作者: admin

  • Rum price hike sends Ponche a Creme, black cake prices soaring

    Rum price hike sends Ponche a Creme, black cake prices soaring

    A significant increase in alcohol duties has cast a shadow over Trinidad and Tobago’s holiday season, severely impacting the production and pricing of traditional Christmas delicacies. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s October announcement of a 100% customs duty hike on rum and spirits has created ripple effects throughout the beverage and culinary industries.

    The controversial tax policy has particularly affected two beloved seasonal specialties: black cake and ponche a creme. These alcohol-dependent treats have become substantially more expensive to produce, forcing artisans and small businesses to make difficult decisions. Dawn Ramkissoon-Ali, proprietor of Aurora Fine Delights, exemplifies this trend, choosing to completely withdraw ponche a creme from her seasonal offerings rather than impose dramatically higher prices on customers.

    Industry-wide adaptation strategies have emerged in response to the economic pressure. Some enterprises, like Cake Zone operated by Amrika Singh, implemented moderate price increases while leveraging temporary price reductions from Angostura Holdings Limited. Others employed creative workarounds—Kathy Collins of Copa de Leche resorted to alternative rum brands, while Shirley Roban utilized pre-tax alcohol purchases through advanced fruit soaking.

    The cost escalation extends beyond alcohol inputs. Producers report concurrent price increases in essential ingredients including dairy products, eggs, and even packaging materials. Olatunde Celestin of Tunde’s Treats noted that condensed milk prices have risen approximately 38% over five years, compounding the financial challenges.

    Despite these economic headwinds, consumer loyalty has remained remarkably resilient. Established customer bases have demonstrated understanding and continued support, prioritizing quality and tradition over moderate price increases. This consumer dedication has provided crucial stability for small businesses navigating the challenging economic landscape while maintaining Trinidad’s cherished Christmas culinary traditions.

  • Izizzi player hits $2.8 million jackpot on Greek Gods game

    Izizzi player hits $2.8 million jackpot on Greek Gods game

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A life-changing fortune has transformed the future prospects of a local restaurant employee and dedicated gaming enthusiast, who recently secured a monumental $2.8 million jackpot prize. The fortunate winner, identified as Ms. G, achieved this extraordinary windfall while playing the Greek Gods game on Izizzi gaming terminals.

    As a long-time participant in the Izizzi gaming system, Ms. G maintained her established routine by acquiring a $500 play ticket. Despite her balance diminishing to a mere $30, she persisted with her gameplay. This determination was rewarded when her machine triggered the distinctive ‘Easy Spin’ feature, accompanied by flashing lights and illuminated displays that culminated in the jackpot announcement within seconds.

    “I felt surprised,” Ms. G confessed, still processing the substantial scale of her unexpected fortune. The timing of this financial breakthrough proved particularly opportune, as she anticipates the arrival of a newborn. The substantial prize money will enable her to establish enhanced security for her expanding family’s future.

    Ms. G has formulated practical plans for her winnings, prioritizing the acquisition of a Toyota Probox vehicle to initiate a taxi enterprise. This entrepreneurial venture will generate sustainable income while simultaneously providing family support and creating savings for household requirements.

    Having consistently enjoyed the Greek Gods game on Izizzi platforms, Ms. G praised its entertainment value and winning potential. She enthusiastically encouraged prospective players: “They perform superiorly compared to alternative gaming options, which many players don’t recognize. Other machines lack these million-dollar jackpot opportunities. For those who haven’t attempted them previously – take the chance. Without participation, victory remains impossible.”

    The winning momentum continues throughout the Izizzi network, with the progressive jackpot currently exceeding $4 million and still accumulating, presenting additional opportunities for substantial prizes.

    Alyssa MooYoung, Chief Executive Officer of Izizzi Lottery, affirmed in an official statement: “This $2.8 million jackpot achievement further demonstrates the exceptional winning possibilities our participants experience. Izizzi terminals consistently provide genuine opportunities for transformative financial rewards, with Greek Gods maintaining its status as one of our most thrilling and popular games for justified reasons. We delight in celebrating this remarkable success and anticipate more players discovering Izizzi’s rewarding potential.”

