The USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided-missile destroyer of the US Navy, concluded its five-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago on October 30, departing from the Port of Port of Spain amidst significant regional and international controversy. The vessel’s presence, which included joint training exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, further strained relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accused Trinidad and Tobago of collaborating with the US and the CIA to provoke military confrontation in the Caribbean, claiming the visit was part of a broader plan to destabilize Venezuela. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissar, however, welcomed the destroyer’s visit, praising the US military’s regional efforts, including anti-drug trafficking operations. The departure of the USS Gravely was marked by minimal public attention, with only a small group of onlookers present. Among them, a man of Chinese descent criticized the ship’s appearance, calling it a ‘piece of junk.’ Most bystanders avoided engaging with the media, citing fears of online backlash given the heated debates surrounding the visit. A local driver, who chose to remain anonymous, defended the US’s role as a regional ally, emphasizing Trinidad and Tobago’s long-standing cooperation with the US in areas such as military training and surveillance. He also criticized local media coverage of the event, accusing journalists of being unprofessional and failing to hold those in power accountable.
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Recovery in progress
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s financial infrastructure is gradually coming back online, though significant challenges remain. Edmundo Jenez, CEO of JETS Limited, provided a detailed update on the status of the Multilink and Automated Clearing House (ACH) networks, which are critical for domestic financial transactions. While the core systems were restored by Wednesday morning, widespread power outages and acts of vandalism are severely hampering the recovery process. Jenez explained that the financial networks were shut down preemptively to avoid damage from the hurricane. Although the primary switches in Kingston are operational, only 45% of Automated Banking Machines (ABMs) and less than 14% of Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals are currently functional. Transaction volumes have plummeted, with Thursday’s expected $2 billion in transactions reduced to just $600-$700 million. Jenez emphasized that without restored power and telecommunications, the pace of recovery will remain sluggish. He also expressed frustration over vandalism incidents, including damaged ABM screens and attempted thefts, which further complicate efforts to restore normalcy. Despite these setbacks, JETS remains committed to supporting Jamaica’s economic recovery.
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A REAL SISTERHOOD
As the Reggae Girlz gear up for the Concacaf W Qualifiers next month, Head Coach Hubert Busby Jr. has highlighted the importance of fostering team spirit and camaraderie within the squad. This focus comes after Jamaica’s dominant 4-1 victory over Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in an international friendly held in Couva on Tuesday. Jody Brown led the charge with a brace, while Natasha Thomas and Tianna Harris added to the scoreline. T&T’s lone goal came from Nikita Gosine.
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Patterson urges national unity in rebuilding after Melissa
Former Jamaican Prime Minister PJ Patterson has issued a rallying cry for national unity and strategic rebuilding in the wake of the catastrophic destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer on Thursday, Patterson emphasized that the recovery effort must transcend political and denominational divides, urging Jamaicans to come together with a shared purpose. He stressed the importance of building smarter, given Jamaica’s vulnerability to natural disasters, and proposed revisiting past initiatives to guide the current response. Patterson highlighted the success of the Office of National Reconstruction (ONR), established after Hurricane Ivan in 2004, as a model for efficient and transparent disaster management. He commended Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his administration for their preparedness and initial response but underscored the need for long-term planning and community involvement. Patterson advocated for innovative construction methods and materials to ensure resilience against future hurricanes, which he noted are becoming more frequent and severe. He also called for bipartisan cooperation and legislative action to address both immediate and long-term needs, emphasizing that rebuilding efforts must account for Jamaica’s susceptibility to natural disasters and the cultural habits of its people.
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Main Mistress delivers in style, secures Announcers’ Trophy victory
In a thrilling display of equine prowess, Main Mistress, a four-year-old American-bred filly trained by Peter-John Parsard, clinched victory in Division One of the $1.25-million Front Runner-sponsored Caymanas Park Announcers’ Trophy on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Ridden by jockey Omar Walker, the dark bay/brown filly dominated the Restricted Overnight Allowance race over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m), finishing a length and a half ahead of competitors Cookie Day N Night and Huntsman. The winning time was an impressive 1:20.0. Parsard, while hoping for a more effortless win, expressed his delight at Main Mistress’s performance, attributing the success to Walker’s aggressive and precise riding. The filly is now set to compete in the Grade 3 St Elizabeth Distaff on Jamaica Cup race day (November 8), though the event’s future remains uncertain due to Hurricane Melissa. Main Mistress broke well, tracked the leaders, and surged ahead at the half-mile marker, maintaining her lead despite a late challenge from Cookie Day N Night. Parsard noted that Main Mistress had shown promise in her previous race and was a strong contender in this class. The victory marks a significant achievement for Parsard and his team, as they prepare for the next challenge.
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SVREL issues update on Caymanas Park operations after Hurricane Melissa
Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), the exclusive promoter of horse racing in Jamaica, has detailed its recovery plans for Caymanas Park in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. In a recent press release, the company expressed its heartfelt concern for all Jamaicans affected by the storm, emphasizing its commitment to safety and swift restoration.
Initial assessments at Caymanas Park revealed damage to five stables, with repair teams already mobilized to address the issues. SVREL is prioritizing the resolution of electrical, structural, and technological challenges to ensure the facility’s safety and operational efficiency. Notably, the racing surface remains intact and ready for use.
To minimize disruptions for racing enthusiasts, SVREL has confirmed that simulcast racing will resume on October 31, 2025, at Caymanas Park and select Off-Track Betting (OTB) locations in Kingston, St. Andrew, and St. Catherine. Live racing, however, remains temporarily suspended, with a resumption date to be announced later. OTB locations in other parishes will stay closed as recovery efforts continue, with updates to follow when it is safe to reopen.
