On September 28, VP Records in Queens, New York, a hub for dancehall music, hosted the second edition of ‘Poetry: Echoes of Expression,’ an event curated by Richie Innocent. The gathering served as a platform to showcase the works of poets and authors, drawing a larger audience than its debut. Richie Innocent, in an interview with Observer Online, highlighted the event’s success, emphasizing its familial and communal atmosphere at the VP Records Cultural Centre. He described the evening as both historical and revelatory. Performers included Richie Innocent, Ras Igus, Marj Da Poet, Marcia Jackson, Amaziyah The Great, and American Blaq Ice, representing various regions of the Jamaican diaspora. Author Sharon Gordon also participated, reading excerpts from her acclaimed debut book, ‘Sheribaby,’ released in May. Pat Chin, the matriarch of VP Records, who recently celebrated her 88th birthday, attended the event and spoke about the cultural significance of poetry in Jamaica. Richie Innocent closed the show with performances of his songs, including ‘Babylon Slaves’ and ‘The Passover.’ Despite minor technical issues, he expressed optimism for the event’s future, envisioning its growth and longevity, with hopes of celebrating its 10th anniversary.
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Hurricane Imelda moving away from Bermuda
MIAMI, United States (CMC) — Hurricane Imelda, which has been rapidly moving away from Bermuda, is anticipated to transition into an extratropical storm later on Thursday, according to the National Hurricane Centre (NHC) in Miami. As of Thursday, the storm was located approximately 170 miles east-northeast of Bermuda, with maximum sustained winds reaching 85 miles per hour (mph). It is currently advancing east-northeast at a speed of nearly 30 mph. The Meteorological Service of Bermuda has downgraded the hurricane warning to a tropical storm warning, indicating that tropical storm conditions are expected to persist for the next few hours. Bermudian authorities have confirmed that the most severe phase of Hurricane Imelda has passed, though hurricane-force winds and gusts remain prevalent. Residents are urged to remain indoors until the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) issues an all-clear. The NHC forecasts that Hurricane Imelda will continue its northeastward trajectory on Friday and Saturday, with its core moving further away from Bermuda in the coming hours. The storm is expected to weaken gradually over the next several days as it transitions into an extratropical low. Swells generated by Imelda are currently impacting the Bahamas, Bermuda, and much of the United States’ east coast. The NHC has also warned that these swells will extend toward the Greater Antilles and northern Leeward Islands by Friday, continuing through the weekend, potentially creating life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
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Woman’s Club Foundation of Jamaica officially launched
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Woman’s Club Foundation of Jamaica (WCFJ) recently celebrated its official launch at the Terra Nova All Suite Hotel, marking a pivotal moment in its mission to uphold a legacy of service and nation-building. Established in 2020 during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation has emerged with renewed determination to support Jamaica’s most vulnerable populations.
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Trump piles pain on Democrats over US government shutdown
In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing government shutdown, former President Donald Trump has signaled his intent to proceed with mass layoffs of federal workers, intensifying pressure on Democrats to concede to his demands. Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he would meet with budget chief Russell Vought to identify agencies for potential cuts, labeling many as ‘political scams.’ The shutdown, now in its second day, has already forced 750,000 federal employees to stay home without pay, with threats of permanent layoffs looming.
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JTB and Wingo welcome first direct flights from Colombia to MoBay
In a groundbreaking move to bolster tourism and strengthen ties with Latin America, the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), in collaboration with Wingo Airlines, Corona, and Hyatt Hotels, welcomed two ‘mystery flights’ from Colombia to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay on Thursday. This event marked the beginning of a new chapter in connectivity between Jamaica and Colombia.
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Caribbean audiobook app to bring regional literary works to life
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Odiyo, the Caribbean’s trailblazing digital audiobook platform, has struck a landmark deal to acquire audio rights to five distinguished titles from the renowned independent publisher Akashic Books. This collaboration will breathe new life into works by some of the most influential voices in Caribbean and diaspora literature, including two novels by the late Jamaican literary icon Anthony Winkler. The selected titles are: *The Tower of the Antilles* by Achy Obejas, *My Own Dear People* by Dwight Thompson, *God Carlos* by Anthony Winkler, *The Family Mansion* by Anthony Winkler, and *Watch Out for Falling Iguanas* by Edwidge Danticat. Johnny Temple, CEO of Akashic Books, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, ‘We are thrilled to see these extraordinary works find new life in audio through Odiyo. The Caribbean’s literary tradition is rich, diverse, and deserving of wider access. Odiyo’s commitment to amplifying regional voices makes them the perfect partner for these titles.’ Anthony Winkler, celebrated for his globally acclaimed novel *The Lunatic*, remains a cherished figure in Jamaican literature. This agreement ensures that *God Carlos* and *The Family Mansion* will be available in audio for the first time, preserving Winkler’s signature wit, historical depth, and uniquely Jamaican narrative style for future generations. Lesley-Ann Wanliss, Odiyo’s head of acquisitions, emphasized the cultural significance of the deal, noting, ‘These are important works, not just for their literary merit, but for the way they capture and preserve the Caribbean’s voice and history. This partnership began through our shared mission with Akashic Books to make underrepresented stories accessible to more listeners. For Odiyo users, it means the ability to experience these narratives in an intimate and dynamic way, whether they’re discovering them for the first time or revisiting them in a new format.’ This acquisition underscores Odiyo’s ongoing efforts to expand its curated collection of Caribbean literature in audio form, solidifying its position as a global advocate for regional storytelling.
