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  • Toros defeat Gigantes in their fight to advance to the Final

    Toros defeat Gigantes in their fight to advance to the Final

    In a dramatic display of offensive prowess, Sergio Alcántara delivered a career-defining performance to secure a crucial 6-5 victory for Toros del Este against Gigantes del Cibao during Day 18 of the Dominican Winter League’s Round Robin stage. The electrifying matchup at Julián Javier Stadium culminated in an eighth-inning breakthrough that solidified the Toros’ championship aspirations.

    Alcántara’s remarkable night featured two crucial doubles and three RBIs, including the game-winning hit that broke a 5-5 deadlock in the final frames. His clutch performance elevated his Round Robin hit total to 10, surpassing his regular season output of nine hits and establishing him as the tournament’s offensive catalyst.

    The Toros’ victory was a collective effort featuring multiple standout performances. Eric Filia contributed significantly with a two-run double, maintaining his impressive on-base presence in five of his six appearances. Meanwhile, designated hitter Eloy Jiménez etched his name in league history by matching the all-time Round Robin record of nine doubles, a benchmark previously set by Jerry Brooks during the 1994-95 season with Azucareros del Este.

    From the bullpen, reliever Yaramil Hiraldo (2-1, 1.29 ERA) earned the victory after dominating with a scoreless inning and two strikeouts. Closer Joe Corbett secured his seventh save of the season, while Christopher Molina (0-3, 3.86 ERA) absorbed the defeat for Gigantes del Cibao.

    The triumph maintains Toros del Este (11-7) in second place within the Round Robin standings, their position contingent upon the postponed matchup between Águilas Cibaeñas and Leones del Escogido. A potential Escogido victory on Sunday would guarantee the Toros their seventh appearance in the Championship Final Series, adding strategic importance to the postponed contest.

    The game unfolded as an offensive spectacle with both teams exchanging leads throughout the evening. Jiménez initiated scoring with a first-inning double, immediately countered by Ricardo Cespedes’ infield single. Alcántara’s two-run double in the second inning established an early 3-1 advantage, subsequently extended to 5-1 by Filia’s fourth-inning double.

    Gigantes del Cibao mounted a formidable comeback through David Bañuelos’ two-run homer in the fourth inning and strategic small-ball execution in the fifth, narrowing the deficit to 5-4. Jorge Bonifacio completed the resurgence with a solo shot in the sixth that temporarily leveled the score at 5-5, setting the stage for Alcántara’s eighth-inning heroics.

  • Shaw is first Vincy in prestigious communication fellowship in US

    Shaw is first Vincy in prestigious communication fellowship in US

    In a historic achievement for Caribbean media, Ari Shaw has become the first journalist from St. Vincent and the Grenadines to secure placement in the International Center for Journalists’ Professional Fellows Program in the United States. This competitive selection process drew media professionals from 25 nations across Latin America, the Caribbean, and the United States.

    Shaw brings a decade of extensive media experience to the program, having served as a radio announcer and host at WE FM, reporter at Searchlight newspaper, news editor at IKTV & BOOM FM, and host of the “Off The Record” podcast. Currently, he serves as communications officer for the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project and Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery Project.

    The fellowship, which commenced this Wednesday and continues through February 19, offers participants immersive professional development opportunities. Fellows will collaborate directly with U.S. media organizations, develop entrepreneurial initiatives, and enhance their technical capabilities in investigative journalism, fact-checking, and podcast production. The program additionally focuses on building sustainable business models for media enterprises.

    According to the U.S. Embassy in Barbados, the initiative facilitates professional exchanges that strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States and partner regions. Shaw’s participation is anticipated to significantly advance his expertise while contributing to the enhancement of innovative broadcasting and media practices within St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    Expressing his enthusiasm, Shaw noted: “I’m both honored and grateful to be the first Vincentian accepted into this program. I perceive this as a valuable opportunity to refine my skills while engaging with international journalism professionals. I eagerly anticipate meaningful contributions to SVG’s media landscape and the broader region.” Shaw received his media training in Taiwan, adding international perspective to his professional background.

