In a recent ceremony held in Manchester, Jamaica, the Manchester Empowerment and Recognition Programme honoured eight exceptional educators and three courageous firefighters for their significant contributions to nation-building and community resilience. The event, themed “I Am Built for Greatness: Igniting Passion in the Lives of Our Students,” was hosted by Garfield S Green, Custos Rotulorum for Manchester. Originally designed to recognise educators, the programme was expanded to include firefighters, acknowledging their vital role in safeguarding lives and properties. The eight educators received the Custos’ Award for Excellence in Education, celebrating their dedication to shaping character, inspiring excellence, and fostering national development through education. Similarly, the three firefighters were lauded as builders of bravery for their fearless service and unwavering commitment to protecting communities. Guest speaker Joan A Davis-Williams, an education consultant, delivered an inspiring address, urging attendees to reflect on personal growth and professional purpose. She used metaphors of life’s burdens and cutlery to emphasise the importance of staying sharp, polished, and ready to serve with excellence. The event was supported by key sponsors, including the British Council, Juici Patties, and Toyota Jamaica. In his opening remarks, Custos Green highlighted the transformative power of educators and firefighters, stating that greatness is not merely taught but ignited through their actions.
分类： society
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11 things you must bring on your relief trip to hurricane-ravaged parishes
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, communities across Jamaica are uniting to aid families in the most severely affected parishes as they embark on the arduous journey toward recovery. Venturing into these devastated areas demands meticulous preparation, empathy, and the right equipment to ensure safety while assisting others. For those planning to participate in relief efforts, here are 11 indispensable items to navigate the challenges of the day. Sturdy water boots or heavy-duty shoes are crucial for traversing flooded or debris-laden zones, shielding against sharp objects, mud, and contaminated water. Bug spray is essential to fend off mosquitoes thriving in stagnant post-hurricane environments. Relief items such as non-perishable food, water, toiletries, and bedding, packed in color-coded bags, facilitate efficient distribution. Personal sustenance, including food, snacks, and water, ensures volunteers do not deplete supplies meant for affected residents. Antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer maintain hygiene in areas lacking running water. A durable garbage bag is necessary for the safe disposal of personal waste, preventing further burden on overwhelmed communities. A hat and sunscreen protect against intense UV exposure during prolonged outdoor work. A compact first-aid kit with plasters, alcohol pads, painkillers, and personal medications addresses minor injuries promptly. A fully charged phone and portable power bank are vital for communication and navigation. A full tank of petrol, spare tire, and, if safe, extra fuel ensure mobility in unpredictable road conditions. Lastly, a machete and gloves are indispensable for clearing debris-blocked roadways. Coordination with authorized relief groups and the police is paramount for safety and efficient aid distribution. Thorough preparation not only maximizes the impact of support but also safeguards volunteers in their noble mission.
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Manhunt for Carrera Prison escapee
A high-stakes manhunt has been launched following the escape of Jamal Joseph, a prisoner from Carrera Convict Prison, located on an island off Chaguaramas. Joseph, who was serving a five-year sentence for motor vehicle larceny and was due for release in October 2028, was discovered missing during routine checks at approximately 8:32 pm on November 14. The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service has activated its emergency response protocols, mobilizing national security agencies, including the TT Police Service, TT Defence Force, and Operational Command Centre, in a coordinated effort to locate and apprehend the fugitive. Joseph is considered armed and dangerous, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information to the nearest police station or the prison hotline at 800-PRSN (7776). Simultaneously, an internal investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the escape, as law enforcement intensifies its search efforts.
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Foetus found in shallow grave in Balata
A shocking and unsettling discovery was made on November 13 in the Balata community of Babonneau, St. Lucia, where what appeared to be the remains of a foetus were unearthed from a shallow grave. The grim find quickly ignited widespread attention, with social media platforms becoming a hotbed for speculation and debate. A photograph, widely circulated and believed by many to depict the deceased infant, was later debunked by authorities as fraudulent. Law enforcement swiftly responded to the scene, securing the area and launching a thorough investigation. Sources from St. Lucia Times have confirmed that the mother of the foetus has been summoned for questioning, with the case being classified as highly sensitive. The investigation is being spearheaded by the Vulnerable Persons Unit, a specialized division equipped to handle cases involving children and other vulnerable individuals.
