Carib Scope

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  • Playwrights Workshop hosts dramatic reading of Help by Kaithlyn De Gazon

    Playwrights Workshop hosts dramatic reading of Help by Kaithlyn De Gazon

    Playwrights Workshop Trinbago (PWT), in partnership with the Trinidad Theatre Workshop (TTW) and Torch Theatre Company, is set to present a dramatic reading of Kaithlyn De Gazon’s poignant play, ‘Help,’ on October 24. The event will take place at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, located at 6 Newbold Street, St Clair, starting at 7 pm. This monthly series of dramatic readings offers a platform for emerging playwrights to showcase their work and engage with the audience.

    ‘Help’ delves into the harrowing journey of a young girl grappling with the ghosts of her past and the emotional turmoil they evoke. The narrative explores how these internal struggles profoundly impact her relationships with those around her. The play, which marks De Gazon’s debut as a playwright, was first introduced in the PWT Monthly Readers Theatre Series (MRTS) in 2021 and later featured as a dramatic reading at the 2023 Bocas Lit Fest.

    Kaithlyn De Gazon, a theatre arts teacher and graduate of the University of the West Indies (UWI) with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts, has a rich background in the performing arts. Her journey began as a dancer in secondary school, eventually leading her to acting and technical theatre.

    PWT is extending an invitation to actors, playwrights, directors, producers, and the general public to attend the reading and participate in a post-performance discussion. This dialogue aims to provide constructive feedback to assist De Gazon in further refining her script. The discussion will be conducted with sensitivity, given the play’s exploration of themes such as severe depression and suicide. Attendees are advised to exercise discretion due to the intense subject matter.

  • The mystical oilbird

    The mystical oilbird

    In a serendipitous encounter, an oilbird was discovered roosting at St. Benedict’s College in La Romaine, south Trinidad, far from its known colonies. This rare sighting provided a unique teaching opportunity for the school staff. The oilbird, a nocturnal marvel, is one of the most remarkable yet overlooked species in Trinidad’s rich biodiversity. Unlike the vibrant hummingbird or the powerful hawk-eagle, the oilbird’s unassuming appearance belies its extraordinary adaptations and ecological significance. Native to Trinidad, which shares much of its ecology with South America, the oilbird thrives in darkness, spending its days in lightless caves and emerging at night to forage. With a wingspan exceeding one metre, these birds embark on nightly journeys, sometimes covering over 100 kilometres in search of their exclusive diet of fruits from palms, laurels, and bursera trees. This dietary specialization makes them vital seed dispersers, ensuring the propagation of their food trees. Oilbirds possess unique sensory adaptations, including echolocation and an unparalleled sensitivity to light, with retinal rod densities of one million rods per millimetre—the highest among vertebrates. Their social structure is equally fascinating, with monogamous pairs raising broods in large colonies that can number in the thousands. Despite their ecological importance, oilbirds face threats from human exploitation, historically hunted for their oil and meat. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this enigmatic species and its habitat, ensuring its survival alongside humanity.

  • Padarath: No plan to fire WASA workers

    Padarath: No plan to fire WASA workers

    In a heated session before the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath assured that the government has no intention of dismissing workers at the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA). This declaration came as the committee approved a substantial budgetary allocation of $3.27 billion to the Ministry of Public Utilities. Padarath emphasized the administration’s commitment to retaining WASA employees and enhancing the authority’s financial viability, stating, ‘This administration is hell-bent on keeping WASA employees in their jobs.’ He also highlighted collaboration with the Public Services Association (PSA), which represents the majority of WASA workers and is aligned with the ruling United National Congress (UNC).

    Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales, a former public utilities minister, criticized the UNC’s past actions, recalling that the People’s Partnership coalition, led by the UNC, had planned to lay off 30,000 workers during the 2010-2015 period. He credited the People’s National Movement (PNM) with thwarting this plan upon assuming office in 2015 and implementing a transformation strategy that improved water supply for many citizens. Padarath, however, dismissed these claims, asserting that the PNM’s efforts yielded no significant results and instead led to questionable state contracts benefiting certain individuals.

