WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 VOLUME 114, No.52 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

COVID & 9 Killer appeals Yachties and Cricket’s new Prison break Nights sentence COVID President disgrace Page 3 Page 4 Page 15 Page 20 Page 24 GRENADA RENEGES

Right: Grenada’s PM Dr. Keith Mitchell offered to help with supplying ON PROMISE petrol to Union Island, but has yet to come good on that offer. provide food and cooking This disclosure was The sole petrol gas to residents on reported in the December station in Union Carriacou and Petite 19 issue of THE NEW island went up Martinique following the TODAY newspaper in in flames on Covid-19 virus outbreak Grenada, and was May 19, 2020. in the region, which derived from what the resulted in Dr. Mitchell newspaper said was an accusing him of exclusive interview “encouraging Grenadians conducted with Dr. to break the laws of the Gonsalves. country …,” since According to Dr. Grenada’s borders were Gonsalves, as per THE closed to protect locals. NEW TODAY report, not Carriacou illegally to get However, even after a single person in the gas for their use. all of that and the Mitchell-led He said that St. amicable settlement administration in St. George’s simply did not occasioned by Grenada’s George’s has approached deliver on the promise promise to assist the his government in St. and “we just survived Union Island with a Vincent to make good on otherwise. petrol supply, another the gas promise about Dr. Gonsalves IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING fishermen was concern. between Prime Minister row between the Prime seven months ago. indicated that the THE MAY 19, 2020 fatal The offer was accepted Dr. Keith Mitchell of Ministers could be As a consequence, the situation would soon be fire at the sole petrol by the Government of St. Grenada and Prime brewing. St. Vincent and the resolved as two station in Union Island, the Vincent and the Minister Dr. Ralph The word is, as Grenadines government applications are government of Grenada Grenadines. Gonsalves of St. Vincent confirmed by Dr. has had to take certain presently before the offered to provide petrol to This act of OECS and the Grenadines. Gonsalves, that Grenada steps to address the Planning Board in St. fill the void left as far as a camaraderie had put to The exchange had has not fulfilled its situation, especially since Vincent for permission to regular petrol supply to bed an earlier exchange developed when promise to provide petrol fishermen on Union were establish fuel stations on Union island residents and of ‘not-so-nice words Dr.Gonsalves offered to to Union Island. going to Canouan and Union Island. GRENADA: A CONDUIT FOR NDP MATERIAL

PRIME MINISTER DR. reported Dr. Gonsalves as it — the t-shirts came in RALPH GONSALVES has saying that he had picked up through Bequia — not through fingered Grenada as being the information for “quite the Customs,” he told the the conduit through which some time” that the election Grenada’s newspaper. election material was material was being stored in As though hinting at funneled for the opposition Grenada, and came quickly another likely public New Democratic Party (NDP), into St. Vincent via Bequia as disagreement with Grenada’s in the November 5 general soon as he announced the Prime Minister Dr. Keith elections in St. Vincent and election date. Mitchell, THE NEW TODAY the Grenadines. He was also reported as asked Dr. Gonsalves to This ‘charge’ was levelled saying that he had describe his relationship with by Dr. Gonsalves during an information that the Chinese Dr. Mitchell, he admitted, Dr. Godwin Friday, leader of interview with Grenada’s and the financiers engaged in “We talk — I would say that the opposition New THE NEW TODAY, as the passport selling business we have a working Democratic Party, to the best reported in that newspaper’s who supported the opposition relationship. I don’t have a of the knowledge of this edition of December 19, 2020. in St. Vincent, had used close buddy-buddy publication, has not The newspaper further Grenada as the transit point relationship between him as commented on the ‘election to get their election material say like how I have with material’ finger pointing by into St. Vincent and the Skerritt (Dominica Prime the Prime Minister. Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister, said that he had Grenadines. Minister Roosevelt),” he information that Grenada was the ‘transit’ for election material “I didn’t do anything about responded. for the Opposition New Democratic Party. Continued on Page 3. 2. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V News 3 lHE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. COVID-19 and Nine Nights patronage by GLORIAH… when they visit the hold down any persons would come out.” Gardens: sanitization at Vincentian! They are a PERSONS HAVE BEEN available stations and resilient people!” Nadia Windsor – Teacher: WONDERING if the persons subjected to Christina Smith Godfrey Harry incidence of COVID-19 here temperature checks upon Godfrey Harry – Athletics “It appears that way. will deter patrons from entry; wearing of masks Coach: Last year, on the first engaging in Nine Morning and maintaining safe night, there were more activities. social distances were also “Yes, in that people are persons than are here Chairman of the encouraged.” still concerned about the tonight. I also was National Nine Mornings THE VINCENTIAN virus, especially with the reluctant because I saw Festival Management traversed the grounds of recent cases. Locally, we online that cases had Committee, Orande the Botanical Gardens on have no transmission, so increased. We like to ‘Bomani’ Charles assured: opening night and posed persons coming in need to come and enjoy a Vincy “We have been working the following question to follow the protocols, Christmas but we don’t closely with the Ministry a number of patrons: “Do because patrons do not like to follow rules, and I of Health and were you think that the want to get infected. don’t think the impact guided on how we conduct presence of the Oppositely, some persons will be lessened with Nine Mornings 2020.” He coronavirus in SVG will will not be deterred encouraging protocols assured that coronavirus deter patrons from because they see it as a because we don’t like protocols are employed at attending the festival time-out for their rules.” Gideon Nash Nadia Windsor the Kingstown venue here this year?” families, and will attend.” (Heritage Square) and Following are some Ikesha Delpesche – encouraged other responses. Gideon Nash – Chairman Designer: communities to follow of the NPRBA: suit. Christina Smith, “No! I don’t think it is The Nine Mornings Journalist, Barbados: “There is a visibly the COVID at all! I Festival commenced reduced number of believe it is more the across the state on the “Definitely not! The persons here. I know that recession. People don’t morning of Wednesday rest of the region has many persons are have that kind of money 16th December. The Nine been impressed with the concerned about COVID like they used to and, Nights of Lights at the way SVG has handled the and with the recent even if they have it, they Botanical Gardens had COVID-19 pandemic. imported cases, they are will spend it on needs jumped ahead with an Honestly, when I arrived not here because of that. more than wants.” opening on the night of tonight, I was a bit To put patrons at ease, Tuesday 15th. disappointed at the we have put in place Lennox Bowman – Dep. The chairperson of the numbers here but I guess protocols set out by the Chairman Nine Morning Ikesha Delpesche Lennox Bowman Nine Nights committee, over the nights, the Ministry of Health. We Committee: Mrs. Calisha Solomon, presence of Vincentians encourage persons to do would be cautious and still come out. Families like Charles, was clear will increase. I am social distancing with “I don’t think new that is certainly our hope. should keep their bubbles, that, “We have been confident they will come families sticking together. cases would create such a It’s an outdoor event and stay together and be working with the out. This is a tradition If these are followed, disruption that Nine if people wear their aware. What I would like Coronavirus Taskforce to they have enjoyed and COVID spread will be Mornings lovers will not masks they should be to say to persons who ensure persons’ safety COVID is not going to minimized and more come out. I think people okay. At the same, time come to SVG and are in if it gets any quarantine, is to respect worse it could the guidelines of the impact, but for quarantine. The country Four win ECGC bursaries now I think could be affected health- people who wise and it could affect us love Nine economically as well.” Mornings will Grenada: A conduit for NDP material Tana Martin Contionued from Frontpage. within the OECS. He then made a proposal to the The Vincentian Prime Minister went Sylvia Ashton Zascha Robertson Samantha Cumberbatch Board of Directors for the on to explain that Dr. Mitchell is very establishment of a close to former St. Vincent Prime THE ECGC FOUNDATION Childhood and Family best in their academic and charitable organization Minister Sir James Mitchell and the New INC., in collaboration with Studies; Ms Samantha professional pursuits. which will focus ECGC Democratic Party which he founded. the University of the West Cumberbatch - BSc Human The ECGC Foundation contributions and services For his part he said, “I got connections Indies Open Campus, St. Resource Management; Ms Inc. was incorporated on to a specific worthy cause, with man like Chester (Humphrey, the Vincent and the Zascha Robertson - BSc May 19, 2017 and is the and enhance the Company’s former member of the now defunct New Grenadines, announced last Entrepreneurship; Ms Tana brainchild of former image as it creates a legacy, Jewel Movement). week, the Open Campus Martin - BSc Banking and Executive Officer, Ormond while serving the Dr. Gonsalves is well-known to have students who were selected Finance (Special). Davy, who felt that the populations of St. Vincent been a close friend, advisor and to receive its Bursary for The UWI Open Campus time had come for ECGC to and the Grenadines and the confidante of the late Grenada Prime Semester 1 2020/2021. and the Foundation create a sustainable legacy OECS.’ (Source: The UWI Minister Maurice Bishop. In fact, he is The awardees are: Ms congratulate the recipients in St. Vincent and the Open Campus, Kingstown) on record as saying that his mission is to Sylvia Ashton - BSc Early and wish them the very Grenadines, and eventually continue the work of Bishop. 4. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Court Bishop’s killer appeals sentence by HAYDN HUGGINS worked as Security Guard, had economic situation. Attorney Grant pleaded guilty to the murder of Following the sentencing of Connell has filed an ANWAR JACK, a 26-year-old man who Spiritual Baptist Bishop, Ian Enoch, his client, Connell told THE appeal challenging was last week Tuesday sentenced to 28 during a sitting of the High Court VINCENTIAN, “We are in new the sentence handed years, 8 months and 3 days in prison for Criminal Assizes on November 9, but territory when it comes to down on his client murder, has appealed that sentence. sentencing was postponed pending a sentencing, and when it comes Amwar Jack for The appeal was filed this week by Social Inquiry Report. to the new guidelines issued by murder. Jack’s Attorney- Grant Connell. Based on the facts, Jack chopped the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Connell told THE VINCENTIAN on Bishop Enoch to death at Argyle Court. And we may and we have Murder Monday, that the sentence has been between August 16 and 17, 2018, after already seen the paradigm shift in the carries a appealed on the grounds that it is too Jack became fed up of the repeated sentences being imposed.” maximum harsh in the circumstances. sexual abuse by the, who had, on the Connell added, “I know a lot of work penalty of Jack, a resident of Georgetown, who first occasion of a sexual encounter has gone into the creation of these death by involving the two, guidelines which has certainly taken hanging, but drugged and buggered into consideration the pillars of that penalty Jack, and subsequently sentencing, but I am sure if there is to was not Court never took advantage of the be any fine tuning, there will be. requested by youngster’s dire Nothing is perfect.” the Prosecution, neither was it considered by the Court. on vacation Justice Brian Cottle did not use life Businessman charged imprisonment as a SENIOR Magistrate Rickie starting point, as Jack Burnett made it clear that had pleaded guilty. He there is no vacation when it for wounding instead used a term of 40 comes to criminal justice. years. He then concluded The Magistrate made the that the mitigating comment at the Kingstown On the 1st December, maliciously wounded a firearm at the factors outweighed the Magistrate Court on 2020, Police arrested and 25-year-old labourer of aforementioned 25-year- aggravating ones, and Monday, just after wishing charged Jaron DeRoche, Petit Bordel, by shooting old labourer of Petit carried that sentence a 28-year-old him with a gun to his everybody present, all the Bordel; and with having down to 31 years. But he Businessman of upper back. in his possession two (2) deducted two years, best for the season. Frenches, with He was further “Two persons were asking rounds of .40 three months, and 28 wounding, damage to charged with damaging days for time spent on me if I had Court, and my ammunition without a property, unlawful the rear windshield of license issued under the remand, arriving at the answer to them is that there possession of a firearm motor vehicle PD232 by sentence of 28 years, 8 is never a day when Court is Firearms Act. The and ammunition, and shooting same with a incidents occurred at months, and 3 days. on vacation.” gun. Senior Magistrate unlawful discharge of a Heritage Square, Burnett hasten to add that firearm. In addition, he was Rickie Burnett Kingstown. his Court is open to According to charged with unlawfully made it clear the DeRoche was expected accommodate anyone in investigations, about discharging a loaded Court does not go to appear before the conflict with the law. 11:00 p.m on the13th firearm within 100 yards ‘Round on vacation. Serious Offences Court The Senior Magistrate has November, 2020, the of the Kingstown public to answer to the charges. repeatedly stated, in court, “I accused allegedly road; unlawfully Belly’ have a job to do.” (HH) unlawfully and discharging a loaded charged for wounding RAYMOND JOHNSON, a 64-year-old character on the streets of Kingstown, was granted $2,000 bail with one surety on Monday, when he appeared at the Kingstown M-agistrate’s Court on a wounding charge. Johnson, known on the streets as ‘Round Belly’, pleaded not guilty to unlawfully and maliciously wounding 18-year-old Zaricle Hazelwood of Edinboro, who, it is alleged, was cut with a piece of glass from a broken bottle. The offence was reportedly committed on December 19 at Kingstown. The matter has been adjourned to March 19, 2021. Johnson was not represented by a lawyer. (HH) THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 5. 6. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 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 .....mas. Where’s the Christ? Wrapping up the old year

