KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a moment brimming with raw emotion, 22-year-old Tiana Dinham was declared Jamaica’s 2026 Rhodes Scholar during a ceremony at King’s House on November 13. Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen made the formal announcement, marking a pivotal milestone in Dinham’s life. Overwhelmed with joy, Dinham immediately called her mother on speakerphone, who exclaimed, “Oh my God!” 13 times before tearfully expressing her pride.
分类： society
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‘We lost everything’
A devastating fire swept through Arawak Cay’s renowned food strip yesterday, leaving a trail of destruction and heartbreak in its wake. The blaze, which erupted at Goldie’s Conch House around 8 a.m., rapidly consumed at least six wooden stalls and severely damaged two others. Thick smoke engulfed the area as firefighters battled the flames, while onlookers, including patrons and vendors, watched in disbelief. Despite efforts to contain the fire, the structures were reduced to ashes, leaving their owners to grapple with the loss of their livelihoods during what should have been their busiest Christmas season. Tragically, none of the destroyed properties were insured, as they were deemed ‘uninsurable.’
Among the businesses lost were Goldie’s, On the Edge, South of Florida, Brother Eddie’s Kitchen, Rake N Scrape, and the Red Snapper. Teshell Mackey, owner of On the Edge, arrived to find her two-and-a-half-year-old restaurant in ruins. “It’s hard to come here this morning to actually see that,” she said, reflecting on the years of hard work that had gone up in flames. Rodney Russell, president of the Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable and Food Vendors Association, estimated his losses at $300,000, with total damages across the strip ranging from $150,000 to $1.5 million.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis visited the scene, offering comfort to distraught vendors and pledging government support for cleanup and rebuilding efforts. He emphasized the need to upgrade the site and expressed hope that businesses could reopen within 60 days. Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister Jomo Campbell announced plans for temporary facilities and financial assistance, acknowledging the lack of insurance among many vendors. Meanwhile, political figures Sebas Bastian and Travis Robinson called for infrastructure improvements and updated building codes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Fire Services Superintendent Quincey McGregor reported that one officer suffered first-degree burns during the response, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Despite outdated equipment, firefighters were praised for their persistence. As the community begins to rebuild, the fire serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by small businesses and the urgent need for systemic improvements.
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US Vedic university confers doctoral award to NCIC president Surujdeo Mangaroo
Surujdeo Mangaroo, President of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), has been awarded an honorary doctoral degree by the Acharya Ramsamooj Arya University (ARAU) in New York. The prestigious recognition was conferred during the university’s graduation ceremony on November 2 at Flushing Town Hall, where Mangaroo was also invited to address the Class of 2025. The honor celebrates his lifelong dedication to cultural preservation, social empowerment, and community development. In his invitation letter, Prof. Pundit Ramadheen Ramsamooj, president of ARAU, praised Mangaroo as a distinguished representative of the Caribbean Hindu diaspora, highlighting his significant contributions to the community. Founded on the principles of Shuddha Sanatan Vedic Dharma, ARAU emphasizes the study and propagation of Vedic knowledge and disciplines. During his address, Mangaroo expressed humility and gratitude, dedicating the award to his family and emphasizing the importance of education, culture, and community in building a humane society. He urged graduates to use their education as a tool for service and innovation, reminding them that true success lies in uplifting others. Mangaroo’s recognition follows previous honorees such as the late Basdeo Panday, former Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname’s President Santhoki.
