Twenty-four (24) schools across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union compete in the 2nd Annual Regional Schools Investment Competition. The competition is a dynamic learning experience for high school and first-year college students that introduces them to investing and more specifically to investing via the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE). The competition which runs from 8th October to 13th November 2024 provides the opportunity for students to experience securities market activity firsthand. Participants will be able to test their knowledge while gaining useful investing insights and skills.
The competition kicked off with an Education Webinar on 26th September and a Competition briefing on 4th October. The Intra-Country portion of the competition begins on 8th October, and the winning school in each of the eight ECCU member countries in this segment goes on to compete in the regional competition which commences 29th October.
The competition is a collaborative effort of the ECSE, the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission (ECSRC) and the ECSE member licensed broker-dealers, which aims to excite and inspire young people to learn more about investing and to create a pathway for young investors to become active market participants in the future.
Further updates on the competition can be found on the ECSE’s website www.ecseonline.com, and social media pages.
Planned shutdown due to repairs to raw water pipeline
The Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO) wishes to advise consumers in the northern region of the island to increase their water storage in preparation for an upcoming water supply interruption.
On Thursday, October 10, 2024, WASCO will conduct repairs on the 24-inch raw water pipeline that supplies water from the John Compton Dam in Millet to Vanard. This maintenance is necessary to address long-standing issues on the aging pipeline, which has been in operation since the 1980s. The shutdown will affect residents from Millet to Cap Estate, excluding the Babonneau region.
We strongly urge all residents to store adequate water in advance, as disruptions are expected to last up to 48 hours. Please note that residents at higher elevations and those farthest from the water system should anticipate delays in full supply restoration as the system recharges after repairs are completed.
The repairs aim to reduce future water losses and enhance the efficiency of water processing at the Theobalds Treatment Plant, leading to a more consistent and reliable supply in the future. We have planned, taking into account upcoming events such as Jounen Kewyol, International Cricket and Christmas.
WASCO apologises for the inconvenience and appreciates the understanding of the public as we work towards improving service reliability. Look out for updates on our website and social media platforms.
The Spice Island Beach Resort team celebrates the remarkable achievement.
Spice Island Beach Resort Secures AAA Five Diamond Award for 2024
Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada’s premier, locally-owned and -operated luxury boutique resort, has once again retained the prestigious AAA Five Diamond award for 2024.
“We are immensely proud to have again received the AAA Five Diamond award for 2024,” said Janelle Hopkin, President and Managing Director of Spice Island Beach Resort, in a champagne toast to mark the occasion with members of her management team and staff. “This award reflects the relentless dedication of our team to provide guests with an exceptional, unforgettable, and authentic luxury Caribbean hospitality experience,” she added.
This marks the 8th consecutive year that the resort has maintained its Five Diamond status, placing it among a very select few properties in the Caribbean.
Janelle Hopkin – President and Managing Director, Spice Island Beach Resort
The AAA program, renowned for its rigorous standards, has evaluated and awarded hotels for over 80 years. Independent inspectors conduct unannounced in-person assessments each year at more than 26,000 hotels across North America and the Caribbean. The Five Diamond rating is awarded to only 0.4% of these properties, distinguishing them as the epitome of luxury and excellence among the 62 million+ AAA members.
A Five Diamond rating signifies unparalleled luxury, world-class amenities, and an extraordinary guest experience. Additionally, Spice Island Beach Resort proudly holds the “AAA Inspected Clean” certification, introduced post-pandemic to assure travelers of the highest standards of cleanliness and safety through both visible and ATP surface testing.
“While celebrating this achievement, we are committed to not resting on our laurels. In this highly competitive tourism industry, we continuously strive to elevate our standards and exceed guest expectations,” Hopkin stated.