SOMETIME AGO, Bill O’Reilly, an the fact that our Christmas has Anticipating the new year American television radio become something to be commentator, went on a campaign manipulated like plasticine or with trepidation to promote the use of the holiday play doh, or become offended, greeting ‘Merry Christmas’ in retail even insulted by some of the signs (First printed in THE VINCENTIAN of Edwards, Nicole Sylvester, Stella Horne- stores. that label products at Christmas December 31, 2014) Anderson, my niece Elma Dougan, Dr. He did so out of a concern that to the extent that the Christ is no Erling Harry, Patricia Mitchell of Bequia, stores and other commercial more! I AM SAYING A FOND FAREWELL to Cardinal Simon of Mustique and George outlets were replacing the ‘Merry A cruise up the Leeward coast 2015. I will not be handling the present Howard of “Call-That-George fame. Christmas’ greeting with rather becomes a ‘Christmas Cruise’. A state of political ‘betweenity’, but giving A representation sample of the 90 years less denominational sayings such sale on items that escaped the time for a clearer picture to emerge. plus remaining to guard the ramparts as ‘Happy Holidays’. sale held some four months The following broad points can, include — Clement Lawrence 102, Afflick But O’Reilly’s concern was and previously becomes a ‘Grand however, be stated. Generally, we are Haynes (who ran for politics beginning in is more than just a matter of Christmas Sale’. A river lime experiencing the thunder and should 1954), Clement Eton, Evelyn Quammie, semantics; its message is deeper. becomes the Christmas River await possibly, the cloud burst, especially Beryl Richards, Lawrence Dopwell, Let’s consider the Caribbean. Lime of all Limes’. And sale of the accompanying flashes of lightning Sylvester Joseph and my own bevy of Corporate Caribbean and the our favourite liquor becomes a when things can be seen in their proper chicks: Georgina Barrow, Rosie Brisbane, ‘secular forces’ e.g. the media at ‘Christmas Liquor Sale’. perspective. Eden Bennet, Ena Carr and Viola John. large, entertainment promoters, So we spend accordingly and We must at the moment, ponder the Bringing up the rear are my sisters Ena who are so dependent on when a drunk driver runs off the court’s first ruling that the N.D.P appears in England, Elsie in the U.S.A, and cousin Corporate Caribbean’s ‘handouts’, road, we comfort ourselves that he to be embarked on a fishing expedition, Mavis Maule of Chauncey Village. have done a great job of removing was coming from a ‘Christmas and wonder if we are to cut the fish to A pair of social events were enough to Christ from Christmas. Party’. find its guts! fill my cup to over-filling during the The deliberate thrust by But if the truth be told, Christ Another thing. The N.D.P is mounting Christmas holidays. The first was the Corporate Caribbean to influence was taken out of Christmas long a peaceful protest demonstration which singing of the Kingstown Chorale which I ‘change’ in our expressions, tastes, ago. Whether Corporate will meet a police barricade sadly reported before, and the second was the likes and dislikes might appear to Caribbean and their advertisers organized by a Commissioner who 70th birthday celebrations of my niece Joy represent itself as a specific, use the word Christmas or displayed his colours at a recent U.L.P Browne which I again mention in concentrated effort to turn Christmas Holidays, is really rally, with a gesture indicating that there expanded version. Christmas into something that insignificant, because what we’ve will be four in a row. The NDP, rightly or Joye was born on 25th December 1945 benefits them a hundredfold, but lost is not the word or even the wrongly, disputes the fourth. in the same room at no:4 Rose Place, this is but one part of a whole. person of Christ, even though that Contrast that scene with the Bottom Town, where I had been born on The plan is to keep their is unforgivable, but the message demonstration of the SVLP in 1998 at the the 17th April 1938, on Easter Sunday in agenda focused on creating a of Christmas. opening of the House, seated in the that Year. holiday type mentality. The more The celebration of Christmas, “strangers’ gallery” and belching forth If we needed a link apart from uncle- there is to change in its favour, with trees, lights, Nine Mornings, Party songs such as “We shall overcome”. niece relationship, we have it in the the better. punctuated with gifts and sharing, The labour crowds in the court yard So Valentine’s Day is adopted is all about a sacred relationship birthday of my own mother, born Arabella shook the G.G’s car and threatened Cruickshank of Garifuna blood in the and packaged as though it that we enjoy with God. Arnhim Eustace, who was a Minister morphed out of the placid The message of Christmas is all village of Fancy on the 24th March 1893, serving the James Mitchell N.D.P Good Friday. So Joye was born on Caribbean Sea. Easter is an about giving to those who have government. Even then, in 1998, Arnhim extended weekend of merriment, absolutely no way of giving back Christmas Day, died on Good Friday and had been selected as the man of the N.D.P Resurrected at Easter! nothing about reflection. Carnival to us – the poor, the hungry, the future to watch and attack! In my toast I also spoke of the creation is no longer an authentic starving, the sick and those who Most surprising of all, the turbulence expression of the creativity of our have been calculatedly was caused because the U.L.P had of the SVUT of which her brother Mike artists, artisans, musicians and disenfranchised. After all, the attained the majority of popular votes had been President, she was secretary and balladeers, rooted in the cultural example was given by what we which they deemed was unfairly reflected I was the Solicitor — Legal advisor that, on bellies of the people, but a period accept as the first Christmas, in their return of 7 seats, and the behalf of teachers and education, of drunkenness and when God gave to us, something opposition! We shall pause uneasily at confronted “the strongest Government in licentiousness. And we have so sacred (His son), knowing that this point and deal positively with the world” on what is now known as Tear adopted Halloween and we had and have no way to return whatever sequel confronts us. Gas Friday. Thanksgiving, so foreign to what the gift, only by giving to others. But we are constrained to mention that As chairman of the PSC I was partly is Caribbean, and literally created So buy, spend and give; it’s Vincent Beache, who handled our security responsible for the promotion of Joy to the additional spikes in commercial good for the economy and you’ll be for the past 15 years, had committed headmistress position at the Girls’ High activity. contributing to the survival of the himself to making the country School, where she exploited every We have fallen prey to the retailers in as much the same way “UNGOVERNABLE” in the circumstances opportunity to sharpen her skills in subliminal tactics to the extent as we rely on God for ours. But of 1998. general educational development. Never that we have become let not the secularization of mind that I was accused of practising ‘brainwashed’, resulting in a new Christmas deter us from the real The Passing Parade nepotism! and different sense of values and message of Christmas. Joye has more than vindicated me in sensibilities. Happy Holidays! NO. Merry I lost some great friends during the her general approach to national So much so, we either ignore Christmas! passing year, people such as Albert ‘Jus’ welfarism. Joy to the world. lHE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 7. V Views Get the prison out of town