  • Guyana’s non-oil sector registers growth of more than 7%

    Guyana’s non-oil sector registers growth of more than 7%

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Guyana’s economic transformation continues to accelerate as new government data reveals a remarkable 13.8% expansion in the non-oil sector during the first half of 2025. This exceptional performance, described by officials as unprecedented by global standards, demonstrates the South American nation’s successful economic diversification strategy.

    Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues characterized the growth figures as extraordinary, emphasizing that such expansion percentages represent world-class economic performance. The broader economy maintained its robust trajectory with 7.5% overall growth, marking the fifth consecutive year of sustained economic expansion across multiple sectors.

    The non-oil growth was driven by significant advancements across diverse industries including agriculture, tourism, trade and infrastructure development. Minister Rodrigues highlighted the government’s commitment to building an “extremely diversified” economic foundation that reduces dependency on single industries while creating multiple growth engines.

    The administration’s development strategy focuses on ensuring that economic prosperity reaches all citizens regardless of geographical location, background, ethnicity, religion or political affiliation. This inclusive growth model will be implemented through various governmental agencies including the Small Business Bureau, Guyana National Bureau of Standards, Guyana Tourism Authority and the Competition Consumer Affairs Commission.

    Rodrigues emphasized that the current expansion represents just the initial phase of Guyana’s comprehensive development plan, with further economic diversification and inclusive growth initiatives planned for the coming years.

  • Zelensky to meet Trump this weekend in Florida

    Zelensky to meet Trump this weekend in Florida

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed a high-stakes diplomatic meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled for Sunday in Florida. The summit aims to advance negotiations toward ending Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, focusing on a newly formulated 20-point peace framework currently under consideration by Moscow.

    The proposed agreement, developed through recent U.S.-Ukraine negotiations, represents a potential breakthrough in the conflict. According to Zelensky, the plan includes significant concessions for Ukraine, notably freezing current frontlines and eliminating previous requirements for Kyiv to formally abandon its NATO membership aspirations. Additionally, the proposal opens possibilities for Ukrainian troop withdrawals from the eastern Donetsk region and establishes a demilitarized zone—positions previously resisted by Ukrainian leadership.

    Key agenda items for the Zelensky-Trump meeting include security guarantees for Ukraine and sensitive territorial disputes concerning the Donbas region and Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility. While acknowledging ongoing disagreements with Washington on these matters, Zelensky characterized the proposed agreement as containing meaningful compromises.

    The Kremlin confirmed Friday that foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov has engaged in telephone discussions with U.S. officials regarding negotiations, though Moscow has not yet revealed its official position on the proposed terms. Historically, Russia has maintained stringent demands including complete Ukrainian withdrawal from Donbas, permanent NATO non-membership status for Ukraine, and sweeping restrictions on Western military presence—conditions Kyiv considers equivalent to surrender.

    Zelensky noted that while Ukrainian negotiators maintain no direct communication channels with Moscow, the United States serves as intermediary in the diplomatic process. The Ukrainian president anticipates Russia’s formal response to the proposed agreement within coming days, potentially determining whether these negotiations evolve into substantive peace talks or reach another diplomatic impasse.

  • 8-year-old stable after Pinto double homicide

    8-year-old stable after Pinto double homicide

    A horrific home invasion shattered the Christmas morning peace in Arima’s Pinto Road community, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals and leaving an eight-year-old boy wounded. The incident, which occurred approximately at 5:42 AM on December 25th, has sent shockwaves through the residential neighborhood.

    According to official police reports, responding officers discovered a gruesome scene at an unfinished residence on Sesame Street. Deshawn Quato, 23, was found fatally wounded with a gunshot to the head, his body positioned on a kitchen mattress. In an adjacent room, 14-year-old Fabius Malchan lay deceased on a bed, partially concealed by a white blanket and suffering from facial gunshot wounds.

    The violence spared neither age nor innocence—eight-year-old Jordan Malchan sustained grazing injuries to his head and shoulder during the assault. Medical authorities confirm the child is currently in stable condition following emergency treatment.

