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Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis Announces Mental Health Walk/Run 

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Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis Announces Mental Health Walk/Run 

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS – The Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis is proud to announce its annual Mental Health Walk/Run 2025, set to take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025 under the theme “Step by Step, Moving as One!”, this annual initiative founded by Integrated Marketing and Communications Manager, Chantelle Rochester aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote community support for mental health.

The Development Bank Mental Health Walk/Run is open to all whether walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines offering an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause. With thoughtfully designed registration packages including pet-friendly options, competitive categories, and accommodation for individuals with disabilities this year’s event promises to be the most inclusive yet.

The day kicks off at the Frigate Bay Lawn with warm-up sessions led by Coach Wayne Clarke from 4:45 AM to 5:00 AM, accompanied by light refreshments to fuel participants. The walk/run begins promptly at 5:15 AM, taking you on a scenic route to Majors Bay. Along the way, enjoy hydration stations to keep you going strong.

At the finish line, a delicious breakfast offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options will be served. Engage with our community partners at the information booths from renowned organizations such as 3C’s Counselling Center, The National Counselling Center, The St. Kitts Mental Health Association, The Respite and Dr. Cruz Consulting, who will be on hand to share invaluable insights about mental wellness. 

  • Horsford’s Valu Mart
  • Nelson’s Spring Water
  • Koscab St. Kitts and Nevis
  • D&D Services
  • Sugar City FM 90.3
  • 3C’s Counseling Services
  • St. Kitts Mental Health Association SKMHA
  • Dr. Cruz Consulting
  • The Respite
  • The National Counselling Centre St. Kitts
  • Sol Petroleum
  • The Cable
  • St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited
  • Delta Petroleum St. Kitts Ltd
  • TaiwanICDF 
  • Solid Waste Management Corporation – ST KITTS
  • Chadine Richards
  • The Dreamy Group
  • Majestic Flowers
  • The Royal Chop Shop Salon & Spa
  • Amory bakery
  • Jay Black Productions
  • Timothy Beach Resort, St. Kitts
  • St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino
  • Jam Rock Restaurant – St. Kitts
  • Rock Lobster
  • Zanzi Bar St kitts 
  • Crowned By Chey
  • Luxury Dollz Skn
  • Spectrum ATV Tours
  • Ojedi Organics
  • Niva Beauty
  • Island bakery
  • Flow
  • The Rotary Club of Liamuiga
  • Talks and Barks
  • Cane Juice

Additionally, exciting prizes await, the first person to cross the finish line wins XCD$1000.00, second place XCD$500.00, third place XCD$20 XCD and the first team of 5 or more individuals to cross the finish line receives XCD$2,500, plus additional category prizes. 

Chantelle Rochester, IMC Manager shares her passion for the cause, “Mental wellness is a journey, and every step matters. Through this walk/run, we are fostering a community of support, awareness, and well-being for all. Let’s stand together for mental health,”.

Visit our registration platform https://www.fygaro.com/…/95a170d5-0db6-4d45-b90f…/  or complete our Registration Form (drop off at your nearest branch) – https://skndbdev-my.sharepoint.com/…/EZ9Zv2iuDVNPrFqMRy…. Call or WhatsApp 1 (869) 765-4342 or 1 (869) 662-7801 for more information. 

Those unable to attend the event can still contribute by donating any amount to support the cause.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our generous partners, whose unwavering support has made the Development Bank Mental Health Walk/Run 2025 possible together, we’re stepping forward for mental wellness.

Participants must complete their registration by April 18, 2025. Transportation will be available from designated locations in St. Kitts and Nevis, with pickups starting at 3:30 AM island wide. 

Minister Calls on Everyone To Protect Environment

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Minister Calls on Everyone To Protect Environment

By: Precious Mills 

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Tuesday 25th March 2025)-Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment  Dr. Joyelle Clarke, has issued a strong call to action for citizens and residents to take greater responsibility in preserving, reserving, and protecting the environment. 