EVERY GOVERNMENT and those sentenced to would not want to be a Kingstown. Put it in the prison in Kingstown was since independence has serve time for crimes prison officer in there. back of Georgetown or going to be turned into a spoken about how they would have Worse, from what I somewhere under museum? One of the inadequate Her Majesty’s committed. gather nobody has been Soufriere, but get it out many ‘big plans’ that Prison in Kingstown is. Lo and behold, with listening to these brave of Kingstown. In this never came to pass. That it was built to all the ole talk, the officers. modern day and given And by the way — accommodate only so prison in Belle Isle was The place is a time how the capital has every time we feel we many prisoners but it built but the one in bomb and it is only developed, it is no place must send a ‘iron fisted’ always seems to have two Kingstown remained, because of God’s grace for a prison, especially person to man the and three time that where it seems there is a why something bigger one with so many prisons, something number. mixture of those on has not happened there. inmates and so visible, terrible happens. So when I heard about remand and those I mean, we have had i.e. from the McKies Hill Remember Latchman the plan to build a new serving time. So, Mr. some killings in there in road. and Rodriguez? I gone. prison at Belle Isle, I Editor, we back to square the past; who is to say And while I done ‘put thought, foolish me, that one. there might not be others me mouth’ in this prison Charles - Kingstown it was going to be a The little I know in the future. business, didn’t the great prison to house all who about the conditions and It is time that we Mama Culture Rene would have been sent to how the Kingstown begin plans for another Baptiste not make a big prison, those on remand prison is constructed, I prison outside of noise about how the COVID-19 and Jobs! Jobs! Jobs! our prisons DON’T GET me wrong disclose this to the APPLICATIONS are do, strive to use every learned the various apprenticed so that your but we might just be public), so I assume that invited from suitably opportunity to improve aspects of Auto mechanic learning can be more getting carried away one of the safest places qualified persons for using the available from the workers and structured. Attend school with one aspect of safety to take refugee against your desired post. There resources. Much was better able to in person or online where in our prisons. My the COVID-19 must be is no doubt that there knowledge can be monitor the growth of necessary to acquire the concern, Mr. Editor, is in prison. are needs in the society acquired by reading in the business and assure training you need. In the issue of prisons and I want to ask: Has that you can fill with the general. In your area of quality of work to the this way you can provide COVID-19. there been any testing desired ambition and interest, you can read to customers. It used to be yourself with a job and I have not heard about for the coronavirus skill. You may be able to improve your knowledge that you could learn lift SVG higher. any case of the COVID- among the prison earn a living by fulfilling and skills, and everything in every 19 in our prisons (and I population to mean some need in which you additionally, attach profession through Anthony Stewart, PhD hope if there were any prison officers and have an interest and are yourself to an expert. apprenticeship and to that the authorities will prisoners? Have we willing to meet the Take for example a some extent that is still been testing persons required training needs. gentleman who opened true. However, some before they are sent to Reliable workers are an Auto-Mechanic Shop professions require prison whether on Keeping remand or to serve time? always in demand. then hired Mechanics to certain specific training Whatever you choose to operate it. He then and academic As a matter of fact, have achievement in order to they been testing qualify to practice. connected persons who have been Many businesses released after serving began from scratch. Start remand and/or time? with what you have and Just a thought, Mr. acquire better equipment virtually Editor. as you progress to produce a better-quality 2020 has been a challenging year. This past July Eddy product. A needle worker was 15 years since we had our very successful may begin with a pair of villagers re-union in St. Vincent and the scissors, a needle and a Grenadines (SVG). This year we gathered together reel of thread. I know again and cheered each other up in this season of persons who can sew a good cheer. This time, we celebrated the festive complete dress by hand. season by having a Virtual Villagers Holiday Reunion (VVHR), using the ZOOM technology on If you do not have the * Why was the December 6, 2020. Thanks to all who participated. required skills you may venue for Nine We also made sure to thank the ancestors. choose to be apprenticed Mornings activities There is an African Proverb that says: “When to a seamstress or a in Layou changed an old man dies, a library burns to the ground.” tailor until you become from the waterfront Similarly, when villagers die, a wealth of good proficient. Remember to to Tesheira Road? deeds and information value your learning as * Was there grind to a halt. It is up to the survivors to honor most schools require anything political in and preserve their memories. school fees. If you are the decision? In this vein, we thank them for the good learning for free, count it * Have there been examples that they have set for us to follow. May a blessing. cargo ships that they rest in peace and may light perpetual shine Your future job begins have been turned upon them. with you and what you away from An Acrostic Prayer/Poem of Thanksgiving are interested in doing. Campden Park port (VILLAGERS) Pursue your interest by because there was (V)ery grateful are we for the good values reading about it. Check no equipment to off- (I)nculcated in us, O God, based on the newspapers for load the containers (L)ove and kindness. We are thankful for advertisements in the from the ships? (L)ong-term friendships which we cherish area. Learn as much as * Anybody get lock (A)nd ancestors who showed us the way. you can on your own. up yet for that (G)od, we ask you to bless them and we Seek help from those crime against that (E)xpress our devotion to them as they who are already three-year-old? Do (R)emain in our hearts and practising in the field. you agree that (S)tay with us, forever. Help where it may be every man Jack Amen. useful to you. Volunteer involved in that Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!! so that you can be in video should be close proximity to the job locked up? you want. Ask to be Cheryl Phills King 8. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN V Views A Joyous Christmas thanks to good leadership Introduction short few month once the drought cruise ships and other vessels, the subsided. Domestic users also had to export of agricultural produce weekly THE CHRISTMAS season is in full swing take tremendous sacrifices as water to Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, as evident by the hive of activity in rationing became the norm, but the the opening of school for a 3rd term to capital city Kingstown, the presence of Central Water and Sewage Authority prepare students for various external Christmas lights, glowing brightly in managed the situation well to exams, and the holding of General earlier this year as we navigated the communities across SVG, the start of minimise the inconvenience faced by Elections, characterised by massive early days of the pandemic. Driving Sunday shopping, and of course the domestic users, including transporting rallies, that saw the ULP returned for through this country, the conclusion much loved Nine Mornings Festivals. But water to residents on the Grenadine a 5th consecutive term in government. that SVG is in a bubble that removes looking back just a few short months, Islands whose water supply in tanks As the end of 2020 draws near, and us from the effects of Covid-19 may be the idea of this level of activity in our had all but dried up. developing countries prepare for more drawn, when in fact it’s really the beloved country would not have crossed periods of lockdown, neighbouring confidence of the citizens of this the minds of many as the coronavirus Covid-19 Pandemic countries like Grenada and St. Lucia country in the excellent management pandemic swept the globe with are confronted by spikes in infection of the pandemic by our “Five Star” devastating and tragic effect. This Saint Vincent and the Grenadines rates, leading to clusters and Government. The mood in this country country had already seen the was still dealing with the effects of the community spread of Covid-19, with is truly festive and the economic cancellation of Easter festivities, the worst drought in more than 70 years, the former preparing to impose curfew, activity taking place is nothing short cancellation of Vincy Mass 2020 and the when the World Health Organisation SVG is preparing for Christmas Day. of remarkable in the context of the slowing to a crawl of night life with bars, declared Covid-19 a pandemic and The daily massive crowds in global experiences that speak of loss of restaurants and night-spots all having to within a few short weeks, this country Kingstown, groups taking in the revenue by governments leading to reduce their activities as a result, some had recorded case number one and lighting activities at nights and the inability to meet salary obligations even closing temporarily. With Christmas then number 2 with the latter casting large Nine Morning audiences in and even layoffs. Day just a day away at the publication of a cloud of panic and fear over the Kingstown, Richland Park, Stubbs and The ULP wishes all a very merry this article, let us reflect on the fact that country. The major cities of the world Barrouallie, all bear testament to the Christmas 2020, and reminds us to act Christmas this year for us is even that serve as source markets for our great work of the government to responsibly while celebrating with remotely possible, while developed tourism sector and much of what SVG properly manage Covid-19. family and friends. It was the countries with their advancements in imports began to experience spiking responsible leadership of our medicine and technology, and with the infection numbers and even deaths, Conclusion government and our collective effort resources necessary to deal effectively promoting their local, national that made this possible. Let’s not with Covid-19, are preparing to impose (including federal) officials to respond The confidence with which we become complacent, as we still have a another period of lock-down to curb the with a variety of measures to try and approach Christmas Day 2020 is a far long way to go. surging rate of new infections and a contain the situation. Those countries cry from the feelings of anxiety felt Happy Holidays! possible new strain of the virus. This ULP with their major cities began to impose government has done well in managing measures that ranged from curfews, to the affairs of state through a most full shut-downs, banning out-going difficult time, we have done well and incoming flights, restricting Weak leadership equals following guidelines and doing our part. travel, making allowances for essential Let’s take a look back. services and their workers. In the region, our neighbours also imposed weak economy The terrible drought curfew, and closed their borders in periods of lock-downs, all in an effort ACCORDING to the Leader of SVG The year began with a significant to protect the lives of their citizens. Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan reduction in rainfall, causing one of This country lead by Comrade Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, According to Warrant Officer Ivan the worst droughts the country has Ralph, activated the Health Services Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Sub-Committee under NEMO, chaired a distinct pattern has emerged seen in more than 70 years. This showing that significant weaknesses there are two main components that drought threatened our entire by the Chief Medical Officer, to devise can ski-lift the SVG economy into SVG’s strategy and advise the Cabinet in the leadership skills of government, agricultural sector including crops and have kept the SVG economy weak for prosperity and sustainable livestock but the Ministry of on dealing with Covid-19. The development: Government employed a mixture of 41 years. Agriculture, ably lead by Minister The Labour Party Government from 1) A billion dollar investment in Saboto Caesar, took charge of the measures including wide-spread public education, good old-fashioned “boots on 1979 to 1984 focused mainly on free, high-quality education from Pre- situation, addressing in a most School to our own Science and efficacious way the plight of our the ground” epidemiology and agriculture and not on free, high- developed protocols that were quality education from pre-school to Technology University to drive a farmers to ensure that all wasn’t lost. knowledge-based economy; and The Ministry of Agriculture provided communicated clearly to citizens. our own SVG university. This was a Noteworthy is the fact that this big mistake and failed to boost the 2) A billion dollar investment in support to livestock farmers, providing our own SVG Fishing and Canning daily feed and water for their animals, country didn’t close its borders, didn’t SVG economy. and those farming crops, also got impose curfew nor did the government The New Democratic Party Industry. This Fishing and Canning support with inputs being heavily accept the advice of the opposition Government from 1984 to 2001 Industry can, and will, provide a very subsidised through the input NDP to “use Chinese draconian focused mainly on tourism and not on high rate of return on the investment. warehouse. This swift and decisive measures and lock down the country free, high-quality education from pre- More importantly, it will create mass action of the Ministry of Agriculture tight as a drum”. school to our own SVG university. employment for our people. saved our agricultural sector and was The Government’s approach made This was a big mistake and failed to Only a fool would waste money on very significant to the eventual the following possible: the safe return boost the SVG economy. tourism in this economic climate. benefits the farmers would reap in a of our seafarers to their families from The Unity Labour Party Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, Government from 2001 to 2020 who spent three years full time focused mainly on tourism and not on reading for his BSc(Hons) degree in free, high-quality education from pre- Accounting and Finance and school to our own SVG university. Economics at Oxford Brookes This was a big mistake and failed to University, England, very strongly boost the SVG economy. contends that a gross lack of Since independence, the SVG leadership skills has been our greatest economy has been underwhelming and weakness since independence. failed to bring prosperity to our The solution for our country is to people. In comparison, Singapore’s urgently shake down and shake out path of economic development was to the gross weakness in the focus on free, high-quality education management of public finance. New from pre-School to Singapore blood and a new approach with highly- Universities. qualified persons are very urgently Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal needed to move our country out of BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA lived in serious poverty and destitution and Singapore with his wife and children into prosperity. Warrant Officer Ivan from 1963 to 1965. He is very Bertie O’Neal BSc(Hons) very strongly knowledgeable about Singapore’s contends that we can move our model for successful and sustainable country forward into prosperity with development. Singapore is a World better leaders who have the skills to Bank success story, with one of the get the job done. highest standards of living in the Weakness in leadership skills has world. The economy is a knowledge- kept the SVG economy weak for 41 based economy and is very strong. years. Change is needed. THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 9. V Views Rejoicing at Christmas Justice begs for mercy

