THE VINCENTIAN PDF-22-08-25

‘DJ SWAGGA’ SHOT DEAD

Gasroy “DJ Swagga” Fergusson was once employed with HOT 97.1. FM before he joined BOOM 106.9 PM, where he carved out a listening niche for himself.

by KENVILLE HORNE

A BLACK CARtook a right turn just above SVG General Services Ltd., commonly referred to as “Fly’s, catching a number of men who frequent that block in Paul’s Avenue by surprise. What ensured thereafter, added up to the last time ‘DJ Swagga’, known for his role on BOOM SVG 106.9, was to be seen alive.

Gasroy ‘DJ Swagga’ Fergusson, a 32year-old resident of Largo Height, was shot and killed while he was hanging out with some friends a short distance from his work place in Paul’s Avenue, during

the wee hours of Saturday 16th August, 2025.

Continued on Page 3.

The floral display at the entrance to the Paul’s Avenue location of BOOM 106.9 FM, in remembrance of and tribute to ‘DJ Swagga’.

The area in Paul’ Avenue where “DJ Swagga” was shot dead, has been the scene of other killings and gun-related incidents.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

ALMOST 90 PERCENTof the 209 inmates of the prison system here who had attended a secondary school, dropped out of school in Form 2 and 3.

This is according to Acting Superintendent of Prisons Dwayne Bailey, during a recent conversation with THE VINCENTIAN.

Acting Superintendent of Prisons Dwayne Bailey gave a detailed report on the Prison Population at the closing of the Assizes, highlighting the number and ages of as large number of repeat offenders.

The prison population statistics presented at the close of the High Court Criminal Assizes last week, showed that 209 of the 396 inmates currently housed at His Majesty’s Prisons (HMP) and the Belle Isle Correctional Facility, had attended a secondary school, representing 52.8 percent of the prison population; while 167 representing 42.2 percent of the prison population, attended Primary School and 17 are receiving a tertiary education.

Bailey revealed that several inmates had also dropped out of primary school, but he did not have those statistics at hand.

He further revealed that many of the inmates with an academic background, whether primary, secondary or tertiary, were in prison for very serious offences, including murder and gunrelated offences.

A significant part of the prison population is between the ages of 16 and 35.

Eleven males are between the ages of 16 and 21: five having been sentenced by the Magistrate’s Court, four awaiting trial and two on remand.

Sasha Martin: 1st female „Officer of the Watch‰

(Editor’s Note: The following is a release from the Royal SVG Police Force. It is carried verbatim)

HISTORY WAS MADE IN THE ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines Coast Guard Service (SVGCG) when Petty Officer (PO) 780 Sasha Martin became the first female to be certified as an Officer of the Watch.

PO Martin achieved this milestone after graduating from the Caribbean Military Academy in Jamaica, completing the Bridge Watchkeeping Course (BWKC) 01/2025 with an impressive academic average of 89%.

The training, which began on January 13, 2025, brought together officers from six nations – Barbados, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica. To take part in the course, PO Martin was temporarily promoted to the rank of Sub-Lieutenant.

The BWKC is designed to strengthen participants’ theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective watchkeeping duties aboard vessels, in alignment with international maritime

standards. The course was delivered in four (4) phases:

1. Theoretical Training — Core maritime subjects including First Aid, Navigation Fundamentals, Tides, Astronomy, Meteorology, Relative Velocity, and International Collision Regulations (COLREGs).

2. Officer of the Watch — Developing advanced competencies in navigation and vessel command.

3. Simulator Exercises — Fullmission bridge simulations under varied operational conditions, such as reduced visibility, traffic separation schemes, port approaches, and emergency responses.

4. STCW Programme — International Standards for Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. Participants also completed Basic Safety Training (BST) and Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) at the Caribbean Maritime University. This included survival at sea, firefighting using breathing apparatus, and safety protocols aboard vessels.

Reflecting on her achievement, PO Martin said: “Completing the Bridge

Watchkeeping Course has been a significant step in my career as a Coast Guard Officer. The combination of rigorous theoretical instruction and hands-on simulation has not only deepened my maritime knowledge but also enhanced my practical competencies as an Officer of the Watch. I look forward to applying these skills operationally and continuing my development in the service of maritime safety and defence.”

PO Martin expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the course and encouraged greater access for her colleagues:

“I strongly recommend advocating for sponsorship and funding from the Canadian government to support similar training opportunities for members of the SVG Coast Guard. Canada’s ongoing commitment to capacity building in the Caribbean region presents an ideal opportunity to establish longterm training partnerships.”

Petty Officer (PO) 780 Sasha Martin occupies a special place in the annals of the local Coast Guard Service.

The Commissioner of Police, the Commanding Officer of the SVG CGS, and all ranks and members of the organization extend their congratulations to PO Martin on this historic achievement, which highlights the organization’s dedication to professional development, gender equality, and operational excellence in maritime safety and defence.

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Ethiopia,Ê Jah Winston urges

A VINCENTIAN BORN MAN IS calling for more attention to be paid to Ethiopia. That man is Honorable Priest Jah Winston, recognized as the ambassador of the Ethiopia Africa Black International Congress, also known as the Bobo Shanti, one of the strictest ‘Mansions of Rastafari’.

That institution is registered in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and among its guiding pillars of operation is representing the plight of poor people.

Jah Winston asserts that his Bobo Shanti calling is for the “poor and have nots.”

He adds that the demand for repatriation with compensation is priority on the agenda.

Jah Winston is scheduled for a trip to Ethiopia in time for the commemoration of His Majesty’s Coronation, November 2.

He accepts, “I have to do this work,” for to him there is a “mystique” that surrounds Ethiopia, and he advocates for more studies about that nation.

He describes Ethiopia as the

“purest land,” and endorses the plea to “go home.”

For him, it is time for the liberation that the poor and have nots have been denied since slavery.

Priest Jah Winston is on a quest to fulfil a calling to “free up” the have nots.

Jah Winston is guided by teachings of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, and His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I.

He lectures to students at educational institutions done with local administrative compliance. Troumaca Ontario Secondary School, Buccament Bay Secondary, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Grammar School, Girls’ High School, Central Leeward Secondary School, and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Community College will be bases of his presentations. (WKA)

Port set for October completion

ENGINEER ON THE PORT MODERNISATION PROJECT

Lenski Douglas recently told the Agency for Public Information (API) that the project should be completed by October 24, 2025.

“The contractor has indicated this project will be completed by October 24, …and all hands are on deck pushing towards that completion date,” Douglas said.

This, after the second largest capital project in the history of SVG was originally set for completion by May 2025, but was pushed back to

August.

The August date came as a result of damage to the site caused by the impact of Hurricane Beryl, July 01, 2025, Minister of Seaports Senator Benarva Browne told Parliament in March.

But the extent of that damage was later assessed to be much more than initial indications had led the contractors to believe. This entailed the loss of reclamation material because of a decoupling/declutching of metal sheets, effectively the escape of base material back

‘DJ Swagga’ shot dead

Continued from Frontpage.

According to a resident of Paul’s Avenue, a group of people were liming outside a shop when a vehicle pulled up “and people began to scatter after dey hear gunshots. ‘Swagga’ and a brown skin boy got hit. ‘Swagga’ try run but the gunman went over him and start to fire at his head. Then they went out Gaymes Bookstore side,” said the source.

Whatever the details, ‘DJ Swagga’ was pronounced dead on the sport. The other male injured during the shooting, was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Indications are that the ‘DJ was shot multiple time to the head and also ibn the leg.

The source said that they knew ‘Swagga’ from seeing him in the community. “He uses to just chill and sell his high leaf when he not deejaying. His high leaf, we call blend, was nice. But I don’t believe they came for him specifically he just happen to be there. I am just saying, I could be wrong. But from knowing him, he was a cool guy,” said the Paul’s Avenue resident, adding that “the situation with killing in the country is overbearing. This needs to stop!”

Boom 106.9FM paid tribute to the fallen employee, by, among other expressions, placing a floral display at the entrance to the radio station in Paul’s Avenue. A number of the segments on air was dedicated in his honor.

In an official statement, the station said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague and friend, Gasroy ‘Dj Swagga’ Fergusson.

“Gasroy was more than just a member of the Boom 106.9 family, he was a vibrant spirit, a dedicated talent, and a true friend whose presence lit up every room. Our hearts are heavy as we remember the joy he brought to so many through his music, humor and extroverted energy.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who mourn this devastating loss. Rest in peace, ‘Swagga’. You will forever remain part of the Boom 106.9 family.”

into the bay.

Given that the damage necessitated intense investigations and adjustments to the design so as to effect proper and timely repairs, the date for the project’s completion was once again rescheduled, this time to October 2025.

The impact of Hurricane Beryl resulted in the loss of reclamation material back into the sea, because of a decoupling/declutching of metal sheets. Rectification of this meant a further pushing back of the completion date.

The project, originally estimated to cost EC$650 million, had by January 2025 consumed some EC$526.5 million according Senator Benarva Browne.

She said the government has allocated EC$92.5 million

toward the project this year and assured that the government can fulfil its financial obligations to the project.

According to the project

document, the new Port facility will be equipped with berthing facilities, advanced security and facility monitoring systems, and modernized port operations.

Young males dominate prison population

Continued from Frontpage.

Only one female in this age group is currently incarcerated.

There are 40 males between the ages of 22 and 25: 14 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 15 by the Magistrate’s Court, three awaiting trial and eight on remand. Two women in this age group remain imprisoned.

Fifty-three males are between the ages of 26 and 29: 25 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 16 by the Magistrate’s Court, five awaiting trial, and seven on remand. Two female prisoners are in this age group.

The Correctional Facility at Belle Isle will soon have a brand new equipped rehabilitation centre.

Seventy-eight males are between the ages of 30 and 35: 46 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 17 by the Magistrate’s Court, six awaiting trial and nine on remand. There are no female prisoners in this group.

Fifty-two are between the ages of 36 and 39: 36 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 11 by the Magistrate’s Court, and two awaiting trial, and 3 on remand. There are no female prisoners in this age group.

Eight-six males are between

the ages of 40 and 49: 55 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 21 by the Magistrate’s Court, five awaiting trial and 5 on remand. No females are counted in this group.

There are no female prisoners in the over 50 group but there are sixty-one males: 40 were sentenced by the Supreme Court, 19 by the Magistrate’s Court and two are on remand.

There is no inmates, male or female, under the age of 16 currently housed at the prisons.

Three hundred and eightythree (383) males are repeat

offenders, including: 137 first time offenders; 51 who repeated between 4 to 6 times; 44 between 7 and 12 times; 14 between 13 and 20 times and 1 who repeated between 21 and over years.

There are 5 female repeat offenders behind bars: 4 first timers and 1 who repeated between 1-3 years.

One hundred and one (101) inmates are behind bars in connection with offences of murder: 64 sentenced by the Supreme Court, 22 awaiting trial and 15 on remand. This number represents the highest for any single offense.

Alleged prison smuggling foiled

by HAYDN HUGGINS

A KINGSTOWN MAN CHARGEDin

connection with attempting to smuggle several prohibited items into His Majesty’s Prison on Saturday, August 16, will make his next appearance at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on September 9.

Jahmol Carter has been charged with attempting to introduce into His Majesty’s Prison: 871 grams of marijuana, 440 grams of tobacco, four cigarette lighters, one black TCL cellular phone, one pack of raw wrapping paper, two packs of Bambu wrapping paper, and one Schweppes transparent plastic bottle with a liquid substance, all prohibited items.

The accused was allegedly found with the items while on the White Chapel Road, Kingstown which runs outside and to the

Many attempts have been made in the past to smuggle items into His Majesty’s Prison (pictured).

east of the prison.

Carter pleaded not guilty during a brief Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, as the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, where the matter was supposed to

be heard, was not sitting at the time.

He was granted $3,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Central Police Station every Monday between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Nurse fined for phone theft

by HAYDN HUGGINS

LAFEISHA WILLIAMS,

A 27-YEAR-OLD NURSE OF BARROUALLIE,on Monday, was fined $1,500 forthwith or six months in prison for the theft of a cellular phone valued at US$650, and SIM card valued at EC$35.

