Ameca Ford McKenzie, a 47-year-old single mother, faced an unimaginable ordeal when she and her two autistic sons were forced to sleep in their car at Saunders Beach. This distressing situation arose after Ms. McKenzie, who works as a security officer, fell behind on rent due to months of financial hardship following the death of her husband earlier this year. Her husband, whom she described as the backbone of the family, had succumbed to colon cancer after 25 years of marriage. Left to navigate life as a single mother, Ms. McKenzie found herself in a dire predicament. Despite reaching out to the Department of Social Services for assistance, she was informed that she was on a waitlist, leaving her with no immediate support. Desperate and with nowhere else to turn, she and her sons spent two sleepless nights in their car. The emotional toll was immense, with her youngest son nearly developing a fever from the stress. However, Ms. McKenzie found solace in her faith, turning to her Bible for comfort and protection. Her story gained public attention, prompting an outpouring of support from the community. Members of the Coalition of Independents (COI), led by Lincoln Bain, stepped in to provide temporary housing assistance. Ms. McKenzie expressed profound gratitude for the unexpected kindness, describing it as a miracle. She also shared that her employer, moved by her story, offered her a full-time position. Now, Ms. McKenzie is focused on rebuilding stability for her family, emphasizing that she refuses to let pride hinder her from seeking help for her children. Her resilience and faith have been strengthened by the experience, and she remains thankful for the support she has received.
作者： admin
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Abaco PLP nomination race heats up with rival claims
The race for the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) nomination in Central and South Abaco has taken an unexpected turn, sparking controversy and internal tensions. Acting Director of Local Government Donald Rolle announced his candidacy, claiming strong support from the newly elected PLP branch in the region. Rolle, who consulted with his family and local party members, asserted that he received a letter of endorsement signed by branch President Bradley Fox Jr. He emphasized his deep ties to Abaco, citing his extensive experience in both public and private sectors, and his commitment to advancing local governance. However, the announcement has caused confusion, as Fox himself is reportedly a leading contender for the nomination and has the backing of key party officials. Sources reveal that Fox had previously acknowledged Rolle’s potential candidacy in a letter to party officials but clarified that it was not an endorsement. The PLP’s Candidates Committee is expected to interview the aspirants later this month. Meanwhile, incumbent MP John Pinder’s decision to seek renomination remains uncertain, with some party members criticizing his performance. In a parallel development, the Free National Movement (FNM) has already ratified Jeremy Sweeting as its candidate for the constituency, setting the stage for a competitive electoral battle.
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US advocacy group demands probe into Guyanese-American’s death
The death of 23-year-old Guyanese-American Dinari McAlmont, who was found dead near the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in The Bahamas earlier this year, has sparked widespread calls for a thorough and impartial investigation. McAlmont’s family, along with the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID), a New York-based advocacy group, have accused Atlantis security staff and the Royal Bahamas Police Force of colluding to potentially cover up a homicide. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis has been urged to intervene and ensure a transparent inquiry into the incident. McAlmont, a resident of Bowie, Maryland, arrived in Nassau on April 4, 2025, with his parents for a family vacation. Less than 24 hours later, he was found dead on a beach, with officials attributing the cause of death to drowning. However, his family disputes this conclusion, citing inconsistencies in the investigation and evidence suggesting foul play. Surveillance footage reportedly shows McAlmont being assaulted by the chief of security at the resort, and his body bore bruises and marks consistent with defensive wounds. Autopsy and toxicology reports revealed ethanol, methanol, and marijuana compounds in his system, along with significant injuries. The family has appealed to U.S. officials, including Congressman Hakeem Jeffries and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, for support. CGID President Rickford Burke warned that the case, if unresolved, could severely damage The Bahamas’ reputation as a safe tourist destination. The organization has called for an independent investigation to determine whether McAlmont’s death was accidental or a homicide, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability.
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Tropical Storm Melissa threatens Jamaica as Bahamians there prepare
Tropical Storm Melissa has gained strength in the Caribbean, triggering a hurricane watch for parts of Haiti and a tropical storm watch for Jamaica, where a significant number of Bahamian students reside. Meteorologists predict that Melissa will escalate into a hurricane by Saturday as it moves northward, bringing torrential rains, powerful winds, and turbulent seas to the region. While The Bahamas remains outside the immediate threat zone, a potential northward shift could result in rain, squalls, and coastal swells affecting the southern islands next week. According to CNN, the storm was positioned 300 miles south of Haiti yesterday, with sustained winds reaching 50 miles per hour. Experts have warned of up to a foot of rainfall in certain areas, raising concerns about flash floods and mudslides, particularly in Hispaniola. Alveta Knight, Bahamian Consul General in Jamaica, assured that her office is vigilantly monitoring the situation and preparing to assist Bahamian citizens, especially students, if necessary. She highlighted that approximately 160 Bahamian students are enrolled in Jamaican universities, alongside 20 to 70 permanent residents, though these numbers vary. Knight emphasized that students are advised to adhere to campus safety protocols, which include evacuation and disaster response plans. In cases where institutional measures fall short, the Bahamian government steps in to ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens. Past hurricanes have seen students transported back to The Bahamas via government-coordinated flights. Knight also noted that assistance is available to all Bahamians who can verify their citizenship, regardless of prior registration with the Consulate. She observed that many Bahamians only seek Consulate support during emergencies, such as the need for emergency travel documents or family crises. With Melissa’s trajectory still uncertain, WESH 2 First Warning Weather forecasts suggest a northward path over Hispaniola, though some models indicate a possible turn toward The Bahamas.
