Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Chinese lantaarnfestival licht op voor Chinees Nieuwjaar

    Chinese lantaarnfestival licht op voor Chinees Nieuwjaar

    The 32nd International Zigong Lantern Festival commenced Friday in China’s southwestern Sichuan province, launching spectacular celebrations ahead of the Chinese New Year. This annual extravaganza showcases the ancient art of illuminated lantern craftsmanship on a monumental scale.

    With the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac beginning on February 17, the festival embodies traditional Lunar New Year elements where lanterns symbolize prosperity and good fortune. Opening night attracted massive crowds admiring over 200 handcrafted lanterns depicting animals, mythological figures, and ancient Chinese scenes.

    Local resident Huang Ye, 32, shared: ‘My parents brought me to the Zigong Lantern Festival almost every year during my childhood. For us Zigong natives, this festival represents an inseparable part of our New Year celebration. Now I continue the tradition by bringing my own child to witness these magnificent displays.’

    The monumental installations required approximately 1,200 workers several weeks to complete. Among the most impressive creations was the 210-meter-long ‘Magical China’ display, inspired by ancient legends and featuring the mythical Kunpeng—a gigantic bird-fish hybrid. Another 180-meter installation titled ‘Legend of Mulan’ portrayed the famous female warrior’s story with a herd of galloping horses nodding to this year’s zodiac sign.

    Artisans employed innovative materials including straw, chili peppers, and recycled medicine bottles to construct these breathtaking luminous artworks, blending traditional techniques with sustainable practices.

  • Shock and Grief in Gray’s Farm After Death of Nikisha Rose

    Shock and Grief in Gray’s Farm After Death of Nikisha Rose

    The close-knit community of Gray’s Farm is reeling from a tragic late-night shooting that claimed the life of Nikisha Rose, a 42-year-old hairdresser known for her vibrant personality and community involvement. The incident occurred on Friday, January 23, at approximately 10:30 p.m. near the G&E Parking Lot in Michael’s Village.

    According to police reports, Rose was traveling in a vehicle with a male companion when an unidentified assailant opened fire on their car. Both occupants sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to Sir Lester Bird Medical Center for emergency treatment. Despite medical efforts, Rose succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at 11:21 p.m. The male victim, also a Gray’s Farm resident, remains hospitalized in stable condition.

    Rose’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the community where she was deeply embedded through both her hairstyling profession and her work with the Schools Meals Programme. Colleagues and friends remember her as perpetually energetic and encouraging, with an ever-present smile that brightened her surroundings. Many described her as the emotional backbone of her social circles, making her loss particularly devastating.

    Local residents have expressed profound grief over the passing of what many called a “hardworking mother” and “valued community member.” The spontaneous outpouring of tributes across social media and community gatherings highlights the significant impact Rose had on those around her.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Police are actively seeking information from the public and have provided contact numbers for both the Criminal Investigations Department (462-3913) and Crimestoppers (800-TIPS). The Police Administration has formally extended condolences to Rose’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

  • Glow Walk Fundraiser to Support Former Broadcaster Paul Quinn

    Glow Walk Fundraiser to Support Former Broadcaster Paul Quinn

    In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, St. John’s will host a luminous Glow Walk next Friday evening as prominent sports broadcaster Joseph “Jojo” Apparicio converts his birthday celebration into a charitable initiative. The event, scheduled for January 31st, aims to generate crucial financial support for former Observer Radio host Paul Quinn, who experienced a devastating stroke in November 2024.

    Participants will assemble at 6:00 PM at the Yasco Sports Complex, embarking on a illuminated procession through the capital city adorned with glow sticks and reflective attire. Apparicio, the esteemed host of Observer Radio’s ‘Good Morning Jojo Sports Show,’ made the conscious decision to dedicate his annual birthday philanthropy to Quinn following his colleague’s sudden health crisis.

    Medical circumstances have presented significant challenges for the Quinn family. According to Sheriann Quinn, the patient’s wife, medical professionals initially provided a grim prognosis of mere days remaining for her husband. However, against all odds, Quinn has demonstrated remarkable resilience in his recovery journey. He has achieved liberation from oxygen support, regained mobility in all extremities, and maintained full cognitive awareness. A current tracheostomy procedure temporarily restricts his vocal capabilities, but hasn’t diminished his engagement with familiar radio programming each morning.