Williams was also ordered to pay the virtual complainantLeolene Nero, a 42-yearold chef of Sally Spring, $600 forthwith for the theft of a phone case valued at EC$60.

Williams told the Court she had the monies on her to pay the fine and compensation.

The defendant, who was represented by Attorney Sharmine Walters, had pleaded guilty to the charges when she appeared before Senior Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Monday.

The facts showed that around 11:00 a.m. on July 9, 2025, Nero entered Jax Enterprises Ltd. Kingstown, with her cellular phone. She selected some items, paid for them and left the store.

However, as Nero exited the building she checked her person and handbag and discovered

POLICE ROUND-UP

Painter charged with Wounding

ON AUGUST 15, 2025, police arrested and charged Curtis Small, a 35-year-old Painter of Ottley Hall, with the offence of wounding. According to investigations, the accused unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 51-year-old Labourer of South Rivers/ Kingstown Park, by hitting him about his body with a piece of pipe and board.

The offence was committed in Kingstown at Higginson Street on March 23, 2025. Small appeared before the Serious Offences Court on August 18, 2025, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was granted bail in the sum of $3,000.00 ECC and ordered not to have any contact with the complainant. The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate Court for trial on September 9, 2025.

Campden Park man on Theft charge

Edwin Edwards, a 53-year-old Labourer of Campden Park, will have to answer to a charge of theft.

A Police report said that on August 15, 2025, Edwards stole one (1) tin of Crest Processed Cheddar Cheese valued at $152.00 ECC- the property of a supermarket in Kingstown. Edwards appeared before the Serious Offences Court on August 18, 2025. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded into custody. The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate Court for trial on September 9, 2025.

Burke on Assault charge

On August 16, 2025, police arrested and charged Roneas Burke, a 33-year-old Labourer of Manning Village/Byrea, with the offence of assault.

that her phone was missing. As a result, she returned to the cash desk where she had made the payment and inquired about her phone. She was showed CCTV surveillance camera footage and it showed the defendant removing the phone from the cash desk where Nero had paid for her items.

Nero reported the matter to the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.) and Constable 98 Micah Da Silva, who took the report, carried out investigation which included viewing the CCTV camera footage shared with Nero earlier. Around 2:00 p.m. on August 14, Williams visited the C.I.D. at the

Cellular phones are among the most attractive items for thieves.

request of the police. The phone and SIM card were retrieved from her, but the phone case was not recovered. This resulted on PC Da Silva executing a Search Warrant at Williams’ home and premises, but nothing was found there

that could assist with the investigations. Williams was subsequently cautioned and interviewed, but did not give a statement to the Police. She was charged later that day, and served with a copy of the charge sheet.

Woman on child neglect charge

SHANEKE LEWIS,a 34-year-old female resident of Lowmans Leeward, has been charged the offense of failing to provide the necessities for her the care and upkeep of her four children, ages 2, 5, 7 and 10.

The offence was committed in Lowman’s Leeward between May 4, 2025, and May 6, 2025. Appearing at the Serious Offences

Court on Tuesday, Shaneke Lewis pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted bail in the sum of $2,000.00 ECC with one surety.

The matter was adjourned and transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate Court for trial on September 9, 2025.

Shaneke Lewis was charged under Section 197 of the Criminal code of CAP 171, of the Revised Edition of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 2009.

According to the investigation, the accused assaulted a 14-year-old student of the same address by slapping her on the right side of her face with her hand causing Actual Bodily Harm. The offence was committed at Manning Village, Byrea, on August 14, 2025. Burke appeared before the Georgetown Magistrate Court on August 18, 2025, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The conditions of his station bail continues and the matter was adjourned for trial on September 15, 2025.

Tannis charged with Wounding and Threatening Language

On August 16, 2025, police arrested and charged Everton Tannis, a 45-year-old Labourer of Cemetery Hill, with the offences of wounding and threatening Language.

According to the investigations, the accused unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 23-year-old Labourer of Paget Farm by hitting him on the left side of his neck and chest with a cutlass on August 2, 2025, in Hamilton, Bequia.

Additionally, he was charged with using threatening language in a public place, to a 24year-old Fisherman of Friendship, Bequia, stating, “Ah Killing you” on August 15, 2025, at Port Elizabeth, Bequia.

Tannis was granted station bail in the sum of $3,000.00 ECC with one surety. He is expected to appear before the Bequia Magistrate Court on August 22, 2025, to answer the charges.

Sion Hill Labourer Charged with Burglary

Kimron Williams, a 27-year-old labourer of Sion Hill, has been charged with the offense of burglary.

According to investigations, on August 17,2025, the accused entered a Supermarket Storeroom in Sion Hill as a trespasser, and stole five cases of Guinness Smooth valued at $500.00 ECC -the property of a 47-year-old resident of Dorsetshire Hill.

Williams appeared before the Serious Offences Court on August 18, 2025, and pleaded guilty to the charge. He was fined $1,000.00 ECC to be paid in three months, if he defaults, he will spend six (6) months at His Majesty’s Prison. He was also ordered to compensate the complainant in the sum of $30.00 ECC forthwith, if he defaults, he will spend three months at His Majesty’s Prison.

UK bursaries for 120 students

Sir Louis Straker, Chairman of the SVG Chairman of the SVG Friendship Foundation UK, gave an outlined of how the assistance is to be disbursed.

Stewart Haynes, the Director of the National Insurance Services (NIS), shared his own experience of how assistance from others helped him to achieve his education goals.

ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY (120) STUDENTS are the recipients of bursaries compliments the SVG Friendship Foundation UK.

Each student received EC$200 in cash and an additional EC$200 voucher to purchase school supplies at Jax Enterprises Ltd.

A handing over ceremony took place at the National Insurance Services (NIS) Conference Room on Monday, August 18, and was attended by government officials, educators, parents, and students.

Sir Louis Straker, Former Foreign Minister and the Chairman of the SVG Friendship Foundation UK, explained that the bursaries were made possible through the kind donations made by Vincentians residing in the UK.

A section of parents and others in attendance at the handing over ceremony.

And there were other significant contributions from the Honorary Consuls in Egypt, Singapore, Germany, Greece and the Consul General in Northern Ireland, Sir Louis added.

Sir Louis further explained that the total amount distributed on August 18 amounted to EC$70,000.

A cheque in the amount of EC$25,000 was already sent to Jax Enterprises, and according to him, the company contributed an additional EC$5,000.

In addition to an overhanging credit of EC$3,900, the total amount that will be made available in vouchers was EC$33,900.

But, Straker said that the amount to be allocated as cash was not as much, so the decision was taken to give 120 students the additional EC$200 in voucher.

An additional 50 students who demonstrates that they are in need will receive vouchers.

“Students today are privileged that we have an abundance of resources, all the students have to do is study,” Sir Louis said.

He told those present at the ceremony about his own life — born into a big family with little financial resources. But he recalled the opportunity he was given to attend school, following which he migrated and was then able to assist his mother and siblings.

So too, Stewart Haynes, the Director of the National Insurance Services (NIS) , in a feature address, said that he also came from ‘humble beginnings’, and was fortunate enough to receive financial support throughout school, beginning at primary school all the way up to university.

“Each opportunity was made possible because someone chose to give, and because of that kindness I made a promise when I am in a

position to help, I will,” Haynes said. He added that the scholarships were more than financial assistance,

that they unlocked many opportunities saying that education opened doors that poverty tried to keep shut. (DD)

Another round of BCEF awards

JANUARY 31, VINCENTIAN CAN GET ANOTHER sampling of some of the world’s best Blues musicians, when the mainland leg of the 2025 Mustique Blues Festival takes place at Basil’s Villa.

The Festivals begins on Mustique then travels to Bequia for its second leg.

Since its was started in 1996 by Dana Gillespie and her London Blues Band, the Festival has become entrenched in the nation’s entertainment calendar, and is the primary source of finance for the philanthropic Basil Charles Education Foundation (BCEF), founded by businessman extraordinaire Basil Charles and dedicated to assisting students that exemplify academic excellence in the face of financial hardship.

The 2025 edition of the BCEF annual awards took place last Monday, August 11, at Basil’s Villa.

A total of eleven students were recipients.

Seven students begin their secondary education in September 2025 assured of support throughout their schooling.

The seven include Thomas George, a former student of the Kingstown School for Children with Special Needs. He enters the St. Vincent Grammar School and will get the EC$1500.00 offered to each recipient and dispersed as follows: EC$600.00 in the first school term and EC$450.00 in future terms.

The other recipients are: Kenieka Clouden who enters Girls High School. She is a former Langley Park Government School student. Darrencia McDonald from Rose Hall Government School, begins studies at the Girls High School. Traveek Cupid leaves the Biabou Methodist School for the St. Martin’s Secondary School. Allanick Paul and Jayden Lampkin, both former Marriaqua Government School students, proceed to the Thomas Saunders Secondary where they join Anjolie Baptiste, who had primary education at Richland Park Government School.

Each scholarship runs for five years, but students “are eligible for assistance in higher learning.”

Bursaries recipients were as follows: Asundia Sutherland from Calliaqua Anglican School who heads for St. Joseph Convent Marriaqua. Raynice Ollivierre entering the St. Vincent Girls High School from the Bequia Anglican Primary School. Erick Woods from the Union Methodist School, and Jace DaSilva of the Kingstown Preparatory School who both are St. Vincent Grammar School bound.

The BCEF has established a separate scholarship programme as a relief effort of supporting 10 students from Union Island with Full Scholarships. Union Island was devastated during the passage of Hurricane Beryl, July 01, 2024.

In summarizing the Foundation’s outreach Charles said, “Through scholarships, mentoring and ongoing support, the Foundation empowers youths to pursue higher education and unlock their full potential.” (WKA)

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

A coup, crime and punishment

AFTER THE 1983 IMPLOSIONof the Grenadian Revolution, the overwhelming conclusion was: there will never be another attempt to over throw a government in the English-speaking Caribbean, by violent means.

In 1979, the New Jewel Movement (NJM)planned and successfully executed the armed ousting of the then Eric Gairy-led dictatorial regime in Grenada. Pity that after four years of encouraging a new sense of nationhood and ‘Caribbeanness’ that the NJM government turned in on itself, leaving all revolutionary minded Caribbean people in a state of doubt.

But as the tale would tell us, the conditions which the people of Grenada had endured and which gave rise to the armed overthrow of the government, lingered long and hard throughout the English-speaking Caribbean.

Election after election, a caricature of our democracy, raised one government after another, the majority failing to deliver improved services for all and lessen the gap between the ‘haves and the have nots’.

That reality was made manifest in no small way, and the ‘conviction’ that there could not be another military attack on the status quo in the Englishspeaking Caribbean was torn asunder when, on July 27, 1990, a military coup was staged in Trinidad and Tobago, then the wealthiest former English colony in the Caribbean.

For those looking in from the outside, they saw only the wealth of Trinidad and Tobago and its residents — the gains of oil exports resulting in disposal income to burn.

Trinbagonians could ask for nothing more, or so it seemed.

But under all of the gaiety and boast of Trinidadians and a seemingly stable political climate, another Trinidad and Tobago was struggling to breathe, stifled by unequal distribution of wealth and opportunity, double standards in the delivery of education services, and an undernourished agriculture sector, and more.

And that stifled cry for an equal share of the wealth and opportunity morphed into the July 1990 coup staged by an (unlikely) group - the Muslin organization known as the Jamaa-al-Muslimeen, led by Yasim Abu Bakr, bent on overthrowing the government of the day.

A period of mayhem ensued - the battle between the Jamaa-alMuslimeen, and the state’s armed

forces claimed 27 lives; unleased demolition of commercial and state owned properties and widespread looting. Of significance was the taking of the Parliament whose members, including the Prime Minister, were taken hostage.

A ‘tense period of peace’ was ‘negotiated. Abu Bakr and many of his followers were detained and later released on the basis of an amnesty signed by the acting President.

Bakr died in 2021 having never been convicted. Herein lay the wider effects of the coup.

Surrounding the release of Bakr was the question into which the justice system was brought over the issue of the amnesty for Bakr and his men.’

