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Two Broward Schools employees charged for alleged illegal rental of district facilities

Two Broward County Public Schools employees accused of fraud appeared before a judge Thursday after investigators alleged they improperly used school facilities for personal financial gain.

Authorities said Henry McNabb, 42, of Deerfield Beach, and Brenton Hankerson, 43, of North Lauderdale, were using district facilities without authorization and charging the public to attend events held on school property.

The alleged misconduct came to light in May following a confrontation between McNabb and Delvin King, principal of Youth Under Construction School in Pompano Beach. King said he had scheduled his school’s graduation ceremony at Blanche Ely High School’s basketball gymnasium, only to arrive and find another event already underway.

“I came in and there was a whole basketball tournament going on here at Blanche Ely High School,” King said. “There was nothing on the calendar. I am the only person (who) rented the gym.”

King believes McNabb and others were using Broward school gymnasiums to host athletic events without going through the district’s required approval process, while charging admission.

“They are illegally renting out the gym for personal financial gain,” King said.

He also raised concerns about safety and liability, noting the absence of district staff during the unauthorized event.

“There were no employees there,” King said. “No security, no custodians, not one Broward County school employee.”

In a statement to Local 10 News, Broward County Public Schools confirmed the arrests.

“Both employees in question were arrested by Broward Schools Police as part of an investigations into the improper use of district facilities for personal gain,” the statement said. “The Superintendent maintains a zero-tolerance stance on public corruption, and both employees will be subject to termination.”

Officials said McNabb alone deprived the district of nearly $13,000 in potential revenue.

Both suspects were held at the Broward Main Jail on $15,000 bond. Hankerson bonded out Thursday night and did not speak with reporters as he was released.

40% of JN Hurricane Melissa relief funds to support early childhood sector

Chairman of the JN Foundation, Parris Lyew-Ayee (centre) makes a point to Claudine Allen (left), general manager of the JN Foundation and Professor Zoya Kinkead-Clark, senior lecturer in Early Childhood Education at UWI, Mona.

Forty per cent of donations raised through The Jamaica National Group’s ISupportJamaica Fund for Hurricane Melissa relief will be allocated to early childhood institutions, reinforcing the organisation’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the sector.

The announcement was made by Chairman of the JN Foundation, Parris Lyew-Ayee, on Day Two of the Early Childhood Colloquium held recently at The University of the West Indies (UWI) Regional Headquarters. The ISupportJamaica Fund, which is managed by the JN Foundation, facilitates local and international contributions to recovery efforts and is accessible at ISupportJamaica.com.

Addressing Caribbean leaders, educators and policymakers, Lyew-Ayee urged the region to use the current moment to transform early childhood education, arguing that the future of Caribbean societies depends on how well their youngest citizens are prepared.

“Early childhood education is the most effective form of economic development policy, social protection policy, and crime prevention policy, all rolled into one,” he said. “It must be recognised as a strategic investment, not a luxury.”

He underscored the importance of the early years in shaping character, intellect and resilience, noting that foundational learning has far-reaching societal impacts.

“Every time a child learns to express a thought, to share, to solve a problem, he or she is laying the foundational stones for society,” Lyew-Ayee said. “If we fail the youngest learners, we limit our national growth. If we give them a strong start, we unleash the power that lifts entire nations.”

While highlighting a shared Caribbean vision that every child should have the opportunity to fulfil his or her potential, he cautioned that past opportunities for reform have been missed.

“This is why we must grasp every chance now,” he said. “We cannot let the next opportunity slip through our fingers.”

Lyew-Ayee also paid tribute to Dudley Grant, widely regarded as the father of early childhood education in Jamaica, describing his philosophy as a “seamless blend of care, play and learning” that continues to guide the sector. He encouraged teachers and parents to instil confidence, nurture curiosity and build strong character in children.

Reflecting on Hurricane Melissa’s impact, he noted that natural disasters “traumatise our little ones and set back the sector,” making targeted rebuilding and support especially urgent. He reaffirmed the JN Foundation’s approach to development, saying, “We believe at JN that to transform a nation, we start at the foundation. It’s in our DNA.”

He further called on educators, policymakers, researchers and the media to work together to implement action plans emerging from the colloquium.

“Do not let this be another academic exercise,” he warned. “The real test will be the impact we see five, 10, 15, or 20 years from now in young people who think critically, care deeply, and act decisively for the common good.”

Meanwhile, Professor Zoya Kinkead-Clark, senior lecturer in Early Childhood Education at UWI, Mona, echoed the call for regional collaboration and strong policy direction.

“I’m so happy that many of you have decided to come back for day two,” she said. “This colloquium continues to focus on advocating for early childhood care and education in the Caribbean, ensuring we know what must be done and that we get it done.”

She stressed that early childhood education serves as a protective factor that enables children to thrive and said policy discussions must translate into tangible, long-term outcomes across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

Addressing Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath, Kinkead-Clark noted that while devastation has been widespread, community-level partnerships have played a critical role in sustaining the system.

“It is the small partnerships, the community members opening their homes and verandahs so schools can reopen, that are holding the system together,” she said.

The two-day regional conference was held on November 27–28 and was organised by the JN Foundation in collaboration with the UWI School of Education and the Dudley Grant Early Childhood Resource Centre.

Sunrise Airways launches introductory fares on new Fort Lauderdale–Cap-Haïtien route

Grenada welcomes new service by Haiti-based airline

Sunrise Airways is marking the launch of its new nonstop service between Fort Lauderdale and Cap-Haïtien with an introductory fare sale, offering one-way tickets starting at US$299 and round-trip fares beginning at US$499.

The new route is aimed at strengthening air connectivity between Haiti and South Florida, particularly ahead of the holiday travel season.

“Christmas has come a little early for anyone seeking a reliable new airlink between Haiti and South Florida,” said Gary Stone, CEO of Sunrise Airways. “We’re proud and excited to get our newest route off the ground with attractive introductory fares making it easy for friends and families to reunite and enjoy the Holidays together.”

Flights will operate three days a week — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — beginning December 15, 2025. Sunrise Airways will deploy Airbus A320 aircraft on the route, featuring a single class of service with a maximum capacity of 179 passengers and all-leather seating throughout the cabin.

The airline said the introductory fares are available on a limited basis, with additional restrictions and blackout dates that may apply.

Late strikes tilt balance as New Zealand tightens grip despite West Indies’ fightback

West Indies

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — On a day when the West Indies’ bowlers clawed their way back into the contest with discipline and persistence, New Zealand struck twice in the fading light to reassert command of the second Test.

Jacob Duffy and Michael Rae delivered pivotal late blows that left the visitors wobbling at 32 for two, still trailing by 41 runs and under mounting pressure heading into day three on Friday.

Rae ignited the damage with a riveting inswinger that uprooted John Campbell for 14, while Duffy followed up moments later, trapping nightwatchman Anderson Phillip plumb in front without scoring. After a day of grit and revival, those final minutes swung the momentum sharply back toward the hosts.

Roach and Phillip lead the charge

Earlier, the West Indies had revived their fortunes with an incisive bowling display anchored by Anderson Phillip, restricting New Zealand to 278 after the home side appeared poised for much more. The 73-run lead was far from ideal but significantly less daunting than what once seemed inevitable.

New Zealand, resuming on 24 without loss, added only 16 before Kemar Roach produced a sublime delivery that defeated Tom Latham’s inside edge and clipped the off stump. It was a breakthrough the visitors desperately needed.

A partnership that tested the tourists

Devon Conway and Kane Williamson then mounted a firm resistance, stitching together 67 valuable runs and frustrating the Windies’ attack for almost 90 minutes. Conway survived a major let-off on 29 when Brandon King spilled a sharp chance at leg slip off Jayden Seales. Seizing the reprieve, Conway marched to his 13th Test half century off 90 balls, guiding a drive from Ojay Shields toward deep backward point for two just before lunch.

But the session ended with a twist. Williamson, having played with characteristic fluency for a brisk 37 off 46 deliveries, had his stumps rattled by Phillip with the interval in sight. The wicket shifted the tone just as the players walked off.

Momentum swings after lunch

The West Indies struck almost immediately after the resumption. Roach coaxed an edge from Rachin Ravindra, caught behind for five. Soon after, Justin Greaves benefitted from an ill-disciplined glance down the leg side from Conway, whose 60 ended in the gloves of Tevin Imlach with New Zealand on 117 for four.

At that stage the visitors had seized the momentum. But debutant Mitchell Hay and Daryl Mitchell restored stability through a composed 73-run partnership that steered the hosts away from danger.

Windies drag NZ back yet again

Phillip broke the stand by drawing a leg-side edge from Mitchell, snaffled smartly by Imlach for 25 with the total at 190 for five. Hay, showing maturity beyond his experience, powered to his maiden Test half century, twice driving Shields to the boundary as New Zealand reached tea on 200 for five, just shy of the West Indies’ first-inning score.

After the break, New Zealand overtook the visitors and appeared set to build a sizeable lead. But the innings faltered under renewed pressure. Hay, after pulling Shields for consecutive boundaries, overreached in pursuit of a third and found Roach at fine leg to fall for 61 at 213 for six.

