Carib Scope

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  • Acting chief on this weekend’s festivities: No nonsense, no cannabis in public spaces

    Acting chief on this weekend’s festivities: No nonsense, no cannabis in public spaces

    Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette has issued a stern warning to attendees of the 25th Edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) in Dominica, emphasizing that public smoking of cannabis will not be tolerated. The festival, known for its vibrant rhythms and cultural celebrations, is set to take place from October 24 to October 26 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, starting at 8:00 PM each night.

    Corbette, in a recent press release, highlighted the police force’s annual mandate to ensure the safety and order of all festival activities. He assured the public of an increased police presence throughout the city, particularly around the event venue. ‘You will see more officers throughout the city,’ he stated. ‘We won’t tolerate any nonsense at the festival. If you break the law, it’s very likely you’ll find yourself arrested and detained until the end of the events.’

    The acting chief also reminded attendees that while individuals are permitted to carry up to 28 grams of cannabis, smoking it in public remains illegal. ‘In Dominica, you have the privilege to smoke in the privacy of your home, but not in public spaces,’ he explained. ‘Officers will approach you and deal with you according to the law if you insist on smoking in public.’

    Additionally, Corbette called for public cooperation, especially given the expected traffic congestion during the festival. He urged attendees to enjoy the event in a ‘clean, peaceful atmosphere,’ emphasizing the importance of maintaining order and safety for all participants.

  • Women Farmers Association receives vital irrigation equipment from Taiwan Technical Mission

    Women Farmers Association receives vital irrigation equipment from Taiwan Technical Mission

    The Ladelin (Delcer) Women Farmers Association in Choiseul, Saint Lucia, has received a transformative donation of advanced irrigation equipment from the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM). This initiative, aimed at addressing persistent water scarcity issues, was officially handed over during a ceremony at the Delcer R.C. Combined School on October 17, 2025. The donation includes a state-of-the-art blended irrigation system featuring drip lines and sprinklers, designed to ensure a reliable water supply for crop cultivation.

  • SVG can now export fresh produce to UK, EU via AIA

    SVG can now export fresh produce to UK, EU via AIA

    Argyle International Airport (AIA) has officially attained RA3 certification in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kingstown, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities. RA3, which stands for Regulated Agent – Third Country, is a designation under UK aviation security regulations that allows AIA to function as a regulated agent for cargo destined for the United Kingdom and the European Union. This certification eliminates the need for transhipment or additional screening at intermediary airports, enabling direct exports of fresh produce, flowers, and agricultural goods to the UK. Geoffrey Patton, the resident British commissioner, emphasized the transformative impact this will have on trade between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the UK, opening new pathways for economic collaboration. Josette Greaves, CEO of AIA, highlighted that the certification underscores the airport’s compliance with stringent UK and EU aviation security standards for cargo screening, handling, and transportation. She expressed gratitude to Brian Abbott of World AVSEC, an independent validator of Vincentian heritage, for his instrumental role in securing the certification. Greaves also urged AIA staff, passengers, and stakeholders to maintain high security standards, emphasizing that the airport’s rigorous screening protocols are designed to ensure safety while facilitating milestones like the RA3 certification. A press release from AIA reiterated that these measures are not intended to inconvenience travelers or businesses but to uphold security and enable seamless trade operations.

  • THE BEAT GOES ON!

    THE BEAT GOES ON!

    Despite the looming threat of Tropical Storm Melissa, Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL) has confirmed that the scheduled racing event at Caymanas Park will proceed as planned this Saturday. Solomon Sharpe, SVREL’s executive chairman, emphasized that the race card remains on schedule, with teams working diligently to prepare the track for optimal conditions. However, Sharpe acknowledged that the weather could pose challenges, particularly if the storm intensifies later in the weekend.

  • Help is here!

    Help is here!

    In a proactive move to bolster disaster response capabilities, 59 skilled linesmen from the United States and Canada arrived in Jamaica on Friday. Their mission: to assist the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) in swiftly restoring electricity services should Tropical Storm Melissa cause significant damage to the island’s power infrastructure. This deployment brings the total number of professionals—comprising Jamaicans, Vincentians, and North Americans—to approximately 650, all trained in the construction, maintenance, and repair of high-voltage electrical and telecommunications lines. The majority of the newly arrived team hails from the U.S.-based Sovereign Line Group. Roger Campbell, a general foreman with the group, expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the recovery efforts, stating, ‘We are just here to bring the power back on, whatever happens.’ Caleb Young, another general foreman, emphasized the importance of arriving early, noting that pre-storm deployment ensures readiness to act immediately after the storm passes. Jeff Files, also a general foreman, described the decision to assist Jamaica as a ‘no-brainer,’ highlighting the collaborative effort between Sovereign Line Group and JPS. Tania McDonald-Tomlinson, JPS’s director of people operations, underscored the strategic planning behind the initiative, which was informed by lessons learned from last year’s Hurricane Beryl. The linesmen, who work under challenging conditions to restore power, are critical to ensuring reliable electricity delivery in the aftermath of natural disasters.

