Spiceislander.com
type: channel
description: Caribbean News, Sports and Radio
date: 2026-06-12T16:23:52Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
generator agent: https://wordpress.org/
items: The Politics of Distraction: A Pattern of Reckless Rhetoric
items: Grenada at a Crossroads: A Warning the Nation Cannot Ignore
items: When Politics Overshadows Procedure: The Emmalin Pierre Hotel‑Worker Allegation Debate
items: Poor 2026 IPL for West Indies Players: A Season of Harsh Reality Checks
items: When Parliament Becomes a Political Stage: The Emmalin Pierre Hotel‑Worker Allegation Debate
items: Grenada’s Declining Poverty Rate Under the NDC Government: A New Era of Social and Economic Renewal
items: Elections in Grenada: Why Predictions So Often Miss the Mark
items: Grenada Deserves Progress — Not the Politics of Regression
items: How SDA Worship Has Evolved: From Congregational Praise to Performance Culture
items: When Modern Christians Go Beyond Scripture: A Biblical Examination of Laying on of Hands
items: Journalist Linda Straker “was a voice of professionalism’’
items: St. John’s Premier League: “Beginning of great things’’
items: The High Cost of Staying Home: How Electoral Apathy Reshaped American Democracy
items: Shortage of skilled workers “a big problem
items: A Modernised TAMCC part of a DPM Government Plan

The Politics of Distraction: A Pattern of Reckless Rhetoric
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-06-11T16:19:22Z
subject: Local News
description: In recent months, the political landscape has been dominated by a concerning trend: the tendency of the NNP to weaponize every issue for political gain, often at the expense of accuracy and national interest. This performative outrage, characterized by baseless accusations and a refusal to own mistakes, is becoming a […]
encoded: <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="512" height="233" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Horses.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18016" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Horses.jpeg 512w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Horses-300x137.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Horses-121x55.jpeg 121w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Horses-431x196.jpeg 431w" sizes="(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /> In recent months, the political landscape has been dominated by a concerning trend: the tendency of the NNP to weaponize every issue for political gain, often at the expense of accuracy and national interest. This performative outrage, characterized by baseless accusations and a refusal to own mistakes, is becoming a hallmark of their opposition strategy. A Pattern of Misinformation The NNP’s approach seems to rely on manufacturing crises rather than engaging in substantive policy debate. Their track record reveals a dangerous habit of acting before verifying: The Hospital Land Dispute: When rumors first circulated regarding the ownership of lands designated for the new hospital, the NNP pounced. They framed it as a scandal of corruption and impropriety. When the facts eventually surfaced—proving the accusations entirely unfounded—there was no retraction, no apology, and no accountability. They simply pivoted to the next grievance. The Nigerian Visitors: Similarly, the NNP ignited public fervor regarding recent Nigerian visitors without a shred of evidence or an official police report. By choosing to bypass due diligence and prioritize sensation over fact, they risked damaging diplomatic relations and public trust, only to move on once the narrative ceased to be convenient. The Horse Importation Incident: Most recently, the NNP has politicized the Ministry of Health’s enforcement of quarantine laws regarding the illegal importation of horses. Despit…

Grenada at a Crossroads: A Warning the Nation Cannot Ignore
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-06-01T22:50:31Z
subject: Local News
description: Grenada stands at a defining moment. The choices made in the coming months will determine whether the country continues on a path of progress or slips back into a cycle of mismanagement, misinformation, and political gamesmanship. Many citizens are rightly concerned about the growing celebration of leadership that has, over […]
encoded: <img decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18012" style="width:392px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-55x55.jpeg 55w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-431x431.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Dick-862x862.jpeg 862w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Grenada stands at a defining moment. The choices made in the coming months will determine whether the country continues on a path of progress or slips back into a cycle of mismanagement, misinformation, and political gamesmanship. Many citizens are rightly concerned about the growing celebration of leadership that has, over the years, cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars without delivering the long‑term benefits the nation deserves. For decades, the New National Party (NNP) has been criticized by observers, commentators, and citizens for placing political survival and personal interest above national development. The pattern is familiar: grand promises, inflated projects, questionable spending, and a concentration of wealth and influence in the hands of a small political circle. Some Grenadians fear that a return to this style of governance could mirror the widening inequality seen in other countries, where the powerful thrive while ordinary people struggle to make ends meet. (Readers should confirm all political information with trusted, authoritative sources.) A Record of Progress Under the National Democratic Congress Since taking office, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) under Prime Minister Dickon M…

