The Scotiabank Foundation has strengthened its collaboration with the Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CADV) by launching an innovative economic empowerment initiative aimed at supporting women affected by domestic violence. This program extends beyond traditional psychosocial assistance, focusing on equipping survivors with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to foster financial independence and rebuild their lives. In 2024, Scotiabank’s contributions enabled CADV to provide critical services, including trauma counseling, legal aid, relocation support, and educational assistance for families in need. Building on this foundation, the Foundation has donated $120,000 to enhance CADV’s Psychosocial Services Programme with a six-month economic empowerment component. The initiative will benefit fifteen survivors, offering three months of hands-on training in garment construction and sewing, followed by three months of business development guidance. Participants will learn essential skills such as pattern drafting, machine operation, and garment assembly, alongside business planning, market research, financial management, and marketing strategies. Scotiabank emphasized that its commitment to CADV is action-oriented, with employees actively driving change through the bank’s Empower Employee Resource Group. Volunteers lead sensitization workshops to raise awareness and amplify CADV’s mission of creating safer, stronger communities. Sabrina Mowlah-Baksh, General Manager of CADV, praised the partnership as a model of multi-layered involvement, highlighting its developmental impact on participants and their families. Gayle Pazos, Senior VP and Managing Director of Scotiabank TT, underscored the initiative’s transformative potential, stating that it empowers women to gain confidence, rebuild their lives, and achieve economic independence.
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Father of one struck by two cars in fatal Robinson Road Hit-and-Run
Devon Butler, a 29-year-old father of one, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident early Saturday morning, compounding the grief of a family already reeling from multiple tragedies this year. Butler, who had recently celebrated his birthday, was walking east on Robinson Road around 2am when he was struck by a dark-colored Acura. Moments later, a second vehicle ran over him. While the first driver stopped, the second fled the scene, leaving Butler fatally injured. His sister, Latoya Smith, described the incident as devastating, stating that the family is seeking answers and plans to meet with police. Butler had been working two jobs—at Cash N Go and Cacique—to provide for his six-year-old son and aspired to become a lawyer. Despite facing numerous hardships, he remained determined to build a stable life for his family. Butler was reportedly heading home from work when the accident occurred. A friend and roommate grew concerned when he failed to return, and a Superwash employee later informed the family that Butler had stopped there minutes earlier to arrange a ride. Smith learned of the accident hours later, initially dismissing an early-morning call until repeated attempts, including one from her sister, delivered the heartbreaking news. The family has endured a series of tragedies this year, including their mother’s debilitating injury in a February hit-and-run and their father’s death from illness in September. Smith described their upbringing as challenging but emphasized the love and care their father provided. She believes Butler’s death echoed a spiritual warning, recalling a recent conversation about their mother’s condition. Despite their mother’s absence during their childhood, Butler maintained a positive relationship with her. Smith fondly remembered her brother as a loving and caring individual who brought joy to their lives. His final message to her was an invitation to church on Sunday, a promise she now deeply regrets not fulfilling. As the family prepares for a painful Christmas without Butler, they reflect on his enduring love and the void his absence leaves.
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Gold in France for Rvssian’s Santa
Jamaican music producer and recording artist Rvssian has achieved yet another milestone with his 2024 hit collaboration, ‘Santa,’ featuring Rauw Alejandro and Nigerian singer Ayra Starr. The track has recently been certified gold in France, marking sales and streaming equivalent to over 100,000 units. This accolade adds to the song’s impressive list of certifications, including 3x platinum in Mexico (490,000 units), 5x platinum in Spain (300,000 units), and 16x platinum in the Latin United States (over 960,000 units).
In an earlier interview with Observer Online, Rvssian expressed his gratitude for the song’s commercial success, stating, ‘This really means a lot; it’s just another form of accreditation towards our achievements.’ The song has also made significant strides on various international charts, including Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Portugal, Panama, Spain, and Switzerland. Additionally, it has performed well on the Billboard Hot Latin Songs, Latin Rhythm Airplay, and Latin Airplay charts.
