As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, the Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) has issued an urgent appeal to families to promptly collect relatives who have been discharged from hospitals and health facilities across the western region. This measure aims to ensure the safety and comfort of stable patients who can be cared for at home, while allowing hospitals to concentrate their resources on emergency and critical care cases during the storm. St Andrade Sinclair, the Regional Director, emphasized the critical need for swift community cooperation, stating that timely action would enhance hospital readiness. Sinclair urged family members to act responsibly by collecting loved ones who are medically fit for discharge, ensuring hospitals remain well-equipped to handle storm-related emergencies and provide optimal care to those in critical need. Families are advised to contact hospital wards or facility administrators for discharge guidance and collection times. The WRHA also reminded the public to stay informed through weather updates and advisories from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. The authority is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and local disaster response agencies to safeguard the well-being of patients and staff throughout the hurricane.
标签： Jamaica
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#EyeOnMelissa: Pagee residents upset over distance of shelters as hurricane approaches
As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, the residents of Pagee, a small fishing village in St Mary, are grappling with the challenges of relocating to emergency shelters. The nearest designated shelter is situated several kilometres away in Trinity, a distance that has sparked frustration and concern among the community. Barrington, a local resident, voiced his discontent, stating, ‘We used to have Kirk Church nearby, but now we’re told to go to Trinity Primary School, which is far from here.’ While Barrington has opted to stay with a friend rather than seek refuge in a shelter, he expressed deep worry for vulnerable members of the community, particularly the elderly and those with health issues, who may find the journey arduous or unaffordable. ‘They’ll either have to spend money they don’t have on transportation or risk staying home and facing flooding,’ he remarked, as he hurried to a part of the village with electricity to charge his phone.
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Dominica Prime Minister reiterates call for Caribbean to be zone of peace
In a powerful address at the 86th annual conference of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP), Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit emphasized the Caribbean’s commitment to maintaining itself as a zone of peace. He warned that any military escalation in the region would have dire consequences for all Caribbean nations. Skerrit’s remarks echoed those of Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who earlier called for an end to the United States’ military build-up off Venezuela’s coast, ostensibly aimed at combating drug trafficking. Both leaders stressed the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy rather than force. Skerrit highlighted the region’s historical struggles for freedom and independence, urging Caribbean nations to stand firm on these principles. He shared excerpts of Mottley’s speech on the Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders’ social media page, underscoring the need to speak truth to power. Mottley, in her opening address, described the current situation in the southern Caribbean as ‘extremely dangerous and untenable,’ emphasizing the region’s tragic history of being subjected to external powers’ violence. She called for unity in upholding the Caribbean as a zone of peace, a principle enshrined since Caricom’s inception. Mottley also rejected the notion of extrajudicial killings and the conflation of law enforcement with military action, advocating for the rule of law. The recent deployment of the USS Gerald Ford and over 10,000 U.S. troops to the Caribbean has raised concerns among regional leaders, who view it as a potential precursor to an invasion of Venezuela. The U.S. claims these actions are part of a counter-drug initiative, but critics argue they lack transparency and justification.
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Santosha Jamaica
Nestled on the serene south coast of Jamaica in the parish of Westmoreland, near the quaint fishing town of Whitehouse, Santosha stands as a 12,000-square-foot sanctuary of modern contemporary architecture. This luxurious retreat offers a tranquil haven, enveloped by a calm natural environment, designed to provide a space for relaxation and a complete disconnection from the stresses of daily life. The villa’s décor, inspired by nature’s vibrant palette, creates a fresh, colourful, and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for multi-generational gatherings, special events, and corporate retreats. Guests can indulge in tailored dining experiences, savouring fresh local cuisines prepared by a private chef, while a dedicated butler and housekeepers ensure a restful and harmonious stay. The property boasts a fully equipped gym, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and holistic health programmes, catering to both physical and mental well-being. The infinity edge pool, private beach, and access to the Caribbean Sea offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. With a gated entry and secure parking, Santosha promises a safe and luxurious escape, evoking summery feelings from dusk to dawn.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Braeton residents concerned over uncollected garbage ahead of potential flooding
Residents of Braeton, a community in Portmore, St Catherine, Jamaica, are raising alarms over the prolonged absence of garbage collection services as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches the island. Reports indicate that waste has been left uncollected for over a week, leaving the neighborhood littered with accumulating trash. The situation has sparked fears among locals that the uncollected garbage could obstruct drainage systems, exacerbating the risk of severe flooding.
