作者: admin

  • Jamaica’s Taylor and Marshall go 1-2 in 800m at NCAA Indoor Championships

    Jamaica’s Taylor and Marshall go 1-2 in 800m at NCAA Indoor Championships

    Jamaican collegiate athletes delivered a spectacular display of track and field excellence during the second day of the NCAA Indoor Championships at the University of Arkansas’ Randal Tyson Track Center. The standout performance came from Tyrice Taylor, who secured the men’s 800m title with a personal best time of 1:46.00, marking the second Jamaican victory in this event within three years.

    Taylor, the reigning NCAA outdoor champion, improved upon his previous record of 1:46.11 and led an Arkansas 1-2 finish alongside compatriot Rivaldo Marshall, who clocked 1:46.12 for second place. This victory highlighted Jamaica’s growing dominance in middle-distance running at the collegiate level.

    The Jamaican success extended across multiple disciplines. Dejanae Oakley of the University of Georgia shattered the Jamaican women’s indoor 400m record with a blistering 50.47 seconds, breaking Stephenie Ann McPherson’s previous mark of 50.79 seconds set in 2022. Oakley’s teammate Shaquena Foote also achieved a personal best of 51.13 seconds, ranking fifth all-time among Jamaican women.

    Shenese Walker of Florida State University claimed victory in the women’s 60m with a time of 7.08 seconds, becoming the first Jamaican winner since Brianna Lyston in 2024. Additional notable performances included Gabrielle Matthews setting a personal best and University of Florida program record of 22.55 seconds in the women’s 200m, elevating her to fourth on Jamaica’s all-time list.

    In field events, Kobe Lawrence of the University of Oregon achieved a significant personal best of 20.50m in the men’s shot put, establishing new Jamaican and Oregon program records. Shantae Foreman of Clemson improved from last year’s fifth-place finish to secure second in the women’s triple jump with a mark of 13.80m.

    The championships also featured strong showings in hurdles events, with Demario Prince of Baylor University taking third in the men’s 60m hurdles (7.48 seconds) and Oneka Wilson of Clemson placing sixth in the women’s equivalent (8.11 seconds).

  • WATCH: Man shot dead, another injured in Manchester

    WATCH: Man shot dead, another injured in Manchester

    A violent shooting incident shattered the afternoon calm in Land Settlement, Manchester on Saturday, resulting in one fatality and leaving another individual wounded. The attack occurred at approximately 4:00 pm local time within the premises of a local bar, sending shockwaves through the community.

    Law enforcement authorities swiftly descended upon the scene following reports of the gunfire. Detective units are currently conducting a comprehensive forensic examination of the area, meticulously gathering evidence to reconstruct the sequence of events. The investigation remains in its preliminary stages as officers work to establish a motive and identify potential suspects involved in the deadly assault.

    The Manchester police have launched a full-scale inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While specific details regarding the victims’ identities or the possible perpetrators remain undisclosed, authorities have confirmed their active pursuit of all credible leads. This incident marks another episode in Jamaica’s ongoing challenges with gun violence, highlighting persistent public safety concerns that affect communities across the island nation.

  • PHOTOS: Edna Manley College hosts viewing of ‘heArt of the Caribbean’ exhibition

    PHOTOS: Edna Manley College hosts viewing of ‘heArt of the Caribbean’ exhibition

    Kingston’s prestigious Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts has launched a significant cultural showcase with the opening of the School of Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition, titled ‘heArt of the Caribbean.’ The institution hosted an exclusive media preview on Thursday, offering journalists and photographers an advance viewing of the groundbreaking collection.

    The exhibition, which presents a profound exploration of Caribbean identity through diverse visual media, is now accessible for public viewing. Curated to highlight the exceptional talent within the college’s academic staff, the showcase features works that reinterpret regional narratives through contemporary artistic lenses. The collection spans various mediums including painting, sculpture, digital art, and mixed-media installations, each piece offering unique perspectives on Caribbean culture, history, and social dynamics.

    Prominent photographer Llewellyn Wynter of Observer Online documented the private viewing event, capturing the artistic ambiance and notable works featured in the exhibition. His photographic coverage provides digital audiences with an immersive visual journey through the showcase. The exhibition will remain open to art enthusiasts and the general public through March 19, 2026, offering an extended opportunity to engage with this comprehensive presentation of Caribbean artistic excellence.

  • Dejanea Oakley wins NCAA indoors 400m title

    Dejanea Oakley wins NCAA indoors 400m title

    In a spectacular display of athletic prowess at the NCAA Indoor Championships, Jamaican sprinters Dejanea Oakley and Shaquena Foote from the University of Georgia achieved remarkable personal milestones during the women’s 400m final. The event, held at the prestigious Randal Tyson Track Center at the University of Arkansas on Saturday, witnessed exceptional performances across the board.

    Oakley emerged victorious with a championship-winning performance, clocking an impressive 50.47 seconds to claim the national title. Her triumphant run demonstrated both technical excellence and strategic pacing that ultimately secured her top honors on the podium.

