作者: admin

  • Kaana Pitch Football League Scores big for youth and community development

    Kaana Pitch Football League Scores big for youth and community development

    Once a derelict space in Poor Man’s Corner, St Thomas, overrun with garbage and unfulfilled potential, has been revitalized into a thriving community centerpiece. Kaana Pitch, a synthetic football turf developed by Roger Gordon and Anika Gordon of Jam Flooring and Outdoor Supplies, now hosts the annual Kaana Pitch Football League. This event attracts teams and spectators from St Thomas, Bull Bay, and Kingston, fostering unity and excitement. The 2023 league, concluding on September 21, saw 21 teams compete, with El Chapo clinching the $100,000 grand prize, TT Money securing second place with $50,000, and Red Hills taking third with $25,000. Beyond the thrill of competition, the league has become a catalyst for community bonding and youth development. Players like Andrew from Red Hills highlighted the joy and camaraderie the event brings, while El Chapo’s coach, Tommy Ricketts, emphasized its role in instilling discipline and positive behavior among young participants. The league’s grand finale also included a back-to-school initiative, providing students with essential supplies. Roger Gordon, one of the organizers, underscored the importance of engaging youth through sports, noting its impact in reducing street violence and fostering community spirit. Kaana Pitch has evolved into more than a football venue; it’s a weekend gathering spot for events, exercise, and social interaction. The Gordons’ vision to repurpose the abandoned lot into a recreational space has been a resounding success, with plans to expand facilities to include a pickleball court for seniors and a netball court. Supported by sponsors like Klesing Industrial Supplies Ltd and Romax Auto Parts, the league aims to grow further, with hopes of attracting more sponsors for future editions. Kaana Pitch stands as a testament to the transformative power of community-driven initiatives.

  • JSIF-REDI II enhances Jamaica’s agriculture and community-based tourism sectors as a major sponsor of JAIF 2025

    JSIF-REDI II enhances Jamaica’s agriculture and community-based tourism sectors as a major sponsor of JAIF 2025

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Agri-Business Investment Forum (JAIF 2025), held recently in Montego Bay, St. James, marked a significant milestone in fostering sustainable growth and investment opportunities in Jamaica’s agriculture and community-based tourism sectors. The event, sponsored by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund’s Rural Economic Development Initiative II (JSIF-REDI II), showcased the transformative impact of the US $40 million initiative funded through a partnership between the Government of Jamaica and the World Bank. The forum, themed ‘Sustainable Agri-Business: Global Reach, Local Impact,’ attracted approximately 500 participants from diverse sectors, highlighting its role as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration. Orville Hill, JSIF’s General Manager for Finance, Procurement, and Standards, emphasized the initiative’s success in creating an enabling environment for enterprises to thrive, despite challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl and the COVID-19 pandemic. Beneficiaries, including the Ujima Natural Farmers Market and the Content Greenhouse Cluster, praised the program for its support in expanding market access and rebuilding after natural disasters. Kilara Suit, the World Bank’s Senior Agriculture Specialist, underscored the program’s achievements in capacity-building, job creation, and fostering inclusive growth. The forum also introduced a ‘Deal Book’ featuring 10 investment-ready opportunities, signaling potential projects worth billions of dollars. Vivion Scully, Chairman of the Forum and CEO of the Agro-Investment Corporation, hailed the event’s success and announced plans for a second forum in 2027, further solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s agri-business development.

  • Noah Lyles and fiancée Junelle Bromfield announce baptism on Instagram

    Noah Lyles and fiancée Junelle Bromfield announce baptism on Instagram

    In a heartfelt revelation, American sprint sensation Noah Lyles and his fiancée, Jamaican 4×400m relay athlete Junelle Bromfield, have publicly announced their baptism. The couple took to Instagram on Sunday to share the joyous occasion, posting videos of the ceremony accompanied by the Bible verse Joshua 24:15. Lyles, an Olympic champion and eight-time world champion, is celebrated not only for his electrifying performances in the 100m and 200m events but also for his charismatic presence in the world of athletics. Bromfield, a key member of Jamaica’s 4×400m relay team, has proudly represented her nation on numerous international stages. Their announcement was met with an outpouring of support from fans, fellow athletes, and public figures, many of whom commended the couple for their public declaration of faith. This spiritual milestone follows their engagement announcement in October 2024, further solidifying their bond both on and off the track.

