Former Jamaican Olympian Sanjay Ayre, through his non-profit organization Premier Health Foundation, has spearheaded a significant relief initiative in western Jamaica following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Ayre, a celebrated athlete who represented Jamaica in the 400m and won accolades including World Indoor gold and Olympic silver, personally visited affected communities to deliver essential supplies. The relief efforts spanned multiple locations, including St Elizabeth Technical High School in Santa Cruz, shelters in Whitehouse, Westmoreland, and Petersfield Primary School and Lighthouse Church. Ayre’s foundation distributed food packages, multipurpose storm radios, Starlink devices, care packages, and other critical equipment. Reflecting on the disaster, Ayre expressed deep empathy for the victims, emphasizing his connection to Jamaica as both a native and a former national representative. He highlighted the resilience of the affected communities and the importance of collective action in rebuilding efforts. Ayre also acknowledged the invaluable support of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, particularly Sergeant Reid and his team, who ensured the safety of the relief mission. The initiative was further bolstered by contributions from dancehall veterans Goofy and Pinchers, as well as numerous donors. Ayre’s emotional visit to St Elizabeth Technical High School, where student-athletes had lost homes, underscored the profound impact of the hurricane. He stressed that beyond material aid, the reassurance of solidarity and remembrance was equally vital. Ayre’s efforts reflect his enduring commitment to Jamaica, a nation that shaped his journey from athlete to humanitarian.
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Ricketts shocked at damage to Montego Bay Sports Complex
The Montego Bay Sports Complex, a key venue for Jamaica Premier League matches, has suffered extensive damage due to Hurricane Melissa, leaving officials scrambling to address the aftermath. Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts expressed deep concern after inspecting the facility alongside FIFA representative Malaika Church. The playing surface was submerged under inches of mud following days of torrential rainfall, rendering it unusable for the foreseeable future. Ricketts remarked, ‘I never thought it was that bad,’ highlighting the severity of the situation. The Category 5 hurricane caused the Barnett and Pye rivers to overflow, flooding the complex and leaving water marks up to five feet high in some areas. Montego Bay United (MBU) Chairman Yoni Epstein estimated repair costs at approximately $300 million and stated that the team would be unable to host home games at the venue for several months. MBU has temporarily relocated its local players to Kingston, where they played a 2-2 draw against Portmore United in a friendly match. However, Epstein emphasized that the club remains committed to playing in Montego Bay, with plans to finalize alternative arrangements soon. Initial cleanup efforts have focused on removing thick clay soil from the running track, but restoring the pitch will require delicate handling to avoid damaging the turf and underground sprinkler system. The electrical system, including floodlights, has also been compromised, with some bulbs blown out of alignment. Ricketts noted that FIFA has recommended seeking a memorandum of understanding with the St James Municipal Council to expedite repairs, as neither JFF nor MBU owns the facility. A detailed inspection revealed structural damage, further complicating restoration efforts. The JFF is now working to fast-track repairs to ensure the venue can host matches as soon as possible.
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SECOND BITE OF THE CHERRY
Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts remains cautiously optimistic as the Reggae Boyz prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 play-off campaign. Following a 0-0 draw with Curaçao, which resulted in Jamaica missing automatic qualification and the resignation of Head Coach Steve McClaren, Ricketts emphasized the need for collective effort and strategic planning. The JFF is set to appoint a new head coach, with an announcement expected after a meeting with the executive committee.
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Classics on show for Melissa
The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) marked a triumphant return to the spotlight with its first car show in seven years, held at the Jamaica Horticultural Society in Hope Pastures, St Andrew, on Sunday, November 16. The event, initially planned to support the club’s initiatives, took on a new purpose in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, redirecting its focus to hurricane relief efforts. Naresh Potopsingh, president of the JCCC, expressed his satisfaction with the turnout, estimating over 500 attendees based on ticket sales, though final numbers are still being audited. The show featured an impressive array of classic cars, ranging from modern exotics to rare local treasures, complemented by live music, a fashion show by Phusion Models International, and various prizes. Patrons reveled in the nostalgia and camaraderie, with many expressing delight at the variety and arrangement of vehicles. Potopsingh highlighted the seamless synergy between the cars, attendees, sponsors, and participants, including DJ Audley and the fashion models. Among the standout vehicles was Kevin Murray’s meticulously restored 1995 Toyota LandCruiser, a project that spanned several years and involved extensive bodywork, mechanical upgrades, and interior refurbishment. The event not only celebrated automotive history but also demonstrated the club’s commitment to community support, with proceeds set to aid those affected by the recent hurricane.
