Carib Scope

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  • Beyond the Classroom: Community clean-up project brings hope and healing to Logwood, Black River

    Beyond the Classroom: Community clean-up project brings hope and healing to Logwood, Black River

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the community of Logwood in St. Elizabeth witnessed an extraordinary display of unity as residents joined corporate volunteers for a comprehensive clean-up initiative. The collaborative project, branded as “Beyond the Classroom – Adopting a Community,” was orchestrated by the YeCats Mobile Classroom organization alongside Matthews and Clarke Limited, with additional support from A One Equipment and Rentals, Juici Patties, and Impact Multimedia.

    The hurricane’s aftermath had left dangerous debris scattered throughout public spaces, creating hazardous conditions that demanded immediate attention. Volunteers from various organizations worked shoulder-to-shoulder with local residents, including children, to systematically clear the accumulated waste. The effort transcended mere physical cleaning, evolving into a powerful demonstration of community solidarity.

    Corporate leadership played a remarkably hands-on role in the operation. Jeff Larmound, CEO of A One Equipment and Rentals, personally operated garbage trucks to transport waste to disposal sites. “This isn’t merely about equipment—it’s about people,” Larmound emphasized. “When communities undertake rebuilding, leadership must physically show up, not just delegate support.”

    Similarly, representatives from Matthews and Clarke Limited participated directly in the labor-intensive work. Company members joined the heavy-lifting teams while other volunteers—described affectionately as the “dainty girls”—demonstrated exceptional determination in raking, shoveling, and packaging debris. One volunteer observed, “Working alongside residents and children reinforced that Jamaica’s reconstruction begins with fundamental acts of service.”

    According to Sandie Saunders, Marketing Manager at Matthews and Clarke Limited, the initiative reflects the company’s profound commitment to holistic community development. “‘Beyond the Classroom’ embodies our corporate identity. Education, environmental stewardship, and empowerment are interconnected, and we take pride in supporting YeCats and the Logwood community,” Saunders stated.

    The clean-up effort generated profound emotional resonance within the community. Charmine, a local resident, expressed, “This transcended mere cleaning. It demonstrated that we haven’t been forgotten.” Children participating in the effort shared similar sentiments, with one student joyfully noting, “I’m happy to help clean my community. It looks much nicer now.”

    The initiative reached its emotional peak when Matthews and Clarke Limited presented volunteer teacher Natasha Headley with a commitment letter pledging $5 million for roof repairs to her hurricane-damaged home. Headley, among the first volunteers supporting the YeCats Mobile Classroom, expressed overwhelmed gratitude: “I never anticipated that while serving others, assistance would return to me. This signifies everything—not just for me, but for my family and community.”

    The project concluded with an appreciation celebration for 35 registered students and four volunteers, hosted by a Matthews and Clarke contractor alongside Wake Up Jamaica and the Essena Family. The event featured food, music, and gifts, transforming the community center into a vibrant space of joy and recognition. Special “Purr-fect Attendance” awards were presented to Kaira (5) from the Kittens Classroom and Leo-Jordan (10) from the Lions Classroom, highlighting the program’s emphasis on consistency and commitment.

    Stacey Robinson, Founder and Literacy Coach of YeCats, articulated the philosophical foundation underlying the initiative: “Education cannot exist in isolation. It must be lived, not merely taught. ‘Beyond the Classroom’ enables children to comprehend teamwork, responsibility, and community pride. Our message is straightforward: It’s not just READING…It’s LIFE.”

    The clean-up project constitutes an integral component of the broader YeCats Mobile Classroom Initiative, delivering literacy, numeracy, and life skills education to communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Each location benefits from structured community restoration efforts, reinforcing YeCats’ conviction that authentic learning must extend beyond conventional textbooks.

  • Opposition Leader: Christmas a time for hope

    Opposition Leader: Christmas a time for hope

    In a solemn Christmas address to the nation, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles framed the holiday season as a critical moment for national renewal amid mounting economic pressures and regional diplomatic strains. Speaking against a backdrop of widespread economic anxiety, Beckles characterized the current period as one of ‘profound uncertainty’ with many families confronting job losses and persistent financial instability.

