Barbados is set to commemorate the courageous individuals who sacrificed their lives during World War I and World War II with a solemn Remembrance Day Parade and inter-denominational service. The event will take place at the Cenotaph in National Heroes Square, The City, on Sunday, November 9. The ceremony will begin at 8 a.m. and will be broadcast live on national television and radio, as well as displayed on large digital screens at key locations including the old Treasury Building in Bridgetown, Golden Square on Probyn Street, and Republic Bank on Broad Street. A diverse array of uniformed groups, both armed and unarmed, will participate in the parade. These include the Barbados Defence Force, the Barbados Police Service, the Barbados Legion, the Barbados Fire Service, the Barbados Prison Service, the Boy Scouts, and the Girl Guides. Wreaths will be laid at the Cenotaph by prominent figures such as President Dame Sandra Mason, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Chief Justice The Most Honourable Leslie Haynes, members of the diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries. The service will be followed by an informal inspection of veterans and a marchpast by the uniformed groups. The public is encouraged to attend and express their gratitude to those who gave their lives in service to the nation. (BGIS)
分类： society
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Former MP Selmon Walter accorded official funeral Saturday
Webston Selmon Walters, a former Member of Parliament (MP) for South Central Windward, will be honored with an official funeral this Saturday. Walters, who passed away on October 13 in the United States at the age of 65, was a distinguished figure with a diverse career spanning diplomacy, education, agriculture, ministry, and insurance brokerage. At the time of his death, he served as the General Manager of the Arrowroot Industry Association in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Walters represented South Central Windward in Parliament from 2001 to 2010. A public viewing of his body will be held today (Friday) at the temporary Parliament Building in Glen, with officials and dignitaries invited from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by public viewing until noon. The funeral service will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. at the New Life Ministries Church in New Grounds, preceded by a viewing and tributes from noon to 1 p.m. He will be laid to rest at the Sans Souci Cemetery. Walters is the third MP from the Unity Labour administration, elected in 2001, to have passed away, following the deaths of Conrad Sayers in December 2023 and Sir Vincent Beache in August 2019.
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Floating Bridge to close for two hours this Saturday for ship transit
The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) in Santo Domingo has announced a temporary closure of the Floating Bridge to vehicular traffic on Saturday, November 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This brief shutdown is necessary to facilitate the safe departure of the vessel M/V Tuckernuck from the M&D Marine Repairs dry dock. The bridge, a vital link between the National District and Santo Domingo East, will be inaccessible during this two-hour period. Authorities have urged drivers and frequent users of the bridge to plan their journeys accordingly and utilize alternative routes to avoid disruptions. The MOPC emphasized that this action is part of established maritime coordination protocols designed to ensure safe navigation and secure transit across the structure. The ministry reiterated its dedication to maintaining orderly and efficient mobility for all citizens, underscoring its commitment to public safety and operational efficiency.
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Chinese community to distribute 23,000 food kits to families affected by Storm Melissa
In a significant humanitarian initiative, the Fujian General Chamber of Commerce of China in the Dominican Republic has mobilized a large-scale relief campaign to aid families devastated by Tropical Storm Melissa. The effort involves the distribution of 23,000 food kits, with an estimated total value of RD$29.9 million, across the nation. The campaign is spearheaded by prominent figures including Zheng Shanfeng, President of the Fujian Chamber; Mars Wang, Vice President; Weng Didi, Secretary General; Yuek Fai Cheung, President of the Chinese Colony Center; and Rosa NG Báez, President of the Flor Para Todos Foundation. Deliveries have already commenced in severely affected southern provinces, such as San José de Ocoa. The relief operation will extend to 13 regions, including Santo Domingo, San Cristóbal, San Pedro de Macorís, Monte Plata, San Juan, Barahona, and Peravia. Organizers emphasized that the campaign embodies the spirit of solidarity and gratitude that binds the Chinese and Dominican communities. ‘In times of hardship, it is our duty to stand together and offer support,’ stated Zheng Shanfeng, highlighting the unwavering commitment of the Chinese community to assist the Dominican Republic during challenging times.
