KINGSTON, Jamaica — The 40th edition of the Bell/Zaide Memorial Football Festival is set to take place on Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, at Winchester Park. This year’s event will feature notable participants, including former national football player Walter Boyd and renowned entertainer Aidonia. Both confirmed their involvement after being approached by organizer Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell during the Reggae Boyz match against Bermuda. The festival, which supports various charitable causes, may mark its final iteration due to rising venue and security costs. Campbell expressed his intention to collaborate with the Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) to preserve the legacy of the event and its honourees. He emphasized his commitment to aiding basic schools, stating, ‘In life, everybody needs help sometimes.’ The festival commemorates Jackie Bell and Dennis Ziadie, two Jamaican football legends who tragically passed away during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. This year’s honourees include Douglas Bell, Andrew Price, Neville Granville, Karl Tyrell, and Ronald Watson. Four teams will compete: Masters and Celebrities, Christian Ambassadors, St George’s Old Boys, and Referees XI. The Masters and Celebrities team will feature Laa Lee, Jahshii, Nesbeth, Boyd, and Aidonia, while the Referees XI will include Karl Tyrell, Oshane Nation, Carvel Banton, Alexi Perry, and Jassett Kerr.
标签： Jamaica
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Jamaica Observer, Gleaner move to sign joint venture agreement
In a landmark move for Jamaica’s media industry, Jamaica Observer Limited (JOL) and Gleaner Company Media Limited (GCML) have announced their decision to form a formal joint venture (JV) by the end of the calendar year. This strategic collaboration, initiated through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in early August, aims to explore operational efficiencies by outsourcing shared printing and distribution logistics services, print production, and distribution networks. Following a comprehensive fact-finding period, the two independent entities have agreed to establish a JV focused on creating a unified logistics model for print production and distribution. The partnership is expected to yield significant cost savings, improved delivery timelines, and enhanced consumer service. Anthony Smith, CEO of the RJRGleaner Communications Group, emphasized that the JV discussions have meticulously outlined the coordination and efficient logistics required to ensure the stability and integrity of both operations. Dominic Beaubrun, Managing Director of JOL, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaboration, noting its practical and forward-thinking approach to preserving the industry. Despite the joint venture, both companies will retain their independence, with separate ownership, operations, and editorial control, ensuring continued high-quality journalism and service to their respective audiences. The Gleaner, established in 1834, and the Observer, founded in 1993, bring decades of experience to this innovative partnership.
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Trinidadians among those killed in latest US bombing at sea
In a tragic incident earlier this week, two Trinidad and Tobago nationals were among six individuals killed in a United States military airstrike on a small vessel in international waters near Venezuela. Gary Aboud, secretary of the non-governmental organization Fishermen and Friends of the Sea, confirmed the deaths of Richie Samaroo and Chad “Charpo” Joseph during a radio broadcast on Thursday. Aboud expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of the deceased, condemning the act as a violation of judicial processes and international law. He also warned local fishermen to avoid venturing far from the shoreline due to the heightened risk of being targeted. The Trinidad and Tobago Government and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) have yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has publicly supported the US military’s anti-narcotics campaign in the Caribbean, stating that she has no sympathy for drug traffickers. The US military has intensified its presence in the region, deploying additional assets, including a nuclear-powered attack submarine and reconnaissance aircraft, as part of its efforts to combat drug cartels. This latest strike marks the fifth such operation in the Caribbean, resulting in a total of 27 fatalities. Relatives of the deceased have vehemently condemned the attack, describing it as “inhumane” and “unjustified.” Lenore Burnley, the mother of Chad Joseph, insisted that her son was not involved in drug trafficking, while Christine Clement, his grandmother, revealed that he had been living in Venezuela and had previously survived another attack while attempting to return home. Aboud has called for Prime Minister Persad Bissessar to be held accountable before the International Criminal Court for her support of the US military actions.
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NSWMA apologises, vows to end garbage collection delay
The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has issued a public apology for ongoing garbage collection delays across Jamaica, with Executive Director Audley Gordon pledging to resolve the issue within the next few weeks. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer on Wednesday, Gordon expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to residents and outlined efforts to address the backlog, including extended working hours and additional collection trips. He emphasized that improper waste disposal practices by the public have exacerbated the problem, urging Jamaicans to adopt better habits to ease the burden on collectors. Gordon also highlighted challenges such as mechanical issues with collection vehicles and the time-consuming task of clearing illegal mini dumps within communities. While acknowledging the recent acquisition of over 100 new garbage trucks by the government, Gordon stressed that an additional 200 trucks are needed to achieve optimal operational standards. He also addressed concerns about street sweepers in downtown Kingston, noting that investigations are underway to ensure accountability. Gordon called for collective responsibility, urging the public to play their part in maintaining a clean environment by adhering to proper waste disposal practices.
