constabulary has been published in the (government) gazette, work in the health department will during the Christmas season; the requisite legal instruments add to the budget. numerous social gatherings — including instructed to increase its policing of these measure which Dr. Gonsalves designating January 22 and 25 as Activities at La Soufriere, family gatherings; and the general said, “will remain in place for some public holidays, with Saturday January announcement of a dengue related non-adherence by the population to time and will remain so until.” 23 being encouraged to be observed as death, have compounded the public health advice regarding the As for the legislative support for a bank holiday. situation as it relates to life and spread of COVID-19. these actions, the Prime Minister “These are holidays for public living in St. Vincent and the assured that the existing legal health. So, we will pause, reflect, act Grenadiers. Measures tightened framework under the Public Health inclusively in solidarity with one Even though this country Act, the Police Act and other pieces of another, and pledge to be engaged to collected more revenue than was Since the increase in cases, the legislation touching and concerning confront head on our existing and anticipated, there was still a deficit government has implemented some issues of public safety, road traffic, prospective challenges,” Dr. Gonsalves of $104M in 2020. (WKA) measures to manage the movement of said. 4. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Law Another „Good for justice,‰ wounding matter says Prosecutor POLICE arrested and charged Chris Lewis, by HAYDN HUGGINS at the High Court, if the matter gets there. there via the Paper 42 years Carpenter of In a Paper Committal Procedure, Committal route.” Diamonds with the SENIOR PROSECUTOR Adolphus Delpleche is witness statements and other relevant The Prosecutor is offence of wounding on pleased with the number of matters destined material are reviewed by the Prosecutor, also happy that in January 15, 2021. for the High Court, which are taking the Paper defence, and Magistrate, towards 2020 there were According to Committal route. determining whether a prima facie case is several successful Senior Prosecutor investigations, on Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on made out. prosecutions for Adolphus Delpleche December 21, 2020 the accused allegedly Tuesday, Delpleche said that in 2020 there Delpleche explained that an oral drugs and firearms looks back on the unlawfully and was a marked improvement in this regard, Preliminary Inquiry where witnesses are related matters. He effectiveness of the Paper Committal maliciously wounded a and what is even more pleasing is that the called to testify in person, could last admitted that some route with a clear 44-year-old farmer of defence lawyers are agreeing more and several weeks, whereas a Paper Committal investigators were sense of the same address, by more to use this procedure. Procedure could be completed in about 20 still tardy in getting satisfaction. chopping him on his “This is a good thing for the Justice minutes or less, once the statements are their files ready, left arm with a cutlass. System in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, clear, and could be read properly. resulting in some The incident occurred as the matters will go through the system Delpleche described the procedure as a cases being dismissed. at Diamonds. expeditiously, and help to ease the backlog judicial time savior for all parties But he added that others have improved The accused was in relation to Preliminary Inquiries (PI),” concerned, including witnesses. in that area. expected to appear he explained. “I will freely say that that is the way to Despite the hitches and the challenges before the Magistrate’s The Prosecutor also noted that witnesses go, and I look forward to the day when all Delpleche is satisfied that 2020 was a Court to answer the will only have to give evidence once, that is matters destined for the High Court will go successful year for the Prosecution. charge. CoP among celebrated officers „I am good,‰

COMMISSIONER of Police including Old Montrose Police Station. He also (CoP) Colin John is among served at Immigration, Narcotics Unit and the says CoP four members of the Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Force celebrating 33 years of John, having taken leave to pursue studies in law ELEVEN days after been tested positive for the service. overseas, and having done so successfully, returned coronavirus, Commissioner of Police (CoP) Colin John, who was, up to press home and was seconded to the Office of the Director John assured he was doing well, and urged the full time Tuesday, still in of Public Prosecutions (DPP). He was subsequently cooperation from the public. isolation, having been tested elevated to the position of Assistant DPP. “I am feeling fine. I am good. I am working from positive for the coronavirus During his tenure, he prosecuted several high- home as best as possible,” the top cop told THE earlier this month, told THE profiled cases, but eventually returned to the Police VINCENTIAN on Tuesday via telephone, from his VINCENTIAN via telephone, Force where he assumed the top position, i.e. place of isolation. “I am grateful to God for Commissioner. John said he was awaiting two negative PCR allowing me this privilege to Asked how he felt having reached thus far, the tests for clearance. reach to this stage.” top cop said, “If I have to relive my life, I will be a The Commissioner tested positive for the virus John, who joined the police officer again. Policing is in my blood.” on January 7, hours after his deputy Frankie organization on John thanked the organization for its guidance Commissioner of Police Joseph was tested positive. January 16, 1988 and support. (CoP) Colin John boasts The two are among several police officer, worked on ‘Beat’ and The other officers celebrating 33 years are 33 years as a police and including senior officers, who tested positive and would do it all over again ‘Patrol’ and at several Inspector Carmel Craigg, Sergeant Opheilia Foyle are in quarantine. if he had the opportunity. police stations, Little and Sergeant Roland Conner. The Commissioner will still make any major security decision, but noted that Assistant Commissioner Christopher Benjamin is the most SAMSUNG-WHATSAPP SCAM ALERT senior officer on the ground during his absence. John urged the public to adhere to the protocols THE ROYAL St. Vincent and the “Whatsapp users from stipulated by the Health Authorities, in order to Grenadines Police Force Africa, America, Asia, curtail the spread of the virus, and to keep safe. (RSVGPF) wishes to advise the Australia,, Canada, Europe, He expressed gratitude to the public for their general public about a scam that Middle East, the Bahamas, outpouring of best wishes to him and other is currently being perpetuated via New Zealand, Jamaica, St. members of the Constabulary. Whatsapp, purportedly on the Kitts and Nevis, Haiti, Turks John is also grateful to the hardworking men and behalf of Samsung. and Caicos were selected women of the Police Force for redoubling their Some users of WhatsApp, a through random selection in efforts, during “these trying times.” (HH) multi-messaging platform, have Samsung’s computerized received messages from one Sarah System, a database of over Davis using cellular phone 80,000,000 users.” number 880 1629-845652. Ms. The message further Davis purports to be a “Samsung informed recipients that they promo active online agent.” were among the lucky The content of the messages winners with a grand prize states that the Samsung of $100,000 USD and that Company is currently running a they needed to make a claim promotional progarmme for to receive their prize. WhatsApp members worldwide A claim form with a fake and participants were selected Samsung letterhead through random selection in (pictured at right) was also Samsung’s computerized System, provided by Ms. Davis. way with Ms. Sarah Davis. This a database of over 80,000,000 The RSVGPF advises the proposition is a scam. users. public not to share any (Source: RSVGPF) According to Sarah Davis information or cooperate in any THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 5. V News Opposition left in the dark

THE GOVERNMENT The NDP has a strong DECISION to close the grip on the Grenadines Union Island seaport to parliamentary seats, but representative The Ashton port in Union Island whose closure Dr. Friday (inset) said he pleasure vessels was not Dr. Friday, when for the Southern was not informed about ahead of time. communicated to the responding to a question Grenadines regarding leader of the Opposition, by THE VINCENTIAN this action,” said Dr. Dr. Friday, born on yachts coming and with the honorable New Democratic Party at a press conference on Friday. the Grenadine island if (persons) being unsure as member there. (NDP), Godwin Friday or Wednesday 13, said that “This is part of the Bequia, conceded that to how they ( the “The yachting the Member of Parliament he was not informed as difficulty we have. As one of the challenges the yachters) have done business is very for Southern Grenadines, to why such actions was you know we always said country faced, was the there quarantine, and important to the country. Terrance Ollivierre. taken. that we are open to monitoring of the yachts whether they are free to It’s very important to the On Wednesday “I mean, I can’t tell provide …. as a as they come through the move about,” said Friday. Grenadines but we have December 30th, the you why the government responsible political islands, not least because He asserted, though, to make sure that health Cabinet, on the choose at that time to do leader and opposition SVG is a collective of that the major problem comes first and that the recommendation of the it. They didn’t parliamentarians of a many bays and islands, a was a lack of information people who come observe Chief Medical Officer communicate with me mass political party, to lot of water in between from the authorities. the guidelines, and that (CMO), took the decision and I am sure they didn’t play our role, but the the islands. “I don’t know how those persons who to close the Union Island communicate with the government has tended “It is a lot for the much information was interact with them are seaport to pleasure Honorable Terrance to not heed that,” the Coast Guard to police given or how much safe because you can’t vessels. Ollivierre who is the Opposition Leader added. and so we have had a explanation was provided have a situation where situation where people to the community of people are feeling have raised a lot of Union Island, but I insecure,” the opposition concerns about the certainly will follow up leader said. (KH)

The services of The UWI Seismic Research Centre team and their colleagues from the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, pictured with the pilot and other assistants, do not come free. Need to build capacity THERE IS THE NEED for St Vincent contribution has decreased from TT$5 and the Grenadines to build its own million to a current TT$2 million. capacity in terms of being able to deal Notwithstanding the challenges with studying and monitoring La thrown up by the decreased Soufriere volcano. contribution, the SRC, through According to Dr Ralph Gonsalves, grants, have supplied volcano Prime Minister, while speaking on monitoring equipment for St. Vincent radio on January 17, there were a and the Grenadines, and are number of agencies that provided currently providing expert on-the- services to SVG, some of which the ground services in terms of public were not aware. surveillance of the volcano. Those among the list include the As it stands therefore, this country Caribbean Meteorology and would be expected to contribute Hydrology Institute and The UWI additional moneys to the SRC. Seismic Research Centre (SRC) which This is in addition to standing the is currently in country providing vital operational cost for the team that is services. currently here — a three-man team It is expected of each government from the SRC and a two-man team receiving services, for example from from the Observatory in Montserrat. the SRC,that they pay for these “We have to build our own services. capacity,” Prime Minister Gonsalves Dr. Gonsalves explained that the stressed. SRC is funded through the Vice Government, he added, needed to Chancellor’s office within the refashion its allocation in the budget University of the West Indies, and for a geologist, for a geophysicist or direct contributions from the geo-scientist and a dedicated engineer Government of Trinidad and Tobago. to deal with the equipment that they In the case of the latter source, the had received. (DD) 6. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V 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: [email protected] Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines. Editorial Procuring a

