Carib Scope

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  • DeAndre Calderon knocked out of ITTF table tennis

    DeAndre Calderon knocked out of ITTF table tennis

    Saint Lucia’s premier table tennis athlete DeAndre Calderon concluded his campaign at the ITTF Americas Cup San Francisco 2026 during the preliminary stages on January 28, showcasing competitive prowess despite falling short of main draw qualification.

    The tournament, presented by Mongo DB at California’s 888 Table Tennis Center in Burlingame, saw Calderon receive an initial first-round bye before dominating his second-round opponent. He delivered a commanding 3-0 victory against USA’s Kef Noorami (13-11, 11-9, 11-9) in under thirty minutes. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, Calderon overcame a five-point deficit to secure the opening game, gaining momentum throughout the match. His performance peaked in the third game where he maintained consistent control, establishing a six-point lead without trailing.

    Calderon’s advancement was halted in the subsequent penultimate qualifying match against Argentina’s Nicolas Callaba, who claimed a 3-1 victory (11-8, 8-11, 13-11, 11-6). Despite leading at various points in each game—including a three-point advantage early in the final frame—Calderon couldn’t withstand Callaba’s determined comeback.

    The Saint Lucia Table Tennis Association issued an official statement applauding Calderon’s performance: “We congratulate DeAndre on his fierce competition at the ITTF Americas Cup 2026. The very best players in the Americas [are] competing in this tournament.” The association further highlighted his representation of “the fierce Lucian fighting spirit” on the global stage, noting his role in establishing Saint Lucia as “one of the strongest table tennis nations in the world.”

    Calderon, a former Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States champion and two-time junior Male Sports Personality of the Year, was among 37 male competitors at this premier Pan American event. The tournament brings together top athletes from North, Central, and South America plus the Caribbean, offering one of the hemisphere’s most prestigious titles. The top four finishers in both men’s and women’s singles will secure qualification for the 2026 ITTF World Cup in Macao, with competition continuing through February 1.

  • Public Works employees appeal for outstanding overtime pay

    Public Works employees appeal for outstanding overtime pay

    Employees within the Public Works sector are escalating their demands for the settlement of long-overdue overtime wages, highlighting a growing labor dispute within essential municipal services. The grievance centers on compensation earned for extended work hours that has remained unpaid for a significant period, creating financial strain and diminishing morale among the workforce.

    This situation has prompted a formal appeal to government authorities and departmental management, urging immediate intervention and a transparent resolution process. The employees, represented by their labor union, have outlined the cumulative impact of these withheld payments on their livelihoods, arguing that the delay constitutes a breach of their employment agreements and labor rights.

    The appeal brings to light broader concerns about administrative efficiency and fiscal management within public sector institutions. Analysts suggest that the unresolved payments could point to deeper budgetary constraints or procedural inefficiencies affecting the department’s operations. The outcome of this appeal is being closely watched, as it may set a precedent for how similar labor disputes are handled across other government agencies, potentially influencing public sector labor relations and policy.

  • UWI Five Islands to host public lecture on Antigua’s geological history

    UWI Five Islands to host public lecture on Antigua’s geological history

    The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus has announced it will present a complimentary public lecture in February focusing on the geological formation of Antigua and its significance within the broader Caribbean tectonic framework. Scheduled for Wednesday, February 11th at 6:00 PM AST, the event will take place in the campus cafeteria and is freely accessible to all members of the community.

    Distinguished scholar Professor Simon Mitchell, an expert in sedimentary geology from the University of the West Indies Mona Campus, will deliver the presentation titled “Geology of Antigua: From Its Setting in the Caribbean to What We Want to Know.” His lecture will provide comprehensive insights into the island’s geological genesis, its connections to regional tectonic processes, and highlight pressing scientific questions that continue to drive contemporary geological research in the area.

    This educational initiative, organized under the auspices of the Office of the Campus Principal, represents part of the institution’s broader commitment to fostering public engagement with academically significant topics. The lecture series aims to bridge the gap between academic research and community awareness, particularly regarding matters of national and regional importance in the Caribbean context.