The debate of the authenticity, the binding nature of that amnesty, not to mention impunity, was to be debated in and out of judicial circles for a long time.

The damage was done to what many saw as the deterrent effect of the justice system.

Lest we forget, history forgotten is doomed to be repeated and must be properly and consistently commemorated. More so because the catastrophe that gave rise to the 1990 coup is, in fact, ongoing.

Crime — Perhaps the most impacting finding of a year-long inquiry into 1990 coup, was that ““burgeoning crime and the changing nature of contemporary lawlessness in Trinidad and Tobago” nurtured a violent expression of the unequal nature of society, politics and economic opportunity. Can we say that the situation is anyway different from what obtains across the region today with spiralling crime and a resulting lawlessness?

Punishment: Even when punishment is ordered by the justice system, criminals who are jailed today are likely to experience conditions that breed recidivism.

There have been many a report that made recommendations for change, especially bearing in mind the connect between crime and punishment. These recommendations rely on politicians for implementation and therein lies the problem; they run headlong into a lack of political will and excuses that to do so would be costly.

The truth is that that no government has escaped the coup’s legacy of an intractably dangerous and dysfunctional criminal environment, as shown dramatically by the rising crime statics across the region.

A new shiny object awaits

LAST WEEK,I couldn’t help but notice the VINLEC leadership team’s excitement while sharing news about a groundbreaking plan to install around 50,000 smart meters throughout SVG, over the next eighteen months.

The leadership team was enthusiastic about all the fantastic benefits these smart meters will bring. Imagine being able to take charge of your energy consumption like never before. They’ve reassured us that this upgrade won’t mean a hike in our rates–instead, we’ll only pay for the actual energy we use, no more, no less. So get ready for this leap forward in managing our electricity usage. I am surprised they did not lead with the government’s lingo and added the word “modern” to this project.

Let’s put all jokes aside for a moment, because there’s much to unravel here. The project leadership’s choice of words–“actual energy usage”–raises some intriguing questions. First, it hints that we might not be billed for our actual consumption, which is quite the revelation. And then, the assurance that these new meters won’t lead to a rate increase? That’s a bold claim.

But hold on, it feels like this is another missed chance for total transparency, Dr. Lewis. It’s time for you and the Board of Directors to bring us up to speed on the current rate structure instead of burying our inflationary costs under the vague umbrella of an “energy surcharge.” A convenient scapegoat. One can’t help but wonder: could this be where the costs of those smart meters will be hidden? Or will the cost of the new meters be covered by the increased revenues anticipated from a more “accurate billing” to the customers? This is not hard to imagine since some of the current batch of meters are over thirty years old. So, as a customer with an old meter, I can anticipate an increase in my monthly charges in the name of accuracy. What are your plans for this customer service nightmare?

So what is VINLEC’s actual financial position? How can you afford this significant infrastructure enhancement at no cost to the customers?

A quick scan of the company’s web page shows that a Comprehensive Audited Financial Statement for 2018

and 2023 is available.

However, we did not get an explanation for the four-year gap. The report shows an average net earnings of about $6 million per year, with a high of $10 million and a low of $873 thousand.

Now, let’s discuss AMI meters based solely on my personal experience. This project will cost the company about $50 million over the next five years. Yes, I said five years because this is how long it will take for this project to be fully implemented. While I agree that this new system will improve the accuracy of the monthly consumption readings, the revenue recovered from eliminating the aged-out meters will not be sufficient to cover the cost of the new meters.

In a country where some would describe us as the birthplace of conspiracy theories, what’s the plan to communicate with the customers? How will you deal with the people who object to installing the electric meters? You know the ones that say the meters will give them cancer and all types of other ailments. Then they are the ones who will object to the privacy issue and government intrusion into their lives.

To be clear, I support the introduction of these new meters. They can potentially reduce the company’s overall operating costs, and with the right technology, they can allow the customer to manage their electric consumption actively, which is a good thing.

Let’s dive into the world of energy infrastructure. While I won’t overwhelm you with the usual criticisms of AMI, I want to highlight my concern about its cost and how it could impact our rates. Again, I am estimating a $50 million investment; it’s hard to imagine it won’t affect what we pay. I’m eagerly awaiting a comprehensive rate study that will break down the cost of electricity production and how it will reflect in our billing. If there’s a way this monumental investment won’t touch our wallets, I’m all ears–where’s that funding coming from?

And as for the installation timeline? I won’t hold you to those ambitious expectations–let’s see how this unfolds.

Horatio

No Refund Policy

ALLOW ME THE PRIVILEGE to address a matter of public interest. It has to do with a “no refund policy” adopted by several business houses. Whether this practice is legal or not, one thing is certain, i.e. it presents a serious challenge to customers. A challenge that on more than one occasion has resulted in heated arguments.

Case in point: A gentleman purchased a vehicle part at an auto business place, only to

realize sometime thereafter that the part was not the correct one. As expected, he took it back. The item was in the same condition that he got it - new, no damage, no bruise, no stain, no defect. When he asked to be refunded, he was informed by the attendant that they don’t do refunds. And as if to add insult to the man’s frustration, he was told with a breath of indignity that he could take something else. He

“Empty Promises & Full Pockets”

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* WHY IS THE STREETthat runs outside SVG Sales and Services (Fly’s) on Paul’s Avenue not a one-way street?

* Has anybody from the Traffic Department ever observed the chaos on that street during the peak business hours especially?

* Is the Traffic Department aware that parts of Paul’ s Avenue now under “controlled parking”?

* Why does it seem that some people are exempt from clamping?

* Are government registered vehicles exempt from traffic laws (rules and regulations) especially as they apply to stopping and parking on the streets of Kingstown?

* Why is it when a party gets into government that its leadership and members conveniently forget what they used to do and how they used to behave when they were in opposition?

* Has any the Opposition ever requested a site visit to the ongoing New Kingstown Port project?

had absolutely no interest in anything else.

The result was a backand-forth argument between him and the attendant. But for the man’s ability to temper his emotion, allay his frustration and exercise self-control, only heaven knows what would have transpired.

Are owners of businesses duty bound to inform customers about the policies that govern their business operation? One would assume so. In the case under review,

the man seemed not to have been informed or had any (previous) knowledge of the no refund policy. That said, he felt entitled to a refund. After all, why not?

Whether or not a “no refund policy” is legal, from an ethical and moral perspective it is unfair, unreasonable and lacks appreciation. Further, it places the customer at a disadvantage and makes him vulnerable and prone to exploitation.

Who knows if the money the man used to purchase the item was all that he had?

Wake up my people

ACCORDING TO THE CONSTITUTION OF

SVG,we, the people of this Blessed nation, believe in the Supremacy of God and the freedom and dignity of man, and desire that our society be so ordered as to express our recognition of the principles of democracy, free institutions, social justice and equality before the law.

As citizens of this our beloved nation, we feel called upon individually and collectively to implement the spirit of our desire of our Constitution. According to the bible that we gain most of our guidance from (to which the PM references with great frequency), it says that God is love. That is to say our Constitution says we as a people believe in the virtue of love and not hate and division, by which we have been governed for many, many years.

Our leaders have been using the approach and propaganda that keep us in a state of mental slavery. Wake up oh people of the Land of the Blessed, and let us emancipate ourselves individually and collectively.

Let us show the world that we are living in the time of the fulfilling of prophecy when all black people, white people, Jews and Gentiles unite as one and establish the Most High government on earth, as we pray “thy kingdom come”.

Keep on reading this page for ‘up full’ revelation as we near the

What does a business owner have to lose by refunding a man his money for a wrong item sold to him, providing of course that the item is not damaged? What’s wrong with being reasonable, understanding and considerate? It goes without saying that business owners themselves ask for refunds on wrong items sold to them; how much more should this ordinary man expect. Sometimes one wonders if the saying, “the customer is king” is really true. Because this “no refund policy” was designed to benefit the merchants and it will continue to be a vexing proposition to customers.

The Watch Dog

NDP emptiness is becoming more glaring than ever

NDP LOSING IT

THE OPPOSITION NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) is losing it; its leaders are falling apart; the emptiness of the NDP is becoming more glaring with every passing day. As the general elections draw closer, the leading personalities in the NDP and the noisy ones associated with its inner circles are talking so much rubbish, the only reasonable conclusion is that they are realizing that they are facing another electoral drubbing — six in ah row! They are feeling the heat from the people; they are getting the rejection vibes; and the Unity Labour Party (ULP) has not yet put on the real pressure yet. The ULP has established “Labour” as the natural party of government in SVG; that fact haunts the NDP.

But what did the NDP expect? That party’s political leader, Lorraine Friday, the unpatriotic Vincentian turn-coat, a Canadian-by-choice, has always been lazy, weak, and undecisive. He has never been possessed of on single original, uplifting idea in his head. His nasal, whining, hypocritical voice is now irritating people; his platitudes and banalities have grown stale. His feeble attempts to imitate the “rootical” style of Comrade Ralph are so fake and inauthentic that he is appearing even more disconnected from the people than before. His fake, borrowed, imitative, style hides his political eczema. He remains backward to the core with no uplifting vision for the people of SVG. The people are telling the NDP diehards, canvassers, and candidates that the Canadian Lorraine Friday is a political millstone around the neck of the NDP. The people have concluded that a NDP government led by Friday will stop the progress of the ULP and put the country back 25 years or more. Around Lorraine Friday are a group of men who have long gone past their prime which was, at their best, underwhelming. They are full of anger, bile, and revenge matched only by their insatiable thirst for power, not to do good for SVG, but to satisfy their inadequacies, their insecurities, and their unreachable quest for status – a social estimation of honour – to be provided not by personal accomplishments, but through the favour of the State. These sad, pathetic figures, these puny men, and women, are in this regard, on the hunt for a mirage. It will end for them in disaster. More than a few of them have turned to politics as a last resort, having failed at a metaphoric ditching and fetching, hoping to avoid their pathway to the poor home.

To the extent that the NDP ever had a vision, however distorted and antidevelopmental, it all but collapsed with James Mitchell’s departure in 2000, and any remaining embers were extinguished with Arnhim Eustace’s political exit in 2017. A political party cannot run on fumes from the past. The NDP is now a present danger to the people of SVG; it must be laid to rest finally in the forthcoming general elections of late 2025. The ULP intends to perform the funeral rites in the burial of the NDP, once and for all.

GRUMPY OLD MEN AND OTHERS

Friday, aged 67 years, is at the centre of a band of Grumpy Old Men in the NDP, stuffed with vacuity and rubbish. His colleagues St. Clair Leacock and Daniel Cummings are in their 70s and devoid of ideas; the utterly useless Terrence Ollivierre and “Nature” Stephenson are so stale and their heads undisturbed by any fresh thinking; the Big Youth, Fitz Bramble, in his early 60s, prattles much but makes no coherent sense; he is a brambler; the voluble Israel Bruce, relatively young but more babbling heat than illuminating light, is oft-times offensive to good sense, and the established rules of grammar; he enjoys quarrelling with the dictionary; the less said of the public utterances of the retired banker, Laverne Velox, the better for all persons of reasonable temper and intelligence; her fellow retiree, Andrew John, had an ambition for leadership in the SVG Teachers’ Union, but ended up with the consolation prize of public relations officer, a cruel irony for someone who is constantly at war with the English Language; he is now being foisted as candidate of no merit upon the people of South Windward.

Of the others (Cupid, Neptune, Shallow, Jackson, Conroy Huggins, and Shevern John) it can be said with certainty: “No better the beef, no better the barrel” – all the same sorry lot with little or nothing to offer the people of SVG. Truly what can they offer SVG? Nothing but humbug, folly, and immaturity!

EATING CHINESE TAKE-AWAY FOOD

The NDP is having a collective upset stomach these days from eating so much take away food, courtesy of some firms from the mainland China in concert with the wannabe foreign entities salivating at the damnable prospect of selling our treasured citizenship and passports to a bunch of disreputable foreigners, while planning in vain to break our steadfast, principled, and beneficial relationship with Taiwan, in the forlorn hope of cozying-up in diplomatic bondage to mainland China. These external forces are the ones funding the NDP; and the NDP’s campaign is directed out of the Embassy of a foreign country located in a nearby Caribbean country. But they, too, will fail!

