In a heartfelt statement commemorating World Children’s Day (WCD) on November 20, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized her government’s steadfast dedication to protecting the well-being, safety, and development of every child in Trinidad and Tobago. This year’s WCD theme, ‘My Day, My Rights,’ serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent dignity and rights of children, urging global and national efforts to ensure their voices are heard and their futures shaped. Persad-Bissessar invoked the words of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, who once described the trust the world holds with children as sacred, underscoring the collective responsibility to create a society where every child feels valued and empowered. Since her government’s election victory in April, several initiatives have been launched to bolster children’s rights and opportunities. These include providing universal digital access through secure devices, distributing free laptops to secondary school entrants, enhancing school safety frameworks, and expanding paediatric mental health services. A landmark achievement is the upcoming opening of the Couva Children’s Hospital in December, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to paediatric and adolescent care. Persad-Bissessar called on the nation to amplify the voices of young people, whose creativity and courage, she believes, hold the key to Trinidad and Tobago’s future. She urged collective action to transform the WCD theme into a tangible reality, ensuring every child’s dreams and rights are upheld.
作者： admin
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Sando mayor awards four with keys to the city
In a historic departure from tradition, San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris awarded four keys to the city during the 37th Anniversary Civic Awards and Reception held at the City Hall Auditorium on November 18. This unprecedented move was driven by the exceptional achievements of the honorees, who have significantly contributed to the city’s cultural, economic, and social fabric. Among the recipients was former San Fernando West MP Dianne Seukeran, a visionary leader battling cancer, whose work has reshaped the city’s landscape. Seukeran expressed profound gratitude, dedicating the honor to the collective efforts of her supporters and mentors, including the late Prime Minister Patrick Manning. Mayor Parris lauded her as one of San Fernando’s most defining voices, highlighting her pioneering role in community arts, scouting, and national projects. Also honored were sisters Beverly Guide-Williams and Lisa Guide-Tang How, third-generation stewards of the JE Guide Funeral Home and Crematorium, who viewed the recognition as a testament to their family’s resilience and commitment to the city. Cultural icon Imran ‘GI’ Beharry, the first chutney soca artiste to receive this honor, described the award as a profound affirmation of his roots and a reminder of his responsibility to uplift culture and youth. The fourth key was awarded to steelpan virtuoso Joshua Regrello, a Guinness World Record holder, who humorously inquired if the key granted him parking privileges. Regrello reflected on his deep connection to San Fernando, crediting the city for shaping his identity and achievements. Additionally, legendary mas band leader Ivan Kalicharan received a commemorative plaque, with a stand at Skinner Park to be named in his and his late wife Wendy’s honor. The event underscored San Fernando’s commitment to celebrating its own, recognizing individuals who have left an indelible mark on the city’s history and culture.
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‘Curly’ says Arawak Cay fire forces vendors and officials to ‘reflect and refocus’ on the future
A devastating fire that destroyed six restaurants at Arawak Cay on Sunday has reignited long-standing frustrations among vendors and highlighted systemic issues at Nassau’s iconic Fish Fry. The blaze has brought to the forefront concerns over cramped wooden structures, inadequate oversight, and years of stalled reforms. Vince ‘Curly’ McDonald, owner of Curly’s Restaurant & Bar, described the incident as a wake-up call, urging stakeholders to “reflect and refocus” on the future of the strip. He criticized the current setup as unsustainable, citing overcrowding, lack of fire safety protocols, and the inability to secure insurance for the wooden buildings. McDonald emphasized the need for a strong oversight committee comprising vendors and policymakers to enforce standards and drive meaningful change. He also dismissed the Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable and Food Vendors Association as ineffective, claiming little progress has been made over the years. Rodney Russell, president of the ACVA, shifted focus to the immediate hardships faced by over 60 individuals affected by the fire, particularly as the Christmas season approaches. While acknowledging that the buildings met Ministry of Works standards when constructed, Russell admitted enforcement has weakened over time. He attributed the Fish Fry’s decline to nepotism and favoritism, accusing some of bypassing regulations to erect structures. Despite the close proximity of the wooden buildings, Russell maintained that the fire was an accident unrelated to building codes. The incident has underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reform to ensure the safety and sustainability of Arawak Cay’s vibrant culinary hub.