 “Speaker, Honourable Members of Parliament, to all audiences listening in from the gallery or remotely, Happy International Forest Day…,” Dr. Clarke declared as she opened her address in parliament on Friday 21st March 2025, as she underscored the vital role forests play in sustaining life and livelihoods in St. Kitts and Nevis during her presentation while wearing a green outfit in symbolism of the occasion. 

She emphasized that forests are much more than clusters of trees; they are lifelines that provide essential ecological, economic and health benefits.

Dr. Clarke highlighted the abundance and significance of forested areas in the Federation, explaining that they extend beyond mountain ranges to include coastal regions and fertile valleys. “Forests dominate a large portion of the landscape of both islands. They provide us with ecological biodiversity, protection, recreation, wellness-based opportunities, and agricultural prosperity,” she stated.

Acknowledging the crucial role of forests in food security, she reminded the nation of their connection to local farming and sustainable fishing practices. “Our forested areas are home to a range of pollinators like bees, bats, and butterflies, which in turn transforms into healthy food production, abundant harvests, and food security.” 

She also noted that traditional herbal remedies such as neem bush, St. John’s wort, and moringa thrive because of a flourishing forestry sector.

However, Dr. Clarke warned against taking these natural resources for granted, emphasizing that preservation and conservation must be collective responsibilities. “We cannot simply treat them as merely profitable real estate to be abused. There is a line of defense that we must protect, an essential protective barrier, a livelihood facilitator, and a source of respite,” she urged.

The Minister outlined government initiatives to secure the nation’s forests, including the designation of the Central Forest Reserve National Park and the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park as protected areas. She noted that these protected landscapes account for 12,974 acres, or 31.14% of St. Kitts’ landmass, and anticipated similar protections for Nevis Peak.

Dr. Clarke also stressed the importance of community involvement in forest conservation, highlighting ongoing efforts such as reforestation, environmental education in schools, and engagement with local communities. “This is how a sustainable island state works in real time to manage, care for, and strengthen its resources to secure a sustainable future,” she stated.

Issuing a direct call to citizens, she implored everyone to take personal responsibility for the environment. “We need two hands to clap. We, us, the individuals, the Parliament, the government, both cabinets-every single Kittitian and Nevisian-must understand the importance of respecting our environment, our precious lands that we so proudly call home.”

Dr. Clarke closed with a passionate appeal for environmental stewardship, urging citizens to walk the path of sustainability. 

“When you venture into the green of our mountains and breathe in the peace, coolness, and fresh air, or when you stop to admire the beauty of our shorelines or the breathtaking panorama that is our peninsula, I ask you to treat these gifts with respect, being mindful to conserve, preserve and protect. I ask you to support these lands as they continue to support you every day.”

Clock Work, Fun Work Displayed At Cradles Learning Centre For Historic Replica Exhibition

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Clock Work, Fun Work Displayed At Cradles Learning Centre For Historic Replica Exhibition

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 27th March 2025)-It was all about history, creativity and learning at Cradles Learning Centre on Tuesday 25th March 2025, as students, staff, parents and other visitors attended a craft market and exhibition showcasing among the items over twenty-five (25) creative mini replicas of the iconic historic Berkeley Memorial, located in the heart of the island’s capital Basseterre.

The event, held on the school’s premises in Fortlands (in Basseterre), aimed to foster artistic expression, teamwork and historical appreciation among students and their families.

Three of the judges seen in action while looking at the mini monuments on display (Spokesman Snap)
The second winning piece by Liah Carty (Photo courtesy Facebook/Cradles Learning Centre)

After weeks of dedicated effort, 2-year-old Cayden Louis emerged as the top winner for the monument contest, followed by 2-year-old Liah Carty in second place in a competition judged by a panel of five. As gathered, the judges paid keen attention to the accurate detailing of all pieces.

Cayden’s prize is lunch dinner at Railway Bar and Restaurant in Old Road while Liah’s is lunch at Tio’s Restaurant in Basseterre, compliments of  the centre’s founders- Beverly and Lester Ible.

One of the judges, O’Loughlin Tatem, commended the creativity and effort displayed by the students and parents. He emphasized the significance of the project in encouraging young minds to focus on national heritage and valuable cultural landmarks.

