The Barbados Light and Power Company issued a stark warning on Friday about the dangers posed by car accidents involving power poles. noting that a sizeable minority of power outages this year have been attributed to vehicular crashes.

Communications Advisor Adriel Richard told the launch of a series of videos that 26 out of 151 outages this year had been caused when vehicles struck power poles, bringing power lines down.

He said: “What I’ve learned from the team who supervises that department is that the major cause of outages this year has been car accidents—cars just run into light poles, knocking down light poles, which means that power lines are down on the ground.”

“Seventeen per cent, or 26 out of 151 outages this year, have been caused by vehicular crashes. This is the leading cause of outages this year,” he shared.

He also mentioned other causes of power outages: “We’ve also focused on power lines and people picking fruit and people working on your roofs and stuff like that.”

Richard advised the public to be vigilant around power lines: “Look up and look around because there’s oftentimes a power line somewhere nearby. Be careful when you’re working on your roof and be especially careful when working near power lines. Never trim trees near power lines.”

He encouraged people to call the utility if there were any power lines near homes or buildings.

“If you have power lines anywhere near your homes or any buildings, give the guys a call at 626-9000 and we will try to make some kind of arrangement to see what we can do in terms of trying to resolve that issue,” he said.

“Never climb trees near power lines. Reinforce that to all those people who are going to pick the coconuts, mangoes, and your breadfruits—never climb trees near power lines.”

He also warned the public about projects that might damage underground power lines and endanger people’s safety.

“If your projects include digging, like building a deck or planting a tree, you can also call us because you never know where we have underground power lines, and that is also a major hazard,” he said. (LG)

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Small and medium-sized businesses in Barbados are set to receive a significant boost through a $50 million Enhanced Credit Guarantee Fund (ECGF) announced by the Central Bank of Barbados in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). 

Unveiled during a roundtable discussion on Friday, this marks the third phase of funding within the initiative and aims to strengthen access to financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), further addressing barriers that have been hindering sustainable growth.

Speaking at the event, Central Bank Governor Dr Kevin Greenidge noted that since its launch in 2015, the ECGF has facilitated over $65 million in loans through 326 approved guarantees, supporting businesses across various sectors.

Describing MSME’s as “the backbone of any economy,” he said, “These are businesses whose livelihoods and their families depend on them, and so this help is extremely important.”

“With the support of the IDB, many of these institutions have been able to traverse and overcome barriers to financing.”

The new $50 million funding is expected to build on the success of two previous phases which saw $35 million in 2015 and $30 million during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Greenidge noted that the third phase will focus on critical areas, including export readiness, diversification, food security, and climate adaptation, also seeking to increase participation from female-owned businesses and those led by individuals with disabilities.

The CB Governer added that under the ECGF, guarantees of up to 80 per cent of the total loan amount are issued allowing businesses to secure necessary funding to progress with their projects.

Renewable energy, which accounted for a third of the guarantees under the previous programme, is also expected to receive additional support in this phase.

“This third round of funding is a lot of support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Barbados,” Greenidge noted. 

“It will help expand our focus on export readiness, diversification, and renewable energy, among other priorities.”

President of the IDB, Ilan Goldfajn further acknowledged  the economic impact of the programme noting that small businesses represent a large percentage of private sector employment within Barbados. 

He also praised the Central Bank and other financial institutions for bridging the gap by providing monetary solutions to a sector that “doesn’t have enough financing because of its size.”

The roundtable discussion also featured comments from various participating banks and their clients who have benefited from the previous phases of the ECGF. 

They shared that the fund’s impact has been felt across multiple sectors, including the medical field, manufacturing, renewable energy, wholesale, retail, and agri-processing. 

“We love the fund,” said Managing Director of Royal Bank of Canada, Shimon McIntosh. 

“The way it works, having the strength of the IDB backing the Enhanced Central Guarantee Fund has really given banks, and my bank in particular, the confidence in the quality of the collateral.”

He further explained how the fund has helped SMEs: “When you think about an SME that has a good idea, strong cash flows, but no collateral, the Central Bank guarantee comes into play and can get them to the next round, build further capability and capacity, and then enable them to grow from strength to strength, exporting into different markets.”

“Our experience with the fund has been fantastic. I look forward to the next round of $50 million,” McIntosh said.

He also introduced two beneficiaries of the fund during the discussion, FLIJ Enterprises which was able to leverage the ECGF to build a 500-kilowatt solar farm, while Guinea Estates, used the programme to expand the renewable energy component of its plantation. (SM)

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The Regional Security System (RSS) on Friday sounded the alarm about a spike in scams targeting users of popular messaging app WhatsApp across the Caribbean, urging them to safeguard accounts and avoid falling victim to cybercriminals exploiting the platform.

