作者: admin

  • Puddles of Light raises funds for needy families

    Puddles of Light raises funds for needy families

    In a heartfelt tribute to his late daughter Demi, entertainer Damion Melville has established Demi Melville Entertainment as a dual-purpose initiative that simultaneously showcases young talent and supports families in need. The organization’s fourth annual Christmas edition, “Puddles of Light 4,” took place on December 7 at the Mon Repos Regional Complex, featuring 21 emerging performers.

    The event serves as both a platform for undiscovered young artists and a fundraising mechanism for families requiring assistance throughout the year, particularly in the Point Fortin region and surrounding communities. The concerts honor the memory of Demi Melville, who passed away at age ten and was known for her generous spirit and habit of sharing personal belongings with friends she believed needed them more.

    Since its inception in April 2021, the initiative has made significant impacts on over 30 families through three annual concerts held in April, August, and December. While the events were initially streamed via Wack 90.1 FM’s virtual platforms during the pandemic, they have transitioned to in-person performances at community centers since December 2023.

    The recent Christmas showcase featured diverse performances including Lisa-Joe Boodhoo’s pan rendition of “Baron’s Come Go,” Abigail Asson’s poetic recitation of “Christmas Time,” Stephne Figaro’s vocal performance of “Mary Did You Know,” and Ethan Gosine’s interpretation of Luther Vandross’ “Every Year, Every Christmas.” Supporting acts included Gabriella Henry, Junior Calypso Monarch Xhaiden Darius, Trevor Barrow, Alyssa Joseph, Eunice Peters, and DJ Tony Dee.

    The program continues to receive support from viewers both locally and internationally as children demonstrate their talents through song, monologues, steelpan performances, poetry, and dance. Melville’s dedication to nurturing young abilities while supporting vulnerable families ensures his daughter’s legacy of compassion continues to create positive community impacts.

  • Celebrating the season with the Marionettes Chorale

    Celebrating the season with the Marionettes Chorale

    Queen’s Hall Winifred Atwell Auditorium resonated with festive melodies from December 5-7 as the renowned Marionettes Chorale presented their annual Christmas concert series. The ensemble showcased an eclectic musical repertoire that spanned traditional carols, classical compositions, gospel harmonies, musical theater numbers, calypso rhythms, and authentic parang selections.

    The production demonstrated notable community engagement through a dedicated matinée performance exclusively arranged for care home residents. This special presentation underscored the chorale’s commitment to inclusive cultural outreach during the holiday season.

    Artistic excellence was evident throughout the performances, featuring accomplished soloists Jacqueline Johnson, Debbie Nahous, Errol James, and Khadija Huggins. The event also highlighted emerging talent from the Youth Chorale program, providing a platform for the next generation of performers. The production was further enhanced by guest appearances from acclaimed artists Nigel Floyd and Payge Turner, whose contributions added distinctive vocal dimensions to the program.

    Newsday photographer Ayanna Kinsale documented the December 5 performance, capturing visually compelling moments that reflected the production’s artistic energy and audience engagement. The photographic record serves as a testament to the cultural significance of this annual holiday tradition within Trinidad and Tobago’s performing arts landscape.

  • D’ All Starz lays new path for 2026

    D’ All Starz lays new path for 2026

    PORT OF SPAIN – In the heart of Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant music scene, the legendary D’ All Starz Band is undertaking a profound transformation. For over four decades, this musical institution—first known as Roy Cape’s All Starz—has been synonymous with the nation’s sound. Now, under the stewardship of musical director Carlyle “Juiceman” Roberts and manager Richard Gordon, the ensemble is meticulously rebuilding its identity for a new generation while honoring its storied past.

    The band’s journey has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. Founded in 1980 by the late Roy Cape, who passed in 2024, the group earned numerous accolades and released eight albums before his 2017 retirement. The subsequent rebranding to D’ All Starz brought new leadership but was soon challenged by the untimely death of lead vocalist Dexter “Blaxx” Stewart in 2022—a loss that profoundly impacted Roberts and temporarily halted performances.

    From their new base at Beats on Tragarete, the leadership reveals a strategic vision balancing tradition with innovation. The band has recruited fresh talent including College Boy Jesse as the new frontman and singer Anika Berry, while maintaining the foundational structure established by Cape—rigorous rehearsals, mentorship programs, and an unwavering commitment to live instrumentation.

