A Bahamian national has been indicted on multiple federal charges, including illegal voting, passport fraud, and falsely claiming U.S. citizenship to obtain state benefits, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida announced Monday.
Rochelle Deborah Johnson, 65, of The Bahamas, faces a maximum penalty of 35 years in federal prison if convicted. According to the indictment, Johnson is not a U.S. citizen. In 2016, she allegedly used a passport obtained by falsely claiming U.S. citizenship to take an international flight. In 2018, she attempted to renew her passport by making the same false claim.
The indictment also alleges that Johnson unlawfully voted in the 2020 U.S. presidential election and falsely claimed U.S. citizenship to renew and replace her Florida driver’s license.
“An indictment is merely a formal charge, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Wheeler III. It forms part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime.
Former NBA star Rick Fox officially announced that he will run in the upcoming Bahamas general election in 2026, putting an end to weeks of speculation.
Fox, who was appointed Ambassador-at-Large for Sports in 2022, made the announcement on social media last night, citing his passion for the country and a desire to turn the Bahamas we all envision into a reality.
In a post titled “Bahamas: It’s Better To Be Number One,” Fox outlined his priorities for the nation, emphasizing transparency, opportunity, and innovation. “For months, I’ve been listening closely to the hopes and frustrations of my fellow Bahamians. One truth is clear: the future of The Bahamas will depend on the choices we make right now,” he wrote.
Fox stressed the urgency of the moment: “We are running out of the one resource we can never get back: TIME. The time we need to empower our youth with real opportunities. The time we need to deliver world-class healthcare, affordable housing, and safe communities. The time we need to compete on the global stage.”
The former basketball star framed the campaign as a call to action that goes beyond party politics. “This is bigger than party politics. This is The Bahamas versus the world. Imagine a nation where every Bahamian feels secure, safe, empowered, and proud. Where opportunity flows, innovation thrives, and our people shape the world from home,” he said.
Fox, whose full name is Ulrich Alexander Fox, was born on July 24, 1969, in Toronto, Canada, to Bahamian father Ulrich Fox and Canadian mother Dianne Gerace, a former Olympic high jumper and pentathlete. He moved to the Bahamas at a young age and attended Kingsway Academy in Nassau before launching a successful basketball career in the United States.
While he has not confirmed whether he will run independently or with a political party, Fox told a Guardian radio host that he has met with representatives from both major parties to discuss his potential candidacy.
Reflecting on the country’s current challenges, Fox referenced recent hurricanes and the need for national resilience. “Hurricane Future isn’t coming — Hurricane Future is here,” he said. “We must move with clarity. We must move with courage. We must move with honor and integrity.”
With a platform built on integrity, innovation, and national pride, Fox is positioning himself as a fresh voice in Bahamian politics. “The Bahamas will lead. The Bahamas will rise. The Bahamas will be #1. It’s better to be number one in The Bahamas,” he concluded, signaling a bold and ambitious vision for the country’s future.
Jamaica has once again showcased the power of determination, discipline, and raw athletic talent on the global stage. In a historic performance, the Jamaican 4-man bobsled team captured gold at the North America Cup (NAC) in Whistler, Canada, marking the country’s first gold medal at any international bobsleigh race.
Leading the charge was 26-year-old pilot Shane Pitter of Spanish Town, who, along with brakemen Junior Harris, Andrae Dacres, and Tyquendo Tracey, delivered a record-breaking performance that will be remembered for years. The quartet rocketed down Whistler’s fast ice track in a two-run combined time of 1 minute, 45.88 seconds, outpacing Canada’s Cyrus Gray, Cesar de Guzman, Kyle Stoob, and Chris Ashley, who took silver in 1:46.18, while another Canadian crew of Jay Dearborn, Keaton Bruggeling, Shane Ohrt, and Kenny M’Pindou earned bronze with 1:46.37.
The team’s explosive 4.91-second start demonstrated the precision and power needed to dominate one of the fastest tracks in the world. Pitter became the first Jamaican pilot to steer a 4-man sled to gold at this level of international competition, solidifying Jamaica’s growing presence in winter sports. This victory also earns the team crucial points on the road to the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina.
Many remember Jamaica’s debut in bobsleigh through the 1993 film Cool Runnings, which fictionalized the team’s 1988 Winter Olympic journey. Pat Brown, Jamaica’s coach and the real-life inspiration for John Candy’s character Irving Blitzer, witnessed the historic breakthrough firsthand.
“In 1987 when the team was put together, we literally had four months to get to the Olympic Games. They had never been in the sport. Now we’re building towards it. This win is fantastic,” Brown said. He added that the victory comes at an especially meaningful time, following Jamaica’s recent hurricane devastation. “This gives hope, and the rebuilding in our country is kind of like the rebuilding of our whole program. Our goal is for our people to be on the podium in 2034, and this is certainly a step in the right direction.”
Brown, who has coached bobsleigh teams for Team USA, South Korea, and Jamaica over the decades, also spent four years at the Whistler Sliding Centre helping to develop the next generation of athletes. His dedication has been a guiding force behind Jamaica’s rise in winter sports—a rise that now includes historic international gold.
Sunrise Airways has suspended all flights to and from Port-au-Prince “until further notice,” citing security concerns as violence around Haiti’s capital continues to escalate.
“For strictly security reasons, Sunrise Airways informs the public of the immediate suspension of all flights arriving in and departing from Port-au-Prince until further notice,” the airline said in a statement. “This decision was taken to protect our passengers, crew, and operations, given the current security situation.”
While the carrier did not specify what prompted the shutdown, local media reports indicate that one of its aircraft was hit by gunfire Sunday while landing at the Guy Malary terminal of Toussaint Louverture International Airport. The flight from Les Cayes was struck during its final descent, according to the Miami Herald. No injuries were reported, but the incident led the airline to immediately halt all operations to and from the capital.
Sunrise Airways said passengers on affected flights will be contacted to arrange rescheduling, credits or refunds. “The safety of passengers and employees remains the airline’s top priority,” the carrier said, adding that no operations will resume “until conditions are fully met to operate with complete peace of mind.”
