Prime Minister Philip J Pierre of Saint Lucia has opted to remain detached from recent accusations leveled by his former Saint Lucia Labour Party colleague, Stanley Felix, who claimed the nation’s leader had betrayed him. Speaking at a pre-Cabinet press briefing on October 20, Pierre emphasized his commitment to his duties as Prime Minister, refusing to engage in what he termed as “roro” or political squabbles. Felix, who announced his independent candidacy for the Castries Central seat on October 13, had earlier expressed feelings of betrayal, stating, “People I trusted hurt me. Doors that should have opened were slammed shut in my face.” The rift between the two politicians traces back to 2022, when Felix was removed as President of the Senate following charges of perverting the course of justice, which were later dismissed in March 2024. During an appearance on Newsmaker Live on October 15, Felix lamented the lack of communication surrounding his removal, describing the professional and personal repercussions as “significant.” While Pierre acknowledged he had not fully reviewed Felix’s remarks, he stated he would not contest them, affirming, “I will never dispute anything Mr Felix says — never.” The Prime Minister reiterated his long-standing acquaintance with Felix and his refusal to engage in political conflicts, emphasizing the importance of democratic participation. Pierre concluded by stating his focus remains on national progress rather than personal or political disputes, declaring, “This election for me will never be an election of conflict. That election for me is an election of my achievements.”
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NBB Warns of Fake Facebook Pages Targeting Customers
The National Bank of Belize (NBBL) has issued a stern warning to its customers following the discovery of counterfeit Facebook pages impersonating the bank. In an official statement released on Tuesday, NBBL clarified that these pages are entirely unauthorized and bear no affiliation with the institution. The bank has promptly reported the matter to the relevant authorities and is actively pursuing the removal of these fraudulent accounts. Customers are strongly advised against sharing any personal or financial information with these pages and to meticulously verify the authenticity of any suspicious messages. NBBL emphasized that all official communications are exclusively disseminated through its verified platforms. Individuals who believe they may have interacted with a fake account are urged to contact the bank immediately via email at services@nbbl.bz or by calling 822-0957 / 822-0950.
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Extreme Dominica, American Canyoneering Association seek support for search & rescue training in Dominica
In a significant development for Dominica’s emergency response capabilities, the American Canyoneering Association (ACA) is set to deploy a team of expert educators to the Caribbean nation in November. These volunteers will provide specialized training to Dominica’s Search & Rescue (SAR) unit, focusing on advanced rescue techniques tailored to the island’s challenging terrain. The initiative, supported by Extreme Dominica Canyon Tours, aims to bolster the island’s preparedness for emergencies, particularly as canyoning and outdoor tourism gain popularity. The rugged landscape of Dominica, while a draw for adventure enthusiasts, also poses unique risks, necessitating enhanced technical rescue skills. The ACA’s training program is expected to equip local rescuers with the expertise needed to handle complex rescue scenarios effectively. Additionally, a call for donations has been issued to provide essential technical gear for up to six local rescuers, ensuring their ability to conduct safe and efficient operations. This collaboration underscores the ongoing partnership between the ACA and Dominica, highlighting a shared commitment to improving public safety and emergency response. For those interested in supporting this vital cause, further details and donation options are available online.
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Flood Risk Rises as TS Melissa Crawls Through the Caribbean
Tropical Storm Melissa is currently making its way through the central Caribbean Sea, prompting marine warnings and hurricane watches across the region. The National Hurricane Center has identified Melissa as a significant flood threat, particularly for Hispaniola and Jamaica. The storm is expected to unleash heavy rainfall over the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica throughout the weekend, with forecasts predicting over ten inches of rain in some areas. This deluge raises concerns about flash floods and landslides, especially in mountainous regions. A hurricane watch has been issued for Jamaica, and hurricane conditions are possible in Haiti’s southwestern peninsula. Authorities are urging residents in these areas to complete emergency preparations by Thursday to safeguard lives and property. Melissa is projected to intensify into a hurricane by early next week, with its slow movement increasing the likelihood of prolonged rainfall and heightened risks. While the storm’s exact path and intensity remain uncertain, residents in Cuba and across the Caribbean are advised to stay vigilant and monitor official updates. Meanwhile, no other tropical cyclone activity is expected in the Atlantic over the next seven days.
