The Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival (TTFF) recently witnessed a momentous occasion with the screening of *Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story*, a documentary celebrating the life and groundbreaking contributions of dancehall pioneer Sister Nancy. The event, held at Woodbrook Place in Port of Spain, drew a packed audience, creating an electrifying atmosphere as attendees gathered to honor the iconic artist. The evening was elevated when Sister Nancy herself joined via phone call, expressing gratitude and love, which resonated deeply with the crowd. Jamaican filmmaker Saeed Thomas shared his pride in seeing Sister Nancy’s journey depicted on screen, emphasizing the importance of preserving Jamaica’s musical heritage. Trinidad and Tobago filmmaker Cathy-Mae Sitaram praised the documentary’s creative execution, highlighting the seamless integration of narratives, interviews, and editing. Haitian-Canadian filmmaker Henri Pardo was inspired by Sister Nancy’s enduring strength and independence, while director Alison Duke revealed her personal motivation for the project, citing Sister Nancy’s unapologetic authenticity as a source of inspiration. Mariel Brown, TTFF festival director, reflected on the festival’s triumphant return, noting the overwhelming support from filmmakers and volunteers alike, reaffirming its role in showcasing Caribbean stories.
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From Porus to Dallas: Dr Cemorne Baugh’s journey of family, faith and fortitude
Dr. Cemorne Baugh, born in the small town of Porus, Manchester, Jamaica, has emerged as a trailblazer in healthcare leadership in Dallas, Texas. Her journey from a reserved student-athlete at Manchester High School to a senior healthcare administrator and PhD holder is a testament to her resilience and determination. Growing up in a large, supportive family of seven brothers and one sister, Dr. Baugh credits her mother, Charmine Townsend Lambert, for instilling values of strength, humility, and service. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including becoming a young mother at 21, she persevered, using every challenge as fuel for her ambition. Today, Dr. Baugh is a senior healthcare administrator overseeing a skilled nursing facility with over 150 employees. She is dedicated to improving healthcare delivery and supporting nurses, who she believes are the heart of patient care. Her dissertation, “Nursing Home Nurses’ Transition to Agency Roles,” contributes to research on nursing workforce challenges. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Baugh remains committed to youth development, coaching track and field and imparting lessons of discipline and resilience to young athletes. Her story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of determination, faith, and perseverance.
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WATCH: Manchester farmer suspected to have committed suicide in Craighead
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A somber atmosphere envelops the community of Craighead, Manchester, following the tragic death of 39-year-old farmer Orlando Murray, affectionately known as “Dussy.” On Tuesday afternoon, Murray was discovered lifeless, hanging from a pimento tree with a sheet secured around his neck. The grim discovery occurred between 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm, leaving residents in shock. According to a police report, the incident is being treated as a suspected suicide. Barrington Murray, the deceased’s uncle, expressed disbelief, stating that his nephew had shown no signs of depression. Described as a diligent and hardworking farmer, Orlando Murray’s untimely demise has left many questioning the circumstances. His uncle revealed that Murray had been grappling with emotional distress following the end of a romantic relationship, which he referred to as a “broken heart.” The community now mourns the loss of a dedicated individual while grappling with the complexities of mental health and personal struggles.
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Gov’t advances Green Paper on culture, entertainment and creative economy
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to bolster Jamaica’s cultural and creative sectors, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport Olivia Grange presented a Green Paper on the National Policy for Culture, Entertainment, and the Creative Economy in the House of Representatives on Tuesday. The policy outlines a visionary framework aimed at fostering a just, inclusive, and innovative society while preserving the nation’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.
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Dolly Parton’s sister calls for fan prayers over health issues
LOS ANGELES, United States — Dolly Parton, the iconic American country music legend, has postponed several concerts due to undisclosed health concerns, prompting her sister, Freida Parton, to appeal to fans for prayers. The 79-year-old singer, known for timeless hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” recently delayed her sold-out Las Vegas performances scheduled for December, citing the need to undergo multiple medical procedures. Freida took to Facebook to share her heartfelt plea, urging fans worldwide to join her in praying for Dolly’s recovery. “I truly believe in the power of prayer,” Freida wrote, emphasizing her faith in collective support. Dolly herself reassured her millions of followers that this is not the end of her illustrious career, announcing rescheduled shows for September 2024. Despite her health setbacks, the singer remains a beloved figure in the music industry, with a career spanning decades and iconic songs like “Coat of Many Colors” and “9 to 5.” Parton is also set to receive an honorary Oscar next month, though reports suggest she may not attend the ceremony in Los Angeles. Freida concluded her message on an optimistic note, expressing confidence in Dolly’s resilience and the power of prayer. “She’s strong, she’s loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she’s going to be just fine,” she wrote, adding, “Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”
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‘Friendship’ between Tufton, Market Me’s McDonnough was not declared – IC Report
KINGSTON, Jamaica—After a three-year investigation into Market Me Consulting Limited, the company behind the ‘Jamaica Moves’ initiative, the Integrity Commission (IC) has found no evidence of misconduct by Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton. However, the IC’s report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, highlighted significant governance lapses, particularly regarding undisclosed personal relationships and potential conflicts of interest. The probe focused on allegations of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest in contracts awarded between 2016 and 2021. During this period, Market Me Consulting secured 15 contracts worth $78.5 million, primarily from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, which Tufton has led since March 2016. The IC emphasized that neither Tufton nor Lyndsey McDonnough, co-managing director of Market Me, disclosed their friendship before the company was awarded these contracts. Kevon Stephenson, the IC’s Director of Investigation, noted that while Tufton was not directly involved in the $15.8 million contract for the Jamaica Moves program, he failed to formally declare his relationship with McDonnough. This omission, according to the report, contravened principles of transparency and good governance. Although breaches were identified, the matter was not referred for prosecution due to evidentiary gaps. Instead, the IC recommended that the Speaker of the House of Representatives address the conflict-of-interest concerns and urged the ministry to strengthen its procurement systems and ensure compliance with public integrity laws.
