Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Calls for TTEC New East Side to be disqualified from small band finals

    Calls for TTEC New East Side to be disqualified from small band finals

    A significant controversy has erupted following the December 20 Panorama small conventional band semifinals, with mounting calls for the disqualification of TTEC New East Side Dimension. The Tobago-based steelband failed to perform in its originally drawn position of number five due to severe travel and accommodation complications, eventually taking the stage in position nineteen instead.

    Arranger Kersh Ramsey detailed to Newsday on December 21 the extraordinary logistical challenges that plagued the band’s journey from Tobago to Trinidad. These included critical transportation failures, accommodation breakdowns, and personal baggage delays that left musicians without basic necessities and unable to practice for the prestigious competition.

    The situation has drawn comparisons to previous Panorama incidents where strict enforcement of performance order rules led to disqualifications. Critics specifically reference Valley Harps’ elimination from medium band semifinals for technical difficulties and NLCB Fonclaire’s exclusion from a Panorama final after delayed instrument arrival. Some commentators have alleged preferential treatment, noting Ramsey’s familial connection to Pan Trinbago president Beverley Ramsey-Moore, though these claims remain unsubstantiated.

    Despite the controversy and significant competitive disadvantages, TTEC New East Side Dimension achieved a remarkable fourth-place finish with 272 points for their arrangement of Sparrow’s ‘Water de Garden,’ maintaining their preliminary round ranking. The band has secured advancement to the finals scheduled for January 10, 2026, at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    The semifinal competition at Victoria Square, Port of Spain, saw Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D’South Band) and Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra maintaining their leadership positions. Defending champions Golden Hands Steel Orchestra dramatically improved their standing from seventh to third place. Due to multiple scoring ties, sixteen bands instead of the planned fourteen will progress to the finals, including three-way ties for seventh and thirteenth places among several accomplished ensembles.

    Ramsey has indicated that comprehensive arrangements are being implemented to prevent recurrence of the logistical issues, allowing the band to focus entirely on their championship aspirations in the upcoming finals.

  • He won’t put a ring on it

    He won’t put a ring on it

    A relationship counselor has addressed the growing concerns among women in their late twenties and early thirties regarding marital timelines and relationship progression. The expert response came after a 30-year-old woman expressed anxiety about her three-year relationship showing no advancement toward marriage despite her clear intentions for family formation.

    Rev Christopher Brodber, a certified counselor and religious minister, emphasized the critical importance of establishing mutual life goals before deepening romantic involvement. He advised that individuals should approach relationships with both emotional and rational consideration rather than relying solely on romantic attraction. The counselor stressed that compatibility assessments should include alignment of visions, desires, and objectives rather than superficial qualities like physical appearance or perceived ambition.

    The expert identified a concerning pattern where some partners may delay marriage commitments when receiving relationship benefits without formal commitment. He referenced the Jamaican proverb about ‘getting milk without buying the cow’ to illustrate this dynamic. Brodber recommended that women establish clear boundaries and dealbreakers early in relationships, suggesting that serious discussions about future plans should typically occur within 18 months of dating for couples in their late twenties and thirties.

    While acknowledging changing social patterns where men may marry later due to various factors including financial considerations or commitment hesitancy, the counselor maintained that women should not abandon their marital aspirations. Instead, he advised seeking partners with congruent timelines and life goals. The expert concluded that difficult conversations and potentially difficult decisions are often necessary steps toward achieving long-term personal objectives regarding marriage and family formation.

  • Jaisarie family continues tradition of giving

    Jaisarie family continues tradition of giving

    The Jaisarie family of Churkoo Village, Princes Town, maintained their cherished annual tradition on December 13 by hosting a Christmas community outreach event at their residential property. The gathering brought together approximately 150 children from diverse backgrounds for an afternoon filled with festive celebrations, nourishment, and gift-giving.

