THE VINCENTIAN PDF-20-02-26

US MILITARY ACTION OFF SVG:

THREE KILLED!!

surrounding region.

In a release dated Feb.18, 2026, the police said, “Information released by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) indicates that on February 13, an operation was conducted against a vessel believed to have been involved in organised narco-trafficking. The information received so far suggests that this was a targeted, intelligence-led operation and not directed at fishing vessels or ordinary maritime activity.”

The release went on to say, “Three narcoterrorists were killed during this action. SOUTHCOM has since released a video of the attack that appears to show a missile strike on the boat which then explodes into flames, leaving the vessel obliterated.

The U.S. military said Tuesday that it carried out strikes on three boats accused of smuggling drugs in

Continued Page 3.

PM address latest US strike V News 3

DAYS AFTER A US DRONE STRIKE near Canouan on February 13, 2026, that is reported to have taken the lives of three persons purported to be from St. Lucia, Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday addressed the incident amid growing calls for clarity.

Acknowledging reports of casualties, Friday emphasized that much of the information remains unverified. He reassured fishermen and maritime operators that they can continue their work safely while the government coordinates with US authorities to confirm details.

“We are taking this matter very seriously,” the Prime Minister said, underlining the need to balance public safety with the continuity of livelihoods. He pledged that official updates would be

shared as they become available and urged citizens to remain vigilant at sea.

US officials stated the strike targeted a vessel linked to designated terrorist organizations involved in narco-trafficking along Caribbean routes. While the US identified the deceased as traffickers, the National Fisherfolk Organisation (NFO) reported that the victims were three local fishermen from St. Lucia.

Explosions were reported several miles off Canouan at around 2:00 p.m., with wreckage later found by local fishermen on February 14.

The incident has heightened regional concern. The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force described the strike as a

Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday stopped short of condemning the USA administration-sanction military action in the Caribbean Sea.

“targeted, intelligence-led” operation, not aimed at ordinary fishing activity.

Former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves criticized the action, arguing that even suspected traffickers are entitled to due process.

Following the strike, SVG authorities conducted a major

drug seizure on February 16, confiscating approximately nine kilograms of cocaine,

though officials have not confirmed any direct link to the destroyed vessel.

US Military Action off SVG

Latin American waters, killing 11 people in one of the deadliest days of the Trump administration’s months-long campaign against alleged traffickers.

It said a boat with three people was hit in the Caribbean Sea.

The series of strikes conducted Monday brought the death toll to at least 145 people since the administration began targeting those it calls “narcoterrorists” in small vessels since early September.

The discovery – St.Lucia concerned

No further geothermal exploration

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Government has made it clear that it does not intend to pursue geothermal energy as an alternative source of electricity generation.

During his 2026 Budget presentation, Dr. Godwin Friday, Prime Minister, said that the geothermal wells at Bamboo Range had begun to emit steam and gases, creating a potential threat for public-safety and environmental risk.

“We must now confront the facts surrounding the geothermal project with honesty and responsibility,” Dr. Friday said in his Budget 2026 presentation on February 9.

He said that the economic viability of the project had become

increasingly uncertain when weighed against the high capital cost and the limited fiscal space available to the state.

“Accordingly, this government is acting prudently. We are restricting further expenditure strictly to risk mitigation and environmental safety,” Dr. Friday explained.

He added that the government would be undertaking a technical review in preparation for the likely decision to cap and safely maintain the wells.

“This is not retreat. It is responsible stewardship of public assets,” the Prime Minister declared.

The decision by the new government comes against an indication by the previous government that it was going ahead with plans to source

geothermal energy.

Benarva Browne, the former Minister of Urban Development, Energy, etc. said during the October 15, 2024 Sitting of Parliament that plans were afoot for another geothermal project, which was anticipated to produce its first energy output by the end of this year.

Browne explained then that the St. Vincent Geothermal Company, in October 2023, had advertised for a proposal to develop a geothermal power plant that would produce approximately 2 MW of clean and affordable electricity.

A proposal by a United Kingdom-based geothermal company — CeraPhi Energy — was accepted in December 2023 and by January 2024, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) had met with representatives of the state owned VINLEC.

She explained that the company had proposed to utilize a ‘Closed-Loop’ system.

Browne further explained that the existing site at Bamboo Range would account for equity and that no

Bernarva Browne. Minister of Urban Development, Energy, etc. in the previous government, had articulated very encouragingly, her government’s plan to resuscitate the geothermal energy thrust.

additional funding was expected to be provided by the government.

This country had previously partnered with an Icelandic company, Reykjavik Geothermal to explore for the possibility of geothermal energy.

The project was halted after it was determined that the area drilled was not permeable enough for it to be economically viable. (DD)

The Geothermal energy drilling rig on site at La Soufrière lies abandoned and according to the Prime Minister is an environmental risk.

On Saturday 14th February, it was being reported by news agencies and social media influencers, that what looked like remains of a boat was discovered by mainland fishermen off Canouan.

The fishermen are reported to have said that the bow of the boat was still visible with the engine and most of the hull submerge. No bodies were seen floating in the area.

What surfaced in St. Lucia after the military action was that three fishermen had left St. Lucia last week Monday and had not returned.

Whatever the case, news of the military action and the discovery of the boat raised concerns in nearby St. Lucia, and a CMC report on Monday 19th February, quoted that country’s Prime Minister, Phillip J Pierre, as confirming that St. Lucia government “is actively engaging through established diplomatic and

security channels” after confirming that “people lost their lives” in the referenced United States military strike against what Washington says are illegal drug dealers in the Caribbean Sea.

But speaking at the weekly news conference ahead of the Cabinet meeting this week, Pierre told reporters, as per a CMC report, “I can confirm that people lost their lives and to the circumstances I have got no official notification on the circumstances surrounding their deaths.”

Asked by reporters whether those killed were St. Lucians, Pierre repeated: “I can confirm that people lost their lives but I got no official notification on anything else.”

Caution urged

Meanwhile back in SVG, Winsbert Harry, president of the National Fisherfolk Organization, told SVG-TV late Tuesday that he was concerned about the safety of fishermen in the Caribbean.

He highlighted the combination of early departures (as early as 2am), high-speed travel, and increased military activity in the region presents a troubling risk, and urged fishermen to take certain precautions even as he admonished the USA for the recent strike that killed three people.

Harry also noted that the strike comes as the Eastern Caribbean prepares for the peak of the tuna season, with many fishermen depending on catches for their livelihoods.

The Royal SVG Police Force said in a statement Wednesday that it is aware of the ongoing concerns but encouraged fishermen and seafarers “to continue their normal operations … to remain in communication while at sea,” and to report immediately “any debris, unusual sightings or unexplained activity.” (Source: RSVGPF, CMC)

Journalists barred from coronersÊ inquests

outcome of coroner’s inquests, it seems that, for some reason, the media is not being allowed to do so in recent years.

This week, this reporter was not allowed to enter the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, because a coroner’s inquest was being heard.

That was according to the police officer on duty at the entrance to the courtroom.

THE VINCENTIAN does not know whether the officer was acting on instructions, or if he was acting on his own.

and civilian Gleason Lewis of Campden Park, then Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett (now High Court Judge), said in the presence of three reporters, “I see members of the media here. This inquest is not an open court. I allow you to be here. You can observe, but you can’t publish the evidence that comes before the court.”

On March 10, 2014, then Magistrate Rechanne Browne told THE VINCENTIAN that she acted in accordance with the law in not allowing the presence of the media and public at the coroner’s inquest involving remand prisoner Anthony ‘Scar Face’ Hamilton, who was shot and killed by police in the washroom area of the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, on Monday 14, 2013.

Chapter 21 of the Laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Revised Edition, 2009, which states, “The room or building in which a coroner’s inquest is held shall not be deemed an open court. The coroner may, in his own discretion, order that no person shall have access to, or be, or remain in such room or building (jury excepted), without the consent of permission of such coroner, if it appears to him that the ends of the inquiry will best be answered by so doing.”

Many coroners’ inquests in recent times have been heard without the presence of the media, and decisions were made without the knowledge of the families of the parties involved, or the public.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

FOR SOME TIME NOW,journalists covering court matters have been questioning their exclusion, in a number of cases, from coroners’ inquests.

While in the past journalists were allowed to cover and report on the

Another reporter, at a different publication, told THE VINCENTIAN that he too was barred from that inquest.

On June 27, 2022, during a coroner’s inquest to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of Police Sergeant Philbert Chambers,

THE VINCENTIAN contacted Browne to find out why the media was not allowed, since this publication could recall that journalists were allowed to cover previous coroners’ inquests, presided over by other coroners.

Browne pointed to the Coroner’s Act, Section 25,

Five await fate for KFC brawl

A TEENAGE GIRLand

a male student are among five youngsters who are behind bars awaiting sentencing for their involvement in a fight at the KFC outlet on Bay Street, Kingstown, on Friday, February 13.

The girl, Gabrielle Haywood, 18, of Campden Park, and the student, Jasrick Young, 16, of Questelles, have been charged, along with

car wash attendant, Kezron Peters of Campden Park, sales clerk, Veron Holder of Lowmans Leeward, both 17, and Ivorn Thomas, 23 of Brighton.

The five are charged separately, with “that on February 13, 2026, on Bay Street, Kingston, in a public place, to wit, KFC building, took part in a fight”.

The youngsters, who were unrepresented, pleaded guilty when they appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. They were remanded until March 2, 206 for presentation of facts and sentencing.

Though they pleaded guilty to the charge, some of their friends and relatives gathered outside the Court, expressing displeasure that the defendants would be kept in custody pending sentencing. Some expressed the view that the offenders were acting in self-defense, while others present told them that the youngsters pleaded guilty.

Here were others too, who were of the opinion

that the youngsters were at a disadvantage because they were unrepresented.

One woman said that some of them were following ‘bad company.”

The offenders remained calm during their appearance before the Chief Magistrate and while being escorted to and from Court.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that investigations are ongoing and others could be charged in connection with the incident.

Continued on Page 5.

Some legal sources with whom THE VINCENTIAN spoke, said that while the coroner has a discretion in determining who is allowed at the inquest, they (legal sources) expressed the view that the media and public should be allowed to be present at coroners’ inquests.

KFC assures increased vigilance

Continued on Page 5.

THE HOLDERS/MANAGERS of the KFC franchise in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have assured that concerns expressed by members of the public about a fight at its Bay Street outlet on Friday, February 13, 2026, are being addressed internally, in accordance with its company policies.

Patrons are also expected to see increased patrols at KFC restaurants, to ensure their safety and comfort.

The assurance came via an official statement the company issued on the incident this week.

The brawl, involving several youngsters, surfaced in a video circulating on social media, evoking widespread public debate, and serious concerns have been expressed in some circles regarding the incident.

Five persons, including a teenage girl and a male student, have since been charged and taken to Court, in connection with the incident.

Noting that it is aware of the video circulating online showing the altercation, the company made it clear that KFC SVG, does not tolerate violence, disruptive behavior, or any conduct that compromises the safety and comfort of their guests and team members.

CopÊs attempted murder P.I. ongoing

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

A POLICE OFFICER who has been charged with the attempted murder of his former lover four months ago, will soon know whether there is sufficient evidence for him to stand High Court trial, or if he will be discharged at the Magisterial level.

Police Constable 373, Kyle Nimblett, a 22-yearold Byera man, is

accused of attempting to murder his former lover Rafia Sardine of Villa, by using a knife to stab her several times.

He is also charged with entering the dwelling house of Alicia Sardine, Rafia’s mother, and at the time having with him a weapon of offence, to wit, a knife. He is also accused of damaging a 3x2 aluminum sliding window, belonging to

Rafia’s mother.

All three charges stemmed from an incident at Glen, on September 6, 2025.

Part of Nimblett’s Preliminary Inquiry (P.I.) was done orally at the Serious Offences Court, where witnesses were called to testify. However, THE VINCENTIAN understands that the next part will be done via Paper Committal

Procedure, where the remaining evidence will be reviewed by the Magistrate, Prosecutor and Defense. Following this, the Magistrate will determine whether there is sufficient evidence for Nimblett to stand High Court trial.

Nimblett, who is out on bail, will have his next court appearance on March 5. He is represented by

KFC assures increased vigilance

Continued from Page 4.

The statement assured that, “Our (KFC) restaurants are intended to be safe and welcoming places for the entire community.” The company added that, “The matter is currently under investigation by the police, and we are fully cooperating. We have also requested increased patrols as an added precaution.”

The statement further expressed appreciation for the concerns voiced by members of the public, and pledged its commitment to maintaining a respectful and secure environment for everyone who visits their restaurants.

Five await fate for KFC

brawl

Continued from Page 4.