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JLP denounces ‘hypocritical’ PNP stance on interdiction of medical doctor
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Marlon Morgan of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has criticized the People’s National Party (PNP) for what he describes as ‘selective championing of causes’ following the PNP’s condemnation of the suspension of Dr. Aujae Dixon. Dr. Dixon, who participated in the September 3 general elections, was suspended by the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) for violating Public Service Staff Order 4.2.6(1), which bars public officers from engaging in partisan political activities. PNP Spokesperson on Justice, Zulieka Jess, labeled the suspension as an infringement on Dixon’s constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association, calling it an act that undermines civic participation. Morgan, however, dismissed Jess’s remarks as hypocritical, citing past instances where the PNP allegedly sought sanctions against JLP members under similar circumstances. He recalled the PNP’s actions in 2020 against Rhoda Crawford and in 2018 against Robert Morgan, both of whom faced public calls for resignation or sanctions for their political aspirations. Morgan also referenced the recent case of Councillor Dean Jones, whose status was revoked after the PNP argued he was a public sector worker at the time of his election. Morgan accused the PNP of applying ‘convenient principles’ and ‘barefaced hypocrisy’ to score political points, emphasizing that the PNP did not raise constitutional concerns when similar rules were applied to JLP members. He noted that the Ministry of Health had issued a public advisory a year before the 2025 general election, reminding public servants of the staff order requirements. Morgan urged the PNP to engage with the Constitutional Reform Committee to address the issue of public sector workers’ political participation, suggesting a dialogue to determine which categories of workers should be allowed to engage in political activities, similar to teachers.
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8 marlin released on first day of Mayberry marlin tournament
The ninth edition of the Mayberry Superstars of Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament commenced on Thursday at the Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio, Jamaica. The opening day saw the release of eight Marlin, setting a promising tone for the competition. Leading the pack is Nuh Reely, which successfully released three Marlin, followed by Brac Rebel, Pipe Dream, Wreckless, Daddy’s Dream, and Keepin’ it Jiggy, each releasing one Marlin. The tournament, which will run through Saturday, will culminate in an awards ceremony to honor the top performers. Defending champion Safe Passage is expected to face stiff competition as participants vie for the prestigious title. The event continues to highlight Port Antonio as a premier destination for sport fishing enthusiasts.
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Angus Young promoted to executive VP of NCB corporate banking and investment
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a strategic move to bolster its leadership team, the National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) has announced the promotion of Angus Young to the position of executive vice president, corporate and investment banking. Young, who will retain his role as CEO of NCB Capital Markets Limited, will now also oversee the bank’s corporate banking division. This consolidation aims to enhance client experiences and amplify the bank’s capacity to deliver scalable solutions.
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Billboard charting DJ Walshy Fire joins Xodus Wet Fete Music Fest lineup
Renowned DJ and producer Walsh Fire, a key member of the multi-platinum EDM group Major Lazer, has been confirmed as part of the star-studded lineup for the upcoming Xodus Wet Music Festival. Scheduled for this Saturday, the event will take place at the Kingston Waterfront from 4:00 am to 11:00 am, marking the grand opening of Jamaica’s 2026 carnival season.
Pierre Goubault, CEO of Xodus Carnival, expressed his excitement about Walsh Fire’s participation, highlighting his global influence in blending soca, dancehall, reggae, and house music. Goubault promised an unforgettable experience, featuring special remixes, dub plates, and new releases. The festival will also include paint, powder, water, foam, and an electrifying mix of soca music, making it a multi-sensory extravaganza.
Carlos Phillpotts, the festival director, emphasized that Xodus Wet is more than just a music festival—it’s a full-blown sensory escape. This year’s event aims to push boundaries with immersive experiences, top-tier performances, and water-infused vibes. Headliners include Trinidadian soca stars Bunji Garlin and GBM Nutron, alongside a stellar lineup of international and local DJs such as Jus Jay, Major Penny, Nocturnal Sound, Tony X, Zess, Rico the DJ, Franco, and Brush 1.
Phillpotts described the festival as a fusion of music, culture, and freedom, urging attendees to bring their coolers, crew, and enthusiasm for an unforgettable experience. Sponsors like Wata, KFC, and Chas E Ramson will enhance the event with their offerings. With fog cannons, drones, and new activations from title sponsor Campari, Goubault confidently declared this festival as the most epic event of the decade.