Carib Scope

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  • Updated rules to be observed at World Athletics Indoor Championships in March

    Updated rules to be observed at World Athletics Indoor Championships in March

    World Athletics has unveiled a comprehensive set of rule modifications set to take effect in the 2026 competitive season, with several changes already implemented in November 2025. The international governing body for track and field announced these significant updates through social media graphics, specifically targeting relay events and middle-distance races to improve both competitive equity and athlete safety.

    The most notable revision concerns relay race procedures when batons are dropped during exchanges. Under previous regulations, athletes were required to return precisely to the spot where the baton fell—a rule that proved impractical during high-intensity competition and challenging for officials to enforce without video technology. The updated protocol now permits the athlete who dropped the baton to retrieve it from any location, provided they do not shorten their running distance or obstruct other competitors. The fundamental requirement remains that athletes must carry the baton across the finish line.

    For indoor 800-meter events, World Athletics has introduced a standardized breakline positioned 165 meters after the start, coinciding with the entrance to the home straight. This breakline—already utilized in 400-meter races—provides competitors additional time and space to transition from assigned lanes to the inside lane, thereby reducing congestion and minimizing collision risks on tight indoor tracks.

    Additionally, the organization has modified the format for indoor 400-meter heats at World Indoor Championships. Each heat will now feature only four athletes running in lanes 3 through 6, deliberately leaving lanes 1 and 2 vacant due to the competitive disadvantage posed by tight curves on indoor tracks. This adjustment aims to create more equitable racing conditions while improving the experience for both participants and spectators.

    Another previously instituted rule for the 4×400-meter relay, established in March 2025, mandates that waiting athletes must arrange themselves based on their teammates’ positions as they complete their laps and cannot alter their positioning once established.

    These regulatory updates come ahead of the World Athletics Indoor Championships scheduled to commence on March 20, representing the organization’s continued effort to refine competition standards while prioritizing athlete safety and competitive integrity.

  • School repairs to take up to 18 months in some cases – Morris Dixon

    School repairs to take up to 18 months in some cases – Morris Dixon

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s education system continues to grapple with the extensive aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, with complete rehabilitation of damaged schools projected to require up to eighteen months. The disclosure came from Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon during a ministerial address to the Senate on Friday.

    While all educational institutions officially resumed classes on January 14th, Minister Morris Dixon acknowledged that many facilities are operating under suboptimal conditions. Numerous schools have implemented rotational attendance systems to accommodate ongoing repairs while ensuring continuous learning.

    The minister expressed particular concern about rotational learning arrangements, stating emphatically, ‘I want rotations ended as quickly as possible.’ She explained the varying timelines for repairs, noting that while some facilities require approximately six months of work, others need nearly complete reconstruction, extending the process to a year and a half.

    Complex reconstruction efforts present significant logistical challenges, as work must proceed around academic schedules. Contractors are conducting repairs during nights and weekends to minimize disruption. In some cases, rehabilitation includes infrastructure upgrades—replacing temporary zinc roofs with more durable concrete slabs, which contributes to extended timelines.

    To address classroom shortages, the education ministry has implemented a strategic redeployment of temporary structures. Once repairs conclude at one facility, tents are relocated to other schools still undergoing reconstruction, helping reduce rotational attendance numbers.

    The ministry maintains a firm policy requiring all examination-year students to attend school five days weekly. This applies to pupils preparing for Primary Exit Profile (PEP), Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) tests. Rotational schedules affect only those students not facing imminent external examinations.

  • Wisconsin-based Bartalozzi Homes rebuilds homes in Jamaica for hurricane victims

    Wisconsin-based Bartalozzi Homes rebuilds homes in Jamaica for hurricane victims

    WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — In a remarkable display of international solidarity, a specialized team of volunteer builders from Wisconsin has successfully constructed eight new residential units for Jamaican families devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The humanitarian mission, orchestrated by The Issa Trust Foundation, specifically targeted employees of Couples Resorts who lost their homes during the catastrophic Category 5 storm.

    Dirk Bartalozzi, owner of Bartalozzi Homes and leader of the volunteer contingent, expressed profound personal motivation for participating in the rebuilding initiative. Having witnessed the extensive destruction across Westmoreland parish, Bartalozzi—whose wife is Jamaican—felt compelled to leverage his professional expertise in service of the recovery efforts.

    The construction process demonstrated both technical proficiency and adaptive problem-solving. While Bartalozzi noted that the fundamental building techniques mirrored those used in his Wisconsin-based residential projects, the team encountered unique challenges working with elevated foundations designed for flood protection. “Building on stilts presented distinct structural considerations,” Bartalozzi explained, highlighting the specialized approach required for hurricane-resistant construction.