“This effort has caused our people, from a young age, to focus on things that are valuable and important… This school has done that, and I must commend the staff,” he stated.

Beverly ‘Teacher Bev’ Ible, speaking to the judges, expressed admiration for the students’ varying perspectives, remarking: “All of the children are winners, and now I see that everyone doesn’t look at the clock the same way.”

Executive Director of the St. Christopher National Trust Etsu Bradshaw-Caines  (one of the judges) was also highly impressed and sees potential for collaboration between the Trust and Cradles Learning Centre, as she indicated to Teacher Bev.

“I want to commend you on this wonderful effort. As the Executive Director of the St. Christopher National Trust, I see a school we can partner with to tell history and bring back our heritage alive in St. Kitts. We’ve been looking for young ambassadors, and I see young-and not-so-young-ambassadors here, [including] you too judges.”

 Cayden’s mommy Trishana Francis, originally from Guyana, spoke with this reporter about the family’s winning piece. She described the experience as both fun and educational, stating that it gave her an opportunity to learn about St. Kitts’ history.

“Doing the project helped me to learn more about the country and the history as well because I discovered  a lot of things about the Berkeley Memorial Clock which I didn’t know so doing the research was enlightening; I learnt a lot from the project.”

Francis highlighted that rewarding experience of the mommy-daddy-son project.

“We kept putting back the cars a lot of times because Cayden took them off but it was fun. The clock took the longest-about a week-because we wanted everything to be in place. We had to take off some parts, re-add others, and make adjustments. Our son had fun participating as he got to add his name, he coloured the stars and he still got to spray paint the Berkeley Memorial green.”

She also praised Cradles Learning Centre for its engaging learning approach, highlighting how projects like these enhance students’ understanding and skills.

“It is a good school because he interacts, he knows his words and Teacher Bev sends videos of him at school so I could see his progress. It’s a nice school. I like it and he likes it.”

In speaking  with Lester Ible,  he explained that the school is dedicated to stimulating early learning through interactive projects, ensuring that students connect with their environment and history from a young age.

“At Cradles Learning Centre, we strive to provide early stimulation that builds a solid foundation for our students, even from as young as two years old. Our projects aim to help them recognize and appreciate their surroundings.”

The exhibition featured approximately 30 replicas, created using environmentally friendly materials such as cardboard and other recyclable items.

Ible noted that the primary goal was not just to judge the best pieces but to encourage parent-child collaboration.

“The most important part of this exercise was the time spent working together. Whether it was painting, gluing, or assembling parts, the bond between parents and children grew stronger through this experience.”

Ible highlighted that Cradles Learning Centre is known for its hands-on learning approach and activity-filled calendar. 

He also pointed out that in addition to historical projects like the Berkeley Memorial Clock replica exhibition, students participate in public market visits, post office tours, bank visits, and more, reinforcing their practical understanding of the world around them.

Of note, the Berkeley Memorial was erected in 1883.  The monument which features four clock faces are a replica of the Big Ben clock located in London, England.

Information from the St. Kitts- Nevis Information Services (SKNIS) informs that the Berkeley Memorial was built in honour of Thomas Berkeley who was born in St. Kitts in 1824.  He was planter, a legislator and President of the General Legislative Council of the Leeward Islands Federation.  Berkeley was recognized for demonstrating concern for the welfare of the island’s people and for his contributions to its improvement.

As pointed out further, on the south side of the monument is a basin with a tap and an inscription which reads:

This drinking fountain has been erected by the country men and private friends of the late Thomas Berkeley Hardtman Berkeley, Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George and president of the Legislative Council of the Leeward Islands, in recognition of the many valuable services he rendered this his Native Island as a Planter, a Politician and a Citizen. His Sterling qualities, his love for this Island and his deep interest in the welfare of the country at large entitle him to a Memorial by which his memory will be preserved and perpetuated.  Born 14th January 1824.  Died 6th December, 1881.