    Crime scene investigators documented substantial evidence, recovering sixteen spent 9mm cartridge casings along with two projectiles, one notably deformed from impact. The bloodstained mattress within the kitchen served as a grim testament to the brutality that unfolded during the early hours of the holiday.

    Preliminary investigations suggest the attackers may have been pursuing another individual—a friend associated with a family member—who allegedly escaped through a window moments before the shooting commenced. Law enforcement officials have acknowledged this line of inquiry as part of their active investigation into the double homicide.

    Relatives present at the scene described a atmosphere of terror and confusion during the incident, with the community now grappling with the psychological aftermath of the Christmas Day tragedy. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service continues to pursue all investigative avenues to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violent attack.

  • Double murder mars Christmas Day on March Pen Road

    Double murder mars Christmas Day on March Pen Road

    In a brazen assault that defied heightened security measures, Spanish Town’s March Pen Road became the scene of a fatal Christmas Day shooting, resulting in the deaths of two local residents. The incident occurred despite visible police reinforcements in the St. Catherine community, raising serious concerns about persistent gang violence in the area.

    Authorities have identified the victims as Shaniel Myers, a 30-year-old bar operator, and Shamar Hall, 28, both residents of the troubled March Pen Road vicinity. According to official reports, the tragedy unfolded approximately at 6:00 PM when multiple armed assailants stormed a local gathering and opened indiscriminate fire.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate Hall succumbed to his injuries immediately at the crime scene, while Myers managed to flee approximately to a nearby churchyard before collapsing. Both victims were transported to the Spanish Town Hospital where medical personnel confirmed their deaths.

    In a related development hours following the initial shooting, police patrols intercepted a group of armed individuals who allegedly engaged law enforcement in a violent confrontation. Preliminary reports suggest one suspect was fatally wounded during the exchange, though his identity remains unverified pending formal notification of relatives.

    This recent violence continues a disturbing pattern of retaliatory killings that have plagued March Pen Road since the alleged assassination of a local gang leader earlier this year. Security analysts note this incident represents at least the third murder attributed to ongoing factional disputes between rival gangs in the community.

    The Christmas Day shooting has intensified calls for more effective crime intervention strategies as residents report deteriorating security conditions despite official promises of increased police presence.

  • Former UNC MP cautions TT against supporting US military build-up in Caribbean

    Former UNC MP cautions TT against supporting US military build-up in Caribbean

    Former United National Congress (UNC) parliamentarian and diplomat Rodney Charles has issued a stark warning to Trinidad and Tobago’s government regarding its unwavering support for the ongoing US military deployment across the Southern Caribbean. In a detailed Facebook post dated December 20, the seasoned statesman articulated profound concerns about the strategic implications of current foreign policy directions.

    Charles, who previously served as Trinidad and Tobago’s Ambassador to the United Nations during Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s initial administration (2010-2015) and later as shadow foreign minister until April 2025, emphasized that his critique stems from patriotic concern rather than anti-American sentiment. The veteran diplomat referenced his personal connections to the United States, including his postgraduate tenure at Carleton University where he briefly served as a White House press intern and State Department participant, plus family members who have served in US military capacities.

    His central argument challenges the government’s assumption that current US political dynamics under President Donald Trump will remain permanent. Charles highlighted upcoming US midterm elections in November 2026, suggesting potential significant Democratic gains that could dramatically alter foreign policy trajectories. He warned that Trinidad and Tobago risks positioning itself on ‘the wrong side of even their foreign policy realities’ in a potentially transformed political landscape.

    The former ambassador expressed particular concern about deteriorating regional relations, noting that Caribbean Community (CARICOM) partners are viewing Trinidad and Tobago’s stance with increasing skepticism. He suggested current policies are ‘undermining that regional body’ and creating conditions that could lead to ‘likely recolonization of the region’ as external powers exploit apparent divisions.

    Charles also pointed to concerning regional developments including the growing isolation of Antigua and Barbuda plus Dominica, alongside negative travel advisories affecting tourism-dependent economies like Barbados, Grenada and St. Lucia during critical winter tourist seasons. He connected these developments to President Trump’s revival of the Monroe Doctrine through the National Security Strategy 2025 document, which explicitly seeks allied support for executing US policy objectives.

