In a heartwarming initiative aimed at supporting students in Manchester, Jamaica, the Friends of Porus (FOP) and Give Back Jamaica Inc (GBJ) recently joined forces to organize the Kicker’s Club Shoe Drive. This collaborative effort successfully raised over $500,000, which was used to purchase much-needed school shoes for students across the parish. The annual back-to-school shoe drive, which primarily benefits primary school students, expanded its reach this year to include Porus High School, following the discovery that several of its students were in dire need of support. Vassell Ogilvie, Vice President of FOP and board member of GBJ, highlighted the decision to include the high school, stating that it was made after discussions with Porus High’s principal, Marlene Murray. The initiative traces its origins to Dr. Eve Richardson, founder and CEO of Give Back Jamaica, who, inspired by her own childhood struggles, launched the Kicker’s Club Shoe programme in September 2021. Since its inception, the programme has grown significantly, thanks to the generous contributions of donors such as the Signature Society, Hudson Valley Dynamic Counselling, and other charitable entities. This year, the initiative benefited students from several schools, including Porus Primary, Broadleaf Primary, Ramble Primary, Harmons Primary, St Jago Primary, and Castle Primary. Ogilvie expressed gratitude to the Signature Society, particularly its CEO and president, Sephron Mair, for their continued support, which enabled 80 students to participate in the shoe drive. Additional donations were also received from various law offices and counseling services, further bolstering the programme’s impact.
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Israel says ‘all parties’ signed phase one of Gaza deal
In a landmark development, Israel announced on Thursday that all parties have signed the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release agreement, marking a significant step toward ending the prolonged conflict. The deal, brokered in Egypt, follows a 20-point peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump last month, aimed at resolving the crisis that began with Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel. The agreement includes the release of all hostages, both living and deceased, within 72 hours, with Israeli officials expressing hope that this will bring an end to the war. US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that President Trump will visit Egypt next week to celebrate the deal’s conclusion, though Trump noted that exact timing is still being finalized. Despite widespread international acclaim, critical issues remain unresolved, including Hamas’s disarmament and the establishment of an interim “Board of Peace” led by Trump to oversee Gaza’s administration. Hamas has already rejected the proposed transitional authority, with senior official Osama Hamdan stating that no Palestinian faction would accept such an arrangement. Trump assured that the disarmament of Hamas would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan, alongside Israeli military pullbacks. The ceasefire is set to take effect within 24 hours of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet meeting, scheduled for 1400 GMT. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that the hostage release should signal the war’s end. The deal also includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages. Hamas has submitted a list of 1,950 prisoners it seeks to have freed, including high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti, though Israel has ruled out his release. The agreement envisions a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza, where famine has been declared by the UN. However, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, as evidenced by continued strikes in Gaza even after the deal’s announcement. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi urged mediators to ensure de-escalation until the agreement is fully implemented. The deal comes amid mounting international pressure to end the war, which has claimed over 67,000 lives in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health ministry figures. The UN has accused Israel of genocide, a charge Israel denies, while Hamas faces allegations of war crimes. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for a permanent cessation of hostilities, echoing global sentiments for peace.
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Shein’s Paris store kicks up a storm in France
The decision by Asian e-commerce giant Shein to establish its first permanent physical store in Paris has ignited a wave of controversy in the fashion capital. The store, set to open in November at the historic BHV Marais department store, has drawn sharp criticism from local brands and trade unions. BHV Marais, an iconic building opposite Paris City Hall since 1856, has already been struggling with tenant departures due to late payments. Shein’s announcement prompted several French brands, including Aime cosmetics, to exit the department store, with co-founder Mathilde Lacombe expressing deep shock over the deal. Trade unions have called for strike action, warning of a ‘short-term threat to the survival of the department store.’ Critics argue that Shein’s ultra-competitive pricing and fast-fashion model, which has disrupted traditional retail globally, could further harm French stores already facing layoffs and closures. The company, founded in China and now based in Singapore, has faced international scrutiny over environmental and labor concerns. The French ready-to-wear women’s clothing association, FFPAPF, condemned the move, fearing a flood of disposable products in the market. Meanwhile, the European Commission is investigating Shein for illegal product risks, and EU lawmakers recently approved legislation to curb fast fashion’s environmental impact. Former French environmental transition minister Christophe Bechu criticized Shein’s arrival as contrary to the country’s convictions. Despite the backlash, Shein framed its entry as a tribute to Paris’s status as a fashion hub. Executive Chairman Donald Tang stated, ‘By choosing France as the place to trial physical retail, we are honouring its position as a key fashion capital and embracing its spirit of creativity and excellence.’
