In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Pepsi-Cola Jamaica has stepped up its efforts to aid affected communities by donating beverages worth US$50,000. This contribution includes approximately 9,000 cases of water, Gatorade, and Pepsi products, aimed at providing essential relief to those impacted by the disaster.
博客
-
WATCH: Rising water renders Content roadway in Manchester impassable
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Authorities in Manchester are urging motorists to steer clear of the Content roadway in Williamsfield, which has been rendered impassable due to severe flooding. Rising water levels have created hazardous conditions, making sections of the road unsafe for vehicles. Law enforcement officials are advising drivers to seek alternative routes and exercise heightened caution when navigating the affected area. The police have pledged to provide ongoing updates as the situation evolves, ensuring the public remains informed about the latest developments. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay vigilant and prioritize safety during this period of adverse weather conditions.
-
St Benedict’s, ‘Naps’ meet in SSFL south derby
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division is heating up as St Benedict’s College, currently leading with 33 points, prepares for a pivotal match against Naparima College on November 3. The clash, rescheduled to take place at Naparima’s home ground in San Fernando, could see Benedict’s edge closer to clinching the 2025 title. A victory would propel them to 36 points, a tally that would be unassailable for their closest rivals, Presentation College San Fernando (31 points), Naparima (28 points), and reigning champions Fatima College (29 points).
Naparima, despite a recent slump after a strong start to the season, still has a mathematical chance to challenge for the title. A win would elevate them to 31 points with two games remaining, keeping their hopes alive. Meanwhile, Signal Hill Secondary, currently tenth with 15 points, could theoretically reach a maximum of 39 points if they win all their remaining eight matches, though their campaign has been marred by numerous postponements due to travel issues.
In other fixtures, St Anthony’s College, known as the ‘Westmoorings Tigers,’ will face Malick Secondary in Westmoorings, while Trinity College Moka takes on Scarborough Secondary in Moka. Signal Hill’s packed schedule includes matches against San Juan North Secondary, St Mary’s College, Queen’s Royal College, and St Augustine Secondary in the coming days.
The standings reflect a tightly contested season, with St Benedict’s leading the pack, followed by Presentation College, Fatima, and Naparima. The final weeks of the league promise high drama as teams vie for supremacy in one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most prestigious school football competitions.
-
UWI Mona students plan sit-out over decision to resume classes less than a week after Hurricane Melissa
Students at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus, are preparing for a peaceful sit-out on Monday to protest the university’s decision to resume in-person classes following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. In an open letter issued on Sunday, a coalition of students called for a one-week suspension of academic activities and the adoption of a hybrid learning model to support those still recovering from the storm’s impact. The letter criticized the university’s move as “irresponsible” and “tone-deaf,” highlighting that many students remain displaced, lack access to basic utilities, and are emotionally unprepared to return to studies. The protest is framed as an act of solidarity with peers in western Jamaica, one of the regions hardest hit by the hurricane, where thousands are still in shelters and critical healthcare facilities remain non-operational. Official reports cited in the letter reveal that 25,000 people are displaced, and at least 28 Jamaicans have lost their lives due to the disaster. The students expressed concern that the university lacks the capacity to assess how many of its own students are homeless, injured, trapped, or deceased, and argued that reopening campus “prematurely” disregards the physical and emotional toll of the crisis. Comparisons were drawn with other institutions, such as the University of Technology (UTech), which has indefinitely suspended in-person classes, and UWI’s Western Jamaica Campus, which delayed reopening by a week. The letter also condemned the Mona administration for demanding rent payments for accommodations students were forced to evacuate, labeling it a “class issue” and “a profound abdication of empathy.” The mental strain on students was emphasized, with the letter describing a “frozen mental and emotional state” caused by trauma and uncertainty. The group urged students to exercise their “agency to resist” by not attending classes on Monday, concluding with a call to “resist the insensitivity and impracticalness of this decision.” The letter was signed by several students.
-
Banks urge cash-back use as ABM network crippled by Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on Jamaica, the island’s Automated Banking Machine (ABM) network has been largely incapacitated, prompting banks to encourage customers to utilize cash-back services at retail checkouts as a temporary solution. The Jamaica Bankers Association (JBA) has highlighted this feature, which allows debit cardholders to withdraw cash during purchases at participating merchants, as a crucial alternative during this period of widespread damage and service outages. The hurricane has caused significant disruptions to bank branches, ABMs, and point-of-sale systems, compounded by power failures, telecommunications breakdowns, blocked roads, and heightened security concerns such as vandalism and robbery attempts. Financial institutions are collaborating with the government and the Bank of Jamaica to prioritize the restoration of services in the most severely affected areas. While some branches have reopened with limited hours due to shortages of electricity, water, and internet access, many ABMs remain offline. The JBA has advised customers to monitor their bank’s social media channels for updates on operational branches and to utilize cash-back services at gas stations, supermarkets, and pharmacies. Online and mobile banking are recommended for balance checks, fund transfers, and bill payments, though contact center wait times may be extended. To assist customers facing financial strain, banks are offering relief measures such as payment deferrals, interest-only periods, and fee waivers. The JBA has also cautioned against a surge in fraud and scams, urging the public to verify donation appeals and avoid sharing sensitive information. Customers who have lost or damaged identification or bank documents are encouraged to contact their banks promptly. The JBA has appealed for public patience and cooperation as efforts continue to restore full banking services, with updates to be disseminated through official channels.
