KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Curaçao Football Federation is on the brink of making history as they prepare for a pivotal World Cup qualifying match against Jamaica at the National Stadium on Tuesday evening. The clash, scheduled for 8:00 pm, will determine which team secures an automatic spot in next year’s World Cup.
标签： Jamaica
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Push for financial relief grows after Melissa
The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left many individuals and small business owners in eastern Jamaica grappling with financial challenges, casting a shadow over the upcoming Christmas season. Despite being spared significant physical damage, residents have faced substantial economic strain due to their involvement in relief efforts in the western regions, which bore the brunt of the storm. The Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) and the Young Entrepreneurs Association (YEA) have called on the government to provide tax breaks and targeted financial support to alleviate the burden on small businesses. Meanwhile, individuals are seeking loan moratoria and leniency from financial institutions to manage their mounting expenses. Nickeba Dunkley, a resident who spent nearly $400,000 on relief efforts, exemplifies the personal sacrifices made by many. ‘Helping others felt like the right thing to do,’ she said, though she now worries about her monthly expenses. Small business owners like Carolyn Rose and Nicolette Richardson have maxed out credit cards to support their communities, while others, such as Nastassia Brown of Kingston’s Catch, have had to halt operations, further straining their cash flow. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has announced fiscal measures to aid recovery, including cash flow assistance and emergency social programs, but details remain scarce. Financial institutions like the National Housing Trust and Scotiabank Jamaica have introduced moratoriums on loan payments, but interest continues to accrue. As the Christmas season approaches, many are bracing for a subdued celebration, with a focus on gratitude and community rather than material gifts. ‘Christmas is going to be gloomy for sure,’ said Shudene Ramsay, CEO of Ramsay’s Professional Services Limited, reflecting the widespread sentiment of uncertainty and survival mode among affected communities.
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William Knibb High considering shift system to resume classes after Hurricane Melissa
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, William Knibb Memorial High School in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is devising a shift system to resume educational activities. The hurricane inflicted substantial damage to the school’s infrastructure, with seven buildings affected, six of which suffered severe roof losses. Principal Linvern Wright, in an interview with JIS News, emphasized that the school’s immediate focus is on ensuring student safety, restoring essential utilities, and finding a feasible way to bring students back to classrooms.
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UWI London Benefit Dinner
The historic Lincoln’s Inn in London was the setting for a night of Caribbean brilliance on November 7, as The University of the West Indies (UWI) hosted its annual London Benefit Dinner. The event, themed ‘Elevate to Educate,’ brought together distinguished Caribbean-British figures, including Baroness Patricia Scotland, the first female Secretary-General of the Commonwealth; Sir Trevor McDonald, a renowned journalist; and Ambassador Theresa Roberts, a philanthropist and entrepreneur. The black-tie gala also saw the presence of Diane Abbott, the UK’s longest-serving female MP, and high commissioners from Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago. Baroness Floella Benjamin and Professor Shirley Thompson served as patrons, while actress Nathalie Emmanuel hosted the evening. The event highlighted UWI’s mission to integrate research, innovation, and advocacy, particularly in climate action, with proceeds funding postgraduate scholarships focused on environmental and social governance (ESG) themes. Awards were presented to notable institutions and individuals, including the VM Group, the University of Glasgow, and luminaries like Sonita Alleyne and Sir Trevor McDonald, celebrating their contributions to Caribbean and global progress.
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US military says aircraft carrier now in Caribbean
In a significant military maneuver, the United States has deployed its most advanced aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Caribbean Sea as part of an intensified anti-narcotics campaign. This deployment, announced by the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) on Sunday, is part of President Donald Trump’s broader directive to dismantle transnational criminal organizations and combat narco-terrorism. The move is likely to escalate tensions with Venezuela, whose government views the military buildup as a direct threat. The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, accompanied by two guided-missile destroyers and other support vessels, joins several warships already stationed in the region under ‘Operation Southern Spear.’
In a related development, US forces conducted a strike in the eastern Pacific on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of three suspected drug traffickers. Since the inception of the anti-trafficking initiative in September, US military operations have reportedly killed at least 83 individuals accused of drug smuggling in international waters. However, the US has not provided detailed evidence to substantiate claims that those targeted were indeed traffickers, leading experts to criticize the operations as extrajudicial killings.
