标签： Dominica

Dominicans both at home and abroad are enthusiastically encouraged to proudly display their national flag today as Dominica commemorates ‘Flag Day.’ This special day, established by the Cultural Division, is an integral part of the country’s Independence Celebrations, aimed at fostering national pride and recognition of the flag as a symbol of unity and identity. The current design of the Dominican flag, adopted on November 3, 1988, is renowned for its intricate and meaningful composition. It features a circular emblem of red, showcasing a blue-chested Sisserou Parrot perched on a twig, always facing the flagpole. The parrot is encircled by ten lime green stars outlined in yellow, set against a backdrop of forest green. The flag also incorporates a triple-colored cross formed by three vertical and three horizontal stripes of yellow, black, and white. Each element of the flag carries profound significance, reflecting the nation’s heritage and values. The original flag, designed by the late Dr. Alwin Bully, was unveiled on November 3, 1978, following a national competition. Notably, Dominica’s flag stands out globally with its eight colors, making it one of the most complex and costly flags to produce.

In the annals of Dominica’s maritime history, Neville Ellison Wade stands as a beacon of ingenuity, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Born in Portsmouth, Wade was not merely a boat builder but a visionary entrepreneur and master mariner whose craftsmanship and ventures left an indelible mark on Dominica’s economic and cultural landscape. His life was a testament to innovation, perseverance, and a deep commitment to his community and craft. From his early entrepreneurial endeavors to his groundbreaking achievements in shipbuilding and navigation, Wade’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Wade’s journey began in the 1950s when, as a young boy, he built his first dinghy using grocery crates and breadfruit milk as glue. This early project foreshadowed a career marked by extraordinary accomplishments. By 1965, he had constructed a 20-foot boat powered by a converted car engine, demonstrating his relentless determination and mechanical prowess. Over the decades, Wade’s maritime ventures expanded significantly. He engineered cradles for hauling ships, acquired and outfitted commercial vessels, and successfully salvaged wrecks that others deemed impossible. His Atlantic crossings, including voyages on vessels like the M.V. Teresia and the Amazing Grace, solidified his reputation as a master navigator. Wade’s contributions extended beyond shipbuilding. He was a mentor, teacher, and community builder who inspired young Dominicans to dream beyond their island’s shores. In 2022, he joined Rebuild Dominica Inc., a U.S.-based nonprofit focused on agriculture, education, and community development, further cementing his role in nation-building. Neville Wade’s life was also defined by his faith and service. Whether negotiating overseas deals or gifting his labor for Portsmouth’s betterment, he embodied humility and strength. His legacy, often unrecorded in official histories, serves as a reminder of the unsung heroes who shape nations. As Dominica continues to honor its independence, Wade’s work stands as a testament to the creativity and perseverance of its people. His story is one of transforming challenges into opportunities and wreckage into renewal, ensuring that Portsmouth remains a center of maritime industry and innovation.

The Dominica Calypso Association (DCA) has successfully navigated a period of constitutional controversy and leadership uncertainty by electing a new nine-member executive team. The elections, held on October 11 at the Dominica Calypso House, saw approximately 40 Calypsonians casting their votes to select eight new executive members. These individuals will join Joey Lloyd, who was previously elected as the caretaker executive member following the resignation of the former leadership amid constitutional disputes. The newly elected members include Daddy Chess, who received the highest number of votes with 34, followed by Karessa with 31. Peter Letang, Bingo, and Oracle each secured 30 votes, while Royette garnered 27, Tronada received 23, and Mystery rounded out the list with 18 votes. The executive comprises seven men and two women, forming a leadership team tasked with revitalizing the DCA and preparing for the upcoming Calypso season, which begins in less than three months with the elimination round. Narrin Murphy, former Treasurer of the DCA, shared the results and extended his support to the incoming executive. ‘We take the opportunity to wish the current executive the very, very best as they prepare for the 2026 season,’ Murphy stated. ‘It’s not really easy, but we will give the full support we can when requested.’ The elections mark a turning point for the DCA, which has recently faced internal challenges. Former president Ian Jackson confirmed that several members of the outgoing executive had exceeded constitutional term limits, prompting a petition from some members and calls for reform. The petitioners claim that the October 11 elections were held to restore constitutional integrity and public confidence in the association’s governance. With the 2026 Calypso season rapidly approaching, the newly elected executive is expected to promptly begin preparations for DCA-organized events, provide robust support to artists, and strengthen the cultural significance of Calypso in Dominica.

A westward-moving pulse of moisture is set to bring intermittent cloud cover and scattered showers to the region today. Breezy conditions are also anticipated, adding to the dynamic weather pattern. Additionally, a slight rise in Saharan dust concentration is expected to persist throughout the weekend, posing potential challenges for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. Authorities advise taking necessary precautions to mitigate health risks. Meanwhile, marine conditions will vary, with wave heights reaching up to 3 feet along the west coast and 7 feet on the east coast. Small craft operators and sea bathers are urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution.

During the annual Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas Memorial Lecture held at the State House Conference Centre on Thursday, Matthias “Matt” Peltier Jr., a renowned talk show host and radio personality, made a compelling appeal to the Dominica Labour Party (DLP). Peltier urged the government to establish a scholarship program for local media workers in memory of the late Prime Minister Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas. He proposed that the scholarship be awarded every three years to support young media professionals. Additionally, Peltier called for the enactment of a Freedom of Information Bill to enhance transparency and accessibility to information in Dominica. He emphasized the necessity of these measures, stating, ‘I think that is very, very necessary.’ Peltier highlighted Douglas’s unique relationship with the media, noting that during his 30-year career, he had never encountered a prime minister as accessible and open to the press as Douglas. ‘You had access to him 24-7. Doesn’t matter what time you call, he might be in the bathroom, he would tell you to hold on then he will return your call,’ Peltier reminisced. Rosie Douglas, who passed away on October 1, 2000, served as Prime Minister for just eight months following his election on January 31 of that year.