‘Santa’ is featured on Rauw Alejandro’s sixth studio album, ‘Cosa Nuestra: Capitulo O,’ which was released in September 2023. The song’s continued success underscores its global appeal and the collaborative efforts of Rvssian, Rauw Alejandro, and Ayra Starr.
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Hyde breaks Marathon record
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Michka Hyde, a former 400m and 400m hurdler from St Andrew High, made history by breaking the Jamaican national record in the women’s marathon. Competing in her first-ever marathon, Hyde completed the 26.2-mile race at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday with an impressive time of 2:35.28 minutes. This remarkable achievement eclipsed the previous record of 3:08.47 minutes set by Jill Vincent at the Negril Marathon in 2000. Hyde, a 24-year-old scholarship recipient at George Mason University, secured second place overall, trailing only American runner Anna Oeser, who finished in 2:34.56 minutes. She narrowly outpaced Ireland’s Orla Rocha, who clocked in at 2:36.45 minutes. Hyde’s performance not only highlights her exceptional athletic prowess but also marks a significant milestone in Jamaican marathon history.
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Cops find $400k in high-grade ganja in US barrel
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, law enforcement authorities have seized an estimated $400,000 worth of high-grade marijuana at the Port of Port of Spain. The discovery was made during a meticulously coordinated operation led by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and its partner agencies on November 24. The illicit cargo, weighing approximately 4.6 kilograms, was concealed within a barrel shipped from Fort Myers, Florida. Acting on credible intelligence received on November 23, officers pinpointed a suspected storage location at the Port Authority on Dock Road. The operation, codenamed BLAST, involved multiple agencies including the Port Police, Customs and Excise Division, Special Branch, Special Investigations Unit (SIU), and the National Operational Task Force (NOTF). The search of two barrels awaiting clearance led to the discovery of cannabis packages hidden beneath clothing. Senior officials, including DCP Operations Suzette Martin and ACP Tactical Support Collis Hazel, oversaw the operation. The TTPS has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with local and international law enforcement to combat the illegal narcotics trade and ensure public safety. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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Scientists say most dogs have some wolf DNA – even chihuahuas
A groundbreaking study published by US scientists on Monday has revealed that nearly two-thirds of all dog breeds carry detectable traces of wolf DNA. Contrary to previous assumptions, this genetic influence is not a remnant from the initial domestication of dogs from wolves approximately 20,000 years ago. Instead, it indicates that interbreeding between domesticated dogs and wild wolves has occurred within the last few millennia. The research, led by Audrey Lin of the American Museum of Natural History, analyzed thousands of dog and wolf genomes from publicly available databases. The findings showed that 64% of modern dog breeds, including small breeds like chihuahuas, possess wolf ancestry. Notably, Czechoslovakian and Saarloos wolfdogs exhibited the highest levels of wolf DNA, up to 40%, while sight hounds such as Salukis and Afghans also ranked high. Interestingly, the study found that 100% of village dogs—those living in human settlements without being pets—have wolf ancestry. Logan Kistler, a curator at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and co-author of the study, suggested that village dogs, which have more opportunities to interact with wolves, may be a key conduit for wolf DNA entering the dog gene pool. The research also highlighted that wolf DNA has influenced traits such as size, olfactory capabilities, and even personality in modern dog breeds. However, the presence of wolf DNA does not imply direct interbreeding in domestic settings. The study challenges prior scientific beliefs that dogs must have minimal wolf DNA to be considered distinct from their wild ancestors.
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Lennie Little-White has fond memories of late cousin, Jimmy Cliff
Jimmy Cliff, the legendary Jamaican musician and actor, whose life mirrored the ambitious character Ivan from the iconic 1972 film *The Harder They Come*, passed away on November 24 at the age of 81. Born James Chambers in the rural village of Somerton, St. James, Cliff rose from modest beginnings to become a global music sensation. His cousin, Lennie Little-White, a renowned filmmaker, shared insights into Cliff’s early life, revealing that his mother, a teacher at Somerton Primary School, played a pivotal role in nurturing his musical talents. She provided him with his first piano lessons and supported his move to Kingston to attend Kingston Technical School. Cliff’s journey began in earnest when he recorded hits like *Hurricane Hattie* in 1962 under producer Leslie Kong’s Beverly’s Records. By the late 1960s, he achieved international acclaim with songs such as *Wonderful World, Beautiful People* and the anti-war anthem *Vietnam*. Despite limited acting experience, Cliff’s raw portrayal of Ivan in *The Harder They Come* catapulted the film to global success. Over his illustrious career, Cliff earned two Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received Jamaica’s prestigious Order of Merit. His legacy as a cultural icon and musical pioneer continues to inspire generations.