COVID-19 vaccine Threats to democracy (first published in 2005) ACCORDING TO THE CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER (CMO), this country “THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED general even by the vote of proposed to purchase, in the first instance, some 70,000 doses of elections of 2005 ended, for the time being, the sovereign a COVID-19 vaccine, to cater to 70% of the population. not in a cliff-hanger or clear NDP victory as electorate. Franco Government was expected to purchase some 20,000 of these this columnist had dared to forecast, but in a Construction will doses and the remaining 50,000 would be procured under the runaway victory of 12 to 3 in favour of the build St Vincent COVAX facility. ruling ULP. anew, in the circumstances! The 70,000 vaccines would be, we take it, the first dose of a In fact, Prime Minister Gonsalves described And what about the remaining three vaccine that is administered in two doses per person, and it as a landslide thrashing, focusing this time Government-appointed Senators? They are all efforts were being made to have the first doses in country by on the number of seats he won and not on the promising, young persons — Rochelle Forde, March. popular vote which he used in 1998 to justify Richard Williams and Ronald Marks. And all Not long after, the Prime Minister seemed to have corrected his protests. three are lawyers at that. The first problem is his CMO when he alluded to the doses being purchased in a In 2005, among other things, three seats which one to elect Deputy Speaker. reverse order. won by less than 50 votes for the ruling party The second is that the PM seemed unable Further, he put spend to the effort to have a vaccine here by seem to have hosted some glaring to think that there are potential young people end of March; he clearly did not show any optimism in this irregularities, for which the NDP will have its in other professions. Like Milton Cato — and regard. day in Court. he had a reason for this - Ralph appears to be Say wha yo like’!! As far as a vaccine for this country is The challenges will be fine-tuned before the hung up on the profession of law, though he concerned, we are still in the dark as to when the first doses end of this year and will be made against the personally makes claims toward finance and would arrive here. returns of Conrad Sayers by St. Clair Leacock economics. And the reality is that even if we had the money to purchase for the constituency of Central Kingstown; If the youngsters are being trained to enter 70,000 vaccines, it would it be a monumental task procuring against Rene` Baptiste by Daniel Cummings the political field later, perhaps their mentor any quantity in a market overwhelmed by countries with in West Kingstown; and against Jerrol is to be warned that he has missed the boat. greater purchasing power and greater numerical need. A case Thompson by Patel Matthews in North Lawyers dominated in the 1960s and 1970s of a mice playing bad in a ‘big rat’ party!! Leeward. At the moment, the claims that when their power of advocacy were in scare That is why, and we are seeing movements in that direction have seen the three elections as flawed, supply, and knowledge of their law and a la the Prime Minister’s nationwide address last Monday, we seeking a re-election. And there may be one or constitution was needed at the terminal stage need to stand as a region — CARICOM — in any effort to assure two other rogue constituencies added to the of colonialism to assist the thrust towards an appropriate number of a vaccine for members of that list, if not the entire election to be declared Independence. regional grouping. null and void. The time (1974-1984) is past when the We must not feel it a blow to our prestige if we have to ULP supporters rely on the bill of health Labour Government comprised a team of approach multi-lateral lending agencies for assistance in pronounced at the end of the polling by lawyers - Milton Cato, Hudson Tannis, St. purchasing adequate quantities of a vaccine. outside observers. But NDPites hold that the Clair Dacon, Grafton Isaacs, Arthur Williams Let CARICOM work as CARICOM should. verdict was precipitate, declared before the and Arthur Woods. In the modern world, such We cannot, for the life of Zeus, wait in our separate cabooses, ugly details of sins committed on Election Day a government would guarantee that we holding our breath waiting to exhale with a puff of hopefulness were uncovered. remain “hewers of wood and drawers of that a vaccine would eventually materialize out of thin air. Above all, the infractions were said to be water”. Informatics, communication, tourism Worse, now that we have entered the ultimate stage of the elementary, basic, bold and brazen, but fatal and other attributes of a service-oriented COVID-19 scourge… death, two to date, we can ill afford any to our democracy. economy would have passed us by, chained to distraction to our combined effort. Meanwhile, Dr. Gonsalves, as is his right, an inglorious past, the rhetoric According to our Prime Minister, Russia has offered this has proceeded to configure a Government of notwithstanding. country 3000 doses of a vaccine which that country developed, “all Chiefs and no Indians”. There are full- So, three young up-and-coming lawyers but which has yet to receive international approval of sorts. fledged Ministers, no Junior Ministers of being groomed for the future. There are the It is sad, to say the least, that even though we have real State or Parliamentary Secretaries. Certainly, PM and Rene in the engine-room. And young need for the vaccine, that we would accept a donation from a not a single back-bench to whisper a syllable George is free-floating while the PM’s son, country that is wallowing in even greater, numerical need. of warning or protest to any Government Camillo, is in the AG’s office. (Reference Russian online news agencies.) Further, are we not measure. In addition, there is the “independent” DPP to be cautious about the efficacy of the Russian vaccine which is What is more is that the PM has created an Colin Williams who may soon have a massive still under scrutiny? Administrative Bureau to man Grenadines’ role to perform in the Ottley Hall Enquiry and the cases arising out of the recent election. The bottom line: We need a vaccine and we need it fast, due affairs out of his Ministry. And the two persons slated for the jobs, heading that Then there is Cecil “Blazer” Williams, one- diligence applied. It is, as per the Prime Minister, “… capable mission, are two electorally rejected ULP time Deputy-Leader of the Gonsalves founded of making a significant impact — curbing the spread of COVID- candidates, Belmar and Snagg. MNU, editor of the party’s newspaper “Unity”, 19.” The PM seems deliberately to be creating a partner in the Gonsalves legal chambers, And while we are at it, is the declaration of public holidays an area of serious conflict, a recipe for future and a former electoral candidate for (Jan 23 and 25) a test of sorts? Instead of declaring a lockdown disaster. Gonsalves’ party. for the Jan. 23 to 25 period, our Prime Minister has beckoned Then, there is Julian Francis, made a Cecil Blazer Williams now presides over that we, on our own volition, behave ourselves — stay indoors, Senator which he had left with the vaulting the Government bureaucracy, sitting in his no partying - for those two days, instead of having his ambition of defeating Arnhim Eustace at the quasi- judicial post (he is lawyer too) as government declare a mandatory lockdown. We are to test if polls, and having been humiliated, takes up Chairman of the PSC. He must wonder over we can ‘lock in ourselves’. once more the mantle of Senator. Not only the out-cropping of a “Legalocracy” he once And to ask the commercial sector to consider the Saturday a that, he has been given perhaps the most wrote in negative terms during the reign of public holiday, i.e. that they close for business? Now come powerful Ministry, after the PM. the first Labour Party. on!!!! What’s this one step forward one step backwards The “twin towers of evil”- to use Lynch’s And to think that there was no space for strategy? Declare a lockdown for the period and done with infelicitous reference - are thus preserved Jomo Thomas in all that!” that, Mr. PM. intact to continue their thing. They are in fact By the way, is ‘local transmission’ a cuss phrase? Siamese twins that cannot be separated, not (Conclusion/update to follow next week) lHE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 7. V Views Lest we forget the bigger issues Clearing a barrel HAVE YOU ever tried overseas, but these days But I have learned contents of my barrel to THE QUESTION of restrictions on size of collecting a barrel from as I go through the that these ‘spotters’ the staff in the hopes of gathering versus reduced number of passengers on the Campden Park wharf? torture of clearing the serve a useful purpose getting through earlier? public transportation is yet another unnecessary I tell you, if you thought barrels, I begin to but they come at a hefty This was heightened controversy, and a distraction from the real issue. the lines at the bank wonder how long I can price (dollars) and when I noticed other One of the bigger challenges at hand continues moved at a snail’s pace keep up with it, since I “something from the persons, with more to be our capacity to handle the pandemic, and you have a run around am getting old fast. barrel.” barrels than I had, especially in a situation in which there is an trying to open or even So I get to the And after agreeing seeming to be whisked increase in Covid-19 to an average of 10 cases per close an account Campden Park wharf terms with one of the through the process day, over a 10-day period, and we are beginning to amounted to torture, think even before the office is men, I locate my barrels, without the slightest of fall behind on testing. again. open for business. I tip another handyman interruption. We are delivering a number of contradictory For decades, hand in my paperwork, for taking the barrels to I have no problem messages as far as it relates to the basic protocols. Vincentians in the make some preliminary the checkpoint, and following procedure, but For example: some public spaces are using three Diaspora have been payments and when that begin to open one barrel. when it looks like some feet rather than the universally accepted six feet sending barrels of goods is complete, I am This is a time when the persons are favoured as a social distance protocol; some business are to their loved ones back directed to the section barrel concession is on over others, that the law offering hand washing stations while others are home. Those barrels where barrels are stored. but the officer demands is not applied equally, I spraying some kind of chemical on your hands as serve a number of Then the torture of that I open all the get very ruffled. you enter the establishment; and for the most part purposes not least finding my barrels barrels. There is a It is time that all a mask around a portion of your face is acceptable. helping to offset the food begins. A number of search of each barrel as departments of My very unscientific survey of people in bill. men rush to offer though the officer was in government treat every Kingstown show a relatively high percentage of I am one of the assistance but there are search of some illegal citizen with the same people wearing mask, about 75% of the people thousands of Vincentians not official employees, goods. degree of attention and going in and out of a local grocery store for who receive barrels and I am tentative about I began to think: fairness. Corruption is example. Congratulations to all those who are regularly. I am thankful accepting their Would I be expected to not exclusively for those taking the appropriately safety measures to for any help from family assistance. turn over some of the in high office. protect yourself from the rest of us. Your mask protects me and my mask protects you. Now let’s Barrel Survivor also do our best to protect the personal space and build a safe and reliable social bubble. Cuba is no sponsor On a national level, we need to answer some questions: Why are we still allowing flights from England? What is the estimated economic value of each of these flights? What is the psychological value to the nation of keeping the flight coming? of state terrorism While we are at it, maybe we could get the estimated value of each flight from Canada and Dear Editor, relations between Cuba the USA? * Are there and the United States. any special This is not a call for a shutdown just for THE MINISTRY of Cuba is not a state information to evaluate the risk and reward; we arrangements in Foreign Relations in sponsor of terrorism, a place for the burial have a right to know the game we are playing. Is Cuba condemns, in the it that our current positivity rate is so high that it truth recognised by all. of the COVID-19 strongest and most doesn’t matter who we let in? The official and well- victims? absolute terms, the known policy, and the * Are schools aware Horatio fraudulent qualification impeccable conduct of that FLOW is of Cuba as a state our country, is the conducting sponsor of terrorism, rejection of terrorism in repair/replacement announced by the United all its forms and line work that is Questions to readers States Government in a manifestations, in affecting the cynical and hypocritical particular State internet connection I want us ask a few questions: act. terrorism, by whoever, for students For months now, there against whoever, and involved in online 1. Do we know where we are in history and prophe- has been speculation wherever it is classes? cy? about the possibility of committed. * Couldn’t FLOW including Cuba in the give some advance 2. Do we have healthy security? Cuba is a state victim State Department’s of terrorism and our notice of where 3. As we sit at the UN on the Global Security unilateral list that population has suffered repair/replacement Council, what is our National Health Security plan? qualifies countries, it first-hand, at the cost work is to be without any mandate or of 3,478 fatalities and with contempt any conducted so that 4. What is our food security plan? What are the legitimacy, lacking 2,099 people with manoeuvre aimed at parents can make alternative national plans for the medical cannabis industry? genuine motivation, disabilities, due to acts manipulating such a arrangements? referring to terrorism committed by the United sensitive issue for gross 5. Is there a 24-hour plan of action in the event of * Has the MP for and its consequences, purposes of political a volcanic eruption? If yes, do our people have any States Government, or North Leeward and as an instrument of opportunism. knowledge of such a plan? perpetrated and ‘invented’ a new defamation to apply sponsored from the meaning for the 6. Where is the Nobel Caribbean Civilization that coercive economic territory of that country Ministry of Foreign Affairs word ‘complete’? was promised by the World Boss? What is the dif- measures against with the tolerance of the * Would it be more ference between the world bosses (USA/SVG)? nations that resist official authorities. Havana, Republic of Cuba cost effective and bowing to the whims of We Cubans repudiate common sense to 7. Where have all the farmers’ organizations gone? US imperialism. have a drone 8. Where is the Movement for National Unity? The announcement, monitor the La made by Secretary of Soufriere crater? 9. Do we have National Unity in SVG, especially in State Michael Pompeo, is * Are our highly this time? a superb act by a paid West Indies Government that is cricketers going to 10. Do we know that we are adopting new norms discredited, dishonest learn something that will lead us into the New World Order? and morally bankrupt. It from the Indians’ is known, without a cricket book, since it 11. Do we know that volcanoes have been erupting seems we have not from creation that brought about our continents? doubt, that the true motivation for this action been learning Christian Democrat is to impose additional anything from our obstacles to any prospect own books? of recovery in the 8. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Views No one is truly safe until everyone is safe Effective leadership needed to Excerpts from the address delivered to navigate the COVID-19 crisis in SVG the nation by Prime Minister Dr. Hon Ralph Gonsalves on Monday January 18, (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press 2021, outlining the strategy of the ULP Conference) administration in addressing the surge in the number of Covid-19 positive THE PRIME MINISTER and others in the cases in this country. reducing the demand on the public Lab. government were giving the impression Individuals who are travelling overseas, that they had the coronavirus licked, The strategic plan will be required to pay the fee for exit screenings charged by the private sector beaten; that they had managed so well Vincent and the Grenadines. There is that the economic fallout was not as bad too much political calculation in what STRATEGICALLY, in the current laboratories. Further, significant resources are being provided for as elsewhere in the region. They spoke is said and done by public officials for circumstances, the plan is essentially six- as though we were past the worst. But public consumption. The professionals fold: additional storage for COVID-19 supplies and for containerised expansion the situation is now worse than ever. The in the Ministry of Health must be 1. Flatten the curve by reducing the of the Molecular Laboratory, Government has mismanaged this guided by the science and experience, incidence of COVID-19 and the preparatory to an imminent physical problem. They became boastful as not by politics, and it must always be morbidity, and mortality, connected though it was a competition that they what makes the people safe and feel thereto with a central focus on the expansion of the Lab. These resources protection of vulnerable populations, the are available for immediate use. were winning. They also became safe, not what makes the government early detection of cases in the Moreover, more professional and complacent and they have allowed the look good or sound good. communities, and aggressive early technical persons are being recruited for situation to get out of control. I say to the health department management of all cases of COVID-19. the Lab, in addition to those recently Now we must do all we can to bring officials, give the proper scientific In this regard, the vulnerable hired. the situation under control: advice honestly and fully. That is your populations are those with chronic non- The team at the Molecular * Secure our ports of entry to role. Then, it is up to the political communicable diseases such as diabetes Laboratory led by Elliot Samuel have ensure all persons are properly leaders to make decisions based on been doing a magnificent job for our that information and advice. There is and hypertension, heart and country. They go way beyond the call of checked and handled appropriately; kidney/renal problems, lupus, sickle cell duty, professionally, selflessly, and in * Enforce quarantine measures a trust gap between government and anemia, and such like severe pre- accord with the highest ethical strictly, through effective monitoring the people as far as the management existing, debilitating health conditions. standards. We thank them. Thus far, and follow up. As part of this, ensure of the COVID crisis goes. This is 2. Maintaining a sufficiency, in the Lab has carried out some 24,705 resort guests stay on resort until dangerous and can cost lives. The numbers and quality, of the public tests for COVID-19, a commendable mandatory quarantine completed; message must be conveyed clearly and health workforce and associated number absolutely and comparatively. * Conduct random testing, or test of consistently that we are not yet out of personnel, within a nimble and fit-for- person who want to be tested, so that the crisis; we cannot yet return to purpose system to enhance their Number and quality of health testing is more widespread; the goal normal. It is a false choice to say we effectiveness. Boots-on-the-ground personnel must choose between health on the epidemiology is vital to our success. must be to test as many people as 3. Maintaining basic primary health- possible, on a continuous basis; one hand, and the economy on the care activities particularly those relating A central strategic quest has been to * Mandatory masks in public spaces other. They are inextricably linked. to maternal and child health, and enhance the number and quality of with many people, publicly used The economy cannot function optimal care for persons with chronic nurses and doctors in our health care buildings and public transport (many properly if people are getting infected diseases and medical emergencies. system and to assist in combating businesses enforcing it for their own and others fear becoming infected. 4. Promoting further public COVID-19. Last year, dozens of nurses protection but it should not be merely There will be reduced public confidence in the health authorities’ (staff nurses and SET nurses), doctors, optional); confidence in going about their and other health professionals were business and the economy will suffer. strategic approach and work plan in recruited. Currently, 23 staff nurses are * Facilitate importation of masks; fighting COVID-19. being recruited. And we will have to * Promote work rotation, especially So, the only way to protect the 5. Developing further an enabling recruit more. Thankfully, we are in the public sector (this will reduce economy is to bring the spread of the environment for responsible behaviour training many more at the Nursing use of minivans); virus under control and show our by the population through their Division of our Community College. Our * Record names of persons who people that the government is adherence to the advice and protocols of nurses, and nursing assistants, attend church, funerals, other managing the problem. the health authorities on COVID-19. overwhelmingly, have been gatherings even though limited to 10 The evidence of the last two weeks 6. The earliest possible introduction of extraordinary in their devotion to their and do temperature checks of persons show that the government is failing to COVID-19 vaccines. do that and is doing so at a time when A bundle of activities within the patients, professionally sound, and entering such gatherings; strategic plan for tackling COVID-19 are possessed of humane values of the * Increase public awareness of the the situation is more grave and more already in place. These are being highest quality. Those engaged need to continue to practice COVID urgent than ever. refined for better delivery and others are specifically in the fight against COVID- Safe personal hygiene, to overcome the being proposed to flatten the current 19 have been phenomenal. We owe so called “COVID fatigue”–wash La Soufriere Eruption - Planning and rising curve of COVID-19 infections. them a tremendous debt of gratitude; hands regularly, cough in tissue or Preparation and we thank them sincerely. elbow, no handshakes, or hugs; wear Find, trace, test, isolate, support Even as the health system tackles mask; monitor own temperature when I urge the authorities to COVID-19, it must always be feeling unwell; avoid gatherings; stay communicate in a transparent and emphasised that we cannot drop our The most significant activity to be guard on the vital matter of maintaining home as much as possible; complete manner so that people will continued, and ramped up, is the inter- basic, essential public health care for the * Install handwashing stations at trust and heed the information and related bundle to find, to trace, to test, population. Indeed, the maintenance of bus terminals and assist van operators instructions given. to isolate, and to support. We must be a sound primary and public health care to regularly sanitize vans, and ferry My colleagues and I visited Owia able quickly to find, trace, and isolate system is an essential pre-requisite in operators likewise; and Sandy Bay on Dec. 30 to speak persons with the infection. Offering the overall fight against COVID-19. * Continually urge people to be safe. with villagers and urge them to do all support to vulnerable persons while in This is not an either-or choice; both are they can to prepare for evacuation if isolation is critical to maintaining public profoundly inter-related. It is for this Assisting with economic fallout needed, and to heed the information health, nutritional and personal security reason that the health authorities have from the authorities. People were and safety. The measures currently organised the primary health care The economic fallout will continue scared and needed reassurance. being implemented focus, correctly, on delivery in such a way to address both aggressive surveillance to allow for the for some time to come. As a priority, Regular and sincere communication is the COVID battle and the primary the upcoming Budget must provide for needed to allay fears and build trust. early identification of positive cases health care requisites in a judicious and through actively seeking cases in flu financial support to persons Moreover, we met with NEMO balanced apportionment of the twin sets economically affected. There must be a officials recently and will continue to clinics, contact tracing, and targeted of tasks between the 39 clinics, testing in at-risk populations This significant package of relief assistance reach out to them to be as much polyclinics, rural hospitals, and health assistance as possible, especially if a week, the health authorities will further centres. for people hurting from the pandemic. ramp up their work in these respects at Examples are: van operators will crisis develops. And NEMO must also the 22 designated flu clinics across all Conclusion lose income because of the passenger do the necessary drills in the nine health districts in St. Vincent and restrictions and school being online communities to prepare for the Grenadines. We are not a people of lamentations and will require financial support; evacuation. Hope for the best but The testing capacity of our Molecular or learned helplessness. We are a workers in the hospitality industry prepare for the worst. COVID-19 is a Laboratory has been challenged by the people of resilience, discipline; hard and (incl. hotel and restaurant workers, problem but must not lead to poor increased demands placed upon it by the smart work. We will continue to strive, taxi drivers, tour operators, craft preparation for Soufriere eruption. sheer volume of PCR samples due to the to seek, to find, to survive, to progress, vendors, market vendors, street Since the press conference, the steep rise in the number of local cases but never to yield to challenges. We will vendors), including cruise ship situation has gotten worse. We have and the significant increase in exit triumph over our adversities and build recorded two (2) COVID-19 deaths and screenings required for Canada, the workers who cannot return to work an even stronger nation. And we can do because their ships are not operating, a dramatic increase of COVID-19 United Kingdom, the USA, and it all, together. Let’s dig deep into Barbados. The capacity of the Molecular and hotel/guest house and restaurant cases. As of 18th January, the ourselves and into our determination to owners/operators, need income and authorities were investigating a total Laboratory will be enhanced markedly do even better, a determination with the introduction of an automated other indirect support; many of four hundred and two (402) local inherited from our forbears’ struggles businesses are closing, some for good. cases. It is obvious that effective extractor machine which is already on and lives. And with God’s blessings, our island. Additionally, the private sector faith will see us through: Morning by The government is failing to leadership is lacking and the laboratories are to be approached morning, new mercies we see; all that manage the COVID-19 crisis and government does not have a formally to process exit screenings for we need thy hand has provided; great is failing to keep the people informed comprehensive plan to manage the regional and overseas travel, thus thy faithfulness. about the state of the pandemic in St. COVID-19 crisis. THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 9. V Views Casting a Straight Shadow Time to fertilize our minds

