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  • Rosemarie McMaster, Guardian of Susie’s Hot Sauce Legacy, Dies

    Rosemarie McMaster, Guardian of Susie’s Hot Sauce Legacy, Dies

    The nation of Antigua and Barbuda is united in mourning following the passing of Rosemarie McMaster, a revered figure celebrated for her lifelong dedication to preserving a cornerstone of national heritage. As the daughter of the founder of the iconic Susie’s Hot Sauce, McMaster’s legacy is inextricably linked to the beloved condiment that has graced Antiguan tables for generations.

    McMaster emerged as the principal custodian of her mother’s pioneering vision, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the brand’s authenticity and quality. Under her vigilant stewardship, Susie’s Hot Sauce transcended its status as a mere commercial product to become a powerful symbol of local entrepreneurship, cultural pride, and enduring family legacy. Her strategic guidance ensured the brand remained a dominant and cherished fixture in the domestic market, resisting external pressures and modernization trends that often dilute such heritage brands.

    The news of her death has triggered a profound national outpouring of grief and tributes, highlighting the deep personal connection citizens felt towards both the individual and the enterprise she represented. Her contributions extended beyond business, embodying a narrative of female leadership and the preservation of national identity through local enterprise.

    The depth of her impact was previously captured in an interview conducted eight years ago by the late Carl Joseph for the Antigua News Room (ANR), which stands as a lasting testament to her pivotal role in the brand’s story and her significance to the nation’s cultural fabric.

  • Punta Gorda to Get Modern Football Field

    Punta Gorda to Get Modern Football Field

    Punta Gorda, Belize – A significant infrastructure development is poised to transform sporting facilities in southern Belize as the coastal town of Punta Gorda prepares for the installation of a modern synthetic football field. The project, which has reached an advanced stage with materials already on site, awaits optimal weather conditions for implementation.

    Osmond Martinez, Minister of Economic Development and Toledo East Area Representative, convened a strategic meeting with Football Federation of Belize President Sergio Chuc this past Friday to coordinate installation timelines. During their discussions, Minister Martinez confirmed that the synthetic turf has successfully arrived in Belize, marking a crucial milestone in the development initiative.

    The installation process, however, faces meteorological considerations. Martinez emphasized that successful implementation requires several consecutive weeks of dry, sunny conditions to properly prepare the subsurface foundation before laying the synthetic surface. This weather-dependent phase underscores the technical precision required for modern sports infrastructure projects.

    Official photographs accompanying the project update visually document the arrival of large rolls of synthetic turf, demonstrating tangible progress toward the facility’s completion. The images provide concrete evidence of the project’s advancement beyond planning stages.

    Upon completion, the modern football pitch is projected to significantly enhance athletic opportunities for youth and residents throughout Punta Gorda and neighboring communities. The facility represents a substantial upgrade from traditional grass fields, offering all-weather playing capabilities and reduced maintenance requirements.

    Community reception has revealed divergent perspectives. While many residents have expressed enthusiasm for the sporting infrastructure improvement, others have voiced concerns about prioritizing recreational facilities over urgent public works needs. This sentiment was captured in social media commentary referencing deteriorating road conditions near local cemeteries that require immediate attention.

    The project reflects ongoing efforts to develop sports infrastructure across Belize while highlighting the complex balancing act between recreational investments and essential public services in community development planning.

  • Regering spreekt medeleven uit na dodelijk verkeersongeval

    Regering spreekt medeleven uit na dodelijk verkeersongeval

    The national government has issued an official statement expressing profound sorrow following a devastating traffic accident that occurred at the intersection of Johannes Mungstraat and Veldhuizenlaan during morning hours. The catastrophic collision between a passenger vehicle and a public transport bus resulted in multiple fatalities and left numerous individuals with serious injuries.

    In an emotional address, government representatives extended heartfelt condolences to bereaved families and loved ones affected by this tragedy, offering strength and support during this profoundly difficult period. Officials additionally expressed sincere hopes for the swift and complete recovery of all injured parties.