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RBDF mourns dedicated Leading Woman Marine Stephanie Darville
The Bahamas is mourning the loss of Stephanie Darville, a leading woman marine reservist, who passed away last Sunday after a brief battle with aggressive cancer. Darville, 58, was remembered as a devoted mother, disciplined officer, and the driving force behind her family’s reunions. Her sister, G Veronica Basden, described her as a person who approached both her service in the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and her family life with purpose and seriousness. Darville joined the reserves in 2012 and quickly rose to the top of her class, fully embracing the physical and academic demands of the program. She served across the Base Maintenance Team Section and the Office of the Captain Coral Harbour, leaving a lasting impact on her colleagues. Commodore Floyd Moxey, Commander of the Defence Force, praised her professionalism, loyalty, and warm spirit, noting that even in her final days, her thoughts remained with her fellow marines. Outside of her military service, Darville worked as a croupier and was known for her selfless acts of kindness. She is survived by two sons and a grandson. Her sister shared that Darville remained communicative until her final weeks but grew too weak to continue treatment as the cancer advanced.
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Guyana pays homage to dancehall culture with Armageddon Sound Clash
The Armageddon Sound Clash, a premier international music competition, is set to return to Guyana on January 24, 2026, at the National Park Tarmac in Georgetown. This seventh edition of the event will feature six top-tier sound systems from Japan, Germany, Antigua, Guyana, and the United States, vying for the coveted title. The participating sound systems include Article Pride (Japan), Warrior Sound (Germany), Kanabis Sound (Antigua), FireFox Sound (Guyana/USA), Slingerz Family, and Rudeboy Sound (both from Guyana).
Since its inception in 2017, the Armageddon Sound Clash has evolved from a local Guyanese event to a globally recognized platform for sound clash and dancehall culture. Eusi Davis, CEO of Empire Media Inc., the event’s promoter, emphasized its mission to showcase top sound systems and DJs on an international stage. ‘The objective is to promote sound clash and dancehall culture globally while providing a launchpad for talented DJs,’ Davis stated. He highlighted the event’s growth, noting its ability to attract over 4,000 attendees and participants from diverse countries such as South Sudan, Jamaica, Japan, and Germany.
The competition has become a career-defining platform for many DJs and sound systems. Notable past winners include Notorious Sound, a Jamaican-Guyanese duo, and Japan’s Article Pride Sound, which claimed victory in the most recent edition. Davis underscored the event’s impact, stating, ‘Many participants have gained international visibility, expanded their fan bases, and secured additional bookings and endorsements after performing at Armageddon.’
Guyana Breweries, a major sponsor of the event, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local talent through its RockStone Tonic Wine brand. Seweon McGarrell, the company’s marketing manager, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s role in showcasing Guyanese talent and strengthening ties with the entertainment industry. ‘We are excited to continue our partnership with Empire Media Inc. and contribute to the growth of this globally recognized platform,’ McGarrell said.
As the countdown to the 2026 edition begins, the Armageddon Sound Clash continues to solidify its reputation as a must-attend event for music enthusiasts and a vital platform for emerging talent in the global sound clash and dancehall scene.