Glenn Phillips chipped in 18 before holing out to Phillip at deep midwicket off Roston Chase, and Phillip returned to remove Duffy for 11. Seales completed the resistance by bowling Rae, sealing a collapse in which New Zealand lost their last five wickets for just 65 runs.

Phillip finished with the standout figures of 3 for 70, while Roach claimed 2 for 43.

A night that undid a day’s work

Yet even after all that effort, the late strikes from Rae and Duffy shifted the dynamic once again, leaving the West Indies with a precarious rebuild ahead.

 

JMMC hails Summerbell and Issa, nation’s first European Motorsport Champions

The Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club (JMMC) has formally saluted a moment that redefines the nation’s presence in global motorsport.

Senna Summerbell and Chris Issa etched their names into the record books as the 2025 TCR European Endurance Series Champions in the DSG Class, Jamaica’s first-ever European motorsport title of any kind. Their triumph at Misano, Italy, illuminated not only the circuit but also the path forward for the Caribbean’s racing future.

Their debut season yielded even more: a remarkable second place in the overall championship, and, through the combined excellence of both drivers and their Austrian partners, Wimmer Werk Motorsport clinched the 2025 TCR European Endurance Team Championship. In a single season, Jamaica earned a historic triple.

A campaign born in uncertainty

Though Misano delivered the glory, the journey began in a far more fragile place. Earlier in the year, Summerbell walked away from the GT4 Germany programme after Valencia, constrained by rising costs and personal pressures. For a time, the very idea of competing in Europe seemed to slip out of reach.

Then came the unexpected catalyst. Wimmer Werk Motorsport, once fierce rivals, approached with an offer to join their TCR effort. Summerbell shared the opportunity with longtime mentor and friend Chris Issa, whose response was immediate and unequivocal. “Uncle Chris” insisted that Senna belonged on the European grid and committed himself as co-driver without hesitation. His conviction reignited the dream that would eventually reshape Jamaican motorsport history.

Preparation that redefined professionalism

Once committed, Issa set about elevating the program’s foundation with exceptional rigor. He secured a high-end racing simulator built precisely to replicate their TCR machinery and enlisted Jamaica’s leading sim racer, Jayden Harrison, to provide nightly coaching. The results were immediate, Summerbell arrived at the season opener with the pace to contend from the very first practice session.

On race weekends, Issa doubled down on performance. He flew in Usain Bolt’s physiotherapist to oversee warm-ups, hydration, recovery, jet lag management, and cockpit heat protocols, professional touches rarely seen at this level. Wimmer Werk’s mechanics responded in kind, laboring through two engine changes, a gearbox reconstruction for the finale, and complete brake refits throughout the championship. Their admiration for Issa was so profound that the team deemed him “the best racer they’ve ever had.”

A selfless gesture to seal a championship

Issa’s commitment culminated in an extraordinary act of sacrifice. For the title-deciding round at Misano, he voluntarily stepped out of the cockpit and entrusted the entire drive to Summerbell. He remained on the radio, guiding strategy, encouraging pace management, and even lent Summerbell his own lightweight race gear. The now-iconic energy gummies taped into the cockpit, his idea, became a symbol of their unity.

Summerbell carried the responsibility with the composure of a champion, delivering the performance that clinched the first TCR European Championship title ever won by a Caribbean crew.

A victory weighted with meaning

For Summerbell, the triumph resonates far beyond the podium. It is history, legacy, gratitude, and personal redemption intertwined.

“This title means everything. Sharing it with someone who gave everything behind the scenes, quietly and consistently, means even more. Uncle Chris, a Jamaican legend and a real teammate. This win is Jamaica’s, and it’s ours.”

JMMC honors a new national standard

JMMC President Stephen Gunter hailed the achievement not merely as a milestone, but as a recalibration of what Jamaican motorsport can aspire to.

“Senna Summerbell and Chris Issa have not only made history, they have set a new standard for Jamaican motorsport. Their professionalism, humility, and determination embody the very best of our racing culture. On behalf of the entire Jamaican motorsport community, the JMMC congratulates them, their families, and Wimmer Werk Motorsport on this extraordinary achievement. They have inspired a generation and proven that Jamaica can compete, and win, on the world stage.”

A legacy that expands the possible

This championship stands among Jamaica’s most significant international motorsport accomplishments, an emblem of discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, and national pride. It signals not only what is possible, but what now feels inevitable for the next generation of Jamaican drivers who dare to compete abroad with the right backing behind them.

The JMMC once again extends heartfelt congratulations to Senna Summerbell and Chris Issa, 2025 TCR European Endurance Series champions, and to Wimmer Werk Motorsport, 2025 team champions.

 

PBA games today: Live scores, schedule updates, and key matchups

Basketball going through a hoop

The energy surrounding today’s PBA (Philippines Basketball Association) action is electric, and fans know that every PBA game today live carries its own storyline. That’s why thousands of fans turn to 1xBet for a real-time update on scores, check the schedule, and follow the pulse of PBA live. Missing even one quarter of the matches can mean missing out on the highlight everyone is talking about.

But updates aren’t just for diehard supporters. Reliable schedules, accurate PBA score today and stats, and on-time results are also essential tools for analysts, prediction tracking, and anyone monitoring performance trends.

And that’s why this article brings to you everything you need to stay fully locked in, from the PBA games, PBA live score, PBA schedule, to all the latest PBA results. Whether you want to know who’s battling it out tonight, who already secured a win, or which teams are fighting for a play-off position, stay with us throughout this article.

PBA Schedule Today

PBA match schedule on December 12th, 2025.

Match Venue Time
Terrafirma Dyip Vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Ninoy Aquino Stadium 5:15 pm
Phoenix Fuelmasters Vs Meralco Bolts Ninoy Aquino Stadium 7:30 pm

Quick Context: Teams, Form & Stakes

  • Terrafirma Dyip Vs Barangay Ginebra San Miguel:Terrafirma, who are at the bottom of the standings with only one win in 9 games, are the underdogs. Dyip will be aiming to upset and collect a win to boost their chances of a low seed. A strong performance could shake up the lower half of the standings and keep them relevant heading into the final elimination games. As one of the big teams in PBA games today, Ginebra will aim to dominate the game. Their squad of well-experienced players will give them an edge over their opponent. Ginebra has played 8 games, and they have won 50% of their games. They currently sit at number 8 on the table.
  • Phoenix Fuelmasters Vs Meralco Bolts: Meralco Bolts, who are currently sitting at the number 7 on the standings, are the more established squads. They will look to leverage their current form against Phoenix, who have only won 3 of their last 9 games and are part of the bottom 4 in the standings.

PBA Live Score Today

Live score does more than just tell you who’s winning at any given moment; it dynamically shapes how a game unfolds. For fans following the PBA news, real-time coverage lets you feel that ebb and flow as it happens, quarter by quarter, minute by minute.

The PBA result for the week includes:

Date Matchup Final Score Points Leaders (PTS) Assist Leaders (ATS) Rebound leaders (REB) Turnover Venue
Dec 6

 

 SMB vs Phoenix 112– 104 Perez (29) Ross (10) Fajardo (15) SMB 9 / PHX 14 Ynares Center
Dec 7

 

 TNT vs ROS 99 – 90 Hollis-Jefferson (26) Williams (11) Chua (12) TNT 13 / ROS 17 Smart Araneta Coliseum
Dec 8 Meralco vs NorthPort 87 – 79 Maliksi (21) Pinto (7) Quinto (9) MER 10 / NOR 18 PhilSports Arena
Dec 9 Magnolia vs Phoenix 105– 100 Lee (28) Banchero (7) Abueva (12) MAG 11 / PHX 13 Smart Araneta Coliseum
Dec 10 Magnolia vs NLEX 98 – 82 Lee (23) Jalalon (8) Abueva (14) MAG 9 / NLEX 15 Ynares Center

PBA Key Metrics to Follow: Beyond Just Points And Why Stats Matter

A live scoreboard gives you the what, who leads, and by how much. Metrics, however, give you the why and how. They explain how a small lead became a big one, how a drought turned into a comeback, and how one team’s efficiency beat another’s volume. For fans, it makes the game more apparent and interesting, like having a running commentary on every momentum swing.

For analysts, commentators, or even bettors, it offers context like which players are dominant, which team is playing smart, and which one is wasting possessions. Data metrics do more than populate a stat sheet; they tell a story about momentum, team cohesion, and where the edge lies at any point in the PBA result today.

This analytical approach mirrors how bettors and analysts evaluate other major leagues as well. For example, insights from this article highlight how trends, form, and matchup data are used across basketball leagues worldwide to anticipate outcomes more accurately.

Below are standard metrics to watch out for in a basketball statistics report.

  • Points leaders
  • Assists
  • Rebounds
  • Turnovers
  • Shooting  Efficiency

Key Matchups to Watch

This season, PBA games have seen fans shifting their attention from teams like the San Miguel Beermen, the FiberXers, and the Converge FiberXers to a whole new set of teams.

TNT Tropang 5G Vs NLEX Road Warriors

It will be highly based on both backcourt and frontcourt dynamics. NLEX’s lead guards will look to control tempo, protect the ball, and force TNT into tough shots, while TNT’s will aim to exploit any defensive lapses through shooting and drives. The road warriors must secure rebounds and contest drives to limit TNT’s second-chance opportunities, while TNT’s big men will try to establish post presence and create scoring chances for themselves or open shooters.

