Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

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  • ‘Those killers have to pay’

    ‘Those killers have to pay’

    In a tragic turn of events, the quiet community of Commodore, St. Catherine, was shattered by a brutal mass shooting on Sunday night. Among the victims was four-year-old Shannon Gordon, whose life was tragically cut short. The senseless violence claimed the lives of five individuals and left four others injured, including an 11-year-old girl. The incident has left the community reeling in grief and seeking justice.

    Rosemarie Murray, Shannon’s grandmother, expressed her profound sorrow and anger in a heartfelt prayer, pleading for divine retribution against the perpetrators. ‘Father God, make the killers be put to justice. When people kill the innocent, they must die,’ she cried out in anguish. Murray recounted the harrowing moments when the gunmen, disguised as police officers, stormed the yard and opened fire indiscriminately. ‘They were in police clothes, so everybody thought it was the police. One of them pointed the gun at me, but I said, ‘The blood of Jesus is against you,’ and he took the gun off me and started shooting,’ she shared.

    The other victims included 39-year-old Iysha Washington, 42-year-old Mario Sullivan, 19-year-old Jushane Edwards, and a 22-year-old security guard known only as Famous Amos. Jushane’s sister, Simmoneke Walters, expressed her grief and anger, wishing the same fate upon the killers. ‘My little brother was just 19 years old. He was jovial, feisty, but not a bad person. You just came and took his life,’ she lamented.

    In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang, and Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake visited the community to offer their condolences and announce a $2-million reward for information leading to the arrests of the killers. Assistant Commissioner of Police Christopher Phillips described the incident as gang-related and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. ‘It is a very, very awful scene. For somebody to turn an M16 on a four-year-old, it speaks to the kind of evil mindset we have to encounter,’ he stated.

    The community remains in shock, with residents describing the incident as ‘wicked’ and ‘traumatizing.’ The Jamaica Constabulary Force has mobilized all available resources to investigate the case, with the Major Investigations Division leading the charge. As the community mourns, they seek solace in the hope that justice will prevail.

  • Health ministry to implement IC recommendations following ‘Market Me’ probe

    Health ministry to implement IC recommendations following ‘Market Me’ probe

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Health and Wellness has officially acknowledged the findings of the Integrity Commission (IC) regarding its investigation into procurement irregularities and potential conflicts of interest involving contracts worth nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me Consulting Limited. The report, presented to Parliament on Tuesday, culminated a three-year probe into the matter. While the ministry emphasized that no malfeasance was found among its staff, it recognized the IC’s recommendations to enhance procurement transparency and address concerns outlined in the report. Market Me Consulting Limited secured approximately 15 contracts between 2016 and 2021 for the Jamaica Moves programme, a health initiative aimed at combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through public awareness and preventive measures. The IC’s Director of Investigation, Kevon Stephenson, highlighted that Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton and Market Me’s co-managing director, Lindsay McDonnough, failed to disclose their prior friendship before the contracts were awarded. Additionally, the IC noted instances of contract splintering, a practice where larger contracts are divided into smaller ones to avoid stricter procurement regulations. The ministry defended its actions, explaining that some payments were reimbursements for goods and services already utilized in the Jamaica Moves campaign. It also outlined steps taken to address the issues, including halting advance payments, regularizing outstanding reimbursements, and finalizing a new procurement process to prevent future complications. The ministry reiterated its commitment to the Jamaica Moves programme, calling it a cornerstone of its health promotion strategy, while pledging to review the IC’s recommendations to ensure compliance with laws and policies.

  • Tornado destroys homes in west Trinidad

    Tornado destroys homes in west Trinidad

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – A series of waterspouts and a weak tornado struck northwestern Trinidad on Tuesday, causing significant damage to several homes by ripping off roofs. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities. The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service attributed the severe weather to a low-level trough combined with daytime heating, which triggered isolated thunderstorms. These conditions led to the formation of waterspouts and a weak tornado in the Westmoorings area. The meteorological agency indicated that weather conditions are expected to improve later in the day, though partly cloudy to cloudy skies and thunderstorms persist. Khadijah Ameen, the Minister of Rural Development and Local Government, visited the affected region and assured residents that authorities are conducting thorough assessments of the damage. She emphasized that immediate assistance would be provided to affected households, including roof repairs and infrastructure restoration. Ameen also highlighted safety concerns, noting that some homes were too waterlogged to safely restore electricity, as this could pose electrocution risks. The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Company (T&TEC) and fire services are actively working on-site to address fallen power lines and other hazards. Ameen expressed relief that no injuries have been reported and stressed the importance of maintaining this safety record.