And for dessert, the NDP, through a particularly shallow fellow, is feasting on an Indian pie prepared by the chefs who are dreaming to fortify their gambling, and filthy lucre, on the backs of our sportsmen/women at the proverbial wicket.

Development of the Blue Economy will transform North Leeward

(Excerpts of Ms Louise Mitchell’s Presentation at a recently held Public Meeting in North Leeward)

I AM HERE TO SPEAK TO YOU about the plans that the NDP has for the Blue Economy that is going to create new jobs and transform lives right here in North Leeward. It is my duty to speak in particular to the fishers of Petit Bordel, of Chateaubelair, of Fitz Hughes, and other surrounding villages.

I want you to know that under an NDP government, we are creating a special Ministry for fisheries called the Blue Economy. And we are going to put fishers first. This is because we value so much the work of the fishers. It is the work that you do that keeps us healthy and fishery is so important for our tourism economy as well. That is why the NDP commits to you, the fishers of North Leeward, that within the very first year of our government, we will be refurbishing and restoring the fisheries building in Chateaubelair and Fitz Hughes.

We all know the distance between Fitz Hughes and Kingstown, and it is a shame to know that if fishers come ashore with fish, they have to travel all the way to Kingstown for cold storage. We will ensure that there’s proper cold storage for fishers and there’s actual ice making facilities as well. We will also ensure that there is a retail facility for the sale of fish because we expect that North Leeward is going to become one of the top tourist destinations. When the yachties come in, they’re going to want to buy fish.

We are also going to give specific focus to the tri-tri fishers who fish north of Richmond in the Wallibou River. You have over 100 tri-tri fishers and we are going to give a lot of support to this sector. We’re going to make sure that the fishers have whatever equipment that they need, be it ice boxes or nets, etcetera. We will make sure that the tri-tri fishers are supported. We will also make sure that there’s water testing so that we know the quality of the water in which the tri-tri run.

And what is also important is that we will market the actual tri-tri harvest; when the tri-tri are running. The tri-tri harvesters are there at four and five in the morning and they have all the beautiful flambeaus out of their nets. It is one of the most beautiful scenes under the foothills of La Soufriere volcano. It is one of the most magical things you can experience. This is in fact what you call culture and heritage tourism. The New Democratic Party values this type of tourism. So, the tri-tri fishers are going to get a lot of support under the NDP government.

Under the Blue Economy Ministry, we are going to be developing marinas and restoring the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard. But we’re also going to build the yachting sector. We want to make sure that St. Vincent and

the Grenadines is able to rival the British Virgin Islands. We have the most beautiful islands and the most beautiful waters. There is no reason why we can’t take the number one place in yachting.

You all would know that Chateaubelair is actually a port of entry. However, this is not promoted anywhere. So the yachts, when they leave St. Lucia to go down to cruise in the Grenadines, they actually, most of them, just pass Chateaubelair straight. So we are going to encourage the yachties to stay and clear customs in Chateaubelair. We’re going to create incentives for them to stay because we are going to have standardized regulated mooring facilities in the north of Chateaubelair Bay, and we will also build a new dinghy dock in the north of Chateaubelair Bay. North Leeward over the years got a bad reputation for yachties, but for many years it’s been a very peaceful place and a wonderful anchorage, but the stories from the past still linger. We in the New Democratic Party, we are going to promote this as one of the most beautiful and safest anchorages in the country. So we will encourage the yachties to come back to Chateaubelair with the moorings there and with increased security. We’ll also be developing mooring facilities in Cumberland Bay. So what is going to happen when more yachties come, is that they’re going to come ashore. And when they come ashore, they’re going to want to buy fresh fish. So they’re going to support the fisheries sector.

When they come ashore, they’re going to want to buy fresh fruits, vegetables and provisions. So there’s going to be more demand for the goods that are produced right here in North Leeward by the growth of the yachting sector under an NDP government. We will also be promoting the entire North Leeward as a wellness destination because you have some of the most rich nature in the entire country. You have the Parrot Reserve. You have the best coral reefs in the whole country. So wellness tourism is going to be incredibly important and Chateaubelair is going to be placed on the map as one of the places that people must go. North Leeward, there’s a lot in store for you under the Blue Economy. And that is just one sector that the New Democratic Party is going to prioritize. I’m sure Dr. Shallow will speak to you about the other sectors such as the new economy.

I want to go back to speaking about your candidate, Dr. Shallow, as I wrap up. And I will end with some of the comments that I started in the beginning about this man. Dr. Kishore Shallow is in fact a great success story. He is such a good success story that he is literally upsetting the other side.

The Path to Reparation: A Personal Commitment to Reconciliation

“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) American Baptist Minister and civil rights activist.

THE UNITED NATIONS’ PERMANENT FORUMon Indigenous Issues provides valuable insights in relation to reparations for indigenous populations. In addition, South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, in its exploration of the injustices meted out to the victims of apartheid, provides us with valuable thoughts for our consideration on such a sensitive topic. These, along with the scholarly writings of authors like Ta-Nehisi Coates in his book “Between the World and Me”, provide valuable insights that enable us to conclude that, at its core, reparation is about restoring dignity, correcting inequality, and fostering reconciliation. In this regard, it may be useful for us to consider relationships that we have allowed to slither and falter and that may require our commitment to seek to make amends as efforts are made to repair damaged relationships in our homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces, and churches. It is not as farfetched as we may initially think.

Based on the foregoing, the suggestion advanced here is that we should not see reparation merely as an abstract concept reserved for history books and disadvantaged communities; it beckons us to examine more personal/intimate relationships that may have been fractured through abuse and/or neglect but could benefit from reconciliation.

As is the case when seeking reparation, the path to reconciliation when relationships are strained or broken requires an acknowledgement of the pain of the past, understanding the consequences, and committing to positive, transformative change. The individuals concerned must want the healing to take place. They must be prepared to commit to engaging in introspection, showing empathy, and be willing to confront uncomfortable truths. It is not for the faint-hearted or for those considered to be impulsive or flippant; it calls for a commitment if the necessary deeper understanding and healing is to take place.

At its foundation, reconciliation after a deep hurt requires a recognition, an admission, that harm was done. This may have been intentional but it could have also occurred unintentionally. However, even if this may have been the case, the hurt must be recognized and considered to be the critical first step in the healing process. This is as true for the intimate relationship as it is for those that exist among neighbours, co-workers, or church members. In this regard, it is imperative to have open and honest communication when dealing with the hurts or perceived infractions. While it is important to recognize the pain points, acknowledging the agony is only the beginning. The path to reconciliation demands active listening; listening with the desire to understand rather than to rebut. It beckons for the unraveling of excuses and/or distractions and seeking to get to the root cause of the problem, challenge, or misunderstanding. Communication is critical in such situations. Constructive criticism, cushioned with respect, must be encouraged throughout the exercise. Such an activity would understandably

be uncomfortable for those individuals who may prefer to not want to face issues that may stir up situations that are preferred to be left alone. However, such avoidances can often result in situations festering more profusely. Conversely, dealing with such discomfort can lead to true growth. It is quite understandable that we may be tempted to completely abandon a relationship that may have been physically or emotionally abusive or one in which trust was betrayed. Reconciliation following such circumstances may seem difficult but not impossible. Be assured that this writer is not advocating retaining such relationships at all cost. Wisdom and self-love must prevail. However, there are instances where individuals can find healing even as they emerge from such situations. This is especially so when participating individuals are willing and committed to make the necessary positive changes. Such situations often require much prayer and professional counselling. Personal commitment to reconciliation means putting in the work — not merely offering platitudes and symbolic gestures. It calls for a resolve that will lead to tangible and sustainable positive change. The healing process may be long and punctuated with periodic moments of doubt but it can be accomplished.

Humility is an essential part of this process. C.S. Lewis (1898-1963) the accomplished British writer and Anglican lay theologian, reminds us that, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” That ability to think of ourselves less does not imply that we see ourselves as subservient to others; we merely slow ourselves down and give credit to another in an effort to facilitate the healing process in the relationship. We can be big enough (mature enough) to be small enough (humble enough) to allow for the bridging of the emotional chasm. We allow the other person to be heard and be valued.

The paths to reparation and reconciliation are journeys of forgiveness and healing. And they are often disrupted by detours and obstacles as efforts are made to conduct critical and objective analysis of the past, confront painful truths, and commit to a proactive approach to positive change. It is through personal commitment and joint effort that true reconciliation is created and sustained. Aided by clear and regular communication, trust can be rebuilt and commitment fortified; the dry grass can grow again; there could be an oasis in the desert.

True reconciliation is not about avoiding disagreements but about finding a way to move forward with understanding, empathy, and a willingness to heal. Our homes, neighbourhoods, and workplaces would be more amiable when we realize that reconciliation is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of peace.

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

Is America preparing to invade Venezuela?

THE DONALD TRUMP REGIME is preparing a false flag event as a pretext for an invasion of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. The people and governments of the Caribbean must defend our countries’ sovereignty and not allow our land, sea and air space to be used as a launching pad for such unlawful and illegal misadventure.

Two events in recent times point to the American attempt to pressure, strangle and eventually invade, overthrow and destroy the revolutionary experiment initiated by Hugo Chavez, the former president of Venezuela, who died in December 2012.

The first occurred on August 8, when US Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a $50 million bounty for the arrest of President Maduro. The reward is double the $25 million offered by President Biden on January 10, 2025. The US regime indictment charged the Venezuelan revolutionary leader with aiding drug cartels and corruption. Previously, President Maduro and other top government and military officials were tagged with the spurious charge of narco-terrorism.

The second limb of the macabre scheme came on August 18 with the deployment of air and naval forces to the southern Caribbean Sea. The defence department announced that the deployment was to address threats from Latin American drug cartels. The American incursion into the region, which has a complement of 4,500 marines and sailors, included the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The US has used one pretext after another to destroy the Venezuelan process. In April 2002, they conspired with the political and military elite in a failed coup against President Chávez. After the coup failed, they ramped up their regime change scheme by starving the people into submission.

Then, in January 2019, the American regime recognised Juan Guido, the obscure legislator, as president of Venezuela following the 2018 reelection of President Maduro. In June 2020, John Bolton, former National Security Advisor, admitted in his memoirs that President Trump had okayed a failed plot to oust President Maduro. Last April, President Trump announced his policy of ‘maximum pressure’ in his attempt to topple the Venezuelan Government.

In 1972, when the wave towards independence was gaining ground in the Caribbean, four Caribbean leaders, Barrow, Burnham, Manley, and Eric Williams, broke the American isolation of Cuba by recognising the Cuban Government led by Fidel Castro. They also announced then that the Caribbean was and shall remain a zone of peace. Central to this initiative was the refusal of the Caribbean governments to allow the foreign troops to be deployed in the region.

This policy was abandoned in 1983, when President Ronald Reagan commanded Jamaica’s Edward Seaga, Barbados’ Tom Adams and Dominica’s Eugenia Charles to sponsor the American invasion of Grenada.

Since that time, both Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have warmed to the idea of allowing American troops on their territory. Guyana, in January 2024, announced a plan to boost military ties with the US so as to protect its territorial integrity against Venezuelan threats. A land dispute between the two countries, which dates back to 1899, calls on both parties to

seek a settlement of Venezuela’s claims to the Esequibo region, which is currently part of Guyana. Interestingly, during the 1960s, when the leftwing government led by Chedi Jagan held power in Guyana, the Americans supported the right-wing Venezuelan government’s claim to the oil-rich region. This fact proves that the US has only permanent interests and no permanent friends.

In December 2024, former TnT PM Dr. Keith Rowley admitted to signing a security agreement with the US government but angrily denied media reports that the memorandum between Washington and Port of Spain allowed the Americans to establish a military base in the twin island republic. PM Rowley described the News Day article as being ‘wholly irresponsible and dangerously incompetent.’ The News Day report claimed that the agreement allowed for the US to station troops on Trinidad territory in the event of military escalation between Guyana and Trinidad. Dr. Rowley said the article sent a false message to the world.

