In the wake of a devastating hurricane, Discovery Bauxite has emerged as a vital lifeline for communities across St. Ann and neighboring parishes in Jamaica. With the National Water Commission (NWC) struggling to maintain supplies due to storm-related disruptions, the company’s water wells in Discovery Bay have become a crucial resource for residents, schools, agencies, and relief organizations. Water trucks, some traveling from as far as Montego Bay, have been loading at the facility to support relief efforts, including the World Central Kitchen team, which is preparing thousands of meals daily for distribution in the hardest-hit areas. The company’s open water standpipe near its public clinic in Jacks Lodge district has also seen heavy use, drawing residents from both its operating areas and beyond. Gratitude has poured in from individuals and organizations benefiting from the service. Pauline White, a small business operator from Farm Town, described the support as ‘a lifeline during a period when access to NWC supplies are down.’ Private truck operator Linburgh Gayle echoed this sentiment, noting the daily demand for water from schools, churches, families, and individuals in need. Discovery Bauxite has acknowledged the widespread hardship caused by the hurricane, pledging to continue its relief efforts as long as its pumps can handle the additional load. The company emphasized its commitment to assisting hundreds of people who travel from local communities and nearby parishes to access water, stating, ‘We are grateful for the opportunity to be of assistance in this time of national need.’
分类： society
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Chinese Benevolent Society donates hurricane relief supplies to Falmouth Hospital
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the Falmouth Public General Hospital in Trelawny, Jamaica, received a much-needed lifeline on Friday, courtesy of the Chinese Benevolent Society (CBS). The organization donated a wide array of essential relief items, including toilet tissue, bottled water, food supplies, baby pampers, blankets, and other critical care products. The formal handover ceremony took place at the hospital, where Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the hospital and the Ministry of Health and Wellness. Dr. Tufton, who was inspecting the Spanish-donated field hospital at the site, lauded the donation as a heartwarming act of compassion during a trying period for the Jamaican people. He emphasized the importance of such gestures in fostering a sense of global solidarity and humanity. Johnny Hung, representing the Chinese Benevolent Society, reiterated the organization’s commitment to aiding communities across Jamaica as they recover from the storm’s aftermath. This donation marks the third such contribution by the CBS to hospitals in the region, with plans to extend further assistance wherever possible. The initiative is part of a broader national relief effort, as public institutions grapple with the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, which has left parts of the island without power, disrupted infrastructure, and heightened the demand for emergency services. The Chinese Benevolent Society has a longstanding history of charitable work in Jamaica, and this latest contribution underscores its enduring dedication to supporting the island’s recovery and resilience.
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Family, friends mourn Alexia Trim – law student hailed for her humility, strength
The St Francis of Assisi RC Church in Belmont was filled with heartfelt tributes and profound grief as family, friends, and educators gathered to honor the life of Alexia Trim, a 23-year-old UWI law student who passed away in Colombia on October 22. Trim, who was set to graduate with first-class honors in Law from the University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine campus, succumbed to complications from arteriovenous malformation, a rare condition affecting blood vessels in the brain.
Her funeral on November 15 was a poignant celebration of her life, marked by eulogies that highlighted her ambition, intelligence, humility, and unwavering faith. Trim’s mother, Marsha Trim, shared a moving tribute through her friends, recounting the joys of her daughter’s birth and her remarkable ability to face life’s challenges with grace and dignity. Despite enduring health struggles during her final year of studies, Trim remained optimistic about her future, eagerly anticipating her graduation and further studies in law.
Former teachers and peers also paid homage to Trim’s extraordinary character. Lisa Rodriguez, a former teacher at St. Joseph’s Convent, described Trim as a beacon of faith and humility, whose life radiated a divine light. Dr. Timothy Affonso, deputy dean of the Faculty of Law at UWI, praised her civic-mindedness and the positive impact she had on her peers and faculty.
Fr. Mikkel Trestrail, who delivered the homily, reflected on Trim’s acceptance of her fate, sharing that she had expressed peace with her journey just days before her passing. He likened the mourners to ‘lumps of dough transformed into donuts,’ emphasizing that Trim’s death had left a void in their hearts but also a lasting legacy of love and faith. Trestrail encouraged those present to deepen their relationship with God, assuring them that Trim’s love and the love of Christ would guide them through their grief.