    Attorney Sherlana Jaisarie, the primary organizer of this philanthropic initiative, emphasized her family’s enduring commitment to community service. The event featured meticulously decorated tents in traditional Christmas colors of red and green, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.

    Children received McDonald’s Happy Meals, specially curated treat bags, and an assortment of toys, while parents were served hot doubles—a popular local street food. The occasion attracted support from community leaders including local government representative Shawn Premchand, who participated in the festivities and publicly commended the family’s efforts.

    Premchand described the experience as profoundly heartwarming, noting the visible joy and excitement among children and families. He particularly praised Jaisarie’s dedication to fostering community spirit during the holiday season through this annual tradition.

    The Christmas treat has evolved into an anticipated community event that effectively embodies the seasonal spirit of generosity and goodwill, strengthening community bonds through shared celebration and charitable giving.

  • ‘Police brutality killed my son’

    ‘Police brutality killed my son’

    A grieving mother in The Bahamas is challenging the official police narrative surrounding her son’s death in custody, demanding an independent autopsy and vowing to pursue legal action. Cheryl Larrimore’s son, Lasheiko Pratt, a 35-year-old mechanic with the Ministry of Works, died during a reported struggle with officers at the Fox Hill Police Station on Thursday morning.

    Pratt had been detained for two days on burglary charges and was scheduled for a court appearance when the incident occurred. Authorities, represented by Assistant Commissioner of Police Anton Rahming, stated that officers intervened after Pratt refused to leave his cell and became aggressive. ACP Rahming reported that four officers were ultimately involved in restraining and handcuffing him, during which the detainee became unresponsive. The police asserted that the force used was deemed necessary to subdue an aggressive individual.

    Ms. Larrimore offers a starkly different account, fueled by profound distrust. Having identified her son’s body at the morgue, she noted an absence of visible bruises, which only deepened her family’s confusion and suspicion. She described her son as a “very nice, quiet person” and found the official story illogical, stating, “He gone in there, healthy, good as ever, and then come out in a body bag. That cannot be.”

    The family’s distrust is compounded by the circumstances of how they were notified. Ms. Larrimore was already at the Magistrate’s Court expecting to sign bail for her only son when he failed to appear. She claims the police never contacted her about his death; she instead learned the devastating news through a social media post her daughter discovered.

    This case marks the first in-custody death since the highly publicized February 2013 incidents involving Jamie Smith and Aaron Rolle, who died within 24 hours of each other. Ms. Larrimore also questioned the burglary charge itself, suggesting it stemmed from a longstanding and jealous dispute with a neighbor, not criminal intent.

    With the family seeking justice and transparency, this incident raises serious questions about police accountability, custodial procedures, and the breakdown of trust between the community and those sworn to protect it.

  • Jeugdraad evalueert en gaat voor sterkere jeugdparticipatie in 2026

    Jeugdraad evalueert en gaat voor sterkere jeugdparticipatie in 2026

    Suriname’s National Youth Council concluded its 2025 operational year with a comprehensive evaluation meeting on December 20th, setting strategic directions for 2026 with enhanced youth participation in policy and governance as its cornerstone. The meeting, attended by key stakeholders including youth ambassadors and institutional leaders, served as both a retrospective analysis and forward-looking planning session.

    Operating under the National Youth Institute (NJI), the Youth Council presented a detailed overview of its annual achievements and challenges. NJI Director Dinesh Parag and Deputy Director Santoucha Redan joined SDG Ambassador Drusila Blinker and CARICOM Youth Ambassador Arantxa Swedo in delivering progress reports on ongoing initiatives and lessons learned throughout 2025.

    Youth Development and Sports Minister Lalinie Gopal expressed strong appreciation for the Council’s efforts, particularly emphasizing the strategic rationale behind combining Youth and Sports within a single ministry portfolio. Minister Gopal highlighted sports’ critical role in youth development, noting its contributions to building discipline, collaborative skills, and mental resilience among young Surinamese.