About Spice Island Beach Resort
Spice Island Beach Resort is perennially rated as the definitive, 21st century luxury Caribbean retreat. The resort features 64 elegantly appointed suites, including 17 with private swimming pools, in addition to 32 luxurious beachfront suites. This independent, local family-owned all-inclusive property has won numerous regional and international awards, including the coveted AAA Five Diamond rating. Spice Island Beach Resort is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. For further information, visitwww.spiceislandbeachresort.com.
Ministry of Health calls for urgent community preventative action to combat dengue outbreak
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has declared a dengue outbreak in Saint Lucia as reported cases of the viral infection continue to rise sharply.
Since the start of 2024, the Ministry has confirmed 205 cases, with the majority concentrated in the northern regions of the island, particularly Castries and Gros Islet. This concerning trend calls for immediate and targeted public health interventions.
According to Dr. Michelle Francois, National Epidemiologist in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs, the increase in dengue cases is significant, with August alone accounting for 47% of all cases this year.
“This surge in cases, which represents a 174% increase from July, marks a critical turning point in our dengue response efforts. We are seeing an increase, with September already confirming two-thirds of the August figures. The public must act now to reduce mosquito breeding sites in their homes and communities,” urged Dr. Francois.
About 75% of dengue infections are asymptomatic or produce a very mild febrile illness. Persons with mild dengue may present with fever, accompanied by rash, nausea or vomiting, pain behind the eye, muscle and joint pain.
The Ministry of Health has launched an intensified public health campaign to combat the dengue outbreak, stressing the importance of personal prevention measures and community cooperation.
“The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue, thrives in man-made containers and urban environments. Simple actions such as disposing of stagnant water, covering water storage containers, and using insect repellent can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Together, we can break the cycle and protect our families and communities,” emphasized National Epidemiologist Dr. Francois.
There is no specific treatment for dengue and management is supportive based on clinical presentation. Testing for dengue is available in Saint Lucia. The Ministry of Health and Wellness urges persons who may be experiencing signs and symptoms can seek care at their nearest wellness centre.
The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the dengue situation closely and provide regular updates. The public is encouraged to stay informed and take the necessary steps to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Technical Assistance For Micro, Small and Medium sized Businesses
The Antigua and Barbuda Investment Authority (ABIA) in collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) will be offering Technical Assistance to MSMEs in the area of Financial Management. The objective of the assistance is to provide one-on-one assistance in the area of Financial Management to such businesses.
In order to qualify for one-on-one Technical Assistance, you will be required to register and complete the course on Financial Literacy and Management Training to held September 30th to October 3rd , 2024, at the Department of Environment Conference Room 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm nightly, cost $150.00.
Benefits of attending the course on Financial Literacy and Management Training:
Improved skills to manage business and personal finance
Increased ability to make wise financial decisions
Knowing how to navigate common financial challenges facing many
businesses
Knowing how and when to access financial support successfully
Apply skills and tools provided to improve overall business performance
How to Register for the Course Financial Literacy and Management
The OECS Commission extends heartfelt congratulations to all participants and medallists from OECS Member States for their remarkable participation in the recently concluded Olympic Games. Your dedication and commitment have brought immense pride to our region, showcasing the extraordinary talent and resilience of OECS Olympic athletes on the global stage.
The Commission also acknowledges the invaluable support of Member States, National Olympic Committees, coaches, teachers, mentors, families, and support staff who have played a crucial role in preparing the region’s athletes for this prestigious event. Your unwavering dedication has been instrumental in their success. We also express our gratitude to the host nation and the International Olympic Committee for organizing a successful and safe event, providing athletes with the opportunity to shine.
The OECS Commission remains committed to promoting sports as an enabler of sustainable development and fostering support for athletes as they pursue their dreams. In March 2024 the Commission hosted the Inaugural OECS Council of Ministers: Youth and Sports and supported the 2024 OECS Invitational Boxing Championships in July 2024. In March 2024, the OECS Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre of Sports Resources, Expertise and Performance (CREPS), located in Guadeloupe. The MoU allows OECS Olympic athletes to access CREPS’s world-class facilities. The Commission looks forward to witnessing more remarkable achievements by the region’s athletes in future international competitions.