    The session grew contentious as opposition MPs, including Stuart Young and Colm Imbert, questioned Padarath about potential job cuts at WASA, particularly in light of a review of National Insurance System (NIS) contributions. Padarath maintained that the review would not result in job losses, but Young expressed skepticism, accusing the government of planning significant workforce reductions. The debate escalated into personal jabs, with Padarath suggesting Imbert consult a psychiatrist and Imbert dismissing Padarath’s remarks as irrelevant. Speaker Jagdeo Singh intervened multiple times to restore order.

    Padarath also addressed concerns about a $50 million reduction in contract employment at WASA, asserting that vacant positions would be filled through the government’s National Recruitment Drive, which aims to create 20,000 jobs in its initial phase. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, in his recent budget presentation, announced the termination of the Cepep and URP programs, pledging to replace them with better-paid, full-time employment opportunities funded by a $475 million Employment Fund. The government’s focus remains on ending state funding of criminal gangs and improving public utility services.

  • ‘Pres’ blow SSFL title race open with win over rivals ‘Naps’

    ‘Pres’ blow SSFL title race open with win over rivals ‘Naps’

    In a thrilling encounter at the Naparima College Ground on October 22, Presentation College San Fernando delivered a significant blow to Naparima College’s unbeaten streak in the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The decisive moment came in the second minute of first-half extra time when Josiah Bain’s audacious long-range effort from just outside the center circle found the back of the net, albeit with a stroke of luck. The ball ricocheted off the crossbar, evaded goalkeeper Mikhail Clement’s grasp, and ultimately bounced into the goal, sending the Presentation supporters into a frenzy. Despite Naparima’s relentless efforts to equalize in the second half, including opportunities for substitutes Adasa Richardson and Ryan Radellant, they were unable to break through Presentation’s resilient defense. The result narrows the gap between fourth-placed Presentation (24 points) and league leaders Naparima (27 points), reigniting the title race. Presentation’s coach, Dunstan Williams, expressed satisfaction with the outcome but acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating that their title hopes hinge on other teams’ performances. Meanwhile, defending champions Fatima College capitalized on the situation, moving within two points of the top after a high-scoring 6-4 victory over Arima North. The league now heads into its final phase, with several key matches scheduled for October 25, promising intense competition as teams vie for the coveted title.

  • ‘Natty’ James scores double in historic Portland win

    ‘Natty’ James scores double in historic Portland win

    In a spectacular display of skill and teamwork, Portland Hearts of Pine delivered a resounding 6-1 victory over Spokane Velocity in their USL League One match on October 21. The star of the match was Trinidad and Tobago striker Nathaniel “Natty” James, who scored two stunning goals to set the tone for his team’s dominant performance. The match, held at Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland, drew a record-breaking crowd of 6,440 spectators, who witnessed Portland’s relentless attack and clinical finishing. James opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a precise left-footed shot into the top corner, following a brilliant assist from Jay Tee Kamara. Ollie Wright extended the lead with a penalty in the 35th minute, but Spokane managed to pull one back in the 41st minute. James quickly restored Portland’s two-goal advantage with another left-footed strike from outside the box. Nathan Messer and Titus Washington added to the tally, while Kamara capped off the scoring with a stylish finish in the 67th minute. This historic win keeps Portland in playoff contention with one game left in the season.

  • Homeland Security Minister: Police will lease, buy vehicles

    Homeland Security Minister: Police will lease, buy vehicles

    During a heated session at the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives on October 22, Minister of National Security Roger Alexander outlined a dual strategy for police vehicle procurement: purchasing and leasing. The latter, he emphasized, is aimed at reducing maintenance costs. The draft estimates of recurrent expenditure revealed a significant shift in allocations, with $25 million earmarked for vehicle rentals—a rise from $18.5 million last year—while maintenance costs saw a $15 million reduction, dropping from $39.95 million to $25 million. Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales pressed Alexander on the number of suppliers involved, to which the minister responded with a vague ’18,’ declining to disclose specifics citing national security concerns. Opposition MPs, including Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert, challenged the secrecy, questioning how routine vehicle details could pose a security risk. Alexander remained steadfast, asserting that compromising national security was not an option. He later clarified that the government would lease vehicles to cut maintenance expenses, with Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young arguing that the public had a right to know the leasing companies. Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle probed the leasing process, but Alexander’s responses remained evasive. The minister also announced plans to purchase 300 ‘purpose-built’ vehicles, though opposition MPs questioned the adequacy of the budget. Laventille East/Morvant MP Christian Birchwood highlighted a ‘sharp increase’ in funds for minor police equipment, with Alexander citing national security as the reason for withholding detailed purchase lists.