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Tourism bounceback
As Jamaica prepares for the winter tourist season, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has announced a phased reopening strategy to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. During a tour of hotels and attractions in Ocho Rios, Bartlett emphasized the sector’s resilience and determination to rebound, signaling to the world that Jamaica remains open for business.
Bartlett acknowledged that the industry cannot operate at full capacity by December 15 but stressed the importance of a gradual recovery. ‘We will open — not as we originally anticipated, but in a manner that allows us to recover together and move forward,’ he stated during his visit to Sandals Dunn’s River.
The hurricane’s impact has been far-reaching, disrupting Jamaica’s tourism sector, which contributes over 50% of the country’s foreign exchange earnings and supports more than 300,000 jobs. Bartlett highlighted the ripple effects of hotel closures, which have left entertainers, taxi operators, farmers, and craftsmen without work. ‘Every closure affects not only the workers in hotels but entire communities,’ he explained.
The minister praised private sector partners, particularly Sandals Resorts International, for their efforts in restoring facilities and supporting staff. Sandals is expected to operate at 70% capacity during the winter season, with the remaining rooms reopening in phases.
Despite the challenges, Bartlett reported a faster-than-expected recovery in bookings, with some properties forecasting up to 90% occupancy by Christmas. He attributed this to modern travel trends, where tourists make last-minute decisions. ‘Today’s traveler is booking today and flying tomorrow,’ he noted.
Starting next week, Bartlett will lead an international outreach campaign across the U.S., Canada, South America, and Europe to reassure partners of Jamaica’s recovery. He described the post-Melissa period as a new chapter in the country’s history, marked by resilience and renewal.
Bartlett expressed gratitude to hospitality workers, many of whom are balancing their jobs with personal recovery efforts. ‘If you don’t move, the economy does not move. So fresh up, dress up, and show up — because Jamaica needs you,’ he urged.
Concluding with a rallying call, Bartlett vowed, ‘We are all in this together. We will recover together, grow together, and make Jamaica the best country on planet Earth — together.’
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Roach returns
ST JOHN’S, Antigua — The West Indies cricket team has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, set to commence next month. Veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach, a stalwart of West Indies cricket, has been included in the lineup, a decision that aligns with expectations following his participation in a high-performance preparation camp organized by Cricket West Indies (CWI) earlier this month. Roach, the fifth-highest wicket-taker in West Indies Test history with 285 scalps, will spearhead the pace attack alongside Jayden Seales. The squad, however, will be without the injured Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, who are sidelined for the remainder of the year. The series, part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship, marks the West Indies’ final fixture for 2025. CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasized the meticulous preparation undertaken to ensure the team is well-equipped for the challenging conditions in New Zealand. “New Zealand has traditionally been one of the toughest places for any touring side, which is why strong emphasis has been placed on targeted preparation,” Bascombe stated. The squad, which includes debutant Ojay Shields and recalled middle-order batsman Kavem Hodge, arrived in New Zealand on November 20, allowing ample time for acclimatization and a warm-up match against a New Zealand XI in Christchurch.
