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  • Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Iconic Reggae Weekend features Johnny Clarke honours

    Jamaican music icon Johnny Clarke, whose energetic performances defined the roots-reggae era of the 1970s, is being celebrated during the Iconic Reggae Weekend from February 20-22. The celebration marks a special tribute to Clarke’s influential career and his seminal partnership with legendary producer Bunny Lee.

    The commemorative events, organized by Bunny Lee’s family, honor a musical partnership that produced an extraordinary catalog of hit singles fifty years ago. On February 20th, Clarke became the inaugural recipient of the Bunny Lee Lifetime Achievement Award during a ceremony at the Bunny Lee Museum in Duhaney Park, St. Andrew.

    Bunny Lee Jr. emphasized the appropriateness of Clarke being the first honoree of an award named for his father, who passed away in October 2020 at age 79. ‘Johnny Clarke stood among the pivotal artists who collaborated with Bunny Lee to elevate reggae into a globally powerful musical force,’ Lee Jr. told the Jamaica Observer. ‘Their 1970s partnership yielded some of Jamaican music’s most enduring compositions, including the classics None Shall Escape The Judgement and Rock With Me Baby, which garnered international acclaim.’

    Clarke’s remarkable journey saw him transition from working at Grace Kennedy in 1974 to reggae stardom with his breakthrough interpretation of Earl Sixteen’s None Shall Escape The Judgement. The unassuming artist, who was also Lee’s brother-in-law, further solidified his legacy with definitive tracks like Move Outa Babylon and African Roots under Lee’s Striker label.

    The weekend celebration extended beyond the award ceremony with significant events including the relaunch of Augustus Pablo’s historic Rockers International record store on Orange Street and an gathering at Randy’s Museum in downtown Kingston, the former home of Randy’s Records and studio.

    The Bunny Lee Museum, which opened officially one year ago in Lee’s former recording studio, houses an extensive collection of memorabilia including the producer’s flamboyant stage outfits, portraits of iconic producers Clement Dodd, Prince Buster, and Duke Reid, and instruments used by the pioneering musicians who developed the distinctive Greenwich Farm sound.

  • Top Mexican drug cartel leader killed

    Top Mexican drug cartel leader killed

    MEXICO CITY—In a significant blow to organized crime, Mexican authorities confirmed Sunday the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a high-stakes military operation. The 59-year-old drug lord, better known by his alias ‘El Mencho,’ succumbed to combat injuries while being airlifted to Mexico City following a fierce confrontation with army forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco state.

    Oseguera, who carried a $15 million U.S. bounty for his capture, ranked among Mexico’s most wanted criminals and represented one of the most substantial takedowns of a narcotics leader since the imprisonment of Sinaloa Cartel founders Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán and Ismael Zambada. The operation—conducted with critical intelligence support from U.S. agencies—resulted in six additional cartel casualties, three wounded soldiers, two arrests, and the seizure of an arsenal including anti-aircraft rocket launchers and armored vehicle weaponry.

    In retaliatory actions preceding the raid, cartel affiliates orchestrated coordinated vehicle arsons and road blockades across Jalisco and neighboring Michoacán states—tactics designed to obstruct security forces. The CJNG, designated a terrorist organization by the United States, has been implicated in trafficking massive quantities of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into American markets.

    U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau hailed Oseguera’s demise as a victory for international security, characterizing the cartel boss as ‘one of the bloodiest and most ruthless drug kingpins.’ The operation occurs amid sustained pressure from the Trump administration for Mexico to intensify its efforts against narcotics trafficking, particularly the fentanyl crisis affecting the United States.

  • England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    England rout Sri Lanka for 95 to win Super Eights opener

    KANDY, Sri Lanka—England delivered a commanding performance to launch their T20 World Cup Super Eights campaign, demolishing Sri Lanka for a paltry 95 runs to secure a decisive 51-run victory on Sunday. The win served as a perfect birthday gift for captain Harry Brook, who celebrated his 27th birthday amidst the triumph.

    After being put in to bat first, England posted a seemingly modest total of 146-9. However, their bowling attack, spearheaded by a ferocious power play performance, rendered the target insurmountable. Jofra Archer and Will Jacks orchestrated a top-order collapse, reducing Sri Lanka to a devastating 34-5 within the first six overs. The early blitz effectively decided the contest, leaving the hosts’ innings in ruins.

    Archer’s searing pace accounted for both openers, including the dismissal of the in-form Pathum Nissanka for just 9 runs. Jacks, later named Player of the Match for the third time this tournament, delivered a critical spell of 3-22, narrowly missing a hat-trick. Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka mounted a lone resistance with a brisk 30 off 24 balls, but his dismissal to Adil Rashid extinguished any fleeting hope of recovery.

