THE VINCENTIAN PDF-27-02-26

„QUICKEN THE PACE,‰ DR. FRIDAY TELLS CARICOM

DR. GODWIN FRIDAY, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, delivered his maiden address to a summit of Heads of States and Government of the regional bloc, CARICOM, last Wednesday in St. Kitts and Nevis.

He told the meeting, the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, that while he supports the need for regional integration, he was concerned that the Bloc may just be dragging its feet in pursuit of this goal, and called

for a “quickening of the pace’ in this regard.

CARICOM has been characterized as “CARI-GONE” not as CARICOM, Friday told the opening ceremony of the Summit. That said, Dr. Friday admitted that CARICOM was important to the region and in underscoring that importance urged that “making CARICOM relevant, especially to

Continued on Page 3.

T&T PM admonishes CARICOM

IF EVER THERE WAS A RUDEAWAKENINGat a Summit of the Heads of Government and States of the CARICOM bloc, it was delivered the 50th such regular meeting held in St. Kitts and Nevis, February 20-27, 2026.

In an address delivered in a style and with gusto that challenged her normally sedate personality, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago, in an address at the opening ceremony of the Summit, raised eyebrows and caused uneasy movements in chairs especially those occupied by colleague Heads, when she unapologetically defended her support for US President Donald Trump and admonished members of the regional bloc for what she said was political interference and their dismal failure to support Guyana and her country against threats by Venezuela.

She, however, amidst all the admonishment and defiance, pledged her country’s support for CARICOM.

Support for US military presence

In addressing the issue of her support for Trump, the Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister declared, “Who vex loss,” aware that the presence and action of the US military in the Southern Caribbean had split opinions in the region.

And with no water in her mouth, the Trinidadian leader said, “Thanks again to President Trump and thanks again to Secretary Marco Rubio. I thank them and the US military for the cooperation and what they shared with us for national security matters. Maybe in your islands, you don’t have the kind of crime we have. I know (Jamaica) Prime Minister (Andrew) Holness, we tried to pass the ZOSO Bill (Zones of Special Operations) in Trinidad, we were not as fortunate as you in the Parliament.”

The US presence and military intervention had led to a 42 per cent decline in murders in Trinidad and Tobago, she shared.

“Some of us, the crime is so bad, I cannot depend on just my military, my protective services and certainly from you in the CARICOM, many of you do not have military or large police services to help us down there. So

again, I repeat, in Trinidad, there’s a saying, ‘who vex loss’. But we gained, we gained from that military help and I will welcome them again.”

Venezuela’s threats

Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, in turning her attention to the ongoing threats Venezuela had made against Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, asked her colleague Heads why they did not stand up for Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago when they were being “threatened” by Venezuela.

All of this in the face of a St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ attempt to broker a “peace”, i.e. to prevent any military action on the South Amercian land mass all of which proved nothing as Venezuela continued to flex its might.

“So, how can it be when that regime was threatening violence to two CARICOM member states, there was no voice from the CARICOM,” Persad-Bissessar questioned.

Interference in regional elections

Persad-Bissessar also claimed that CARICOM governments and their political parties had actively involved themselves in the domestic and political affairs of member states, to assist “sister or brother” parties.

“When, in the last election, you sent your missives, you sent your people from your party to openly campaign against another political party ... I’m sorry I have to share this, but it hurt me a lot when I saw it transpired within the last set of elections in the CARICOM, she lamented.

“…if we are to hug up each other and cooperate, it cannot be that last week you sent your person down to St Vincent or to Jamaica or to wherever, Guyana. You sent your political persons, not technocrats, you sent them down to campaign. I don’t think that is right because today I will have to face you,” the lady Prime Minister posited.

No support for dictatorship in Cuba

But Persad-Bissessar was not done there. She then turned her attention to

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, might just have scattered the CARICOM leadership with her ‘strong’ views on a number of issues.

Cuba where the US government ‘anticipates’ a regime change by year end.

“There is global focus today on Cuba. Every leader here participated in democratic elections in our respective countries. Therefore, I ask, why do some Caricom governments and political parties believe that they and their political parties’ supporters should have the right to contest democratic elections to choose their leaders, but Cuban citizens should not have the right to do the same? You cannot advocate for others to live under communism and dictatorship but want to live under democracy and capitalism yourself.”

The Brent Thomas affair

Thne there was the unsettling matter of Trinidadian businessman Brent Thomas which did not escape the discourse of PM Persad-Bissessar.

Thomas it was, she reminded the Caribbean gathering, who in 2022 was arrested in a Barbados hotel and returned to Trinidad via a military aircraft, without formal extradition proceedings being initiated.

She described the action as a “kidnapping” coordinated by the then sitting government.

“Our Supreme Court has ruled that

he was kidnapped. He was placed in handcuffs, transported to the airport, and then back to Trinidad. I think an RSS plane was used to transport him. He was kidnapped,” Persad-Bissessar asserted, and she criticised the CARICOM Secretariat for simply disregarding an “unsettling” matter.

A High Court judge later ruled this act an “unlawful abduction,” and ruled that both nations must accept liability for constitutional breaches and the victim must receive abnd apology.

Persad-Bissessar took her umbrage to further lengths by disclosing that she wrote to the CARICOM Secretariat as the Opposition Leader during that time, but received no response, implying that that “one ceases to be recognised by the Secretariat as a member citizen of CARICOM when not in government.”

The Prime Minister concluded her speech by again reaffirming this country’s commitment to Caricom and invited people in the Caribbean to enroll in the UWI South Campus in Debe upon the commencement of its academic year.

While the Prime Minister spoke, there was noticeable discomfort from other regional leaders who sat in the front row. Many were seen shifting in their chairs, folding their arms or staring at their cellular phones.

V News 3

Admiral ceases ferry operations

ADMIRAL FERRIES LTD.

has officially announced that it has ceased all ferry operations as of 25 February 2026, bringing an end to the company’s inter-island maritime services.

The decision marks the conclusion of the company’s years of operation as a key ferry provider between

mainland St. Vincent and the Grenadines islands. All scheduled sailings have been discontinued from the stated date.

The company has advised stakeholders with outstanding business matters, questions, or correspondence to use its official contact channels

MP for East Kingstown Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble made it clear that the NDP was not about targeting individuals but about ensuring accountability and professionalism in the implementation of Government policies and programmes.

PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATIVE for East Kingstown, Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble, has issued a stern warning to public servants, stating that there will be consequences for actions that breach Public Service regulations or undermine the current administration. In simple language, Bramble stressed public officers who act against the interests of the New Democratic Party (NDP) administration will not be tolerated. His comments come amid ongoing concerns raised by NDP supporters who question why certain

so that any remaining issues can be addressed appropriately.

Earlier this month, on 4 February, the company posted a notice explaining that the MV Admiral II had temporarily halted operations due to heavy surging at the Kingstown wharf, which made docking unsafe. At the

time, the company indicated that services would resume once sea conditions

improved. Just days before the final shutdown

Bramble warns Public Servants

public service positions continue to be held by individuals believed to be aligned with the Unity Labour Party (ULP).

Speaking at a community meeting in Dorsetshire Hill hosted by the Member of Parliament for West St. George on Saturday evening, Bramble said he takes seriously any instance in which a public servant’s political views interfere with their professional duties.

He emphasized that the Public Service Orders clearly outline the responsibilities and expected conduct of public officers. According to Bramble, any deviation from these standards – whether intentional or not – would result in consequences.

“The people elected us to conduct the business of the country,” Bramble stated. “If any public servant acts outside of their professional responsibility in a way that undermines the government, there will be consequences.”

He also dismissed claims from opposition figures suggesting that ministers do not have the authority to hire or dismiss public servants under civil service regulations. Bramble maintained that the elected government must ensure that public officers carry out their duties in accordance with established rules.

“ If there’s any public servant who is acting outside of their professional responsibility, whether intentional or not, to

undermine the New Democratic Party government, they will not be there..,plain and simple. You can’t be there. I know the Leader of the Opposition come and talk about, oh, civil service orders and ministers can’t hire and fire and all this sort of stuff. The buck stops with us!”

The MP declared.

Rejecting accusations of political victimization, Bramble said the administration’s position is not about targeting individuals, but about ensuring accountability and adherence to professional standards within the public service.

He concluded that public servants are expected to perform their duties impartially and in line with the regulations governing their roles.

“Quicken the pace,” Dr. Friday tellS

Continued from Frontpage.

ordinary people, had to become the hallmark of the work of the Heads of Government, who represent all the people of the countries they lead.

On a personal note, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister expressed his delight at being at the Summit. He told the gathering that the November 27 general elections in his country was the first time that Vincentians had elected a new government in almost 25 years, with a resounding majority of 14 seats to one.

“So here I am as a new head of government, a new face at this conference. I may have much to learn about how things are done in this body and across

the organs of CARICOM, and about how perennial issues have been addressed over the years and where they stand now,”

Friday said, adding:

“But I hope being new on the stage, I am unfettered by the trials and the frustrations of the past, and might bring some small insight or added motivation that might help us to move forward.”

Returning to the business of the Summit, Dr. Friday suggested that the organization should highlight its accomplishments, no matter how small, and reminded his colleagues that “CARICOM’s true strength lies in its people and that work must be done with them, not just for them.”

As for some issues to which CARICOM should give

consideration and action he included: eliminating poverty and creating prosperity; removing obstacles to commerce, including those related to currency; closing the skills gap in the regional workforce; confronting climate change and securing resilience financing; promoting peace and security in Haiti and our region; addressing the emerging humanitarian crisis in Cuba and Cuba’s place within our Caribbean.

“We remain ever hopeful that it will become more able to address our needs. We do this, not only because of the ties of common history and a shared culture, but fundamentally because we all recognise the inescapable fact that we must have CARICOM or something like it,” Dr. Friday told his

announcement, Admiral Ferries had also shared an updated schedule set to take effect on Monday, 23 February 2026, along with revised fares, including a $100 return fare for vehicles and a $40 return fare for passengers from Monday to Saturday.