    “We try to pass on our legacy which Roy Cape gave to us,” Roberts emphasized during an exclusive interview. “Music has no ego—you’re never too old to learn.” This philosophy extends to reciprocal knowledge exchange, where younger members educate veterans on technological trends while receiving guidance on musical craftsmanship.

    Facing the dual challenges of artificial intelligence’s rise in music and market penetration difficulties, the band remains committed to organic sound. “Horns are something we will never, ever abandon,” Gordon stated, highlighting their distinctive use of brass sections as a competitive advantage. The management strategy involves Roberts preserving the band’s acoustic integrity while Gordon pursues new audiences.

    Despite acknowledging that Blaxx’s absence has hindered market expansion, the team expresses confidence in their Carnival 2026 offerings. Original compositions like College Boy Jesse’s “BenOva” with Sackie and “Vitamins” are anticipated to drive musical ascendancy. Gordon likens their creative process to “a hand-crank ice cream maker”—methodically churning hits until market penetration is achieved.

    The organization fosters innovation through an open-door policy encouraging contributions from all members, regardless of tenure. This collaborative environment aims to discover breakthrough talent similar to Blaxx, whose eventual rise to acclaim demonstrated the band’s eye for potential.

    As Carnival 2026 approaches amidst venue restrictions and rising alcohol prices, D’ All Starz reaffirms its commitment to delivering authentic performances that honor Trinidad’s musical heritage while evolving for contemporary audiences.

  • PNM vows to enhance Argyle Waterfall, create jobs for Tobago

    PNM vows to enhance Argyle Waterfall, create jobs for Tobago

    In a strategic move ahead of Tobago’s January 12 House of Assembly elections, opposition leader Ancil Dennis has unveiled an ambitious employment manifesto targeting the island’s chronic unemployment crisis. The People’s National Movement (PNM) Tobago Council leader committed to generating 7,000 new jobs within four years if returned to power, addressing what he termed “deliberate economic neglect” by the current administration.

    Speaking at a December 11 rally in Roxborough/Argyle, Dennis—a former chief secretary—launched a scathing critique against the Tobago People’s Partnership (TPP) government, accusing them of diverting over $300 million in development funds to Trinidad-based contractors. He specifically referenced a stalled $30 million road project on Lammy Road awarded to an off-island contractor as emblematic of this problematic pattern.

    The opposition leader announced a transformative procurement policy mandating that all Tobago House of Assembly contracts must优先授予本地承包商 possessing relevant capabilities. “No contractor from outside Tobago should be building roads here when we have qualified local firms that can employ community members,” Dennis asserted, framing this approach as both economic justice and practical development strategy.

    Dennis projected that this localization initiative would immediately restore 2,000 jobs while creating thousands more through targeted investments in construction, tourism, and agricultural sectors. His rhetoric emphasized economic sovereignty, repeatedly promising to return “Tobago people’s money to Tobagonians’ pockets.

    Simultaneously, PNM candidate Shonae John outlined her vision for transforming Roxborough/Argyle’s economic landscape. She proposed developing Argyle Waterfall into a comprehensive tourist destination while establishing integrated agricultural-tourism linkages. Her innovative “farm-to-table food hub” concept would connect Lammy Road farmers directly with tourists and culinary facilities, creating an experiential tourism circuit complete with trained guides, lifeguards, and retail opportunities.

    The electoral battle lines are now clearly drawn, with the PNM advocating economic localization against the TPP’s development approach. Current area representative Watson Duke’s Progressive Democratic Party has withdrawn from the race to support the ruling TPP, whose candidate Orlando Kirk will directly challenge John’s bid to unseat the incumbent administration.

  • Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Following two decades as an assistant coach at St George’s College, Marcel Gayle finds himself positioned as the leading candidate to spearhead the revival of the institution’s football program. This development comes in the wake of the sudden resignation of legendary coach Neville ‘Bertis’ Bell, who departed after a disappointing season that saw the ‘Light Blues’ eliminated in the Manning Cup round of 16.

