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.
分类： society
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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.
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Family Reading Circle rolls to Port of Spain
The Bocas Lit Fest, in collaboration with Let’s Read, is set to host its popular Family Reading Circle at the St Joseph Old Road Community Centre in Port of Spain on November 22. The event, scheduled from 10 am to 12 pm, aims to cultivate a love for reading among children aged seven and under through interactive read-aloud sessions and community engagement.
Featured author Mary Cuffy, known for her Ladybug series, will lead the session by reading from her works, including ‘Lola and the Dancing Ladybugs,’ ‘Lola and the Magic Sticks,’ and ‘Lola and the Fascinating Cocoa Bean.’ Cuffy, a storyteller and lecturer at the UWI Open Campus, specializes in early childhood literacy and music, bringing her expertise to this initiative.
The Family Reading Circle is part of Bocas Lit Fest’s ongoing efforts to promote literacy and creativity among young readers. Over the past two and a half years, the organization has partnered with Let’s Read TT to host numerous such events at The Writers Centre. These sessions provide a platform for parents and caregivers to encourage reading in a communal setting, fostering empathy, imagination, and lifelong reading habits.
Community outreach remains a cornerstone of Bocas Lit Fest’s children’s programming, as demonstrated by initiatives like the nationwide Children’s Storytelling Caravan. Earlier this year, a pilot session was held at the St Helena Community Library, further expanding the program’s reach.
The upcoming event at the St Joseph Old Road Community Centre will feature Let’s Read’s extensive children’s book library, allowing families to explore literature together. By creating a supportive environment for shared reading, the program aims to enhance literacy, social cognition, and behavioral development.
For more information about future Family Reading Circles, contact melvina@bocaslitfest.com.
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La Romaine man gets 5 years’ jail for 2 rounds of ammo
A La Romaine resident, Anthony Ogeer, has been handed a five-year prison sentence with hard labor after pleading guilty to possessing two rounds of .38-caliber ammunition discovered at his Pond Street residence in 2023. The sentencing was delivered by Justice Nalini Singh, who detailed the circumstances of the case. During a police search of Ogeer’s home, the ammunition was found concealed beneath a tabletop stove. While the Firearms Act mandates a minimum 20-year sentence for a first conviction on indictment, Justice Singh set a starting point of six years, citing the limited quantity of ammunition and the absence of a firearm as mitigating factors. However, Ogeer’s prior convictions, including four marijuana-related offenses, led to an increased sentence of nine years. The judge highlighted Ogeer’s escalating criminal behavior, noting that the current offense occurred while he was on bail for a similar charge in January 2023. Despite this, the 2025 conviction was not considered an aggravating factor. Reductions were granted for Ogeer’s remorse and early guilty plea, resulting in the final five-year term. The court also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of the ammunition, disqualification from holding a firearm license, and notification of relevant authorities regarding the conviction.
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UWI students urge extension of hurricane fee waiver
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that devastated western Jamaica, students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus have expressed mixed feelings about the institution’s response. While acknowledging the university’s efforts, they argue that certain measures need to be extended or reassessed to better address their ongoing challenges. Classes resumed on November 3, less than a week after the hurricane struck, despite widespread damage and disruption. Campus Registrar Donovan Stanberry defended the decision, citing the availability of facilities and the implementation of support measures, including recorded classes, a 50% fee waiver for qualifying students, mental health services, and options for exam and semester deferrals. However, students claim these measures fall short of addressing their immediate and long-term needs. Many pointed out that the fee waiver, while appreciated, would be more beneficial if applied to the upcoming January semester, as the storm occurred after midterms, when most students had already paid a significant portion of their tuition. Additionally, students highlighted logistical challenges, such as power outages and poor internet connectivity, which hindered their ability to access online classes. Some lecturers reportedly failed to comply with the directive to record sessions, leaving affected students struggling to catch up. Concerns were also raised about the rigidity of final exams, with students suggesting alternative assessment methods, such as increased coursework or presentations, to alleviate stress. In response, Stanberry emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts through its Student Solidarity Programme, which offers alternative assessments and extended deadlines. He urged students to communicate their needs to the campus registrar and assured that the university is actively working to locate and assist all affected students.
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Tobago casino robbed, bandits flee by boat
In a bold and meticulously planned robbery, two armed and masked individuals targeted the Royal Ton Casino in Crown Point on the morning of November 17. The incident unfolded shortly after 8 am when the assailants confronted casino employees, leading to a tense exchange of gunfire with security personnel. The robbers managed to escape with an undisclosed sum of cash, fleeing to a nearby beach where they boarded a waiting pirogue. The vessel, later discovered abandoned at Pigeon Point beach, has been seized by police as crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have confirmed the arrest of one individual who is currently assisting law enforcement in their efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects. The case has drawn significant attention due to the audacity of the crime and the use of a maritime escape route, highlighting the evolving tactics of criminal enterprises in the region.
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Diaspora group ships 50 barrels of relief supplies to Jamaica
In a remarkable display of solidarity, over 50 barrels filled with essential relief supplies have been dispatched to Jamaica to aid those impacted by Hurricane Melissa. This initiative was spearheaded by the Jamaica Strong Radiothon, a collaborative effort between Irie Jam Radio and RoadBlock Radio FM. The event, held on November 8 at De Islands Restaurant in Rosedale, New York, also saw significant monetary contributions. JamLeo, a collective of Jamaican police officers based in New York, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the event. Donors were urged to contribute vital items such as toiletries, bedding, kitchen utensils, and construction materials like plywood and tarpaulins. Among the participants was poet Richie Innocent, a New York resident, who expressed deep emotional distress over the devastation in his hometown of Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth. He shared his sorrow over the destruction of his alma mater, St Elizabeth Technical, and the capital town of Black River. Richie performed several of his poignant poems, including ‘Community’ and ‘The Passover,’ during the event. The Jamaican Diaspora, particularly in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, has rallied impressively in the aftermath of the hurricane. Numerous organizations and corporations have contributed to the recovery efforts since the reopening of Jamaica’s ports. Additionally, Irie Jam Radio and RoadBlock Radio FM are organizing the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert, set to take place on December 12 at the UBS Arena in Long Island, further bolstering the relief initiatives.
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Digicel says vandalism on Catherine Hall site delays restoration work
Digicel, a leading communications company, has disclosed that critical batteries were stolen from one of its network sites in Catherine Hall, Montego Bay, on Monday, November 17. The incident occurred just days after the site had been repaired as part of ongoing efforts to restore services following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.