The deployment comes amid heightened speculation about potential US military intervention in Venezuela, where President Nicolas Maduro faces strong opposition from Washington. The US does not recognize Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate leader and has offered a $50 million bounty for his capture on charges of leading a drug cartel. President Trump has hinted at decisive action regarding Venezuela, stating on Friday that he had ‘sort of’ made up his mind on the issue, though he declined to elaborate. Meanwhile, the US military has also increased its presence in Trinidad and Tobago, conducting joint training exercises with local forces, which Maduro has condemned as ‘irresponsible.’
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Sasha Bling celebrates 10-year milestone
Sasha-gay Roache, professionally known as Sasha Bling, is a multifaceted creative force in the entertainment industry. As an artiste manager, publicist, writer, producer, mother, and video director, she has carved a niche for herself in a field traditionally dominated by men. With a decade of experience as a video editor and the head of BlingBlang Works, Roache has collaborated with top-tier artists such as I Octane, Alkaline, Vybz Kartel, and Spice. Her impressive portfolio includes directing music videos that have collectively garnered over 100 million views on YouTube, including I Octane’s ‘Opportunist,’ Alkaline’s ‘Fleek,’ Vybz Kartel’s ‘Any Weather,’ and Spice’s ‘God Bless Me.’ Roache’s journey began as the host of the FIWI Choice Top 10 Chart TV show ‘Gossip Girl,’ where she nurtured her passion for production. She later honed her skills at the Media Institute of Technology, focusing on video directing. Despite the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry, Roache emphasizes her commitment to growth and excellence. ‘I don’t look at the industry from a gender standpoint,’ she told the Jamaica Observer. ‘I focus on ability, not gender. The only pressure I face is the one I place on myself to elevate after every project.’ Roache’s resourcefulness and dedication have earned her respect and recognition. She is also deeply committed to building a legacy for her daughter, Nahbi, who is already showing an interest in the creative process. ‘I want her to have respect for the entire process,’ Roache shared. ‘She’s very fascinated by it and already has an eye for creativity.’ Looking ahead, Roache aspires to collaborate with global icons like Rihanna and expand her influence in the music and entertainment space. ‘I was born to create,’ she said. ‘This is just the beginning. There’s always room to grow and do better.’ Roache’s ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy that her children can be proud of, not just for her work but for the foundation she has set for them.
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Portugal qualify for 2026 World Cup by thrashing Armenia
In a stunning display of football prowess, Portugal secured their place in the 2026 World Cup finals with a resounding 9-1 victory over Armenia in Porto on Sunday. Despite the absence of suspended star Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese team delivered a commanding performance, led by hat-tricks from Bruno Fernandes and Joao Neves. The match marked Portugal’s third attempt to clinch qualification after a draw in Hungary and a surprising defeat in Ireland earlier in the week. Renato Veiga opened the scoring in the seventh minute, followed by goals from Goncalo Ramos, Francisco Conceicao, and a series of strikes from Fernandes and Neves. Armenia briefly equalized through Eduard Spertsyan, but Portugal quickly regained control, building an unassailable lead. Fernandes, who played a pivotal role throughout the match, netted his 28th goal for Portugal, cementing his place as the country’s sixth-highest goalscorer. Neves, scoring his first goals for the national team, expressed his joy while emphasizing the team’s collective effort. Juventus forward Conceicao sealed the historic win with a stoppage-time goal. Manager Roberto Martinez praised his team’s response after the Ireland defeat, while Ronaldo, who could miss the start of the tournament due to suspension, celebrated the qualification on social media. In other Group F action, Ireland secured a dramatic 3-2 win over Hungary, with Troy Parrott scoring a hat-trick to advance to the play-offs.
