THE VINCENTIAN PDF-10-07-26- FOR WEB

Tyrique 'Dfusion' Thomas

Chanique Bailey Calypso Monarch 2026

Jasper 'Jasper YMC' Alexander Power Soca Monarch 2026

Chanique lifts the Kaiso crown

National Calypso Monarch process was concerned, rendered a number entitled “Lift Me Up” in a controlled delivery, not overworked like some of the other contenders for the title, and lifted herself upon the pedestal of Calypso in SVG, when she was adjudged the 2026 Calypso Monarch.

Interestingly, her victory marked the 25th anniversary of the first time a female won the Calypso Monarch title, when Bridgette “Joy C” Creese was crowned monarch.

And as if to highlight that Chanique’s victory was more than just a title, her victory in 2026 marked the tenth time a female was taking the title since Joy-c’s victory in 2001. There were twentyfour titles up for grabs in that period.

IT HAS TAKEN SOME FIFTY-SEVEN(57) years for an achievement in the National Calypso Monarch competition in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to be repeated.

Chanique Bailey, one of two finalists in the 2026 Calypso Monarch competition representing the New York-based Dynamites Calypso Tent and a debutant in all sense of the word as far as her participation in the

More was to be written into her victory as she led the dominance of the females in this year’s competition with former monarchs Chaunelle Mckenzie (2019) and Lornette “Fya Empres”s Nedd (2012, 2017, 2023) finishing third and fourth, respectively. There were two other females among a total of 12 contenders: Cecile ‘Lil Bit’ King and Shena Collis.

And as it was, it took a female, Chanique, to stop the defending monarch Raeon “Madzart” Primus from doing a hat trick.

While school is still out on another significance of Chanique’s victory, there is a strong school of thought that

says she is the first debutant finalist to win the calypso title since Lord Turkey with his “Tin Crown”, in 1969.

Other performers

Robert “Patche”’ Knights took second spot, a zone to which he familiar, having occupied that spot on many previous attempts.

His number, “Bull Wood” was directed at new Prime Minister - Dr. Godwin Friday, even as he (Patches) heralded the change of government as a time to end corruption.

(from the night rain) in the stands.

Defending monarch Raeon “Madzart” Primus appeared at position number ten with “Shift”.

“Bull Wood” meantime, is a tool used in colloquial Caribbean jurisprudence to inflict blows on one who falls out of line or fails in his duty.

Third spot went to Shaunelle McKenzie with “At we door step”.

Lorna “Fya Empres” Nedd took the fourth spot with her rendition“Search”.

The evening began with Sheena Collis who did “New Chef in the Kitchen”.

Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance with “Me Party l”, Cecile ‘Lil Bit’ Murray, “Liberation”, Utamu “Bongo Pme” Rose, “Messenger”, made efforts for the title.

Henley “Lyrical Medley” Baptiste did “I am Vincy”.

Veteran Kenneth “Vibrating Scakes” Alleyne added a live drum corp to his rendition of one entitled“Havana”.

Kemmy Christopher performed “Hope” while patrons sought shelter

The calypsonians were accompanied by an ensemble dubbed Calypso Collective, enhanced with a sixmember brass line. (WKA)

Chanique Bailey worked her way without fuss or necessary gimmicks and gimmickry to take the kaiso crown on her very first attempt.

Robert “Patches” Knights was his rhythmic self as has become his ID, targeted at those given the responsibility of serving the people.

Shaunelle McKenzie continues to exemplify what meaningful calypso delivery is all about.

Lornette ‘Fya Empress” Nedd punctuated her delivery with carefully positioned emphasis that helped to keep the attention of her audience.

Raeon “Madzart” Primus would have been hoping that his “satirically” overdone “Shift” would have affected all but he when the bell was tolled.

V News 3

GovÊt owes $11.8M for fuel

THE SUM OF MONEY

CURRENTLY OWED by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in ‘malus’ calculations for the importation of gasoline and diesel amounts to EC$11.8 million.

According to Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday, Rubis West Indies LTD. essentially owed the government approximately EC$3.1 million, however the government owed SOL Eastern Caribbean LTD over EC$15 million.

The information was provide in response to a question posed at the July 02, 2026 sitting of parliament by Opposition Leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

He had asked the Prime Minister to indicate what was owed in ‘the malus’ calculations due by the government to the two suppliers of diesel, gasoline, aviation fuel and Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) for each month in 2026.

Dr. Friday explained that the bonus malus mechanism was the long-standing arrangement between the

Government of SVG and the two fuel importing companies here for dutiable sales of gasoline and diesel only. It is not applied to aviation fuel and LPG.

The objective of the arrangement was to mitigate the impact of international fuel costs on consumers, he further explained.

“Wholesale and retail prices for gasoline and diesel are regulated by the Government,” Friday said.

And price adjustments are made using statutory rules and orders under Section 10 of the Price Distribution of Goods Act and stipulates the wholesale price at bulk installation and the maximum retail price at the pumps.

Dutiable sales, he further explained, referred to the fuel on which duties and taxes had been paid, or are payable and it was only dutiable sales that were considered when computing bonus Malus.

‘Price Build Up’

Another term used in the

business, Friday continued, was ‘Price Build Up’ (PBU) which is a detailed breakdown of the landed cost of fuel and includes the freight, insurance, duties and taxes and the company’s margin, and establishes the company’s wholesale price.

“The companies must submit a PBU for each fuel category to the Ministry of Finance,” the prime minister

said.

And then upon review, the ministry of finance forwards the PBU to the Customs and Excise Department for processing and the Bonus Malus, where the company’s wholesale price is compared to the government’s stipulated price and variances are reconciled.

The African Black Snail is still here

WITH INDICATIONS

REACHING THE VINCENTIAN that the African Black Snail has been sighted in areas and numbers that should raise concern, we share this short piece on the pest.

The African Black Snail (ABS) often called the Giant African Land Snail, is one of the most destructive snails, i.e. pests in the world.

It is a massive land mollusk that can grow up to 8 inches long, eats over 500 types of plants and eat the stucco (plastering) on houses for calcium. Many residents attest to seeing the snail climbing up the outer walls of their homes.

The ABS spreads a deadly parasite called the rat lungworm

which causes meningitis (a brain disease) in people and pets.

Experts warn to never eat them or touch them with bare hands.

The lifespan of a GAS is said to be up to 5 to 6 years. They are hermaphrodites (have both male and female parts) and one snail can lay up to 1,200 eggs a year.

In many areas, handling them requires gloves, and they are usually disposed of by freezing or boiling.

If you have seen these snails in your yarear, or are seeing them in your local area, you should rep[ort this to the Ministry of Agriculture who should be in a position to advise

The Bonus Malus was the amount payable to the government by the company when the PBU for fuel is less than the government’s set price and the Malus is the amount reimbursed by the government when the PBU exceeds the government’s price.

2026 of EC$125,103.04. There was a Malus recorded for the months of February of EC$27,087.56; March — EC$860,527.66 and April, EC$2,750,730.34.

“Therefore, as of the 31st of April 2026, the amount payable to the government by Rubis amounted to EC$3,168,551.22,” Friday said.

Regarding SOL, he said that as of December 31st, 2025 the amount owed to the company was EC$6,398,540.94 — and the amount owed has since increased.

According to Friday, between January and April 2026, there was a Malus situation, and the government now owes a total of EC$15,022,621.67 as of April 30th.

The African Black Snails are nocturnal, moving around at night to feed on a wide range of plants.

on a remedial course of action as it implements a more exacting plan it should have developed. (AI Overview)

So, in response to the question, Friday said that with respect to Rubis, the balance brought forward from December 31st, 2025 that was payable to the government amounted to EC$6,681,783 and there was a bonus recorded in January

“If you want to do it as a total between SOL and Rubis, the amount that the government owes to the companies is $11,854,070.45,” Friday said.

And this was because government owed SOL about EC$15 million, but there was the credit available from Rubis which amounted ton EC$3.1 million; the bonus Malus statements for the months May and June had not yet been verified, he said. (DD)

Government’s indebtedness for fuel up to the end of June was effectively to SOL Eastern Caribbean LTD.

Illegal gun, ammo seized

Devorn Baptiste was found with illegal gun and ammunition during stop and search exercise by the police.

(Phtoto: RSVGPF)

WHILE THOUSANDS came out to enjoy the Carnival festivities, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) remained focused on keeping illegal firearms off the streets and protecting public safety.

As a result of vigilant police work, one 9mm semi-automatic pistol and eight rounds of 9mm ammunition are now the subject of court proceedings.

On July 5, 2026, police arrested and charged Devorn Baptiste, a 35year-old resident of Georgetown, with possession of an illegal firearm and possession of ammunition. According to investigations, Baptiste allegedly had in his possession one 9mm semiautomatic pistol, make and serial number unknown, without a licence issued under the Firearms Act. He was also charged with allegedly having eight rounds of 9mm ammunition without a licence issued under the Firearms Act. The offences were allegedly committed in Arnos Vale on July 4, 2026.

The gun and ammunition with which Baptiste was found.

(Photo: RSVGPF)

Police Station every Wednesday and Friday between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

The matter has been transferred to the Serious Offences Court for Monday, July 13, 2026.

Baptiste appeared before the Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, where he was granted bail in the sum of EC$15,000 with conditions. He was ordered to surrender all travel documents and report to the Central

The RSVGPF commends the officers involved for their vigilance and continues to urge members of the public to report information about illegal firearms, ammunition, and persons involved in gun-related activity. Illegal firearms threaten every community. (Source: RSVGPF)

Reprimanded and discharged on ganja charge

by HADYN HUGGINS

THE SERIOUS OFFENCES COURT continues to exercise discretion when dealing with persons caught with small amounts of marijuana.

Last week, Chief Magistrate Colin John reprimanded and discharged Donroy Thomas, a 29-year-old farmer of Stubbs who pleaded guilty to possession of 1,345 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.

The Court heard that around 11:50a.m. on June 26, 2026, police transport G965 was in a line of traffic travelling along the Lowman Hill public road heading in the direction of Kingstown. Constable 589 Martin Laborde, the driver of G965, Corporal 801 Pompey and Constable 912 Sayers were on board at the time.

PC Laborde noticed a white Toyota Corolla car registration NO. PQ253 travelling ahead in the lane of traffic, and he observed one of the occupants of that vehicle kept looking back. This aroused the officer’s suspicion.

The police transport pulled up alongside the vehicle and the officers signaled the driver to pull over. The driver complied. The three police exited the vehicle, approached the

vehicle and identified themselves. They told the driver of their observation and requested a search. There were three occupants and they were asked to exit the vehicle, which they did, upon which the officers observed a green and grey (Sprayground) backpack on the passenger’s seat where Thomas had been sitting.

When questioned as to who the bag belonged to, he admitted it was his.

He was asked if he had anything illegal in the bag to declare and he said, “I just have a small smoke in dey.”

P.C. Laborde opened his bag and found three plastic packages containing plant material resembling marijuana.