The Commission recognises medallists from Independent OECS Member States: Thea LaFond, Commonwealth of Dominica, on her Gold Medal in the Women’s Triple Jump; Anderson Peters, Grenada, on his Bronze Medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw; Lindon Victor, Grenada, on his Bronze Medal, in the Men’s Decathlon; and Julien Alfred, Saint Lucia, on her Gold Medal in the Women’s 100m, and her Silver Medal, in the Women’s 200m. The OECS also applauds Shafiqua Maloney, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, placing 4th at the Women’s 800m who narrowly missed out on a medal at the Olympic Games by just 0.2 seconds, but has inspired her nation and the region.
Olympic Athletes
The Commission commends medallists originating from the Associate Member State of:
Guadeloupe representing France: Jefferson-Lee Joseph, Gold Medal in Rugby Sevens (Men);
Yannick Borel, Silver Medal in Fencing (Men’s Épée Team);
Sarah Leonie Cysique, Bronze Medal in Judo (Women -57kg) and Gold Medal in Judo (Mixed Team);
Coraline Vitalis, Silver Medal in Fencing (Women’s Épée Team);
Teddy Riner, Gold Medal in Judo (Men +100 kg) and Gold Medal in Judo (Mixed Team);
Enzo Lefort, Bronze Medal in Fencing (Men’s Foil Team);
Cyrian Ravet, Bronze Medal in Taekwondo (Men -58kg);
Matthew Strazel, Silver Medal in Basketball (Men);
Alexandre Lacazette, Silver Medal in Football (Men);
Kiliann Sildillia, Silver Medal in Football (Men);
Meline Nocandy, Silver Medal in Handball (Women);
Orlane Kanor, Silver Medal in Handball (Women).
The Commission also shines a spotlight on Marie- Florence Candassamy, for her Silver Medal in Fencing (Women’s Épée Team). Through her mother and father she is a medallist with origins from the Associate Member States of Martinique and Guadeloupe, representing France.
Congratulations once again to all our athletes for their exceptional achievements. Your efforts and accomplishments serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all.
PARIS 2024 Olympic Athletes
Athlete
OECS Independent Member State/Team/NOC
Discipline
Cejhae Greene
Antigua and Barbuda
Athletics
Joella Lloyd
Antigua and Barbuda
Athletics
Ellie Shaw
Antigua and Barbuda
Swimming
Tiger Tyson
Antigua and Barbuda
Sailing
Jadon Wuilliez
Antigua and Barbuda
Swimming
Thea LaFond
Commonwealth of Dominica (Gold, Event: Women’s Triple Jump)
interCaribbean Airways Unveils “Spirit of Grenada” Aircraft in Tribute to Grenada
interCaribbean Airways unveiled a custom-painted ATR 42-500 aircraft featuring the flag of Grenada on its tail during a ceremony at Maurice Bishop International Airport yesterday. The aircraft, registered as VQ-TGD and named “Spirit of Grenada” on its nose, symbolizes interCaribbean’s gratitude for the Government of Grenada’s support.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Grenada’s Prime Minister, Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Honourable, Lennox J. Andrews, Minister for Economic Development, Planning, Agriculture and Lands, Forestry, Marine Resources, and Cooperatives, Senator the Honourable, Adrain A. Thomas, Minister for Tourism, the Creative Economy, and Culture, interCaribbean’s Chairman and Founder, Lyndon Gardiner, Chairman Randall Dolland, and CEO Petra Roach of Grenada Tourism Authority, other dignitaries, and tourism industry professionals. interCaribbean’s CEO Trevor Sadler, and COO, Craig Chappel arrived on the aircraft, which was operated by an all-Grenadian crew including Captain, Therron Charles, First Officer, Andrew Hopkin, and Flight Attendant, Brittney Patterson St. Clair. The aircraft taxied to the terminal for the ceremony, where it was welcomed by the gathered officials. This tribute comes at a significant time for Grenada, which is recovering from the recent devastation of Hurricane Beryl, a Category 4 storm that impacted the northern part of the island, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.