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Fake doctor charged in Trinidad
In a significant development, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has issued a public warning following the court appearance of a 39-year-old man accused of multiple violations under the Medical Board Act. Timothy Malchan faced charges including the unauthorized use of medical titles, falsely claiming to be a doctor, and diagnosing medical conditions without proper registration. The case was heard at the Arima Third Magistrates’ Court, where Magistrate Ali presided. Malchan pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at TT$50,000, with a scheduled court reappearance on June 17, 2025. The charges arose from an investigation initiated in January 2025, prompted by a report from the Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA). It was alleged that Malchan had contacted ERHA patients to discuss their confidential medical records and subsequently demanded payment for these ‘consultations.’ Further investigations by the Medical Board of Trinidad and Tobago confirmed that Malchan was not registered as a medical practitioner, nor was he accredited in Cardiovascular Disease, Thoracic Surgery, or Cardiothoracic Surgery, despite his public claims. Additionally, it was discovered that he had never been registered with any medical boards under the Council for Professions Related to Medicine. Malchan was reportedly operating from an office that was advertised on social media and the building’s exterior. Covert police operations revealed that he performed medical procedures and offered medical advice for a fee. Last Wednesday, investigators executed a search warrant at his office, seizing several records, which led to his formal charges.
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UTC celebrates Calypso fund maturity
The Unit Trust Corporation (UTC) is celebrating the impending maturity of its Calypso Macro Index Fund (CMIF), set for November 30, marking a significant achievement for the organization. Executive Director Nigel Edwards, in a statement on November 24, described the event as ‘a landmark moment for the UTC,’ highlighting the fund’s success in delivering robust returns to its 2,025 unitholders since its inception in 2016.
The Calypso Fund was designed to offer local investors access to a diversified portfolio of local equities and international energy stocks, capitalizing on key economic drivers. Its performance has been stellar, growing from an initial value of $500 million to $569.42 million by 2024, representing a 13.9% increase. Over the past decade, the fund has distributed approximately $128 million in dividends, with per-unit payouts rising by 5%, from 80 cents in 2023 to 84 cents in 2024.
Edwards emphasized that the fund’s success underscores UTC’s commitment to democratizing investment and delivering tangible value to its stakeholders. ‘The Calypso Fund’s performance serves as a testament to both our strategic foresight and the efficacy of our stewardship,’ he said.
The fund’s maturity aligns with UTC’s overall strong financial performance in 2024, which saw total investment income reach $1.045 billion, with distributions to unitholders increasing by over 60%. Looking ahead, UTC has assured its investors of a seamless transition and continued access to innovative, growth-oriented investment solutions.
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Note discovered as T&T councillor and husband found dead at home
In a tragic incident that has shaken Trinidad and Tobago, local government councillor Romona Victor and her husband Rodney Ramsumair were found dead at their home in Siparia, southern Trinidad, on Sunday. Authorities have recovered a handwritten note, a bottle of herbicide, two cellphones, and an Apple iPad from the scene. Autopsies are scheduled for this week to determine the cause of death. Initial examinations revealed no visible signs of violence on the bodies of the 36-year-old UNC member and her 45-year-old husband, who leave behind one child. The couple’s bodies were discovered by a relative who, upon receiving no response, entered the home and found them unresponsive on a bed. The incident has prompted widespread mourning and renewed calls to address domestic violence, particularly as the world prepares to observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls on Tuesday. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles emphasized that grief and domestic violence transcend political affiliations, urging compassion and collective action. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar highlighted the importance of supporting those facing personal struggles and encouraged individuals to seek help without fear. Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayhroo paid tribute to Councillor Victor’s legacy of service and compassion, which continues to inspire the community.