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  • Keith and Tex still flying flag for rocksteady

    Keith and Tex still flying flag for rocksteady

    As the rocksteady genre approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, pioneering duo Keith and Tex stand among the few remaining ambassadors keeping this foundational Jamaican music style alive. The pair, who achieved substantial success with late 1960s hits, continue to actively tour and create new music, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the genre that bridged ska and reggae.

    Keith Rowe, based in Tampa, Florida, maintains a radio program dedicated to the rocksteady era (1966-1968), while simultaneously recording and performing with his musical partner. Their latest project, ‘Gun Life,’ produced by Spain’s Roberto Sanchez, represents their ongoing commitment to the genre that produced their classic singles ‘Tonight,’ ‘Don’t Look Back,’ and ‘Stop That Train.’

    Rowe emphasizes the timeless quality of rocksteady in an interview with Observer Online: ‘The rocksteady era produced countless memorable songs whose rhythms have been reinterpreted repeatedly through the decades, affirming their profound impact on Jamaican music. As reggae’s essential blueprint, rocksteady remains a cornerstone of our musical identity.’

    Music historians typically credit Hopeton Lewis’s ‘Take It Easy,’ recorded in late 1966 at Kingston’s Federal Records with Lynn Taitt and The Jets, as the inaugural rocksteady recording. This slower evolution of ska launched the careers of legendary artists including Alton Ellis, Delroy Wilson, Ken Boothe, Desmond Dekker, The Wailers, The Heptones, and numerous other iconic singers and harmony groups.

    The genre experienced significant resurgence during the 1990s through concert series like Heineken Startime, which revitalized careers for many original artists. Keith and Tex have maintained consistent European touring schedules since reuniting nearly three decades ago, with 2024 marking their twelfth consecutive year performing for dedicated audiences abroad where vintage Jamaican music commands substantial followings.

    When asked about his personal rocksteady favorites, Rowe highlighted Alton Ellis’s ‘Willow Tree,’ The Techniques’ ‘Queen Majesty,’ Delroy Wilson’s ‘I’m Still Waiting,’ Bob Andy’s ‘Too Experienced,’ and Hopeton Lewis’s ‘Sounds And Pressure’ as definitive examples of the genre’s enduring artistry.

  • Nickyle Ellis bags brace as Racing whip Cavalier 4-1

    Nickyle Ellis bags brace as Racing whip Cavalier 4-1

    A dramatic Sunday in the Jamaica Premier League saw a major shift in the standings, headlined by Racing United’s stunning 4-1 victory over the defending champions, Cavalier SC, at Stadium East. Striker Nickyle Ellis emerged as the hero of the match, netting two first-half goals to set the pace for a decisive win. His early strike in the 3rd minute was followed by another in first-half stoppage time, sending his team into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead. Cavalier’s challenges mounted when Jerome McCleary received a second yellow card in the 61st minute, reducing them to 10 men for the second consecutive match. Although Romarion Thomas managed a consolation goal for Cavalier in the 77th minute, substitutes Dean Andre Thomas (85′) and Tajay Grant (87′) sealed the emphatic victory for a resurgent Racing United. In parallel action, the league’s top spot was thrown into contention as front-runners Portmore United suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Mount Pleasant FA, courtesy of a first-half brace from Warner Brown. This result snapped Portmore’s eight-game unbeaten streak and tightened the race at the summit of the table. Other Sunday fixtures concluded with two goalless draws, as Harbour View FC and Molynes United shared the points, as did Chapelton Maroons and Dunbeholden FC.

  • PM to MPs, ministers: ‘Brace your back, we have work to do’

    PM to MPs, ministers: ‘Brace your back, we have work to do’

    In a significant address to United National Congress (UNC) supporters during a fundraising Christmas dinner in Couva on December 13, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar outlined a demanding roadmap for the coming year. The Prime Minister characterized 2026 as a pivotal period for both the nation and her political party, emphasizing substantial work ahead without detailing specific challenges.