    The victory was set up by Phil Salt’s anchoring 62 at the top of England’s order. Despite the challenging, rain-affected pitch in Kandy, Salt’s 40-ball innings, featuring six fours and two sixes, provided the backbone of England’s total. Sri Lanka’s bowling, led by left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage (3-26), managed to restrict the middle order, with Jacks’ 21 being the only other notable contribution.

    The comprehensive margin of victory provides England with a significant net run rate advantage in a group stage where weather interruptions, like the washed-out New Zealand-Pakistan match, could prove decisive. The result also extends England’s dominant streak to 12 consecutive wins against Sri Lanka.

  • Garvey and Reggae to highlight 5th annual South Florida Black History Month event

    Garvey and Reggae to highlight 5th annual South Florida Black History Month event

    South Florida prepares to host the fifth annual Marcus Garvey Groundings event on February 25th at the Island Space Museum, organized by the Consulate General of Jamaica in Miami. This cultural celebration uniquely combines the observance of Black History Month with Jamaica’s Reggae Month, creating a powerful tribute to national hero Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the global influence of reggae music.

    The event commemorates Garvey’s singular visit to South Florida exactly 103 years ago, when he arrived by train on February 25, 1921. During his three-day stay, the activist delivered a landmark lecture series in Key West promoting the Black Star Line shipping company before departing for Cuba.

    Historical context reveals that Garvey established the Black Star Line in 1919 through the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), which had grown to encompass over four million members worldwide. As founder and first President-General of the UNIA and African Communities League, Garvey launched the company’s “African Redemption” Liberia program, envisioning a sovereign nation on Africa’s west coast for Black Americans descended from enslaved peoples.

    This year’s gathering features Steven Golding, current President of the UNIA and African Communities League, as keynote speaker. Golding will emphasize Garvey’s enduring advocacy for black pride, self-worth, and economic self-sufficiency while continuing efforts to establish February 25th as officially recognized South Florida Garvey Day.

    Consul General Oliver Mair explained the event’s dual purpose: “This represents our consulate’s approach to celebrating both Black History and Reggae Month. We recognize Garvey’s profound significance for Jamaica, the diaspora, and people of color globally. We are committed to ensuring the world never forgets Garvey’s legacy.”

    In alignment with Garvey’s principles of self-reliance, the event will feature Farrah Blake, CEO of Jamaica’s Cannabis Licensing Authority, as a main presenter. Blake highlighted the natural synergy between the cultural celebration and investment-focused lecture series, noting that “this marriage is particularly apt.” She revealed that 51% of directorships in cannabis businesses licensed over the past decade must be Jamaican-owned, reflecting Garvey’s teachings about economic self-determination.

    “Our medical cannabis industry merges herb with healing—as we have always understood it,” Blake added. “Cannabis is synonymous with Jamaica and its music, creating natural synergy with Garvey’s teachings about self-sufficiency.”

    The celebration will feature live performances by the Visions Band and Tallawah Mento Band, blending musical tributes with educational programming. According to Consul General Mair, the event serves to “sustain progressive education about Garvey’s teachings while paying tribute to reggae music’s powerful messages to the world.”

  • US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    US issues $1 million reward for capture of Haitian gang leader

    U.S. law enforcement agencies have announced a significant restructuring of their most-wanted fugitives list concerning Haitian criminal leaders. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has removed Vitel’Homme Innocent, a gang leader previously carrying a $2 million bounty, from its prestigious ‘Ten Most Wanted Fugitives’ list. While Innocent remains at large in Haiti, authorities determined his continued listing wouldn’t generate new information crucial for his capture, despite extensive investigation and media exposure since 2023. The active investigation to apprehend him continues.

    Concurrently, the U.S. State Department has issued a new $1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Johnson “Izo” André, a prominent figure in Haiti’s escalating gang violence. André, believed to be in his twenties, leads the heavily armed 5 Segond gang and is a key member of the Viv Ansanm coalition—officially designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States.

    André is wanted for his alleged masterminding of the March 2023 kidnapping of a U.S. citizen in Port-au-Prince. According to official statements, the hostage was taken on André’s direct orders and held captive in Village de Dieu, a seaside slum serving as his operational base. The victim was released after nine days following a ransom payment that included the victim’s vehicle and firearms belonging to the victim’s father.

