标签： Barbados

Starcom Network Inc. has firmly stated that the dismissal of Ronnie ‘De Announcer’ Clarke, its former Programme Manager, was not linked to his performance of a contentious calypso at this year’s Pic-O-De-Crop competition. Instead, the decision followed a formal disciplinary process concerning internal company matters. Anthony Greene, Starcom’s General Manager, emphasized that while the public may associate Clarke’s termination with his controversial calypso performance at the National Carol Festival, the action was rooted in concerns about his role within the organization. Greene expressed gratitude for Clarke’s 25 years of service and acknowledged his contributions to the company. The termination, effective last Friday, was the result of a disciplinary process aligned with internal protocols and national labor laws, involving legal representation from both sides. Clarke, a veteran calypsonian and broadcaster, has contested his dismissal, citing ‘serious misconduct’ as the stated reason. He met with the Labour Department on Monday to present his case and has until Friday to file an appeal with Starcom. His attorney, Hal Gollop, has communicated with the Labour Department and is confident the appeal will be submitted before the deadline. Clarke plans to address the public at a freedom of expression march on Saturday, where he intends to reveal additional details. The termination letter, signed by Noel Wood, CEO of Starcom’s parent company, the Nation Group, cited Clarke’s remarks on the Marcia Weekes Show on July 16 as breaches of company policies. Specifically, three of his statements were deemed false, malicious, and detrimental to Starcom’s interests. One such statement criticized the company’s lack of transparency, describing it as a failure to address ‘the elephant in the room.’ Clarke’s case continues to draw public attention as he seeks to challenge his dismissal and defend his professional reputation.

Authorities have confirmed the identity of the individual fatally shot during a violent confrontation in Weston, St James, over the weekend. The deceased, 26-year-old Doniko Avery Gaskin from The Garden, St James, lost his life in the early hours of Saturday, November 8. The incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m. when three masked, armed men approached a licensed firearm holder as he was exiting a business establishment. According to police reports, the armed men confronted the individual and opened fire. In response, the licensed firearm holder reportedly drew his weapon and returned fire, injuring two of the assailants. Gaskin succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while the other injured man was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for medical attention. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the incident and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Holetown Police Station at 419-1700, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or Police Emergency at 211.

The vibrant spirit of Barbados came alive at Queen’s Park in The City on Friday evening as the inaugural Barbados Food and Rum Simplex Trading Community Cook-Off Finals showcased the island’s rich culinary traditions. Six talented home cooks from across the parishes of Barbados competed fiercely for the coveted title of top community chef, with Heather Aimes of St Joseph emerging victorious. Her winning dish—cornmeal cou-cou paired with steamed fish, pickled cucumber, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes—captured the essence of authentic Bajan cuisine and earned her the $7,500 grand prize. The competition, a highlight of the 2025 Barbados Food and Rum Festival, celebrated the creativity and skill of everyday cooks, bringing communities together through food. Second place went to Sarah Hoppie of St Andrew, who took home $5,000, while Chade Marshall of St George secured third place with a $2,500 prize. Executive Chef Henderson Butcher, the festival’s culinary director, praised the event for fostering unity and showcasing the depth of Barbadian food culture. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening community bonds and preserving culinary heritage. For Heather Aimes, the win was a proud moment, as her traditional cou-cou dish resonated deeply with the judges and audience alike. The event not only highlighted the island’s gastronomic excellence but also underscored the power of food as a unifying force in Barbados.

The tranquil community of Weston in St. James, Barbados, has been shaken by a violent shooting incident that occurred early Saturday morning near the Millie Ifill Fish Market. The altercation resulted in one fatality and left another individual injured, leaving residents deeply concerned about rising crime in the area. Witnesses reported seeing a bullet hole in a nearby structure, a grim reminder of the violence that unfolded. Local residents expressed frustration over the lack of action to address the issue, with one man lamenting, “Nobody is doing anything about it. Too many young men are idle, smoking herb, and engaging in reckless behavior.” Another resident proposed that increasing the number of licensed firearm holders could serve as a deterrent to such crimes. Meanwhile, management at John Moore’s Bar, a popular local establishment, clarified that the incident did not occur on their premises but rather at the adjacent Millie Ifill Car Park. A spokesperson emphasized, “We are a community-spirited establishment that promotes positivity and good vibes. No crime occurred within our bar.” Police at the Holetown Station confirmed that the shooting took place around 1:30 a.m. when a licensed firearm holder was confronted by three masked assailants. The victim returned fire, resulting in one death and one injury. Authorities are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with information to contact the Holetown Police Station, Police Emergency, or Crime Stoppers.