    Reflecting on the UNC’s recent electoral victory on April 28, which ended a decade-long opposition status from 2015 to 2025, Persad-Bissessar acknowledged the loyalty of party members during difficult years marked by ‘intense pressure, hostility and challenges.’ She credited their sustained efforts for enabling the UNC to celebrate its first Christmas as the governing party.

    The Prime Minister reported significant governmental progress within seven months of administration, citing restored ‘seriousness, stability and competence to national decision making.’ She highlighted legislative achievements including crime-fighting measures, enhanced public safety protocols, and institutional reforms aimed at rebuilding trust in state mechanisms.

    While acknowledging bureaucratic delays affecting some initiatives, Persad-Bissessar reaffirmed her commitment to fulfilling the electoral mandate. She specifically addressed previous leadership doubts within party ranks, expressing gratitude to members who maintained support ‘out of conviction and genuine love’ rather than convenience.

    Drawing from biblical teachings on servant leadership, the Prime Minister pledged to continue governing with ‘integrity, courage and care.’ She concluded by urging continued discipline and loyalty from UNC members as Trinidad and Tobago approaches what she described as a decisive period in national development.

  • US court convicts former USVI director in landmark bribery scandal

    US court convicts former USVI director in landmark bribery scandal

    In a significant federal corruption case, former US Virgin Islands Office of Management and Budget Director Jenifer O’Neal has been found guilty on all charges by a US federal jury in St. Thomas. The verdict concludes a high-profile trial that exposed systemic corruption involving misappropriation of federal relief money.

    O’Neal, originally from Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, was convicted alongside former Police Commissioner Ray Martinez after jurors delivered unanimous decisions. The prosecution demonstrated that O’Neal participated in an elaborate scheme involving bribery, honest services wire fraud, and money laundering conspiracy related to government contracts funded by federal relief allocations.

    The case centered on evidence presented against O’Neal and her dealings with cooperating witness David Whitaker, whose business relationships with senior officials formed the foundation of the government’s argument. Prosecutors revealed that O’Neal authorized inflated invoices for government contracts while receiving personal benefits in return.

    Evidence presented to the jury showed one invoice originally valued at $216,000 was artificially increased by approximately $70,000. Prosecutors established that O’Neal knowingly approved the fraudulent amount after learning the additional funds were intended for Martinez’s restaurant venture, responding with “lol” before instructing a subordinate to process the payment.

    Further testimony revealed O’Neal arranged lease payments for her coffee shop through Whitaker, expressing concerns about traceability and requesting the payment not be directly linked to her. Wire transfer records confirmed Whitaker made the payment using funds originating from the inflated government invoice.

    Assistant US Attorney Cherrisse Amaro emphasized to the court that “Nothing about Jenifer O’Neal’s actions was accidental,” as the defendant faced convictions on every count including honest services wire fraud, federal funds bribery, and money laundering conspiracy.

    O’Neal’s defense team challenged the credibility of Whitaker, describing his operating method as “lie, steal, repeat,” and maintaining their client’s actions were lawful and misinterpreted. Prosecutors countered that evidence extended beyond witness testimony to include text messages, recordings, and financial documents, with trial attorney Alexandre Dempsey noting, “The government does not pick the criminal co-conspirators. The criminals pick each other.”

    Sentencing has been preliminarily scheduled for June 2026, with O’Neal permitted to remain out of custody pending final determination of penalties under federal sentencing guidelines.

  • Hero who disarmed Bondi beach shooter identified as fruit vendor

    Hero who disarmed Bondi beach shooter identified as fruit vendor

    SYDNEY, Australia — A 43-year-old fruit vendor is being celebrated as a national hero following his courageous intervention during Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in years. Ahmed al Ahmed’s swift actions during Sunday’s attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach are credited with preventing further casualties in what authorities have described as a terrorist targeting of the Jewish community during Hanukkah celebrations.

    Viral footage circulating on social media platforms captures the moment Ahmed confronted one of the assailants mid-attack, engaging in a physical struggle that resulted in him wresting the firearm from the gunman. Despite sustaining two gunshot wounds during the altercation, Ahmed managed to gain control of the weapon and point it at the attacker, forcing his retreat.