“If you stand straight, do not fear a ‘In fact, the only sin we will never children to crooked shadow.” – Ancient Proverb. forgive in each other is a difference in educate. opinion.’ Ralph Waldo Emerson Groupthink, OUR SOCIETY is constantly searching for a tendency to ‘Anti-intellectualism, camouflaged with seek consensus positive role models; individuals in civility and politeness, has blocked the business, government, the church, and instead of fostering dissent, has sadly means to engage in critical debate. gripped the land. According to the Yale society at large, whose lives reflect a crooked shadow. What we say and Contempt for the life of the mind and psychologist, Irving Janis ‘Groupthink honesty and the greatest integrity. Our do should therefore be in line with an obsession with comfort has made is the enemy of originality because youth, in particular, forever scan the what we advocate as being good/ public discourse virtually impossible. people feel pressured to conform to the landscape for men and women that they acceptable behaviours. There must be And, with the avoidance of critical dominant, default views instead of can look up to; individuals that they can congruence in talk and walk. What we dialogue, we end up hiding the truth of championing a diversity of thought. consider to be their mentors; decent do must be in line with what we say our understanding from ourselves and Groupthink occurs when people are men and women whose writings, should be done. each other, which may prove to be the deeply involved in a cohesive in-group, orations, and behaviours encourage We can also find numerous greatest tragedy of all.’ Ejike Obineme, and their striving for unanimity them to focus on espousing what is fair examples in the workplace, places of Too Terrified to Enter the Arena of override their motivation to appraise and just even when they encounter worship, and in the community at Ideas. alternative courses of action strong opposition; men and women who large. Our leaders must be forever realistically.’ stand straight and, by doing so, cast a conscious of the fact that many eyes IN TIMES PAST, you entered a discussion Bill Moyers, a communications expert straight shadow. are focused and ears are attuned to at your own risk. Woe be unto you if you for President John Kennedy, recalled We would be very naive if we were determining whether our leaders made a statement and could not back it that many in the leadership circle to think that everyone will think good “practise what they preach”. It is an up. Those were the days when all of SVG ‘tended to conduct the affairs of state as of us. There will always be awesome privilege to be a role model was teeming with ideas, conversations, if they were a gentlemen’s club…If you discussions and arguments. When individuals who lurk in our whose life can influence viewers are close… you are less inclined, in a environment intent on discrediting everyone held fast to their beliefs but was debating sense, to drive your opponent (young and old) for good. Adults have willing to put them up to investigation and our words and actions. However, that to the wall and very often permit a an awesome responsibility and inquiry. Debate was everywhere, and it viewpoint to be expressed and to go being said, we must forever focus on privilege in moulding successive was not a test of debating skills. It was a unchallenged.’ There is a fine line living in a manner that reflects the generations by demonstrating test of ideas about what is wrong with between people sharing the same values fact that we are persons of integrity. acceptable behaviours. society and what was to be done to take and norms in such an atmosphere, Our lives must reveal that we are Several stories can be inserted here the country forward. belief in them intensely and operating persons guided by strong ethical and to emphasise the value of casting a Some of us were so thirsty for like a cult. moral principles. We need to exhibit straight shadow and being a person of knowledge that we risked our liberty to Clearly, unity is paramount. Unity these at all times … regardless of who integrity. However, the most get information. We eagerly awaited the must be cultivated and cherished, but a may or may not be watching and/or compelling example can emerge from arrival of illegal and banned Granma, dogmatic approach to vital issues is listening. In doing so, we will cast a the Old Testament in the bible — the the Cuban newspaper that highlighted deadly especially if you think you have straight shadow. experience of Joseph when he resided the battles and successes of the Cuban developed a Teflon-like ability to swim Integrity is considered to be one of in Potiphar’s house (Genesis 39). Here Revolution; Soviet Weekly; the English past difficulties successfully, the most important character traits was a young man living far away from language Russian paper that offered a misfortunes and blunders that might that an individual can possess. It is his family and being enticed to have a glimpse into the socialist world; have taken down the less fortunate or what we do when no one is watching. “fleeting affair” with his master’s wife Thunder and Mirror from Guyana and savvy. It is who we are when titles and while he, the master, was away. Cheddi Jagan People’s Progressive Plain Talk harbours no doubt that to accolades are removed. It is doing the Potiphar’s wife had planned her Party that damned the blight of solve problems, make wise decisions, right thing all the time even if/when enticement well. She arranged for all Burnham’s Co-operative socialism yet and remain successful; groups need to offered critical support for its it may result in our loss of privilege or other servants to be absent. She and encourage original ideas and dissenting esteem. It provides an internal moral progressive foreign policy: Ralph views. Groupthink should be frowned on Joseph were the only ones at home. Gonsalves’ biting columns in the because it is a form of mind control that compass that enables us to retain a Potiphar’s wife invited him to lie with Barbados Nation Newspaper, as well as attempts to choke off inquiry. We focus on and a determination to travel her but he refused (even though he the bold and brave radicalism of approve the wise words of Einstein that along the moral high road — seeking would have known that there was no Renwick Rose YULIMO and the United ‘Imagination is more important than to never compromise principles even one around to witness the immoral People’s Movement whose organs knowledge. For knowledge is limited to when those around us attempt to act). His response reflected the fact Freedom and Justice Newspapers made all we now know and understand, while justify or rationalise their immoral that while there would be no human the ruling elite quake with fear of imagination embraces the entire world, behaviours. A person of integrity will eyes to view the activities he could not exposure. and all there ever will be to know and hold fast to what is right/moral do this to his God. His moral compass In those days, there was a serious understand.’ regardless of the fallout and the was set based on God’s principles and battle for people’s minds. And then But too many of us remain too consequences. expectations. He knew that while no everything crashed. The Grenada terrified to enter the arena of ideas to Being categorised as a person of one else would know, God knows all. Revolution imploded with negative sort out differences and push each other integrity does not mean that the That example should compel all of us fallout. The Soviet Union and the to think deeper about our words and individual is perfect. We will all make to act with integrity regardless to socialist countries disintegrated swiftly. work’s implications. Important disputes, mistakes from time to time. As whether or not other human eyes are The world had truly changed. we are told must be done in private. humans, we are prone to error of around. The progressive movement was torn Ojike Obineme correctly points out thought and action. However, as a In April 2015, Dr. Seth Myers, a asunder. Many who claimed to be that ‘any attempt toward public rule, we must always strive to be licensed clinical psychologist, author, revolutionaries became ghosts of their discussion involving a direct, ideological honest, polite, empathic, caring, and and relationship expert, published an former selves. They essentially became confrontation is quickly reinterpreted as careerists, pragmatists, so on. When we make a mistake we article entitled “7 Signs of People disruptive and an attempt to self- should be ready and willing to accommodationists and apologists. Most righteously and selfishly reassert With Integrity” in Psychology Today. settled for the honeycomb of power and apologise and, wherever possible, seek The experienced psychologist noted oneself in the public sphere. And yet it merely genuflected to the pressing is certain ideas going unchallenged that to make amends. Such behaviours that, “the root of integrity is about problems plaguing the people. has led to misunderstanding and mass demand that we embrace and reflect a doing the right thing when it’s not Many gleefully embraced the get rich confusion so prevalent among our spirit of grace and humility. acknowledged by others, or quick, my time now, no more personal We are often called upon to convenient for you.” In other words, sacrifice mantra. Nothing except family people.’ formally and informally mentor those persons with integrity consistently was worth fighting for. Commitment to Plain Talk will be forever convinced around us. The role of a teacher, for perform at high moral levels whether anything meaningful was that the moral growth of a country has example, is not only to be a conduit of or not others are observing them. opportunistically timed to coincide with to be measured by its ability or failure knowledge and skills. Teachers, This is considered a hallmark of their an electoral clock. The community to bring into public consciousness the through their actions/behaviours, character. These thoughts are similar dismantled and suffered, and among the plight of the silenced, oppressed and become living examples of acceptable to those that were earlier expressed youth, there developed a strong unremembered. Any serious change behaviours. This is considered to be a by Clive Staples Lewis (1898-1963), nihilistic belief made popular in song by agent must take it as her solemn critical aspect of education. Education the British writer and theologian who the artist 50 cents ‘Get rich quick or die responsibility as Edward Said points is more than the absorption of noted that “Integrity is doing the young.’ out in Representations of the information. It is more than the right thing, even when no one is In politics and across all social, Intellectual to ‘publicly represent all those people and issues that are accumulation of knowledge. watching.” When we live our lives in economic and religious institutions, a routinely forgotten and swept under the Based on this example (of the such a manner we can proceed with radical form of control emerged. teacher) it is so very important that Confirm or be bent into shape, remain rug.’ confidence knowing that our lives will non-conforming and be ostracized. A SVG has become an intellectual the behaviours students see and hear cast a straight shadow. are aligned with best attitudes and warning stalked the land: rock the boat wasteland. The time has come for us to at your personal and professional risk. fertilize our minds again. behaviours. Teachers and parents Send comments, criticisms & All too many meekly obeyed, citing the who deviate from demonstrating such suggestions to primary obligation of food, clothing, Send comments, criticisms & ideal behaviours will, in so doing, cast [email protected] shelter, the mortgage to pay and the suggestions to [email protected] 10. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Views SVG must abolish