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Jamaican diaspora lead relief efforts across several parishes after Hurricane Melissa
Witnessing the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa from their homes in the United States, Dr. B Roy Davidson and Dr. Laxley Stephenson were compelled to act. The devastating impact on their home parish of Westmoreland and other rural areas of Jamaica spurred them into action. Dr. Davidson, CEO of UNI Health Care Inc in Los Angeles, and Dr. Stephenson, president of Global Humanity Network Inc in Atlanta, led a humanitarian delegation to Jamaica from November 9 to 14. Their mission was to deliver two weeks’ worth of relief supplies to 500 families affected by the hurricane, with support from UNI Health Care Inc and the Caribbean Cricket Club of Los Angeles. They were joined by Dr. Beverly Nichols, president of the Atlanta-based Push Start Foundation, who contributed 25 solar generators to provide electricity for lighting, communication, and device charging in the hardest-hit communities. The team visited Little London, Whitehouse, Savanna-la-Mar, Montego Bay, Lacovia, and Black River, witnessing firsthand the destruction of homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods. For Davidson and Stephenson, both natives of Little London, the mission was deeply personal, as many of their relatives and friends were among the victims. Hurricane Melissa, a Category Five storm with winds of 185 mph, struck Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread devastation in rural areas and claiming 45 lives. The Jamaican diaspora’s swift and compassionate response highlights the enduring connection between Jamaicans abroad and their homeland.
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Mitchell hints Fox should resign over political comments
In a striking statement, Bahamas Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell appeared to issue a veiled rebuke to Ambassador-at-Large Rick Fox, emphasizing that ambassadors serve the government that appoints them and suggesting resignation as the honorable course of action in cases of disagreement. Mitchell’s remarks came during an audio statement congratulating four newly appointed ambassadors following a ceremony at Government House on November 17. He underscored long-standing diplomatic practices, stating that ambassadors traditionally resign after a general election confirms a new government, regardless of whether the same political party remains in power. Mitchell added that ambassadors represent the government in office and implied that Fox, who has publicly expressed differing views, should consider stepping down if he cannot align with the appointing authority. This follows a recent Facebook post by Fox, a former NBA star, who pushed back against claims that he should refrain from commenting on the Golden Isles by-election due to his diplomatic role. Fox argued that he serves the Bahamian people, not a political party, and rejected the notion that ambassadors must remain silent during elections. He also criticized politicians for only appearing as ‘Action Heroes’ during election seasons and lamented the lack of progress in addressing local issues like road repairs. Fox hinted that he is considering entering frontline politics, further fueling speculation about his future role in Bahamian governance.
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Daughter’s murder ‘stole our world’
The parents of Paige Bell, a 20-year-old yacht stewardess found dead in the engine room of a Harbour Island yacht in July, are grappling with profound grief as the accused in her death prepares to face court. John and Michelle Bell, speaking emotionally to The Tribune, described the devastating moment they learned of their daughter’s untimely death, just 11 days before her 21st birthday. ‘Whoever did this stole our world,’ Mrs. Bell said, her voice breaking. Paige, described as a vibrant and determined young woman, had been eagerly anticipating her milestone birthday, planning a ‘Pearls and Prosecco’ celebration. Her parents, however, were left to mourn the life that was tragically cut short. The Bells first learned of the incident through Paige’s boyfriend, who was unable to reach her. Initial suggestions of suicide were swiftly dismissed by the family, who knew their daughter would never take her own life. The confirmation of her death left Mrs. Bell in such shock that she required sedation. Paige’s absence has left an irreplaceable void in their lives, compounded by the loss of other family members earlier in the year. The Bells have found solace in the support of their community, with friends organizing a vigil in Paige’s memory. As they await justice, the family remains determined to ensure that Paige’s life and legacy are honored. ‘This has destroyed us,’ Mr. Bell said, ‘but we will fight for her.’
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JDF Coast Guard seizes cocaine valued at $3.7 billion off south coast
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark operation, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard has dealt a severe blow to the region’s drug-trafficking networks. On Wednesday, during a joint counter-narcotics mission off Jamaica’s southern coast, authorities intercepted and confiscated over 990 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $3.7 billion.
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Walmart earnings beat expectations as shoppers seek savings
In a robust earnings report released on Thursday, US retail giant Walmart announced higher quarterly revenue and raised its fiscal outlook, outperforming analyst expectations. The company’s revenue for the three months ending October 31 surged by 5.8% to $179.5 billion, while earnings per share stood at 62 cents, exceeding estimates. Walmart’s performance is seen as a critical indicator of consumer behavior, particularly as households across income groups grapple with escalating living costs.