Blue Dragonfly, a local charity committed to empowering autistic and differently abled young individuals, is hosting a charity raffle to support its mission of fostering skill development and community integration. The raffle, open to attendees of Soca Sangria and the general public, offers a chance to win an array of enticing prizes while contributing to a noble cause. Highlights of the raffle include a round-trip airfare ticket from Sunrise Airways to destinations like St. Lucia, Antigua, and Dominica; a luxurious spa experience for two at Curtain Bluff featuring a 60-minute couples massage and lunch; a two-night all-inclusive stay at Blue Waters Resort & Spa; dining experiences at renowned establishments such as Rocks Group, Bar None, and NOBU Barbuda, valued up to XCD $500 / USD $300; and exclusive Cricket West Indies memorabilia, including a signed ODI replica shirt by National Hero Sir Vivian Richards. Additional prizes will be unveiled as the raffle draw approaches on November 30th, 2025. All proceeds will directly support Blue Dragonfly’s initiatives to inspire differently abled youth to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Join the cause, purchase a ticket, and make a meaningful impact.
分类： society
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Police Probe Violent Neighbour Dispute in Jennings Extension
A violent altercation between neighbours in Jennings Extension has prompted a police investigation after one man sustained head injuries. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, with officers from the Bolans Police Station responding to reports of a physical confrontation that originated from a verbal argument. According to authorities, the victim was struck in the head with a cutlass and another unidentified object. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported the injured man to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he received treatment for two head lacerations. Fortunately, his injuries were deemed non-life-threatening. Police have since recovered two cutlasses believed to be linked to the altercation. The investigation remains active as law enforcement works to determine the full circumstances surrounding the dispute.
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Barbadian pride, spirit and talent shine as Independence lights illuminate The City
On Saturday evening, Independence Square in Barbados was alive with patriotic fervor as hundreds gathered for the 2025 Sagicor Life Inc. Lighting Ceremony. The event, themed “Celebrating Communities: Reengaging, Reigniting, Reimagining,” marked the nation’s 59th year of independence with a vibrant showcase of culture, music, and community spirit. The evening kicked off with a mesmerizing saxophone performance by Kieshelle Rawlins, followed by soulful renditions of original pieces by Shernell Clarke and Akea Barton. FuZion the Band further energized the crowd with a medley of folk tunes, setting the tone for a night of celebration. A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of pioneers from the 1995 Community Independence Celebrations Programme, who were honored with a guard of honor as they flipped the switch to illuminate the lights. The spectacle was enhanced by dancers and stilt walkers in glowing costumes, captivating the audience along the route. Paul Inniss, General Manager of Sagicor Life Inc., emphasized the deeper significance of the event, stating, “This lighting ceremony is a reflection of our national soul, reminding us that Barbados will always find the light, no matter the challenges.” Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith addressed the issue of youth crime, pledging the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges. The second segment, The Bajan Brew, showcased local talent, including powerful spoken-word performances and nostalgic sing-alongs led by veteran entertainers. The night concluded with a dynamic finale by Mikey, as parish ambassadors joined him on stage, leaving the crowd in high spirits.
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Three New Cement Silos Arrive at Deep Water Harbour for Ministry of Works
In a significant stride toward bolstering national infrastructure, Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled three state-of-the-art cement silos at the Ministry of Works Concrete Plant. This development, hailed as a pivotal investment by government officials, is set to transform the country’s construction capabilities. Member of Parliament Maria Browne emphasized that the new silos will substantially increase the plant’s cement storage capacity, ensuring smoother operations and greater preparedness to meet the surging demand for public works, housing, and community development initiatives. Browne further highlighted that this upgrade, coupled with the ministry’s acquisition of a new fleet of heavy-duty machinery, will minimize operational delays, expedite project timelines, and reinforce the government’s vision of fostering a modern, resilient nation. The move underscores the administration’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development and supporting long-term economic growth.