Labour Constituency #1 Branch to honour former Labour Spokesman’s editor Mudada 

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Labour Constituency #1 Branch to honour former Labour Spokesman’s editor Mudada 

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, March 26, 2025 (MMS-SKN) — Former editor of the Labour Spokesman Newspaper, the late Dawud St. Lloyd Byron aka Mudada, will be honoured this Sunday, March 30, when the East Basseterre Labour Branch and the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley, will officially launch the Youth On The Go Community Picnic Square in his memory.  

A participant at the C#1 Labour Branch Meeting held at the Newtown Community Centre informed the Deputy Prime Minister that at the January meeting she had complained about clogged drains, and was here reporting that all was well as the drains had been cleared.
A cross section of persons who attended the Constituency Number One Labour Branch Meeting at the Newtown Community Centre on Tuesday March 25
The Youth On The Go Community Picnic Square, opposite Newtown Play Field along Leonard Dickenson Road, which will be officially launched on Sunday March 30 in memory of the late Mr Dawud Mudada Byron, former editor of the Labour Spokesman Newspaper.
Area Parliamentary Representative for Constituency One, Deputy Prime Minister the Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley addressing the Constituency Branch Meeting on Tuesday March 25. On his right is C#1 Labour Branch Chairperson, Ms Thamesha Fyfield.

Making the announcement at a Labour Constituency Number One Branch Executive meeting held at the Newtown Community Centre on the evening of Tuesday March 25, Area Parliamentary Representative the Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley, appealed to members of the general public to turn out in their numbers for the 4:30 p.m. event on Sunday.

“On Sunday you are invited to the official opening of the Dawud Mudada Byron Picnic Square,” said Hon Dr Hanley. “That is an area just opposite Newtown Playing Field on Leonard Dickenson Road. Those who are driving or walking to Valu Mart you will realise that on the green space where people sell cane juice we have developed that area so that people can have their lunch and their picnics there.”

Mr Dawud Mudada Byron, who served at the Labour Spokesman newspaper for over 36 years first working under the paper’s editors who included the late Joseph Nathaniel France, and rising to be its editor, died on November 3, 2015.

He was an original member of the Ellie Matt and GI’s Brass International Band, where he was a trombonist, and was also a founding member of the Grand Masters Band. Mudada was on 25 August 2015 awarded a Medal of Honour for his contribution to journalism and music. 

The branch executive meeting, which was chaired by Constituency #1 Labour Branch Chairperson, Ms Thamesha Fyfield, was advised by the Deputy Prime Minister that at the picnic site a permanent barbeque grill has already been set up so that persons and families would on weekends be able to go there.

According to the Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley, Constituency Number One Branch Meetings are held every last Tuesday of the month, advising that they presented “an opportunity for our comrades and residents of the constituency to be updated on a number of issues, a number of concerns, and at the same time I solicit your recommendations, your suggestions of things that need to be done in your areas – part of your community – although we are part of East Basseterre.”

He reminded those who would have attended the town hall meeting held at the same venue in January that he would have commented on the fact that the road outside there (Southwell Street) was in much disrepair and it was one that he advised them that it would be fixed soon.

“I am happy to report that you would realise as you walked in, in a few weeks after that meeting we have the road dug up and is being repaired,” said the Area Parliamentary Representative. While apologising to people in the Pond Pasture area in particular, he advised that delay in having the road repaired was as a result of the fact that the equipment was down and needed parts that were not available locally.

After work on the Southwell Street is completed by next week, the equipment will move on to George Street which will be resurfaced. He chided the irony displayed by detractors who had earlier complained that the Southwell Street was in bad shape, but when work on it started they changed tune and started complaining why the work could not wait until the school (Tucker Clarke Primary) was closed.

Dr Hanley, who is also the Minister of Education; Youth Empowerment; Social Development, Gender Affairs, Aging and Disabilities; Ecclesiastical & Faith-based Affairs; Housing & Human Settlement, updated the constituents on a number of developments being undertaken by the St. Kitts Nevis Labour Party-led government, including housing development taking place in the constituency and the desalination plant among others. 