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JUTC urges parents to register children for rural school bus fare card
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) has issued a call to action for parents and guardians of children utilizing the rural school bus program. With the impending shift to a cashless fare system set for November 1, 2025, the JUTC emphasizes the urgency of registering for the electronic fare payment card to ensure uninterrupted service. Currently, the program transports approximately 16,600 students daily, yet only 4,900 have completed the registration process. The JUTC, in a recent media release, highlighted the critical need for immediate action to avoid potential disruptions. Since its inception, the rural school bus service has been free of charge. However, starting November 1, 2025, a fare will be introduced, making the electronic payment card the sole method of payment. Registration is mandatory for all students using the service. Parents can register online via the JUTC’s dedicated portal, and printed forms will also be distributed by bus drivers. Completed forms should be returned to school principals or designated administrative personnel. The JUTC has assured that registration will remain an ongoing process as the company works to expand and enhance the rural school bus program over the next two years.
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EU court rules dogs are same as baggage for airline liability
In a landmark decision on Thursday, the European Union’s top court ruled that dogs traveling in an airplane’s cargo hold are legally classified as baggage. This means airlines are not obligated to pay higher compensation if the animal is lost or harmed during transit. The ruling emerged from a legal dispute between Spanish carrier Iberia and a passenger whose dog went missing during a flight from Buenos Aires to Barcelona in October 2019. The dog, which was too large and heavy to travel in the cabin, escaped while being transported to the aircraft and was never recovered. The passenger sought €5,000 ($5,400 USD) in damages, but Iberia argued that compensation should align with the Montreal Convention’s limits for checked baggage, which caps liability at a lower amount. The Spanish court referred the case to the European Union Court of Justice, which sided with the airline. The Luxembourg-based court stated that while the term ‘baggage’ typically refers to objects, it does not exclude pets, provided animal welfare requirements are met during transport. The court also noted that the passenger had not made a ‘special declaration of interest’ at check-in, which could have allowed for higher compensation with the airline’s approval. The judgment is advisory, and the final decision on compensation will be determined by the Spanish court handling the case.
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Student found dead at UWI in suspected suicide
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A tragic incident unfolded at the University of the West Indies (UWI) on Thursday when a student was discovered deceased in her dormitory. The young woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was a resident of George Alleyne Hall and a member of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Her roommate made the grim discovery, prompting immediate concern and speculation of suicide as the cause of death. In response to the heartbreaking event, UWI has swiftly activated its support mechanisms to assist students grappling with the emotional aftermath. Local law enforcement has launched an investigation to determine the precise circumstances surrounding her untimely demise. The university community is mourning the loss while awaiting further details from authorities.
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Vacancy tax on idle properties proposed as part of waterfront’s economic revival
Renowned urban planner Brent Toderian has proposed a vacancy tax on unused properties as a potential strategy to stimulate economic activity in downtown Kingston, Jamaica. The suggestion was made during the fifth Maurice Facey Lecture, held at the Jamaica Conference Centre last week. Toderian, former chief planner for Vancouver, Canada, emphasized that while he is not advocating for immediate implementation, such a tax could incentivize property owners to repurpose derelict buildings and vacant lots for commercial or residential use.
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Reggae Boyz player ratings vs Bermuda: High marks as Jamaica inch closer to WC qualification
Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday, securing a resounding 4-0 victory over Bermuda in their FIFA World Cup qualifier. This triumph has propelled them back to the top of their group in the final round of the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers, with just two matches left to play. The game, held at the National Stadium, showcased a series of standout individual performances that underscored the team’s dominance.
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Master Mac Food adds 15th store in latest round of expansion
Master Mac Food Store, a prominent grocery chain, is poised to open its 15th location and 5th supermarket on Thursday, October 16, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy. The new superstore, situated at 108-110 Constant Spring Road, spans approximately 40,000 square feet, making it the largest and most advanced outlet in the company’s 30-year history. Located near popular establishments like Furniture Land, Carmen’s Corner, and Taboo nightclub, the store is part of a larger commercial complex on a 2.5-acre property owned by the company for several years.
The superstore will feature unique additions such as a bakery and deli, alongside a wider variety of grocery items, enhancing the shopping experience for customers. Owner Raymond McMaster emphasized the strategic location and potential for strong returns, though he declined to disclose the exact investment cost. The development aligns with the increasing residential and commercial activity in the Constant Spring area, prompting the company to activate the property’s potential.
As the anchor tenant, the supermarket is surrounded by 20 other commercial units, many of which are already leased or preparing to open. These include retail shops, professional services, and eateries like the popular Mystic Thai, set to open in November 2025. The new store is expected to create 75 jobs, bringing the company’s total employment in Jamaica to approximately 600.
Founded in the late 1980s, Master Mac Food Store remains a family-run enterprise, with McMaster and his wife Wendy leading the business alongside their children, who are being groomed for future leadership. While there are no immediate plans for further expansion, the company remains open to opportunities, particularly in St Thomas, which is emerging as a new development frontier.
The Constant Spring superstore aims to cater to a diverse demographic, offering competitive pricing, a broad product selection, and a comfortable shopping environment. McMaster expressed optimism about the store’s potential to deliver value and a superior shopping experience, reinforcing the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.