In a news release issued on the incident, the police stated that, “Public confrontations of this nature will not be allowed to take hold. Any effort to normalize intimidation, organized fighting, or initiate-type behavior, will be identified early and addressed firmly.”

The release further stated that, “Across the county, officers continue to work around the clock, gathering intelligence, intervening early, and maintaining order where it is threatened. The expectation of safety

on our streets, businesses, and neighborhoods, is not taken lightly, and it continues to guide every response.”

The release concluded stating, “The work does not end with these charges. Investigations remain active and further action will follow where necessary.”

Editor’s Note: Unconfirmed information is that the young people involved in the brawl are members of the ‘Sixx” and “Seven” gangs 6XXX” “6 and 7” gangs which are said to originate in Trinidad aad Jamaica and have connections other islands, through their involvement in the music industry.

Police Constable 373, Kyle Nimblett

attorney Grant Connell.

Chief Magistrate Colin John is presiding over the P.I.

A CANOUAN/UNION ISLANDman will appear at the Canouan Magistrate’s Court on February 20, in connection with a restaurant burglary on that Grenadine Island, which reportedly netted EC$371 in groceries, US$10 and EC$15 in cash.

Sipranie Frederick has been charged with that, between February 12 and 14, 2026 at Canouan, he entered ‘Pizza Train’ Restaurant as a trespasser, and stole: five cans of Kings Bell sliced pineapple valued at EC$75, four cans of evaporated milk valued at EC$18, four cans of whole corn valued at EC$32, two cans of cream style corn valued at EC$16, eight packs of Ricco macaroni valued $48, ten packs of Nescafe coffee valued at EC$10, 15 pounds of English potatoes valued at EC$60, five pounds of flour valued at EC$12.50, ten pounds of Barracuda fish valued at EC$100, along with EC15 and US$10 in cash, the property of Frederick Browne of Canouan.

Frederick pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Colin John at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. He was granted $2,000 bail with one surety and the matter was adjourned and transferred to the Canouan Magistrate’s Court.

Tackling street vending again

DESPITE EFFORTS by the previous Unity Labour Party administration, including plans to remove some 800 vendors from the streets and sidewalks in capital Kingstown’s, from all accounts vending on the sidewalks of Kingstown has shown a startling increase.

As it turned out, a number of vendors defied the efforts of the local government authorities to enforce some order to the operations of the vendors, who continued to ply their trade on the streets and sidewalks, especially the covered sidewalks.

The issue became a politcally charged one and the New Democratic Party (NDP) then in opposition, appeared to oppose the removal of the vendors.

Now in government, the practice has attracted the attention of the newly installed NDP, which promises action to curb the runaway practice .

In her contribution to the debate on the 2026

It’s like starting all over to deal with an issue that continues to prevent easy passage through the streets of Kingstown.

Budget, Laverne GibsonVelox, Minister of The Family and Gender Affairs, Persons with Disabilities, and Labour, described the practice as a “grave concern,” and gave notice that the government intends to enforce a “no vending policy.”

This is expected to be implemented during the first quarter of the year. One of the remedies being considered, Gibson-Velox said, was to provide better facilities for commerce by establishing new community markets and upgrading existing ones.

The action to regulate,

control street vending was seen as correlated to maintaining and improving the aesthetics of capital Kingstown and other public spaces.

As always, any threat against the means of livelihood of the hundreds of vendors results in strong protest by the vendors affected. Already THE VINCENTIAN senses that this occasion is no different.

Not for the first time, the Kingstown Town Board, the Physical Planning Division and Police will have no easy pathway to a solution to this “problem”.

Public Assistance criteria review coming

A REVIEW OF THE ELIGIBILITYcriteria for Public Assistance programmes will be conducted in March 2026.

Shevern John, Minister of Social Welfare and Community, Empowerment, Ecclesiastical Affairs and National Heritage, said in her contribution to the debate on the 2026 Budget last week Thursday, that Cabinet had approved an increase Poor Relief benefit from EC$360 to EC$500. But while government will be implementing the increase, John said that the socio-economic circumstances of the beneficiaries will be reviewed to determine if they are in line with the eligibility requirements of the programme.

“We moving that dependency syndrome away from the country,” John said.

A review of the Poor Relief progrmme and other Public Assistance programmes, will come in the first quarter of the 2026 Financial year.

reality that one in three Vincentians is either living in poverty or just one pay cheque away from it,” Friday said.

In his Budget Address on Monday, 9th February, 2026, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Godwin Friday formally announced the increase in Poor Relief benefit (one component of the Public Assistance programme) for 4,614 beneficiaries. “This action responds directly to the

He said the review of the eligibility criteria for all Public Assistance programmes was to ensure equity, transparency, and alignment with current socio-economic conditions.

“All who need assistance must get it, and support will be provided to assist those who can transition into employment to do so effectively,” the Prime Minister projected. (DD)

Vincy authors book in honor of her son

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

Photos courtesy: Eleen N. Ackie.

VINCENTIAN ELEEN ACKIEhas authored “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” in honor of her 9-year-old son, Adam, whom she describes as “the heart” of her creative journey.

“The book celebrates childhood independence, courage, and the warmth of community,” Ackie, a Brooklyn, New York resident, who was born in the Southern Grenadines island of Union Island, told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday. “It follows Adam on a joyful neighborhood adventure that shows children how small steps can lead to big confidence.

“It also highlights the beauty of CaribbeanAmerican family life and the importance of love guiding a child’s journey,” she added.

“I wrote this book for my son, Adam – my brave little light,” Ackie continued. “I wanted him, and children like him, to see themselves reflected in stories filled with joy, confidence, and community. Too often, children of color do not see enough positive, everyday representations of themselves in literature. I wanted to change that.

“The message I want to

convey is simple but powerful: You are brave. You are loved. And the world is brighter because you are in it,” she said.

Ackie said Adam’s walk to the Sunshine Corner Store is symbolic.

“It represents the small but

meaningful steps children take toward independence, guided by the love of family and the support of their community,” she said.

Excerpts from “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” read: “Adam held his shiny coin tight as he stepped outside. The sun smiled down on him, and the whole neighborhood seemed to cheer him on.

“With every step, Adam felt braver,” they add. “He waved to neighbors, greeted the flowers, and followed the path that led him to the Sunshine Corner Store – his very first big adventure.”

Ackie said her son inspires her to write books that celebrate “Black boy joy, confidence, and belonging –stories where children who look like him can see themselves as brave, loved, and full of possibility.

“During Black History Month especially, I feel a deep responsibility to contribute stories that uplift our children, affirm their identity, and remind them that they are part of a powerful legacy,” she added. “Through my writing, I aim to preserve culture, nurture pride, and give young readers stories that reflect their light back to them.

“I carry the warmth of the Caribbean with me wherever I go, and I pour that spirit into every page,” Ackie continued. “Writing is not just my craft –it is my way of honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future.

She said publishing “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” has been “one of the most fulfilling and emotional experiences” of her life.

“It feels like placing a piece of my heart into the world – a piece filled with love, legacy, and hope,” said Ackie, stating that she was raised on Union Island, where “storytelling, community, and resilience shaped the foundation” of who she is.

Today, she said she divides her time between her professional work, parenting Adam, and writing stories that “honor our heritage, our courage, and the everyday magic found in family life.”

Ackie said children will read Adam’s story and “feel seen, encouraged, and uplifted.”

She said this brings her “immense joy and gratitude.”

But Ackie added that “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” is more than a story.

“It is a celebration of

Caribbean heritage, Black boy joy, and the quiet courage children show every day,” she said.

“I hope it inspires families to cherish the small moments, encourage independence, and remind children that they are capable of shining brightly wherever they go,” Ackie added.

She said “Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store” is independently published through Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). The book is available worldwide through Amazon in both paperback and ebook formats. Purchase Link: Amazon: Adam Goes to the Sunshine Corner Store.

Book by prisoners to be launched

HOBO JUNGLE PRESSwill launch

“Written: Poetry and Prose by Inmates of His Majesty’s Prisons, St. Vincent and the Grenadines” at the University of the West Indies Open Campus on Thursday, February 26th from 4pm to 6 pm. The general public is invited.

Deputy Prime Minister, The Honourable St. Clair Leacock, Minister of National Security and Immigration, will be the featured speaker along with Superintendent of Prisons Dwayne Bailey.

“Written” is the culmination of works completed by inmates who participated in a 13-week writing workshop conducted by David “Darkie” Williams at His Majesty’s Prison Kingstown in 2024.

The book includes the writing and drawings of 11 individuals; several have since been released.

Right: The front cover of the publication of work by current and former inmates of

“this training…gave them the ability to produce more knowledge-based and theoretical works.” Mr. Williams will talk about the workshop at the launch.

The pieces that ultimately appeared in the publication were submitted to Hobo Jungle Press by inmate Junior Jarvis and further edited by the publishers. The topics range from love and anger to drama, feelings of abandonment, faith in God and the future, courage, and humour.

It includes a foreword by Mr. Williams who said that even before the workshop, inmates were writing poetry and prose that they were sharing with one another.

“Although there were already pieces that contained conflict,” Williams said,

The authors (in alphabetical order) are Sheba Charles, Jason Delpesche, Alana Hudson, Junior Jarvis, Taylor Mofford, Lucresha Nanton, Jerome Ollivierre, Twanecia Ollivierre, Reynold Roberts, Caswell Smart, and Karl Telemaque.

Hobo Jungle Press is located on St. Vincent and in the United States and has published more than 50 books by Vincentian authors. They maintain a web site at hobojungle.org where submissions are

are the publishers. (Submitted)

Views V

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

The soft drinks challenge

IT WASN’T SO LONG AGO that Pepsico, the mother company of Pepsi Cola, on commissioning a study of market trends throughout their global market space, discovered that young people especially, were moving away from consuming soft drinks in favour of bottled water and flavoured water.

The study also indicated that the shift was driven by high prices and the search for “somethings healthier”.

But more significantly for Pepsico was the finding that consumption of sugary beverages among children, teenagers and young adults dropped significantly (in the case of children from 11% to 3%) in the USA and right across Europe.

On the flip side, consumption of its fizzy soft drinks remained stable in South America and the Caribbean, Africa and South Asian Nations, with projections showing optimistic growth. See now the reason for the increased presence, promotions and sponsorship (direct cash flows) in these countries? Remember the Pepsi Sion Hill Football League, one of the best funded leagues at the time? And when was the last time you saw a Pakistan cricket uniform without the Pepsi logo?

Leap frog to 2025 and a report revealed that 57% of the Gen Z consumers (the demographic cohort born between roughly 1997 and 2012) were avoiding carbonated soft drinks due to concerns over artificial additives and their classification as ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) — to mean unhealthy!

The Gens, the demographic soft drink manufacturers believed would drive expansion, was not a stable cohort. Instead, it was a health-driven generation and also a thrifty bunch in the face of rising prices for soft drinks and increasing cost of living generally.

That did not deter people like Pepsico and its archrival Coca Cola. In well-defined deliberate efforts, the two soft drink giants ramped up their long term advertising/promotion strategy backed by leading entertainment personalities — Michael Jackson for Pepsi Cola and Penelope Cruz for Coca Cola — aimed at retrieving lost market share and at growing markets in what were deemed porous and culturally unstable economies like the Caribbean. And then there was the move to expand product lines, e.g. Pepsi offered Aquafina as a primary bottled purified water brand; Coca Cola followed with its Dasani line —a

purified, vapor-distilled, and mineral water option.

All of this, of course, collided with the burst of Bottled Water brands across the Caribbean, e.g. Mountain Top in SVG, Trois Pitons Water in Dominica, WATA in Jamaica, Blue Waters in Trinidad, Crystal Clear in St. Lucia, with the latter three adding Flavoured Water to their lines.

And in the face of all of that, the soft drinks market in St, Vincent and the Grenadines appear to have expanded, not because of increased local manufacturing investment/capacity (we still have JuC), but more so because of the openness of the market, allowing relatively easy entry of every major international soft drink line - Coke, Pepsi, Sprite - and every imaginable Caribbean line, e.g. Busta, Cubby, Bigga.

In the main, the target demographics remain children, teenagers and young adults.

Local manufacturers as well as local distributive agents who represent international soft drink lines, know well that in a small market that could easily become saturated, those who can make their product available and affordable are likely to remain in the market place.

And in a market place like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where other than an environmental tax (bottle levy) there is hardly any encumbrance that would make it difficult to wash the market with imported fizzy drinks, our situation is worsened because there is no real regard, formal or informal, for the health implications — contributor to diabetes, obesity, hypertension - by an overindulgent consumption of these drinks.