In 2023, Kamla Persad Bessesar attacked then PM Keith Rowley, claiming he ‘sheepishly hides behind the zone of peace! Rowley’s talk about the region remaining a zone of peace is not enough. Guyana must know they have our full support with meaningful and practical backing!’

Now that Ms. Persad Bessesar sits in the seat of power in Port of Spain, the US may fancy its chances to get its way in the twin-island republic. On Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, the then-opposition leader issued a statement praising Donald Trump. ‘President Trump is the leader America needs right now, and I wish him and his Government God’s richest blessings and guidance in all their actions for the greater good of America and the rest of the world,’ she said.

In light of what happened in 1983, when Caribbean leaders in clear violation of International law joined with the USA in the illegal invasion of Grenada, an American false flag event could well see other Caribbean countries wittingly or unwittingly joining with the USA to invade another country in our hemisphere.

The idea is not far-fetched, as Caricom’s unity is already fractured on the issue of Venezuela. One only needs to remember February 2020 when Jamaica, Haiti and the Bahamas voted against a fellow Caribbean nation, Trinidad and Tobago, at the Organisation of American States meetings to side with Venezuela’s Juan Guido and the Americans.

All those interested in international law, the inviolability of borders, territorial integrity and national sovereignty must raise their voices to ensure that the USA does not seduce or coerce regional governments to cooperate and indulge the US government’s oil lust in Venezuela. Every effort must be made to ensure that the Caribbean remains a zone of peace free from all military intervention and the deployment of foreign troops.

Reflections of “De Parson’s Dawta’ (Pt 1)

Editor’s Note: We are pleased to have been chosen to carry a three-part series on this personal yet messagefilled account by Frances Palmer, daughter of Rev Eric St Clair Clarke and Ulin Morgiana Clarke nee Alleyne. Rev. Clarke, a Methodist Minister, served both in Georgetown and Kingstown.

SO “AH HA DE PRIVILEGEan de trials ah watchin me Mudda age! As an adult we bin livin continuously in de same household in Sin Vincent since 1992 when she tun a widow!” It is very interesting. Her default memories are Primary School age.  School in Tobago, her Father’s Shop, life with her ten siblings, her Uncle “the baker, “ all the athletic things she did like playing netball, table tennis and running, advice her aging relatives had given her. She is reading every day. I don’t know if I will still be “in the game batting at 96!” I think these people had some special kind of food. Maybe it didn’t have GMOs! Bottom line is “GOD who decides the length of your days”!

But seriously, It looks like the territory I began life in is the one where I am ending! Perhaps there is some truth to the “where your navel string bury” theory! However, I am not living in or even near Georgetown. I cannot boast that this was my life plan. I give The Creator GOD the credit. It took me a while to figure out “who am I really?” I think I have to agree with Karl Marx that “men make their own history, but they do not make it as they please; they do not make it under self-selected circumstances”! I for one would never have deliberately chosen to be born and raised in a “Methodist Parson’s House”, especially one who is “a presbyter in itinerant ministry.” On the negative side is like you are living in a shifting world parallel to everybody but on the

positive side you are acutely aware that your life is a journey through the earth. From birth to death you could be anywhere. Change is a constant. As Isaac Watts says in one of his hymns “ Time, like an ever-rolling stream, Bears all its sons away. They fly forgotten as a dream dies at the opening day”! So focus, pay attention to what you are doing in the present. Make it count for something worthwhile while you are here now because time and life is forever moving on. Make sure your life is moving forward always to something constructive, contributing good to humanity, laying up treasure for eternity.

People are always asking “where are you from?” Well the answer is “planet earth,The Caribbean islands.” Yes, indeed there is something unique about our “Caribbean Civilisation” and something special about its “Vincentian variant’! I am happy I have a “Vinci birth paper and a Vinci passport!” And “yes” I was born into the “petit bourgeoisie”! You can curse me all day about that as some tried to do at University but It is what it isas John 8:32 says “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!”

My mother, Ulin Morgiana Clarke born Alleyne originally from Roxboro, Tobago, gave birth to me in the Colonial Hospital, Kingstown, Saint Vincent when she was about half way through her twenties. After his letter was duly written to my grandfather Almanzor Alleyne, she married my father Rev Eric St Clair Clarke of Barbados in La Brea Methodist Church, Trinidad in 1954. My parents had me over one year later when they were here living in Georgetown Methodist Manse. My Mother told me that Ebenezer Joshua used to have a loudspeaker talking politics loudly near the manse in the first three years of my life. Maybe that is why number one I can sleep through any noise and number two one of my favorite pastimes is checking out what is going on politically upon the earth especially who is “in power” and what are they doing with “the power”! Life and all its components is a special gift from GOD.

Blessings from Frances A. Clarke

Tribute to Albert Warren

Albert Warren – carried himself with a warmth that touched many lives.

Inset: Marlon Bute, Owner/Manager of District Stairs, was one of those persons on whom Albert Warren left a lasting impression.

by MARLON BUTE

THEY USED TO SAYAlbert was crazy. I don’t know. What I do know is that Albert was different. Maybe eccentric. But to me, growing up in Lowman’s Hill, Albert was always hard-working. He was always heading to the lands to farm, always tending to his livestock with care.

Albert knew everyone by name, especially the children. When he passed by, he would smile at me and say, “Marlon, how you doing?” And when I replied that I was good, he would answer, “Good, good,” and be on his way. He liked to laugh, he liked to smile, and he would give a joke here and there. There were times when Albert seemed to be in deep thought, but he was never idle. He was always on the move, never stood in one place for more than a minute or two unless he was caught in a conversation. There was a hurriedness about him, as if he always had something to do…somewhere to go. He lived with his mother, Telma, who died many years ago. Villagers also said Telma was “crazy.” In our ignorance, we were insensitive and perhaps

even cruel. I was too young to know, and I suppose only Telma and Albert would know how they truly felt about how they were treated. But I don’t think they were treated cruelly. Everyone called her Telma, even the children. It was never Miss Telma, come to think of it. But the familiarity was never a sign of disrespect.

As for using the word “crazy,” I only use it here to highlight mental health issues. It’s an area I am passionate about, because in these parts it is quite prevalent and yet nothing is done to help. Those with mental health issues deserve the chance to live their best lives.

Albert was disciplined, kind, and always producing, like so many of the villagers I grew up around. He was an important part of the Lowman’s Hill community for the sixty plus years that he lived there, worked there and died there.

For a time, Albert also worked with the government as a sanitation worker. Not only did he help feed the nation through farming, but he also kept the streets clean. He served St. Vincent well in more ways than one.

Albert was my friend, as he was a friend to everyone. He would extend his big hand and give me a fruit, a mango, a plumrose, a golden apple. He gave freely and asked for nothing.

He was truly a character who ignited and shaped my imagination. He was not just Albert. You saw him and he had a smile or a laugh or that brisk walk or a face in consternation. And for one like me who loves to write and to make stories up, these things mattered. Just like the tap, tap, tap of rainfall on galvanized roofs; like music to the ear; an orange bed of leaves under naked trees as seasons change in Canada,; the songs of cricket in the darkness of night at Lowman’s Hill; or the crowing of a rooster in the early morning.

It is with profound sadness that I learned of his passing, especially under suspicion of foul play. May Albert be remembered for who he truly was, a good, decent, hard-working man who made Lowman’s Hill a special place for me as a child and a young boy. Rest in peace, Albert. Rest in peace.

Vincies get together for Vincy Day

including the Vincentian national colours, green, gold (yellow) and blue.

Interspersed with DJ music, the Magma Band, led by renowned Vincentian keyboardist Adrian Bailey, backed up several soca, calypso and reggae artistes, and provided hypnotic rhythms to the frenzied party crowd at the main stage on the eastern corner of the grounds.

The Run-of-Show featured, among others, Alyssa Seales, and Timmi Straker and Super K on steel pan; Hymm Legendary singing reggae, R&B and soca

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net

WITH HIGH TEMPERATUREhovering around 83 degrees, Vincentians from all walks of life, as well as Caribbean and other nationals, on Saturday, Aug. 16, converged on the picturesque and expansive Heckscher State Park in East Islip, Suffolk County, Long Island, New York for the 13th Annual Vincy Day Picnic.

Nationals trekked from as far as Canada and Miami, as well as from their homeland for the Extravaganza, in the mix of which they met and greeted relatives and friends — many of whom they had not seen in years.

The event featured, among other things, pulsating Vincentian and Caribbean soca, calypso and reggae music, and steel pan and gospel music, and a potpourri of Vincy dishes. Amidst a kaleidoscope of colors —

Co-stage Manager

Gary “Tunka” Edwards (left), with his son, reggae, R&B and Soca artiste Hymm Legendary.

music; Brother Don and Evangelist LaFleur Durrant Sprott singing gospel music; Gregory Olive, Jose Juan and Dennis Bowman doing calypso and soca joined in the latter generate by Prezzi Don, Skarpyon and Rondy “Luta” McIntosh (Consul General the United States).

After revving up the party crowd with “Busy Tone”, “Tight Spot” and “Bad Mind”, McIntosh told THE VINCENTIAN that he was delighted to see nationals coming together to celebrate their “Vincyness with our Vincy cuisine, Vincy beverages and Vincy colours, along with our Vincy culture, that keep us true to our roots and our identity.

“I urge all Vincentians living in the Diaspora to reserve one day of the year to join us at Heckscher State Park for this grand reunion, where our culture comes alive,” he added. “May God bless our people and keep us true to our identify and that we may not forget where we came from! Vincy to the bone!”

Belair native Mylene Matthews, who trekked from North Carolina, said she brought along her family for the showcase.

“This is good,” she said. “I love it. All my family is here — my son and my three grand kids.”

As she swayed to Skarpyon’s “Hammer”, Brooklyn resident Desree Quashie, said she was excited to be part of the festivity.

“It’s a better package than last year,” she said, flanked by Daphne James, a registered nurse and follow villager from South Rivers. “There’re hardly any empty areas like last year.

“I’ve been coming regularly,” Quashie added. “You’ve seen a lot of improvements since COVID.”

Still, she said: “A lot of people stayed away because of ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement). There could have been more people.”

Terrance Edwards, an Old Montrose, Kingstown native, who helped promote the book, “The Story of Paulene Bramble”, by his cousin Dr. Richard A. Byron-Cox, said the picnic was very nice.

“Everybody is just getting together, picnicking, celebrating,” he said. “Everybody is enjoying themselves — no bad activity. It’s one of the best Vincy Days I’ve seen.”

McKie’s Hill, Kingstown, native Gary “Tunka” Edwards, co-stage manager, commended the Vincy Day Committee, stating that they are “doing a tremendous job in bringing the community together.

“It’s one of the biggest daygatherings in North America (for Vincentians),” he said. “Buses came from Canada and Boston; people came from Miami. We’re looking for bigger and better.”

Raymond Otis Lewis, chair of Vincy Day USA, Inc., who hails from Kingstown, said that the Annual Vincy Day, which is usually held on the third Saturday in August, is “unrivalled.”

“Vincy Day brings families together,” he said. “It gives you one day to decompress.

“It’s time to enjoy yourself,” Lewis added. “So, that’s the reason behind what we do. We do this without fear or favor.”

New Emcoms radio operators trained

Participants writing the Novice/Technician Class test.

ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2025,another eleven persons successfully completed a Novice/Technician Class amateur radio course here.

The course was jointly organized by the Climate Change Resilience Network — CCRN, and the Youlou Amateur Radio Association — YARA, with sponsorship from the NTRC and Venezuelan Institute.

The one-week course covered areas that included but not limited to antenna theory and construction, Ohm’s Law, frequency allocation for radio amateurs and basic electricity.

During the practical session the students made, erected and tested a 40-meter loop antenna and received outstanding reports from stations in Trinidad and Biabou, confirming that the students followed instructions accurately. Some of the students who never had an opportunity to speak on the HF frequencies were able to briefly chat with other regional and local licensed radio operators.

Of the 18 persons who took the test with an 80% pass mark, 11 were successful in achieving 50% and over with two persons scoring 100%.