    The heroic act has drawn international recognition, including commendation from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed his “great respect” for Ahmed’s bravery. “This remarkably courageous individual confronted one of the shooters directly and undoubtedly prevented numerous fatalities,” President Trump stated from the White House, acknowledging Ahmed’s current hospitalization with serious injuries.

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minn have jointly praised Ahmed’s selfless actions. Premier Minn emphasized during a late Sunday press briefing that “amidst this tragedy and evil, we witness extraordinary Australians willing to risk everything to protect complete strangers.”

    Local reports indicate Ahmed remains hospitalized with uncertain conditions, though family members express hope for his recovery. Cousin Mustapha described him as “100 percent hero” while acknowledging the family’s anxiety regarding his medical status.

    The attack resulted in 16 confirmed fatalities with numerous additional injuries, marking Australia’s most severe mass shooting incident in recent history. Ahmed’s intervention has sparked nationwide admiration, with social media platforms flooded with tributes to his quick thinking and extraordinary bravery in the face of imminent danger.

  • Death toll rises to 16 in Sydney beach shooting — police

    Death toll rises to 16 in Sydney beach shooting — police

    SYDNEY, Australia — A vibrant Jewish festival celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach was shattered by a devastating shooting incident on Sunday, resulting in one of Australia’s most severe mass casualty events in recent history. According to an official update from New South Wales police early Monday, the attack claimed 16 lives and left at least 40 individuals hospitalized with injuries.

    The tragedy unfolded during a community gathering, turning a day of celebration into one of national mourning. Authorities confirmed the casualty figures in a post on the social media platform X, stating, ‘Police can confirm 16 people have died and 40 people remain in hospital following yesterday’s shooting at Bondi.’

    The police communication did not clarify whether the deceased perpetrator was included in the official death toll. The incident has triggered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, its motivations, and security protocols at public events. Emergency services responded immediately to the scene, with witnesses describing scenes of chaos and confusion as attendees sought safety.

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation, expressing profound grief and solidarity with the victims’ families, while community leaders called for unity and strengthened security measures at public gatherings. The international community has begun offering condolences as Australia confronts this tragedy.

  • Aventa Jamaica leads Medical Mission in Belmont, Westmoreland

    Aventa Jamaica leads Medical Mission in Belmont, Westmoreland

    BELMONT, Westmoreland — A coalition comprising pharmaceutical entity Aventa Jamaica Limited, the Sizzla Youth Foundation, and the Jamaica Medical Doctors Association executed a comprehensive medical outreach initiative on December 6. Dubbed ‘Jamaica Rise,’ the mission targeted the hurricane-battered community of Belmont, delivering critical healthcare and psychosocial support following the catastrophic passage of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa.

    The hurricane inflicted severe structural devastation, widespread flooding, and protracted power failures across Westmoreland, crippling local infrastructure and severing access to essential services. In response, Aventa Jamaica mobilized a contingent of volunteer psychiatrists, opticians, general practitioners, and nurses to address the emergent health crisis.

    From 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., residents received holistic medical interventions, including blood pressure and glucose screenings, optical examinations, physician consultations, and mental health assessments. Concurrently, cultural performances and recreational activities—including bounce-a-bout rides for children, complemented by snow cones and popcorn—provided therapeutic diversion and emotional respite from weeks of adversity.

    Aventa Jamaica CEO Glenise Durrant characterized the endeavor as a direct extension of the company’s foundational mission to advance health and enhance lives. ‘We are truly excited to have our partners and staff working collectively to uplift the community,’ Durrant stated, expressing gratitude for the collaborative support.

    The mission incorporated a robust psychosocial component led by renowned cultural advocate Dr. Amina Blackwood-Meeks, who facilitated interactive storytelling sessions focused on emotional healing and resilience-building. ‘I’m here to support the emotional well-being of the community, helping them recognize that their stories matter,’ she affirmed.

