MEXICO CITY, Mexico — The devastating floods that have ravaged central and eastern Mexico have now claimed the lives of at least 64 people, with an additional 65 individuals still unaccounted for, according to official reports released on Monday. The catastrophic flooding, triggered by relentless and heavy rainfall, has primarily impacted the states of Veracruz, Hidalgo, and Puebla. Laura Velazquez, the head of Mexico’s civil defense authorities, confirmed the grim statistics, highlighting the severity of the situation. The torrential rains have caused rivers to overflow, inundating communities, destroying infrastructure, and displacing thousands of residents. Emergency response teams are working tirelessly to locate the missing and provide aid to those affected. The Mexican government has called for increased support and resources to address the crisis, as the region braces for the possibility of further rainfall. This disaster underscores the growing vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.
分类： society
-
Woman, 22, killed in Couva crash
A fatal two-vehicle collision occurred in the early hours of October 12 in Mc Bean Village, Couva, resulting in the death of a 22-year-old woman. Adana Alexander, a resident of Calcutta Road in Mc Bean Village, was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident took place around 4:40 a.m. on the Southern Main Road near Deonarine Junction. Alexander was a backseat passenger in a silver Toyota Fielder, driven by a 21-year-old woman from Calcutta Road #2, Freeport, who was heading north. Reports indicate that the driver attempted to turn right into Calcutta Road #3 when a silver Nissan Cefiro, traveling south, collided with the Toyota. The Nissan was driven by a 44-year-old man from Santa Flora. The crash caused extensive damage to both vehicles and injuries to all occupants. Officers from the Couva police station, including PC Acres and McMillan, along with FSSO Ali and other personnel from the Couva Fire Station, responded to the scene. Dr. Sant, the District Medical Officer, ordered the removal of Alexander’s body to the San Fernando General Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination. Cpl Boodlal is leading the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident.
-
Gov’t committed to strengthening services for the homeless
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has reiterated the Government’s dedication to enhancing rehabilitation and mental health programs within the poor relief system to improve the care and well-being of homeless individuals. His remarks were made during the Wellness in the Park event held at St William Grant Park in downtown Kingston on Friday, commemorating World Homeless Day. The event, organized by the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, offered homeless persons hot meals, grooming services, medical check-ups, care packages, and other essential services. Minister McKenzie praised municipal corporations and stakeholders across Jamaica for hosting similar events in honor of World Homeless Day. He emphasized the Government’s ongoing efforts to bolster support for the homeless, including a recent islandwide survey conducted by the Poor Relief Department. The findings from this survey are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping policies tailored to the needs of the homeless population. ‘This survey will enable us to plan effectively to address the demands of Jamaica’s homeless community,’ McKenzie stated. Additionally, he urged young attendees to embrace positive values and avoid negative influences that could lead to homelessness and social instability. ‘Students, I urge you to avoid bad company and adopt values that will make you better individuals. You are the future of Jamaica, and your contributions are crucial in eradicating the challenges we face,’ he added.
-
First Peoples chief condemns TikTok video linking rituals to uproar in Parliament
A recent TikTok video has ignited controversy by linking Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles’ participation in an indigenous ritual to a heated parliamentary clash. The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, alleges that the invocation of spirits during the ceremony on October 10 outside the Red House in Port of Spain was responsible for the subsequent political tensions. This claim has been vehemently denied by Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez, chief of the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community, who labeled the video as disrespectful and offensive. Bharath-Hernandez emphasized that the ceremony, part of the community’s annual tradition to honor their ancestors, had no political agenda and should not be misrepresented. He pointed out that similar ceremonies have been attended by MPs and officials over the years without incident. The controversy arises as the community celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Day of Recognition of the First Peoples of Trinidad and Tobago, with week-long festivities culminating in a gathering at the Hyarima Statue in Arima on October 14. Bharath-Hernandez questioned why the indigenous community, which is still fighting for restitution, is being targeted in such a manner, highlighting the marginalization they face. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities in preserving their cultural heritage amidst modern political dynamics.
-
Hundreds of young people benefit from BRIDGE project
KINGSTON, Jamaica — On October 9, The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston hosted a graduation and close-out ceremony for the European Union (EU)-sponsored BRIDGE Project, attended by nearly 60 young participants. These graduates were among the over 300 youths who engaged in empowerment and development activities organized by the MultiCare Youth Foundation (MYF). Each received certificates and branded tokens in recognition of their accomplishments. The BRIDGE Project, an acronym for Building through Reintegration, Intervention, Development, Growth, and Education, aimed to reduce youth crime and violence by addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by at-risk youth. MYF Chairman Joseph Matalon praised the participants for their resilience and transformation, emphasizing the project’s success in creating a foundation for positive change. He highlighted the EU’s support as part of a broader partnership with Jamaica, focusing on empowering vulnerable citizens. Matalon underscored the collaborative efforts of various organizations, including Crime Stop Jamaica, the Joan Duncan Foundation, and the Department of Correctional Services, in achieving national transformation. The 34-month initiative provided layered interventions, including literacy instruction, life skills training, mentorship, and cognitive behavioral therapy, benefiting over 300 youths across five communities. Notably, 85 participants secured internships, and 50 were assisted in applying for vocational programs. The project also engaged youth through arts and videography training, fostering advocacy and positive storytelling. Additionally, over 280 school administrators and teachers participated in leadership training, while 50 community members were trained in dispute resolution techniques. MYF Administrative Manager Ann Astwood expressed gratitude to donors and sponsors, crediting their support for the project’s success. She encouraged the graduates, noting their perseverance as a testament to the program’s impact. The BRIDGE Project exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity and belief, paving the way for a brighter future for Jamaica’s youth.