The suspension underscores the continued deterioration of security in Port-au-Prince, where armed groups have seized control of large parts of the city. The United Nations warned in July that gangs have assumed “near-total control” of the capital amid the power vacuum left by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
This latest aircraft strike echoes an incident in November 2024, when a Spirit Airlines Airbus A321 was hit by gunfire during an attempted landing at Toussaint Louverture International, injuring a flight attendant. The aircraft was forced to divert to the Dominican Republic, prompting Haitian authorities to briefly shut down the airport.
Following that event, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued a NOTAM barring American commercial flights from operating over Haiti below 10,000 feet, warning that gunfire and gang activity posed a serious threat to low-altitude operations around Port-au-Prince. The FAA said gangs had attempted to breach airport perimeters and that “several aircraft were struck by small arms fire.”
In September, the FAA extended the restriction through March 2026, citing continued risks from gunfire and gang-operated drones.
Sunrise Airways said it is “closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the relevant authorities,” and will resume service once conditions allow.
Antigua and Barbuda’s National AIDS Program Manager, Nurse Delcora Williams, says the country is seeing a troubling rise in HIV infections among young people — a setback she links directly to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Appearing on state television, Williams said the region had been “on the road to getting to zero” before COVID-19 restrictions, clinic closures, and reduced access to care reversed years of progress. The increase, she noted, is most pronounced among late teens aged 15–19 and young adults between 24 and 48.
“This is very worrisome,” she said, stressing that early infection can severely affect a person’s most productive years. Despite persistent stigma, Williams said young people are continuing to engage in unprotected sex and often underestimate their risk. She urged youth to take responsibility for their sexual health and warned against assuming a partner is HIV negative. “If someone says they’re negative, go and get both of you tested,” she said. “Many don’t know their status, and some say what they think you want to hear so they can have unprotected sex.”
Williams encouraged regular HIV testing and appealed to parents to take a more active role in protecting their children. While some teens visit the AIDS Secretariat for condoms, she said many are too embarrassed, leaving parents to “step up” and normalize conversations about sexual health. She urged families to make annual testing part of their routine, noting that free services are available. Although she acknowledged abstinence as the safest option, Williams said it is “not the current reality,” and adults must focus on strategies that keep young people safe.
Calling for legislative reform, Williams said the law is inconsistent — teens can legally consent to sex at 16 but still need an adult to access condoms, HIV tests, and other essential health services. “That must change,” she said, arguing that independent access could help reduce infections and unwanted pregnancies.
Williams also raised concerns about schools that have declined to work with the AIDS Secretariat, even as infections among youth rise. Ahead of Friday’s “Teen Talk” peer-education session at the Multipurpose Centre, she said some schools refused to send students. “If one of their students becomes HIV positive, will their conscience be alive or dead?” she asked.
The AIDS Program Manager dismissed the belief among some young people that HIV is manageable compared to other illnesses. “Some young persons are saying it is better to have HIV than cancer,” she said. “We’re trying to tell them no — it’s not. HIV has no cure. Once it is in your system, it is there for good.” Williams added that without treatment, the virus can progress to AIDS, leading to severe illness and death.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves is alleging that at least eight lawyers and activists from Trinidad and Tobago have entered the country to assist the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) in the final stretch before Thursday’s Nov. 27 general election. His ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) is seeking a historic sixth consecutive term.
Speaking at a ULP youth rally, Gonsalves said he had “the printout of eight lawyers, activists from Trinidad,” claiming the NDP brought them in “to work on election day, and between now and election day.” The prime minister, 79, told supporters he plans to publish their photographs “so that the people will see those who have come in from Trinidad who want to be engaged in a process to see if they can interfere and to try, in some way, to distort and undermine our electoral democracy…”
He insisted the individuals were “Trinidadians coming to interfere with our electoral process,” adding that anyone working in St. Vincent and the Grenadines without a work permit or CARICOM Skills Certificate would be operating illegally. “So, if you come here and do any work for the NDP, you are working here illegally, that is a criminal offense,” he said. While he claimed to welcome them with “Labour love,” Gonsalves stressed they could not enter polling stations or linger around them. “St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not Tunapuna, is not Curepe, is not Penal, is not San Fernando is not Mauva, it is not Lavantille.”
Gonsalves later read out the names of the Trinidadians, accusing the NDP of “low-down worthlessness” and suggesting the party had tried to “block road from people coming to a rally” and prevent Jamaican artiste Masicka from performing. He said their actions reflected “bad-mindedness against everything that is progressive and good that this government has tried to do since 2001.”
The prime minister argued that only nationals from Barbados, Dominica, or Belize—countries that recently completed freedom of movement arrangements under the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME)—could work in St. Vincent and the Grenadines without additional documentation. “Well, you could have come and work without work permit, and you could have come and work without a CARICOM skills National Certificate. I’m telling you the law you know. You are lawyers, you should know it.”
He dismissed suggestions the Trinidadians were merely volunteering. “The fact that you give free service doesn’t mean you ain’t working,” he said, pointing to accommodation, food and transportation as forms of remuneration under local law. “Politically, their involvement here is unacceptable,” he added, warning those involved that they must comply with national laws and may face directives from the supervisor of elections.
Gonsalves thanked Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who recently stated her United National Congress (UNC) had not sanctioned anyone to participate in the campaign in St. Vincent or St. Lucia. “She says she ain’t interfering in anybody else election. And I thank her for saying that, and I believe her… because I think she’s an honest woman.”
However, he questioned why “UNC financiers” would send others to St. Vincent, claiming they were seeking “cheap land,” and access to “the port” and “a hospital where they want privatised,” adding that they want to “buy this election.”
In the last general election, the ULP secured nine of the 15 seats in Parliament.
Police in Trinidad and Tobago say they have intercepted illegal narcotics concealed in barrels shipped from the United States, valuing the drugs at nearly TT$400,000. The seizure was made during a coordinated intelligence-led operation at the Port of Port of Spain on Monday.