When Politics Overshadows Procedure: The Emmalin Pierre Hotel‑Worker Allegation Debate
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-31T09:08:24Z
subject: Local News
description: Grenada’s Opposition Leader, Emmalin Pierre, recently raised in Parliament that a female hotel employee had reported to her an incident involving inappropriate conduct by a visiting delegation. According to reporting, Pierre stated she received emotional calls from a mother and additional accounts from individuals describing troubling experiences at hotels in […]
encoded: <img decoding="async" width="428" height="463" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-1.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18008" style="aspect-ratio:0.9244102070293693;width:407px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-1.jpeg 428w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-1-277x300.jpeg 277w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-1-51x55.jpeg 51w" sizes="(max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px" /> Grenada’s Opposition Leader, Emmalin Pierre, recently raised in Parliament that a female hotel employee had reported to her an incident involving inappropriate conduct by a visiting delegation. According to reporting, Pierre stated she received emotional calls from a mother and additional accounts from individuals describing troubling experiences at hotels in the south of the island. However, despite the seriousness of the allegation, no formal police complaint was ever filed, a fact confirmed by the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF). The RGPF publicly stated that it had not received any official report and encouraged anyone with information to contact law enforcement. This raises a critical issue: Why did the Opposition Leader bring the matter to Parliament instead of first advising the alleged victim to file a police report — the only step that can trigger a criminal investigation? Sexual Assault vs. Sexual Harassment: The Legal Difference Understanding the distinction is essential, especially when public officials speak on such matters. Sexual Assault Sexual assault refers to any non‑consensual physical sexual act, including unwanted touching, groping, forced kissing, or rape. It is a criminal offense that can lead to arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment. Examples include: Non‑consensual groping or fondling Forced or coerced sexual acts Non‑consensual kissing Rape or attempted rape Consequences: Criminal charges Prison sentences (ranging from …

Poor 2026 IPL for West Indies Players: A Season of Harsh Reality Checks
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-29T04:31:05Z
subject: Cricket
description: The 2026 IPL has been one of the bleakest campaigns in recent memory for West Indies cricketers. A league once dominated by Caribbean flair, power‑hitting, and big‑moment swagger instead showcased a painful decline in form, opportunity, and impact. As the regular season closed, only two West Indians—Jason Holder and Shimron […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18004" style="width:335px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-55x55.jpeg 55w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-431x431.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nicholas-Pooran-862x862.jpeg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> The 2026 IPL has been one of the bleakest campaigns in recent memory for West Indies cricketers. A league once dominated by Caribbean flair, power‑hitting, and big‑moment swagger instead showcased a painful decline in form, opportunity, and impact. As the regular season closed, only two West Indians—Jason Holder and Shimron Hetmyer—saw their teams reach the playoffs, and even then, only Holder is likely to feature in the XI. This season wasn’t just disappointing. It was a wake‑up call. 1. A Brutal Statistical Reality Nicholas Pooran: 234 runs in 14 games Once considered one of the most destructive T20 batters in the world, Nicholas Pooran endured a season that can only be described as underwhelming. No match‑defining innings No consistency No signs of the elite finishing ability he was once known for For a player who retired from West Indies cricket to pursue freelance T20 leagues, this IPL was supposed to be his grand showcase. Instead, it exposed the limits of going solo. Shimron Hetmyer: 78 runs in 8 games Hetmyer’s season was even more alarming. Limited opportunities Zero momentum A role that kept shrinking …

