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  • Edwin, Oliver take school 5K titles

    Edwin, Oliver take school 5K titles

    Amidst torrential rainfall at Beausejour, Gros Islet, club-affiliated athletes demonstrated exceptional prowess at the Secondary Schools Road Race on Thursday, December 11. Sir Arthur Lewis Community College emerged as the dominant force with Omarion Edwin and McKayla Oliver clinching top honors in their respective divisions during the challenging five-kilometer competition.

    The race commenced at the northeastern perimeter of Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, with participants navigating a circuit around the facility before proceeding northward along Beausejour Promenade. The route continued past the Saint Lucia Sports Academy toward Bella Rosa Road before culminating back at the cricket ground.

    Edwin, a seasoned competitor from Survivors Track Club with two CARIFTA appearances, secured the Under-18 boys’ title with an impressive time of 18:28. He outpaced Micoud Secondary’s Tafari Martin (18:44) and Choiseul’s Demille Theodore (18:57). In the Under-16 category, Soufriere’s Chaz Alexander delivered a standout performance with a winning time of 18:52, surpassing Tai Joseph (SLSA) and Jamal Cadette (Soufriere).

    SALCC further demonstrated its athletic depth through Daniel Hippolyte’s victory in the U20 boys’ race (19:59), with teammate Daniel Martin securing second place. St Mary’s College’s Jaylan McDonald claimed the U14 title in 21:45, leading Wayndell Etienne (Patricia D James Secondary) and Jervon Charlery (Vieux Fort Comprehensive).

    On the girls’ side, Road Busters athlete McKayla Oliver mastered the adverse conditions to win the U20 division in 23:02, finishing 30 seconds ahead of U14 champion Kayleigh Landers who placed second overall. U18 winner Angelle Joseph completed the top three finishers. The podium was rounded out by SALCC’s Clerissa Placide and SLSA’s Layla Jn Baptiste.

    Joseph captured the U18 girls’ crown in 23:39 representing Clendon Mason Memorial, while CARIFTA athlete Isabelle Emilienne (SLSA) earned bronze. SLSA achieved a remarkable 1-2 finish in the U16 girls category through Laila Nicholas (25:06) and Aria Andrew, with Soufriere’s Kena Butcher taking third. Landers secured her U14 victory in 23:32 for VFCSS, outperforming Daniella Lambert (St Joseph’s Convent) and Briann Jean (SLSA).

  • Nicholas Barnard elected Chamber of Commerce President

    Nicholas Barnard elected Chamber of Commerce President

    The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture has undergone a significant leadership transition with the election of Nicholas Barnard as its new President. Mr. Barnard, who serves as Managing Director of St. Lucia Linen Services Ltd, assumes the role previously held by Ross Gardner of Carasco & Son, who concluded his two-term tenure without seeking re-election.

    This leadership change marks a strategic shift for the premier business advocacy organization, which plays a crucial role in representing private sector interests, facilitating networking opportunities, and influencing economic policy formulation in Saint Lucia. Barnard, having previously served as Vice President under Gardner’s administration, brings continuity and fresh perspective to the position.

    The newly constituted Board of Directors features a diverse representation of Saint Lucia’s business leadership: Eldris Mauricette of Tropical Shipping as First Vice President, Jason King of St. Lucia Distillers Group as Second Vice President, and Ross Gardner as Immediate Past President. The board further comprises nine distinguished directors from various sectors including shipping, retail, insurance, technology, and manufacturing.

    The Chamber’s new leadership team is poised to strengthen collaboration with government entities and other stakeholders to foster a business environment characterized by safety, fairness, and operational effectiveness. The board is scheduled to convene its inaugural meeting on Thursday to establish strategic priorities and operational frameworks for the coming term.

  • Here’s How to Stay Safe This Christmas

    Here’s How to Stay Safe This Christmas

    As Belize enters the final stretch of Christmas preparations, law enforcement agencies have escalated public safety warnings following a disturbing pattern of criminal incidents across the nation. The holiday season has been marred by multiple security breaches, including a brazen early morning burglary at Dangriga Town’s Belize Bank branch where intruders forced entry through rear access points and systematically ransacked teller stations. Although no cash losses have been confirmed, investigators are pursuing a black Ford Escape observed fleeing the scene at high velocity.

    In a separate development, San Pedro’s newly inaugurated Island Supermarket in the Tres Cocos district fell victim to simultaneous break-in and arson attacks merely three days after commencing operations. While no casualties resulted from the incident, emergency responders continue assessing the full extent of structural and inventory damage.

    These security breaches occur against the backdrop of Thursday’s brutal double homicide on the Hummingbird Highway, where delivery drivers Raynard Garbutt and Alexander Crawford were fatally shot during robbery attempts. The cumulative impact of these events has prompted Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith to emphasize integrated security measures, stating: ‘Electronic transactions represent the safest alternative, particularly when robust security infrastructure remains absent.’