Over the past few weeks, unsuspecting victims have received WhatsApp messages from unknown numbers, or numbers purporting to be a WhatsApp support representative, requesting a code received via SMS be sent to the contacting number. Users are made to believe that the code is required to verify their WhatsApp account. Once this is done, the hackers gain access and control of the victim’s account.

Experts at the Barbados-based RSS explained that the hackers use the target’s number to send messages to persons in their contact list, requesting money to be sent via a money remittance system. They claim to be stranded overseas and in need of funds to pay for a hotel or to buy an airline ticket. Furthermore, the offenders have also been sending links or codes to these contacts as a means of soliciting more victims.

A statement issued by the RSS Asset Recovery Unit (ARU) said the alarming trend, which has emerged across the region, has not gone unnoticed by its officials who are working diligently to ensure that member states’ citizens do not fall victim to the emerging scam.

The unit set out the steps which users can take to significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to criminals.

It urged users to follow the recommended steps to verify requests, protect personal information, be cautious with verification codes, report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement agencies, and enable two-factor authentication on WhatsApp.

Members of the public were also urged to keep abreast of this trend and cooperate with authorities to combat the issue and prevent these malicious activities from causing further harm, according to the statement. (BT)

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The world’s oldest commercial rum distillery on Friday opened its fifth rum ageing bond, increasing storage capacity by nearly 50 per cent.

The new bond at Mount Gay Distilleries in St Lucy will house an additional 18 000 barrels, pushing the distillery’s total capacity to  64 000 barrels, master blender Trudiann Branker said.

‘

She said: “Prior to having this bond, our capacity was roughly 44 000 barrels. Now, with this bond, we can hold about 64 000. So it’s really an investment in the future because most of the rums that we age here will not be for today’s consumption but will be for the next five years, ten years, 15 years.

“It’s really about making sure that we’re able to have the reserves that we need to be able to satisfy the demand specifically for our more premium offerings.

She continued: “We talked about innovation in a big way when we opened the bond and in order to be able to satisfy the innovation pipeline, you need maturing rums. Building this bond allows us to have these different styles of rum here to be able to further innovate and really occupy that premium space in your rum industry.”

Antoine Couvreur, managing director of Mount Gay Distilleries, which has been fully owned for the last ten years by French spirits giant Rémy Cointreau, said the new bond was a significant development for the rum industry in Barbados.

He said: “This bond looks to the future, meeting the rising global demand for premium aged rum, as the category grows at a remarkable rate. Our investments here, including the development of this state-of-the-art bond, featuring a special underground cellar like no other in Barbados, and our ongoing commitment to sustainable rum production, are all part of a long-term strategy to ensure that Mount Gay leads at the forefront of this movement.”

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Business Senator Lisa Cummins encouraged the island’s rum producers to keep pressing ahead in their efforts to attain a geographical indicator (GI) for their products.

Noting that this has been a long-standing priority, she said: “I believe that the time has long come and maybe even long past its accomplishment date for us to have crossed this hurdle and I’m looking forward to the work which I know is underway with you in the industry and also with other government agencies to be able to bring it to fruition.”

A GI functions like a trademark, safeguarding authenticity by legally enforcing the product’s origin and production standards. For Barbados to secure a GI, all of the inputs to make rum and spirits would have to be locally sourced, and all of the products produced by the rum industry would have to be aged here.

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A Skeete’s Road, Garden Land, St Michael man has been sentenced to 24 years for raping, buggering, and kidnapping a woman in 2010.

But after several deductions were made and having already spent 2 326 days on remand, Derrick Ward now has 1 473 more days to serve behind bars.

Ward had confessed to rape and buggery of a woman between July 21 and 22, 2010, assaulting her on July 21; and detaining her against her will at Skeete’s Road, Garden Land, with intent to have unlawful sexual intercourse with her.

In handing down the sentence, Justice Randall Worrell agreed with the submissions of Senior State Counsel Romario Straker that the offences could only be dealt with by a custodial sentence and should start at no less than 24 years.

The judge said: “A firearm was involved. You accepted what was said by the complainant about what she would have endured. She was crying. She also indicated that the act of unlawful sexual intercourse was without protection, so all of these were aggravating features. She said: ‘After that, he had sex with me several times throughout the night until morning. I do not know how much times he had sex with me.’ So it was repeated. All of these things, Mr Ward, the court has to take under consideration.”

Justice Worrell reduced the starting sentence by two years and deducted time for his early guilty plea, time on remand, and delay.

Ward, who was already serving time at Dodds Prison on another conviction while this case was pending, was also credited for that period.

“You were lost in the system, and you cannot be penalised for being lost in the system,” Justice Worrell said.