The sudden cessation of operations has sparked disappointment among many citizens and regular travelers who rely on the ferry to commute between mainland St. Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly Bequia. Many expressed sadness at the loss of a service that played a vital role in inter-island transportation. Attempts by THE VINCENTIAN newspaper to contact the company for further clarification were unsuccessful.

CARICOM

colleagues.

In concluding he said, ‘Friends, thank you for welcoming me so warmly in this Conference. I look forward to working with you. But, please let us quicken the pace. The road ahead may be arduous and full of obstacles, but it is a viable path, made even more certain when we decide to walk together. When we hold our neighbour’s hand now, we make the journey easier and safer for those who follow. Thank you and God bless. I pray we have a successful meeting.”

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has described Dr. Friday’s presentation as “vacuous… empty… and of a high school type…,” and as having “no analysis.”

Bus driver, conductor jailed for theft

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

MINIBUS DRIVER ROMANO

JACKSONand his conductor Mathew Mc Fee, were both jailed and ordered to pay compensation for stealing the side mirrors of a vehicle belonging to Sharon Ryan-Boatswain of Brighton.

Both men were sentenced on Wednesday. Jackson, 37, of Frenches, was sentenced to six months and two weeks’ imprisonment, but he would serve three months and one week of that sentence immediately, while the other three months and one week was suspended for six months.

McFee, 31, of Redemption Sharpes, was sentenced to five

months imprisonment, but he will serve two and a half months of that immediately, while the other two and half months was suspended for six months.

In addition, both men were each ordered to pay $1,000 compensation to Ryan-Boatswain.

Jackson has until March 10, 2026 to make the payment, failing which he will go to prison for one year.

McFee, however, asked for and was given an extended time to pay the money.

He has been allowed until March 17, 2026 to pay the $1,000 compensation, or go to prison for one year.

The men were charged with, that on February 15, 2026, at Richmond Hill, Kingstown, stole

two motor vehicle side mirrors, valued at EC$1,500, the property of Sharon RyanBoatswain.

They both pleaded guilty when they initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, but Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie had adjourned sentencing to Wednesday for the complainant to be present, along with the invoice for damage replacement and labour costs. They were remanded in the interim.

Ryan-Boatswain submitted a cost of EC$1,650 for the replacement.

The facts, which were presented on Monday by Prosecutor Akeem Soleyn, showed that around midday on

February 15, RyanBoatswain parked her red Toyota Vitz, Registration No. PV426 in an area above the Richmond Hill Playing Field, secured it, and went to the playing field to take part in a fitness event.

Around 2:30 p.m., the same day, she returned to her vehicles and discovered that both side mirrors were missing. She made checks around the area but did not find any trace of them. She reported the matter to the police at the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.).

PC24 Tijani Peters took the report nnd recorded a statement from RyanBoatswain. He conducted investigations which led to the apprehension of McFee and Jackson. McFee was

Another charge for KFC brawler

THOMAS, one of five youngsters who are behind bars awaiting sentencing set for next Tuesday, for taking part in a fight at the KFC Bay Street outlet on February 13, has been slapped with another charge.

Thomas, 23, of Brighton, made an appearance at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, about a week after his appearance at the Serious Offences Court on the affray charge. He has now been additionally charged with, that one February 13, at Layou, without lawful excuse, he damaged the left side window glass of motor vehicle HZ448, valued at EC$1,500, the property of Dahmore Nelson of Victoria Village.

Thomas pleaded not guilty, and was granted $1,500 bail, in connection with that matter, on condition that he has no contact with the complainant, and report to the Calliaqua Police Station every Wednesday. He will also have to be granted permission from the court if he wishes to leave the state.

Thomas remains in custody to await sentencing for the KFC brawl.

On February 17, Thomas along with car wash attendant Kezron Peters of Campden Park and sales clerk Veron Holder of Lowmans Leeward (both 17 years of age); 16-year-old Jasrick Young, a student of Questelles, and lone female Gabrielle Haywood, 18, of Campden Park, appeared at the Serious Offences Court after being charged

separately in connection with the KFC brawl.

They all pleaded guilty and Chief Magistrate Colin John remanded them until Tuesday, March 2 for sentencing.

Meanwhile, another person, Tevin Bailey of Layou, has been charged in connection with the KFC incident. He pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, and the matter was adjourned and transferred to the Serious Offences Court for Tuesday, March 2.

Ivorn Thomas – before the court on two separate and different charges.

He is also charged with damaging the front windscreen of motor vehicle HZ448, valued at $1,00, the property of Dahmore Nelson of Victoria Village.

That offence was reportedly committed at Layou on February 13.

Bailey was granted $2,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Layou Police Station on Mondays and he is not allowed to leave the state without the court’s permission.

Man faces second attempted murder charge

ONE OF SIX PERSONS who are awaiting a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) on charges of attempted murder and other offences in connection with a robbery at the South Rivers branch of the General Employees Co-Operative Credit Union (G.E.C.C.U.), about two years ago, was granted bail on Monday on another attempted murder charge.

Enrique John of Layou, has now been charged with attempting to murder Tilon Patterson of the same address.

The charge reportedly stems from an incident at Layou on November 2, 2025, in which Patterson was shot.

John was not required to plead when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie at the Kingstown Magistrate’s

unrepresented in court, but attorney Carl Williams, who represented Jackson pro bono, told the court in mitigation, “Notwithstanding Romano’s previous convictions, and notwithstanding the importance of these side mirrors, they are not of significant value.

“We have before us a guilty plea for an offence which carries a sentence that can amount to incarceration, but the court has a discretion in sentencing, and in light of the defendant pleading guilty before the court, I am asking your honour to temper justice with mercy.”

Williams requested compensation for the complainant, adding that if the court was minded to impose a fine to allow Jackson reasonable time to pay. Jackson told the court that he works on a minibus as a driver for $85 per day, and McFee works on the bus as conductor.

Jackson said he works every day, once the bus is in working condition.

Both defendants told the court they are fathers of children of very tender ages.

Prosecutor Akeem Soleyn said that both of them had previous convictions, mostly for dishonesty. He noted that the items amounted to a value of $1,500 and Ryan-Boatswain was unable to use the vehicle for some time.

Theft carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison on summary convictions.

Conductor charged with criminal intent

LENROY ROBAN, a 31-year-old minibus conductor of Byera, will return to court on April 17 on a criminal assault charge.

Court.

He was granted bail in the sum of $50,000, with one surety, on condition that he report to the Layou Police Station on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. He was also ordered to surrender his travel documents and placed on a curfew from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

The matter was adjourned to next Tuesday and transferred to the Serious Offences Court.

Roban is accused of assault and bodily harm against Andrew Spring, a 25-year-old resident of Georgetown, employed at the Sandals Beach Resort.

Roban is alleged to have pushed Spring to the ground during an incident at Arnos Vale, when Spring had exited the minibus on which Roban was the conductor.

Roban pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday. He was granted $2,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Georgetown Police Station on Wednesdays.

He was also ordered not to leave the state without the court’s permission.

The matter has been adjourned to April 17.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

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

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

Editorial

A CARICOM-USA partnership

CARICOM HEADS OF GOVERNMENT meet in another summit from Feb. 24 – 27, 2026 in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. This column was written even before the official opening of the summit.

This Summit, like so many before it, was touted as bringing together of Heads of Government “to deliberate on key regional priorities, including economic cooperation, sustainable development, food security, climate resilience, regional security, and the strengthening of Caribbean integration.”

Somewhere in there would have been deliberation on the ongoing variations and degrees of reaction to the USA Administration’s military action in the Caribbean (Sea), and the standing of the current CARICOMUSA relations in general.

Somewhere in there, too, would have been provision for some robust inquiry of Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla PersadBissessar, to explain her open support for the Trump’s administration as it purports to wage a war against narcotraffickers who ply the South AmericaCaribbean-United States route.

Yeh, somewhere in there, CARICOM-USA relations would have featured in highlights since, as it was understood, US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, was scheduled to attend the Summit.

Interestingly, the Trinidad Express reported that Rubio had invited PM Persad-Bissessar to meet in St. Kitts ahead of the CARICOM Heads of Government plenary sessions.

What are we to make of all of this? Is this another ‘game’ of merry-goround by our CARICOM Heads?

We hope not and therefore, we expect our Heads to release that the Summit is set to take place against the backdrop of mix uncertainty as regards US foreign policy towards the collective as well as the individual intentions of CARICOM member countries.

Ambassador Ronald Sanders in his article of February 19, 2026 on the Caribbean News Global (CNG) website, sets out the task ahead for our CARICOM heads, describing the Summit as an opportunity ‘to reset and not to reckon’. We need not regurgitate what the Ambassador said but would venture to share some thinking on the matter.

If we accept Ambassador Saunders’ position that the summit is an

Still overspending

opportunity to reset and not one to reckon as far as the CARICOM-USA relations are concerned, we must reognise that the United States and CARICOM countries have cooperated for generations.

Yes, the politics of our region has given indications of a cautious paradigm shift, but relations with the USA have always been sought in a spirit of mutual benefit and respect.

While we must enadeavour to consolidate our place in hemispheric politics, we must not appear to be confrontational in our approach to the US, even as we assert our positons on Guyana, Cuba and Venezuela. On the other hand, neither must we appear to cower in the face of some mighty threat that in a geopolitical sense, makes no sense.

What, therefore, our Heads of Government must face up to is whether they are going into a meeting with the US Secretary of State to define a new era of cooperation or whether they will punch above their weight class and “stand up” (whatever that means) to what the USA offers.

In all of this is the question: What will the Secretary of State bring to the table? Is there going to be anything new… different?

As referenced earlier, ‘partnership’ between the US and CARICOM has been around for decades but sadly, it has often been tarnished by not recognising differences and reconciliation.