Tashanna Williams a CCRN volunteer and Litonya John, a Coast Guard Officer received a dual band handheld radio for their outstanding performance in the multiple choice test. These gifts were provided by Herbert “Jeff” English J85E, a Vincentian ‘Ham’ currently residing in the US.

The Directors of YARA wish to publicly commend these young ladies for their remarkable achievement and Mr. Jeff English for providing the gifts as encouragement to the new radio amateurs.

Nine year old Keandre Moore who attends the Stubbs Primary school is now the youngest male in SVG to achieve the 80% pass mark for a Novice/Technician Class amateur radio license.

During the closing ceremony the Director of YARA, Donald De Riggs —

J88CD who was the main instructor, thanked sponsors for their input, including the NTRC who printed the handouts with the course material, as well as test papers, and who also provided a member of staff as invigilator during the exam.

De Riggs also thanked the Venezuelan Institute for the use of their facilities for the training as well as other YARA members who provided daily support during the training activities.

Venezuelan Ambassador HE Francisco Perez Santana, and his wife were also in attendance.

Also making brief remarks and commending the successful participants was Dr. Andrew Simmons founder of the GEMS progressive

Course participants learning how to make an emergency 40metre loop antenna, under the guidance of Donald de Riggs (2nd from right).

community organization and CCRN board member, Ms. Urania Yearwood. The local Chairperson for CCRN, Ms. Denise Stephens — J88NLS coordinated the logistics for this training course.

Denise Stephens, CCRN Chairperson makes contact with overseas operation making use of the antenna made by the participants.

Erecting the antenna at the Girls High School.

Amateur Radio Operators, also known as ‘Hams’, use wireless radio to promote goodwill and peace as well as provide important Emergency Communications (Emcoms) services, before, during and in the aftermath of major natural disasters. Hams have historically been deployed to disaster zones to provide back-up communications services if and when conventional telephone services have been rendered inoperable. Emcoms teams have been deployed. A joint Medical and Emcoms team from SVG was deployed in Dominica following the devastation by hurricane ‘Maria’ in 2017; in St. Lucia following ‘Tomas’; in Grenada in 2004 following hurricane ‘Ivan’; and more recently in Canouan, Mayreau and Union island following ‘Beryl’ in 2024.

Submitted by: Donald De Riggs

NTRC Robotics finalists selected

THE SECOND ROUND OF JUDGING for the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission’s (NTRC) 2025 iCode784 Competition in the Robotics Category got underway August 19, 2025, featuring seven secondary school teams in Zone 2.

Participating schools included Sandy Bay Secondary School, Union Island Secondary School, Bishops College Kingstown, St. Vincent Grammar School, St. Martin’s Secondary School, the Girls’ High School, and the Intermediate High School.

After a series of innovative and high-energy presentations, four teams were selected to advance to the finals on October 22, 2025. The finalists are Union Island Secondary School (UISS), Bishops College Kingstown (BCK), St. Martin’s Secondary School (SMSS), and the Girls’ High School (GHS).

Some of the robots that were entered in the recent Zone 2 judging.

They will join the top three Zone 1 schools: Emmanuel High School Mesopotamia (EHSM), Mountain View Adventist Academy (MVAA), and Thomas Saunders Secondary School (TSSS) in October.

Zone 1 judging was held on July 29, 2025, at the Girl Guides Headquarters.

This year marks the introduction of the Robotics Category as a replacement for the previous Idea Category, further encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on innovation among students.

The NTRC congratulates all participating schools in the preliminary round for their dedication and creativity and extends best wishes to the finalists as they prepare for the championship stage on October 22, 2025 where up to EC$45,000 in cash prizes can be won.

The iCode784 Competition, now in its 12th year, provides a platform for students to engage with Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) while developing critical skills for the digital age. Through categories such as Mobile App Development, Idea Generation, and Robotics, the program continues to inspire the next generation of innovators.

CCJ welcomes Justice Arif Bulkan

MR JUSTICE ARIF BULKAN, a national of Guyana, has been selected by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), the independent body responsible for recruiting staff and judges for the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), to join the CCJ as a Judge. He will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of the Honourable Mr Justice Winston Anderson to the presidency of the Court on 4 July 2025.

Justice Bulkan holds a Bachelor of Laws from The University of the West Indies; a Legal Education Certificate from the Hugh Wooding Law School; a Master of Laws from University College London; and a Doctor of Philosophy in Law from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, Canada. He has worked both regionally and internationally and in the course of his career has functioned in various capacities, including as litigator, academic, author, activist, judge, and international law expert.

Justice Bulkan was admitted to the Bar in Guyana in 1990 and thereafter practiced law at the Chambers of the

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) from 1990 to 1996, rising to the rank of Assistant DPP. He was in private practice from 1997 to 2004. Justice Bulkan sat on the Court of Appeal of Guyana in 2018, and since May 2022, has served a Judge of the Court of Appeal of Belize. Between 2008 and 2022, Justice Bulkan taught in the Faculty of Law of The University of the West Indies. He was also an expert member of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, serving as one of the Committee’s Vice Chairpersons from 2019 to 2022. He was elected in June 2023 to the Inter-

American Commission on Human Rights for a fouryear term and is currently serving as the Commission’s Second Vice-President.

Justice Bulkan has published widely on indigenous rights, human rights, and constitutional law, including as sole author of ‘The Survival of Indigenous Rights in Guyana’ (2012) and a coauthor of ‘Fundamentals of Caribbean Constitutional Law’ (first edition 2015 and second edition 2021). For his work in human rights, Justice Bulkan was conferred with the Anthony Sabga Caribbean Award for Public and

Civic Contributions in 2017 and was named a PANCAP/CARICOM Champion for Change in 2017.

In making the announcement, the Chairman of the RJLSC and President of the CCJ, the Honourable Mr Justice Winston Anderson, took the opportunity to reiterate that ‘The RJLSC has the legal responsibility of making appointments to the office of Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice and makes these appointments based solely on the merits of the applicants including their expertise, integrity, and dedication to justice.

During the recruitment process, the Commission received approximately 26 applications from Australia, Barbados, Canada, Cameroon, Fiji, Guyana, Jamaica, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, The United States of America, and Trinidad and Tobago. Of the applications received, five candidates, three males and two females, were shortlisted for further consideration and subsequently interviewed and the successful applicant appointed. The Commission remains committed to maintaining a process that is fair, transparent, and impartial.’ It is expected that Justice Bulkan will be sworn-in as a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice in October 2025 and is the third Guyanese national to be appointed to the CCJ Bench.

(Source: CCJ Media Release/ 18/08/2025.)

Caribbean, China strengthening ties

DELEGATIONS

FROM BOTHthe Caribbean and China have agreed to strengthen ties by expanding education at the primary and secondary school levels, establishing direct air links, increasing Caribbean participation in China’s trade exhibitions and creating forums to address issues like climate change, renewable energy and development financing.

These discussions involved officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China and the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Caribbean Countries that have Diplomatic Relations with the People’s Republic of China.

The consultations, were held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing as part of the 9th Round of the China-Caribbean Consultations, August 13, 2025.

In addition to the areas of co-operation alreadyn listed the meeting facilitated productive discussions on pressing international issues, including the climate crisis, the situation in Haiti, and the question of Taiwan.

During the consultation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Service head and the Caricom and Foreign Affairs Ministry’s permanent secretary Randall Karim, called for more timely hosting of the meetings under the China — Caribbean mechanism; the creation of additional China-Caribbean forums on key areas such as climate change, renewable energy, trade and investment and development financing; support for more coordinated Caribbean participation in China’s major trade exhibitions; expanding educational exchanges at the primary and secondary school levels; and greater connectivity between China and the Caribbean through direct air links. Both the China and Caribbean delegations subsequently agreed to earnestly pursue these additional areas of cooperation.

The consultation was co-chaired by China’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Miao Deyu and the permanent secretary of the Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development Ministry of Grenada,

NDP emptiness is becoming more glaring than ever

Continued from Page 10.

NONSENSICAL UTTERANCES

A sample of nonsensical utterings, spoken gibberish with some unspoken meanings, and determinations by the NDP crowd, includes:

Lorraine Friday: “Deciding whether to accord citizenship to the cricketing legends is the most difficult political decision of my life. I can’t make up my mind; so, I will abstain on it.” Really, Friday?

St. Clair Leacock: “I take serious issue with Ralph’s son, Storm, giving his father a bust of himself for his 79th birthday, sculpted by a Trinidadian, paid for by Storm from his own resources. I also object to a banner, provided by his constituencies, celebrating Ralph’s birthday with references such as ‘World Boss’, ‘Five Star General’, and ‘King of the Caribbean’.” Is Ralph ‘King of Caribbean politics’ in the way that Brian Lara or Vivian Richards were “Kings of Batting” or does this mean that Ralph plans to abolish our democracy and establish a permanent Kingdom in SVG, like King Charles in England? I Major Leacock need to know so that I could get an upgrade from my MBE which Mitchell and Queen Elizabeth gave me.

Daniel Cummings:

“Poor people must wait until the NDP gets into office to repair or rebuild their houses. Let us starve the ULP government of money, so that they cannot continue their worthy housing programme.” Meanwhile, poor people take the suffering like you used to take it when I was the boss at CWSA.

Kishore Shallow: “Ralph is an old fool, an old clown. Let us be rid of him.” Old people must apparently stay in their bedrooms with their chamber pots, hot water bottles, limacol, and alcolado; be seen and not hear; and await the grim reaper. I never intend to get old; I’ll flame out young like a supernova. Shevern John: “We should take the $41 million that the ULP government wants to continue their housing programme and give it to the teachers and civil servants who did not take the vaccine; that would be a better thing to do.” – I know that I am talking foolishness, but I can’t help it because Grace is ‘hutting up me head!’

SUMMATION

We invite our ULP supporters and fairminded journalists to report to the nation on the truly scary and stupid utterances of the NDP spokespersons, and their complete lack of uplifting policies, plans, and programmes! Stay tuned for more folly as the pressure builds on the NDP, on their way to

a sixth consecutive electoral defeat! Meanwhile to the ULP members and supporters we say: Be active more than ever; we can’t sidung; and at the appointed time, we must get up and vote; and vote the ULP again! We can’t turn back; we nah turn back!

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Think twice before you pursue an unrealistic endeavor. You should make special plans for you and your lover. Travel should open doors that lead to exciting new adventures. Ask family members for help and you will be able to complete the projects more quickly.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Valuable information can be yours if you listen to those with experience. You will find the excitement gratifying. Kick your shoes off and relax. A residential move may be in order.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Travel will promote new romantic encounters and additional cultural knowledge. Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order. You will be inclined to make unwise investment choices. Things will be hectic and family members will be erratic.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Emotionally you won't see things accurately. Organize all the responsibilities that have to be attended to and make sure everyone knows what to do. Your health may have suffered due to neglect or abuse. Take time to help children with projects that may be too hard for them to do on their own.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Involvement in groups will be favorable. Business partnerships will prove lucrative. Put your efforts into physical fitness programs or competitive sports. Try to ease any disappointment by making amends. Sudden romantic infatuations could lead to a significant and prosperous connection.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Ask those in key positions to help you overcome the delays and to support your concerns in order to move on. Take time to deal with authority figures or government agencies. Be careful how you handle friends and relatives, they may take things the wrong way. Be careful not to consume too many spicy foods, or minor health problems could put you out of commission for the day.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

One-sided relationships are likely. Avoid letting family get involved in your personal life. You can make money through your own creative efforts. Stabilize your own position by locking up your savings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Be careful of disclosing personal information. You may find yourself in an uncomfortable situation if you have overloaded your plate unintentionally. Problems with in-laws or relatives may be more damaging than you realize. Your lover will be extremely sensitive and now will not be a good time to make changes that they won't like.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Don't let children hold you back from doing things you enjoy. Re-evaluate your situation. Take the day to relax and pamper yourself. You will also encounter individuals who can help you further your goals.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

You may find that your generosity has been taken for granted. Children may be difficult to deal with. Don't get involved in uncertain financial ventures. Personal problems may be hanging over your head but don't confront the situation. You can make a difference if you're willing to stand up and be counted.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Don't overspend on luxury items. Travel and entertaining conversation will be informative and uplifting. You may have a problem with someone you live with if you don't include them in your gathering. You will be extremely sensual; take precautions and don't take any risks.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Family outings that aren't expensive will be enjoyable and help strengthen ties. Use discretion, especially if involved with someone from work. Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. Relatives may play an important role in your personal life.