    The community’s emotional and spiritual support has played an instrumental role in this recovery process, acknowledged Mrs. Quinn, who expressed profound gratitude for continued public prayers and encouragement.

    Apparicio emphasized the substantial financial burdens associated with long-term medical care, noting how such expenses create overwhelming pressure for families navigating health crises. All generated proceeds from the Glow Walk will be directly allocated to Quinn’s medical treatment and rehabilitation requirements. Contributions can be offered during the event or coordinated beforehand, with the walking commencement set for 6:00 PM at the designated sports complex.

  • Cuba commemorates International Education Day

    Cuba commemorates International Education Day

    In a powerful address disseminated through social media channels, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla has reaffirmed his nation’s steadfast dedication to advancing free, universal, and inclusive education as an indispensable human right. The diplomatic statement emerged amid growing international concerns regarding global educational disparities.

    Citing alarming UNESCO statistics, Rodríguez highlighted the profound crisis facing worldwide education systems, noting that 244 million children and adolescents currently lack any form of schooling. Further compounding this emergency, an additional 617 million young learners demonstrate insufficient proficiency in fundamental literacy and mathematics skills, creating what experts describe as a global learning poverty epidemic.

    The Cuban diplomat positioned educational access as more than simply an academic concern, framing it as a critical mechanism for fostering international peace, cross-cultural understanding, and social inclusion. Rodríguez emphasized that strengthening educational frameworks represents a foundational pillar for sustainable human development and the eradication of systemic discrimination.

    This declaration aligns with Cuba’s longstanding educational policy, which has historically prioritized comprehensive literacy programs and accessible education despite economic challenges. The Caribbean nation’s educational model has frequently been cited by international organizations for achieving remarkable literacy rates and educational participation levels.

    The timing of this statement coincides with increased global attention on educational inequality following pandemic-related school disruptions that disproportionately affected developing nations. United Nations agencies have warned that without significant intervention, current educational deficits may severely hamper progress toward international development goals.

  • Innovation leaders in the Cuban Press receive awards

    Innovation leaders in the Cuban Press receive awards

    Several Cuban media organizations have been recognized for journalistic excellence and innovative practices during a prestigious awards ceremony held at the Union of Cuban Journalists (UPEC) headquarters. The honorees included Ideas Multimedios, Radio Sancti Spiritus, the satirical publication Palante, and Radio Cumanayagua from Cienfuegos province.

    The awards specifically acknowledged groundbreaking efforts in developing and implementing innovative editorial solutions that address contemporary challenges in journalism. The competition bears the name of Juan Antonio Borrego, the late director of Escambray publishing house, honoring his legacy in Cuban media.

    Dr. Ana Teresa Badia, renowned journalist with Radio Rebelde and chair of the judging committee, reported exceptionally strong participation in this year’s competition. She noted that the majority of entries demonstrated significant commitment to developing practical solutions for the evolving challenges facing modern journalism.

    Special recognition was awarded to Radio Sancti Spiritus for its comprehensive coverage commemorating the centennial of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro’s birth, an honor bestowed by the Institute of Information and Social Communication. Ideas Multimedios received distinctive acclaim for its multimedia section titled ‘The Century of Fidel,’ which earned a special prize created specifically for this occasion.

    In a parallel achievement, the Faculty of Communication at the University of Havana presented Escambray publishing house in Sancti Spiritus with an award for its scientific approach to media management. This recognition aligned perfectly with the same category honored through the Juan Antonio Borrego Award, highlighting consistent excellence in journalistic management practices.

  • Wendy Lewis redefinding success through hard work

    Wendy Lewis redefinding success through hard work

    In a powerful embodiment of Michelle Obama’s assertion that “women and girls can do whatever they want,” Trinidadian visionary Wendy Lewis has crafted a multidimensional career that defies conventional categorization. At 54, this San Fernando native has merged three decades of expertise across media, entertainment, and social advocacy into a transformative force for Caribbean women.

    Lewis’s professional tapestry spans remarkable breadth: an internationally recognized keynote speaker, broadcast professional, and leadership strategist who simultaneously operates as CEO of Khalabash Productions, founder of TT Corporate Training Academy (the Caribbean’s first protocol school), certified counselor, ordained minister, and published author. Her broadcast legacy includes hosting acclaimed programs like “D Khalabash Corner,” “Straight Talk with Wendy,” and “A Woman’s Worth.”