[Left] interCaribbean CEO, Mr Trevor Sadler, [Centre] Prime Minister of Grenada, Honourable Dicon Mitchell [Right], Chairman and Founder of interCaribbean, Mr Lyndon Gardiner
“This aircraft ‘Spirit of Grenada’ symbolizes our deep appreciation for Grenada’s support since we expanded into the Southern Caribbean,” said Lyndon Gardiner, Chairman of interCaribbean Airways. “Their partnership has been crucial to our growth, and we are honored to play a role in the island’s ongoing connectivity. We stand in solidarity with the Grenadian people and reaffirm our commitment to serving this resilient nation.”
Prime Minister of Grenada, Honourable Dickon Mitchell, spoke about the significance of the new aircraft: “As we welcome this new look, we look forward to the benefits it will bring to Grenada and our local communities. Increased tourism means more opportunities for our artisans, restaurateurs, tour operators, and other small businesses. It means more cultural exchanges and the sharing of our rich heritage with visitors from around the globe. This is not just a flight; it is a gateway to new experiences and connections.”
The Grenada-themed aircraft underscores interCaribbean’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with Caribbean nations. In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, interCaribbean continues to play an active role in airlifting critical human resources, supplies, and equipment for relief agencies serving both Grenada and St. Vincent. This support demonstrates interCaribbean’s commitment to the region beyond tourism, highlighting the airline’s dedication to assisting the islands it serves during their times of greatest need.
The ‘Spirit of Grenada’ aircraft debuts as Grenada prepares to celebrate its Spice Mas festival and follows the nation’s 50th independence anniversary celebrated in February 2024. This new addition to interCaribbean’s growing fleet of ATRs and Jets will fly within the network, showcasing the partnership throughout the Caribbean.
About interCaribbean Airways
interCaribbean Airways is a privately-owned and operated airline, headquartered in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The UK-flagged airline operates 50-seat Embraer ERJ145 Regional Jets, 70 seat Bombardier CRJ700, and a fleet of turboprops, comprising 68-seat ATR72, 48-seat ATR42s, 30-seat EMB120s, and 19-seat Twin Otters. With a network spanning Georgetown, Guyana, in the south, Barbados to the east, Havana, Cuba, to the west, and Nassau, Bahamas, to the north, interCaribbean connects twenty-six cities across seventeen countries in the Caribbean. For more information or to book a flight, visit www.intercaribbean.com.
Tropical disturbance heading towards the lesser Antilles
The Saint Lucia Meteorological Services is currently monitoring the progress of a tropical disturbance which is located over the Eastern Tropical Atlantic. At 8:00 am today, the disturbance was centred near 10 degree North, 33.8 degrees West or about 1800 miles or 2900 km east of the Lesser Antilles. At present, the disturbance is moving westward near 15 mph and has an intensity of 29 mph. Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive for development of this system and a tropical depression or tropical storm is likely to form this weekend several hundred miles east of the Windward Islands within the next few days.
According to latest model runs, deterioration in weather and sea conditions can be expected in the Lesser Antilles from Sunday night.
Regardless of development, residents of Saint Lucia should prepare for moderate to heavy showers, and gusty winds. They are also strongly advised to monitor the progress of this disturbance and pay particular attention to local weather updates issued by the Saint Lucia Meteorological Services, as well as important instructions and information issued by NEMO.
National Carnival Queen Pageant Happening This Saturday
The 70th staging of the prestigious National Carnival Queen Pageant will be held this Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the Pavilion in Rodney Bay.