We venture to say, that what is needed at this time is a reinvigorated CARICOM-USA partnership, based on open-mindednesses and acceptance of each other’s differences, and a solemn commitment that the ‘mightier’ will not infringe the other’s individuality.

To arrive at this end would mean that our Heads, as they assess US foreign policy at this time, should not be bashful to call for tolerance and understanding in key areas of cooperation.

Our Heads should be pragmatic, forward-looking, and candid and reaslise, at this moment in time, that their pursuit demands statesmanship and not robust political showboating. However, when it’s said and done, our Heads, in their pursuit of a mutually beneficial partnership with the UISA must always be on guard not to surrender the tenets of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

I WILL NOT ATTEMPT to dissect or evaluate this year’s National Budget. First, the new government had only a few weeks to fine-tune a 1.5 billiondollar spending bill. Yes, the rest of the spending obligations in this year’s budget are debt service. I am somewhat disappointed that the NDP continues the ULP tradition of passing a budget with a deficit and failing to provide a clear plan for addressing it.

Because the need is much greater than the resources, some of the projects and programs discussed in the budget presentation will not be realized. So, as Black Stalin once said: ”More Time.”

The NDP’s decision to cut or reduce some of the partially funded capital projects is understandable, even if not advisable. Though not reflected in the budget, I like the decision to expand the hospital facility at Arnos Vale to include all services. A good budget practice would have been to include this year’s budget estimates for the extension design and to notify us of the anticipated operating costs.

This week, I want to talk about some of the difficulties I see ahead for the administration. Specifically, their political philosophy, as I understand it. You know the one that handed the ULP a surplus twenty-five years ago. The government should not be in the business of generating and banking excessive revenues. A reasonable fund balance policy should be established, and once achieved, all other funds collected should be spent for the public good or returned to the people and businesses through tax relief.

I don’t remember ever seeing a clearly defined NDP political philosophy. But from some of their public statements, I would describe it as moderate conservative, right-ofcenter. This is in contrast to the ULP, which I will describe as left-of-center and socially liberal. To be clear, this is my definition of the NDP and the ULP.

Some of the things they say clearly place them in the right-wing conservative political camp. For example, without saying, trickledown economics, they advocate for less government spending on social services and greater privatization of traditional government services. They’re concerned about foreign

ownership in our economy and excessive government investment in traditional business sectors.

What I have heard from the NDP and their supporters is that they view themselves as fiscal conservatives and social liberals. So what does that mean?

A fiscal conservative and social liberal is the most common oxymoron used in politics today. It is equally contradictory as jumbo shrimp, same difference, or seriously funny. These things don’t go together. A social liberal advises the government to intervene to address systemic inequalities, while a fiscal conservative opposes government spending on these issues.

Put another way, the social liberal arm supports government funding of healthcare, education, and even providing a safety net for those who are struggling. These actions conflict with fiscal conservatives who advocate limited government spending and privatization. This tension deepens because fiscal conservatism often overlooks the economic roots of social inequality, creating a compelling clash for those who champion social progress.

Some often see this attempt to reconcile these surface-level contradictions as an effort to have the best of both worlds, in which individuals hold progressive social ideas while preferring a minimal government role in the economy. This struggle is real and creates a dynamic, exciting political environment.

Since our budget process is largely a political event, it was almost impossible for the NDP to push through a strong policy statement in this year’s budget–after all, they just took office a few months ago. For those critical of the NDP decision not to keep some of the ULP’s underfunded capital projects, I suggest you get over it. I vaguely recall it was the ULP who happily told members of the NDP that they were not elected to carry out the opposition’s program or projects. They owed a responsibility to their voters. With that being said, I think it’s time for a national development strategy that transcends partisan politics.

Horatio.

Asserting who we are

AS WE CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH(Feb.1stMarch 1st 2026) let us reflect on who we are, where we came from, where we are, how we got here, what we are doing here, where we are going from here, how to get there and when we get there what we will be

doing there. This is a long journey - from creation, primitive communalism, slavery, feudalism, the individual revolution, capitalism, colonialism, imperialism, socialism, communism, to where we are heading into a cashless, classless society then into Zion, the

Save our children

kingdom of Heaven, as it was in the beginning so shall it be in the ending.

In this new age, there will be no colour, nationality, race or class; no more white supremacists; no nation dominating another.

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* How long do the NDP Representatives hope to carry on with their constituency meetings?

* Anybody remembers the Community Budget Consultations ULP government tried in the early years of their administration? When and why did they disappear just so?

* Are there signs in the NDP administration that they are doing some of the things for which we criticized the ULP government?

* Why don’t the traffic police spend more time on the roads to see the ‘ignorance’ that takes place, instead of running down innocent drivers so that they could pile up their cases records?

* Does BRAGSA have a plan to attend to the roads in the Kingstown constituencies or are we expect another piecemeal approach to doing repairs?

* Does the leader of the Opposition intend to spend as much time in parliament as he spends on his programmes on STAR Radio?

Man was not born to hate one another because of the colour of his/her skin. The global satanic political and religious man-made systems have been causing hatred and division among humanity. Isaiah 24:1923 gives us a picture of a world condition where these world leaders will be arrested and be imprisoned.

Our first recorded government on earth was led by Moses who was directed by Jethro - a black man, the father of Moses’ wife. He directed Moses to delegate responsibility to his officers while he took care of Frontline matters. This is the

direction which the leader of the NDP, the Hon. Dr. Godwin Friday, is taking. He delegates responsibility to his officers while he does the Frontline works. This is the type of leader approved by the Black Messiah according to Luke 22:24-30. The next step is to teach the people right principles and allow them to govern themselves individually and collectively. This calls for a change in our mindset.

Mr. Editor, I have seen our black brothers and sisters physically pushed out of the parliament. Some were hospitalised. This was done under the leadership of the man who is now the leader of the opposition of the said parliament, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Is he a man of violence? During the build-up to the Nov.27, 2025 general elections,

Ralph called out his army and soldiers to control the streets on the night when the votes were being counted. To many of us that was on act that incited aggression.

If that had happened, the police and citizens would have left his ‘army’ on the streets and move to arrest Ralph.

Our parliament is predominant black but Ralph continues to disrespect it and the Speaker. We will not tolerate any more of that. You dare not call our parliament a “papi show” and walk in and out as you feel. Instead of doing the state’s work, you have to attend your grandchild’s birthday party.

We did not evolve from ape. All other race and colours come out of black.

And, remember, when we had our early civilizations you people (white) were living in

caves and trees. We love white people but when Trump and Ralph pass their place, we have to tell it as it is.

Long Live Black History month.

Begging: Not the only option

IN THE AFTERMATHof hurricane and volcano disasters many would have lost their homes and livelihoods, but the recovery efforts should not be limited to handouts. Some resources should be placed in a revolving fund that allows for use and replacement. Such would ensure sustainability as the replenished funds would be available for the next disaster recovery effort.

In normal times, some communities organize SuSus but in the current uncertain times, the financial institutions are better placed to handle this. They may need a management fee of about 3%. They would put the regular safeguards of security in place. Those who have a source of income would qualify and access the funds.

Disasters produce opportunities to repair and reuse materials.

Some who are engaged in such activities should be able to access the rebuilding funds also. The spending should be based in the communities to allow for faster recovery. Houses that are rebuilt should have at least one selfcontained room that can be rented to service the revolving fund.

Employment usually becomes a major issue,

and efforts should be made to allow affected people to find work in their areas of interest. Sanitation, building construction, laundry services, gardening, fishing, animal husbandry, shoemaking and repairing, tailoring, electronics repair, homework support and library services, security, food preparation, newspaper vend

ing, lifeguard and landscaping are some of the areas that may be needed.

While handouts can be useful, they are never enough. Therefore, the emphasis should be placed on a revolving low interest loan fund which is sustainable.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

SVGÊs Dr. Richards recognized by FIFA

DR. DWIGHT RICHARDS, a distinguished figure in football medicine, has been officially recognized by FIFA as “Sports Physician of the Year –Small Island Developing States (SIDS)”.

The honour comes as a testament to his groundbreaking contributions to orthopedics, traumatology, and evidence-based practice in football medicine. The recognition was confirmed by way of a letter to the SVG Football Federation from Andrew Massey FIFA Director of Medical for Fédération Internationale de Football Association, on behalf of FIFA and CONCACAF.

Massey formally acknowledged Dr. Richards’ “outstanding contributions to football

medicine over the past year.”

The letter also highlighted Dr. Richards’ scholarly achievements, including the publication of his thesis on FIFA’s official platform, which “stands as testament to your scholarly depth, methodological precision, and unwavering commitment to advancing evidencebased practice in football medicine,” not to mention his demonstrated commitment to player welfare.

Dr. Richards’ recognition was formally conferred at the Opening Tournament Gala of the CONCACAF U-20 Men’s Championship in Curaçao on 23 February 2026, where he was invited to deliver a fiveto-seven-minute speech

alongside the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Male delegation.

In addition to this prestigious award, Dr. Richards has been appointed as FIFA Sports Medicine Orthopedic Representati ve for the international fixture between Mexico and the Dominican Republic on 28 February 2026, a role that underscores his fluency in Spanish and his professional excellence.

Dr. Richards was trained in Cuba and practises medicine at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in Kingstown, serving as Medical Officer in Orthopedics.

SVGFF President Mr. Otashie Spring prais ed the achievement, stating:

“Dr. Richards’ recognition by FIFA is

Dr. Dwight Richards professional services administered with dedication and commitment to players’ welfare did not go unnoticed by FIFA, football world’s governing body.

not only a personal triumph but also a proud moment for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. His dedication to player welfare and his scholarly contributions have elevated our nation’s standing in global football medicine. We celebrate his discipline,

brilliance, and the inspiration he provides to our football community.”