    The administration publicly commended emergency response teams and all involved personnel for their rapid, professional, and efficient on-site intervention. Their coordinated efforts in providing immediate assistance and managing the crisis scenario received particular recognition from authorities.

    Reiterating the critical importance of road safety awareness, the government emphasized that traffic safety represents a shared societal responsibility. All motorists and road users received an urgent appeal to maintain constant vigilance, exercise responsible driving behavior, and demonstrate extreme caution at all times. The statement specifically highlighted the necessity of strict adherence to established traffic regulations and safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

  • DLP calls out government ministers over QEH crisis

    DLP calls out government ministers over QEH crisis

    Barbados’ Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has launched a direct accusation against Health Minister Senator Dr. Jerome Walcott and Minister of Health and Wellness Davidson Ishmael, holding them personally accountable for the deteriorating situation at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). This political confrontation emerged following an urgent meeting convened by Prime Minister Mia Mottley with QEH medical consultants as the nation’s primary healthcare institution faces unprecedented strain.

    Senator Andre Worrell, the DLP’s health spokesperson, declared in an official weekend statement that the current hospital crisis represents the culmination of systemic failures within the Health Ministry rather than a sudden emergency. According to Worrell, numerous alerts from medical professionals, nursing staff, patients, and opposition representatives regarding critical shortages in personnel, medical supplies, equipment, and administrative coordination have been consistently disregarded.

    The opposition party reiterated several previously proposed emergency measures, including expanded operating hours at polyclinics, immediate staffing interventions, evening general practitioner clinics at QEH, and urgent financial injections to stabilize medical supply chains. A particularly emphasized recommendation involves reactivating the Harrison Point Facility to alleviate overwhelming patient overcrowding, a solution the DLP claims has been ignored despite worsening conditions.

    Beyond the immediate QEH crisis, the DLP highlighted systemic failures across Barbados’ healthcare infrastructure. Significant concerns include substandard conditions at the Geriatric Hospital on Beckles Road, postponed operational timelines for the Waterford facility (now delayed beyond its November 2025 target), critical staff deficiencies at the Psychiatric Hospital, and resource limitations throughout the polyclinic network that compromise nationwide healthcare delivery.

  • Twenty-nine individuals wrap up basic fisherman training with Fisheries Division

    Twenty-nine individuals wrap up basic fisherman training with Fisheries Division

    The Fisheries Department of Dominica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has successfully concluded its 54th Basic Fisherman’s Training Course (BFTC), equipping 29 new entrants with essential professional qualifications for the fishing industry. Among the graduates was one female participant, marking a step toward greater gender diversity in the sector.

    Held from January 12 to 15 at the Roseau Fisheries Complex Conference Room, the intensive program was led by Fisheries Officer Kurt Hiliton with support from government officers, industry experts, NGO representatives, and private sector partners. The comprehensive curriculum covered critical aspects of modern fishing operations including maritime safety protocols, basic first aid, engine maintenance, and post-harvest handling techniques.

    Notably, this iteration of the BFTC incorporated expanded modules on fishing entrepreneurship, covering financial record-keeping, cooperative development, and social security benefits. Participants also received instruction on emerging opportunities within the Blue Economy framework and a newly introduced social media marketing component designed to help fishers leverage digital platforms for business growth.

    The Fisheries Division emphasized that completion of the BFTC represents a mandatory step toward obtaining official licensing in the Commonwealth of Dominica. The department reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing professional development initiatives aimed at enhancing sector sustainability, economic viability, and safety standards within the nation’s fishing industry.

  • Guyana’s electronic health records system goes live

    Guyana’s electronic health records system goes live

    Guyana has entered a new era of digital healthcare with the official launch of its Electronic Health Records System (EHRS), marking a transformative shift from paper-based to fully integrated digital medical documentation. The historic implementation commenced at the Festival City Polyclinic in South Ruimveldt on Saturday, with Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony and Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) CEO Robbie Rambarran leading the groundbreaking initiative.