  • Windwards win again in Women’s Super 50

    Windwards win again in Women’s Super 50

    The Windward Islands Women’s cricket team secured their second consecutive triumph in the Cricket West Indies CG United Women’s Super 50 Cup with a hard-fought three-wicket victory over the Leeward Islands on Thursday. The match, held at Cumberland Playing Field in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, showcased exceptional bowling performance followed by a captain’s knockout innings.

    After winning the toss, the Leeward Islands elected to bat first but struggled to establish substantial partnerships throughout their innings. Qiana Joseph emerged as the standout batter with a resilient 44 runs from 54 deliveries, including seven boundaries. Jahzara Claxton provided late-order support with 25 runs, but the Leewards were ultimately dismissed for 125 in the 35th over.

    The Windwards’ bowling attack demonstrated remarkable discipline, with Aldith Gasper claiming three wickets for 28 runs. Captain Jannillea Glasgow and Shanel McKie contributed significantly with two wickets each, maintaining constant pressure on the Leewards’ batting lineup.

    The chase proved more challenging than anticipated for the Windwards, who found themselves struggling at 71-6 by the 23rd over. The team’s batting order experienced consistent setbacks, with only captain Glasgow displaying the composure required for the situation. The West Indies allrounder formed a crucial partnership with McKie, who contributed 22 runs from 29 balls, steadily guiding their team toward the target.

    Glasgow remained unbeaten with a match-winning 54 runs, featuring six fours, ultimately securing victory for the Windwards at 126-7 in the 35th over with 95 balls remaining. Her exceptional leadership and performance earned her the Player of the Match recognition.

    The Windwards, now positioned at the top of the table, prepare to face Guyana in their upcoming match at Park Hill Playing Field in Colonarie on Saturday.

  • Police, Youth stake claims in Bay Bay Cup

    Police, Youth stake claims in Bay Bay Cup

    The Francis Baba Lastic Grounds witnessed a display of emerging football talent on Wednesday, January 28, as the 2026 Kenson Casimir Bay Bay Cup tournament continued its group stage matches. Organized by the Gros Islet Football League, the event featured two compelling fixtures that highlighted both youthful promise and tactical discipline.

    In the headline match, Gros Islet Youth delivered a commanding 3-1 victory over reigning national club champions GMC United. The Northern United-affiliated duo of Traylan Henry and Thierry Morille orchestrated the victory with exceptional attacking prowess. Henry, a Saint Lucia Sports Academy student, opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a precisely placed finish. Morille, who already boasts Under-20 national team experience, doubled the advantage just before halftime with a well-timed strike.

    The second half saw Morille secure his brace just three minutes after the restart, effectively sealing the outcome despite GMC United managing a consolation goal in the 84th minute.

    Gros Islet Youth head coach Francis ‘Panko’ MacDonald praised his squad’s cohesive performance, noting: ‘The team displayed remarkable discipline and attacking intent throughout the match. What’s particularly encouraging is how players from Northern United, GMC, Monchy, New Generation, and Dominators blended so effectively as a unified squad.’

    Coach MacDonald emphasized the strategic importance of cross-club collaboration: ‘The seamless ball movement, defensive support, and chance creation demonstrated the success of our community-based development approach. This synergy under a common objective points toward a bright future for regional football development.’

    In the day’s earlier fixture, Police FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Gros Islet Veterans, with Merthinda Sidney scoring the decisive goal.

    The tournament continues on February 1 with four teams returning to action at Francis Baba Lastic Grounds. Group B will feature Monchy FC and Police FC both seeking to maintain winning momentum, while Group A action resumes with Gros Islet Youth facing New Generation FC. The competition will relocate to Grande Riviere Playing Field on February 4 for subsequent matches.

  • Flash flood watch issued for Barbados

    Flash flood watch issued for Barbados

    Barbados remains under an official Flash Flood Watch following persistent overnight rainfall, with meteorological authorities forecasting continued precipitation through Friday morning. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) reported that moderate to heavy showers commenced after 1:00 a.m. on January 30, with certain regions already recording approximately two inches (50mm) of rainfall. Forecast models indicate an additional one to two inches (25mm-50mm) could accumulate within the coming hours.

    The meteorological agency has elevated flood risk assessments to moderate levels, highlighting several potential hazards including significant soil erosion on unprotected terrain, substantial water accumulation on roadways and agricultural fields, elevated water levels in natural waterways and irrigation canals, and possible overflow incidents involving storm drainage systems affecting both transportation routes and adjacent properties.

