In a remarkable display of Caribbean solidarity, the Barbados Light & Power Company Ltd (Light & Power) has swiftly responded to the urgent appeal from the Jamaica Power Service Company Ltd (JPS) in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive power outages across Jamaica. Leveraging the CARILEC Disaster Assistance Program (CDAP), Light & Power dispatched a proficient five-member team to assist in the restoration of electricity in the affected regions. The crew, led by Distribution Supervisor Eddie Cummings and including linemen Omar Bowen, Mustafa Haqq, Patrice Vache, and Kurt Vidal, embarked on their mission from Barbados on November 12. Over the next three weeks, they will collaborate with local teams to restore power in St James, one of the parishes most severely impacted by the hurricane. At a send-off ceremony, Light & Power’s Managing Director Roger Blackman and Vice President of Operations Johann Greaves lauded the volunteers for their dedication and stressed the importance of safety and adherence to protocols in the challenging conditions they will face. Blackman expressed gratitude on behalf of Light & Power and CARILEC, highlighting the significance of regional cooperation during crises. Greaves echoed these sentiments, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to represent both the company and Barbados with pride. This initiative underscores the critical role of collaborative efforts among CARILEC members, an association of electric utility providers across the Caribbean and the Americas, in addressing natural disasters. By sharing resources and expertise, these organizations aim to expedite recovery, strengthen infrastructure, and deliver essential support when it is most needed.
作者： admin
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Trump’s “Sort of” Made up His Mind on Venezuela Action
President Donald Trump has indicated that he has ‘sort of’ made a decision regarding the U.S. approach to Venezuela, though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics. Speaking to CBS News aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed that his administration is actively considering various military options. These include land-based strikes and other operations targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is accused by the U.S. of supporting armed criminal gangs involved in drug trafficking.
Over the past two months, U.S. forces have conducted strikes on at least 21 vessels, resulting in the deaths of over 80 suspected traffickers. Despite these actions, several Western European governments have expressed skepticism, stating they have yet to see concrete evidence directly linking Maduro to cartel operations.
The situation has further intensified with the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the U.S. Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier, to the Caribbean. This move is part of a broader military buildup in the region, which now includes destroyers, warplanes, and special operations units. According to CNN, the U.S. military presence in the area has surpassed 15,000 personnel.
In response to the growing U.S. military footprint, Maduro has ordered a nationwide military mobilization. This escalation underscores the heightened tensions between the two nations and raises concerns about the potential for further conflict.
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Voting now open for the Dominica Music Awards 2025
The Dominica Music Awards (DMA) 2025 has officially launched its public voting phase, inviting music enthusiasts from Dominica and beyond to participate in recognizing the island’s most talented artists, producers, and creative professionals. Scheduled for January 3, 2026, at the prestigious InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, the event promises to be a landmark celebration of musical innovation, cultural heritage, and artistic achievement. Organized by Creole Heartbeat, the DMA aims to elevate Dominican music on both regional and global stages while fostering economic growth within the creative sector. Fans can now cast their votes through the official online portal, which offers a straightforward and transparent process. The awards feature 23 diverse categories, including Bouyon Artist of the Year, Soca Artist of the Year, and Reggae/Dancehall Artist of the Year, alongside Special Awards of Honor for lifetime achievements and cultural contributions. The DMA not only highlights artistic excellence but also underscores the vital role of music in shaping Dominica’s cultural identity and national development.
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Will Windies deliver a Christmas Test series miracle? ‘Reds’ weighs in
As the West Indies prepare to face New Zealand in a three-match Test series starting December 1, veteran cricket commentator Joseph Reds Perreira has pinpointed the Caribbean team’s batting as the decisive factor in their quest for victory. Historically, the Windies have struggled in New Zealand, securing only four Test wins away from home, with their last triumph dating back to 1995. Despite these challenges, Perreira remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the importance of consistent batting performance. He noted that while the bowling attack could be competitive if executed correctly, the batting lineup will ultimately determine the series outcome. The West Indies and New Zealand have clashed 49 times in Tests since 1951, with New Zealand holding a slight edge with 17 wins to the Windies’ 13. However, New Zealand’s home advantage has often been a significant factor in their success. Perreira also highlighted a potential setback for the West Indies: the likely absence of star allrounder Jason Holder, who is reportedly unavailable due to commitments in a T10 competition in Dubai. Holder’s absence could disrupt the team’s balance, as he has been a pivotal player with 3,073 runs and 157 wickets in 69 Tests. Perreira expressed concern over the team’s preparation, suggesting that a pre-series camp in New Zealand would have been beneficial but was hindered by financial constraints. He also emphasized the need for wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach to acclimatize early to the swing-friendly conditions. Despite these hurdles, Perreira remains hopeful for a festive miracle, urging fans to wait for the official squad announcement and favorable weather conditions. The series promises to be a stern test for the West Indies, who aim to deliver a Christmas present to their fans by the end of December.