    The volunteers arrived fully equipped with professional-grade tools, including battery-powered framing systems, precision saws, industrial drills, and critical hurricane strapping components. This comprehensive preparation enabled the team to complete each home within an impressive two-day timeframe, significantly accelerating the community’s recovery process.

    The initiative represents a successful collaboration between corporate social responsibility through The Issa Trust Foundation and skilled volunteerism, demonstrating how targeted technical assistance can effectively address post-disaster housing needs in vulnerable communities.

  • Funeral of late journalist Donald Oliver ongoing

    Funeral of late journalist Donald Oliver ongoing

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican media community gathered in solemn tribute at the University of the West Indies Mona Chapel to honor the life and legacy of esteemed sports journalist Donald Oliver, whose sudden passing on December 30th sent shockwaves through the nation’s media landscape. The veteran journalist, who had dedicated two decades to sports reporting across prominent media outlets including CVM, SportsMax, and Jamaica Observer, succumbed unexpectedly after experiencing chest pains.

    The emotional thanksgiving service, streamed live via YouTube channel LiveStreamJA, drew hundreds of virtual attendees whose condolences flooded the commentary section, reflecting Oliver’s profound impact on both professional circles and personal connections. The ceremony highlighted not only Oliver’s professional accomplishments but also his cherished roles as husband and father.

    In a moving tribute, Oliver’s wife Noretta painted an intimate portrait of their life journey together, beginning in Allman Town. ‘What we shared was beautiful,’ she emotionally recounted, noting how fatherhood revealed even greater dimensions of his character. She described the extraordinary bond between Oliver and their daughter Zabella, and reflected on his sports journalism career as a true vocation rather than merely professional pursuit.

    Jamaica Observer Managing Director Dominic Beaubrun eulogized Oliver as ‘a consummate professional deeply committed, consistently enthusiastic and unwavering in his delivery of quality and excellence,’ while simultaneously recognizing his innate warmth and kindness that distinguished his interpersonal relationships.

    The memorial service featured tributes from notable figures including Minister of Sport Olivia Grange and Dr. Coleen Beckles of Love 101 radio, underscoring Oliver’s significant standing within both sports media and broader Jamaican society. Photographs from the service captured poignant moments of familial comfort and respectful homage, illustrating the deep personal and professional void left by Oliver’s untimely departure.

  • Man shot by federal agents in Minneapolis has died: US media

    Man shot by federal agents in Minneapolis has died: US media

    MINNEAPOLIS — A fatal encounter between federal agents and an armed individual in Minneapolis has resulted in the death of the man involved, according to statements from local authorities and federal officials. The city’s Police Chief confirmed the death to U.S. media outlets on Saturday, marking a troubling recurrence of lethal force incidents in the region. This event occurs less than three weeks after the fatal shooting of Renee Good, amplifying community concerns and scrutiny over the use of force.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in an official statement to AFP, acknowledged that its agents were involved in an operation where the individual was armed. However, the federal department declined to provide specific details regarding the sequence of events or to formally confirm the fatality, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. The lack of immediate transparency has drawn criticism from public figures and community advocates.

    Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a strong condemnation of the incident, characterizing it as ‘another horrific shooting’ and calling for a thorough and impartial review. The shooting has reignited debates over policing protocols, interagency cooperation, and the broader issue of gun violence, placing renewed pressure on both local and federal law enforcement to address systemic challenges and enhance accountability measures.

  • Sav-la-Mar Hospital on the mend: reconstruction progresses amidst overcrowding, staffing woes

    Sav-la-Mar Hospital on the mend: reconstruction progresses amidst overcrowding, staffing woes

    SAVANNA-LA-MAR, Westmoreland – Jamaican Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has publicly appealed for understanding from both staff and patients at the Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, a critical healthcare facility in the island’s western region. The institution continues to operate under extraordinary pressure as it undergoes a massive reconstruction project following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa last October.

    During an inspection tour on Friday, Minister Tufton acknowledged the severe operational challenges facing the hospital, including critical overcrowding, an overwhelming number of non-medical social cases, and significant staffing shortages. The facility, originally designed for 218 patients, is currently accommodating 298 individuals between its main building and a temporary field hospital.

    ‘We are experiencing severe overcrowding and patient overflow due to exceptionally high demand while construction is actively underway,’ Tufton stated. ‘Our medical teams are working tirelessly under difficult circumstances, and we ask for patience as we work toward restoring full operational capacity.’

