In a star-studded ceremony held on November 8, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California, hip-hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa and Outkast were officially enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The event celebrated their monumental contributions to music and their enduring influence on the industry. Salt-N-Pepa, the groundbreaking New York hip-hop trio featuring Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, received the Musical Influence Award for their iconic tracks such as ‘Let’s Talk About Sex,’ ‘Push It,’ and ‘Shoop.’ These songs, which championed women’s empowerment and playful sexuality in a male-dominated genre, have left an indelible mark on hip-hop culture. Missy Elliott, a Grammy-winning artist, paid tribute to the trio, stating, ‘These three women are the bricklayers to the foundation that holds hip-hop together. They gave us their shoulders to stand on.’ Outkast, the Atlanta rap duo known for chart-topping hits like ‘Hey Ya,’ ‘Ms Jackson,’ and ‘The Way You Move,’ was honored with a heartfelt tribute from actor Donald Glover. Glover, who grew up listening to Outkast, expressed his gratitude, saying, ‘Atlanta is not the music Mecca it has become without you. There is no Childish Gambino without you. There is no South without you.’ The ceremony also celebrated other legendary inductees, including Thom Bell, a key figure in the ‘Sound of Philadelphia’ soul movement, Cyndi Lauper, the White Stripes, and Soundgarden. Lauper, known for her vibrant punk style and hits like ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,’ was praised for her unapologetic artistry and four-octave vocal range. The White Stripes, represented by their electrifying rock anthems such as ‘Seven Nation Army,’ were lauded by Iggy Pop, who described their music as ‘coming from a foundation of love, not revolution.’ The event underscored the profound impact these artists have had on shaping the musical landscape and inspiring future generations.
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McKenzie orders immediate clean-up of hurricane debris in Falmouth
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the historic town of Falmouth in Trelawny, Jamaica, is grappling with extensive debris and blocked drains, prompting urgent intervention from the government. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, has mandated an immediate cleanup operation to restore normalcy to the storm-ravaged area.
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Toll charges resume at midnight Monday
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Energy, Telecommunications and Transport has announced that tolling on Highway 2000 will recommence at midnight on Monday. The suspension of tolls, which was implemented to facilitate easier access during Hurricane Melissa, will be lifted across all sections of the highway, spanning both East-West and North-South routes. Hurricane Melissa made landfall on October 28, prompting the temporary halt in toll collection to ensure public safety and accessibility. During the suspension, toll operators expressed concerns over bearing the full financial burden of the halted operations. Transport Minister Daryl Vaz explained that the decision to keep the tolls open was influenced by severe flooding on alternative routes, which made Highway 2000 a critical artery for travel. The resumption of tolling marks a return to normal operations, addressing both logistical and financial challenges faced by operators.
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COP praises PM’s ‘bold vision’ master development plan
In a landmark move, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has introduced a comprehensive 10-year infrastructural development plan, dubbed the TT Revitalisation Blueprint, aimed at transforming Trinidad and Tobago’s economic and physical landscape by 2035. The ambitious initiative, unveiled at a high-profile event attended by business leaders, foreign diplomats, and investors, outlines 129 major projects expected to generate over 50,000 jobs and address long-standing infrastructural challenges. The Congress of the People (COP) has lauded the plan, with Deputy Political Leader Imran Ali praising the Prime Minister’s vision and leadership. Ali emphasized that the blueprint reflects a much-needed commitment to inclusive and pragmatic development, focusing on infrastructure renewal, justice reform, and tourism. Key projects include the expansion of the Port of Spain port, redevelopment of waterfront areas, and the creation of a 100-mile highway network connecting San Fernando to Mayaro and Galeota. The plan also proposes a modern justice centre at Tamana and a national security complex in Mt Hope, replacing outdated prisons. Additionally, the government aims to boost tourism through luxury resorts and cultural investments, including a 400-berth marina and convention centre at Invaders Bay. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar described the blueprint as a ‘declaration of intent’ to build enduring structures that will define the nation’s future. Financing will rely on partnerships between the state, local businesses, and foreign investors, with construction expected to commence by mid-2026. The COP expressed confidence in the plan’s potential to restore public trust in governance and drive sustainable development, calling it a pledge of renewed opportunity and shared prosperity for all citizens.
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Couva man kidnapped
Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago are intensifying efforts to locate 63-year-old Vishnu Lalla, who was reported kidnapped on the evening of November 8. Lalla, a resident of Dairy Lane, Windsor Park in Couva, was allegedly abducted while tending to his animals near his home. Police from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, alongside officers from the Central Division and other units, have been mobilized in the search. The situation took a grim turn when Lalla’s van was discovered burnt along a dirt road off George Street in Esperanza Village, Couva, hours after his disappearance. A ransom demand of $100,000 has reportedly been issued for his safe return. As of November 9, Lalla’s whereabouts remain unknown. The NGO Hunters Search and Rescue Team, led by Vallence Rambharat, has also joined the search operation. Both the police and the NGO are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist the authorities in their efforts to locate the missing man.