Ward was also sentenced to four years for the assault, and after deductions were made, was deemed to have already served the sentence.

Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens represented Ward.

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Earlier this month, Jay Shah took over as chairman of the global governing body for cricket, the ICC. This week, he met with officials of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics organising committee to discuss the sport’s potential inclusion in the Summer Games.

Cricket is slated to return to the Summer Games four years hence, at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, after more than a century since its first and only appearance. And Shah appears to be set on ensuring that the sport features at the 2032 Brisbane Games as well.

“Very exciting time ahead for Cricket’s involvement in the Olympics movement – a meeting with the @Brisbane_2032 organizing committee in Brisbane, Australia today,” Shah posted on X with visuals of the meeting.

Shah officially took over the helm of ICC last week with a visit to its headquarters in Dubai. In his first speech as chairman, he explained why cricket should be part of the Olympic roster and underlined how it would be significant in making the sport popular in every nook and corner of the world. His Thursday meeting was attended by Brisbane 2032 organising committee chief Cindy Hook and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.

The former BCCI secretary, Shah is likely to head to The Gabba on Saturday to watch the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia. India started the series on a promising note by winning the opener in Perth. Australia turned the tables in the second game in Adelaide with a dominant 10-wicket victory.

Among Shah’s immediate priorities is to find a solution to the hosting of Champions Trophy in February-March. A hybrid model has been agreed by all stakeholders but no announcement has been made yet, fuelling speculations over the future of the event.

No official announcement has been made as to how the cricket representatives from the West Indies or Americas will qualify for the 2028 Olympics.

(TF)

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Two people have died following a single-vehicle collision in St James Saturday morning.

The victims — both men, ages 37 and 41 — are yet to be formally identified and their respective families officially notified. 

Shortly before 2 a.m. police from Holetown Police Station responded to the scene of a collision along Bennetts Road, St James. 

The collision involved a car with at least four occupants.

The vehicle was travelling along Bennetts Road toward Highway 1 when it struck a utility pole head-on resulting in two of its occupants dying at the scene. 

Meanwhile, two other occupants — a 24-year-old man and a woman in her 20s — were transported to hospital for treatment. 

The woman suffered serious head injuries and other injuries about her body; while the man had several cuts and abrasions. 

The roadway has been cordoned as police investigate. (PR)

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The Major Crime Unit of the Barbados Police Service has arrested and formally charged Luston Trace Qurie Watson, 38, a Jamaican national residing at Lot 9 Heddings, St Philip, in connection with a number of offences.

Police say Watson has been charged with the following:

• Murder of Shane Parris on January 13, 2024.
• Possession of cannabis.
• Possession with intent to supply cannabis.
• Trafficking in cannabis.

Watson is scheduled to appear before Chief Magistrate Ian Weeks in the District ‘A’ Criminal Court on Saturday. (PR)

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As the West Indies savour their 3-0 One Day International series success against Bangladesh in St Kitts & Nevis, comments from captain Shai Hope and assistant coach Floyd Reifer point to solid preparation.

Although both teams are lowly ranked, it was good to see the positive approach by West Indies.

Significantly, in all three matches West Indies batted second. It is no secret that the Warner Park ground is small and the pitches were excellent for batting but the job had to be done.

In sequence, West Indies won by five wickets, seven wickets and four wickets.

There were maiden ODI centuries for Sherfane Rutherford (113) in the first match and fellow left-hander Amir Jangoo  (104 not out) on debut in the last. (See summarised scores).

Rutherford, a 26-year-old Guyanese now with 12 ODIs, made the most runs (167) and also topped the averages (83.50) for West Indies. Keacy Carty scored 161 (Ave: 53.66), Hope 106 (Ave: 53.00) and Brandon King, also 106 (Ave: 35.33).

Jayden Seales was the top bowler with five wickets (Ave: 17.00, Econ: 4.47), followed by fellow pacers Alzarri Joseph with four (Ave: 27.50, Econ: 5.50) and Romario Shepherd, four (Ave: 41.50, Econ: 5.75), and left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, three (Ave: 47.33, Econ: 4.73).

“Anytime you win a series, it’s always good. Before the series, you could see a group of guys raring and ready to play cricket, so you can’t ask for a better result than 3-0. We’ve been planning well, and we’ve been playing good cricket, so it’s just great to see that we can get over the line and actually sweep the series,” Hope said.

“It was pleasing for me as a leader to see everyone putting their hands up in different situations.

“There’s not one particular guy doing the bulk of the work every single time. Sherfane has been consistent for the last three series, and it’s great to see guys contributing when the team needs it most, so I’m very happy with where the team is at this point.”

Hope also commented on the knock by Jangoo, a 27-year-old Trinidadian.