ACROSS

1. Record players (abbr.) 4. Wrestling pads

8. Suites (abbr.)

12. Decompose

13. Flapjack chain (abbr.)

14. Cup’s edge

15. Overflow

17. Equivalent

18. Grieved

19. O’Toole’s rank (abbr.)

21. Third letter

22. Opening 14. Savoir-faire

26. Watered the lawn

30. Porcelain tableware

33. Beef fat

34. Paving liquid

36. Crack pilots

37. Feeling the fury

39.Shakespearean play

41. Indolently

43. Lass

44. Rds.

46. Was seated

48. Cowell of “American Idol”

52. Bats 54. Many a Liszt work

56. Single things

57. Jean who makes bath products

58. Jamie _ Curtis 59. Jaunty

60. Young suffix

61. Guess at a price (abbr.)

DOWN

1. Faucet woe

2.Singer/ Songwriter Mitchell

3. Awe 4. Noon

5. “Eureka” 6. Carry 7. Used cash

8. Six-pack muscles, informally 9. Rehearse 10. _ bomb 11. Hook’s right hand 16. Undid 20. Cul-de-_ 23. Favorite

25. Dry white wine 26. Gov’t agcy. 27. Wit’s wordplay 28. Enroll 29. Beaver construction 31. Fish catcher 32. _ gray 35. Torn cloth 38. “Treasure Island” inits

Friendly cartoon ghost

Tall tales

Retail store

I just want out

Dear George,

MY PARENTSforced me to get married to my husband and this was strongly supported by my pastor and now I really want out.

My boyfriend (then) got me pregnant and my parents said that under no circumstances was I was going to bring shame on them. They are right up there in the church and they carried the matter to my pastor, who supported them. I begged them not to force me into marriage but they insisted and threatened me in different ways.

My boyfriend and I had only started dating about four months before I got pregnant. We never intended for it to happen. I'm nineteen and he was twenty years old then.

We are having tons of problems and he has even gotten to the point where he hits me out of sheer frustration. Both of us are frustrated, and right now I see no way out except through divorce. If we continue like this I'm afraid something terrible is going to happen.

I spoke to my pastor and he told me we should just pray and work it out. My parents are advising us to stick it out also and are also saying we just have to get through the first seven years.

The way things are going now, I doubt whether I am going to be alive

in seven years. I need your help please.

Frustration evermore

Dear Frustration evermore,

No one should ever be forced into marriage. Instead of your parents dealing with your reality back then when you informed them of your pregnancy, they allowed their pride and ego to take front row seats, thus pushing your well-being to the back of the line.

At this stage, you need the benefit of sound counseling and this you should ensure you get in a timely manner. Unfortunately, your pastor would not be the best person to offer you any kind of advice, considering he was a big part of the reason why you are in this situation in the first place. You have a few major decisions to make, which is why I'm suggesting you get immediate counseling. You have to think of what's best for your own well-being and that of your child. I wish you the best going forward.

George

Fish out of water

Dear George,

I AM FOUR MONTHS PREGNANT and my boyfriend and I have been going very well, until he met me in bed with another man.

I tried to explain that the reason why I did what I did, was that in the last three months he’s been experiencing problems getting an erection, and that I just had intercourse with someone else because I thought the baby needed "strengthening" and he is not in a position to do that.

George, my friends have told me that it is

important for the baby to be "strengthened" on a regular basis and seeing that my boyfriend has his issues, I feel I am justified in getting it done at all costs. My boyfriend has since packed up and left and is saying he is not even sure if the child I'm carrying belongs to him. My friends who encouraged this in the first place are now saying it is my fault for being careless to be caught. I feel like a fish out of water at this point in time.

Feeling abandoned

Leave the Ex out

Dear George,

DO YOU THINK MY BOYFRIENDis right to take back the cell phone he bought for me, all because he found out that my ex-boyfriend has been buying me credit for the said phone?

I tried to explain to him that I was just being reasonable in not asking him for credit seeing that he went as far as to buy the phone. My exboyfriend volunteered to always provide me with credit with no strings attached.

Why can't my boyfriend understand that? Instead he has allowed his jealous nature to get the

Dear Feeling abandoned,

It should not come as a surprise to you that your boyfriend has paternity questions regarding your unborn child. Stepping outside of the relationship the way you did and for the reason you gave, is totally unacceptable and lacks sound reasoning. Your actions have left your boyfriend with lots of questions and your relationship can only survive if your answers to his questions make perfect sense to him.

George

The best person to talk to about phone credit would be your boyfriend seeing that he thought it necessary for you to have a phone. Your explanation for accepting phone credit from your ex would leave a sour taste in your boyfriend's mouth. It is always best to let bygones be bygones and leave your ex out of relationship business.

George

Concerns raised over semi-pro league

AHEAD OF NEXT MONTH’Sstart of the inaugural Semi-Professional Football League here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, some concerns have been raised among affiliates of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).

Otashie Spring- President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation on Sunday, August 3, 2025, while addressing the opening of the 2025 Northeast Football League, at the Chilli Playing Field, Georgetown, again gave word that the league is imminent.

Spring mentioned that the league, slated to commence September 2025, was a partnership between the government and the federation.

He noted that it was an historic move that will see players, coaches, and match officials compensated for their contributions, and a move that hopefully would raise the level of football across the nation.

Reports are that the present government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will provide start-up funding for the league, with the SVGFF set to match government’s input.

Whilst no official figure has been given, the start-up figure (cost) bandied about ranged from EC$ 750 000 to EC$1 million.

But an email sent by President of the Arnos Vale Football League- Michael John, dated August 10, 2025, to affiliates of the SVGFF pointed to some grey areas.

Among the areas John highlighted were financing, sustainability, the impact on existing competitions, facilities, player payments and fee structures.

John inquired: “How will the league be funded without reducing support for grassroots and youth football? Is this a one-year project, or is there a long-term plan in place? How will the new

Bequia Basketball is back

AFTER A TWO-YEAR HIATUSfrom the national sports calendar, the Grenadines, the Bequia Basketball Tournament is back.

Organized by the Bequia Basketball Association (BBA), the 23rd annual Tournament bounced off August 02 at the Clive Tannis Hard Court. Ten teams are registered to play in three divisions — first, second and Under-16. The tournament is scheduled to close August 30.

The Bequia Basketball President, Sabrina Mitchell, in her address at the opening, spoke of the challenges faced by the Bequia Association over the past two years.

Among the challenges/setbacks referenced by Mitchell and which resulted in the cancellations of the tournaments, were: vandalism to the building (doors and windows) at the hard court; damage to the hoops and glass backboards; electricity disconnection due to unsafe electrical fittings.

In response, the BBS undertook a public awareness and fundraising drive.

A local nonprofitAction Bequia, donated

Sabrina Mitchell, the Bequia Basketball President, gave an account of the factors that led to the two-year hiatus.

$20,000 towards the upgrade of the electrical fittings, etc., provided by James & Son Electricals of Bequia, and the BBA raised $10,000 which catered to the repairs of the building and other infrastructure at the hard court.

Mitchell expressed gratitude to her executive committee for the work done over the past four months, and to the Bequia Sports Management Committee and its chair Kasai Simmons for assisting to get the electricity reconnected and for loaning the Association uniforms for the players.

She also expressed gratitude to Les Malcom and VINLEC for their support and to Dr. Loraine Friday, the Northern Grenadines Representative and Leader of the Opposition for his moral support and contributions.

Suzette Jackson, the SVG National Federation President, in her address, committed her Federation’s assistance to the BBA in its quest to grow and develop the game on the island. She commended the BBA for

its sterling effort that made the return of the tournament possible.

structure affect the current Clubs Championship and existing league format? With poor lighting at Victoria Park, where will matches be played?”

Otashie Spring, President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) spoke recently and in exacting terms about the league’s expected launch in September. (Facebook Photo)

Michael John, President of the Arnos Vale Football League, has advanced a list of concerns, to the SVGFF, about the semi-pro football league slated to be launched here in September. (Facebook Photo)

On the matter of payments and fee structures, John put advanced questions such as: “How will players be compensated, and is there a sustainable wage structure in place? What will be the registration or participation fees for clubs, and how will these be determined?”

John called on affiliates and stakeholders to engage the Executive of the SVGFF in urgent consultation, before proceeding with the announced semi-professional football league.

It was a welcomed return of basketball, August 10, to the Clive Tannis Hard Court in Bequia.

National Archery Champions decided

AFTER TWO DAYS of intense competition in the third edition of the championships, on Saturday August 16 and Sunday, Augus 17, at the National Archery Range, Belair, the Archery Association was able to crown the National Archery Champions for 2025.

The championships showcased the talents of seventeen archers in five divisions.

Installed as the Recurve Male Development 50m champion was Rayon Clarke, ahead of silver medallist- Ian Gibson.

In the Recurve Women’s 50m, the gold medallist was Marese Burgin, who left Divya Jiandani to settle for silver and Richol Richards — bronze.

Tristan Ballah copped the Recurve Male Beginners 30m, with Dimetre Hadley taking silver and bronze going to D’Andre Hadley.

The archers who competed in the 2025 National Championships.

Meanwhile, Prince John carted off with the Barebow Mixed 30m category. Second to John was Teneka Baptiste and third was Kristopher Simmons.

And Daijon Chance won the Barebow Extraordinary Beginners 15m, with Rhea Moffordsecond.

With the national championships done and dusted,

emphasis now shifts to preparation of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team to participate in the World Archery Americas Caribbean Development Championships, set for October in Trinidad and Tobago.

St Vincent and the Grenadines is expected to send seven archers to compete in three categories.

Caribbean Children’s Charity Shield concludes

SYSTEM 3 SPORTS

ACADEMY and Parkside Rollers emerged category champions of the Caribbean Children’s Charity Shield 2025 which concluded last weekend at the Brighton Playing Field.

The event was hosted by the National Commission on Crime Prevention (NCCP) in conjunction with the Barbados-based Hamilton Lashley Human Development Foundation.

System 3 Sports Academy in fact, emerged double champions when they took the Under-13 and Under-17 categories.

In the Under-13, they were followed by second placed Je Belle and North Leeward Predators in third.

Among the Under-17s, System 3 took the honours ahead of SB United in second, and North Leeward Predators in third.

Parkside Rollers clinched the Under-15 group, followed by RSSR of Trinidad and Tobago in second and Greenhill, third.

Among the top individual performers were: Zibeon Cunningham of System 3 Under-17 who took the MVP and most goals awards; Mikyle Sampson of RSSR - most goals, 3, U13; Denish Grant of System 3 Under-17- best goalkeeper.

The Community Spirit award went to System 3, the Fair Play award to Parkside Rollers and the best Uniformed Team award to United Stars Alliance Under-13.

Addressing the closing Timora Peters, Director of NCCP, commended the young athletes for their discipline, teamwork, and fair play. She highlighted the Government’s

commitment to youth development through sports, education, and community engagement.

Otashie Spring, SVG Football Federation President, highlighted upcoming football events and youth development opportunities.

Tricia Browne, tournament organiser and social worker, expressed appreciation to sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for making the tournament a success.

Ian Sardine, a true icon and funder/director

of System 3, played a vital role in the tournament and stood as a pillar of support throughout. He was on hand to award each team, contributing to the smooth execution and success of the event.

The teams that took

part in the tournament were NL Predators, Je Belle, System 3, United Stars, RSSR, Glenside Ball Blasers, Owia United, Green Hill United, Parkside and SV United.

SVG‘s netballers seek third lien

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ senior netball outfit, christened “Vincy Jewels”, will be seeking their third lien on the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) International Netball Series.

The 2025 edition, the fifth staging of the series, takes place August 22 to 31, at the Tanteen Facility, St George’s, Grenada.

