In a groundbreaking move to bolster security, the National Police of Santo Domingo activated its Mobile Drone Operational Unit during Bad Bunny’s highly anticipated concerts at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium over the weekend. The deployment of 14 drones provided uninterrupted real-time aerial surveillance, significantly enhancing the safety of the thousands of fans who attended the Friday and Saturday performances. The drones were instrumental in identifying potential threats, monitoring crowd movements, and ensuring a secure environment throughout the event. Under the leadership of Major General Ramón Antonio Guzmán Peralta, the police collaborated with other institutions to maintain order, assist attendees, and guarantee seamless mobility. The advanced drone technology expanded the police’s observational capabilities, enabling the detection of suspicious activities and improving coordination with ground units for rapid response. Additionally, the system supported facial recognition and vehicle license plate identification in surrounding areas, further strengthening the overall security framework.
分类： society
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Minister Daryl Matthew Thanks Volunteers After Ottos Clean-Up
Daryl Matthew, Minister of Education and parliamentary representative, has extended heartfelt appreciation to the volunteers who actively participated in a community clean-up drive in Ottos last Sunday. The initiative, aimed at removing litter, clearing overgrown areas, and enhancing the neighborhood’s overall appearance, saw significant participation from local residents. Organizers highlighted that the strong turnout underscored a growing community commitment to maintaining clean and attractive public spaces. Matthew lauded the volunteers’ dedication, stressing that preserving a clean environment is a collective responsibility. ‘I extend my gratitude to the men and women who share this commitment and work tirelessly to keep our community clean,’ he remarked. The Minister also reaffirmed his ongoing support for similar initiatives within his constituency. Volunteers expressed optimism about future clean-up activities planned for later this year, viewing them as vital steps toward fostering civic pride and raising environmental awareness.
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WASCO fast-tracks repairs as harsh 2026 drought looms
Saint Lucia is facing a mounting water crisis, with frequent planned and unplanned supply disruptions plaguing communities across the island. Utility officials are bracing for a severe dry spell predicted for 2026, which could be one of the worst in the past decade. The Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) is intensifying efforts to mitigate the impact on residents through a series of infrastructure upgrades and conservation measures. WASCO CEO Zilta George-Leslie emphasized the urgency of water conservation during a recent press conference, citing preparations such as securing water trucks, clearing catchments, and exploring damming in Vanard. The company is also advancing long-term improvements, including a $2.1 million upgrade to the Patience water treatment plant, funded by the CARICOM Development Fund. This project, expected to be completed by late 2026, will transform the facility into a state-of-the-art system with a new intake, pumping station, and treatment plant. Meanwhile, aging pipelines and faulty treatment systems continue to burden residents, particularly in the north. WASCO is also tackling three major capital projects: reconstructing the Millet-Vanard pipeline, upgrading the Theobalds Treatment Plant, and replacing the Bonneterre-Gros Islet pipeline. These initiatives, supported by $4.2 million in concessional financing, aim to significantly improve water supply and reduce losses. Despite challenges in securing funding, WASCO remains committed to minimizing disruptions and ensuring residents receive adequate notice during planned outages. The company has also procured additional water trucks to assist during prolonged shortages. Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire highlighted the strain on utilities from the growing home accommodation market, while political leaders from both major parties emphasized the need for comprehensive solutions, including desalination and pipeline upgrades.
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Courts lit up Bridgetown with 60th anniversary parade
The streets of Bridgetown came alive with vibrant energy on Saturday night as Courts celebrated its 60th anniversary with a spectacular Lighted Parade. Children’s eyes gleamed with excitement, and families braved the light drizzle to witness the dazzling procession. The event, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude from the brand to the public, transformed Broad Street into a canvas of light, color, and festive cheer. The night sky lit up with a stunning fireworks display, leaving onlookers in awe as they struggled to choose between the mesmerizing show above and the illuminated floats below. Each float told a unique story, with Barbadian culture taking center stage through the ‘I’m a Bajan’ float, where dancers in sailor-inspired costumes performed traditional Landship maneuvers. Disney-themed floats, including ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Frozen,’ captivated the youngest spectators, who waved enthusiastically as their favorite characters passed by. The parade also embraced the Christmas spirit, with the ‘Star of Bethlehem’ float depicting the three wise men and angels. However, the loudest cheers erupted for the float featuring Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their cheerful elves, embodying the magic of the holiday season. One attendee shared with Barbados TODAY, ‘This parade was a wonderful idea. It’s a perfect family outing and brings life back to Bridgetown. Unlike the Courts drive-in concert, this allows city residents, many of whom are Courts customers, to walk from home and enjoy the event.’ She added, ‘As a consumer, we truly appreciate it. It would be fantastic if the National Cultural Foundation hosted a concert in Bridgetown during December to attract more people and revitalize the city.’