    Civil protection authorities have issued urgent advisories for citizens to maintain continuous monitoring of official communications from the Barbados Meteorological Services, the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), the Government Information Service (GIS), and accredited media organizations. A Flash Flood Watch designation signifies that atmospheric and ground conditions have become conducive to potential flooding events developing over extended periods exceeding two hours, though actual flooding remains probabilistic rather than certain.

    This weather advisory, originally disseminated at 3:00 a.m. on January 30, is scheduled for reassessment at 8:00 a.m. the same day, with provisions for earlier updates should meteorological conditions deteriorate. Residents seeking localized information are advised to consult the BMS official website, monitor verified social media channels, or utilize the emergency hotline numbers 976-2376 and 535-0022 for real-time guidance.

  • Another Nestor double-double goes in vain as UNT lose

    Another Nestor double-double goes in vain as UNT lose

    In a dramatic American Conference showdown on January 28, the University of North Texas (UNT) women’s basketball team mounted a staggering late-game rally that ultimately fell just short, falling 66-64 to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) on their home court.

    The story of the game was one of two halves. UTSA built a commanding 20-point lead late in the third quarter, seemingly putting the contest out of reach. However, UNT unleashed an explosive offensive outburst in the final period, scoring a remarkable 36 points—their highest single-quarter total since the season opener—to nearly complete what would have been the largest comeback in the program’s history.

    Leading the charge for the Mean Green was Megan Nestor, the 6’4″ forward from Canaries, Saint Lucia. The former national netball player delivered a powerhouse performance, notching her 12th double-double of the season with 11 points and 14 rebounds. Her all-around contribution included three assists, two blocks, and a steal. She was complemented by Mekhia Chase, who erupted for a career-high 20 points, 13 of which came during the critical fourth-quarter surge. Chase was exceptionally efficient, shooting 7-of-9 from the field and setting new personal bests with four three-pointers and three steals. Andi Schissler also reached double figures, adding 12 points.

    Despite the heartbreaking loss, Head Coach Jason Burton remained focused on the conference season ahead. ‘We just finished the first nine [conference games] at 5-4,’ Burton stated. ‘We’ve got to figure out how to get to a 7-2, 8-1, 9-0 type run on the back end of this, and it starts with Florida Atlantic this weekend.’ UNT will look to rebound against Florida Atlantic, a team they handily defeated 81-56 in the American Conference opener back on December 30.

  • DASCI opens 2026 scholarship application period for Dominican students

    DASCI opens 2026 scholarship application period for Dominican students

    The Dominica America Scholarship and Culture, Inc. (DASCI) has officially launched its scholarship application cycle for the 2026-2027 academic year, targeting primary school graduates across Dominica who require financial support for their transition to secondary education.

    This nonprofit initiative, established in 2007 by a collective of dedicated Dominicans, has designated sixteen primary institutions for participation in this year’s program. The selected schools include Coulibistrie, Goodwill, Mahaut, Massacre, Roseau, Salisbury, St. Martin, St. Mary’s, Convent Prep, Berean Christian Academy, Campbell, Pioneer Prep, Ebenezer SDA, Kelleb Laurent Primary, Western District SDA, and Christian Union.

    DASCI has confirmed the availability of a minimum of thirty scholarships for qualified students demonstrating financial need and meeting specific eligibility requirements. The application deadline has been set for May 1, 2026, with submissions accepted through both electronic mail and traditional postal services.

    School principals from participating institutions have been formally notified of the program and will play a crucial role in facilitating student applications. This collaborative approach ensures that deserving candidates receive proper guidance throughout the application process.

    Since its foundation, DASCI has demonstrated remarkable commitment to educational advancement, having distributed 162 scholarships totaling approximately US$106,950 (EC$288,165). The organization employs a rotational selection system for participating schools, guaranteeing equitable access to opportunities across different educational institutions over time.

    Patricia David, President of DASCI, reaffirmed the organization’s mission: “Our members and supporters remain deeply motivated and committed to supporting students in need through these educational initiatives.”

    Prospective applicants can obtain detailed information and access application materials through DASCI’s official online portal, which provides comprehensive guidance on eligibility criteria and submission requirements.