    Beyond kidnapping charges filed in the District of Columbia in December 2024, André and his criminal network are implicated in extensive cocaine trafficking operations. The State Department further attributes 1,035 documented cases of sexual violence to André and the 5 Segond gang, highlighting the brutal tactics employed by these criminal organizations.

  • USA win men’s Olympic ice hockey gold for first time since 1980

    USA win men’s Olympic ice hockey gold for first time since 1980

    In a historic triumph that shattered a nearly five-decade Olympic drought, the United States men’s ice hockey team captured gold Sunday night with a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory against archrival Canada in Milan. The championship-clinching moment came from forward Jack Hughes, who delivered the decisive goal just 1:41 into the extra period despite having sustained a dental injury minutes earlier that left him bloodied and missing teeth.

    The victory marks America’s first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since the legendary 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ victory in Lake Placid, ending Canada’s dominance and denying them what would have been a record tenth Olympic title. The emotionally charged contest immediately drew political attention, with former President Donald Trump celebrating the win on Truth Social while the White House’s official X account posted symbolic imagery of a bald eagle pouncing on a Canada goose.

    The Santagiulia Arena atmosphere reflected the intense rivalry, with American players initially booed during warm-ups by a crowd predominantly composed of Canadian supporters. Team USA established early momentum when Matt Boldy skillfully navigated through two Canadian defenders to beat goaltender Jordan Binnington in the first period.

    Canadian defenseman Cale Makar eventually equalized in the second period with a precise wrist shot that slipped past American netminder Connor Hellebuyck, who otherwise delivered a spectacular performance with 41 saves. The game nearly tilted earlier when Brock Faber’s slap shot remarkably deflected off both posts without crossing the goal line.

    Following the victory, Team USA conducted a poignant tribute lap while displaying a jersey honoring former NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, both tragically killed by a drunk driver in August 2024. The emotional win concluded with Finland claiming bronze after defeating Slovakia 6-1 in Saturday’s consolation match.

  • Mt Alvernia win first Western Champs title

    Mt Alvernia win first Western Champs title

    In a stunning reversal of fortunes at the GC Foster College on Saturday, Mt Alvernia High School from Montego Bay secured their maiden County of Cornwall Athletics Association (COCAA) Girls Western Championships crown. The team amassed an impressive 327 points, decisively ending the long-standing dominance of St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS).

    The victory marks a significant milestone for Mt Alvernia, a consistent top-five contender that finally achieved a breakthrough performance. STETHS, the former perennial champions, finished in second place with 272 points. William Knibb Memorial High secured a distant third with 156 points, followed by Lacovia High (114) and Sydney Pagon High (107) to complete the top five.

    Team captain Malia Housen emerged as a standout multi-event athlete, dominating the field by claiming victory in the Class 2 long jump, high jump, and the open triple jump. Her teammate, Giana Murray, showcased exceptional speed by securing the sprint double in the Class 2 girls’ category. The team, under the guidance of coach Andrew Henry, demonstrated remarkable depth and coordination by winning four of the six relay events contested during the one-day championship.

    In the boys’ division, STETHS successfully defended their title, asserting their continued dominance with a commanding total of 435 points. William Knibb Memorial secured second place with 322 points, narrowly edging out rivals Munro College, who finished a close third with 320 points. Herbert Morrison Technical (149) and Cornwall College (147) rounded out the top five positions in the highly competitive boys’ standings.

  • 200 students in Western Jamaica strengthen exam readiness through stem and core subject training

    200 students in Western Jamaica strengthen exam readiness through stem and core subject training

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant educational advancement, approximately 200 students from Westmoreland and St James have markedly enhanced their proficiency in Mathematics, English Language, and STEM disciplines through specialized capacity-building workshops. The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information orchestrated this comprehensive development program at Maud McLeod High School on February 19 as part of a strategic regional effort to elevate academic performance and examination preparedness.

    The initiative represents a proactive response to recent disruptions in educational continuity, focusing particularly on rebuilding student confidence through immersive learning experiences. Grade six participants engaged in innovative robotics activities and introductory Food and Nutrition sessions, while interactive review games reinforced fundamental concepts in Mathematics and English Language.

    Senior students from multiple high schools, including Maud McLeod High, Grange Hill High, and Maldon High, benefited from targeted academic sessions and a career forum showcasing emerging professional opportunities. Concurrently, educators participated in specialized workshops focused on enhancing numeracy and literacy outcomes, alongside strategies for integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) methodologies into classroom instruction.