Tactically, NLEX may favour a slower, defence-focused pace to limit possessions, whereas TNT will push the pace for a quicker ball movement, pick-and-rolls, and perimeter shooting. Bench contributions and rotational depth will also play a critical role. It is set for December 13th, 2025, at the Ynares Centre, Antipolo.

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Vs. Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots

This epic duel is scheduled for December 13th, 2025, at Ynares Centre, Antipolo. Tactically, Ginebra will likely favour a half-court, controlled pace, using physical sets and late-clock execution to minimize turnovers. Magnolia may counter by pushing the tempo, emphasizing spacing, motion offense, and transition opportunities to disrupt Ginebra’s structured approach.

Odds & Betting Implications for the Clash

Since these are  “legacy” or rivalry‑type clashes, public interest will likely be high. PBA odds may lean toward Magnolia and Road Warriors due to their current form and reputation, but TNT Tropang’s unpredictability (pace swings, outside shooting) can offer value, especially for props or live betting.

Live spreads could swing dramatically if TNT Tropang starts hot from outside or if Road Warriors falters in early possessions. Because momentum can shift quickly in rivalry games, bettors should watch for swings in live spreads, especially if TNT Tropang opens hot from three or Road Warriors struggle early. Bettors who prefer a more structured approach to tracking their wagers may find that using value betting software helps keep records organized and manage cash flow more effectively over time.

PBA Results Today

The race for the title of the PBA championship has gotten really tight. With momentum picking up from the game played on December 7th, 2025, every game now feels like a playoff preview. Below is a brief highlight of what went down on the 7th of December.

Magnolia vs NLEX

Magnolia Hotshots closed out the night with a 98–82 win over the NLEX Road Warriors. This win helped them secure a well-deserved quarterfinal spot in the 2025–26 PBA Philippine Cup. During the match, an unexpected twist shakes Magnolia’s side. A key player, “Jerom Lastimosa”, got an injury in the first half of the game. They affected the team’s composition, but they quickly picked themselves up and played a great game of the season.

The Magnolia’s victory relieved them of the league pressure and added a bit of pressure to their contenders battling for the twice-to-beat advantage. NLEX, on the other hand, must now regroup quickly to protect its PBA standing and avoid further future defeats.

Rain or Shine vs Converge

Rain or Shine pulled off a composed 90–84 victory over Converge, overcoming an early deficit and gradually taking control as the game progressed. Rain or Shine boosts its twice-to-beat bid and playoff momentum, while Converge stays in the upper tier but faces mounting pressure from Magnolia and NLEX, making every remaining elimination game critical.

Team Trends and Standings Impact: After the December 7, 2025, Games

The results of the December 7 double-header significantly shifted the dynamics of the 2025–26 PBA Philippine standings, particularly in the tightly contested upper half of the standings. Rain or Shine’s 90–84 win over Converge propelled them to a 7–2 record.

This gave them solo leadership of the conference and established them as one of the most consistent teams this season. NLEX also reinforced their rise, moving them to 6–3, tied with Converge and NLEX but with superior momentum.

Meanwhile, the losses by NLEX and Converge FiberXers exposed vulnerabilities that analytics-focused fans should monitor. NLEX, now at 6–3, struggled with slow starts and inconsistent half-court execution, indicators of volatility that could affect playoff seeding. Converge, also at 6–3, displayed strong individual performances but faltered in clutch situations, suggesting concerns about late-game efficiency and lineup stability.

For bettors and analytics-minded readers, these trends point toward a conference where momentum, health, and late-game execution will separate true contenders from teams simply trying to stay afloat.

Where to Follow PBA Live Updates

Social media platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram give instant score updates, highlights, and alerts. Second-by-second stats, player performance, and team trends are shown through mobile apps like the official PBA app, ESPN5, Flashscore, and Sofascore.

Using these live updates in correlation with 1xBet, fans in the Philippines can make informed live bets, monitor momentum, and follow real-time betting opportunities seamlessly.

Conclusion

The PBA is highly competitive, proper research needs to be done before analysts can broadly confirm or rule out any team, as there are metrics that go beyond the game score. These metrics go a long way in analysing the strengths and weaknesses of a team.

Just as the just-concluded game has significantly affected the table, any game can also change the outcome of a match. Bettors in the Philippines do not need to rush in and place their bets on any site. They should go for sites that provide adequate stats, records, and metrics of games played. This will enable you to know the strength of the team.

 

 

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley featured on Forbes’ 2025 World’s Most Powerful Women list

mia-mottley-barbados

Prime Minister Mia Mottley has once again earned international recognition, returning to the Forbes World’s 100 Most Powerful Women list for the third consecutive year, ranking No. 99 in 2025 among the globe’s most influential political, business and philanthropic leaders.

Forbes highlights Mottley’s continued global impact, particularly her forceful advocacy on climate change, her diplomatic leadership, and her role in steering Barbados’ constitutional transition.

According to her Forbes profile, Mottley “was elected as Barbados’ prime minister in 2018. When she was sworn in, she became the first woman to hold the role.” The profile also notes her rise as a global leader on climate issues, referencing her 2021 address to the United Nations General Assembly, where she delivered an “impassioned speech” calling for urgent action.

That same year, the United Nations Environment Programme named her a “Champion of the Earth for Policy Leadership.” Forbes further underscores her role in Barbados’ historic constitutional shift, noting: “Under her leadership, in November 2021, Barbados officially became a parliamentary republic and removed the Queen of England as its head of state.”

Mia Mottley has appeared on the Forbes Power Women ranking in recent years, including in 2023 and 2024, reinforcing her sustained influence on the global stage. Her continued presence reflects not only her domestic leadership, but also her growing role in shaping international conversations on climate finance, debt reform and global equity—particularly for small island developing states. In 2022, she was named to TIME magazine’s TIME100 list , which recognizes the world’s most influential people.

Her inclusion places her among a global cohort of women shaping economies, diplomacy, technology, philanthropy and cultural influence. She joins a 2025 Power Women list led by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at No. 1, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde at No. 2, and Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, at No. 3.

Forbes’ 22nd annual ranking evaluates women across four metrics: money, media, impact and spheres of influence. This year’s list spans 100 women from 17 countries, who collectively command an estimated $37 trillion in economic power and influence the lives of more than a billion people worldwide.

Mottley’s leadership trajectory, the publication notes, began long before her premiership. Her first ministerial appointment came in 1994 as Minister of Education, Youth Affairs and Culture, marking the start of a political career that would later carry her to regional and international prominence.

The publication further underscored that her continued appearance on major global rankings reinforces her status as one of the Caribbean’s most visible and influential political figures, often cited for her bold rhetoric on climate justice, global equity and economic reform.

KestheBand to headline Unity Jazz Festival at Lincoln Center

KestheBand

Trinidad and Tobago’s KestheBand is set to make history next year as the headlining act for the third annual Unity Jazz Festival, taking place January 8–9, 2026, at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City. Known for their electrifying fusion of soca, soul, calypso, and island pop, the group will bring its signature music style to one of the world’s most prestigious jazz stages.

The festival, held inside the renowned “House of Swing,” is a celebration of the musical community. This year’s edition forms part of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s 38th Season theme, Mother Africa, which honors the worldwide influence of African and African-diasporic musical traditions and their enduring role in the evolution of jazz.

Kes’ headlining performance arrives at a pivotal moment in the band’s career: the celebration of their 20th anniversary. In honor of the milestone, KestheBand will present their first-ever stripped-down, intimate concerts—two exclusive sets that feature reimagined arrangements of their biggest songs.

The shows, titled “An Intimate Evening with Kes and Friends,” will also include collaborative moments with acclaimed Trinidadian trumpeter Etienne Charles, known for his Afro-Caribbean musical storytelling and vibrant stage presence. Charles is a featured performer and also lends production support to Kes’s festival appearance, adding texture and depth to the group’s reimagined sound.

The headlining concerts are included for attendees who purchase the festival’s All-Access Pass, which guarantees assigned seating for Kes’ performances. A Nightly Festival Pass is also available for patrons wishing to experience the full festival programming minus the Kes concerts.

Kes’ landmark Unity Jazz Festival appearance comes just ahead of the release of their highly anticipated new single, “Rum And Coca Cola,” along with additional new music slated for early 2026. The festival serves as both a celebration of the band’s past two decades and a launchpad for their next chapter.

Across the two-day festival, nearly every performance space at Lincoln Center will be active, offering audiences a sweeping journey through jazz’s many voices. Alongside Kes’ concerts, festivalgoers can enjoy sets featuring:

  • Eddie Palmieri Experience: A Musical Retrospective
  • Tomeka Reid Septet: In Tribute to Ellington
  • DJ Logic and Friends with Herlin Riley, Luques Curtis & Nicole Glover
  • Etienne Charles: Creole Soul
  • Solomon Hicks and more

Kes’ appearance is significant by bringing soca, calypso, and island pop into jazz’s most iconic hall. KestheBand continues its legacy of expanding the Caribbean footprint on international stages. With their 20-year anniversary, upcoming releases, and boundary-pushing collaborations, the group is poised to deliver a truly unforgettable experience at the 2026 Unity Jazz Festival.