-
Pedestrian killed in accident while heading to church
A tragic accident on October 12 claimed the life of Alan Ramirez, a 77-year-old man known for his deep faith and community service. Ramirez was waiting for a taxi along the Toco Main Road to attend mass at St Vincent Ferrer RC Church in Matura when he was struck by a van driven by a policeman. The incident has left the community in mourning, as Ramirez was a cherished figure whose kindness and dedication touched many lives. In a heartfelt social media post, St Francis of Assisi RC Church described Ramirez as a “radiant soul” whose love for God and people was evident in all his actions. He was a dedicated parishioner and a faithful servant, always greeting others with a warm smile and offering unwavering care. Beyond his spiritual devotion, Ramirez was also celebrated for his kung-fu skills, which he taught to students at St Francis of Assisi RC Church in Sangre Grande during the mid-1990s. His teachings instilled discipline, confidence, and respect in his students. The church expressed profound sorrow over his sudden passing, stating, “His spirit of kindness, faith, and service will continue to inspire us all.” Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
-
Labour Ministry invites jobseekers to attend job fair in Portland
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) in Jamaica has announced the St Catherine Job Fair, set to take place on Wednesday, October 29, at Celebration Church in Portmore. The event, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, is designed to connect jobseekers in Portmore and surrounding areas with a variety of employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including hospitality, security, finance, and customer service. Positions such as customer service representatives, baristas, chefs, security guards, accounting clerks, and restaurant managers will be available. Prominent companies like Fontana Pharmacy, Hawkeye, Centerfield Star Bucks Convenient Brands Limited (which includes Dominos and Circle K), SWAT Elite, Guardsman, Optimum, Wendy’s, KFC, Restaurants Associates Limited (including Burger King, Popeyes, and Little Caesars), and Honey Bun will be participating. Lyndon Ford, Director of the Electronic Labour Exchange (ELE), advises jobseekers to research companies of interest beforehand, dress professionally, and bring a positive attitude to enhance their chances of securing employment. Participants are encouraged to register online at lmis.gov.jm, upload their résumés, and bring essential documents such as proof of qualifications, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card, Tax Registration Number (TRN) card, and passport-sized photographs. Walk-ins are also welcome. For further details, individuals can contact the Ministry at customerservice@mlss.gov.jm or visit mlss.gov.jm/events. This initiative underscores the MLSS’s commitment to fostering social protection and economic stability for Jamaicans by linking them with meaningful employment opportunities.
-
Problem of politicising crime
In 2010, Debbie Jacob faced a pivotal moment in her career as an educator at the Youth Training Centre (YTC). Overwhelmed by the fear of failing her students—teenagers incarcerated for violent crimes—she sought advice from Sgt. Roger Alexander, now the Minister of Homeland Security. His encouragement to continue teaching proved invaluable. Jacob’s experiences, documented in her book *Wishing for Wings*, highlight the transformative power of education and the importance of societal acceptance for troubled youth. She emphasizes that many of her students lacked positive male role models and felt abandoned by society, factors that often led them into crime. Jacob’s work at YTC and later at Port of Spain (PoS) Prison revealed a recurring pattern: minors involved in crimes were frequently influenced by older, more experienced criminals. Despite this, Jacob argues that treating young offenders as adults is not the solution. She criticizes Minister Alexander’s stance on trying minors as adults, pointing out that such measures fail to address the root causes of crime. Jacob calls for a focus on social reform and education, rather than punitive measures, to break the cycle of crime. She believes that many young offenders are redeemable and that society must take responsibility for its failures in providing adequate support and guidance to at-risk youth.
-
Change of command marks new chapter for Barbados Cadet Corps
The Barbados Cadet Corps marked a significant milestone in its history with a Change of Command and Sunset Ceremony held at the Barbados Defence Force Headquarters, St Ann’s Fort, The Garrison, St Michael, on Saturday. The event celebrated the formal transition of leadership from Lieutenant Colonel David Dowridge to Lieutenant Colonel Carl Farley, who was inaugurated as the ninth Commandant of the Corps. Cadets took center stage, managing key roles, including musical direction, a move praised by outgoing Commandant Dowridge. In his farewell address, Lieutenant Colonel Dowridge, a veteran of 52 years in military service, reflected on his tenure and emphasized the importance of the Cadet Corps as a premier youth development program in Barbados and the Caribbean. He urged stakeholders to ensure the program’s integration into school curricula. Lieutenant Colonel Farley, with 40 years of service and 11 years as Deputy Commandant, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead. He pledged to uphold the Corps’ legacy, emphasizing integrity, transparency, and collaboration. Farley outlined plans to expand membership, particularly among sea cadets, and called for qualified individuals to join as adult leaders to support youth development.
-
Woman Robbed at Gunpoint; Vehicle, Cash and Cards Stolen
In a distressing incident that unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, a resident was robbed at gunpoint on Pope Head Street, near Pita Pocket. The assailant made off with a white 2011 Honda Fit RS, bearing license plate A71654, along with the victim’s personal belongings, including identification cards, bank cards, and cash. The victim, who remains unnamed, has since appealed to the public for assistance in recovering the stolen vehicle and identifying the perpetrator. Several bystanders were present during the robbery, including two women and a male who had parked across the street. Shockingly, the male was reportedly seen making remarks and laughing with friends, raising concerns about the community’s response to such incidents. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. This alarming event has sparked discussions about public safety and the need for community vigilance in the area.