    Reconstruction efforts are progressing on multiple fronts. The hurricane-damaged Accident and Emergency department, which suffered extensive roof damage and water intrusion, is undergoing urgent repairs with expectations for full operational restoration within one week. Meanwhile, a provisional A&E unit continues to serve patients at the hospital’s entrance.

    The Barbadian government-donated field hospital, currently operating at maximum capacity, has provided essential temporary relief but is scheduled for removal by month’s end. Concurrently, construction has commenced on the former COVID-19 ward and outpatient clinic, which was completely destroyed during the hurricane. Contractors are targeting March for completion of the new outpatient facility, which will initially feature a single floor with plans for additional ward space above.

    Minister Tufton identified several critical challenges beyond physical infrastructure. Twenty-nine social cases occupy over 10% of available beds, creating what the minister described as a ‘major systemic challenge’ for healthcare facilities throughout the parish. Additionally, the hospital faces a severe shortage of 36 physicians across various specializations, compounded by unmet nursing requirements despite ongoing recruitment initiatives.

    The minister emphasized that these extraordinary circumstances stem directly from Hurricane Melissa, an unprecedented Category 5 storm for the region. While acknowledging significant challenges, Tufton rejected characterizations of the situation as a crisis, stating, ‘We have challenges, and we have to work to overcome those challenges.’

    Future development plans include a completely new Accident and Emergency facility, with finalized cost estimates and anticipated construction beginning later this year or early in the next fiscal year.

  • Spurs slip at Burnley increases pressure on Frank as City win

    Spurs slip at Burnley increases pressure on Frank as City win

    The Premier League landscape witnessed significant shifts this weekend, headlined by Tottenham Hotspur’s continued struggles and Manchester City’s resurgence in the title race.

    At Turf Moor, Tottenham’s campaign encountered further turbulence with a 2-2 draw against relegation-threatened Burnley. The result intensifies scrutiny on manager Thomas Frank, who faced vocal criticism from supporters following last week’s defeat to West Ham. Spurs initially controlled proceedings with Micky van de Ven’s powerful strike rewarding their first-half dominance. However, defensive vulnerabilities resurfaced as Axel Tuanzebe equalized before halftime and Lyle Foster put Burnley ahead in the 76th minute. Captain Cristian Romero’s late header salvaged a point, but the draw leaves Tottenham languishing in 13th position with just two league victories in their last thirteen outings.

    Meanwhile, Manchester City reignited their championship challenge with a decisive performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Pep Guardiola’s side addressed recent concerns emphatically, resting Erling Haaland amid his goal drought while introducing new defensive acquisition Marc Guehi. The Citizens established control early through Omar Marmoush’s sixth-minute opener, followed by Antoine Semenyo’s first-half strike. The victory propels City to 46 points, narrowing Arsenal’s advantage to four points ahead of the leaders’ Sunday fixture against Manchester United.

    Elsewhere, Fulham demonstrated resilience by overturning a deficit to defeat Brighton 2-1 at Craven Cottage, while West Ham secured their second consecutive victory with a 3-1 triumph over Sunderland. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo emphasized the need for additional reinforcements despite the improved results, highlighting the ongoing January transfer window as critical to their survival ambitions.

    The weekend’s action concluded with Liverpool’s evening fixture at Bournemouth, featuring Mohamed Salah’s return to the starting lineup following his Africa Cup of Nations participation.

  • Trump threatens Canada with 100% tariff if it completes China trade deal

    Trump threatens Canada with 100% tariff if it completes China trade deal

    WASHINGTON — Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Canada on Saturday, threatening to impose 100% tariffs on all Canadian imports if the nation proceeds with a trade agreement with China. The declaration, made via his Truth Social platform, escalates already tense relations between the two North American neighbors.

    Trump’s comments directly targeted Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, whom he mockingly referred to as ‘Governor’—a derogatory reference to his persistent suggestion that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state. ‘If Carney thinks he is going to make Canada a ‘Drop Off Port’ for China to send goods and products into the United States, he is sorely mistaken,’ Trump wrote. He further claimed that China would ‘eat Canada alive, completely devour it, including the destruction of their businesses, social fabric, and general way of life.’

    The threat comes in response to Carney’s recent visit to Beijing, where he celebrated a ‘new strategic partnership’ with China resulting in a preliminary trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs. This development has been viewed as a significant shift in Canada’s trade policy amid deteriorating relations with the United States since Trump’s return to the White House a year ago.