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Flow empowers students and uplifts families
Flow employees recently demonstrated their commitment to community service during the company’s annual Mission Week, dedicating their time and resources to support some of the island’s most vulnerable and underserved groups. This year’s initiative focused on digital inclusion and community engagement, with Flow partnering with Erdiston Special School, a public institution catering to children aged five to 12 with learning disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental challenges.
As part of its efforts to bridge the digital divide, Flow donated 10 laptops and laptop sleeves to the school. The donation aims to enhance the school’s learning programs and provide students with practical tools to engage with digital resources. Toni Yarde, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Flow, emphasized the company’s dedication to digital inclusivity, stating, ‘Giving back is a core part of who we are at Flow. When we empower these children with the tools they need to learn, we are helping to change lives.’
Beyond the technological contribution, Flow volunteers spent an afternoon revitalizing the school environment. They painted the car park learning area, refreshed alphabet and number games, and interacted directly with students and teachers. This hands-on approach complemented the technology donation, creating a more interactive and accessible learning experience for the children.
Donna Holder, Principal of Erdiston Special School, expressed her gratitude, saying, ‘These devices and the refreshed learning spaces will make an immediate difference in how our students interact, grow, and experience success each day. Partnerships like this remind our children that they are seen, valued, and supported.’
Flow’s Mission Week also extended to addressing broader community needs. In collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Barbados, Flow organized the Cans of Care food drive to assist families facing food insecurity. Employees filled collection barrels and boxes at Flow’s corporate offices, demonstrating their commitment to supporting vulnerable households across the island. Christina Ruck, President of the Rotaract Club of Barbados, praised Flow’s contribution, stating, ‘Their team showed remarkable compassion and unity, helping us extend relief to families who need it most.’
Mission Week is an annual initiative through which Flow employees volunteer their time, expertise, and energy to support community programs focused on learning, environmental sustainability, access, and disaster relief.
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PM Outlines Eco-Tourism Cabins Planned for Christian Valley
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced an ambitious eco-tourism initiative for Christian Valley, Antigua, aimed at blending sustainable development with the preservation of the region’s natural beauty. The project, revealed during an episode of the Browne and Browne Show, will feature solar-powered cottages and an eco-lodge designed to minimize environmental impact. Browne emphasized the valley’s scenic allure, urging citizens to explore its lush greenery. The eco-lodge will comprise 30 to 40 off-grid cabins, offering approximately 80 rooms, and will include amenities such as a pool, restaurant, and other supporting facilities. The Prime Minister highlighted the project’s self-sustainability, with cabins powered by solar energy and equipped with independent water systems. Additionally, residents will have the opportunity to invest in individual cottage units, fostering community involvement. While no specific timeline for construction was provided, Browne confirmed that concept development is in progress, with officials collaborating with land-use planners to ensure the project aligns with environmental preservation goals.
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PM Says Former 2 Drilly Members Could Be Hired to Paint Government Buildings
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reintegrating young men previously associated with the 2 Drilly group into society by offering them paid work to paint public buildings. Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Browne emphasized the dual purpose of this project: to enhance community aesthetics and provide legitimate employment opportunities for at-risk youth. He stated, ‘We want to take them off the block and give them contracts to go and… paint government buildings.’ Browne directly addressed the 2 Drilly group, expressing hope that they are no longer active as a gang and inviting them to participate in the initiative. ‘They can probably come and check me. We can give them a job to paint the fisheries there so they can put some money in their pocket for Christmas,’ he said. This effort is part of a broader strategy to support social and cultural development, focusing not just on economic metrics like GDP but also on fostering a well-cultured society and a clean, attractive environment. The initiative is both economic and social, aiming to provide alternatives to street life while beautifying public spaces in preparation for the Christmas season. Although the start date remains unspecified, the government plans to identify community teams to carry out the work.
