Washington, D.C.—The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has called for urgent action to ensure safe and equitable care for newborns and children throughout the Americas, highlighting this message on World Patient Safety Day, September 17, 2025.

 

With the theme “Patient safety from the start!”, this year’s campaign stresses the particular risks facing the youngest patients, whose rapid development demands extra vigilance in healthcare settings.

 

Prematurity and sepsis remain leading causes of neonatal mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean, where more than 800,000 infants are born premature or underweight each year.

 

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, reaffirms that every child deserves high-quality, safe care from birth, warning that errors like medication mistakes and infections endanger these vulnerable lives.

 

PAHO urges practical interventions—such as proper handwashing, antenatal steroids, and the kangaroo method—to dramatically reduce risk and save lives.

 

Monuments worldwide will glow orange on September 17 in support, while PAHO’s upcoming webinar explores best practices and innovation in patient safety.

Minister Kerrie Symmonds affirmed that tourism-related concessions in Barbados will remain strictly for businesses earning most of their income from tourism.

 

Speaking on the Tourist Accommodation Bill, 2025 in the House of Assembly, Symmonds responded to calls from Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne to broaden concessions to include rum shops as community tourism expands.

 

He stressed that extending benefits to businesses serving mainly locals, like rum shops, would undermine the goal of focused tourism support.

 

Symmonds warned that loosening criteria could see supermarkets and gas stations seeking similar concessions, diluting the policy’s intent.

 

He highlighted ongoing government efforts to boost community tourism, especially through higher land tax thresholds and easier mortgage access for Airbnb operators.

 

Emphasizing the need for stronger standards, Symmonds said the new bill will require licensing and regulation of tourist accommodations to boost competitiveness.

 

He also underlined the urgency of diversifying the economy beyond tourism for long-term resilience.

Colin Jordan, St. Peter’s representative, is urging a deeper focus on authentic branding to keep Barbados competitive in global tourism.

 

During a review of the Tourist Accommodation Bill, 2025, Jordan stressed that branding must capture the true experience Barbados offers—going beyond appearances to convey real value.

 

He warned that, with rivals like the Maldives and Turks and Caicos gaining ground, Barbados must ensure its unique identity shines.

 

Jordan backed new legislation regulating tourist accommodations, highlighting the need for strict inspections to protect the country’s reputation.

 

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill is working with stakeholders to elevate standards across the sector, emphasizing rigorous inspections and minimum amenities.

 

The BHTA and BWU are also negotiating improved working conditions, marking a key advance for the nation’s largest industry—employing 28% of Barbadians.

 

This unified push aims to secure long-term growth and preserve Barbados’ renowned tourism brand.

Lifelong Skills Inc is dedicated to empowering youth with disabilities and supporting at-risk families by ensuring equal opportunities for fulfillment and productivity.

 

As a committed non-profit, the organization offers continuing education, vocational skills training, and personal development for lifelong learners.

 

Students are encouraged to express themselves through creative outlets such as drawing, painting, and graphic design, building confidence and engagement.

 

The Developmental Skills Program teaches essential life skills like personal care, literacy, cooking, cleaning, and money management, preparing students to be active household members.

 

Programs focusing on merchandising, masonry, and agriculture equip participants for the workforce.

 

Lifelong Skills Inc prides itself on being a supportive, family-centered community, where parents, students, and staff work together to create a nurturing environment.

 

Ongoing financial and volunteer support from the community is vital for their mission to uplift and provide lifelong solutions for special-needs families, inspiring everyone to help build a more inclusive world.

Japan has protested China’s construction of a new facility in the East China Sea, sparking fresh tension over the disputed maritime boundary.

 

The Japanese Foreign Ministry stated that work is underway on the Chinese side of the median line dividing both nations’ claims.

 

Japan views this move as a direct challenge to its territorial rights.

 

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi voiced strong concern, calling China’s unilateral actions “extremely regrettable” given the lack of a final boundary agreement.

 

Director-General Kanai Masaaki formally protested to China’s envoy Shi Yong and pressed Beijing to halt the project.

 

Japan maintains the median line as the lawful maritime border; China argues its exclusive economic zone stretches further.

 

Efforts to jointly develop natural resources stalled years ago, leaving relations tense and unresolved.

 

Japan urges a diplomatic path and respect for international maritime law.

Rihanna is celebrating 20 years since her debut album, Music of the Sun, reflecting on the path from Barbados to international superstardom.

 

The singer and entrepreneur, now 37, shared her gratitude to long-time fans and newcomers, saying their support has shaped her remarkable journey.

 

She marked the occasion with a heartfelt message and a montage of milestone moments—from early music videos to her thriving Fenty business ventures.

 

In honor of this milestone, Rihanna launched special merchandise, including a collectible vinyl box set and new apparel designs featuring her “Rhenna” character.

 

Since her 2005 debut and breakout single “Pon de Replay,” Rihanna has sold over 100 million records, achieved 14 number-one hits, and won nine Grammys.