-
BACK IN BUSINESS!
The vibrant energy of Jamaican horse racing is poised to return as Caymanas Park prepares to reopen on November 15, following a necessary hiatus due to Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on October 28. Solomon Sharpe, executive chairman of Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), emphasized the critical restoration efforts underway to ensure the venue’s readiness. The hurricane caused significant damage to stables, electrical infrastructure, and other facilities, prompting a temporary suspension of races since October 25. Despite these challenges, Sharpe expressed optimism, noting that the racetrack itself remains in pristine condition, with over 300 horses already exercising on it. The restoration process includes repairing stables, reconnecting power, and clearing debris, with the property currently at 60% operational capacity. Off Track Betting (OTB) establishments, crucial for the sport’s ecosystem, are also being prioritized, though only half are operational. The revised November schedule promises thrilling events, including the United Racehorse Trainers’ Association of Jamaica race on November 15, the Jamaica Cup on November 16, and the Jockeys’ Agent Race day on November 29. Trainers like Patrick Smellie and Roy Matthews acknowledged the logistical hurdles but supported SVREL’s decision to resume racing on November 15, allowing ample time for preparation. The return of live racing not only revitalizes the sport but also supports the livelihoods of thousands in the surrounding communities.
-
Deal with fireworks terror now
The tragic death of a three-day-old baby following Divali celebrations has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for stricter regulations on fireworks. Fireworks Use Sufferers (FUS), an advocacy group, has expressed profound sympathy for the grieving family, who reportedly endured relentless noise from fireworks despite pleas for restraint. While the exact cause of the infant’s death remains unclear—whether due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or the stress induced by the fireworks—the incident has highlighted the government’s perceived negligence in addressing the issue. Critics argue that the administration’s decision to ban fireworks for Independence Day but not for Divali reflects a reckless and biased approach. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been urged to issue guidelines promoting the use of silent fireworks and enforce stricter permitting processes. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the government’s alleged favoritism toward Fireone Fireworks, a major importer of these devices, despite their non-essential nature and the strain they place on foreign exchange reserves. The incident has also exposed the inadequacies of law enforcement, with reports of police failing to respond effectively to noise complaints. As the year-end celebrations approach, activists and stakeholders are demanding immediate action to prevent further harm to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and animals. Public protests and calls for accountability from the Prime Minister and Attorney General are being organized to address this pressing issue.
-
A myth about the old
The adage ‘once a man, twice a child’ often surfaces in discussions about aging, but the reality of caring for an elderly adult is far more complex than tending to a child. Dr. Taureef Mohammed, a physician from Trinidad and Tobago now practicing in Canada, shares his personal experiences and challenges in caring for his elderly father, shedding light on the often-overlooked difficulties of elder care.
-
Spooky fun at Miss Dixie’s Preschool, Daycare and Vacation Camp
Miss Dixie’s Preschool, Daycare and Vacation Camp in San Fernando embraced the spirit of Halloween with a vibrant dress-down day on October 31. The event, held at their Prince of Wales Street location, saw young students donning creative costumes, from the Grim Reaper to Wonder Woman, showcasing their imaginative flair. School principal Dixie-Ann McKenzie emphasized the importance of inclusivity, noting that while some parents may not traditionally celebrate Halloween, the school uses the occasion as an educational tool to foster growth, understanding, and acceptance among its students. Newsday photographer Innis Francis captured the festive moments, highlighting the joy and creativity of the children. Among the standout costumes were three-year-old Keenai Joseph as the Grim Reaper, Kenli Dottin as Lady Dracula, Crysta-Ange Cooper as Wednesday Addams, Rain Maillard as Wonder Woman, and Grace Leigh as a cheerful witch. The event underscored the school’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and celebrated.
-
Guy Beckles eager to open kinetic art museum
Guy Beckles, a 72-year-old kinetic artist, is on a mission to share his unique artistic vision with the world. Described by the late cultural icon Pat Bishop as “one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets,” Beckles has dedicated nearly five decades to mastering kinetic art, a medium defined by movement and creativity. His dream is to establish a kinetic art gallery in Trinidad, where he can showcase his work, mentor emerging artists, and collaborate across genres to incorporate movement into diverse art forms.