LETTING LOVE LEAD THE WAY

A Message from Claudette Adjodha That Still Speaks to Saint Lucia Today

There are some people whose words remain relevant long after they have been spoken.

Nearly a decade ago, musician, poet and cultural advocate Claudette Adjodha shared a simple but powerful message during an interview with The Voice newspaper. At a time when the world was already struggling with division, violence and uncertainty, she offered a solution that was neither political nor complicated.

Her answer was simple:

Let love lead the way.

Today, in 2026, that message may be more important than ever.

Across Saint Lucia, and indeed throughout the world, many people are feeling the weight of rising costs, social tensions, family disputes, crime and uncertainty about the future. Social media often rewards outrage rather than understanding. Differences in politics, religion and personal beliefs sometimes separate neighbours who once lived peacefully side by side.

Yet Adjodha's message reminds us that real change begins with ordinary people making extraordinary choices.

The choice to listen before judging.

The choice to forgive instead of holding grudges.

The choice to help rather than harm.

The choice to build instead of destroy.

During her interview, Adjodha spoke passionately about peace, unity and the need for people to recognize their shared humanity. She suggested that many of society's problems stem from selfishness, greed and a loss of compassion for others.

It is difficult to argue with that observation.

Every day we see examples of how one kind gesture can brighten someone's life. A helping hand to an elderly neighbour. A word of encouragement to a struggling young person. A meal shared with someone in need. These simple acts rarely make headlines, yet they are often the very things that hold communities together.

Choiseul has always been a community built on togetherness.

Our grandparents survived difficult times not because they had great wealth, but because they looked out for one another. Neighbours shared labour in the gardens. Fishermen helped fellow fishermen. Families supported each other through sickness, hardship and loss.

That spirit of community is part of what makes Choiseul special.

Perhaps that is why Claudette Adjodha's message resonates so strongly today.

Love is not weakness.

Love is strength.

It takes strength to forgive.

It takes strength to show kindness when others are unkind.

It takes strength to choose peace when conflict seems easier.

As Saint Lucia continues to navigate the challenges of modern life, perhaps we would all do well to remember the wisdom shared by Claudette Adjodha years ago.

Not every problem can be solved overnight.

Not every disagreement can disappear instantly.

But if more of us chose understanding over division, kindness over bitterness and compassion over selfishness, our communities would undoubtedly become stronger.

In a world that often encourages us to look out only for ourselves, Claudette Adjodha's message remains a refreshing reminder of what truly matters.

Letting love lead the way may not solve every problem, but it is certainly the best place to start.

What are your thoughts? Can love still be a guiding force in today's society? Share your views in the comments below.

— Choiseul on the Move

 55

🌿 CHOISEUL MYSTERIES EXPLAINED #2

🐸 Why Do Frogs Get So Noisy After Rain?

A Sunday Feature from Choiseul on the Move

If you've lived in Choiseul for any length of time, you've heard it.

The rain falls steadily through the night. The gutters begin to flow. Small puddles appear in the yard. Then, almost as if on cue, the silence is broken by a chorus of croaks, chirps, and whistles coming from every direction.

🐸 Kroak! Kroak! Kroak!

From Roblot to Saltibus, from La Fargue to Delcer555, frogs suddenly seem to appear everywhere after a good shower of rain.

But have you ever wondered why?

🌧️ The Rain Is Their Signal

The simple answer is that frogs love moisture.

Unlike humans, frogs breathe partly through their skin. Their skin must remain moist for them to survive and function properly. During dry weather, many frogs hide under leaves, in holes, under rocks, or deep within vegetation to avoid losing moisture.

When the rain comes, conditions become perfect.

The air becomes cooler and wetter, allowing frogs to move about safely without drying out.

For frogs, rain is like a giant announcement saying:

"Come out, it's time!"

🎵 Why All The Noise?

Here's where things get interesting.

Most of the croaking you hear after rain comes from male frogs.

They're not complaining about the weather.

They're actually singing.

The croaks are mating calls designed to attract female frogs. Each species has its own unique call, helping females identify the right mate.

The louder and stronger the call, the better the male's chances of attracting attention.

So what sounds like a noisy concert to us is actually a giant frog dating service taking place all across the community!

🐸 Nature's Family Planning

Rain also creates temporary pools, puddles, and ponds where frogs can safely lay their eggs.

These pools provide ideal conditions for tadpoles to grow before transforming into frogs.

Without rain, many frogs would struggle to reproduce successfully.

That's why rain triggers such a burst of activity.

The frogs know the time is right to ensure the next generation survives.