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India and China resume direct flights as ties improve
In a significant development for bilateral relations, India and China have resumed direct flights after a five-year suspension. The first flight, IndiGo 6E1703, departed from Kolkata and landed in Guangzhou, China, early Sunday morning, marking the official restart of nonstop air links that were halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. This move is seen as a symbolic step toward rebuilding ties between the two Asian giants, who remain strategic rivals but have gradually eased tensions since a deadly border clash in 2020. The resumption of flights is expected to enhance people-to-people contact and normalize bilateral exchanges, according to the Indian government. The decision comes amid strained relations between India and the United States, following President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50% tariffs and accusations that India is supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing its oil. Regular flights between India and Hong Kong have already been operational, with additional services from New Delhi to Shanghai and Guangzhou set to begin in November. Business leaders, such as Rajeev Singh of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, have hailed the move, emphasizing its potential to reduce logistics costs and transit times. Kolkata, with its historical ties to China dating back to British rule, stands to benefit significantly from the renewed air connectivity. The city’s Indo-Chinese culinary fusion remains a testament to its cultural links with China. Civil society leaders in Kolkata’s Chinatown, like Chen Khoi Kui, have welcomed the development, noting its positive impact on trade, tourism, and family reunions. Despite the thaw, India faces a long-term challenge in managing its relationship with an increasingly assertive China. The two nations continue to grapple with a significant trade imbalance, with India heavily reliant on Chinese raw materials. While recent diplomatic engagements, including meetings between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, have improved relations, fundamental strategic realities remain unchanged. The resumption of flights is a step forward, but the path to full normalization of ties is fraught with complexities.
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Isak-less Liverpool look to hit stride in Premier LeagueMan City ‘back’ to their best
As the Premier League heats up, Liverpool faces a critical challenge to end their three-game losing streak when they visit Brentford this Saturday. The Reds must secure a win to stay within reach of league leaders Arsenal and the in-form Manchester City. Meanwhile, City’s nine-game unbeaten run will be put to the test against Aston Villa, while Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium. Manchester United, buoyed by their recent victory at Anfield, aim to continue their resurgence against Brighton, a team that has consistently troubled them at Old Trafford in recent seasons. The weekend’s fixtures could prove pivotal in shaping the title race and European qualification battles. Liverpool’s fortunes may hinge on the absence of Alexander Isak, their record signing, who sustained a groin injury. His absence could allow Arne Slot to experiment with new formations, potentially reigniting the team’s form. Manchester United’s revival under Ruben Amorim faces a stern test against Brighton, who have dominated recent encounters. For Manchester City, the match at Villa Park will be a litmus test of their title credentials, with Erling Haaland’s prolific form driving their resurgence.
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#EyeOnMelissa: ODPEM activates National Emergency Operation Centre
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has escalated its response to Hurricane Melissa by activating the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) at its highest alert level. The tropical storm, rapidly intensifying, is anticipated to unleash severe weather across the island, necessitating a comprehensive and coordinated national effort.
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NBA coach, player arrested amidst ‘mind-boggling’ gambling scheme
In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the NBA, Portland Trail Blazers Head Coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were arrested on Thursday for their alleged involvement in illegal gambling schemes. The arrests, part of a broader federal investigation, have exposed a complex web of fraud and corruption tied to organized crime and sports betting.
Billups, a celebrated former Detroit Pistons star and NBA Hall of Famer, is accused of facilitating rigged poker games linked to mafia crime families. According to FBI Director Kash Patel, these high-stakes games utilized advanced cheating technologies, including card-reading shuffling machines and hidden cameras. Meanwhile, Rozier, along with former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones, was implicated in a separate sports betting case involving insider information on player injuries and game performances.
The scope of the alleged fraud is staggering, with tens of millions of dollars reportedly siphoned through these schemes over several years. Both Billups and Rozier have been placed on immediate leave by the NBA, which emphasized its commitment to preserving the integrity of the game. The league stated, ‘We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority.’
Rozier appeared in federal court in Orlando, Florida, where he was ordered to post bond and surrender his passport. He is scheduled to appear in New York on December 8. Billups, released on bond after his court appearance in Portland, Oregon, is set to face charges in New York on November 24. Both have been indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
The investigation has also revealed connections to other NBA teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Toronto Raptors. One notable incident cited in the indictment involved Rozier allegedly informing co-conspirators of his early exit from a game due to a supposed injury, enabling them to place over $200,000 in wagers and reap substantial profits.
Rozier’s attorney, James Trusty, has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that prosecutors are relying on ‘spectacularly incredible sources’ rather than concrete evidence. The National Basketball Players Association has also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence.
This scandal underscores the ongoing challenges the NBA faces in combating corruption and maintaining the trust of its fans. As the legal proceedings unfold, the league’s reputation hangs in the balance, with the integrity of the sport at stake.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Montego Bay preparing for the storm
As Tropical Storm Melissa looms over Jamaica, residents and authorities are ramping up efforts to minimize the potential destruction. The storm, which is predicted to intensify into Hurricane Melissa, has prompted widespread preparations across the island. In Montego Bay, workers were observed dismantling a large sign atop a building on Saturday, a precautionary measure to prevent it from becoming a hazardous projectile in the anticipated strong winds. The Western Parks and Markets agency has also initiated extensive clean-up operations to reduce the risk of garbage clogging drains and exacerbating flooding. With heavy rains and flooding expected, the accumulation of debris could severely impact drainage systems, leading to more extensive water damage. The community remains on high alert, taking proactive steps to safeguard lives and property as the storm approaches.