Carib Scope

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  • Reynolds Entertainment rejects ‘unprofessionalism’ allegation by Allison Hinds after Cayman Fiesta non-appearance

    Reynolds Entertainment rejects ‘unprofessionalism’ allegation by Allison Hinds after Cayman Fiesta non-appearance

    A public dispute has erupted between soca star Alison Hinds and Reynolds Entertainment Agency following her absence from the Cayman Fiesta, a three-day party event held in the Cayman Islands from November 7 to 9. Hinds, known as the ‘Soca Queen,’ took to Instagram to defend herself, claiming that the agency’s ‘unprofessionalism, disorganization, and disrespect’ prevented her from performing. She alleged a breach of contract, stating that her agreement required all business matters to be settled before she could take the stage. Hinds apologized to her fans for the missed performance but placed the blame squarely on the promoter.

    Tameka Reynolds, head of Reynolds Entertainment Agency, vehemently denied Hinds’ accusations, labeling them as ‘lies, half-truths, and innuendo.’ Reynolds asserted that her agency fulfilled its obligations and attempted to resolve issues amicably. She revealed that due to low attendance at the soca night, which drew only 150 patrons, she offered to pay 50% of the outstanding balances to the artists, but Hinds refused. Reynolds also countered claims that her agency failed to cover airline tickets and hotel expenses, attributing the mishaps to external factors such as airline cancellations and hotel authorization delays.

    Reynolds further criticized Hinds for her lack of professionalism, citing her refusal to promote the event through radio interviews and social media posts. She argued that Hinds’ actions damaged both her own brand and that of the agency. The Cayman Fiesta, which featured rap star Rick Ross on a separate night, attracted 1,500 attendees, highlighting the stark contrast in turnout between the events. The clash underscores the challenges of event planning and the delicate relationship between artists and promoters in the entertainment industry.

  • Jamaican extradited to US facing charges for lottery scam involvement

    Jamaican extradited to US facing charges for lottery scam involvement

    A Jamaican national, Roshard Andrew Carty, has been ordered to remain in custody pending trial in the United States, accused of masterminding a sophisticated lottery scam that defrauded an elderly American woman of over $800,000. The 34-year-old was extradited to the Western District of Washington on October 23, following his arrest in Jamaica on August 21. Magistrate Judge David W. Christal ruled earlier this week that Carty will be detained until his trial, scheduled for December 22.

  • Trelawny community shops keeping prices steady, residents connected amid disaster

    Trelawny community shops keeping prices steady, residents connected amid disaster

    In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, residents of Bounty Hall, Trelawny, have found solace in their local corner shops, which have become essential hubs for sustenance and community support. Amid reports of price gouging in other areas, establishments like Spence’s Grocery and D William’s Shop have maintained fair pricing and provided critical services to their neighbors.

  • George Wright pleads for non-political distribution of hurricane relief supplies

    George Wright pleads for non-political distribution of hurricane relief supplies

    In Westmoreland, Jamaica, allegations of politically motivated withholding of hurricane relief supplies have sparked controversy. Former Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Central, George Wright of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), has accused his successor, Dwayne Vaz of the People’s National Party (PNP), of denying aid to constituents based on their political affiliations. Wright claims that some residents are being excluded from receiving relief packages because they did not vote for Vaz in the September 3 general election. ‘We are in a crisis. No time to politicise these things,’ Wright emphasized in an interview with the Jamaica Observer. Wright, who currently lacks sufficient relief supplies, described his efforts to secure aid for vulnerable residents, including a disabled man unable to access distribution trucks. He stressed the need for orderly distribution processes to ensure fairness. This dispute follows earlier accusations by Vaz, who alleged that Wright had commandeered a shipment of relief supplies after Hurricane Melissa. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has dismissed these claims. The ongoing partisan conflict highlights the challenges of equitable disaster relief in politically divided constituencies.

  • Xtra Foods donates $20k to upgrade Success Laventille computer lab

    Xtra Foods donates $20k to upgrade Success Laventille computer lab

    Students at Success Laventille Secondary School are set to benefit from a significant upgrade to their computer lab, thanks to a generous $20,000 donation from Xtra Foods supermarket. The contribution was announced in a press release on November 14, 2025, and the ceremonial cheque was presented during the school’s graduation ceremony by Xtra Foods CEO Angelo Daniel Austin, an alumnus of the institution. Austin, who served as the event’s keynote speaker, emphasized the importance of investing in education to empower future generations. He shared his personal journey from being a student at the school to becoming a CEO, highlighting the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and belief. Austin also expressed gratitude to Anon Naipaul, executive chairman of Xtra Foods, for his mentorship and support over the years. The donation is part of Xtra Foods’ broader mission to nurture talent, inspire growth, and uplift underserved communities. Austin stated, “When we invest in education, we’re not just upgrading labs, we’re opening doors.” He further emphasized the importance of equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world, describing them as future innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders. The initiative reflects Xtra Foods’ commitment to education, equity, and empowerment, as the company continues to invest in the shared future of the communities it serves.

