KINGSTON, Jamaica — Odiyo, the Caribbean’s trailblazing digital audiobook platform, has struck a landmark deal to acquire audio rights to five distinguished titles from the renowned independent publisher Akashic Books. This collaboration will breathe new life into works by some of the most influential voices in Caribbean and diaspora literature, including two novels by the late Jamaican literary icon Anthony Winkler. The selected titles are: *The Tower of the Antilles* by Achy Obejas, *My Own Dear People* by Dwight Thompson, *God Carlos* by Anthony Winkler, *The Family Mansion* by Anthony Winkler, and *Watch Out for Falling Iguanas* by Edwidge Danticat. Johnny Temple, CEO of Akashic Books, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, ‘We are thrilled to see these extraordinary works find new life in audio through Odiyo. The Caribbean’s literary tradition is rich, diverse, and deserving of wider access. Odiyo’s commitment to amplifying regional voices makes them the perfect partner for these titles.’ Anthony Winkler, celebrated for his globally acclaimed novel *The Lunatic*, remains a cherished figure in Jamaican literature. This agreement ensures that *God Carlos* and *The Family Mansion* will be available in audio for the first time, preserving Winkler’s signature wit, historical depth, and uniquely Jamaican narrative style for future generations. Lesley-Ann Wanliss, Odiyo’s head of acquisitions, emphasized the cultural significance of the deal, noting, ‘These are important works, not just for their literary merit, but for the way they capture and preserve the Caribbean’s voice and history. This partnership began through our shared mission with Akashic Books to make underrepresented stories accessible to more listeners. For Odiyo users, it means the ability to experience these narratives in an intimate and dynamic way, whether they’re discovering them for the first time or revisiting them in a new format.’ This acquisition underscores Odiyo’s ongoing efforts to expand its curated collection of Caribbean literature in audio form, solidifying its position as a global advocate for regional storytelling.
标签： Jamaica
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Campari unveils new bottle design
Campari has unveiled a striking new bottle design, marking its first significant packaging overhaul in years. The revamped bottle features a sleek, modern silhouette with intricate engravings inspired by Milan’s iconic Duomo cathedral, blending the brand’s contemporary vision with its deep Italian heritage. Dominique Bell, communications manager at JWray & Nephew Limited, emphasized that this redesign is more than just a cosmetic update. ‘This new Campari bottle represents a lifestyle moment,’ Bell stated. ‘It’s bold, fresh, and transforms any space it enters. Campari has always dared to stand out in the entertainment scene, and this design amplifies that spirit. We believe it will spark confidence, inspire new connections, and reshape the way people experience Campari. This is a fresh drop for those who dare to be bold, different, and unapologetically themselves.’ The company confirmed that the product inside remains unchanged, and the redesign comes at no additional cost to consumers. Key features include a champagne-gold cap, an embossed Campari logo, and the founder’s signature. Bell explained that the redesign was driven by the need to modernize while staying true to the brand’s roots. ‘The iconic Milanese landmark, Il Duomo, inspired the bottle’s engraved detailing, a nod to the city that birthed Campari,’ she said. The updated packaging will be rolled out globally, with localized marketing campaigns in regions like Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. ‘This is a global initiative with local adaptations,’ Bell added. ‘Each element was chosen to root the brand in Milanese heritage while elevating its tactile, visual, and cultural appeal, solidifying Campari as a modern, sensual icon.’
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‘Reluctant’ truck driver returns to the stand in Maitland murder trial
In a dramatic turn of events at the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, Jamaica, a visibly frustrated delivery truck driver was summoned back to the witness stand on Wednesday in the ongoing murder trial of Constable Noel Maitland. The driver’s testimony aimed to clarify crucial details surrounding the mysterious disappearance of 24-year-old Donna-Lee Donaldson, a social media influencer, on July 12, 2022. Donaldson was last seen at the Chelsea Manor Apartments in St. Andrew, where Maitland resided at the time. Maitland faces charges of murder and obstructing the lawful burial of a corpse in connection with Donaldson’s case.
During the court proceedings, audio recordings of conversations between Maitland and the truck driver were played. The recordings, made by the driver after police seized his truck, revealed a tense exchange. The driver had picked up a settee from Maitland’s apartment and transported it to a carwash on Lyndhurst Road in St. Andrew, as per Maitland’s request. In the recordings, the driver expressed his frustration over the seizure of his truck, questioning Maitland about the situation. Maitland, seemingly puzzled, inquired why the police had taken the vehicle, to which the driver responded, “How me fi know? Police took the truck and all kinds of things.”
The driver repeatedly emphasized his desire to avoid involvement in any suspicious activities, stating, “Mi nuh want nobody involve me in no form of thing. I’m a big man who works hard. This thing is getting out of hand.” Maitland, however, appeared to dismiss the driver’s concerns, even laughing when the witness struggled to recall his correct name. Before leaving the courtroom, the driver expressed his exhaustion with the legal proceedings, telling the prosecution, “Mi tired a oonuh now,” and highlighting the negative impact on his business. The trial is set to resume on Tuesday.