    The political leader highlighted specific economic concerns, noting that thousands of public sector workers from discontinued CEPEP, URP and Forestry Division programs found themselves unemployed following the April 28 general election. ‘The national mood is heavy,’ Beckles observed, ‘as the cost of living continues to rise and opportunity feels increasingly out of reach for far too many.’

    International economic assessments have reinforced these concerns, with major ratings agencies Moody’s and S&P revising Trinidad and Tobago’s economic outlook from stable to negative. Local business chambers have simultaneously raised alarms regarding ongoing foreign exchange complications.

    Beyond domestic economic challenges, Beckles addressed growing regional tensions, referencing the country’s delicate positioning between ‘powerful interests’—an apparent allusion to ongoing US-Venezuela military tensions in the Caribbean. The opposition leader criticized Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration for its supportive stance toward US military deployment and its condemnation of CARICOM members who questioned these developments.

    ‘There is also strain on our relationships within our region, CARICOM,’ Beckles noted, ‘arising from the unfortunate posture adopted by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.’

    Despite these challenges, the opposition leader framed Christmas as an opportunity for national unity and active hope. Emphasizing that hope requires ‘courage, vigilance and a deep love for country,’ Beckles called upon citizens to ‘recommit ourselves to the work of rebuilding hope, not just for today but for generations to come.’ She urged citizens to choose ‘peace over discord and unity over division’ during the holiday season.

  • St Mary’s gets a police station

    St Mary’s gets a police station

    The Trinidadian community of Moruga witnessed a significant law enforcement enhancement on December 24, 2025, as the St Mary’s Police Post was formally upgraded to a full-service police station. The ceremonial opening marked a substantial step in expanding policing capabilities for residents of St Mary’s and neighboring communities.

    Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander presided over the inauguration event, joined by Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John, and Moruga/Tableland MP Michelle Benjamin. The gathering included senior police officials and local government representatives, demonstrating cross-ministerial support for the infrastructure project.

    Minister Alexander emphasized the government’s strategic commitment to strengthening law enforcement infrastructure in rural areas, characterizing the investment as vital to national security objectives. He praised the dedication of officers serving the Moruga district and called for continued collaboration between residents and law enforcement personnel.

    Approximately 500 community members received what Alexander described as a ‘tangible, functional Christmas gift’—a completed police facility delivered through concerted efforts to meet the holiday 2025 deadline. The minister encouraged ongoing partnership between citizens and police to foster community resilience and enhanced public safety.

    The Ministry of Homeland Security’s Facebook release confirmed the upgrade aligns with broader governmental initiatives to improve rural policing infrastructure and services across Trinidad and Tobago.

  • Sturge warns against flying drones near airports

    Sturge warns against flying drones near airports

    The Ministry of National Security of Trinidad and Tobago has raised serious concerns regarding unauthorized drone operations within restricted airspace surrounding the nation’s primary aviation hubs. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge issued an official statement on December 24, confirming these activities occurred in close proximity to both Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago.

    According to ministry investigations, these drones were operated within a five-kilometer radius of both airports, deliberately violating established security perimeters. Minister Sturge emphasized that beyond the obvious aviation hazards, the intentional capture and dissemination of military installation footage represents a direct threat to national security. “Such actions expose our citizenry to entities that might exploit this information to our detriment,” Sturge stated.

    Authorities have launched comprehensive investigations to identify those responsible for the illegal drone surveillance. The minister warned that persistent unlawful operations would trigger necessary government interventions, including potential measures under the current state of emergency initially declared in July and extended through October for an additional three-month period.