“You can never truly enjoy Christmas ‘People are brought to prison as a until you can look up into the Father’s punishment, but not for punishment.’ face and tell him you have received his Willie Ojuli, Kenyan prison warden.’ criminal activity by others and the Christmas Gift.” – John R. Rice (1895- particular criminal relapsing into 1980) Baptist evangelist, author, and ‘Each of us is more than the worst thing criminal activity on release. (Our repeat pastor. we have ever done.’ Bryan Stevenson, a offenders rate of 66 percent indicates human rights lawyer and author of ‘Just that specific deterrence is an ineffective SOCIETIES DIFFER in relation to how they Morning celebrations. Mercy’. tool to combat criminal behavior, which celebrate Christmas. However, most Over the years there have been is spontaneous or spawned by citizens would agree that many individuals various theories in relation to the origin ‘SOMETIMES WE SEE THINGS we can’t addictions or necessity.) look forward to the Christmas holiday of this festivity. It is generally accepted unsee, and then we have a choice as to 3. Prevention: to protect society from season with great joy and anticipation. that the tradition relates to the Catholic how we respond to them...every person those who persist in high rates of This is especially so among the children Church’s “novena” on the nine days has gifts and talents and something to criminality. and youth. They, the younger ones, often before Christmas. It is believed that contribute to our society. Our society can 4. Rehabilitation: to engage the anticipate “many nice things” on that very the Catholic early morning churchgoers only flourish when the inherent worth of prisoner in activities that would assist special day – toys, specially prepared food, began “window shopping” (viewing the each person is valued.’—Alexander Mc him or her with reintegration into drink, and so on. But the real joy of items on display in the store windows) Lean, Coordinator of Justice Defenders. society after prison. after the early morning mass. Others Christmas comes from recognizing the Her Majesty’s Prison in Kingstown is These principles are cushioned by a birth of Jesus Christ of Nazareth; would don their bathing suits and new set of sentencing guidelines which engage in the relaxing practice of a miserable place. Built 148 years ago, mankind’s saviour who was born just over the cell blocks, like all holding cells at calls for stiffer sentences for most two thousand years ago. In recognizing having an early morning sea bath. crimes. The guidelines remove the Over time, the practice of the Nine police stations across the country, reek this, we have good reason to rejoice at with the stench of sweat and urine. discretion which formally resided in the Christmas. Mornings festivity grew. The Ministry of Tourism’s website notes that Prisoners routinely sleep on the floor in sentencing judges and compel them to The Christmas season is known to be overcrowded cells, and the ration is arrive at a sentence through a one in which we seek to share time and “although popular opinion has this practice as starting during the period of insipid and innutritious. Teens and sentencing grip. It was this reality possessions with others. In many young offenders mix, mingle and which allowed a judge to sentence a Christian societies, it is that period slavery, it was more likely to have been a post-emancipation practice.” exchange notes with hardened prisoner, who was drugged and raped when efforts are made to encourage criminals. Many are raped and or by his abuser, to 31 years in jail for peace and demonstrate goodwill to those Other communities usher in the Christmas celebrations in unique ways sexually abused by bullying criminals. murder even though the condemned around. Some individuals travel long Addressing the closing of the Assizes man also suffered mental health issues. distances to get home to be with also. For example, the citizens in San Fernando, in the Philippines, have a last Wednesday, Timothy Hazelwood, The long sentences we are witnessing relatives and friends at this time of the the new Superintendent of Prisons, told come directly out of the American policy year. The feeling of merriment seems to Giant Lantern Festival on the Saturday before Christmas Eve. On this occasion the Court that only two prisoners are manuals which resulted in an explosion permeate the surroundings. This is also HIV positive. We are reliably informed of the prison population in that country. the time when radio stations regularly contestants seek to construct the largest possible lantern that is lit by a candle. that that number represents an Unless we swiftly disengage and reset, play Christmas carols. In the undercount. Far more damning was the anticipate the warehousing of hundreds Caribbean, the Parang music lets Some get to be as tall as six metres high. This custom attracts visitors from revelation that 36 of the 403 inmates of young men to draconian sentences. visitors and locals know that the suffer serious mental illnesses, with Rehabilitation is a commendable Christmas celebrations have all over the world and has resulted in the city being nicknamed the tarry medical intervention. principle in sentencing, but it is all but commenced. The stores redecorate and non-existent in the daily functions of exhibit a variety of toys, curtains, “Christmas Capital of the Philippines”. Alarmingly, 101 inmates are The Germans have their special way incarcerated for murder, while 276 or the criminal justice system. Prisoners furniture, paint, and linoleum. The are and callously warehoused out of supermarkets announce the availability of ushering in their Christmas season. 66.03 percent of them are repeat Their folklore advertise a Christmas offenders. A constituency breakdown sight and out of mind. It takes the of hams, a variety of drinks, and other occasional jailbreak to bring into focus grocery items considered essential for character called Nikolaus (not to be shows that South Leeward leads with the prisons and prisoners, and even the holiday season. Agricultural confused with Father Christmas) who 58 inmates, followed by West Kingstown farmers and “backyard agronomists” travels by donkey in the middle of the with 53, South Windward 38, Central then citizens and high officials display their sorrel, ginger, and green night on 6th December (Nikolas Tag). Kingstown 35 and East St George 28. cavalierly speak of extrajudicial killings peas. Children, with loaded bamboo He leaves little treats like toys, sweets, The constituencies with the lowest as a means of solving the problem. baskets on their heads, bellow the fruits, and coins in the shoes of “good number of inmates are Southern The research is detailed and telling. announcements that their agricultural children” all over Germany. This is Grenadines with 17 and Northern Crime is a youthful endeavour. Sixty- produce is better than most others and especially popular in the Bavarian Grenadines with 9. four percent of all the persons behind less costly too. They let home planners region. This south-eastern region of Apart from murders, the most bars are younger than 49, yet we know that something is lacking from Germany borders with Austria, the prevalent crimes are burglary 63, continue to hold more than 50 prisoners their Christmas lunch if these are Czech Republic, and Liechtenstein. robbery 28 and theft 18, indicative of who have gone past age 50, rather than missing from their tables on Christmas Saint Nick (as he is sometimes called) is the stark reality that close to 40 percent find ways to reintegrate them into day. These scenes are common often accompanied by Knecht Ruprecht of the population lives in poverty and society. throughout most Caribbean territories. (Farmland Rupert), a character who is over 45 percent of our youth, the section There is no system of parole in SVG, However, there are practices that are usually clothed in dark garments of the population most prone to crime, which allows for early release once the exclusive to some countries. For donned with bells. Farmland Rupert are unemployed. Crime is also driven by parole board concludes that the prisoner example, the Nine Mornings sports a dirty beard and can be the fact that there is a disconnect is a fit and proper person to gain such Celebrations are unique to St. Vincent observed carrying a stick or whip to between what the society, through its favour from the state. and the Grenadines. The Department punish any children who may have mass media, the economic and political Take the case of Alpheus Horne. He of Culture and many of the village misbehaved. elite, and the prosperity gospel of the has been incarcerated for a quarter of a organisations play their role in Regardless to where we live and/or religious leaders, tell citizens is ‘the century for the serious crime of rape. advertising the local Nine Mornings the traditions that we observe at this good life’, and the failure of the very His sentence was life imprisonment. Celebrations as they also seek to usher time of the year, it is important that we society to provide for the most basic Had he committed rape today, he would in the Christmas cheer. And within do not lose sight of the real reason for needs of the vast majority of the be sentenced to less than 20 years. recent years they have also sought to the Christmas celebrations. History population. Horne has already served about 37 encourage such activities in the rural does not record the exact date when Rhetoric aside, the get rich or die prison years and is now close to 60 districts; the activities are no longer Jesus Christ was born. However, this is trying mentality is rewarded. Instant years old. The prison authorities don’t confined to the capital city, Kingstown. that time of year when we celebrate the gratification is celebrated and promoted consider Horne dangerous or a flight The website for the Ministry of birth of the New Born King. It is also as the desired way of life and living. risk because they frequently send him Tourism, Sports, and Culture of St. an ideal time for each of us to reflect on Crime and social prostitution, moral to assist with chores. Vincent and the Grenadines provides the relationship that we have with Him decline and societal decay are now A few years ago, Horne was sent to useful insights in relation to the origin - Jesus Christ of Nazareth. As we pervasive. the Ministry of Telecommunications to and practice of this unique activity reflect on this historic occasion, we The statistics of 101 murders, 24 assist with the movement of furniture. (http://tourism.gov.vc/tourism/index. should also allocate the time to manslaughters, 16 attempted murder, A filing cabinet slipped and broke his php/festivals-a-events/66-nine- introspect: Is He my Lord and Saviour? and 40 wounding related offences leg. He suffered months of pain and mornings-festival). The website Can I call Him my Comforter and graphically demonstrate that suffering, was never compensated for confirms that the Nine Mornings Friend? Can He call me His friend? Vincentian society is a very violent the injury and remained behind bars. festivity is unique to St. Vincent and What a blessed Christmas Day it will be place. In comparison, SVG recorded 35 Any society committed to restorative the Grenadines. It describes that, nine as we gather with relatives and friends homicides; Grenada suffered less than justice will find a way to free Horne mornings before Christmas, Vincentians to worship and adore the King of all 15. even on parole, but not this heartless, leave their homes during the early kings and the Lord of lords and be To deal with the spiralling crime progressive outpost. And there are more morning hours to partake in a range of reminded of the real reason for the problem, the courts have come up with such prisoners. activities. These include going to the season. We are grateful for His sentencing guidelines: Hazelwood and his deputy Bailey beach for “sea baths”, window shopping, tremendous sacrifice. This is why we may be the new sheriffs at prisons, but dances, bicycle riding, and street celebrate and rejoice at Christmas! 1. Retribution: to show society’s don’t look for drastic changes for the concerts. In the 1970s talented roller better. skaters would display their skills abhorrence of crime and reflect its Send comments, criticisms & intolerance for criminal conduct. throughout the streets of Kingstown Send comments, criticisms & during the wee hours of the Nine suggestions to 2. Deterrence: intended to be a [email protected] restraint against potential repeat suggestions to [email protected] 10. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V News BRAGSA pays out $2.5 million