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The Colonial City draws 8% of tourists visiting the Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo’s Colonial City has undergone a significant transformation with the completion of an extensive urban renewal project, spearheaded by Tourism Minister David Collado. The initiative, valued at over RD$103 million, has revitalized 11 streets in the historic district, enhancing accessibility, infrastructure, and the overall visitor experience. Executed by the Executive Committee for Infrastructure of Tourist Zones (Ceiztur), the project includes the reconstruction of sidewalks, curbs, and pavements across 17 streets, alongside drainage improvements, new signage, and universal access ramps. Minister Collado emphasized that the Colonial City, a key attraction for approximately 8% of the Dominican Republic’s tourists, will remain fully accessible throughout December to ensure uninterrupted tourism and local commerce. The project also extends its benefits to neighboring areas such as San Lázaro and San Miguel, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable tourism. Collado highlighted that these efforts aim to preserve the historic charm of the Colonial City while positioning it as a premier destination for both domestic and international visitors.
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Relief Supplies Dispatched for Belizean Students After Storm Hits Jamaica
In response to the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, the Government of Belize, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture & Immigration, has mobilized urgent relief supplies for approximately 75 Belizean students stranded in Jamaica and Santiago de Cuba. The aid package includes essential hygiene products and canned food, delivered via a Jamaica Defence Force aircraft that had sought refuge in Belize during the storm. Coordination of the distribution in Jamaica is being managed by Ms. Elecif Arthurs, Belize’s honorary consul in Kingston, while the Belizean Embassy in Havana is overseeing support efforts for students in Cuba. Foreign Affairs Minister Francis Fonseca expressed gratitude to Jamaica for safeguarding Belizean students during the hurricane and reiterated Belize’s unwavering commitment to their safety. The ministry has confirmed that all Belizean students in both countries have been accounted for. Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica’s southwest coast with sustained winds of 185 mph and torrential rainfall, is considered the most powerful storm to hit Jamaica in recent history. The hurricane caused extensive damage, including widespread power outages, severe flooding, and the collapse of critical infrastructure across western Jamaica. This relief initiative comes amid public criticism in Belize regarding the perceived lack of immediate support for students in Jamaica following the disaster.
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President Simons bezoekt scholen voor kinderen met speciale hulpvraag
President Jennifer Simons emphasized the importance of inclusivity and support for children with special needs during her recent visit to several institutions dedicated to their care. On Thursday, the head of state toured Stichting Matoekoe, the Blindencentrum, the Kennedyschool, and the Mytylschool, where she expressed her deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of these organizations.
President Simons highlighted the indispensable role these institutions play in society, ensuring that children with special needs receive the support they deserve for a dignified life. Her visit aligns with her broader vision of personally engaging with schools to understand their challenges and collaboratively address them. ‘I believe in giving personal attention. That way, we can tackle issues together,’ she stated. Despite their reliance on subsidies, the president was impressed by the institutions’ ability to maintain their facilities and develop impactful programs.
Simons also underscored her commitment to advocating for these organizations at the policy level, a sentiment echoed by Matoekoe’s director, Delano Hoogvliets. ‘Social institutions don’t always get what they ask for, but these schools are actively finding ways to keep their operations running,’ she noted.
The president pointed out a broader societal shortfall: ‘We, as a society, are not doing enough to guide these children toward adulthood where they can care for themselves. Independence, with some assistance, is crucial for everyone.’ As a gesture of appreciation, she presented each child with an envelope containing a Kirpalani voucher.
Simons also highlighted the achievements of individuals with disabilities within the government, emphasizing the importance of nurturing these children to lead fulfilling lives. ‘We must help those who cannot stand on their own—that’s how we show our humanity,’ she said. While some challenges can be resolved with targeted attention, she acknowledged that larger, structural issues need to be addressed through government policy.