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10 former Caricom heads urge end to military action in region
A coalition of ten former Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders has voiced deep concerns over the escalating military presence, including nuclear vessels and aircraft, in the Caribbean. They argue that this buildup threatens the safety, stability, and livelihoods of the region’s inhabitants. In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the leaders called for a de-escalation to prevent the Caribbean from being drawn into external conflicts and to uphold its longstanding status as a ‘zone of peace,’ a principle established over 50 years ago.
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‘This is our type of season’ say Jamaican surfers as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches
As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, surfers on the island’s southeast coast are eagerly anticipating the powerful waves it may bring, rather than fearing its potential dangers. Billy ‘Mystic’ Wilmot, founder of the Jamnesia Surf Club in Bull Bay, St. Andrew, expressed excitement about the hurricane season, which he described as ideal for surfing. “We always look forward to the hurricane season. It sends waves from far away, even if the storm is hundreds of miles from us,” Wilmot told Observer Online during a visit to the area on Thursday, October 23, 2025. However, he emphasized the need for the storm to remain at a safe distance to avoid strong winds that could disrupt surfing conditions. “We welcome the waves, but not the breeze. The wind can make it impossible to surf,” he explained. At 7:00 pm on Thursday, the center of Tropical Storm Melissa was located approximately 224 kilometers south-southeast of Morant Point, Jamaica, prompting a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch for the island. Despite the warnings, surfers like Ivah Wilmot and Danielle Mattis were seen catching waves at Wickie Wackie Beach in Bull Bay. Wilmot also expressed hope that the storm would not cause loss of life or property damage, recalling the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, which led to flooding and debris accumulation in the area. Bull Bay, like other low-lying regions in Jamaica, remains vulnerable to flooding during heavy rainfall.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Tropical storm continues slow motion towards Jamaica
Jamaica remains on high alert as Tropical Storm Melissa advances slowly across the Caribbean Sea, prompting a tropical storm warning and a hurricane watch. The storm, currently positioned approximately 270 kilometers south-southeast of Morant Point, poses a dual threat: tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours, while hurricane conditions could materialize within 48 hours. As of 4:00 pm, Melissa’s center was located near latitude 15.6 degrees north and longitude 75.5 degrees west, moving at a sluggish pace of four km/h toward the north-northwest. Forecasts predict a gradual northward trajectory over the next few days, followed by a sharp westward turn by the weekend. With maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h and higher gusts, Melissa is projected to intensify rapidly, potentially evolving into a hurricane by Saturday and a major hurricane by Sunday. Satellite imagery reveals heavy showers and thunderstorms associated with the storm’s core, located about 200 kilometers southeast of Jamaica, slowly advancing toward the island. Residents should prepare for moderate to heavy rainfall beginning late Thursday or early Friday, escalating through the weekend. This precipitation increases the risk of flooding and landslides, particularly in low-lying and hilly areas. Strong, gusty winds, potentially reaching tropical storm strength, are expected to develop on Friday, initially affecting eastern and southern parishes before spreading island-wide. Hurricane-force winds may impact eastern parishes by Saturday. Marine interests are advised to anticipate widespread heavy showers, thunderstorms, and tropical-storm-force winds, with hurricane-strength winds likely over southern and eastern offshore waters on Saturday. Small craft operators, including fishers, are urged to secure their vessels and complete safety precautions immediately. The Meteorological Service continues to monitor Melissa closely, urging all stakeholders to stay updated on further developments.