According to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), officers received credible information on Sunday and, after an intelligence review, identified the Port Authority compound on Dock Road as the suspected storage point. As part of Operation B.L.A.S.T. — a multi-agency anti-crime initiative — teams carried out a targeted search of two barrels awaiting clearance after arriving from Fort Myers, Florida.
During the search, officers discovered packages of high-grade cannabis hidden beneath clothing inside one of the barrels. The narcotics weighed 4.605 kilogrammes and have an estimated street value of TT$400,000.
The operation was coordinated by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Suzette Martin and Assistant Commissioner of Police (Tactical Support) Collis Hazel, and supervised by Superintendent (Ag.) Santana and Inspector (Ag.) Petti of the National Operational Task Force. Units from the Port Police, Customs and Excise Division, Special Branch, Special Investigations Unit, the NOTF and the DCP Operations Unit participated.
Police did not say whether any arrests had been made. The TTPS said it will continue to work with local and international partners to disrupt the flow of illegal narcotics and protect communities across Trinidad and Tobago.
The United States on Monday said it has imposed visa restrictions on a Haitian government official accused of supporting gangs and other criminal networks undermining Haiti’s stability. The State Department did not identify the official.
In a statement, the department said the action was taken under INA 212(a)(3)(C), a provision that bars the entry of individuals whose presence or activities could have “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences” for the United States. Any valid U.S. visas held by the individual will be revoked.
The move builds on a policy first announced in October 2022, which targets people — including family members — who provide financial or material support to Haiti’s gangs and criminal organizations.
Washington said it remains committed to backing Haiti’s push for stability and expects tangible steps toward free and fair elections. “The Haitian people have had enough with gang violence, destruction, and political infighting,” the statement said, adding that the Trump administration intends to promote accountability for those fueling instability in Haiti and across the region.
Captain Kadijah 'Bunny' Shaw celebrates after scoring. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)
Khadija “Bunny” Shaw will once again suit up for Jamaica, as head coach Hubert Busby confirmed her return for Saturday’s World Cup qualifying showdown against Dominica in Saint Lucia.
The announcement came during a virtual press briefing on Monday, and immediately injected renewed confidence into a squad eager to reassert its regional dominance.
Shaw, now 28, has not featured for the Reggae Girlz since a pair of friendlies against South Africa between late November and early December 2024. Her reappearance arrives at a moment when she is firing on all cylinders for Manchester City in the Barclays Women’s Super League. The prolific forward leads the league with six goals in nine matches, complemented by two assists, helping City maintain first place on 24 points, three ahead of Chelsea.
A carefully managed return
Busby explained that Shaw’s recent absences stemmed from injury recovery and ongoing conversations with Manchester City regarding her workload. The technical staff, Shaw, and her club have been coordinating closely to ensure she returns in peak condition for both country and club.
Jamaica will open the qualifying window on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. (Jamaica time) at the Darren Sammy Cricket Stadium. The Girlz then travel to Nicaragua on March 2, 2026, before returning home for back-to-back fixtures against Antigua & Barbuda on April 10 and Guyana on April 18.
Only the group winner will advance to November’s 2026 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, a high-stakes, single-elimination tournament featuring quarter-finals, play-ins, semi-finals, a third-place match, and the final.
A direct route to the world stage
The road ahead carries major implications. Four teams from the CONCACAF Championship will secure automatic berths to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Two more nations will enter the inter-confederation playoffs for a last chance at qualification. The tournament will also determine two CONCACAF representatives for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
With Shaw back at the helm of the attack, Jamaica will view this cycle as an opportunity to return to global contention.
Full Squad: Goalkeepers – Rebecca Spencer, Sydney Schneider; Defenders – Konya Plummer, Naya Cardoza, Tianna Harris, Chantelle Swaby, Mia Mitchell, Jaileah McPherson; Midfielders – Tiffany Cameron, Atlanta Primus, Olufolasade Ademolekun, Israela Groves, Drew Spence, Deneisha Blackwood; Forward – Khadija Shaw, Natasha Thomas, Jody Brown, Ricshya Walker, Shania Hayles, Kalyssa Van Zanten, Shaniel Buckley.
Head coach Daren Sammy says he remains optimistic that West Indies fast bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph will recover in time to spearhead the regional team’s attack at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
His comments came during a virtual media briefing ahead of the three-match Test series in New Zealand, where he offered a clear assessment of the duo’s rehabilitation progress.
Injury setbacks, but encouraging signs
Both pacers were ruled out shortly before the Test series against India, Alzarri due to a recurring lower-back issue and Shamar because of a shoulder injury. According to Sammy, the two have been diligently following the medical pathways outlined for them after recent consultations with specialists.
“Alzarri is doing his rehab in Antigua. Both of them saw a specialist,” Sammy explained, noting that individualized recovery programs are now in motion.
Shamar’s case required more focused attention. After departing Bangladesh, he made a detour to England to undergo a detailed evaluation.
“Shamar, on his way from Bangladesh, stopped in England to see a shoulder specialist,” Sammy revealed. “He was supposed to just rest the shoulder for a bit… let the shoulder heal. Probably next week or so, he will start his physical rehab.”
A strategic timeline aligned with 2026 goals
Although neither bowler is expected to return before year’s end, Sammy emphasized that their projected timelines fit neatly into the team’s preparation window for next January’s series against Afghanistan and the ensuing home contests against South Africa.
“We know we won’t see them in any cricket for the rest of the year,” Sammy acknowledged.
“We’re pushing for these two guys to be available for selection going into the World Cup.”
Positive medical reports fuel optimism
Despite their extended absence, medical teams have delivered encouraging updates, and Sammy affirmed that both players remain on track for full readiness well ahead of the tournament.
“The rehab is coming on nicely,” he said. “And I really hope that when we select the World Cup squad, they’re in contention and in a position to be selected.”
The next Men’s T20 World Cup will take place in India and Sri Lanka in February and March 2026, where West Indies will aim to reclaim their status as one of the sport’s dominant forces.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad — Off-spinner Kemar Smith and veteran opener Kraigg Brathwaite delivered commanding performances as Barbados Pride stormed to a seven-wicket triumph over the Windward Islands Volcanoes Sunday, securing their second consecutive win in the CG United Super50 Cup.