This accolade not only elevates Dr. Richards’ profile but also shines a spotlight on St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ growing influence in global football medicine. (Source: SVGFF)

Dignity amidst Deprivation

“The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” — Mahatma Gandhi (18691948) - Indian lawyer, anti-colonial nationalist, and political ethicist

VISITORS TO KINGSTOWNduring the early morning or late-night hours are likely to observe vagrants cuddled up on cardboard beds at the doorways to several businesses – especially those that provide some form of shelter from the elements. This situation is likely to be duplicated in all of the capital cities throughout the Caribbean. Many of the nomads are suffering or recovering from various forms of mental illness. Others have experienced economic losses or broken relationships that resulted in them losing adequate shelter. Some of these citizens may have engaged in excessive consumption of alcohol and/or illegal drugs. However, regardless of the circumstances leading to their drifting life, these deprived citizens should still be treated with dignity.

An individual may be classified as “deprived” when they lack access to basic needs, opportunities, or the social support necessary for a secure and fulfilling life. Deprivation can be social, economic, emotional, or even educational. The description of the “street dwellers” referred to in the introductory paragraph (no insult intended in relation to the classification) raise issues and magnify their predicament in relation to their dwelling places. However, their plight is not limited to their challenges related to adequate shelter; it also magnifies their dilemma in relation to necessities such as food, clean water, toilet facilities, clothing, social interactions, and access to health care.

We commend the service clubs, church groups, and non-government organizations that periodically seek to provide some of their basic needs. It is also encouraging to note that some secondary schools have encouraged students in their senior forms to look for opportunities to show love and kindness to these citizens who appear to “fall by the wayside”. This is especially evident around the Christmas Season as efforts are made to encourage such citizens to benefit from the goodwill and kind gestures of a caring community.

The private sector in many of our Caribbean nations periodically assist by supporting school feeding programmes aimed at meeting the nutritional needs of children who lack adequate nourishment. Many such businesses do not display such acts of corporate social responsibility on their Face Book page or company websites. And even if they do, they ensure that the recipients are not readily identified in their photographs or videos in an effort to preserve their dignity even amidst their deprivation. Several teachers and school administrators (including the cleaners and gardeners) must be commended for their efforts to “intercept with intent” when they observe that particular students appear to be dejected or melancholy. Such reactions are often the result of some form of deprivation in the home or neighbourhood. Without drawing attention to their actions, they privately and tactfully have conversations aimed at providing vital psychological and emotional support. These earthly angels sound no alarm and draw no attention to themselves. However, their care and attention to the otherwise unnoticed provide the necessary support and encouragement to energize the weary traveler along their path to success.

They remind us that sometimes the little things are the big things — small acts of kindness and expressions of care and concern may go a long way to inspiring an individual who would otherwise contemplate exiting the education system or gravitating to anti-social or illicit behaviours.

There are other valuable citizens who sometimes appear to be invisible to many even as they experience their own forms of deprivation. They may be deprived of basic privileges because of race, gender, disability, age (e.g., the elderly) or religion. But they need to be treated with dignity and every effort be made to provide them with the basic necessities of life such as education, healthcare, and so on. We commend those individuals who, although discriminated against and deprived, realize that deprivation does not define a person’s identity or worth. Many such individuals have demonstrated dignity, and strength of resolve despite difficult circumstances. They often are energized by the realization that amidst hardships and scarcity dignity has the ability to ignite and sustain their strong resolve; a commitment to maintain a sense of selfworth even when life’s circumstances attempt to erode it. They remind us that dignity does not depend on possessions but, instead, is rooted in identity, values, and self-respect.

While it is important to consider how best to meet the needs of disadvantaged individuals through acts of kindness, it is equally imperative that such assistance be delivered with respect and empathy. Support–whether individual or communal–should be offered with compassion and with every effort to strengthen the recipient’s sense of worth.

Ideally, assistance should empower individuals to recognize and develop their latent skills and experiences so they can help themselves. Many whose lives may appear derelict possess the capacity to rebuild and renew their futures through thoughtful, strategic interventions by concerned citizens and organizations committed to the economic, social, educational, and spiritual well-being of the disenfranchised.

Our task is to be both strategic and compassionate–seeking not only to help individuals care for themselves, but, where possible, to enable them to contribute to the care of others as well.

The examination of dignity amid deprivation challenges our assumptions about inherent worth. It reveals that wealth, academic achievement, and political power do not guarantee honour, just as poverty or moral failing does not erase it. Dignity emerges and flourishes in how individuals see themselves and in how they choose to treat others–especially after enduring profound trauma and life’s many hardships. It survives and thrives through hope, perseverance, generosity, kindness, justice, courage, and integrity. These qualities enrich the fabric of society and remind us of the beauty of our shared humanity: kindness is measured not by what we gain, but by who we become in offering it.

CARICOM, Cuba and West Berlin

‘THE DELUSION LIESwith those who take the doings of the Trump regime as anything more than an edifice built on lies and illusions. It represents an inherently unstable interim, not an era.’ Patrick Lawrence.

CARICOM’s 50th-anniversary summit opened with much talk about democracy, sovereignty, and dictatorship. Kamla Persad Bessesar, Trinidad’s prime minister, was effusive in her praise for Mr Trump and Secretary Rubio. None of the leaders dared to stand up for Cuba and express gratitude for its assistance. In fact, Cuba was on trial.

Images from the opening ceremony told a story that might have escaped many viewers. We saw Arab men from rich Middle Eastern states occupying prominent seats in the audience. The hypocrisy was striking. Cuba was condemned as a dictatorship without democracy, competitive elections and the rule of law.

Saudis, Qataris, and Kuwaitis were in that room. None of these countries holds competitive elections. All of them are dictatorships, but to paraphrase former American president Harry Truman, they may be sons of a bitch, but they are our sons of a bitch. The hypocrites who howl about Cuba’s need to democratise blind their eyes to these blaring contradictions. They see no evil, hear no evil, yet continue to justify and condone evil whenever it serves their interests.

Evidently, money can buy respect, so rich despotic Arabs can hobnob at CARICOM’s summit. Military capability generates fear if not respect. North Korea gets the worst press, but it owns nuclear weapons. Trump dares not encircle or threaten to bomb it out of existence. Until humanity evolves a more sophisticated humanitarian consciousness, evil will be celebrated as glamour and glory.

The reader may ask what these introductory sentences have to do with Cuba and West Berlin. Most may be too young to know of the crisis in West Berlin. At the end of World War 2, the Allied forces of the Soviet Union, the USA, and England triumphantly defeated Nazi Germany. Their combined effort saved the world from German fascism. But there was a problem. Defeated Germany was divided into East and West. East Germany was controlled by the Soviet military, except for the western part of Berlin. The US was determined to make West Berlin into a capitalist showcase. The Soviets frown on that proposal and built what became known as the Berlin Wall. West Berlin survived only because the Western capitalist societies airlifted anything and everything into the city in defiance of the Soviet Union.

A similar mission is urgently needed if Cuba is not to be choked into submission. But is the world up to the task? Will Caricom lead the way? If the rhetoric from St Kitts is any guide, our region is about to fail itself: plenty of talk but no action.

Speaking at the Caricom summit, Jamaica’s Andrew Holness said ‘Cuba is our Caribbean neighbour. Its doctors and teachers have served across our region. Its people are part of our shared history, but today, the Cuban people face severe economic hardship, energy shortages and growing humanitarian strain. Jamaica is sensitive to the struggles of the Cuban people.

It is therefore important that we carefully consider this matter and take collective action. Jamaica stands firmly

for democracy, human rights, political accountability and open market-based economies. We do not believe that long-term stability can exist where economic freedom is constrained and political participation is limited. Sustainable prosperity requires openness to ideas, enterprise, investment, and the will of the people. This moment, therefore, calls not for rhetoric but for responsible statecraft, even as we encourage support for humanitarian relief.’

Holness recognises the problem, but says nothing about who created the humanitarian crisis and suffering. Within a few short steps from the podium where Holness spoke was Mario Rubio, the American Secretary of State and the main driver of the tightened American embargo of Cuba. Two weeks before the summit, Mr Holness’ government refused to sell Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to Cuba.

Holness spoke a lot about the Cuban people. One searched in vain for mention of the Cuban government. He talked about the exemplary service of Cuban doctors and teachers across the Caribbean. Did he stop to think how they got there? While he tacitly helps American regime change operations in Cuba, has he given thought to why America, with an abundance of physical and natural resources, has never offered doctors and teachers in ways the Cuban government does? In much the same way that the West helped West Berlin to thrive during the Cold War, the world must come to Cuba’s assistance. Humanity should hang its collective head in shame if the United States is allowed to strangle Cuba into submission. This is not the dark ages. We are living in the third decade of the 21st century. Jamaica should become the hub through which all Caribbean governments and people should send assistance to Cuba if only to stave off this American-inspired humanitarian disaster. If Cuba is allowed to bend to American pressure, it will live long as a day of infamy.

January 3, 2026, the day President Trump kidnapped President Maduro, is a marker of unimaginable significance. To choke off Cuba, Venezuela was coerced into submission–no more fuel for Havana. Cuba is the big prize. Sixty-seven years of resistance and defiance, and 10 American presidents are too much for the empire to stomach.

It has become increasingly apparent that only Russia and China can check the US government’s reckless actions. Just as the US took a stand to ensure that West Berlin survives and thrives in the heart of socialist East Germany, so too must they draw a line and lend immediate support to Cuba. If Russia and China stand back as they did by abstaining at the UN Security Council and effectively give Trump control over Gaza and allow America to decapitate Venezuela, strangulate Cuba, and annihilate Iran, a triumphant Washington would place them squarely into its regime change crosshairs.

To resist then might be too late. Barbarism would triumph, and we would have truly arrived at the end of history.

Do we still know our HISTORY?

THIS QUESTIONis not only directed to “Vincies” but to the entire Caribbean and other countries who have had colonial names IMPOSED on them. The colonial strategy was and still is to erase the positive legacies of the peaceful indigenous people they murdered, and replace them with structures and puppets that serve their selfish interests.