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Lydians present De Chile Faddah on December 13 and 14
This December, The Lydian Singers, a renowned choir, will captivate audiences with their 2025 Christmas musical production, ‘De Chile Faddah – The Nativity: Joseph’s Story.’ Scheduled for December 13 and 14 at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain, this production offers a bold and moving perspective on the birth of Christ, seen through the eyes of Joseph in a contemporary Trinidad and Tobago setting. Written by Bernard Shepherd SC, ‘De Chile Faddah’ breathes new life into the familiar nativity story with a uniquely Caribbean voice. It delves into Joseph’s emotional and spiritual journey as he embraces his role as the father of a child not biologically his. The production features original music, inspiring choral performances, and powerful storytelling, blending cultural authenticity with timeless themes of love, faith, and fatherhood. Directed by the acclaimed Davlin Thomas, the show boasts a stellar cast, including Kareem Forde as Joseph, Curtis Gross as Nick, Antonio Modeste as Gabriel, and Uchena Mayers as Mary, with cameo appearances by Jean, Dina, Rosita, and Clementina. Audiences can also look forward to stirring dance performances by the North West Laventille Cultural Movement. ‘De Chile Faddah’ is more than just a Christmas concert; it’s a heartfelt celebration of hope, responsibility, and divine purpose, brought to life through the music and drama that only The Lydians can deliver. Showtimes are 7 pm on December 13 and 6 pm on December 14. Tickets are available from Lydian Members, at the Queen’s Hall Box Office, online at IslandE tickets and Queen’s Hall online platform, or by reservation via messaging at 253-7464.
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5% + 5% wage offer to PSA official?
In a recent letter to the editor, Arthur Dash raised concerns over the proposed ten per cent salary increase for public servants in Trinidad and Tobago. Dash claims that there is no official statement from the government confirming that the increase would be evenly split as five per cent for each negotiating period. He argues that the only sources mentioning this split are union representatives from the Public Services Association (PSA) and media reports that seem to be echoing the PSA’s claims. Dash suggests that, given the country’s fiscal constraints, a more prudent approach might be to apply the full ten per cent increase in the final year of the negotiating period or to structure the bulk of the increase in the later years. Despite his concerns, the PSA continues to insist on the “five per cent each period” structure, and the media frequently repeats this claim as if it were officially confirmed. Dash acknowledges the possibility that he may have overlooked an official statement and invites anyone with relevant information to come forward. However, he suspects that no such statement exists and warns that the PSA might face an unpleasant surprise when formal negotiations begin.
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Windies coach Daren Sammy: We never wrote off Roach
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has emphasized that veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach was never excluded from the team’s long-term plans, despite earlier suggestions of a transition to younger players. Roach, 37, has been recalled to the 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled from December 1 to 21. His inclusion comes as a result of injuries to key bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, who are sidelined for the remainder of the year. Roach, who made his Test debut in 2008, boasts an impressive record of 284 wickets in 85 Tests, placing him fifth among West Indies’ all-time leading wicket-takers in the format. Sammy highlighted Roach’s experience and leadership as crucial assets for the team, particularly in New Zealand’s challenging conditions. The squad also features uncapped Jamaican pacer Ojay Shields, whose raw pace adds variety to the attack. Despite earlier comments from Cricket West Indies director Miles Bascombe about planning for future World Test Championships, Sammy clarified that Roach remained a viable option. The West Indies are currently struggling in the white-ball segment of their New Zealand tour, having lost the T20 series 3-1 and trailing 2-0 in the ODI series. Sammy expressed optimism about the Test series, citing the team’s preparation and the return of middle-order batsman Kavem Hodge, who has previously excelled in similar conditions. The squad will play a warm-up match in Christchurch before the first Test begins on December 1.
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Damien Adams storms into Pan-Am MMA semi-final
Trinidad and Tobago (TT) athletes have made significant strides at the 2025 International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Pan-Americana Championship in Monterrey, Mexico. Damien Adams secured a swift victory in the men’s featherweight (65.8 kg) category, defeating El Salvador’s Gabriel Barrera via submission with 47 seconds remaining in the first round. Adams’ dominant performance earned him a spot in the semi-finals, scheduled for November 21. Joining him is Joshua James, who will compete in the men’s super lightweight (74.8 kg) semi-final against Mexico’s Luis Angel Rodriguez Dominguez. Meanwhile, Michael Serrette has already advanced to the super heavyweight final, awaiting the winner of an all-Mexico semi-final clash. The TT delegation, led by national coach Keron Bourne and TTMMAF president Jason Fraser, continues to showcase the country’s growing prowess in mixed martial arts. This year marks TT’s sixth consecutive appearance at the championship, a testament to their dedication despite financial challenges. Fraser emphasized the need for private-sector support to sustain youth development programs, urging corporations to invest in athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds. The championship, featuring 17 nations, is part of IMMAF’s global series of tournaments, highlighting the sport’s expanding reach and impact.