Not until the recent “recommendations’ by the new Minister of Health - Daniel Cummings - has there been any real national focus on the path into which we descend with the easy and affordable access to soft (soda) drinks to all and sundry.

This publication fully supports the Minister’s call for a serious look-in on the situation as it relates to the consumption (patterns) of soft drinks in this country, especially among school-aged children.

We hope that Minister Daniel’s recommendation will soon translate into real action that leads to a curtailing of the ’freedom’ that unhealthy products (systematically marketed for human consumption) currently enjoy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

My first take on the Budget

AS MANY IN SVGsit around listening to the Annual Budget, we can feel the excitement in many corners around the country. My first reaction while listening to the Prime Minister’s presentation was how differently members of his own party received it. It was a different kind of excitement and confidence displayed by NDP members in parliament. The annoying table-banging was noticeably reduced. Maybe some of this can be attributed to the fact that this year’s budget was predictably more of a maintenance effort and an attempt to redirect the country’s priorities.

I hope this is the case and not an indicator of the level of enthusiasm with which we are approaching the task ahead. Now is the time for me to state unequivocally how much I appreciate this level of maturity, as this constant distraction in the past was always a source of my dissatisfaction with the proceedings.

As the Leader of the Opposition presented his rebuttal, I could not help but think of how poorly our current process serves us, the people. His lamentations about the number of projects eliminated or underfunded indicate how poorly our budget system is designed and implemented. I could not help but think how much more meaningful this process could be if the projects that were unfunded or eliminated were developed with the full support of the community through an extensive community involvement process, and how difficult it would have been to eliminate them programmatically.

I am not going to get into any discussion of the merits of which projects, if any, should have been kept. For none of these projects was developed with full community involvement, and for this reason, I must once again encourage a deeper conversation about leadership and service.

As the parliamentarians sat around the table, each person had their explanation for why the product launch was somewhat unsuccessful (my thoughts). The hand ringing is evident. The marketing folks are blaming the elected officials for poor messaging–the elected officials blamed operations for the delayed delivery. Everyone had a reason why it happened on someone else’s watch. Sound familiar? No, not yet, but it will soon. And there will be enough blame to go around. This scene is played out every day around the world, as cabinets struggle to define projects that lack significant community input,

the very constituency they were elected to serve. This scene will play out in the days to come, and it will represent the single biggest obstacle to building a high-performing organization. Example: funding to eradicate the African Snail invasion.

How can we transform our leaders into change agents? We must approach the job of parliamentary representative in a way that creates a culture of accountability that drives results. We must somehow convince them to involve us in the ownership of the projects they present to the nation. They must invest in a community involvement process before any project is presented to parliament for approval and funding. They must take responsibility for everything in their “world”. When approved projects fail or do not take shape as intended, our leaders must develop a habit of looking inward first. When their teams underperform, they should first ask what they could have done differently. No blame, just reflection and resolve to learn from the experience and keep moving. Most people understand this in general, but have difficulty implementing it to the extreme degree necessary to produce the change they are seeking to build. It is time for our leaders to own everything in the domain as we build accountability. No blaming the economy, the opposition, the career government employees, or the weather. Just introspective reflection and a resolve to constantly evolve and improve.

Back to the budget debate, what started as a lighthearted, humorous moment quickly erupted into a sharp rebuke from a government member. The opposition leader scanned the room confidently, recognizing several individuals he believed had been influenced by his educational revelation. Hours later, a government side member felt the need to remind everyone that he was no revolutionary. In that instant, my hopes for a more dynamic and respectful budget discussion vanished, replaced by the old, familiar truth: “Children learn what they live.” Suddenly, the scene changed dramatically–table banging, fiery insults, and sarcastic jabs became the order of the day. Sadly, the intensity was back, bringing with it the chaos of the past twenty-five years.

Horatio.

This is not calypso

MR. EDITOR,I know you have been involved in the calypso business here maybe even dating back to the 60s when people like Sheller, Spider Soleyn, Quicksilver were on the scene. I recall you telling me about an incident by that Lodge in Middle Street where the calypsonians use to practice. And with you following Trinidad calypso through the years, I know you know what is calypso and what is a good

A nation with its knees unbent

calypso.

Well, Well, Well. When I heard what the semi-finalists (I didn’t hear the finals) in this year’s Calypso Monarch Competition had to offer, I wondered if it really was a calypso competition. All the ladies, to begin with, were either singing R&B or sounding like they were in church. Their songs sounded like hymns. And the men, too, were easily slipping into dancehall.

It was like I was in church. Even the few calypsoes that sounded like true calypso lack

real bite and very few of them if any, had any humour.

Now, my friend, my concern is if we do what we like to do and follow the trend in Trinidad and Tobago, we ain’t going anywhere.

And like you always say, in a situation where you are judging the calypso, it’s the judges who will determine what is good and what is bad; who is good and who is bad. The question is, especially in our case, our judges qualified to do so and therefore set the trend for us?

Let us protect what is

Is Parliament a joke?

IT WAS SO AMUSING to hear the Opposition Leader shouting, “This Parliament is a joke. I’m gone.”

When I heard him, I immediately remembered some vents in Parliament over the last twenty-five years.

The question is, when the following took place, was the Parliament a joke? If it was, why didn’t you say it when:

1. Each time the opposition’s time came to bring a private motion, they never got time to do so. Ministers made unnecessary ministerial speeches to ensure the five o’clock deadline allocated to the opposition was used up.

2. A motion of no confidence against the government was amended to a confidence motion in the government.

3. Every time you objected to anything or stood on a point of order, you always got your way.

4. When the opposition members were physically tossed out of parliament by the Special Services Unit (SSU).

5. Parliament sat up to ‘fore-day morning” to enact repressive legislation and repeal laws under which police were charged for brutality to protestors who were protesting the Grenadines dollar departure tax.

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* WHEN WILL THE OPPOSITION LEADER overcome the shock and accept that he is no longer the Prime Minister?

* How can the Opposition Leader want to advise the government, when while in government, he said you should be aware of the opposition who say they want to work with government or advise them?

* Why was a person who said (on tape) that they preferred to be shot rather than work with the NDP government, has not yet been transferred from a sensitive department like Health?

* What can be done to protect pedestrians and drivers from these blinding ‘white’ lights on vehicles?

* Will the promised Constituency Fund be for all elected members of parliament, or for the opposition only?

6. Questions which could have been answered in less than five minutes took almost half an hour.

7. Parliament couldn’t meet if you were absent.

* Are private vehicle owners outdoing the minivans with loud music/noise? Where is the police in all of this?

* Is the practice of putting a red flag or something similar on the end of steel, lumber and other items that hand over the tailgates of trucks now a forgotten thing?

* Why are people allowed to walk freely with cutlasses exposed? Anybody remember when we had to wrap them in hard brown paper or cloth, or hide them in a bag?

Who is really advising the Minister of the Public Service

PART TWO

IN THIS PART, I shall address the implications of politics among public servants. We must not forget the difference in approach taken by the incoming Gonsalves Administration in 2001.

Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP came into office with a strategic plan having done their homework to make sure that all key public service positions would remain in ULP control, as long as they held on to power.

Except for his ULP supporters, no one else agrees with Gonsalves’ approach since it deliberate went against all provisions of the Public Service Orders and Regulations. But, it was simply politically expedient for him and his party.

ULPites pack the positions

So, one of his first acts was to appoint his law colleague and political party member- Blazer Williams as Chairman of the Commission. Packed

with ULP diehards, the Commission’s role was simply to rubber stamp decisions made by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Secretary.

And for the next twenty-five years of ULP rule (2001- 2025), the public service has never in its history seen such mayhem, vindictiveness and utter wickedness committed against all NDP supporters. Many NDP supporters took early retirement because of the pressure they faced by those ULP heads who apparently wanted them remove from the departments. Others, simply decided to go through the motions and hang in there at their respective ministries and department, while their illegally appointed ULP heads, PSs and Chairpersons who are far much younger and less qualified to run the departments and ministries, took instructions from the Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary Office.

The overwhelming majority of the new

appointees were appointed contrary to the provisions of Public Service Regulations and Orders. Seniority and appropriate skill sets were thrown out the door. Have we forgotten the countless number of successful high court cases brought against the Government by the Public Service Union and Teachers Union on behalf of their members against the ULP Government? What is the current status of these cases which the former ULP Government refused to honour? What have become of those cases? Have we also forgotten just recently that the High Court had to throw out two illegal House of Assembly appointments for Clerk and deputy clerk positions? Is our memory that bad?

NDP – A different approach

Following the massive NDP November 2025 landslide victory it was obviously clear that the NDP’s policy approach to

managing the public service was going to be different from that of the ULP. One of the major challenges that had to be addressed was how were their going to manage the new relation in which they had to confront a public service that was overwhelmingly ULP, while at the same time (if in fact it was part of any of their plans) to investigate the victimization of hundreds of NDP supporters who were still languishing in these Ministries and Departments with critical information that would assist the new ministers and other officials.

So, the NDP

The time for repairs has arrived!

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO,I was distinctly pained when after the elections of 2001, the newly elected ULP government led by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, embarked on a callous and immature approach of political victimization. Within weeks after the government had taken up office, significant numbers of persons who were Vincentians working with the state and giving conscientious service and respected in their communities, had their services terminated because they had been identified as being not supporters of the ULP.

These were people who were engaged in low-paying jobs, such as watchmen and cleaners.

The defense of the then Prime Minister was that his

government, because job opportunities were scarce, was rotating workers in the scarce jobs. The fact that over the last twenty-five years there had been no documentation that any of those workers had been “rotated back” to their jobs is testimony to the untrustworthiness which has debilitated this society for the last several decades.

I therefore empathize with new administrators who are seemingly under some public pressure, to remove from positions of authority, those persons who have over the decades served merely as the agents of the ULP, and have been distinctly indifferent to the wellbeing of the citizens.

Given the distinct pressure which the society now faces, I

would urge that we be patient with and supportive of the new administrators. Some of those public servants who over the years had seemed to be satisfied to be the agents of the empowered miscreants and had been blindly indifferent to societal interests, may well be, with the guidance and encouragement from the persons of respect who are now the managers of the affairs of state.

Some of those public, servants may be re-directed to use their skills, talents and experiences for the successful development of our nation. After the sober processing, the “spoilt eggs” will be discarded!

The time for Repairs is here!

LeRoy Providence.

Administration has made it clear that it is not going to fire any ULP public servants. I get that. But they also must understand that transfers and appropriate reassignments of officers are not dismissals or firings. When you are conducting appropriate investigations at a ministry or department it becomes absolutely necessary to reassign persons pending the outcome of those investigations. The question to be asked is whether the NDP Administration is going to carry out any forensic and administration audits on the operations of these ministries and departments over the past twenty-five years. Or, is it going to be business as usual with those same ULP heads advising the new ministers and other officials on the operations of their departments. What role do the new ministers have for the victimized NDP supporters?

The new Government has taken a welcome non-partisan approach in its appointment of the members of Public Service Commission. I am just wondering whether the new Chairperson and her members would consider as a matter of principle and as a legal right, the hundreds of NDP supporters who were overlooked and

victimized by the old Commission.

These NDP supporters who have been in the trenches for the past twenty-five years weathering the political storm and supporting their party they love and what did they get? SIDELINED, OVERLOOKED, IGNORED.

Just like the dismissed vaccine mandate workers, would the new PSC allowed justice to be served for these overlooked and victimized NDP workers who have placed all their hope and thrust in this landslide NDP election victory, only now to be so disappointed by the actions of the new government?

One thing we must get in our heads is that many ULP senior supporters took time out to campaign for their party; they were seen all over in full regal red. They did that openly. If the results of the November 2025 elections were dependent on the ULP supporters, won’t NDP not have been looking at another twenty-five years in the trenches?

And these are the same people who are advising the new ministers and officials on policy direction. What about the inclusion of your NDP supporters in these discussions? Let’s hope that the PSC would not take long to sort out its corrective role.

Getting back up

“A champion is defined not by their wins, but by how they can recover when they fall.” — Serena Williams (Born 1981) – Widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. She won 23 grand slam titles in her illustrious tennis career.

LIFE’S JOURNEYis not always linear. Progress and growth do not always happen in a straight, predictable path. Instead of moving forward in a smooth line, life is often punctuated with setbacks, disappointments, failures, losses, heartbreak, detours, and delays. These are common occurrences and responses that often magnify the individual’s strength of character and the extent of their resolve. Confucius (551479 BCE), the renowned Chinese teacher, philosopher, and political thinker noted that: “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” This is especially visible in the world of athletics, academia, business, and politics where setbacks are expected parts of the journey.