These racist laws and policies that discriminate in favour of the super- rich whites (fewer than 2% of SVG’s racist tax policies population is white), over and above the interests of those of African origin and Indian, Carib and mixed race APARTHEID was a system of racial The argument that Mustique is afford water and electricity; there is a citizens, are vile, disgusting and segregation in South Africa, under which good for employment is false. It is high crime rate with many young inhuman. They are there for one the rights and movements of the majority conservatively estimated that for every people ending up in jail; and the purpose only: to keep the rich, rich and black indigenous population were $1 in employment that is created, children of the poor are getting left to keep the poor, poor! curtailed. Apartheid was abolished in about $33 of revenue is lost, because behind in education, as shown in the Leader of SVG Green Party, South Africa in 1994, but sadly, the super-rich of Mustique get tax and exam results every year. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal apartheid lives on in SVG. customs duty exemptions. Let us not This apartheid protects the BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, says a Green Mustique operates like an apartheid forget that some of the properties interests the white super-rich of government would abolish this racist state. The white super-rich live a life rented out on Mustique are priced at Mustique and also in Canouan by tax policy. We would abolish the of luxury, but very harsh rules and over EC$135,000 per week. giving them tax and customs duty Mustique Company Act no 48 of 2002 conditions are imposed on indigenous The granting of tax and customs exemptions. Meanwhile, poor and the Canouan Act, as these laws Vincentians living in Mustique and duty exemptions to the super-rich, Vincentians face high water and and policies perpetuate apartheid. All those nationals who find work on the white migrants in Mustique and not to electricity prices, and suffer under Vincentians deserve prosperity, island. the black poor and powerless VAT and other unfair taxes. regardless of the colour of their skin! The Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 is indigenous population is a naked act of The rich can sip champagne and The human rights of the black, poor racist. The Act grants the white, racism. The racist Mustique Act No 48 laze by the pool all day, while the poor and powerless indigenous population super-rich foreigners of Mustique tax of 2002 should be abolished without suffer generational poverty and should not and must not be trampled and customs duty exemptions. This further delay. hardship. Mustique, Canouan, and on by policy makers in SVG. chokes off hundreds of millions of Apartheid is a plague in SVG and it Taiwan who enjoys dollars of revenue in tax and customs must be abolished now. All over SVG similar concession under duty from the SVG economy and we can see the damaging consequences a different type of treasury. This is totally unacceptable of apartheid. There is a high teenage arrangement, must pay We are and bad for our economy. Meanwhile, pregnancy rate; poor children are the SVG Treasury all the indigenous Vincentians have to pay going hungry; families struggle to tax and customs charges tax. survive and many households cannot they have avoided. GodÊs people

