Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Music Makers to lead both parades

    Music Makers to lead both parades

    The vibrant pulse of Junkanoo resonated across Montagu Beach this Saturday as the annual number picking ceremony electrified the atmosphere, marking the official commencement of the highly anticipated parade season. This pivotal event, steeped in tradition and competitive spirit, drew massive crowds of enthusiasts and local residents eager to witness the determination of performance order for the iconic Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades.

    In a ceremony brimming with anticipation, representatives from the nation’s premier Junkanoo groups stepped forward to draw their positions. The results set the stage for a thrilling competitive landscape. For the prestigious Boxing Day Parade A Category, the Music Makers clinched the coveted first position, earning the right to lead the procession. They will be followed in sequence by the Shell Saxons Superstars, The Prodigal Sons, The Valley Boys, Roots, One Family, Genesis Warhawks, and the World Famous 1958 group.

    The B Category lineup for Boxing Day will be spearheaded by The Ultimate Force. The subsequent order includes Redland Soldiers, Dynasty Junkanoo Group, Foundation Junkanoo Group, Chipping Knights, Colours, Body of Christ Crusaders, The Immortals, Fancy Dancers, The New Viking, and The Mighty Eagles.

    Demonstrating remarkable consistency, the Music Makers also secured the lead for the New Year’s Day Parade A Category. The full running order for January 1st is set as follows: Music Makers, World Famous 1958, The Valley Boys, Shell Saxon Superstars, Genesis Warhawks, One Family, Prodigal Sons, and Roots.

    The B Category order for the New Year’s Day spectacle will commence with Z Bandits, followed by Chipping Knights, The Ultimate Force, Conquerors of Christ, Mystical Bombers, Foundation Junkanoo Group, Dynasty Junkanoo Group, The New Viking, Body of Christ Crusaders, Redland Soldiers, The Immortals, Fancy Dancers, Colours, and The Mighty Eagles. This ceremonial drawing of numbers has effectively positioned the groups for their upcoming artistic and musical showdowns on Bay Street.

  • WATCH: Busta Rhymes joins in hurricane relief efforts

    WATCH: Busta Rhymes joins in hurricane relief efforts

    MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — International music icon Trevor “Busta Rhymes” Smith and renowned television producer Mona Scott-Young touched down at Montego Bay’s Private Jet Centre on Monday, embarking on a critical humanitarian mission in response to Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. The high-profile delegation arrived bearing essential emergency supplies to address the immediate needs of affected communities in St. James parish.

    The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between the entertainment figures and the GrassROOTS Community Foundation, a established nonprofit organization specializing in community support and disaster response. Their coordinated effort focuses on delivering targeted aid to areas most severely impacted by the recent hurricane’s path through northwestern Jamaica.

    Jamaican officials provided an official reception committee for the arriving dignitaries, including State Minister for Industry, Investment & Commerce Delano Seiveright and Jamaica Tourist Board Regional Director Odette Dyer. The relief operation will subsequently integrate with broader government efforts under the guidance of Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange and additional officials, ensuring comprehensive coverage of assistance distribution throughout the parish.

    The involvement of internationally recognized figures brings heightened visibility to post-hurricane recovery challenges while demonstrating the powerful role of cross-sector partnerships in disaster response. This coordinated approach between entertainment industry leaders, nonprofit organizations, and government entities establishes a multifaceted framework for addressing both immediate relief needs and longer-term reconstruction requirements in the hurricane-affected region.

  • WATCH: Driver injured in three-vehicle collision on Washington Boulevard

    WATCH: Driver injured in three-vehicle collision on Washington Boulevard

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant traffic incident disrupted morning commutes along Washington Boulevard in St. Andrew this Monday, resulting in one serious injury and a police investigation. The collision, which involved three vehicles, occurred shortly after 5:00 AM near the intersection with Weymouth Drive.

    According to preliminary reports, the chain of events began when a tractor trailer initiated a right turn from Washington Boulevard onto Weymouth Drive. Simultaneously, two passenger vehicles—a Toyota Mark X and a Nissan Teana—were traveling in a westerly direction on the main thoroughfare. The vehicles subsequently collided with the large truck during its maneuver.

    The impact of the crash inflicted serious injuries upon the driver of the Toyota Mark X. Emergency services responded to the scene, and the individual was promptly transported to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment. The condition of the Nissan Teana’s driver was not immediately specified in initial reports.