    Gayle, who currently serves as head coach of Waterhouse FC, served as Bell’s deputy during the school’s most successful era, which included five Manning Cup victories and 15 total titles across various competitions. Expressing both surprise and determination, Gayle acknowledged the challenge ahead while emphasizing his deep understanding of the school’s culture and systems.

    ‘Having been there for over twenty years, I comprehend the institution’s framework intimately,’ Gayle stated. ‘If selected for this role, I will commit fully to restoring our competitive standing while maintaining our core values.’

    The transition won’t be straightforward. Gayle’s initial match as interim coach resulted in a 2-4 Walker Cup defeat to Mona High, underscoring the magnitude of the rebuilding task. St George’s College, historically Jamaica’s second-most successful school with 21 Manning Cup titles, has experienced a notable decline, having last won the prestigious competition in 2012.

    Gayle outlined a philosophy extending beyond mere trophy acquisition, emphasizing holistic development: ‘Our mission transcends football victories. We’re shaping young minds and building future leaders for Jamaica. These students are scholars first, athletes second—we’re cultivating better human beings who will contribute positively to our nation’s future.’

    The appointment decision comes at a critical juncture for the North Street institution as it seeks to reclaim its status among Jamaica’s football elite.

  • Scotia Group grows top line, but costs dampen profits

    Scotia Group grows top line, but costs dampen profits

    Scotia Group Jamaica Limited (SGJ) has announced a 17% decline in fourth-quarter net profit, which fell to $5.14 billion from $6.16 billion, primarily driven by escalating operational expenditures and one-time costs associated with Hurricane Melissa. This occurred despite the group achieving substantial growth across key financial metrics and solidifying its position as Jamaica’s leading mortgage provider.

    Throughout the 2025 financial year, SGJ expanded its total loan portfolio by 12% to $350.44 billion, with residential mortgages reaching $118 billion. This expansion fueled a 9% annual increase in operating income, which climbed to $64.71 billion. The fourth quarter alone saw operating income rise by 4% to $16.31 billion.

    However, these gains were significantly offset by a 29% surge in quarterly operating expenses, which jumped to $8.82 billion. This increase was attributed to multiple factors: a 44% rise in staff salaries and benefits to $4.21 billion following union negotiations, a 28% increase in cash handling costs due to vendor repricing, and $817 million in non-recurring expenses for efficiency initiatives, asset write-downs, and hurricane-related provisions.

    President and CEO Audrey Tugwell Henry addressed the cost pressures, noting the challenges of cash transportation for their extensive network of 300 automated banking machines, two-thirds of which are located offsite. The bank also adjusted various customer fees effective May 1st in response to these rising costs.

    Despite the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica’s western region, SGJ leadership expressed confidence in their resilience. The group’s non-accrual loans stood at $4.8 billion (1.3% of gross loans), with credit loss provisions exceeding total non-performing loans by 123%. The bank has implemented client assistance programs offering payment deferrals and insurance flexibility for affected customers.

    SGJ demonstrated significant market strength throughout the year, accounting for 55% of the total loan growth across Jamaica’s eight commercial banks. Consolidated net interest income grew by 8% to $50.01 billion for the full year. For the 2025 FY, consolidated net profit declined marginally by 1% to $19.90 billion, with earnings per share of $6.40.

    The group continues to advance its digital transformation strategy under Scotiabank’s global ‘make it easy to do business with us’ initiative. Recent enhancements include online onboarding, digital debit card controls, investment portfolio visibility through mobile banking, and plans to introduce Apple Pay and digital wire transfers, though specific timelines remain undisclosed.

    SGJ’s total assets grew by 10% to $773.78 billion, while shareholder’s equity increased by 9% to $150.51 billion. The company declared a dividend of $0.45 per share, payable January 21, bringing the annual dividend yield to 3.44%. Despite short-term challenges, CEO Tugwell Henry affirmed the institution’s strong positioning to navigate current conditions and deliver robust future performance.

  • Early start for St James Grand Market Push to make up 85% revenue drop

    Early start for St James Grand Market Push to make up 85% revenue drop

    MONTEGO BAY, St James — Facing an 85% collapse in municipal revenue following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the St James Municipal Corporation is launching an economic recovery initiative centered on an early commencement of the traditional Grand Market event.