 

Jakes Treasure Beach reopens Dec. 18, signaling a confident return on Jamaica’s south coast

Pool at Jakes Treasure Beach. Photo credit by Brie Williams

On Jamaica’s magnetic south coast, Jakes Hotel has always existed slightly outside of time. A bohemian cluster of seaside cottages, verandas and saltwater rhythms, it was built on creativity, community and the pioneering spirit of founder Sally Henzell, her children Jason and Justine, and her late husband Perry Henzell — the visionary filmmaker behind The Harder They Come.

After Hurricane Melissa passed through the region in late October, Treasure Beach felt the sweep of the storm, but not its devastation. Today, the village’s spirit remains intact, the hotel’s heartbeat is strong, and Jakes is set to reopen on December 18 with renewed optimism and its signature, unforced charm.

The social heart of Jamaica’s south coast

Though known for its tranquility, Jakes has long been one of the most socially vibrant corners of the island. Mornings unfold with strong coffee and sea breezes. Afternoons stretch between the seaside pool, nearby coves, bike paths and farmers’ fields. Evenings gather naturally at Jack Sprat Bar & Restaurant, the legendary beachfront hub where jerk chicken pizza, fresh catch from local boats and easy conversation define the rhythm of the night.

Jakes Treasure Beach. Photo credit by Abigail Mair

Writers edit manuscripts beneath almond trees. Filmmakers regroup after long shooting days. Locals and guests mingle without hierarchy or performance. The feeling is immediate and unmistakable: this is a living community, not a manufactured escape.

Reopening with intention

When Jakes reopens, 30 accommodations will be available, with four suites remaining offline for final enhancements. The surrounding landscape, now in a natural phase of renewal, is being thoughtfully reimagined with native plantings and resilient design principles. What might otherwise be framed as post-storm repair is instead being approached as a long-term investment in the land, guided by the Henzell family and community members.

Guests will find the Jakes they know — sunsets from the dock, breezy verandas, driftwood paths and deep stillness — but with a refreshed vitality that reflects care rather than urgency.

Sally Henzell’s design language, still alive

Long before “sustainable design” entered the global lexicon, Sally Henzell practiced it instinctively. Jakes was built room by room using local hands, reclaimed materials and a joyful disregard for convention. Colored bottles embedded in concrete walls became stained-glass mosaics. Broken china, shells, driftwood and objects found at sea were transformed rather than discarded.

Jakes Room at Jakes Treasure Beach. Photo credit by Brie Williams

Her palette mirrors the Caribbean itself: turmeric yellows, bougainvillea pinks, sea-washed greens. The architecture is less formal structure than sculpture — an invitation to live inside color, breeze and memory. That sensibility remains the soul of Jakes today, with every room feeling personal, crafted and quietly expressive.

The Henzell family remains deeply involved in the property, ensuring the hotel evolves without losing its essential poetry.

A community anchor: BREDS

To understand Jakes is to understand Treasure Beach — not as a resort zone, but as a culturally alive village shaped by fishermen, farmers, artists, coaches and storytellers.

That ethos is embodied by BREDS The Treasure Beach Foundation, co-founded by Jason Henzell in 1998. What began as a simple request from local youth for a basketball court has grown into a major community engine, raising more than US$5 million to support education, youth sports, sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Jakes contributes through its long-running Dollar-A-Night program and ongoing collaborative initiatives.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, BREDS has raised an additional US$400,000 from donors worldwide. As the island moves through post-storm stabilization, the foundation’s work is more critical than ever. Guests don’t simply stay at Jakes — they participate in a model of tourism that strengthens community from within.

Literary roots and global storytelling

Jakes has long drawn creative thinkers not only for its beauty, but for its atmosphere — contemplative, elemental and generous with both solitude and story.

Treasure Cot, one of the area’s earliest cottages, holds a singular place in literary history. It was here that Alex Haley wrote Roots, drawing inspiration from the village’s quiet rhythms, fishing boats and open horizon. Built by Sally Henzell’s father in 1941 — the year she was born — the cottage stands as a reminder that great ideas often emerge from great stillness.

That legacy continues through the Calabash International Literary Festival, founded by poet Dr. Kwame Dawes, novelist Colin Channer and producer Justine Henzell. Every two years, Treasure Beach becomes a global stage for literature, music and performance, welcoming writers and audiences from across the Caribbean diaspora and beyond.

Why now

For travelers seeking an experience that is real rather than polished, Jakes reopens at exactly the right moment. Treasure Beach was not hit as hard as other regions, the village atmosphere is warm and confident, and community-driven work is thriving.

The return of Jakes signals more than a reopening. It is a reaffirmation of place, culture and a tourism philosophy that gives back rather than takes. Guests arriving via Kingston will find the improved 2.5-hour drive scenic and straightforward — a long exhale into one of the Caribbean’s most singular enclaves.

What Jakes has always been

A place built by artists.
Sustained by community.
Guided by creativity.

On December 18, Jakes Treasure Beach opens its doors once again — unchanged at its core, and exactly as it should be.

Atlantis Paradise Island touts new dining, retail and wellness additions ahead of 2026 spa debut

Atlantis Paradise Island
Mandara Spa Renderings

The Bahamas’ most famed resort Atlantis Paradise Island announced a slate of new culinary offerings, luxury retail additions and expanded wellness programming, including a multimillion-dollar transformation of its Mandara Spa that is expected to debut in early 2026.

“Atlantis Paradise Island continues to raise the bar for Caribbean travel,” said Audrey Oswell, managing director of Atlantis Paradise Island. “With stand-out culinary options, an expanded roster of luxury retailers, and thoughtful new wellness enhancements, every facet of the resort is intentionally crafted to delight and inspire. Following the recent upgrades to The Royal Towers and the Atlantis Casino, these new developments further elevate and enrich the experiences our guests return for year after year.”

Mandara Spa renovation slated for early 2026

Atlantis said Mandara Spa Atlantis is undergoing a multimillion-dollar transformation, with the updated spa drawing on ancient Asian techniques, traditional European therapies and Bahamian ingredients, including local spices, fruits and minerals. The resort said the revamped spa will feature modern programming, expanded services, amenities and “serene spaces.”

Mandara Spa Renderings

Tiffany now open; more boutiques planned for Marina Village

Atlantis also announced an expanded luxury retail lineup, including a Tiffany & Co. boutique that is now open. The resort said additional upcoming openings include a Lalique boutique, Dylan’s Candy Bar in Marina Village, Vineyard Vines and Creed perfumes. Atlantis also pointed to the recently opened Jacquemus boutique.

New food and beverage openings

Atlantis said several new food and beverage options are now open across the property:

  • Gong cha (now open): The bubble tea brand, founded in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is located next to FIELDTRIP and adjacent to The Royal Pool, and is open daily from 11 a.m. Atlantis said the menu includes Pearl Milk Tea, Taro Milk Tea and Passionfruit Green Tea, with toppings such as tapioca pearls, coconut jelly and aloe.

  • Cocodrilo (now open): Following a summer pop-up, the cantina-style concept has returned in a permanent location in the former Lagoon Bar & Grill space. Atlantis said the menu includes Fajita de Carne, Mexican Ensalada, and Coctel de Camarones.

  • Kò Sà-Wăn (now open): Chef Ian Kittichai’s Thai dinner pop-up has returned to Atlantis at The Cove’s Perch restaurant. Atlantis said menu highlights include Hor Mok Pla Gao (fresh grouper steamed in a banana leaf) and Tom Kha Gai (coconut-galangal chicken soup).

Beach dinners and wine events announced for December

Atlantis said it will offer Sunset Beach Dinners at The Cove in December, describing the series as an “elevated barbecue-style dinner” with sommelier-selected wines, beer, a curated bar program, a welcome drink, and a live DJ. The event is priced at $290+ per person and features communal seating.

The resort also listed holiday-season culinary programming, including:

  • Frescobaldi Wine Dinner at The Ocean Clubhouse Restaurant — Dec. 20

  • Experience Festive Flavors at The Cove (FISH, Paranza and Sea Glass) — Dec. 22–23

  • Paranza’s Sunday Brunch and Bubbly — returning for the full month

Holiday activities and nightlife schedule includes New Year’s Eve events

Atlantis also outlined holiday programming across the property, including a Holiday Gift Shoppe at The Royal, complimentary holiday movies at the Atlantis Theater, “Toddler Time with Mrs. Claus,” Santa Tuck-Ins and Brunch with Santa, The Lost City Escape Rooms, and a Silent Disco at CRUSH for teens.

On the nightlife calendar, the resort listed December events including XTREME Queen Tribute at Bar Sol (Dec. 12), AFROJACK at AURA Nightclub (Dec. 30), and multiple New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) offerings, including “Party Like A Royal,” which Atlantis said will be hosted by Ariana Madix and headlined by Two Friends, with fireworks over the Royal Tower. The resort also listed Steve Aoki at AURA Nightclub (Jan. 3) and recurring Junkanoo Parade at Marina Village on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9 p.m.

Caribbean leaders pledge recovery for Jamaica and Haiti after Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, delivering the feature address in Miami on Friday.

Caribbean leaders used the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) annual Holiday Dinner & Fundraiser to underscore regional resilience and recommit to recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking Friday night at Loews Coral Gables Hotel during CTO’s Caribbean Weekend in Miami, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett warned that the region has entered an era of unprecedented mega-storms and must move from symbolic resilience to measurable preparedness.