    Law enforcement officials are advocating for comprehensive safety protocols encompassing domestic, transportation, and personal security dimensions. Critical recommendations include electrical safety management for seasonal decorations, vigilant kitchen supervision, responsible alcohol consumption, and strict adherence to sober driving practices. Additional advisories cover secure parking utilization, cash minimization through electronic payment alternatives, and proactive reporting of suspicious activities. Authorities particularly stress the importance of environmental awareness after dark and thorough vehicle maintenance checks before intercity travel.

  • Calls for Civic Pride After Trash Left by Roadside

    Calls for Civic Pride After Trash Left by Roadside

    A viral video capturing acts widely condemned as irresponsible and disrespectful to community norms has ignited intense online debate about civic pride and public behavior. The footage, which depicts actions viewed as detrimental to communal spaces, has prompted strong public reactions questioning perceived declines in social responsibility.

    Numerous online commentators have expressed concerns over deteriorating standards of public conduct, with many advocating for stricter enforcement of existing ordinances to prevent similar incidents. Public calls have emerged demanding authorities identify involved individuals and implement suitable penalties, emphasizing that visible accountability is essential for maintaining community standards.

    While officials haven’t confirmed whether a formal investigation has been initiated, the incident has revitalized discussions about personal accountability, respect for shared spaces, and the appropriate role of law enforcement in preserving public order. Community advocates emphasize that restoring civic pride requires dual approaches: comprehensive public education initiatives promoting community values alongside consistent legal enforcement.

    The ongoing discourse reflects broader societal concerns about balancing individual freedoms with collective responsibility, highlighting how digital documentation of public behavior can rapidly influence community standards and policy discussions.

  • Small craft and high surf advisory remains in effect

    Small craft and high surf advisory remains in effect

    Barbados continues to face significant marine hazards as meteorological authorities maintain active advisories for rough sea conditions impacting the island’s coastal regions. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) reported on Monday that powerful Atlantic high-pressure systems are producing sustained winds of 20-30 knots, creating dangerously agitated seas despite minor reductions in swell dimensions.

    Current marine measurements indicate open-water swells averaging 2.5-3.0 meters, with projections suggesting potential escalation to 3.5 meters between Tuesday night and Wednesday. These conditions present substantial risks for small craft operators, particularly those navigating smaller vessels, while beachgoers face equally dangerous surf conditions along shorelines.

    Coastal vulnerability assessments indicate probable beach erosion, especially affecting northern, eastern, and southern coastlines. Multiple beaches are anticipated to experience temporary submersion during high tide cycles. Official warnings emphasize that these conditions could potentially result in injuries or fatalities without proper precautionary measures.

    While gradual improvement is forecasted toward the weekend, meteorological experts caution that the current advisory might escalate to a formal warning if midweek swell intensification occurs. Marine stakeholders are urged to continuously monitor updates from the Barbados Meteorological Services, Department of Emergency Management, National Conservation Commission, and other relevant authorities.

    The advisory remains subject to revision, with an official update scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, or sooner if marine conditions undergo significant alteration.

  • Contestant Sheraine Mills receives full sponsorship for Miss Dominica pageant 2026

    Contestant Sheraine Mills receives full sponsorship for Miss Dominica pageant 2026

    In a significant development for the upcoming Miss Dominica 2026 National Queen Pageant, contestant Sheraine Mills has received a major sponsorship endorsement. Republic Bank (EC) Limited has committed EC$25,000 in financial support through a partnership with the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the Dominica Festivals Committee (DFC).

    The sponsorship was formally announced at a sash presentation ceremony where Mills, designated as contestant number 3, expressed profound gratitude for the backing. She simultaneously unveiled her substantive advocacy platform focused on women’s health: ‘Breaking the Stigma: Empowering Women Confidently Confronting PCOS.’

    Mills, who personally lives with polycystic ovarian syndrome, articulated her mission to become a vocal advocate for the condition she describes as ‘common yet often misunderstood.’ Her platform aims to foster greater awareness, understanding, and empowerment for women navigating life with PCOS, whom she refers to as ‘silent warriors.’

    Republic Bank’s Country Manager, Mrs. Sharlene Polydore-Pascal, framed the sponsorship as an extension of the bank’s commitment to employee development and national talent. ‘By supporting Sheraine, we are sending a clear message: our people matter, our youth matter and Dominican talent deserves to shine on the biggest stages,’ Polydore-Pascal stated, highlighting Mills’ embodiment of the ‘strength, intelligence and ambition of today’s Dominican professionals.’

    The Discover Dominica Authority publicly commended the bank’s investment, characterizing it as an initiative that ‘sets a high standard and inspires others to invest in excellence, empowerment, and Dominican pride.’ The DDA’s statement concluded with an open call for additional partners to support the 2026 pageant, signaling the importance of corporate sponsorship in national cultural events.

  • Argentina: Vandal attack on Union Leader’s Office condemned

    Argentina: Vandal attack on Union Leader’s Office condemned

    In a brazen act of political intimidation, masked assailants forcibly entered the headquarters of the Seivara union in the early hours, specifically targeting and vandalizing the offices of its leadership. The incident is widely perceived as a direct threat against union officials who have been vocal in their opposition to the contentious labor reform proposed by President Javier Milei’s right-wing administration.

