As thousands prepare to visit cemeteries on All Saints’ Day to honor their departed loved ones, the family of Mariah Seenath will gather at the site where her body was discovered over a month ago to commemorate what would have been her 14th birthday. On October 31, at her grandmother’s home in Friendship Village, Mariah’s uncles, Krishna and Shiv Seenath, were seen decorating a metal cross with vibrant flowers in red, white, silver, and yellow, chosen to contrast against the green backdrop of the location where she was found. Blue flowers were also added, symbolizing her favorite color, as part of a memorial shrine to honor her tragically short life. Krishna, seated on the front porch, expressed the family’s struggle to cope with the loss, stating, ‘It’s unbelievable. It’s hard to cope with, but they said don’t question God. It’s in the hands of God. It’s just to manage.’ He emphasized that Mariah’s memory would always remain with them. On the evening of November 1, relatives planned to visit the site to pay tribute, and if weather permitted, release lanterns into the night sky. Krishna recalled how Mariah’s birthdays were always a special occasion, marked by her favorite meals—barbecue and fries or roti and curry—followed by cake and ice cream. However, this year, the family chose not to cut a cake, as Krishna explained, ‘Knowing that she’s not here…it wouldn’t feel comfortable.’ He expressed hope that the perpetrator would soon be brought to justice, providing the family with closure. Senior homicide detectives confirmed to Newsday that no arrests have been made yet, as police await toxicology and blood reports to further the investigation. Mariah, a Form Three student at San Fernando East Secondary, went missing on September 19 after leaving her Friendship Village home. Her body was found the following day in bushes along a path she frequently used. An autopsy revealed she died from blunt force trauma to her head, leading investigators to conclude she was beaten to death.
分类： society
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Long lines, short tempers as fuel shortages grip western Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa
Western Jamaica remains in turmoil as fuel shortages persist in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which struck the region earlier this week. Long queues of motorists formed at the few operational gas stations, with many expressing frustration over the prolonged wait times and limited supply. At Flamingo Gas Station in Trelawny, drivers recounted their struggles to find fuel, with some traveling past multiple closed stations before reaching one with available stock. Nicholas, a motorist from Ironshore, shared his ordeal, stating he had already passed four stations without success. Anthony, another driver, lamented waiting nearly an hour with little progress. Station staff also voiced their exasperation, citing a lack of discipline among the growing crowds. Meanwhile, business owners like Jason Cummings, managing director of Jascum Solutions Limited, emphasized the critical need for fuel to sustain operations, particularly for essential services like airport repairs. Similar scenes unfolded in Montego Bay, where reopened stations faced overwhelming demand, leading to tense confrontations among residents. The crisis highlights the broader challenges faced by communities in western Jamaica as they strive to recover from the hurricane’s devastation. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz announced measures to address the fuel shortage, including police escorts for tankers and uninterrupted loading operations at Petrojam, the state-owned refinery, to ensure islandwide distribution.
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United Way Trinidad and Tobago celebrates 25 years
United Way Trinidad and Tobago (UWTT) commemorated its 25th anniversary with a grand gala titled ‘United is The Way’ on October 19 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad. The event brought together corporate leaders, government officials, community advocates, and philanthropic partners to celebrate the organization’s enduring commitment to fostering stronger and more equitable communities across Trinidad and Tobago. The evening was filled with inspiring stories from beneficiaries and featured performances by the Necessary Arts School and violist Darion Dennis. Notable attendees included Vincent Pereira, vice chair of UWTT; Karen Yip Chuck, director; Ian Benjamin, chairman; and Dr. Jennifer Sancho, former UWTT CEO. Sonya Anderson, United Way Worldwide vice president of International Networks, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the global impact of UWTT’s initiatives. The celebration served as a platform to renew collective efforts toward social development and community empowerment.
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#MelissaAftermath: Dr Dawes leads medical mission in western Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, a dedicated medical mission led by Dr. Alfred Dawes, the Opposition Spokesman on Health and Wellness, has brought critical support to the parishes of Hanover and Westmoreland. The initiative, launched on Saturday morning, aims to assist hospitals, healthcare workers, and residents severely impacted by the devastating storm. The 31-member team, which includes Dr. Katia Maria Aguilera, Head of the Cuban Medical Brigade, along with doctors, medical students, and nurses, has volunteered their time and expertise to address urgent medical needs. The mission is primarily focused on supporting the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital and the Noel Holmes Hospital, where they are providing essential services such as health checks, wound care, and general medical assistance. Additionally, the team is distributing vital supplies, including sterile gloves, disinfectants, repellents, feminine hygiene products, medication, and bottled water. If time allows, they plan to extend their efforts to reach isolated communities previously cut off by the storm. Dr. Dawes emphasized the mission’s dual purpose of action and compassion, stating, ‘Our healthcare workers and communities in the west have been under tremendous strain since Hurricane Melissa. Today, we’re bringing not just supplies, but hope and solidarity to those who need it most.’ He also highlighted the importance of collective effort in national recovery, noting, ‘We all have a role to play in helping each other and rebuilding our country. This mission is a reminder that when we come together across professions, communities, and borders, we can make a real difference.’ Dr. Dawes expressed gratitude to the volunteers and partners who made the initiative possible, adding that the team will continue to assess urgent healthcare needs in the affected areas and coordinate additional support in the coming days.
