As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, most citizens are seeking safety in their homes. However, essential workers, including firefighters and medical professionals, are preparing to leave their families and face the storm head-on to protect lives and maintain order. For these individuals, the call of duty often means personal sacrifice and emotional strain.
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Switching off
In a significant shift for the music and entertainment industry, Paramount, the parent company of Music Television (MTV), has announced the discontinuation of its five music channels in the United Kingdom. MTV Music, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, Club MTV, and MTV Live will cease broadcasting after December 31. This decision marks the end of an era for these iconic channels, which have been pivotal in shaping music culture since MTV’s inception in 1981. Following their shutdown in the UK and Ireland, the channels will also go off the air in France, Germany, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Australia, and Brazil. MTV revolutionized the music industry by introducing music videos as a mainstream medium, with The Buggles’ ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ being the first video aired. Over the decades, MTV became a cultural phenomenon, launching the careers of artists like Madonna, ZZ Top, and Dire Straits. Its British and European channels played a crucial role in promoting Jamaican music, with acts such as Black Uhuru, Sean Paul, and Shaggy benefiting from their exposure. Christopher Schlarb, former director of promotions at VP Records, described MTV as the ultimate destination for success, particularly for dancehall and reggae acts in the early 2000s. Music video director Jay Will emphasized MTV’s role in amplifying radio hits, while industry veteran Cristy Barber expressed her heartbreak over the closure, recalling MTV’s unwavering support for reggae and dancehall. The discontinuation of these channels reflects changing consumer habits, as younger generations increasingly turn to digital platforms for music content. However, the legacy of MTV’s influence on music and culture remains undeniable.
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‘GO EASY, MELISSA’
As Jamaica prepares for the imminent arrival of Tropical Storm Melissa, which is expected to escalate into a Category 5 hurricane, the nation’s key sporting venues are intensifying their efforts to mitigate potential damage. Meteorologists have issued warnings of life-threatening flash floods and landslides due to the storm’s heavy rainfall and destructive winds, with its effects anticipated to be felt by Tuesday. The storm has already disrupted the sporting calendar, leading to the postponement of major events, including the Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League, ISSA schoolboy football competitions, and Mount Pleasant’s Concacaf Caribbean Cup semi-final against Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force FC. Only horse racing at Caymanas Park remains unaffected. Independence Park General Manager Major Desmon Brown expressed confidence in the National Stadium’s resilience but highlighted concerns about the National Aquatics Centre, where flooding from nearby roads poses a significant threat. Sandbags have been deployed as a temporary measure, but long-term solutions depend on road infrastructure improvements. Meanwhile, the National Arena and Trelawny Stadium have been designated as public shelters, with preparations overseen by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Sabina Park, a premier cricket venue, faces potential flooding, though Jamaica Cricket Association President Dr. Donovan Bennett remains cautiously optimistic, citing recent repairs to the scoreboard and functional drainage systems. In Montego Bay, the Sports Complex’s robust steel structure has instilled confidence in its ability to withstand the storm, with Montego Bay United President Yoni Epstein emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the club and the St. James Municipal Corporation. Across the island, venues like Caymanas Park have also undertaken extensive preparations to safeguard their facilities. As Jamaica braces for Melissa’s impact, the resilience and proactive measures of its sporting community stand as a testament to their determination to weather the storm.
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Santosha Jamaica
Nestled on the serene south coast of Jamaica in the parish of Westmoreland, near the quaint fishing town of Whitehouse, Santosha stands as a 12,000-square-foot sanctuary of modern contemporary architecture. This luxurious retreat offers a tranquil haven, enveloped by a calm natural environment, designed to provide a space for relaxation and a complete disconnection from the stresses of daily life. The villa’s décor, inspired by nature’s vibrant palette, creates a fresh, colourful, and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational gatherings, special events, and corporate retreats. Guests can indulge in tailored dining experiences, savouring fresh local cuisines prepared by a private chef, while a dedicated butler and housekeepers ensure a restful and harmonious stay. The property boasts a fully equipped gym, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and holistic health programmes, catering to both physical and mental well-being. The infinity edge pool, private beach, and access to the Caribbean Sea offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. With a gated entry and secure parking, Santosha promises a safe and luxurious escape, evoking summery feelings from dusk to dawn.