“It’s great. I always speak about the accolades and milestones coming after the fact, but the way he played throughout the innings was impressive. It’s great to see him get a century while winning the game for the team. I’m very happy to see him get runs on debut,” Hope said.

Jangoo is the second West Indian to score a century on ODI debut following Barbadian Desmond Haynes, who made 148 against Australia at the Antigua Recreation Ground in 1978.

Reifer, a former West Indies captain, gave an assessment after the second match.

“This series was important for us, as before the series started, we set our goals in terms of where we want to be at the end. We sit at number 10 in the ODI rankings, but when we started in 2023, we were 15 to 17 points behind everybody. By the end of this series, we’ve cut that lead to just two points behind number nine,” Reifer said.

“When we first started, our middle-over batting was a challenge. Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to address this, and to see it come to fruition is very rewarding.

“Preparation is key. The guys are preparing better, and we’ve built a culture of intense, purposeful work. Conversations in the dressing room between players and coaches have also helped elevate our game.”

Summarised scores:

1st ODI, December 8: West Indies won by 5 wickets (with 14 balls remaining).

Bangladesh 294/6 (50 overs) (Mehidy Hasan Miraz 74 – 101 balls, 6 fours, 1 six; Tanzid Hasan 60 – 60 balls, 6 fours, 3 sixes; Mahmudullah 50 not out – 44 balls, 3 fours, 3 sixes; Jaker Ali 48, Afif Hossain 28, Soumya Sarkar 19; Romario Shepherd 3-51, Alzarri Joseph 2-67).

West Indies 295/5 (47.4 overs) (Sherfane Rutherford 113 – 80 balls, 7 fours, 8 sixes; Shai Hope 86 – 88 balls, 3 fours, 4 sixes; Justin Greaves 41 not out, Keacy Carty 21, Evin Lewis 16).

2nd ODI, December 10: West Indies won by 7 wickets (with 79 balls remaining).

Bangladesh 227 (45.5 overs) (Mahmudullah 62 – 92 balls, 2 fours, 4 sixes; Tanzid Hasan 46, Tanzim Hasan Sakib 45, Afif Hossain 24, Shoriful Islam 15; Jayden Seales 4-22, Gudakesh Motie 2-36).

West Indies 230/3 (36.5 overs) (Brandon King 82 – 76 balls, 8 fours, 3 sixes; Evin Lewis 49, Keacy Carty 45, Sherfane Rutherford 24 not out, Shai Hope 17 not out).

3rd ODI, December 12: West Indies won by 4 wickets (with 25 balls remaining)

Bangladesh 321/5 (50 overs) (Mahmudullah 84 not out – 63 balls, 7 fours, 4 sixes; Mehidy Hasan Miraz 77 – 73 balls, 8 fours, 2 sixes; Soumya Sarkar 73 – 73 balls, 6 fours, 4 sixes; Jaker Ali 62 not out – 57 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes; Afif Hossain 15; Alzarri Joseph 2-43).

West Indies 325/6 (45.5 overs) (Amir Jangoo 104 not out – 83 balls, 6 fours, 4 sixes; Keacy Carty 95 – 88 balls, 10 fours, 2 sixes; Gudakesh Motie 44 not out, Sherfane Rutherford 30, Brandon King 15, Roston Chase 12; Rishad Hossain 2-69).

Keith Holder is a veteran, award-winning freelance sports journalist, who has been covering local, regional and International cricket since 1980 as a writer and commentator. He has compiled statistics on the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) Division 1 (rebranded Elite in 2012) Championship for over four decades and provides statistics and stories for the BCA website (www.barbadoscricket.org).

Email: Keithfholder@gmail.com

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The Serious Organised Crime Unit of the Barbados Police Service has arrested and formally charged Tremaine Rico Ramon Hinds, 34, of #39 Beckles Road, St Michael.

Hinds has been charged with the following:

• Possession of a firearm (x2) — on December 8.
• Possession of ammunition — on December 8.

Hinds appeared before Magistrate Alison Burke in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court on and has been remanded to The Barbados Prison Service (Dodds). He is scheduled to reappear on Friday, January 10. (PR)

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Sales of premium rum from the Caribbean have dipped considerably this year, according to the West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers Association (WIRSPA), as industry leaders cite a combination of international instability and supply chain issues for the downturn. 

However, forecasts for the next five years indicate a potential recovery, prompting producers to invest in sustainability and branding to boost the industry, it said.

Chief Executive Officer Vaughn Renwick blamed a range of external issues for the below-par performance.

He said: “Coming out of COVID-19, we saw a resurgence of demand in 2022 and that did not continue; it sort of levelled off in 2023, and while we expected a resurgence in 2024, it didn’t quite happen. We think it’s a combination of international instability, a certain amount of politics, issues with supply chains, but generally, 2024 has not been a great year.” He did not provide any figures.