Athletes understand failure and setbacks intimately. Missed opportunities, injuries, and losses can derail years of preparation in a single moment. Simone Biles (born 1997), the American Olympic gymnast, for example, has shared valuable insights in relation to having to step back from competition to protect her mental health, only to later resume competitive gymnastics being more confident and self-aware. She withdrew from several events in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics to concentrate on her mental health. Tennis player Naomi Osaka (born 1997), the four-time Grand Slam champion withdrew from the 2021 French Open and skipped Wimbledon later that year siting her need to protect her mental well-being as she revealed being under tremendous emotional pressure since 2018. Both ladies shared testimonies of needing to “get away to regroup” before getting back up to compete at the top of their respective sports. They remind us of the value of pausing, reassessing, regrouping, and choosing long-term growth over short-term success. They imbibe the wisdom of Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014), the American author, poet, and social activist who reminds us that: “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.”

Les Browne (born 1945), the American motivational speaker, author, and former radio host reminds us that life will periodically hit us on the blind side (when we least expect it) but if we can look up, we can get up. The process of rising again often requires resilience and a realisation that failure is not the opposite of success but a necessary part of it. Many successful individuals in athletics, academia, business, government, and society have had to travel that often dreaded road called Failure but testified that the mental and emotional recovery that emerged along the post-failure journey was critical in igniting the desire to work harder in overcoming the obstacles that resulted in their eventual success. Michael Jordon (born 1963), the American former

professional basketball player faced numerous setbacks early in his career, inspires us with his famous quote when he said: “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. But that is why I succeed.”

Getting back up after public failure requires a tremendous amount of courage and resolve. Tennis champion Serena Williams, whose quotation was used to introduce this essay, has encountered injuries, defeats, and personal challenges throughout her career. However, she was not daunted. She repeatedly returned to competition with renewed vigour and determination. Venus Williams (born 1980), Serena’s bigger sister, turned professional at the tender age of 14 and quickly rose to the top of women’s tennis winning seven Grand Slam titles along the way. Like her sister Serena, Venus has encountered challenges such as injuries and health issues, including a diagnosis of autoimmune disease (Sjogren’s syndrome) that drained her energy and hindered her performance. However, this magnified her resilience and determination as she continued to compete at a high level. Life’s challenges would have slowed her progress and periodically knocked her down, but she resolved to get back up. The perseverance of Venus and Serena would have made their father, Richard Williams, justly proud. Their lives reflect the wisdom that is captured by Helen Keller (1880-1968), the American author and social activist who had lost her sight and hearing after an illness when only 19 months old, who reminds us that: “Character cannot be developed in ease or quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened.”

We consider ourselves to be blessed when we observe that there are individuals in our homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces, and churches who play a critical role in assisting us to rebound following various setbacks. Coaches, teammates, fans, family members, and well-wishers often play a major role in being the “wind beneath our wings” when life’s varied challenges appear to floor us. Such support systems play a critical role in re-energizing us to continue the pursuit of our noble dreams … especially following a temporary setback or defeat. Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965), the British statesman, writer, and Prime Minister during World War II, said it well when he noted that: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Finally, getting back up is about choosing to pursue a noble dream and believing in the possibility of improvement. It is realizing that each comeback builds mental toughness and humility. In life, rising after failure transforms struggle into growth and setbacks into steppingstones in the pursuit of success.

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

A People’s Right to Know

NO ONE MUST LOOSELY and irresponsibly sit on someone else’s name, ridicule them and cause their existence to become a nightmare. It is for these reasons that we find great wisdom in the saying, ‘ah go mek yo pay fo yo mouth.’ Public officials deserve the same level of respect and protection against defamation, but their right must be balanced against the critically important principle that the public has a fundamental right to know.

We return to the issue because opposition leader Ralph Gonsalves’ threat to sue Luke Boyea of Hot 97 FM. Gonsalves is not defending his ‘good name’. He is desperately trying to close down debate and avoid scrutiny. The media owes it to the nation not to let him get away with this gambit. They must dig deep and expose every single suspicious engagement of the Gonsalves family and his close local and foreign associates. A diligent search may unearth enough to land several people in jail.

This is not a call for recklessness. It is a call for investigative journalism. The journalist and civil society, truth and change agents, may be our best last hope. Two Mondays ago, Governor General Stanley ‘Stalky’ John presented his government’s legislative and policy agenda in his throne speech. This was immediately followed by Prime Minister Dr Godwin Friday’s budget address. Neither man touched the much clamoured-for integrity and anti-corruption legislation in public offices. Absent as well from their addresses was any mention of a government’s commitment to order audits and investigations into the operations of the Gonsalves administration, such as Petro Caribe, Argyle Airport, Kingstown Port, National Lottery, as well as other areas where millions of dollars were squandered by the previous government.

There are defences to defamation. Prominent among them are truth, opinion or fair comment, qualified privilege and a lack of malice.

With these available defences, Plain Talk predicts that Gonsalves threat to sue Luke Boyea and Hot 97 will come to nought in much the same way threats in recent times fizzled like hot air from an ageing politician desperately trying to avoid strict scrutiny. The last thing he wants is to be told by an attorney general or a director of public prosecutions that he and his associates have a case to answer in the courts. He cannot be comfortable in light of the February 4, 2026, conviction of Michael Missick, a former Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, on corruption charges.

Revealing, among the corruption charges found by the court, was that Missick collected a handsome US$1 million from the Sandals Resort chain in exchange for sweetheart deals that allowed Sandals to build a Beaches Resort on the island. Of note was the judge’s rejection of the defence of Political judgment and attempt to attract foreign direct investment.

It’s more than passing strange that Gonsalves, who boasts of controlling every square inch of St Vincent and the Grenadines, frequently pleads innocence and lack of knowledge with things right under his nose. In a mealy-mouthed explanation last Wednesday, Gonsalves claimed not to know that his son Storm bought 95 acres of land on Bequia. Recall when Strom initially came under scrutiny for the purchase Gonsalves mourned, ‘Why don’t they leave the boy?’

Storm’s acquisition of 95 acres of land is of national importance. His father wrote to the lawyer for the landowners in 2017, expressing the government’s interest in the land. On Wednesday, Gonsalves said the owner’s lawyer stated at the time that she was not selling. This statement is nonsensical and should be rejected by anyone with common sense. Our constitution provides for compulsory acquisition.

The only requirement is that the government pay a fair market rate. Therefore, the owner’s lawyer, an adept land law expert if there was ever one in SVG, must have known that such a response would not wash with the government. The government could have compulsorily acquired the land if it so desired. This was the government expressing interest in the land, not Luke Boyea or Mansa Musa. Is Gonsalves’ statement, along with a threat to sue, an attempt at a cover-up.

Word on the ground is that another local business group had previously expressed interest in the land and made an offer higher than which Storm eventually paid. But note Gonsalves’ point about ‘Storm eventually purchased the land during the COVID19 pandemic, a transaction I was not even aware of at the time.’ Is covid plandemic invoked to explain the lower purchase price? Was the actual purchase price declared to the income tax department? Was stamp duty paid on the purchase? Were other concessions offered to Storm?

Gonsalves always attempts to stifle debate whenever his government or family actions come into public view. Recall the defence of his family’s purchase of million-dollar luxury condos in Trinidad, along with a preferential lease deal for his daughter. Then, he said they secured mortgages to purchase the house his elderly mother-in-law, whose home was destroyed by a hurricane. Gonsalves’ wife’s mother has two grown sons living in Trinidad. Like Louise, we can safely assume they have grown children with homes. Now, think of the options this elderly lady has if she chooses to visit Trinidad. Why would Storm and his mother need to buy two million-dollar apartments in the event the matriarch goes to Trinidad for a vacation? I could think of multiple ways to explain the purchases. For now, I leave readers with this: damn fool ah talk but not damn fool ah listen.

It was Gonsalves who implied impropriety at Cricket West Indies (CWI) and called for an audit and financial investigations. Dr. Kishore Shallow was too deep for him. He wanted to torpedo his electoral chances. He wanted the entire nation to know that the communist Chinese were paying a short man and his partner to spread falsehood against his government. ‘If you say my government is corrupt, I will sue you,’ Gonsalves warned last year. It is a classic tactic used by those who desperately want to deflect the glare of publicity.

Plain Talk is of the considered opinion that a deep dive into Gonsalves’ 25-year misrule will not only uncover evidence of corrupt practices, but also enough to ground charges of misbehaviour in public office.

Tip of the iceberg. Send

Roll over, my time to sleep

by SHIMANO BAILEY

“ROLL OVER, my time to sleep.” Those words took on painful meaning recently when the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security revealed that, after touring several police stations, officers were found sleeping in conditions so poor that pigeons shared their sleeping spaces, and rats reportedly watched them as they tried to rest. This revelation should disturb every Vincentian. The mental health and well-being of the brave men and women who serve and protect this country cannot be separated from the conditions in which they

work and rest. Police officers already endure long hours away from their families, repeated exposure to trauma, and the constant pressure of public scrutiny. The very least we can offer them is a safe, humane space to rest, recover, and breathe.

Mental health is not a luxury for law enforcement officers; it is a necessity. Officers respond daily to crime, violence, accidents, individuals experiencing mental health crises, and human suffering, all while carrying their own personal burdens. Yet they are still expected to show up, perform, and protect often without adequate emotional or psychological support.

Every police officer understands that stress is part of the job. Long shifts, unpredictable hours, and exposure to traumatic events create an intense, high-pressure environment. What is infrequently acknowledged is how unmanaged stress quietly erodes mental health, physical well-being, family relationships, and job performance over time.

Fatigue remains one of the most dangerous and overlooked stressors. When officers are deprived of proper rest, the risks multiply: chronic

exhaustion, burnout, anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses become inevitable.

This is why the establishment of a dedicated Psychosocial Support Unit within the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is no longer optional, it is essential. Such a unit should be staffed by trained professionals in social work, counselling, psychology, and mental health support, providing confidential services tailored specifically to the realities of policing. This would offer officers safe spaces to talk, vent, and seek help without fear of stigma, judgment, or professional repercussions.

The concerns highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security present a critical opportunity. Now is the time to move beyond acknowledgement and begin meaningful conversations that lead to action, action that prioritizes dignity, mental health, and humane working conditions for those who serve.

If we expect our police officers to protect our communities, make sound decisions under pressure, and uphold the law with professionalism, then we must also protect them. Because no one tasked with keeping a nation safe should have to “roll over” just to find a place to sleep.

Stop the strangulation of Cuba

THE SVG CUBA FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY joins our voice with those of the many civil society organizations around the world, to condemn the latest attempts by the United States Government to further strangle the government of the Republic of Cuba.

We energetically reject the designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. The US Department of State knows this is not true. This designation is but a pretext to further justify the unpopular and criminal economic and financial punishment to which Cuba has been subjected since 1962. The majority of members of the United Nations General Assembly has repeatedly voted for these unjust sanctions to be removed.

Cuba, despite these coercive measures, has shared the little it has on its plate with other poor nations around the world. This has come in the form of assistance in education, healthcare, sports and agriculture.

The Executive Order announced on January 29 was meant to ensure that no shipments of vital petroleum

reach the Cuban people. This can only be described as spiteful if not downright criminal.

The Cuban government, in response has reiterated its call on the United States government to sit down and dialogue in the spirit of cooperation. Cooperation had existed between both countries, even from the time the Cuban nation won its independence from Spain. But there is much mutual benefit that can be gained from a peaceful relationship between these neighboring nations.

We therefore join the call by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Gutierrez, for the United States of America to respect the sovereignty of the Cuban state. We also join the call by Pope Leo XIV for the United States to engage in talks with the Cuban government.

Cuba is not a state sponsor of terrorism. Cuba instead has hosted talks that led to peace between the long warring factions in Colombia. This is not supporting or proliferating terrorism by any measure.

It is Cuba which sent its sons to Africa to help the

liberation movements throw off the yoke of colonialism and exploitation, leading to the defeat of apartheid at the battle of Cuito Cuanavale.

That victory led to the release of Nelson Mandela, who himself had been designated a terrorist by the United States government.

It is Cuba which, in the midst of a 64year economic and financial blockade by the United States, has shared the little it has with thousands of students from around the world, including the United States of America. Cuba has educated professionals who, in the vast majority, have returned to their countries to contribute to their development.

developed than Cuba’s. That is a spirit of cooperation and love.

It is Cuba which shared its medical and other technical expertise with developing nations around the world, including some whose economies are way more

The rabid hatred which exists between Cubans who have chosen to live in the USA and their brothers, sisters and relatives who refuse to rise up against their own on the island, must not continue to colour the relations between the great United States and Cuba.

Attempting to strangle the Cuban economy only hurts

children, women and ordinary people on the island. There is a better way. Another approach is possible and desirable. We appeal to the Government of the United States of America to find more lawful and meaningful ways to address their perceived differences with the Republic of Cuba. Cuba is not a threat to the USA and certainly should not be treated like an enemy.