    Mayor Richard Vernon announced at Thursday’s monthly council meeting that the annual Christmas Eve market—typically a day-long shopping extravaganza—will commence on December 15 this year. The strategic move aims to stimulate commercial activity in a downtown district severely impacted by the October 28 Category 5 storm, which caused extensive damage to government revenue-generating assets including Charles Gordon Market.

    “This initiative will breathe life back into downtown Montego Bay and the market district,” stated Mayor Vernon, revealing the municipal corporation’s dramatic financial predicament. “This is a staggering blow to our financial capacity. As a result, we are recasting the budget for the remainder of the financial year.”

    The mayor acknowledged the corporation’s reliance on Central Government support to maintain essential services and meet inescapable expenses, noting that pre-hurricane budgetary obligations cannot be fulfilled under current circumstances.

    Despite these challenges, municipal authorities pledge to implement enhanced safety and organizational measures for the extended market period. “This pre- and post-Grand Market period will be regulated for order and safety, ensuring a vibrant, secure space for commerce and community,” Vernon assured.

    Prospective vendors must register through the municipal corporation’s Commercial Services Department by the December 15 launch date.

    The hurricane’s impact will also transform the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony into a communal healing event. Scheduled for December 21, 2025, at 6:00 pm, the gathering will incorporate elements of prayer and reflection alongside traditional celebrations. Mayor Vernon described it as “an evening of praise, worship and hope” for residents affected by the catastrophic storm.

  • Samuda poised to head UN Environment Assembly

    Samuda poised to head UN Environment Assembly

    Jamaican Minister of Water, Environment, and Climate Change Matthew Samuda is positioned to assume the presidency of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), the premier global environmental decision-making body representing 170 nations. Currently leading Jamaica’s delegation at the UNEA-7 session in Nairobi, Kenya, Samuda would succeed Abdullah Bin Ali Al-Amri of Oman, whose term has concluded.

    The Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC) has formally endorsed Samuda as their candidate for the leadership position. Vincent Sweeney, head of the Caribbean Sub-Regional Office for the United Nations Environment Programme, confirmed that based on regional rotation protocols, Samuda represents the expected successor to the presidency.

    The potential appointment comes during what environmental experts identify as a critical juncture for planetary health, with the triple environmental crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution pushing natural systems toward collapse. During his address to the assembly, Minister Samuda emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions, drawing from Jamaica’s recent experiences with catastrophic climate events.

    Samuda detailed how Jamaica has endured multiple extreme weather events within four years, including two tropical storms and two major hurricanes—Category 4 Hurricane Beryl and Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. The latter caused approximately US$8.8 billion in damages, equivalent to 41% of Jamaica’s GDP, and severely damaged 51% of the nation’s primary forests. These events were compounded by record-breaking temperatures, unprecedented rainfall, and severe droughts, resulting in deteriorated soil quality, reduced pollination rates, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources.

    The Minister advocated for the multi-dimensional vulnerability index, a UN-backed assessment tool that evaluates structural vulnerabilities beyond economic metrics, particularly crucial for small island developing states (SIDS) like Jamaica. Samuda reaffirmed Jamaica’s commitment to global environmental protection and climate resilience, supporting resolutions to strengthen UNEP’s role, address sargassum seaweed influxes, and accelerate coral reef conservation efforts.

  • 2026 Audi A6 e-tron: The sedan strikes back

    2026 Audi A6 e-tron: The sedan strikes back

    In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by SUVs and electric vehicles, Audi has launched a formidable counteroffensive with the 2026 A6 e-tron Sportback. This premium electric sedan represents a technological tour de force designed to reclaim market share for traditional sedan body styles through groundbreaking innovation and sophisticated design.

    The A6 e-tron Sportback immediately commands attention with its muscular curves and coupé-inspired silhouette. The S line trim enhances its athletic presence with 20-inch wheels, while the distinctive singleframe grille houses Audi’s second-generation OLED headlights—fully programmable via the infotainment system. The rear features an integrated lighting signature that incorporates the Audi emblem into a wrap-around OLED bar, creating a futuristic aesthetic that overshadows the vehicle’s camera-based side mirrors. Carbon fiber accents on the rear spoiler complete the premium exterior package.

