TREASURE BEACH, St Elizabeth — In the aftermath of the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, the organizers of the Treasure Beach Food, Rum & Reggae Festival have decided to postpone this year’s event. The decision reflects the urgent need to focus on relief and rebuilding efforts in Treasure Beach and surrounding areas, which have been severely impacted by the storm.
分类： society
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WATCH: First responders say they are traumatised by Melissa
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left a profound emotional toll on first responders in Black River, St. Elizabeth, as revealed in interviews conducted on Thursday. Many of these individuals, including firefighters, soldiers, and volunteers, expressed deep psychological scars from their experiences during the storm. Despite their training to manage high-stress situations, the intensity of the hurricane overwhelmed them, leaving many visibly shaken and reluctant to speak on record. Some simply shook their heads or buried their faces in their hands, unable to articulate the trauma they endured. Among those who spoke anonymously, the word ‘traumatized’ was repeatedly used to describe their state of mind. Firefighters Francis and Roach, who requested anonymity and that their faces not be shown, recounted harrowing tales of back-to-back rescues amidst the terror of surging floodwaters and relentless winds. Their accounts paint a vivid picture of the physical and emotional challenges faced by those on the front lines of disaster response. (Video: Dana Malcolm)
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In memory of Mariah – Family to mark birthday of murdered teen on All Saint’s Day
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.
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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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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.
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Briana Anthony Urges Citizens to Embrace Lifelong Learning at UWI Five Islands
Briana Anthony, a distinguished media personality and communications expert, is encouraging citizens of Antigua and Barbuda to seize the opportunities provided by the government’s commitment to higher and lifelong education. Anthony, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWI FIC), marked another significant achievement on 30 October by completing the Lifelong Learning Unit program, where she received accolades in Persuasive Communication. She lauded UWI FIC as a transformative platform and commended the government for its focus on making education accessible, enabling individuals to grow, retool, and advance their careers. ‘Lifelong learning is essential. Whether you’re a recent school graduate, a working professional, or someone with a degree, there’s always room to improve and achieve more. Education empowers individuals and strengthens our nation,’ Anthony emphasized. The government’s ongoing collaboration with UWI continues to broaden access to quality education, empowering citizens to fulfill personal aspirations and contribute to the country’s development.