标签： Jamaica

What started as a promising ministry led by a charismatic young pastor culminated in one of Jamaica’s most harrowing tragedies. Kevin Smith, the self-proclaimed ‘prophet’ and leader of the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries, lured his followers with promises of salvation through his ‘ark.’ Instead, they met with death and disgrace. The Jamaica Observer delves into Smith’s meteoric rise, his rapid downfall, and the catastrophic aftermath that left Jamaica’s faith community grappling with the sinister realities that can lurk behind religious leadership. The two-part documentary, titled ‘Kevin Smith: Cult Pastor — Dead or Alive? The Story that Shook Jamaica,’ is now available on YouTube, offering a chilling exploration of this dark chapter in Jamaican history.

As Tropical Storm Melissa looms, threatening to escalate into a hurricane, the parish of St James in Jamaica has demonstrated remarkable preparedness. Following a critical meeting of the parish’s disaster committee, Montego Bay Mayor Richard Vernon assured the public of their readiness to face the impending storm. The meeting, attended by key stakeholders, confirmed that all emergency protocols have been activated, and shelters are prepared for potential evacuations. Mayor Vernon emphasized that 59 shelters across the parish have been inspected and are equipped with necessary supplies, including food. Shelter managers are on standby, ready to assist vulnerable populations such as the homeless, infirm, and tourists, with specific locations like Jarrett Park and the Montego Bay Convention Centre designated for their safety. Additionally, efforts to mitigate flooding risks have been prioritized, with major drains cleaned and bushing exercises conducted to clear utility lines. Stakeholders, including the Jamaica Fire Brigade, Jamaica Constabulary Force, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, have also confirmed their readiness. Mayor Vernon expressed confidence in the parish’s ability to respond effectively, stating, ‘St James is ready, and we are waiting to activate our emergency operation centre if necessary.’

This Sunday, October 26, marks the celebration of National Jamaican Jerk Day (NJJD), a day dedicated to honoring the rich culinary heritage of Jamaican jerk cuisine. In the United States, the festivities are set to receive an extra boost of excitement, courtesy of Grace Foods USA, a renowned name in authentic Caribbean flavors. Grace Foods is sponsoring the Grace Jerk Sauce competition, where three prominent South Florida restaurants—Casa Dea Amore Restaurant, People’s Choice Restaurant, and Chef Tally’s World-Famous Jerk Chicken—will compete in a Grace Jerk Tapas showdown. Each restaurant will present a three-course jerk experience using Grace Jerk Sauce, vying for a cash prize, a unique saucepan trophy, and the prestigious title of Grace Jerk Champion 2025. Andrea Reynolds, Global Category Manager at Grace Foods USA, expressed her pride in participating in the celebration, emphasizing the growing influence of jerk in American cuisine. ‘Jerk has become a true force in American cuisine—it’s everywhere, from backyard cookouts to restaurant menus nationwide. Grace is proud to be part of that journey, helping people discover authentic Jamaican flavor and inspiring them to make it their own,’ Reynolds told Observer Online. The organizers of NJJD have extended an open invitation to all jerk brands, restaurants, and food innovators to join the celebration by creating special jerk menus, hosting tastings, and running promotions. This initiative aims to spotlight the flavor that is redefining modern cooking and connecting food lovers globally. Originating as a centuries-old Jamaican cooking method, jerk has evolved into an international culinary trend, influencing American grilling culture and inspiring chefs across the spectrum to experiment with jerk rubs, marinades, and sauces. Today, jerk-inspired dishes can be found in a variety of settings, from food trucks and BBQ joints to high-end eateries, proving that jerk is not just a flavor—it’s a movement.