分类: entertainment

  • A Taste of Marley Fragrance @ Gap Café

    A Taste of Marley Fragrance @ Gap Café

    The Gap Café, a restored rustic boutique café perched at 4,200 feet above sea level near Hardwar Gap, served as the perfect venue for the Jamaican launch of the Marley Fragrance collection. On September 20, 2022, an exclusive luncheon was hosted by Rohan Marley, son of the legendary Bob Marley, and Novia McDonald-Whyte, Senior Associate Editor of the Jamaica Observer. The event was catered by renowned chef Alexa Von Strolley, who crafted a menu inspired by the fragrance notes of the Marley collection. Guests were treated to a sensory journey, starting with freshly brewed Marley Coffee and a series of meticulously designed dishes. The menu included Earl Grey Cured Salmon Roulade, Lemon-Sage Crab Tartlets, and a Mandarin & Grapefruit Salad, each dish echoing the aromatic elements of the fragrances. The main course featured Seared Snapper with Mango-Agave Glaze and a vegetarian Cauliflower Steak, both paired with saffron coconut rice. The meal concluded with a Lemon & Ambrette Pavlova, offering a delicate finish to the culinary experience. Chef Von Strolley’s innovative approach allowed guests to ‘taste’ the fragrances, creating a unique and memorable event. The intimate gathering was a celebration of Jamaican culture, gastronomy, and the legacy of Bob Marley.

  • Reggae North Music Awards set for this weekend

    Reggae North Music Awards set for this weekend

    The second edition of the Reggae North Music Awards (RNMA) is set to take place on September 28, 2024, at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. This year’s event features 37 categories, including Top Vocalist (male and female), Top Album/EP of The Year, and Top Entertainer of The Year. The awards were initiated last year by veteran singer Tony Anthony, who recognized the need for a dedicated platform to honor Canadian reggae artists following a brief controversy when the Juno Awards considered eliminating their reggae category in 2025. The RNMA aims to fill a historical gap in recognition for reggae and dancehall music in Canada. Leading the nominations is Juno reggae winner Exco Levi, who has secured 10 nods across various categories. Ammoye follows closely with seven nominations. A new category, Top Club/Party Reggae Dancehall DJ, has been introduced this year, generating significant buzz. Additionally, the event will honor reggae stalwarts Nana McLean and Carl ‘Grandmaster Rosa’ Green with Living Legends Awards, celebrating their contributions to the genre. Tony Anthony emphasized the importance of these awards in preserving the legacy of reggae in Canada, acknowledging the pioneers who paved the way for today’s artists. The event also highlights the rich history of Jamaican musicians who thrived in Canada during the 1970s and 1980s, a story chronicled in the 2024 documentary *Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in A Foreign Land* by Chris Flanagan and Graeme Mathieson.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Cultural Delegation Departs for World Expo 2025 in Japan

    Antigua and Barbuda Cultural Delegation Departs for World Expo 2025 in Japan

    The Department of Culture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Creative Industries, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, has proudly announced the departure of a 10-member cultural delegation to represent the nation at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The delegation’s participation, scheduled from September 23rd to October 2nd, 2025, will culminate in the National Day Celebration on September 28th, where Antigua and Barbuda will present a vibrant cultural production titled “Wadadli, Wa’Omoni – The Pearls of the Caribbean.”

    This dynamic performance, directed by renowned steelpan artist Khan Cordice and featuring award-winning vocalist King Tian Winter, alongside the Antigua and Barbuda Cultural Group, is a celebration of the nation’s rich heritage. The production weaves together African-inspired rhythms, the elegance of the Antiguan quadrille, and the festive energy of Carnival and Soca music. It offers a seamless cultural journey that highlights the resilience, creativity, and unique identity of the Caribbean nation.

    The engagement underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and its mission to showcase its artistic excellence on the global stage. The Ministry of Creative Industries and its partners expressed gratitude to all supporters who continue to champion the nation’s cultural industries internationally. This participation not only promotes Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural legacy but also fosters a deeper appreciation of its contributions to the global arts community.