“The desalination plant – and I ask you when you get an opportunity to drive up in the area – I was there again this afternoon and the work is going along smoothly,” he advised. “It is right behind the Best Buy Supermarket in the Bird Rock area, and that is on schedule to complete, all being well in July this year. I would say August, so that should eliminate some of the situation that we are experiencing with water in Constituency.”

“Political Differences Should Not Divide Us” PM Drew— Joint Cabinet Meeting Reinforces Dialogue and Cooperation Between St. Kitts and Nevis

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“Political Differences Should Not Divide Us” PM Drew— Joint Cabinet Meeting Reinforces Dialogue and Cooperation Between St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis, March 18, 2025 – The Federal Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Cabinet yesterday, March 17, met for the first Joint Cabinet Meeting of 2025, reaffirming their commitment to fostering collaboration and advancing national development. The meeting, held in St. Kitts at the Park Hyatt, focused on key national priorities, with discussions centered on strengthening inter-island cooperation, climate resilience, economic diversification, and national security.

Premier of Nevis, Hon. Mark Brantley, opened the discussions by underscoring the importance of continuous dialogue between the two administrations. “Nothing in this world is ever achieved without the ability to communicate. Dialogue is important when there are problems, but even in good times, dialogue remains essential. It is through open discussion that we build understanding, foster cooperation, and ensure that we are working in the best interests of all our people.” 

Premier Brantley went on to emphasize that the relationship between the two islands has improved significantly in recent years due to greater communication and a shared commitment to finding common ground on issues of national importance.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew also echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that while political differences will always exist, they should not prevent the two administrations from working together on critical matters. 

“It is obvious that there would always be some level of political differences, but we don’t always have to disagree on everything. There are some things that really can bring us together as a people.” Dr. Drew pointed to the joint efforts in tackling crime and violence as a successful example of cooperation, noting that both administrations agreed on the need for a unified, all-of-society approach, which has already yielded positive results.

The meeting’s agenda was extensive, reflecting the shared priorities of both St. Kitts and Nevis. One of the central topics of discussion was the continued development of geothermal energy, a transformative project that has received significant international attention and investment. Prime Minister Drew stressed that the successful completion of the geothermal project could fundamentally reshape the Federation’s economic landscape, providing a reliable, renewable energy source that would reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and create new economic opportunities. “The geothermal project has the potential to transform St. Kitts and Nevis. The IMF has acknowledged that this initiative could be a game-changer, even reducing our dependence on the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program if we choose to.”

Another key issue discussed was economic diversification, particularly the need to build a more resilient economy that is not solely reliant on CBI revenue. Prime Minister Drew reiterated his administration’s commitment to expanding sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and digital finance, all of which are key pillars of the government’s Sustainable Island State Agenda. “The goal is not to discard CBI,” the Prime Minister clarified, “but to ensure that our economy is so diversified that our vulnerabilities are decreased, and our resilience is increased.”

Discussions also touched on national security, with both administrations reaffirming their commitment to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of all citizens and residents. Prime Minister Drew highlighted the effectiveness of the collaborative crime-fighting strategy implemented between the two islands, stating that continued partnership on security matters would be a priority going forward.

With a packed agenda covering critical issues, yesterday’s Joint Cabinet Meeting reinforced the importance of collaboration in governance. The discussions reflected a shared determination to move beyond historical divisions and work toward common goals that benefit all citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis. 

As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed their confidence that through regular engagement and collaboration, the Federation could continue to progress and thrive in an increasingly complex global environment.

PM Drew: Gov’t Has Mandate to Lead Responsibly

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PM Drew: Gov’t Has Mandate to Lead Responsibly

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Wednesday, 20th March 2025)-Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Terrance Drew has highlighted his administration’s commitment to handling the affairs of the country responsibly, emphasizing that the people have given his government a clear mandate to lead. 

Speaking at a recent Cabinet press conference held on Thursday 6th March 2025, PM Drew discussed the latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) report, which highlighted the nation’s economic growth and repeated the government’s approach to financial management without imposing additional burdens on the people.