HOW MANY of us took a moment to thank The Today’s West Indies cricket team Almighty Lord for allowing us to see another new year? We are a bunch of hypocrites if we didn’t and still what to profess how we are a God- CONGRATULATIONS Indies team, it would batsman has shown the performance of these fearing, Christian nation. are in order for Sunil seem, has become ability of Sir Vivian and West Indians, you are Whatever, God is putting us to the test with all Ambris on his comfortable where they Brian Lara to make left to wonder if they are that bears down us - COVID, Dengue and La appointment as vice- are. bowlers afraid of them. properly coached. Most of captain of the West I agree with the Instead, we have our them lack good technique Soufriere. It is like a battle for the souls of the Indies ODI team. Let us analysis of the great Sir. batsmen being afraid of and it seems that our people as God allows us the freedom of conscience hope he will maximize Vivian Richards that the bowlers. batsmen don’t have an to say this or that, and to choose to behave in a his opportunity and batsmen are coward. Come to think of it, in array of shots making certain manner. make his mark. They seem to lack the his day Viv Richards them limited in what But there is still hope once we believe in the The performance of pride in being West batted without helmet, they can do. Also they power of the Almighty. It is not His will that we the West Indies cricket Indian. They seem to be faced the fiercest of appear to lack the be lost and if we do feel lost, we must reach out to team continues to be a a lack in desire to bowlers and was able to confidence that ought to Him in quiet prayer. worrying factor. After so succeed, dominate and be attack them. Many be portrayed in their The enemy has been working to change laws many years in the cricket the best. bowlers were fearful of choice of shots. and replace them with laws, rulers and wilderness, the West For years now, no bowling to him like how I hope that soon we governments that are contrary to God’s word. I others feared out fast will see the re-emergence am reminded of the Daniel 11:32 which says: “By bowlers during the era of players who can bat deceit the king will win the support of those who when we dominated all well and in an aggressive have already abandoned their religion, but those comers. manner, and bowlers, who follow God, will fight back.” In those days, money like the great Michael Let our minds be open to the understanding was not the motivation; Holding, Andy Roberts, that it is not every government that sets up itself what players received Joel Garner, Colin Croft which is ordained by God. See Hosea 8:4: “My then was snacks change and Malcolm Marshall people choose kings, but they did it on their own. compared to now. They just to name a few, who They appointed leaders without my approval. played with pride… put fear into the hearts They took their silver and gold and made idols for proud to be West of batsmen. their own destruction.” And Micah 3:1-2 Indians. They were out We need to rise again. reads: “Listen, you rulers of Israel! You are to prove to the world We need players with the supposed to be concerned about justice, yet you that indeed blacks were ability to bat well and hate what is good and you love what is evil. You not to be taken lightly. consistently well, and skin my people alive and tear the flesh off their They played with one bowlers who can bones.” purpose - to win. They definitely bowl teams played cricket with not out. Let’s hope that this As a people of God, it is our responsible to hold just their bats and balls present crop of West these governments responsible for adhering to but with their head. Indian players in godly and righteous laws, for they are supposed to Today, it seems that Bangladesh would rise to be servants of God. If they are not servants of money matters most. For the occasion and make God, then as believers in God’s Word and His Son many have abandoned those who declined to Jesus Christ, we have all right to remove them. the opportunity to play tour work hard to get We are the salt of this earth, and we are God’s for the West Indies and back into the squad. Let servants to do His will, that which is good and opted for leagues where us hope that these guys proper for all people, first, foremost and forever. the cash is in abundance. will play with pride and To God be all the glory forever and ever and But back to the be successful. ever. Amen. present crop of players. When you look at the Kennard King SONIA THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 11. V News

Profile of the new dome with the older 1979 dome in the background for size comparison. As of Jan. 16, the new dome was roughly ¾ the height of the 1979 dome and was growing more or less equally in both directions - east to west. (Photo and Caption Credit: UWI Seismic Research Centre) La Soufriere: Three possible scenarios by Gloriah… helicopter with a special attachment… on the camera, at the bottom of the PERSONS here have been tossing up helicopter; and it’s being processed.” their opinions about whether or not the He reported that soon there should seismic activity at the La Soufriere be “a detailed idea of the full volcano would simply remain an effusive dimension of the dome and it will tell eruption. people what we had said before when Amid that national concern, Prime we gave the volumes and the Minister Hon. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, as dimensions: they had a lot of errors in he addressed the nation on Monday it.” 18th January, outlined three possible He predicted that now, with the scenarios that could develop as the special attachment, “..we [are] going to dome continues to grow. have much less errors and the number “The dome will continue to grow to might be slightly different. So, going a point and then stop….. Second, the forward, the measurements that we do dome will continue to grow will be based on this new definition of significantly, and if it continues to the shape of the dome which we will grow there is the possibility [that] it have a very detailed view of pretty can get out of the crater and move soon.” down the flanks of the volcano into the Professor Robertson explained that sea. This is on the Leeward side of St. the geologists will then be able to Vincent. This will have implications track much more accurately what the for communities in Richmond, changes in volumes are, and by Chateaubelair and Fitz Hughes. The extension, the rate of its growing, its third possible scenario, an explosive coming out, which is a very important eruption may occur following the factor in monitoring. effusive phase of this eruption. This Even as the alert level remains at may occur immediately after the orange, the Prime Minister advised effusive phase or following a break, Vincentians, especially persons living long or short.” in communities close to the volcano, to The growth of the dome has been be prepared for any eventuality. given significant importance by the “With these three scenarios in seismic team monitoring the volcano. mind, I want to encourage every According to seismic team leader, Vincentian to have their own family Geologist Professor Richard Robertson emergency plan…even more so, if you during his participation in NBC are living in the red and orange Radio’s Face to Face programme on zones.” Monday, 18th January, “We did a These are the communities that will detailed aerial survey. So we took be evacuated first in the event of an overlapping photographs from the evacuation order. 12. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 13 .

Artistes, cultural figures pay tribute to Randy D

Ferrand ‘Randy D’ Randy D succumbed to prostate cancer, his Vincentian culture. .. He gave and didn’t count the aspects of what we know to be as Vincies and a true Dopwell shows off his cousins, Fern and Dawn Dopwell, Brooklyn residents, cost. In my mind, he was one of the greatest Caribbean man. There would forever be a void in our outfit, depicting the told THE VINCENTIAN. He was 69. Vincentians of all time.” culture due to the passing of this radio legend.” national colors of St. Vincent and ALSTON ‘BECKET’ CYRUS KEVIN LYTTLE HAILES CASTELLO the Grenadines, – Calypso/Soca recording - International Soca star - Calypsonian, radio while delivering and performing artiste broadcaster, dee jay the keynote “Randy D’s passing was a address at the “We lost a true Vincentian sad thing for St. Vincent and “One got a sense of 38th patriot and a broadcasting the Grenadines, because belonging when Randy D was Independence icon in veteran radio Randy was a major on the radio. Dinner Dance broadcaster and TV host of contributor to entertainment His voice pulled you in; and Awards the entertainment program, in general. you wanted to turn up the ceremony, of the ‘Vibes Caribbean’. He had a very unique volume and take in every St. Vincent and the He was also a fantastic voice, especially on radio. word, as much as you do (to) Ferrand ‘Randy D’ Dopwell – radio broadcaster that impacted radio especially Grenadines MC, one of the best I ever His voice was very the music. across regional and international boundaries. Organization of worked with. He made distinguishable, and you As a radio personality, Pennsylvania. ‘MC-ing’ look so easy. could know when Randy D Randy D gave everyone a (Photo Credit: Randy was a was on (air). He was a great ‘bligh’, especially Vincentian Nelson pioneer and patriot. artistes. You can be assured he'll play your song, Tribute to Randy D King) made a tremendous contribution to the He loved his island people. … He loved to see his whether you were a Bob MC or a Winston Soso.” promotion of SVG (St. Vincent and people succeed. He always ‘bigged’ me up. And he did by DR. NELSON A. KING His love for people in team of those early the Grenadines) and Caribbean that to every artiste he knew. Also, he was a very general and St. Vincent Saturday mornings, culture, via radio and television, humble guy. UNQUESTIONABLY, and the Grenadines in which — almost at home and abroad. He was one of the pioneers for radio in St. Vincent Ferrand “Randy D” particular was religiously — also Randy D last worked on and the Grenadines. … We should [NK1]have a CAIPHAS ‘SUPA EYES’ CUFFY Dopwell was a pre- remarkable. comprised Supa Eyes, the “Nite Riders” shift on Radio Hall of Fame in St. Vincent and the - prominent Vincentian DJ in eminent radio He gave immeasurably Hailes Castello, Earl NICE Radio, and was a Grenadines and induct him. It’s sad for me, because Brooklyn broadcaster and air towards nation-building Horne, Wayne Walker Nelson King, renowned founding member and he and I were really cool friends.” personality, who served — never looking for and Lavern Munro and, journalist, shared a manager of the “I have lost a good friend, a St. Vincent and the anything in return but occasionally, Verna special endeavor and Graduates Calypso CARLOS ‘REJECTOR’ mentor, an icon, a man who Grenadines, the for the advancement of Arthur, as we trekked connection with Randy Tent. PROVIDENCE inspired so many people in Caribbean and the our beloved country. from Brooklyn to New D. Of his many – former Calypso Monarch his life time doing what he Caribbean Diaspora with Though I’d followed Jersey to bring Vincy and outstanding loved.” utter distinction and Randy D closely since my Caribbean vibes and Grounds. attributes, the one I “I was instantly in humility. school days at the St. information to the Randy D was in a He was a broadcaster will always remember mourning when I heard the Vincent and the Diaspora. class by himself. He extraordinaire — among Grenadines Grammar I was particularly is that he gave everyone sad news of Randy D’s showed the world that the best, if not the best School — our alma mater delighted to be on the one can achieve, even in a chance. …. Every passing, for I spoke with him that our small nation — I got to know him more Vibes Caribbean team to recording artiste was a few months ago, and he NINA MALONEY the face of adversity. ever offered. His skills, when I teamed up with broadcast live the He put St. Vincent and guaranteed a play by was in such good spirit. - A former manager of NBC creativity and versatility him in the 1990s on ordination of Fr. Ulric 705 Radio the Grenadines on the Randy D. For many, his I would certainly miss the were unmatched. Vibes Caribbean, a radio Jones as Rector of St. map selflessly; and, by was the only play we got. inspiring conversations I Even with his programme that he James the Less Church, his innumerable deeds, Spin-on, my dear brother.” have had with him. We have “I was instrumental in elevation on the produced on brokered an Episcopal (Anglican) he has left a huge certainly lost an iconic radio getting him a job at NBC. airwaves, he never forgot time, every Saturday church in Jamaica, indentation on the CYRIL ‘SCORCHER’ personality/DJ/MC and a When he came to 705, the his humble roots. He morning, on radio station Queens, New York; and national psyche that will THOMAS wonderful humanitarian. moment he stepped in the communicated well with WNJR in Newark, New the historic feat of West never be erased. - Veteran calypsonian Like the rest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, building you could have felt all and sundry — Jersey. I wrote, edited, Indies cricket batting Randy D, you have we (calypsonians in New York) are in mourning, as sincerity, hard work and regardless to color, class produced and presented legend Brian Charles fought the good fight. “Randy D was one of the we grapple with the news of Randy D’s passing. professionalism. He didn’t do or creed. the “News and Sports” Lara, as he broke Sir Rest in eternal peace, my most outstanding We pray that his family would find strength in the things willy nilly. He was a He never looked down segment on Vibes Garry Sobers’ long- dear brother. You were Vincentians who really great legacy he left.” planner. on anyone, and always Caribbean. standing 365 not out more than a very good helped to foster our music To take up his shift, his music was planned offered hope and Randy D was the runs record at the and faithful servant! You internationally. according to the programme. That’s why people optimism, even in times undisputed head of the Antigua Recreational will be sorely missed. He was one of the few RONDY ‘LUTA’ MCINTOSH enjoyed him. of crisis. promoters who actually – Soca recording and Not only did Randy serve faithfully and well in his featured Vincentian artists, such performing artiste native country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but as Soso, Becket and myself, when other he shared his training and expertise regionally and RANDY D – an illustrious broadcaster prominent Vincentian promoters here in “From a tender age, I internationally, which bore fruit” America and Canada were telling us we had to go to listened to Randy D as one of RANDY D was St Vincent’s most Trinidad and make a name the prominent voices on NBC illustrious broadcaster/dj/radio presenter. in Trinidad, before they can Radio 705, the lone radio DAWN The mighty RANDY D died January put us on a show here in station in SVG at the time. – Randy D’s cousin 14, 2020 after a long bout with cancer...I North America. On entering the music mourn for my friend. He did more than Story by NELSON A. KING Randy D and his brother, arena in 1994, I started “He devoted his life to media broadcasting and his fair share to uplift the people of St [email protected] Philip, would feature us in seeing Randy D more and entertainment, which he enjoyed to the max. Vincent, not just in SVG but in Toronto, US CORRESPONDENT the Caribana shows in more at calypso tents, His contribution to the art form was reflected in Canada, where we at least concerts, queen shows and the manner in which he conducted himself. …. His New York, Boston, Philadelphia, A PALL HAS BEEN CAST over the broadcasting scene in got an exposure. He had his other events, as an MC. His passive interview style created a warm, friendly and Washington and other places. St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its Diaspora as ‘Vibes Caribbean’ show. voice was unmistakable, and his style and delivery relaxing atmosphere, which allowed the people he He gave his services free most times leading artists and cultural figures, among others, pay Whenever he called, we were were infectious. interacted with, to communicate with ease. for our culture and causes. He will be tribute to popular, veteran radio and television all ready and willing to go — Randy D was a man engrossed and engraved in At every opportunity he had, Randy D promoted sorely missed. That calm voice on your Paddy Corea – musician broadcaster Ferrand ‘Randy D’ Dopwell, who died on Becket, Soso and I. Vincy culture ….his name was prominent in our his homeland of St. radio never advocating extremes but extraordinaire - enjoyed Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, at his home in Rockies, So, in my mind, he was society, but he was as down-to-earth as they come. Vincent and the Grenadines, because of his love for Randy D cut innumerable new paths always in a positive framework. a inseparable relationship Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. one of the stalwarts in Randy D was a stalwart and an icon in many country.” for broadcasting in SVG and beyond. RIP, MY FRIEND. with Randy D. 14. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V News La Soufriere not belching fire