The defendant was taken to the narcotics base at Arnos Vale, where the substance was weighed in his presence. He was cautioned, but did not give a statement. He was subsequently arrested and charged.

While the police seem to have reverted to its intolerance towards marijuana offences, the Serious Offences Court has been exercising tolerance in this regards.

In recent times persons found in possession of small amounts of marijuana have been reprimanded and discharged or sentenced to time served.

Law Enforcement busy: HOMICIDE count mounting

According to official sources, the incident that led to Jackson’s death occurred on Wednesday 1st July, 2026, in the Mount Young (mountain) area.

The same sources said that Jackson was said to have left home to travel to the mountains to make a purchase of coconuts.

He was apparently set upon by men with nefarious intentions and shot multiple times.

Police said they recovered up to 15 spent shell casings.

Police have not announced any arrests in connection with the shooting but assured their investigations are ongoing.

Jackson’s death is listed as the 21st homicide for the year.

84-year-old female dead

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENThas confirmed that they are currently investigating the fatal shooting of a 49-yearold man from Langley Park. The deceased has been identified by officials as Gayron “Gale” Jackson, a resident of Bay Road.

Police had not had time to breath easily when they were summoned to investigate the whereabouts of an elderly woman in Peruvian Vale.

Confirmation was that the lifeless body of an 84year-old woman, identified as Lida Lewis, a farmer, was discovered and noted by law enforcement.

All of this happened a day after, July 2, 2026,

Jackson’s death.

Law officers reported that they responded to a call for assistance in the Peruvian Vale area at approximately 12:50 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Upon responding, and learning about the residents’ concern about not seeing Ms. Lewis recently, the police mounted a search and located her lifeless body in an area which he frequented.

A news agency here reported that Lewis was raped, but this was and has not to date been addressed by the police.

Another online news agency reported that the woman, days before her death, had made at least one call to the police, during which she reported that several males were “raiding” her coconut trees.

Police confirmed that at least four males of interest were taken into custody in relation to the Lewis matter.

THE VINCENTIAN, advances Lida Lewis’ death as the 22nd homicide for the year.

Dead body in Black 2000

As though the plate of local law enforcement was not already overflowing, they were called out to Block 2000 on the morning of Monday 6th July, 2026. Their response led them to human remains already in an advanced state of decomposition.

The remains were identified as that of a male.

Up to press time, no further information regarding the man’s identity or the circumstances of his death has been made available by officials.

Canouan’s fatal shooting

Meanwhile, two men have been detained in connection with the murder of 37-year-old Scottish man Daniel Vettrino, who was fatally shot in the Gym Hill area of Canouan on June 24, 2026.

Vettrino, a technical services manager at the Canouan Estate Resort and Villas, was found with multiple gunshot wounds.

And as speculation intensified on the Southern Grenadine, the police have not confirmed if this shooting death is connected to the mysterious disappearance of a light aircraft that took off from the island earlier in June.

His death was counted as the 20th homicide for the year.

Hospital patient found dead

Also on the morning of Saturday 4th July, and acting on information received, police were involved in another tragic find, this time in

the precipitous area of Fort Charlotte.

A search of the area led to the location of the remains of a dead male, later identified as Selwyn Joseph, of Bequia. Joseph had been missing since late June.

Joseph had been a patient at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. It appeared that Joseph somehow managed to bypass both nursing and security personnel and exited the hospital. A public appeal went out for assistance in finding him. Investigations leading to his death are ongoing and no exact cause of death has been disclosed.

Anyone with information that might help identify the assailants or clarify the events leading up to the afire-mentioned incidents is encouraged to contact the police.

Daniel Vettrino – fatally shot on Canaouan.

Selwyn Joseph esacped the MCMH and was found dead in the Fort Charlotte hills.

Gayron “Gale” Jackson – apparently killed in the Mt. Young mountains.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Director: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com

Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Vincy Carnivalnot just a party

THIS COLUMN had all but decided that it should follow the advice of certain “culture people” in this country and desist from addressing anything to do with this country’s Carnival. That it should, as per the advice, back off of “all things black and beautiful’, even if that (advice) emanated from a demographic that was going out of its way to make black anything but beautiful.

But hell, some of us are born with much better carnival pedigree than many who shout loudest; so they’ll have to stomach the shenanigans of this column just one more time as it delves into Vincy Carnival –- not Vincymas.

Vincy Carnival is much more than a party, in case the “Johnny-comelatelies” didn’t realise it. Vincy Carnival (reduced to Vincymas) is a profound celebration of freedom, resilience, and Afro-Caribbean heritage born from the ashes of slavery. So overwhelming that it has become representative of who we are as a people.

Sadly, Vincy Carnival — which we purport to the world as our premiere cultural festival - now stands at a critical crossroad between its historical roots and commercialization, i.e. a marked deviation from what it truly represents.

The true meaning of Carnival lies in its roots.

Born in the late 18th century, enslaved Africans and freedmen used the festival as a tool of rebellion against their colonizers. They wore masks and elaborate costumes and composed and sang satires of unique style and depth to mock their oppressors, and kept their African heritage alive.

This tradition lived on through the decades in a Carnival, a combination of the expressions of mockery and cries of liberation.

What a pity that as we head rudderless along the pathway of the 21st century, the carnival that emerged as a result of the African and Caribbean resilience and creativity is no longer an explosion of calypso, soca, steel band music, ole mas, and costume mas — an outpouring of community joy and togetherness.

Today, Vincy Carnival lies in how much less a masquerader, for example, can demand to parade; how much gyrating and sexual simulation will be simply ignored in the name of some “new sense of community joy”;

We need thoughful leadership

how much “rum” is available for our band fee; how much less the bards of wit, satire and guile are willing to sacrifice for the sake of maintaining the status quo and safeguarding their own aggrandisement.

Take it or leave it, Vincy Carnival has been ”feathered” away into an expression that is imported in the name of maximizing investment. It is high time that calypsonians, steelband men and women come to the realization that the space they once commanded in Vincy Carnival is swiftly dwindling, as the new generation of Carnival custodians reconceptualise Vincy Carnival.

Can’t we see in whose interest Vincy Carnival is changing? Can we not see that today’s Vincy Carnival is increasing dominated by private promoters and their corporate sponsors of all-inclusive fetes and bands — in the process replacing historical characters and genuine artistic expressions and interpretations? Can’t we see that the “beads and bikini” bands are replacing the historical characters and genuine artistic expressions?

While these modern sections are visually stunning, this column is not alone in being concerned that they are watering down the festival’s deep meaning.

And then there is the issue of the influx of returning nationals and visitors. As welcoming as this is, it results in skyrocketing prices for taking part in the Carnival.

What is to stop anyone from deducing that the endless “fetes” (parties) prioritize shock value, excessive partying, and profit over the rich artistic traditions and cultural storytelling — the true Vincy Carnival.

As it stands, we have swept so much of the real thing out of the door, skilled Carnival artisans are now in the minority. How many skilled wire benders are still practising in this country?

We have to protect the soul of Vincy Carnival. To do so we need to strike a balance. We cannot ignore the energy of the new era but at the same time, the unique history and components of Vincy Carnival must be preserved.

We need to elevate Vincy Carnival art and art forms — apportioning them more resources. The new generations must be made to understand why we celebrate something we call Vincy Carnival.

AFTER A FEW WEEKS of quiet consultation (among themselves), the constitutional amendment was back last week. How is it different from the original proposal? I am not too sure. Did it broaden the definition of who is eligible to hold office in SVG? No. The amendment remains the same narrow fix to a problem of the NDP leadership’s own making. This is the kind of action that continues to make so many of us disillusioned with government.

First, let me say I do not support the opposition interpretation of the current law of the land. Secondly, I do not think the current lawsuit will prevail. I cannot see a court overturning the will of the people after all these years. Thirdly, this might surprise some of you, but I do not feel that we need any more public discussion on this issue. No other issue was so clearly discussed and knocked about as this one during the last election. The people have spoken. So, Mr. Prime Minister, let’s fix the constitution today with a simple amendment that allows all Vincentians, regardless of place of birth or any other ancestral connection, to serve this nation. If you are eligible to be a citizen, you should be eligible to represent us.

Please note I am saying this in the context of being fully opposed to your Citizenship by Investment Programme (initiative). Again, I feel anyone who buys their way into Vincentian nationality should be barred from elected office. If you insist on proceeding with this programme, please give us the courtesy of a full and open discussion of its terms and conditions. While you made it clear during the election discussion that you intended to pursue this programme, you never outlined the details. Now is the time to share this information with us and allow us to have some meaningful dialogue.

Just thinking about these two issues demonstrates SVG’s need for more effective leadership with a vision for the future. I want to express not only my own frustration, but also what I am hearing from the ordinary “man on the street”. We are currently being subjected to the rhetoric of intellectual elites telling us to prepare for the future while being presented with a

system and an economy rooted in the past.

We are constantly urged to work hard, pursue education, be patient, and wait our turn. However, many of us are still asking a serious question: wait for what?

Wait for housing prices to become affordable? Wait for wages to catch up with the cost of living? Wait for banks to become more accessible to entrepreneurs? Wait for the development bank? Some people label this waiting as lazy.

Our young people are not lazy. They are not entitled. And most of all, they are not unwilling to sacrifice. What they seek is guidance that reflects the realities of a world that has fundamentally changed. The economy they would like to participate in is different from the one their parents inherited.

We cannot continue to call what we are doing development if we are preparing our young people to work, rent, borrow, and survive. True development must create pathways for us to own, build, invest, innovate, and actively participate in the economy as stakeholders, not merely spectators. We need “legislation, regulations, policies, and rules” that align with the world we live in now.

It is insufficient to tell our people that they are the future. To make that true, they need access to capital, ownership, housing, and technology. Our people respect experience, tradition, and the sacrifices made by those who came before us. However, respect for the past should not lead to being imprisoned by it. Some ideas have expired; some systems no longer work; some policies were created for a world that no longer exists.

It is insufficient to tell young Vincentians that they are the future while refusing to redesign the systems that determine their ability to thrive in that future. The future also requires programmes, processes, procedures, and protocols that are attuned to the current realities, i.e. the 21st century. Together we can do this.

Horatio

Congratulations!

I WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATEall of those who are graduating this year especially the St. Vincent Girls’ High School (GHS) sisters.

Please join me in congratulating, in particular, the 2026 recipient of the annual Cheryl Phills King Community Award given at GHS, Aroma David. The award started in 2004, 20 plus years ago.

The community award recipients exemplify the principles of “being positive, selflessly doing good and striving to make the world a better place by their actions.”

I salute them all and wish them continued success.