  • 87 cursisten behalen SAO-certificaat na afronding vaktrainingen

    87 cursisten behalen SAO-certificaat na afronding vaktrainingen

    PARAMARIBO – In a significant demonstration of personal initiative and educational commitment, 87 students received vocational certification on January 15, 2026, after successfully completing self-financed training programs. The ceremony, organized by the Foundation for Labor Mobilization and Development (SAO), highlighted courses in Basic Refrigeration Technology, Electrical House Installation, Water Sanitation (GaWaSa), and Printed Circuit Board Repair.

    The graduation event witnessed notable attendance from Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor Raj Jadnanansing, SAO Director Joyce Lapar, and Izaak Hill, representing the Board of Directors. Originally commencing with 103 participants, the program achieved an impressive 84% completion rate, with all graduates personally covering their training expenses without corporate sponsorship.

    Deputy Minister Jadnanansing praised the graduates’ perseverance and conscious investment in their professional capabilities. He emphasized Suriname’s impending need for skilled labor, particularly driven by expansion in the oil and gas sectors. “Suriname must prepare proactively to prevent future labor market shortages,” he stated, advocating for a shift in perception regarding vocational trainees—from ‘drop-outs’ to ‘drop-ins’ who strategically choose alternative educational pathways.

    SAO Director Lapar highlighted the distinctive character of this cohort, noting the participation of motivated youth, including two 16-year-olds, as a strong indicator of responsibility and forward-thinking. She underscored the necessity of lifelong learning in adapting to rapidly evolving job markets.

    Board representative Hill echoed these sentiments, urging graduates to embrace entrepreneurial thinking and collaborative ventures. All speakers emphasized the critical importance of applying acquired skills to foster confidence and sustainable career growth.

    The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting funded, subsidized, and partially subsidized vocational training, aligning with broader strategies to enhance workforce readiness and economic resilience.

  • Education : 2nd Day of the National Conference on the Refounding of the Haitian Education System

    Education : 2nd Day of the National Conference on the Refounding of the Haitian Education System

    The Northeast Department of Haiti hosted the conclusive session of the National Conference on Educational Refounding on January 16, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to transform its education landscape. Convened under the leadership of the Departmental Directorate of Education, the gathering united diverse stakeholders in a collaborative endeavor to address systemic challenges.

    Presided over by Luckner Mompremier, the Departmental Director of Education, the conference featured robust participation from civil society representatives, educators, school administrators, and students. Technical expertise was provided by Ministry of Education assistants Jean-Rouzier Claircidor and Amos Simon, who contributed substantially to the policy dialogue.

    Conference deliberations centered on two critical pillars: enhancing educational effectiveness and improving quality standards. Participants engaged in comprehensive analysis of existing institutional shortcomings while proposing pragmatic solutions. The consensus emphasized that quality education serves as the fundamental catalyst for youth development and national progress.

    Stakeholders articulated concrete recommendations for curriculum modernization, teacher training enhancement, and infrastructure development. The dialogue consistently highlighted the interconnection between educational excellence and Haiti’s broader socioeconomic advancement.

    In his closing remarks, Director Mompremier acknowledged the constructive contributions of all participants and emphasized the imperative of translating discussions into actionable policies. The conference concluded with a shared commitment to establishing an education system that effectively meets student needs and national development requirements.

  • Guyana pushes to become Caribbean’s sustainable tourism leader

    Guyana pushes to become Caribbean’s sustainable tourism leader

    Guyana is executing an ambitious infrastructure development strategy to establish itself as the Caribbean’s foremost sustainable tourism destination, according to high-level government announcements made during the inauguration of Georgetown’s new Plaza Hotel.

    President Irfaan Ali revealed plans to solicit expressions of interest for constructing over 35 hinterland airstrips in the coming days, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s connectivity agenda. This initiative complements ongoing coastal hotel developments with parallel investments in eco-lodges and enhanced air accessibility.

    “Tourism materializes through tangible infrastructure—runways, ports, hotels, and prepared communities—not merely through promotional materials,” President Ali emphasized, underscoring Guyana’s commitment to decisive investments in both physical and social infrastructure.

    The government has already allocated GY$2.5 billion in the previous national budget for rehabilitating critical hinterland airstrips at Apoteri, Aishalton, Chenapou, Jawalla, Sand Creek, and Paramakatoi. This investment has prompted two domestic airlines to reduce fares to these destinations, improving affordability and access.