Just weeks after Hurricane Melissa, which meteorologists described as one of the most intense storms ever recorded in the Atlantic basin, Bartlett said preliminary assessments place Jamaica’s losses at between 28% and 32% of gross domestic product. Some international estimates, he added, exceed US$10 billion.

“Once again, the recovery of tourism will be the spearhead for the recovery of the nation,” Bartlett said, citing past recovery efforts following Hurricanes Ivan in 2004, Irma and Maria in 2017, and Dorian in 2019. “When tourism restarts, incomes return, hope returns, and dignity returns.”

Bartlett noted that travel and tourism account for more than 30% of GDP in several Caribbean states and exceed 60% in some of the region’s most tourism-dependent economies. In Jamaica, the sector directly and indirectly supports more than 300,000 jobs.

Referencing data from the U.N. Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, Bartlett said hurricanes caused an estimated US$136 billion in damage across the region between 1990 and 2008. He warned that two major storms in just two years — Hurricane Beryl in 2024 and Hurricane Melissa in 2025 — reflect a new climate reality.

“We need to build capacity, to not only foretell disruptions of this nature, but to be able to mitigate, to manage, to recover quickly, and to thrive afterwards,” Bartlett said. He pointed to the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, which he co-founded in Jamaica, as a key regional and global resource.

Innocent Junior Richard, Deputy Chief of Staff to Haiti’s Minister of Tourism

Haiti’s recovery efforts were also highlighted during the event. Innocent Junior Richard, deputy chief of staff to Haiti’s Minister of Tourism John Herrick Dessources, told attendees that travel disruptions caused by the storm forced him to take two days instead of two hours to reach Miami.

“We want to let CTO know that we’re still alive, we’re still fighting,” Richard said.

He recalled Haiti’s experience with Hurricane Matthew in 2016, the devastating 2021 earthquake, and now Hurricane Melissa, emphasizing that the country refuses to be defined by disaster. “When Haitians say ‘Sak Pase,’ you (answer) ‘N’ap boule’ … (it means) we’re fighting and we continue to fight,” he said.

Richard thanked CTO and attendees for their support, urging contributions to recovery efforts. “I hope you (have) come with your check to contribute for Haiti and Jamaica … Merci anpil for your generosity. Haiti is back in CTO!” he said.

Bartlett also expressed gratitude to CTO and its partners for standing with both countries.

“The same seas that draw millions of visitors also carry storms of historic force. Yet in every season of adversity, one truth remains constant. The Caribbean rises. Our capacity to rise is not an occasional response, it is our way of being. That is what we mean when we speak of resilience,” he said. “Tonight my heart is full, and I’ve never (been) more proud of my Caribbean-ness.”

CTO Chairman Ian Gooding-Edghill

Earlier in the evening, CTO Chairman Ian Gooding-Edghill, who also serves as Barbados’ minister of tourism and international transport, emphasized regional unity.

“We’re coming together as one Caribbean family, united by our resilience, our creativity, and our shared hope for the future,” Gooding-Edghill said.

The fundraiser featured performances by Vincentian soca artist Kevin Lyttle, Jamaican reggae artists Shuga and Spragga Benz, and U.S. Virgin Islands steel pannist Stan Brown. Barbadian media personality Alex Jordan served as master of ceremonies.

Proceeds from the event will support tourism workers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Sponsors included Barbados as a gold sponsor; the U.S. Virgin Islands as a silver sponsor; and Antigua and Barbuda, the CTO Allied Board, and Dominica as bronze sponsors.

Spice Island Beach Resort’s Janelle Hopkin receives CMEx Leadership Award in Miami

Janelle Hopkin
Janelle Hopkin, President and Managing Director of Spice Island Beach Resort, receives 2025 CMEx Leadership Award in Miami on Sunday. Pictured are CMEx President Bevan Springer and media professional Vanessa James.

Janelle Hopkin, president and managing director of Grenada’s Spice Island Beach Resort, was honored this week with the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMEx) Leadership Award, recognizing her contributions to Caribbean tourism and hospitality.

The award was presented Sunday at a ceremony held at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel. Hopkin, a third-generation hotelier, dedicated the honor to her late father, Sir Royston Hopkin KCMG, whose leadership helped establish Spice Island Beach Resort as one of the region’s most recognized luxury properties.

“I was deeply humbled to receive the Leadership Award by CMEx,” said Hopkin. “As a third-generation hotelier, I dedicated this award to my father, Sir Royston Hopkin, whose lifelong devotion to Grenada and the Caribbean continues to inspire the work I do today. My belief in Grenada and this region, my pride in our people, and my commitment to elevating the Caribbean shape the way I lead every single day … because our people are, and will always be, our greatest superpower.”

Hopkin’s mother, Lady Betty Hopkin, and her son, Royston, were both in attendance, marking a three-generation presence at the ceremony.

Janelle Hopkin with Lady Betty Hopkin and son Royston

She accepted the award alongside other regional honorees, including Sir Baltron B. Bethel, who received CMEx’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Janelle exemplifies the kind of purposeful, people-centered leadership that continues to raise the bar for Caribbean tourism,” said Bevan Springer, President of CMEx. “In honoring her, we are also saluting the timeless legacy of Sir Royston and celebrating the next generation of Grenadian excellence that is carrying our region forward.”

Spice Island Beach Resort, a locally owned, family-run all-inclusive property, features 64 suites, including 17 with private swimming pools and 32 beachfront suites. The resort has received numerous regional and international awards and is widely recognized for its focus on luxury, sustainability and service.

Hard Rock Live to host ‘Stay Strong Jamaica’ hurricane relief concert in South Florida

Hard Rock Live to host ‘Stay Strong Jamaica’
At the “Stay Strong Jamaica” press conference at Seminole Hard Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Consul General of Jamaica Oliver Mair, (left); Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia “Babsy” Grange, (center); and Chief Operating Officer of Seminole Gaming David Hoenemeyer, (right). Courtesy of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood will host “Stay Strong Jamaica,” a major benefit concert on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at 8 p.m., bringing together some of Jamaica’s most influential artists to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa.

The concert comes as Jamaica continues its recovery from Hurricane Melissa, a powerful Category 5 storm that made landfall in late October and caused an estimated US$8.8 billion in damage, according to preliminary assessments by international partners.

The hurricane severely impacted housing, roads, schools, hospitals and utilities, leaving tens of thousands of homes damaged or destroyed and displacing nearly 90,000 households, particularly across western and central parishes. Agriculture suffered extensive losses to crops and livestock, while debris, flooding and infrastructure failures disrupted tourism, transportation and essential services, pushing the country from emergency response into a prolonged and costly rebuilding phase.

The Jan. 2 event will feature performances by Shaggy, Julian Marley, Marcia Griffiths, Wayne Wonder, Inner Circle, Third World, The Wailers, I-Octane, Etana, Tee Jay, Shuga, Ernie Smith, Mykal Rose, Chalice, Brick and Lace, Ed Robinson, and others, uniting reggae, dancehall and Caribbean music legends for a night centered on solidarity and healing.

One hundred percent of net proceeds from ticket sales and donations will go toward Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts across Jamaica through Jamaica’s Promise, the designated beneficiary of the Hard Rock Heals Foundation. Funds will support housing repairs, infrastructure restoration and humanitarian assistance for affected communities.

Tickets are on sale now at www.myHRL.com. Doors open one hour before showtime. Additional fees may apply.

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness said the concert reflects both national resilience and international solidarity as Jamaica moves from emergency response into sustained recovery.

“Stay Strong Jamaica represents the extraordinary spirit of our people and the unwavering support of our global community,” Holness said. “After the initial shock of the widespread devastation, we have now shifted our focus to recovery mode. Given the magnitude of the damage, there is little doubt that it will be a long and arduous journey. But together we will rebuild stronger than before.”

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange emphasized the role of music and the diaspora in Jamaica’s recovery.

“This concert is more than a fundraising effort. It is a reminder of the resilience of our culture and the unity of our diaspora,” Grange said. “Every dollar raised will directly support families, communities, and essential services impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The ‘Stay Strong Jamaica’ Concert is yet another manifestation of our music — reggae music — providing the opium for soothing our pain and being the bridge to take us over troubled waters.”

David Hoenemeyer, chief operating officer of Seminole Gaming, speaking on behalf of the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, said the initiative reflects Hard Rock’s long-standing ties to Jamaica.

“Hard Rock has a deep connection to Jamaica — its culture, its music, and its people,” Hoenemeyer said. “Hosting ‘Stay Strong Jamaica’ is an honor and a responsibility we take to heart. We are proud that 100 percent of net proceeds will directly benefit recovery efforts, helping families and communities rebuild with hope and dignity.”

The concert is expected to draw strong support from the Jamaican diaspora in South Florida and beyond, as recovery from Hurricane Melissa remains a national priority heading into 2026.

Jamaican-American Marlon Bolton appointed Vice Mayor of Tamarac

Marlon Bolton

The Tamarac City Commission on Wednesday appointed District 1 Commissioner Marlon Bolton, a Jamaican-American, as the city’s vice mayor during its regular commission meeting.