    The former diplomat concluded that current foreign policy approaches appear predicated on three precarious assumptions: the perpetual reign of Trumpism in US politics, successful regime change in Venezuela, and the permanent eradication of Bolivarian nationalism in any subsequent Venezuelan government—all of which he considers dangerously speculative foundations for national strategy.

  • MSJ advocates peace as war looms

    MSJ advocates peace as war looms

    Amid the festive season, a stark political divide has emerged in Trinidad and Tobago regarding regional military presence and the true meaning of Christmas peace. Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) leader David Abdulah has issued a solemn Christmas message warning that the core message of peace is being overshadowed by escalating global conflicts and commercial exploitation.

    Abdulah invoked biblical symbolism, drawing parallels between contemporary conflicts and historical oppression. He specifically referenced Christ’s actions in overturning money changers’ tables, condemning the modern commercialization of religious observances. ‘Christmas has become totally commercialized as a rapacious capitalist system sees the opportunity to make significant profits,’ Abdulah stated, arguing that this undermines the spiritual significance of the season.

    The political leader expressed particular concern about multiple global conflict zones, drawing direct comparisons between Israeli military operations in Gaza and West Bank to King Herod’s biblical massacre of infants. He further cited conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, and Democratic Republic of Congo as examples where mineral wealth acquisition drives violence beneath surface-level narratives.

    Closer to home, Abdulah characterized US military deployment near Venezuela’s territorial waters as ‘old-style gunboat diplomacy’ aimed at forced regime change. He referenced President Trump’s recent statements suggesting objectives beyond initial anti-narcotics claims, including potential seizure of oil assets. Abdulah interpreted these actions through the lens of US National Security Strategy 2025, which explicitly aims to ‘restore American pre-eminence in the Western Hemisphere.’

    In stark contrast, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly endorsed US military presence in the region, defending both the establishment of a US radar facility in Tobago and military actions against alleged drug vessels. She has openly broken with CARICOM’s traditional ‘zone of peace’ consensus, stating Trinidad and Tobago ‘wants no part of alignment’ with what she termed the ‘Maduro narco government.’

    Persad-Bissessar’s Christmas message employed different biblical references, focusing on liberation from oppression. Citing Luke 4:18 and John 1:9, she emphasized Christ’s role as liberator while drawing parallels between Herod’s tyranny and contemporary regional governance. Without explicitly naming Venezuela, she described populations ‘forced to live under repression, violence, and economic hardship’ in neighboring countries.

    The fundamental disagreement between these political perspectives highlights deeper ideological fractures regarding sovereignty, regional policy, and the interpretation of peace during the Christmas season.

  • FYI Consultancy Group, JN and donors bring early Christmas joy to Trelawny

    FYI Consultancy Group, JN and donors bring early Christmas joy to Trelawny

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a powerful display of community solidarity, residents of hurricane-ravaged Trelawny parish gathered Sunday for a comprehensive relief initiative that blended essential aid with seasonal cheer. The collaborative event, orchestrated by FYI Consultancy Group and the JN Foundation, transformed the William Knibb Memorial High School football field into a hub of hope and practical assistance for families still grappling with Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic aftermath.

    The initiative provided a dual approach to recovery, addressing both immediate physical needs and psychological wellbeing. Attendees received vouchers redeemable for brand-new clothing, toys, toiletries, and household essentials, while children enjoyed games, sports activities, and visits with Santa Claus—creating moments of normalcy amid ongoing reconstruction efforts.

    Personal accounts highlighted the profound impact of both the hurricane and the relief efforts. Angella Greenlurch of Falmouth, who brought three of her five children, expressed gratitude for the assistance after losing her roof, bed, and personal belongings to the Category 5 storm. “Whatever we get, we appreciate it,” she stated, embodying the resilience of affected communities.

    The human dimension of recovery was further illustrated through individual stories: 14-year-old Kemar Brown, uncertain about his educational future due to school damage; 19-year-old twins Javari and Javani King seeking hygiene products after their home was flattened; and Rohan Gilzene, determined to provide his five-year-old son with a meaningful Christmas experience despite extensive property damage.