    Law enforcement officials confirmed that the driver of the tractor trailer was taken into police custody following the incident. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under active investigation by local authorities to determine the precise sequence of events and assign liability.

    The early morning accident caused substantial traffic delays during the peak commute period, with emergency crews working to clear the wreckage and manage the scene. This incident highlights ongoing traffic safety concerns on major Jamaican roadways.

  • Sands: Merging hotel college with UB ‘worst decision I ever made’

    Sands: Merging hotel college with UB ‘worst decision I ever made’

    Robert Sands, immediate past president of the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), has publicly declared that merging the Bahamas Hotel Training College with the University of The Bahamas stands as “the worst decision I ever made in my tourism career.” The candid admission came during a panel on workforce development at the Bahamas Out Islands Promotion Board’s Annual General Meeting.

    Sands, who originally supported the consolidation, now believes it dismantled a vital pipeline for practical, skills-based education tailored for the hospitality industry. He argued that while some tourism professionals thrive in academic settings, the majority of sector workers are “more practically endowed.” The merger, he contended, effectively “eliminated an opportunity for persons to matriculate in their passions.” This revelation arrives amid renewed efforts to reintroduce robust vocational training programs to address critical staffing shortages.

    The workforce challenge is particularly acute in the Family Islands, described by BOIPB executive director Kerry Fountain as a “shallow workforce pool.” Sands acknowledged the issue’s complexity, noting it is more severe in the Out Islands than in New Providence. However, he highlighted a positive shift: an 18-month collaboration between the University of The Bahamas and major hotel operators is signaling a stronger focus on bridging these gaps. Several hotels are now partnering directly with UB to identify and recruit suitable students.

    Sands also pointed to a structural flaw within the industry contributing to stagnation: compensation models that sometimes result in line employees out-earning their managers. This creates a disincentive for upward mobility, forcing hotels to “work with and train up” middle managers internally. The solution, Sands explained, requires creating structured pathways for advancement and ensuring commensurate compensation.

    Reflecting on his own career, Sands shared that his advancement was fueled by a willingness to seek international experience, even taking a pay cut for a position in Guyana in 1982. He contrasted this with a modern reluctance among workers to leave their “comfort zone,” urging Bahamian hotel employees to embrace such growth opportunities when they arise, viewing them as a strategic step backward to ultimately make ten steps forward.

  • Mom kisses son ‘goodbye’ in funeral service for slain officer

    Mom kisses son ‘goodbye’ in funeral service for slain officer

    The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services and the Eleuthera community gathered in profound grief on Friday to honor the life of Ashantio ‘Clevorn’ Johnson, a 23-year-old trainee correctional officer whose promising career was tragically cut short by fatal stabbing last month. The emotional funeral service at a local church saw uniformed officers and mourners dressed in green and gold filling the sanctuary to capacity, creating a somber atmosphere of collective mourning.

    Johnson’s mother became the embodiment of parental anguish as she kissed her son’s face in the casket, initially maintaining composure before collapsing into raw grief, crying out his name and calling upon God for strength. Her heart-wrenching cries of ‘Look at my baby’ and ‘Oh Clevorn, why do this to mummy?’ echoed through the church, moving many attendees to tears.

    The service revealed Johnson’s remarkable character through heartfelt tributes from loved ones. A female cousin remembered him as more than family—a protective brother who made women feel safe and provided unconditional love. Chief Corrections Officer Zhavonne Mackey, whom Johnson affectionately called ‘Paps,’ delivered a particularly moving recollection of their father-son-like bond developed during training. He described Johnson as exceptionally calm-spirited, never raising his voice even when corrected, and instead responding with smiles and thoughtful comments.

    Prison Commissioner Doan Clear highlighted Johnson’s early legacy, noting his voluntary decision to ‘go on the battlefield’ and his recruitment as one of only two qualified candidates from Eleuthera. Classmates from North Eleuthera High School’s Class of 2020 remembered him as unforgettable—filled with humor, joy, and infectious energy.

    The tragedy occurred in the early hours of November 5 on Baillou Hill North, where Johnson was fatally stabbed and two of his squad mates were injured during a violent altercation at Blu Ice Restaurant & Bar. The incident happened mere months after Johnson’s proud father witnessed his graduation from the correctional services training program. Twenty-one-year-old Michael Petty has been remanded to prison facing charges connected to Johnson’s death and the attempted killings of Perry Butler and Gregory Bullard.