Bolton, who has served on the Tamarac City Commission since 2016, previously held the vice mayor post in 2019. As vice mayor, he will assume the duties of acting mayor when the mayor is unavailable. His one-year term runs through December 2026.

As District 1 commissioner, Bolton has advanced several initiatives focused on equity and civic engagement, including the creation of the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Commission on the Status of Women, which promotes fairness and opportunity for women, and the Medal of Honor civic award recognizing outstanding community service. He also serves with the National Black Caucus of Local and Elected Officials, a network of African American municipal leaders sharing best practices in local governance.

Bolton’s appointment adds to a list of milestones in Tamarac’s history. In December 2019, he became the city’s first Black vice mayor and the first Caribbean-American elected to the position. In 2016, he was elected as Tamarac’s first Black commissioner.

Born in Christiana, Manchester, Jamaica, Bolton moved to the United States in 2006. He has previously spoken about arriving in Florida with little money and no permanent housing, experiencing homelessness for several months before a friend offered support. He later entered public service and was elected to the commission.

Bolton holds an Associate of Arts degree in Mass Communication and a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Public Safety Management from Miami Dade College, graduating with honors. He also attended Florida Atlantic University for training in hospitality and tourism management. Professionally, he serves as senior pastor of Praise Experience Church, president of Forecast Holdings LLC, and is a Florida Supreme Court-certified county court mediator.

Tamarac spans about 12 square miles in western Broward County and is home to nearly 72,000 residents, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, including a large Caribbean population, particularly Jamaicans. The city has approximately 2,000 businesses.

Marlon Bolton is married and the father of children.

Jamaican lawmakers pass bill to expand eligibility for expungement

Minister of Justice Delroy Chuck.
Minister of Justice Delroy Chuck.

The House of Representatives in Jamaica on Tuesday approved significant amendments to the Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act, widening access to expungement for people convicted of certain offences.

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, who closed the debate, said the reforms are intended to give more Jamaicans a genuine second chance.

“There are persons who believe that once you have been convicted, you should carry that taint for the rest of your life,” he said. “But the truth is that the vast majority — more than 90 per cent — of persons convicted of crime, it is the one and only offence.”

Chuck stressed that many offences stem from “a moment of madness, a bad discretion, a poor judgment,” and that the law must recognise rehabilitation. He noted that hundreds of thousands of people could benefit from the changes.

At the same time, he cautioned that the expansion does not extend to serious crimes and is designed to uphold public safety.

“We need to bring the crime rate down,” he said. “If we start to expunge the records of persons who have committed serious offences, we could send the wrong signal.”

The Minister emphasised that expungement will only be granted to individuals who have clearly moved on from their past. Committees typically consider rehabilitation periods ranging from three to 15 years, depending on the offence.

Key changes in the bill

• Longer sentence threshold:
Clause Two raises the eligibility limit for expungement from sentences of up to five years to sentences up to 10 years. This allows the Rehabilitation of Offenders Board to consider applications from people who served more than five but not more than 10 years.

• Clearer criteria for decisions:
Clause Eight introduces a list of factors the Board may consider, including:
– nature and seriousness of the offence
– social enquiry and psychological reports
– evidence of remorse or restitution
– age of the offender at the time of the offence

• Automatic expungement for old, minor convictions:
Clause Nine provides automatic expungement for non-custodial sentences imposed and satisfied before January 1, 2005, so long as the individual has no subsequent convictions. This means that Jamaicans who received minor, non-custodial sentences decades ago — and who have stayed out of trouble since — will have those old convictions cleared automatically, without needing to apply.

• Larger, better-resourced expungement board:
Clause 11 expands the Board from 3–5 members to 7–9, and adds nominees from the Commissioner of Police and Commissioner of Corrections.

• Updated list of excluded offences:
Clause 12 removes certain minor property and Dangerous Drugs Act offences from the list of convictions that cannot be expunged, reflecting international trends acknowledging rehabilitation.

Chuck said the amendments mark “a first step” and signalled that additional reforms could follow as Jamaica continues efforts to reduce crime.

“We affirm that expungement is for those who have put crime behind them,” he said. “This is about giving more persons a second chance while keeping Jamaica safe.”

Guyana says oil tanker seized by US was illegally flying its flag

Guyana oil tanker

The Guyana Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has condemned the illegal use of the country’s flag after the United States seized a sanctioned oil tanker falsely claiming Guyanese registration in international waters off the coast of Venezuela.

In a statement, MARAD said U.S. authorities notified Guyana on Wednesday that they had intercepted the Motor Tanker SKIPPER (ex-ADISA), IMO 9304667, which was not registered in Guyana despite flying the nation’s flag.

“Today, the Government of the United States of America informed the Guyana Maritime Administration Department that they have encountered the Motor Tanker SKIPPER… It was falsely flying the Guyana Flag, as it is not registered in Guyana,” MARAD said.

The agency condemned the act and stressed that it would continue collaborating with international partners to address “the unauthorized use of the Guyana Flag.” MARAD added that it has observed “the proliferation and unacceptable trend” of vessels fraudulently operating under Guyana’s flag.

The seizure was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said authorities had taken control of “a very large tanker” off Venezuela’s coast. Reuters later reported that the action sent global oil prices higher and escalated tensions between Washington and Caracas.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the seizure on X, noting that the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of War executed the operation. She said the vessel had been sanctioned for years due to its involvement in an illicit oil-shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations.

“This seizure… was conducted safely and securely — and our investigation alongside the Department of Homeland Security to prevent the transport of sanctioned oil continues,” she said.

The Venezuelan government quickly condemned the seizure, calling it “blatant theft” and “an act of international piracy.” Officials in Caracas vowed to defend the country’s sovereignty and indicated they would bring the matter before international bodies.

For Guyana, the incident underscores growing concerns about the misuse of its national flag by foreign vessels involved in illicit operations.

“MARAD will continue to reach out to and work with international partners and other maritime agencies to identify, pursue, and take firm action against any unauthorized use of the Guyana Flag,” the agency said.

32 Hurricane Melissa deaths still under investigation in Jamaica

Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Commander Alvin Gayle, addresses Wednesday’s (December 10) Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House.

Thirty-two deaths remain under investigation following the passage of Hurricane Melissa in October, according to an update delivered Wednesday by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).

Director General Commander Alvin Gayle told the Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House that the confirmed death toll stands at 45, with 13 people still unaccounted for.

“Our thoughts remain with the families of those we’ve lost,” he said.

Commander Gayle also reported significant public-health concerns emerging in Melissa’s aftermath. Authorities have recorded 84 suspected and 30 confirmed cases of leptospirosis, along with 12 related deaths, seven of which have been officially confirmed.

Additionally, two tetanus cases have been identified, including one death.

“These figures underscore the scale of the human impact and the seriousness with which the ministries, departments and agencies of Government continue to approach the recovery effort,” he said.

As of Tuesday night, 101 emergency shelters remain open across seven parishes, housing 1,061 people displaced by the storm.

Commander Gayle noted that while the road to recovery will be long, the country is now moving steadily from emergency response into early recovery and, ultimately, rebuilding.

“We affirm that no community will be forgotten,” he said. “The ODPEM and other local authorities, international partners, the private sector, faith-based and community organisers are united in a single mission to restore lives, livelihoods and dignity, and to build back better, safer and stronger.”

Richie Stephens lands first FOX TV interview ahead of Jamaica Strong benefit concert

Richie Stephens and Syn Clarke with FOX TV hosts
Singer Richie Stephens (2nd from left) and Irie Jam Foundation COO Syn Clarke (3rd from left) joins FOX 5 NY's Good Night New York hosts Christal Young (L) and Ryan Kristafer (R)

Renowned reggae singer Richie Stephens is today flashing an ear-to-ear smile after landing his first-ever interview on urban station FOX TV New York on Tuesday, where he spoke passionately about visiting Westmoreland—ravaged by Hurricane Melissa—and about his upcoming performance at the Jamaica Strong benefit concert on December 12 at UBS Arena in New York.

Stephens, one of the most visible voices advocating for hurricane relief efforts following the storm’s devastating impact, used the mainstream platform to call for unity, compassion, and sustained support for the people of Jamaica.

“Let me just say thank you to each and every one worldwide who has supported Jamaica,” Stephens told FOX TV hosts. “This concert… every ticket is a support. We’ve been hit very badly by Hurricane Melissa. The rebuilding process is not going to be easy… so we’re asking everyone to support and let’s rebuild Jamaica together.”

The Jamaica Strong concert, organized by Jammins Events, the Irie Jam Foundation, and RoadBlock Radio, will feature an all-star Jamaican and Caribbean lineup including Shaggy, Sean Paul, Kes, Inner Circle, Chronic Law, TeeJay, Marcia Griffiths, Tessanne Chin, and Stephens himself. The artists will perform at UBS Arena on Long Island in what organizers describe as a historic night of culture, solidarity, and purpose.

During the FOX TV segment, Stephens spoke emotionally about returning to western Jamaica and witnessing the destruction firsthand.

“Westmoreland, where I was born and grew up, was hit hard,” he said. “I’ve been down there with food supplies and medical supplies… and to be on the ground is different from what you see on TV. Some places where houses used to stand, the entire house is gone. Entire communities are wiped out.”

He noted that performing at a concert with such a mission feels unlike any other show.