 

Beyond her music, her Fenty brands and her status as a national hero of Barbados further spotlight her enduring influence.

 

Fans remain eager for her long-awaited next album as Rihanna's legacy continues to inspire.

NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft has set off on a groundbreaking mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa, a world thought to hide a deep ocean beneath its frozen exterior.

 

Launched on October 14, 2024, from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center, Europa Clipper will travel 1.8 billion miles, entering Jupiter’s orbit by April 2030.

 

The spacecraft will complete 49 close flybys, deploying nine scientific instruments to investigate Europa’s ice shell, underground ocean, and geology.

 

The mission’s key goal is to assess whether Europa has conditions likely to support life, especially within its concealed ocean.

 

Europa Clipper joins the European Space Agency’s JUICE mission, which is bound for Jupiter’s icy moons and will arrive in 2031.

 

These ambitious missions spotlight a new frontier in the search for extraterrestrial life, shifting attention from Mars to the intriguing, hidden oceans of the outer solar system.

Barbados brims with culinary delights, blending traditional Bajan zest and global cuisine in vibrant settings across the island.

 

Oistins Fish Fry delivers a festive Friday night tradition with freshly grilled local fish, live music, and dancing.

 

The Tides in Holetown stands out with premium seafood, stunning ocean views, and an in-house art gallery.

 

At The Cliff, expect elegant plates like sesame-crusted tuna served above the waves with top-tier service.

 

Lone Star Restaurant shines as a chic beachfront spot, merging Caribbean warmth and European flair in dishes from seafood linguine to lamb shank.

 

Champers and Sea Shed impress with local ingredients and laid-back beachside charm, while The Fish Pot offers cozy, fort-view dining with daily seafood catches.

 

Café Luna’s rooftop views, Deia Beach’s seasonal creativity, and Paul Owens’ refined fare at The Beach House highlight the island’s diverse tastes.

 

Discover bold flavors and unforgettable meals at these standout local favorites.

Nearly 20 million pets across the United States reside in households facing poverty, with many left without access to essential veterinary care.

 

Promising new initiatives are tackling this concern head-on in 2024 and beyond.

 

The ASPCA has rolled out a $5 million grant program to boost shelters nationwide, aiming to expand affordable vet services and help homeless animals.

 

In Michigan, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development dedicated $150,000 in grants to 28 animal shelters, funding innovative projects from spay/neuter programs to community outreach, all backed by residents who contribute through their tax returns.

 

Local groups are making an impact, too.

 

The Humane Society of Blue Ridge delivers food pantries, free vaccine clinics, and reduced-cost spay/neuter options for pet owners in need.

 

San Antonio’s CASA team merges social work with animal care, supplying food and microchips to keep beloved pets in their homes—helping families weather tough times together.

 

These collective efforts strive to safeguard the crucial bond between people and their pets, making sure that no one has to surrender a cherished animal due to financial hardship.

Experience the transformative impact of language with 'Power Thoughts,' a thoughtfully designed eBook that helps you harness both positive and negative thinking quotes for personal empowerment.

 

Explore the psychology behind how words shape your mindset, influence emotions, and guide behaviors, equipping you with tools for growth and resilience.

 

Uncover why some quotes inspire change while others can undermine your confidence.

 

This guide offers uplifting quotes, strategies to turn negative thoughts around, and actionable exercises you can use immediately.

 

Learn to curate and integrate quotes that resonate with your journey, boosting your self-reflection and healthy thought patterns every day.

 

'Power Thoughts' stands apart with real-world examples and practical prompts, making it perfect for anyone seeking meaningful self-improvement.

 

Start your journey to a brighter mindset and unlock your potential today.

She Rises: A Guide to Inspirational Quotes That Empower Women Every Day is your essential digital companion for personal growth and empowerment.

 

This thoughtfully curated eBook features uplifting quotes aimed at inspiring women from all backgrounds.

 

Explore key themes—such as confidence, resilience, and inner peace—with each section offering practical reflection tools to help you weave these empowering lessons into daily life.

 

Whenever you’re facing a challenge or seeking renewed motivation, She Rises stands as a steady source of encouragement and inspiration.

 

Discover how this empowering guide can help you embrace your authentic self and live each day with courage and purpose.

Transform your relationships—both at work and home—with the Emotion Savvy Checklist: 10 Steps to Master Emotional Intelligence Like a Pro.

 

This digital guide provides a practical roadmap for building self-awareness, empathy, and stronger communication skills.

 

In today’s demanding environments, developing emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership and positive workplace culture.

 

Research shows that leaders with strong emotional intelligence excel in managing stress, motivating teams, and achieving lasting organizational results.

 

The checklist delivers 10 focused steps, daily prompts, and accessible mindfulness exercises—perfect for busy professionals.

 

Its research-backed strategies help you increase self-awareness, regulate emotions, and deepen connections at every stage of your journey.

 

Unlike generic guides, this checklist blends reflection, mindfulness, and empathy tools to drive genuine growth.