In its latest economic review, covering the first nine months of the year, the Central Bank of Barbados said the island’s domestic exports fell marginally by 0.6 per cent, largely due to reduced rum exports.

In a 2022 report, the bank indicated that rum and other beverages contributed $84.8 million to the island’s gross domestic product. The following year, a preliminary report said the industry contributed $87.7 million. But as of September this year, it was estimated that the industry contributed only $64.4 million.

But Renwick was upbeat about the regional rum industry’s projections over the next few years, things should improve.

He said: “We think things will pick up; the overall outlook for the next five years is very good and premium rum, which is the Caribbean’s and Barbados’ top export, is going to be doing well in the long term. So that’s what we’re banking on.”

Renwick added that industry players were readying themselves in anticipation of the rum boom by investing in sustainable and developmental projects, such as expanding capacity, improving branding and telling a better story of Caribbean rum.

The WIRSPA chief said: “One of the things that we are doing is looking at how we tell our stories. For instance, here at Rémy Cointreau, one of their mantras is drink less, drink better. They premiumise and premiumise and premiumise by offering innovative, new spirits and saying to people: ‘You’re going to pay a bit more for this but it is going to be a really great product for you to enjoy.’ So, drinking less but drinking better products and more premium products is part of that strategy.” 

He continued: “The Caribbean is a home of premium rum. Our rums are known internationally as high-quality products with a story behind them, and Barbados has a lot of that story in it. So, in presenting these premium products, one of the ways in which we do it is presenting age products, and investing in new barrels and warehouses is a key element to build in your provenance and your quality and your story. There are other ways of doing it which might be related to your production traditions and techniques, but investment in barrels is something that everybody is doing.

“We are not looking five years down the road or ten years; we’re looking 20 years down the road because, of course, rum being put down now is going to be sold, some of it, in 20 or 25 years. So, it is very much a long-term vision and even though 2024 has not been a great year for premium rum for the industry, this is a statement that we believe in the future and that we are prepared to put money into the future of premium rum by building the Caribbean story and saying to the world that premium rum quality comes from the Caribbean and from Barbados.” 

sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb

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This holiday season, the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) is shining a spotlight on the exceptional products and services crafted by local creative enterprises. From fashion and food to health and wellness products and visual art, the NCF is proud to present the Shop Barbados Catalogue – Aisle 166, a curated selection of unique, high-quality offerings that make perfect holiday gifts.

Through strategic partnerships with like-minded agencies, the NCF has spearheaded numerous business development initiatives aimed at driving growth in the creative sector. These initiatives have supported the research, development, and marketing of locally made cultural products, while also increasing global accessibility for international consumers.

“Our local creative enterprises continue to raise the bar with products that are innovative, attractive, and competitively priced,” said Carol Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of the National Cultural Foundation.

“This holiday season, we encourage everyone to browse, shop, and support the local creative industries. By choosing locally made gifts, you’re not only giving something special and meaningful but also helping to sustain our creative economy and cultural heritage.”

The NCF invites consumers to discover a diverse range of products that reflect the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural identity of the region. From elegant fashion pieces to artisanal treats and wellness essentials, there is something for everyone.

For more information on how to support local creatives and explore featured products, visit https://ncf.bb/2024/12/07/shop-barbados-catalogue

(PR)

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Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, on Saturday welcomed the luxury superyacht Emerald Sakara, as it made its inaugural berth at the Port of Bridgetown.

Gooding-Edghill, who was joined by officials from the Ministry, Barbados Port Inc., and Platinum Port Agency Inc., exchanged plaques with Captain of the yacht, Robert O’Leary.

The Minister said it was a pleasure to welcome the captain, the guests and the entire crew servicing Emerald Sakara to Bridgetown, Barbados.

He noted that the Emerald Sakara, like its sister ship the Emerald Azzurra which visited the island during the cruise season 2023/2024, is an air-sea transfer cruise offering.

“The fact that we have the Emerald brand in Port today also closely aligns with the airlift strategy that we are pursuing as a Ministry, as well as the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. The fact that we’ve been able to drive significant airlift out of the United States speaks volumes. And the reason for that is, that on this ship today, the Sakara, we will have passengers who are flying into Barbados to embark on the ship here in the Bridgetown Port for the onward journey to Speightstown.

“Again, this speaks volumes, and it aligns very closely with our airlift strategy, not only to increase the arrivals but also to bring smaller vessels to Barbados, and we will continue to build out that strategy,” Minister Gooding-Edghill stated.

Ninety-three guests on board the luxury superyacht will make history  on Sunday as the first small cruise vessel to utilise the moorings installed off Speightstown, St Peter.

