Reggae and dancehall legend Sizzla is set to mark his three-decade-long musical journey with a monumental concert titled ‘Rise to the Occasion’ on October 19 at Sabina Park. The event, scheduled during Heroes Weekend, promises to be a historic celebration of his enduring influence and artistry. Sizzla, known for his heartfelt performances, emphasized that his connection with the audience remains unwavering, whether performing for 70,000 or a hundred fans. ‘Music is about love and passion,’ he told the Sunday Observer, highlighting his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience. The concert will feature a live band, creating a spiritual connection with the audience as they witness the music being crafted in real time. Sizzla also revealed that rehearsals with his band, whom he considers a second family, have been intense, ensuring a seamless synergy on stage. The event will include guest performances from notable artists like I Wayne, Jesse Royal, and Andrew Tosh, among others. Sizzla expressed gratitude for the camaraderie within the music industry, describing it as a family where mutual support is natural. ‘We respect and uplift each other because we understand the challenges of this journey,’ he said. The concert will also host an artisan village, ‘Da Real Ting,’ offering attendees a chance to support local craftsmen while enjoying world-class music and cuisine. Sizzla’s media launch for the event, held at Kamila’s Kitchen in downtown Kingston, drew a packed crowd, further underscoring the anticipation surrounding this milestone celebration.
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Echoes of Fern Gully
For over four decades, Fenton Coombs and Oneil Wilmot have been the heart and soul of Fern Gully in St. Ann, Jamaica, showcasing handcrafted items that reflect the island’s rich cultural heritage. Once a thriving hotspot for tourists, the scenic route has seen a decline in foot traffic due to the development of new highways and cruise ship ports. Yet, amidst the towering trees and dappled sunlight, these dedicated vendors continue to persevere, their vibrant crafts breathing life into the tranquil surroundings. Both Coombs and Wilmot remain hopeful, believing that Fern Gully still holds promise for their livelihoods. Coombs, now in his early 50s, began his journey as a craft vendor after high school, inspired by others who sold their creations to tourists. Despite the slowdown in business, he remains steadfast, refusing to abandon the place he calls home. ‘The natural scenery is better here,’ he said, emphasizing the tranquility and beauty of the area. Wilmot, who has also spent over 40 years in Fern Gully, shares Coombs’ optimism, especially with the approaching winter season and the anticipated influx of cruise ship visitors. Both vendors have raised their families through their craft sales, a testament to their resilience and dedication. Their story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by local artisans in a rapidly changing tourism landscape. Yet, their unwavering commitment to their craft and their community continues to inspire. Visitors like newlyweds Tina and Ali James, who stumbled upon Fern Gully by chance, praised the authenticity of the experience, highlighting the importance of supporting local vendors. ‘I prefer the authenticity of being on the island,’ said Tina, echoing a sentiment shared by many who seek to connect with the true essence of Jamaica.
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JCF ready to lend support in mental health crisis
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, is actively supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. Senior Superintendent of Police Dahlia Garrick, head of the Constabulary Communications Network (CCN), has urged the public to utilize these services, especially when encountering individuals displaying aggressive behavior or requiring urgent mental health treatment. This initiative aligns with Jamaica’s Mental Health Act, which empowers police officers to assist those exhibiting signs of mental illness. Under Section 15 of the Act, officers can take individuals in public spaces who appear mentally disordered to psychiatric facilities without a warrant, ensuring they receive timely care. Additionally, officers are required to submit a written report to the Mental Health Review Board within 30 days of such interventions. Garrick emphasized the importance of reducing stigma around mental illness, encouraging Jamaicans to support and refer individuals in need. She highlighted that police officers frequently encounter individuals with conditions like Alzheimer’s, dementia, and schizophrenia, often found wandering but non-aggressive. While most interactions are smooth, some cases have ended tragically, with 10 fatal shootings and 11 non-fatal encounters reported last year. Garrick stressed that excessive force is only used as a last resort to prevent greater harm. Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton acknowledged the collaboration between the JCF and community mental health officers, noting the challenges of reintegrating treated individuals into society without institutionalization. Dr. Kevin Goulbourne, Director of Mental Health and Substance Use, revealed plans to formalize protocols for police interactions with mentally ill individuals. The public is encouraged to contact the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline or the police for assistance in such cases.
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Chicken-and-egg situation
The relationship between marijuana use and mental health disorders, particularly schizophrenia, has been brought into sharp focus by Dr. Kristen Robinson-Barrett, a consultant psychiatrist and director of treatment services at Jamaica’s National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA). According to Dr. Robinson-Barrett, marijuana can activate an individual’s genetic predisposition to schizophrenia, a condition that, once triggered, cannot be reversed. This revelation adds a sobering layer to the viral comment by Jamaican dancehall artist Pablo YG: “Yuh see weh yuh did do, cyaa rub out” (You see what you did, it can’t be undone).