  • Opposition urges Government to act as garbage piles raise fears of disease outbreak

    Opposition urges Government to act as garbage piles raise fears of disease outbreak

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has issued an urgent appeal to the Jamaican Government to devise and implement a comprehensive national strategy to combat the escalating public health threat posed by widespread garbage accumulation across the island. Shadow Minister of Local Government, Natalie Neita Garvey, emphasized in a Saturday statement that the growing domestic waste in every parish represents a “clear and present danger” to the population. She clarified that the issue extends beyond the debris left by Hurricane Melissa, which has only exacerbated an already dire situation. Neita Garvey acknowledged the challenges brought by the hurricane but stressed that further delays in addressing the waste crisis are untenable. She called on the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) to adopt innovative and effective strategies to manage the crisis. The shadow minister highlighted that the combination of domestic waste and hurricane debris has created an “unprecedented islandwide crisis,” forcing some residents to resort to unsafe disposal methods. Neita Garvey urged Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie to take proactive leadership and move “beyond excuses” to avert a potential public health emergency. Following consultations with municipal corporations, she advocated for a coordinated national response that leverages both state and private-sector resources, including compactors and crane trucks, to address the problem comprehensively. Neita Garvey called for the immediate convening of the NSWMA to prepare and execute a robust cleanup plan, warning that swift and decisive action is essential to restore normalcy to communities unaccustomed to such conditions.

  • Manhunt for Carrera Prison escapee

    Manhunt for Carrera Prison escapee

    A high-stakes manhunt has been launched following the escape of Jamal Joseph, a prisoner from Carrera Convict Prison, located on an island off Chaguaramas. Joseph, who was serving a five-year sentence for motor vehicle larceny and was due for release in October 2028, was discovered missing during routine checks at approximately 8:32 pm on November 14. The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service has activated its emergency response protocols, mobilizing national security agencies, including the TT Police Service, TT Defence Force, and Operational Command Centre, in a coordinated effort to locate and apprehend the fugitive. Joseph is considered armed and dangerous, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the nearest police station or the prison hotline at 800-PRSN (7776). Simultaneously, an internal investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the escape, as law enforcement intensifies its search efforts.

  • 11 things you must bring on your relief trip to hurricane-ravaged parishes

    11 things you must bring on your relief trip to hurricane-ravaged parishes

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, communities across Jamaica are uniting to aid families in the most severely affected parishes as they embark on the arduous journey toward recovery. Venturing into these devastated areas demands meticulous preparation, empathy, and the right equipment to ensure safety while assisting others. For those planning to participate in relief efforts, here are 11 indispensable items to navigate the challenges of the day. Sturdy water boots or heavy-duty shoes are crucial for traversing flooded or debris-laden zones, shielding against sharp objects, mud, and contaminated water. Bug spray is essential to fend off mosquitoes thriving in stagnant post-hurricane environments. Relief items such as non-perishable food, water, toiletries, and bedding, packed in color-coded bags, facilitate efficient distribution. Personal sustenance, including food, snacks, and water, ensures volunteers do not deplete supplies meant for affected residents. Antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer maintain hygiene in areas lacking running water. A durable garbage bag is necessary for the safe disposal of personal waste, preventing further burden on overwhelmed communities. A hat and sunscreen protect against intense UV exposure during prolonged outdoor work. A compact first-aid kit with plasters, alcohol pads, painkillers, and personal medications addresses minor injuries promptly. A fully charged phone and portable power bank are vital for communication and navigation. A full tank of petrol, spare tire, and, if safe, extra fuel ensure mobility in unpredictable road conditions. Lastly, a machete and gloves are indispensable for clearing debris-blocked roadways. Coordination with authorized relief groups and the police is paramount for safety and efficient aid distribution. Thorough preparation not only maximizes the impact of support but also safeguards volunteers in their noble mission.

  • Football giants indeed

    Football giants indeed

    The San Fernando Giants, a football club with a rich history spanning 75 years, recently celebrated its milestone anniversary with a series of commemorative events. Established as one of the longest-surviving active football clubs, the Giants have evolved from their origins as the Lantern Giants to their current incarnation, rooted in the heart of San Fernando. The celebrations included a thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church and an awards ceremony held in the church hall on November 1. Notably, the club has thrived without significant sponsorship, relying instead on the dedication of volunteers and the unwavering support of the local community. This grassroots approach has ensured not only the club’s survival but also its continued relevance in fostering youth development and community spirit. Senator David Nakhid, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, attended the awards ceremony, highlighting the club’s enduring legacy and the long-term commitment of its members. The San Fernando Giants stand as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in sports, offering a model for other clubs to emulate in an era where such structures are increasingly rare. As the club continues its youth programs, it remains a beacon of grassroots development and a source of pride for the city.

  • Sovereignty surrendered through borrowed rhetoric

    Sovereignty surrendered through borrowed rhetoric

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s handling of international concerns regarding Caribbean military operations has sparked significant criticism, with accusations of policy abdication and foreign alignment overshadowing Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereignty. The controversy centers on the government’s dismissal of legal and ethical concerns raised by international allies, including the UK, France, and the EU, over military strikes in Caribbean waters that have resulted in 75 deaths. Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s reliance on U.S. State Department rhetoric and her labeling of scrutiny as “fake news” undermines democratic accountability and regional diplomatic efforts. The government’s adoption of a “narco-terrorism” narrative to justify extrajudicial actions has further fueled discontent, with opponents accusing the administration of weaponizing public fear to suppress dissent. The erosion of the “zone of peace” framework, a decades-old Caribbean consensus on managing great power competition, has been particularly alarming. Citizens are increasingly frustrated with the government’s prioritization of foreign interests over transparency and national sovereignty. The Prime Minister’s failure to address these concerns independently, instead amplifying foreign officials’ statements, has raised questions about Trinidad and Tobago’s capacity for self-determination. Critics warn that without a demand for accountability, the nation risks losing its independence to governance by proxy.