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Simons eert ouderen tijdens Bigi Sma Dey: Generaties moeten elkaar blijven dragen
During the Bigi Sma Dey celebration on Saturday, President Jennifer Simons delivered a powerful message urging both young and old to continue supporting one another in the ongoing development of Suriname. The event, organized by the Presidential Srefidensi Commission to mark the country’s 50th anniversary of independence, took place at Waka Pasi and brought together over 500 senior citizens for a day filled with music, snacks, and camaraderie. The attendees, hailing from various care homes in Paramaribo and Wanica, as well as neighborhoods in need of additional support, were honored for their lifelong contributions to the nation’s progress. President Simons highlighted the historical significance of the Waka Pasi/Palmentuin area, where generations of Surinamese have left their mark. ‘We stand today in a Paramaribo built by our ancestors. Each generation adds its stone to the foundation,’ she stated. Addressing the elders, she emphasized that their efforts have paved the way for current generations to build a brighter future, according to the Suriname Communication Service. Simons also expressed her gratitude to the many young volunteers who ensured the seniors enjoyed a relaxing day. She stressed the importance of intergenerational collaboration, noting, ‘The elderly possess experience and wisdom. They still have much to teach us. That’s why young and old must continue to support each other for the betterment of Suriname.’ The president concluded on an optimistic note, wishing everyone a pleasant day and affirming, ‘Sranan sa wini’ (Suriname will prevail).
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City of Boston raises Dominica flag at City Hall; mayor honors Dominican Diaspora leaders
The City of Boston honored Dominica’s rich culture, heritage, and global diaspora with a vibrant flag-raising ceremony on November 7, officially proclaimed as ‘Dominica Day’ by Mayor Michelle Wu. The event, held at City Hall Plaza, symbolized unity, recognition, and cultural pride for the Dominican community in Greater Boston. Organized by the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture, led by Caribbean Cultural Advisor Bianca Rose, and supported by the Equity & Inclusion Cabinet, the ceremony underscored Boston’s commitment to celebrating multiculturalism and immigrant contributions. The event featured a prayer by Pastor Cuthbert Joseph, a spoken word performance by Samirah Johnson, and a heartfelt rendition of the Dominica National Anthem by Marsha White Tucker. The raising of the Dominica flag, a powerful emblem of cultural heritage, was a highlight of the day. Consul Sheldon Peter Anthony delivered an inspiring speech on the flag’s history and symbolism, while Framingham City Councilor Leslie White Harvey and Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune praised Dominican contributions to the city. Mayor Wu’s official proclamation, read by James Reginald Colimon, Director of Global Affairs, recognized the significant impact of Dominicans in Boston. Several members of the Dominican diaspora were honored with City of Boston Citations for their cultural leadership and service. Attendees enjoyed Dominican cuisine, a photo exhibition by Elizabeth Thomas, and an artifacts display curated by Lisa White and Terri-Anne Bynoe. The annual event serves as a testament to Dominica’s global presence and the enduring contributions of its people to Boston’s civic and cultural life.
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OIC commits to support data controllers impacted by Hurricane Melissa
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting data controllers grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Bobique Brown, the Communication and International Relations Manager at the OIC, emphasized the agency’s readiness to offer guidance on temporary safeguards and practical measures to ensure the protection of personal data during this challenging recovery period. Brown highlighted the extensive damage to physical infrastructure and technological systems across both public and private sectors, which has led to service interruptions and reduced operational capacity. She stressed the heightened risks of personal data exposure or misuse during such disruptions, urging data controllers to prioritize privacy protection as a demonstration of respect, especially for vulnerable individuals. Brown also reminded controllers of their obligations under the Data Protection Act, emphasizing that compliance, even in adverse times, reassures data subjects of their best interests. The OIC has set a deadline for the 2024/2025 registration year, ending on November 30, 2025, with the new registration year commencing on December 1, 2025. Data controllers unaffected by the hurricane are encouraged to begin the registration process promptly, while those impacted are urged to register as soon as possible. For further assistance, data controllers can contact the OIC at info@oic.gov.jm or 876-929-8568.