When Parliament Becomes a Political Stage: The Emmalin Pierre Hotel‑Worker Allegation Debate
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-28T04:18:13Z
subject: Local News
description: In the Lower House of Parliament, Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre raised allegations she said were relayed to her by individuals connected to hotel workers in the south of the island. According to her statement, the reports involved inappropriate conduct by members of a visiting African delegation during African Liberation Day […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="734" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-734x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-18000" style="width:275px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-734x1024.jpeg 734w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-215x300.jpeg 215w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-768x1071.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-39x55.jpeg 39w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-431x601.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre-862x1202.jpeg 862w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Emmalin-Pierre.jpeg 1041w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 734px) 100vw, 734px" /> In the Lower House of Parliament, Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre raised allegations she said were relayed to her by individuals connected to hotel workers in the south of the island. According to her statement, the reports involved inappropriate conduct by members of a visiting African delegation during African Liberation Day activities. But instead of directing the individuals to file a police report — the standard and responsible first step in any alleged criminal matter — Mrs. Pierre chose to bring the issue straight to Parliament. And that decision has sparked a deeper conversation about the state of Grenadian politics. The Allegation and the Parliamentary Spotlight Mrs. Pierre told Parliament she had received calls from a mother and from two individuals who described troubling experiences involving members of the visiting delegation. She argued that the government should have launched an investigation even without a formal police complaint. However, based on the facts available: No official police report had been filed at the time of her speech. No confirmed charges or findings had been made public. The …

Grenada’s Declining Poverty Rate Under the NDC Government: A New Era of Social and Economic Renewal
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-22T02:26:00Z
subject: Caribbean News
subject: Local News
description: Grenada is experiencing one of its most encouraging periods of social progress in recent history. Since 2022, the administration of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has overseen a consistent reduction in poverty, even while undertaking major financial and infrastructural responsibilities that previous governments avoided or delayed. The result is a stronger, […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="411" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-17990" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03-300x120.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03-768x308.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03-137x55.jpeg 137w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03-431x173.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/graph03-862x346.jpeg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Grenada is experiencing one of its most encouraging periods of social progress in recent history. Since 2022, the administration of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has overseen a consistent reduction in poverty, even while undertaking major financial and infrastructural responsibilities that previous governments avoided or delayed. The result is a stronger, more resilient Grenada—one where more families are rising above hardship and the foundation for long‑term development is being rebuilt. A Clear Downward Trend in Poverty According to data from the Ministry of Finance’s Statistics, Research & Planning Unit, Grenada’s poverty rate has been steadily declining from 2020 to the present. The most recent estimates show poverty falling from 30.3% in 2020 to 22.0% in 2025, a drop of more than eight percentage points. This decline accelerated under the NDC government, driven by a combination of economic recovery, targeted social programs, and improved governance. The trend reflects not just statistical improvement, but real change in the lives of thousands of Grenadians. Paying Public Workers Their Pension: A Historic Breakthrough One of the most transformative actions of the Dickon Mitchell administration has been the payment of pensions to public officers, a constitutional obligation ignor…

Elections in Grenada: Why Predictions So Often Miss the Mark
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-20T12:02:56Z
subject: Local News
description: Grenada’s elections have always carried a unique kind of suspense — not because the polls are dramatic or because analysts are unreliable, but because the math of a small population makes prediction almost impossible. With just over 100,000 people on the island, every single ballot carries a weight that citizens […]
encoded: Grenada’s elections have always carried a unique kind of suspense — not because the polls are dramatic or because analysts are unreliable, but because the math of a small population makes prediction almost impossible. With just over 100,000 people on the island, every single ballot carries a weight that citizens in larger countries rarely experience. That reality shapes the political landscape in ways many “experts” fail to acknowledge. The Power of One Vote in a Small Nation In countries with millions of voters, a swing of a few hundred ballots barely registers. But in Grenada, a margin of 50 votes can flip a constituency, and a handful of households can determine who forms the government. This isn’t theory — it’s history. Grenada’s elections frequently come down to razor‑thin differences: Constituencies decided by under 100 votes National outcomes shaped by one or two marginal seats Swings caused by small community shifts, not national waves When the electorate is small, statistical noise becomes political reality. A few undecided voters, a few people staying home, or a few new first‑time voters can change the entire direction of the country. This is why election predictions in Grenada are almost always shaky. Why Experts Get It Wrong Political commentators often speak with confidence — sometimes too much confidence — about who is “leading,” who has “momentum,” or which party is “guaranteed” to win. But in Grenada, these claims rarely hold up. Here’s why: Small samples = big errors Polling a few hundred people in a nation of 100,000 is not reliable. One village leaning differently can distort the entire picture. Local dynamics matter more than national trends Grenadian politics is deeply constituency‑driven. Personal relationships, community reputation, and local issues often outweigh national narratives. Turnout swings are unpredictable A sudden rain shower, a funeral, a bus delay, or a community event can shift turnout enough to change a seat. Voters decide late…