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UNDP announces new round of climate action grants for Bahamas
NASSAU, Bahamas – In a significant move to bolster climate resilience, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced that Bahamian organizations and academic institutions can now apply for climate action grants under the latest funding cycle of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP). Dr. Kishan Khoday, UNDP Resident Representative, revealed that this initiative marks the first time the GEF SGP has deepened its global partnership with the UNDP, which now serves as both the executing and implementing agency for the programme worldwide.
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Melissa expected to become hurricane by Friday—Met Service
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued a tropical storm watch as Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to intensify into a hurricane by Friday. Evan Thompson, the Director of the Meteorological Service, announced during a special press briefing on Wednesday that the island will begin experiencing the storm’s effects as early as Thursday.
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Governor-General warns public of fraudulent investment scams
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Office of the Governor-General (OGG) has issued a stern warning to the public regarding a surge in fraudulent online content falsely associating Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen with various investment schemes. In an official statement released on Wednesday, the OGG clarified that Sir Patrick Allen has no involvement whatsoever with these or any other financial products, trading systems, or investment opportunities. The office emphasized that it has no connection to the individuals or groups promoting these schemes.
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![[UPDATED] CJ Ivor Archie retires, PM extends ‘deep gratitude’ for his service](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/931f73c75d0c3a572a37ab8119972698.jpg)
[UPDATED] CJ Ivor Archie retires, PM extends ‘deep gratitude’ for his service
After nearly two decades at the helm of Trinidad and Tobago’s Judiciary, Chief Justice Ivor Archie has officially announced his retirement, effective October 22. In a statement released on October 21, Archie reflected on his tenure, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve his country and optimism for the future of the Judiciary. He emphasized the importance of leadership succession, stating, “The office of chief justice is not private property… It is a sacred baton held in trust for one’s successors and the nation.” Archie, who became the youngest chief justice in 2008, highlighted his deliberate decision to retire at 65, rather than waiting until the mandatory retirement age of 70, to pursue new challenges and opportunities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar extended her “deep gratitude” for Archie’s 18 years of distinguished service, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation’s judicial landscape. During his tenure, Archie spearheaded judicial reforms, including the modernization of the Judiciary and the expansion of information technology use. However, his leadership was not without controversy, including legal challenges and allegations of misconduct. Archie’s successor will be appointed by the President after consultation with the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader. As he steps down, Archie pledged his full support to his successor, vowing to offer no unsolicited advice. He also expressed heartfelt thanks to his colleagues, staff, and family for their unwavering support throughout his career.
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Reflections on the national budget
As the budget debate in Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament concludes, the fiscal measures announced by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo have come under scrutiny. While initially perceived as fair to the average citizen, the budget has revealed itself to be largely a continuation of past policies, lacking the bold reforms needed to steer the nation toward economic stability and growth. The government’s revenue projections remain heavily reliant on optimistic assumptions about oil and gas prices, the country’s primary income sources. This approach has drawn criticism for its failure to address systemic issues and its reliance on short-term fixes. Key concerns include rising tax burdens on consumers, ineffective tax collection mechanisms, and the absence of a clear strategy to diversify the economy beyond energy. The proposed reforms to the National Insurance Scheme also face skepticism, given the challenges posed by an ageing population and declining workforce participation. Critics argue that the budget lacks strategic direction, offering little insight into plans for critical sectors such as housing, education, agriculture, and national security. The financial burden, as in previous years, will likely fall on consumers, while escalating public debt threatens to burden future generations. Amid these challenges, the author advocates for the implementation of site value taxation, a system that could distribute the tax burden more equitably, promote economic diversification, and stimulate broad-based prosperity. This approach, phased in over several years, could correct imbalances in land, labor, and capital values, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable economy. While the current budget represents a missed opportunity for transformative change, the adoption of innovative fiscal policies could pave the way for a brighter economic future for Trinidad and Tobago.
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Sucre aims for bigger success in 2026
Sucre, the 2025 Youth Soca Champion, is poised to make waves in the soca music industry as he prepares for a monumental year in 2026. Representing the Zig Boi Music Group, this young artiste has already carved out a name for himself and is now gearing up to take on established acts in the upcoming Soca Champions competition. With a new single, *Gimme Wuk Darlin*, set to release soon, Sucre and his team are working tirelessly to ensure its success across diverse audiences.
Under the mentorship of Zig Boi Music Group CEO, Mr. Spine, Sucre has undergone a rigorous two-year development program. This initiative included exposure to live events, studio sessions, and networking opportunities, all while crafting unreleased music. In his second year, Sucre joined the legendary band Traffik, gaining invaluable experience in band dynamics and soundscapes. This led to the formation of the Evolution Band, a youth-centric group aimed at engaging younger audiences in soca music.
Spine reflects on the unexpected announcement of the Soca Champions competition, which provided a much-needed platform for young talent in Trinidad and Tobago. Sucre’s victory in the competition marked a significant milestone in his career, followed by a performance in St. Maarten, where he opened for the Morgan Heritage Family.
At just 24 years old, Sucre is not only focused on his own growth but also on inspiring the next generation of soca artists. With a music degree from the University of the West Indies and a Road March win in Guyana under his belt, Sucre is determined to create a community for young creatives and redefine the sound of soca music.
As he prepares to compete against top acts like Blaka Dan in the 2026 Soca Champions competition, Sucre remains committed to showcasing his talent and proving his worth on the grand stage. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the potential of youth in shaping the future of soca music.