This week’s edition of “Caribbean Life” features various news articles, op-eds, and announcements relevant to the Caribbean and Caribbean-American communities. Read the digital edition of the newspaper here.
Key highlights include:
- Political Changes in Trinidad & Tobago:
- Stuart Young is set to replace Keith Rowley as the Prime Minister, marking a leadership change in the People’s National Movement (PNM). Page 1
- Caribbean-American Chamber of Commerce:
- Jean Joseph, the new CACCI president, discussed plans for empowering Caribbean-American businesses and fostering economic growth. Page 1
- Grenadian-American Ex-Teachers’ Association Honors:
- The organization recognized cultural group Quake USA and individuals for community service and education during its annual gala. Page 3
- State of Emergencies in CARICOM Nations:
- Haiti and Trinidad & Tobago declared states of emergency due to escalating violence and crime. Page 8
- Affordable Housing:
- Advertisements and announcements for new housing opportunities in Brooklyn were featured, with detailed eligibility criteria.
- Real Estate Scams in Jamaica:
- The Jamaican Real Estate Board warned against fraudulent property listings targeting overseas buyers. Page 12
- Tributes and Legacy:
- Celebrations of influential figures like Walter A. Greene (fashion journalist) and commemorations of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Page 16
- Obituaries and Memorials:
- Coverage included tributes to the late Desi Bouterse, former military leader and president of Suriname. Page 18
The entertainment section features several notable highlights:
- Dancehall and Reggae Music:
- Jamaican-born Ras Emmanuel’s track “Dancehall Forever” was prominently used to introduce Vybz Kartel during his first live performance in 13 years at the Freedom Street Concert on New Year’s Eve in Kingston, Jamaica. Page 26
- Richie Stephens, a renowned reggae artist, headlined the “Under the Stars Block Party” on New Year’s Eve in Miramar, Florida, backed by the Visions Band. Page 25
- Cultural Initiatives:
- The Dynamite Cultural Organization in Brooklyn launched the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Cultural Hall of Fame to honor individuals making significant contributions to Vincentian culture. Page 25
- Caribbean Film Achievements:
- UNESCO recognized eight Caribbean film projects during the 18th Nuevas Miradas edition, celebrating the potential of regional cinema on the global stage. Page 26
The sports section highlights notable events and achievements, including:
- West Indies Cricket:
- Sherfane Rutherford was nominated for the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year award following an exceptional 2024, scoring 425 runs in seven innings with an average of 106.25.
- West Indies Women’s cricket team coach Shane Deitz emphasized the need for improvements in bowling consistency, fitness, and converting starts into significant scores. The team is preparing for the 2025 Women’s World Cup qualifiers and other series. Page 35
- Athletics:
- Jereem Richards and Leah Bertrand were named Sportsman and Sportswoman of 2024 by the T&T Olympic Committee. Richards set a new national record in the 400 meters, while Bertrand competed in the Women’s 100-meter events at major championships. Page 30
- Soccer (Soca Warriors):
- The Trinidad & Tobago national football team received $6.7 million in funding from the government to support their 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign and World Cup qualifiers. The team, coached by Dwight Yorke, is set to play against Cuba in the Gold Cup preliminary round. Page 31