 

Begin your path to emotional mastery and unlock personal and professional success, one actionable step at a time.

Uncover the powerful emotions shaping your financial decisions with 'Money Minds: Mastering Financial Emotional Intelligence for a Richer Life'.

 

This engaging eBook explores how your feelings influence spending and saving, offering practical tools to boost your financial emotional intelligence.

 

Gain fresh insights into your money habits through real-life case studies and reflective journal prompts.

 

Learn mindful spending techniques and discover easy-to-use scripts and checklists to increase your financial confidence.

 

Master strategies for managing emotional spending, improving communication about money, and aligning your financial choices with your core values.

 

This guide is perfect for individuals, couples, and entrepreneurs interested in understanding the emotional side of their finances.

 

Transform your financial life with a holistic, emotionally intelligent approach—download 'Money Minds' and start your journey today.

Experience a shift from limiting self-talk to empowering self-belief with Wired for Positivity, an eBook that blends the science of neuroplasticity and positive psychology.

 

This engaging guide reveals how affirmations truly reshape your brain—with evidence-based insights, actionable strategies, and interactive exercises tailored for real-life transformation.

 

Ideal for personal growth enthusiasts, mental wellness supporters, and anyone who’s struggled to see results from affirmations, it equips readers to master their mindset and apply purposeful, effective self-talk.

 

Inside, you’ll find practical chapters on the neuroscience of affirmations, case studies, fill-in-the-blank prompts, and a 21-day habit plan—all designed for sustainable change.

 

Whether you’re a therapist, coach, or simply starting your wellness journey, you’ll gain tools to address anxiety, build confidence, and boost focus.

 

Ready to transform? Download Wired for Positivity and unlock your brain’s potential.

Ready to tackle your goals with clarity and confidence?

 

The Life Goals Launchpad empowers you to map out your ambitions and make steady progress, step by step.

 

This comprehensive digital planner guides you through pinpointing your passions, setting specific and realistic goals, and breaking them into actionable tasks.

 

Stay motivated by tracking achievements, overcoming roadblocks, and connecting to supportive networks.

 

Whether you’re a student, professional, or creative thinker, this planner adapts to your unique journey—no generic templates, just practical, real-life strategies.

 

Its flexible format means you can choose digital or printable versions to suit your lifestyle.

 

Order worry-free with clear cancellation, refund, and exchange policies for your peace of mind.

 

Start transforming your aspirations into achievements today with The Life Goals Launchpad.

Emotional Intelligence Unlocked: Your Practical Guide to Understanding and Growing EQ offers a simple, accessible way to master emotional intelligence for everyday success.

 

Designed for those eager to boost personal growth or strengthen relationships, this digital guide walks you through emotional intelligence basics, self-awareness exercises, actionable strategies for empathy, and real-life examples.

 

Each chapter focuses on practical techniques, helping you understand emotions, manage them better, and enhance communication skills.

 

This resource is perfect for students, team leaders, parents, or anyone ready to improve their emotional well-being and leadership.

 

You’ll find hands-on activities, relatable stories, and a clear roadmap for building greater confidence and empathy.

 

Start your journey today—download instantly and begin developing meaningful skills for work and life.

 

Refunds and exchanges are available under clear terms to ensure your satisfaction.

Experience a life-changing six-week summer program designed for teens eager to boost their well-being and personal growth.

 

Running at The Ellerslie School from July 21 to August 29, this immersive initiative meets twice a week, focusing on mental health, character development, nutrition, and physical wellness.

 

Interactive workshops from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. promise a dynamic, supportive setting where students can build confidence, resilience, and valuable life skills.

 

Gain healthy habits, learn food prep, and enjoy active fitness sessions, while developing leadership, teamwork, and emotional strategies to manage stress.

 

Mentors will guide diverse groups, connected through WhatsApp, encouraging collaboration and shared growth.

 

Thanks to generous sponsors, the program is free, with attendance rewarded by certificates and special gifts.

 

Proudly hosted by the Progressive Optimist Club of Barbados, this summer is your opportunity to have fun, make new friends, and invest in your future.

Bussa's Rebellion erupted in April 1816, marking the largest slave uprising in Barbadian history.

 

The revolt began in St. Philip as cane fields blazed, quickly sweeping through Christ Church, St. John, St. Thomas, St. George, and parts of St. Michael.

 

Led by Bussa, over 400 men and women challenged the colonial militia, but were outmatched and overpowered.

 

Bussa fell in battle and, within days, the rebellion was harshly suppressed.

 

An estimated 50 enslaved people were killed in the fighting, 214 were executed, and 170 exiled.

 

Despite its defeat, the uprising profoundly shaped Barbadian history and fueled the movement toward abolition in the British Empire.

 

The Bussa Statue at Haggatt Hall stands as a symbol of freedom, while Bussa himself is remembered as a National Hero of Barbados, his legacy inspiring the ongoing pursuit of justice.