The colonial influence has affected not only our indigenous names, dress, language and political structure, but more recently, even the food we eat. They even tried to influence our music and religion with limited success. It is difficult to uproot our culture, … the drum beat that still scares the colonizer and our music and rhythm that defy the negative influences from the colonial demons.

History is replete with proof that the Europeans were the last race of humans to be civilized. They were aptly described as BARBARIAN and used barbaric force and are still using barbaric force, to subjugate peaceful and civilized humanity. Can any of our local

historians dispute these FACTS of history?

Their divide and rule strategy is still evident in Africa, the Caribbean and elsewhere. During the period of African slavery which lasted over 400 years, they forced us to change our names, mixed the various tribes, and forced us to learn the language of our colonizers. But after we learned and mastered their language, we became a threat, because we could tell them in their own language what they were doing and are still doing is unethical, unlawful and despicable.

Early in the process, the colonizers realized that even though they wielded the sword and gun, they were still defenseless and therefore ‘bought out’ and are still buying out the weakminded ‘house slaves’ to suppress any dissent, by affording these house slaves marginally better amenities like housing and food in order to guarantee their protection. The strategy today is basically the same. It worked then, and still works today, the only difference is that today, the more literate people become, the less the influence is on our MINDS … because literacy allows us to reason for ourselves and also to express our feelings and ideas through literature. So “Hats Off” to all educational institutions that keep the ‘reading for living’ mantra alive!!!

Teachers, read this article to your students or better yet, let them read this aloud to their classmates.

Then the colonizers were bold enough to even change the names of the countries they plundered, e.g. Rhodesia, South West Africa, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and St. Lucia. Some of these countries have reclaimed their original names — Zimbabwe (Rhodesia), Namibia (South West Africa). Others have failed to have the guts to revert to their original names, or lack the independence of thought and will to do so. Such is the level of mental colonialism, as one

singer aptly described as ‘having moved the chains from our bodies and placed them on our minds’.

When are we as a nation of men and women of integrity going to stand up and challenge the outdated remnants of colonialism, and revert to the meaningful names our ancestors gave to our nations, names that have meaning, names that describe the nature and beauty of our islands, e.g. Canouan - Land of turtles, Becouya (now Bequia) = Land of clouds, Hairouna - Land of the Blessed (stolen by our beer company), Youloumeaning Rainbow, and Waitkubuli - Tall she stands, the indigenous name of Dominica. It is high time that we shed the colonial names like Grenada in favour of Camerhonge, Hewanorra instead of St. Lucia, Soualiga instead of St. Maarten, Malliouana instead of Anguilla, Wadadli instead of Antigua and the list can go on. The history is there, no need to make up new names. We must honour our ancestors, for without them and their struggles for our freedom, we could not have achieved where we are at this juncture of our history.

Renaming our countries to their original names is NOT going backward, it is restoring what was forcefully erased by our former colonizers. Caribbean people WAKE UP!!! and reclaim what is our true IDENTITY… our names, our clothing, our music, our food, our dance, our hairstyles, our art, our religion, our drums, our culture, our true identity!!! Collectively, this will define our own political and social structure as well as our future.

As we prepare to celebrate National Heroes month, let us SERIOUSLY continue the discussion about reclaiming our true identity.

IHS Alumni Association: Now a registered entity

2026.

The registration follows the formation of the Association in 2025.

The Incorporation documents were prepared pro-bono by Counsel Julian Jack of Regency Law Firm, as his contribution to the continuing development of the Intermediate High School (IHS).

Current Chairman of the IHS Alumni Association, Wayne Williams, during a monthly meeting of the local chapter of the IHS alumni, thanked Counsel Jack for his professional service rendered free of charge.

THE INTERMEDIATE HIGH SCHOOL Alumni Association is now a Non-Profit Organisation, registered as such under the Companies Act Cap. 143 of the Laws of St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

The incorporation was formalized on February 06,

Kindness in preparing the documents free of cost, as well as ALL other past students, notably Earl “Ole George” Daniel for coming up with the idea of forming an alumni association is very commendable.

April 2026 marks 100 years since the Intermediate High School was founded by Dr. John Parmenas Eustace. Dr. Eustace also has had two other secondary schools credited to him as founder: the JP Eustace Memorial School located at Edinboro, formerly the Emmanuel High School, and the Emmanuel High School

IHS Alumni making strides

THE INTERMEDIATE HIGH SCHOOL (HIS) Alumni Association, with its motto “One Alumni, One Mission”, is

off to a good start.

Since its formation in 2025, the Association has embarked on a number of events to encourage membership, consolidate the organization and to build camaraderie.

At home, a walk from the “old school” premises in Kingstown to the current location at McKies Hill was the forerunner to the launch of a Mentorship, which is driven by past students and,

to date, has been wellreceived by the current school enrollment.

Other activities to date include: a Meet and Greet Cocktail at a Paradise Inn; a boat ride to picnic in Bequia; a Family Sports Day and Picnic at Mount Wynn; Church Service; and Reunion Gala at Spring Garden.

Mesopotamia.

Both the IHS staff and students along with past students are teaming up for a series of activities to mark its centenary, later this year.

by: Donald De Riggs, IHS Teacher and Alumnus

The activities have helped to expand membership, encourage togetherness among members, and solidify a commitment to the school’s curricular and extracurricular programmers.

With respect to assistance to the school, the Association has contributed to several aspects of the school’s development - enhancing the environment of the learning room, providing equipment for the music and athletics programmes, in addition to making direct, albeit, small donations to the school.

The most recent donation to the music programme came compliments alumnus and legendary musician/bass

player- Harold “Plumie” Lewis who resides in the USA.

And as the Associations looks towards marking the 100th anniversary (19262026), a programme of activities has been planned that will climax in October.

These include: Vincy Picnics in North America, a Walk, Fund day, Back0in0time party, Church Service, Reunion Gala and a Boat ride to Bequia.

The Association is pleased that it has been able to manage its affairs through an Executive Committee that includes membership from the

USA. The executive that meets online every second Thursday of the month comprises: Wayne Williams — Chairman (SVG); Gary “Tunka” Edwards — Assistant Chairman (USA); Simone Charles — General Secretary (USA); Elsworth Richards — Public Relations Officer (SVG); Noel Browne — Treasurer (SVG); Gillian Martin — Assistant Treasurer (USA); Albena Jack Samuel (SVG), Donna Findlay (USA), Shyroon Mitchel (USA) and Earl Daniel (Canada)Committee Members. (Source: Wayne Williams)

V

Obama addresses racist video

FORMER US PRESIDENT

BARACK OBAMA,the most popular living President of the USA, has indirectly addressed a racist video posted on President Donald Trump’s social media, telling a podcast host that the “shame” and “decorum” that once guided public officials is now lost.

The offensive video included a clip depicting Obama and his wife Michelle as apes, which drew widespread criticism from Democrats and Republicans.

The White House initially defended the video, calling backlash “fake outrage”. The post was later blamed on a staff member and deleted.

Obama spoke to liberal podcaster Brian Tyler Cohen, who asked the first black US

president about the tone of political discourse. Cohen cited Trump’s post among several recent controversies.

The clip - set to the song The Lion Sleeps Tonight - was included at the end of a video Trump’s Truth Social account shared containing unfounded claims about voter fraud in the 2020 election.

The post led to outrage from politicians, including from senior members of Trump’s Republican party.

Senator Tim Scott - the only black Republican senatordescribed it as “the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House”.

The clip recalls racist caricatures comparing black people to monkeys, and appears to have been taken

from an X post shared by conservative meme creator Xerias in October.

Trump has told reporters that he “didn’t see” the part of the video that showed the Obamas.

“I didn’t make a mistake,” he told reporters when asked whether he planned to apologise.

The 47-minute podcast featuring Obama was released on Saturday, February 14. The episode begins with the host asking him to comment on US “discourse”, which he says “has devolved to a level of cruelty that we haven’t seen before”.

Cohen notes claims by the White House that the

“victims” of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are “domestic terrorists”, and adds “just days ago, Donald Trump put a picture of you, your face, on an ape’s body”.

Obama responds by saying: “It’s important to recognise that the majority of the American people find this behaviour deeply troubling.

“It is true that it gets attention. It’s true that it’s a distraction.”

But Obama said that while travelling around the US, he found himself meeting people who “still believe in decency, courtesy, kindness”.

“There’s this sort of clown show that’s happening in social media and on

television,” he continued.

“And what is true is that there doesn’t seem to be any shame about this among people who used to feel like you had to have some sort of decorum and a sense of propriety and respect for the office, right?

“That’s been lost.”

He did not mention Trump by name in his response.

During the interview, Obama spoke about a range of issues. He praised protesters who have peacefully organised against immigration operations, discussed electoral redistricting and talked about his presidential library, which is due to open in Chicago next year.

Cuba disrupts planned ‘armed infiltration’

CUBA HAS ACCUSED 10 PEOPLE aboard a US-registered speedboat it intercepted off its coast on Wednesday of planning “an infiltration with terrorist aims”.

Border guards shot dead four people and injured the other six on the boat, the Cuban interior ministry said, alleging that those on the Florida-

registered vessel had fired first.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was investigating the “highly unusual” incident.

The deadly shooting comes at a time of increased tension between the two countries, less than two months after US forces seized Cuba’s close ally, Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro,

and stopped his successor from supplying it with oil.

On Wednesday, however, the US Treasury said it would ease some small private sector transactions, including oil sales, to “support the Cuban people, for commercial and humanitarian use”.

The first Cuban interior ministry statement alluded to these tensions, saying that “in the face of current challenges, Cuba reaffirms its determination to protect its territorial waters” and safeguard its sovereignty.

Cuba’s interior ministry said in an online statement that the speedboat had entered Cuban territorial waters and was “one nautical mile off Cayo Falcones”, on the country’s northern coast, when it was intercepted. It added that the commander of the Cuban boat was injured in the firefight that ensued.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Cuba would “defend itself with determination and firmness against any terrorist and mercenary aggression against its sovereignty and national stability”.