by GLORIAH… “First of all, the Professor Richard volcano is erupting…it is Robertson, leader of the LAST Saturday, January 16, erupting magma quietly seismic team persons residing in under the surface of the monitoring La Soufriere, proximity to La Soufriere earth,” he reminded allayed any (volcano) and who have a listeners. concerns/fears persons clear view of the summit, He went on to explain had about fire being reported what they that the dome will emitted from the described as huge flames become higher as it volcano. The glow which persons who reside close to the volcano reported as being fire. coming from the volcano. continues to grow and as happening on Saturday This created the day changes into night.” that described helicopter cause of the consternation among night, a certain Dr. Robertson further footage stated, “You can incandescence or glowing some residents, phenomenon occurs. stated that there are see a black mass of burnt reported by residents on prompting what persons “The natural other things that may vegetation possibly the western side of the called active incandescence or heat …. happen on the crater caused by contact volcano.” preparations for appears as a light in the that may cause between the growing With that being the evacuation. day but when the sun something that appears dome and abundant low case, the National On the following isn’t around, you’ll see it “So, the glow is like a fire. lying shrubs in the crater Emergency Management Monday 18, January, glowing,” he clarified, natural, the burning With a lot of that runs from the front Organisation (NEMO) Geologist Professor “and as that dome gets sometimes is natural,” he vegetation in the crater of the growing dome on moved to remind the Richard Robertson, closer, particularly to the assured, “and we’d and the dome spilling hot its western end outwards nation that the alert leader of the seismic southern flanks, and expect that that might material all the time, for about 100 metres. It level remained at orange. team monitoring the becomes close to the actually become more there may be fires that is possible that this To date, no evacuation volcano, sought to areas where you have likely and more frequent might catch because of damage to the vegetation order has been issued. explain the phenomenon people around, you may as time goes on.” the internal action of occurred on Saturday Persons are cautioned during a live link up on begin to see that glow. A January Facebook that hot material spilling night (January 16th to refrain from visiting NBC Radio. That is what was post on The UWI Seismic out onto the crater floor. Research Centre page 2021) and could be the the volcano. THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 15. 16. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 17. V Regional Sir Hilary personifies a global fight

Rev. Al Reverend Al Sharpton stated, ‘template’ and guiding light in the Sharpton “Every year we have the National global reparatory justice movement. considers Sir Action Network Dr Martin Luther He acknowledged that Dr King’s Hilary to be King Awards, we look for someone philosophies “framed his own views of unequalled who has personified in their own the world.” He expressed his gratitude among those work, in their own life, the global for the accolade saying, “I am humbled who struggle fight for human rights and human and honoured to be considered in the to safeguard dignity, particularly in the African context of the legacy of Dr King.” the human diaspora, and there’s no doubt Sir Hilary was among seven rights and about the fact that Sir Hilary has distinguished persons honoured. Other dignity of been one in that tradition–I honourees include American physician, persons, would say unequalled in the immunologist and Director of National especially those in the present African diaspora of those Institute of Allergy and Infectious African of us that are still among us.” Diseases (NIAID), Dr Anthony Fauci; diaspora. The US-based Network, founded seven-year old non-profit founder (Photo Credit: and led by Reverend Sharpton, has Cavanaugh Bell; Chief Executive CNN.com) celebrated MLK Day since 1991 Officer for the League of United Latin with a breakfast in his honour in American Citizens (LULAC), Sindy marginalised and oppressed ethnicities Washington, DC. The annual event Benavides; award-winning organiser, and nations, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, both commemorates Dr King’s legacy philanthropic consultant, political Vice-Chancellor of The University of the and provides an opportunity to refocus strategist and jazz singer, Latosha Sir Hilary Beckles described Dr. Martin West Indies (The UWI), Chairman of the on the work of carrying on his dream. Brown; Stacey Abrams, American Luther King as a “‘template’ and CARICOM Reparations Commission and In his response, Sir Hilary told politician, lawyer, voting rights guiding light in the global reparatory President of Universities Caribbean, was Reverend Sharpton that growing up, activist, and author; and Dr. Millicent justice movement.” (Photo Credit: his generation followed and was Gorham, Executive Director of the viconsortium.com) honoured by Reverend Al Sharpton and the National Action Network (NAN) on Dr inspired by the works and teachings of National Black Nurses Association, Martin Luther King (MLK) Day—January Dr King and that he remains a Inc. (Source: The UWI) FOR HIS GLOBAL advocacy, academic 18—with the Peace and Freedom Award. scholarship and intellectual leadership in Presenting the Award to Sir Hilary support of social justice, institutional during a live virtual ceremony, equity, and economic development for CXC faces

A statement by the Concerned Parents of Barbados said, “From the lawsuit outset of this crisis, the Group of Concerned Parents of Barbados, in REGIONAL examinations body, the association with allied advocates, has Caribbean Examinations Council worked earnestly towards an (CXC), is facing a class action lawsuit amicable and fair settlement of this from students affected by last year’s matter, heeding the call of Professor controversial grading of the Sir Hilary Beckles to forswear Caribbean Secondary Education passivity. Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean “Such advances, up to the present, Advanced Proficiency Examination have yielded little substantial change (CAPE) exams. and this tragedy continues to affect According to media reports, a law the lives of too many students,” it firm in Barbados has agreed to added, before announcing it was going represent the affected students. the legal route to seek redress. The so-called Group of Concerned Last October, CXC released the Parents of Barbados announced in a report of an Independent Review press release issued on Monday that Team that investigated the modified it had secured the services of Aegis approach used for the 2020 exams, Chambers, which will represent the the moderation of School-Based students’ interests “free of costs, with Assessment (SBA) grades, and an only nominal charges for adjusted grading model, among other disbursements”. issues. The Group said it had decided on It pointed to fraudulent SBA legal action against CXC after getting submissions from teachers and leaked no satisfaction from the Council about examination questions among a its concerns about exam grading and number of potentially damning in the subsequent grade review infractions emerging from the review. process. However, the review team headed Following protests by students by Professor Emerita Hazel Simmons- region wide, triggered by concerns McDonald also concluded that there is about inconsistencies and enough evidence of discrepancies on discrepancies in the CSEC and CAPE the part of the CXC to justify grades, CXC agreed to a review. remarking papers. However, some students have It also made 23 recommendations expressed dissatisfaction with the re- for the improvement of CXC’s grading. operations in the short, medium and long term. (Source: Loop News) 18. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice Dealing with two girls & COVID-19 Dear George, MY GIRLFRIEND and I have been Seeking answers together for three years and we plan on getting married in August. However, this Dear Seeking answers, COVID-19 has complicated my life. I have been seeing a former The dilemma which you now face is girlfriend whom my girlfriend knew not because of COVID-19 but rather about. In fact, my former girlfriend your inability to discern who would and I were even discussing marriage make you a better wife. but my present girlfriend convinced You admit that your heart is still me she was the better wife material. with this other woman and that you The truth is I never broke off with are not fully committed to the my former girlfriend and I believe my relationship in which you now find heart is really with her. yourself. Therefore, you need to take Recently I came into contact with some time out to think about what it someone who is COVID-19 positive. I is that you really want before getting did not tell my present girl. into a marriage situation. Meanwhile, my other girl, who comes In the meantime, with respect to over regularly to my house, said that the COVID-19 situation, you need to she too had come into contact with a get tested as quickly as possible. Also, COVID-19 infected person. I have a you need to declare your whereabouts sneaking suspicion I got infected from to the COVID-19 task force so they hanging with her; she doesn’t believe can in turn contact the individuals in wearing a mask or social with whom you may have come into distancing. contact. Your girlfriend should also be Suppose both my former girlfriend tested. and I test positive and my girlfriend Your priority now is to deal with finds out it was my other girl who the COVID-19 situation and after an infected me, that could ruin my all clear, sort out your relationships by relationship totally. Do I really need being honest to yourself and your to get tested? My plan is just to sit girlfriends. tight and wait this out and see where the chips fall. George Single or married?? Dear George, and told me she was tired of living like my doing an online course wife’s roommate. George, I do not know and this guy was her I have tried to no avail what has gotten into my tutor. It didn’t take me to get her to stop wife. Since she picked long to find out the hanging out with these up with certain friends truth. so-called younger, she has changed We have got to the unmarried friends of completely. She has this point where whenever hers. It seems my wife guy whom she is talking we do anything in bed it cannot make up her to online. She lied to me is like I am forcing mind whether she wants myself on her. I am to be married or single. I am not in that. I do not want to see any counsellor and I do A double whammy not want to keep her. I Dear George, want to be free to go look for someone who is fully What a situation!! I have tested positive for both devoted to me. HIV and COVID-19 and I am obviously extremely I just want to know worried. how to get rid of her I have no one to talk to who can help me. I have peacefully. I really do a few friends but they have already expressed that not want to have to they will stay as far as possible away from anyone with COVID-19 and/or HIV. resort to getting physical As it is, my mind is in a tail spin. Who can I with her. turn to for help? I have so many questions. I am wondering how much longer I would be able to Living on edge survive feeling the way I am feeling. Dear Living on edge, Dark Cave Physical violence is Dear Dark Cave. definitely not the answer and I am glad your first Thank you for reaching out. choice of action is to You should reach out immediately to the AIDS tackle this in a peaceful Secretariat and inform them of your situation. manner. Since you are While you may not be allowed to go around and about due to your COVID-19 status, you can reach determined to end your out by telephone. marriage regardless, I Also, give Marion House a call. There you will would advise you to get get to talk to a professional and benefit from much some legal advice on the needed supportive counselling. way forward. The sooner There is life after HIV and contracting COVID- this is done, the sooner 19 does not mean it is a death sentence. Get your you would be able to get hands on the correct information so that you can on with the rest of your get past this. life. I would still You have taken a great first step in reaching encourage you to see a out; continue to do so and know that life continues counselor for emotional and there is light at the end of the tunnel. and psychological As for your friends, friends like those you do not support. Good luck. need. George George THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 19. V Leisure