“I want to say clearly that we’ve taken the IMF’s recommendations very seriously in terms of consolidation and so forth, in terms of the tax regime, some of which we will address without bringing any extra burden to our people,” said PM Drew. “Now, when you look at the IMF Report, we expect that there will be growth this year because the economy-as I told you-this is our year of recovery as we transition our economy to end the heavy dependence on just the CBI program, and so we intend to take a number of measures.”

He outlined his government’s commitment to renewable energy, stating that the IMF has urged swift action on the matter. “One with respect to renewable energy, they ask that we do it as quickly as possible, which we have been working on since day one. And I want to thank the Minister of Energy for his work on this one,” he said.

PM Drew announced that the government has secured funding for the drilling phase of the geothermal project, with support from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Saudi Fund for Development.

 “We have now secured the funding to do the drilling for the geothermal project, and the Premier of Nevis has spoken to this. The funds that we have secured come from the CDB, and we have a meeting this afternoon at 5 p.m. with the CDB as we near the completion of the procurement and bidding process to start the drilling,” he explained.

The Saudi government has also partnered with St. Kitts and Nevis in the energy sector, providing funding for new generators and supporting geothermal energy development. 

“The Saudis, as we know, they are also helping us with our brand-new generators to be installed here, and they are now partnering with us to get the geothermal done, which I think would be to the benefit of all of our people,” PM Drew stated.

PM Drew also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen financial institutions such as the National Bank, Social Security and the Development Bank, which have faced challenges in recent years.

“We take these recommendations very seriously because for the longevity of our country, we want to make sure that we are set on a solid foundation,” he said. “With respect to the Development Bank, the IMF did its own assessment, and I have been reporting to our people the state in which we found the Development Bank. It is sad;  don’t even have an audit to speak to international funds to help us access financial resources to help our transition to a sustainable island state.”

PM Drew reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring that the Development Bank is never mismanaged again. “We’ll continue to work to reform the Development Bank so that it can be an institution never to be bastardized again,” he emphasized.

The Prime Minister also addressed concerns regarding the management of the Sugar Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF) under previous administrations.

“As you know, with respect to the SIDF-whereby the Labour administration led by the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas left about $300 million plus in raw cash plus what was to come in-a total of over $400 million was spent from the SIDF,” PM Drew revealed. “I’m not talking about the CBI program; I’m talking about SIDF as a fund. Over $400 million was spent-nearly half a billion dollars-and the country was not informed.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that forensic audits are ongoing, and each discovery raises more concerns. “Now we are doing all the forensic audits, and the more we dig, the more we find. This seems like a bottomless pit. How can you spend over $400 million of people’s money and not inform them?” he questioned.

To ensure future financial stability, the government is implementing a sovereign wealth fund. “The IMF has given us the framework for our sovereign wealth fund, which we will implement this year. So that when we raise capital again at a national level, we can put it in that fund. And that fund will be set up in such a way to make us more resilient and make us more stable,” he stated.

PM Drew reaffirmed that his government was chosen to lead because of its commitment to transparency, economic growth, and sustainable development.

 “This is why the people chose this administration to lead the government,” he expressed.

Medical Doctor Links Poor Oral Health To Cancer, Other Conditions

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Medical Doctor Links Poor Oral Health To Cancer, Other Conditions

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Wednesday 20th March 2025)-Cardiovascular disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s are among the serious health conditions linked to poor oral health, according to local medical practitioner Dr. Sharon Osborne in making reference to growing scientific research.

For the occasion of World Oral Health Day (observed on March 20), Dr. Osborne pointed  at the connection between oral health and overall well-being during an interview on Freedom FM’s SKN Today with host Jamiella McPhail on Wednesday 19th March 2025.

“So most people know that they’re supposed to brush and floss daily, but you might be surprised that oral health is much more than just preventing cavities and keeping your smile white and pearly,” Dr. Osborne explained. “It has a direct link to your overall health. Problems that affect your teeth and your gums can also affect your entire body, leading to different health conditions and complicating existing health issues.”

She noted that poor oral hygiene could contribute to heart disease, lung infections and diabetes complications. 