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I Am Academy unveils The Garden of Oneness
The I Am Academy in Woodbrook has unveiled its newly transformed schoolyard, now known as ‘The Garden of Oneness.’ What was once a simple space has been reimagined into an eco-conscious haven featuring a butterfly and hummingbird garden, a river-themed landscape, a companion-planted vegetable and herb garden, a tribute to national heroes, and a rustic welcome wall adorned with affirmations and the school’s motto. This initiative, led by TropiMulch Ltd in partnership with Miss Environment TT Rebecca Baptiste, repurposes waste wood into mulch, art installations, and purposeful spaces, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Founded in 2019, I Am Academy serves 40 students with special needs, emphasizing individualized learning and holistic development. Principal Lynn Diann Russell-Allen explained that the school’s philosophy centers on teaching identity, awareness, and purpose, viewing every child as ‘whole, perfect, and filled with divine potential.’ The garden, she noted, is more than a landscaping project—it is a ‘living classroom’ that fosters healing, inspiration, and education.
The project began with a vision to beautify the school space in a way that reflects the calm and divine order of the universe. Collaborations with TropiMulch CEO Lionel Seucharan and Miss Environment TT brought the vision to life. Students and parents actively participated in clearing debris, preparing soil, planting seedlings, and painting walls, fostering a sense of pride and ownership.
Russell-Allen highlighted the garden’s impact on students, noting increased confidence, cooperation, and expressiveness. The multisensory environment has become a sanctuary for neurodiverse learners, reinforcing the school’s mission to nurture each child’s highest potential. Plans are already underway to expand the garden, adding sensory zones, a meditation corner, and an extended butterfly garden.
The principal expressed gratitude to TropiMulch Ltd, Miss Environment TT, and all contributors, emphasizing that inclusion begins with love. ‘When we honour the divine essence in every child, we naturally extend that care to the environment,’ she said. ‘Education and ecology go hand in hand—both are acts of stewardship.’
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St James Parish Court resumes operation
The St James Parish Court in Jamaica has officially resumed its full operations as of Monday, November 17, 2025, after significant disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa. The announcement was made by the Judiciary of Jamaica in a public statement on the same day. The court is currently addressing Gun Court and Circuit Court matters while continuing efforts to stabilize infrastructure and ensure a safe environment for both staff and court users. The Judiciary emphasized its commitment to restoring full operations swiftly and expressed gratitude to staff, stakeholders, and the public for their patience and understanding during the recovery period.
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Penal couple murdered in home invasion
In a harrowing incident that has shaken the community of Penal, Trinidad and Tobago, a married couple, Babita Vialva, 40, and Raffeak Vialva, 51, were fatally shot during a violent home invasion in the early hours of November 17. The tragedy unfolded at their residence on Penal Rock Road, where they were accompanied by their 19-year-old daughter at the time of the attack.
According to an eyewitness, who was preparing for work at the time, an unidentified man arrived at the couple’s home around 3 am in a vehicle. The assailant forcefully entered the premises by breaking down the front door. The witness recounted hearing three distinct gunshots, prompting them to retreat upstairs for safety.
Upon investigation, relatives discovered Babita deceased in the bedroom, while Raffeak was found critically injured in the corridor. Despite efforts to save him, Raffeak succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. The couple’s daughter, fortunately, remained unharmed and was comforted by friends and family outside the home.
Authorities are currently exploring the possibility that the attack was a botched robbery. However, family members, who chose to remain anonymous, suggested that the intruder may have left empty-handed, as there was no evidence of the home being ransacked. The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of the Vialva couple.
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Fun, food and fishing at Castara open day
The Castara Fisherfolk Association marked World Food Day with a vibrant Open Day and Bonfire event at the Castara Fishing Facility on November 13. The celebration showcased the rich cultural heritage and communal spirit of the fishing community in Tobago. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including boat races, fishing competitions, children’s games, and traditional seine pulling. A highlight of the event was the preparation of a large pot of fish broth, symbolizing the communal sharing of food and resources. Clifton ‘Rackerman’ Alleyne demonstrated the art of seine repair, while Matika Alfred was awarded for catching the largest fish of the day. The festivities also featured a lime and spoon race for pre-schoolers and a conch shell blowing session, with Eldon Williams and British national Chris Runciman participating. The event, captured by Newsday photographer Alva Viarruel, underscored the importance of preserving local traditions and fostering community bonds.