Defending champions

St. Vincent and the Grenadines won titles in 2022 and 2024, whilst host Grenada copped the two other titles in 2019 and 2023.

Charged with the responsibility of leading the “Vincy Jewels” to another title are the seasoned Mary-Ann Frederick and Shellisa Davis, who were named as co-captains.

The rest of the regulars includesAnnicia Dallaway, Jo

NACA medals form Roban and Maloney

North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association(NACAC) Senior Championships, last Saturday, August 16, at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex, Freeport, Bahamas.

Roban’s 1:42.87 run in the final of the 800m saw him setting a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines record. It was also his personal best as well as a meet record.

Meanwhile, Maloney timed 1:59.98 in the women’s version of the 800m ran also on Saturday, to gain silver.

The national 800m record holder with a time of 1:58.23, Maloney had made history when she finished fourth in the 800m at the Paris Olympics last year. She became the first Vincentian athlete to qualify for an Olympic final.

Apart from Roban and Maloney, St. Vincent and the Grenadines was represented at the NACAC Senior Championships by Brandon Valentine- Parris, Mc Kish Compton, Jabari Michael, Khensu and Jeremiah Laduca.

Maria Quashie, Kaywanna Charles, Keleshia Barbour, Kristiana Christopher, Kyila Miller, Phiunza La Borde, Rosannia Stephens, Shania Pompey and Shanique De Shong.

Selectors have moved to give two of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ stand outs at the 2025 CBN/Winlott Windward Islands School GamesJueneka Quow and Phiunz Laborde, their first senior team call up.

The Management Team comprises Juovanie CharlesRoberts — Team Manager, Natasha Baptiste — Coach and Javed Marksman — Primary Care Provider.

Standing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ way for title number three are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat and Saint Lucia. Barbados, the Cayman Islands and Guyana will participate as guests in the series.

WORLD ATHLETICS

CHAMPIONSHIPSbound Handal

Roban and Shafiqua Maloney took gold and silver respectively as St. Vincent and the Grenadines took two podium places at the 2025

He shaved off 1.52s on the SVG record and his personal best, after resetting them eight days prior when he clocked 1:44.39. Before Saturday’s feat, he clocked 1:48.96 in the preliminaries, ran on Friday, August 15.

Valentine—Paris timed 47.60 in the men’s 400m; Compton did 10.72s in the men’s 100m; Michael Khensu’s 22.04s in the men’s 200m, and Ladacu stopped the clock at 1:52.26 in the men’s 800m.

None of these times was good enough to see any of the athletes through to the finals in their respective events.

The Vincentians begin their campaign on August 23 against Guyana from 6pm, followed by a meeting with Montserrat, 5pm, August 24.

They will then play the Cayman Islands, 7pm, August 25; Dominica August 26, also from 7pm; and Barbados, August 27, also from 7pm.

Thursday, August 28, St, Vincent and the Grenadines meets St. Lucia from 5pm; August 29, versus Anguilla from 5pm, with their penultimate match carded for August 30 versus Antigua and Barbuda, beginning at 7pm.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines meet fellow two-time championsGrenada, from 6pm on Sunday, August 31, hopefully with the title still in their grasp.

Still playing the bombing game

WHAT’S THAT?Of huffing and puffing, and most times bluffing. For if it comes to taking matters by the scruff of the neck, many allies find distant objective in justifying the Israeli government, or provide it with space to maneuver the next round of atrocities.

Many are seeing through the prism because, if there is to be a settlement to the Gaza crisis, there has to be a place for Hamas in the operation. Or you might say, there will never be no peace at all.

It shudders me to hear of demands that Hamas must surrender, and indeed all the resistance fighters, as if that will guarantee the safety of people in Gaza.

It a shame to hear the Israeli Prime Minister speak of the Gazans suffering, and that their plight will be relieved when they get rid of Hamas.

Just imagine, Gaza reduced to ruins by Israeli bombs, and those standing up against the barbarity and asked to comply with the request of the invaders to put arms and flee. So that Israel can take over the land for the creation of their “greater Israel.’

That what the world is looking forward to, through the eyes of the Israeli dream. This conflict seems destined for perpetuity until the world opens its eyes to reality.

The world has achieved a level of awareness that suffering endured by people in Gaza is not meant to be a life time gift packaged in Israel.

A new dawn is creeping on the horizon, ushered by one of hope and stability in the Middle East. Gaza is paying the price for a return to respect and dignity to many an oppressed people.

Instead of focusing on rebuilding the lives of besieged people, the emphasis appears to be on finishing off the damnation that began in 1948, and expands over the years. The pattern is marked by episodes of barbarity that is unmasking right before our eyes.

However, we are fed a cup of poison ivy and asked to drink it and allow the starvation, hunger and complete erasure of a nation to happen.

Not everyone will agree with that. There has to be some sense of normalcy, and even before the onset of divine intervention, persons in their simple form of humanity ought to make their move in securing the safety of the Palestinian people against the relentless onslaught and give the suffering people the chance to restructure their lives and exist without interference from invading forces.

Marks Dasent sails in Wales

Kai Marks Dasent fully clothed to brave and weather as he sailed commendably in a class of boat he had only recently begun to handle.

FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD

KAI MARKS DASENT proudly represented St. Vincent at the prestigious 2025 UK Sailing Nationals held in Pwllheli, Wales

from August 9th to 15th. The event featured a highly competitive fleet of 110 sailors for six days of racing.

Sailing conditions ranged from zero wind to

North Leeward Football Kicks Off

THE 2025 NORTH LEEWARD Sports and Culture Organization (NLSCO) Hairoun

25mph over the week, testing the abilities of all the sailors. Marks Dasent secured an impressive 8th place in the Under17 category silver fleet– a notable achievement for such a young and relatively new competitor.

Interestingly, Marks Dasent began sailing this class of boat, the ILCA 6, in April of this year, and took advantage of three days of training in Pwllheli ahead of the event. The training was instrumental in helping him adapt to the colder conditions and unfamiliar venue.

Reflecting on the experience, he said: “I

L-R: Otashie Spring, President of the SVGFF and Dwight Roberts, Football Coordinator NLSCO at the League’s opening, August 10.

Beer/Rudy’s Electrical North Leeward Football League officially kicked off on last Sunday

TBPO cricket concludes this Sunday

THE FINALS OF THE 2025 National Lottery Authority TBPO Cricket competition will be contested this Sunday, August 23, at the Dauphine Playing Field.

The finalists will be decided when the semi-finals are played on Saturday: defending champions Country Meet Town Out ah Trouble face off against Sion Hill Tallawahs from 1:00pm; after which, at 3:00pm Fairbaine United takes on Kombat Warriors.

In the deciding matches last weekend, Kombat Warriors beat BOSVG All Star by 9 runs. Kombat Warriors made 144 for 8 in 17 overs, Romano Pierre 70. Kelique Samuel snared 5 Warrior scalps for a measly 7 runs. In reply, All Star reached 135 for 9 in 17 overs, Kody Horne 51 and Pierre claiming 3 for 27.

Sion Hill defeated Young Stallions by 18 runs. Sion Hill posted 155 for 6

in 17 overs, Sealroy Williams 41. Bowling for Young Stallion, Kentish Phillips 3 for 24. Young Stallions got to 135 for 9 in 17 overs, Bradley Richards 39. Alex Roberts and Denson Hoyte each returned 2 for 24.

Country Meet Town Out ah Trouble trounced Greiggs Yound Stars 8 wickets. Greiggs faltered for 103 all out in 18 overs, Darren John 27. Asif Hooper, 6 for 27, weaved rings around the Greiggs’ batters. Out ah Trouble eased to 105 for 2 in 9.4 overs. Richie Richards 66 not out. Meanwhile, Fairbaine United destroyed Dr. Thomas Injectors by 9 wickets. The injectors fell easy prey closing on 44 all out in 17.3 overs, Fairbaine’s Dwayne Williams claiming 2 for 0, Kegan Cordice 3 for 10 and Javin Liverpool 2 for 13. In reply Fairbaine United raced to 45 for 1 in 4.5 overs, Jeremy Haywood getting 21.

I.B.A. ALLEN

had to wear a lot more clothing — it was a lot colder than I’m used to. I’ve been training this summer and it was good to put that training into practice. I really loved racing in such a big fleet and learned lots from observing other sailors.”

His performance stands out not only for his age but demonstrates the rapid progress he has made in just a few months.

The SVG Sailing Association says Marks Dasent’s recent outing ‘is a promising sign of his potential in competitive sailing and a proud moment for St. Vincent, as he continues to gain international experience, as part of his Olympic pathway’. (Source: SVG Sailing Association)

An opening ceremony heard addresses from national and North Leeward football officials, and was followed by a match between representative teams from North Leeward and Barrouallie.

Dwight Roberts, Football Coordinator for the North Leeward Sports and Culture Organization, in his address, extended a welcome to all in attendance, and commended the community’s commitment and dedication to the development of football at the grassroots level.

In his address, Otashie Spring, President of the St.

Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), praised the Organising Committee’s hard work. He highlighted significant achievements in national football, including the Senior Men’s team climbing five places in the FIFA rankings, the appointment of Technical Director Theon Gordon, and ongoing preparations for youth teams across multiple age groups.

As far as the invitational opening match was concerned, Barrouallie took the honours romping home victors by 2—1. Twelve teams are expected to participate in two zones in this year’s North Leeward Football League. Fitz Hughes is the defending champion.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Classifieds

AI REAL ESTATE

ACCIDENT AT GIBSON CORNER

Stories by: KENVILLE HORNE

A NUMBER OF COMMUTERS TRAVELLING to Kingstown from the Campden Park area and bystanders at Gibson Corner are counting their lucky stars.

This, after a minivan on its way to Kingstown crashed into a business place, located on the very curve at Gibson Corner, at the entrance to what used to be referred to as ‘Grantsville’. An unconfirmed number of passengers were

injured, extensive damage was done to the business place, and the vehicle was a wreck.

According to a police press release, the accident occurred on Tuesday 19th August, at approximately 3:13pm.

The police confirmed that the incident involved a Toyota minivan, registration number H8476, owned by Senard Adams a resident of Campden Park, and driven by Keith Joseph, aka Grenadian or South, a 49-year-old resident of Edinboro.

ELDERLY MAN FOUND DEAD

THE DEATH OF AN ELDERLY MAN,a resident of Lowmans leeward, has left many in that community puzzled.

Albert Warren, said to be in his 60s, was found dead on August 18, 2025, at approximately 9:00 P.M. He was said to be a farmer and well-known in the community.’ Police said they were alerted to the discovery of a male body in some bushes close to a residence in Lowmans Hill. The body was later identified as that of Albert Warren. Report had first surfaced that Warren was discovered with injuries to the body. However, the police dismissed the allegations, stating that “no apparent injuries were observed at the scene.”

The District Medical Officer (DMO) attended the scene and pronounced Warren deceased. A postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) further advises the public to await the outcome of the post-mortem examination before drawing conclusions about the nature of the death.

The investigation is ongoing, and the police is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. All information given to the police will be kept confidential. (See a tribute on Page 13)

Joseph sustained serious injuries to his face and both legs. One of the minivan’s door had to be completely removed in order to release him from a pinned position. He is currently receiving treatment at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

In addition, a bystander and several passengers who were in the vehicle sustained varying degrees of injury, ranging from fractures to serious lacerations. They were treated at the MCMH.

Senard Adams, the owner of the minivan and son of businessman Adolphus ‘Famo’ Adams, was not on scene, when THE VINCENTIAN arrived, to give any information. However, a number of witnesses said the van appeared to have suffered a brakes failure.

Proprietor of Barry’s Building Home Services, Barry Edwards, said his business place took a direct hit. He noted that no one was inside the business place when the accident took place.

He described his business as a small hardware that also sells bottled gas (LPG).

“We supply items for the community, so somebody could have a hinges, they could have a lock, fix a pipe that burst, we have stop corks, we have every fitting to help our community so they could maintain their home especially during the weekend,” said Barry, adding, “I am in good condition” a reference to him being okay despite the setback.

Barry confirmed the removal of the minivan’s door explaining that the process took at least half an hour to be completed.

Police said that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.