  • Trio wins physics Nobel for quantum mechanical tunnelling

    Trio wins physics Nobel for quantum mechanical tunnelling

    STOCKHOLM, Sweden — The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to John Clarke of the United Kingdom, Michel Devoret of France, and John Martinis of the United States for their pioneering work in quantum mechanics, which has revolutionized digital technology. Their discoveries have laid the foundation for advancements in quantum cryptography, quantum computers, and quantum sensors, transforming fields ranging from telecommunications to computing.

    The Nobel Committee highlighted that their research demonstrated quantum tunneling on a macroscopic scale using superconductors, a breakthrough that has made quantum mechanics accessible and measurable in human terms. Ulf Danielsson, secretary of the Nobel physics committee, emphasized the significance of their experiments in the 1980s, which bridged the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications.

    Quantum mechanics, which governs the behavior of particles at the smallest scales, underpins all modern digital technology. For instance, the functionality of mobile phones is directly linked to their discoveries. Clarke, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, described the award as ‘the surprise of my life,’ noting that the practical implications of their work were not immediately apparent during their experiments.

    The trio’s collaboration exemplifies the global nature of scientific research. However, their work also underscores the ‘brain drain’ phenomenon, as Devoret and Martinis conducted their research in the United States, a hub for scientific innovation due to its investment in basic science and academic freedom. Eleanor Crane, a quantum physicist at King’s College London, pointed out that recent U.S. budget cuts to science programs threaten to erode this leadership.

    The physics prize follows the Nobel in Medicine, awarded to a US-Japanese trio for their work on the human immune system. The Nobel season continues with awards in chemistry, literature, peace, and economics, culminating in the formal ceremonies on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death. Each laureate receives a diploma, a gold medal, and a share of the $1.2-million prize.

  • Youth Football League’s Junior Cup Urban Championship delivers record-breaking action

    Youth Football League’s Junior Cup Urban Championship delivers record-breaking action

    The Youth Football League’s Junior Cup Urban Championship celebrated its fourth consecutive year with remarkable success, solidifying its position as Jamaica’s premier one-day single-age group football tournament. Held at the iconic Constant Spring football field, the 2025 edition brought together 18 schools in the Under-11 division, showcasing the vibrant grassroots football culture across the nation. This year’s tournament saw an influx of new participants, including Wolmer’s Prep, Creative Kids, Independence City Primary, and Naggo Head Primary, injecting fresh enthusiasm and competitive spirit into the event. Notably, three of these debutant teams advanced to the knockout stages, highlighting the expanding pool of young football talent in Kingston and St Catherine. The championship culminated in an electrifying rematch of last season’s Champions Cup final, with Balmagie Primary facing off against Sts Peter and Paul Prep. This time, Sts Peter and Paul emerged victorious with a 4–2 triumph, securing the Urban Championship title and setting a triumphant tone for the 2025 school football season. Paula Pinnock, managing director of the Youth Football League, emphasized the tournament’s growing impact, stating, ‘Each year, the Junior Cup grows stronger — more schools, more talent, more passion. We’re witnessing the foundation of Jamaica’s future football stars being laid right here.’ The organizers expressed their gratitude to key sponsors and partners, including Kemtek, Gatorade Jamaica, The Gleaner, ICWI, Western Sports, Pure Water, Flow, and FYI Consultancy Group, for their unwavering support in nurturing youth football. The next chapter of the competition, the Rural Championship, is set to take place at Kirkvine Sports Complex in Manchester on October 11, where schools from central and western Jamaica will vie for a spot in the All-Island Finals. The top six teams from both the urban and rural championships will compete in the All-Island Finals on October 18 at Constant Spring field. Registration remains open for last-minute participants eager to join this celebrated platform for young footballers.