    Sizzla Kalonji, recording artist and founder of the Sizzla Youth Foundation, emphasized the importance of solidarity and humanitarian action. ‘This is the time to care and share… When we work in this manner, there shall be no failure,’ he proclaimed.

    The outreach concluded with the distribution of over 350 care packages to households. The ‘Jamaica Rise’ mission constitutes one facet of Aventa Jamaica’s broader hurricane response strategy, which includes multi-parish relief deployments and sustained support for healthcare infrastructure island-wide.

  • Central’s Ross Russell Jr shoots down Eagles

    Central’s Ross Russell Jr shoots down Eagles

    In a stunning conclusion to Friday’s TT Premier Football League encounter, Central FC defender Ross Russell Jr emerged as an unlikely hero, scoring a dramatic 93rd-minute winner to secure a 3-2 victory over Eagles FC at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.

    The match, characterized by defensive vulnerabilities from both sides, saw multiple lead changes before reaching its thrilling climax. Central FC initially took control when Daniel David capitalized on a midfield turnover in the 24th minute, skillfully maneuvering past defenders before firing a low shot past goalkeeper Kevin Graham.

    Eagles FC responded immediately, equalizing just four minutes later through Jadon Carter after Central goalkeeper Jabari Brice committed a critical error, mishandling a routine cross into the six-yard box.

    Central regained the advantage shortly after halftime when Isaiah Lee’s volley deflected past Graham in the 47th minute. Eagles FC then squandered a golden opportunity to level the score in the 66th minute when captain Kemuel Rivers saw his penalty kick saved by Brice, who redeemed himself after earlier mistakes.

    The persistence of Eagles FC finally paid off in the 78th minute with a beautifully constructed goal. Jomoul Francois finished expertly after combining with Dominic Douglas, who delivered a perfectly weighted pass following an impressive run from deep.

    Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, Russell delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time. The defender capitalized on defensive miscommunication between Eagles players, receiving a clever pass from David before delicately chipping the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to secure all three points for Central FC.

    In the evening’s second fixture, Club Sando climbed to the top of the TTPFL standings with a 1-0 victory over AC Port of Spain, courtesy of a second-half penalty conversion by national team attacker Real Gill.

  • Arjoon: Moody’s outlook shift a warning signal, not a downgrade

    Arjoon: Moody’s outlook shift a warning signal, not a downgrade

    Economists are urging Trinidad and Tobago’s government to conduct a rigorous assessment of the nation’s economic standing following Moody’s recent revision of the country’s financial outlook from stable to negative. While credit ratings remain unchanged, this development signals heightened scrutiny from international agencies.

    Dr. Vaalmikki Arjoon, a prominent UWI economist, contextualized the decision within global energy market cycles. “Our ratings trajectory consistently correlates with energy performance,” he explained. “They strengthen during periods of elevated production and pricing that boost export earnings and fiscal revenues, while weakening when production declines or prices drop.”

    The core concern centers on dramatically shrinking foreign exchange reserves, which have plummeted from approximately US$11 billion in early 2015 to roughly US$4.6 billion by October this year. This deterioration stems primarily from a sustained decline in natural gas output, which has fallen from over 4 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscf/d) in January 2015 to approximately 2.7 bscf/d currently.

    Arjoon identified multiple contributing factors: “Seven consecutive years without exploration block awards (2015–2022), combined with fiscal rigidity, policy uncertainty, investor caution, protracted commercial negotiations, and aging infrastructure have severely weakened the pipeline for new gas projects.”

    With energy commodities constituting 80% of export earnings, sustained production declines directly translate to reduced export receipts, diminished forex inflows, and declining reserves—the fundamental factors underpinning the negative outlook.

    Former finance minister Mariano Browne characterized Moody’s report as predictable, highlighting additional pressures from unresolved wage demands that will further strain foreign exchange resources. “The absence of any realistic market-based approach to solving the forex crisis has led to rapidly declining reserves,” Browne stated.