“Studies are continuously being done showing the relationship between oral health and cancers. We have to improve our oral health so that we can improve our overall well-being. You can often look at a person’s oral health-the condition of their teeth and gums-and get a general idea of their overall health.”

Dr. Osborne outlined some of the key warning signs of poor oral health including gingivitis, tooth decay and periodontal diseases.

“You start getting infections or inflammation of the gum-we call that gingivitis,” she explained. “You also have tooth decay and periodontal diseases, which are serious gum diseases leading to gum loss.”

Gingivitis, she said, is a mild form of gum infection that causes irritation, redness, swelling, and bleeding. 

“[Have you] ever been brushing your teeth and, when you spit out, you see some blood…? That’s inflammation around the teeth and gums,” she described. “If untreated, it can worsen into periodontitis, a severe gum infection leading to gum recession, bone loss, and ultimately, tooth loss.”

Dr. Osborne also highlighted the role of plaque in dental disease. 

“Plaque is a mixture of bacteria, food particles and saliva,” she noted. “If not removed regularly by brushing and flossing, it forms a sticky layer around the gum line and teeth, leading to dental problems.”

As understood, the dangers of poor oral hygiene extend far beyond the mouth. Dr. Osborne emphasized that gum disease has been linked to serious medical conditions, including heart disease, strokes, pneumonia, pregnancy complications and even Alzheimer’s disease.

“One of the most studied and most documented connections is cardiovascular disease,” she said. “Oral health leads to direct complications-coronary heart disease, clogged arteries, and heart attacks. That’s something so serious.”

She further explained how bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to dangerous infections. 

“If you have poor oral health and go to pull a decayed tooth, that bacteria can get into the bloodstream,” she warned. “For people with heart conditions, especially those with artificial valves, this can lead to endocarditis-a serious infection of the inner lining of the heart.”

For pregnant women, poor oral health can have severe consequences. 

“It can lead to gestational diabetes, low birth weight, premature delivery, miscarriage, or even stillbirth,” Dr. Osborne cautioned. “Pregnant women must ensure their oral health is well maintained.”

Dr. Osborne stressed the importance of diet in maintaining oral health. 

“A lot of the foods we consume daily contribute to tooth decay,” she said. “Sour candies, bread, and carbonated beverages-these are filled with sugars that feed harmful bacteria, producing acids that destroy tooth enamel.”

She also highlighted the dangers of smoking and alcohol consumption. 

“Tobacco use and excessive alcohol can contribute to periodontal disease and tooth loss,” she explained. “Many people don’t realize that there’s a strong connection between alcohol consumption and losing their teeth.”

Recent studies have also explored the relationship between oral health and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. 

“People do not relate oral health to Alzheimer’s but studies are showing a link,” Dr. Osborne noted. “Similarly, gum disease has been associated with gastrointestinal cancers, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and even uterine cancer. Our entire body is interconnected, and as science evolves, more information is coming out.”

She had advised that oral health should never be neglected. 

“It’s not just about having a bright smile; it’s about your overall health and well-being,” she said. “Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and a healthy diet can make a major difference in preventing disease.”

Taiwan to host 1st World Bird Fair in September

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Taiwan to host 1st World Bird Fair in September

Taiwan will host the inaugural World Bird Fair Sept. 20-21 in the central city of Taichung to promote bird conservation and birdwatching ecotourism, the Tourism Administration said March 17.

The announcement was made by TA Director-General Chou Yung-hui while welcoming a delegation from the World Birdfairs Council March 13 in Taipei City. The WBC is a global nonprofit organization that represents birding events across the world.

Taiwan’s diverse landscapes make it a prime destination for birdwatching, with 691 bird species recorded, including 32 endemic species and 52 subendemic ones, the organizers said. The fair will feature two experience-sharing forums, followed by a trip to Dasyueshan Forest Recreation Area, the most popular birding site in central Taiwan, the TA said, anticipating representatives from 25 countries to gather in Taiwan for the event.