Work on reclaiming lost land at the Richmond Rove site was successfully completed.

Right: The 2020 Christmas Cleaning Programme focused on drains and their surroundings. (Photo Credit: BRAGSA)

LAST MONDAY AND Beams used in the Georgetown TUESDAY, Dec. 21 and 22, Coastal Defence Project. the Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA) paid out some $2.5.million dollars to workers employed in this year’s Christmas Road Cleaning Programme The money was for a seven-day period of work involving some 5,405 persons and over 100 truckers. The work concentrated on cleaning drains and other waterways that had become clogged or overgrown with bushes tests were done to Comfort Station the replacement of toilets as a result of recent determine the maximum and wash basins, along heavy rains. load the concrete would Meanwhile, persons with the construction of a Richmond be able to take before coming into capital counter and a baby failure. Kingstown for whatever change station in the The beam samples female bathroom. BRAGSA also BRAGSA personnel conducting strength test on a reason will be pleased to were taken from the OB note that the Soroptimist Work was also done on announced late last week beam sample used in coastal defence projects. Sadoo Plant located in the roof, a perimeter that it had completed International Comfort Rabacca, and the tests Station situated at fence was erected, and excavation work on 300 defence work currently conducted tests on beam were carried out at painting and electrical feet of the Richmond Heritage Square has re- being undertaken and samples currently being BRAGSA’s Laboratory open. work carried out on the River. such work earmarked for used on the Georgetown located in Argyle. building. (Source: The work that was The refurbishment of the future, BRAGSA has Coastal Defence Project. the Comfort Station saw BRAGSA) undertaken saw the assured that it has The flexural strength rebuilding of an area of the river bank, damaged following the heavy rains in recent months. In effect, the work was carried out in an effort to reclaim a section of the road that was damaged due to those rains. In addition, work was done to align and trench the river bed to facilitate a smoother flow of water. Coastal Defence

And as far as allaying The Soroptimist International Comfort Station at Heritage Square was given any fears about coastal a complete facelift, both inside and out. THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 11. V Arts Traffic Angels retains Caroling title THERE WAS one repeat winner Not only did they take the Among the and one new winner in this year’s Senior Choirs Title with their Juniors, who were Police Cooperative Credit Union- “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” in required to do one Police Caroling Contest. the traditional category and song, Calliaqua Traffic Angels held on to the “Unique Christmas in Vincy” in Police Youth Club title among the senior choirs, the original category, they Carolers ran away while debutant Calliaqua were adjudged the “Best Dress” with the title doing Police Youth Club Carolers choir; copped the Best “Santa Claus is dethroned Rose Hall Police Traditional Carol title and tied coming to Town”. Youth Club Carolers in the with Western Carolers in the Spring Village junior category. “Best Speech” category. Police Youth Club The Contest, themed “Oh Western Carolers also took Carolers placed What a Year! Time to Spread home the top prize in the Best second with “Oh Some Christmas Cheer’, and Original Carol with a number beautiful star of held on Friday, December 18, entitled “It’s Gonna be Okay”. Bethlehem”. 2020 at Central Police Station, Western Carolers also took Winners in the attracted eight (8) senior choirs the second position among the various categories and seven (7) junior choirs. Senior choirs with renditions of were rewarded with In what some patrons “Oh Come! Oh Come trophies referred to as “one of the best” Emmanuel” and “It’s Gonna be compliments police caroling contests they Okay”; while Training Carolers have ever witnessed, the Standard Shippers placed third with “Do You See Inc., cash prizes, Traffic Angels almost made a What I See?” and “Rona Members of the Traffic complete sweep of the various beverages, courtesy Randy “Luta” Mc Intosh and Christmas”. Department carolers sub-categories for senior choirs. the St. Vincent Brewery, and the Gazetted Officers Choir. gift baskets from Global celebrate the retention of Judges were Ms. Penola their title. Distributors and the Eastern Ross, Mr. Aubrey Gould and Caribbean Group of Companies Mr. Earl Paynter and the (ECGC). master of ceremony was Mr. Competition. During an impromptu Shevrell “Candy Man” Mc ASP Simmons promised to segment of the evening’s Millan. have the suggestion discussed programme, three (3) patrons According to Coordinator of with the police hierarchy and won one (1) Samsung Galaxy the caroling contest Assistant members of the organizing smart phone each, compliments Superintendent Junior committee. FLOW. Simmons, one of the judges The caroling contest was Several artistes made guest suggested (privately) that the held under the theme “Oh appearances: the Melisizwee RSVGPF should consider a What a Year! Time to Spread Brothers, Lola, Urias Little, regional Police Caroling Some Christmas Cheer”. Junior Choir champs Calliaqua Police Youth Club Carolers. (Source: RSVGPF) 12. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Community Da Silva lights up

VINCENTIAN. simultaneously with all the Fortunately for her, she said other daily chores. In that that she had already envisioned light, Da Silva admitted what her presentation was that she was fortunate to going to be. have accomplished the task. According to Da Silva, while She credited her taking down the items of her grandson, Francis, for his 2019 presentation, she became assistance especially, at Olivia Da Silva and grandson inspired by a biblical message — times, in adding creativity Francis – put their hearts, souls Matthew 2:1-2. to the overall design. and creativity into the 2020 “So I said to myself, what is “We feel accomplished, presentation. happening here?” we feel satisfied,” Da Silva She read the bit of scripture, said adding that it was Below: Reflecting the message which told the story of the visit important to maintain a of the birth of the Christ child, of the Three Wise Men to pay standard. (DD) the essence of the season. homage to the baby Jesus. “I was struck by the word ‘homage’ and so I paid homage to Christ this time around,” she said. This section of Olivia Da Silva’s presentation highlights the “You just have to look, and popular Rudolph the red nose reindeer Christmas song. you will see the theme speaks for itself,” Da Silva added. AMID ALL THE CHALLENGES that wins. Her 2020 presentation 2020 threw her way, the lights The theme she selected for contains interpretations of and were turned on at the residence of this her 18th year in the depictions from various Olivia Da Silva at Cane End, last competition is ‘Paying homage Christmas Carols/favourites, Saturday. to Christ the King while e.g. ‘I saw three ships (come Da Silva has won the Best Serenading with Carols’. sailing in)’, ‘Angels you have Lit Private House competition, “What has happened for 2020 heard on high’ and ‘Rudolph the conducted under the auspices of I never experienced this — there red nose reindeer’. the Nine Mornings Festival was COVID, elections and I All in all, getting through the Committee, ten times and this thought there was not going to process of putting the year, if she is successful in her be any lighting competition this presentation together was not bid, will make it six straight year,” Da Silva told THE easy, having to deal THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 13. V Regional Barbados, SVG back on LIATÊs schedule

LIAT, or what is left of it, has been for LIAT to include them on the discussions, the two territories “have cleared for landing in Barbados and St. schedule. dropped their objections and will Vincent and the Grenadines. The government of Antigua and open their respective runaways to Plans to include these two Barbuda, who leads the effort to LIAT. territories in a list of seven destination return LIAT or some semblance of it to In fact, a LIAT flight to Barbados to which LIAT would have the skies, called the action of the two was scheduled for last Monday, Dec. recommenced a commercial service on CARICOM partners “subterfuge and 21. November 30, ran into a hiccup when trickery.” Speaking to the Observer online EP Chet Green, Foreign Minister of the two territories refused permission Now, following protracted service following the announcement by Antigua and Barbuda, sees the return LIAT, Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign of LIAT to Barbados and St. Vincent Affairs Minister, EP Chet Greene, and the Grenadines as having welcomed the return of Antigua-based benefits for the wider region. carrier to Barbados and St Vincent and the Grenadines. relations [and] one disagreement does He described the move as a huge not a relationship spoil. (The fact that) benefit to the airline’s operations and Barbados or St Vincent would have to the concept of regional integration. had a different view on the matter, in “It’s a good day for LIAT, it’s a good no way at all takes away from the day for the regional integration relationship between Antigua and movement. The fact that LIAT is in Barbuda and these two Caribbean the skies requires traffic for LIAT to jurisdictions. be sustained and maintained in the “Ralph Gonsalves has been the skies. So, to have rights into Barbados longest-serving prime minister of this [and] into St Vincent, that’s more than era [and] Mia Mottley [is] the only welcomed. female prime minister of the The Minister also talked up the CARICOM region in this era, [so] they relationship between Antigua and both understand the value of Barbuda and both countries, calling regionalism. I don’t think there’s this incident nothing but a anything untoward with the LIAT on the ground in Barbados should become something of a regular disagreement. relationship,” Green said. feature from hereon. “We’ve never had anything but good 14. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Youth/Arts ÂMac IÊ releases Christmas Brendon ‘Mac I’ Saunders holding up two hams, one of the ‘delicacies’ he enjoys most at Christmas.