Over the years the recipients have been: 2004Rachael Oliver; 2005 — Tamisha Browne; 2006 — Amber Glasgow; 2007 —

Lizanna Pollard; 2008–JaiLen Williams; 2009 — RoseAnne Richardson; 2010 — Lusha Lorraine; 2011 — River Providence; 2012 — Breanna Antoine; 2013 — Nikelene McLean; 2014 — Kelsie Haynes; 2015-Justine Farrel; 2016-Shantel Williams; 2017Maya John; 2018 — Rhobyn Grant; 2019 -Ashantae Williams; 2020- Paige Cadogan; 2021- Davisha Sayers; 2022-Oslyan Ollivierre-2023 Anna Warrican; 2024-Aroma David; 2025-Shania Williams, 2026Amelia Williams.

We love you all and are very proud of you. All the best in the future as you continue to make a difference in the world and strengthen your efforts in the community.

In related news, Sharing Girls’ High School (GHS)

Big up Chanique

DEAR MR.

EDITOR:

I know that females are no strangers to the calypso monarch title here in St. Vincent for we have had Princess Monique, Joy-C, Fya Empress and Shaunelle McKenzie, but there was something about Chanique RodgersBailey that was different.

First, let me congratulate her on winning the title.

To begin with, her’s was a simply

crafted calypso that was easy to follow lyrically and musically. Others can take a lesson from her in this regard. I don’t know why we think we must complicate our calypsoes with over arrangements, as I call it. Keep the melody simple, the lyrics simple and then you have room to deliver with impact. You will not be struggling to remember verse and melody. And please, let us remember a

calypso is not a hymn.

I understand that Chanique is the lead vocalist with her husband’s band in New York. This can only help to ensure that she remains in cue and could well be treating us to more outstanding calypsoes and performances in time to come.

Here’s wishing here a long and fruitful career as a singer.

Patrice Andrews Kingstown

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* HAVE THE CHURCHES made any effort to address the hours that promoters are allowed to stage fetes on the tarmac at Arnos Vale?

* Long ago the Carnival Queen used to feature at all the carnival shows. Now that the Carnival Queen Show has been replaced by the Miss SVG Pageant, why is Miss SCG not featured in the same way?

* How much did the CDC have to fork out for those rides and games that they had for Junior Carnival and Junior Panorama?

* Has the CDC concluded that all the rides and games were distractions from the real events in the Park?

* Was it a Junior Carnival

Class of ‘62 is pleased to congratulate our fifth student - Rheanique James, who graduated from the Community College on June 23, 2026.

We extend hearty congratulations and best wishes to her and to all of the graduates.

Thanks for the privilege of communicating with you over the years on behalf of the very loyal, compassionate nature of the loving and caring GHS Class of ‘62.

Five GHS sisters have been sponsored over the years by the GHS Class of ‘62 and we

thank you for being part of the nurturing community of good will.

Thanks to the parents, teachers, staff and community who support our young people. Keep up the good work. Love.

Much appreciated. God bless.

Love and best wishes, Cheryl Phills King.

or a Coney Island that was staged at the Park on Saturday 27th June, 2026?

* What is the Ministry of Agriculture doing about tracking and warning residents about the dangerous African Black Snail (Giant African Snail)?

* Why is the Ministry of Agriculture telling residents to buy their own pellets used to poison the snails? Does the Ministry not have the money to buy pellets in bulks for distribution to residents?

* Is this going to develop into another Black Sigatoka affair in which the Minister who is ultimately responsible for the affairs of the Ministry of Agriculture, takes himself out of the line of blame?

A Homecoming to Remember:

Violinist Tanya Charles returns to perform and teach in SVG

TWENTY-ONE YEARS AGO,

a young VincentianCanadian violinist took the stage alongside Vincentian pianist Sean Sutherland at Government House before then Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, and captivated all who were fortunate enough to hear her. Now, that same musician, the internationally acclaimed Tanya Charles, is coming home. On Wednesday July 14th, 2026, she reunites with Sean for a recital at 7:00 pm at the Kingstown Methodist Church. Held under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency Sir Stanley K. John, Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and proudly sponsored by District Stairs St. Vincent and the Grenadines, this recital promises to be a truly memorable evening. The programme celebrates Black and Caribbean musical traditions through works spanning composers from the late 1700s to living artists of today, featuring Tanya and Sean both individually and together. This is a concert you will not want to miss. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, to Vincentian parents Gloria Charles (née Glasgow) and Godwin Charles of Mesopotamia and Evesham, respectively, Tanya has been captivating audiences across North

America, South America, and the Caribbean since the earliest days of her career. Her extraordinary artistry has earned her some of Canada’s most prestigious musical honours, including the Women’s Art Association of Canada Luella McCleary Award, the Gabriella Dory Prize in Music, and the John C. Holland Award from the Hamilton Black History Association. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Toronto and an Artist Diploma in Orchestral Performance from the Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory of Music, one of the world’s foremost centres of musical excellence. St. Vincent and the Grenadines can be immensely proud to call her one of our own.

Tanya currently serves as Concertmaster of Ensemble Obiora, a celebrated Montrealbased ensemble and Canada’s first ensemble of predominantly people of color, which she has proudly led since its founding in 2021. Among her recent highlights was performing as soloist in the Canadian premiere of Florence Price’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in October 2023, a landmark moment in the recognition of Black composers on the world

stage. She is also a violinist and Outreach Coordinator for the Odin Quartet. Her remarkable career spans collaborations with the Colour of Music Festival Orchestra (COMF) and the COMF Virtuosi in South Carolina, the Gateways Festival Orchestra in New York, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, and the National Ballet Orchestra of Canada. A true versatile musician, Tanya performs on violin, viola, and mandolin with Mirvish Productions, lending her extraordinary talent to major theatre productions, including Disney’s 2024-2025 acclaimed long-running production of The Lion King in Toronto.

The excitement does not stop at the recital. Tanya has generously partnered with the White Chappel Studio to offer two masterclasses in violin and viola, a rare and truly remarkable opportunity for our musical community. Classes take place on Monday, July 13th and Wednesday, July 15th at 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Kingstown Public Library and all ages and all ability levels are welcomed. As a faculty member at both the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music and the Oscar Peterson Program

at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Tanya brings world-class teaching expertise directly to our shores. Each day is structured into two sessions: a focused workshop followed by participant performances and public lessons. Monday’s session will address posture and left-hand technique,

while Wednesday’s will cover bow technique and sound production. These sessions are open to the public. Whether you are a student, a parent, or simply a lover of music, come witness excellence in music education firsthand. Participants are encouraged to register at www.tanyacharles.ca/svg

masterclass26. Do not miss this once-in-ageneration opportunity to learn from one of Canada’s finest violinists right here, at home, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Come out, bring the family, and let us celebrate the extraordinary talent that our island has given to the world.

The Moral Compass

“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.” - Thomas Jefferson (17431826) – An American Founding Father, principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and the third U.S. president (1801–1809).

SOMETIMES, in an effort to avoid prolonging a debate that revolves around matters of principle, a participant may unwisely conclude by saying, “I leave it to your conscience.” However, this writer recalls attending catechism classes at the Catholic Cathedral in Kingstown as a young boy and receiving a small yellow book titled The Development of Conscience from a short Canadian Catholic priest, Father Mac. The book’s author argued that conscience develops to varying degrees of sensitivity depending on how an individual is socialized and morally formed.

For example, one person may grow up in a home where honesty and integrity are regarded as essential virtues. Another, however, may be raised to believe that dishonest behaviour is acceptable, provided one is not caught. In such circumstances, individuals may readily rationalize that the end justifies the means. These contrasting examples illustrate two markedly different levels of conscience sensitivity, as each person is guided by a fundamentally different moral compass.

A moral compass is the inner guide that aids individuals in distinguishing between right and wrong; acceptable and unacceptable behaviours. Like a navigational compass that points travelers in the right direction, a moral compass directs our thoughts, words, and actions toward integrity, honesty, decency, kindness, and justice. Parents, teachers, church leaders, and other responsible citizens play a major role in aiding wards to navigate an ever-evolving world filled with competing values, temptations, and moral dilemmas. There must therefore be consistency in the messaging if the young mind is to develop the moral compass deemed to be an essential foundation for making wise decisions. This is especially critical if the fabric in societies where children can be so readily distracted and influenced by conflicting value systems.

In our modern world where children now have ready access to technology and busy parents are tempted to allow smartphones, tablets, and computers to “babysit” the young ones, we are required to be especially vigilant in monitoring and guiding the thoughts that such gadgets generate and encourage. We note that many of the online programmes could be socially, emotionally, and mentally unhealthy for our wards. The development of the moral compass is often imbedded from childhood. Every effort should therefore be made to design and encourage positive influences while simultaneously encouraging a disciplined approach to avoid the negative effects. As our wards mature, their experiences, education, associations, and personal reflections will shape their values. It is therefore imperative that they are constantly exposed to individuals, systems, and structures that encourage them to imbibe to values of compassion, humility, forgiveness, and respect for others. C.S. Lewis (1898-1963), the famous British author, reminds us of the importance of influencing the moral

compass of our wards when he notes that, “Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.”

Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. stand out as powerful leaders whose moral compass remained steadfast despite prolonged and intense adversity. Similarly, women like Harriet Tubman, Mother Teresa, Rosa Parks, and Malala Yousafzai stand out as beacons of hope for those among us who must retain an unwavering commitment to moral principles. Their lives remind us that true greatness is measured not by wealth or power but by character. Their lives reflect the truism that is captured in Bob Marley’s statement when he reminded us that, “The greatness of a man is not reflected in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.”

People and communities develop a sense of trust and confidence in persons whose lives portray that they have developed a moral compass. Such individuals are respected and admired for their honesty, keeping their promises, and the way that they treat others fairly … even when there may be stark differences in beliefs. Families flourish when members demonstrate compassion and respect. Businesses attract and retain loyal customers when they are perceived to operate ethically. Communities become safer and more harmonious when citizens uphold values such as generosity, responsibility, and mutual respect. Moral integrity creates and sustains confidence and cooperation in every sphere of life.

However, it must never be perceived that maintaining a strong moral compass is always easy. The men and women identified earlier in this essay can testify of this. They struggled against the tide of bigotry, racial discrimination, and a variety of societal evils. Today’s world of advanced social media, intense peer pressure, and the temptations to get ahead at all cost, intensify the pressures to compromise values. It is often during such moments that we need to slow ourselves down, reflect, and contemplate the long-term consequences of our choices. The temptation to gravitate towards immediate gravitation must be avoided at all cost. Decisions made with integrity may demand sacrifice in the short term, but they eventually lead to peace of mind, self-respect, and a clear sense of fulfillment.

Developing a strong moral compass will not happen by default. It requires a strong commitment to cultivate clean, uplifting, thoughts. Many testify that regular reading of the Bible (especially the Old Testament book of Proverbs, the gospels, many of the Apostle Paul’s letters, and the book of James in the New Testament) aid in the development of the self-discipline required to strengthen and sustain character. Faithfully following these Christian guidelines develop a strong moral compass, enrich lives, and generate legacies of integrity, hope, and positive influences that strengthen the moral and spiritual fabric of society.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

Let’s get serious about culture

JAMAICA GOT REGGAE; Trinidad got calypso and carnival; Barbados got Crop Over with Soca on the Hill; St Lucia got Jazz Fest; Grenada has Jab Jab and St Vincent? Well, we got carnival too, but sadly it is not a standout occasion beyond nationals, both at home and in the diaspora. With a little imagination, we can do more and be more.