    The diplomatic friction intensified recently when Carney, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, received a standing ovation for his candid critique of a ‘rupture’ in the U.S.-led global order—a remark widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of Trump’s disruptive foreign policy. In retaliation, Trump rescinded an invitation for Carney to join his ‘Board of Peace,’ an initiative initially conceived to address postwar Gaza but now apparently expanding into a broader international conflict resolution body that some observers fear could rival the United Nations.

    Canada’s economy remains heavily dependent on trade with the United States, which receives over 75% of Canadian exports. Key industries such as automotive, aluminum, and steel have already been impacted by Trump’s global sectoral tariffs, though these effects have been somewhat mitigated by continued adherence to the existing North American free trade agreement. With negotiations to revise this agreement scheduled for early this year, Trump’s latest threats introduce renewed uncertainty for Canada’s trade-dependent economy.

    Prime Minister Carney responded to Trump’s provocations by asserting Canada’s independent identity: ‘Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian.’ However, he acknowledged the ‘remarkable partnership’ between the two nations, highlighting the complex interdependence that defines their relationship.

  • AfroSzn hits the scene with Jamaican DJs at the helm

    AfroSzn hits the scene with Jamaican DJs at the helm

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s nightlife landscape is poised for transformation as AfroSzn, an innovative cultural initiative, prepares for its inaugural event on January 29, 2026. Founded by renowned FAME 95FM radio personalities DJ Denvo and DJ Powa, this groundbreaking movement aims to establish a permanent home for African-inspired music genres within Jamaica’s entertainment scene.

    The debut event at Dubwise Kingston will offer complimentary admission from 8:00 PM to midnight, featuring an immersive celebration of Afro House, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and other African-derived musical forms that are currently dominating global dance floors. Unlike conventional parties, AfroSzn represents a structured cultural movement with ambitions to evolve into international tours and ultimately establish an annual AfroSzn Weekend Festival.

    DJ Denvo emphasized the project’s philosophical foundation: ‘While dancehall and reggae remain our musical bedrock, Afro-centric sounds demand dedicated spaces that honor their cultural significance with consistency and respect. This initiative transcends entertainment—it’s about building community and fostering genuine cultural connection.’

    The organizers identified a significant gap in Jamaica’s mainstream nightlife, noting that despite growing popularity among urban youth and demonstrable influence on international fashion and dance trends, African musical genres remain underrepresented in local venues.

    DJ Powa, whose personal passion for Afro House has evolved over two-and-a-half years, described the music’s unique appeal: ‘There’s an inherent rootedness in these rhythms that must be experienced firsthand. People are already embracing this sound—traveling for it, dancing to it—and now Jamaica will have its own authentic platform.’

    Both curators bring exceptional credentials to the venture. DJ Denvo is celebrated for his authentic music selections and expertise in radio programming management, while DJ Powa has built a reputation for high-energy performances and seamless genre blending within corporate and nightlife circuits.

    The long-term vision involves creating a sustainable cultural ecosystem that combines musical appreciation with educational components, ensuring participants understand the cultural contexts behind the rhythms. With strategic timing, expert curation, and clearly identified market demand, AfroSzn appears positioned to redefine African-inspired entertainment throughout the Caribbean.

  • St Kitts PM defends policy on Haitians

    St Kitts PM defends policy on Haitians

    BASSETERRE, St Kitts – Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has publicly addressed growing concerns over his administration’s decision to exclude Haitian nationals from a recently established US relocation agreement for third-country refugees. The memorandum of understanding, signed by several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations, establishes a cooperative framework for orderly refugee transfers when the United States cannot repatriate individuals to their countries of origin.

    While emphasizing that the agreement is non-binding and executed at each government’s discretion, Prime Minister Drew explained that St Kitts and Nevis’ exclusion of Haitians stems from substantial capacity limitations and national security considerations. The twin-island federation already hosts one of the Caribbean’s largest Haitian populations per capita, creating significant strain on its limited resources.

    Drew defended his administration’s humanitarian record, contrasting it with previous governments by highlighting policies that prioritize vulnerable populations. His administration has provided Haitian migrants with comprehensive access to education, healthcare, and social support systems despite the considerable financial burden on the small nation.

    The Prime Minister clarified that the exclusion should not be interpreted as rejection of Haitian people, but rather as a practical decision based on current capabilities. He reaffirmed St Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to supporting Haiti through regional and international mechanisms for long-term stability, noting that his government has never engaged in dehumanizing treatment of Haitian nationals.