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) ACROSS You can clear up important legalities You can come up with solutions to the and sign contracts this week. You problems responsible for inefficiencies at 1. Undeveloped rose should make special plans for you and work. You are best to work at home, 4. Pickle holder your lover. Competitive games will be clearing up overdue projects. You don't 7. Chatter idly your forte. want to give anyone fuel for the fire. 10. Freshly 12. Garden trail TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) 13. Eight minus seven Take time to deal with legal Loans will be attainable and legal 14. Bother documents and the affairs of people matters easily taken care of. You could 15. With skill who you may be indebted to. Do not be cornered, so be prepared to tell the 16. Laurel – Hardy over expand if you have your own truth. You will enjoy lavish forms of 17. Slants business. Sit tight. entertainment and should consider 19. Walk unhurriedly making arrangements early. 21. Realty offering GEMINI (May 22-June 21) 22. Observe You must be careful not to ignore the SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 23. Above —, good needs of the youngsters in your family. Problems with females you live or work 26. Signal assent Emotionally, things may not run so with will try your patience and cause 28. Halts smoothly. Don't trust a deal that looks temper flare ups. Think before you act. 32. Leave the interstate too good, or a lover who appears to Unforeseen circumstances will disrupt 34. Strike sharply have it all. your daily routine. 36. Travel by yacht 37. Be defiant CANCER (June 22-July 22) CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 39. Canine yelp Stay out of other people's affairs. Take Balance is required if you want stability. 41. Lock opener 4. Boxing poke 38. Boutonniere 47. Choir range time to help children with projects You must try to include your mate in 42. Whisper detector 5. Map book sites 49. Spiral that may be too hard for them to do your activities this week. Arguments with 44. Massage 6. Poetic features 40. Witty delivery 50. Captivating children or friends may leave you 46. Florida port 7. Aim 43. Broadcasting Winslet on their own. A trip to visit relatives 8. Dramatic Bancroft medium should be rewarding. steaming. 48. Talent 51. Kitten “hand” 51. Dear friend 9. Sleeping place 45. Kennel 53. Hair 11. All better AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 52. Cliff rim emanation preparation LEO (July 23-Aug 22) 54. Crowd noise 12. Church head 46. Mexican dish 55. Fiery color You will meet potential new mates You may need the space, but you need 18. Cargo weight the extra cash more. Romance will 56. Emulate Angela through friends or relatives. Uncertain Bassett 20. Casino wagers changes regarding your personal life develop through work related activities. 57. Spoke falsely 23. According to are evident. A change in position You will have a problem with your boss if 58. Aerial beach toy 24. Tomahawk could be better than you thought. you haven't done your job. 59. Court romantically cousin 60. Tone following fa 25. Chest bone VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 61. Was winning 27. Singer Doris Don't let your personal dilemmas Make changes to your living quarters 29. Hardwood tree interfere with your goals. Avoid any that will please the whole family. Help if DOWN 30. Bakery buy confrontations with colleagues. Put you can, but more than likely it will be 31. Cunning your energy into learning new skills or sufficient just to listen. It might be best 1. Soap shape 33. Abound picking up valuable information. Travel not to spend your money on luxuries this 2. Fixed amount 35. Employed a SOLUTION will also entice you. week. 3. Food shop car facility LAST WEEK’s V 20.THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN Local cricket postponed

It will be sometime before cricket action returns to playing fields across the state.

with the Senior Men’s Premier and Association wishes everyone good Vincentians, we have a greater First Divisions, and the Senior Female health and safety, and advises all responsibility to safeguard the health Competition. cricketers to observe the necessary and safety of everyone around us. As Romel Currency, President of the A release from the St Vincent and health and safety protocols that are such, after consultations with health SVGCA, emphasized his Executive’s the Grenadines Cricket Association currently in place.” Please be guided authorities, the executive agreed that responsibility to safeguard the Inc. (SVGCA), read in part: “It is with accordingly a postponement of the season would be health and well-being of all great regret that the SVGCA Inc. has Newly elected President of the SVG best.” cricketers. to inform you (all clubs and officials) Cricket Association Romel Currency The President continued, “What is that due to the existential threats of believes the well being of all happening is not something that LOCAL CRICKETERS, both male and COVID-19 and the ongoing effusive stakeholders is important and such his affects only the sport of cricket, it female, might well feel they are in a eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano, executive is taking every precaution affects other sporting disciplines and state of limbo with the news that the all cricket tournaments organized by necessary. other aspects of life. We will continue opening of the 2021 National Lottery the Association have been postponed “The existential threats we are to liaise with the necessary authorities Authority National Cricket Competition indefinitely. facing as a nation mandated the so we can chart the best and safest has been postponed to a date to be “The Association will continue to postponement of the local season. As way forward for the cricketers and our announced. liaise with the necessary authorities an executive, we have an important nation on a whole.” The 2021 cricket season was towards finalizing a timeframe for the responsibility to promote and advance originally scheduled to commence on start of the cricket tournaments. The the game of cricket; however, as I.B.A.ALLEN the weekend of the 9th &10th January Alexander chairs NACAC’s Athletes Commission VINCENTIAN KINEKE ALEXANDER has been Caribbean Union of Teachers Games. named the Chair of the North American, Central Alexander then moved on to pouch two medals at American, and Caribbean Athletics Association the Junior Carifta level, the first in 2001 when she (NACAC) Athletes Commission. collected a bronze in the 400m in the Under-17 age Alexander, 34, was among several recent group, and the second a silver, when he moved up to appointments made by NACAC. the Under-20 category in 2003. Among the members of the Commission is World Alexander also gained a silver medal in the 400m and Olympic champion Shelley- Ann Fraser, and of the Under-17 division of the Central American NACAC Council Member Cydonie Motherstill who is and Caribbean (CAC) Games in 2002. functioning as a Mentor of the Commission. Bronze medals in the 400m at the CAC Games in Reports are that an athletes’ survey is being 2006 and NACAC Championships in 2007, added to carried out among NACAC members to produce a her count comprehensive database of NACAC athletes. She had to wiat until 2013 to medal again and Additionally, the Athletes Commission is working she did so by copping a gold medal in the 200m and on its Terms of Reference. a bronze in the 400m, at the 2013 CAC Games. Prior to being named Chair of NACAC’s Athletes In 2015, she took bronze in the 400m at the Pan Commission, Alexander had served as Team Am Games. Athletics SVG’s prime liaison with athletes studying Alexander has also earned medals at OECS and and training in the United States of America. other regional invitational meets, and has reached During her time on the track, Alexander racked the semi-finals twice at the Commonwealth Games. She has represented St Vincent and the up several medals and is St Vincent and the Grenadines at the World Youth Championships, the Grenadines’ most decorated female track athlete. World Junior Championships, PANAM Juniors, the She made an impressive regional debut finished NACAC Under-23, the World Indoors, World Kineke Alexander has moved from the track to the as the top Under-15 Female athlete at the Championships and the Olympic Games. board room of the NACAC level. THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 21. V Sports Sports Minister excited MINISTER of the Public Service, Consumer Affairs and Stephenson, who is the Parliamentary the process of finalising Sports Frederick Stephenson is excited about the Representative of the South Windward some work with the prospects that the Diamond Track Facility offers for the Constituency, said that the remaining work on the National Lotteries Authority sport of Track and Field here. facility would be to complete some of the unfinished in upgrading quite a number Appointed to oversee sports for the second time in areas, e.g. washroom and toilet facilities. of facilities. a Cabinet of the government of St Vincent and the Once completed, Stephenson’s big wish is that the Stephenson reasoned that Grenadines, Stephenson, in a recent interview, next Inter- Primary and Inter- Secondary Schools with the playing facilities described the synthetic track “as an important Athletics Championships would be staged at the ‘up to scratch’, this would be added facility to the development of Athletics here Diamond Facility. an enticement for sportsmen in St Vincent and the Grenadines.” Stating that one of his main order of business of and women to perform and He revealed that additional work will be done on the Ministry of Sport is continuing to improve keep their interest and the EC$ 4 million facility, which was opened on 4th playing facilities, Stephenson declared, “My first passion in their respective November last year. interest is to see the many playing fields and disciplines. “Work should continue shortly on the athletics sporting facilities that we have are fully upgraded He noted, though, track at Diamond,” the Minister disclosed. and to be put into use,” and he added, “We are in fulfilling his desires and the programme of the Ministry of Sport hinged on a reduction in the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Hon. Frederick “I am very hopeful that Stephenson, Minister we will see light at the end of Sport, of the tunnel and COVID-19 appropriated would be reduced and masked, is not outdoor activities resumed,” playing sport with Stephenson projected. the prevailing COVID-19 threat. Maloney in winning