  • ‘Friendship’ between Tufton, Market Me’s McDonnough was not declared – IC Report

    ‘Friendship’ between Tufton, Market Me’s McDonnough was not declared – IC Report

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—After a three-year investigation into Market Me Consulting Limited, the company behind the ‘Jamaica Moves’ initiative, the Integrity Commission (IC) has found no evidence of misconduct by Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton. However, the IC’s report, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, highlighted significant governance lapses, particularly regarding undisclosed personal relationships and potential conflicts of interest. The probe focused on allegations of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest in contracts awarded between 2016 and 2021. During this period, Market Me Consulting secured 15 contracts worth $78.5 million, primarily from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, which Tufton has led since March 2016. The IC emphasized that neither Tufton nor Lyndsey McDonnough, co-managing director of Market Me, disclosed their friendship before the company was awarded these contracts. Kevon Stephenson, the IC’s Director of Investigation, noted that while Tufton was not directly involved in the $15.8 million contract for the Jamaica Moves program, he failed to formally declare his relationship with McDonnough. This omission, according to the report, contravened principles of transparency and good governance. Although breaches were identified, the matter was not referred for prosecution due to evidentiary gaps. Instead, the IC recommended that the Speaker of the House of Representatives address the conflict-of-interest concerns and urged the ministry to strengthen its procurement systems and ensure compliance with public integrity laws.

  • DTS Swim expands with new location

    DTS Swim expands with new location

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — DTS Swim, a renowned luxury swimwear brand, marked a significant milestone in its 10-year journey with the grand opening of its new store at Shop 9, 18 Balmoral Avenue. The launch event, held on Saturday, was a vibrant celebration attended by loyal customers and industry insiders. Owner Daniela Stona officially inaugurated the space at 12:30 pm, emphasizing the brand’s evolution and growth. “This larger space reflects our expanding offerings and upcoming collections,” Stona remarked, highlighting the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Known for its custom-made designs inspired by Jamaican culture, DTS Swim has garnered a loyal following with pieces like ‘Feva’ and ‘Unda Wata.’ Guests praised the brand’s inclusivity and aesthetic appeal, with Davia Findlator describing the event as “beautiful and girly.” Pia Vonique Haynes commended the brand’s dedication to catering to diverse body types, while makeup artist Sashawna Harris, who shares the new space with DTS Swim, expressed pride in the turnout and the collaborative vibe. The event featured Frontera Rosé wine and a selection of appetisers, offering guests a taste of luxury while browsing the latest collections. DTS Swim continues to champion local fashion, with model Regina Scarlett noting its unique contribution to Jamaica’s swimwear scene. The brand’s offerings are available online at dtsswim.com, with in-store pickup options at the new location.

  • Sandals to begin designing new resort for St Vincent next year

    Sandals to begin designing new resort for St Vincent next year

    KINGSTOWN, St Vincent — Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has unveiled plans to construct a $500 million Beaches resort in St Vincent, marking a significant milestone in the region’s tourism sector. The announcement was made by SRI CEO Adam Stewart during the signing of a multi-million dollar agreement with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. The resort, slated to feature 500 bedrooms, is expected to commence design work in 2026 and will employ nearly 2,000 Vincentians at full capacity.

  • From Jamaica to Italy: A Fairy-tale Wedding on Lake Garda

    From Jamaica to Italy: A Fairy-tale Wedding on Lake Garda

    Royanne DeSilva, Managing Director of Dream Aloud Travels and former Miss Jamaica World 2015 first runner-up, has married Luca Campolunghi, an Italian real estate investor, in a wedding that masterfully blended Caribbean vibrancy with Italian sophistication. Their love story began in Qatar, where they first met, and flourished through visits to each other’s homelands, fostering a deep connection rooted in cultural exchange.

  • Dolly Parton’s sister calls for fan prayers over health issues

    Dolly Parton’s sister calls for fan prayers over health issues

    LOS ANGELES, United States — Dolly Parton, the iconic American country music legend, has postponed several concerts due to undisclosed health concerns, prompting her sister, Freida Parton, to appeal to fans for prayers. The 79-year-old singer, known for timeless hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” recently delayed her sold-out Las Vegas performances scheduled for December, citing the need to undergo multiple medical procedures. Freida took to Facebook to share her heartfelt plea, urging fans worldwide to join her in praying for Dolly’s recovery. “I truly believe in the power of prayer,” Freida wrote, emphasizing her faith in collective support. Dolly herself reassured her millions of followers that this is not the end of her illustrious career, announcing rescheduled shows for September 2024. Despite her health setbacks, the singer remains a beloved figure in the music industry, with a career spanning decades and iconic songs like “Coat of Many Colors” and “9 to 5.” Parton is also set to receive an honorary Oscar next month, though reports suggest she may not attend the ceremony in Los Angeles. Freida concluded her message on an optimistic note, expressing confidence in Dolly’s resilience and the power of prayer. “She’s strong, she’s loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she’s going to be just fine,” she wrote, adding, “Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”