    Additional infrastructure projects include expanding the Cheddi Jagan International Airport with a new terminal, bridging several major rivers, and constructing the strategic road connection to Lethem near the Brazilian border.

    Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues outlined Guyana’s distinctive approach to sustainable tourism, emphasizing conservation partnerships, community-led tourism initiatives, and ecosystem protection. “This strategic focus supports livelihoods in hinterland communities, safeguards natural assets, and aligns with global demand for authentic, responsible travel experiences,” she stated.

    The nation’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable growth, with visitor arrivals surging 22% to 453,489 in 2025 compared to 2024 figures. The United States remains the primary source market, contributing approximately 40% of arrivals, followed by Caribbean neighbors at 33%, with Canada, the UK, and other international markets comprising the remainder.

    Hotel development has kept pace with this growth, adding over 1,000 rooms through nine major properties in the past five years. Seven additional branded hotels with more than 1,300 rooms are currently in the development pipeline.

    The Guyana Tourism Authority attributes this success to expanded airline connectivity, competitive fares, robust diaspora demand, successful cultural and sports tourism events, and enhanced digital monitoring systems. Projections indicate visitor arrivals could reach 550,000 by the end of 2026, reinforcing tourism’s role as a key economic driver creating jobs, business opportunities, and sustained confidence in Destination Guyana.

  • Cab driver finds 6-year-old girl and her 53-year-old grandmother, reported missing

    Cab driver finds 6-year-old girl and her 53-year-old grandmother, reported missing

    A community’s vigilance culminated in a heartening resolution to a distressing disappearance case in Santo Domingo East. Dianibel Ozuna, who had just celebrated her sixth birthday, and her 53-year-old grandmother, Marilyn Adon de Jesús, were safely located after being reported missing since January 13th.

    The breakthrough occurred when an observant taxi driver, having recognized the pair from widespread media reports, proactively intervened. He escorted them to his residence in the Las 50 Casitas project, located in the Los Prados Orientales area, ensuring their safety until family members could arrive.

    Danyela Peña, a relative, provided details on the discovery. She confirmed that the woman and child were situated in a park within the Los Mina sector. Peña emphasized that the successful outcome was a direct result of rapid information dissemination and exemplary cooperation from the public. “Thank God the news recognized them and brought them here,” Peña was quoted as exclaiming with relief.

    In subsequent communications, the grandmother, Marilyn Adon, indicated to her family that she had been in the process of ‘sorting something out’ and had intended to extend her stay away from home. Prior to their discovery, family members and neighbors had expressed deep concern, revealing that Adon had been grappling with a mental health condition. They attributed this to recent personal difficulties, which had reportedly affected her stability over preceding months.

    Keyla, the daughter of Marilyn and mother of Dianibel, had previously described her mother’s condition, noting episodes of nervous breakdowns and pacing, followed by returns to lucidity. A neighbor, Juan Hernández, corroborated the family’s concerns, suggesting that external pressures related to her living situation were a significant contributing factor to her recent state.

    Authorities and family have confirmed that both the young girl and her grandmother were found in perfect physical health, bringing a positive close to the anxious search effort.

  • Elections on February 11, PM announces

    Elections on February 11, PM announces

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared the dissolution of Parliament on Saturday evening, setting the stage for a swift general election scheduled for February 11th. The announcement came following her formal consultation with President Jeffrey Bostic and subsequent directives to election officials to commence immediate preparations.

    Addressing supporters in Bridgetown after the nomination of former Democratic Labour Party Cabinet minister Michael Lashley as the Barbados Labour Party candidate, Mottley revealed her late-afternoon meeting with the President. She confirmed that election writs would be formally issued following approval by the Attorney General’s office.

    The Prime Minister outlined a compressed electoral timetable, with Nomination Day established for January 27th and Polling Day scheduled for February 11th. This accelerated timeline presents significant logistical challenges for both election authorities and political organizations requiring rapid mobilization.

    Mottley framed the parliamentary dissolution as an exercise in democratic renewal, emphasizing that continuing leadership requires fresh electoral mandates. She invoked unifying rhetoric, repeatedly urging party cohesion with calls for strength and collective effort.

    The Prime Minister simultaneously highlighted recent legislative achievements, specifically referencing parliamentary action that established property ownership rights for residents of housing estates. This initiative, described as fulfilling previous commitments, effectively transferred titles to over 200 citizens just prior to the election announcement.