    At the graveside, grief intensified as mourners knelt by the casket, some hyperventilating, while Johnson’s body was lowered into the ground. Through the pain, Mackey urged Johnson’s fellow trainees to honor his memory through peace, not revenge, remembering that ‘God does not make mistakes’ even in profound tragedy.

  • NOW takes anti-violence message into communities

    NOW takes anti-violence message into communities

    Barbadian civil society organizations are intensifying efforts to address gender-based violence following the country’s downgrade in the United States’ human trafficking report. The National Organisation of Women (NOW) launched a community outreach initiative during the 16 Days of Activism campaign, bringing critical resources directly to vulnerable populations.

    Recent findings from a national intimate partner violence survey conducted by Jabez House reveal that 62% of Barbadian women have experienced some form of gender-based violence. This alarming statistic has prompted urgent action from advocacy groups and government agencies alike.

    NOW President Melissa Savoury-Gittens emphasized the strategic importance of their mobile outreach program. “Many victims suffer in silence because they lack access to proper guidance,” she stated. “Our motorcade creates visible contact points where trained practitioners can offer immediate assistance and connect individuals with essential services.”

    This year’s campaign specifically highlights the growing threat of digital violence, an emerging concern that Savoury-Gittens believes requires immediate attention. “While physical violence remains prevalent, digital abuse is escalating rapidly with technological advancements, including AI. This exposure reveals significant gaps in our legal protections and support systems.”

    William Warner, Director of the Gender Affairs Unit, confirmed that modernization of Barbados’ response to online harm is underway. “Awareness-building remains our immediate priority,” Warner noted. “We’re planning comprehensive school sensitization programs to help young people recognize early warning signs of both physical and digital abuse.”

    Regarding available resources, Warner outlined current support mechanisms including counseling services and vocational training through the Bureau of Gender Affairs. However, he acknowledged that legislative improvements and criminal justice access require further development.

    The NOW motorcade traveled through multiple communities including Warrens, Cheapside, and Golden Square, with practitioners engaging residents and distributing information about support services. Advocates emphasized the importance of recognizing subtle exploitation patterns that often go unnoticed.

    While the 16 Days of Activism provides crucial visibility, Savoury-Gittens stressed that sustained effort is essential. “Meaningful change requires continuous committee work, strengthened partnerships, and legislative advocacy beyond awareness campaigns. Only through persistent action can we ensure lasting safety for all Barbadians.”

  • Man Shot Dead Inside Home in Orange Walk

    Man Shot Dead Inside Home in Orange Walk

    Orange Walk Town was shaken by a violent homicide in the early hours of Sunday morning, December 7, 2025. Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the shooting death of 45-year-old Beris Neemaya Anglin, who was found murdered inside his residence on Progress Street.

    Police units responded to distress calls reporting multiple gunshots at approximately 12:30 a.m. Upon arrival at a white concrete dwelling, officers discovered Anglin’s body lying face down in an extensive pool of blood. The victim had sustained severe gunshot wounds across multiple regions of his body.

    The grim discovery was made by Anglin’s common-law wife, who had just returned from her workplace to encounter the horrific scene. Crime scene investigators documented seven distinct gunshot injuries, including wounds to the facial area, abdomen, right shoulder, back, left foot, and right hand.

    Forensic teams collected substantial evidence from the premises, including multiple discharged 9mm cartridge casings and projectiles. Preliminary reports from neighborhood residents indicate the initial gunfire may have occurred around 11:00 p.m. on Saturday night, suggesting the perpetrator(s) may have remained at the location for some time before fleeing.

    Local law enforcement has intensified patrols in the Orange Walk area while pursuing active leads in this brutal homicide case. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify potential suspects and establish a motive for this targeted attack.

  • Woman Guilty of Meat-Cleaver Attack on Retired Teacher

    Woman Guilty of Meat-Cleaver Attack on Retired Teacher

    A woman has been convicted of wounding with intent following a violent late-night assault on a retired teacher using a meat cleaver. Veyella Peters, in her early 30s, was found guilty in a judge-only trial for the November 28, 2023 attack that left the victim with severe injuries.

