Rohan Marley’s earliest olfactory memories are steeped in the scents of his childhood: the mint and sage his mother used in her cooking, the fresh sweetness of the outdoors, and the comforting aroma of laundry drying in the sun. These sensory experiences shaped his understanding of fragrances, a passion that has now culminated in the launch of Marley Fragrance, a collection inspired by his father, the legendary Bob Marley. The collection, divided into three distinct lines, embodies Bob Marley’s enduring messages of love, unity, and harmony. Developed in collaboration with IMH Fragrance, a luxury niche fragrance house, the scents were crafted by master perfumers Doug Falcone, Yann Vasnier, Kevin Scozzaro, and Clement Gavarry. The Marley Fragrance Private Sensory Launch, hosted at the scenic Gap Café in Jamaica, offered guests an immersive experience. Against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains, attendees explored the fragrances’ intricate notes, guided by experts like Gavarry and Rachael Larsen. The event featured a curated meal by Chef Alexa Von Strolley, blending culinary artistry with fragrance. Highlights included Place of Peace, a soothing scent with agave and Earl Grey tea notes, and Mellow Mood, Rohan’s personal favorite. The collection not only celebrates Bob Marley’s legacy but also invites a new generation to connect with his values through the art of scent.
作者: admin
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Vox pop: Jamaicans on prostate cancer screening
As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close, the Jamaica Observer conducted a street survey in New Kingston to gauge public sentiment on prostate cancer screening. Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent cancer in Jamaica, with 1,561 new cases reported in 2020. Early detection through screening methods, such as digital rectal examinations and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, is crucial for effective management. In Jamaica, screening is recommended starting at age 40. However, public attitudes toward these screenings vary widely. Many respondents expressed positive views, emphasizing the importance of health checks. One individual stated, ‘You have to feel good about checking your health to know what’s going on in your system.’ Another older participant added, ‘I have no reservations; it’s about knowing your health status.’ Yet, discomfort and stigma remain significant barriers. Younger men, in particular, cited ‘comfortability’ as a deterrent, with one admitting, ‘I wouldn’t do it personally.’ Others expressed unease with the digital rectal examination method, with one man stating, ‘I don’t think it’s appropriate for someone to be examining you through your anal.’ An older gentleman noted that age influences acceptance, explaining that younger individuals often associate the procedure with stigma. A woman highlighted societal perceptions, saying, ‘They don’t want to be seen as gay.’ Despite these challenges, most respondents agreed that increased education and open dialogue could help reduce stigma and encourage more men to undergo screening. Many pledged to support others in taking this vital step for their health.
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Silent screams
The untimely death of Tyra Spaulding, a former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant, has reignited conversations about mental health awareness and the role of social media in identifying and addressing mental health crises. Spaulding, a 26-year-old accountant, was found dead in her home under circumstances that suggest suicide. Her passing has left a profound impact on her family, friends, and the broader community, particularly Dr. Saphire Longmore, a consultant psychiatrist and former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant, who expressed deep regret over not recognizing the warning signs in Spaulding’s social media posts.
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Met Service extends Flash Flood Warning until Monday
The Jamaica Meteorological Service has prolonged its flash flood alert for vulnerable regions, including St Thomas, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and Hanover, until 8:00 am on Monday. Meanwhile, the warning has been lifted for other parishes with immediate effect. The adverse weather conditions are attributed to a trough generated by Tropical Depression Nine, currently situated near The Bahamas, which has triggered widespread instability across the island. Satellite imagery, radar data, and automated rainfall reports confirm that moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms have impacted southern parishes and Hanover from Saturday night into Sunday morning. The forecast predicts continued periods of intense showers and thunderstorms, particularly in southern regions, extending into Monday. This persistent rainfall has saturated the soil, heightening the risk of flooding and landslides. Fishermen operating near cays and banks are advised to exercise extreme caution due to deteriorating sea conditions caused by thunderstorms and strong winds. A flash flood warning indicates that flooding is either occurring or imminent. Authorities urge motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roadways and low-lying areas due to dangerous currents. Residents in flood-prone zones are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepare for swift relocation to higher ground. The Met Service will continue to monitor the situation closely.
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Firearm and ammunition seized in St Catherine; three in custody
In a pre-dawn operation conducted by the St Catherine South Police in Portsmouth, Portmore, Jamaica, three individuals, including a woman, were apprehended on Saturday. The operation, which took place around 5:00 am, targeted a residence on Portsea Road. During the search, law enforcement officers uncovered a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol concealed in a towel, accompanied by a magazine loaded with sixteen 9mm rounds. Further investigation led to the discovery of an additional four 9mm rounds hidden within a chest of drawers in one of the bedrooms. The three occupants of the house were promptly taken into custody. Authorities have chosen to withhold their identities as the investigation continues. This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by Jamaican police to combat illegal firearms and enhance public safety in the region.