Cuban officials have so far named one of the men killed in the clash, as well as the six survivors, who they

said were evacuated and given medical assistance.

The Cuban authorities said they had established that all 10 of those on board the speedboat were Cuban nationals residing in the US.

They also identified an 11th person they said had been arrested and had confessed to being part of the alleged plot.

The Cuban authorities added that most of them had “prior records involving criminal and violent activity”.

Handguns, assault rifles and improvised explosive devices were recovered from the speedboat, along with other tactical gear, according to the statement.

BBC Verify checked the speedboat’s registration details provided by the Cuban embassy in US (FL7726SH, Florida registered) but they yielded no ownership details or tracking history on any of the platforms the BBC relies on.

Cuba’s interior ministry has in the past denounced other incursions into its territorial waters by privately owned US boats it said were engaged in smuggling Cubans from the Caribbean island to the US.

The incident also comes almost 30 years to the day since Cuban defence forces shot down two small civilian planes belonging to Brothers to the Rescue, a US-based group that searched for rafts carrying migrants from Cuba to the US. (Source: BBC)

Tribute to Vanda Richards

A story she could never write

RICHARDS, a lady who distinguished herself as a media professional in Jamaica her adopted

homeland, passed at the age of 91.

Ms. Richards born October 4, 1934 in Kingstown, St. Vincent, was the daughter of outstanding educator Mr. Bertram “Timmy” Richards and his wife Christine neé Cordice.

The SVG journalism fraternity might appreciate that, back in the period of preindependence SVG, the scope for a female with a penchant for writing and an interest in pursuing Journalism as a career would have been very limited.

So it was that this

ambitious young lady, Vanda Richards, who had aspirations of becoming a writer and had dreamt of a career with the Jamaica Gleaner, made her plans. She took advantage of the fact that her uncle, the Reverend John Ballantyne Richards, had been posted to Jamaica and she left St. Vincent during the 1950s, still in her early twenties, for greener pastures and to pursue her dreams at the Jamaica Gleaner.

There, Vanda worked for a period of thirty years as a writer at this prestigious Jamaican

newspaper. From the Gleaner, Ms. Richards, now an established name in journalist circles, moved on to a career with the Jamaica Agricultural Society as its Public Relations Officer. There she worked until her retirement.

This remarkable lady outlived all her siblings, Shirley, Marva, Claudette and Winston.

As per her wishes, her remains will be cremated in Jamaica, with her ashes being repatriated to her beloved Kingstown later this year.

Journalist Vanda

Richards leaves to mourn her many nephews and nieces in the UK, including John Stevenson, himself a writer, who contributed information for this article.

She lived her life as she chose and has left her story to be written by other scribes.

Editor’s Note: Vanda Richards was the sister of Shirley Richards who worked with both THE VINCENTIAN Newspaper as a Proof Reader and the Metrocint General Insurance Co. as an archiver.

CED hosts climate change adaptation wÊshop

Participants involved in Day One of the Workshop.

THE CENTRE FOR ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT INC. (CED) officially opened its threeday Climate Change Adaptation Workshop today, aimed at strengthening the capacity of local community groups to address climate risks. The workshop, held under the Unlocking Opportunities Through Climate Change Initiatives (UOCCI) Project and funded by

the OAS Development Corporation Fund (DCF), runs from 24th to 26th February at the SVG Teachers Cooperative Credit Union Conference Room.

Bringing together members of community groups and organisations from across the country, the workshop is designed to address critical gaps in local climate preparedness. The comprehensive

programme focuses on increasing awareness of national climate risks and vulnerabilities, equipping participants with practical tools for risk assessment and adaptation planning, promoting climate-smart business practices, and fostering cross-sector collaboration for integrated strategies.

In her opening remarks, Miss Keisha Phillips, Training and

Education Coordinator of CED/UOCCI Project Coordinator, highlighted the urgent need for the initiative.

“Without proper training, these groups remain highly exposed to climate risks, which further entrenches cycles of poverty, inequality, and vulnerability,” said Phillips. “This project aims to address this gap by providing essential climate change knowledge and practical adaptation strategies.”

Miss Phillips also stated, “The success of this project relies not just on us at the CED organizing workshops like this. It will only be successful if we collectively participate and integrate as community groups, women, youth, and stakeholder agencies — both public and private. I urge everyone to become

involved in these activities where we train vulnerable groups and people on the impact of climate change.”

The workshop lays the groundwork by establishing a strong foundational understanding of climate change science and its tangible effects at the global, regional, and local levels. Participants will explore key concepts and engage in critical reflection on how climate risks intersect with livelihoods, social equity, and development priorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the broader Caribbean region. The workshop is being facilitated by Climate Change and Hazards Management Specialist, Mrs. Nyasha

Antrobus-Cyrus.

The three-year UOCCI Project is funded by the OAS through its Development Cooperation Fund (DCF) and is being implemented under the 2024-2027 programming cycle. The project is designed to support, recognize, and foster the contributions of women and underserved communities, aiming to create a more inclusive and effective approach to climate action that benefits everyone. Its primary goal is to reduce the impact of climate change while enhancing livelihoods and increasing economic opportunities for women and vulnerable communities.

(Source: CED)

Amnesty for cocaine found at sea Research pays off for Super 6 winner

with the winning numbers, Sayers said that he did an online search of the numbers that were called in

“And I wrote every single number down that was called in December 2024 and played them. I just had the feeling that a number that had called previously will come back,” he said.

Three days after the draw when he checked his ticket, he realised that not only did he win, but that the winning combination was the same as that called on December 14, 2024.

Super 6 is played in the four Windward Islands. Those who choose to play select 5 numbers from 1 - 28 at EC$3 per bet, or a chance to win the jackpot that starts at EC$200,000. Draws are held every Tuesday and Friday.

It is alleged that the cocaine was found at sea, something that is spoken of as being a frequent occurrence, and in this case was assumed to have been the ‘residue’ from missile strikes by the US military in Vincentian waters on February 13 and 16.

In support of this allegation, Minister Leacock said, “… The minute we got the news of the ship being blown out to the waters and all the collateral damage to come thereto, … simultaneously, I get a phone call from one of my best supporters: ‘Major, I in trouble. I have a problem. I was fishing in the area I came into possession of so, so, so, and I took it away, and now I’m being arrested’.’”

And in explaining the ‘new amnesty, Minister Leacock likened it to the gun amnesty saying, “…. Just like we had a gun amnesty, for example, where they bring in their gun and no question asked, we take your gun and go, if you came into possession of any of that coke on the high seas now and you wanted to call someone to help you do it, or you feel you could get into the police safely, they’re not going to pursue you.”

The Minister assured that the police is in full support of the ‘cocaine at sea’ amnesty.

“We run that by the police high command and they’re on board with that,” The Minister said.

Minister Leacock appealed to fishers or seabather who find cocaine at sea or along the islands’ shorelines to report it to the police.

A deceitful brideto-be

Dear George,

MY BROTHER’S WEDDINGis two months away and he is extremely excited.

My situation is that I am caught in a bind. I overheard his girlfriend on the phone saying that she cannot wait to get that ring on her finger so she could take charge of things. She further said she was only going to stay married to him long enough to “clean him out.”

Now, I want to tell my brother about this, but I don’t want to be the one spoiling things for him. Suppose he does not believe me, what then? Should I just mind my business and keep my mouth shut?

Bothered.

Dear Bothered,

This is your brother you are talking about. You owe it to him to tell him what you overheard. He deserves to know. The intentions of his girlfriend should be exposed.

His choice then would be: Should I go forward as planned or should I pull up stakes?

Hopefully your brother will be wise enough to take heed.

George.

She defied me

George,

WHEN I MET MY GIRLFRIEND she had a five-year- old son and I had a son. We agreed to move in together and also not to have any more children. Lo and behold, the woman is nagging me about having another child.

Things are tight with us financially and I told her we are not going to have any more children but she kept on insisting on having another child.

George, would you believe that this woman went outside and got pregnant for another man and she is

expecting me to continue in the relationship? I cannot live with her in this situation. She calls me wicked for saying this but George, I am ready to walk out. Please, George, I need to hear from you on this one.

Very Angry and Done!

Dear Very Angry and Done,

In making a decision in this situation, the welfare of the children must be considered. Yes, she deliberately stepped out of the relationship to have

another child while being fully aware of your financial situation, and she has to take responsibility for that action.

But right now, your emotions would be all over the place and you can easily make decisions out of anger which may not be best for everyone.

I strongly advise you to seek immediate counseling and encourage your partner to accompany you. Arm yourself with the necessary information so that you would know what would be expected of you should you decide to leave or stay.

George.

An unfaithful wife

Dear George,

AFTER FIVE YEARSof marriage, I walked in on my wife having sex with another man. We have no children but planned to start a family.

I tried to forgive and forget but every time I go to bed with her I get flashbacks of that day in question. She always claimed she would never do a certain position but it was the exact position I met her in. All of a sudden it’s her favorite position.

I have tried to pretend what happened never happened but it’s not working. I cannot get it out of my mind. I am seriously contemplating parting ways with her as a result. Imagine she accused me being distant but never considers why that might be so.

Things are not the same and will never be the same.

Just About Out

Dear Just About Out,

Maybe things would not have

reached to this point where you are considering to leave, had both of you had an open and honest exchange about what transpired.

What happened is not something that could be kept on the back burner pretending it never happened. Have a sit down with your wife and tell her what is standing in the way of your happiness. Better yet, go get some marital/relationship counseling. There are some things you cannot solve on your own and professional help can help in this regard. Fight for your marriage; do everything that is needed to save it before deciding to walk away.

George.