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Health ministry to implement IC recommendations following ‘Market Me’ probe
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Health and Wellness has officially acknowledged the findings of the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding its investigation into procurement irregularities and potential conflicts of interest involving contracts worth nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me Consulting Limited. The report, presented to Parliament on Tuesday, culminated a three-year probe into the matter. While the ministry emphasized that no malfeasance was found among its staff, it recognized the IC’s recommendations to enhance procurement transparency and address concerns outlined in the report. Market Me Consulting Limited secured approximately 15 contracts between 2016 and 2021 for the Jamaica Moves programme, a health initiative aimed at combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through public awareness and preventive measures. The IC’s Director of Investigation, Kevon Stephenson, highlighted that Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton and Market Me’s co-managing director, Lindsay McDonnough, failed to disclose their prior friendship before the contracts were awarded. Additionally, the IC noted instances of contract splintering, a practice where larger contracts are divided into smaller ones to avoid stricter procurement regulations. The ministry defended its actions, explaining that some payments were reimbursements for goods and services already utilized in the Jamaica Moves campaign. It also outlined steps taken to address the issues, including halting advance payments, regularizing outstanding reimbursements, and finalizing a new procurement process to prevent future complications. The ministry reiterated its commitment to the Jamaica Moves programme, calling it a cornerstone of its health promotion strategy, while pledging to review the IC’s recommendations to ensure compliance with laws and policies.
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Tufton, Market Me happy with IC report findings
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has publicly acknowledged the findings of the Integrity Commission’s (IC) investigation into Market Me Consulting Limited, expressing relief over the report’s conclusions. The probe, which spanned three years, examined allegations of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest involving contracts worth nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me by the health ministry. The report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, found no evidence of wrongdoing by Dr. Tufton or Lindsay McDonnough, Market Me’s co-managing director. However, the IC criticized both parties for failing to disclose their personal friendship, which the commission suggested could have influenced the contract awards. Dr. Tufton addressed the prolonged public scrutiny, stating, ‘This matter has cast unfair doubt on my integrity and the reputations of others involved. I regret any hurt or reputational damage caused but am pleased the IC found no illegality.’ He emphasized his commitment to advancing Jamaica’s public health agenda and serving with integrity. Market Me, in a brief statement, affirmed that the report validates their professionalism and the value of their work.
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Single Lane Traffic on Valley Road North and Anchorage Road
The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the implementation of single-lane traffic on Valley Road North and Anchorage Road to facilitate critical infrastructure repairs. The temporary traffic arrangement, effective daily from 8:00 a.m., is part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project undertaken by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. On Valley Road North, the work includes road markings, drainage systems, headwalls, concrete swales, and asphalt repairs. Similarly, Anchorage Road will see the completion of road markings, drainage, and sidewalks. Flag persons will be stationed to guide motorists, ensuring safe passage amidst heavy-duty equipment operations. While the repairs may cause delays, all businesses in the area remain open. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and urges stakeholders to adjust their travel plans accordingly. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure for improved safety and efficiency.
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There is a high chance of a tropical depression forming during the next few days
A significant weather disturbance is brewing in the tropical central Atlantic, with meteorologists predicting a high likelihood of a tropical depression forming in the coming days. As of 8:00 AM EDT on October 6, 2025, a broad area of low pressure associated with a low-latitude tropical wave has been observed, producing widespread disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Environmental conditions are favorable for gradual development, and the system is expected to move rapidly west-northwestward, potentially approaching the northern Leeward Islands by the end of the week. The National Hurricane Center has issued advisories, urging residents in the region to closely monitor the system’s progress. The probability of cyclone formation stands at 50% within the next 48 hours and increases to 70% over the next seven days. This developing weather event underscores the importance of preparedness as the Atlantic hurricane season remains active.