According to Chou, ecotourism is among the fastest-growing tourism sectors in the postpandemic era. The first ever bird fair in Taiwan will help promote the country’s rich avian biodiversity and develop green and sustainable tourism, he said, adding that the TA will take the opportunity to showcase the country’s 13 national scenic areas to attract more foreign visitors.

During their stay in Taiwan, the 10-member WBC delegation toured the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area and the main venues of the bird fair.

Ornithologist Horacio Matarasso from Argentina said the WBC has grown from a small entity in 2020 to a global organization with more than 50 birding associations as members. He expects the upcoming event to bring WBC members even closer together.

Naturalist and wildlife guide Andrew Sebastian from Malaysia described Taiwan as a portal to Asian birding, saying that Taiwan is an ideal candidate to become a major birdwatching destination, while Maria Marth from Brazil praised Taiwan for its urban greening efforts. (SFC-E)

SKN Athletics Announces Postponement Of 2025 RAMS Interprimary And TCD Tnterschool Track & Field Championships

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SKN Athletics Announces Postponement Of 2025 RAMS Interprimary And TCD Tnterschool Track & Field Championships

Basseterre, St. Kitts – [18th March 2025] – The St. Kitts & Nevis Athletics Association (SKN Athletics) regrets to announce that the highly anticipated Rams Inter-Primary School Championship and the TDC Interschool Championships have been postponed until further notice.

This difficult decision comes after extensive deliberations with key stakeholders, including the Ministries of Education and Sports in both St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as principals and athletic coordinators from primary and secondary schools across the Federation. Despite exhaustive eff orts to finalize a feasible date and secure a suitable venue, these critical logistics remain unresolved.

SKN Athletics remains committed to ensuring that our young athletes have a fair and competitive platform to showcase their talents. We understand the significance of these events in fostering national pride, athletic development, and school spirit. As such, we continue to work diligently with all relevant parties to confi rm a new date and venue that will uphold the integrity and high standards of these championships.

We appreciate the patience and understanding of athletes, parents, coaches, and the wider public as we navigate these challenges. Rest assured, our priority is to provide an optimal and safe environment for all participants. We are optimistic that a resolution will be reached soon and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available.

What is Up with That Child Murder in Antigua?

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What is Up with That Child Murder in Antigua?

As a society, whenever a child is placed in danger, something within us is shaken to the core. We collectively grieve, we feel an unbearable sadness and we are left grappling with the unthinkable. 

The recent tragedy surrounding the kidnapping and murder of 9-year-old Chantel Crump in Antigua has sent shockwaves through the island and reverberated across the region, igniting outrage, sorrow and disbelief.

The arrest of a 20-year-old woman from the Hispanic community in connection with this horrendous crime has fueled widespread debate. She stands accused of luring the young girl into a car before the child’s lifeless body was discovered on a beach. However, while some have been expressing anger towards the accused woman, others strongly believe that she did not act alone. Despite the widespread speculation, law enforcement authorities in Antigua have not indicated that other suspects are involved.

Social media has become a breeding ground for rampant theories. Some claim the crime was a ritualistic sacrifice while others fixate on reports-since debunked by police as being false-that the child was found dismembered and missing her eyes. The Antiguan police have been cautioning the public against the spread of misinformation, urging restraint in an emotionally charged climate. Yet, beyond the rumors and speculation, the stark reality remains: a child is gone, her life stolen in an act of unthinkable brutality.

Where do we go from here? How do we respond-not just the Antiguans but as a regional community bound by our shared humanity? We must confront the hard questions about how we, as a society, protect our vulnerable members-our children. It is imperative that we strengthen child protection measures and ensure that our communities are safe spaces where no child is at risk of such a horrifying fate.

Already, discussions have surfaced about introducing a child protective alert system in Antigua and Barbuda-an essential step in prevention and early intervention. But it cannot stop there. It requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, where families, schools, communities, and governments work in unison to safeguard children from potential harm. Tragedies like Chantel’s must serve as catalysts for meaningful change, ensuring that no other innocent life is lost due.

The time for action is now. This devastating loss must not be in vain. Our children deserve better. They deserve to grow up in a world where they are protected, cherished, and safe. And it is up to all of us to make that a reality.

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