Carib Scope

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  • 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.’

  • Nicki Minaj Gets Trump “Gold Card,” paving her way to U.S citizenship

    Nicki Minaj Gets Trump “Gold Card,” paving her way to U.S citizenship

    Rapper Nicki Minaj has ignited widespread speculation about her immigration status after publicly sharing an image of what appears to be President Donald Trump’s premium ‘Gold Card’ initiative. The controversial post emerged mere hours after Minaj joined the former president at a promotional event for his ‘Trump Accounts’ program, which establishes tax-advantaged investment vehicles for American minors.

    The Trinidad-born artist, who relocated to the United States during her childhood, maintains legal permanent residency status despite having paid millions in U.S. taxes. During the financial summit, Minaj enthusiastically declared herself ‘probably the president’s number one fan,’ while Trump revealed her substantial six-figure investment in his accounts initiative.

    This political alignment has generated significant backlash from portions of her fanbase, particularly following her December appearance at a Turning Point USA event where her comments on gender and faith drew accusations of transphobia. This represents a notable shift for the artist, who previously positioned herself as a LGBTQ+ ally and vocal critic of Trump’s immigration policies during his first term.

    The premium immigration program reportedly plans to introduce an even more exclusive ‘Platinum Card’ tier, requiring a $5 million contribution and granting holders extended U.S. stays without taxation on foreign income. Minaj has not confirmed whether she formally applied for or obtained the Gold Card, leaving her intentions and immigration status ambiguous.

  • WATCH: There Are Too Many Decrepit Buildings in St. John’s, PM says

    WATCH: There Are Too Many Decrepit Buildings in St. John’s, PM says

    In a strategic move to accelerate the transformation of the nation’s capital, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a compelling appeal to property owners throughout St. John’s, urging them to initiate immediate aesthetic enhancements to their buildings. This call to action comes as the government prepares to launch extensive road and drainage infrastructure projects across the city.

    Addressing citizens during a public consultation forum on the capital’s future development, Prime Minister Browne emphasized that significant urban improvement doesn’t necessarily require massive reconstruction investments. He articulated that many structures simply require basic cosmetic attention—fresh paint, window replacements, and general maintenance—to achieve substantial visual transformation.

    “We’re not asking for monumental financial commitments,” Browne clarified to attendees. “Many buildings merely need superficial upgrades that can generate immediate positive impact on our city’s appearance while we undertake the larger infrastructure overhaul.”

    The Prime Minister outlined a dual-path approach to urban renewal, positioning government-led infrastructure works and private property enhancements as complementary components of a comprehensive strategy. While the state will execute major public works including road rebuilding and drainage system modernization, Browne stressed that parallel efforts from property owners are essential for achieving meaningful urban transformation.

    Browne’s proposal establishes a collaborative framework for urban development, suggesting that simultaneous action from both public and private sectors will accelerate St. John’s renewal process. This coordinated approach prevents the city’s visual improvement from being delayed until completion of all infrastructure projects, creating immediate visible progress while long-term upgrades continue.

    The government’s commitment to infrastructure modernization, combined with voluntary property enhancements, represents an innovative model for urban revitalization that balances public investment with private sector participation in creating more attractive urban environments.

  • Youth Forum to build on legacy of laureates Walcott and Lewis

    Youth Forum to build on legacy of laureates Walcott and Lewis

    Saint Lucia is set to host the groundbreaking Creativity and Innovation Youth Forum on January 31, organized by the Caribbean Film & Media Academy under Imagine Media International Limited. This initiative, strategically aligned with the Nobel Laureate Festival, targets young Caribbean citizens aged 13-21 with an ambitious agenda to develop essential life skills beyond conventional content creation.

    According to academy founder Lisa Wickham, the forum represents a significant evolution from last year’s Teen Creators Academy in Trinidad and Tobago. “While young people naturally gravitate toward content creation, our mission focuses on building foundational capabilities including team collaboration, resilience, and critical analysis,” Wickham explained. “We’re integrating these vital competencies within creative frameworks to elevate regional thinking capacity.”