    The EHRS represents the culmination of two decades of planning, with initial concepts dating back to the early 2000s. The system, built upon a customized platform from UK-based RIOMED, is engineered to streamline healthcare delivery through digital integration of patient records across public facilities. GPHC has been designated as the next institution to transition to the digital platform, with CEO Rambarran projecting that several hospital services will achieve paperless operation by April 2026.

    Comprehensive training programs will be established at the Festival City Polyclinic to prepare staff from newly constructed facilities for EHRS implementation. By the end of 2026, patient records throughout Guyana’s public healthcare network are expected to be fully integrated into the centralized digital system.

    The technological advancement promises significant improvements in medical efficiency, eliminating redundant diagnostics and preventing adverse medication interactions through instant access to patient histories. Minister Anthony emphasized the system’s robust security protocols, noting that violations of patient confidentiality under the 2023 Data Protection Act could incur penalties ranging from GY$20 million to GY$100 million, though the legislation awaits official operationalization.

    Future developments include a dedicated mobile application that will enable patients to schedule appointments digitally, reducing waiting times and administrative burdens. While initially focused on public healthcare, authorities anticipate eventual integration with private medical providers, granting patients portable access to their complete medical histories.

    Health officials have appealed for public cooperation during the transition period, acknowledging potential challenges while emphasizing the long-term benefits of digital healthcare management for both patients and medical professionals.

  • Legal Team Accuses Police Commissioner of ‘Gaslighting’ Public

    Legal Team Accuses Police Commissioner of ‘Gaslighting’ Public

    In a significant escalation of tensions within Belize’s law enforcement community, legal representatives for whistleblower “Mr. Pou” have delivered a scathing response to Police Commissioner Richard Rosado’s recent statements regarding the Budna kidnapping investigation.

    The controversy erupted when Commissioner Rosado, addressing allegations that officers were coerced into providing false statements, publicly encouraged individuals with evidence to come forward. This invitation was immediately characterized by Pou’s attorneys as “disingenuous” and part of a systematic pattern of institutional gaslighting.

    Legal counsel Nazira Uc Myles and Leeroy F. Banner issued a comprehensive rebuttal alleging that their client’s career has been systematically dismantled in retaliation for his refusal to remain silent about investigative irregularities. The legal team asserts that Pou had previously raised concerns through proper channels with both senior police officials and government authorities, only to encounter what they describe as “inaction and hostility.

    The statement particularly condemns what it characterizes as the Commissioner’s patronizing attitude toward Belizean citizens, stating: “Our client finds profoundly insulting the audacity of Dr. Rosado to treat the citizenry as an uneducated audience incapable of recognizing evidentiary manipulation.”

    In response to the perceived institutional failure, Pou’s legal representatives are demanding the immediate formation of an independent investigative body operating in conjunction with the Director of Public Prosecutions. They argue that the Police Department lacks the necessary impartiality to investigate itself when its highest-ranking officials and political affiliates face serious questions about their conduct.

    The escalating confrontation now places pressure on the Minister of Home Affairs to intervene, with Pou’s team urging the implementation of robust transparency protocols and protection mechanisms for whistleblowers within Belize’s law enforcement apparatus.

  • Dominica will not give up Cuban Healthcare Program, says PM

    Dominica will not give up Cuban Healthcare Program, says PM

    In a definitive New Year’s address, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit declared his nation’s unwavering commitment to the Cuban Healthcare Program despite mounting international pressure and allegations of forced labor within the initiative. The Thursday evening interview with journalists revealed the Caribbean leader’s firm stance against abandoning the medical partnership that he described as critical to national healthcare infrastructure.

    The program, currently under scrutiny by the Organization of American States and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, faces additional challenges from United States sanctions including visa restrictions on affiliated officials. Nevertheless, Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the indispensable role of Cuban medical professionals, noting that 9 out of 11 practitioners in Dominica’s Intensive Care Unit originate from Cuba.