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Senator Joseph Supports Mobility Aid Distribution in St John’s Rural West
Senator Michael M. Joseph has lauded the altruism of local community members following his participation in a charitable initiative led by Ms. Valda DeSilva and Coach Oslyn Gregory. The program involved the distribution of essential mobility aids, including wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches, to residents in St John’s Rural West who face physical challenges. This effort aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility limitations, enabling them to navigate their daily lives with greater ease and independence. Senator Joseph highlighted the significance of Ms. DeSilva’s role in securing these donations from the United States, praising her dedication as a “heartfelt act of service” to the community. He emphasized that such collaborative endeavors exemplify the power of community spirit and compassion in creating tangible, positive impacts on people’s lives.
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Ministry of Sustainable Development advances land regularisation and strengthens land use coordination
The Ministry of Sustainable Development in Saint Kitts and Nevis is making significant strides in land regularization, aiming to empower citizens through land ownership while enhancing zoning guidelines. During the October 31, 2025, National Assembly session, Minister of Sustainable Development, Dr. Joyelle Clarke, emphasized the importance of balancing agricultural and residential land use. She highlighted that all lands in the nation have been categorized into zones such as protected areas, residential development, commercial activity, industrial activity, and green spaces, as outlined in the National Physical Development Plan 2024. However, recent conflicts have arisen between farmers occupying lands designated for housing and homeowners seeking to build on agricultural lands. To address this, the Ministry of Sustainable Development and the Ministry of Agriculture will establish a joint technical working group focused on land coordination and conflict resolution. This initiative will improve inter-ministerial collaboration, monitor land use, and conduct a comprehensive national review to identify and resolve conflicts. Public consultations with farmers, residents, developers, and community representatives will ensure transparency and inclusivity. Where relocation is necessary, affected individuals will receive fair compensation, including alternative land allocations, financial support, and reconstruction assistance. This effort is part of the Sustainable Settlements Portfolio, with officials currently engaging farmers in areas like Borryeaux, Cabbage Tree, Cayon, and Racecourse in Newton Ground to facilitate the transition from lands earmarked for housing.
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Preservation through participation, Quadrille’s place in hearts and homes
Jason Joseph, a passionate advocate for cultural preservation in Saint Lucia, recently concluded the 14th annual Dansé Kwòdril (Quadrille) sessions at JQ Rodney Bay Mall. The weekly event, which ran from early September to October 23, has been a cornerstone of the island’s cultural calendar since 2011, with JQ Mall as its official sponsor for the past five years. For Joseph, these sessions are more than just dance lessons—they are a mission to revive Saint Lucian heritage and foster community participation.
Joseph’s journey with dance began in his childhood at his church’s Saturday Night Socials. Though he initially learned Quadrille through observation, his passion for movement waned for years, even as he gained fame as a musician and his brother embraced salsa. A personal turning point reignited his love for dance, and he has since become one of the island’s most prominent promoters of Quadrille, a dance with roots in 18th and 19th-century European ballrooms, later adapted by enslaved Africans in the Caribbean.
While Quadrille is often performed by cultural groups for tourists and events, Joseph emphasizes the importance of personal participation. “It’s crucial that Saint Lucians learn to dance with their families and friends,” he said. “These dances are about bringing people together.” Over the years, attendance at his sessions has grown significantly, thanks to consistent efforts, corporate sponsorship, and the rising popularity of his Kwéyòl Sent Lisi brand on social media.
Joseph’s vision extends beyond Quadrille. He is also working to revive African-influenced dances like the bélé, débòt, and kutumba, which are still practiced in communities such as Piaye and Babonneau. Additionally, he aims to make communal dancing a year-round activity, not just limited to Creole Heritage Month. “Dancing is not just a social activity—it’s beneficial for health, peace of mind, and stress relief,” he explained.
Despite his success, Joseph humorously notes a challenge: getting more men to join. “I don’t know if they think it’s not manly enough or they’re afraid of ridicule,” he joked. “But we need more men to participate. Right now, I’m having all the fun with the women—and I can’t handle them all alone.”