Smith produced a spell that dismantled the Volcanoes’ top and middle order, triggering a stunning collapse. From a promising 104 for two, the innings unraveled completely, ending at a modest 137 all out in 37.2 overs. His incisive 10-over burst yielded figures of 5 for 25, with the off-spinner repeatedly applying pressure until the Volcanoes folded.
Volcanoes start brightly before crumbling
The Windwards began with purpose as openers Johann Jeremiah and Stephan Pascal pieced together a solid 58-run stand. Even after Smith removed Pascal for 22 and captain Kyle Mayers accounted for Jeremiah for 26, the Volcanoes appeared stable. Teddy Bishop and Sunil Ambris restored momentum during a 44-run partnership that lifted the side to 104 for two.
But once Javed Leacock dismissed Ambris for 20, the innings spiraled. Smith trapped Bishop leg-before-wicket for 28 and repeated the method to send back Darron Nedd. Pacer Dominic Drakes then uprooted Dillon Douglas’ stumps for two, plunging the score to 133 for six. Smith continued the demolition by removing Shadrack Descarte and Kenneth Dember, while Leacock added 2 for 22 to round out an excellent supporting effort.
Brathwaite anchors calm, clinical chase
Barbados’ reply began in turmoil, with openers Leniko Boucher and Mayers falling cheaply to leave Pride wobbling at seven for two. But any hope of a Volcanoes resurgence was swiftly extinguished by the composed pairing of Brathwaite and Zachary McCaskie, who combined for a decisive 104-run partnership.
McCaskie, fluent throughout his 57-ball stay, struck four boundaries and a six before falling to Dember for 47, just shy of a deserved half-century. Brathwaite, however, remained immovable. The former West Indies Test captain compiled an authoritative, unbeaten 59 off 64 deliveries, striking six fours, and together with Kevin Wickham, shepherded Barbados to a comfortable 138 for three in 24.1 overs.
Rain halts action elsewhere
In the day’s other scheduled fixture, heavy showers forced the abandonment of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes’ clash with the Jamaica Scorpions without a ball being bowled.
GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Renowned retired cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira has voiced concern that Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow may be forced to relinquish his post should he win a seat in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ upcoming general elections.
Dr. Shallow, representing the New Democratic Party (NDP), is contesting the North Leeward constituency in the November 27 polls.
During an interview on Isports i95.5 FM on Saturday, Perreira suggested that political office and regional cricket governance may be incompatible roles.
“I think right now that is his focus, becoming a member of parliament … but it could be a conflict of interest,” Perreira cautioned.
“He will probably have to make a decision, and the directors will probably have to play a role, because I’m not too sure the ICC was happy recently when Sri Lanka tried to bring politicians into the board; and I think that is a question that has to be asked.”
Historical precedent and ICC sensitivities
Perreira noted that Cricket West Indies has seen at least one president simultaneously hold public office, but emphasized that such scenarios remain rare.
“I think there might have been a case where we had a president that was a senator; Julian Hunte was never in politics when he became president,” he remarked.
His comments also referenced the International Cricket Council’s unease with political involvement in cricket administration, citing Sri Lanka’s recent attempts to install politicians on their board.
Prime Minister echoed the concern
This is not the first time the issue has surfaced. Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, previously argued that Shallow’s dual roles, as political candidate and CWI president, could create an untenable conflict.
Despite the scrutiny, Dr. Shallow, who has led CWI since 2023, has consistently maintained that no conflict exists and has not indicated any intention to step aside.
HAMILTON, New Zealand — West Indies pacer Jayden Seales insists that the regional side was far closer to victory than the final scorelines suggest, despite losing both the T20I and ODI series to New Zealand.
The Kiwis secured the five-match T20I series 3-1 and swept the three ODIs, but Seales believes the contests hinged on fine margins rather than any gulf in class.
Narrow defeats, missed opportunities
The West Indies opened the T20I series with a win, only to drop the next two by three and nine runs, both matches decided in the final over. The pattern continued in the ODIs: a seven-run loss in the first match and a second-game defeat shaped by conceding 40 runs in the last three overs, allowing New Zealand to win by five wickets with three balls to spare.
For Seales, these results painted an incomplete picture.
“I think we got in good positions throughout the series. We played great games of cricket and probably lost it in the last five overs almost every game, or the last two overs, and we came within touching distance a lot,” he explained.
“…In every game that we played we always felt like we were in it, except for the last T20, I think we were outplayed there.”
Close, but not close enough
Reflecting on the white-ball campaign, Seales emphasized the narrow margins that repeatedly worked against the West Indies. “Throughout the entire T20 series we felt like we were always within touching distance, a couple runs saved here, a couple better balls bowled here, a couple more runs made somewhere.”
He added that the team will review its late-overs execution carefully: “So, it’s just for us to go back to the drawing board and see where we can make the little bit of adjustments here and there, and the next time that we come to these shores we can make wrong things right.”
Mixed batting, strong bowling, and promising signs
Seales admitted that the top-order batting did not deliver consistently, although the middle and lower order fought well in most matches. “With the batting we didn’t have the big starts that we would like, but there was always fight shown from the middle and lower order… We know once the top order gets runs and gives that platform… we will be a force to be reckoned with.”
He praised the bowling group for their persistence: “Matthew Forde has been superb throughout the series, Roston Chase and Romario Shepherd, when they bowled they bowled well, and even Jason Holder in the T20Is.”
Seales believes that sharpening execution and adapting better to conditions will be vital moving forward. “We’re coming together really well; it’s just for us to execute a bit better and use the conditions a little bit more.”
Boost in confidence ahead of Test series
The fast bowler said the competitiveness displayed on tour has lifted the team’s spirits ahead of the three-Test series starting December 2.
“Going into the Test series I think there is a lot of confidence in the group. I know for myself that I’m pretty confident.”
He acknowledged that his own performances had room for improvement but said he now has a stronger understanding of New Zealand conditions.
“I’m not coming off the greatest of series, but… knowing what needs to be done, the lengths that need to be bowled and utilising the conditions as much as possible.”