  • ‘A judgement fi we inna this’

    ‘A judgement fi we inna this’

    Residents of New Haven in St. Andrew, Jamaica, are bracing for Tropical Storm Melissa with growing anxiety over potential flooding and the threat of crocodiles invading their homes. The community’s concerns stem from the inadequate maintenance of local waterways, including a river, gully, and drainage systems, which they believe exacerbate their vulnerability during heavy rains.

  • Fransiva lands LAFW spot

    Fransiva lands LAFW spot

    Fransiva, the brainchild of Jamaican designer Carcell Fransiva, has achieved a significant milestone by showcasing its collection at The Bureau Los Angeles Fashion Week (LAFW). Held from October 17-18 at the Lot Studios in Hollywood, the event marked a pivotal moment for the brand, which has been steadily gaining traction since its launch in 2014. A total of 18 meticulously crafted looks were displayed, each embodying the brand’s signature blend of structure, movement, and luxury detailing. Fransiva’s participation not only amplified its global presence but also garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback, paving the way for future collaborations and retail opportunities. Born in Pedro District, St. Catherine, Carcell Fransiva’s journey into fashion began during his high school years, where he remixed clothing for social events. His passion for design flourished as he worked with dancehall artists and later pursued a degree in Marketing. Today, Fransiva stands out for its unique fusion of elegance, luxury, and comfort, offering timeless pieces that tell a story. With aspirations to become an international fashion house, Fransiva is now targeting global markets, offering its designs through its official website and select pop-up experiences.

  • PM declares Jamaica a threatened area

    PM declares Jamaica a threatened area

    In response to the impending threat of Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has declared the entire island a ‘threatened area.’ This decisive action, enacted under Section 26(2) of the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA), empowers the government to implement urgent protective measures to safeguard lives, property, and critical infrastructure. The declaration follows a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch as Melissa lingers off Jamaica’s southeastern coast. The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to public safety, urging citizens to take the threat seriously and prepare accordingly.

  • Isak-less Liverpool look to hit stride in Premier LeagueMan City ‘back’ to their best

    Isak-less Liverpool look to hit stride in Premier LeagueMan City ‘back’ to their best

    As the Premier League heats up, Liverpool faces a critical challenge to end their three-game losing streak when they visit Brentford this Saturday. The Reds must secure a win to stay within reach of league leaders Arsenal and the in-form Manchester City. Meanwhile, City’s nine-game unbeaten run will be put to the test against Aston Villa, while Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium. Manchester United, buoyed by their recent victory at Anfield, aim to continue their resurgence against Brighton, a team that has consistently troubled them at Old Trafford in recent seasons. The weekend’s fixtures could prove pivotal in shaping the title race and European qualification battles. Liverpool’s fortunes may hinge on the absence of Alexander Isak, their record signing, who sustained a groin injury. His absence could allow Arne Slot to experiment with new formations, potentially reigniting the team’s form. Manchester United’s revival under Ruben Amorim faces a stern test against Brighton, who have dominated recent encounters. For Manchester City, the match at Villa Park will be a litmus test of their title credentials, with Erling Haaland’s prolific form driving their resurgence.

  • NBA coach, player arrested amidst ‘mind-boggling’ gambling scheme

    NBA coach, player arrested amidst ‘mind-boggling’ gambling scheme

    In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the NBA, Portland Trail Blazers Head Coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were arrested on Thursday for their alleged involvement in illegal gambling schemes. The arrests, part of a broader federal investigation, have exposed a complex web of fraud and corruption tied to organized crime and sports betting.

    Billups, a celebrated former Detroit Pistons star and NBA Hall of Famer, is accused of facilitating rigged poker games linked to mafia crime families. According to FBI Director Kash Patel, these high-stakes games utilized advanced cheating technologies, including card-reading shuffling machines and hidden cameras. Meanwhile, Rozier, along with former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones, was implicated in a separate sports betting case involving insider information on player injuries and game performances.

    The scope of the alleged fraud is staggering, with tens of millions of dollars reportedly siphoned through these schemes over several years. Both Billups and Rozier have been placed on immediate leave by the NBA, which emphasized its commitment to preserving the integrity of the game. The league stated, ‘We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority.’

    Rozier appeared in federal court in Orlando, Florida, where he was ordered to post bond and surrender his passport. He is scheduled to appear in New York on December 8. Billups, released on bond after his court appearance in Portland, Oregon, is set to face charges in New York on November 24. Both have been indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.

    The investigation has also revealed connections to other NBA teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Toronto Raptors. One notable incident cited in the indictment involved Rozier allegedly informing co-conspirators of his early exit from a game due to a supposed injury, enabling them to place over $200,000 in wagers and reap substantial profits.

    Rozier’s attorney, James Trusty, has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that prosecutors are relying on ‘spectacularly incredible sources’ rather than concrete evidence. The National Basketball Players Association has also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence.

    This scandal underscores the ongoing challenges the NBA faces in combating corruption and maintaining the trust of its fans. As the legal proceedings unfold, the league’s reputation hangs in the balance, with the integrity of the sport at stake.