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HvJ neemt 4e gebouw in gebruik: meer ruimte voor moderne rechtspraak
The Bureau of the Court of Justice (HvJ) at Grote Combéweg 7 was officially inaugurated on Friday, marking a significant step towards a modern, independent, and transparent judicial system. This fourth building expands the physical infrastructure of the Court of Justice, addressing the growing need for space due to an increase in judges, support staff, and courtroom demands. Court President Iwan Rasoelbaks emphasized the importance of timely, accessible, and well-communicated justice, stating that the new facility will contribute to these goals. The Bureau, responsible for the operational management of the judiciary, houses various support services, including Archives, Communications, Finance, ICT, and Legalization. The first floor features a spacious courtroom designed to handle cases of medium to high complexity, along with training facilities and a documentation center, positioning the building as a knowledge hub. Rasoelbaks dedicated the building to divine protection, recalling the 2017 consecration of the Wulfingstraat courthouse, which survived a 2023 attack. Jules de Rijp, Director of Operations, highlighted the Bureau’s role in supporting the judiciary’s primary function: administering justice. The Bureau’s establishment is seen as a cornerstone for a self-sufficient judiciary, with plans for a quality bureau to enhance operational efficiency. The building, once the Bureau for Family Legal Affairs (Bufaz), was restored under the leadership of Facility Manager Rishi Natha, with contributions from the Ministry of Public Works and architect Madelon Bab, who preserved its monumental character. The inauguration was described as a milestone by Justice Director Bieswadath Somai, who praised the project for its cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and cultural heritage preservation. Future plans include the completion of a new courthouse in Nickerie by late 2025 and the renovation of the former KvK building in 2026. The long-term vision of a unified Palace of Justice remains a priority, with full support from the Ministry of Justice and Police. The event concluded with Rasoelbaks presenting Somai with a book documenting the building’s history and restoration.
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Duizenden doen mee in Srefidensi Trim- en Wandelloop: Eenheid en doorzettingsvermogen
Thousands of participants gathered in Paramaribo on Saturday to take part in the Srefidensi Run and Walk, marking the commencement of Suriname’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. The event, which symbolizes the nation’s journey toward unity and progress, was officially inaugurated by Vice President Gregory Rusland. Accompanied by several ministers and members of the National Assembly, Rusland completed the entire route, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, trust, and solidarity in shaping Suriname’s future. ‘The next 50 years will require us to harness our collective strength to build a prosperous nation,’ Rusland stated. ‘We must demonstrate resilience and unity to ensure that every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or background, has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life.’ The run began at the Presidential Palace, winding through key landmarks such as the Waterkant, Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat, Johan Pengelstraat, and Henck Arronstraat, before concluding at Independence Square. Participants, including both children and adults, received certificates personally signed by President Jennifer Simons. In his address, Rusland highlighted the symbolic significance of the event, noting, ‘Fifty years ago, ethnicity dominated national discourse. While it still lingers today, perhaps it’s time to leave it behind and move forward as one. I am confident that together, we can create a brighter future for every Surinamese citizen.’
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Lions Club doneert 10 ton rijst voor slachtoffers van orkaan Melissa
In a significant humanitarian effort, the Lions Club Paramaribo Central has donated 10 tons of rice to aid victims of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica. The donation was handed over to the National Coordination Center for Disaster Management (NCCR), which will oversee the distribution of the relief supplies. The need is urgent, with critical shortages of drinking water, batteries, and construction materials reported in the affected areas. Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba over the past few days, with international news sources confirming 49 fatalities. Glen Tewari, the project committee chairman, emphasized the Lions Club’s mission, stating, ‘Our slogan is We Serve. As Lions, it is our duty to extend a helping hand to humanity.’ The donation, comprising 1,000 bags of 10-kilogram rice, was made possible with the support of NV Sunrise. The Lions Club has a history of mobilizing during disasters, both domestically and internationally. Colonel Jerry Slijngaard, NCCR coordinator, noted that the center is awaiting clearance to ship the rice, as ports in the affected regions remain closed. ‘Rice is at the top of the list of urgent needs,’ Slijngaard said. ‘Additionally, there is a high demand for construction materials, such as zinc sheets, batteries due to power outages, and drinking water. Suriname will contribute to the best of its ability—what we have, we will share.’