With the increased rate of adolescent obesity, a medical professional has called attention to other problems that are arising for young Barbadians. Consultant Physician, Dr. Sonita Alexander says it is not only leading to increased rates of diabetes along with the earlier onset of heart disease but also emotional challenges. Dr. Alexander was a guest on CBC TV8’s Mornin’ Barbados. Dr. Alexander wants parents and families onboard in addressing the issue, telling them it would not be a quick fix.

One of the major mandates of the Barbados Cricket Umpires Association for 2025 is to increase its membership. There is therefore a call for interested people to come forward.  As we hear from CBC’s Ann-Marie Burke, the latest opportunity for training will begin on Monday.

Small Craft and High Surf Advisories are in effect for Barbados. A Small Craft Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots and/or sea swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres (8 to 10 feet) and/or visibility (less than 10km but greater than 5 km) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 48 hours. A High Surf Advisory is issued when breaking wave action poses a threat or is forecast to pose a threat to life and property within the surf zone within the next 48 hours. The Barbados Meteorological Services says a mid-latitude cyclone in the central Atlantic is expected to agitate the seas from Saturday night into early Monday. Choppy sea conditions are expected along coastlines, and in open water from tomorrow night into early Monday. Northerly swells between 2.5 and 3.0 m are expected at this time. Swell heights are forecasted to decrease thereafter but the northerly swell direction is expected to remain. Agitated sea conditions may persist, particularly along the western coastlines for much of the week. Small craft operators and beachgoers should be prepared for the possibility of large open water swells which can be hazardous to some vessels. Operation of smaller vessels can be difficult at times due to large swells, and some beach erosion is inevitable with most or all beaches submerged particularly below the cliffs and specifically at times of high tide. The BMS recommends that you use beaches with on-duty lifeguards, and secure objects on the beachfront that may be swept away by the wave action. The public is encouraged to monitor official sources for further information. This advisory will be updated at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025, or sooner if conditions warrant.