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Jamaica’s unemployment rate drops to 3.3 per cent in July 2025 — Statin Report
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) unveiled encouraging data on Tuesday, revealing significant advancements in the nation’s labour market for July 2025. Compared to the same period in 2024, employment surged by 32,100 individuals, pushing the total employed labour force to 1,441,100. Notably, youth employment experienced a 7.2% rise, equating to 12,200 additional jobs. The wholesale and retail trade, along with motor vehicle and motorcycle repair sectors, emerged as the primary contributors to this growth. Simultaneously, underemployment—defined as part-time workers seeking more hours—declined by 5,400 to 25,400. Labour force participation also saw a notable uptick, increasing by 28,700 to 1,490,300, with males accounting for two-thirds of this rise. The overall participation rate stood at 69.1%, with males at 75.0% and females at 63.4%. Unemployment rates dropped from 3.6% in July 2024 to 3.3% in July 2025, driven largely by reductions among males and the prime working-age group (25-54 years). However, female unemployment saw a slight increase from 4.0% to 4.4%. Additionally, fewer individuals were outside the labour force, with the number decreasing from 694,200 to 665,500, particularly among males and prime working-age individuals. Statin emphasized that these findings underscore sustained positive momentum in Jamaica’s labour market, fostering economic stability and inclusive growth.
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Prince Harry dials in to latest London court media battle
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was reportedly connected remotely to a London court hearing on Wednesday, marking the latest chapter in his ongoing legal confrontation with British media outlets. The hearing is part of a broader case against Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday, which Harry and six other high-profile individuals accuse of serious privacy violations.
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Trelawny Parish Court Judge pronounced dead at Falmouth Public General Hospital
In a somber turn of events, Trelawny Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence was declared deceased on Tuesday evening at the Falmouth Public General Hospital. According to a reliable police source, Judge Lawrence was found unresponsive at her residence in Coral Spring, Trelawny, and was swiftly transported to the hospital around 7:50 PM. Preliminary investigations revealed no visible signs of physical trauma on her body, leaving the cause of her sudden demise shrouded in mystery. Upon arrival at the hospital, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force were observed managing the scene. Superintendent Velonique Campbell, Commander of the Trelawny Police Division, officially confirmed the judge’s passing but refrained from providing further details, stating, ‘It is still early days.’ The community and legal fraternity are left in shock, awaiting further clarity on the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
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Cavalier SC out of Concacaf Caribbean Cup
In a dramatic turn of events, Weymouth Wales FC of Barbados brought an end to Cavalier SC’s reign as Concacaf Caribbean Cup champions with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in their Group B encounter on Wednesday. The match, held in Bridgetown, Barbados, saw Weymouth Wales secure their win with a decisive goal in added time, leaving Cavalier SC’s hopes of advancing in the tournament shattered.
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PNP condemns suspension of medical doctor for running in general election
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has strongly criticized the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) for suspending Dr Aujae Dixon following his candidacy in the September 3, 2025, general elections. The SRHA cited violations of Public Service Staff Order 4.2.6(1), which bars public officers from partisan political activities, as the reason for the interdiction.
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32-y-o appeals for help with US$32,000 for urgent life-saving kidney transplant
Andrew Whyte, a 32-year-old LED technician from Mitchell Town, Clarendon, is urgently seeking public assistance to raise US$32,000 (approximately J$5 million) for a life-saving kidney transplant. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover the costs of his medical treatment. Whyte, who lives alone, is currently only able to work once or twice a week due to his debilitating symptoms, which include weakness, lightheadedness, and severe pain. His condition has worsened over the past two to three years, transitioning from hydronephrosis, a kidney infection, to complete kidney failure. Whyte now requires two weekly dialysis treatments, costing J$120,000 per month, which has placed a significant financial burden on him. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic and encourages others to prioritize their health. ‘I would want everyone to pay keen attention to their health and get regular check-ups,’ he said. Those who wish to contribute to his GoFundMe campaign can do so via the provided link.
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PNP mourns the passing of Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The People’s National Party (PNP) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Trelawny Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence, who died on Tuesday evening at the Falmouth Public General Hospital. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Opposition Spokesperson on Justice, Zuleika Jess, highlighted Judge Lawrence’s exceptional contributions to Jamaica’s legal system. ‘Judge Lawrence’s passing is a profound loss for our nation. She was a paragon of integrity and compassion, leaving an enduring legacy in the legal profession. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, judicial colleagues, and the broader legal community,’ Jess remarked. The PNP emphasized Lawrence’s distinguished career, noting her unwavering dedication to justice and her profound respect for individual rights. ‘Her exemplary service embodied the principles of fairness and equity, earning her the admiration of her peers and the gratitude of those she served. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of legal practitioners and public servants across Jamaica,’ the party stated. Judge Lawrence’s life and work stand as a testament to her commitment to justice, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s legal landscape.