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BBC chief resigns after row over Trump documentary
The BBC’s Director General, Tim Davie, and its Head of News, Deborah Turness, have stepped down following allegations of misleading editing in a documentary about former US President Donald Trump. The controversy centers on the broadcaster’s flagship Panorama programme, which was accused of altering a speech Trump delivered on January 6, 2021, to suggest he encouraged supporters to storm the US Capitol. In his resignation statement, Davie acknowledged the BBC’s imperfections and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. The issue gained traction after a report in The Daily Telegraph highlighted concerns about editorial impartiality raised by a former BBC adviser. UK Culture, Media, and Sport Minister Lisa Nandy described the allegations as ‘incredibly serious,’ citing broader concerns about systemic bias in BBC reporting. The broadcaster has pledged to provide a full response to parliament’s culture, media, and sport committee. This incident follows previous controversies, including a documentary on Gaza that faced criticism for its flawed production. The BBC’s handling of sensitive topics, from Trump to Gaza, has sparked debates about its editorial standards and impartiality.
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Montego Bay business owners urged to reopen where possible
Business leaders in Montego Bay, St James, are being urged to resume operations in a phased manner to facilitate economic recovery. This approach allows companies to rebuild supply chains, rehire staff, and restore customer confidence without straining resources. Jason Russell, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and owner of Pier One Restaurant, emphasized the importance of reopening despite imperfections. ‘Restoring commerce and getting employees back to work is a critical first step toward recovery. We must demonstrate both confidence and resilience,’ he stated. Lowell Spence, owner of Smokeez Seafood Restaurant in Rose Hall, shared similar sentiments, noting that his business was severely impacted by a recent hurricane. Despite the challenges, Spence has shifted operations to the parking lot and is offering takeout services, supported by a loyal customer base. Meanwhile, Snappaz Restaurant in Whitehouse has already reopened, reporting minimal damage. Owner Milton Russell expressed gratitude for the progress made and stressed the importance of resuming commerce. The Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, along with its members, will monitor conditions, provide guidance, and advocate for necessary support from government and partner organizations.
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Man City crush Liverpool to mark Guardiola’s 1,000 match
Manchester City delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Liverpool, marking Pep Guardiola’s 1,000th game in management with a resounding statement. The win at the Etihad Stadium brought City within four points of Premier League leaders Arsenal, solidifying their position as serious title contenders. Erling Haaland, despite missing an early penalty, opened the scoring with a looping header for his 99th Premier League goal. Nico Gonzalez extended the lead with a deflected effort, while Jeremy Doku sealed the win with a stunning strike. Liverpool, the defending champions, now languish in eighth place after losing five of their last six league games. Guardiola praised his team’s performance, emphasizing their belief and determination to challenge Arsenal for the title. The match also highlighted Liverpool’s struggles, as they failed to capitalize on key moments, including a disallowed goal and missed opportunities. Doku’s brilliance on the left flank further underscored City’s dominance, leaving Liverpool with much to reflect on as their season continues to falter.
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Cathy Matete takes Kenyan politicians to task in new song
In a bold artistic move, Kenyan singer Cathy Matete has channeled her frustration with political corruption and social injustice into her latest song, ‘We Won’t Be Silenced.’ Produced by Jamaican Garfield Cowan for Natures Way Entertainment, the track is set for release in November and is part of the Roots Rock Reggae compilation album, scheduled for early 2026. Matete’s powerful anthem reflects the growing disillusionment among Kenyans, particularly the youth, who feel betrayed by unfulfilled promises of jobs and empowerment. The song’s accompanying video further amplifies its message, critiquing the lack of accountability among Kenya’s political elite. Matete, who will perform at the Jamhuri Reggae Festival in Nairobi on November 29, describes the song as a declaration of resistance against silence and complacency. She also hints at upcoming projects exploring similar themes, signaling her commitment to using music as a platform for social commentary.
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Water to return to Catherine Hall and West Green by Monday says Mayor
Residents of Catherine Hall and West Green in Montego Bay, Jamaica, can expect water to be restored to their taps by Monday, according to Mayor Richard Vernon. The National Water Commission (NWC) confirmed the timeline, attributing the delay to extensive infrastructure damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. The storm necessitated significant repairs and technical interventions, which have now been completed.