Since I was small, people have been talking about Baxter’s Road in Barbados. Land in Trinidad, and someone takes you to a doubles, a roti or a shark-and-bake treat. You don’t leave Jamaica without visiting Bob Marley’s residence, Dunn’s River Falls or tasting Jerk. In Grenada, you go to a Fish Friday Festival lime in Gouyave or make a solemn pilgrimage to Fort Rupert, where Maurice Bishop, the inspirational revolutionary leader and other cabinet colleagues were gunned down in an implosive conflict that doomed Grenada’s transformative experiment.

We are a nation that flatters to deceive. We have so much, yet we have not properly marketed our slice of paradise. Vincy Mas and the Nine Mornings celebration are our biggest thrill, but the June/July masquerade and Nine Mornings are shadows of what used to be. The carnival crowds are smaller; the private, exclusive events, more aptly described as fashion shows in colour, run rings around calypso, pan and mas. Cultural tradition is on life support. Meanwhile, at the exclusive events, everybody vies to crown king or queen.

Yeah, we “vibin”g still, but the cultural authenticity is increasingly being lost. Memory is in short supply. Reckoning is postponed as we summon the next bottle of anything…

But SVG has too much in its bosom for us to become so ‘waste down.’ We have enough to sell SVG as the perfect place to be. We have one of the largest seascapes in the region and barely use it. Our culture and Sport ministry should plan and launch, to begin with, a one-week event labelled Regatta Central, where boats and yachts from across the region and around the world are encouraged to our Grenadines. Our younger Swimmer should be challenging their counterparts in the OECS. This event should culminate in a Conch and Salt Fest on Union Island, with immediate marketing outreach and appeal to Carriacou, Petit Martinique and beyond.

The Barrouallie Fish Fest should be supported and the Culture Pot at Calliaqua must be revived.

Discover St Vincent/Explore the Grenadines is another project that can be developed into a fascinating adventure and marketed to locals and foreigners alike. Paul Cyrus and others have done a wonderful job of showcasing our country’s interior to the world. More waterfalls and hot springs are revealing themselves, thus exposing the beauty and splendour of our country. Integral to this project should be a annual La Soufriere challenge and an adventure titled ‘Explore the Grenadines.’ One is struck by how little we know about our island home.

Uniquely Garifuna. There are none like us. We have the history with a culture of resistance as proof. The younger generation must know our story of strong resistance to conquest and slavery and the genocidal price we paid with blood and exile. Heroes

Month should be much more than the annual Garifuna conference, a visit to the cenotaph at Dorsetshire Hill, and a visit to Balliceaux. Mini-Garifuna events should be encouraged and promoted in known Garifuna enclaves such as Greiggs, Sandy Bay, and Rose Bank, climaxing with a large cultural festival at Chatoyer Park in Rabacca. Money should be earmarked to develop the park into more than a grassy area. It must be made into a site of culture and celebration. Heritage Square. Forty years ago, we went to Rick’s Bar. Today, carnival revellers and weekend limers go to Lano’s Bar or to hang out and meet friends and colleagues at Richie’s, George’s or Kathy’s. After all these years, nothing has changed except for the people who make a living selling drinks and food. This reality is a sad commentary on our insight and foresight because the place dubbed Heritage Square has everything except heritage. It need not be this way. Heritage, or Ouasigani Square, where Ouasigani is the indigenous name for what we know as Kingstown, should be permanently closed to vehicular traffic. It should be reimagined and designed not as a place for parking vehicles but as a cultural oasis where locals and foreigners alike can relax and entertain themselves or be entertained. The Asphalt should be removed; cobblestone or bricks should be laid. The river should be bridged, and the businesses should be relocated above the river. Benches should be strategically placed between the businesses. Such simple changes will create an avenue for our painters, singers, calypsonians, dramatists, DJs, artisans, and other entrepreneurs to excel. Pirates of the Caribbean. Seven months in power, it ain’t their fault, but the Minister of Tourism and the Government of SVG should be embarrassed that the site where the movie was filmed is listed as a tourist attraction. Tourists taken to Wallilabou must experience a big letdown, as there is nothing to see. The set, or what was left of it by the time the movie was completed, has all but disappeared.

There may be licensing issues to resolve, but the government or a private enterprise should give serious consideration to constructing a replica of what the movie’s producers left behind.

Eco-tourism. Our country is blessed with lush vegetation, parrots, birds, hills, valleys, and mountains that can boost our eco-tourism. A lift (gondola) that takes you up and around La Soufriere would lure citizens and foreigners on an adventure of discovery.

Government and private partnerships can take our country to unparalleled highs. In a few years, with care, guidance, support, assistance and community buy-in, some or all of these events/activities would emerge as major attractions on the Vincy cultural calendar.

The time for our collective imagination is now. As Black Stalin reminds us: We can make it if we try just a little harder.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to

The Heads of Government met in the 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, and also welcomed Martinique.

Martinique joins CARICOM

THE FRENCH OVERSEAS

DEPARTMENT of Martinique officially took its seat for the first time in the Caribbean Community (Caricom) during the opening ceremony of the Fifty-first Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on Sunday, in St Lucia.

This first participation gives tangible expression to Martinique’s accession as an associate member, which entered into force on June 16, 2026, following the signing of the accession agreement last year in Barbados and the ratification of the agreement on the privileges and immunities of Caricom.

During the opening ceremony, Caricom Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett officially welcomed Martinique as the community’s seventh

associate member.

“It took many years for us to be accepted into Caricom. This shows how difficult it can be to belong to two institutional frameworks at once. But today, we are here,” said Serge Letchimy, president of the executive council in Martinique . “This should not be seen as an end in itself. It is only the beginning. We must now move into action. Businesses, financing and investment must now come on board.”

Meanwhile, the Caricom’s outgoing chairman, the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew, said Martinique’s arrival illustrates the organisation’s core purpose: bringing the countries and territories of the Caribbean together

around a concrete integration project that serves its people.

“We believe that together we are stronger,” he said. “We have a number of institutions that benefit us and that would be difficult for each country to establish on its own, but together we are able to make them a reality for the benefit of our people.”

“Martinique now has a more structured framework for engaging with its Caribbean neighbours. The president of the executive council intends to turn this dual positioning into concrete projects, economic exchanges, cooperation, mobility and investment, with the aim of making Martinique a point of connection between the

Caribbean, the Americas, Europe and Africa. “We are reconnecting with our common home: the Caribbean. A door has been opened. It truly exists. We must now use it,” Serge Letchimy — President of the Executive Council on Martinique, concluded.

What Associate Membership Means

Associate Membership allows non-sovereign Caribbean territories to participate more fully in the work of CARICOM while recognizing their constitutional relationships with metropolitan countries.

The status creates additional opportunities for cooperation across many of the issues shaping the modern Caribbean, including

Serge Letchimy – President of the Executive Council on Martinique, concluded said his Council looks to making making Martinique a point of connection between the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe and Africa.

economic integration, foreign policy coordination, human and social development and security cooperation.

Caribbean investment opportunities

While Associate Members do not hold the same status as CARICOM’s independent Member States, their participation helps broaden regional dialogue and strengthen collaboration across the Caribbean basin.

For Martinique, the move creates another avenue for working alongside neighboring destinations on issues that increasingly extend beyond national borders.

Martinique’s accession to CARICOM brings several significant benefits for the region:

* Economic development: Expanding access to Caribbean and European markets while diversifying business opportunities.

* Enhanced cooperation:

Caricom SecretaryGeneral Dr. Carla Barnett officially welcomed Martinique as the community’s seventh associate member.

Strengthening collaboration in key areas such as health care, education, security, and crisis management.

* Caribbean consultants and students.

* Tourism, sports and culture: Boosting exchanges with neighboring territories to reinforce Caribbean culture, sports, and regional tourism.

(Source: Caribbean Media)

Symphonix dethrones

Starlift

Symphonix Steel Orchestra – registered their first Senior Panorama title after being a consistent contender through the years.

IT TOOK ARRANGER JOMORO

FRANCISnineteen years to notch up his second senior Panorama title, albeit with two different orchestras.

After attaining his first win in 2007 with Rhythmix, Francis led the 36 members of Symphonix Steel

Orchestra to the 2026 Senior Panorama title, on the night of Steel and Glitter, held at the Victoria Park, July 2.

In the process of chalking up their first win, Symphonix dethroned defending champions Starlift Steel Orchestra, who would have been in search of their 26th overall championship title and their six straight title, having won in 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

The last of the five bands to perform that evening, Symphonix belted out “Doh Rub Up”, made popular by D Rebels Band in 1991.

With a clear demonstration of dexterity and oozing confidence, Symphonix played their way to a winning tally of 238 points, as per the esteemed judges.

And while Symphonix and their band of supporters, primarily from the South Leeward area, revelled in the joy of winning after what seemed to have been a lifetime of effort, perennial winnersStarlift Steel Orchestra had to settle for second with a tally of 230 points.

Starlift rendered Winston Soso’s “I Don’t Mind”, arranged by Kingsley “Hero” Roberts.

Eight points separated Starlift and third placed Epic Sounds, who accumulated 222 points with a rendition of Poorsah’s “Mouth in ah me Mooma”, arranged by Johnny “JP” Pompey.

Taking fourth place was the LEAF Elite Steel Orchestra, with 202 points, as they made their take of Touch’s “Dey Wid Me”, under the directorship of Kelson ‘Taffa’ Wilson.

And in fifth place was Genesis Steel Orchestra, the lone band to play a current song, i.e. a 2025 release — Shorn Beats’ “Stage Show”. They scored 189 point with a rendition of an arrangement by Delano Bristol. Absent from the Panorama for yet another year was the formidable Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra, the only steel orchestra to have won five consecutive (2009 to 2013) Senior Panorama championships in SVG.

“All about perseverance,” says Jomo

FOR JOMORO “JOMO” FRANCIS, founder, mentor and arranger of Symphonix Steel Orchestra, the story of the band winning its first Senior Panorama title is all about perseverance.

“ I always said to the players that we have it in us, it is just the matter of getting the formula correct. I think this year we persevered and we practised extremely hard; my daughter and the captain

were some of the driving forces, always telling me let us push, let us practise for another hour”, Francis intimated.

“ It is really a joy winning a Panorama title with Symphonix Steel Orchestra; We are the first Pan Against Crime steelband to do so here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We have been toiling, coming to Panorama, placing third for a very long time, always the underdog to Starlift and Sion Hill

therefore, breaking that status quo gives us a great feeling”, he added.

He noted that the band while acknowledging that winning a Senior Panorama title at times seemed elusive, the members, young and old alike, never relented on the mission, i.e. to win one day.

According to Francis, the composition of the band brought added joy to the win.