    Her groundbreaking achievements include a historic 2001 victory as the first woman to claim the UK Calypso Monarch title—a triumph she successfully defended the following year. This musical prowess complements her status as the region’s longest-serving female artist manager, currently guiding careers of soca artist Roger George and Bollywood vocalist Anuradha Hansraj.

    Beyond entertainment, Lewis wields significant influence as Chair and Regional President of Caribbean Women Honors & Empowerment’s Trinidad chapter. Since 2019, she has spearheaded initiatives combating gender-based violence while creating safe spaces for men’s mental health through the “Men We Are Here For You” program. Her 2024 islandwide period poverty campaign addressed menstrual health and youth empowerment through strategic partnerships and community engagement.

    Lewis attributes her multifaceted success to spiritual grounding, intentional relationship-building, and refined discernment. “My inner circle became more refined, my purpose grew clearer, bringing greater peace, alignment and fulfillment,” she reflects regarding her ability to balance numerous roles.

    Future endeavors include executing “A Woman’s Worth – The Conference,” multiple book releases, and undisclosed projects. Her advice to women navigating multiple roles emphasizes self-prioritization: “Put God first, then yourself, and then anyone or anything else. Give yourself permission to pace your life in seasons and redefine success on your own terms.”

  • Man charged with murder of young mother in southern France

    Man charged with murder of young mother in southern France

    A profound sense of grief has enveloped the French city of Nice following the brutal murder of a 23-year-old woman, identified only as Lizabete, who was fatally shot multiple times while her infant daughter sat unharmed in the vehicle. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at a city intersection, has prompted swift legal action, with a primary suspect now facing murder charges.

    According to official statements from prosecutor Damien Martinelli, the alleged perpetrator—a 45-year-old Portuguese national—has been placed in pre-trial detention after being formally charged with murder on Sunday. Investigators believe the suspect was previously involved with Lizabete’s stepmother, adding a layer of domestic complexity to the tragedy.

    The attack unfolded when the assailant, riding a scooter, approached Lizabete’s car at point-blank range near a local high school and fired repeatedly into the vehicle. Despite the immediate response of emergency services, the young mother could not be revived. Miraculously, her seven-month-old daughter, Ayla, secured in a baby seat beside her, emerged physically unscathed.

    Notably, the suspect had recently been in police custody for aggravated assault against his former partner and was under a court order to avoid contact with her. He was rearrested Saturday afternoon on the outskirts of Grasse, approximately 40 kilometers from Nice.

    In response to the killing, the Nice municipal government held a public vigil on Friday to honor Lizabete’s memory. The city has also committed to granting her daughter ward-of-the-state status, ensuring support and care throughout her upbringing.

  • Nearly 700 students placed in ‘host schools’ after Melissa – Morris Dixon

    Nearly 700 students placed in ‘host schools’ after Melissa – Morris Dixon

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In response to the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaican educational authorities have successfully relocated approximately 680 students from severely affected regions to functional host institutions. The Category 5 hurricane, which made direct landfall last October, caused substantial damage to educational infrastructure across multiple northwestern parishes including Westmoreland, St James, St Elizabeth, Hanover, and Trelwany, with additional damage reported in Manchester and St Ann.

    Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon confirmed the implementation of the ministry’s host school policy, designed to ensure educational continuity for displaced students. The strategic relocation effort has placed affected students into reputable high schools within the Corporate Area, with prominent institutions such as Alpha Academy, Wolmer’s Schools, Campion College, and Kingston College participating in the program.

    The minister’s statements came during a Senate session on Friday, specifically addressing inquiries from Opposition Senator Lambert Brown regarding educational continuity measures. Minister Morris Dixon notably acknowledged Opposition MP Damion Crawford’s constructive suggestions regarding host school placements, stating: ‘I applaud MP Crawford for aligning with the ministry’s direction on host schools – this initiative has proven tremendously beneficial for our children’s educational stability.’

    The host school policy, activated immediately following the hurricane, represents a coordinated effort between government agencies and educational institutions to mitigate disruption to students’ academic progress while damaged facilities undergo reconstruction and repairs.