    The minister specifically commended youth involvement in community initiatives such as the Krin Kondre project and school backpack program, recognizing young people’s unique position to identify local needs through their district-level connections. Minister Gopal assured continued full ministerial support for the Youth Council throughout 2026.

    NJI Director Parag stressed the importance of systematic evaluation and multi-year planning frameworks, stating that clear situational analysis is essential for targeted policy development. He cited the World AIDS Day school program, implemented through multi-stakeholder partnerships, as a successful example of effective youth engagement.

    Youth Council Chairman Shemar Rier reflected positively on 2025 as a foundational year that established robust organizational structures. Looking ahead, the Council will prioritize expanding youth influence within policy processes and governance mechanisms, including targeted training and mentorship programs for youth aspiring to leadership positions.

    The annual meeting concluded with a unified commitment from all participating organizations to sustain collaborative efforts and continue investing in sustainable youth development throughout Suriname.

  • Robbery Suspect Fatally Shot in Cayo

    Robbery Suspect Fatally Shot in Cayo

    A fatal shooting occurred at Anna’s Supermarket located along the George Price Highway in Santa Elena Town, Cayo District, resulting in the death of a 21-year-old man alleged to have been attempting an armed robbery. Law enforcement authorities have identified the deceased as Zeldon Thompson, a resident of Esperanza Village.

    According to official police reports, the incident unfolded when Thompson allegedly attempted to rob the establishment. The store owner, whose identity has not been disclosed, responded to the threat by firing upon the suspect. Thompson sustained critical gunshot wounds to his left ribcage and knee during the altercation.

    Police investigators confirmed that Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene following the shooting. The case represents another incident in the ongoing pattern of retail crime confrontations where business owners have taken defensive measures. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event, including examining security footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events.

    The shooting has sparked mixed reactions within the local community regarding self-defense rights and violent crime prevention. This incident marks one of several recent armed robbery attempts in the Cayo District that have ended fatally for the perpetrators.

  • COMMENTARY: Old Man Bramble, a Caribbean Christmas Legend

    COMMENTARY: Old Man Bramble, a Caribbean Christmas Legend

    On the remote Eastern Antilles island of Coral Cay, a timeless Christmas legend continues to illuminate hearts decades after its humble beginning. The story of Old Man Bramble, born from the extraordinary homecoming of an ordinary fisherman, has transformed into a profound cultural tradition that transcends generations.

    Originally known as Bram, the island native distinguished himself through exceptional curiosity from childhood. Unlike his peers who remained near shorelines, young Bram persistently gazed beyond the horizon, yearning to understand the world beyond his tropical home. Upon reaching adulthood, he departed with his mother’s blessing and a single gift: a modest brass and glass oil lamp. His solemn promise to return when ‘the world finished teaching him’ initiated a decades-long odyssey.

    Bram’s journeys exposed him to diverse cultures and wisdom traditions. Fishing alongside Windward sailors and learning from elders in distant harbors, he discovered universal truths about human connection: that strangers could become family, that kindness travels farther than any vessel, and that true wisdom resides in quiet reflection rather than loud proclamation. Throughout his travels, he maintained his mother’s lantern perpetually lit, a symbolic commitment that would later define his legacy.

    Returning as a silver-haired man on a Christmas Eve, Bramble—now known as Old Man Bramble—came not with material gifts but with hard-earned wisdom. His homecoming coincided with the most devastating storm in living memory, which plunged the island into darkness and terror. As families huddled fearfully in extinguished homes, a solitary light emerged along the shoreline.

    The elderly fisherman moved methodically through the tempest, his lantern creating a beacon of stability amidst chaos. Without uttering a single word, he guided lost islanders to safety, his calm demeanor seemingly causing the storm itself to abate. By dawn, the hurricane had vanished—and so had Bramble. Only his footprints and his still-glowing lantern remained on a driftwood stump, silently passing the responsibility of illumination to the community.

