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Health ministry sounds energy drink warning

Amid growing concerns about the potential health risks linked to energy drink consumption, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is urging Jamaicans to exercise caution. This comes as emerging evidence connects these beverages to serious conditions such as heart attacks, blood clots, and strokes.

"These beverages often contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients which can lead to adverse events," said Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton.

The minister was speaking on Friday during the handover ceremony for the newly renovated Islington Health Centre in St Mary. He said persons "must limit the amount of energy drinks they consume since the greater the quantity consumed, the higher the possibility of experiencing adverse events".

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Illegal connections blamed for widespread streetlight damage

Illegal connections are said to be responsible for more than 70 per cent of the electricity consumed Rocky Point, Clarendon.

According to the Jamaica Public Service Company, the widespread electricity theft from street lights has resulted in major damage to street lamps in the community, leaving residents in darkness and anxious over public safety and security.

Most recently, on August 30, JPS crews returned to the area to repair street lights that should have served the community for much longer. The company, however, says it remains committed to working with residents and community leaders to find sustainable solutions to the problem.

JPS said it repaired 70 street lights across 14 divisions in Clarendon during the months of September. These repairs were done in the communities of Denbigh, May Pen East, May Pen West, May Pen North, Mineral Heights, Palmers Cross, Rocky Point, Hayes, York Town, Aenon Town, Frankfield, Thompson Town, and Rock River.

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NSWMA cautions public against dumping electronic waste in garbage

Executive Director of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), Audley Gordon, is urging the public to be more mindful of how they dispose of electronic waste (e-waste).

E-waste refers to obsolete or unwanted electrical and electronic equipment that is no longer intended for use. These include a wide range of products such as computers, mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, and other appliances powered by batteries or electricity.

Gordon noted that improperly discarded e-waste poses significant health risks, as hazardous substances such as mercury and lead - critical elements found in most electronic devices - can leak from damaged components like motherboards.

"These could [seep] into the soil and contaminate the soil type. So, when you plant your vegetables, for example, you would find that you are not getting the yields that you should get; but more critically, you could be unknowingly consuming poison," Gordon stated.

He emphasised that e-waste should never be disposed of with regular household garbage.

Instead, it must be set aside for proper recycling by registered and certified handlers, in accordance with environmental safety protocols.

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Golding renews call for Marley and Miss Lou to be named National Heroes

Opposition Leader Mark Golding has renewed his call for Jamaica's list of national heroes to be expanded to include reggae legend Robert Nesta Marley (Bob Marley) and cultural icon Louise Bennett-Coverley, Miss Lou.

He said Marley's "music and message have internationalised Jamaica's culture and brand and continue to provide inspiration to people struggling against oppression across the world".

In the case of Miss Lou, Golding said her poetry and performances in the Jamaican language "have provided self-affirmation of who we are as a people and uplifted our national confidence and consciousness".

Golding in his National Heroes Day message on Monday, also saluted everyday citizens who, through acts of kindness and resilience.

"When we lend a helping hand to someone in need, and when we demonstrate the strength and ingenuity to overcome perilous situations, we are modern examples of the spirit of heroism that keep our nation's light shining as a beacon of hope," Golding said.

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Holness urges Jamaicans embrace 'proud and bold heritage'

Prime Dr Minister Andrew Holness is urging Jamaicans to view the nation's heritage as a living force that demands action, not just reflection. In his National Heroes Day message, Holness said Jamaica's story is one of courage, resilience, and determination -- a legacy that calls on every citizen to uphold the values of discipline, hard work, respect, and love.

"Our heritage is not something locked away in the pages of history," Holness said. "It is a living call, a charge to each of us to carry forward the values of discipline, hard work, respect, and love for one another".

He emphasised that honouring Jamaica's heroes requires a renewed commitment to respect for law, reverence for God, and pride in honest work. While acknowledging progress in housing, education, and technology, the prime minister noted that the nation's greatest work lies in building character and instilling patriotism among the youth.

Holness also paid tribute to "living heroes" -- teachers, nurses, farmers, athletes, security forces, and all Jamaicans who contribute daily to the nation's growth.

"You, too, are the continuation of that proud and bold heritage," he said.