“The unique opportunity that presents itself today is the fact that this smaller luxury ship will also be journeying all the way tomorrow to Speightstown, which affords the Speightstown community an opportunity to take advantage of all of the economic benefits, that for the first time, a ship utilising the new moorings off the Speightstown area. We are aware that there are several planned tours for the community, as well as for the northern part of Barbados. This is exciting news, and it also demonstrates the commitment on the part of smaller ships to go into Speightstown,” the Tourism Minister said.

Gooding-Edghill added that it is a “defining moment” in enhancing Barbados’ luxury tourism offerings and signifies the beginning of a new chapter for the island’s tourism product, which aligns with the Ministry’s vision and strategy of diversifying and enriching its tourism product.

Captain O’Leary, who expressed pleasure at being on the island, said: “It’s nice to be here. It’s nice to be back here. It’s been for me many, many years since I’ve been in Barbados. I was lucky enough to spend my 18th birthday here. I’ve got very fond memories of the shores off here, of many hours spent at the Boatyard, places like that, and places much more beautiful, but great memories of Barbados. So, it is very nice to come back, and it’s nice to bring Sakara here. Last year, our sister was here, Emerald Azzurra, this year we swapped, so it’s nice.”

The yacht, which has a carrying capacity of 100 passengers, is known for its boutique hotel-like amenities, intimate atmosphere, and excellent value for money.

Emerald Sakara’s next port of call is Kingston, St Vincent.

In addition to the Emerald Sakara, five other cruise vessels were in the Port, bringing a total of 4,274 cruise passengers to the island. (BGIS)

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December is about to get colder!

ICE All White Breakfast Inclusive Boxing Day event is set to be an unforgettable morning experience of elegance, entertainment, and fine cuisine.

This year’s edition, dubbed Icy Elegance, promises to be nothing short of epic. The spacious and pristine grounds of Sandalwood Estate, Hothersal Turning, St Michael, is the place to be on Thursday, December 26th at 6 a.m., for a premium all-white affair that’s full of vibes for the festive season.

Known as the most anticipated Boxing Day fete, ICE continues to elevate its brand, offering patrons an unmatched blend of vibes, culinary delights, and entertainment. Indulge in a delicious breakfast featuring a variety of food stations and bask in the VIP experience that has made ICE a household name.

“This year, we are taking things to the next level,” says Nathan Walters, the co-producer of ICE Events 246.

“The response to last year’s event was overwhelming, and our Crop Over edition only amplified the excitement. ICE has become the single largest and most talked-about breakfast event on Boxing Day, and we’re building on that anticipation to deliver something truly spectacular. Patrons can expect a hyped vibe, delectable cuisine, and the signature ICE experience they’ve come to love.”

The line-up this year features performances by Mole, Grateful Co, Jordan English, Tionne, and Leadpipe & Saddis. Additionally, ICE is thrilled to welcome the man voted as the island’s “most popular DJ” Surf Rat to the hyped DJ roster including Niqo Vybz & Gunner, Hutchy & Sizz, Daddy Bubbles & Evolution, Sheldon Papp & Chasey the Entertainer, Ramon G, DJ Ras, Jerry Dan, and Thorny.

The event will be hosted by the dynamic duo of Dawnisha and Shadae, ensuring an atmosphere of high energy and excitement. The ICE team is especially happy to showcase these two young lively and engaging personalities as the event continues to pair emerging local talent with established household names.

Get your tickets today!! Follow @ICE246 on Instagram and Facebook for more details. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Icy Elegance — the premier event to close out the year in style!

Tickets available from: CS Pharmacy, Broad Street, Rubis, Wildey, SOL, Warrens, Athlete’s Foot, Sheraton Mall, Brooklyn’s Finest, Roebuck Street, Friction Clothing, Dome Mall, The Fashion Outlet, Tyrol Cot Heritage Village, Vibrant Boutique, Lanterns Mall, Top 10 Boutique, Sky Mall Burger King, Six Roads & Holetown and online at ticketlinkz.com.

(PR)

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Hitting the ground running. That is how the Barbados Association of Retired Person’s (BARP) new CEO Steve Alleyne has described his first six months with the island’s largest organisation which is dedicated to representing seniors.

Alleyne, who has more than 30 years of experience in the retail sector, took over leadership of the organisation on July 15. His objective is to guide BARP in its mission to serve and support seniors who have significantly contributed to the nation’s development.

“My aim is to maintain BARP’s success with the support of its dedicated staff, sponsors and partners, ensuring that the needs of Barbados’ seniors are met with the care and attention they deserve,” he said.

Alleyne holds an MBA in General Management from the University of the West Indies and previously worked at Unicomer Barbados Ltd (formerly Courts Barbados Ltd), where he held several senior leadership roles including Director of Sales and Senior Business Chain Manager for Courts Optical and RadioShack.