    The court proceedings revealed that the two individuals initially met on a bus and subsequently developed an intimate relationship, leading Peters to move into the man’s residence. The situation deteriorated when the victim secured employment at a Christian school and informed Peters she would need to vacate the premises. When she failed to leave voluntarily, he resorted to removing the door to her room.

    According to testimony, the victim awoke to find Peters on top of him before realizing he was bleeding profusely from deep lacerations to his neck and face. Medical evidence presented in court indicated the wounds measured approximately 3cm deep, requiring what a physician described as “severe force” to inflict. During the subsequent struggle, the victim sustained additional injuries while Peters allegedly prevented him from seeking medical attention and falsely claimed to have contacted emergency services.

    Peters provided a contradictory narrative, asserting that the man had previously been her schoolteacher and had behaved inappropriately. She claimed self-defense, stating she had returned home to discover her bedroom door forced open. However, the presiding judge found the victim’s account credible while noting significant inconsistencies in Peters’ testimony, ultimately rejecting her self-defense argument.

    The convicted assailant is scheduled for sentencing on January 30, 2025, where the court will determine appropriate consequences for the grievous assault.

  • PM explains what motivated him to make CXC exam fees free for all students

    PM explains what motivated him to make CXC exam fees free for all students

    In a landmark decision aimed at dismantling financial barriers to education, the Prime Minister has officially declared the complete elimination of examination fees for all students undertaking Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) tests. The policy, announced during a national address, is framed as a transformative investment in human capital and regional competitiveness.

    The Prime Minister articulated that the primary impetus behind the sweeping initiative was direct, poignant feedback from constituents across the nation. He recounted numerous interactions with families who described the substantial financial strain of CXC fees, which often forced difficult choices between educational advancement and basic household necessities. This collective hardship, he stated, highlighted a pervasive inequity where a student’s academic potential was being stifled by economic circumstance rather than intellectual capability.

    Beyond immediate financial relief, the government’s strategy is underpinned by a broader vision for long-term national development. The move is calculated to boost overall student participation and performance in these critical standardized assessments, which serve as fundamental gateways to higher education and skilled employment opportunities throughout the Caribbean community. By ensuring every student can sit for exams without fiscal fear, the administration aims to cultivate a more highly educated workforce, thereby stimulating economic growth and fostering greater social mobility.

    The policy has been met with widespread acclaim from educators, parents, and student advocacy groups, who have long campaigned for such a measure. It represents one of the most significant educational reforms in recent years, fundamentally altering the accessibility of secondary education certification for an entire generation.

  • LETTER TO THE EDITOR: A cat in a tree and a lesson in public service – My experience with the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Service Station

    LETTER TO THE EDITOR: A cat in a tree and a lesson in public service – My experience with the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Service Station

    In an inspiring demonstration of compassion transcending conventional emergency protocols, the Dominica Fire and Ambulance Service executed an unconventional rescue mission in Morne Bruce on December 6th, 2025. The incident began when local resident Yaritza Barbosa discovered a distressed feline trapped precariously high in a tree overlooking a steep cliff adjacent to a main roadway.

    Despite initial attempts using personal equipment, the unstable terrain and deteriorating weather conditions rendered independent rescue impossible. The situation grew increasingly dire as rainfall intensified and daylight faded. Facing limited options, Barbosa’s son contacted local fire services—a decision made with hesitation given widespread assumptions about emergency priorities.

    Contrary to expectations, the Roseau-based fire station dispatched a comprehensive response team within hours. A fire truck and support vehicle arrived carrying eight uniformed officers equipped with specialized gear including safety equipment and an innovative guiding apparatus. Their professional approach immediately alleviated any concerns about the legitimacy of the animal rescue request.

    The rescue operation unfolded with remarkable coordination as officers established a secure perimeter while encouraging the frightened animal. In a dramatic descent, the cat navigated branches downward toward safety as firefighters provided vocal support and strategic guidance. The successful conclusion saw the unharmed feline returned to ground level without injury to personnel or animal.

    Sub Station Officer Andre, who led the operation, articulated the service’s philosophy: all emergencies warrant professional response regardless of scale or species. This perspective highlights the evolving nature of public service that values compassionate intervention alongside traditional emergency response capabilities.

    The episode serves as a powerful reminder that true community protection encompasses both human and animal welfare, challenging preconceived notions about emergency service priorities in modern society.