    Today, Coral Cay’s residents perpetuate Bramble’s legacy through annual Christmas Eve traditions. Families light lanterns to honor his memory and embody his teachings: that light is measured by faithfulness rather than size, that darkness exists to demonstrate light’s value, and that genuine power requires no volume. The legend has evolved into a cultural touchstone emphasizing quiet kindness, steadfast faithfulness, and the transformative impact of simple, consistent goodness.

    The Bramble narrative resonates particularly in modern times as an antidote to contemporary haste and noise. His story reminds societies that the most meaningful contributions often involve silent stewardship rather than loud proclamation, and that every individual possesses an inner light that no adversity can extinguish. This Christmas tradition ultimately celebrates how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary impact through consistent compassion and quiet reliability.

  • 20-year-old out on bail after $68,000 car theft charge

    20-year-old out on bail after $68,000 car theft charge

    A Christ Church resident has been released on bail following formal charges related to the alleged theft of a luxury vehicle valued at approximately $68,000. Makai Chrishon James, a 20-year-old from Pegwell Boggs, appeared before the District ‘A’ Criminal Court No. 1 on Saturday to address charges stemming from the December 5, 2024 incident involving a motor vehicle owned by Rico Depeiza.

    Presiding Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes oversaw the preliminary hearing where the defendant was not required to enter a formal plea regarding the indictable offense. The court set bail at $8,000, facilitating James’s conditional release pending further judicial proceedings.

    The case has been formally transferred to the District ‘A’ Criminal Court No. 2, with initial proceedings scheduled for January 14, 2026—indicating a substantial judicial timeline ahead. This case represents another entry in Barbados’s ongoing efforts to address property crimes involving high-value assets, highlighting both the legal framework for handling such offenses and the procedural pathways through which justice is administered.

  • Israel causes multimillion-dollar losses for Palestinian workers

    Israel causes multimillion-dollar losses for Palestinian workers

    The Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions has issued a stark condemnation of economic policies that have triggered a catastrophic unemployment crisis across Palestinian territories. According to Secretary General Shaher Saad, these measures have resulted in more than half a million job losses.

    Official data reveals unemployment has surged to historic highs, exceeding 50% in the West Bank and reaching a devastating 84% in the Gaza Strip. Saad attributes this economic collapse to a systematic siege and continuous restrictions, including pervasive road closures and daily military raids that specifically target Palestinian workers.

    The union leader further criticized the deliberate dismantling of core productive sectors. A protracted 27-month military blockade has decimated local industries, with agriculture, construction, and services suffering particularly severe damage. Saad characterized these comprehensive measures as a fundamental violation of human rights, stating they constitute a crime against the Palestinian people’s inherent right to work and live with dignity.

  • Police host ‘Caroling with the Badge’

    Police host ‘Caroling with the Badge’

    ROSEAU, Dominica – In a vibrant display of community unity and festive spirit, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) presented ‘Caroling with the Badge’ on the evening of Friday, December 19th, 2025. The special event, held at the Police Headquarters, was elevated by the distinguished presence and patronage of Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of Dominica.

    The evening transformed the police headquarters into a stage for cultural celebration, featuring an impressive lineup of local musical talent. Attendees experienced a series of captivating performances from acclaimed artists and groups, including The Sisserou Singers, the dynamic Tasha P, the soulful Shalina, the collaborative Redz and Friends, the rhythmic Band Akayo, and the beloved Music Lovers Government Band.

    Official statements from the CDPF characterized the event as a profound celebration that seamlessly blended Christmas cheer with rich Dominican culture. The initiative served as a bridge, fostering a stronger, more harmonious relationship between law enforcement personnel and the citizens they serve through the universal language of music and shared joy. The force extended its heartfelt gratitude to all participants and community members whose attendance and enthusiasm contributed to the magical and unforgettable atmosphere of the night.