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CARPHA celebrates global Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) awareness week: Highlighting regional progress in combatting AMR
The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is at the forefront of the global effort to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) 2025. AMR, often referred to as the ‘silent pandemic,’ poses a significant threat to public health, healthcare systems, and sustainable development worldwide. This phenomenon occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the drugs designed to eliminate them, rendering infections increasingly difficult or impossible to treat. CARPHA’s participation in WAAW 2025, themed ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,’ underscores its commitment to promoting responsible antimicrobial use and advancing its Integrated AMR Programme. This initiative, supported by key partners including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Fleming Fund, and the Pandemic Fund Project, employs a multi-sectoral approach to enhance regional AMR surveillance, laboratory infrastructure, and coordinated responses. A cornerstone of CARPHA’s efforts is the Caribbean Antimicrobial Resistance Alliance (CARA), which serves as the technical and operational hub for AMR initiatives. CARA is establishing AMR reference laboratories in Trinidad, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia and developing a regional AMR surveillance system to improve data collection, reporting, and analysis. Additionally, CARPHA has prioritized expanding laboratory capacities in Jamaica and Saint Lucia, complementing its existing CARPHA Medical Microbiology Laboratory in Trinidad. These advancements enable faster pathogen detection, reduce diagnostic delays, and improve access to high-quality AMR testing. CARPHA has also focused on workforce development, hosting technical experts and organizing training workshops on phenotypic testing, molecular diagnostics, Whole Genome Sequencing, and AMR surveillance. With substantial funding from the Pandemic Fund and the Fleming Fund, CARPHA is enhancing laboratory upgrades, workforce training, and surveillance integration across the region. Dr. Lisa Indar, CARPHA’s Executive Director, emphasizes the urgency of collective action: ‘Antimicrobial resistance threatens the health and development of every Caribbean nation. Success requires the involvement of governments, healthcare providers, veterinarians, farmers, laboratories, and the public.’ CARPHA continues to expand its surveillance, testing capabilities, and One Health partnerships, urging all stakeholders to champion responsible antimicrobial use and support AMR prevention initiatives.
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The Jutagirs’ Scottish wedding rewards Barbadian strays
Jevan Jutagir, founder of Red Advertising & Marketing, and Danielle St-Pierre recently celebrated their union in a picturesque Scottish wedding ceremony at King’s College Chapel in Aberdeen, Scotland. The historic chapel, dating back to 1498 AD, holds special significance for Jutagir, who once served as student union president at the University of Aberdeen. Guests from Barbados, Trinidad, and Canada, the bride’s birthplace, gathered to witness the joyous occasion.
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Branch Office Burglarized; Police Launch Investigation
Authorities are currently probing a break-in at a political branch office located on Federation Road, where intruders forcibly entered the premises and absconded with several items. The incident is estimated to have occurred between 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, and 8 a.m. on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. The office secretary confirmed that the building was securely locked the previous afternoon but was discovered breached upon the staff’s return the following morning. Preliminary reports indicate that the perpetrator(s) utilized a heavy tool to pry open an eastern door to gain access. Among the stolen items were a laptop, a composition book, and two AAA batteries, though the total value of the missing goods remains undetermined. Despite a thorough search of the vicinity, no suspects have been apprehended. Forensic experts have been summoned to examine the scene meticulously as the investigation continues.