“We had new players, we had a lot of young

players with us who were playing Panorama for the first time, making the feeling of winning extra unbelievable”, Francis said.

Francis, who served as the main drummer and therefore was an integral part of the 35-strong playing contingent on the night of competition, expressed the view that apart from the extra given by all, the choice of song helped in wooing the judges.

“This song is a song I heard played by Sion Hill

Steel Orchestra some years ago and I always wished that I could play it. Actually, we started playing another song, but the players complained that they did not like it, so I said this song for Rebels kept hitting me”, Francis revealed. Even as he understandably and deservedly basks in the joy of winning the 2026 Senior Panorama title, Francis assured that he will endeavor to defend in 2027, and successfully so, he quipped.

Jomoro ‘Jomo” Francis is the embodiment of staying the course with whom and with what you have to work.

Starlift Steel Orchestra was dethroned by an orchestra other than Sion Hill, for the first time.

Right: Epic Steel Orchestra, the baby in the crowd, so to speak, continues to impact an indication of the players’ determination and ability, not to mention their leadership.

LEAF Elite Steel Orchestra, even with an expanded look, had to settle for fourth place.

Ragga Soca Monarch –Dfusion: Looking beyond the title

NEWLY CROWNED

RAGGA SOCA MONARCHTyrique “Dfusion” Thomas, is looking to take his music beyond the shores of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

This was one of his reactions after copping the 2026 crown with his rendition of “Here To Stay”.

Beaming after he outpointed the twelve other competitors on the night of July 4, at the Victoria Park, Thomas projected to the VINCENTIAN: “ Now that I have the crown, the aim is to put it to use, because by taking my music beyond, first to penetrate the regional market and continue to go forward from here”.

Thomas noted that winning the title was an exceptional one.

“This was my second time on the big stage for Ragga Soca. Placing

Citing his upward movement in the competition, as calculated, Thomas related that it was decisive intervention by he and his support team.

“Last year was to feel the stage, but we did what we had to do. We reevaluated, looked at the judging criteria and decided to put in the wow factor in this year’s performance, which was the guitar solo. It was something new to Soca (Ragga) Monarch, no one has ever done. My marketing team was adamant that since I am a musician, it was something that I can incorporate into my performance”, Thomas revealed.

Performance

Appearing in position number nine of a cast of twelve and the reigning monarch, Thomas delivered a composition which paid homage to Vincentian Soca artistes who have paved the way for the current crop.

In creative fashion, Thomas used his presentation to add recognition to the late Winston Soso and Godfrey Dublin. His suit worn during his performance was tailor-made to mirror one that Soso wore, whilst the guitar rendition was in Dublin’s honour.

third last year and jumping straight to crown, it’s a surreal experience”, Thomas posited.

highlight this”.

Add this to the fact that he pays attention to detail, he is convinced that the performance was “flawless’ given the work that went into revising the performance after the semifinals.

Musical Background

Apart from singing songs that he heard on radio, Thomas said attending his first Soca Monarch at the age of 13, ignited his love for Soca. Recounting his journey, Thomas attended the Police Band Summer Programme, where he began learning to play an instrument.

Additionally, Thomas used the durable Theophilus YoungOllivierre of Resurrection fame, as his guitarist. Showing his personal appreciation, for the aforementioned and others, Thomas advanced, “ We do not pay attention to those who fought the battle that we as artiste don’t have to fight anymore, and I think it was the opportune time to sing a song like that to

“ I went to the Police Music Training Programme; the first instrument they taught me was the keyboard. I got very familiar with it and everything else was self-taught using You Tube. Moving on, I did Music at the Grammar School and Junior Sutherland, my Music teacher then. saw the talent in me and others, and gave us access to his band room to develop our skills”.

I would go on, with Sutherland’s guidance, to “play the keyboard for Junior Calypso, for big events, including H2O Soca”.

Thomas though singled out the opportunity to accompany Winston Soso, as one of the moments he will always cherish.

With growing confidence and skills, Thomas in 2023, formed his own band, Xta- C, followed by a recording studio, both exemplifying his passion for music.

The multitalented Thomas added, “I play Pop, Reggae, Dancehall, a bit of Jazz, and of course Soca. I also play at least five instruments — including drums, bass guitar, keyboard and a bit of the saxophone “.

Still relatively young, Thomas is reminding that age should never be a barrier and recalled that he was crowned winner of the 2020 Virtual Soca Monarch title at the ‘tender’ age of 18, when that competition was staged during the Covid- 19 Pandemic, in the absence of Vincymas that year.

Before that he also competed at the Junior Calypso event as a student of the St Vincent Grammar School and transitioned to roles as Master of Ceremony at Calypso Tent shows, Miss SVG and other events.

All these experiences together prepared his for the National crown, he said.

His latest highlight reel, winning the 2026 Ragga Monarch title, Thomas said, has done a lot for him, even hours of being crowned.

“Since winning there has been a rapid increase in views of “Here To Stay” on the various media platforms, which augurs well for my future endeavours”, Thomas commented.

For now, Thomas is savouring the moment, whilst looking to maximise all opportunities on offer.

Other contenders

The duo of Keith Currency and

Jamarie ‘L Pank’ Stapleton finished 2nd with ‘Alcohol’. Shorn ‘Shorn Beats’ Nimblet was 3rd with one of the popular ‘party’ songs for the season, ‘Stageshow’ and 2025 Ragga Soca Monarch, Utamo ‘Bongo Prime” Rose placed 4th with the song ‘Celebrate’.

A total of 13 artistes competed in this year’s competition, including the likes of 2023 winner, Javid ‘JR the Artiste’ Rouse; three-time winner Hance John and twotime winner, Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper. The other finalists in the competition were Claydon ‘Dymez’ Roache and Elrico ‘Da Pixel’ Hunte, Colville ‘Shadylayne’ Layne, Giovanni ‘GEO’ Anthony Collins, Kester ‘Flanka’ Chapman, LeeJace ‘King Jace’ Bullock and Princess Alexia ‘Lexi’ DeShong.

Ragga Soca Monarch Tyrique “Dfusion” Thomas, is no stranger to the Ragga Soca stage, having won the Virtual Ragga Soca Competition in 2020.

Shorn 'Shorn Beats' Nimblett had to settle for 3rd place in this year’s competition with his popular ‘party’ song ‘Stageshow’.

Keith Currency and Jamarie ‘L Pank’ Stapleton finished 2nd with ‘Alcohol’.

2025 Ragga Soca Monarch, Utamo ‘Bongo Prime” Rose had to settle for 4th with the song ‘Celebrate’.

New Soca Monarch crowned

Kevon “Sick-O” Shallow doing ‘Shut Yo Mouth”, almost put spend to what was thought to be a runaway performance by the winner.

WHILE THERE WAS NO OFFICIAL DEFENDER of the Soca Monarch title, going into the 2026 competition, patrons believed that with at least one half of last year’s winner the combination of Gamal “Skinny Fabulous” Doyle and Delroy “Fireman” Hooper) in the 2026 finals, that person would for all intents and purposes be the defender of the title.

It so happened that that person was “Fireman” who in any case would have been the target of all the other finalists, he (“Fireman”) going into the 2026 finals with an unprecedented fourteen (14)

Soca Monarch titles to his credit.

And in what even some of his diehard fans described as one of his “more lowkeyed performances, “Fireman” was not even among the top three when the results of the competition were announced on the morning of Sunday 5th July.

When the announcement was made, those who had stayed around, a far cry from the thousands who had flocked once again to the most hyped show of Vincymas, may be sensing that something “new” was afoot, welcomed the news that Jasper “Jasper YMC” Alexander, doing his pre-show popular “Rum Island”, had been rewarded with his first Soca Monarch title.

While there was no official defender of the Soca Monarch title, going into the 2026 competition, patrons believed that with at least one half of last year’s winner the combination of Gamal “Skinny Fabulous” Doyle and Delroy “Fireman” Hooper) in the 2026 finals, that person would for all intents and purposes be the defender of the title.

It so happened that that person was “Fireman” who in any case would have been the target of all the other finalists, he (“Fireman”) going into the 2026 finals with an unprecedented fourteen (14) Soca Monarch titles to his

Jasper “Jasper YMC” Alexander put in a spirited performance of a song entitled “Run Island” that even his detractors said was hard to beat.

credit.

And in what even some of his diehard fans described as one of his “more low-keyed performances, “Fireman” was not even among the top four when the results of the competition were announced on the morning of Sunday 5th July, after an 11:00pm start on Saturday 4th July.

When the announcement was made, those who had stayed around, a far cry from the thousands who had flocked once again to the most hyped show of Vincymas, may be sensing that something “new” was afoot, welcomed the news that Jasper “Jasper YMC” Alexander, doing his pre-show popular “Rum Island”, had been rewarded with his first Soca Monarch title.

He delivered a crowdpleasing performance of his hit song “Rum Island”, edging Kevon “Sick-O” Shallow doing ‘Shut Yo Mouth” by a single point (372 to 372), in one of the closest finishes in the competition’s history.

The duo of Claydon “Dymez” Roache & Elrico “Da Pixel” Hunte, doing “Do the Most” moved up one position from their 2025 fourth place to be third, and Shannan “Kelly J” John took fourth place with his “When we reach:.

Aiming high, higher...

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN after his victory, an emotional Jasper described the moment as “proud, grateful and amazing.”

Asked what set his performance apart from the rest of the field, Jasper said his focus was simply on entertaining the audience.

“I think I came out and had fun, man. Everybody else was just so serious. I came out to entertain the crowd and give them a beautiful performance, and I think I did just that. Look at my father, man–my father is so, so proud. Big up Omo for the wig,” he said.

Alexander explained that before taking the stage, he deliberately conserved his energy to ensure he could deliver his best performance.

“I was just trying to conserve my energy to give the crowd the full, full performance. I’m sorry if anybody felt offended because I was keeping to myself and building my vibe, but that was it before stage. Once I got on stage, it was about executing

and giving the people vibes. I said a prayer to the Almighty. Big up God.”

With the national title now secured, the newly crowned Soca Monarch has already set his sights on the International Soca Monarch competition in Trinidad and Tobago.

“There are more levels to this, and I want to reach every level. Big up the Almighty, big up to my queen, big up to my king, everybody who participated and helped, the mas men, and Sunset for making me the very first ambassador. So many people contributed to this victory. This wasn’t my win alone–it was our win, and I appreciate every one of you.”

Also competing in this year’s Soca Monarch final were LeeJace “King Jace” Bullock, Giovanni “G.E.O.” Collins, Utamu “Bongo Prime” Rose, Lornette “Fya Empress” Nedd, Enrique “Double R” Marshall and Shorn “Shornbeats” Nimblet, Derron “Magikal” Rouse, Garret “Icon” John, and Taquilla “Tequila” Thomas-Latchman. (KH)

“Kelly J” John amidst the storm that characterises the Soca Monarch, “quietly” went about securing a top four finish.

