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  • Owner Appeals for Public Assistance to Identify Suspected Thieves

    Owner Appeals for Public Assistance to Identify Suspected Thieves

    A property owner has issued a public appeal for assistance in identifying two individuals captured on surveillance footage following a reported theft incident. The circulated video evidence, characterized by its limited clarity, fails to provide distinct facial details of the persons involved. Despite this visual constraint, the proprietor suggests the suspects might still be recognizable through distinguishing physical characteristics, including their unique gait and general body morphology. Authorities have been approached, yet it remains officially unconfirmed whether a formal police investigation has been initiated. The property owner is encouraging anyone with potentially relevant information to step forward and assist in the identification process. Further specifics regarding the stolen items or the exact location and time of the incident have not been disclosed to the public at this time.

  • Simon House leads the charge at BCGRCP sports meet

    Simon House leads the charge at BCGRCP sports meet

    In a vibrant display of youthful athleticism and school spirit, Simon (Red House) claimed victory at the Bishop Charles Gachet RC Primary School’s annual track and field meet. The event, hosted at Mindoo Philip Park this past Wednesday, saw Red House secure a commanding win with 401 total points. They were followed by Quinlan (Green House) in second place with 344 points, and George (Blue House) in third with 238 points.

    Principal Alison Lewis, in a discussion with St Lucia Times, emphasized that the competition’s purpose extends far beyond determining a winner on the track. She framed the event as a critical component of the school’s holistic education strategy, designed to foster essential life skills and personal development outside the traditional classroom setting.

    “Participation in sports is fundamental for character development,” Lewis stated. “It instills the value of teamwork while simultaneously encouraging children to strive for their personal best. For some students who may face academic challenges, the track becomes a venue where they can excel and build immense self-confidence. This newfound belief in their abilities invariably transfers to their academic pursuits, creating a positive feedback loop of achievement.”

    The event was notably bolstered by strong community involvement, with parents enthusiastically filling the stands to cheer on the young athletes. Principal Lewis highlighted their indispensable dual role, noting that their support went beyond mere spectatorship. With a limited teaching staff stretched thin across various organizational duties—from managing the public address system to directing the meet and managing concessions—parental assistance with supervision was crucial for the event’s seamless execution.

    School facilitators expressed strong confidence that the values promoted through such activities—including discipline, cooperation, and resilience—are instrumental in nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for success both on and off the field.

  • Eli Fuller responds to open invitation by PM Browne

    Eli Fuller responds to open invitation by PM Browne

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – A significant dialogue is set to unfold between Antigua and Barbuda’s political leadership and tourism industry representatives following Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s invitation to address longstanding structural imbalances in the sector. Prominent tourism stakeholder Eli Fuller has accepted the Prime Minister’s offer for a Saturday discussion on Point FM, signaling a potential turning point for local entrepreneurship in the islands’ dominant economic industry.

    The forthcoming conversation, initiated through Browne’s public invitation this week, aims to develop concrete strategies for expanding domestic ownership and more effectively incorporating the nation’s cultural heritage into its tourism offerings. Fuller responded with enthusiastic acceptance, expressing hope that the dialogue would finally address systemic challenges that have persistently disadvantaged local investors.

    In his detailed online response, Fuller highlighted the paradoxical reality that foreign investors frequently encounter fewer barriers to tourism sector entry than native Antiguans and Barbudans. “Local people face competitive disadvantages across multiple tourism sectors,” Fuller asserted, emphasizing that current frameworks inadvertently favor external capital over domestic entrepreneurship.

    This acknowledgment from the highest levels of government comes after years of advocacy from industry professionals. Fuller revealed he had raised identical concerns during a tourism conference with former opposition leader Harold Lovell several years prior, indicating the persistent nature of these structural issues.

    While welcoming the Prime Minister’s engagement as a positive development, Fuller maintained a cautiously optimistic stance, stressing that dialogue must translate into actionable policies. “I’m encouraged that Gaston Browne is articulating the right priorities,” Fuller noted, “but previous ministers have made similar commitments without delivering substantive change. What we require now is implementation, not just discussion.”

    The Saturday forum represents a critical opportunity to rebalance Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism economy, potentially creating more equitable conditions for local business owners while preserving the islands’ unique cultural identity within their primary industry.

  • Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    Roadworks around power poles spark safety concerns

    A critical infrastructure project in Saint Lucia has reached an impasse due to a financial disagreement between the contracted construction firm and the national electricity provider, raising significant safety concerns for northern commuters.

    The Norbert Road rehabilitation project, designed to alleviate traffic congestion on the Sir Julian R Hunte Highway, has advanced to its final phase with construction occurring around existing electricity poles. Rayneau Gajadhar, owner of Rayneau Construction & Industrial Products Ltd., revealed his team proceeded with work after four formal requests for a detailed cost breakdown from Saint Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) were denied. The utility company had provided an estimated quote of $554,878.86 for relocating electrical infrastructure.

    “It’s impossible for us to be paying all those monies out and not know what you’re going to do and what we’re paying for,” Gajadhar stated in a social media video addressing the situation. His company has since installed reflective markers on the poles to enhance nighttime visibility as an interim safety measure.

    LUCELEC Managing Director Gilroy Pultie confirmed in an official statement that the company received the contractor’s request and has been engaged in discussions with both the contractor and overseeing government ministry over the past fortnight. “We have subsequently provided further breakdown of the cost. It is under discussion,” Pultie stated, expressing expectation that the ministry would provide feedback within days.

    The electricity provider defended its pricing methodology, explaining that it employs standard unit rates for materials and labor. Pultie emphasized the company’s responsibility to manage costs prudently to avoid passing unnecessary expenses to consumers through tariff adjustments. “Costs like the relocation of lines associated with roadworks should be treated and passed on to the government, or the agency or the contractor as part of the project,” he asserted.

    The managing director called for more responsible planning of future infrastructure projects, stressing the need for improved coordination among all stakeholders to prevent similar situations where utility infrastructure becomes public hazards.

    Meanwhile, northern residents and daily commuters who regularly use Norbert Road to avoid highway gridlock have expressed growing concerns about safety prioritization. One Bonneterre Gardens resident told local media that the apparent disregard for pedestrian and motorist safety represents “really bad optics for both companies” amidst their financial dispute.

    With approximately 21-25 electrical poles and sections of the distribution network requiring relocation, further delays now appear inevitable for the government’s congestion-reduction initiative.

  • Purple breaks 40-year drought to win Springer Memorial interhouse title

    Purple breaks 40-year drought to win Springer Memorial interhouse title

    In a historic athletic showdown, Purple House emerged victorious at the Dasani Barbados Secondary Schools Athletic Championships (BSSAC), securing their first interhouse sports title in forty years. The thrilling competition, hosted at the Usain Bolt Complex, culminated with Purple amassing 408 points to narrowly defeat Yellow House, which finished second with 380 points. Blue House captured third place with 361.50 points, followed by Green in fourth (340 points) and Red in fifth (263.50 points).

    The event showcased exceptional individual performances, with Purple’s Kanedra Morgan earning the prestigious senior Victrix Ludorum title after accumulating 67 points. Shataniya Straker-Ifill of Red House claimed the junior Victrix Ludorum honor. The title of “fastest girl” went to Yellow House’s Destinee Bruce, who achieved a personal best of 12.95 seconds in the Under-20 Girls’ 100m event. Bruce expressed elation with her performance, noting concerns about her start transformed into a triumphant race that positions her well for CARIFTA Games qualification in her primary hurdle events.

    Springer Memorial Principal Sonja Goodridge praised the event’s organization and competitive atmosphere, highlighting the school’s remarkable legacy of 19 BSSAC girls’ titles, including 14 consecutive victories. Optimistic about securing a twentieth championship this year, Goodridge affirmed the school’s commitment to its motto: “steadfast and motivated, soaring to success.”

    Concurrently, Deighton Griffith Secondary hosted its rescheduled meet, featuring intensely contested 200m races across divisions. Roshae Broome of Blue House delivered a dominant performance in the Under-20 Boys’ 200m, potentially establishing a new record pending official confirmation. Broome, who earlier competed in the 100m and 400m events, aims to achieve qualifying times for the CARIFTA Games in both sprint disciplines. His mother, Aisha Graham, provided enthusiastic support, emphasizing her role as his primary cheerleader despite the demanding schedule.

