ONE-MINUTE READS - News from across Jamaica

Manning's Alumni Urged to Support Wellness Centre Rebuild

Past students of Manning's School in Westmoreland are being encouraged to support the rebuilding of the institution's wellness centre, which was damaged during the passage of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

The restoration effort is set to benefit from proceeds raised at the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB), held last Thursday at the Boulevard Baptist Church in St Andrew.

Jonathan Brown, treasurer of the Kingston Chapter of the Manning's School Past Students' Association, expressed gratitude for the contribution, noting that it would significantly aid the $3 million restoration goal.

He is appealing to alumni and friends of the school to help complement the NLPB donation. Contributions can be made through the association's NCB Oxford Road Branch account - #214139464.

Easington lands to be regularised

The St Thomas Municipal Corporation is moving to formalise the settlement of residents occupying lands at Easington in the parish.

Chief Executive Officer Kevin McIndoe made the announcement during a town hall meeting at the Easington Primary School last Thursday.

McIndoe said the corporation would begin subdividing the 100-acre property this year, paving the way for its eventual disposal.

As part of the initiative, residents currently living on the land will be given an opportunity to obtain legal titles. The move aims to bring structure and order to land occupancy while protecting long-standing residents.

McIndoe stressed that only individuals already residing on the property will be eligible, adding that others interested in acquiring land must apply through the established legal channels.

Cuthbert-Flynn pushes fitness as a way of life

State Minister in the Ministry of National Security and Peace Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn is urging Jamaicans to commit to healthier lifestyles as the new year begins.

Speaking at the launch of FitFest Party & Expo 2026 at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel last Thursday, she stressed the importance of daily exercise and proper nutrition.

"I believe fitness should be a lifestyle, and we should all live it daily for it not to be a fad," she said.

Highlighting concerns about rising non-communicable diseases, Cuthbert-Flynn warned, "We're actually dying faster with non-communicable diseases - hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease- and there are many reasons for that."

She also urged Jamaicans to take a more comprehensive approach to health monitoring. FitFest Party & Expo 2026 will be held on January 31 in Mona.

Holness reaffirms support for MSMEs

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to providing sustained support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as part of Jamaica's recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Speaking at the reopening of 44 kiosks and shops at Border in St Elizabeth last Friday, Holness highlighted the vital role of MSMEs in the economy.

Holness noted that MSMEs account for about 70 per cent of the labour force, describing them as a critical pillar of national stability.

"They are major employers, provide income for countless households, and form the backbone of our local communities," he said.

The rebuilt facilities, damaged by Hurricane Melissa, represent a significant step in restoring livelihoods. "This is not just about stalls," Holness added. "It's about the livelihoods that sustain families and the communities that power our nation."

Jamaicans urged to safeguard important documents

Jamaicans are being encouraged to safeguard important personal documents as part of their disaster-preparedness planning.

Jacqueline Shepherd, director with responsibility for disaster rehabilitation and welfare management in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, said proper document storage plays a critical role in recovery after disasters.

Shepherd explained that secure documents support both personal and business recovery efforts following emergencies. She identified key documents that should be protected, including birth and marriage certificates, TRN cards, passports, driver's licences, land titles, immunisation cards, and prescriptions.

Citizens are also being urged to make copies of important documents and share them with trusted individuals for safekeeping, ensuring access to vital records in the aftermath of natural disasters.