Grenada Deserves Progress — Not the Politics of Regression
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-19T22:22:13Z
subject: Local News
description: Grenada stands at a defining moment. After nearly four years under the leadership of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, the country has seen meaningful progress—financial reforms, long‑delayed pension justice for public officers, and the settlement of multiple labour disputes. Yet, instead of contributing constructively to national development, the New National Party […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell.jpeg" alt="Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell" class="wp-image-17974" style="width:438px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-55x55.jpeg 55w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-431x431.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Prime-Minister-Dickon-Mitchell-862x862.jpeg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Grenada stands at a defining moment. After nearly four years under the leadership of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, the country has seen meaningful progress—financial reforms, long‑delayed pension justice for public officers, and the settlement of multiple labour disputes. Yet, instead of contributing constructively to national development, the New National Party (NNP), now led by Emmalin Pierre but still heavily influenced by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell, has embraced a brand of politics that places power above country. This is not responsible opposition. It is obstruction dressed as patriotism. A Party Focused on Power, Not Policy The NNP was voted out just under four years ago. Since then, their behaviour has made one thing clear: the party is more interested in regaining office than in offering solutions. Even six months into Emmalin Pierre’s leadership, analysts have noted that the NNP has failed to articulate any clear policy direction or nationa…

How SDA Worship Has Evolved: From Congregational Praise to Performance Culture
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-17T11:58:25Z
subject: Religious News
description: The Seventh‑day Adventist Church has always been a singing church. From the early pioneers gathered in small wooden meeting houses to the global congregations of today, music has played a central role in shaping Adventist identity, theology, and community life. But over the past several decades, Adventist worship has undergone […]
encoded: The Seventh‑day Adventist Church has always been a singing church. From the early pioneers gathered in small wooden meeting houses to the global congregations of today, music has played a central role in shaping Adventist identity, theology, and community life. But over the past several decades, Adventist worship has undergone a dramatic transformation. What was once a participatory, hymn‑centered experience has increasingly become a stage‑driven, performance‑oriented model. Many members now observe more than they participate, and the sanctuary often feels more like an auditorium than a house of worship. This article traces that evolution — not to condemn, but to understand what has changed, why it changed, and what the church risks losing if it forgets its roots. When Adventist Worship Was Built on Congregational Participation For generations, SDA worship was defined by: Hymns from the Church Hymnal Special music by members, families, and youth Simple instruments like guitar, piano, and organ Testimonies, Scripture readings, and responsive readings Active congregational singing as a core part of worship The early Adventist pioneers believed that music was a spiritual discipline, not a performance. Ellen G. White repeatedly emphasized that music should be: “A part of the worship of God, not for display.” (Evangelism, p. 508) The hymnal unified the church. Whether in Grenada, Brooklyn, Kenya, or Australia, Adventists sang the same songs, the same theology, the same message. The Shift Toward Praise Teams and Away From the Hymnal Beginning in the 1990s and accelerating into the 2000s, many SDA churches adopted the praise team model — a small group of singers leading contemporary worship songs projected on screens. This shift brought energy and freshness, but it also introduced new dynamics: The praise team replaced the congregation as the primary singers The hymnal became optional, then occasional, then almost forgotten Worship became performance‑centered, with rehears…

When Modern Christians Go Beyond Scripture: A Biblical Examination of Laying on of Hands
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-15T14:37:00Z
subject: Religious News
description: The laying on of hands is one of the oldest and most sacred biblical symbols—used for blessing, healing, imparting the Holy Spirit, and commissioning leaders. Scripture treats it as a solemn act tied to divine authority, not human preference. Yet in many modern Christian circles, the practice has expanded far […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-17969" style="width:347px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-55x55.jpeg 55w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-431x431.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Jesus-laying-hands-on-sick-862x862.jpeg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> The laying on of hands is one of the oldest and most sacred biblical symbols—used for blessing, healing, imparting the Holy Spirit, and commissioning leaders. Scripture treats it as a solemn act tied to divine authority, not human preference. Yet in many modern Christian circles, the practice has expanded far beyond its biblical boundaries, sometimes becoming a ritual performed without regard for the conditions, restrictions, or purposes laid out in the Word of God. This article examines where the Bible stands, how the early church practiced it, and how modern Christianity sometimes contradicts Scripture in both ordination and healing. 1. The Biblical Foundation of Laying on of Hands The Bible presents laying on of hands as a God‑directed act, never a casual or self‑appointed ritual. Old Testament Foundations Moses laid hands on Joshua to transfer leadership and authority (Numbers 27:18–23). Patriarchs used it to bless descendants (Genesis 48:14). It symbolized identification and responsibility in sacrifices (Leviticus 1:4). …