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Cornwall College, Ocho Rios High advance to the Round of 32 in the ISSA daCosta Cup
In a thrilling round of matches on Saturday, former champions Cornwall College and Clarendon College, along with Ocho Rios High, successfully advanced to the Round of 32 in the ISSA daCosta Cup football competition. Cornwall College dominated St James High with a commanding 4-0 victory at Jarrett Park, thanks to Carlondo Morris’s brace and goals from Kayvon Donaldson and Mekhi Foster. This win elevated Cornwall College to 19 points, solidifying their lead in their group. Clarendon College showcased their prowess with a resounding 7-0 triumph over Lennon High, maintaining their top position in Zone H with 16 points. Meanwhile, Ocho Rios High secured their spot from Zone K after a 13-0 thrashing of Discovery Bay High, finishing with an impressive 21 points. The trio joins Mannings School and Cedric Titus High, who had already qualified earlier in the week. In Zone E, Munro College, last season’s quarter-finalist, missed the playoffs, finishing with eight points, edged out by Maggotty High and Lacovia High. Defending champions Garvey Maceo High and Glenmuir High also recorded 3-0 victories, with standout performances from Reece Roman and Orel Miller. The competition continues to heat up as teams vie for a place in the next round.
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ICE nabs illegal Haitian immigrant allegedly connected to criminal terrorist organisations
MIAMI, United States – The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended Dimitri Vorbe, an undocumented Haitian immigrant allegedly affiliated with criminal terrorist groups. Vorbe was arrested for breaching the Immigration and Nationality Act and for activities that reportedly contributed to the destabilization of Haiti. The investigation was a collaborative effort involving ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal Operations, the US Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate of US Citizenship and Immigration Services. ICE stated that Vorbe’s presence in the United States posed significant risks to US foreign policy, citing his involvement in violent campaigns and gang support that exacerbated Haiti’s instability. Currently, Vorbe remains in ICE custody as removal proceedings are underway. ICE emphasized that this arrest reflects the Trump administration’s dedication to safeguarding American citizens, enhancing national security, and fostering regional stability.
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Skrillex and Damian Marley’s Make it Bun Dem certified gold in the UK
Big Beat, the renowned U.S. electronic and dance music record label established in 1986 by Craig Kallman, former president of Atlantic Records, has maintained a deep-rooted connection with reggae music over the decades. Initially distributed by Atlantic Records, Big Beat was integrated into the label in 1992 before being relaunched independently in 2010. Throughout its history, the label has been instrumental in promoting reggae artists such as Garnet Silk, Dawn Penn, and Inner Circle.
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Trump hints at ‘something special’ in Middle East talks
WASHINGTON, United States — In a significant development, US President Donald Trump hinted at a potential breakthrough in the Middle East crisis on Sunday, just ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s scheduled visit to the White House. Trump expressed optimism in a post on his Truth Social platform, stating, “We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!!”
Earlier on Friday, Trump had suggested to reporters in Washington that a deal on Gaza was imminent. “I think we have a deal,” he said. “A deal that will secure the release of hostages and bring an end to the war.”
Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump on Monday follows the US president’s recent unveiling of a 21-point plan aimed at resolving the conflict in the Palestinian territory. This plan was discussed during talks with Arab and Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The timing of the meeting is critical, as Israel faces increasing international isolation, with countries like Britain, France, Canada, and Australia officially recognizing Palestinian statehood, diverging from the long-standing US-led diplomatic stance.
According to a diplomatic source, Trump’s plan includes a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and a substantial influx of humanitarian aid. Netanyahu, speaking on Fox News on Sunday, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “We want to free our hostages, dismantle Hamas rule, demilitarize Gaza, and establish a new future for both Gazans and Israelis, as well as the entire region,” he said.
While Arab and Muslim leaders have welcomed the proposal, they have also called for an immediate cessation of Israel’s military operations and any occupation of Gaza. One of the most contentious aspects of the plan is the proposed involvement of the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority in the future governance of Gaza. Netanyahu expressed skepticism about this, stating, “I don’t think it’s going to happen.”
Addressing the United Nations on Friday, Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to blocking the establishment of a Palestinian state while vowing to “finish the job” against Hamas. The conflict escalated following Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages, 47 of whom remain in Gaza, including 25 declared dead by the Israeli military. Israel’s retaliatory offensive in Gaza has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 66,005 people, predominantly civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry, which the United Nations considers reliable.
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US lawmakers open to talks as government shutdown looms
In a high-stakes political standoff, US lawmakers have indicated a willingness to engage in discussions to prevent an imminent federal government shutdown. The Trump administration has escalated tensions by warning of mass federal firings if an agreement is not reached by the September 30 fiscal deadline. President Donald Trump, a Republican, is locked in a contentious battle with congressional Democrats over spending plans, with key services at risk of being cut if no resolution is found. Trump, who canceled a meeting with senior opposition leaders last week, is now scheduled to meet with them on Monday. House Speaker Mike Johnson, the top Republican in Congress, stated on CNN that Trump is ‘open to discussion’ and ‘wants to operate in good faith,’ though he remained noncommittal about the potential for negotiations during the upcoming meeting. The White House has further intensified the situation by directing government agencies to prepare for layoffs that would exceed the typical temporary furloughs seen during past shutdowns. This move follows large-scale firings earlier this year orchestrated by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed cautious optimism on ABC, stating he was ‘hopeful’ a deal could be reached before the Tuesday deadline. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer echoed this sentiment on NBC, emphasizing that any progress would hinge on the Republicans’ willingness to engage in serious negotiations. The last government shutdown occurred in March, when Republicans refused to negotiate with Democrats over Trump’s proposed budget cuts and layoffs of federal employees. Lawmakers narrowly avoided a shutdown then by passing a temporary funding measure with hours to spare.