    At the Usain Bolt Complex, Coleridge and Parry School concluded their athletic championships with Set A (Yellow) claiming top honors with 906 points, followed by Set B (Red) with 872 points and Set C (Blue) with 681 points. Set F (Purple), Set D (Green), and Set E (Orange) completed the standings with 598, 584, and 399 points respectively.

  • Nearly 1 000 tonnes of relief airlifted from Barbados to Jamaica

    Nearly 1 000 tonnes of relief airlifted from Barbados to Jamaica

    The Caribbean Regional Logistics Hub in Barbados has demonstrated its vital role in disaster response, facilitating the rapid delivery of nearly 1,000 metric tonnes of emergency supplies to Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. According to Brian Bogart, Representative and Country Director for the World Food Programme’s Caribbean Multi-Country Office, the hub enabled an unprecedented coordinated response to the most destructive storm in Jamaica’s history.

    The Category 5 hurricane struck the island on October 28, causing widespread destruction across communities from the south coast to Montego Bay, severely damaging housing infrastructure and disrupting access to basic necessities. In response, the Barbados-based hub mobilized 982 metric tonnes of critical supplies—equivalent to 55 shipping containers—within days of impact.

    The consolidated relief effort included contributions from multiple United Nations agencies, international governments, and NGO partners, providing essential shelter materials, water purification systems, sanitation supplies, food provisions, energy equipment, and logistical assets. The strategic positioning of the hub allowed for remarkably efficient coordination, with Bogart revealing that vessel loading operations commenced in Barbados while Hurricane Melissa was still actively affecting Jamaica.

    This multi-partner platform represents a significant advancement in regional disaster response capabilities, leveraging military assets from French and Dutch navies alongside private sector transportation resources. The integrated approach has dramatically reduced traditional lead times that previously required supply lines from distant ports in Panama or Miami.

    The hub’s effectiveness was highlighted during a recent emergency logistics coordination simulation exercise designed to strengthen regional preparedness mechanisms. As climate-related disasters intensify across the Caribbean, the successful response to Hurricane Melissa underscores the critical importance of maintaining strategic logistics infrastructure for future emergency scenarios.

  • Heavy weather: Port operations hit by high waves

    Heavy weather: Port operations hit by high waves

    Significant maritime disruptions have struck the Caribbean as powerful ocean swells continue to batter the region, forcing the complete suspension of operations at Barbados’ primary shipping hub. Since Tuesday, the Port of Bridgetown has been unable to accommodate cargo vessels due to hazardous marine conditions, creating substantial logistical delays and leaving multiple ships stranded offshore.

    Barbados Port Inc. confirmed the operational standstill in an official statement released Thursday, noting that the severe swell conditions represent a regional phenomenon affecting multiple ports across the Caribbean. The situation gained public attention through viral social media footage captured from Trevor’s Way shoreline park, which visually documented the queue of commercial vessels anchored indefinitely off the coast.

    The port authority reported that the deteriorating conditions have already forced operational adjustments, including one vessel that had to abort its berthing attempt on Wednesday morning when conditions within the port became unsafe for continuing operations. Currently, four cargo ships—Tropic Express, CFS Horizon, Seaboard Ocean, and Iremos—remain anchored offshore awaiting clearance. An additional vessel, Orchid Ace, was scheduled for arrival Thursday evening.

    Despite having two vessel operations tentatively planned for Thursday night, port officials emphasized they would prioritize safety over schedule, committing to resume operations only when marine conditions improve to safe levels. The ongoing situation has created a domino effect on supply chains, delaying the critical discharge of imported goods and commodities at the island nation’s primary commercial gateway.

  • Great Barbadian journalist’s last surviving child, is 100

    Great Barbadian journalist’s last surviving child, is 100

    Barbados witnessed a remarkable celebration of longevity as Barbara Joan Wickham-Mitchell, affectionately known as “Mimo”, reached her centennial milestone surrounded by family and dignitaries at her Christ Church residence. The Thursday gathering transformed into a national tribute when President Jeffrey Bostic personally delivered champagne, flowers, and an official birthday card to the celebrated centenarian.

    Demonstrating the sharp cognitive abilities that have defined her later years, Wickham-Mitchell read the presidential message aloud before captivating guests with vivid storytelling and humor. When queried about her century-long journey, she responded with characteristic simplicity: “Great.” The independent centenarian continues to manage her own daily routines, preferring home-based relaxation while maintaining her culinary passion for coconut bread.