🌿 The Choiseul Connection

In Choiseul, the sound of frogs after rain is as familiar as the crowing rooster at dawn.

Many of us grew up falling asleep to their nightly chorus.

For farmers, the sound often signals that the soil is receiving much-needed moisture.

For gardeners, it means nature is hard at work.

And for children, it is one of those unforgettable sounds of village life.

Believe it or not, frogs are also helpful neighbours.

They eat mosquitoes, flies, and many other insects that can become pests around our homes.

In a way, they help keep nature balanced.

💡 What Frogs Teach Us

Frogs remind us that nature responds to opportunity.

They don't waste time complaining about the dry season.

They wait patiently.

Then when the rain comes, they seize the moment.

There is a lesson there for all of us.

Sometimes our season will come too.

The key is being ready when it arrives.

🌧️ Next Time It Rains...

The next time a shower passes through Choiseul and the frogs begin their evening concert, stop for a moment and listen.

What sounds like noise is actually one of nature's most fascinating conversations.

It is the sound of life, renewal, and the continuation of a cycle that has been taking place long before any of us were here.

And now you know why frogs get so noisy after rain.

🔍 Coming Next Sunday...

✨ Why Do Fireflies Glow At Night?

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💬 Got a Choiseul mystery you'd like us to explore? Leave it in the comments and it might become a future edition of Choiseul Mysteries Explained!

Choiseul on the Move Our People. Our Culture. Our Future.

 

🏆 CHOISEUL'S YOUNG CALYPSO KING BRINGS THE CROWN HOME!

Dugard Combined's Mr. Personality Makes Choiseul Proud

There are moments when an entire community pauses to celebrate one of its own. This is one of those moments.

The people of Choiseul have every reason to smile today as Dugard Combined School has captured the 2026 National Primary Schools Calypso Championship, thanks to an outstanding performance by young Azeil Philgence, better known on stage as "Mr. Personality."

Competing against some of the island's most talented young performers at Mindoo Phillip Park, Mr. Personality delivered a memorable rendition of his song "Remember Me", earning the judges' top score and bringing the coveted national title back to Choiseul.

A Victory Built on Hard Work

Those who know the Primary Schools Calypso Competition understand that success does not happen overnight.

Behind every winning performance are weeks of rehearsals, coaching sessions, long evenings, nervous moments, and countless sacrifices from teachers, parents, mentors, and students. This championship is a reflection of the dedication and commitment shown by the entire Dugard Combined School family.

For years, Choiseul has produced talented singers, musicians, storytellers, and cultural ambassadors. This latest achievement proves once again that the district continues to nurture young people capable of shining on the national stage.

The Results

The top performers in the 2026 National Primary Schools Calypso Competition were:

🥇 Mr. Personality – Dugard Combined School

🥈 Ti Jean – Canon Laurie Anglican School

🥉 Unique – Anglican Infant School

🏅 Mighty Informer – Ave Maria Girls' Primary School

While all participants deserve praise for their performances, it is Choiseul's Mr. Personality who now carries the title of National Primary Schools Calypso Monarch.

More Than Just a Trophy

This victory means much more than a trophy or a title.

It sends a powerful message to every young person in Choiseul that dreams can become reality through preparation, discipline, and perseverance.

It reminds us that our schools continue to produce excellence despite challenges.

And it demonstrates that talent can emerge from any community when given the opportunity to grow.

Watch his delivery here: https://youtu.be/TlQrzodXo1U

Congratulations from Choiseul

Choiseul on the Move extends heartfelt congratulations to:

✅ Azeil Philgence (Mr. Personality)

✅ His parents and family

✅ The teachers and staff of Dugard Combined School

✅ The songwriters, coaches, and mentors

✅ The entire Dugard Combined School community

Today, Choiseul celebrates with you.

The crown has come home.

And somewhere across our district, another young child is watching this success story and believing that one day they too can stand on a stage and make Choiseul proud.

Congratulations, Mr. Personality. Choiseul will certainly remember you! 🇱🇨🎤🏆

⚠️ CHOISEUL FISHERMEN WARNED: HEAVY SARGASSUM SEASON EXPECTED FOR 2026

“The sea getting harder… and the invasion already starting.”

Fishermen across Saint Lucia — especially along the south and western coastlines — are being urged to prepare for what scientists say could become one of the heaviest sargassum seasons in recent years.

And yes… Choiseul may feel it too.

Large floating mats of brown seaweed known as sargassum are already moving across the Caribbean from the massive Atlantic “Sargassum Belt.”

Experts expect the heaviest arrivals between June and August.

For local fisher folks, this is not just a beach problem.