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PM Browne Calls Harold Lovell a ‘Spent Force,’ Urges All Saints West Voters to Reject Him
In a recent town hall meeting held in Seaview Farm, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda launched a scathing critique against opposition politician Harold Lovell, urging residents of All Saints West to reject the United Progressive Party’s (UPP) candidate in the upcoming general elections. Browne labeled Lovell as a “spent force” and “delusional,” questioning his capacity to effectively represent the constituency and highlighting his alleged decades of political shortcomings.
Browne referenced biblical scripture to underscore his point, stating, “A spent force. A man who is 70 years of age. The Bible says what? Three score and ten. So nothing tall futuristic about him. Now, a 70-year-old man can’t have no energy. But he’s going around telling people that he’s younger than Comrade Smith. I say better look at me.”
In contrast, Browne praised Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., a young leader who recently joined the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) after departing from the UPP. Browne lauded Smith’s “energy and ambition,” positioning him as the embodiment of the constituency’s future. “I want the people of All Saints West to understand that by supporting this young man, Comrade Smith, you are literally supporting the future,” Browne asserted. “Why would anyone want to go back to a candidate who is on rewind? We are moving forward—he’s on rewind.”
Browne further criticized Lovell’s tenure as the former Member of Parliament for St. John’s City East, alleging that his former constituents had repeatedly rejected him and that he failed to deliver essential community improvements. “The place where he came from, City East, where he spent practically all his life—they rejected him eight out of ten times,” Browne remarked. “He was finance minister and representative, and he didn’t see the Bishopgate Street Clinic in disrepair. It took Gaston Browne in 2014 to get the People’s Republic of China to build a new polyclinic in Villa.”
Concluding his address, Browne warned that electing Lovell would “reverse progress” in All Saints West, urging constituents to send a clear message: “It is for the people of this constituency to send Harold Lovell a firm message—go back from whence you came.”
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Minimum Wage Advisory Committee to Convene First Meeting on November 4
The Antigua and Barbuda Minimum Wage Advisory Committee (MWAC) is set to convene its inaugural meeting on November 4, 2025, marking a significant step in the review of the nation’s minimum wage. The virtual session will be led by Labour Commissioner Eltonia Anthony-David, with Deputy Commissioner Pascal Kentish co-chairing the proceedings. The Hon. Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, Attorney General and Minister of Labour, will deliver opening remarks to officially commence the meeting. The committee, comprising 18 members with equal representation from employers, employees, and the government, will receive its terms of reference. These mandate the group to assess working conditions and propose a revised minimum wage to the Minister of Labour, who will then consult with the Cabinet for final approval. Notably, each member is allowed to bring an alternate representative to the first meeting. The last minimum wage adjustment occurred in January 2023, when it was raised from EC$8.20 to EC$9.00 per hour. This upcoming review underscores the government’s commitment to addressing labor standards and economic equity.
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Trilla-G bets on himself with debut album ‘Take Me as I Am: The Album’
Dominican Bouyon artist Trilla-G has officially launched his debut album, *Take Me as I Am: The Album*, marking a pivotal moment in his musical journey. Released on October 22, 2025, the 13-track project showcases Trilla-G’s artistic versatility, depth, and innovative approach to the Bouyon genre. The album, which follows the success of his lead single “Take Me as I Am (Remix)4,” has already garnered over one million views on YouTube since its September 2024 debut. Trilla-G describes the album as a deliberate effort to reveal his multifaceted artistic identity while pushing the boundaries of Bouyon music. Recorded at Th3rdHouse Studios in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the album features collaborations with prominent regional artists, including Grenadian Cultural Ambassador V’ghn, Jamaican sensation Stalk Ashley, and Dominica’s Ridge. Production credits span across the Caribbean and beyond, with contributions from Dominica’s Mask Man, Canada’s Hxnter, and St. Maarten’s Xavvo. Trilla-G’s performances at major Caribbean festivals, such as Miami Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival, have solidified his reputation as a dynamic entertainer. With *Take Me as I Am*, Trilla-G aims to elevate his career and contribute to the global recognition of Bouyon music. The album is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and YouTube.
