KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, expected to make landfall between Monday evening and Tuesday, one Port Royal resident has firmly decided to remain in his seaside community rather than seek refuge in a shelter. Roy Brown, in an interview with Observer Online on Monday, expressed his reluctance to evacuate, citing past traumatic experiences during Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Brown recounted how residents who sought shelter at the National Arena faced severe hardships, including theft, harassment, and the absence of transportation back home after the storm passed. He emphasized that he would rather face the hurricane’s wrath than endure similar conditions again. Brown’s defiance reflects a broader sentiment among some residents who feel safer staying put, despite the potential dangers of the approaching storm. His statement, ‘I don’t believe I can run from death,’ underscores his resolve to weather the storm at home, regardless of its intensity.
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Catholic Bishops call for peace amid rising military tensions in Caribbean
The Catholic Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have issued a fervent plea for peace and dialogue in response to escalating military activities in the Southern Caribbean. In a statement released on October 25 following their annual conference, the bishops expressed deep concern over the increasing presence of naval and military assets in the region, warning that such developments could destabilize the socio-economic and political fabric of Caribbean nations. The bishops emphasized that the well-being of the region’s people is at stake, urging leaders to prioritize dialogue over conflict. Their appeal coincides with the arrival of the USS Gravely, a US warship, in Port of Spain on October 26. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended the vessel’s presence, citing potential benefits such as technical assistance and humanitarian efforts. However, the bishops cautioned that the militarization of the Caribbean could have broader geopolitical implications, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions between the US and Venezuela. Archbishop Jason Gordon, president of the AEC, stressed the need for cooperation and reconciliation to foster lasting peace. The bishops also condemned the arbitrary use of force, particularly in anti-drug operations, and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to protecting human dignity and sovereignty. They called on regional leaders to de-escalate tensions and recommit to unity, emphasizing that war or the threat of war is never a viable solution. The statement concluded with an appeal to the faithful to seek hope through prayer and acts of reconciliation, underscoring the Church’s unwavering mission to safeguard the vulnerable and promote the common good.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Fisherfolk fear major losses as rough seas batter Savanna-la-Mar coastline
As Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, approaches Jamaica’s eastern Westmoreland coast, residents of Savanna-la-Mar are grappling with the dual challenges of impending devastation and the lingering scars of Hurricane Beryl in 2024. Fishermen, in particular, are anxious about the potential loss of their fish pots, which cost approximately $60,000 each to replace—a significant financial burden for those still recovering from previous losses. Oshane Rowe, a fisherman from Wharf Road, voiced his frustration, lamenting the lack of support from local authorities and the slow pace of recovery. ‘We just started rebuilding, and now another storm is coming,’ he said. Along Wharf Road and Smithfield, boats and fish pots have been pulled ashore as residents scramble to secure their livelihoods. While some are preparing to evacuate, others, like Garnet Williams, are determined to stay and protect their homes and livestock. ‘I’m not leaving my son or my animals,’ Williams declared, though he acknowledged the risks posed by his home’s proximity to the sea and the threat of flooding from clogged drains. In Savanna-la-Mar, vendors have already closed their shops, and waves have grown noticeably higher, signaling the storm’s approach. At the Godfrey Stewart High School shelter, 33 residents, including infants and elderly individuals, have sought refuge. However, concerns about food shortages and medical needs are mounting. Sharon Atkinson, a diabetic amputee, expressed her distress over the lack of suitable food, while Theresa Grant, another diabetic resident, highlighted the instability of her home and her urgent need for medical attention. As light rain begins to fall, the resilience of Westmoreland’s coastal communities is once again being tested, with many still struggling to rebuild from the last disaster. Across the town, 17 shelters are now open, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the looming crisis.