Through displays of elegance, poise, dazzling costumes, and creative talents, seven (7) delegates will compete for a chance to be named the 2024 Lucian Carnival Queen. The 7 Delegates vying for this year’s title are:
Kadin Antoine – Miss Caribcation
Aeryn George – Miss Windjammer Resort & Residences
Anneka Thompson – Miss Bank of Saint Lucia
Tunisia President – Miss Pierre Marcel
Yaneil Joseph – Miss Duty Free Point Seraphine
Shan Lucien – Miss Bounty Rum
Menella Sebaram – Miss Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate
The delegates and their sponsors had an opportunity to meet with members of the public on Saturday, June 22nd, during the annual National Carnival Queen Motorcade which went through the City of Castries and culminated with a meet and greet at the JQ Mall in Rodney Bay.
As part of the observance of the 70th staging, several past National Carnival Queens, and the reigning Queen, Miss Shanice Butcher, joined the Motorcade. Ambassadors of Lucian Carnival also joined the meet and greet to serenade the delegates and the viewing public.
Tickets for the National Carnival Queen Pageant being held on Saturday, June 29th, 2024, at the Pavilion on Rodney Bay are only $150, and are available at The Cell outlets island wide and Steve’s Barbershop in Castries.
Follow @saintluciacarnivalqueenpageant on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more updates on the pageant and @carnivalsaintlucia for all things Carnival.
Qualifying Artistes & Calypsonians Announced for 2024 Soca & Calypso Monarch Competition
After a packed weekend of activities for Lucian Carnival, including the semi-finals of the Groovy & Power Soca, and Calypso Monarch; organizing agency, the Carnival Planning and Management Committee has announced the finalists for the 2024 Soca and Calypso Monarch Competitions. The Groovy and Power Soca Monarch competition will be held on July 5, 2024, at the SAB, Vigie. 9 artistes in each category, have been selected to compete against reigning monarchs, Arthur Allain and Imran Nerdy for a chance to win the titles. Tickets are only $60. The qualifying artistes below are listed in alphabetical order and not indicative of scores.
Groovy Soca Qualifiers
#
Artist
Song Title
1
Carlton CR Roberts
Ah Happy
2
Ezra D’ Funmachine
Sèlibwèy
3
Jiggy & Ezra D’ Funmachine
Movè
4
Kisha Kay
By Myself
5
Imran Nerdy
Money
6
Mantius
Royal
7
Ricky T
Just your Turn
8
Sly
Damn Proud Lucian
9
Ti Blacks
Seasons
Power Soca Qualifiers
#
Artist
Song Title
1
Bronxx, Mata, Ricky T
Better Than Them
2
Ezra D’ Funmachine
BeYoutiful
3
Kisha Kay, Nicole David
It’s Carnival
4
Mantius
Any Ting
5
Orion
Good Day
6
Ricky T
Look Something To Talk About
7
Sedale, Mata, Bronxx
More Rum
8
Siah
Money Behaviour
9
Sly
Breakaway
The Calypso Monarch competition will be held on July 6, 2024 at the SAB, Vigie. 9 calypsonians been selected to compete against reigning monarch, Ti Blacks for a chance to win the Calypso Monarch title. Tickets are only $60. The qualifying calypsonians are listed below in alphabetical order and not indicative of scores.
Calypso Monarch Finalists
#
Calypsonian
Song Title
Song Title
1
Dezral
De Biggest Gun
A Wish For Fish
2
Educator
Youth Economy
Vaccine For Crime
3
Gamtion
Clone that Man
White Lady
4
Herb Black
Sing for Them
Get Up And Walk
5
Menell
One Vision One Caribbean
Diary Of A Woman
6
Mica
No Hearts
Text Lingo
7
Solange
Last Man Standing
Fadda Facts
8
TC Brown
Fillip
De Spirit of St. Lucia
9
Ti Carro
Don’t Play With A Minor
Ah Doing It For Slavery
Tickets can be purchased from The Cell outlets island wide and Steve’s Barbershop in Castries.
For updates relating to all carnival competitions, visit www.carnivalsaintlucia.com or @carnivalsaintlucia on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The CPMC wishes all artistes best of luck in the next round of the competition as they prepare for the Monarch.