  • Bishop Garth Minott elected new president of Jamaica Council of Churches

    Bishop Garth Minott elected new president of Jamaica Council of Churches

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) has undergone a significant leadership transition with the election of Suffragan Bishop of Kingston Garth Minott as its new President. Bishop Minott will commence his two-year term this month, succeeding Bishop Christine Gooden-Benguche who completed her tenure after serving the organization for the past two years.

    The ecclesiastical body announced its newly elected leadership cadre following its annual convening last month. Bishop Minott will be supported by three regional Vice-Presidents: Rev’d Pauline DaCosta of St John’s Methodist Church in Montego Bay (Cornwall), Most Rev’d John Persuad, Bishop of Mandeville (Middlesex), and Rev’d Karen Kirlew of the Greater Portmore Circuit of Baptist Churches (Surrey).

    Beyond his diocesan responsibilities overseeing Kingston, Bishop Minott provides episcopal supervision to the Cayman Islands and multiple Jamaican parishes including Clarendon, St Catherine, St Andrew, St Thomas, St Mary, and Portland.

    Bishop Minott brings extensive theological expertise to his new role, having served as Deputy President and lecturer at the United Theological College of the West Indies (UTCWI) since 2003 prior to his ordination and consecration on June 11, 2022. He additionally coordinated the Doctor of Ministry program offered by Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia.

    His academic portfolio includes instruction in practical theology, covering Introduction to Ministry, Christian Ethics, and Christian Worship. Before his academic career, Bishop Minott served as Rector of the Browns Town Cure following his ordination as deacon in 1992 and priest in 1993.

    Bishop Minott holds a MPhil degree from the University of the West Indies focusing on the Church’s role in social justice and HIV/AIDS response, complemented by an MA in Theology from McGill University. His professional development extends to specialized training in Instructional Design, Research Skills, and Clinical Supervision. He has contributed significantly as a consultant on HIV/AIDS curriculum integration, served as a Voluntary Counselling and Testing provider, and participated on multiple ethics committees including those of the UWI Medical Faculty and National Bioethics Committee.

    Bishop Minott is married to Dr. Denise Minott, and together they are parents to two sons, Mark and Stephen.

  • Few make the cut

    Few make the cut

    Jamaica’s premier law enforcement agencies are confronting a significant recruitment challenge as their exhaustive vetting procedures eliminate the vast majority of applicants seeking to join their ranks. The Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) and Financial Investigations Division (FID) have disclosed that their stringent integrity assessments, including polygraph examinations and comprehensive background checks, result in exceptionally high rejection rates.

    Colonel Desmond Edwards, Director General of MOCA, elaborated during a recent Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange that approximately 20% of candidates immediately fail polygraph testing. Among those who initially pass, many are subsequently disqualified during meticulous background investigations and additional screening phases, despite possessing adequate academic credentials.

    The screening protocol represents one of the most rigorous in Jamaican law enforcement. All MOCA personnel undergo ‘positive vetting’—a multilayered process involving initial polygraph tests, thorough background assessments, and annual polygraph re-evaluations for every agency member. The organization maintains a specialized polygraph unit with 16 certified examiners who provide integrity assurance services for MOCA personnel and other government entities including the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

    Edwards emphasized the necessity of these measures given MOCA’s sensitive mandate investigating organized crime, financial offenses, and corruption. “We suffer significantly with our capacity to onboard people quickly because sometimes they don’t make it through the process,” he acknowledged, noting that the agency typically must evaluate six to seven applicants before identifying one suitable candidate who meets both academic and integrity standards.

    The FID reports parallel challenges. Chief Technical Director Dennis Chung revealed that background investigations frequently uncover disqualifying factors such as previous involvement in financial irregularities or scam-related activities. Chung indicated that despite strong applicant interest, only approximately 20% ultimately satisfy the comprehensive requirements for financial investigation roles.

    Garth Williams, FID Brand Communications Specialist, clarified that the high attrition rate reflects the specialized nature of financial crime investigation rather than applicant quality or motivation. The agencies maintain that their exacting standards, while slowing recruitment, are indispensable for maintaining investigative credibility and public trust as financial crimes grow increasingly sophisticated and technology-dependent.