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Rainforest Caribbean opens soup kitchen for hurricane victims
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on St James, Jamaica, Rainforest Caribbean has initiated a soup kitchen to provide essential support to affected residents. The facility officially commenced operations on Saturday, November 1, at Catherine Hall, located near the company’s headquarters. This initiative underscores Rainforest Caribbean’s ongoing dedication to the welfare of the Jamaican population.
Ben Jardim, Director of Rainforest Caribbean, shared insights into the project with Observer Online. He explained that the effort is starting modestly, as many team members are also grappling with the hurricane’s aftermath. The soup kitchen aims to serve communities severely impacted by the disaster, including Catherine Hall, by distributing meals throughout the week.
Jardim emphasized the company’s dual focus on organizing staff and conducting clean-up operations while maintaining their commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region. ‘We remain steadfast in our mission to feed the nation,’ he stated, highlighting the broader goal of supporting recovery efforts in the wake of the natural disaster.
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Major Material Shipment for Home Repairs to Arrive by November
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to receive an unprecedented shipment of building materials, marking the largest single import of such supplies in the nation’s history. This initiative, part of a newly launched social housing support program, aims to assist low-income families and residents living in wooden structures with essential home repairs and renovations. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, confirmed that the shipment will arrive before the end of November and will be distributed to vulnerable households across the country. ‘This is the largest order of material ever imported into Antigua and Barbuda by any entity,’ Merchant emphasized, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting the poor and indigent. The program aligns with ongoing projects funded by the Department of the Environment, including the construction of model homes for the Rastafarian community and affordable housing initiatives backed by climate financing mechanisms. According to Merchant, this effort is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance resilience, improve living standards, and ensure that social assistance reaches those who need it most.
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HDPE Pipeline Installation and Road Rehabilitation to Begin on All Saints Road
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has announced a significant initiative to modernize the country’s water distribution system. The project involves replacing outdated cast-iron pipelines with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes along All Saints Road, a move aimed at addressing persistent issues of leaks and water loss. This upgrade is part of APUA’s broader strategy to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the national water network. Esworth Bradshaw, APUA’s General Manager, recently updated the Cabinet on the project’s commencement, emphasizing the benefits of the new HDPE pipes, which are expected to offer superior durability, hydraulic performance, and overall system resilience. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, confirmed that the necessary equipment is already in place, with the new pipelines expected to arrive within the next two to three weeks. Installation work will begin shortly thereafter, with roadworks and pipeline laying to be conducted simultaneously from the junction near Townhouse Furnishings through to English Harbour. The Ministry of Works will issue detailed schedules for road diversions and public advisories as the project progresses. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing water infrastructure and ensuring reliable service for residents of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Antigua and Barbuda Authorities Seek Public Feedback on Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping Project
The Department of Environment (DOE) and the Development Control Authority (DCA) of Antigua and Barbuda have launched a public consultation initiative to review the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a proposed project by the Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping (ADOMS). This move underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive decision-making in environmental matters. Officials highlighted that public feedback is crucial to ensuring sustainable development and safeguarding the nation’s natural resources. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively by reviewing the EIA and submitting their input. For further details and to contribute, visit the official platforms provided by the authorities.
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National Youth Ambassador Makiba Ward Calls on Young People to Lead with Purpose at Youth Rally 2025
Good morning, and welcome to the National Youth Rally 2025! It is both an honor and a privilege to address you today as the National Youth Ambassador, a teacher, and the President of Youth Arise Antigua. This event is a celebration of the pride, progress, and indomitable spirit of our young people, who are the heartbeat of our nation. Every day, I witness the brilliance, creativity, and determination of our youth. I have seen their dreams take shape, their courage tested, and their potential shine through even the most daunting challenges. To the youth gathered here today, you possess the power to inspire, create, and transform. The road ahead will not always be easy. You will face pressures to succeed, uncertainties about the future, and obstacles that may seem insurmountable. But remember: success is born from sustained effort. Keep moving forward, even when the path is unclear. Do not chase perfection; aim for progress. Every small step you take brings you closer to your purpose. Your energy, ideas, and creativity are vital to our society. We need young people who are bold, who take initiative, who uplift one another, and who strive to make a difference not only in their own lives but in the lives of others. Today is your moment to shine, to celebrate your achievements, and to find inspiration for the journey ahead. As we rise, let us also rise in peace. Violence has no place in our communities or in our hearts. Let us choose respect, understanding, and unity over anger and division. True strength lies in discipline, compassion, and self-control. Together, let us build a culture of peace where every young person feels valued, safe, and supported. To the youth across the nation, remain resilient, determined, and never underestimate your power to create change. The future is yours to shape, and together, we can make it brighter, stronger, and more inclusive than ever before. Let this rally be not only a celebration but also a call to action—a commitment to unity, progress, and building a brighter future together. Let us invest in our youth, believe in their abilities, and support them every step of the way. As we celebrate our nation’s Independence under the theme ‘Solid, Stable, Soaring,’ let us remember that our youth are the wings that will carry Antigua and Barbuda even higher. When we believe in them, invest in them, and empower them, our nation soars. Thank you, and welcome once again to the National Youth Rally 2025!
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Vendor Appeals to Prime Minister Gaston Browne Over Poor Market Conditions in King George
A seasoned vendor in St. John’s has publicly appealed to Prime Minister Gaston Browne for urgent intervention, citing persistent infrastructure issues at the King George market area. The vendor, who has operated at the location for nearly two decades, highlighted severe challenges including frequent flooding, damaged tables, and inadequate repairs. Despite Market Street being cleared for redevelopment, she has been barred from returning and continues to face harsh conditions at her current spot.