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US Embassy: US Military ties run deep in Trinidad and Tobago
As US military personnel arrived in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) for a week-long training mission with the TT Defence Force (TTDF), concerns over escalating tensions with neighboring Venezuela have surfaced. The US Embassy, however, has sought to allay fears, emphasizing the longstanding security cooperation between the US and TT, which it claims benefits both nations and the broader region. This marks the second visit by the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), deployed in the Caribbean since late August to combat suspected narco-trafficking. Their previous visit in October saw the USS Gravely, a guided missile destroyer, dock in Port of Spain, sparking accusations from Venezuela of provocation and collusion with US intelligence agencies. Foreign Minister Sean Sobers announced the return of the 22nd MEU for exercises in urban and rural settings, including nighttime helicopter operations. The rapid succession of US military activities in the region, coupled with recent airstrikes targeting drug smugglers, has raised eyebrows. While Washington frames its presence as a counter-narcotics effort, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro views it as a threat. US President Donald Trump has hinted at further actions against Venezuela, though specifics remain undisclosed. TT’s government, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has expressed strong support for US military actions, citing the country’s vulnerability to illegal drug and weapons trade from Venezuela. The US Embassy highlighted recent collaborations, including infrastructure upgrades and donations to a local school, as well as joint training exercises aimed at enhancing regional security. These efforts, the embassy asserts, underscore the enduring partnership between the US and TT, rooted in shared values and mutual defense goals.
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Malabar Youngstars, Athletic Utd clash for EFA title
The stage is set for an electrifying finale in the 2025 Eastern Football Association (EFA) tournament as defending champions Malabar Youngstars FC and Athletic United FC prepare to clash on November 16 at the Phase 2 La Horquetta recreation grounds. The two teams secured their spots in the championship match following contrasting semifinal victories on November 9. Athletic United edged past FC Maloney with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of Terron Miller’s decisive 27th-minute strike. Meanwhile, Malabar Youngstars delivered a dominant performance, cruising to a 3-0 victory over CPC Athletic International Academy. Ronaldo Boyce opened the scoring in the 37th minute, followed by an own goal from CPC’s Khaden Caraby in the 61st minute. Substitute Shandon Llanos sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal. Malabar aims to secure back-to-back EFA titles after their 2-1 triumph over CG Poseidon last year, while Athletic United will look to thwart their ambitions. Earlier in the day, CPC Athletic International Academy and FC Maloney will compete in the third-place playoff for a $5,000 prize, with the tournament winners and runners-up set to receive $15,000 and $10,000, respectively.
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Psychologist: Emotional pain if paternity test comes back negative
The revelation that a child one has raised and loved is not biologically their own can deliver a profound psychological blow, particularly for men. This discovery not only impacts the individual but also reverberates through the extended family and the child themselves. Counseling psychologist Sule Joseph, in an interview with Newsday, emphasized the extensive and enduring emotional fallout from such situations. This discussion followed a claim by the Fathers’ Association of Trinidad and Tobago that one in three men who underwent paternity tests between 2020 and 2025 at a judiciary-approved facility were not the biological fathers. However, Joseph cautioned that this statistic reflects a specific subset of individuals who already harbored suspicions and thus may not be representative of the broader population. He noted that while there is a subculture in Trinidad and Tobago that often rationalizes infidelity, the discovery of non-paternity through a test remains a harsh and traumatic experience, regardless of prior relationship status. The association has consequently renewed its call for mandatory DNA testing before courts issue maintenance orders. Joseph highlighted that while some men might feel relief upon confirming their suspicions, those who have formed deep emotional bonds with the child could face devastating psychological consequences, including feelings of confusion, betrayal, self-doubt, and anger. The emotional damage is often exacerbated by societal expectations and the perceived attack on male ego. Children, too, are significantly affected, potentially experiencing confusion, fear, anger, and insecurity, which can disrupt their sense of identity and belonging. Joseph advised that such information should be shared with the child at an emotionally stable time and in a supportive environment to minimize psychological harm. The ripple effects extend to the wider family, with relatives also grappling with feelings of confusion and betrayal. In the legal realm, paternity disputes can arise in court for various reasons. A Family Court lawyer explained that if a father’s name is not on the birth certificate, the mother must first apply for a paternity order. If the man denies paternity, the court will refer them for a DNA test. Even if the father’s name is on the birth certificate, the court may order a DNA test if the man expresses doubt. The lawyer emphasized the complexity of removing a name from a birth certificate, as it involves considering the child’s well-being. She supported the call for mandatory DNA testing in disputed cases, arguing that it could prevent long-term emotional and financial burdens. Ultimately, the court aims to balance the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain paramount.