Olympian and Jamaican sprint icon Asafa Powell celebrated his birthday in the most meaningful way this year, by donating two brand-new homes to families in Darliston, Westmoreland, one of the communities hardest hit by the recent hurricane.
The initiative provided a lifeline to families who had lost everything, offering stability and hope during a difficult season.
Community support powers relief efforts
The homes were made possible through the generosity of contributors to Powell’s GoFundMe campaign, established to aid rebuilding efforts across Jamaica’s affected parishes. Supporters both at home and abroad rallied behind the cause, allowing Powell and his team to deliver tangible solutions to families in need.
Just weeks earlier, Powell visited Georges Valley and Briden in St. Elizabeth in partnership with the Noah Lyles Foundation, distributing emergency supplies and assistance to hurricane-devastated residents. The Westmoreland donation continues that mission, reinforcing Powell’s dedication to helping communities regain their footing.
Bringing joy and dignity to families
“Delivering homes to families affected by the hurricane, especially those who might not be able to celebrate the holidays this year, is truly special,” Powell said.
“Seeing their smiles and tears of joy reminded me why giving back is so important. I’m grateful to everyone who donated. None of this would be possible without you.”
The families in Darliston expressed profound gratitude as Asafa and his wife, Alyshia Powell, personally handed over the keys, symbolizing hope, relief, and a fresh start after weeks of uncertainty.
Commitment to ongoing recovery
Asafa and Alyshia Powell reaffirmed their dedication to continuing recovery efforts as funds allow, demonstrating a long-term commitment to community upliftment and national rebuilding. Those wishing to support the ongoing mission can contribute via Powell’s GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/c28caf6fe.
With cricket poised to make a landmark return at the Lima 2027 Pan American Games and the LA 2028 Olympic Games, its first Olympic appearance in over a century, the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) is laying the groundwork for regional competition.
In a historic move, the JOA has partnered with the organizers of the Bolivarian Games to send male and female Jamaican teams to compete in an exhibition tournament at the South American multi-sport event later this month and into early December.
Partnerships forged through Olympic ties
JOA President Christopher Samuda hailed the initiative as a ground-breaking opportunity for Jamaican cricketers.
“The JOA has a solid relationship with the Peruvian National Olympic Committee, and this led to us being approached. Thereafter, bilateral discussions were held, which led to this ground-breaking partnership in sport from which our cricketers will benefit,” Samuda said.
The Bolivarian Games (Spanish: Juegos Deportivos Bolivarianos) honor the legacy of Simón Bolívar, drawing athletes from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Panama, and Bolivia.
“Sport is inextricably bound to the history of humanity, and these games, in celebrating the liberating legacy of Simón Bolívar, give our cricketers an opportunity to be an integral part in preserving history at the wicket while visioning their future in Lima and LA beyond the pavilion,” Samuda added.
Cricket as a stepping stone for major international events
As Jamaica gears up for qualification at the Pan Am and Olympic Games, JOA Secretary General and CEO Ryan Foster outlined the strategic importance of the Bolivarian Games as preparatory “test matches.”
“The JOA has pulled out of the station and is on a fast track in giving opportunities to our cricketers, and the Bolivarian Games are test matches which the JOA has facilitated as part of the preparation for the real deal in LA,” Foster said.
Building a sustainable talent pipeline
The initiative also aligns with the JOA’s broader mission of inclusivity and talent development under its “Sport for All, and All for Sport” policy.
“Deepening and diversifying Jamaica’s talent pool in sport is the only way to build a sustainable reservoir that won’t run dry, and the JOA is all about irrigating talent,” Samuda emphasized.
Jamaican delegation ready for departure
The JOA delegation is scheduled to depart Jamaica for Lima shortly, joining teams from Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Anguilla. The exhibition tournament offers Jamaican cricketers an invaluable opportunity to gain competitive experience ahead of their historic return to the Pan Am and Olympic stage.
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada — A devastating display of spin bowling from Vitel Lawes powered the West Indies Under-19s to a commanding 98-run triumph over England in the fourth Youth One-Day International at the National Cricket Stadium on Monday.
The victory pushed the hosts to a 3-1 lead in the seven-match series, placing them firmly in control.
Set a challenging target of 281, England’s batsmen struggled to respond, collapsing to 182 all out in 38.5 overs.
Windies apply batting pressure early
After losing the toss and being inserted by England, the young Windies side demonstrated they were determined to assert themselves with the bat. Openers Tanez Francis and Zachary Francis laid a strong foundation, posting a half-century stand before Carter fell to left-arm pacer James Minto for 34.
Despite Earsinho Fontaine contributing only three runs, the Windies maintained a solid scoring pace, reaching 111 by the 24th over. Tanez Francis eventually succumbed to the spin of captain Farhan Ahmed for a well-played 51, which included five crisp fours.
Dorne and van Lange steer the innings
With Brendan Boodoo failing to make a significant impact at 121-4, the responsibility shifted to Joshua Dorne and Jonathan van Lange. The duo combined for a remarkable 120-run, fifth-wicket partnership, lifting the Windies total to a formidable 280 before the innings closed.
Dorne finished with 80 runs off 108 balls, including six fours and a six, while van Lange matched his teammate with a well-timed 80, punctuated by four boundaries and four sixes. England’s bowlers labored under the Grenadian sun, with Luke Hands claiming 3-63 and captain Farhan Ahmed taking 2-37.
Lawes tears through England’s middle order
In reply, England’s innings never gained momentum. Ben Dawkins’ resilient 78 and Caleb Falconer’s 32 offered some resistance, but the West Indies bowlers maintained control.
Shaquan Belle sparked the attack with early breakthroughs, claiming 3 for 34, but it was Lawes who stole the show. The young spinner’s deceptive chinaman deliveries dismantled England’s middle order, finishing with figures of 4 for 35. Wickets fell at regular intervals, ensuring no late drama and securing a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
Series in West Indies’ hands
With a 3-1 lead in the series, the West Indies Under-19s now have chances to clinch the series outright. The fifth ODI is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Wednesday, where the hosts will look to continue their dominant form and seal the series.