He brings a wealth of experience to BARP’s management team, having demonstrated leadership across various areas of the business.

Steve is married to Sherry-Ann Alleyne, and together they have two children, Makayla, and Ayden Alleyne. (PR)

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It was a fun-filled day for scores of children in the St Michael South constituency on Saturday. MP for the area Kirk Humphrey held his annual Christmas party at the Graydon Sealy Secondary School and there were lots of activities for the children to take part in from horseback riding to playing in the jumping tents. 

Other activities included face painting and interacting with Santa Clause. 

There was also lots to eat and drink and a number of goodies for the children. 

Humprey said he wanted to spread the joy of Christmas to the little ones in his community. 

“This event has been going on every year since 2017; we only took a break during COVID-19. I just want to ensure that the children get a good Christmas, that they enjoy themselves and socialise with each other. I know they look forward to this party every year because of all the activities they get to participate in,” he said. (SZB)

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Afine batting display by ESA Field Pickwick saw them finish day one of the ninth and final series in the Barbados Cricket Association Elite Three-Day Competition on a score of 258 for four.

Playing on their home turf, Foursquare Oval, Pickwick were sent in to bat by title favorites Wanderers after they won the toss. Three batters reached half centuries led by Captain Rohan Ryan, who is unbeaten on 80, Kyle Hope 66, and Craig Holder 57,

The pair of Ryan and Hope came together with the score on 116 for three, putting together a stand of 142 before Hope was judged LBW off the bowling of West Indies Captain Kraigg Brathwaite.

Wanderers were hoping for bowling points to secure the 2024 title but were made to field all day by the resilient Pickwick batters.

Gaining three batting points so far, Pickwick will fancy their chances of avoiding demotion as play was not possible in the games at Spartan and Empire due to wet conditions.

Kyle Hope punches a ball off the back foot on his way to a well-played 66.

In the only other game to play on the day, University of the West Indies (UWI) won the toss and asked Superb Blendz Gladiola to bat first at the 3Ws Oval.

Gladiola found the scoring tough as they ended the day on 111 for five in 40 overs with a run rate of 2.77 per over.

UWI, who came into the game facing demotion, boasted a full strength lineup of 11 players with first-class experience.

Pacers Jediah Blades and Chemar Holder picked up two wickets each while Johann Layne has one.

Play will continue on Sunday with teams looking to push for bowling and batting points.

Summary of scores:

At Foursquare Oval: ESA Field Pickwick 259-4 (71 overs) (Rohan Ryan 81 not out – 125 balls, eight fours, one six; Kyle Hope 66 – 100 balls, two fours; Craig Holder 57 – 105 balls, seven fours; Jourdan Niles 2-44) v Wanderers.

Toss: Wanderers.

At 3Ws Oval: Superb Blend Gladiola 111-5 (40 overs) (Rashawn Worrell 22; Chemar Holder 2-20, Jediah Blades 2-22) v UWI.

Toss: UWI.

At Queen’s Park: No play because of wet conditions.

Fusionz Boutique Spartan v Bayview Hospital YMPC.

At Bank Hall: No play because of wet conditions.

Empire v IGS Insurance Brokers Yorkshire.

At SJPIT: No play because of wet conditions.

Wildey v SigniaGlobe Financial BCA Youth.

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The Barbados Water Authority is alerting residents of some northern districts that they may experience low pressure or water outages Saturday night and into Sunday.

Three stations in the parish of St Peter had to be taken offline to prevent massive water loss as a result of a rupture sustained on a main near Warleigh. Due to the stoppage, the pipe-borne supply to customers in the following areas may be impacted.

In St Lucy:

• Round Rock, Chance Hall, Alleynedale, Benthams and surrounding districts.

In St Peter:

• Black Bess, Rock Hall, Four Hill, French Village, Indian Ground, Welch Town, Diamond Corner, Portland, Pleasant Hall, Morehill, St. Nicholas, Boscobelle Terrace, Boscobelle, Gays Tenantry, Upper Castle, Lower Castle, Castle Tenantry, Bakers, Rock Dundo and surrounding areas.

In St Andrew:

• Rock Hall and surrounding districts.

In St James:

• Sion Hill, Upper Carlton, Deane’s Town, Waterhall, St Silas and surrounding areas.

Residents in these districts may continue to be affected until the repairs which are scheduled to be conducted early on Sunday are completed.

The Authority will make every effort to assist persons in the affected neighbourhoods via tanker while the problem persists. Customers wishing to make enquiries are reminded that they can contact the Authority at 434-4292.

