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VINCENTIAN CHIEF MAGISTRATE HAS BEEN FORMALLY APPOINTED THE POSTION OF HIGH COURT JUDGE

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Rechanne Browne, the former Chief Magistrate of St Vincent and the Grenadines, has transitioned to a new role as a High Court judge of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, following a three-month tenure in an acting capacity. The appointment, announced by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission on April 2, officially took effect on April 1.

Browne’s new assignment brings her to the State of Saint Lucia, where she had been serving in an acting capacity.

With over two decades of legal experience, Browne was admitted to the bar in 2000. Prior to her appointment as a magistrate, she spent twelve years in private practice and briefly acted as the president of the Family Court in July 2012 before assuming the role of a full-time magistrate in January 2012.

Since September 2014, Browne has served as Chief Magistrate in St Vincent and the Grenadines, presiding over the Serious Offences Court. In this capacity, she conducted preliminary inquiries to assess the evidence and determine whether individuals accused of indictable offences should be committed for trial in the High Court.

Source: Loop News

“LIKE THAT: BY FUTURE, METRO BOOMIN AND KENDRICK LAMAR HITS NO.1 ON HOT 100

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“Like That,” featuring Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar, debuts at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is part of Future and Metro Boomin’s album “We Don’t Trust You,” which also claims the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart.

Lamar’s verse in the song is seen as targeting Drake and J. Cole. This marks Lamar’s third No. 1 song and Future’s third as well, while it is Metro Boomin’s first. “We Don’t Trust You” had a massive debut week, becoming the biggest album release of 2024 so far, with 251,000 equivalent album units sold in the US in its first week.

Source: Pitchfork.com

“GODZILLA X KONG” TOPS EASTER BOX OFFICE WITH $80M OPENING,PUSHING MONSTERVERSE PAST $2 BILLION

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Legendary and Warner Bros’ “Godzilla X Kong” astounds with an $80 million opening, ranking as the second-best start of the year, trailing only behind Legendary’s “Dune: Part Two” with $82.5 million. Surpassing all expectations, the film propels the Monsterverse franchise past $2 billion in domestic earnings alone, with an impressive $194 million global start, including $114 million internationally.

The Adam Wingard-directed spectacle is anticipated to draw over 5.5 million admissions over the weekend, marking the most attended opening for any movie this year. Wingard’s visionary direction captured 56% of foot traffic and 89% of premium format admissions, with Imax and PLF contributing 38% of the gross and 3D accounting for 19%.

Mary Parent, Vice Chairman of Worldwide Production for Legendary, praises Wingard’s imaginative storytelling and the film’s exploration of new territories within the Monsterverse. Despite limited verbalization from characters, including monsters, extensive screenings revealed that the heart of the film resonated deeply with audiences.

The film’s success is attributed to a diverse audience turnout, particularly from Hispanic and Latino demographics, comprising 35% of attendees. Warner Bros’ strategic marketing campaign, orchestrated by Josh Goldstine, also played a pivotal role in engaging various demographics through billboards, theater exhibitions, and trailers.

Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros Domestic Distribution Boss, credits the film’s success to its appeal as a thrilling Easter movie for families, acknowledging the support from Legendary and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Co-Chiefs Mike De Luca and Pamela Abdy.

Despite challenges posed by the pandemic and streaming releases, “Godzilla X Kong” emerges as a triumphant fifth installment in the franchise, reaffirming the enduring allure of cinematic experiences for audiences worldwide. The film’s consistent performance throughout the day highlights its universal appeal and underscores moviegoers’ preference for theatrical screenings.

Source: deadline.com

VINCENTIAN ATHLETE KIONE DESHONG SECURES MEDAL IN CARIFA AQUATICS COMPETITION

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St. Vincent and the Grenadines has achieved a Bronze medal at the ongoing 37th CARIFTA Aquatic Championships in the Bahamas. Vincentian swimmer Kione De Shong, representing the Blue Marlins Swim Club, clinched bronze in the 100m breaststroke on April 2nd, competing in the 11 to 12 age group.

This achievement follows Team SVG’s absence from the medal standings in the recent CARIFTA athletics games held in Grenada. According to the CARIFTA Aquatics’ website, twelve Vincentian swimmers are participating in the championships. The event, featuring participants from twenty-five countries, is taking place in Nassau, Bahamas, from March 29th to April 3rd, 2024.