  • Visual alerts, sign language, equity — Saint Lucia’s deaf demand change

    Visual alerts, sign language, equity — Saint Lucia’s deaf demand change

    The deaf and hard of hearing population in Saint Lucia confronts escalating challenges in accessing modern amenities and achieving equitable treatment, despite global technological progress. This Caribbean nation’s accessibility gap continues to widen compared to developed countries, creating significant barriers for those with hearing impairments.

    Unlike visible disabilities, hearing impairment often escapes immediate recognition, leading to unintended discrimination and exclusion. Even in areas designed for disability accommodation, such as designated parking spaces, the community frequently encounters restrictions due to this invisibility of their condition.

    Shanel Chedy-Romulus, President of the Society of the Deaf Club, identifies multiple sectors requiring urgent improvement. Emergency response systems remain particularly inadequate, lacking visual alerts and text-based warnings during critical situations like natural disasters or security threats. Healthcare accessibility similarly suffers from communication barriers, with insufficient interpreter services and alternative communication methods.

    The employment landscape presents additional hurdles, as communication gaps during job interviews and workplace interactions prevent skilled deaf individuals from securing and maintaining employment. Romulus emphasizes that reasonable accommodations—including sign language interpreters, workplace captioning, and visual alarm systems—could transform employment prospects.

    Educational institutions likewise fail to provide adequate support for deaf children, who require qualified sign language interpreters to access curriculum content equitably. Beyond physical accommodations, Romulus stresses the necessity of involving deaf individuals in policy-making decisions that directly affect their community.

    Notably, Barbados has demonstrated regional leadership through its Deaf Empowerment Project initiated in 2022. This comprehensive program has advanced communication access, advocacy, and social integration, offering a potential model for Saint Lucia’s own accessibility initiatives.

    The fundamental solution, according to Romulus, requires a paradigm shift in societal attitudes toward deaf citizens—recognizing their capabilities, respecting deaf culture, and ensuring their inclusion in all aspects of community life.

  • Goud, zilver en koper kelderen na winstnemingen en stabilisatie dollar

    Goud, zilver en koper kelderen na winstnemingen en stabilisatie dollar

    Financial markets witnessed a significant reversal in precious metals on Friday as gold, silver, and copper prices retreated sharply from their record-breaking highs earlier in the week. The sell-off was triggered by investors’ growing nervousness over diminishing expectations for aggressive U.S. interest rate cuts and a strengthening dollar.

    The market sentiment shifted dramatically following President Donald Trump’s announcement appointing former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh as the new chairman of the U.S. Central Bank. This development bolstered the dollar index, which measures the currency’s value against other major currencies. Financial analysts perceive Warsh as a more rational policymaker who is less likely to implement substantial rate reductions, prompting investors to unwind their positions in precious metals.

    A stronger dollar typically makes dollar-priced commodities more expensive for holders of other currencies, potentially suppressing demand. This dynamic plays a crucial role in trading decisions for funds that track price movements through sophisticated algorithmic models.

    January had seen remarkable gains for precious metals, with gold advancing 17% and silver surging 39%. Friday’s sharp correction followed several days of relatively low trading volumes during which speculative activity had driven prices to unsustainable levels. Gold declined 4.7% to $5,143.40 per ounce after reaching a record high of $5,594.80 on Thursday. Silver experienced an even more dramatic drop of 11% to $103.40, down from its peak of $121.60.

    Independent analyst Ross Norman observed, ‘Precious metals have rediscovered gravity. Speculators are being reminded that these are markets where prices can move in both directions.’

    Copper also joined the downward trend, losing 1.1% to trade around $13,465 per ton after achieving its own record high of $14,527.50 on Thursday. Following gains of 11% in December and 6% in January, Macquarie analysts noted that the copper market remains volatile and heavily traded.

    With Chinese New Year approaching on February 16th, when China—the world’s largest consumer of industrial metals—will close trading for a week, market participants anticipate further price declines. Chinese investors are particularly keen to reduce their positions to avoid potential volatility during the holiday period.

    Tom Price, analyst at Panmure Liberum, commented: ‘Chinese investors don’t want to risk exposure in these swinging markets. Just look at what happened in merely twelve hours.’