ÂCriminal gang activity is real,ÊMinister tells parliament

IF THERE WAS ANY DOUBT that organized criminal activity in this country revolved to a great extent on gang activity, Deputy Prime Minister and National Security Minister, Hon. St. Clair Leacock might just have put that notion to rest.

In his contribution to the 2026 Budget, Deputy PM St Clair Leacock did not mask the fact that there is a proliferation of organized crime in the society, and went as far as to declare that the organised gang activity developed during the 24year tenure of the previous (Unity Labour Party) administration.

Never once in his presentation did the Minister refer to the gangs as “associational groupings engaged in criminal activities,” which was a preferred use of designation by former Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

Minister Leacock went on to characterise this culture not just as a series of isolated crimes, but as a deep-seated societal issue that has become a “time bomb” for the nation.

Gangs are deep-seated

And he expressed alarm, sounding a warning in the process, that gang influence has reached every level of schooling.

Referencing reports provided by the police high command and school administrators, the Minister revealed, and perhaps became the first government

minister to give official recognition to the reality, that gangs are active in the community college and secondary schools, and that gangs have infiltrated primary schools as well.

Of particular concern for the minister was the involvement of young girls in schools who “aid and abet” male gang members.

He noted that many of these girls have expressed a desire to leave the gangs but feel trapped because they “don’t know how to get out”, emphasizing the hold these gangs now have on their ‘members’. And as if that was not all the challenges that abound, Minister Leacock told the parliament that the issue of criminal activity involved more than local street crime; it included organized, transnational elements.

“Some gang leaders reside in neighbouring islands and operate their systems from the outside, with some becoming syndicated with larger criminal organizations from the north,” he explained.

And repeating what has never been denied in official circles, the Minister emphasized that SVG has become a transit point for South American cocaine, with traffickers using local waterways as a “highway.”

Our situation is pitiful, the Minister implied by admitting that “Local law enforcement is

outmatched by the drug criminals who are often better equipped and connected.”

Strain on the economy/society

All of this has morphed into a situation in SVG of high homicide rates, many of them gunrelated. Minister Leacock acknowledged that the country recorded 188 homicides over four years — nearly one murder every nine days.

Leacock views this culture as a legacy of “24 years of neglect” where the previous government failed to modernize the police force or address the root causes of criminality, allowing gang structures to take root across the country.

And then there is the strain that the culture of criminal activity puts on the economy.

According to Minister Leacock, studies estimate that crime costs between 3% to 5% of the nation’s GDP–roughly $100 million in losses annually.

The problem is so all encompassing that it cannot be solved by “hard power” (more guns and boots) alone, but requires “soft power” and early intervention, Leacock assessed.

Taking action

And towards ‘nipping the problem in the bud and creating an alternate mindset among the young people, the Minister proposed that a specific Assistant Commissioner of Police

St. Clair Leacock, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, not only gave a razor-share account of the situation as it relates to crime, but pointed to some remedial action.

be appointed with the sole responsibility of dealing with crime and violence in schools. This commissioner would be supported by technical units and superintendents. He also suggested a

partnership with the Ministry of Education to develop school-based intervention programmes that are rooted in evidence and include “school leaders and officers in the most affected schools.

The Ministry of National Security is all about effecting change, not about ‘slapping’ cosmetic window dressing to deep-seated problems, the Minister appeared to promote in his address.

T&T Carnival winners

Machel claims 12th Road March title

MACHEL MONTANO has made history again, capturing the 2026 Road March title with “Encore”. This victory extends his record to 12 wins and makes him the holder of the most Road March titles in Trinidad and Tobago.

Voice secured second place with “Car Behave,” played 127 times, and Bunji Garlin placed third with “Roadman”, which officials recorded 97 times.

Winning with ‘Encore’, which was played 171 times at the designated judging points, meant that he overtook Lord Kitchener with 11 wins, who even Machel admits, remains the true Road March King of Kings.

Blue Boy has 11 titles and the Might Sparrow 8.

Chutney Soca winner creates

history

Panorama 2026: Exodus Retains Title

Republic Bank Exodus did it again, capturing the National Panorama Large Conventional Band title for a second year running.

Scoring 289 points, the defending champions secured the title with their rendition of “Cyah Behave”, sung by Aaron ‘Voice’ St. Louis and arranged by Terrence ‘BJ’ Marcelle, ably assisted by Antigua’s ace arranger and drill master Khan Cordice.

Placing second was bp Renegades Steel Orchestra. The band scored 288 points for “The Lizard”, composed by Slinger Francisco and arranged by Duvone Stewart. It led after the preliminary and semifinal

Terri Lyons crowned this year’s Calypso Monarch

Savita Singh made history on the night of Sunday 8th February 2026, at Skinner Park, San Fernando, when she became the first female to win the top prize in the competition’s 31-year history, with her song ‘” Singh performed her song, The Ring, and delivered a drone light show to the thousands who gathered at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

Rasika Dindial placed second with her hit chutney song, Pong D Damadol, in traditional style. Dindial, known as “D Rani,” also copped the Traditional Chutney title.

In third place was Lady Lava, who delivered her upbeat song, Cyah Pick, along with Ravi B.

Last year’s champion, Machel Montano, placed fourth.

Fourteen artistes competed for the 2026 title.

Lyons secured her second title, since her first win in 2020, at the end of the Dimanche Gras show, Feb. 19. She was the clear favourite on the night with her spiritual song “Blessings” receiving a lengthy standing ovation from both the Grand and North Stands.

She received $1 million and a Suzuki Vitara, courtesy Lifestyle Motors.

In second place was this year’s National Action Cultural Committee Young King Rivaldo London, who sang “Water Thicker”.

Nine-time Chutney Soca Monarch Samraj “Rikki Jai” Jaimungal placed third with “Doh Spoil Meh Name”. Last year’s winner Helon Francis, who was a crowd favourite, placed sixth with “Doh Forget”.

The Lost Tribe: 2026 Band of the Year

The Lost Tribe achieved a historic milestone by winning the Trinidad and Tobago Senior Band of the Year (Large) title for the fourth consecutive year with their 2026 presentation, “The island Circus”.

Led by creative director Valmiki Maharaj, the band secured first place with 1,324 points, solidifying their dominant position in the competition.

Second place in the 2026 Large Band category went to Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra with ‘Sailors Ashore in Japan,’ while Paparazzi Carnival secured third place with ‘Elope: Destination “I Do.”‘

King and Queen of the Bands –Repeat Winners

rounds.

Third place went to Nutrien Silver Stars for “Respectfully Yours”, sung by Kevon and Kory Hart of Full Blown Entertainment and arranged by Ojay Richards.

Roxanne Omalo is the 2026 Trinidad & Tobago QUEEN OF CARNIVAL, having successfully defended her crown with her portrayal DUCHESS OF THE DARK SKIES.

Curtis Eustace and Roxanne Omalo are the 2026 Trinidad and Tiobnago’s King and Queen of the Bands respectively. It was the second title in a row for Eustace, who now has a record 11 titles. He won this year’s title with a with his portrayal of “Spirit of D Maraye”.

Omalo won a hat trick of titles having been victorious in 2024 and last year and holds a record five titles overall. She successfully defended her crown with her portrayal “Duchess of the Dark Skies”. Both winning costumes were designed by Eustace’s brother Marcus. Eustace was followed by Arif Grantum — “The Midnight Visitor” — in second place, and Ravi Lakhan — “The Glass Phantom” — third.

Cherry-Ann Valere — “MorganaEmpress of the Underworld” — placed second among the Queens and Savitri Holassie —“ Mama IsibongoEmpress of Zululand” —third.

ZHTF to celebrate ten years

Dr. Kishore Shallow, Minister with responsibility for Sustainable Development, affirmed government’s support for the programme and in speaking of its meaningful outreach, called for support from the private sector.

THE ZERO HUNGER TRUST FUND

(ZHTF) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is this year, 2026, celebrating its tenth anniversary since coming into being.

As such, the ZHTF, a national mechanism aimed at ending hunger and improving food and nutrition security, has rolled out a set of activities to observe the milestone.

These were revealed at a Press Launch held, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the National Insurance Services Conference Room.

The theme for the

Students who have been involved in one or more the Fund’s programmes were in attendance at the Media launch.

anniversary is “Ten years of Impact- Visioning for the Next Decade - 10 years, Impact Built to Last”.

Among the planned activities are a National Essay and Art Competition, a Volunteer and Giving Back Week, a National Thanksgiving and Reflection Service, as well as the Zero Hunger Gala and Awards.

Additionally, the ZHTF will be putting forward a proposal to have April 6 recognized as Zero Hunger Day, with the aim of raising awareness and inspire collective action.

The goals and focus of the tenth anniversary were bolstered by remarks from Director and Chief Executive Officer of the ZHTF- Safiya Horne- Bique, who noted, “The month will be a month of national engagement as our anniversary will take place in the entire month of April. It is a structured national movement, combining reflection, dialogue, volunteerism, youth

activation, community action and resource mobilization”.

In her delineating of the forms of engagements, HorneBique added: “We want to promote awareness and public education. We want to strengthen our strategic partnership and collaborate among government ministries, the private sector, civil society, international agencies and communities to enhance coherence and shared accountability for food security and social protection.

Like, Horne-Bique, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development- Dr. Kishore Shallow, reiterated the role of the ZHTF, whilst affirming government’s commitment to the cause.

“From a government’s perspective, we affirm our full commitment to the programme and also the intention is to use the opportunity to really see how we could create a greater impact across the entire country”, Dr. Shallow said.

He recognizes that

government cannot do it alone, and beckoned private sector and other stakeholders’ support.

“I have to use this platform to encourage all, especially the private sector to continue giving more to the programme that has tremendous impact. Indeed, once we continue to get the necessary support from the different stakeholders, it will help us to deepen our resolve, that is to strengthen sustainability and to ensure the Zero Hunger Trust Fund remain more than an inspiration”, Shallow advanced.

The Media Launch also heard a review of the ten years of impact and the prospects for the next decade from Joycelyn Blake-Browne, Deputy Chief Education Officer and a member of the ZHTF’s Board of Trustees, as well as two beneficiary features from Roslyn Marshall and Angella Kydd- Roberts, Headteachers of the Calliaqua Anglican and Fair Hall

Schools laud ZHTF’s impact

February 17, 2026, at the National Insurance Services’ Conference Room.

Assisting now for the future

Headteacher of the Calliaqua Anglican, Roslyn Marshall, in her acknowledgement of the goodness of the ZHTF’s operations recalled the birth of the partnership.

THE CALLIAQUA ANGLICAN SCHOOL and the Fair Hall Government School, two beneficiaries of the Zero Hunger Trust Fund’s programme, have lauded the impact of the various initiatives on their respective institutions. The commendations were ventilated at a Media Launch that took place on Tuesday,

“Zero Hunger you would have done an amazing job on our academic development at our school. I remembered in 2017/2018, Zero Hunger adopted one of our Kindergarten classrooms, providing textbooks and uniforms for the young learners right through Grade Six. (Through) This generous initiative, Zero Hunger would have

greatly aided our parents, taking the financial burden from off their shoulders in having to find and source money at the end of every school year”, Marshall highlighted.

Marshall also disclosed that thanks to the generosity of the Zero Hungry Trust Fund, twenty-five students of the institution are currently being provided with uniforms and textbooks.

A proud Marshall said that the batch of students is in Form 3 in secondary schools, a transitional journey made easy through the ZHTF.

The Head also listed the other projects through which the ZHTF has left its footprint.

Among them are the school’s Feeding

Programme, the broiler and seedling projects and provision of care packages for twenty-five students.

Marshall singled out the Boiler project, as providing meat for the School’s Feeding Progamme, along with revenue through sale of the slaughtered birds.

Positive impact in growth of students

Singing the same song of praise was Angella Kydd-Roberts, Headteacher of the Fair Hall Government School. Kydd-Roberts, whose contribution came via an audio-visual recording, thanked the ZHTF for their support to students whose parents had difficulties in providing the necessary school supplies.

Safiya Horne-Bique, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the ZHTRF, was pleased to highlight some of the accomplishments of the Fund and pointed to the month of celebration as also aimed at increasing awareness of the Fund’s work and objectives.

Government Schools respectively.

The ZHTF was established April 6, 2016, by an Act of Parliament. The objectives of the ZHTF then and still stand, are to strengthen food access, reduce vulnerability and build resilience among households and communities.