THE US VIRGIN ISLANDS FORTIFIES TRADE RELATIONS WITH ST.VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

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Governor Albert Bryan’s recent visit to St Vincent and the Grenadines has strengthened trade relations and fostered collaboration between the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and the island nation. The mission aimed to bolster trade ties and explore potential partnerships across various industries, and it was deemed successful, as per a press release from the USVI’s Government House Communications Director Richard Motta.

During the visit, Bryan held discussions with St Vincent’s Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar to expand produce exports from St Vincent to the Virgin Islands and to explore opportunities in St Vincent’s cannabis industry. He also toured St Vincent’s certified cannabis operation, gaining firsthand insight into the advancements and potential of the medicinal cannabis cultivation sector.

The talks encompassed other areas of cooperation as well, including sand exchange and facilitating educational opportunities for students from St Vincent to pursue studies in agriculture and other fields in the Virgin Islands.

Reflecting on the trip’s achievements, Bryan expressed confidence in the strong bonds between the territories and highlighted promising opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships. He emphasized the potential for collaboration to drive economic growth and prosperity for both regions.

Source: Loop News

Arsenal regains the lead in the EPL as Manchester City dominates Villa to keep up

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the English Premier League (EPL) title race is heating up as Arsenal and Manchester City both secure important victories, tightening the competition at the top. Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Luton propels them back to the summit, while City’s dominant 4-1 victory against Aston Villa sees them level on points with second-placed Liverpool. With just one point separating the top three teams, the race is shaping up to be one of the most intense in recent memory.

Despite the tight competition, it’s Manchester City, the three-time defending champions, who are seen as having the pedigree to potentially clinch the title again. City forward Phil Foden, who scored a hat trick against Villa, emphasized the importance of belief and perseverance in the title race.

Liverpool, initially benefitting from their rivals’ draw, now find themselves playing catch-up again to Arsenal and are only ahead of City on goal difference, despite having a game in hand against Sheffield United.

For Arsenal, the question remains whether they can maintain their momentum until the end of the season after faltering in the previous campaign. Manager Mikel Arteta’s team displayed resilience against Luton, suggesting they may be better prepared this time around.

In Manchester City’s victory, Foden’s stellar performance compensated for the absence of top scorer Erling Haaland, highlighting the depth of City’s squad and their unbeaten streak of 24 games in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Brentford’s struggles continue as their winless run extends to eight games following a goalless draw against Brighton. Despite this, they still manage to move a point further away from the relegation zone.

Source: Loop News

Nationals from St. Vincent and St. Kitts are reported safe after the earthquake in Taiwan.

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Following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan on Wednesday, the Governments of St Vincent and the Grenadines as well as St Kitts and Nevis have confirmed the safety of their nationals.

The Embassy of St Vincent and the Grenadines in Taiwan announced that all Vincentian nationals in Taiwan have been located and are currently safe. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves expressed solidarity and support, announcing a contribution of US$50,000 towards relief efforts for rebuilding lives and structures affected by the earthquake.

Similarly, Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew of St Kitts and Nevis confirmed the well-being of nationals from his country in Taiwan. He reassured the public of their safety and extended solidarity to the people of Taiwan, urging prayers for all affected. The Government of St Kitts and Nevis affirmed its commitment to assisting citizens abroad as necessary.

The earthquake, Taiwan’s strongest in 25 years, has resulted in 10 fatalities, over 1,000 individuals missing, and hundreds stranded.

Source: Loop News

SVG Signed EU Deal for Abortion Legalization and Same-Sex Relations Recognition

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St. Vincent and the Grenadines Signs Controversial EU Deal Amid Concerns Over Abortion and LGBTQ+ Impositions

“The cleric emphasized that due to the document’s signing, there would be a requirement to implement abortion legislation, transgender, LBGTQ, comprehensive sex education, and a spectrum of values.” 

Andrea Bowman, the SVG Ambassador to Taiwan, signed a partnership agreement in Samoa on behalf of Kingstown, part of a new Samoa Agreement between the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). This 20-year deal replaces the Cotonou Agreement and covers sustainable development, human rights, and security, but has raised concerns due to its potential imposition of abortion legislation and LGBTQ+ values.

