Claston Bernard, a renowned Jamaican-American decathlete and Commonwealth champion, is spearheading a significant relief initiative in his hometown of Burnt Savannah, St Elizabeth, Jamaica. The community is recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa. Bernard, an alumnus of Louisiana State University and a former candidate for the office of consul general, has returned to his roots to lead the rebuilding efforts. Over the weekend, he joined forces with a group of US Navy veterans who have been actively involved in restoring the area. Their collaborative work, which includes providing essential support and reconstruction, is expected to continue through the end of November. Bernard’s dedication to his native community highlights the importance of local leadership in disaster recovery.
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PAHO calls for action as Americas loses measles elimination status
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued a call to action for countries across the Americas, including the Caribbean, to enhance surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, outbreak response, and vaccination campaigns. This urgent appeal follows the loss of the region’s measles-free status, a significant setback in public health. The decision was made by the PAHO Measles, Rubella, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome Elimination Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commission during a recent meeting in Mexico City. The Commission confirmed that endemic measles transmission has been reestablished in Canada, where the virus has circulated for at least 12 months. This marks the first time the Americas, which previously achieved measles elimination twice, have lost this status. As of November 7, 2024, 12,596 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 10 countries, with 95% of cases concentrated in Canada, Mexico, and the United States—a 30-fold increase compared to earlier this year. Tragically, 28 deaths have been recorded, primarily in Mexico. Active outbreaks are ongoing in Canada, Mexico, the United States, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Belize, largely driven by imported cases. PAHO emphasized that transmission primarily affects under-vaccinated communities, with 89% of cases occurring in unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. Children under one year old are the most vulnerable group. Measles, a highly contagious disease, can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and death. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure, having saved millions of lives over the past decades. However, regional vaccination coverage for the second dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR2) has plummeted to just 7%, far below the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks. PAHO is providing technical support to affected countries, deploying experts, and monitoring risks in Belize, Brazil, and Paraguay. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa urged countries to redouble efforts, emphasizing that cooperation, solidarity, and science can overcome this challenge. The Americas have previously regained measles elimination status after setbacks, and PAHO remains confident that the region can achieve this once more through sustained vaccination, surveillance, and outbreak response.
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Raheem Sterling’s house burgled again
Raheem Sterling, the Chelsea winger, and his family experienced a harrowing ordeal last weekend when burglars broke into their Berkshire residence. The incident occurred on Saturday while Sterling, his partner Paige Milian, and their children were at home. The intruders were reportedly confronted by Sterling, causing them to flee without stealing any items.
Sterling’s representative confirmed the incident on Wednesday, stating, “We can confirm that Raheem Sterling was the victim of a home break-in this weekend. He and his children were present at the time. While this was a severe violation of privacy and safety, we are grateful that he and his loved ones are unharmed.” The representative also urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
This is not the first time Sterling’s home has been targeted. In December 2022, burglars broke into his Surrey property while he was competing in the World Cup in Qatar, forcing him to return home early. During that incident, valuables worth £300,000 ($393,000) were stolen. Additionally, in 2018, thieves attempted to break into his Cheshire home but fled when the alarm system was activated.
Sterling’s recent challenges extend beyond personal security. He has yet to feature for Chelsea this season after being sidelined by manager Enzo Maresca. Following a disappointing loan spell with Arsenal last season, Sterling has been training separately from Chelsea’s first-team squad after failing to secure a transfer away from Stamford Bridge.
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Prisons officer held with contraband as he reported for duty
A prisons officer stationed at the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) in Golden Grove, Arouca, has been apprehended for allegedly smuggling contraband, including marijuana, into the facility. The officer, who has served for four years, was searched by police from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) upon reporting for duty on November 12 at approximately 8 am. During the search, authorities discovered several packets of plant-like material, cash, and cigarettes on his person. A subsequent search of his vehicle yielded similar items. The officer was arrested and taken to the Besson Street Police Station, where he is expected to face charges. A search of his residence is also planned as part of the ongoing investigation. Acting Prisons Commissioner Hayden Forde was informed of the arrest and emphasized that combating trafficking remains a top priority for the prisons administration. Forde issued a stern warning to his officers, stating that any involvement in trafficking would result in severe consequences, including being transferred to the division where contraband was delivered and facing judgment. He also praised the Prison Service Hotline for providing valuable information and commended the majority of honest and hardworking prison officers who uphold the integrity of the service.
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CAL is TT Chamber’s 2025 TT Owned Company of the Year
Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL), the state-owned carrier of Trinidad and Tobago, has been honored with the 2025 Internationally Known T&T Owned Company of the Year Award. This prestigious accolade, sponsored by the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, was announced during the TT Chamber’s Champions of Business: True Stories series, available on the chamber’s YouTube page. CAL emerged victorious among a competitive field of nominees, recognized for its significant contributions to the nation and its impressive international business expansion. The award criteria emphasize corporate excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness, celebrating companies that have established a strong regional or international presence with plans for sustained growth. Past recipients of this award include notable names such as Chief Brand Products, Carib Brewery Ltd, KC Confectionery Ltd, and Associated Brands Industries Ltd. CAL’s dedication to exceptional service, its expansion across regional and international routes, and its role in promoting Trinidad and Tobago’s brand globally were key factors in its selection. Kiran Maharaj, producer of Champions of Business and the chamber’s immediate past president, praised CAL, stating, ‘Caribbean Airlines has become more than a carrier; it is the wings of our region, connecting families, cultures, and nations across 27 destinations in the Caribbean, North and South America.’ The airline’s achievements will be formally celebrated at the Champions of Business Awards gala on November 13 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad in Port of Spain. Now in its 20th year, the awards continue to highlight the innovation, leadership, and legacy-building efforts that shape Trinidad and Tobago’s business landscape.