The Pre-Season Relays took place at the Diamond Track Facility last December. form SHAFIQUA MALONEY, one Another go at the of SVG’s leading middle distance runner, was in dominant form on the track Islands Cup Open when she won the University of Arkansas ANOTHER attempt will Radio last Sunday Caribbean Football Trust Invitational be made to have a evening, Charles Limited (CFTL), headed women 800 franchised Professional disclosed that he will be by Chris Anderson. meters on the Football Tournament in reaching out to local The ten Franchises weekend, at the Caribbean, and players for possible named to be part of the Randal Tyson Vincentian players are selection. inaugural Tournament Track Center in open to being part of the He noted though, that are Brazil Samba the United process. the players he is Warriors, FC Combined States. Reports are that targetting may not be Islands, AS Guyana Maloney, who recruitment of necessarily the top Oilers FC, AS Espanola Wesley Charles, former is on a athletics Vincentian players will national players, but Manics, French national defender, has scholarship at Shafiqua Maloney, SVG’s begin soon, with former some “decent” ones. Connection FC, SC been appointed local the University of middle distance athlete, in St Vincent and the The Tournament, Colombia Tapirs, scout for ISCO. Arkansas, action for her University. Grenadines defender- dubbed the Islands Cup Jamaica Ruffnecks, TNT crossed the Wesley Charles, Open (ISCO), is set to be Soca Rivals FC, been earmarked as finish line in a time of 2:08.60 ahead of Isabel confirming that he was staged between June and Barbados Challengers Marquee players. Van Camp also of Arkansas in a time of 2:13.75 contacted to be a scout. August, and is being and the Suriname Among those named and Je-Risa James of Ark-Pine Bluff in a time of Speaking on Nice organised by the Gladiators. are Franseco Totti, 2:22.77 A promotional release Samuel Eto’o, Arjen Maloney was also part of the Arkansas by the organisers stated Robben, Patrick Evra, triumphant 4X400m relay team, in a time of that, “All franchises will Andrea Pirlo and 3:34.79. The Vincentian lass ran the third leg and be placed in rotation in Emmanuel Adebayor. her team mates were Paris Peoples (first leg), each season, in all Pan- This is not first time Morgan Burks Magee (second leg) and Rosey Caribbean countries that plans have emerged Effiong (final leg). (with the exception of the to host the Islands Cup Maloney efforts also heledp Arkansas to finish Brazil SAMBA Open. In 2017, when the top in the women’s team points standing with a WARRIORS who will be Islands Cup Open first total of 228 points in the 16-event Meet. based in Brazil).” surfaced, St Vincent and In second spot was Oklahoma on 119, third was Additionally, the the Grenadines was one Arkansas State on 60.3 points. CFTL release mentioned of four territories that some former noted earmarked to host I.B.A.ALLEN international stars have matches. 22. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Sports Friends of Female Cricket assist cricketers

The Grugru factor JAPHINA JOSEPH and Janella Glasgow, 16, is part of a CWI Glasgow, two of this country’s Training Programme being REACTIONS to the Wilf Slack memorial foremost female cricketers, were, conducted here by local coaches. published in last week’s edition of THE on Deccember 29, 2020, the Cleton Barnet, a Committee VINCENTIAN, have been varied. Some people recipients of some timely member of FFC, described the were lost, not being able to connect Wilf Slack assistance (cheques) courtesy the organization as being and grugru cricket. Friends of Female Cricket Inc. (FFC). committed to the development of (L-R): Japhina Joseph, Some pundits may not know that people Mrs. Gwenette Anthony, female cricket/cricketers in SVG. Gwenette Anthony and Janella played cricket with grugru. Queries surfaced as Treasurer of FFC, made the He added, “The organization is Glasgow at the presentation. presentation. excited for both players and to what the wickets were like. Not the pitch as country is on the decline and this Joseph, 21, is currently wishes them all the best in their such. That was the typical dirt wicket, rolled is definitely the kind of light that attending the CWI Training future endeavours. The with dry type of soil. is needed to invoke interest in Camp in Antigua from which a organization hopes that the The wicket comprised stacks of grugru youths to get involved in the team is to be selected for the ICC accomplishments of these two bunches, three high. Batsmen had to cover an sport.” extended area to ensure the ball did not pass, for World Cup Qualifiers for the 2021 players will be an inspiration to Female World Cup, scheduled for the width was three times the normal stumps. other young aspiring female I.B.A.ALLEN The height was enough, for grugrus don’t July in Sri Lanka. cricketer. Female Cricket in the bounce much. The wickets made for easy access of balls. An average bunch would have about four hundred ‘nuts’. If the stock was not used in one session, it Coach happy with made preparation for the other event easier. Selecting the right branch for the bat was another feature. Some persons specialised in finding branches that were dry and hard, and a trick was to ensure a curve at the lower part of JosephÊs progress the blade to pick up the ball fluently. I can’t recall how the score was recorded. I was CLETON BARNET coach Indies Team. She is age of 13. too busy collecting deliveries that kept departing of the J.G Tigress and committed and has shown “At that time she was to different parts of half sloping pint sized Sons female cricket team, tremendous growth. I am known more for her playing field. of which Japhina Joseph confident that she will do bowling. However, injuries The retrieval was for dual purposes. Those is a member, is delighted well in the Camp and have prevented her from barely cracked were considered as armoury for with her inclusion in the secure a place in the continuing that path in our form of play, and the others were cracked Cricket West Indies squad. I am excited for her her bowling, and her focus open for the kernel. Female Training Camp, and I wish her all the best became more on her Slack and I were part of that growing up ongoing in Antigua. and God’s richest blessing. batting. She represented structure. With my brothers Michael, Phillip and “Joseph selection to the I pray that this experience Windward Volcanoes Jules, that was already a core. current CWI Camp comes for her will be an Under-19 team for 3 years Whatever the size of the Troumaca Plying Coach Cleton as no surprise to me,” inspiration to other young and was outstanding with Field, it was the foundation for many a novel Barnet is more than Barnet told THE female cricketers.” the bat. It was during activity. Grugru cricket was an ongoing affair, as pleased that VINCENTIAN. Barnet recalled Joseph’s these years she caught the long as the farmers had enough time to cut the Japhina Joseph “As a matter of fact,” he progress, citing that she eyes to CWI coaches,” bunch. That was the hardest part of the exercise, continues on a path added, “I believe that she her debut for St Vincent Barnet said. and then transporting them to the arena. to the highest level is as talented as any of the and the Grenadines in the Grugru cricket was like the warm-up to the of female cricket. current female Regional Super 50 I.B.A.ALLEN real version. Troumaca, and North Leeward, cricketers on the West tournament, at the tender produced a number of cricketers who have represented the nation. It was easy for Slack to make his way into the Windwards squad. His compatriot Mike Findlay Something special made the link for Slack’s appearance. Findlay continues to provide his expertise having distinguished himself as one of best wicket keepers. Others like Grafton Cadougan, Duncan ‘Bumpy’ Providence, Joseph ‘Speedy’ Anthony had stints at national cricket. The tradition continued with Vandel Akers, Esam Robertson, Byron Lewis, Emil Antony, Javon Samuel, Mark Audain at the Under 19’s, and currently Kenneth Dember. There will be others, but forgive.

After a historic 2-1 series triumph over Australia, Team India has once more shown its ability to win series away from home, something which not many teams have done in the last few years.

After being marred with injuries, a young team stepped up and achieved something beyond the cricketing world’s wildness expectation.

The key aspect of this series win is, each and every player made a contribution to the team’s win. THE VINCENTIAN. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021. 23. V Classifieds

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.03 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 HONORARY DOCTORATE

He is now Franklyn McIntosh D.Litt but remains, FOR FRANKIE according to those who know him best, a humble, unassuming human being. (Photo Credit: When Steel Talks) with brilliance and versatility; quietly doing what the January 16, 2021 Facebook post by ‘When Steel Talks’ stated: “From calypso to gospel and reggae, MCINTOSH Franklyn McIntosh has worked his magic on music from every English-speaking Caribbean island.” Small wonder it was, therefore, that it pained Dr. by GLORIAH… musical grandfather and disciplinarian mother. Severin to narrow down the bounty of awards Mr. “Evidently Chancellor,” Dr. Francis proffered, McIntosh accumulated over time, but chose to “BY THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME by the Senate and “Franklyn Frankie McIntosh genetically held the emphasize some international awards with well- Council of the University of the West Indies, I confer key to many musical genres!” deserved accolades. upon you the Degree of Doctor of Letters Honoris Causa He then went on to chronicle aspects of the He began with an excerpt from a 1991 Class of the University of the West Indies.” musician’s early journey, and to highlight some of Magazine article by Les Slater which summarized These words, spoken by Chancellor of the his work in the region. “We owe Frankie a debt of McIntosh’s musical prowess as: “Frankie McIntosh, University of the West Indies, Robert Bermudez, gratitude for having brought so much talent to the Master Musician”. To this, he added honours like confirmed the award as reference, to pianist fore,” he stated, “evidenced for instance, by the the 2020 receipt of a Diplomatic Passport from the extraordinaire, musical composer/arranger/teacher, many times he was: arranger, keyboardist, technical Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Vincentian Franklyn Frankie McIntosh, during its producer, pianist, music software programmer and his 2015 induction into the Sunshine Awards Hall of 2020 graduation ceremony held virtually on conductor for some of the most prominent Fame in New York City. Wednesday, 13th January. calypsonians as Alston Becket Cyrus, the Mighty Frankie McIntosh’s humility rang true, through In presenting Mr. McIntosh to the Chancellor, Sparrow, Explainer, Calypso Rose, Obstinate, Short the presentation. The public orator used a response public orator Dr. Francis Severin began with Shirt, Shadow, Swallow. Lord Kitchener, Crazy, the musician had made to a question about his insights into the musician’s early days, when his Winston Soso, Duke and others.” contribution to the art, to verify this, “I take what musical talent was motivated and nurtured by his Frankie McIntosh clearly was a genius, loaded society gives me and return it, in the symbolic form of music.” Never were his educational accomplishments flaunted, chief among which were a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Music from the Brooklyn College of the City University of in New York; a Master of Arts Degree in Jazz Performance from the New York University School of Education, and a Licence to teach with the NYC Board of Education. These, the speaker considered, allowed him to make “an indestructible mark on authentic Caribbean music and bona fide Caribbean culture”. Outlining many more of Mr. McIntosh’s achievements in music, Dr. Severin told the Chancellor, “This consummate and renowned musician, arranger, composer, musical director, producer and educator, merely wants to be remembered as someone who tried his best and made a contribution!” His recommendation for the award called on the Chancellor to invoke “the powers of the Council and the Senate of the University of the West Indies and bestowing upon this most acclaimed Vincentian, Even as an Honorary Doctorate Degree awaited him, Frankie Mc Intosh, (foreground on piano) was Caribbean and international musician, Mr. busy putting together a video for inclusion in a virtual concert to mark the inauguration of US Vice Franklyn Frankie McIntosh, the Degree of Doctor of President Kamala Harris. Letters Honoris Causa.” Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.