    This security development coincides with the recent installation of advanced G/ATOR radar technology at ANR Robinson International Airport by US Marines in November. Developed by Northrop Grumman, this sophisticated radar system specializes in detecting unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, and various airborne threats.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially remained discreet about the radar deployment but subsequently acknowledged its role in combating drug trafficking activities. When questioned about support infrastructure surrounding the radar installation, the Prime Minister displayed visible frustration with what she termed ‘nonsensical inquiries’.

    These security enhancements align with Trinidad and Tobago’s approval for US military aircraft transit through national airports, described by the Foreign and Caricom Affairs Ministry as logistical support operations for replenishment and personnel rotations.

    The strategic partnerships unfold against the backdrop of the recently published US National Security Strategy 2025, which emphasizes strengthened hemispheric cooperation for migration control, drug interdiction, and enhanced regional stability.

    At a recent political gathering, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar vehemently defended her administration’s security cooperation with the United States, cautioning that criticism could jeopardize the US visa status of approximately 350,000 Trinbagonians. She asserted that the United States remains Trinidad and Tobago’s sole viable partner for national protection against external threats, citing their superior resources and capabilities.

    Minister Sturge has consistently supported the Prime Minister’s position, maintaining that Trinidad and Tobago will not serve as a military launchpad for attacks against other nations. However, the minister has declined parliamentary inquiries from opposition members regarding specific security arrangements, citing potential compromise to public interests.

  • Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    Police urge motorists to exercise vigilance in management and safekeeping of vehicles

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have issued a stark advisory to vehicle owners, emphasizing critical security lapses that criminals are exploiting across the nation. Dr. Gary McKenzie, Assistant Commissioner of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), highlighted alarming trends in vehicle-related crimes during a recent briefing.

    McKenzie, who oversees the Strategic Operations Portfolio and Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, identified irresponsible vehicle lending as a primary concern. He revealed that numerous owners lend automobiles to unvetted individuals without verifying driver’s license credentials or borrower reliability. These negligently loaned vehicles frequently become instruments in illegal activities, including unauthorized taxi operations and rental scams.

    The senior police official further cautioned against improper vehicle handling at service facilities. Many Jamaicans leave cars at wash stations or garages without explicit instructions prohibiting movement, creating opportunities for key duplication and alarm system tampering. McKenzie specifically warned that organized criminals are capitalizing on these security gaps to steal vehicles through sophisticated methods.

    In a disturbing development, authorities have uncovered fraudulent sales operations where thieves advertise non-existent vehicles online, then steal matching models to fulfill purchase agreements. This sophisticated scheme has contributed significantly to Jamaica’s auto theft epidemic.

    In response, the JCF’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Division has intensified operations against automotive crime networks. Acting Senior Superintendent Victor Barrett confirmed targeted investigations into suspected criminal rings and complicit car marts, with several perpetrators already under police surveillance.

  • PLP to re-nominate Petty for North Eleuthera seat

    PLP to re-nominate Petty for North Eleuthera seat

    The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has officially confirmed the re-nomination of incumbent MP Sylvanus Petty as its candidate for North Eleuthera in the upcoming general election. This decision concludes a competitive selection process that saw two other aspirants—Harbour Island entrepreneur Joseph John ‘JJ’ Percentie and Oscar McPhee—formally notified of their unsuccessful bids.

    The party’s candidate committee conducted interviews with all hopefuls several weeks prior to making this determination. According to insider information, the PLP intends to ratify additional candidates across other constituencies early next year.

    Despite his disappointment, Mr. Percentie publicly pledged his continued support for both Mr. Petty and the party. ‘With Mr. Petty now securing the nomination as the incumbent, I remain a committed PLP member and will provide any requested assistance,’ he stated. Percentie further emphasized the northern region’s significance and expressed confidence in the Chester Cooper-Davis administration’s ongoing development initiatives.

    Mr. Petty’s political journey has been marked by notable fluctuations. Initially elected under the PLP banner in 2021, he subsequently announced he would not seek re-nomination, citing personal reasons including the need to prioritize family commitments. However, he consistently maintained his party allegiance and previously expressed aspirations for the nation’s highest office.