    Both experts acknowledge governmental efforts to prioritize smaller, lower-cost gas fields with shorter development timelines. Major projects including Manatee, Ginger, and Coconut are anticipated to deliver first gas from 2027 onward, potentially improving forex inflows and strengthening reserves medium-term.

    Moody’s report specifically noted liquid forex reserves have fallen 24% over the past year to $3.2 billion as of August 2025—below previous projections of stabilization at approximately $4 billion. This intensifies forex shortages and reduces coverage for upcoming external debt payments.

    The rating agency emphasized that while new hydrocarbon projects should eventually bolster reserves, this remains unlikely before 2027. The negative outlook reflects concerns that the government’s newly announced measures—enhancing Eximbank’s focus on key exporters, advancing transfer pricing legislation, strengthening financial crime enforcement, and intensifying economic diversification efforts—may prove insufficient to arrest the decline before new energy projects commence operations.

    Arjoon suggested that the government’s proposed blueprint could drive further diversification and attract foreign direct investment (FDI), generating new forex earnings. However, he emphasized that lasting rating improvement will require continued structural adjustment: “Expanding non-energy export capacity and attracting FDI that generates sustainable foreign-exchange earnings are essential.”

    Browne criticized recent administrative changes—including board replacements at commercial banks and the dismissal of Exim bank’s Navin Dookeran—as insufficient to address fundamental structural issues assessed by rating agencies. “There are policy gaps and weak measures that don’t address the fundamental issues,” he observed. “They merely give the appearance of effort without addressing the basics: without adequate revenue, you must cut expenditure; without sufficient forex earnings, you must address pricing.”

  • Jamaican fishermen jailed in Cayman for drug smuggling

    Jamaican fishermen jailed in Cayman for drug smuggling

    GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands — Two Jamaican nationals have received prison sentences after admitting to trafficking a substantial quantity of marijuana through Cayman Islands waters. The sentencing concludes a maritime drug interception case that highlights the vulnerabilities exploited in regional narcotics operations.

    Eric Junior Cunningham, 42, received a 24-month imprisonment term, while his accomplice Radmond Junior Samuels, 33, was sentenced to 18 months. The verdict was delivered by Justice Emma Peters in the Cayman Islands Grand Court following guilty pleas from both defendants.

    The case originated on March 25 when Cayman Islands Coast Guard personnel intercepted a vessel approximately 32 nautical miles south of Grand Cayman. Cunningham was identified as the boat operator with Samuels aboard as passenger. During the inspection, authorities discovered nine packaged bundles of ganja totaling over 167 pounds, alongside a GPS navigation system and satellite communication device.

    Initially entering not guilty pleas in May, both defendants changed their positions three weeks prior to their scheduled September trial date. During proceedings, Cunningham acknowledged his participation in the smuggling operation after being promised a $5,000 payment that ultimately remained undelivered.

    Social inquiry reports presented to the court revealed both men faced considerable personal challenges. Cunningham, a farmer by trade, had endured significant property damage during previous storm events, including complete home destruction during Hurricane Melissa. Samuels reported being coerced into the operation through threats from an individual known as ‘Bigs,’ compounded by early parental loss, limited education, and ongoing health concerns.

    Justice Peters recognized that neither defendant held a leadership position within the drug operation, but emphasized that maritime transport remains a critical component of regional narcotics supply chains. The court categorized Cunningham’s role as ‘significant’ due to his operational control of the vessel, while Samuels received ‘lesser’ role designation considering his limited involvement and confirmed intimidation.

    In her sentencing remarks, Justice Peters highlighted the structural inequalities within drug trafficking networks: ‘Those who command illegal organizations strategically minimize their exposure while compelling others to assume operational risks. Although intermediate participants may receive some compensation, the substantial profits flow upward while consequences flow downward.’

    The sentences represent the minimum permissible under deterrence requirements, with both defendants receiving a 20% reduction for their guilty pleas. Accounting for time already served in remand and potential early release for good behavior after serving 60% of their terms, both men are anticipated to return to Jamaica in early 2025. The court additionally ordered confiscation and destruction of all seized narcotics.