Shannan

Claydon “Dymez” Roache & Elrico “Da Pixel” Hunte, a now established duo act, kept their place among the top soca performing artistes in SVG.

Delroy ‘Fireman” Hooper would have to go again in search of a 15th Soca Monarch title.

A Commentary: Mirage is Band of the Year

SOME MAS BAND OBSERVERS here are asking whether the award od Band of the Year 2026 to Mirage is the Carnival Development Corporation’s way of posthumously rewarding Lennox ‘Becks” Gonslaves for the injustice their mas judges might have handed out to him, throughout his forty years as leader of a mas band.

Whatever the case, Mirage Production, the mas production unit conceptualized and substantiated Lennox “Becks’ Gonsalves emerged as the Band of the year 2026, after 14 mas bands had crossed the stage at the Park, in the 2026 Mardi Gras parade. With a production fittingly entitled “His Legacy”, an abbreviated but w wholesome tribute to “Becks’ for the last forty tears of mas production. Carefully selected sections from some of the

winning and outstanding bands in those forty years were reworked, embellished, modernized, bordering on being extended in their original concepts, to create an impact that even the most traditionally inclined mas connoisseurs had to admit was unavoidable, eyecatching and worthy of another look, barring the beauty of the womenfolk that displayed the costumes.

The fact that the band was assessed as making the “Best Use of Colour” speaks for itself.

According to the judges, “His Legac” stood a good ten points ahead (363 to 353) of a second place tie involving Blondie Bird and Friends’ “Lost in Paradise”, in Blondie’s quest for a fourth consecutive Band of the Year title, and Nelson Bloc’s “Through the Eyes of an Artist”.

SVG Players International; Mas band docked in fourth with 342 points with a presentation entitled I.N.C.A.

Lynx Mas Band broke the dominance shared by the big four when they took the first prize in the Uptown- Mas on the Move Competition.

As for the King and Queen of the Bands, Blondie Bird continued their hold on these categories. They took both titles.

Having won the 2026 Queen of the Band competition, Blondie Bird now boasts eleven Queen of the Band titles — all portrayed by Semone Richardson-Niles.

Interestingly, Mirage Production which in the 1990s and early 2000s set the standard, so to speak, in both the King and Queen of the bands competitions, eventually withdrew from participating in those competitions well over ten years now.

Problem Child rules the Road

SHERTZ “PROBLEM CHILD” JAMES is now fully established as an icon among Road March winners in SVG.

He confirmed this status when he convincingly set aside all other contenders to take the Road March title for Vincymas 2006.

With his overwhelmingly popular “Party Time”, he accumulated 53 points to be well ahead of a tie for second place involving Lamar “Blama” Allen with “Polygamy”, and newly crowned Soca Monarch Jasper

‘Jasper YMC” with “Rum island”, both with 38 points.

The 2026 victory handed Problem Child his third consecutive Road March title thereby increasing his over tally of Road March wins to six, one shy of Alston BECKET Cyrus who stands aloft with seven wins.

With his hat trick, he joins the likes of Lord Hawke, Alson BECKET Cyrus, Godfrey Dublin (TOUCH) and Poorsah who have all had a hat trick or better as in the cases of BECKET and Godfrey

Dublin.

With his six wins, Problem Child has now bypassed Cornelius “Poorsah” Williams and Godfrey Dublin (TOUCH) with five wins each.

His six wins are recorded thus: “Party Animal” (2007), “Mad House (2009), “Neva Bow” (2017), “carnival Jumbie (2024), “Fraid Horn (2025) and Party Time (2026.

This country made it mandatory as of 1971 that the Road March must be a song rendered by a local calypsonian or any other

performing artiste.

The first Vincentian to provide a locally composed and sung Road March was Lord Hawke in 1971, with his memorable “Sweeter than this”. Lord Hawke, a versatile performer would go on to become known as Caribbean Hawke, in keeping with the popularity he developed across the region.

Shertz “Problem Child” James is now among the top providers of Road March winners in SVG.

King and Queen of the Bands Blondie & Friends - Lost in Paradise

Rotary clubs donates to MHC

THE ROTARY CLUBS OF ST. VINCENThave reaffirmed their commitment to community service with the handover of a refurbished Occupational Therapy Unit at the Mental Health Centre in Glen, along with a donation of recreational supplies aimed at enhancing patient care and supporting the work of healthcare staff.

Representatives of the Rotary Clubs, on Wednesday 8th July, officially presented the refurbished unit and donated items to the institution’s management.

The donation included

a range of much-needed recreational and therapeutic materials, including board games and arts and crafts supplies, which the Centre’s management identified as priorities to support patients’ daily rehabilitation and therapeutic activities.

Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Rotary Club of St. Vincent South, Kim Haydock, said the initiative reflected the organization’s ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life of vulnerable

members of the community through meaningful partnerships and service projects. Haydock said the project “is a means of assisting patients with healing and recovery through stimulation of occupational and recreational interventions.”

Senior Nursing Officer at the Mental Health Centre, Kayashma Charles, expressed appreciation for the donation, noting that partnerships with community organizations are invaluable in helping the facility deliver quality care.

Rotary Clubs membes who availed themselves of the time to be part of the presentation of the equipment /supplies.

“This investment provides us with an even stronger foundation on which to build our rehabilitation programmes. It will enhance the work already being done while creating new opportunities to promote independence, dignity, and lasting recovery,” Charles said.

Director of Mental Health Services, Alisa Alvis, also thanked the

Rotary Clubs for their generosity and continued support of mental health services in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Alvis said the refurbished unit will “allow our clients to engage in purposeful, dignified activities that are central to genuine rehabilitation–not only helping them manage their symptoms, but also rebuilding their skills, restoring their

confidence, and providing a pathway to reintegration into society.”

The donation forms part of the Rotary Clubs’ broader humanitarian service programme, which focuses on improving lives, strengthening communities, and promoting care, dignity, and recovery throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Keeping SVG clean

THE

MINISTRY OF TOURISM, CIVIL AVIATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT has joined forces with the Solid Waste Management Unit, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, the Public Health Department, SVG Town Board and the Carnival Development Corporation to issue a strong national appeal to Vincentians and visitors to to keep the island clean, and protect the very environment that supports livelihoods andways of life.

maintain a welcoming environment for locals and tourists alike.

The initiative is supported by the Global Environment Facility and National Ozone Unit projects.

Recognizing that cleanliness is a shared responsibility, the agencies are encouraging the public to ‘Love SVG’ by practicing proper waste management, especially during the heightened period of pedestrian traffic and frolicking.

As part of this collaborative effort, eighty-five (85) waste bins have been distributed to street vendors, event coordinators and line ministries. These bins will be placed at strategic points throughout Kingstown and Arnos Vale, areas that experience high volumes of patrons during the carnival season. The initiative aims to reduce littering, improve waste disposal, and

In support of this initiative, the partnering entities will also intensify public awareness efforts by utilizing a range of traditional and digital media platforms. Through targeted advertisements, public service announcements, and social outreach, the message will be amplified nationwide to encourage responsible waste disposal and reinforce the importance of keeping Saint Vincent and the Grenadines clean during the Vincy Mas season and beyond.

The Ministry and its partners are urging everyone to demonstrate their love for SVG by actively protecting our country’s environment and disposing of waste responsibly while enjoying the local vibe.

For further information, please contact: Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Sustainable Development Telephone: 784-456-1111 ext. 3424 or email: tourism@gov.vc

Public health gets their share of the bins.

Government

Constituency Housing Assessors appointed

Andrew John, Housing Minister, in fulfilling a promise, announced the appointment of housing assessors in each constituency.

MINISTER OF HOUSING, HON. ANDREW JOHN, has announced the appointment of constituency housing assessors to ensure that housing needs are evaluated consistently and efficiently.

“Our assessors have been working diligently throughout the country to identify those most in need and to establish clear priorities,” Minister John said. “Their assessments allow us to

ensure that available resources are directed to the families facing the greatest housing challenges.”

Minister John also praised the pace of construction observed in North Leeward, noting that some projects have advanced from foundation to roofing within approximately five (5) weeks.

“This demonstrates what can be achieved through effective

planning, committed contractors, and strong collaboration.

Our goal is to deliver quality homes in the shortest possible time while maintaining high construction standards,” he disclosed.

The Minister further announced the expansion of the housing programme into the Grenadines through a collaborative initiative supported by Ian Wace. The partnership will assist with housing interventions in Union Island, Canouan, Mayreau, and Bequia, enabling the Ministry to accelerate housing delivery throughout the Southern Grenadines while increasing capacity to undertake additional projects on the mainland.

To improve efficiency, the Ministry has also established centralized storage and distribution systems for construction materials, allowing

J’Ouvert Fanatics: Dun wid dat!!!!

He emphasized the task of finding a theme that would allow all of the displays to be accommodated under that theme, and the identification of the individuals and displays to go with each portrayal, in addition to determining the attire of each individual, and the props required to enhanced the portrayal.

The origins

Arnos Vale Educational Sports and Cultural Organist ion (AVESCO), led by McKie’s brother Andrew ‘Muggy’ McKie from the 1970s to the 1990s, and the Montrose group led by the Burgin family in the 1980s, came together in the early 1990s to form J’Ouvert Fanatics, and involved persons like Joel “Bamba’ Providence, Steve Wyllie and Bentley Browne.

The band played J’Ouvert every year during that period and won the traditional J’Ouvert including the individual categories on numerous occasions.

J’Ouvert Fanatics is managed by Cecil McKie, Aubrey “Ras Boo’ Burgin and Francis ‘Vamps’ Llewellyn.

“The best efforts of J’Ouvert Fanatics to keep this important aspect of Vincymas alive have ailed. So why fight a losing battle when it is obvious that CDC has other interests for J’Ouvert, which are not traditional?” McKie questioned.

It is interesting to note that while the Monkey Band is also traditional Vincy Mas, it was not a J’Ouvert Morning presentation. Monkey Bands paraded the streets mainly on Carnival Tuesday, during the 1960s and the early 1970s, before it disappeared from the carnival landscape.

projects across multiple communities to progress simultaneously.

Current projections indicate that homes presently under construction could be completed within approximately five (5) weeks, allowing beneficiaries to occupy their new residences as quickly as possible. The Ministry also expects to complete a significant number of additional housing repairs before the end of the year, with a further expansion of the programme planned for 2027.

The Minister of Housing expressed appreciation to the technical staff, assessors, contractors, and all stakeholders whose dedication has contributed to the programme’s success.

“The progress achieved thus far reflects the commitment of everyone involved. Despite fiscal challenges, contractors and Ministry personnel have continued to work diligently and professionally to ensure that families receive the safe and secure housing they deserve. Together, we will continue advancing this important national initiative for the benefit of our people.”

Minister John made these remarks during a recent visit to North Leeward with Area Representative, Hon. Dr. Kishore Shallow. Both Ministers emphasized that even in the face of financial challenges, the Government remains committed to delivering practical solutions that improve the quality of life for vulnerable families. (Source: API SVG)

Continued from Backpage.