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Teen Among Three Wanted in Jamaica for Killing of Two Policemen
A 17-year-old student is one of three individuals being actively sought by authorities in connection with the fatal shooting of two police officers on Waltham Park Road in St Andrew on Thursday night. The teenager, residing on Waltham Park Road, has been named alongside 20-year-old Macarius Munroe, also known as ‘Mackie’ from Ricketts Crescent, Kingston 13, and Junior Brown, 20, from Seaward Drive, Kingston 11. The suspects have been instructed to surrender to the police by 6 pm Friday. The victims, Constable Jemarey Gordon of CTOC and Constable Charles Stewart from the St Catherine North Division, were fatally shot during an altercation with several men shortly before 8 pm. Reports suggest that the officers were engaged in a conversation with the men at a local business when the confrontation escalated. During the altercation, one of the men allegedly drew a firearm and fired multiple shots, striking both officers in their upper bodies. The suspects fled the scene on foot. Local residents assisted in transporting the injured officers to Kingston Public Hospital (KPH), where they succumbed to their injuries during treatment. Police investigations have revealed that the three suspects are alleged members of the Dust City Gang and are reportedly involved in a car-stealing ring operating within the Corporate Area. It is alleged that the suspects stole a white 2015 Toyota Allion on Thursday and parked it along Waltham Park Road. The theft was reported to the Cross Roads Police Station. Munroe and Brown have prior criminal records; Munroe was taken into custody last May after a vehicle he was traveling in was found with a device used in car theft, while Brown was detained at the Hunts Bay Police Station earlier this year after 25 9mm cartridges and three magazines were discovered on premises he occupied.
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Standards pioneer Rhynd honoured at World Quality Day ceremony
Dudley Rhynd, the inaugural national standards director of Barbados and a key architect of the Caribbean’s quality infrastructure, was celebrated as a transformative figure in regional development during a special ceremony marking World Quality Day 2025. The event, held at the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) headquarters in Warrens under the theme “Quality: Think Differently,” brought together top officials to honor Rhynd’s enduring legacy. Latoya Burnham, CEO of the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ), hailed Rhynd as “a true stalwart of Caribbean quality,” emphasizing his visionary leadership and foundational contributions to regional standards. “Dudley Rhynd’s tireless efforts and unwavering belief in regional integration transformed ideas into actionable frameworks, strengthening trade, protecting consumers, and enhancing competitiveness across the Caribbean,” Burnham remarked. She noted that Rhynd’s influence extends beyond CROSQ’s creation, shaping the Caribbean’s approach to quality as both a technical concept and a cultural mindset. BNSI Chairman Ryah Brathwaite echoed these sentiments, describing Rhynd as “a visionary whose lifetime of purpose has left a lasting impact across Barbados, the Caribbean, and beyond.” Brathwaite highlighted Rhynd’s role in establishing BNSI as a beacon of excellence and his contributions to fostering regional unity through institutions like CROSQ. In his acceptance speech, Rhynd expressed gratitude to his colleagues, emphasizing the collaborative nature of his achievements. “I share these tributes with the many people who supported me along the way,” he said. Rhynd’s 33-year tenure as BNSI’s founding director until his retirement in 2006 laid the groundwork for Barbados’ and the Caribbean’s standards and quality infrastructure. His career, marked by a commitment to quality assurance and regional integration, has been widely recognized for advancing trade, consumer protection, and competitiveness.