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Trinidad PM says she will not engage in tit-for-tat with Venezuelan VP
Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has sought to downplay potential tensions with Venezuela regarding the Dragon gas project. This follows remarks by Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, who warned that Trinidad and Tobago’s economy would falter without a gas deal with Venezuela. Rodriguez emphasized that any gas exports to Trinidad and Tobago must be paid for, dismissing claims that the U.S. would facilitate free access to Venezuelan gas. She accused Persad-Bissessar of being misled by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, likening her to a “puppet” and warning of dire economic consequences if Venezuela halts gas exports. Persad-Bissessar, however, refrained from engaging in a public dispute, stating she had no official communication from Venezuela and remained focused on advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s economy. She also dismissed fears of regional conflict, urging citizens to remain calm. Earlier this month, Trinidad and Tobago secured a six-month U.S. license to negotiate the Dragon gas project with Venezuela, a move criticized by former Energy Minister Stuart Young for its short-term nature and lack of transparency. The project, previously declared “dead” by the current government, remains a contentious issue in bilateral relations.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Port Royal fisherfolk unite to secure boats ahead of storm
As Tropical Storm Melissa looms over the Caribbean, fishermen in Port Royal, Jamaica, have banded together to safeguard their livelihoods. On Thursday, October 23, 2025, the community worked tirelessly to pull their boats ashore, ensuring they would be protected from the impending storm. Despite some boat owners being absent, the fishermen demonstrated remarkable solidarity, helping one another without hesitation. ‘Just do what you can do. If you can help another man, you help another man, and that’s it,’ one fisherman declared. John Whimsy, a local fisherman, emphasized the importance of reciprocity, stating, ‘Me have a boat inna the sea so me haffi come out and help them because me ago want help. The boats them heavy.’ Rupert Ramsey, a 73-year-old fisherman, shared that this collaborative effort is a longstanding tradition in the face of storms. ‘Every year we work together. When we ago get high tides, those who fear it might get higher, we draw them up,’ he explained. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has warned that Tropical Storm Melissa is expected to intensify into a hurricane as it approaches the island over the weekend. Small craft operators, including fishermen, have been urged to take immediate safety precautions. Having weathered numerous storms, Whimsy stressed the necessity of preparation: ‘Every time the hurricane come, you have to draw the boat them up because once the hurricane come, them can’t stay inna the sea.’ The community’s resilience and unity highlight their determination to protect their way of life amidst nature’s unpredictability.
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Three Jamaican restaurants to battle on National Jamaican Jerk Day
This Sunday, October 26, marks the celebration of National Jamaican Jerk Day (NJJD), a day dedicated to honoring the rich culinary heritage of Jamaican jerk cuisine. In the United States, the festivities are set to receive an extra boost of excitement, courtesy of Grace Foods USA, a renowned name in authentic Caribbean flavors. Grace Foods is sponsoring the Grace Jerk Sauce competition, where three prominent South Florida restaurants—Casa Dea Amore Restaurant, People’s Choice Restaurant, and Chef Tally’s World-Famous Jerk Chicken—will compete in a Grace Jerk Tapas showdown. Each restaurant will present a three-course jerk experience using Grace Jerk Sauce, vying for a cash prize, a unique saucepan trophy, and the prestigious title of Grace Jerk Champion 2025. Andrea Reynolds, Global Category Manager at Grace Foods USA, expressed her pride in participating in the celebration, emphasizing the growing influence of jerk in American cuisine. ‘Jerk has become a true force in American cuisine—it’s everywhere, from backyard cookouts to restaurant menus nationwide. Grace is proud to be part of that journey, helping people discover authentic Jamaican flavor and inspiring them to make it their own,’ Reynolds told Observer Online. The organizers of NJJD have extended an open invitation to all jerk brands, restaurants, and food innovators to join the celebration by creating special jerk menus, hosting tastings, and running promotions. This initiative aims to spotlight the flavor that is redefining modern cooking and connecting food lovers globally. Originating as a centuries-old Jamaican cooking method, jerk has evolved into an international culinary trend, influencing American grilling culture and inspiring chefs across the spectrum to experiment with jerk rubs, marinades, and sauces. Today, jerk-inspired dishes can be found in a variety of settings, from food trucks and BBQ joints to high-end eateries, proving that jerk is not just a flavor—it’s a movement.