Jimmy Cliff Boulevard in Montego Bay, Jamaica
📷: @vybeframe
Western Jamaica is grieving the loss of one of its most beloved sons: reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, who died on November 24 at age 81 following complications from pneumonia and a seizure.
Cliff, born James Chambers in the rural Somerton district of St. James, quietly carried the soul of his birthplace into every stage he graced. His wife, Latifa Chambers, confirmed his passing in a statement on his social media, calling his decades-long influence “a gift to Jamaica and the world.”
In Montego Bay — the city that includes his childhood stomping grounds — community leaders, musicians, and local residents have expressed deep sorrow. Montego Bay’s Mayor, Councillor Richard Vernon, said Cliff was “a true Jamaican ambassador who gave his all to this country,” adding that his legacy reaches far beyond the charts and screens, touching the very identity of Jamaica.
A Hometown Tribute: Jimmy Cliff Boulevard
The respect for Cliff in his home parish was already deeply ingrained. On March 28, 2019, Gloucester Avenue, popularly known as the “Hip Strip” in Montego Bay, was officially renamed Jimmy Cliff Boulevard in his honor.
The decision was made by the St. James Municipal Corporation in 2017, and the renaming ceremony was held at Old Hospital Park — the very grounds said to be near where Cliff was born. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, then speaking at the ceremony, praised Cliff’s role as a global musical force, while Culture Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange called for a statue to be erected in his honor.
The renaming wasn’t just symbolic: Montego Bay’s leadership noted that millions of visitors would now encounter his name on a street that is central to the city’s tourism heartbeat. “Visitors to the island will now be able to identify with the name ‘Jimmy Cliff’… a name etched among some of the greatest musicians of all time,” said then Montego Bay Mayor Homer Davis.
Local Voices in Grief
Musicians and historians are also sharing their grief and admiration. Barbara Blake Hannah, a historian and musicologist, recalled working with Cliff around the time of the London launch of The Harder They Come, highlighting how the film helped immortalize him. “The film made Jimmy Cliff immortal,” she said, calling their bond a lifelong friendship.
Reggae artist Mackie Conscious, from Montego Bay, described how Cliff’s songs — Many Rivers to Cross, I Can See Clearly Now, The Harder They Come — are woven into the north coast’s musical soul. “He shaped a generation of performers who learned from his artistry,” he said.
In local business circles, the tribute is no less heartfelt. Jason Russell, president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, cited the Jimmy Cliff Boulevard designation as a symbolic reminder of his significance and the city’s gratitude for his contributions to Jamaica’s global image.
Cliff’s passing is not just a national loss; it is a deeply personal one for his hometown — a place that put his name on its most iconic boulevard, and now, in its collective heart.
“Walk good, Jimmy Cliff,” said Tourism Minister Bartlett. “Your legacy will live on here — on the boulevard, in our music, and in our souls.”
Broward County drivers will soon be able to renew their vehicle registrations at kiosks being installed in select Publix supermarkets.
Machines are currently being set up at locations in Hollywood, Coconut Creek, Plantation, Coral Springs, and Cooper City. The Tax Collector’s office hopes to announce the addresses of these stores, plus another five sites, before the end of the year.
During store hours, drivers can access their accounts using a PIN sent with their renewal notice or, if they don’t have a PIN, by entering their license plate number and the date of birth of the first name listed on the registration. After swiping a credit card, the kiosk prints out a license plate sticker and a registration card, which Florida law requires to remain in the vehicle. A $4.50 convenience fee applies in addition to the regular renewal charge.
The kiosks will not issue new metal tags and cannot be used by drivers with suspended licenses or those registering boats, mobile homes, driverless vehicles, vehicles with National Guard tags, or personalized plates.
Miami-Dade County launched a similar program in April, placing five kiosks at Publix locations in Homestead, Doral, Miami Beach, and two in Miami. Broward officials hope the new kiosks will make registration renewals faster and more convenient for residents.
The extradition proceedings against US-indicted Guyanese businessmen Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed will continue on Friday, November 28, following the full disclosure of supporting documents in court on Monday.
Prosecutor Terrence Williams told Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court that the prosecution had provided the complete set of documents in support of the US request for extradition. He added that the defence is scheduled to make its submissions on Friday.
“The defence has said that they want to make certain submissions on that date. We are prepared to meet those submissions, and the court has kindly set that date for that purpose. So, we will return on Friday to hear their submissions and answer them,” Williams said.
Williams also noted that copies of the documents were shared with the defence even before arriving through diplomatic channels to ensure timely access.
Defence attorney Siand Dhurjon, however, maintained that not all supporting documents had been provided and insisted that the full set be delivered by Friday.
The father-son duo, who remain on $150,000 bail each, have been indicted by a US grand jury in the Southern District of Florida on 11 criminal charges, including wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering, primarily linked to the export of gold by their company, Mohamed’s Enterprises.
The indictment alleges that between 2017 and June 2024, the Mohameds conspired to defraud the US and Guyanese governments, unlawfully reusing Guyana Revenue Authority and Guyana Gold Board seals on gold shipments to evade taxes and royalties. Prosecutors say the scheme caused more than US$50 million in lost revenue.
Other charges include alleged mail fraud involving empty sealed boxes shipped from Dubai to Miami, money laundering within the US, and falsifying import documents for a Lamborghini purchased by Azruddin Mohamed in 2020.
The case is set to continue on Friday with the defence’s submissions, after which the court will respond before the extradition proceedings proceed.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is expected to end the current fiscal year with a real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expansion of 4.8 per cent.
“Antigua and Barbuda’s economy is expected to grow 4.8 per cent by the end of 2025 and five per cent next year,” Browne said during his weekly radio programme, noting that the country’s GDP has surpassed the two billion U.S. dollar mark.
Describing the full set of economic performance indicators as “remarkable,” Browne said his administration’s record demonstrates that “we have delivered for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.” He highlighted that per capita income has exceeded EC$60,000 (US$0.37 per EC dollar), placing the nation ahead of many other Caribbean countries.