SVREL concluded its statement with a message of solidarity: ‘Our hearts go out to all who have been impacted by Hurricane Melissa. We stand together with you in strength and solidarity as we rebuild. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support.’
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Nick Lue’s top 5 reasons EVs are taking over Jamaica’s roads
Nick Lue, renowned for his SKVNKLifestyle brand rooted in speed and performance, is now at the forefront of Jamaica’s electric vehicle (EV) movement. As the nation increasingly considers the transition from gasoline to electric, Lue has become a pivotal voice, test-driving the latest models and simplifying the EV experience for Jamaicans. In a recent interview, he shared the top five reasons why EVs are gaining momentum in Jamaica. Firstly, the instant torque of EVs offers an exhilarating driving experience, with immediate acceleration that surpasses traditional combustion engines. Secondly, soaring gas prices have made EVs a financially attractive alternative, with significant savings on charging costs. Thirdly, the EV market has diversified, with brands like BYD, MG, and Audi offering models tailored to local needs and budgets. Fourthly, the advanced technology in EVs, from intelligent navigation to remote control via smartphone apps, provides a futuristic driving experience. Lastly, the cultural shift towards embracing something new and stylish has fueled the EV hype. Lue believes that the combination of performance, savings, and innovation ensures that EVs are not just a trend but a lasting transformation in Jamaica’s automotive landscape.
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Dominican students to represent country in first Global Robotics Challenge 2025 in Panama
The Dominica Robotics Association, bolstered by a coalition of sponsors and community partners such as Create Caribbean, NTRC, 767.Dev, Jaydees Naturals, and Astaphans, has proudly announced that a team of Dominican students will represent the nation at the prestigious FIRST Global Robotics Challenge 2025 in Panama. This international event brings together young innovators from across the Caribbean and the globe, inspiring them to create robots that address pressing real-world challenges through cutting-edge science and technology. The Dominican delegation consists of five exceptionally talented students from Dominica State College and St. Mary’s Academy, each excelling in fields like computer science, mechanical engineering, information technology, and scientific research. The team members include Dianka George, Cadel Casimir, Khae-Ryan Shillingford, Jahim Riviere-Alfred, and Kaelan Matthew. They will be mentored by Phoenix Jacques and Co-Mentor Odessa Dinnard. The association expressed its confidence in the team’s ability to showcase Dominica’s innovation and technical prowess on the global stage. Additionally, the organization has extended an invitation to other passionate students aged 13 to 18 with an interest in robotics, engineering, or technology to join the national team or related projects by contacting them via email at [email protected].
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Trump Cuts Tariffs on China in Exchange for Fentanyl Crackdown
In a significant diplomatic move, President Donald Trump has agreed to reduce tariffs on Chinese goods by 10% following a high-stakes meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his Asia tour. The tariff reduction comes in exchange for Beijing’s renewed commitment to crack down on fentanyl exports, a critical issue for the United States. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump lauded the meeting as a “12 out of 10” and expressed optimism that a comprehensive trade deal is within reach. He also confirmed plans to visit China in April, with Xi expected to reciprocate with a visit to the U.S. later in the year. Trump justified the tariff cut by highlighting China’s “very strong action” on fentanyl, including adding key precursor chemicals to its controlled substances list and curbing black-market exports. U.S. agencies have observed a decline in fentanyl purity and border seizures, indicating some success in China’s efforts. However, critics caution that the deal is a gamble, given Trump’s previous accusations of China failing to honor similar commitments. Additionally, Beijing has yet to confirm a final agreement on TikTok’s U.S. operations, another contentious issue in trade talks. The deal also risks straining relations with Mexico and Canada, both of which face increased tariffs despite their own anti-fentanyl efforts. Canada, which accounts for less than 1% of fentanyl entering the U.S., may perceive the move as particularly unfair. Meanwhile, China retains significant leverage in the trade war, having restricted rare-earth exports, halted U.S. soybean purchases, and limited access to its AI chip market. Trump’s tariff rollback may be an attempt to regain strategic footing in a trade conflict where China has often dictated the pace.
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Suriname maakt indruk op prestigieus mode- en designfestival Nicaragua Diseña
Suriname made a remarkable impact at the 14th edition of Nicaragua Diseña, Latin America’s premier fashion and design platform. The Surinamese delegation, led by Ambassador Wendy Paulus-Aminta, founder of SrananProdo International, included two designers, international top model Sharda Moira Johnn, and Anushka Ramesar-Gopalrai, Chairwoman of the Women Economic Foundation Suriname (WEF). The event, held from October 24 to 26 at the Olof Palme Convention Center in Managua, attracted participants from Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Vietnam, and China. Suriname was the only Caricom nation to participate for the second time, positioning itself as a bridge for future Caribbean involvement. Designers Heidi Asongie of Orichic Design and Julio Irokromo of Attitude Design received widespread acclaim for their collections inspired by Surinamese nature and culture, featuring elements like pangi’s, tembe art, and traditional indigenous clothing. Suriname was described as ‘the talk of the day’ by attendees. Ambassador Paulus expressed pride, stating, ‘Our designers not only brilliantly showcased our culture but also opened doors for new regional collaborations.’ Sharda Moira Johnn graced the runway and conducted a masterclass for over a hundred models, while Gopalrai engaged in discussions with Nicaraguan government agencies about collaboration in the creative and women’s entrepreneurship sectors. Paulus emphasized, ‘This participation proves that Suriname is ready to build its own international platform for creative expression and partnership.’