    Seventy-seven-year-old farmer Eglon Mills represented the older generation’s perseverance, having lost his roof, furniture, and clothing yet maintaining optimism about rebuilding his agricultural livelihood with support from development agencies.

    Paula Pinnock, Managing Director of FYI Consultancy Group, emphasized the psychological importance of the event: “A meaningful aspect of the recovery process is the opportunity we can provide to lift spirits—and Christmas is a time when spirits should be high and pregnant with hope.”

    The scaled-up initiative featured multiple partnerships, including a thrift shop established with the Bahamas-based Fox Foundation, Breezes Foundation, and the Government of The Bahamas. Additional services included phone charging stations from Jamaica Public Service for residents still without electricity, medical support from St John Ambulance, and internet access provided via Starlink technology by the Jamaica Automobile Association.

    Omar Wright, community projects lead at the JN Foundation, noted the intentional focus on dignity in relief distribution: “The intention was to bring Christmas cheer and relief in a manner that left residents feeling dignified.” This marked the third collaboration between the organizations in supporting Trelawny residents through crisis response initiatives.

  • Norwood ZOSO records zero murders, zero shootings since January

    Norwood ZOSO records zero murders, zero shootings since January

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — Jamaica’s innovative Norwood Zone of Special Operations (ZOSO) has achieved a remarkable security milestone, recording zero murders and no shooting incidents since January 2025. This unprecedented success represents the culmination of strategic crime-fighting measures implemented since the zone’s establishment in June 2021, building on a similarly murder-free record throughout 2024.

    Deputy Superintendent of Police Keeble Simms, joint commander for the special operations zones, confirmed the breakthrough achievement during discussions with Observer Online this week. He characterized the zone’s performance as ‘exceptionally well’ and clear evidence that the initiative’s core objectives are being successfully realized.

    The ZOSO program was originally designed with multiple strategic goals: reducing murders and major crimes, restoring public safety, dismantling criminal gangs, and rebuilding both business and community confidence. According to DSP Simms, these objectives are now yielding tangible results, including the return of residents who previously fled the violence-ridden area.

    ‘When you look, a lot of persons who fled the community way back when it was war-torn, for want of a better term, they are returning,’ Simms observed. ‘And you can see the development taking place right throughout Norwood with the Zone of Special Operation.’

    The senior law enforcement official attributed this transformation to a multi-faceted approach combining intelligence-led policing, precisely targeted operations, and strategically positioned checkpoints. Security planners conducted thorough crime pattern analysis to identify critical vulnerability points where checkpoints could most effectively complement targeted operational approaches.

    This security framework has produced ripple effects throughout the broader St James Division, where murder statistics have shown significant decline. ‘The Norwood Zone of Special Operation would have a significant contribution to that total performance within the division,’ DSP Simms explained.

    Among the most notable achievements has been the systematic dismantling of criminal networks that once plagued the area. From approximately five named gangs operating in 2021, most groups have now become dormant with no detectable organized criminal structures remaining. Numerous key figures have been incarcerated through focused investigations, substantially reducing their stranglehold on the community and the climate of fear they generated.

    Despite these accomplishments, DSP Simms emphasized continued vigilance against complacency. ‘We are mindful of the fact that they can reorganize, so we won’t descend inside the state of complacency,’ he cautioned. ‘We will continue to go surgically at those members that were affiliated.’

    Looking toward 2026, security forces plan to intensify operational posture while strengthening community engagement efforts. The strategy includes deepening relationships with citizens and key stakeholders throughout the special operations zone. DSP Simms issued a direct appeal to residents and remaining criminal elements: ‘We want to appeal to the citizens of Norwood to continue to support the effort of the security forces…and we are also encouraging them to take the lawful path, and to be a part of the transformation.’

    Corporal of Police Donovan Ross endorsed this community-focused approach, crediting DSP Simms’ leadership with enhancing officer morale and performance. ‘Since Mr Simms has been here, we have seen significant progress. The staff is extra motivated, so we have that kick to go above and beyond,’ Corporal Ross stated, pledging continued commitment to maintaining security and building public trust.