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20)

You might find added popularity with those around you this week. Get out and experience the spice of life. You should spend your day trying to get things completed at work. Use your energy wisely.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21)

Romance will develop through work related activities. Look into any educational activities involving the whole family. Don’t let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Don’t let them blame you. Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week. Spend time by yourself to avoid any conflicts with family members. Don’t cause a scene, but when you get home let your partner know how you feel and why.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Don’t push your opinions on others this week or you may find yourself in the doghouse. Business conducted in your own office will proceed smoothly. You will communicate easily and should be able to develop new friendships.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22)

You need time to rejuvenate. Focus on your domestic scene. Get together with friends or relatives. A series of misunderstandings may be at fault. Your lover may disappoint you in such a way that estrangement will follow.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Offer consolation, but don’t give them any direction. Don’t gamble unless you can afford to lose. You can make changes to your living quarters that should please family members. You can expand your circle of friends if you get out and socialize.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Your mate may not be too sure about your intentions. Your need to get away could lead you into greater debt. You can gain valuable cultural knowledge through dealing with foreigners. You have a lot to offer.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Over spending or unexpected bills could set you back. Take your time be fore making personal decisions. Discord may arise with someone you’re close to. Keep important information to yourself.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Don’t bother complaining, do the work yourself. Don’t be too open or put your faith in unreliable co- workers. Don’t be too quick to judge partners or those you work with. You will find that friends or relatives may not understand your needs.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Opportunities to make financial gains through investments look promising. You can ferret out secret information if you just listen to what others have to say. Keep your mind on your work and stay away from situations that could ruin your reputation.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

You may have taken on a little too much, but you will enjoy every minute of it. You may be emotional if you allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature. Avoid functions that will bring you in contact with those you find difficult to get along with.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Brunch, a long walk, or a quiet dinner will secure your position in the relationship. Short trips will prove to be more fruitful than you imagined. Losses are evident. Dealing with foreigners will be most enlightening.

ACROSS

1.__ the line 4. Word on a gift card

8. Station wagon

11. South Seas isle

13. Sioux City’s state

14. Stun 15. Trumpeter Louis __

17. Reaction to an IM joke

18. Onion relative

19. Singer Furtado 21. Bug-hittinga-windshield sound

24. Golf standard

25. Clip neatly 26. Cornered (3 wds.)

30. Distress inits.

31. Ridiculous

32. Lumberjack’s need

34. Certain fortuneteller

36. __ and proper

37. Choose

38. Oxidizes

39. Buddy (Sp.)

42. Smear

44. Storage box

45. Swiftest

50. Moose’s kin

51. Word on a waffle box

52. Shuttle launchers (abbr.)

53. Letters after a dentist’s name 54. Brat’s response 55. Knockout number

DOWN

1.Vague schedule info (abbr.)

2. Rowing item 3. Common street name

4. Inferno

5. Chessman

6. Have title to 7. Industrial bigwig

8. Visit 9. MP’s prey

10. Bank (on) 12. Muslim faith 16. Vietnamese New Year 20. Misjudge 21. Main and

Sesame (abbr.)

22. Theater tool 23. Actress Kudrow 24. Sound after jogging 26. Individual 27. Mas’ mates

28. Corn spikes

29. Theater sign 31. Barges in 33. Dorothy’s aunt and others

35. Cabin part, perhaps 36. __ a good word for

(2 wds.)

38. Shaft

39. Sleeping 40. Placid

41. Writing fluids

42. Entreats

43. Some

THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES SAILING ASSOCIATION (SVGSA) successfully hosted a World Sailing Race Management Course – Level 1 over three days, from 20–22 February, at the SVG Sailing Association Centre of Excellence, Coconut Grove Beach Club.

The course brought together 15 participants from junior sailing clubs across Union Island, Bequia, Mayreau, and St. Vincent, strengthening race management capacity throughout the islands, and supporting the long-term development of sailing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In addition, three representatives from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority attended the course to gain practical race management experience

SVG Sailing hosts Race Management Course

in preparation for the 2026 SVG Sailing Week, scheduled to take place from 29 March to 6 April 2026.

The Level 1 course was delivered by two highly respected international instructors, Becky Ashburn and Jeff Johnson, both from the San Diego Yacht Club and internationally recognised Olympic-level race officials.

“Race management is the foundation of great sailing events,” said Becky Ashburn, World Sailing International Race Officer.

“What stood out here in SVG was the enthusiasm, commitment, and willingness to learn. These participants are building the skills that will allow local clubs and major regattas to be run safely, fairly, and to true international standards.”

Participants received a blend of classroom instruction and practical, handson learning aligned with World Sailing standards, focusing on the core skills required to manage club-level sailing events with confidence.

“The goal of Level 1 is to

teach officials the skills they can immediately use on the water,” said Jeff Johnson, World Sailing International Race Officer.

“By the end of the course, participants understand not just the ‘how’, but the ‘why’ behind race management decisions. That knowledge is critical as SVG prepares for larger international events like Sailing Week.”

Participants (The Team) in the Level 1 Course were described as enthusiastic and committed.

The course forms part of World Sailing’s global education pathway, designed to build strong, knowledgeable race officials at grassroots and national levels.

Participants praised the course for its practical value and international exposure.

“This course opened my eyes to everything that goes into running a race that reflects World Sailing Association standards,” said Nancy Saul-Demers, from the Mayreau Junior Sailing Club. “I now feel much more confident in helping deliver

BMX Course paves the way

the ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching capacity within the BMX School Programme.

Coach Johns, speaking of the course, said the overarching purpose was to develop and work with St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ coaches in a new sport on the island.

SEVERAL PERSONS from the SVG Cycling Union are better equipped in BMX Race Specific, after completing a one-week UCI WCC Level 2 Coaching Course conducted by Tyrone Johns and Salomé Ernotte.

Johns is a HighPerformance Coach and Team Manager at the UCI World Cycling Centre in Switzerland and Ernotte, a Satellite

Development Manager and BMX athlete.

The course, a practical and theoretical format, was staged February 7 to 14, 2026 at the SVGOC’s Conference Room and at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

The Coaching programme which is facilitated by the SVG Cycling Union and funded through the Olympic Solidarity Programme, is part of

“BMX Racing is a great start for Cycling on the island. This will be a programme with future visits, so we can keep the momentum and skill upliftment for the island as high as possible.

“I am leaving with a warm heart and a happy feeling that your island can be one of the flagship projects for other islands in the Caribbean. The coaches on our course were engaging, learnt a lot, and always wanted to know more. This just shows me that

regattas that better prepare our young sailors for higherlevel competition.”

Aina Browne, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, highlighted the long-term impact on local sailing:

“Learning directly from Olympic level officials was an incredible experience” she said.

“The training equipped local officials with the technical competencies to strengthen sailing events in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and to support the continued

the skills learnt throughout the week will benefit St. Vincent and the Grenadines, along with all the skills learnt.” Johns related.

“The opportunity to see firsthand the number of kids on BMX Bikes and the passion of the cycling community on the island make me feel so proud to have helped in a small way to the future success of cycling within your island. I hope to be back in August to carry on the momentum from this week and see everyone again. I think Cycling and BMX racing will be a success in the future,” Coach Johns expressed.

Meanwhile, two of the participating coaches also gave their impressions of the course.

Dyland Wilson expressed, “The coaching

growth of our marine tourism sector. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority congratulates the SVG Sailing Association on this timely and successful initiative”.

Hosting this course locally represents a major step forward for sailing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, ensuring that future regattas–including SVG Sailing Week 2026– are delivered to the highest international standards while empowering local officials and volunteers. (Article and Photos courtesy SVG Sailing)

course was excellent. The structure was wellorganized, and the support was continuous. I truly appreciated how accommodating the two instructors were and the patience they showed. It was a wonderful experience”.

Similar sentiments were given by Zefal Bailey who stated, “It was great to be part of the Level 2 BMX

training course. I learned a lot from Coach TJ. I believe BMX can really help grow and develop cycling. Many of us are already taking part in BMX cycling, and it is making a positive difference.”

Johns is expected to return to St. Vincent and the Grenadines later this year to conduct additional sessions with local BMX riders.

Barrouallie retains AllLeeward Athletics title

BARROUALLIE SECONDARY SCHOOL powered their way to

Andrew Johnson inks MLS deal

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ international — Andrew Johnson, a defender has inked a professional deal with the US Major League Soccer (MLS) unitCharlotte - ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Johnson is signed through the 2026 MLS season with a Club option for June of 2027, 2027-28 and 2028-29.

The finalization of Johnson’s contract was announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026. His contract was imminent after he was part of the Super Draft that paved the pathway for his eventual move to Charlotte.

Andrew

delayed his entry into pro-football (MLS) to complete his academic studies.

But after being drafted 47th overall, Johnson delayed his move to Charlotte as he returned to Cornell University to complete his academics and his playing career with the institution.

Charlotte FC’s General Manager — Zoran Krnet said in a press release that Johnson was “impressive” in his preseason performances with the first team, and was excited to have him as part of their set up.

Always on the radar of the club, Johnson’s pedigree was tracked from his days playing with FC Delco, Philadelphia Union Academy, Lower Merion SC, Reading Union and West Chester United. Johnson, 22, made international football debut when he represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Vincy Heat in a friendly last March here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

He went on to feature in the Gold Cup Qualifiers versus Jamaica and the World Cup Qualifiers against Puerto Rico.

Andrew was born in the United States of America to Vincentian parents — Elton Johnson, a former national wicket keeper and goalkeeper, and Wendy Ann Roberts-Johnson.

Current Head coach of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines senior men’s Football team- Ezra Hendrickson, was the first to earn a professional contract with an MLS club, beginning in 1997 when he signed with New York/ New Jersey Metro Stars. Oalex Anderson also had a short stint in the MLS with Seattle Sounders FC in 2016.

their 9th title in the All-Leeward Athletics Championships, when the 2026 edition of the event was held at the Cumberland playing field last weekend.

Barrouallie amassed a formidable 532 points to second place Troumaca Ontario Secondary School’s 432 points.