“We’re using our influence in a positive way,” Stephens said. “Some people who probably have never been to my concert are now calling me wanting to support. That alone is moving.”

Event co-organizer and Irie Jam Foundation COO Syntyche “Syn” Clarke praised Stephens’ national media moment, calling it a significant boost for the benefit initiative.

“The unity that has emerged post-Hurricane Melissa is powerful,” Clarke said. “Richie is helping to amplify the message that this concert is music with a purpose. Even if you can’t attend, buying a ticket becomes a donation.”

Clarke added that artists responded immediately when asked to join the cause.

“They all said yes without hesitation. First call,” she said. “This is a marathon, not a sprint, and we need everyone.”

Stephens closed the interview by urging the tri-state diaspora to show up on December 12.

“Jamaica has given so much love to New York over the years through our music, sports, and culture. Now is the time for New York to give that love back.”

Richie Stephens’ catalog has defined generations, from “Winner,” “Take Me Away,” “Fight Back,” and “Trying to Get Next to You,” to “Buff Baff,” “Status of a Fool,” and his latest hit, “Hurricane,” which blends reggae with the infectious energy of dancehall.

The Jamaica Strong benefit concert takes place tomorrow, Friday, December 12, at UBS Arena, with proceeds going directly toward long-term recovery efforts in Jamaica.

AmPC ignites first-ever Para Central American and Caribbean Games

Samuda pushes for tri-partite JAdevelopment of para sports at Americas Paralympic Forum joa
Christopher Samuda

A new chapter in regional para sport will be written next November when the Americas Paralympic Committee (AmPC) launches the inaugural Para Central American and Caribbean (PCAC) Games in Tlaxcala, Mexico.

For the first time, athletes from across the AmPC’s expansive jurisdiction, stretching from Canada, down through Central America, and as far south as Chile, will meet in a dedicated multisport arena built specifically for their excellence and growth.

A promise delivered

For years, member nations sought expanded competition pathways for their athletes. In 2025, that long-standing pledge becomes reality. The AmPC, the apex body for 34 national paralympic committees, has translated its commitment into action by establishing a brand-new regional Games platform.

Christopher Samuda, AmPC Vice President and President of the Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA), emphasized the magnitude of the achievement, noting that
“fundamental to the success of any governing sporting body is its ability and capacity to open windows of self-development opportunities while inspiring confidence in its members and other stakeholders that today’s dream of success will be tomorrow’s reality.”

Standing on its own feet

The AmPC’s accelerating momentum follows its 2023 operational independence from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). Now fully in control of its sporting future, the AmPC owns four major properties:

  • The Para Central American and Caribbean Games
  • The Para Pan American Games
  • The Para South American Games
  • The Junior Para Pan American Games

Samuda, who also chairs the Games Commission, underscored the significance of this autonomy: “With ownership comes responsibility the discharge of which calls for vision and proaction which are DNA qualities of success.”

Athletes to converge in force

Organizers anticipate over 1,000 athletes, drawn to competition across 12 sports, supported by more than 200 officials and an extensive volunteer corps.
The scale, however, is not merely logistical, it is strategic.

Ryan Foster, JPA Director and Vice Chairman of the AmPC’s Finance Commission, highlighted the deeper intent behind the venture, stating that the Games represent
“an undertaking that will not only be financial but importantly developmental as the AmPC continues to create platforms for the accelerated growth of para athletes of the region.”

Tlaxcala: A city built for moments like this

Chosen as host for its pedigree in international sport, Tlaxcala stands among Mexico’s most economically dynamic cities. Celebrated for eco-tourism and renowned for its seamless staging of global sporting events, the city brings rich cultural heritage, including traditional bullfighting and charrerìa, into its modern sporting portfolio.

This blend of authenticity, sporting infrastructure, and event experience makes Tlaxcala an ideal stage for the region’s newest, most ambitious para-sport milestone.

Dominica secures spot in World Athletics’ Elite Project 10, paving way for Class 1 Track

Dominica Athletics Association

Dominican sport has entered a transformative chapter. The Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) has confirmed that the island has been officially chosen as a beneficiary of World Athletics’ Project 10, an ambitious global initiative aimed at constructing World Athletics Class 1–certified synthetic track and field facilities in select nations.

The announcement signals far more than infrastructure development, it represents the culmination of years of diligence, technical scrutiny, and sustained advocacy on behalf of the DAA.

Two years of advocacy and vision

In December 2023, the DAA submitted a detailed proposal urging World Athletics to select Dominica as part of Project 10. What followed was an intensive two-year process that included site inspections, technical evaluations, and comprehensive consultations.

Now, World Athletics has delivered its verdict: Dominica is officially approved.

Adding momentum to the undertaking, land in Portsmouth has already been secured for the construction of the facility, an early logistical victory that positions Dominica for swift progress.

Global partnerships converge

This milestone coincides with a significant international agreement between the Qatar Olympic Committee and World Athletics, which has formalized support for the rollout of the Project 10 initiative. Through this partnership, Dominica is now among the nations slated to benefit from what is expected to be a major leap forward in athletics development.

The confirmation arrives at a time when the Government of Dominica and the DAA have been shaping a comprehensive master plan for a modern national sports complex. The blueprint includes both a world-class track and field venue and an Olympic-sized swimming pool, signaling an integrated approach to national sports development.

The track initiative supported by World Athletics perfectly complements this broader national vision, and the DAA notes its eagerness to deepen collaboration with all partners involved as planning moves toward implementation.

Leadership, support, and shared commitment

In its statement, the DAA expressed deep appreciation to the individuals and institutions whose efforts were central to securing Dominica’s selection.

Special recognition was extended to Roosevelt Skerrit and the Office of the Prime Minister, Oscar George and the Ministry of Sports, Reggie Severin, and Billy Doctrove, acknowledging their leadership, encouragement, and steadfast support throughout the proposal process.

The Association also commended the various government departments and technical teams whose expertise ensured Dominica satisfied the rigorous standards of World Athletics. Additional thanks were given to all parties currently contributing to ongoing site assessments.

“The beginning of a new era”

In words marking both pride and aspiration, the DAA affirmed the significance of this achievement:

“This milestone marks the beginning of a new era for athletics in Dominica. With this world-class facility, the nation is poised to elevate athlete development, expand its capacity to host regional and international events, and inspire generations of young athletes to pursue excellence.”

The release concluded by reaffirming the Association’s commitment to strong and effective partnerships as the project advances:

“The Dominica Athletics Association looks forward to continued partnership with the Government of Dominica, World Athletics, and the Qatar Olympic Committee as we move toward the realization of this landmark project.”

Small plane crash-lands on car during emergency landing on I-95 in Florida

plane crash Florida
A photo of the crushed Camry on the I-95. Credit: Florida Highway Patrol

A small plane made an emergency landing onto a moving car on Interstate 95 in Cocoa, Florida, on Monday, Dec. 8, shocking nearby drivers and leaving one person injured, according to multiple reports.

The fixed-wing Beechcraft 55, carrying a 27-year-old pilot and a 27-year-old passenger, developed engine trouble shortly before 5:40 p.m. and attempted to land on the freeway. The aircraft came down directly onto a 2023 Toyota Camry around 5:45 p.m., smashing parts of the vehicle as it struck the roof before skidding to a stop. The two men on board were not injured.

The 57-year-old woman driving the Camry was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. Video captured by a motorist behind the vehicle shows the plane descending rapidly toward the highway, bouncing twice after impact, and sliding through traffic in a shower of sparks. “Oh my goodness! A plane just crashed onto a car on a highway!” the person recording is heard saying.

Photos from the scene showed the plane in the middle of several lanes with visible front-end damage, while the Camry sustained heavy damage to its rear and sides. Shocked drivers pulled over as authorities responded.

The Florida Highway Patrol and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the incident. A section of the interstate near the 201-mile marker was shut down to clear debris and begin the investigation and later reopened.

The I-95 emergency landing occurred just hours after a separate small-plane incident in DeLand, about 46 miles outside Orlando. In that case, a Cessna 172 made an emergency landing on Jacobs Road around 2 p.m. Two people were taken to a hospital and treated for injuries. A bystander told Fox 13 News he saw the aircraft flying “extremely low” shortly before it went down.

Both incidents remain under investigation.

The crash comes amid a recent rise in small-plane incidents. In a separate incident on Nov. 10, a small Beechcraft King Air plane crashed in Coral Springs, Florida, killing a Cayman Islands pastor, 53-year-old Alexander Wurm, and his 22-year-old daughter Serena while they were delivering hurricane relief supplies to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa

 

New Florida budget proposal boosts K–12 funding, sends $146M to Florida’s HBCUs

Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposed “Floridians First” budget includes sweeping new investments in education, environmental restoration, housing, child welfare, mental health, and cancer research, according to documents released Tuesday.

The budget recommends a historic $30.6 billion for Florida’s K-12 system — the highest in state history — including $9,406 per student, an increase of $279 over last year. It sets aside $1.56 billion to raise salaries for teachers and instructional personnel, along with $1.71 billion for early-childhood programs such as Voluntary Prekindergarten. Officials estimate nearly 476,000 students will participate in the Family Empowerment Scholarship program.