Journalist Linda Straker “was a voice of professionalism’’
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-06T13:25:23Z
subject: Local News
description: Today, May 5, Grenada mourns the passing of Ms. Linda Straker, one of the nation’s finest journalists. The grief at her lost is shared by the executive, general membership and supporters of the Democratic People’s Movement (DPM). “Rest in Peace, Linda. Your work, your voice and your legacy will live […]
encoded: Today, May 5, Grenada mourns the passing of Ms. Linda Straker, one of the nation’s finest journalists. The grief at her lost is shared by the executive, general membership and supporters of the Democratic People’s Movement (DPM). “Rest in Peace, Linda. Your work, your voice and your legacy will live on,’’ the DPM executive said in a statement of condolence issued on Tuesday. Straker, an award-winning reporter with extensive formal training in the communication profession, was a St. John-based mother and grandmother. She was 55. “Linda Straker was a voice of professionalism, knowledge and fearless communication. Her deep understanding of the rules governing Parliament, her dedication to truthful reporting and her passion for informing the public made her a respected figure across the nation,’’ said DPM Leader and MP for the Town of St. George, Peter David. “She carried herself with wisdom and integrity, always ensuring that the people stayed informed and engaged in national matters.’’ Straker’s work was carried by local, regional and international media. “She was a proud Grenadian and also very proud of her St. John roots, said DPM Deputy Leader Arley Gill. “Grenada has truly lost a remarkable media personality and national voice. Her contributions will never be forgotten and her presence will be deeply missed,’’ added Gill, who also is from the Parish of St. John. “The Democratic People’s Movement extends our deepest condolences to Linda’s family, friends and those affected by her passing.’’

St. John’s Premier League: “Beginning of great things’’
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-06T13:20:32Z
subject: Football (Soccer)
description: For a time, it appeared that a planned football competition in the Parish of St. John was not going to happen. Organizers were unable to find a sponsor until St. John-born attorney Arley Gill stepped in to offer help. Gill sponsored the St. John’s Premier League, which recently concluded with […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17957" style="width:441px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-300x225.jpg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-768x576.jpg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-73x55.jpg 73w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-431x323.jpg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league-862x647.jpg 862w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/St-Johns-Premier-league.jpg 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> For a time, it appeared that a planned football competition in the Parish of St. John was not going to happen. Organizers were unable to find a sponsor until St. John-born attorney Arley Gill stepped in to offer help. Gill sponsored the St. John’s Premier League, which recently concluded with the distribution of trophies, medals and cash prizes. “This is just the beginning of great things to come. We need to reinvigorate sports in St. John’s,’’ Gill said at a presentation ceremony. The tournament, organized by Sweataz United Inc., featured nine teams: Ballers FC; Barbados; SJC U19; Herb Roots; D Lance; Mil; Grand Roy; Dougaldston; and, Pasture Boys. “One League, One City, One Champion’’ was among the promotional themes of the competition that was played at Cuthbert Peters Park. Barbados, which amassed 22 points, emerged as tournament winner. Mil was a close second with 20 points, and Pasture Boys finished third on 14 points. Among the individual prize winners were Akimo Sampson, Dwight Joseph and Rivaldo Smith. They tied as top goal scorers. Each …

