标签： Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dennis Gordon, the Opposition Spokesperson on Urban Renewal and Redevelopment, has called for a transformative approach to urban planning and infrastructure management in the Kingston Metropolitan Area (KMA). His appeal comes as the city faces escalating risks from extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change. Gordon emphasized the need for climate-resilient, nature-based solutions to address the vulnerabilities exposed by recent flooding incidents. He highlighted the inadequacies in Kingston’s drainage systems and physical infrastructure, urging authorities to integrate sustainability and resilience into urban development strategies. As a small island developing state (SIDS), Jamaica’s exposure to rising temperatures, increased rainfall, and sea-level rise necessitates a proactive, ecosystem-based approach to planning. Gordon pointed to Jamaica’s ICTU Final Report (NDC 3.0) to the UNFCCC, which underscores the urgency of climate-smart infrastructure. He advocated for green corridors, permeable surfaces, and urban wetlands as essential components of a sustainable Kingston. Gordon also stressed the importance of coordination between the National Works Agency (NWA), National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), and local authorities to create a unified, long-term planning framework. He called for transparency, public participation, and environmental responsibility in urban development, arguing that science and sustainability should guide infrastructure investments rather than political expediency. “Proper planning is not an option; it is a national necessity,” Gordon asserted. “We must build a Jamaica that can withstand climate change, protect its citizens, and grow sustainably. Our future depends on it.”

In a society where opportunities for male self-expression are often constrained, Jamaican dancer and educator Royane Green is pioneering a transformative initiative. Through the J’Adam Male Dance Workshop, Green is fostering a safe environment for men to explore creativity, build community, and address mental health challenges via the art of dance. Launched earlier this year, the workshop recently concluded its first summer session, blending modern dance training with discussions on mental and physical well-being. Green, a principal dancer with Movements Dance Company of Jamaica and an adjunct lecturer at Edna Manley College, drew inspiration from his mentor, Patrick Johnson, who exemplified strength and openness in male dance. The J’Adam initiative, rooted in Green’s faith and vision of a ‘new Jamaican man,’ encourages participants to embrace vulnerability, challenge societal norms, and find purpose through movement. In Jamaica, where male dancers often face stigma, Green’s workshop provides a rare space for men to express themselves freely. The program’s inclusivity was highlighted by the participation of Chris, a deaf dancer, who fully engaged in both artistic and mental health components. Green envisions J’Adam as a tool for social intervention, aiming to partner with organizations focused on crime prevention and empower men to find their voices. The workshop also opens doors to professional dance careers, challenging misconceptions about the viability of creative arts. Supported by the Honey Bun Foundation, Green plans to expand the program, incorporating diverse dance styles and reaching more young men. He invites all aspiring male dancers to join J’Adam, emphasizing the transformative power of dance in fostering emotional and psychological growth.

MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The search for Jayden Smith, a Manchester schoolboy who vanished two weeks ago, has intensified as law enforcement agencies expand their efforts to locate him. Jayden’s guardians, Ann-Marie Thompson and Omar Thompson, have expressed their willingness to cooperate with authorities, welcoming a thorough search of the vicinity surrounding their home in Wales, Newport, Manchester. The Thompsons have been deeply affected by persistent rumors and speculations regarding Jayden’s disappearance, which have escalated to threats against them. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has deployed multiple specialized units, including the Specialized Operations team, the canine unit, and the missing persons desk, alongside local Newport police, to meticulously comb the area. Despite the extensive search operations, Jayden’s whereabouts remain unknown, leaving the community anxious and hopeful for his safe return. The Thompsons have vehemently denied allegations of ill-treatment, dismissing them as baseless and harmful. As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to provide any information that could aid in locating the missing child.

A 61-year-old man, Jose Luis Rodriguez, has been charged with the brutal murders of his lover, her husband, and their one-year-old son in Berks County, Pennsylvania. The victims, identified as 31-year-old Geraldina Peguero-Mancebo, her 33-year-old husband Junior Cabrera-Colon, and their infant son Jeydon, were killed in a series of violent acts that authorities have described as “heinous and calculated.”

According to prosecutors, Rodriguez’s actions were driven by anger after Peguero-Mancebo refused to leave her marriage but continued to accept financial support from him. The tragedy unfolded when Rodriguez allegedly picked up Peguero-Mancebo while she was holding her baby, shot her in the back of the head, and then threw the child into a nearby pond, where he drowned. Later, Rodriguez reportedly met Cabrera-Colon and executed him in a similar manner, leaving his body in a separate location.

The victims’ bodies were discovered days apart in Ontelaunee Township, just outside Reading. Rodriguez eventually confessed to parts of the crime, admitting to investigators that he was enraged by Peguero-Mancebo’s decision to remain with her husband. The couple, who shared three other children aged eight to 13, were described as victims of a deeply disturbing act of violence.

Berks County District Attorney’s Office officials emphasized the severity of the crime, noting Rodriguez’s violent criminal history and stating that this incident was “by far the most disturbing act” they have encountered, particularly due to the murder of the innocent child. Rodriguez remains in custody and faces charges for one homicide, according to reports.