Michael Capponi, Founder and President of the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), has announced a significant initiative to repair or replace up to 50,000 roofs in southwestern Jamaica, which was severely impacted by Hurricane Melissa on October 28. Capponi, leading a team that arrived in Jamaica last Thursday, has been actively engaged in relief efforts, including visiting a transitional center in Kingston to distribute care packages to the homeless. Over the weekend, the team, accompanied by representatives from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, traveled to the heavily affected areas of Black River in St. Elizabeth and Whitehouse in Westmoreland to provide immediate relief and assess the damage firsthand. At a media briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, Capponi highlighted GEM’s extensive experience in large-scale logistics and its commitment to long-term recovery. He emphasized the importance of the rebuilding phase, noting that GEM, in collaboration with the National Bank of Commerce and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), had previously repaired 724 roofs after Hurricane Beryl. This time, the scale of destruction is much larger, potentially affecting 50,000 roofs, requiring a significantly scaled-up response. Capponi assured that GEM is committed to staying in Jamaica for the long haul to ensure comprehensive recovery and rebuilding efforts.
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Oldest former Olympic champion Coste dies at 101
PARIS, France – The global sports community mourns the loss of Charles Coste, the world’s oldest former Olympic champion, who passed away at the age of 101. The announcement was made by French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari on Sunday. Coste, a celebrated track cyclist, clinched gold at the 1948 London Olympics and was honored as a torchbearer for the upcoming 2024 Paris Games. Ferrari expressed her grief, stating, ‘It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of Charles Coste, Olympic champion in London. At 101 years old, he leaves a monumental sporting legacy.’ Coste’s journey in cycling was interrupted by World War II, but he returned to the sport post-war, securing a French national title in 1947 and Olympic gold in 1948. His victory in the team pursuit event saw France triumph over Britain in the semi-final and Italy in the final. Born on February 8, 1924, Coste became the oldest living Olympic champion following the passing of Hungarian gymnast Agnes Keleti in January. His death marks the end of an era in Olympic history.
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Alexander warns public: Don’t rely on social media for information
Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has issued a stern warning to the public against relying on social media for updates or guidance, particularly in times of heightened regional tensions. Speaking at the opening of Daisy’s Exclusive’s newest branch in Tunapuna on November 2, Alexander emphasized the dangers of misinformation, which he said caused widespread panic and confusion last Friday. He urged citizens to trust official government channels for accurate information and to avoid being swayed by unverified claims circulating online. Alexander also highlighted the role of social media in spreading false rumors, such as the premature closure of schools, which led to chaotic scenes and gridlock traffic in the capital. He called on bloggers and social media users to act responsibly and avoid disseminating panic-inducing content. The Minister’s remarks come amid regional anxieties triggered by international reports suggesting potential U.S. military action in Venezuela. While U.S. President Donald Trump denied these claims, the situation has fueled speculation and unease in Trinidad and Tobago. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar echoed Alexander’s call for calm, assuring the public that there is no imminent threat and that the government is closely monitoring the situation. She emphasized the importance of relying on verified information and avoiding unnecessary panic. Alexander also praised the economic revitalization of Tunapuna, noting a significant reduction in crime and encouraging young men to abandon gang lifestyles. He reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and public safety, urging citizens to remain vigilant and critical of online content.
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Two dead at Santa Cruz
A tragic incident unfolded in Santa Cruz on the evening of November 1, resulting in the deaths of two men. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Curt Simon, the double murder occurred around 10 pm in the Sun Valley area. One victim, identified as 31-year-old Angelo Leandre, was found lifeless on the roadway with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim, Jeremiah Britto, was rushed to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex but was declared dead at 8.50 pm. Preliminary investigations suggest that Leandre was washing a car when several armed assailants approached and opened fire. Britto, who was standing nearby, was also struck. Leandre reportedly attempted to flee but was pursued and shot multiple times before collapsing. Crime scene investigators recovered 18 spent 9mm shell casings and two projectiles. Authorities are continuing their investigation into this violent incident.
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Civil society to call for end to US military build up in region
Amid escalating tensions in the Caribbean region, several organizations are set to gather at Woodford Square in Port of Spain on November 9 to demand an end to the US military buildup and advocate for regional peace. The announcement was made by David Abdulah, political leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ), in a statement on October 28. Abdulah highlighted the significant increase in US military assets in the region, including destroyers, a nuclear submarine, amphibious landing craft, and over 10,000 military personnel. He also noted the deployment of B52 bombers and F35 jet fighters to Puerto Rico, with the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier en route to join the forces. Abdulah expressed concerns about the potential for conflict, particularly between the US and Venezuela, and its impact on Trinidad and Tobago, including increased migration, disrupted trade, and a decline in tourism. The vigil, organized by groups such as the Concerned Muslims of TT and the Emancipation Support Committee, aims to call for an end to hostilities and maintain the Caribbean as a zone of peace. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has supported the US military deployment, framing it as an anti-narcotics effort, diverging from other Caribbean leaders who advocate for peace.