    The forum consciously honors Caribbean intellectual heritage, drawing inspiration from Nobel laureates Derek Walcott and Sir Arthur Lewis. Wickham revealed the event’s conception emerged through collaboration with late colleague Lisa Joseph and veteran broadcaster Don Evelyn, who recognized the natural synergy with Saint Lucia’s Nobel Laureate Festival.

    Participants from diverse schools and youth organizations will experience interactive workshops featuring notable facilitators. Tatiana Ali, former star of ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ turned accomplished producer and philanthropist, will lead storytelling sessions. Dr. Vaughn Raspberry, Associate Vice Provost for Education at Stanford University, will explore connections between narrative arts and academic scholarship.

    “We’re examining how storytelling and scholarship intersect and influence each other,” Wickham articulated. “This addresses crucial questions about how Caribbean youth shape regional identity narratives and assert our presence on the global stage.”

    The initiative aims to spark a transformative wave of critical thinking reminiscent of the region’s foundational leaders in the 1950s-60s. Looking toward the future, Wickham envisions bringing young Caribbean filmmakers to the 2027 Pan-African Film Festival as part of ongoing development programs encompassing creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

    Addressing technological challenges, Wickham advocates for engaging young minds with stimulating alternatives to passive screen time. Based on previous successful experiments with device-free learning environments, she emphasizes: “When we provide exciting creative opportunities, young people naturally transcend digital distractions. Our approach embraces technology as an enhancement tool rather than a babysitting substitute.”

    As evidence of this balanced perspective, Wickham recently produced an AI-generated music video for Trinidadian soca artist Shurwayne Winchester, demonstrating her commitment to harnessing emerging technologies for creative advancement.

    The hands-on forum will commence at 8:30 AM on January 31 at the Pastoral Centre in Marisule, representing a significant investment in the Caribbean’s future creative leadership.

  • Sammy House on top again at SLSA sports meet

    Sammy House on top again at SLSA sports meet

    Sammy House successfully defended its championship title at the Saint Lucia Sports Academy’s 2026 Track Championships, held January 29th at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. The reigning champions secured victory with 383 total points, outpacing former back-to-back winners Jean House (358 points) and Spencer House (275 points) in a closely contested competition.

    The championships showcased emerging athletic talent across multiple age categories. Despite operating with a smaller student population than larger institutions—fielding just one girls’ division and two boys’ divisions—SLSA demonstrated remarkable competitive depth. The event was notably impacted by the absence of at least three top athletes who were simultaneously representing Saint Lucia on the national Under-17 girls’ football team.

    Isabella Emilienne of Jean House delivered a standout performance in the open girls’ category, achieving an unusual double victory by winning the 100m in 13.2 seconds and her specialty event, the 400m, in 1:04.4. The talented CARIFTA games veteran also anchored Jean’s winning 4x100m relay team that clocked 54.7 seconds. Spencer House responded with a victory in the girls’ 4x400m relay, finishing in 4:47.6 and narrowly holding off Jean’s challenge.

    In the Under-20 boys’ division, Giovanni John of Spencer House dominated the sprint events, capturing gold in both the 100m (11.7 seconds) and 200m (25.2 seconds). John later led Spencer’s 4x100m relay team to victory in 48.9 seconds. Spencer further demonstrated their distance running prowess with Clint Dickson winning the 1500m in 5:23.2 and anchoring the triumphant 4x400m relay team that finished in 4:09.5.

    Sammy House established their championship credentials particularly in the Under-16 boys’ category, securing six gold medals. Tai Joseph delivered a distance double with victories in both the 1500m (5:20.6) and 800m (2:39.4). Stephen Abbot claimed the 400m title in 57.6 seconds, while Evan Gilbert won the 200m in 25.6 seconds. The only event that escaped Sammy’s dominance was the 100m, won by Leon Vidal in 12.0 seconds. Sammy reasserted their team strength in the relay events, winning both the 4x100m (51.2 seconds) and 4x400m (4:16.6) with commanding performances.