    His return to the political arena has generated mixed reactions within both party circles and the North Eleuthera constituency. Earlier this year, numerous voters voiced frustrations to media outlets regarding perceived inadequate representation, with several explicitly opposing Petty’s potential candidacy. Residents highlighted persistent challenges with essential services—including unreliable water supply, electricity interruptions, and inconsistent internet connectivity—describing these conditions as the most severe in decades.

    In October, Mr. Petty acknowledged these constituent concerns while affirming the government’s commitment to addressing infrastructure deficiencies. ‘We will secure the same level of support as in the previous election,’ he asserted confidently. ‘Substantial work lies ahead, but we will vigorously advocate for the people of North Eleuthera who recognize they have a dedicated fighter in their corner.’

  • Shoppers urged to exercise caution for a safer Christmas season

    Shoppers urged to exercise caution for a safer Christmas season

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive public safety initiative ahead of the Christmas holidays, emphasizing enhanced security measures for financial transactions and child protection in crowded spaces. The advisory comes from top-ranking police officials including Assistant Commissioner Dr. Gary McKenzie and Senior Superintendent Dahlia Garrick during a recent Jamaica Information Service forum. The initiative addresses growing concerns about criminal activities during peak shopping periods. Dr. McKenzie, overseeing the JCF’s Strategic Operations and Public Safety Branch, strongly advocated for electronic payment methods as a primary defense against theft. “We actively encourage citizens to utilize cards, wire transfers, and digital transaction platforms whenever feasible. Cash transactions inherently increase personal vulnerability, particularly when handled publicly,” he cautioned. The security experts specifically warned against discussing financial arrangements in public or via mobile devices, noting that such conversations potentially attract criminal attention. “Publicly announcing bank withdrawals or monetary meetings essentially invites potential theft,” McKenzie emphasized. Simultaneously, SSP Garrick highlighted the critical importance of structured planning for family shopping excursions. She recommended maintaining visual contact with children at all times and implementing standard safety protocols similar to school preparation guidelines. The security official further advised discreet handling of purchases, suggesting secured storage in vehicles and avoiding isolated areas. Garrick particularly emphasized collective shopping with companions and staying within well-lit, frequently traveled routes. Additionally, the police addressed the proliferation of seasonal scams, urging citizens to exercise heightened skepticism toward offers appearing excessively favorable. “When deals seem implausibly advantageous, they typically are. Rely on established businesses that provide consumer recourse mechanisms,” Garrick stated. The advisory specifically extended to displaced children integrating into new household arrangements, stressing the necessity of updating safety education regarding personal information sharing and stranger interaction. Both officials unanimously emphasized that strategic planning, sustained awareness, and informed judgment constitute fundamental components for ensuring holiday security.

  • Sister calls for charges after hit-and-run death

    Sister calls for charges after hit-and-run death

    The grieving family of Patrick Vernal Gibson, a 63-year-old retired customs officer killed in a devastating hit-and-run incident, is urgently calling for criminal charges against the driver responsible for his death. The tragedy occurred on December 9 at the intersection of East Street and Andros Avenue, where Gibson was struck by a vehicle traveling at high speed while crossing the road after visiting a convenience store.

    According to police reports, the motorist dragged Gibson several feet before abandoning both the scene and the vehicle—a Honda Accord—which remained pinned on top of the victim. His sister, Rosemary Thompson, emotionally asserted that her brother might have survived had the driver not fled. ‘If he had stayed,’ she explained, ‘he could have reversed the car instead of leaving it crushing him. My brother might have been in the hospital today, not the morgue.’

    Thompson discovered news of the accident online while in Florida, though she had been in The Bahamas on the night of the incident. Despite reassurances from acquaintances that the victim was not her brother, she received official confirmation of his death from police just one day later—cutting her trip short.

    The family is now grappling not only with profound loss but also with unresolved questions regarding the driver’s swift release from custody. Although a suspect was detained for two days, he was released following legal intervention. Authorities indicated that the case must first go before a Coroner’s Court before any charges are filed.