    The dissolution marks the beginning of an intensive three-week campaign period that will test both electoral infrastructure and political mobilization capabilities across the island nation.

  • SVG Archery Association holds 2025 awards ceremony

    SVG Archery Association holds 2025 awards ceremony

    KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent and the Grenadines – The Archery Association of SVG, Inc. formally concluded its 2025 competitive season on January 10th with the annual National Archery Awards ceremony. The event, which doubled as the organization’s year-end social gathering, was held in Kingstown to celebrate the remarkable progress and accomplishments of local archers.

    Executive members and participants convened to distribute six prestigious national awards, recognizing exceptional performance throughout the past competitive season. The ceremony was graced by Ian Allen, a distinguished representative from the National Sports Council, who witnessed the official closing of the 2025 archery season.

    Vanburn Harry, Vice President of the federation, presided over the awards presentation. The honorees included:

    – Rayon Clarke, who achieved the highest distinction as Top Ranked Archer Overall and also received the Male Archer of the Year award alongside the Spirit of Archery Award for his exemplary sportsmanship.
    – Arush Ballapalli, recognized as the Most Promising Young Archer for demonstrating exceptional potential.
    – Dimetre Hadley, awarded as the Most Improved Archer for showing significant technical advancement.
    – Divya Jiandani, honored as Female Archer of the Year for her outstanding performance.

    In an official statement, the association emphasized that “The continued success of the sport of Archery in St. Vincent & the Grenadines is a testament to the committed efforts of the archers, members, executive board and supporters.”

    The association extended an open invitation to prospective enthusiasts, encouraging individuals interested in exploring archery to reach out via their social media channels or email at [email protected]. Training and practice facilities are available at the national archery range located at the West St. George Secondary School in Belair.

  • Politic : Everything you need to know about the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

    Politic : Everything you need to know about the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

    The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) serves as Haiti’s central institution for shaping the nation’s economic trajectory through comprehensive trade and industrial policy frameworks. Established to safeguard industrial and commercial property rights derived from international conventions, the ministry also oversees competition policy and consumer protection mechanisms.

    Operating through five strategic pillars, the MCI’s mission encompasses policy formulation, investment facilitation, and export promotion. The ministry actively works to align Haiti’s economic development plans with global and regional trade dynamics while maintaining compliance with national legislation and international commitments.

    A critical function involves defining strategic directions for public trade and industrial policy at both national and sectoral levels. This requires synchronizing socio-economic priorities with implementation mechanisms and resources. The MCI additionally bears responsibility for applying existing commercial laws while proposing new legislative frameworks that support trade and industrial objectives.

    The ministry’s diplomatic role includes conducting negotiations for international, regional, and sub-regional trade agreements, conventions, and treaties. It ensures effective monitoring and implementation of these agreements once ratified.

    Collaboration forms another essential component of the MCI’s operations. The ministry maintains partnerships with public, semi-public, and private institutions involved in production, distribution, marketing, and service communication. These alliances aim to enhance productivity and strengthen national and international competitiveness while protecting consumer rights.

    Notably, the MCI contributes significantly to poverty reduction strategies through regulatory oversight of public and private activities within its jurisdiction. The ministry drives modernization of business legal frameworks to create environments conducive to investment and sustainable development of industrial and commercial enterprises.

  • Mottley rings bell for early polls

    Mottley rings bell for early polls

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley has officially declared that Barbados will conduct a general election on February 19th, initiating the democratic process months ahead of the constitutional mandate. The announcement was delivered during a Barbados Labour Party nomination ceremony at Westbury Primary School, where senior attorney Michael Lashley KC received formal confirmation as the party’s candidate for Bridgetown. This nomination completes the ruling party’s full roster of candidates for all 30 constituencies in the parliamentary system. The dissolution of Parliament will immediately commence the election period, with Nomination Day scheduled for January 27th. This strategic move to advance the electoral timeline represents a significant political calculation by the incumbent administration, potentially aiming to capitalize on current economic and social conditions. The election will determine the leadership direction for the Caribbean nation amid ongoing regional challenges and global economic uncertainties. International observers are monitoring the electoral process as Barbados continues to strengthen its democratic institutions following its transition to a parliamentary republic.