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Former Reggae Boyz rally to raise hurricane relief funds
A group of former Jamaican national football players, known as the Reggae Boyz, has initiated a significant fundraising campaign to assist communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa. Spearheaded by Jobi McAnuff, a veteran of over 30 international matches for Jamaica, the effort is driven by both personal loss and a sense of national duty. McAnuff, who maintains close ties with family in Jamaica, described the hurricane’s impact as catastrophic, prompting him and his former teammates to take action. The initiative includes a GoFundMe page, leveraging their public profiles to encourage donations and provide essential aid to those affected. McAnuff emphasized the personal toll of the disaster, with family members in various parts of the island suffering significant losses. The campaign has garnered widespread support from former players, including Adrian Mariappa, Wes Morgan, Joel Grant, and Garath McCleary, reflecting the strong camaraderie within the Reggae Boyz community. McAnuff, now a football pundit in the UK, noted that the response has exceeded expectations, with substantial funds raised to address urgent needs. He also highlighted the importance of Jamaica’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Curacao, viewing it as an opportunity to uplift the nation amidst ongoing challenges. For McAnuff and his peers, this initiative transcends fundraising; it is a testament to their enduring connection to Jamaica and their commitment to its recovery.
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Sinner caps eventful year with ATP Finals triumph over great rival Alcaraz
In a thrilling conclusion to a tumultuous season, Jannik Sinner emerged victorious at the ATP Finals in Turin, Italy, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5. The Italian tennis star captivated the home crowd, securing his second consecutive ATP Finals title and capping off a remarkable year that included triumphs at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Sinner’s victory was particularly poignant, given his three-month ban earlier in the season due to accidental contamination with a banned substance, a situation that the World Anti-Doping Agency acknowledged was unintentional. The 24-year-old has now won 31 consecutive matches on indoor hard courts, a streak that began after his loss to Novak Djokovic in the 2023 championship match. Sinner’s performance was a testament to his resilience and skill, as he navigated a challenging season to end on a high note. Alcaraz, despite a stellar season with eight tournament wins and six Grand Slam titles, was unable to overcome Sinner’s dominance in the final. The match was a showcase of high-level tennis, with both players delivering powerful serves and intense rallies. Sinner’s victory was sealed when Alcaraz sent a backhand wide on the first championship point, prompting an emotional celebration with his family and the roaring crowd.
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Watson, DaCosta, Halledeen look to shine with Funcaandun and Dothraki on Jamaica Cup race day
The Jamaica Cup Race Day is set to be a monumental event for owner Carlton Watson, trainer Jason DaCosta, and jockey Robert Halledeen as they aim for a dominant double with their horses, Funcaandun and Dothraki, in the $6-million Jamaica Cup and the $2.5-million Port Royal Sprint, respectively. The trio is poised for success in two of the three major trophy events on the 10-race card, with high hopes of a triumphant day. Funcaandun, the reigning Horse of the Year, will face 11 competitors over nine and a half furlongs (1,900m), while Dothraki will take on eight rivals over six furlongs (1,200m). Both races are ‘Win and You’re In’ contests, offering a guaranteed spot in next month’s prestigious Mouttet Mile. Funcaandun, despite a disappointing sixth-place finish in the recent Gold Cup, boasts an impressive record with two wins from five starts this season. Carrying top weight at 57.0kgs (126 lb), the bay colt is a formidable contender with a proven track record in major races. However, the competition remains fierce, with Tiz Tok, Mojito, and H Two O posing significant threats. Tiz Tok has shown steady improvement, Mojito recently secured a victory over nine furlongs, and H Two O has been training exceptionally well. Meanwhile, Dothraki, a four-year-old American-bred colt, is making his second local appearance after a stellar debut win. He is the top pick for the Port Royal Sprint, though Rideallday and Desert of Malibu are expected to provide strong competition. Rideallday, a highly regarded horse, is eager to reclaim his winning streak after a setback in the Gold Cup, while Desert of Malibu has shown promise in recent training sessions. In the $1.5-million St Elizabeth Distaff, trainer Anthony “Baba” Nunes is confident in his top runners, Fearless Force and Linguist, who are strong contenders in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-old fillies and mares over one mile (1,600m). Fearless Force, unbeatable on paper, is the favorite, but Linguist, this year’s Jamaica Oaks winner, could challenge for the top spot. The Jamaica Cup Race Day promises thrilling competition and high stakes, with the potential for historic victories.