    Her life story reflects Barbados’ modern history: raised in Government Hill, she briefly resided in the United States before returning to her homeland during the 1960s. She established the notable Pelican Restaurant on Pelican Island while simultaneously maintaining active roles in both community affairs and the Religious Science Church in Cave Hill, St Michael.

    The Wickham family legacy carries significant historical weight. Her father, Clennell Wickham, served as editor of The Herald newspaper and emerged as a pivotal figure in Barbados’ interwar democratic movement. His political activism forced exile to Grenada following a libel lawsuit concerning his refusal to endorse Walter Bayley’s merchant candidacy. He subsequently edited The West Indian newspaper until his premature death at age 43 in 1938.

    Family tributes highlighted Wickham-Mitchell’s extraordinary resilience and philosophical depth. Nephew Peter Wickham, a prominent political scientist, emphasized her pragmatic spirituality: “She would never debate whether Jesus walked on water but can speak extensively on the virtues God would want to impress upon us.” He recalled her distinctive approach to faith: “One should spend less time praying for a miracle and more time giving thanks that God has provided you with the knowledge to study, learn and work hard to make this miracle happen.”

    Her strength manifested through simultaneous caregiving for multiple family members while operating her business enterprise. Despite advanced age, she maintains impressive independence, navigating stairs with determination that surpasses most contemporaries. Her organizational methodology includes meticulous documentation of everything from meal preparation to social scheduling, consistently advocating that “you should write it down.”

    The centenarian values authentic human connection, preferring face-to-face interactions for their nuanced communication potential. Her family tree includes six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, extending the Wickham legacy that previously saw her aunt Barbara achieve 109 years. Having outlived her husband Anthony Mitchell, she leaves one biological child alongside stepchildren who joined in celebrating a life embodying Barbados’ cultural and historical tapestry.

  • U.S. Calls on Governments to Reject Cuban Medical Missions Citing Forced Labor Abuses

    U.S. Calls on Governments to Reject Cuban Medical Missions Citing Forced Labor Abuses

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The United States has issued a forceful condemnation of Cuba’s overseas medical missions program, categorizing it as a system of forced labor and calling for international accountability. In a statement from the US Embassy in Barbados, American officials declared their commitment to holding Cuban regime officials and foreign government partners responsible for facilitating these practices.

    The US position asserts that foreign governments participating in these medical programs, despite documented human rights abuses, become complicit in the Cuban government’s tactics. According to the statement, these actions directly contribute to the exploitation of Cuban medical workers who serve abroad under questionable conditions.

    The diplomatic communication emphasizes that Caribbean nations have ethical alternatives for recruiting foreign medical professionals to address their healthcare needs. The United States is urging all governments and citizens to reject forced labor schemes and join American efforts to demand greater accountability and respect for fundamental human rights principles in international medical cooperation programs.

    This development represents a significant escalation in the US campaign against Cuba’s medical diplomacy program, which has been operational for decades and has deployed thousands of healthcare professionals worldwide, particularly throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

  • Dodelijk verkeersongeval aan Kwattaweg eist leven van bromfietser

    Dodelijk verkeersongeval aan Kwattaweg eist leven van bromfietser

    A tragic single-vehicle accident has resulted in the death of a scooter rider during the early morning hours along Kwattaweg. The victim, identified as 25-year-old M.R., succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite emergency response efforts.

    Preliminary police investigation indicates that the young man was traveling from Derderijweg toward Henry Fernandesweg when the incident occurred. Near the Kwattamarkt area, authorities suspect excessive speed caused the rider to lose control of his handlebars. The scooter veered off the roadway and collided with tremendous force against an EBS utility pole located in the left shoulder.

    The impact proved immediately fatal for the scooter operator. Paramedics and an emergency physician dispatched to the location determined the injuries were incompatible with life. Medical personnel confirmed death at the scene, unable to provide any life-saving measures due to the severity of the trauma sustained.

    This early morning tragedy marks another sobering reminder of road safety concerns, particularly regarding two-wheeled vehicles and speed management on urban thoroughfares. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the exact contributing factors behind this fatal loss of control incident.