    Gibson, described as a sweet and loving man who was unmarried and childless, had shared a home with Thompson for nearly a decade. His other sister, Theresa Capron, traveled from Grand Bahama to New Providence following the incident, noting the profound impact of his death on their close-knit family. Both sisters highlighted Gibson’s cheerful nature and his quiet contributions to household chores and family life.

    As the holiday season approaches, the family acknowledges that their celebratory plans have been shattered. Thompson solemnly stated, ‘We had plans, but I don’t see myself celebrating.’ They remain resolved in their pursuit of justice and accountability for Gibson’s untimely and tragic death.

  • Aviation ambulances arrive for Family Islands

    Aviation ambulances arrive for Family Islands

    The Bahamas has achieved a significant milestone in emergency medical infrastructure with the arrival of the first six specialized aviation ambulances in New Providence. This delivery marks the initial phase of a comprehensive initiative that will ultimately see approximately 50 such vehicles deployed across the archipelago.

    The groundbreaking initiative stems from a strategic Heads of Agreement between the Bahamian government and the Bahamas Aviation Climate and Severe Weather Network (BACSWN). Through BACSWN’s alliance with Response Plus Medical (RPM), the Middle East’s premier pre-hospital care and emergency medical services provider, these advanced medical transport vehicles are being introduced to address critical gaps in the nation’s emergency response capabilities.

    Initial deployments will prioritize Cat Island, San Salvador, and the MICAL islands, representing a transformative step in healthcare accessibility for remote communities. Each ambulance will be equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and enhanced safety features specifically designed for aviation operations and challenging island terrain.

    Robert Dupuch-Carron, founder of BACSWN, confirmed the timely delivery, stating: “We committed to having these assets operational before Christmas, and through the exceptional support of Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil of Burjeel Holdings and Dr. Rohil Raghavan of RPM, we have fulfilled that promise.”

    This ambulance deployment coincides with BACSWN’s parallel mission to establish the Caribbean’s inaugural NextGen Meteorological Watch Office. This advanced facility will feature real-time flight tracking capabilities, coordinated emergency response systems, and comprehensive meteorological monitoring across the nation’s 173,000 square miles of airspace.

    The integrated initiative directly supports The Bahamas’ compliance with international aviation safety standards under the Chicago Convention and International Civil Aviation Organization requirements, ensuring safer commercial, cargo, and private aircraft operations within sovereign airspace.

  • Milton Blake joins forces with Luciano for ‘It nuh Over Yet’

    Milton Blake joins forces with Luciano for ‘It nuh Over Yet’

    After more than two decades of friendship, roots reggae artists Milton Blake and Luciano have finally unveiled their first musical collaboration. Originally recorded in 2016, the long-awaited track ‘It Nuh Over Yet’ has now been released to the public, marking a significant milestone in both artists’ careers.

    The inspirational anthem, written and produced by Cleveland-based Blake, carries a powerful message of resilience and perseverance that both artists have personally embodied throughout their musical journeys. Blake emphasized the song’s core philosophy: ‘The message is about staying strong, you know? Resilient. Whenever trials or a slow period comes my way it makes me push harder. I will never give up.’

    The release comes through Blake’s Lion and Lioness Productionz label and follows the vinyl reissue of his third album, ‘Temporary Obstacle,’ which occurred just two months prior.

    The musical partnership between Blake (from Clarendon) and Luciano (from Manchester) dates back to the early 1990s when both were establishing themselves during roots reggae’s significant resurgence. Their paths converged professionally when both became part of producer Philip ‘Fatis’ Burrell’s influential Xterminator label roster, alongside notable artists including Sizzla, Mikey General, and Jesse Jendah.

    Beyond this collaboration, Blake has maintained an active presence in the reggae scene, particularly in Cleveland where he has become a central figure. Shortly after relocating to the city, he began working with the River Nile Band, performing extensively across multiple cities including Cincinnati, Chicago, New York, and Connecticut.