Critics like Roman Catholic Archbishop Jason Gordon of Port of Spain in Trinidad express worries, stating that signing the agreement could force participating nations to adopt values and laws contrary to their own cultures. Notably, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Namibia, members of the OACPS, haven’t signed.

Archbishop Gordon emphasizes the EU’s imposition of ideologies and values, cautioning smaller Caribbean states against succumbing to this influence. He lauds governments like Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica for resisting the agreement.

SVG’s involvement comes amid legal considerations regarding colonial-era laws criminalizing same-sex relations. Similar legal challenges have been unsuccessful in other Commonwealth Caribbean countries.

The Samoa Agreement has faced opposition from conservative groups like Christian Council International (CCI), highlighting its demands that conflict with traditional moral values. They advocate for parliamentary approval in each OACPS country before finalizing the agreement.

Georges Chikoti, Secretary General of the OACPS, emphasizes the agreement’s provisions for regular review and increased involvement of non-state actors. The agreement outlines common principles covering various areas from human rights to environmental sustainability and includes three regional protocols tailored to Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

This partnership, involving 27 EU member states and 79 ACP countries, aims to address global challenges like climate change and migration.

Source: iWitness News

Diddy sued for Rape.

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In a lawsuit filed in New York, Cassie has made several disturbing accusations against Diddy, including claims of human trafficking and a harrowing incident in 2018 where she alleges he broke into her home and sexually assaulted her as their relationship was ending. According to Cassie, what started as a discussion about their separation ended with Diddy forcing himself into her apartment despite her objections, subsequently assaulting her.

This shocking claim, while significant, is just one facet of the allegations outlined in her lawsuit. Cassie details years of purported physical and emotional abuse during their lengthy relationship, asserting incidents of beatings and mistreatment. She further alleges that Diddy habitually subjected her to substance use, carrying firearms in public, and coerced her into sexual encounters with multiple male individuals, orchestrated and recorded by Diddy himself.

Additionally, Cassie claims that Diddy made threatening remarks about musician Kid Cudi, with a subsequent car explosion at Kid Cudi’s residence in 2012, which deeply unsettled her and contributed to her ongoing fear for her safety.

Despite the shocking nature of these accusations, Cassie maintains their authenticity, stating, “After years of silence, I am ready to share my story and stand up for myself and other women facing abuse in their relationships.” She claims enduring significant trauma due to her experiences with Diddy, impacting her life to this day.

Diddy, through his attorney, vehemently denies these allegations, labeling them as an attempt to extort money. He asserts that Cassie demanded a substantial sum, threatening to write a damaging book about their relationship, and now resorts to a lawsuit filled with falsehoods to tarnish his reputation and seek financial gain.

As the legal battle unfolds, Cassie seeks substantial damages for the alleged ordeal she endured. The lawsuit was initially reported by The New York Times.

Source: TMZ News

The Right Project, Funded By The EU With 11.3 Million, Advances Integration Within The OECS.

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€11.3 million EU funded RIGHT project promotes OECS integration

At a Media Breakfast hosted by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, the focus was an €11.3 million EU-funded project known as the “Regional Integration through Growth Harmonisation & Technology (RIGHT)” program. This initiative aligns with three key themes: free movement, sustainable development, and international competitiveness. The program involves collaboration between the OECS Commission, various government entities, and regional/international partners, including the EU.

The revised treaty of Basseterre 2010 plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights of citizens and nationals within the Economic Union, emphasizing the significance of regional integration for the OECS.

Regarding free movement, specific treaty articles were highlighted by Samantha Charles, Senior Legislative Drafter at the OECS Commission. Article 12.2 prohibits discrimination against OECS nationals, regardless of their birthplace or residence within the OECS countries. Article 12.3 addresses contingent rights, ensuring citizens of protocol member states enjoy freedom of movement, equal treatment, work permit exemption, and access to national insurance services.

Clarence Henry, Senior Technical Officer at the OECS Commission, discussed initiatives such as border management enhancement and the implementation of a Unique OECS ID, aiming to bolster border security and improve public service delivery.

Moreover, Loverly Anthony, Head of the Communication Unit, highlighted the expansion of the OECS Commission’s website to include English and French, catering to Martinique and Guadeloupe, recent associate members of the OECS, as part of the ongoing integration process.

Source: API