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Patriotic Front: Citizens want informed leaders
Mickela Panday, leader of the Patriotic Front (PF), has clarified her position regarding Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s handling of national security matters amidst escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela. In a Facebook post on November 1, Panday emphasized that she was not seeking the disclosure of classified national security information. Instead, her concerns centered on the Prime Minister’s awareness and leadership during a period of regional instability. Panday referenced a previous post on October 31, where she questioned whether Persad-Bissessar was informed about the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) being placed on high alert. The Prime Minister had stated she was unaware of such orders and urged the public to remain calm. Panday argued that the head of the National Security Council (NSC) should be fully briefed on such critical developments. She expressed concern over potential communication breakdowns within the government, stressing that citizens deserve confidence in their leaders’ ability to manage crises effectively. Panday concluded by asserting that her inquiries were made on behalf of the public, reflecting a reasonable expectation for transparency and leadership.
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Police investigating alleged theft at Valencia High School over July/August vacation
Authorities are currently investigating a case of larceny at Valencia High School, where several valuable pieces of school equipment were reported missing following the institution’s reopening after the July/August vacation. The incident was officially reported by the school’s principal on October 30 at the Valencia police post. According to the police report, the school, situated on Oropouche Road, was secured on July 7 as staff and students embarked on their summer break. During this period, contractors authorized by the Ministry of Education were provided with keys to carry out maintenance and repair work. Some of these contractors subsequently subcontracted parts of the job. Upon the school’s reopening on September 8, staff members discovered that several items were missing and the premises were left in disarray. The stolen items include an OHAUS Balance Scoot Scientific scale valued at $4,500, a 20-foot, 10-amp extension cord worth $300, a Proctor Silex kettle priced at $300, three fans (one white, one orange, and one black) totaling $1,350, and six small knives valued at $600. The total estimated loss amounts to $7,050. The report emphasized that no one had been granted permission to remove these items. Police investigations into the matter are still ongoing.
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Concerned Muslims delivers 500 hampers to Jamaica
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica, the Concerned Muslims of Trinidad and Tobago (CMTT) have mobilized to provide urgent relief to affected communities. The Category 5 storm, which struck on October 28, left widespread destruction, displacing thousands and creating dire humanitarian needs. CMTT, in collaboration with international partners, has launched the Jamaica Disaster and Emergency Relief Project to address the crisis. Group PRO Imtiaz Mohammed and a colleague arrived in Jamaica on Friday, coordinating efforts to distribute 500 hampers filled with essential supplies. The hampers include rice, flour, sugar, baked beans, oil, pasta, canned mackerel, macaroni, soap, detergent, toilet paper, crackers, and bottled water. These items, purchased at a cost of approximately US$22,000, were sourced from wholesalers in Kingston. The distribution process began on Sunday, with plans to continue through Monday and Tuesday. Mohammed emphasized the challenges of operating in severely affected areas, particularly in St Elizabeth and western Jamaica, where civil unrest, robberies, and looting have been reported. CMTT has sought assistance from the Jamaica Defence Force to ensure safe delivery of aid. The organization has also partnered with Islamic Relief Worldwide, including its UK, US, and Canada offices, to expand its relief efforts over the next two to four weeks. CMTT has urged donors to monitor its social media channels for updates on the most urgently needed items.
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Ferncourt High begins clean-up after Hurricane Melissa
Ferncourt High School in St Ann, Jamaica, is in the midst of cleanup and restoration efforts following the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. Principal Sheldon Thomas, recently honored as the LASCO/Ministry of Education/Jamaica Teaching Council Principal of the Year for 2024–2025, has been overseeing the recovery process to ensure the school can return to normal operations promptly.
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PNP launches first hurricane relief mission to Westmoreland
KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant move to aid communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa, the People’s National Party (PNP) initiated its first official hurricane relief mission in Westmoreland on Sunday. This effort is part of the Party’s broader islandwide recovery strategy aimed at addressing the widespread devastation caused by the storm. The mission, spearheaded by the PNP Youth Organisation (PNPYO), the Patriots, and the Women’s Movement, united Party representatives and independent volunteers in a collaborative drive to provide essential supplies and emotional support to the most affected families. PNP President and Opposition Leader Mark Golding expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support from both the private sector and individual Jamaicans. He highlighted that the initiative exemplifies the nation’s collective spirit and commitment to unity. “We are deeply moved by the compassion and generosity shown by Jamaicans everywhere,” Golding remarked. “This is what true nation-building looks like: people helping people, regardless of politics. The recovery ahead will be long, but we are committed to standing with our fellow Jamaicans every step of the way.” The PNP underscored that this mission marks the beginning of a series of coordinated relief efforts targeting other impacted parishes. The Party plans to collaborate closely with community leaders, government agencies, and private partners to ensure that aid reaches those most in need. “We are one Jamaica, and this moment calls for unity and action,” the Party’s statement concluded. “Together, we will rebuild stronger.”