The BWA apologises for the inconvenience these service disruptions may cause and will provide an update on the situation. (PR)

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Walking with the easterly breeze at his back, a pioneer from Pioneer Road tells how a Bush Hall boy would grow up shaping his craft while influencing Barbadian culture. Four years shy of his 70th birthday, Adzil Stuart recalls a childhood grounded in discipline and creativity. His father, a retired policeman turned shopkeeper, and his mother, a housemaker and shopkeeper, provided a nurturing foundation.

Adzil Stuart’s hands have brought stories to life, painting faces for theatre, screen, and stage. But his recent recognition at Kensington Oval, where he received the Silver Trident of Excellence from President Sandra Mason during Barbados’ 58th Independence anniversary and third as a republic, celebrates far more than just his artistic brilliance. His story is one of resilience, creativity, and service.

As a boy attending Wesley Hall Primary School, his childhood was rooted in an island in the final years of being a British colony: “We did little things… school was different. A lot of what we did reflected our connection to the British colony… That is why it was strange when one day, it went from ‘God Save the Queen’ to ‘In Plenty and in Time of Need’.”

In 1966, at just eight years old, he braved heavy rains at the Garrison Savannah on Independence night. “British ships were docked, soldiers marched through the water in their pristine white … boy, did it rain,” he recalls with a nostalgic smile.

A path defined by destiny

Stuart’s path to Combermere School was decided over a spirited conversation at his father’s shop, Stuart Bar and Grocery. Despite excelling in the Common Entrance Examination and being allocated a place at Harrison College, his father insisted he attend Combermere, just a stone’s throw from home. “As my dad, a retired police officer, ran a bar and grocery… I would always state that I was born at a bar but never had to be called to one,” he chuckles.

At Combermere, Stuart flourished under the mentorship of teachers like Pamela Hinkson, who encouraged his theatrical pursuits. He led the school’s drama association, creating costumes and experimenting with stage makeup. “We loved theatre … at school, we experimented a lot,” he said, reminiscing about working with peers like Keith Squires, Dale Neblett, and a future prime minister, David Thompson.

His creative flair extended to designing the school’s new uniform for girls when it went co-educational in 1976. “The uniform had to be simple … not difficult to press, not difficult to get into, and even female students who were not shapely would look good in it,” he explains.

Master of makeup

Stuart’s passion for makeup artistry emerged during his school days. Inspired by theatre icons like Alfred Pragnell and Wendell Smith, he honed his skills and later pursued formal training at the Wilfred Beauty Academy and the Christine Valmy School of Aesthetics and Makeup in New York.

Armed with diplomas, his talents would soon become indispensable to Barbados’ performing arts scene. From working on Sir Hilary Beckles’s Heroes plays to Crop Over productions, his contributions have been immense. He collaborated with designers like Glen Brathwaite and worked with entertainers such as TC, Alison Hinds, and Edwin Yearwood.

A theatrical and spiritual evolution

Stuart also took the stage, dancing for 14 years with the Barbados Dance Theatre and acting in productions like Run Fa Ya Wife. Behind the scenes, he created makeup for award-winning plays such as The Final Truth, earning commendations from Deputy Senate President Elizabeth Thompson.

His journey took a spiritual turn in 2015. A seemingly inexplicable drive to Codrington College led him to pursue a degree in theology. “From small, I wanted answers: What is heaven about? Why do people exist?” Anchored by faith, Stuart transitioned from beautifying the living to offering pastoral counselling and guidance.

Today, Stuart’s service extends beyond artistry. As a Justice of the Peace and a programme field officer in the Prime Minister’s Office, he supports community needs. His philosophy, drawn from the Dalai Lama’s words, underscores his ethos: “You can die without even living; I chose to live.”

From his childhood in Bush Hall to the national stage, Adzil Stuart embodies creativity, resilience, and devotion. As he reflects on his journey, he humbly quotes 1 Peter 4:10: “As every man hath received the gift, even so, minister the same to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

(CAP)

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Police have released the names of two men who died following a single-vehicle collision in St James Saturday morning.

The two have been formally identified by immediate familiy members as follows:

• Ron Kevin Winfield Benn, 41, of Rose Hill, St Peter.
• Antoine Ricardo Bishop, 37, of Alleynedale, St Lucy.

Shortly before 2 a.m. on Saturday, police from Holetown Police Station responded to the scene of a collision along Bennetts Road, St James. 

The collision involved a car with at least four occupants.

The vehicle was travelling along Bennetts Road toward Highway 1 when it struck a utility pole head-on resulting in two of its occupants dying at the scene. 

Meanwhile, two other occupants — a 24-year-old man and a woman in her 20s — were transported to hospital for treatment. 

The woman suffered serious head injuries and other injuries about her body; while the man had several cuts and abrasions. (PR)

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