The funeral concluded with a powerful message of hope, as Trestrail reminded attendees that Trim’s spirit would live on in their hearts and in God’s Kingdom, a testament to the enduring power of love and faith.
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Goldie’s destroyed as massive fire sweeps Fish Fry
A devastating fire has engulfed Arawak Cay’s renowned Fish Fry, a prominent tourism and cultural landmark in the country. The blaze, which has been raging for over an hour, has left several popular restaurants in ruins. Among the hardest hit is Goldie’s, which has been completely destroyed, while the adjacent Rake and Scrape restaurant is fully consumed by flames. The fire has rapidly spread through multiple wooden structures, with power lines also catching fire as the situation escalates. Vendors located on the western end of the Fish Fry are facing significant losses as emergency crews work tirelessly to contain the damage. The Fish Fry is celebrated as a vital hub for both tourism and local culture, making this incident a severe blow to the community. Further details regarding the cause of the fire and potential casualties remain unavailable at this time.
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WATCH: St Elizabeth receives major infrastructure relief from developers
In a significant community development initiative, Ripton Group of Companies and Alcore Company have partnered to undertake a comprehensive reconstruction project in the Parottee community of St Elizabeth. The collaboration has mobilized over 70 skilled workers to address critical housing and infrastructure needs. The project includes rebuilding homes from the foundation, installing solar-powered street lights to enhance safety and visibility, and providing essential amenities such as mattresses, toilets, and wash areas for residents. Company executives have acknowledged the high demand for such assistance and reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining these efforts to improve living conditions in the area. This initiative marks a pivotal step toward fostering long-term community resilience and well-being.
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Career fair at Santa Maria RC School: A world of opportunities
In a landmark event for Santa Maria RC School in Moruga, students were introduced to a wide array of career possibilities during the school’s first-ever Career Fair, held on November 7 along Penal Rock Road. The event, aptly named ‘Community Helpers,’ was a significant expansion of the school’s traditional career day, which previously featured only three guest speakers. This year, the fair was organized by Principal Genevieve Gopaul-Francis and staff members in collaboration with the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), led by Choy Aping. The goal was to expose students to diverse career paths, spark curiosity, and bridge classroom learning with real-world applications. Professionals from various fields, including law enforcement, agriculture, healthcare, and sports, shared their experiences and insights. Representatives from the South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) highlighted opportunities in the health sector, while community police officers discussed roles beyond traditional policing, such as legal officers and prosecutors. Fire and prison officers also spoke about their vital work. The Ministry of Agriculture, Land, and Fisheries demonstrated hydroponics, showcasing innovative agricultural practices. Esther Brereton, librarian from the Moruga Public Library, emphasized the importance of literacy through a read-aloud session. Former West Indies women’s cricket captain Merissa Aguilleira, a Moruga native, inspired students with her journey in sports. The event, supported by the Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago (SporTT), also revitalized the school’s cricket program, with nearly every student now involved. The fair left students inspired and eager to explore their future possibilities.
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Emma Bhola: ‘My living shall not be in vain’
At 92 years old, Emma Bhola, née Latchmedial, remains a beacon of strength and inspiration, embodying a lifetime of dedication to education, faith, and community service. Known affectionately as a “tiny giant” by the Women of the Star of Bethlehem Presbyterian Church in Tabaquite, Bhola was recently honored with an appreciation plaque for her unwavering commitment to her church and community. The tribute, read on October 5, celebrated her “faithful service, legacy of love, and teaching,” drawing from Proverbs 31 to highlight her wisdom and devotion.