For higher education, the budget proposes $1.9 billion for the Florida College System, $4 billion for the State University System, $100 million for faculty recruitment and retention, and $146 million for the state’s four Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Workforce education investments total $800 million, including $130 million for nursing programs and $100 million for career and technical education expansion.

Environmental spending represents another major pillar. The proposal includes $1.4 billion for Everglades restoration and water quality — bringing total Everglades-related investment under DeSantis to nearly $9.5 billion. Of that amount, $810 million goes toward restoration, including $681 million for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan and $586 million to fully fund remaining state-supported components of the Central Everglades Planning Project and the EAA Reservoir.

Additional water-quality funding includes $150 million for upgraded wastewater and stormwater projects, $100 million for the Indian River Lagoon and Biscayne Bay, $50 million for projects aimed at meeting nutrient-reduction goals, and $100 million for the Lower Kissimmee Basin Stormwater Treatment Area. The budget also provides $50 million for springs protection, $65 million for algal-bloom mitigation, and $60 million for alternative water-supply projects.

The spending plan expands support for housing with $170.8 million for the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program, $72.9 million for the State Apartment Incentive Loan program, and $50 million for the Hometown Heroes Housing program, which assists law enforcement officers, educators, healthcare professionals, firefighters, childcare workers, and veterans with down payment and closing costs.

Child welfare funding totals $36.6 million, including increased support for Community-Based Care Lead Agencies, adoption subsidies, foster parent cost-of-living adjustments, and services for youth in Extended Foster Care. Another $1 million will fund statewide digital recruitment for foster parents and Guardian ad Litem volunteers.

The budget also proposes $159 million for behavioral health services, $187 million in statewide opioid-settlement spending, and $31.8 million to continue expanding the CORE Network for substance-abuse recovery.

Cancer research receives a combined $278 million, including $40 million for the Cancer Connect Collaborative Research Incubator and $197.5 million through a newly consolidated Casey DeSantis Cancer Innovation, Care, and Research Program. An additional $5 million is designated to expand testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, bacteria, pesticides, and microplastics.

Other major health and family investments include $3 million for Alzheimer’s programs, $7.5 million for elderly care services, more than $20 million to serve individuals with disabilities through the Home and Community-Based Services Waiver, and $8.6 million for capital improvements to veterans’ nursing homes.

Florida Gov. pitches $117.4B budget with tax breaks, new tax holidays

Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Comprehensive Immigration Reform Laws
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis

Governor Ron DeSantis on Tuesday announced his proposed “Floridians First” budget for Fiscal Year 2026–27, a $117.4 billion spending plan that continues his administration’s focus on fiscal discipline, debt reduction, and broad tax relief for families and businesses.

The proposal includes $16.75 billion in reserves and $250 million toward debt reduction, part of a recurring accelerated paydown that would put the state on track to retire more than half of its tax-supported debt next fiscal year. Under DeSantis, the Budget Stabilization Fund has grown from $1.5 billion to the constitutional maximum of $5 billion, bolstered by this year’s additional $118 million investment.

“Since I became governor, we have run budget surpluses, reduced the state’s legacy debt by more than 50%, and enacted record tax relief,” DeSantis said. “The ‘Floridians First’ Budget will keep Florida on the course of fiscal responsibility.”

The proposal highlights nearly $9.7 billion in total tax relief since the governor took office, including the repeal of the commercial rent tax, saving small businesses $2.7 billion annually. It also continues a broad slate of permanent and temporary sales-tax holidays, covering back-to-school items, disaster preparedness supplies, diapers, baby products, sunscreen, insect repellent, and admissions to Florida State Parks.

DeSantis is also recommending a second consecutive Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday from Sept. 7 to Dec. 31, 2026, covering firearms, ammunition, crossbows, camping supplies, fishing supplies, and expanded items like decoys. The holiday is expected to save Floridians an estimated $35 million if approved.

The budget sets aside $300 million to support ongoing property-tax policy discussions and proposes new safeguards to prevent locally imposed ESG-related taxes and DEI-linked financial mandates.

The administration also points to government-wide efficiency efforts. Following agency reviews, the budget proposes eliminating 354 positions, bringing total net reductions under DeSantis to nearly 1,000 despite a population increase of more than 10 percent. Officials say these efforts have produced $850 million in savings.

Alongside the reductions, the plan includes a 2 percent cost-of-living adjustment for all state employees and 5 percent increases for sworn law enforcement officers, Florida Park Rangers, judges, attorneys, and IT professionals.

City of Miami Commissioner Rosado announce 2026 Three Kings Parade

Three Kings Parade miami
Photo: Miami Herald

Commissioner Ralph “Rafael” Rosado and the City of Miami have officially announced the return of the annual Three Kings Parade, set for Sunday, January 11, 2026.

The beloved tradition is once again expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors to SW 8th Street for a family-friendly celebration featuring music, performances, and cultural displays. Organizers say the parade will include a vibrant lineup of floats, marching bands, community groups, cultural performers, and local dignitaries, showcasing the unity and diversity that define Miami.

“The Three Kings Parade is a reflection of Miami’s multicultural heritage and a testament to the values that bring our city together—family, community, and tradition,” Commissioner Rosado said. “We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate this beautiful event that honors our shared roots and the cultural legacy of our residents.”

The annual event honors the spirit of the holiday, symbolizing hope, generosity, and faith—values that continue to resonate across Miami’s many communities.

Event Details

  • Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026

  • Attendee Entrance: SW 22nd Avenue & SW 8th Street

  • Parade Route: Begins at SW 27th Avenue, proceeds east along SW 8th Street, and ends at SW 17th Avenue

  • Time: Doors open at 10 a.m.; parade begins at 12 p.m.

  • Admission: Free and open to all

  • Registration: https://threekingsmiami2026.eventbrite.com

Opinion: Don’t let loneliness ruin the Christmas season

christmas south florida

The Christmas season is supposed to be filled with happiness, peace, and goodwill. But for some, the season can be filled with activity, consumerism, social pressure, and the expectation to “be joyful,” even when they’re dealing with loneliness, grief, financial stress, or unresolved problems. The lights, music, and celebrations may create a temporary emotional escape but don’t address the deeper issues—particularly loneliness—that some people live with year-round.

Others find the season highlights their struggles even more because it throws into contrast what they wish their life could be. In this context, one wonders what this Christmas will be like for the many Jamaicans who experienced great loss because of Hurricane Melissa. How many will be able to rise above their losses—and the possible resulting loneliness—to find some joy? Most likely, if Melissa had hit earlier in the year, not so close to Christmas, the pain and loneliness would be eased.

Psychiatrists say the worst type of loneliness is often found among people who seem happy and fun-loving but who are really hurting inside, even when surrounded by others. Some may ask how it’s possible to feel lonely when one has family or friends around. That’s because there’s a fundamental difference between loneliness and being alone.

Some people enjoy being alone, even during Christmas, because they’re confident and comfortable in their own company. This may seem like selfish behavior, but it’s far less devastating than loneliness.

People can be extremely lonely and depressed among others because their inherent needs aren’t being met. They want something that not even their dearest loved ones—spouse, children, parents, or best friends—can fulfill. The sad and dangerous part is that people feeling this kind of loneliness often aren’t aware of what’s missing. Ironically, these are the people who most need the support of their loved ones.

Lonely people usually display clear signals that friends and family should recognize. They may suddenly pull away from others in a room, sitting alone with a distant look on their face. They may go off by themselves with the excuse of not feeling well. Even men tend to get melancholic or cry when they hear sad songs or music. Some psychiatrists say certain Christmas music, with its melancholic melodies and lyrics, can provoke or deepen feelings of loneliness and sadness.

Lonely people often try to find a balm for their pain. Unfortunately, some of these can be harmful, including excessive alcohol, drug use, nonstop partying, or sexual promiscuity. More positive escapes include turning to spiritual endeavors, becoming involved in church, or joining charitable organizations. But while these efforts may provide temporary relief, they often don’t resolve the underlying loneliness.

Those who feel this burden should talk about it and seek help—something that can be difficult in the Caribbean American community. Cultural norms often discourage people from seeking professional help from psychiatrists. It’s not unusual for Caribbean Americans to react defensively when encouraged to get help, saying, “After mi nuh mad.” But persistent loneliness can be a mental health issue that needs professional attention. Help can also come from talking with a close friend, family member, co-worker, church brother or sister, or pastor. No one should bear this burden alone.

Sadly, in recent years the rise of social media has made too many young people vulnerable to loneliness and depression. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook expose them to unrealistic images and social behaviors that make some feel inadequate. Seeing others gain popularity can make them feel unworthy, pushing them into dark, lonely emotional spaces.

Young people must be guided to believe they can accomplish meaningful things with their lives and not let their self-worth be diminished by social media negativity. It is the responsibility of parents—regardless of how busy they are—not only during Christmas but year-round, to watch for signs of depression, withdrawal, and loneliness among their children.

The increasingly commercialized Christmas season can obscure the deeper spiritual meaning of Christmas and act as a temporary mask for life’s pain. But the core meaning of the holiday—the birth of Christ as hope for a broken world—remains available to anyone who seeks it, even amid the season’s bustle.

For believers, this season can be a chance to intentionally return to the spiritual roots of Christmas rather than letting commercial pressures dominate and lead them into loneliness and despair, even after a devastating event like a hurricane.

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