  • Las Cuevas woman tells Trump: Stop killing innocent people

    Las Cuevas woman tells Trump: Stop killing innocent people

    The family of Chad Joseph, a Las Cuevas resident allegedly killed in a US missile strike on a boat suspected of drug trafficking, is demanding accountability and an end to what they describe as the killing of innocent people in Caribbean waters. Speaking after a nine-night memorial service at St Michael’s RC Church on October 22, Lynette Burnley, Joseph’s aunt, addressed US President Donald Trump directly, urging him to halt such actions. “I just want to tell him to stop it,” Burnley said. “He’s killing innocent people and destroying families. He wouldn’t want this to happen to his family, so he needs to stop.”

    The October 14 strike reportedly claimed six lives, including Joseph and another Trinidadian, Samaroo. Burnley condemned the attack as an extrajudicial killing, emphasizing that the fishermen in the area are now too fearful to venture out to sea. She also criticized the Prime Minister’s recent remarks advocating violent measures against drug traffickers, arguing that such actions are inhumane and unjust. “They’re human beings. They should be warned, held accountable, and charged if necessary, but not killed,” she said.

    Burnley expressed skepticism about the authorities treating the incident as a missing-persons case, questioning how they could be certain no Trinidadians were killed. Despite the overwhelming grief, she clings to hope that Joseph might still be alive. “Every day brings more pain, but I can’t believe he’s gone. I still believe he’s out there, and someone could find him,” she said.

    Joseph’s grandmother, Christine Clement, echoed this sentiment, describing the family’s sorrow and their refusal to file a missing person’s report as advised by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander. She vehemently denied allegations that Joseph was involved in drug trafficking, calling them “a big lie.” Burnley added that Joseph frequently traveled between Trinidad and Venezuela for work, assisting with farming and land maintenance.

    The family first learned of Joseph’s alleged death through social media, where a video of the destroyed boat circulated. During the memorial service, Father Kenneth Assing acknowledged the tragic and unexpected nature of Joseph’s death, offering comfort to the grieving family and community. “This burden of tragic death is not easy. It will weigh heavily on your hearts and minds,” he said, reminding attendees of God’s grace and mercy.

  • Chronixx earns third top 10 on Billboard with Exile

    Chronixx earns third top 10 on Billboard with Exile

    Jamaican reggae sensation Chronixx has secured his third top 10 entry on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart with his latest album, ‘Exile,’ debuting at #5. Released on October 10 under Forever Living Originals, the 17-track project also made its mark at #15 on the UK Official Download Albums chart. The album features emotionally resonant tracks such as ‘Pain in Your Heart,’ ‘Survivor,’ ‘Genesis,’ and ‘Family First.’ This achievement adds to Chronixx’s impressive discography, which includes the #1 EP ‘Dread & Terrible’ (2014) and the Grammy-nominated ‘Chronology’ (2017). Meanwhile, Bob Marley and the Wailers continue their reign at #1 with ‘Legend,’ now in its 301st non-consecutive week atop the chart. Other notable entries include Shaggy’s ‘Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection’ at #2, Stick Figure’s ‘World on Fire’ at #3, and Sean Paul’s ‘Dutty Rock’ at #4. Stick Figure also claims two spots in the top 10 with ‘Wisdom’ (#6) and ‘Set in Stone’ (#7). Damian Marley’s Grammy-winning ‘Welcome to Jamrock’ climbs to #8, while UB40’s ‘Greatest Hits’ drops to #9 and Bob Marley’s ‘Exodus’ holds steady at #10. On the global stage, Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng, and Shenseea’s ‘Shake it to the Max (Fly)’ remix remains #1 on the US Afrobeats Songs chart, while Sarz, Asaka, Wizkid, and Skillibeng’s ‘Getting Paid’ rises to #2 on Nigeria’s Turntable Top 100. DJ Khaled’s ‘You Remind Me’ featuring Vybz Kartel and others moves up to #27 on the Rhythmic Airplay chart, and Sean Paul’s ‘Ginger’ dips to #38. In Canada, Jurney Star’s ‘Ready or Not’ claims the #1 spot on the Rebel Vibez Top Ten Canadian Reggae chart, while Singer Irie’s ‘Spread Love’ leads the New York Reggae chart. South Florida’s Reggae chart sees Hopeton Lindo and Marcia Griffiths’ ‘A House is Not a Home’ maintain its #1 position for the third week.