    Approaching the vehicle triggers a sophisticated light ceremony: all four flush-mounted door handles illuminate with differentiated animations for entry and exit sequences. The innovative door handles require users to clasp the recessed void to open the doors, eliminating traditional protruding elements. Inside, the E3 architecture delivers both spaciousness and ergonomic excellence, with the driver’s seat automatically adjusting to assist ingress and egress based on user profiles.

    The cabin is dominated by five high-resolution displays, including the curved Audi MMI panoramic display combining an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch touchscreen. Optional features include a 10.9-inch front passenger screen and door-mounted displays for the camera mirror system. The advanced head-up display creates a three-dimensional projection rather than conventional flat images. Premium materials throughout the interior complement the extensive digital ecosystem, while switchable-opacity panoramic glass roof adds to the luxurious atmosphere.

    Performance specifications underscore Audi’s technical prowess: a 362hp rear-mounted electric motor draws power from a 100kWh battery capable of DC fast charging at up to 270kW. The system supports AC charging at 11kW and regenerative braking recovering up to 220kW. Real-world range exceeds 300 miles, with rapid charging capability restoring 80% capacity in minutes—effectively eliminating range anxiety.

    On the road, the A6 e-tron Sportback delivers instantaneous power delivery that exceeds typical driving requirements while maintaining composure across all speed ranges. The chassis, suspension, and braking systems work in harmony to transition seamlessly between comfortable cruising and dynamic performance. Aggressive regenerative braking minimizes use of physical brakes, while sophisticated suspension maintains composure over varied road surfaces.

    Built on the 800-volt PPE architecture, the A6 e-tron Sportback represents the pinnacle of electric vehicle technology while preserving the driving dynamics and refinement expected from a premium sedan. It successfully combines striking design, cutting-edge technology, and practical performance to create a compelling alternative in the evolving automotive market.

  • SHE’S BACK!

    SHE’S BACK!

    Jamaican netball sensation Vangelee Williams has dramatically ended her five-year retirement to rejoin the national team, bringing veteran leadership to the Sunshine Girls ahead of their crucial Vitality Series clash against England. The 33-year-old defensive specialist, who previously represented Jamaica in two World Cups and two Commonwealth Games, returns to international competition with renewed passion and determination.

    The upcoming series against England has been significantly altered due to Hurricane Melissa, which forced cancellation of the Jamaican leg scheduled for December 6-7 at the National Indoor Sports Centre. The competition will now consist solely of two matches at London’s Copper Box Arena on December 13-14. This marks a reversal from last year’s series, which Jamaica won 2-1 with one tied match.

    Williams expressed profound satisfaction with her return, stating: ‘I feel really happy to be back. I anticipated this moment very much since I have been training. It really feels good and has made me realize that I actually missed the sport at this level.’ Despite acknowledging that her fitness requires further development, Williams emphasized steady progress since rejoining the senior squad in September.

    The veteran athlete had completely mentally disengaged from elite netball after her 2020 retirement, believing her career was finished. Her perspective has transformed dramatically, with Williams now declaring: ‘I am back and I am better.’ While uncertain about participating in another World Cup, she has set her sights on competing in the next Commonwealth Games.

    Head coach Sasher-Gaye Henry-Wright welcomed Williams’ return as a strategic necessity, explaining: ‘We were out of all of our defensive players. All other defensive players are younger players who have not yet played a lot at this level, so we definitely wanted to bring back some experience.’ The coaching staff monitored Williams’ performance in league matches before inviting her back to the national setup.

    Williams recently participated in the team’s preparatory match against an All-Star Mixed team, where Jamaica suffered a 40-52 defeat. Addressing concerns about defensive stability, Williams remained confident: ‘I don’t think the defence is shaky. There are definitely some levels of inexperience but each girl on the defensive team is a workhorse. We provide interceptions and deflections, and we definitely give our best.’

    The returning star emphasized the team’s collective hunger to perform despite missing key players Shamera Sterling-Humphrey, Latanya Wilson, and Kadie-Ann Dehany. Williams’ comeback adds crucial tournament experience and defensive prowess to a squad blending youth and experience as they prepare to face England’s netball team.