Hence, over the period, the ZHTF has initiated the Golden Years Nutrition and Support Programme, Resilient School Feeding Programme, Adopt A Class Programme, School Agriculture Science Support Programme, Youth AgriScience Internship Programme, the National Food Security Drive and the National Youth Food Systems Framework.

“This may sound simple, but over the years we saw the improvements in the students’ grades, their attendances, growth in their self-esteem and self-confidence, and for this we want to say thank you to the Zero Hunger Trust Fund for providing for our students”, Kydd-Roberts said with a tone of gratitude.

She emphasized that the intervention of the various programmes of the ZHTF, has made a “difference in the lives” of those students who have been directly impacted.

“We continue to receive monetary contributions, fruits and vegetables to assist in our School’s Feeding Programme. Our students also continue to

benefit each year where they receive uniforms and books, especially those from the vulnerable backgrounds”, Kydd-Roberts related.

The Zero Hunger Trust Fund came into being in 2016, primarily to ensure that no Vincentian is left behind in their ability to access safe, nutritious food.

Rev.Jesse Jackson dies at 84

THE REV. JESSE JACKSON, whose impassioned oratory and populist vision of a “rainbow coalition” of the poor and forgotten made him the nation’s most influential Black figure in the years between the civil rights crusades of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the election of Barack Obama, died on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, at his home in Chicago. He was 84.

His death was confirmed by his family in a statement, which said that Mr. Jackson “died peacefully” but did not give a cause.

Mr. Jackson was hospitalized in November for treatment of a rare and particularly severe neurodegenerative condition, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), according to the advocacy organization he founded, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. In 2017, he announced that he had Parkinson’s disease, which in its early stages can produce similar effects on bodily movements and speech.

Bridging the gap

Mr. Jackson picked up the mantle of Dr. King after his assassination in 1968 and ran for president twice, long before Mr. Obama’s election in 2008. But he never achieved either the commanding moral stature of Dr. King or the ultimate political triumph attained by Mr. Obama.

Dr. King became an intellectual and a spiritual model for Mr. Jackson, as

well as a father figure. “Jesse,” said the Rev. Ralph David Abernathy, perhaps Dr. King’s closest associate, “wanted to be Martin.”

For all his zeal, Mr. Jackson became the most controversial member of Dr. King’s inner circle. Though he was part of the leadership, he was also, with his base in Chicago, almost an independent actor. His ego, charisma and ability to generate press for himself left others in the S.C.L.C. suspicious of his ambitions and led to clashes, even with Dr. King.

Instead,through the power of his language and his preternatural energy and ambition, he became a moral and political force in a racially ambiguous era, when Jim Crow was still a vivid memory and Black political power more an aspiration than a reality.

On the side of the disenfranchised

With his gospel of seeking common ground, his pleas to “keep hope alive” and his demands for respect for those seldom accorded it, Mr. Jackson, particularly in his galvanizing speeches at the Democratic conventions in 1984 and 1988, enunciated a progressive vision that defined the soul of the Democratic Party, if not necessarily its policies, in the last decades of the 20th century. It was a vision, animated by the civil rights era, in which an inclusive coalition of people of color and others

Every day was a day of victory for Rev. Jesse

as

ahead with an agenda of advancing

who had been at the periphery of American life would now move to the forefront and transform it.

“My constituency is the desperate, the damned, the disinherited, the disrespected and the despised,” Mr. Jackson said in the rolling cadences of the pulpit at the 1984 Democratic National Convention in San Francisco. “They are restless and seek relief.”

Still, he offered an expansive vision of American opportunity that admirers

say helped change the nation’s landscape of possibility. And his idea of a multiracial coalition empowered by an activist government to confront rampant inequality in American life remains central to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party and has inspired groups like Black Lives Matter. (Extract from the New York Times — Feb. 17, 2026)

Law and Order

POLICE NEWS ROUND-UP

REPORTS OF ALLEGED FIREARM AT SCHOOL

IN LIGHT OF REPORTS circulating in sections of the media, the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force confirms that a report was received regarding an alleged firearm sighting at a secondary school in Kingstown.

Investigators conducted a search at the school; however, the firearm in question was not recovered.

A report of a sighting of a firearm in a school here was treated with all seriousness by the local constabulary. (N.B. This photo is for mere enhancement purposes and does not capture any such instance in a school here.)

This report is being treated with the highest level of seriousness, and all necessary steps are being taken as enquiries continue.

We are mindful of the concern this has caused among parents, students, and the wider community. The public is urged to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information, as this can create unnecessary alarm within school environments.

Verified information will be communicated through official police channels as it becomes available.

The safety of our students and the security of our schools remain a priority, and this matter continues to receive focused attention.

Commuters and minibus operators will now have to recognize and use designated bus stops like this one outside Peace Memorial Hall, Kingstown.

DESIGNATED BUS STOPS

The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force reminds all public transportation operators and commuters that passengers are to be picked up and dropped off only at bus stops designated by the Licensing Authority. Pursuant to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, CAP. 483, where bus stops have been appointed along a route, motor omnibuses are required to stop only at those locations for the purpose of picking up and setting down passengers. Stopping elsewhere for that purpose constitutes a breach of the law.

Police will be enforcing these provisions across the country. Operators are not permitted to pick up or drop off passengers at any location that is not an officially designated bus stop.

In particular, the parking lot in the vicinity of Massy Stores and Russells Cinema in Stoney Grounds is not a designated bus stop and is not to be used for the loading or off-loading of passengers. Enforcement activity will be conducted in this area.

Commuters are encouraged to utilize designated bus stops only. This notice takes effect immediately.

Students Earn Caribbean Coaching Certification

FIFTY-SEVEN STUDENTS currently enrolled in the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Sport Sciences at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) have been awarded certificates following their completion of Level One of the Caribbean Coaching Certification Programme (CCCP).

This achievement marks a significant milestone in the students’

professional coaching journeys. The programme is delivered through the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), and equips students with essential skills to enhance regional sports development and sustainability.

The certificates were officially conferred by Mr. Keith Joseph, President of Team Athletics SVG and CANOC, and Mr. Chester Morgan, Athletics Lecturer and CCCP Coordinator. The presentation was facilitated by Mr. Roxell John, Author, Coordinator, and Lead Lecturer in the Sport Sciences Programme.

The AAS in Sport Sciences continues to prioritise industry-ready qualifications, ensuring that graduates are prepared to contribute to the sporting landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the wider Caribbean. (Source: SVGCC)

Jah Winston: I’m just a Servant

PRIEST JAH WINSTON continues his role as Ambassador of the Ethiopian Black International Congress. He is immersed in a range of activities aimed ultimately at enhancing the human race.

He is worried that his vision may not be in keeping with traditional modes of existence. Jah Winston is moved by the spirit that guides. He prods on with teaching Rastafari at schools here.

As far as Jah Winston sees it “knowledge of Ethiopia” ought to be part of the curriculum.

One persistent in ancient truth, he asserts: “We are the Israelites, the true race of the world.”

The matter of repatriation clings to his heart, but he sees the need for people to “stay clean and abide by the powers of the Highest.”

He looks forward to

redemption, from the shackles of slavery claiming, “we are strangers in our land.”

“In order to stay holy, you have to stick to the commandments,” Jah Winston quips.

He is aware of his role and assures that “knowledge comes from God.”

Priest Jah Winston is on a mission to guide mankind in the way of the teachings of the Highest.

“This is bigger than I,” Jah Winston muses, and projects: “I am just a Servant. You have to know the God you are seeking.” He outlines: “Ethiopia is where everything starts.”

“Everyman is a Priest. You have to work towards the Priesthood,” he adds.

Jah Winston is pleased with this country’s promotion of Rastafari. He points to

Prophet Marcus Mosiah Garvey, and echoes that Garvey’s works are not in vain.

The spiritual aspect of life must be enjoyed with a healthy lifestyle. For Jah Winston, emphasis on agriculture is part of the natural restoration.

“People have to eat more natural food,” he outlines. His prayer is for greater attention to agricultural produce.

That for him is the basis for development. (WKA)

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

You must be careful not to trust just anyone. Problems with large corporations or institutions are apparent. You are best to sit back and think it through, rather than add to the ranting and raving. Get out and enjoy some entertainment.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Compromising could be on the agenda this week. Try to stay calm and do the best you can. Take the time to close deals that have been up in the air. Don’t let your personal partner hold you back.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Concentrate on getting ahead financially and let your personal life settle down for a while. Don’t let your partner get you going. You are best to travel or attend lectures or seminars. You always seem to spend more than you make. I don’t let siblings put pressure on you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Your intuition will be right on. Follow your feelings in matters pertaining to financial investments. Try to avoid any drastic/ decisions concerning personal legal matters. Don’t overspend on luxury items. You need some rest.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Deception regarding joint finances or investments will cause upsets between family members. Maybe it’s time to look into ways you can improve your health. Move into a leadership position if you are determined to do so. Don’t be too quick to judge.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Romance is likely if you can bring yourself to go out with friends. Don’t push your luck with authority. Don’t tell others of your plans. Take on positions that offer on the job training or pay for courses related to the business.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Take a look at investment opportunities. Your changing attitudes may be causing concern for your partner. Empty promises will cause confusion. Someone may be trying to take advantage of you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Don’t be too eager to start any debates. You will have additional discipline that will aid you in your objectives. Changes in your home may be disruptive and upsetting. You will get along well in social situations.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

It might be best to spend time fixing up your premises and making changes that will be appreciated. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations. You may need help with your financial situation. Real estate investments will payoff.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Find ways to mellow out. You may not be that popular at home but you should be able to shine at social gatherings. Pleasure trips will induce exciting and passion ate encounters with those of foreign extraction. Keep your thoughts to yourself for the time being.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Your nerves are frazzled. Loved ones may be annoyed if they feel restricted. Try to keep an open mind. If you can mix business with pleasure much can be accomplished.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

You are going through a period of questioning. Put your energy into your work or moneymaking ventures rather than into your emotional life this week. You can raise your standard of living if you pick up some freelance work on the side. Family trips or projects should be on your mind.

ACROSS

1.Pacino and Capone 4. Dash off 8. Train stop (abbr.)

11. Field 12. Gone 13. Nautical greeting 14. They go in cavities

16. Alaskan city

17. Tiny child 18. Idolized woman

20. League for the Rams (abbr.)

21. Opera singer 22. __ and grill

23. Chap 24. Like Italian dressing

28. Spent (2 wds.)

30. Yearn for 31. Brightness

32. TV’s “Mad __”

33. Dapper dude

34. Conductor’s wand 36. Sleep stage (abbr.)

37. Author Julia 40. Chinese cooking pan

41. Café au __ 42. __ Provinces, Canada 46. Become listless 47. Tennis teachers 48. Foldaway bed

49. Brayer on the farm

50. Engrave on metal 51. Sportage manufacturer

DOWN

1.Candidate Landon 2. Luau garland 3. Like food for a hypertensive (hyph.) 4. Fishing lure 5. __ up to (admit) 6. Fell behind 7. Perdue competitor 8. Footwear 9. Some cats 10. Supportive votes 13. Previn and others 15. Reaction to an IM joke

19. Twelve 20. “__ Bridges” (TV show) 21. Strike lightly 22. “__ Stop” 23. __ module (NASA Craft) 25. Frequent role for Walter Brennan 26. Trolley, to Paddington 27. Hankering 29. Argue logically 30. Cozy retreat 32. Composer Wolfgang

Pregnant for my boss

Dear George,

I AM PREGNANT FOR MY BOSSbut he is denying it. I know it is for him because he took my virginity.   He wants me to abort the pregnancy and threatened that if I don’t, he will send me home. He says that this pregnancy could destroy his marriage and bring shame on him at his church.

I am employed in the public service and I really need this job. I am the only one in my family who is working, and there are five of us.

No one knows of my predicament and I really do need to talk to someone because it is killing me. I have seen how you give advice to other people and I am wondering if you could give me some please.

Desperate for Help.

Dear Desperate for Help,

I understand your situation and I am glad you decided to get advice. You can, in the first instance, get some counseling support at The Marion House. You may also want to reach out to your union representative, if you have one, and get advice regarding the threats of dismissal.

Obviously, your boss gave no thought to the repercussions before he got involved with you.

At this point you need to do what’s best for you. At the end of your counseling sessions, etc., you will be in a better position to make an informed decision about your life.

George.

I may be HIV positive

Dear George,

AS FAR AS I KNOW, no one in my family has ever been infected with the dreaded HIV. I fear that I might be the first.

I was chasing after this girl for almost three years and after rejection after rejection, a few months ago she finally offered herself to me. At that moment, I did not have a condom and she warned that if I had to leave to get one, she would change her mind. Silly me decided to go through with the act anyway.

To get to the point, I just learned that she is HIV positive and has been sexually overactive with no regard for her condition.