The Prime Minister pointed to gains across education, agriculture, and tourism, saying the government is exploring opportunities to export educational services through the expansion of the University of the West Indies Five Islands campus. He also noted plans for an eco-park at Christian Valley and an agro-industrial park aimed at boosting food production and improving food sovereignty and security.
Browne emphasized the government’s commitment to diversifying the tourism sector, including initiatives in sports tourism and conference tourism, as part of a broader economic strategy.
Members of Parliament from Guyana’s We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party joined supporters outside Parliament on Monday to demand that Speaker Manzoor Nadir set a date for the election of the Leader of the Opposition.
The 13th Parliament was convened three weeks ago, with all Members of Parliament being sworn in. However, the opposition has not yet met to elect its Leader. Since the start of the session, the WIN party has written to the Speaker on the matter, and the party’s attorney has threatened legal action if the meeting is not called within two weeks.
The WIN party holds the largest number of opposition seats in the National Assembly, making its leader, embattled businessman Azruddin Mohamed, the likely candidate for the position—a constitutionally mandated office.
At the protest, WIN General Secretary and MP Odessa Primus criticized the delay.
“We have no information on when Parliament will reconvene, we have no information on what is going on, and we have looked at when other Opposition Leaders were sworn in…there is nothing that is preventing, outside of the Government’s victimization in terms of the swearing in of the Leader of the Opposition. The opposition forms part of the Government, and so what we are doing right now is basically functioning as a dictatorship because whatever the Government says, goes, and whatever the Government does goes,” Primus said.
She added that the election of the Leader of the Opposition is fundamental to democratic governance.
“We have had the PPP in the past profess that they are standing up for democracy while they themselves today are the persons who are ensuring that the democratic process does not take place…this is about the democracy of our country, and so we all need to stand up on this,” Primus said.
Attorney for the WIN party, Siand Dhurjon, said the party is preparing court proceedings against the Speaker.
“He has an obligation to facilitate the election of the Leader of the Opposition…The very Constitution contemplates that it be done as soon as possible,” Dhurjon said.
The WIN party intends to continue pressing the Speaker to convene the opposition for the election. Last Friday, the APNU, which holds the second-largest number of opposition seats, also questioned the delay, emphasizing the constitutional importance of filling the office.
Historical precedent shows that opposition leaders are typically elected shortly after a new Parliament convenes. In 2011, APNU Leader David Granger was elected four days after the first sitting. In 2015, Bharrat Jagdeo assumed the office immediately after the PPP returned from a two-month boycott. In 2020, Joseph Harmon was elected Opposition Leader at the first sitting during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine and Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman SEAC David Isom meet with Sailors and Marines aboard the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean Sea, September 8, 2025. (DoW photo by Benjamin Applebaum)
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine will visit Trinidad and Tobago on November 25, 2025, to meet with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. The visit comes as the two nations deepen their security collaboration to strengthen regional stability and combat illicit trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.
The visit follows two recent deployments by the U.S. 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which conducted joint military exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force from October 26-30 and November 16-21.
The exercises included urban and coastal operations designed to enhance the TT Defence Force’s operational readiness and interoperability with U.S. forces. Officials in Port of Spain have emphasized that the drills are part of a broader strategy under Operation Southern Spear, aimed at combating narco-terrorism and organized crime across the Caribbean.
“While these exercises are tactical in nature, their strategic value cannot be overstated,” a TT Defence Force official said. “They are essential in addressing violent organized crime, which has long threatened security and stability in the region.”
As the 22nd Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Caine is the nation’s highest-ranking military officer and serves as the principal military advisor to the President, Secretary of Defense, and National Security Council. He assumed the role on April 11, 2025, following his tenure as Associate Director for Military Affairs at the Central Intelligence Agency. Gen. Caine’s career spans operational, staff, and joint assignments, including service as an F-16 fighter pilot, weapons officer, member of the White House staff, and special operations officer.
Observers note that Gen. Caine’s visit underscores Washington’s continued commitment to Caribbean security and the importance of U.S.-TT cooperation in tackling cross-border crime networks. Analysts say it also signals a potential expansion of joint initiatives under Operation Southern Spear, reflecting shared concerns about the region’s vulnerability to narco-trafficking and transnational criminal activity.
Dancehall artist Andrae Maurice Whittaker, known professionally as Squash, was sentenced Monday, November 24, to two years and three months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm while living in the United States illegally.
Whittaker, a native of Salt Spring in Montego Bay, Jamaica, was arrested earlier this year during a traffic stop in Miami, Florida, where authorities recovered a firearm from the vehicle he was traveling in. Police said the firearm had been modified with a switch commonly referred to by Jamaicans as a “chip glock.”
Squash was later transferred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and entered a plea agreement admitting to the firearm offense as an undocumented immigrant. His legal team has rejected allegations that he is the leader of an organized criminal gang, a tag that emerged during court proceedings.
The sentencing ends months of legal proceedings that followed his arrest. Squash, known for hits including Big Breeze and Shub Out, migrated to the U.S. several years ago but had been living in the country without proper documentation.
Following the ruling, Whittaker will begin serving his sentence in federal custody and is expected to face immigration action upon completion. His father, also in the U.S., is reportedly in ICE custody.
U.S. federal authorities had alleged that Squash is the leader of a “transnational criminal organization.” Court documents state that he entered the U.S. illegally in January 2021 after fleeing Jamaica amid a deadly gang feud. He was previously detained by ICE and later released on bond after marrying an American citizen, who federal authorities say purchased one of the firearms found in his possession.
Squash was initially arrested on February 24 during a Miami traffic stop, where a modified Glock pistol was reportedly found in the glove compartment of his vehicle. He initially pleaded not guilty to charges of illegal possession of a modified weapon and possession of a concealed weapon without a permit.
This November, as the world celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Month and Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (November 19), one Caribbean woman is proving that confidence, courage, and creativity can transform not only lives, but entire industries.
Michelle Baptiste, the founder and CEO of Selecfit Shapewear, is more than a businesswoman; she’s a visionary redefining what it means to be a Caribbean entrepreneur. Her message is bold yet beautifully simple: Confidence is Currency.