This affects: 🎣 Fishing nets
🚤 Boat engines
⛽ Fuel costs
🐟 Fish catches
💰 Household income

Many fishermen already know the struggle:

 ➡️ Engines overheating from clogged seaweed

 ➡️ Nets becoming tangled and damaged 

➡️ Fish moving away from traditional fishing spots

 ➡️ Long hours clearing seaweed before even reaching open waters

And when the sargassum lands and starts rotting near the shore, the smell alone can make life miserable for nearby communities.

SO WHAT SHOULD FISHERMEN START DOING NOW?

✅ Check and service engines early
✅ Inspect nets and fishing gear regularly
✅ Monitor sea conditions before heading out
✅ Work together to identify cleaner fishing zones
✅ Protect boats from heavy seaweed buildup near the shore
✅ Stay updated on marine advisories and weather reports

This may also become a serious issue for fish vendors, tourism operators, and coastal communities if large amounts begin washing ashore.

One fisherman from the south recently summed it up perfectly:

“Before we used to watch the weather… now we watching seaweed too.”

The reality is clear: Climate changes are affecting Caribbean livelihoods in real time.

Choiseul fishermen are resilient. But this year may require extra preparation, patience, and support.

📍 Choiseul on the Move will continue monitoring the situation affecting our fishing communities.

🌕✨ LOOK UP, CHOISEUL... THE SKY IS ABOUT TO PUT ON A SHOW! ✨🌕

If you enjoy the beauty of nature, the next few months will offer a front-row seat to one of the greatest spectacles above us.

Three special full moons will grace our night skies:

🔵 Blue Moon — May 31, 2026 (Tonight!)
🌸 Strawberry Moon — June 29, 2026
🦌 Buck Moon — July 29, 2026

Whether you're relaxing on the beach at Saltibus, enjoying the cool breeze in La Fargue, watching from Piaye, Delcer, Roblot, Choiseul Village, or anywhere across Saint Lucia, these celestial events promise breathtaking views.

A full moon has always held a special place in Caribbean culture—lighting village roads, guiding fishermen at sea, inspiring storytellers, and reminding us of the beauty that exists beyond our everyday lives.

So mark your calendars, gather the family, and take a few moments to look skyward.

Sometimes the greatest show on earth isn't on television...

It's happening right above our heads. 🌌✨

📅 Save These Dates: 🔵 May 31 – Blue Moon 🌸 June 29 – Strawberry Moon 🦌 July 29 – Buck Moon

📸 If you capture a great photo, share it in the comments. We'd love to showcase the beauty of the Choiseul night sky!

#ChoiseulOnTheMove #MoonWatch2026 #BlueMoon #StrawberryMoon #BuckMoon #Choiseul #SaintLucia #NatureLovers #LookUp

1 🐓 WHY DO ROOSTERS CROW BEFORE SUNRISE?

 🌿 CHOISEUL MYSTERIES EXPLAINED #

A New Sunday Series from Choiseul on the Move

Every Sunday, Choiseul on the Move will take a break from the headlines, politics, and everyday hustle to explore something fascinating that many of us see, hear, or experience—but may not fully understand.

From the crowing rooster and the singing frogs to the changing colours of the sea and the mysteries of the moon, our beautiful community is surrounded by nature's wonders every single day.

In this new weekly series, we will uncover the science, history, folklore, and local wisdom behind some of the most interesting sights and sounds of Choiseul and Saint Lucia.

Our goal is simple:

🌴 To educate

🌊 To inspire curiosity

🐦 To reconnect us with the natural world around us

🏡 To celebrate the unique beauty of Choiseul

So grab a cup of cocoa tea, settle in, and join us every Sunday as we discover the hidden stories behind the things we often take for granted.

Welcome to Choiseul Mysteries Explained.

And for our very first mystery...

🐓 When the Rooster Crows: Nature's Morning Messenger in Choiseul

Before the alarm clock rings, before the kettle whistles, and before the first bus rolls through the village, one familiar sound often breaks the silence:

Cock-a-doodle-doo!

For generations, the rooster's morning crow has been part of life in Choiseul. From Roblot to La Fargue, from Piaye to Saltibus, that early morning call has always carried a message:

A new day has begun.

But here is the interesting part—roosters do not crow only because they see the sun.

Scientists have discovered that roosters have an internal body clock known as a circadian rhythm, which allows them to anticipate sunrise before the first rays of daylight appear.

In fact, studies have shown that roosters can begin crowing even when they are kept in darkness because their bodies already know morning is coming.

🌅 More Than Just Noise

That loud crow is not random.