Matoekoe, established in 1988, currently supports 42 children, 13 of whom reside permanently. Hoogvliets expressed gratitude for the president’s early visit, noting her long-standing support for the foundation. However, he identified funding as a persistent challenge, calling for improved subsidy alignment with institutional needs. ‘We hope to work with the president to enhance subsidies structurally, enabling better functionality for these organizations,’ he concluded.
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Robinson Cabrera criticizes Santiago City Council over severe flooding
Santiago de los Caballeros, a major city in the Dominican Republic, was hit by severe flooding on Thursday following heavy rainfall. The deluge inundated key streets and avenues, causing widespread disruption and damage. Robinson Cabrera, a councilman from the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), publicly criticized the city’s inadequate urban planning and poor maintenance of drainage systems. Cabrera described the situation as unprecedented, stating, ‘Santiago is flooded like never before.’ He highlighted the extensive impact on homes, vehicles, and businesses, attributing the crisis to clogged storm drains and neglected catch basins. To illustrate the severity, Cabrera shared striking images on Instagram, depicting the city’s main roads transformed into rivers. In an official statement, he called on residents to assist by avoiding littering in public spaces but stressed that the primary responsibility lies with municipal authorities. The torrential rains submerged several neighborhoods, brought traffic to a standstill, and caused flooding in areas previously unaffected by such events. The incident has sparked renewed concerns about the city’s infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
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Srefidensi-commissie biedt excuses aan en kondigt verbeterplan aan voor gymnastrade-oefeningen
The Srefidensi Committee has acknowledged significant organizational lapses during the preparations for the upcoming gymnastics parade, pledging to implement immediate improvements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. The Commission for the 50th Anniversary of Constitutional Independence has issued a sincere apology to students, teachers, and parents for the inconveniences experienced during the rehearsal sessions. ‘We recognize the shortcomings in our planning and take full responsibility to address them swiftly and effectively. Our aim is to restore confidence and enthusiasm among all children participating in these special sporting preparations,’ the commission stated. To enhance the upcoming rehearsal days, the committee has increased the number of first aid personnel and supervisors. Schools will also provide additional staff to bolster student safety and care. The Police Training Center has made toilets available for the second rehearsal day, and from November 1st, eight to ten portable toilets will be strategically placed to ensure adequate sanitation facilities throughout the event. Furthermore, water distribution has been reorganized, with each student receiving a personal water bottle for better hydration. The commission has also urged parents to ensure their children wear hats or head coverings for sun protection and to pack extra snacks, drinks, and a spare water bottle in a small backpack. ‘These small measures can significantly impact the children’s well-being,’ the committee emphasized. ‘We are working diligently to normalize the situation and hope to embody the spirit of Srefidensi through unity, trust, and pride in our youth.’
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The humanity of a revolution stands up
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez has initiated a comprehensive tour of Holguín, one of the regions most severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful hurricane in Cuba’s recorded meteorological history. Accompanied by key government officials, including Roberto Morales Ojeda, head of the Political-Ideological Work Body, and several deputy prime ministers, Díaz-Canel assessed the extensive damage and coordinated recovery efforts. The hurricane caused widespread destruction, including flooding, uprooted trees, and submerged villages, displacing thousands of residents. During his visit to the José Martí Pre-University Vocational Institute of Exact Sciences (IPVCE), which has sheltered 321 evacuees, the president emphasized the importance of prioritizing life and ensuring the safe return of displaced families to their homes. He also highlighted the resilience of the community and the effective response of local authorities. The president’s itinerary included visits to critical infrastructure, such as the Providencia photovoltaic solar park and the Vladimir Ilich Lenin General Hospital, both of which withstood the hurricane’s impact. Díaz-Canel underscored the need for organized and responsible recovery efforts, particularly in agriculture and housing, and commended the collaborative work of various government bodies. The provincial leadership, led by Joel Queipo Ruiz, reported significant challenges, including crop losses and damaged communications, but reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and accelerating recovery.