Why her and not me?

Dear George,

I HAVE A PROBLEM with my husband and his ability to satisfy me sexually. When we first got married he was the greatest in bed, but now 3 years after, he cannot get it up and if and when he does it does I’m writing to you, several days ago I caught him in bed with a friend of mine. I have complained to her before about his sexual problem and she encouraged me to find my satisfaction elsewhere. I never knew she would betray me like that. How come my husband can fully satisfy her and not me?

Confused

Dear Confused,

There can be varying reasons for erectile dysfunction and before judgement or conclusion is made, this must be investigated thoroughly. I can only assume that one reason for your husband's inability to rise to the occasion or stay in the moment long enough to satisfy your needs, could be he is no longer attracted to you and that can be sexually or otherwise. Therapy can help to get to an understanding as to what is causing ED issues. On the other hand exposing your personal business to outsiders can bring harm to your relationship and must never be done. Some friends are there at the end of the day for

themselves, not you.

She may glitter, but she’s not gold

Dear George,

I HAVE BEEN DATING THIS GIRL for two months and I am concerned about a few things. When we go out, I’ve noticed that she has zero social skills when interacting with others. She has terrible table etiquette and speaks with a mouthful of food. She is loud and rambunctious and would always try to justify her behavior when confronted. George, she is extremely sexy and the envy of every man but I’m very concerned about the rest of her. I've always wanted a woman as beautiful as her and would hate to give her up. Do you think I should keep her and try to train her to be what I want her to become?

Unsure but in love

Dear Unsure but in love,

You are dotting your Is and crossing your Ts selectively. Deep down you know she is not the woman you are seeking but you are allowing your eyes to lead you down the wrong path. Beauty starts from inside and ultimately reflects outwardly. Your girlfriend may be glittering but you know deep down she is not gold. My advice to you is to keep digging if you wish to find the gold you are looking for.

George

You may need some earplugs

Dear George,

I AM VISITING MY COUSINin

Barbados and have been here for 3 weeks now. The plan is for me to stay at her for 6 months while looking for work. She lives with her husband. The house has two bedrooms and I’m very comfortable except for their behavior at nights and sometimes during the day.

George, every night for what seems like hours they are having loud sex. It’s like they have forgotten they are not alone in the house. This woman would be mourning and groaning for hours it seems like. I am not able to sleep comfortably, but I do not know how to tell them about it. I know it is their house etc., but don't you think they can have some consideration for me? Should I confront them about it or should I just cut my visit short without saying anything? It is not my wish to offend any of them.

Uncomfortable situation

Dear Uncomfortable situation,

Yes it would be nice for your host to be more considerate, but that does not seem likely to happen automatically. Depending on the relationship you have with your cousin you would know if approaching her about the issue would be a wise move. It can be difficult to list demands albeit just one when they are doing so much to assist you in your bid to find work etc. It may not be a bad idea to get some ear plugs in the meantime. That may work well enough and help you to buy some time. You will not be there forever and may surprisingly be able to manage with the help of the ear plugs while you keep your eyes on the end goal.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21 - April 20)

This will not be the day to start new business ventures or make drastic changes in your career. You must strive to get the most important projects completed properly, rather than doling everything in a half-baked way. You are best to work at home, clearing up overdue projects. You can’t win and they won’t listen.

TAURUS (Apr. 21 - May 21)

Don’t let any money slip through your fingers this week. Don’t exaggerate. Opportunities for new friendships are apparent. Regardless of your first reaction, the outcome will be favorable.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21)

Do not give your heart to someone who may not live up to your standards. You can’t lock your partner up and if you keep restricting their freedom you may be left out in the cold. Try to stay calm, and whatever you do, don’t nag. It’s time to reconnect with some of the people you used to know.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Don’t share your dilemma with those you work with. Difficulties with older females in your family may turn out to be quit trivial after all. Your interest in helping others may take you back to school. You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Be prepared to lose friends or alienate loved ones due to your stubborn nature lately. You can make money if you put your mind to it. Romance may be likely if you travel. Stay calm and focus on things that will help you understand the situation better.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Pleasure trips will turn out to be better than anticipated. You can make money if you’re willing to push your ideas on those in a position to support your efforts. You can make new friends and get involved in new hobbies successfully. Don’t push your luck with your boss.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23)

You will get bored quickly, so make sure that you have scheduled enough activity to hold your interest. Don’t overindulge in anyway. Delays are evident. You can discuss your intentions and ideas with your colleagues or friends this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Secret affairs will only lead to heartache. Look into making changes to your personal papers and don’t neglect those bills that have been piling up. Read some books on self-awareness. Upgrading at this point is not a bad plan.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21)

You can make gains if you look at long-term investments. Visitors may drop by unexpectedly, resulting in tension with your lover. Get some sound advice and help setting up a workable budget. Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 20)

Make residential changes that will lift your spirits. Think before you act if you wish to avoid friction. Travel will result in new romantic attractions. Be prepared to step into the limelight if you wish to promote your ambitions.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Keep an open mind when dealing with youngsters. Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections. Stress coupled with diet will add to stomach problems. Physical limitations are possible if you aren’t careful.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions. You may have problems with children. You’re undergoing changes. Valuable information can be yours if you listen to those with experience.

ACROSS

1. Joint in the hind leg of a horse 5. Angel of the highest order 11. Capital of Yemen 12. Fit to be eaten 13. Air (prefix) 14. Mend 15. Greek 17. Son of Jacob 18. Colorful form of the common carp 19. Wife of a rajah 20. Primp 23. Devilfish 24. Listen to 25. Thigh 26. Donkey 27. Emptiness 31. Fisherman 33. Adverse fate 34. Glacial epoch 35. Against 36. Flowing water

37. Never DOWN

1. Dutch name of The Hague 2. River in central Europe

3. Cover with wax 4. One that knocks 5. Caravansary 6. Paradise 7. Tear 8. City in SW Iran 9. Pliable 10. Rupture 16. Electrically charged atom 19. 9th month of the Islamic calendar 20. Aspect

21. Do a resection on 22. Simpler 23. Family name prefix 25. Seraglio 27. Star of the first magnitude 28. Not one 29. Pigeon coop

30. Primordial giant in Norse myth 32. Not

Two golds at OECS Championships

ROMAUL JAMES AND KESIANN JOHN

pocketed a gold each for St Vincent and the Grenadines at the 2026 staging of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOCES) Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Track and Field Championships at the Kim Collins Stadium, St. Kitts and Nevis, July 4 and 5.

James copped the Men’s Triple Jump, with a distance of 15.16m, while John took the Women’s 800m in 2:23.27.

Both added silver medals to their takings, as James was second in the Long Jump with a leap of 7.33m and

John did 4.80m in the women’s version.

Also taking silver was Handal Roban in the Men’s 400m. He clocked 46.59s.

Also docking in second place was J’avair Cato in the Triple Jump, with his best effort of 14.92m. And Brinesha Derrick- Bain took silver in the Women’s 100m Hurdles with a time of 13.91s.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ other silver medal was attained by the men’s quartet of Keo Davis, AJ Delpesche, Kyle Lawrence and J’ Mar Saunders who timed 40.07s in the 4 x 100m.

Maloney wins gold in Barbados

VINCENTIAN OLYMPIANand national record holder Shafiqua “Fifi” Maloney cruised to a commanding first-place finish in the women’s 800m, at the 2026 Barbados Grand Prix held at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex. She finished in a time of 1:58.23. The 2026 Barbados Grand Prix was held on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex in Cave Hill, Barbados.

And, Mc Kish Compton took bronze in the Men’s 100m final, in a time of 10.45s.

Reine Browne also gained a bronze in the Women’s 100m Hurdles. Her third- place time was 14.32s.

Other performances

Teia Laborde finished fourth in the Women’s 200m with a 24.04s clocking and was sixth in the 100m, timing 12.12s.

Right: Romaul James –Triple Jump OECS gold

Below: Kesiann John –800m OECS gold

Zekisha Kelly placed seventh in the Women’s 400m (58.43s), and was seventh in the 200m (25.05), whilst AJ Delpesche placed sixth in the Men’s 200m in 21.51s.

The combination of Kelly, Laborde, Davis and Delpesche placed fourth in the 4x 400m Mixed Relay (3.38.25).

Meanwhile, Davis timed 21.05s in the 200m heats, and Lawrence did

10.60s in his 100m heats, but neither competed in the final because of injury precaution. St. Vincent and the Grenadines finished fourth overall on 123 points. Host St. Kitts and Nevis topped the standings with 181 points, ahead of Antigua and Barbuda- 171 point, and the British Virgin Islands- 130 points.

The other competing countries were: Grenada - 92 points, Dominica- 76, St. Lucia- 72, Anguilla - 35 and Montserrat- 11. ANOCES has assured continuity of the championships with a commitment of a three- year financial input.

It was said to be an action-packed track and field event that featured intense competition, and ran from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM.

Maloney, the Vincentian Olympic finalist and national record holder, successfully held off a strong field that included defending champion Kelly-Ann Beckford, to claim gold.

This was in fact, a much-anticipated rematch with defending meet champion Kelly-Ann Beckford, whom Maloney had defeated on June 6, 2026, at the USATF Lone Star Grand Prix in Texas. Maloney won the women’s 800m title with a season-best time of 1:57.34, while Beckford finished second in 1:58.46.

SVG Athletes bag 12 medals in T&T

THE EMERGING CROP of young Track and Field athletes was given the opportunity to math their worth against their peers at the Mason Hall Police Youth Club Juvenile Classic at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Trinidad and Tobago, July 4 and 5, 2026.

At the end of the two days, the Vincentian had copped twelve medals, including five gold.

The individuals earning gold were: Ethan Kent in the Under-15 Boys High Jump, with a best leap of 1.83m; Jada Davis - the Under-15 Girls 800m in 2:33.45; Jeremiah Wright in the Under-18 Boys

The emerging group of young Track and Field athletes who travelled to T&T for the recent Meet.

1500m in 4: 26.20’ and Aria Carte - the Under-

18 Girls 400m in 59.14s.

The other gold was pouched in the Under-18 Mixed Relay with the quartet of Kelcie Strough, Kenisha Richards, Leemore Ollivierre and Henly Bushay winning in a time of 46.25s.

Young athletes from across the region impressed at the Mason Hall Police Youth Classic staged in T&T.

Two silver medals also added to the Vincentian count, with Roy George recording 11.27s in the Under-15 Boys 100m, and Ayah Stapleton- 2: 31.40 in the Under-18 Girls 800m.

Continued on Page 22.

Shafiqua Maloney after her winning run in the 800m of the Barbados Grand Prix.

Playaz 2026 Summer Camp is on

Participants in the Playaz Youth Academy’s Basketball Summer Camp of 2025 with President Orlando Fergusson (extreme right).

PLAYAZ YOUTH ACADEMY’S Basketball Summer Camp 2026 will run from 27th July to 7th August 2026, Monday to Friday, at the Lowmans Leeward Hard Court, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. daily.