    Dr. Michele Pinnock, Region Four Regional Director, reported exceptional engagement levels throughout the event, noting that practicing teachers facilitated sessions that brought learning concepts to life. The program featured STEAM project exhibitions and ‘Try a Skill’ sessions designed to foster independent learning capabilities and increase student motivation.

    A highlight of the event was the formal inauguration of the Maud McLeod High School Resource Hub, established through a collaborative partnership between the Ministry of Education, Liberty Caribbean Foundation, and Flow Foundation. This facility will serve 11 schools in eastern Westmoreland, providing shared technological resources, STEM kits, printed instructional materials, and specialized learning environments to institutions facing infrastructural limitations.

  • Chillin on the Farm celebrates 15 years

    Chillin on the Farm celebrates 15 years

    TOLLGATE, Clarendon—The acclaimed Jamaican cultural event, Appleton Estate Chillin’ on the Farm, prepares to commemorate its 15th anniversary with a landmark celebration on Sunday, March 1. Hosted at Murray’s Farm in Clarendon, this year’s edition introduces an ambitious new theme: ‘Gone Legendary’.

    Organized through a partnership between Wright Image Entertainment and Murray’s Fish and Jerk Hut, the event has evolved from a local gathering into a significant fixture on Jamaica’s cultural calendar. Reflecting on the journey, founder and producer PJ Wright expressed profound appreciation for the event’s organic growth. ‘Our initial vision was simply to craft an authentic, genuinely Jamaican experience,’ Wright noted. ‘Witnessing its evolution and the cherished memories forged here over 15 years underscores the power of consistency, quality, and deep community engagement.’

    A premier addition for the 2026 staging is the debut of the Legend Food Court, presented by Wisynco Group Limited’s Legend Beer. The brand, conceived to honor everyday Jamaican experiences, finds a natural synergy with the event’s milestone anniversary. This dedicated culinary zone will showcase expertly curated beer pairings alongside an extensive selection of traditional, farm-style Jamaican cuisine.

    Remaining central to the event’s allure is Murray’s world-famous Curry Goat, a culinary masterpiece that consistently attracts a diverse audience from across the island and international visitors. Further solidifying the event’s unique appeal is the return of its spectacular whole roast cow tradition. This immersive display, featuring slow roasting over an open fire throughout the day, offers a rare gastronomic spectacle that distinguishes Chillin’ on the Farm within Jamaica’s premium event landscape.

  • Arsenal’s Eze sinks Spurs again, Liverpool late show floors Forest

    Arsenal’s Eze sinks Spurs again, Liverpool late show floors Forest

    In a dramatic Sunday of Premier League action, Arsenal decisively reasserted their title credentials while Liverpool secured a vital, last-minute victory. The headline fixture saw Arsenal deliver a commanding 4-1 performance against North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, a result that propels them five points clear at the summit.

    The match was defined by the brilliance of Eberechi Eze, who emerged as Tottenham’s tormentor once again. The English midfielder, who had been linked with a move to Spurs before joining Arsenal from Crystal Palace, broke the deadlock just after the half-hour mark. Tottenham’s response was swift, with Randal Kolo Muani leveling the score almost immediately. The equilibrium was shattered early in the second half when Viktor Gyokeres netted a crucial goal to put the Gunners back in front. Eze then sealed the victory, calmly slotting home his second after a save from goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, before Gyokeres added a fourth in stoppage time to complete the rout.

    This resounding win provides a significant morale boost for Mikel Arteta’s squad, alleviating pressure after consecutive draws had allowed Manchester City to close the gap. Despite City holding a game in hand and a pivotal head-to-head clash looming in April, Arsenal now possess valuable breathing space in their pursuit of a first league title in over two decades. For Tottenham, the defeat in interim manager Igor Tudor’s debut leaves them languishing merely four points above the relegation zone.

    In parallel drama, Liverpool’s Champions League aspirations were kept alive by a stunning 97th-minute winner from Alexis Mac Allister against Nottingham Forest. In a match where Liverpool’s performance was largely subpar, the Argentine midfielder pounced on a rebound from a Virgil van Dijk header to secure a barely deserved 1-0 victory. The goal came after a previous Mac Allister effort was controversially disallowed for a handball. The result, which Forest manager Vitor Pereira labeled a crushing lesson, lifts Liverpool level on points with Chelsea and Manchester United.

    Elsewhere, Fulham ascended into the top half of the table with a 3-1 away victory over Sunderland, powered by a Raul Jimenez brace. Simultaneously, Crystal Palace secured a much-needed 1-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, courtesy of a 90th-minute goal from Evann Guessand, offering respite from a prolonged period of poor form.