    Madison Whyte of the University of Southern California captured the silver medal with her own personal best of 50.68 seconds, while Louisiana State University’s Ella Onojuvwevwo rounded out the top three with a bronze medal finish at 50.76 seconds.

    Foote, competing with particular determination following her recent disqualification at the South-eastern Conference championships, delivered a strong performance despite missing the podium. Her fifth-place finish at 51.13 seconds represented a significant personal achievement and marked a successful comeback from previous competitive disappointment.

    The championship event highlighted the growing international representation in collegiate track and field, with multiple athletes achieving personal benchmarks amidst intense competition.

  • Underwater cultural heritage mural officially unveiled in downtown Kingston

    Underwater cultural heritage mural officially unveiled in downtown Kingston

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – A significant cultural milestone was achieved in downtown Kingston as Minister Olivia Grange officially revealed the Underwater Cultural Heritage Mural on East Street. This artistic creation, developed through collaboration with UNESCO, represents a visual tribute to Jamaica’s submerged historical legacy and serves as an educational catalyst for contemplating the nation’s maritime past.

    The mural forms the centerpiece of the ‘Sunken Secrets of the Caribbean Sea’ initiative, launched to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the UNESCO Convention on Underwater Cultural Heritage. Minister Grange disclosed that her ministry partnered with UNESCO in January 2025 to develop this project, which included specialized workshops at the University of the West Indies and the Institute of Jamaica. These sessions assembled international experts to discuss preservation methodologies and the importance of documenting underwater archaeological sites.

    Beyond depicting shipwrecks and the famous sunken city of Port Royal, the mural incorporates symbolic references to the transatlantic slave trade, honoring the memory of enslaved Africans who perished during the Middle Passage. Strategically positioned beside the Institute of Jamaica’s Junior Centre, the artwork ensures maximum visibility for students, residents, and commuters.

    Minister Grange announced plans for a second mural at Eltham High School in Spanish Town to expand youth engagement with underwater heritage. Additionally, she proposed renaming the section of East Street near the Institute as ‘IOJ Square’ to acknowledge the institution’s 145-year contribution to Jamaican cultural development. The initiative represents a fusion of artistic expression, historical preservation, and community education, positioning Jamaica as a leader in underwater cultural conservation.

  • ‘No French plan’ to stop war in Lebanon

    ‘No French plan’ to stop war in Lebanon

    PARIS—The French foreign ministry issued a formal denial on Saturday refuting claims of a proposed French-led initiative to halt hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon. In a statement distributed to Agence France-Presse, the ministry clarified that while France supports diplomatic engagement between Lebanon and Israel, it does not endorse or advance any unilateral framework for negotiations.

    The ministry emphasized, “France has supported the Lebanese authorities’ openness to direct talks with Israel and has offered to facilitate them. However, it is for the parties, and only the parties, to set the agenda for these talks.” This position underscores France’s commitment to a mediation role that respects the autonomy and sovereignty of both conflict parties.

    The clarification came in response to a report published earlier Saturday by U.S. news outlet Axios, which cited three anonymous sources claiming that France had drafted a proposal involving Lebanese recognition of Israel in exchange for a ceasefire. The French statement implicitly distanced itself from such a framework, reinforcing that agenda-setting must remain with the involved governments and armed factions.

    Meanwhile, a Lebanese official confirmed to AFP that Beirut is preparing to form a delegation to engage in negotiations with Israel, signaling a potential diplomatic opening despite the absence of an externally imposed roadmap. The ongoing clashes between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have raised international concerns over regional escalation, drawing attention from multiple global powers seeking de-escalation.

  • Partnership sparks empowerment for teen moms

    Partnership sparks empowerment for teen moms

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—A transformative partnership between the Crisis Support Charity Team and Jubilee Hospital’s Teen Mom Programme Clinic is creating sustainable pathways to success for young mothers across Jamaica. The comprehensive initiative delivers essential nutritional assistance, psychological counseling, and empowerment mentoring to adolescents navigating motherhood.

    During recent programming sessions, teenage mothers received expert guidance from multidisciplinary professionals who provided both practical resources and inspirational messaging. Corporal Shauna Lowe of the Half-Way-Tree Police Station delivered a powerful affirmation to participants, emphasizing their inherent strength and divine capability. “You are stronger than your circumstances,” Lowe affirmed, encouraging mothers to persist toward their aspirations despite obstacles.

    Sandra Reid, representing the HEART/NTA training agency, outlined concrete educational opportunities through vocational programs. She detailed how young mothers can acquire marketable skills while simultaneously caring for their children, ultimately enabling entrepreneurship and financial independence.

    The program incorporated critical child development education through specialist Deonne Thwaites, who instructed mothers on identifying early indicators of autism spectrum disorder and other developmental considerations. This knowledge empowers young parents to monitor their children’s growth with professional insight.

    Crisis Support Charity co-founder Luke Josephs reiterated the organization’s long-term dedication to teen mothers, stating: “We remain committed to standing with these young women during challenging yet conquerable periods. Our mission is to provide the tools for building prosperous futures—both for themselves and their children.” The program actively seeks additional corporate partnerships to expand its impactful services.