song flowed,” Saunders having some drinks with “I am getting good related friends, going to Nine reviews. I performed at Parang Admitting that Mornings, all the fun the first Nine Mornings Christmas is a time that activities, like the activities in Kingstown HAVING FIRST TRIED HIS block for almost 365 contributed to the way of he enjoys, Saunders Lighting up of the on Wednesday and I am HAND at the Soca genre in days, I have decided to life of Vincentians. disclosed that even communities,” Saunders slated for another 2004, the stop-start write a Christmas “I just wanted to build though he is a father of listed with a passion in performance, so I am musical career of Brendon Parang.” a song that reflected the two children, he does not his voice. Saunders, aka’ Mac I’, has Highlighting that aspects of a true Vincy looking forward to push like to miss any of the The Soca artiste is the song,” Saunders said. taken another turn. Christmas is a time Christmas and one which festivities, i.e. ‘action’. hopeful that with the Saunders, a resident when families get the little children can “There is no part of reviews he is getting for Saunders disclosed of Sion Hill who together and show love, sing back, so I just went Christmas that I want to his Christmas Parang, that his Christmas describes himself as a Saunders said he wanted with that understanding miss...the opening of the this will push him to Parang can be listened to vendor, has released a to ensure that he and the concept of the gifts, eating up the ham, being consistent. on You Tube. Christmas Parang song entitled: ‘Aint missing no part of Christmas’, which was done on the Christmas Eve Rhythm. Young artiste shows versatility Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN, Saunders JASPER ALEXANDER Calypso Competition for and went straight to the And even as he Even as he noted that noted, “Being on the entered the Junior the first time in 2013 finals. In fact, Jasper admitted to “staying with his song is already placed a creditable the new music,” he said getting some fourth. he held on to many of the international play, he The following year, as local Christmas said his real aim is just though to showcase his traditions. to continue his musical versatility, he competed He described himself career. in both the Calypso and as a traditionalist, “I am a fairly new Soca segments of the saying, “I like to hold up artiste… trying out a few Competition. traditions, not holding things, seeing how far I But the Calypso/Soca them up as hostages, but stage was not his only to continue them...I will can go and what best stage, so to speak. The often hear my peers say suits me,” Alexander versatile youth was also that they fed up hearing related. a lead in a production for those old ‘parang’… I Alexander’s ‘All we the Secondary Schools’ don’t want to be like Love’, can be heard on Drama Festival. He them…. I want to You Tube, Instagram at continued his acting and continue the legacy of Jasper YMC, Facebook singing post- secondary good parang, with the old at Jasper Alexander and school, appearing in and school fashion of the one Twitter- Jasper directing short music.” YMC1. promotional videos and dabbling in the hip hop genre. Now, But for Christmas 2020, Alexander has ventured out into a new sphere, releasing his first Christmas song, ‘All we Love’. Encouraged by fellow Sion Hill resident, Brendon ‘Mac I’ Saunders, Jasper jumped at the opportunity to further showcase his versatility. “My main aim of the song was to show what I really love about Christmas… Christmas really warms my heart; it’s a really, really nice feeling...I like the lighting up… Since I was small, I always like Sion Hill Lighting up… I like the Nine Mornings Festival, so I put all those things in my song,” Jasper said with an air Jasper Alexander is not afraid to show his variety of accomplishment. as far as handling different genres is concerned. THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 15. V News Adjusted COVID-19 Workers from protocol for ‘yachties’ ACCORDING to Dr. Roger Duncan, Medical Officer of Health, the COVID-19 related protocols for Mustique must yachties’ are “not that different from those that arrive by air.” He made the disclosure on a episode of the Roundtable Talk be tested programme aired on VC3 TV. Dr. Duncan explained AS OF MONDAY, December that the crews and 14, workers travelling from passengers of the yachts Mustique to mainland St. are tested upon arrival and Vincent were required to enter the mandatory five- Dr. Roger Duncan, have COVID-19 tests. day quarantine, with the MOH, ‘clears’ the air A release from the difference being that they regarding the COVID- Health Authorities said remain on board the yachts 19 protocols for that the test must be and not spenr the five-day ‘yachties’. administered at least 48 period at an assigned hours in advance of hotel. travel, whether by air or They are tested again on completion of the five- sea. day quarantine. The test must be a However, unlike nationals and visitors arriving throat swab test and by air, the ‘yachties’ are not subject to an additional according to the release, mandatory nine-day quarantine at their ‘homes’, is available at the following completion of the five-day quarantine. Mustique Medical Clinic Once the test after the five-day quarantine is at no cost. Many of the workers on Mustique to whom the directive applies are negative, a ‘yachtie’ is allowed, according to Dr. Workers intending to travel to employed in construction projects. Duncan, “to move around in a controlled way.” St. Vincent are advised that they There are however, “required to log daily with their bookings must be made 48 been cleared by the local health of which have recovered. us, where they are, where they’re going, what hours in advance and this applies authorities. The Ministry also confirmed they’re doing, submit temperature checks on a daily to both air and sea travel. This advisory comes consequent that as the date referenced, there basis of their crew and others on board.,” Dr. The vast majority if not all the upon a recent spike in the number were twenty-two (22) active Duncan added. workers to whom this directive of COVID-19 cases in Grenada, COVID-19 cases imported from Duncan concluded, “So it’s not very much applies, are Vincentian born over a period of a week. high-risk countries. different from what we do with people arriving by whose normal place of abode is on And while Grenada authorities air.” the mainland. recognize that the majority of that There was, as far as THE spike is confined to Grenada Editor’s Note: Is it? VINCENTIAN was able to Sandals Resort, the government is discern, no directive applicable to taking no chances and has banned Left: There were at residents, local and foreign, of all mass gathering but has not least six luxury Mustique. instituted a national lockdown. yachts anchored off Meanwhile, residents of the Meanwhile, the Ministry of Young island for a Southern Grenadines have been Health, Wellness and the period of more than urged to desist from travelling to Environment confirmed that as of two weeks. There Grenada and Carriacou. Monday 21st December this might have been Additionally, all contact with country had recorded a total of more moored in the persons from these islands should one hundred and seven (107) territorial waters of take place only after they have COVID-19 cases, eighty-five (85) this country. SVG observes Human Rights Day ‘RECOVER BETTER - said her team took the STAND UP FOR opportunity to join with HUMAN RIGHTS’ was Marion House, in the theme under which staging a motorcade St. Vincent and the FROM the counselling Grenadines joined the facility at Sally Spring, rest of the world, in to capital Kingstown and commemorating Human back. Rights Day 2020. The motorcade The theme was in sync featured sharing with the COVID-19 messages about the pandemic and focused on universal Declaration of creating equal Human Rights through opportunities for the use of amplified A member of the SVG Human Rights Association everyone to address the sound, and the playing of (left) engage the public on issues related to failures and songs which focused on human rights. disappointments due to the importance of the virus. knowing one’s rights. Left: The team from the SVG Human Rights It also climaxed the Pit stops were made However, we realize that country is signed on to, Association who spent Human Rights Day United Nation's ‘16 Days along the route during many people still don't and is guaranteed under highlighting the UN Universal Declaration of of Activism Against which members of know their rights or the Universal Human Rights. Gender Based Violence’. the Association believe that they are not Declaration of Human President of the St. engaged persons, and getting their due justice. Rights." United Nations accepted rights that all humans Vincent and the shared relevant printed We encourage everyone Human Rights Day is the Universal are entitled to, Grenadines Human matter. to be informed about observed on December Declaration of Human regardless of race, colour, Rights Association Robertson declared, "It their right to equality 10, which is also the Rights (UDHR), in 1948. religion, sex, language or Samantha Robertson was well received. and other fundamental same day on which the The UDHR is a any political opinion. freedoms which this General Assembly of the document that states the (SG) 16. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 17. 18. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice Stop pointing fingers

Dear George, not know what that voice note was name. about. Maybe this guy wants to destroy my A BUSINESSMAN in Kingstown had the Yes, I had a fling with this guy. I marriage so he can have me for is enough to put your marriage at risk. gall to send me a voice note in the never thought he would stoop that low himself? Quit pointing fingers and use this middle of the night while I was in bed give me HIV, possibly, and to send I’m caught between a rock and a opportunity to level with your husband with my husband, telling me to go and such information by phone instead of hard place and need your help. with the hope of salvaging your get tested for HIV. My husband heard in person and talk to me. marriage. Some professional help the message and demanded that I play it Since that night, my husband has Worried could help in this regard. again for him to hear more clearly. I kept his distance but threatens to In the meantime, get yourself tried in vain to explain to him that I did divorce me if I do not divulge the guy’s Dear Worried, tested. That will answer one question at least. What’s this about a businessman wanting to destroy your marriage? George Stop denying the truth You being sexually involved with him Dear George, he is human like preventing you from everyone else. What seeing the truth about IS IT FAIR to label my right has she to tell me I your husband. Stop husband as a wife beater am married to a wife making excuses for him if he hit me only one beater? This has me very and his violent time? upset. behaviour. My girlfriend was at He has hit you once my house when my Happily Married and there is nothing to husband grabbed my prevent him from hitting shoulders, shook me Dear Happily Married, you again. violently then slapped Your girlfriend has me a few times. She is I am going to, right off your best interest at now advising that I get the bat, suggest that you heart and this is one as far away from my see a marriage time you need to listen to “wife beater” husband counsellor immediately her. It’s time you wake before he kills me. to help you snap out of up and get the help I know my husband is that denial zone that that’s needed. a loving man; he has you’re in. never hit me before; and Your denial is George A baby in the middle