  • Rihanna welcomes baby girl

    Rihanna welcomes baby girl

    Global music icon and entrepreneur Rihanna has announced the birth of her third child, a baby girl named Rocki Irish Mayers. The Barbadian superstar shared the joyous news with her millions of followers via an Instagram post on Wednesday afternoon, revealing that her daughter was born on Saturday, September 13. This marks the first daughter for Rihanna and her partner, rapper A$AP Rocky, adding to their growing family. The couple previously welcomed their first son, RZA Athelston Mayers, in May 2022, followed by their second son, Riot Rose, in August 2023. The arrival of Rocki Irish Mayers completes their family of five, sparking widespread celebration among fans and well-wishers worldwide.

  • Kimmel scores decade-high ratings amid Trump fight—Disney

    Kimmel scores decade-high ratings amid Trump fight—Disney

    HOLLYWOOD, United States (AFP)—Jimmy Kimmel, the renowned late-night host, made a dramatic comeback to U.S. television screens this week, drawing his largest audience in a decade. This resurgence followed a brief suspension triggered by pressure from Donald Trump’s administration, according to Disney, the parent company of ABC, which airs Kimmel’s show. The suspension was reportedly a response to Kimmel’s comments following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, with government officials threatening to revoke broadcast licenses. However, widespread public backlash and criticism from even some Trump allies, who viewed the move as an attack on free speech, led to the swift reversal of the decision. Kimmel returned to the airwaves on Tuesday with a scathing monologue condemning censorship. “A government threat to silence a comedian the president doesn’t like is anti-American,” Kimmel declared. He also criticized Trump for celebrating the potential loss of jobs for him and his team, stating, “Our leader celebrates Americans losing their livelihoods because he can’t take a joke.” Early ratings revealed that over six million viewers tuned in to the broadcast, despite the show being unavailable to nearly a quarter of American households due to a boycott by local TV station owners. This marked a significant increase from the show’s average viewership of 1.42 million during the 2024/2025 season. Additionally, 26 million people watched Kimmel’s monologue on social media, making it the show’s most successful night in a decade. Trump, who has frequently targeted Kimmel and other late-night hosts with criticism, had previously celebrated the suspension, calling it “Great news for America.” However, Kimmel quipped during his return, “He tried his best to cancel me. Instead, he forced millions of people to watch the show. That backfired bigly,” to thunderous applause from the studio audience.

  • Massive crowd fills Warner Park to patriotically celebrate Saint Kitts and Nevis’ 42nd Independence

    Massive crowd fills Warner Park to patriotically celebrate Saint Kitts and Nevis’ 42nd Independence

    Warner Park Cricket Stadium in Basseterre, Saint Kitts, was a sea of national pride on Friday evening, September 19, 2025, as hundreds gathered to celebrate the 42nd Anniversary of Independence for the twin-island Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Attendees, adorned in patriotic attire and branded gear, witnessed a spectacular showcase of military precision and historical reenactments. The event was graced by the presence of Her Excellency Dame Marcella Liburd, Governor-General, and Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who joined in the festivities. The ceremony featured a march-past by various armed and unarmed units, including the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, and the Cadets Corps. A highlight of the evening was the performance by reenactors from the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force, who portrayed the historic 4th West India Regiment. Dressed in period uniforms and armed with British Land Pattern Flintlock Rifles, they demonstrated precision drills and historical firing techniques, captivating the audience. Dennis Richards, a celebrated visual artist, praised the event, noting its evolution over the years. Keisha Farrell, another attendee, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the excellent turnout and the parade’s improvements. Diplomats from around the globe, including representatives from Cuba, Taiwan, Venezuela, and the United States, were also in attendance, underscoring the international significance of the celebration.