  • St Catherine man charged after breaking into church

    St Catherine man charged after breaking into church

    In a startling incident in St. Catherine South, Jamaica, a 39-year-old man has been charged with sacrilege following an alleged break-in at a local church. Robert Barnett, also known as “Mogo,” residing on North Edgewater Avenue in Portmore, was apprehended after he reportedly forced his way into a church on Cecile Avenue, Edgewater, on September 13. According to police reports, Barnett entered the premises around 11:30 pm by prying open a window. Once inside, he allegedly stole a bag containing $3,000 and a Samsung keyboard valued at $175,000. However, the church’s security system was activated, prompting a private security team to respond swiftly. Barnett was discovered inside the building, detained, and later handed over to law enforcement. After being interviewed in the presence of his attorney, Barnett was formally charged on September 27. His court appearance date remains pending.

  • Windscreen wiper charged after stealing over $200,000

    Windscreen wiper charged after stealing over $200,000

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a recent development, 45-year-old Conroy Grant, alias ‘Snack,’ has been formally charged with simple larceny by detectives from the St Andrew South Police Division. The charges stem from a theft incident that unfolded on Waltham Park Road in Kingston 13. The Hunt’s Bay Police reported that the crime occurred at approximately 6:45 am on August 25. A woman had parked her vehicle outside a local business establishment, leaving a bag containing $230,000 inside. Upon her return, she discovered the money had vanished. Surveillance footage later identified Grant, a windscreen wiper residing on Delacree Lane in Kingston 11, as the individual who removed the cash from the bag. After a thorough investigation, Grant was apprehended by authorities. Police officials confirmed that he admitted to the crime and provided a caution statement in the presence of his legal counsel. Grant is set to face the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on October 14, where he will answer to the charges brought against him.

  • Carol Hylton continues to raise awareness about neurovascular disease after son’s death from stroke

    Carol Hylton continues to raise awareness about neurovascular disease after son’s death from stroke

    In the wake of her son Michael Hylton’s untimely death from a stroke in 2009, Carol Hylton, a registered nurse from Portland, established Smiley’s Voice Foundation. This organization is dedicated to raising awareness about neurovascular diseases and has since become a beacon of hope and action in the fight against such conditions. The foundation is the driving force behind the annual Black, Red & White Foundation Gala, now in its 12th year, which will take place on November 22 at the Doubletree By Hilton hotel in Fort Lauderdale.

    Michael Hylton Jr., affectionately known as ‘Dee Jay Smiley,’ was a vibrant 29-year-old who left an indelible mark on those around him. Described as warm, kind, and deeply respectful, Michael was a humanitarian who always saw the best in people. His passion for music led him to form Crowdpleasers Entertainment, a venture that brought joy to countless events, from weddings to parties at his favorite venue, Ginger Bay Cafe in downtown Hollywood, South Florida.

    Last year’s gala raised $5,000, which was donated to the Stroke Unit at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) in St. Andrew, Jamaica. In July 2024, Carol Hylton, alongside Dr. Rosemarie Lewis, coordinated a mission to UHWI, led by renowned South Florida neurosurgeons Dr. Norman Ajiboye and Dr. Brandon Davis. During their time in Jamaica, they performed five critical surgeries in collaboration with Dr. Kevin Wade, a consultant neurointerventional surgeon at UHWI.

    Carol Hylton, supported by her husband Michael and daughters Mikara and Marissa, continues to lead Smiley’s Voice Foundation with unwavering dedication. This year, the foundation aims to raise even more funds and honor Michael’s memory by advancing their mission. ‘Michael was a God-fearing young man who loved his family and considered us his foundation,’ Carol shared. ‘We started this Foundation after this life-changing experience to continue his legacy of love. If we can save one person from dying from a stroke or its impact, then we are living the mission of Smiley’s Voice Foundation.’