  • Government races to clear Sandy Gully ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa

    Government races to clear Sandy Gully ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa

    As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches, the Jamaican Government has ramped up emergency efforts to address vulnerabilities in the Sandy Gully, a critical drainage system in Kingston. Robert Morgan, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, emphasized that the current measures are temporary, pending the finalization of a multi-billion-dollar rehabilitation project. Speaking during a site visit to the Spanish Town Bridge section of the gully, Morgan revealed that crews from the National Works Agency (NWA) have been deployed to clear debris and reinforce at-risk areas.

    The Sandy Gully, which spans approximately eight kilometers from Red Hills to Kingston Harbour, has long been plagued by silt buildup, illegal dumping, and encroachment, significantly reducing its capacity to handle stormwater. Morgan highlighted that the large-scale rehabilitation project is progressing through the Public Investment Management System (PIMS), the Government’s framework for major capital projects. However, he stressed that immediate safety remains the top priority.

    Despite these efforts, Anthony Hylton, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Western, criticized the Government’s focus on the bridge section, arguing that it overlooks more severe damage further upstream. Hylton warned that eroded areas upstream pose a direct threat to residents, infrastructure, and Jamaica Public Service (JPS) installations. He expressed frustration over the lack of urgent intervention, noting that his repeated calls for action have gone unanswered.

    Hylton revealed that he had to enlist the help of an international organization to clear debris at the gully’s mouth, where blockages could exacerbate flooding in nearby communities. He emphasized that temporary clean-ups are insufficient to prevent future disasters, urging the Government to address the broader issues affecting the gully.

    Both officials agree that protecting lives is paramount as Tropical Storm Melissa looms. While Morgan insists that the Government is acting swiftly to manage immediate risks, Hylton maintains that comprehensive, long-term solutions are essential to safeguard homes and livelihoods. The Sandy Gully’s vulnerabilities underscore the urgent need for sustained investment and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events in Jamaica.

  • Seafood Saturday @ Jamwest Beach

    Seafood Saturday @ Jamwest Beach

    Negril’s iconic seven-mile beach, celebrated for its pristine sands and azure waters, is now gaining recognition for its exceptional beachfront dining experiences. Among these, Jamwest Beach stands out as a culinary haven that blends the essence of Jamaican culture with a vibrant beachfront atmosphere. Since its inception in July 2023, Jamwest has been redefining the dining scene with its diverse offerings and immersive experiences.

    Jamwest Beach is more than just a place to enjoy the sun; it’s a multisensory journey where the rhythm of the waves harmonizes with the flavors of Jamaica. The Swing Bar serves refreshing cocktails, while the Roast kitchen offers grilled seafood, jerk pork, chicken, and other Jamaican staples like curried goat and braised oxtail. The Mocha Café caters to lighter tastes with pastries, wraps, salads, and pizza, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

    At the heart of Jamwest’s culinary success are chefs Donovan O’Connor and Jermain Jarrett, whose expertise in Mexican, Italian, and Caribbean cuisines elevates the dining experience. Their passion for experimenting with flavors keeps the menu fresh and exciting. The café’s offerings are designed to be quick and casual, adding a laid-back vibe to the bustling town of Negril.

    Leethan Grandison, the reservations manager, highlights the establishment’s dynamic events, including live DJs, Seafood Saturdays, Sunday Brunch, Sunset Soirée, and Karaoke Fridays. Special events for birthdays and celebrations further enhance the vibrant atmosphere.

    What truly sets Jamwest apart is its unparalleled ambiance. Guests dine just steps from the surf, with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Beyond the food, Jamwest offers adventure with catamaran cruises and party vibes, making it a destination rather than just a restaurant. This unique blend of indulgence and adventure has cemented Jamwest’s place on Negril’s culinary map.

    Photos by Aceion Cunningham capture the essence of Jamwest Beach, from its mouthwatering dishes to its breathtaking views. Located on Norman Manley Boulevard in Negril, Jamwest Beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable beachfront dining experience.