Dear George, Wishing wife your ‘ex’. You need to sort I AM FOUR WEEKS Dear Wishing wife, yourself and your pregnant and my feelings out and more husband thinks the baby When you feel no guilt importantly, you need to is his. I have been or remorse for two level with your husband; seeing my longtime timing your husband, it’s he deserves to know the boyfriend on the side and time to face the horrible truth. The assistance of when I told him I was truth. a professional counsellor pregnant, he was elated. Maybe you are not could help you in this He confessed this and never was in love regard. becoming a father was with your husband. his dream and vowed to Maybe and just maybe George be the best father. your heart is really with That said, even though I told my ‘ex’ the baby was his, I am not 100% certain. Deep down, though, I wish the baby was my ‘ex’ so that the whole thing could blow up, and I could return to my ‘ex’. Am I a bad person for wishing that? What should I do now? THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 19. V Leisure

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) ACROSS You may have problems with children. Your mate will be pushing you to do You're undergoing changes. Don't let things that you really don't want to do. 1. Weave (spells) your boss make you feel guilty enough Make plans to do something special with 5. Old cloths to take work home with you. Financial the one you love. Use your added 9. Sack or tote gains can be made. discipline to get what you want. 12. Thin woodwind 13. TV’s Baldwin TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) 14. Far from warm Your mind may not be on the job. 15. Marries Uncertainties regarding your home and 16. Christen Romantic relationships should family are evident. Travel will be 17. Ms. Basinger stabilize. Be sure that you have all the favorable. You can gain knowledge from 18. Towing boat facts before you take action. You could dealing with foreigners. A lack of support 20. Requirements expand your circle of friends if you get and negativity have been the main 22. Brittle involved in unusual activities. problems. 25. Pare (pears) 27. Decompose gradually GEMINI (May 22-June 21) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 28. Mouth-related Try not to let your emotions interfere 30. Small barrels You need adventure and excitement in 34. Large primate with the completion of your work. your life. Taking on too much won't help 35. Hardware buy Your high energy and discipline will the situation. Sign up for courses that 37. Pigeon noise enable you to complete any seemingly will help you understand yourself better. 38. Brief letter insurmountable tasks. Drastic financial losses may be likely if 40. Family you lend money. 41. Skirt border 42. Tints CANCER (June 22-July 22) 6. Resembling: fastener 49. Mailed (mail) Your persuasive nature will win the 44. Ascended CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 46. Rural towers 2 wds. 39. Triumphant 52. Common heart of someone you've had your eye You might be overly emotional 7. Precious rock cry contraction on. You can make financial gains 49. Rejuvenating retreat concerning situations at work. Take time 50. Busy bustle 8. Play setting 43. Escort (in) 53. Animal home through investments and dealing with 51. Conceal 9. Pedaled transport 45. Speaks wildly 55. Gallery to listen to the problems of family 46. Talks showing other people's money. members. You can enjoy short trips. 54. Annoys 10. Caustic 58. Positive vote substance 47. Imaginative 56. Innocent LEO (July 23-Aug 22) 11. Workout spots concept exclamation AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 59. Not irregular Your concern with older family 60. Shade giver 19. Above 48. Money 57. Execute members and those less fortunate You'll meet new friends if you try new 61. __ Diego 21. Antler bearer advance embroidery than yourself will only add to your activities. Put your thoughts into action. 62. Monthly housing 22. Overfill attractiveness. You may find that your Opportunities for romance may develop expense 23. Braided cord through dealing with groups that have a 63. Cook slowly 24. Ledger entry emotional partner will not be too 25. Buckets eager to accommodate you. purpose. Try to curb your bad habits. DOWN 26. Music great Fitzgerald VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 29. Timed contest Don't let your boss make you feel guilty 1. Farm critter Try to iron out any friction over 2. President Lincoln, 31. Sonic money with your mate or conflicts enough to take work home with you. fondly reverberation could prevail. Your accomplishments You should get involved with activities 3. Turf chunk 32. Departs that can be enjoyed by both young and 33. Imprecise could exceed your expectations if you SOLUTION 4. School hurdles amount

old alike. LAST WEEK’s mix a little business with pleasure. 5. Tolled 36. Garment V 20. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN Ambris stands out among SVGCA Awardees Left: Sunil Ambris (right) receives one of his top awards from Ian Allen, former national and W.I. fast bowler.

national competitions, took the Clarence Paddy Thomas Youth Cricketer of the Year Award. And Edelyn Turtin joined the the top male awardees when she was named the Phernal Charles Female Cricketer of the Year. Cordel Jack took the Cinda Bobb Regional Female Cricketer of the Year. Errol “Errie” Hannibal, currently the longest (28 years) serving member of the Ground Staff of the National Sports Keron Cottoy (right) received the Luke Wilson (right) accepts his Council, was named Groundsman Regional Male Cricketer of the Year Junior male Cricketer of the Year of the Year. Award from former test wicket- Award from Clarence ‘Paddy’ keeper Michael Findlay, in whose Thomas in whose honour the Award SUNIL AMBRIS, who was overlooked by Stories by I.B.A.ALLEN honour the Award is named. is named. Cricket West Indies selectors for what turned out to be a recent disastrous tour of New Zealand, continued unperturbed to dominate the local senior cricket scene here. Last week Thursday’s (Dec. 17) at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association’s 2020 Annual Awards and Dinner at the Arnos Vale Sports, Ambris, who plies his trade for General Guardian Saints in the local cricket competitions, received the Lancelot John Male Cricketer of the Year and the Winston Davis International Cricketer of the Year Awards. Keron Cottoy a contracted player on the Windward Volcanoes Franchise in the Caribbean Premier League, copped the Michael Findlay Regional Male Edelyn Turtin (right) collects her Cordel Jack accepts her Regional Errol Hannibal (right) accepts his Cricket of the Year. Female Cricketer of the Year from Female Cricketer Award from retired Groundsman of the year award from Among the junior cricketers, Luke Nelson Hillocks, Director of Physical national/Windward Islands player manager of the National Sports Wilson, who plays for Victors One in the Education and Sports. Samantha Lynch. Council Miles Bascombe. Currency is new Cricket President ROMEL CURRENCY is the new whose positions were unopposed, save did in the last six years.” President of the St Vincent and the and except for one position. The prevailing COVID- Grenadines Cricket Association Inc. Those officers are: Miles Bascombe 19 situation did not escape An economist by profession and - 1st Vice President; Denis Byam - 2nd the incoming president’s Guardian General Saints and former Vice President; Samuel Holder — attention, with him St Vincent and the Grenadines, Secretary; Cleton Barnet - Assistant acknowledging the adverse Windward Islands and Combined Secretary; Jenry Ollivierre —Treasurer; impact the situation has Campuses and Colleges middle-order Roland Wilkinson, Samantha Lynch had on commerce, but batsman, Currency was elected at the and Dyke Cato and Elron Lewis — urging, “…. we have to SVG Cricket Association Inc. (SVGCA) Committee members. move forward, but it all Annual General Meeting, held at the Lewis, of the Jules Anthony starts with a discussion,” Presidents Suite at the National Academy, is the only new face. He and alluded to the Sporting Complex, last Saturday. replaces Deighton Butler. strategic plan 2019 to 2024 He replaces Dr. Kishore Shallow In his maiden address as president, as being pivotal going who, having served the Currency thanked the membership for forward. constitutionally stipulated maximum their support and recognized his Currency also included of three successive 2-year terms, was opponents as having “excellent ideas in his ‘plan’ a return of the not eligible for re-election. and want cricket to go forward,” and primary schools In the race for the top position, anticipated their continued service to competition; working with Currency garnered 36 of the 66 votes local cricket. the government, up for grabs, with Dougal James He also lauded the work of outgoing (ministries of Sport and getting 20 and Daniel McMillan 10. president Dr. Shallow and his Education_ and any Incoming president- Romel Currency The other members of the new executive and committed “to build on organization “who is willing to (left) is congratulated by outgoing executive are all returning officers what Dr. Shallow and his executive contribute in anyway going forward.” president- Dr. Kishore Shallow. THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 21. V Sports Avenues extends Largo Height’s misery