I haven’t gotten tested for fear of what the results might say.

George, I want to think this is a dream and I will wake up to find out I am good to go.

Panicking.

Dear Panicking,

You cannot determine a person’s HIV status by simply looking at them.

That irresponsible act of engaging in unprotected sex is enough to make you a good candidate to become a HIV statistic.

The bottom line is you need to get tested and I will advise you to seek HIV/AIDS counseling at the HIV/AIDS Secretariat, whether or not you are HIV positive.

It is only by knowing your status that you will know how to proceed, including seeking out the help that is available to you going forward.

George

Deceived by my friend

Dear George,

I ASKED MY FRIENDto talk to this girl for me. He agreed but ended up taking her for himself. He informed me that she said she did not date cowards and asked him to be with her.

George, he is insisting that he never intended to date her, but she showed interest in him.

We still talk, him and me, but not like before. Should he have done what he did?

Disappointed.

Dear Disappointed,

There are certain jobs that should never be outsourced. This

was something you should have done yourself. Letting your friend in on your affairs opened the door for him to do something nefarious. Should he have done what he did? Probably not but it is what it is. Learn from this experience so that going forward you will know to take certain matters into your own hands.

George.

Jiandani: Top tier Archery Coach

Sanjay Jiandani, now a Level Three Archery Coach, promises increased activity in the sport in 2026.

PRESIDENT OF THE ARCHERY ASSOCIATION of St. Vincent and the Grenadines- Sanjay Jiandani has achieved a World Archery Level Three Coaching Certificate.

Jiandani has attained the sport’s highest level of certification, after successfully completing a course,

February 10- 14, 2026, in Guatemala.

With his participation made possible by Pan Am Sports, with support from the Guatemala Archery Association and World Archery Americas, Jiandani was among twenty-four coaches from the Americas.

The course was conducted by Marc Dellenbach and Bernado Olliviera of World Archery of Excellence, Switzerland.

According to Jiandani, who is also the National Archery Coach, “The course was designed to give coaches the highest level of certification under the World Archery coaching tier, giving them the knowledge and ability to take archers onto the international stage”.

Referring to the course as “intensive and interactive”, Jiandani said that it covered all areas of training for archers to the elite level, combining technical, physical, and mental focus.

Grateful for the opportunity to enhance his technical capabilities, Jiandani is raring to impart in his knowledge to archers here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

He firmly believes Vincentian archers are equipped with the

aptitude and right temperament to begin competing at the international stage.

Jiandani promises that local archers will intensify their training during 2026.

Editor’s Note: The Archery Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was formed and formally inaugurated in October 2021. It officially became a member of World Archery on September 17, 2021. Although initially accepted as a temporary member on June 29, 2019, the association formally inaugurated and solidified its full membership status later in 2021. It held its first official national championship in August 2023.

The Archery Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to date, is still not a member of the SVG Olympic Committee.

According to AI Overview, “Archery first became an Olympic sport at the 1900 Paris Games. After appearing in 1900, 1904, 1908, and 1920, it was removed due to inconsistent rules. Following a 52-year hiatus, archery officially returned to the Olympic programme at the 1972 Munich Games with standardized rules, remaining a permanent fixture since.

SVG triumphs in Grenada Chess outing

L-R: Vedant Shetty-Captain, Nathanael Lawrence, Team Coach - Terrance Latchman, Le’mar Abbott, Stacy Baptiste-King, Arianna Balcombe and Team ManagerOris Robinson.

THE NATIONAL LOTTERY JUNIOR CHESS TEAMat the inaugural Fedon Bilateral Invitational Chess Competition in Grenada, Feb. 15-015, romped home clear winners.

The National team, comprising Vedant Shetty — Captain, Le’mar Abbott, Nathanael Lawrence, Stacy Baptiste-King and Arianna

Balcombe, ran away with a 9.5 — 5.5 victory. This was compiled with three wins and a draw as follows: Round One: 3—2 victory, with determined performances across all

Chess players concentrate in predicting their opponents’ move and try to plan ahead.

boards; Round Two: 4—1 victory, showcasing strategic discipline and fighting spirit; and Round Three: 2.5—2.5 draw, a closely contested round with both teams giving their all.

According to a release from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Chess Federation (SVGCF), Team SVG demonstrated remarkable focus, resilience, and sportsmanship against strong regional opponents:

Glasgow in CWI Women Squad

VINCENTIAN ALLROUNDER

Jannillea Glasgow, on the back of some good performances with the bat and the ball in the recently concluded Cricket West Indies Super50 and Blaze T20 tournaments, has been included in a West Indies 15member female squad for a home series against Sri Lanka.

Jannillea Glasgow will be looking to take her recent good form into the Sri LankaW.I. series.

West Indies Women will host Sri Lanka from February 20-25 for a three-match One Day International series in Grenada, as part of their ICC Women’s Championship campaign.

The series marks a crucial milestone in the team’s bid to raise up the rankings during the current ICC Women’s Championship, as they build toward future ODI series against Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Pakistan later this year.

The team was guided by Team Manager Oris Robinson and Team Coach Terrance Latchman, whose leadership has been instrumental in the players’ growth and success.

The next challenge for chess players here will be the Chatoyer Youth Tournament, in March.

The Chess Federation recognized the National Lotteries Authority for its continuing support of youth chess development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

(Source: SVGCF)

The west Indies welcome back their captain and star player, Hayley Matthews, who was out of action nursing an injury.

The team receives a massive boost with the return of captain Hayley Matthews, who has fully recovered from the shoulder injury that has sidelined her since last June.

Matthews will be supported by a new-look leadership group, with Chinelle Henry appointed vicecaptain. Henry takes over the role from veteran wicketkeeper Shemaine Campbelle.

In another, all-rounder Deandra Dottin is welcomed back into the fold after being sidelined by injury for much of 2025.

The squad reads: Hayley Matthews (captain), Chinelle Henry (vice- captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Shawnisha Hector, Qiana Joseph, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Shunelle Sawh and Stafanie Taylor. (Source: westindiescricket.com)

Compiled by I.B.A. ALLEN

Roban and Thomas do it again

TWO WEEKS AFTER RESETTING His St. Vincent and the Grenadines 800m Indoor record, Handal Roban has lowered it again.

Likewise, Grenisha Thomas has reestablished the National Indoor 60m Indoor Hurdles mark.

Competing at the Asics Sound Invitational, in WinstonSalem, North Carolina, USA, last Saturday, February 14,

Inter Schools Athletics date announced

THE KINGSTOWN PREPARATORY SCHOOL, Central Leeward Girls and SVG Grammar School will be looking to retain their primary school, secondary girls and secondary boys titles respectively, when the 2026 edition of the National Lotteries

Authority Inter Schools Athletics Championships (NLA ISAC) runs off on March 25th and 26th at the Diamond Track and Field Facility.

A release from the Division of Sports said the heats for the Inter Primary Schools Athletics Championship (IPSAC) will be held over 4 days. They begin on Tuesday February 24 at the Chilli Playing Field for schools in Zone A. Zone A comprises schools on the Windward side of the country from Argyle to Fancy.

This is followed by Zone C, at the Campden Park Playing Field on Thursday Feb. 26th, for schools on the Leeward side, from Lowmans Leeward to Fitz Hughes, and including the Bequia Anglican and Seventh Day Adventists Primary Schools. Zone B, will be held on March 3rd at the Victoria Park, for the schools in the interior and the Southern Grenadines. Zone D will also be at the Victoria Park, on March 5th for schools in the greater Kingstown area, and also including Sugar Mill Academy, Lower Bay Inc. Paget Farm, Mustique and Stubbs Government Schools.

A semifinal date is set for March 11th at the Diamond Facility, and the Championship Day on March 25th.

The Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championships (ISSAC) will have its heats on March 18th and 19th at the Diamond Facility, with the championship day on March 26th.

I.B.A. ALLEN

2026, Roban shaved off 0.18 seconds with a 1:44.73 clocking.

The national record stood at 1:44.91, done January 30, 2026, at the National Open at University Park, Multi- Facility & Horace Ashenfeller III Indoor Track.

Meanwhile, Thomas timed 8.47s at the Tyron Mid-Winter, to lower her own personal best and that of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the

Women’s 60 Hurdles.

Thomas had clocked 8.66s at the Orange and Purple Invitational, in South Carolina, January 23.

Roban attends Penn State University and Thomas, Charlestown Southern University.

Apart from Roban and Thomas, two other Vincentian athletes on the US circuit have broken Indoor records since the start of 2026.

Doing so, were Amal Glasgow in the Men’s 400m and Odeisha Nanton in the Women’s High Jump.

Georgetown Gov’t: All W’ward Athletics Champion

THE GEORGETOWN GOVERNMENT

SCHOOL won the AllWindward Primary School’s Track and Field Championships held last Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Chili Playing Field.

Georgetown Government tallied 279 points well ahead of Sandy Bay Primary with 228 points.

South Rivers Methodist docked third on 197 points.

Completing the list were Langley Park Government on 164 points; Owia Government- 137 points and Tourama Government- 8 points.

Taking the Under-7 girls title was Eddisha Spring of Georgetown Government with 16 points.

The Boys’ title was shared between Shane Henry of Owia Government and Jaiden Baptiste of South Rivers Methodist, who both had 8 points.

Janelle Thomas of Sandy Bay Primary was the Girls Under-9 champion with 24 points and Rudell HenryGeorgetown Government- 16 points,

the Boys champion. Winning the Girls Under-11 title was Mikila Robinson of Sandy Bay Primary- 24 points, and the Boys title went to Langley Park’s Kallen Medica with 16 points.

Sky Caine of Georgetown Government — 16 points was the Girls Under-13 winner and Owia’s Amalle Lavia, also 16 points took the Boys title. There was a threeway tie for the Victor Ludorum title as that was shared by Rudell Henry, Kallen Medica and Amalle Lavia. And Jarelle Thomas and Mikilia Robinson were joint Victrix Ludorum.

The event was organized by the Friends of Georgetown Sports and Cultural Organisation (FOGSCO), with support from Team Athletics SVG.

No indoor sporting facility: A missed opportunity!

Rudi Daniel, President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) – SVG, laments the fact that we have lost another opportunity to position this country as a leading destination for sports-based travel and events.

THE DECISION BY THE GOVERNMENT of St. Vincent and the Grenadines not to go ahead with the construction of an indoor facility at the Arnos Sports Complex, in time for the hosting of the Americas Netball World Cup Qualifier, later this year, has been deemed an opportunity lost by National Paralympic Committee (NPC) – SVG’s President – Rudi Daniel.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines had won the bid to host the Qualifier from October 13 to 23, 2026, on the assurance, by the previous government, that the facility would have been ready to accommodate

the Qualifier.

However, the results of the November 27, 2025, general elections ushered in a new regime.

A February 7, 2026, dated release from the Ministry of Sports, stated that the decision (not to construct) was the result of “careful consideration by Cabinet”, and confirmed the government’s noncommittal to have the facility in place.

But according to Daniel, it is a “missed opportunity”.

“The recent missed opportunity to accommodate the international Netball competition, highlights a troubling lack of strategic thinking at the government level. When infrastructure fails to meet required standards, opportunities pass us by”, Daniel argued. He noted that whilst the facility would have been built to accommodate the Netball Qualifier, it was a longterm investment.

“With the right facilities, many more international competitions could be hosted on our shores. Without them, there is no sports tourism, no steady influx of visiting teams and supporters and no international recognition. We cannot speak of economic diversification while ignoring one of the fastest growing global sectors, sports-based

travel and events. This is not merely an infrastructure issue, it is a philosophical one”, Daniel proffered.

Putting a plug for persons with disabilities, Daniel felt that greater thought should have been employed that would foster inclusivity.

“When people with disabilities are treated as spectators rather than participants, society reinforces the dangerous

myth that they are dependent, passive or peripheral. Sports offer one of the most powerful tools for integration.

Participation builds confidence, reduces stigma, encourages independence, and creates visible role models who redefine what strength looks like,” Daniel reinforced.

The NPC-SVG President reiterated the need to have facilities

ELEVENTEAMS will compete for top honors in the 3rd edition of the North Windward Netball Tournament, which was officially opened at Fancy Hard Court Sunday, February 15th, 2026.

The Tournament returns after a one-year hiatus.

Competition will feature three divisions: A Senior Division, in Overland Netball Team, Trail Blazers, G-Spot Simple Netters, Blazers, and Princess Pearls; a Junior Division involving Sandy Bay Secondary School and Sandy Bay Police Youth Club; and a Developmental Division grouping Fancy Beamers, Owia Government School, Sandy Bay Government and Langley Park Government School.

The tournament is expected to finish in the middle of March.