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La Nina is back, but impact may be limited— US agency
The United States National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed on Thursday that La Nina, a natural climate phenomenon, has re-emerged. However, its weak intensity is expected to minimize its cooling effect on global temperatures and its influence on Atlantic hurricane activity. La Nina, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, typically alters atmospheric wind patterns, leading to increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin and reduced activity in the Pacific. This cyclical pattern oscillates between La Nina, its counterpart El Nino, and neutral phases. After a brief La Nina episode from December 2024 to March 2025, neutral conditions prevailed until the recent resurgence of La Nina in September 2025. The NWS predicts that La Nina will persist through the winter, with a 55% chance of transitioning back to neutral conditions between January and March 2026. Despite its historical impact on global weather, this La Nina event is expected to be too weak to significantly affect conventional winter weather patterns. The 2020–2023 La Nina was notable for its unprecedented duration, marking the first ‘triple-dip’ event of the 21st century. While La Nina typically cools global temperatures, it failed to counteract the trend of record-breaking heat observed over the past decade. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, has been slightly below average so far, with no storms making landfall in the United States. Nevertheless, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to forecast an above-normal hurricane season.
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Police kill two in operations linked to Commodore mass shooting
In a series of intense incidents in St Catherine, Jamaica, two men were fatally shot on Thursday during alleged confrontations with law enforcement officers investigating Sunday’s quintuple murder in the Commodore district. The police reported that two illegal firearms were recovered during these encounters.
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Young Jamaica dismisses PNP concerns over ‘leaked’ IC reports
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The youth arm of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), Young Jamaica, has countered allegations made by the People’s National Party (PNP) regarding the premature release of Integrity Commission (IC) reports to a specific media outlet before their formal presentation in Parliament. The PNP, represented by Zuleika Jess and Nekeisha Burchell, recently voiced concerns over what they described as a recurring pattern of leaks, asserting that such actions undermine parliamentary authority, erode public trust, and suggest a potential breach in the official handling of sensitive documents.
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WATA giving away tickets to Reggae Boyz qualifier against Bermuda
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Football enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to secure free tickets to the Reggae Boyz’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Bermuda on Tuesday, October 14, thanks to WATA’s ongoing ‘Celebrate Jamaica’ campaign. This initiative, a collaboration between WATA and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), aims to galvanize local support for the national team as they strive to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Toots and her cronies charged
In a significant development in St James, Jamaica, law enforcement authorities have formally charged Shamara Forrester, also known as “Toots,” believed to be the mastermind behind a notorious robbery syndicate operating in the parish. Forrester, a resident of Railway Lane in Montego Bay, was apprehended on Sunday and initially charged with illegal possession of ammunition. Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels, head of the St James police, revealed the details during the monthly council meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation.
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St James man charged with wounding with intent
A violent altercation in Bamboo Lawn, Lilliput, St James, has led to criminal charges against a 33-year-old man. Duran Adlam, a radio operator from Ocean Heights, Lilliput, is accused of wounding with intent following a brutal attack on Sunday, April 20. According to police reports, the incident occurred around 8:00 pm when the victim was ambushed by Adlam and a group of assailants. The attackers reportedly stabbed and beat the man, who managed to flee to avoid further harm. The suspects fled the scene on foot, leaving the victim with severe stab wounds to his face and head. Emergency services transported the injured man to the hospital, where he was admitted in serious but stable condition. Adlam was later apprehended by law enforcement and formally charged. Authorities are currently finalizing his court date as the investigation continues.
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Two eliminated as UWI’s King & Queen of Integration moves into high gear
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of the West Indies (UWI) witnessed a thrilling showcase of talent last Thursday as the inaugural Integration King & Queen competition progressed to its next stage. After a rigorous elimination round, only six contestants remain in the race to claim the prestigious titles. The event, organized by the Guild of Students, aims to celebrate and spotlight the diverse talents within the UWI campus. The evening kicked off with electrifying performances at George Allyne Hall, where students gathered to cheer for their peers. Jada Lee Dawkins, a freshman, delivered a captivating rendition of Alicia Keys’ ‘If I Ain’t Got You,’ while Jaydar ‘Newzene’ Mitchell, a Science and Technology student, wowed the audience with a heartfelt rap inspired by a past relationship. Mitchell’s performance garnered the most enthusiastic response of the night. Other standout performers included Peter-Jaun ‘Kod3’ Palmer, Ryel Jones, and Zineil ‘Pablo’ Blackwood, who showcased their unique skills. However, Kaheil ‘KJ’ Brown and Eladio ‘Volture’ Coltas were eliminated based on judges’ feedback and audience reactions. Brown reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of confidence and stage presence. The competition, judged by music industry veterans Makiri Myrie and Jermaine ‘Tu Finga’ Parchment, continues on October 23, promising more excitement and talent.