A SECOND HALF SIX-GOAL BLITZ Layou played to a goalless draw place- BESCO From Raheem Westfield helped and Awesome beat Je Belle 2-1. Pastures and Avenues pound Petro Caribe Largo Zamarro Mofford in the 25th and fifth place- Height, 9-2 last Saturday at the Dequan Derby in the 31st Awesome. Victoria Park, in round four of the accounted for Awesome’s goals. Avenues Premier Division of the SVGFF’s Kishan Gonsalves scored for Je occupy the National Club Championships. Belle in the 28th. third place A currency of Westfield, in carrying his tally Other fourth round results saw because of Raheem Westfield to eight from four matches, netted Hope International defeating their superior – set Victoria his goals in the 55th, 63rd, 68th, BESCO- Pastures 2-0 and System goal Park ‘ablaze’ with RomelÊs worth 82nd, 89th and in the first minute Three and North Leeward difference. a six-goal blitz. of injury time. Predators drawing two goals Layou sits WHATEVER the tasks ahead, cricket in St. Avenues’ other goals came in apiece, both matches played on on six points Vincent and the Grenadines, and indeed the the 26th minute from Romario Friday night. in sixth place, Je Belle is next on Caribbean, will have the experience of Romel Dennie, Mickele Culzac in the Hope International’s goals were four points and System Three is Currency and his executive to count on. Currency 45th and Gareth Leigertwood in scored by Brad Richards in the eighth, with three points. continues in the vein set by his predecessor the 51st. 34th and Kemron Osment in the Ninth is North Leeward Scoring for Largo Height were 74th minute. Predators on two points and Kishore Shallow whose two terms in office Emery Bailey in the 2nd minute Hope International and Sion sitting in the cellar position with expired at last Saturday Annual General and Cordell Theobalds in the Hill go into the Christmas break no points is Largo Height. Meeting. 28th. This was Largo Height’s on 8 points each, but Hope The National Club That provided the opportunity for Currency fourth straight loss, having been International has the edge having Championships, which also ascension. He will an almost carbon copy body. defeated previously by Awesome, scored more goals. includes a First Division, is slated Currency brings a wealth of experience having BESCO- Pastures and Je Belle. In third place is Avenues on to recommence on 6th January, been tested at all level of cricket. Also on Saturday, Sion Hill and seven points, the same as fourth 2021. He and Devon Smith brought the Windwards from merely showing up at regional Under 19 competitions, to being a force with which to System Three recognises emerging talent reckon. YOUNG FOOTBALLERS, primarily the Under-13s indicated that it is a They continued that prowess at the senior of the System Three Academy, were recognised for policy of the level, so much so that Smith became a member of their output during 2020. organisation to give the West Indies senior party. His premature Rewarded were Kafayne Clasp and Dinesh Grant, rewards as often as omission form the squad is still a subject of who excelled above their peers during the last possible. discussion. twelve months. “Rewards are Nonetheless, Smith and Currency maintained Clasp was adjudged the Most important, especially to a consistency which signalled them as a platform Consistent Under-12 player and those young ones… of Windwards’ rare taste of recognition. Grant, the Most Improved They work as Currency proved his worth wherever he played Player. incentives to these and I dare say, he is still a batsman of high The two were presented with players,” Sardine calibre. He may have side-lined his on field trophies and Certificates of reasoned. activities, perhaps to take on his new role. Participation during the He noted that Academy’s coaching sessions for although there was He begins with a new atmosphere, and there 2020. some lull during 2020, will always be considerations and attention to These awards were because of the onset of Kafayne Clasp issues of health. That surrounding players’ safety determined by coaches Fenelia the coronavirus (COVID-19) will be paramount in any aspect, but attention Woodley and Wilfred Bostwick. pandemic, there were still sufficient activities on will be intense of the spectators on the ground Apart from the overall top which to predicate the rewarding of players. that adds colour to the product. performers, there were awards Sardine is hopeful that other youth development Focus will be on the anticipated tours of Player of the Month. football programmes here would follow System especially as it relates to St. Vincent and the Ian Sardine, Head of the Three’s lead and introduce similar awards for young Grenadines and particular the Arnos Vale Plying Dinesh Grant System Three Academy, players. Field. Urgent repairs have become necessary at the facility, and negations with the relevant authorities have plunged into priority. That is Cricket cages now in place hoping that the situation returns to a degree of normality as soon and prolonged as possible. CRICKETERS throughout the bowling Charity begins at home. Spotlight will be on state now have an additional machines….” ways to improve local cricket and cricketers. His facility to aid in their ongoing Plans are afoot predecessor Kishore Shallow established development. to construct two something of a template which, Currency will be Outgoing president of the St. more batting happy to carry on. Not that he has nothing Vincent and the Grenadines - Dr. cages — one in original to offer, but he has little fixing to do. Kishore Shallow, announced over Troumaca and the He is used to adopting to the situation as it the weekend that two batting other in Bequia at cages have been constructed — the Clive Tannis unfolds. He has produced many innings of one at the Wilfred Slack Nets at Playing Field. quality at levels he engaged. The current West the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex “Infrastructural Indies batsman Sunil Ambris, is a product from and the other at the London development is a the Currency stock having emerged from the Playing field. critical component same household. The batting cages have been on of our strategic Currency watched from the non-striker’s end the previous cricket executive’s plan for and guided his younger brother into that position plans for some time, and Dr. advancing cricket of prominence. They have proven their worth at Shallow was more than pleased in SVG,” Dr. The Batting Cage at the Wilfred the local Club level, and their corporation as a to make the announcement, Shallow said, and he recognized Slack Nets at the Arnos Vale think tank is deep. Currency will have to be describing the cages as being the batting cages as “a Sporting Complex. prepared for the test of his strength as the term “critical toward the holistic monumental juncture of our progresses. He knows what the needs are and the development of players,” adding, cricket.” President of the Windward sources and resources to fulfil those them. “It’s definitely a worthwhile Dr. Shallow will continue in Islands Cricket Board of Control. Best wishes to him and his new era. investment, and hopefully the his position as the Vice-President Association will invest in a couple of Cricket West Indies Inc. and I.B.A.ALLEN 22. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Sports Woodley on DeanÊs List

TAMARA WOODLEY, one of this country’s middle distance athletes now on an athletics scholarship in the United States, has achieved a personal milestone. She has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Woodley was obviously elated when she received the email with the news. To be named to the Dean’s List, a student would have had to have completed a minimum of 12 non-remedial credit hours, with a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.9 for the semester. Woodley met those criteria and the distinction will now become a permanent Tamara Woodley has one milestone under her belt part of her official and is aiming to accomplish even more. academic record at the University. Her aim is now set at open to represent her “I am happy for the the President’s List and country. accomplishment seeing with that she declared, “I “I expect to make that all the hard work don’t want to settle for SVG, my mom and that I have been doing, mediocrity. I want to be everyone proud in the since I arrived to the exceptional. I want to near future. … I feel school, has paid off. It stand out not only in better than last year will look good for me in track and field but in having recovered from the long run like for jobs. academics as well. I injury and I am looking .. I was trying to secure a want to keep on doing forward to the upcoming 4.0 GPA this semester well to open doors for season,” she indicated. but due to minor me,” she added. setbacks,” Woodley As it relates to the Stories by commented. track, Woodley is always I.B.A.ALLEN Ferguson upbeat about 2021 THE PLAYZ BASKETBALL ACADEMY, despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, was still able to maintain contact with a number of players and benefactors of the Academy, even in the absence of its flagship Annual Summer Camp. “This year was really hard due to the pandemic, but Playz Youth Academy is not just about basketball, it’s about developing the youth and reaching out to people in need,” Orlando Ferguson, Founder and Head Coach of the academy told THE VINCENTIAN. “We couldn’t run the summer camp this year, but we reached out otherwise with ‘A Back to School Special’ that saw over 160 kids receiving book bags and school supplies. So, even though we didn’t run a physical camp, we still reached people throughout St Vincent and the Orlando Ferguson, Founder and Grenadines,” Ferguson added. Head Coach of Playz Basketball Driven by what was accomplished Academy. in 2020, the head Coach is optimistic about next year. talent,” Ferguson disclose. “Next year we are hoping to have a And even as the challenge of tournament providing the situation ensuring adequate quantities of with COVID-19 eases up. We expect equipment are available exists, next to get back a coach from the United year should see the Playz Basketball States, may be others from some the Academy introducing specific sessions top universities and recruiters who for the 15 to 17 and 7 to 9 age groups, want to come to look at some young the coach detailed. THE VINCENTIAN. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020. 23. V Classifieds Second Prison break a disgrace

Continued from in for, albeit he is then Superintendent of a half hours questioning calm and I do things in Gonsalves said, but Backpage. awaiting trial, but the Prisons around 6 on the members of staff and time,” Gonsalves said. stopped short of allegations are serious, morning of December 9, inmates. Charles is replaced by disclosing further details Charles, the prime we ought not to have had during which he was During that two-and- Superintendent of Police in this regard. Minister said, was still one, much less two informed of the escape of a-half-hour session, Timothy Hazelwood. He “Old people have a entitled to all the escapes,” he continued. Primus and Hanson. Gonsalves said that he will have Inspector of saying ‘Tek time to run benefits of a public According to Gonsalves said that as made some preliminary Police Duane Bailey as fast, and I will ‘tek time servant. Gonsalves, the prison Prime Minister and conclusions. his deputy. to run fast’,” Gonsalves “Being the service was an essential Minister of National He, however, noted “And there are going concluded. Superintendent of plank of national Security, he moved to that the police to be more changes,” Prisons is not an easy security and that a coordinate related conducting investigations job, that is why you are number of things were agencies, including the and there may be a well paid,” Gonsalves done to better the police, coast guard, commission of inquiry said. situation (in prisons) and health personnel and the into the prison break. “And we can’t the prison system Regional Security “I know listeners are reasonably expect generally. Services (RSS), following saying that it could not systems as such that a Dr. Gonsalves which he visited the Her be the Superintendent person who is in for the disclosed that he Majesty’s Prisons facility alone, well you know me, kinds of crimes that he is received a call from the where he spent two and I have patience and a

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 VOLUME 114, No.52 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 SECOND PRISON BREAK A DISGRACE

by DAYLE DA SILVA Minister and Minister of National Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, National Security Dr Ralph Gonsalves said on Security Minister, moved quickly THERE SHOULD not have been one prison the National Broadcasting Corporation to activate certain movements at break, much less two. on December 16. the Kingstown Prison, following “So, if there is a prison break, the The Prime Minister was speaking to a second breakout for the year Superintendent of Prisons must the issue of the December 9 escape of from that facility. answer the question: Do you think murder accused Veron Primus and your position is reasonably tenable if Ulric ‘Chucky’ Hanson from her had escaped from the facility in there is a prison break twice in one Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown. Kingstown, having done so in year of a particular prisoner?” Prime It was the second time that Primus October 2019, and was serving a 16-month sentence for that offence when he made his second breakout. Prison Officer under suspension

Prison Officer Village is currently under suspension Louis Cupid of Murray’s and is being tried on two counts of corruption charges in relation to Primus’ first escape. Gonsalves said that Superintendent of Prisons Brenton Charles, on the heels of the December 9 escape, had subsequently applied for early retirement, and that the application was granted.

Continued on Page 23.

Superintendent of Police Timothy Hazelwood, a highly profile member of All Christmas activities involving prison inmates were cancelled in the wake of the the SSU, is the new escape from prison and the changes at the top of the administration. Superintendent of Prisons.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.