Overland Netball team was adjudged the winner of the march past.

Addressing an opening ceremony, Shevern John, Minister of Social Welfare and the area representative for North Windward, reiterated her strong commitment to the development

that promote overall national development.

“The absence of indoor sporting facilities has quietly restricted development, not only for persons with disabilities but for the nation as a whole. Outdoor facilities alone cannot sustain a modern sporting ecosystem. Many adaptive sports require controlled environments for accessibility, safety, and equipment storage.

Without indoor venues built to international standards entire categories of sports simply cannot take root”, Daniel maintained.

The issue of St. Vincent and the Grenadines erecting an indoor sporting facility has been bandied about for over two decades, with no government having the political will to see the proposal materialize.

Safety Officers get training North Windward Netball opens

THE FIRST STEP towards having more affiliates of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC) served by their own trained Safety Officers, has begun.

This, with the hosting of Safeguarding Officers Training Sessions.

The sessions span three days — beginning Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the UWI Global Campus Conference Room, Kingstown, with the others planned for Wednesday, February 18 and Saturday, February 21.

The main facilitators of the training are Chair of the Safe Sport Commission- Shimano

Bailey and Keith Joseph, General Secretary of the SVGOC.

of sports and the empowerment of young people throughout the constituency.

Kaschaka Cupid, Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries, reaffirmed the Government’s continued investment and commitment to youth and sports development.

He also noted that while the tournament is making use of the facilities currently available, the Government remains committed to upgrading and improving sports facilities, which will further enhance opportunities for athletes and communities across the country.

Chairman of the North Windward Sports Committee, Mr. Collin Stay, encouraged the young people to stay focused, participate in sports, and take advantage of the opportunities being created across the constituency.

The defending senior champion is Overland Netball team.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Bailey revealed that the attendees will be exposed to seven modules as follows: Safeguarding in Sports (an introduction), Safeguarding Structures, Policies and Procedures, Identifying and Responding to Safety Concerns, Cultural and Contextual Sensitivity, Safeguarding at Events and Practice, Responsibilities of a Safety Officer and Building a Safeguarding Culture.

The training modules will be complemented by a multiple-choice test and group presentations.

It is anticipated, Bailey said, that affiliates would see what modules best suit their situations.

Looking ahead, Bailey advanced: “The training also marks a critical phase in the ongoing conversation with the UWI Global Campus, towards

the development of a proposed Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) programme, which may be offered as a short course or workshop”. The Safety Officers training adds to the ongoing monthly podcast discussions staged by the Safe Sports Commission.

Another sailing medal for Joshua Weinhardt

JOSHUA WEINHARDT,one

of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ most promising young sailors, has added another international podium finish to his growing résumé, after securing the bronze medal in the ILCA 4 class at the 34th Semaine Nautique Internationale de Schoelcher, held from 14–17 February 2026 in Schoelcher, Martinique.

The Semaine Nautique Internationale de Schoelcher is one of the Caribbean’s premier regattas for dinghy sailing, drawing competitors from across the French Caribbean, mainland France, and neighboring islands.

Organized by the Cercle Nautique de Schoelcher and run under World Sailing and Fédération Française de Voile rules, the regatta features Optimist, ILCA 4, ILCA 6, ILCA 7 and board classes racing a series of 12 races over multiple days on the challenging west coast waters off Fort de France Bay. Competing in the ILCA 4 fleet, Weinhardt delivered a composed and consistent performance, including a couple of first places, throughout the regatta, navigating shifting breezes and strong regional competition to finish third overall and secure

Delpesche making strides in T&T

VINCENTIAN

SHANECIA DELPESCHE, a student-athlete at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), delivered a commendable performance at the National Classified Women A Division Table Tennis Tournament, held at the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua, Trinidad, on February 7, 2026.

The Tournament marked the opening of the table tennis season in Trinidad and Tobago.

Shanecia Delpesche has been recognized by the UTT sports officials as having shown growth and a competitive attitude.

Competing in Group 3, Delpesche, a former national Female Champion of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, advanced to the knockout stage after finishing second in her group. Her only setback in group play came against Elizabeth Rajah, going down 3-0, but she responded strongly with a solid 3-1 victory over Arlene Joseph to secure her place in the quarterfinals.

Delpesche continued her impressive run in the quarterfinal stage, with a confident 3-1 win over Lyllana Boodhan, showcasing her resilience and tactical awareness under pressure.

Her campaign came to an end in the semifinals, where she was defeated 3-0 by Jordan Thong, who went on to defeat two-time defending champion Imani Edwards and to take the singles crown.

A UTT Sports release said that Delpesche’s performance “reflects her continued growth and competitiveness at the national level and highlights the strong representation of UTT student-athletes in top-tier domestic competition.

Before her relocation to Trinidad, Delpesche was an active member of the Troumaca-based Adams Table Tennis Club, headed by coach Leighton Adams. (Source: UTT Sports)

a place on the podium.

Building on a Strong

Regional Season

The Schoelcher bronze continues a standout period for the young Vincentian sailor. Over the past year, Weinhardt has recorded multiple podium finishes at major Caribbean youth regattas, including a second place finish at the 2025 Caribbean Dinghy Championships and gold at the 2026 Barbados Sailing Week Junior Regatta in the ILCA 4 class.

A member of Vincy Sailing Club and part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Sailing Association (SVGSA) high performance youth pathway, Weinhardt has benefited from structured coaching and regular exposure to high level regional competition, a combination that continues to translate into results on the water.

“Joshua’s results reflect not only his talent, but also the strength of the development pathway being built for young sailors in St Vincent and

the Grenadines at the Sailing Association’s High Performance Centre” Jenny Trumble, President of the SVG Sailing Association noted following his recent successes.

International Exposure and Experience

The Semaine Nautique Internationale de Schoelcher is widely regarded as a proving ground for young sailors, offering large fleets, varied conditions, and a high standard of race management. Regular participation in events of this caliber is seen as a key step in preparing Caribbean youth sailors for continental championships and future international campaigns.

Weinhardt’s podium finish in Martinique not only underscores his individual progress, but also highlights the continued development of youth sailing in St Vincent and the Grenadines, as more young athletes gain experience and recognition on the regional circuit.

As the 2026 season continues, Joshua Weinhardt is expected to represent St Vincent and the Grenadines at additional Caribbean and international regattas, such as Antigua National Dinghy Championships in March, and the World Championships being held in Denmark in August, building toward higher level championships and further strengthening SVG’s presence in youth dinghy sailing. (Submitted by the SVG sailing Association)

ELRON LEWIS was re-elected president of the North Leeward Sports and Culture Organization (NLSCO) to serve for the next two years, when the association held its AGM and election of officers at the Petit Bordel Secondary School, Thursday, 12 February, 2026.

Lewis secured 18 votes while Nadisha Browne, his challenger for the top spot, received 7 votes. President Lewis will be assisted by an executive committee that includes: Nadisha Browne - Vice President; Kennica Thompson - Secretary; Afeisha

Scott - Assistant Secretary; Romique Hooper — Treasurer; Tilern De Bique - Public Relations Officer (PRO); Dennis Samuel — Games Secretary; and Committee Members - Alain Williams, Shanell McKie, Latoya Clarke, Dillon Williams.

In the President’s report delivered before the election, Lewis said inter alia, “The organization’s work over the past period continued to show growth as it developed sports and cultural activities within North Leeward. We continue to strengthen community involvement,

improving organization structure, and ensuring transparency in operations.”

The new executive is Elron Lewis, President, Nadisha Browne, Vice President, Kennica Thompson Secretary, Afeisha Scott Assistant Secretary (Unopposed), Romique Hooper. Treasurer: Tilern Dibique Public Relations Officer (PRO): Dennis Samuel as Games Secretary. Committee Members are, Alain Williams, Shanell McKie, Latoya Clarke, Dillon Williams.

Cocaine uncovered in police raid

Continued from Backpage.

The focus of the police action was on a particular house in the community.

Of much interest was the police disclosure, after what one resident said was forced entry into the residence and a search of the house and

surrounding areas, that they uncovered some 22.0 pounds of cocaine which, according to a source, would carry an estimated street value of approximately $277,000 to over $1 million.

The police action led to the arrest of two 36year-old men - Sebastian “Bush” Audain of Lowmans Bay and Alvin Cyrus of Largo Height. Both were charged with possession and

trafficking of a controlled drug.

Audain appeared before the Family Court on February 18, 2026, where he pleaded guilty to the offence. He was remanded into custody, and the matter was transferred to the Layou Magistrate Court on February 19, 2026, for sentencing.

Cyrus pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of

Minister wants: ‘No soft drinks in schools’

Continued from Backpage.

As far as the region is concerned, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana. and Trinidad and Tobago have already instituted bans on sugar-sweetened beverages being sold, provided or made available at their hospitals, clinics, health councils and schools.

St. Lucia announced a ban on the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages in all

primary and secondary schools effective January 4, 2023, but later suspended the regulation to encourage greater involvement by stakeholders. This action is in keeping with a Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) recommendation that it is “absolutely” time to ban sugary drinks in Caribbean schools. Will the Minister push for a ban on soft drinks in schools, as a start?

$30,000 ECC with one surety. His matter was transferred to the Serious Offences Court and scheduled for hearing on March 2, 2026.

Un the aftermath of the affair, the police highlighted the professionalism of the officers involve, and reaffirmed their commitment to disrupting drug networks and maintaining public order.

The Force thanked members of the public who provide information that supports ongoing operations, noting that public safety remains a shared responsibility.

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COCAINE UNCOVERED IN POLICE RAID

Sebastian Audain is awaits his sentence after pleading guilty to charges of possession and trafficking of a controlled drug.

The haul comes three days after

a U.S. military strike in the region and an unconfirmed second strike on a fishing vessel off Northern St. Vincent, last week.

The RSVG Police Force, in a statement dated February 18, 2026, acknowledge that a police action was conducted on Monday, February 16, 2026, in West Kingstown. No specific community was identified in the statement but THE VINCENTIAN can confirm that the ‘police action was conducted in Lowmnan’s Bay.

The operation, the police said, was a joint operation involving the Narcotics Unit, the Rapid Response Unit, and the Special Services Unit, and was the result of sound intelligence work.

The Lowman’s Bay area now houses a number fisherfolk who were relocated from Rose Place. One fisherman said that he counted at least 15-20 officers being involved in what he described as “a raid” that inconvenienced not only fishermen but entire households.

Alvin Cyrus pleaded not guilty to possession and trafficking of a controlled drug and will try to prove his innocence on an open trial beginning March 02.

Continued on Page 31.

The house that was the focus of the police action and in which, police said, they uncovered a large quantity of cocaine.

MINISTER WANTS: ‘NO SOFT DRINKS IN SCHOOLS’

Daniel Cummings, Minister of Health, Wellness, etc., was his passionate self in bringing to the fore consideration of a ban on soft drinks in schools.

contribution to the debate of the 2026 Budget, hinted at the introduction of a ban on soft drinks in schools.

“… I want to recommend that soft drinks with the level of refined sugar, must not be allowed into primary schools in particular,” he said.

Minister Cummings recommendation must have been predicated on the fact that the highly sweetened fizzy drinks are known to have disastrous effects on health. Regular consumption of soda is linked to diabetes, heart disease, obesity, asthma,

cavities among others.

Minister Cummings went on to say that parents should be encouraged, as an alternative, to give their children the abundance of fruits we have here on a daily basis.

And even as he made it clear he had nothing against the Bottle Water Companies, he appealed to parents to desist from giving their children bottled water.

To drive home this sentiment, Minister Cummings, a former Chief Executive Officer of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) the state body that is tasked with facilitating pipe-borne water to private residences, factories, etc. in SVG, said, with a total air of confidence, “…. We

are blessed… we don’t have to buy bottled water for our kids… they can go to the taps and drink quality water. …and stop littering the place with these bottles.”

The Minister’s recommendations, proposals were focused on the broader concerns of primary healthcare and prevention.

In that light, the Minister cited the current system as being too focused on the consequences of “sugar and pressure” (diabetes

and hypertension), such as cutting off limbs, rather than preventing the diseases themselves.

And even if a ban was introduced, Minister Cummings wants the Ministry of Health to go into the communities to enlighten the people about ‘sugar and pressure’, especially in light of the high rate of non-communicable

Whether they are sweetened by refined sugar or by artificial sweeteners, fizzy soft drinks can cause obesity, allcause mortality, hypertension, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular disease (CBD).

(Source: True Health Initiative)

diseases in the state.

He also spoke to the provision of equipment to the people so that they could monitor their blood sugar levels.

“Talk is cheap” and more proactive measures are required to stop these health issues from going “through the roof,” the Minister suggested.

Continued on Page 31.