For thousands of women across Trinidad and Tobago, the wider Caribbean, and the diaspora in Florida, Michelle is living proof that confidence — when rooted in purpose and self-love — can fund your dreams, fuel your faith, and shape your future.
Faith, Fashion & Resilience: The Woman Behind Selecfit
Michelle’s journey is one of unimaginable strength. A single mother of three, she has weathered storms that would have broken many: losing two siblings to cancer, enduring a cancer scare herself, surviving a heart attack at 28, and even facing homelessness.
But through it all, her faith never wavered.
“I told myself that I may have lost almost everything, but I didn’t lose me,” Michelle shares. “And if I could rebuild my confidence, I could rebuild my life.”
That seed of belief became the foundation for Selecfit Shapewear, a brand born out of personal pain and divine purpose.
What started as a small idea has evolved into Trinidad and Tobago’s first locally owned shapewear and wellness brand, offering women not just products, but empowerment. From high-quality compression garments to natural slimming teas, creams, and gummies, Selecfit’s mission is to help women feel beautiful, supported, and confident at every stage of life.
Caribbean Innovation in Action
Selecfit is more than a brand; it’s a movement.
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In an industry dominated by international names, Michelle has built a distinctly Caribbean company that celebrates the curves, culture, and confidence of women across the region.
Her vision goes beyond aesthetics. Selecfit promotes holistic beauty, merging wellness, body positivity, and empowerment into one lifestyle. Whether it’s postpartum support, post-surgery recovery, or everyday confidence, Michelle’s designs and wellness products help women embrace their individuality while prioritizing health and comfort.
“In the Caribbean, we’ve been conditioned to hide, to fit into someone else’s mold of beauty,” Michelle says. “Selecfit exists to remind women that we are the standard. Our beauty is bold, our strength is divine, and our confidence is currency.”
With storefronts in South Park Mall and Valpark Shopping Plaza, Selecfit has become a household name in Trinidad, and Michelle is now preparing to expand regionally into Barbados, Guyana, and St. Lucia, while also scaling internationally through Shopify and Amazon.
Confidence Is Currency
The heart of Michelle’s message is that confidence pays dividends.
“Every time a woman walks taller, smiles brighter, or shows up for herself unapologetically, that’s wealth,” she explains. “Confidence opens doors money alone can’t buy… opportunities, relationships, peace of mind. That’s why I say, confidence is currency.”
This philosophy runs through everything Selecfit represents. Michelle’s business is rooted in service and social impact. Through mentorship programs, motivational talks, and wellness pop-ups, she uses her platform to remind women that success isn’t about perfection — it’s about progression.
Building the Business and the Sisterhood
Michelle is quick to point out that entrepreneurship isn’t a solo sport.
“No woman succeeds alone,” she emphasizes. “Community is everything. When women come together to share stories, support dreams, and celebrate wins, we all rise.”
For Michelle, community is currency. When women invest in each other — with encouragement, resources, and shared opportunities — they multiply impact.
Caribbean Innovation, Global Inspiration
As more Caribbean women entrepreneurs rise to global prominence, Michelle believes the region’s strength lies in its authenticity.
“We don’t need to copy the world,” she says. “We are the blueprint. Caribbean women have always been innovators, balancing culture, creativity, and courage. It’s time the world recognizes that.”
Her work with Selecfit isn’t just about shapewear; it’s about shifting mindsets, teaching women that beauty is not found in perfection, but in power, purpose, and peace.
Whether in Port of Spain, Bridgetown, or Miami, her message resonates with women from all walks of life:
“You are not behind. You are becoming. And you can reshape your future… from the inside out.”
In the aftermath of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, thousands of Jamaicans in the U.S. diaspora, as well as many non-Jamaicans, have opened their hearts and wallets and generously contributed to relief efforts in the battered western region of Jamaica.
In the midst of the understandable desire to help right away, many have forgotten that there are significant tax deductions for charitable giving. This is important because tax deductions can increase your gift by up to 30%! This means that a percentage of your donation comes out of taxes you would otherwise pay rather than out of your bank account. This applies to both individuals and businesses.
There are many restrictions and considerations, and you should speak to your tax preparer right away. Based on income levels, many contributions may not be tax-deductible.
The most important consideration is that donations must be made through a registered U.S. charity for them to be tax-deductible. U.S. tax laws only recognize contributions to U.S.-registered charities. The way around this restriction is to make the donation to a U.S. charity that has operations in Jamaica. There are a number of such charities that are reliable and have experience in dealing with disasters overseas. These include Food for the Poor, The Red Cross, The Salvation Army, United Way, American Friends of Jamaica, Do Good International, and Global Empowerment Mission.
The hundreds of Jamaican Past Students Associations, which are typically registered charities in the U.S., provide an excellent, well-established infrastructure for tax-deductible charitable giving to be routed to Jamaica, particularly to educational institutions such as Mannings, STETHS, Munro, and Montego Bay Community College, along with over six hundred other educational institutions that have been destroyed or damaged in the hurricane. Organizations such as Jamaican Women of Florida, Island Space Caribbean Museum, Chain of Hope, and Mind Body & Soul are among the excellent charitable civic organizations that have experience working in Jamaica. Charities are required to control and oversee the funds sent to Jamaica and not just pass them on to another charity or the Government of Jamaica.
It is important to note that donations to governments and government bodies are not tax-deductible. The Jamaican Government is doing its part by waiving all import duties and General Consumption Tax on Hurricane Melissa relief supplies, up to December 31, 2025. Do seek guidance from a broker or ODPEM before making major shipments.
The One Big Beautiful Budget Bill introduced some provisions into the law that may discourage charitable giving, but at the same time, it introduced a provision that enhances the ability of lower-income individual taxpayers to obtain tax deductions for smaller donations aggregating up to $1,000 per year. This provision comes into effect for the 2026 tax year.
Finally, note that tax deductions are available for both cash and in-kind contributions. It is also essential that you obtain and retain a record of your donations, and always, always consult with your tax preparer to get the most out of your charitable giving to Hurricane Melissa victims.