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‘There’s no maritime law that justifies that kind of tiefing’
What initially appeared as a spontaneous act of opportunism turned into a full-blown criminal scandal over the weekend in Abaco, Bahamas. The incident began on Thursday when a barge, owned by US-based company Trailer Bridge, ran aground near Nunjack Cay after its tow line snapped during severe weather. Residents swiftly descended upon the vessel in small boats, forcibly opening containers and making off with a wide array of goods, including food, appliances, electronics, and medical supplies. The brazen looting, described as piracy in modern times, drew international attention and condemnation. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe denounced the mass theft as “criminal behaviour” that has “given Abaco a black eye.” He emphasized that the widespread nature of the theft and the public defense of such actions were particularly troubling. Trailer Bridge CEO Mitch Luciano revealed that approximately 90% of the containers were compromised, forcing the company to abort its mission to deliver goods to Puerto Rico and return the barge to Jacksonville. The company refuted claims that residents were invited aboard to assist or “lighten the load,” labeling such assertions as “entirely false.” Munroe criticized the barge’s owners for failing to secure their property, likening the situation to leaving a shopping mall unguarded. He also highlighted the significant resources diverted by the government to secure the vessel, including a 30-meter patrol craft and a quick-reaction team. Two individuals were arrested, and authorities urged residents to return stolen goods and assist in identifying offenders. The US Embassy condemned the incident, with the US Coast Guard supporting patrol flights and security efforts. Environmental penalties may also be imposed on the barge’s owners once reef damage is assessed.
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Family Reading Circle Rolls comes to Port of Spain
The Bocas Lit Fest, in collaboration with Let’s Read, is set to host its renowned Family Reading Circle at the St Joseph Old Road Community Centre in Port of Spain on November 22. This interactive session, scheduled from 10 am to 12 pm, aims to inspire a love for reading among children aged seven and under, while providing parents and caregivers with a supportive environment to nurture early literacy skills. Featured author Mary Cuffy, celebrated for her Ladybug series and contributions to early childhood education, will lead the event by reading from her beloved works, including ‘Lola and the Dancing Ladybugs’ and ‘Lola and the Magic Sticks.’ Cuffy, a lecturer at the UWI Open Campus, specializes in literacy and music in early childhood development. The Family Reading Circle is part of Bocas Lit Fest’s ongoing commitment to fostering young readers and writers through community outreach and engaging activities. Over the past two and a half years, the festival has partnered with Let’s Read TT to host numerous reading circles, supported by a vast library of children’s books. These initiatives aim to cultivate lifelong reading habits, empathy, and imagination in children while strengthening family bonds through shared literary experiences. For more information, contact melvina@bocaslitfest.com.
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Rosewood developer to file revised plan amid protest
The Yntegra Group, developer of the proposed $200 million Rosewood Exuma resort on East Sampson Cay, has announced plans to submit a revised site plan to the Town Planning Committee. This decision follows extensive community feedback and ongoing controversy surrounding the project’s environmental impact. The revised plan includes adjustments to the location of the service dock, increasing its distance from the neighboring Turtlegrass Resort property. Yntegra CEO Felipe MacLean emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency and responsible development, stating, ‘We wish to peacefully coexist with neighboring resorts for the benefit of the Exuma Cays community.’ The company has already obtained its Certificate of Environmental Clearance from the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) and aims to address concerns raised by stakeholders through the revised submission. The project has faced significant opposition from environmental groups and local residents, particularly regarding the potential harm to coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and marine life. A petition opposing the development, organized by the Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), has garnered over 7,000 signatures, reflecting widespread concern about the project’s environmental impact. Despite the controversy, the government has defended its approach, with Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper asserting that the Rosewood Exuma and Turtlegrass developments can coexist. The revised plan offers an opportunity for renewed stakeholder review and feedback, as Yntegra seeks to move forward with its commitment to creating local employment and long-term benefits for the Exuma community.