The two-week camp, a youth development programme that uses basketball, mentorship and life skills sessions to positively impact young people, is open to boys and girls ages 5 and over. The registration fee is $100, with transportation and refreshments provided for registered participants.

Over the years, the Summer Camp has gone beyond basketball by including educational sessions that speak directly to issues affecting young people. Past sessions have featured topics such as: STD Awareness in collaboration with the Ministry of Health; Conflict Resolution and Anger Management with the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force; Life Behind Bars with His Majesty’s Prison; Bullying Awareness with Dr. Jozelle Miller; and Financial Literacy for Youth with support from financial institutions such as GECCU Ltd., St. Vincent Co-operative Bank, TCCU and others.

For 2026, the Academy says it intends to build on this foundation with new speakers, expanded development sessions and a continued focus on helping young people make positive choices.

And President of Playaz Youth Academy, Mr. Orlando Fergusson, underscored the importance of the Camp as part of the Academy’s mission.

“Through this camp, we are not only teaching

SVG

basketball. We are creating a space where young people can learn discipline, build confidence, develop respect for others and be guided in a positive direction,” Mr. Fergusson said.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to register early, as spaces are limited.

To register or learn more, persons may contact Playaz Youth Academy at +1 (784) 498-8650 or +1 (784) 533-4216, message the Academy on Facebook or Instagram at @playazyoutacademy, or email playazyouthacademy23@gmail.com.

‘Volleyballers’ head for the Beach

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINESwill be represented by male and female duos in this year’s Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-20 Beach Volleyball Championships, set for Frigate Bay, St. Kitts and Nevis.

Damari Frederick and Dishawn Alexander make up the male pair, and they will have Ronaldo

Franklyn as their coach. Nikita CampbellCumberbatch, will serve as coach to the female pair of Nayelli Fergus and Reanna Robinson.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is among eleven countries seeking honours.

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Sint

Eustatius, St. Lucia, St. Maarten and host St. Kitts and Nevis are the other competing countries.

In all, 28 teams, 14 in each gender, have registered to participate.

When the championships were staged in 2025 at the same venue, it was an Under-21 event.

Dominica won the male component, and St. Lucia took the female.

Jayden George leads OECS charge

VINCENTIANJAYDEN GEORGE is chasing a sixth straight Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association(CASA) title, as he leads his country’s charge in the 2026 edition carded for the Tortola Sports Club in the British Virgin Islands, July 10 to 16.

Tipped to defend his Under-17 title won last year in the Cayman Islands, George is among nine selected to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the championships.

George, who is seeded number one, is joined by Aiden De Freitas in the Boys Under-17. Zavin Garrick will compete in Under-11; Savante Padmore- Under-13; Ethan Webster- Under15 and Jaydon Williams- Under-19. Garrick enters his age group as the top seed, with Padmore listed as 3/4; and Williams the number two in his category.

Sisters- Caeli and Ciara George are in Under-15 and Under-19 respectively and Naira Skye- John, the Under-17.

Accompanying the nine players are Coach- Jules Snagg and Manager/ Chaperone- Cindy Walcott. At the 2025 championships, apart from Jayden George’s triumph, Padmore took the Under-11 title, Garrick placed third in the Under-11, as did Aiden De Freitas in the Under-15s.

Jayden George leads the SVG team even as he works toward capturing a 6th Junior Caribbean Squash title.

Reanna Robinson (left) Nayelli Fergus (right) Damari Frederick (left) Dishawn Alexander (right)

Speculations are over

THE RACE TO BECOME CHAMPIONif the Fifa 2026 World Cup intensifies. Semifinal clashes take place Tuesday July 14 and Wednesday 15. By then, speculations will be over. France and Morocco decided yesterday’s first semifinalist. The pattern proceeds today with the Spain/Belgium showdown.

The build-up unfolds in two dramatic encounters: Norway versus England and an Argentina/Switzerland battle.

Pundits and skeptics have their take on the scenario. Fingers are pointed on what may have happened.

The clash for third place, July 18, will be as keen as ever as the bid for acclamation peaks.

Everyone relishes the opportunity to be in the final with knowledge that even a loss will not be a complete disgrace.

(That will not please the professional and teams go to the extreme. The World Cup is a unique occasion to establish one’s credentials.)

There is the saying that uneasy lies the head that wears the crown. Argentina overcame scary moments on their way to the quarterfinals.

(The unpredictable nature of any outcome is frequent.)

This tournament is a revelation. Big named teams cannot take it for granted.

Cape Verde emerged as a talk of the tournament. Other nations can draw inspiration. Their courage and determination are exemplary. Their players were fit and went beyond the call of duty to fight for their nation. There is a level of cohesion and willingness to progress that characterizes the Cape Verdeans.

They have drawn the world’s attention to their pedigree and style. Other nations were not disgraced, even though they did not create that impact.

Curacao will feel satisfied with their experience. The lessons are valuable. They know what it takes to get there and there is no reason for them not to repeat it.

Other Caribbean nations will do their introspection. Trinidad and Tobago must review their modus operandi. Jamaica knows where they erred. They have to rekindle the qualification spirit.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has the potential to break through. They have to follow the Cape Verde script. We have to be serious about our effort and rise above securing turf that affects our selection policies. Besides those, the recruitment exercise to engage eligible citizens must be harnessed.

There must be the collective will to ensure that our preparation is geared for the qualification. This has to be a patriotic venture. There must be collaboration and commitment along the way.

There must an outline to kick start the preparation and keep the wheels oiled as part of the thrust towards sports as a plank of economic advancement.

MenÊs Senior Cricket Team Announced

ASIF HOOPER will lead a 14-member squad which includes three newcomers, to represent St Vincent and the Grenadines in the Windward Islands threeday and 50 overs tournaments, to be held in Grenada from July 24th to August 4th, 2026.

The newcomers are SVG U19 captain allrounder Jorden Charles, and fast bowlers

Benniton Stapleton and Kazado Henry. Henry is also a member of the Windward Islands team to compete in the CWI U19 tournament to be held in St Kitts this month.

Making a return to the setup is top order batter Romano Pierre and off spinner Kenneth Dember.

The team along with six reserves were selected after a series of training sessions and practice matches.

The three-day format has been reintroduced after years of absence.

Each team will play one match in this format.

Speaking to the VINCENTIAN, Captain Hopper has thrown his full support behind the team. “First of all, it’s a great honour to captain St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the 2026 Windward Islands Tournament. It’s a responsibility I take with pride. Our expectations are high, but they’re realistic. We’ve prepared well, and the focus is on playing disciplined, positive cricket. We want to compete hard in every match, stay consistent, and put ourselves in a position to challenge for the title.

The team reads: Asif Hooper (Captain), Dillon Douglas (Vice-Captain),

“As captain, I want to lead by example, create a positive environment, and bring the best out of every player in the squad. Cricket is a team game, and our success will come from trusting each other, working together, and fighting for every moment on the field.” Hooper noted, “We have a very strong core of senior players who bring experience, leadership, and composure to the team. Their knowledge of the game is invaluable, and they’ll play a big role in guiding our younger players throughout the tournament.”

Continued from Page 20.

Kodi Grant, Kazado Henry, Kenneth Dember. The reserves are, Jarrell Edwards, Newton Browne, Joe Williams, Kevin Joseph, Roman Johnson, Watson Seaton.

Rounding up the podium finishes were five bronze finisherts: the Under-15 Mixed 4 x 100m Relay team of Roy George, Tyler Hercules, along with Jada Davis and Aria Carter in 49.96s; George in the Under-15 Boys 200m in 22.93s; Hercules in the Under-15 Boys 100m in 11.47s; Kelcie Strough12.56s in the Under- 18 Girls 100m and Danley Williams - 2:15.60 in the Under-15 Boys 800m. The team was accompanied by Coach- Chester Morgan and Manager/ Chaperone- Sorenya Miller.

Desron Maloney, Sunil Ambris, Keron Cottoy, Ethan Gibson, Jaheil Walters, Romano Pierre, Jorden Charles, Jeremy Haywood, Benniton Stapleton,

I.B.A. ALLEN

Below: Asif Hooper, Captain, has high expectations for the team.

Dillon Douglas, ViceCaptain, wicketkeeper batsman

Kazado Henry, newcomer fast bowler

Jordan Charles, newcomer all-rounder

Benniton Stapleton, newcomer fast bowler

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J’OUVERT FANATICS: DUN WID DAT!!!!

by HAYDN HUGGINS

AFTER WHAT THEY SAY was an unsuccessful battle with the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) to keep the traditional component of J’Ouvert alive, the traditional J’Ouvert Mas Band, J’Ouvert Fanatics, has decided that “dey dun wid dat!!!

Cecil ‘Ces’ McKie, member of the managing team of J’Ouvert Fanatics which has been presenting traditional (ole) mas for some 36 years, told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday that after “fighting a losing battle” with CDC, the band has decided unanimously to make 2026 the year of its final presentation and participation in traditional J’Ouvert.

McKie, who played with J’Ouvert Fanatics even when he was Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture under the former Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration, said that the group for many years the group, for many years, had recognized that the traditional J’Ouvert bands were struggling, and in 2020, they asked CDC to intervene. This was done, and there was increased participation of four bands for traditional J’Ouvert.

However, these bands were unable to sustain themselves, and three of them have not competed since 2023,

leaving J’Ouvert Fanatics as a sole traditional competitor for the last three years.

No stage –no music

McKie said that earlier this year (2026), J’Ouvert Fanatics again reached out to CDC, suggesting that an urgent meeting be convened to get these bands back into competition. That meeting never materialized.

He pointed out that for J’Ouvert 2026: no entry forms for traditional J’ouvert were available at CDC’s office; there was little or no mention of the traditional component during the various promotional media interviews with members of CDC; and invitations to official CDC activities appeared to be an afterthought of CDC.

McKie added that the stage for judging traditional mas for J’Ouvert 2026 was not erected until 7am on J’Ouvert morning, and there was no sound system, resulting in the absence of the narration for the players, as well as the accompanying music for the parade on stage.

“How much more ridiculous can it get? McKie lamented.

CDC emphasis

Cecil ‘Ces’ McKie was the bearer of “bad news” and did not hesitate from putting the blame for diminishing interest in and support for traditional J’Ouvert bands and individuals, at the feet of the CDC.

He noted that J’Ouvert Fanatics has observed that CDC has been placing emphasis on the Monkey Band as their preferred component of J’Ouvert.

A truck with music was provided for the Monkey Band, which was not done for traditional mas.

According to McKie, CDC promoted, marketed and some of their members even played in the Monkey Band, at the expense of the traditional mas and creating the avenues for both to coexist.

McKie underscored that to put a traditional J’Ouvert band on the road was not easy. Beyond the need for creative thinking, it required financing, and was very time consuming.

J’Ouvert Fanatics have taken the lead in trying to get the CDC to recognise the importance of keeping the traditional J’Ouvert component alive.