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Pioneer of British Lovers Rock Reggae, Vivian Jones, passes at 68
Vivian Jones, a trailblazer in the British lovers rock reggae scene, passed away on October 27 at the age of 68. His death was announced via social media and the German reggae platform, reggaeville.com. Born in Trelawny, Jamaica, Jones moved to the United Kingdom in 1968, where he became a prominent figure in the 1970s sound system culture. His career soared in 1979 with the release of his hit single *Good Morning*, which was followed by other notable tracks like *Sugar Love* and *Strong Love* in the 1980s. In a 2014 interview with the *Jamaica Observer*, Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the revival of lovers rock, citing documentaries and the success of artist Bitty McLean as key factors. ‘People want the real reggae, and lovers rock is real reggae,’ he remarked. Raised in Willesden, a London neighborhood with a significant Caribbean community, Jones began his career as a deejay and later performed with bands such as The Spartans, The Mighty Vibes, The Pieces, and Ruff Cutt. His UK hits during the late 1970s included *Black Gold and Green* and *Who’s Going to Get Caught (In Babylon Trap)*. Alongside artists like Maxi Priest, Peter Hunnigale, Janet Kay, and Carroll Thompson, Jones played a pivotal role in popularizing lovers rock. His collaborations extended to Jamaica, where he worked with legendary producers Bobby Digital and Sly and Robbie during a visit 11 years ago.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Hurricane Melissa disrupts ABMs and shuts banks in Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The intensifying impact of Hurricane Melissa has led to significant disruptions in Jamaica’s banking sector, with numerous automated banking machines (ABMs) temporarily decommissioned and all bank branches closed on Monday. The Jamaica Bankers Association (JBA), representing the nation’s financial institutions, announced that ABMs in certain areas were taken offline due to safety concerns. Additionally, all physical branches of member banks and building societies will remain shut until conditions are deemed safe. With limited access to cash and in-person services, the public is encouraged to utilize online and mobile banking platforms. The JBA also cautioned that customer call centers may experience disruptions, resulting in delayed response times. The association assured that its members are closely monitoring the situation and will restore full services as soon as it is safe to do so. Residents are urged to adhere to official advisories from Jamaica’s disaster and meteorological offices.
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#EyeOnMelissa: 972 people registered in shelters across Jamaica — McKenzie
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has revealed that only 76 out of Jamaica’s 881 national hurricane shelters are currently active, with 972 individuals registered across these facilities. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, McKenzie highlighted regional disparities in shelter usage, noting that four parishes have no occupants, while Clarendon leads with 311 individuals, followed by St Thomas (227) and Kingston and St Andrew (179).
The minister expressed particular concern for parishes such as St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and St James, where shelter numbers remain alarmingly low. “St Elizabeth has 27, St James has 24, and Westmoreland has 32. These numbers are very low, and I expect them to increase by this afternoon as the storm approaches,” McKenzie stated. Projections suggest that approximately 50,000 individuals may need relocation to safe grounds or shelters.
McKenzie also addressed misinformation circulating about shelters, vehemently denying claims that fees are being charged for their use. “This is nonsense. These are attempts by malicious individuals to create confusion during a critical time. The only requirement for shelter access is to go to the designated centers. Families stay together, and basic necessities like medication, water, and crackers are advised for the initial hours,” he clarified.
The minister acknowledged ongoing challenges in persuading homeless individuals to seek shelter, stating, “I will personally engage with the homeless population to encourage them to move to safety.” He also reminded the public of a mandatory order in effect, warning that non-compliance could result in fines or arrests. “The director of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has the authority to enforce this order. We hope it doesn’t come to that,” McKenzie concluded.