The Petit Bordel Secondary was third on 323 points and the Buccament Day Secondary School fourth on 137 points.

Nyra Deshong of the Troumaca Secondary School was the Victrix Ludorum with 21 points, while Travon Laborde of the Petit Bordel Secondary School and Henly Bushay of the Barrouallie secondary school shared the accolade of Victor Ludorum.

In the divisional

segments, Jada Davis of the Barrousllie Secondary School was the female champion in the Junior division with 18 points. Travon Laborde of the Petit Bordel Secondary took the male Junior champion tile with 27 points.

Carla Bennett and Aria Carter of the Barrouallie Secondary were joint intermediate division female champions with 18 points each, and Henly

DeShong of the Barrouallie Secondary took with 27 points took the male intermediate division.

Nyra DeShong of the Troumaca Ontario Secondary was the senior female champion with 21 points with Javel DaSilva of the Petit Bordel Secondary taking the senior male title with 16 points.

Kennice Greene bags six medals

VINCENTIAN KENNICE GREENEhelped herself to six medals when she competed for the University of North Carolina at the 2026 Conference Carolinas Championships, that ended last Saturday, February 21, at the Kingsport Aquatic Centre, Tennessee, USA.

After four days of competition, Greene finished with three individual medals and three gained from relays. Greene took silver in the 50 yards Freestyle, clocking 23.99s. She had two bronze medals from the 100 yards Freestyle with a time of 52.76s and the 100 yards Backstroke registered 59.59s. In the relays, Greene was part of quartets that secured gold and two bronze medals. Greene and her teammates won gold in the 400 yards Freestyle. More than that, their 3:28.44 was a school record.

The medals that weigh heavily from her neck speak volumes about the successes of Kenice Greene.

Her team’s bronze medals were gained in the 400 yards Medley and the 200 yards medley. Greene’s personal accomplishments and that of her colleagues, assisted in the University of North Carolina winning the conference title for the third consecutive year.

Greene is a multiple medalist at the OECS and Carifta Swim Championships as well as club meets across the Caribbean.

Lau Browne wins Hurdles event

EMERGING FEMALE

HURDLER- Lau Browne took her skills to the US Track and Field circuit, and won the 100m event at the Speed Capital Caribbean Invitational & Carifta Qualifier, last Saturday, February 21, 2026. Browne timed 14.68s to win the Female 17 to 18 division at the Ansin Sports Complex, Miramar, Florida.

That clocking was markedly better than her personal best of 15.14s achieved at the Kineke Alexander Hurdles/ Sprints/ Throws Classic at the Diamond Track Facility, February 14, 2026.

Browne’s sojourn to Florida formed part of her preparations to make the Team Athletics SVG’s

standards which would put her in line for selection to this country’s team to participate in the 2026 Carifta Games set for Grenada, April 4 to 6, at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium. Browne must run 14.20s or faster in the 100m Hurdles. A member of ITDAT Academy, Browne will have other opportunities to meet the mark, when she participates inn the Carifta Trials set for

Playaz take SVGCC BÊball title

Academy in a keenly contested final. They took a 9-4 lead at the end of the first period and kept their noses ahead 15-12 at the midway point. The third quarter was the best for both teams, each scoring fifteen points, to leave the game well poised at 30-27 in favor of Playaz Academy.

But Playaz Academy held firm and edged ahead to brush aside four-time champions in the final period for a 40-33 victory.

Tayon Burgin scored 13 points and Aquando Henry had 11 for Playaz Academy. BlueChip Academy was led by Maxron Dublin who sunk 22 points.

Earlier in the afternoon DTVE Ballers won the third-place playoff with a 29-17 defeat of the DASGS All Stars.

ON THEIR THIRD ATTEMPT, Playaz Academy finally triumphed in the 2026 SVGCC Invitational Basketball Competition.

They did so when they defeated the defending champions BlueChip Academy 40 — 33, in the finals played on Friday 20th Feb., at the SVGCC Hard Court.

Playaz Academy was in top form as they held off a spirited BlueChip

Lady Heat heads for Puerto Rico

THE LADY HEAT, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Senior Women’s Football Team, is gearing up for a high-stakes Concacaf W fixture against Puerto Rico today, Friday 27 February 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at the Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel, Puerto Rico.

The squad, officially announced by the SVGFF, features a balanced mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, blending seasoned talent with emerging stars. Focused and determined, the Lady Heat are preparing to make a strong impression on the Concacaf W stage.

Lady Heat Squad reads: Goalkeepers - Tishana James, Zilla Drayton and Altica Benn; Defenders - Raedawn Nanton, De’Andrea Barbour, Kendra Findlay, Kelisha Bowens, Azumi Quow, Melanie Stowe, Samayaa Connell and Ashante Browne;Midfielder - Chelsea Cordice, Ashante Browne, Nevaeh Richards, Areka Hooper, Leona Barrow, Dionte Delpeche, Sonja Mckie, Asanteni Charles; Forward - Stephanie Hunte, Samayaa Connell, Areka Hooper, Leona Barrow, Meiya Wilson, Kianna

Members of the Senior Women’s National Footbal team going through some paces in their preparation for match against Puerto Rico.

Logan, Kittana Richardson, Cherish La Boarde, Asanteni Charles. Otashie Spring, President of the SVGFF, expressed confidence in the squad: “This match represents another important step in the growth of women’s football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Our Lady Heat players embody resilience, skill, determination and we are proud to see them carry our flag into this international fixture.” (Submitted by Candy Fraser — SVGFF)

Maxron Dublin of BlueChip Academy was the MVP of the Tournament and was also the Top Offensive Player with 144 points.

Tayon Burgin of Playz Academy was the MVP of the finals.

Jemari Ross was the MVP of the 3rd Place Playoff.

The top Defensive Player was Zwayne Fisher while the Offensive Player was Tayon Burgin.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Glasgow retained as Squash head

AMBER GLASGOWhas been retained as President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Squash Association, when the organization held its Annual General Meeting last Saturday at the National Squash Centre, Paul’s Avenue.

Glasgow’s deputy is Charlene Garrick, replacing Kevin Hannaway, with Cindy Glasgow elevated from Committee Member to General Secretary.

Dr. Sherian Slater stays as Treasurer, while Nicholas Boyea takes over from Mikal Quammie as Public relations Officer.

Lynn Cevene remains as one of the two Committee Members and is joined by newbieCeron Padmore.

Apart from hearing the various reports, the AGM ratified Jules

Snagg as the National Coach, whilst Ciara George continues as Safety Officer.

The newly installed Executive would lead the charge to have the constitution ratified, which should see the officers serving two years instead of one. Giving clarity to the

changes, Glasgow explained that the life of the Executive will be a staggered one, whereby half of the members can be reelected each year. Glasgow underscored that the new change was to ensure “continuity”, as the last review of the constitution was done in 2001.

$750 fine for cursing police

by HADYN HUGGINS

A MAN WHO CURSED and insulted a police officer last Saturday because the officer clamped his vehicle, was fined $780 at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Senior Magistrate Tamika Mc Kenzie ordered the defendant Andrew Richards, of Stubbs, to pay the fine forthwith or to go to prison for two months.

Richards pleaded guilty to, that on February 21, 2026, in a public place, to wit, Bedford Street, Kingstown, did make use

of indecent language, to wit, “Gimme de mudder…. Ting out you hand, you ah pussy.”

The Court heard that on the morning of the date in question, PC1040 Hunte and other officers, were on clamp and ticket duties on Bedford Street when they saw motor vehicle P1283 causing an inconvenience to the public.

LAND FOR SALE

Hunte instructed PC225 Forde to clamp the vehicle.

Forde affixed the clamp and was about to place the immobilizing tag on it, when a man dressed in black approached and said, “Gimme de mudder…. Ting out you hand, you ah pussy.”

Forde returned to the Central Police Station and reported the matter to Sergeant374 King.

King instructed PC371 Jackson to investigate the matter, and the man in black was ascertained to be Andrew Richards of Stubbs.

Richards told the police, “I was right there when the officer was putting on the clamp, they cudda just tek it off.”

He also told this to the court on Monday, but the Senior Magistrate chided him for disrespecting the police.

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AMNESTY FOR COCAINE FOUND AT SEA

The Caribbean Sea is known to be an integral part of the drug trade route and is often the “recipient’ of large amounts of cocaine that are either dumped by traffickers or end up as residue when the traffickers are intercepted by naval patrols.

Left: St. Clair Leacock, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, described the amnesty as “a soft touch to what could be a hard and serious problem.”

PERSONS WHO TURN OVER COCAINE that they find floating at sea to the appropriate authorities will receive an amnesty from prosecution.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security St. Clair Leacock made the announcement via radio on Monday following the recent uncovering of some 22 pounds of

cocaine in the Lowmans Bay area, and after lawyer Grant Connell, representing one of the men in the Lowmans Bay drug haul, proposed an amnesty for people winning “the sea lotto” the label now being attached to cocaine finds at sea.

Continued on Page 16.

RESEARCH PAYS OFF FOR SUPER 6 WINNER

by DAYLE DASILVA

BRIGHTON

RESIDENT,

Renson Sayers is the latest Super 6 winner from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, albeit a joint winner.

He shared in the EC$1.4 million purse following the December 30, 2025 draw. Three of the other winners are from St. Lucia and Grenada. Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have one winner each in this draw.

This split makes it the first time that a single Super 6 jackpot has been shared among the four participating territories.

Sayers took away EC$233,500 with the numbers 4, 7, 10, 19, 25 and 27. He collected his winnings on Wednesday at the National Lotteries Authority headquarters in Paul’s Avenue.

According to Sayers, it took him about three days to verify that the numbers on his ticket

were in fact the winning combination.

“Normally I always relax, never rush anything and when I realised that, it was just tears of joy,” he said.

Sayers also admitted that he does not favour being in the spotlight too much and knowing that he was going to have to face the media, he waited a while before contacting the National Lotteries Authority (NLA).

Continued on Page 16.