    The timing of the assault is particularly significant, occurring during the same week that the government’s labor reform bill, backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), entered congressional debate. The Buenos Aires branch of the Peronist Justicialist Party (PJ) swiftly issued a press release contextualizing the attack within what it describes as the national government’s broader encroachment on workers’ rights, just days before a major demonstration called by the General Confederation of Labor (CGT).

    Union representatives, including Jeronimo, were quick to condemn the action, characterizing it not as an isolated event but as a calculated move during a critically sensitive period for the labor movement. The official statement from the union forcefully asserted, ‘These attempts to intimidate those rejecting the IMF-backed bill championed by Federico Sturzenegger, Patricia Bullrich, and Milei prove that the government’s objective is not to debate but to subjugate workers and instill fear among opponents of its austerity measures and deregulatory agenda.’

    In a show of solidarity, both the CGT and the glassworkers’ union released separate communiqués denouncing the vandalism. They unanimously declared that such tactics would fail to derail the labor movement’s resolve, reaffirming their determination to defeat a reform they view as a severe attack on fundamental workers’ rights and a concession to international financial interests.

  • Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill Re-Elected President of the Administration and Budget Committee of the Bureau International des Expositions

    Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill Re-Elected President of the Administration and Budget Committee of the Bureau International des Expositions

    In a decisive reaffirmation of her leadership capabilities, Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill has been re-elected to the prestigious role of President for the Administration and Budget Committee of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). This critical appointment positions her at the helm of the organization’s financial governance and strategic fiscal planning for a new term.

    The Administration and Budget Committee, a cornerstone of the BIE’s operational structure, is tasked with overseeing the financial integrity and budgetary allocations for World Expos—global events that attract millions of visitors and showcase international innovation. Hill’s re-election underscores the confidence member states have in her expertise to manage complex multinational budgets and ensure the financial sustainability of these monumental gatherings.

    Her continued presidency is expected to bring stability and experienced oversight to upcoming expositions, including Expo 2025 Osaka. Diplomats and international policy analysts view this re-election as a move that guarantees consistent fiscal stewardship, which is paramount for the successful execution of large-scale international cooperation projects. Hill’s proven track record in navigating the financial complexities of previous expos played a significant role in her unanimous support.

  • CARICOM IMPACS joins forces to facilitate major drug bust in USVI

    CARICOM IMPACS joins forces to facilitate major drug bust in USVI

    In a decisive strike against transnational narcotics trafficking, a sophisticated multinational operation has culminated in the interception of a massive 772-kilogram cocaine shipment and the apprehension of six suspects in the territorial waters of the Virgin Islands. The high-impact mission, executed between December 8 and 9, 2025, exemplifies the potency of cross-border law enforcement collaboration.

    The operation was spearheaded by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), which facilitated critical intelligence sharing. This coordinated effort united the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), His Majesty’s Customs, and United States Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) personnel.

    Authorities initiated the interdiction following actionable intelligence reports indicating suspicious maritime movements within the Virgin Islands’ jurisdiction. The precise intelligence exchange enabled targeted surveillance and subsequent interception of the vessel involved, leading to the successful seizure and arrests.

    Lt. Col. Michael Jones, Executive Director of CARICOM IMPACS, emphasized the strategic significance of the operation: “This achievement stands as a profound testament to regional and international cooperation in safeguarding our shared maritime domains. The seamless coordination and real-time intelligence flow among all partners reflect our steadfast resolve to dismantle criminal networks jeopardizing Caribbean security.”

    Acting Interim Police Commissioner Richard Ullger lauded the operational team’s professionalism and rapid response, acknowledging the inherent dangers of such missions. He underscored the damaging impact this seizure inflicts on organized crime syndicates operating across the region.

    The six individuals in custody now face serious charges including drug importation and possession with intent to supply. They remain detained pending proceedings before a Magistrate’s Court.

  • Communists in Chile call for unity to defend social gains

    Communists in Chile call for unity to defend social gains

    Following a decisive electoral outcome that saw far-right candidate José Antonio Kast secure a substantial victory over progressive contender Jeannette Jara, the Communist Party of Chile (PCCh) has issued a stark warning about the future of the nation’s social safety net. In an official communiqué released after Sunday’s polls, the party emphasized that fundamental achievements including the Universal Guaranteed Pension, the 40-hour workweek, free public healthcare, women’s rights, and broader social protections face imminent risk in a politically fragmented society.

    The PCCh framed national unity not merely as a strategic electoral choice but as an essential obligation to the citizenry. While acknowledging and respecting the democratic will expressed through the ballot box, a customary practice for the party at every historical juncture, it simultaneously issued a call to action for its members and the general populace to embark on a process of rebuilding collective trust.

    Central to its message was a directive for deeper listening and a renewed focus on engaging the entire country in conversations about core issues. The party leadership stressed that ensuring a dignified and just life for all citizens remains an achievable goal. Furthermore, the statement formally recognized the extensive efforts of candidate Jeannette Jara and her campaign team. Looking forward, the PCCh underscored the critical importance of returning to grassroots mobilization within local communities and identified forging a stronger, more inclusive unity among the Chilean people as the paramount task ahead.