continuously since the Association’s inception, as well as thanking our patrons and supporters whose generosity and commitment have sustained the mission over the years. Nicely packaged with the food, fun, music and entertainment, guests will receive updates on the school’s recovery timetable and learn how their contributions, financial and otherwise, can help accelerate the rebuilding process. “The evening will be a blend of nostalgia, gratitude and forward-looking resolve, more like a night of Purpose and Celebration”. “This is more than a reunion,” McIntosh said. “It’s a call to action, a celebration of resilience and a chance to honour those who’ve kept the flame burning for a decade.” Hurricane Melissa, to the island in general and Maldon High School (South St. James), in particular, has prompted the planning committee to revise the evening’s program, to shift some of the focus on the recovery and rehabilitation effort. The school is one of some 600 that suffered damage during the Category 5 hurricane which made landfall on Tuesday, October 28, across the western half of the island. The hope is that past students, patrons, and well-wishers will turn out in full force to make it a “December to remember.” “Five years removed from the COVID-19 pandemic, to now be hit by Hurricane Melissa, our students need a quick reset and a return to normalcy to minimise what is sure to be some stage of mental trauma,” McIntosh emphasised. This year’s celebration will also pay tribute to the founder of the Association, whose vision laid the ground work for its establishment in 2015. Additionally, special recognition will be given to members who have served THE WEEKLY GLEANER | NOVEMBER 13 - NOVEMBER 13, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS 4 Aubrey Campbell/Gleaner Writer NEW YORK, NY: “IT WILL be a gala with a difference: A night of purpose and celebration.” That’s the word from Baldwin McIntosh, president of the Maldon High School Alumni Association/USANortheast, as the Association prepares to mark its 10th anniversary and reunion at Antun’s of Queens, in Queens Village, NYC, on Saturday, December 6 starting at 9pm. According to McIntosh, a 1978 graduate and president of the Association since 2021, the devastation caused by Maldon High School Alumni/ USA celebrates 10 years Baldwin McIntosh, president – Maldon High School. CONTRIBUTED “As you interacted with Jamaicans on the ground and they expressed appreciation, many will remember in the years to come that you did not have to come, but you volunteered when Jamaica was experiencing its worst disaster. You went into the unknown to help people who could not help themselves. You have written your names into Jamaica’s story in one of its most difficult times.” In expressing appreciation to the families of the team members, the Ambassador acknowledged the personal sacrifices made behind the scenes. “Families always bear a burden in these circumstances. To the families who wondered whether their loved ones were doing okay, we share in the happiness that they have all returned safely,” he said. In her remarks, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, Sarah B. Rogers, commended the Government of Jamaica for its foresight and preparedness in mitigating the storm’s impact. “This was the largest hurricane ever to make landfall in Jamaica, and it was only by the miracle of your country’s foresight, preparedness, and investments that the damage wasn’t far worse. We extend condolences to Ambassador Anderson and the people of Jamaica who lost so much in Hurricane Melissa,” she stated. Rogers also lauded the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue Team for their bravery and effectiveness. “This was our most tightly integrated disaster response effort of all time. This team cleared thousands of buildings and likely saved countless lives. Thank you so much for your extraordinary service,” she said. TEAM Continued from, P2
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