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All three rounds of women’s 100m to be held on first day of 2028 Olympics
In a groundbreaking announcement, World Athletics revealed that the women’s 100m will headline the first day of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, with all three rounds, including the final, taking place on July 15, 2028. This marks the first time in Olympic history that athletics will span the entire duration of the Games, from the opening day to the closing ceremony. The schedule, crafted in collaboration with LA28, Olympic Broadcasting Services, the IOC, and NBC, aims to maximize global interest and sustain momentum throughout the event. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe emphasized the innovative yet traditional approach, highlighting the men’s marathon on the final day and the potential for athletes to achieve historic doubles. American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson expressed excitement, stating that the women’s sprints will shine and inspire future generations. The athletics program will feature 13 days of competition, with 17 of 20 sessions including finals. A new repechage format will enhance athlete recovery, and the mixed 4x100m relay will debut. The LA 2028 Olympics, set for July 14-30, will host over 10,000 athletes from 200 nations across 35 sports, marking Los Angeles’ third time as host.
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Missing Manchester mother and three children found at Westmoreland shelter
In a heartening turn of events, a Manchester woman and her three young children, who had been unaccounted for since October 25, were discovered safe and sound in a shelter in Darliston, Westmoreland, on Wednesday morning. The woman, identified as Dana McKenzie, along with her children aged one, three, and seven, were located by law enforcement officials at the Maud McLeod High School. The police, who had been actively searching for the family, confirmed their well-being and ensured they were provided with the necessary care. This incident has brought relief to the local community, which had been deeply concerned about the family’s safety. Authorities have not yet disclosed the circumstances that led to their disappearance or how they ended up in the shelter. The discovery underscores the importance of community vigilance and the effectiveness of coordinated search efforts in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
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Two drivers hospitalised after crash on Rose Hall main road
A severe motor vehicle accident occurred on the Rose Hall main road in St James, Jamaica, on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, resulting in two individuals being rushed to the hospital. The collision involved a Nissan AD Wagon and a Mercedes Benz, both of which sustained substantial damage. According to reports, the incident took place shortly after 8:00 am. The Nissan, driven by a man heading towards Falmouth, reportedly crossed the median and collided with the Mercedes, which was traveling in the opposite direction towards Montego Bay. The impact caused the Mercedes to veer off the road, crash into a tree, and come to a halt in a ditch. The man suffered serious head injuries, leaving a pool of blood at the scene, while the condition of the woman driving the Mercedes remains unclear. The collision dislodged the Nissan’s engine, highlighting the severity of the crash. Emergency response teams, including the Jamaica Fire Brigade and the St James police, were promptly dispatched to manage the aftermath.
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Ukraine energy minister resigning over corruption scandal
In a significant development within Ukraine’s political landscape, Energy Minister Svitlana Grynchuk announced her resignation on Wednesday. This decision came shortly after President Volodymyr Zelensky demanded her removal in response to a widespread corruption scandal involving the country’s energy sector. Grynchuk made the announcement via a social media post, stating, ‘I have submitted my resignation,’ while firmly asserting that she had not breached any legal statutes. The scandal, which has sent shockwaves through the government, revolves around allegations of $100 million in illicit kickbacks. Notably, Grynchuk has not been formally charged in the case, nor has she been implicated by investigators or prosecutors as a beneficiary of the alleged scheme. Her resignation underscores the growing pressure on Ukrainian officials to address corruption and restore public trust in the government.
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InterEnergy to rebuild solar park
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of the devastating Category Five Hurricane Melissa, InterEnergy Group has pledged to reconstruct the 52-megawatt (MW) Eight Rivers Solar Park in Westmoreland, which suffered extensive damage. The company has unveiled a detailed reconstruction strategy aimed at restoring the solar park’s energy generation capabilities, enhancing its resilience against future extreme weather events, and supporting Jamaica’s broader energy recovery efforts.
Rolando González Bunster, Chairman and CEO of InterEnergy Group, emphasized the company’s dedication to the people and communities it serves. ‘In Jamaica, we have seen remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. We are determined to support the nation’s recovery through tangible actions,’ he stated. ‘The reconstruction of the Eight Rivers Solar Park will prioritize strength, safety, and sustainability, reaffirming our commitment to Jamaica’s and the Caribbean’s energy future.’
Despite the hurricane’s destructive impact, InterEnergy’s thermal power plants—Doctor Bird I and II, West Kingston Power Partners (WKPP), and Jamaica Private Power Company (JPPC)—remain operational, supplying 250 MW of uninterrupted power to the national grid. Additionally, the company is assessing its wind farm in St Elizabeth, with plans to resume operations once safety conditions are met.
As part of its humanitarian response, InterEnergy has coordinated the arrival of the International Medical Relief (IMR) team to Jamaica. IMR, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care and support to vulnerable populations globally, will offer critical assistance. The company has also cleared vital access roads in Westmoreland to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies, initiated a nationwide donation campaign, and prepared 4,000 care packages for distribution to the most affected communities in western Jamaica.
Dr. Wayne McKenzie, Country Manager of InterEnergy Jamaica, highlighted the broader mission of the recovery efforts. ‘Hurricane Melissa has left profound devastation, particularly in western Jamaica. Recovery is not just about restoring power but also restoring hope. Our teams are working tirelessly to clear access routes, organize relief logistics, and provide essential care packages to families in need. We remain steadfast in our commitment to helping Jamaica rebuild stronger,’ he said.