  • KSAMC reviewing carnival 2026 routes and event applications

    KSAMC reviewing carnival 2026 routes and event applications

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Municipal authorities in Jamaica’s capital are implementing comprehensive safety and environmental protocols for the upcoming 2026 Carnival season. The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) is currently evaluating proposed parade routes through the Corporate Area following the March 6 application deadline for carnival events.

    Mayor Andrew Swaby revealed during Tuesday’s monthly council meeting that the municipal corporation is coordinating with multiple government agencies to ensure the carnival’s successful execution. The review process involves collaborative assessments with enforcement units, road and works departments, disaster management teams, and compliance officials to establish optimal parade routes that prioritize public safety and minimal disruption.

    Municipal officials have maintained ongoing consultations with carnival organizers, band representatives, and watch party promoters to guarantee all activities adhere to established safety standards and regulatory requirements. A particular emphasis has been placed on waste management strategies, with the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) actively participating in the planning phase.

    Mayor Swaby outlined stringent approval conditions: “All event applications will undergo NSWMA review to ensure satisfactory waste collection and disposal arrangements. Approval will only be granted when environmental requirements are met alongside other regulatory standards.”

    The municipal government aims to prevent the post-carnival environmental damage experienced in previous years, where public and private infrastructure suffered defacement and extensive litter accumulation throughout urban areas. Swaby issued a collective appeal to event promoters, participants, and attendees: “I urge all stakeholders to contribute to maintaining urban cleanliness during carnival celebrations. The KSAMC emphasizes the importance of responsible conduct from all participants.”

  • Dowman makes history as Arsenal strike late, Chelsea beaten

    Dowman makes history as Arsenal strike late, Chelsea beaten

    In a dramatic Saturday showdown at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Everton, significantly strengthening their position in the Premier League title race. The match, which remained deadlocked until the final moments, was ultimately decided by a combination of Everton’s defensive collapse and a historic contribution from 16-year-old sensation Max Dowman.

    The breakthrough came in the 89th minute when Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford misjudged Dowman’s cross, allowing Piero Hincapie to redirect the ball into the six-yard box for Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres to tap into an empty net. The eruption of celebration from both players and fans underscored the importance of Arsenal’s fourth consecutive league win.

    The drama continued into stoppage time when Dowman capitalized on a rapid counter-attack following an Everton corner, sprinting the length of the pitch to slot home Arsenal’s second goal while Pickford remained stranded upfield. This remarkable finish secured Dowman’s place in Premier League history as both the competition’s youngest-ever goalscorer and Arsenal’s youngest scorer.

    The victory propels Arsenal ten points clear of second-place Manchester City, who have two games in hand including Saturday’s late fixture against West Ham. Despite what manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged was a ‘disjointed performance,’ the Gunners demonstrated the resilience that has characterized their campaign as they pursue their first English title in 22 years.

    Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Champions League qualification hopes suffered a significant setback with a 1-0 home defeat to Newcastle. Anthony Gordon’s 18th-minute strike, assisted by Joe Willock following Tino Livramento’s penetrating pass, proved decisive at Stamford Bridge. The loss leaves Chelsea three points behind top-four rivals Aston Villa and Manchester United, having played an additional game.

    In other Saturday fixtures, Brighton climbed into the top half of the table with a 1-0 victory over Sunderland, courtesy of Yankuba Minteh’s second-half goal, while Burnley’s relegation concerns deepened after a 0-0 draw with Bournemouth at Turf Moor.

  • Bahamas PM signals general election ‘soon’ but date still unclear

    Bahamas PM signals general election ‘soon’ but date still unclear

    NASSAU, Bahamas—Prime Minister Philip Davis has officially indicated that The Bahamas will hold its next general election in the near future, though he stopped short of announcing a precise date. In remarks to journalists, Davis affirmed that citizens should prepare for upcoming elections, stating only that the vote would occur “soon” and advising the public to “stay tuned” for further developments.

    The announcement follows unexpected comments from Fred Mitchell, Chairman of the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), who suggested in a recently circulated voice note that the election could be called within weeks. This has spurred widespread conjecture that Bahamians may be going to the polls as early as this spring.

    As the nation anticipates the electoral timeline, the Davis administration intends to campaign on its four-year governance record and future policy proposals. The Prime Minister cited significant accomplishments during his term but recognized that not all citizens have yet experienced the tangible benefits of these initiatives.

    A key area of electoral focus will be Grand Bahama, where the PLP faces scrutiny over perceived economic stagnation and delayed recovery efforts. Despite government measures aimed at revitalizing the island’s economy, many locals report insufficient progress. Complicating matters is an ongoing legal dispute between the government and the Grand Bahama Port Authority regarding the Hawksbill Creek Agreement. A recent arbitration tribunal dismissed the state’s $357 million claim for administrative costs—a ruling both sides have interpreted favorably.

    Nonetheless, Davis expressed confidence that Grand Bahama voters would support the PLP, citing the party’s assertive stance in the dispute as evidence of its serious approach to governance.

    On the opposition front, Michael Darville, MP for Tall Pines, confirmed his readiness to contest the election whenever it is called, signaling that political campaigns are already in a state of high alert.