  • Antigua’s Culinary Heritage Spotlighted in CruiseCritic Feature

    Antigua’s Culinary Heritage Spotlighted in CruiseCritic Feature

    Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant culinary traditions have taken center stage in a recent feature by CruiseCritic, highlighting how the twin-island nation’s history and cultural diversity are best savored through its food. Authored by Rafael Peña, the article titled “From West African Stews to Latin Spices, Antigua’s Flavors Run Deeper Than the Waters” positions the Caribbean destination as a place where cuisine narrates tales of heritage, resilience, and cultural fusion. The piece delves into the island’s culinary evolution, tracing its roots to colonial influences, including Spanish introductions of garlic, onions, and rice, alongside Mesoamerican staples like beans and tomatoes. These elements, combined with African traditions and local produce, have created a layered and distinctive gastronomic identity. Peña emphasizes that Antigua’s story is not told through generic cruise offerings but through bold flavors of pepper, smoke, and citrus, echoing centuries-old kitchens. The feature spotlights local establishments such as Papa Zouk in St. John’s, celebrated for its fresh fish and extensive rum collection, and OJ’s Beach Bar & Restaurant in Johnson’s Point, known for its buttery lobster and freshly caught snapper. Island Fusion also earns praise for blending Latin influences with Caribbean classics like jerk and conch fritters. By showcasing Antigua’s authentic culinary scene, the article underscores the island’s ability to stand out in the competitive cruise market, offering travelers a taste of living history. With its rich flavors gaining international recognition, Antigua and Barbuda is emerging not just as a tropical paradise but as a must-visit food destination that reflects the depth of its cultural heritage.

  • Write-Tukubuli showcase: J.R.R Casimir’s kin reads from penned biography of Dominican luminary

    Write-Tukubuli showcase: J.R.R Casimir’s kin reads from penned biography of Dominican luminary

    The inaugural Write-Tukubuli Virtual Literary Festival, held from September 15 to September 20, featured a compelling Authors Showcase spotlighting Kathy Casimir MacLean, a Dominican-born writer based in the UK. During the event, MacLean shared a poignant excerpt from her memoir, “Black Man Listen,” which delves into the life and legacy of her grandfather, J.R. Ralph Casimir. The memoir serves as a tribute to a man whose contributions to Dominica’s cultural and literary history had been largely overlooked.

    In a November 2022 interview with Dominica News Online, MacLean revealed her inspiration for the book, stating, “I wanted to write ‘Black Man Listen’ to honor my grandfather and to tell his story, as it has been absent from our island’s historical narrative.” J.R. Ralph Casimir, a native of St. Joseph village, was a multifaceted figure—poet, editor, journalist, and bookseller. He is celebrated for publishing Dominica’s earliest poetry anthologies and for his pioneering Pan-Africanist ideals. Casimir was also a founding member of Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association, further cementing his influence on global Black empowerment movements.

    Beyond her grandfather’s biography, MacLean has contributed to the anthology “Montage Dominik,” showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her participation in the Write-Tukubuli Festival not only highlights her literary talent but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating Caribbean heritage through storytelling.

  • Discover Dominica CEO projects nine-fold return on World Creole Music Fest 2025

    Discover Dominica CEO projects nine-fold return on World Creole Music Fest 2025

    The 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set to take place from October 24 to 26 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica, represents a substantial financial commitment of over $13 million. Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), emphasized the festival’s economic significance during an interview on the Crele HeartBeat Program with Ambassador Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles. Williams highlighted that the investment is not only substantial but also highly rewarding, with each dollar spent expected to generate a ninefold return.

  • A beast of a car show

    A beast of a car show

    On Sunday, August 31, Hope Botanical Gardens in Jamaica became the epicenter of automotive enthusiasm as Velocity Jamaica hosted its much-anticipated event, Beasts & BBQ. This free car show brought together car enthusiasts, families, and food lovers for an afternoon of high-octane entertainment and community bonding. The event featured an impressive array of vehicles, ranging from modified classics to high-performance machines, all showcased against the lush backdrop of the gardens. Attendees were treated to a dynamic display of automotive artistry, with cars constantly rotating in and out of the venue, creating a visual spectacle that kept the crowd engaged throughout the day. The event’s unique setting, combined with its creative execution, set it apart from traditional car meets, earning widespread acclaim from participants and spectators alike. Raheem Hall, director of Velocity Jamaica, expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, emphasizing their dedication to delivering unparalleled entertainment. Co-directors Daniel Fraser and Justin Campbell highlighted the event’s success in fostering a sense of community among car enthusiasts while offering a platform for creativity and shared passion. The overwhelming positive feedback has already sparked anticipation for future events, solidifying Velocity Jamaica’s reputation as a leader in the automotive entertainment scene. Sponsors such as VM, Porsche, Red Bull, and All Power played a crucial role in bringing the vision to life, earning gratitude from the organizers and attendees. Beasts & BBQ not only celebrated Jamaica’s vibrant car culture but also demonstrated the power of community-driven events to inspire and unite.