A rooster crows to:

✅ Mark his territory

✅ Warn rival roosters

✅ Communicate with the flock

✅ Establish dominance

In simple terms, he is making an announcement to the world around him.

The dominant rooster in a group is usually the first to crow, letting everyone know who is in charge.

🏡 A Piece of Village Life

Long before mobile phones and alarm clocks, many people across Choiseul depended on the rooster to begin their day.

Farmers headed to the garden.

Fishermen prepared their boats.

Children got ready for school.

Market vendors started preparing their produce.

The rooster's crow became nature's alarm clock.

Even today, many of us wake up to that familiar sound echoing across the hillsides and valleys of our communities.

🌿 What the Rooster Teaches Us

The rooster reminds us that nature operates with order and purpose.

Every morning, without fail, he performs his duty.

No batteries.

No electricity.

No reminders.

Just instinct, rhythm, and consistency.

There is a lesson in that for all of us.

❤️ The Choiseul Connection

For many of us, the crowing rooster is more than just a farm animal.

It is part of our heritage.

Part of our childhood memories.

Part of what makes village life special.

It is one of those everyday sounds that quietly reminds us where we come from.

So the next time you hear a rooster crow before sunrise, don't just think of it as noise.

Think of it as nature announcing another blessed day in Choiseul.

🌿 Coming Next Sunday...

Why Do Frogs Get So Noisy After Rain? 🐸

💬 Got a Choiseul mystery you'd like us to explore? Leave it in the comments and it might become a future edition of Choiseul Mysteries Explained!

Choiseul on the Move Our People. Our Culture. Our Future.

 

STORM READY 2026

Strong Homes. Strong Communities.

As hurricane season continues across the Caribbean, one important reminder stands out: small problems ignored today can become major disasters tomorrow.

Loose roofing, weak fences, poor lighting, blocked drains, damaged doors, and neglected repairs can all become dangerous during severe weather conditions.

This week in our STORM READY 2026 series, we focus on strengthening homes, improving emergency lighting, and staying safe after storms pass.

Prepared homes and prepared communities recover faster because they reduce risks before disaster strikes.

Don’t Ignore Small Repairs Before Hurricane Season

Many homeowners delay small repairs because they appear minor during normal weather conditions. However, during hurricanes and severe storms, small weaknesses can quickly become major structural problems.

Now is the time to inspect:

• Loose galvanize sheets
• Roof screws and flashing
• Weak fences and gates
• Damaged doors and windows
• Cracked walls and leaks
• Loose outdoor materials
• Weak drainage areas

Strong winds can easily turn unsecured materials into dangerous projectiles during storms.

Simple repairs completed early may prevent expensive damage later.

RCIP carries a wide range of building materials, hardware supplies, tools, sealants, roofing products, and repair equipment to help families prepare early.

Emergency Lighting Could Save Lives

Power outages are common during hurricanes and severe weather events. When electricity goes down, darkness can quickly create confusion and dangerous conditions inside homes and communities.

Reliable emergency lighting is an important part of every hurricane preparedness plan.

Families should consider having:

• Rechargeable lanterns
• Flashlights
• Solar lighting
• Battery-powered lights
• Extension cords
• Backup charging devices
• Portable power solutions

Good lighting improves visibility, safety, communication, and movement during emergencies.

Preparing these items before a storm arrives reduces stress during power outages

After The Storm: Safety Comes First

The period after a storm can sometimes be just as dangerous as the storm itself.

Flooded roads, fallen trees, damaged buildings, contaminated water, and electrical hazards all create serious risks during cleanup and recovery operations.

Families should remain cautious after severe weather and avoid rushing into unsafe conditions.

Important safety reminders include:

• Avoid downed electrical wires
• Be careful around unstable trees and roofs
• Wear protective gear during cleanup
• Use chainsaws and generators safely
• Inspect buildings carefully before re-entry
• Ensure water sources remain safe
• Monitor official emergency updates

Recovery becomes safer when preparation begins before the storm.

Prepared Communities Build Stronger Futures

Hurricane preparedness is about more than surviving storms. It is about protecting families, businesses, livelihoods, and communities across Saint Lucia.

Every repair completed today, every emergency item prepared, and every safety plan discussed helps strengthen our resilience for tomorrow.

At RCIP, customers can find practical hurricane preparedness solutions including lighting, generators, tools, hardware, drainage products, roofing materials, water tanks, pumps, and building supplies.

Prepare early. Stay ready. Protect what matters most.

RCIP Contact Information

Corinth: (758) 450-7247
Monchy: (758) 450-7248
Vide Bouteille: (758) 450-7246
Babonneau: (758) 450-5759

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rayneaucip
Website: https://rcip.rayneau.org