    Skerrit acknowledged ongoing discussions with both Cuban authorities and U.S. representatives to address concerns through program modifications while maintaining the essential medical collaboration. The Prime Minister contextualized the dependency within historical patterns of medical staffing, noting that previous sources of healthcare professionals from Nigeria and India have diminished due to recruitment by wealthier nations.

    The Caribbean leader concluded that without viable alternatives for medical staffing, Dominica would continue to benefit from Cuban medical expertise and training systems, albeit potentially under restructured arrangements that address international concerns.

  • Killer gets life for ATM murder

    Killer gets life for ATM murder

    In a landmark ruling at Barbados’ No. 3 Supreme Court, Justice Carlisle Greaves has imposed a life sentence with a 40-year tariff upon 26-year-old Kishon Lemar Anderson Thomas for the 2017 murder of 58-year-old Colleen Payne. The sentencing concludes an eight-year judicial process surrounding the brutal killing that occurred at a Royal Bank of Canada ATM on University Hill, St. Michael.

    Justice Greaves characterized Thomas as a ‘dangerous, conniving, manipulative individual’ requiring prolonged societal protection. After accounting for 633 days spent on remand and a 24-month reduction for procedural delays, Thomas will serve 36 years at Dodds Prison before parole eligibility.

    The court established that Thomas and an accomplice were stalking ATM users for robbery opportunities when he shot Payne as she withdrew funds for her church. Justice Greaves emphasized deterrence as a critical sentencing factor, noting that thousands of citizens and visitors rely on ATMs at all hours without fearing violent criminal acts.

    A perplexing aspect emerged during proceedings: Thomas came from privileged circumstances with relatives claiming he ‘lacked nothing’ and was even purchased a vehicle while on bail for the murder. Justice Greaves observed this case demonstrates how privilege doesn’t preclude criminal behavior, citing Thomas’s documented association with criminal elements in Black Rock despite repeated family warnings.

    The human toll was articulated by victim’s sister Ella Noelle, who revealed the murder triggered a family tragedy extending beyond Payne’s death. Their ill father succumbed to grief within weeks, followed by their mother’s death one year later, still mourning their daughter’s loss. In an extraordinary statement of forgiveness, Noelle expressed hope Thomas would ‘find a relationship with God,’ believing her sister would have wanted the same.

    Thomas maintained his innocence from the dock while acknowledging sympathy for the life lost. The prosecution was led by Deputy Director of Public Prosecution Krystal Delaney, with defense representation by Andrew Pilgrim and Sian Lange.

  • Trump Says Countries Could Face Tariffs Over Greenland

    Trump Says Countries Could Face Tariffs Over Greenland

    In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared he may impose new tariffs on nations opposing his controversial proposal for American control of Greenland. The unprecedented threat emerged during White House remarks on Friday, marking the first time the administration has suggested using trade measures to advance territorial ambitions.

    Addressing reporters, Trump emphasized Greenland’s strategic importance: “I may put a tariff on countries if they don’t go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland… for national security.” The Arctic territory, currently an autonomous Danish constituent, has become the focal point of an international standoff with far-reaching implications for NATO alliances.

    The administration’s persistent campaign to acquire the strategically valuable territory has triggered swift military and diplomatic responses. Denmark has warned that any aggressive move against Greenland would effectively terminate NATO cooperation, while simultaneously expanding its military footprint on the island.

    European nations have responded with remarkable coordination. France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and Finland have announced troop deployments to Greenland, creating an unprecedented multinational military presence in the Arctic region. Concurrently, Canada and France are establishing consular offices in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, signaling strengthened diplomatic engagement.

    Despite these mounting tensions, diplomatic channels remain open. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen confirmed the establishment of a high-level working group with U.S. officials to seek “a common way forward.” However, he acknowledged that fundamental disagreements persist between the two nations regarding Greenland’s sovereignty and strategic future.