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Greed on the Rocks
Little Dunn’s River, a public beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann, has once again become a hotspot for illegal profiteering, with individuals charging Jamaicans for access to what is supposed to be a free facility. Despite being officially open only on Sundays, the beach was found to be fully operational on a recent Wednesday visit by the Jamaica Observer. A self-proclaimed caretaker at a side entrance demanded $300 for entry, claiming the main gate was closed. This unauthorized fee was justified by the man, who asserted that he and his associates maintain the property, purchasing supplies and cleaning facilities. However, the beach is owned and managed by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), making such charges illegal. This issue is not new; in 2022, the beach was shut down after a fatal shooting linked to a criminal network extorting visitors. Member of Parliament Matthew Samuda condemned the illegal activities, emphasizing that Little Dunn’s River is a free public beach under UDC supervision. He revealed that security measures have been initiated, including police involvement and arrests. Samuda also highlighted the government’s commitment to providing free beach access and shared that a $170-million upgrade plan for the beach is underway. While the beach is currently open only on weekends due to resource constraints, the government aims to balance accessibility and security. Samuda stressed that unscrupulous individuals blocking access will be forcefully removed, as they are not legitimate custodians but criminals. The issue has sparked protests, with advocacy groups demanding seven-day access and asserting historical rights to the land. The government’s beach access policy, nearing completion, seeks to address these concerns while ensuring public safety and enjoyment.
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‘WE LOST CONTROL’
In a critical match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, suffered a 2-0 defeat against Curacao at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad. This loss has complicated their path to qualification, with Curacao now leading Group B in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. Despite a valiant effort, Jamaica’s Head Coach Steve McClaren acknowledged the challenges his team faced, particularly in the midfield, where Curacao dominated. Livano Comenencia and Kenji Gorre scored decisive goals in the 14th and 68th minutes, respectively, sealing Jamaica’s fate. McClaren emphasized that qualification was always going to be a tight race, urging his team to regroup and focus on their upcoming match against Bermuda. Jamaica’s position in the group has slipped to second place, with Curacao now holding a one-point advantage. The Reggae Boyz must secure victories in their remaining matches to keep their World Cup dreams alive, with the final group standings likely to be decided in November. McClaren remains optimistic, stressing the importance of resilience and preparation as the team navigates this crucial phase of the qualifiers.
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AyahsoWiDeh
Nestled along Jamaica’s north-eastern coast near the iconic Blue Lagoon and San San Beach in Portland, AyahsoWiDeh—a Jamaican patois phrase meaning ‘this is where we are’—stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and natural harmony. Originally designed in 2000 by the late Harold Morrison, a celebrated Jamaican architect, the villa was reimagined and expanded in 2024 by his daughter, Mala Morrison, who infused it with modern innovation while preserving its cultural essence.
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Call for early mental health intervention on World Mental Health Day
The Barbados Alliance to End Homelessness (BAEH) has called on authorities to shift focus from awareness campaigns to implementing early, community-based mental health interventions, citing untreated mental health conditions as a key driver of the island’s homelessness crisis. Speaking on World Mental Health Day, BAEH President Kemar Saffrey emphasized the need for early identification and support for mental health challenges in schools, workplaces, and families to address the intertwined issues of homelessness and mental illness. He stressed that education and awareness are crucial to reducing stigma and fostering societal understanding. Since its establishment in 2009, the BAEH has worked with hundreds of homeless individuals, revealing that approximately 80% of its clients, both male and female, have faced mental health issues. Saffrey highlighted the necessity of a holistic national approach, combining clinical care with community outreach and robust policy support. He also advocated for policy changes to empower frontline organizations, such as community groups and shelters, to assess, document, and refer individuals in crisis to mental health services. This, he argued, would bridge the gap between community and clinical care, ensuring dignified and timely intervention. Recent data from Barbados’ 24-hour mental health hotline, which has received over 6,500 calls since its launch, underscores the urgency of the issue, with 40% of calls coming from children and teens. Saffrey urged Barbados to move beyond awareness and take meaningful action, emphasizing compassion and coordinated reform as essential for lasting progress. On World Mental Health Day, the BAEH called for a national recommitment to mental wellness, ensuring access to support for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
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Coverden neighbour knifes grandparents, toddler
A shocking knife attack in Coverden, East Bank Demerara, has left a family of three injured, including an 18-month-old toddler. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon at approximately 3:30 PM, when the family was caught in traffic on the East Bank Road. The alleged attacker, 68-year-old Alfred Aaron, a construction worker, has been arrested in connection with the assault. The victims include 53-year-old Indira Thomas, a housewife, her 68-year-old husband William Thomas, a businessman, and their young granddaughter. According to Mrs. Thomas, the altercation began when Aaron verbally abused her while they were stuck in traffic. The two had a prior disagreement and had not been on speaking terms. The situation escalated when Aaron allegedly threatened to kill Mr. Thomas, who had stepped out of his vehicle to confront him. Armed with a knife, Aaron attacked Mr. Thomas, inflicting injuries to his abdomen and ear. The toddler sustained a wound on her left wrist, while Mrs. Thomas suffered injuries to her elbow, hand palm, and fingers while attempting to intervene. The family managed to drive to Diamond Regional Hospital, where they received medical treatment. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
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Mourner shot, robbed near ‘wake house’
In a shocking incident early Saturday morning, an autobody workman was shot and robbed near a wake he was attending in Annandale, East Coast Demerara, according to the Guyana Police Force. The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, resides in Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara. The attack occurred around 12:05 AM when two men on a motorcycle approached him, demanding money and stealing his Samsung S9 phone valued at GY$40,000 and a haversack worth GY$5,000. The victim had momentarily left the wake of the late Eagon Williams to urinate when he noticed the assailants approaching from the east. Despite attempting to flee towards the wake house, he was caught, held at gunpoint, and shot in the right thigh when he resisted. Residents attending the wake rushed him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was admitted and scheduled for surgery. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has left the community in shock.