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Brilliant law student dies on eve of UWI grad
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Alexia Trim, a 23-year-old Belmont native and exceptional law student, passed away on October 22 in Colombia, where she had been undergoing medical treatment. Just one day before she was set to graduate with first-class honours in Law from the University of the West Indies (UWI) St. Augustine campus, her life was tragically cut short. Trim had been battling Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM), a rare condition involving abnormal blood vessels that can lead to brain bleeding. Despite her health struggles, she remained a beacon of brilliance, humility, and determination throughout her academic journey. Her untimely death sent shockwaves through the Faculty of Law and her peers, who learned of her passing via a WhatsApp group chat on the eve of their graduation ceremony. During the ceremony, valedictorian Jehoshua Williams paid a poignant tribute, stating, “We remember our classmate, Alexia Trim, who should have crossed the stage with us today. Her absence is deeply felt, yet her spirit remains part of our journey.” Trim had been airlifted to Colombia for a surgical procedure related to her condition, but complications arose post-surgery, leading to her passing in intensive care. Tributes have poured in from friends, classmates, and lecturers, who admired her courage and academic excellence. Dr. Alicia Elias-Roberts, Dean of the Faculty of Law, described Trim as an exceptional student who faced every challenge with grace and determination. Dr. Safiya Ali, one of her lecturers, highlighted Trim’s remarkable achievements, including leading UWI’s team to second place in the XV Annual Caribbean Court of Justice International Law Moot Competition, where she was also named Best Oralist. Despite her physical discomfort, Trim continued to excel academically and inspire those around her. Her legacy has sparked calls for the university to memorialize her contributions, a proposal the faculty may consider after consulting her family. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.
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Kamla: We don’t need Venezuelan gas
In the wake of Venezuela’s announcement to suspend all gas agreements with Trinidad and Tobago (TT), Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has firmly stated that TT does not rely on Venezuelan gas and never has. Speaking to Newsday via WhatsApp, she emphasized that TT’s economic growth strategy is diversified across both energy and non-energy sectors, ensuring resilience against external pressures. Persad-Bissessar criticized the previous administration for over-reliance on the Dragon gas project, asserting that her government has avoided such vulnerabilities. She maintained that TT remains committed to peaceful relations with Venezuela, dismissing claims of tensions between the two nations. This statement follows Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez’s televised declaration to sever energy ties, citing TT’s alleged complicity with U.S. military actions in the Caribbean. Earlier, Persad-Bissessar led a TT delegation to Washington, securing an OFAC license for the Dragon gas deal, and expressed readiness to lead negotiations in Venezuela if necessary. Attorney General John Jeremie confirmed the license was officially granted on October 8.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Power outages in parts of central Manchester, property damage in Grey Ground
As Hurricane Melissa’s outer bands sweep across southern Jamaica, significant disruptions have been reported in Central Manchester, particularly near Mandeville. Rhoda Moy Crawford, Member of Parliament for Manchester Central, highlighted the collapse of a cistern in the Grey Ground area, which necessitated the removal of a parked vehicle using a wrecker on Monday morning. The storm has left numerous communities without electricity, including the Knockpatrick Division, where areas such as Trowers, Newfield, Sunset, New Whales, Lucky Street, and Waltham are affected. Similarly, the Bellefield Division has seen power outages in Dayton, Providence, Content, Banana Ground, Nairpreston, Blue Mountain, Top Coffee Grove, and Bottom Coffee Grove. In the Mandeville Division, Greenvale Road, Confidence Avenue, Bloomfield, and Brumalia Road are also experiencing electricity disruptions. The Royal Flat Division, including Three Chains, has been similarly impacted. Authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and restore services as quickly as possible.
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Accident leaves children seeking medical attention
In a distressing incident on Monday, two children were rushed to a medical facility following a motor vehicle collision on Orange Street in Montego Bay, St James. The accident occurred shortly after midday when a Toyota Voxy and a Toyota Corolla collided while traveling along the roadway. The exact conditions of the children remain undisclosed at this time. Authorities were promptly notified, and law enforcement officers arrived at the scene to conduct necessary investigations. The vehicles involved were subsequently removed from the area to restore normal traffic flow. Further details regarding the cause of the accident and the extent of injuries sustained by the children are awaited as the investigation progresses.