The High Cost of Staying Home: How Electoral Apathy Reshaped American Democracy
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-05-03T02:39:04Z
subject: United States
description: In every democracy, elections are the hinge on which the entire system swings. But in 2016, a hinge rusted. A measurable number of Democratic‑leaning voters—some out of frustration, some out of protest, and some simply unwilling to vote for a woman—chose to stay home. That decision didn’t just shape the […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-17953" style="width:282px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote.jpeg 1024w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-55x55.jpeg 55w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-431x431.jpeg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vote-862x862.jpeg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> In every democracy, elections are the hinge on which the entire system swings. But in 2016, a hinge rusted. A measurable number of Democratic‑leaning voters—some out of frustration, some out of protest, and some simply unwilling to vote for a woman—chose to stay home. That decision didn’t just shape the outcome of a single election; it reshaped the entire architecture of American governance. Donald Trump won the presidency, and with it came the power to appoint three Supreme Court justices. That alone was enough to alter the trajectory of American law for a generation. And the results have been seismic. A Court That Rewrote the Social Contract The Court that emerged from those appointments has dismantled pillars that many Americans assumed were permanent: Roe v. Wade overturned, ending a half‑century of federal protection for reproductive rights. The Voting Rights Act weakened, stripping away safeguards that protected fair representation. Medicaid access threatened, as states and courts chip away at coverage and eligibility. Healthcare protections eroded, especially for vulnerable communities. These decisions didn’t fall from the sky. They were the direct consequence of political disengagement at a…

Shortage of skilled workers “a big problem
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-04-29T13:31:00Z
subject: Local News
description: An overhaul of Grenada’s education should be undertaken to include training more nationals to acquire skills in trades, says building contractor Stanford Simon. The shortage of skilled workers in Grenada is “a big problem’’ and “it’s hurting us’’, leading to the importation of labour, said Simon, who is a member […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="720" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17962" style="width:498px;height:auto" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon.jpg 960w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon-300x225.jpg 300w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon-768x576.jpg 768w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon-73x55.jpg 73w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon-431x323.jpg 431w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Sansford-Simon-862x647.jpg 862w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /> An overhaul of Grenada’s education should be undertaken to include training more nationals to acquire skills in trades, says building contractor Stanford Simon. The shortage of skilled workers in Grenada is “a big problem’’ and “it’s hurting us’’, leading to the importation of labour, said Simon, who is a member of the opposition Democratic People’s Movement (DPM). His remarks echo recent comments from Movement Leader and MP for the Town of St George, Peter David, who lamented that not enough Grenadians are available to work here as plumbers, masons, electricians and agricultural technicians. “Right now, we don’t have enough of them,’’ David said. “And when we don’t have enough of them, two things happen: the contracts go to foreign workers and the wages leave with them.’’ Under a DPM government, T.A. Marryshow Community College will be modernized and transformed into “a facility that can deliver technical training and academic subjects properly, agriculture included,’’ David promised. Simon, for his part, is also recommending that teaching institutions include skills’ training rooms as part of their physical structure; or, that schools be built “specifically addressing’’ the training of skilled trades’ workers. “The…

A Modernised TAMCC part of a DPM Government Plan
type: item
creator: admin
date: 2026-04-22T13:35:00Z
subject: Local News
description: A government of the Democratic People’s Movement will ensure the construction of a modernised T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC), which will equip more nationals for jobs in Grenada as part of the Movement’s policy of “work that pays and stays’’, DPM Leader Peter David has promised. “The DPM is committing […]
encoded: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="465" height="512" src="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peter_david.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-17929" srcset="https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peter_david.jpg 465w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peter_david-272x300.jpg 272w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peter_david-50x55.jpg 50w, https://spiceislander.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/peter_david-431x475.jpg 431w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px" /> Hon Peter David A government of the Democratic People’s Movement will ensure the construction of a modernised T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC), which will equip more nationals for jobs in Grenada as part of the Movement’s policy of “work that pays and stays’’, DPM Leader Peter David has promised. “The DPM is committing to a modern TAMCC campus; a facility that can deliver technical training and academic subjects properly, agriculture included,’’ said David. DPM, which is headed to participation in its first general election, has been outlining several policy positions on national issues ranging from economic spending, housing, job creation, health, agriculture, to youth empowerment and education. According to David, an Independent MP and former Grenada Foreign Minister, TAMCC is supposed to train Grenada’s technical workers, tradespeople and professionals in agriculture, but he argues that “the facility is not built for that mission’’. “I’ve travelled. I’ve seen what countries look like when they decide that a skilled workforce is a national priority. Grenada is not there yet; and, both the NDC and NNP have been in and out of office for decades, without doing anything about it,’’ said David. A DPM administration will take a different approach, upgrading TAMCC and undertaking a deliberate programme under a planned apprenticeship initiative of the Movement, he said.