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Ravaged Westmoreland communities receive help from Patricia Smith Foundation, Revival Council of Churches and Resort Areas Police
Under a drizzling, dusky sky, a woman stood with her hands on her head, gazing at the remnants of what might have been her home on Cooke Street in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland’s capital. The scene was hauntingly quiet, with roofless houses, shattered windows, and clothes hanging precariously on makeshift wires. Residents sat or stood in their yards, their faces etched with bewilderment, as the community grappled with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. This devastation was part of a broader crisis in Westmoreland, where approximately 80% of homes were destroyed, leaving thousands without shelter or hope for a swift recovery. The hurricane’s impact was exacerbated by the region’s crumbling infrastructure, including poor roads and limited modern facilities. Amid this despair, Dr. Patricia Smith, a Jamaican-American philanthropist, spearheaded a relief mission to deliver essential supplies such as rice, canned food, chicken, and drinking water. Supported by the Sweet P Home Care, the Dr. Patricia V Smith Foundation, the Acts of Miracles Foundation, and the Secret Hearts Spiritual Church of Jesus Christ International, Dr. Smith’s efforts focused on the most vulnerable. She emphasized the urgent need for aid in outlying communities like Water Works, Georges Plain, and Little London, which had received less attention from donors. Inspector Hartley of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Resort Areas Division confirmed the scale of destruction, while Chief Apostle Dr. Ray Anthony Foster praised Dr. Smith’s leadership in initiating a long-term rebuilding effort. The relief groups also provided cooked meals at central locations, with Dr. Smith feeding over 100 people in Savanna-la-Mar. She called on organizations like the World Central Kitchen to prioritize Westmoreland. Preliminary estimates place the hurricane’s damage between US$6 billion and US$7 billion, equivalent to 28-32% of Jamaica’s GDP for fiscal year 2024/2025. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the community’s resilience and the collective efforts of local and international organizations offer a glimmer of hope for recovery.
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Psychologist: Emotional pain if paternity test comes back negative
The revelation that a child one has raised and loved is not biologically their own can deliver a profound psychological blow, particularly for men. This discovery not only impacts the individual but also reverberates through the extended family and the child themselves. Counseling psychologist Sule Joseph, in an interview with Newsday, emphasized the extensive and enduring emotional fallout from such situations. This discussion followed a claim by the Fathers’ Association of Trinidad and Tobago that one in three men who underwent paternity tests between 2020 and 2025 at a judiciary-approved facility were not the biological fathers. However, Joseph cautioned that this statistic reflects a specific subset of individuals who already harbored suspicions and thus may not be representative of the broader population. He noted that while there is a subculture in Trinidad and Tobago that often rationalizes infidelity, the discovery of non-paternity through a test remains a harsh and traumatic experience, regardless of prior relationship status. The association has consequently renewed its call for mandatory DNA testing before courts issue maintenance orders. Joseph highlighted that while some men might feel relief upon confirming their suspicions, those who have formed deep emotional bonds with the child could face devastating psychological consequences, including feelings of confusion, betrayal, self-doubt, and anger. The emotional damage is often exacerbated by societal expectations and the perceived attack on male ego. Children, too, are significantly affected, potentially experiencing confusion, fear, anger, and insecurity, which can disrupt their sense of identity and belonging. Joseph advised that such information should be shared with the child at an emotionally stable time and in a supportive environment to minimize psychological harm. The ripple effects extend to the wider family, with relatives also grappling with feelings of confusion and betrayal. In the legal realm, paternity disputes can arise in court for various reasons. A Family Court lawyer explained that if a father’s name is not on the birth certificate, the mother must first apply for a paternity order. If the man denies paternity, the court will refer them for a DNA test. Even if the father’s name is on the birth certificate, the court may order a DNA test if the man expresses doubt. The lawyer emphasized the complexity of removing a name from a birth certificate, as it involves considering the child’s well-being. She supported the call for mandatory DNA testing in disputed cases, arguing that it could prevent long-term emotional and financial burdens. Ultimately, the court aims to balance the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain paramount.
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CJ to prioritise re-opening of courts, speedier trials
Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh has announced his commitment to reopening court buildings and improving the efficiency of the judiciary as top priorities. Speaking at the Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago’s (LATT) annual Dinner and Awards ceremony on November 14, Boodoosingh outlined his vision for a more accessible and high-performing judicial system. Since assuming his role three weeks ago, he has engaged with legal professionals to address pressing issues within the fraternity, including the prolonged closure of key court facilities like the Port of Spain Magistrates’ Court, which has been under repair for over four years. Boodoosingh emphasized the importance of in-person hearings, stating that while technology has enabled virtual proceedings, justice requires human interaction. He also pledged to reduce case timelines, adopt higher standards, and foster collaboration with judicial officers and stakeholders. Additionally, he highlighted plans to address space constraints in the Family Court and expedite the reopening of the Supreme Court in San Fernando by 2026. Boodoosingh concluded by honoring eight distinguished lawyers for their contributions to the profession and reaffirming his dedication to strengthening trust in the judiciary.