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Registrations open for Antigua and Barbuda’s 2025 Christmas lighting contest
The Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda has officially announced the opening of registrations for the 2025 Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition. This annual event, deeply rooted in the nation’s cultural fabric, invites both residents and business owners to participate in a celebration of creativity and community spirit. Registration forms are available until December 17 at two locations: the Department of Creative Industries on Old Parham Road and the National Festivals Office in St John’s. The competition will feature pre-judging rounds from December 20 to 21, followed by final assessments on December 28. Winners will be revealed on the popular morning show, *Good Morning Antigua, Barbuda*, on January 5. Home entries will be evaluated across four geographical zones—East, West, North, and South—with participants enjoying incentives such as a full electricity waiver from December 15 to January 15 and duty-free concessions on lighting and decorations. Cash prizes for home participants range from EC$1,000 to EC$3,000. Businesses, on the other hand, will benefit from a 50% electricity waiver for December, duty-free concessions, and the same prize structure. The competition is designed to enhance communal bonds and highlight local ingenuity as the festive season approaches, reinforcing its role as a cherished tradition in Antigua and Barbuda.
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Motorists urged to check compliance as new tint rules start Dec 1
Barbados is set to implement new vehicle tint regulations starting December 1, with authorities urging motorists to ensure compliance before the deadline. Deputy Chief Licensing Officer Lynette Williams emphasized that the updated rules, ratified earlier this year, aim to bolster road safety and aid law enforcement in crime prevention by enhancing visibility into vehicles. According to the regulations, front passenger and driver windows must allow at least 25% light transmission, rear windows and rear windscreens 20%, and front windscreens 70%. A three-percentage-point margin of error is permitted during tint testing. To assist drivers, free tint testing services are available at Oistins and the NCF car park in West Terrace. The new rules, part of the Road Traffic Act, prohibit metallic and mirrored tints and apply uniform standards to both private and public service vehicles. Visor tints must also meet a minimum 25% light transmission, with size restrictions based on windscreen height. Exemptions are available for drivers with medical conditions, provided they submit a specialist’s report. The Barbados Licensing Authority (BLA) stated that these measures aim to empower law enforcement by ensuring clear visibility into vehicles, thereby deterring criminal activity and aiding investigations. Motorists with non-compliant tints must remove them to avoid penalties once enforcement begins. Detailed information on the regulations is accessible on the websites and social media platforms of the BLA and the Ministry of Transport and Works. Authorities anticipate heightened public awareness to facilitate a seamless transition when the rules take effect.
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President marks Queen’s College 25-year Cadet Corps milestone
Queen’s College commemorated the 25th anniversary of its No. 21 Cadet Corps with a solemn yet celebratory event on Thursday. The occasion featured a military parade and a poignant Remembrance Day tribute, attended by prominent figures including President Dame Sandra Mason, CARICOM Ambassador David Comissiong, and other dignitaries. The ceremony, held at the Husbands, St James campus, underscored the cadet company’s legacy of discipline, leadership, and civic service. Lynda Holder, chair of the Queen’s College Board of Management, emphasized the collective pride in the cadet corps’ achievements, praising the contributions of founders, officers, instructors, parents, and generations of cadets. The event also honored the island’s fallen soldiers, with Holder urging current cadets to uphold the highest standards of character and civic duty. The school choir delivered a moving performance of *At Calvary*, while the cadets showcased their precision through drills and the playing of *Reveille*. President Mason unveiled a commemorative plaque inscribed with a message of remembrance and celebration. The ceremony concluded with artistic gestures, including the presentation of school memorabilia, an award-winning painting, and a bouquet of flowers to the president.
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Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board Sends Relief Supplies to Families in Jamaica
In a significant display of regional solidarity, the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board (ABTB) has successfully concluded a relief drive to assist families in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, who have been grappling with recent hardships. The initiative, which focused on collecting essential clothing and food items, was spearheaded by ABTB staff and bolstered by contributions from community partners. A substantial volume of vital supplies was amassed, showcasing the collective effort of the participants. These donations are currently being prepared for shipment to Jamaica, where they will be distributed by Hope for Life Prayer Breakthrough Ministries, a local organization dedicated to supporting affected households. ABTB emphasized that this initiative underscores its unwavering commitment to fostering regional unity and providing community support throughout the Caribbean.