  • One dead, several injured after shooting, fire at US Mormon church

    One dead, several injured after shooting, fire at US Mormon church

    A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday in Grand Blanc, Michigan, when a shooter targeted a Mormon church, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The assailant, a 40-year-old man from a nearby town, was fatally shot by law enforcement following the attack. Authorities have yet to determine a motive for the violence, which also involved the suspect setting the church on fire. President Donald Trump condemned the act on his Truth Social platform, labeling it as a “horrendous” attack on Christians in the United States. Eyewitness accounts and images from the scene depicted emergency services evacuating victims on stretchers and a massive plume of dark smoke rising from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Local Police Chief William Renye reported that the suspect drove his vehicle through the church’s front doors before opening fire with an assault rifle. The service was reportedly attended by hundreds of congregants. Authorities believe the gunman intentionally ignited the fire before being neutralized by responding officers. Ten individuals with gunshot wounds were hospitalized, one of whom succumbed to injuries. The fire has since been extinguished, but officials anticipate discovering additional victims once the scene is secured. A nearby resident recounted hearing screams and pleas for help. FBI agents have joined the investigation, with Chief Kash Patel denouncing the act as a “cowardly and criminal” attack on a place of worship. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed she has been briefed on the incident.

  • Arsenal strike late for ‘beautiful’ Newcastle win, close in on Liverpool

    Arsenal strike late for ‘beautiful’ Newcastle win, close in on Liverpool

    In a thrilling Premier League showdown at St James’ Park, Arsenal staged a remarkable late comeback to defeat Newcastle 2-1 on Sunday, signaling their intent in the title race. The Gunners, who had been on the verge of a fourth consecutive loss at the venue, turned the game around with two decisive goals in the closing stages. Newcastle had taken the lead in the first half through Nick Woltemade’s header, leaving Arsenal struggling to find their rhythm. However, Mikel Merino’s equalizer and Gabriel Magalhaes’ 96th-minute winner from a corner sealed a dramatic victory, propelling Arsenal to second place in the league standings, just two points behind leaders Liverpool. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed the emotional triumph, stating, ‘Football is about emotion, and today we experienced a beautiful one at the end of the match.’ The win was particularly significant given Arsenal’s recent struggles at St James’ Park and their determination to close the gap at the top of the table. Arteta’s tactical substitutions proved pivotal, with Merino and Gabriel delivering when it mattered most. Newcastle, meanwhile, were left to rue missed opportunities and defensive lapses, as they remain in 15th place with only one win from their opening six games. Manager Eddie Howe acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, saying, ‘We have to reflect and acknowledge that we weren’t at our best.’ The result underscores Arsenal’s resilience and ambition, as they aim to end their three-year streak of finishing as runners-up and claim the Premier League title.

  • Kingston joins Carter Center’s global women’s empowerment campaign

    Kingston joins Carter Center’s global women’s empowerment campaign

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Kingston has been selected as one of 13 cities worldwide to participate in the Carter Center’s Inform Women, Transform Lives campaign. This global initiative seeks to enhance women’s access to government information and essential city services, fostering gender equity and transparency. Mayor Andrew Swaby hailed the inclusion as a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to empower women and promote inclusivity. He emphasized that the campaign aligns with Kingston’s broader objectives, including the potential adoption of frameworks like CEDAW, which would further solidify the city’s commitment to gender equality. The initiative will provide Kingston with resources to implement activities such as media outreach, community programs, government training, and public art installations, while also facilitating knowledge-sharing among participating cities. Now in its fourth phase, the campaign spans 48 cities across five continents, impacting over 255 million people. Kingston joins a diverse group of cities, including Abuja, Cardiff, Guadalajara, Karachi, and Toronto. The launch coincides with the International Day of Universal Access to Information, highlighting the campaign’s focus on transparency and the fundamental right to information. For further details, visit www.informwomen.org.

  • Afghanistan’s Taliban release US citizen

    Afghanistan’s Taliban release US citizen

    In a significant diplomatic development, Afghanistan’s Taliban government released American citizen Amir Amiri from detention on Sunday. The release marks the latest in a series of high-profile prisoner exchanges facilitated by international mediation. Amiri, 36, had been held in Afghanistan since December 2024, though details surrounding his case remain scarce. He was handed over to Adam Boehler, the U.S. Special Envoy on Hostage Affairs, who recently visited Kabul to negotiate the release. Amiri is expected to undergo medical checks in Doha, Qatar, before returning to the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the release, emphasizing the Biden administration’s commitment to securing the freedom of Americans detained abroad. This follows the release of an elderly British couple last week and other Americans earlier this year, all mediated by Qatar. The Taliban government has expressed a desire to improve relations with the U.S. and other nations, despite ongoing accusations of human rights violations. However, Western countries continue to advise against travel to Afghanistan, where dozens of foreign nationals have been detained since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.