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Govt’s Road Repair Programme to receive support
The Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) in Barbados has taken a significant step to enhance its road repair and infrastructure development initiatives by investing in six JCB pothole patching trucks. Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw, who oversees the ministry, announced this during a reception celebrating the 80th anniversary of J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB). The event was hosted by British High Commissioner Simon Mustard in collaboration with Inchcape Barbados. Bradshaw expressed her enthusiasm for the new equipment, stating that the trucks, along with six JCB Flail Head Cutters for highway debushing, are expected to arrive by the end of the year. Training for MTW teams will commence shortly after, with operational deployment planned for early January, post-hurricane season. Bradshaw highlighted JCB’s global reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability, noting the company’s long-standing partnership with Barbados since 1981. She also praised JCB’s role in post-Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts, emphasizing the durability and performance of its machinery. Minister of Energy and Business, Senator Lisa Cummins, echoed these sentiments, commending JCB’s contributions to Barbados and expressing hope for local companies to achieve similar global success. Erik Montero, Regional Head of JCB Caribbean, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation and improving the lives of Barbadians. High Commissioner Mustard expressed confidence in JCB’s continued role in driving progress.
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Multiple SLASPA employees charged in $705K drug bust
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, three employees of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) have been arrested and charged following a major drug bust at Port Castries. The operation, conducted on October 17, 2025, was a joint effort by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) and the Customs and Excise Department, based on intelligence reports.
During the operation, authorities intercepted a grey van driven by Cyril Joseph, a Red Cap assigned to the port. A barrel in the vehicle, which had not been cleared for customs inspection, was found to contain cannabis, cannabis resin (hashish), and MDMA crystals (commonly known as ecstasy), with an estimated street value of $705,686.50.
Further investigations revealed a coordinated effort among several port employees to bypass customs procedures, leading to the arrest of two additional SLASPA workers, Ian Moncherry and Nadia Edward. A subsequent search of Moncherry’s residence uncovered an additional quantity of cannabis resin valued at $4,200.
All three individuals were charged on October 22, 2025, with offences including importation of a controlled drug, possession with intent to supply, aiding and abetting, and fraudulent evasion of customs duties and controls. They appeared before the First District Court on October 24 and were each granted bail in the sum of $45,000, either in cash or with a suitable surety.
The RSLPF emphasized that this operation highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard Saint Lucia’s borders and combat corruption within key institutions. A police statement declared, ‘This operation is a clear message that corruption and criminal collusion will not be tolerated,’ noting that illegal drugs and firearms entering through the island’s ports ‘directly fuel violent crime, gang activity, and homicides within our communities.’
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Antigua PM Joins Festivities at Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival
Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne made a notable appearance at Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival this weekend, a cornerstone of the island’s Independence celebrations. The festival, now in its 24th year, kicked off on Friday night, drawing thousands of locals and international visitors to revel in the vibrant Creole culture through music, dance, and culinary delights. Browne, known for his affable demeanor, was seen engaging with festivalgoers and regional dignitaries, including Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and Tourism Minister Denise Charles. He enthusiastically participated in the festivities, posing for photos and mingling with fans. This year’s event boasts an impressive lineup of international and regional artists, with dancehall sensation Vybz Kartel among the most eagerly awaited performers. Browne’s presence at the festival highlighted its role as a platform for fostering regional unity and cultural diplomacy, reinforcing the shared heritage and camaraderie among Caribbean nations.