KINGSTON, Jamaica – Justice Paulette Williams, a Judge of Appeal, has called for heightened sensitivity and care in addressing the plight of homeless individuals and those grappling with mental health issues. Her remarks came during the opening of the Michaelmas Term of the Court of Appeal in downtown Kingston on September 22, where she highlighted the persistent challenges posed by such individuals within the court’s environment.
标签： Jamaica
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Teenage Engineering brings the EP-40 Drum Machine/Sequencer launch to Jamaica
Teenage Engineering, the Swedish design and technology collective celebrated for revolutionizing music equipment, is gearing up to introduce its latest innovation, the EP-40 drum machine and sequencer. The launch will be marked by a week-long celebration in Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae, from October 10 to 17. This strategic move aims to connect with music enthusiasts and creators deeply rooted in the reggae genre. The EP-40, inspired by reggae, dancehall, and sound system culture, is designed to capture the essence of these musical styles while staying true to their origins. The team emphasized that Jamaica has been central to their vision, as it is the cradle of these sounds and the community that has nurtured them. The EP-40 is not just a drum machine or sequencer; it is a tool for spontaneous creativity, featuring intuitive grid-loops and powerful effects inspired by reggae and dub. It includes a sound bank with over 400 new recordings contributed by legendary artists like King Jammy, Mafia & Fluxy, Mighty Crown, and Mad Professor. Additionally, the EP-40 boasts a built-in synthesizer with classic digital-era sounds and authentic dub sirens, offering producers a comprehensive range of reggae’s sonic DNA. The device is professional, versatile, user-friendly, and affordable, allowing producers to sync it with other gear, layer rhythms, and create full tracks. Teenage Engineering hopes the EP-40 will inspire both the artists and producers involved in its development and new users alike, helping reggae reach a broader audience.
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Melodii on the rise
Melodii, a rising recording artist, is capturing hearts in the music industry with his soulful voice and deeply relatable lyrics. His latest track, ‘Stages,’ released on August 31 under the production of Stocks An Bondz Recordz, has been a significant attention-grabber. The song reflects his personal journey in music and life experiences, offering listeners a glimpse into his world. Born and raised in Clarendon, Melodii, whose real name is Roderick Baker, discovered his passion for music at the tender age of 10. His growing popularity is fueled by other notable releases such as ‘Legends,’ ‘Darkness,’ and ‘Learn.’ Unlike many dancehall artists, Melodii takes pride in creating music free of expletives, a choice that has resonated positively with his audience. ‘Not everybody from my era or my age group is doing the type of music that I am. To see somebody like me who’s around a lot of different artistes and still choose to keep a firm meditation, the people love that,’ he shared. Inspired by legends like Bob Marley, Beres Hammond, Christopher Martin, and Romain Virgo, Melodii is committed to promoting conscious and clean music. He also looks forward to future collaborations with artists like Hammond, Masicka, and Nhance, whose motivational music pushes him to pursue his goals. Melodii envisions a long-term career in music, aiming to reach global audiences of all age groups. He aspires to perform at major music festivals such as Reggae Sumfest and Rebel Salute. ‘I just want everybody to know that no matter what happens, this is me and this is always going to be me and I’m not going to change. I’m always going to do music and spread something positive. I’m always going to try to elevate myself and I want them to do the same,’ Melodii affirmed.
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Road deaths climb by 17 or 6 per cent, says ITA
The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) has reported a concerning increase in road fatalities for the first nine months of 2025, with 289 lives lost in 253 fatal crashes. This marks a six percent rise in deaths and a nine percent increase in fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2024. The surge in fatalities is primarily attributed to private motor car drivers and passengers, pedal cyclists, and pillion passengers. Notably, 67 private motor car drivers and 47 passengers have died this year, up from 48 and 32 respectively in 2024. Pillion passenger fatalities rose from nine to 14, while pedal cyclist deaths nearly doubled from 12 to 21. Motorcyclists, however, saw a decline in fatalities, dropping from 90 to 82, though they still account for 28 percent of all road deaths. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and pillion passengers, represent 58 percent of fatalities. Pedestrians alone account for 18 percent of deaths, with 52 fatalities recorded this year. The gender disparity remains stark, with males comprising 84 percent and females 16 percent of the fatalities. The ITA’s latest statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures to curb this alarming trend.
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Three students get scholarships from Kiwanis Club of Barbican
Three bright students from Melrose Primary and Junior High have been honored with scholarships by the Kiwanis Club of Barbican, aimed at alleviating the financial burden of textbooks and other school-related expenses for the 2025-2026 academic year. The recipients, Nia-Lea Williamson, Mahalia Powell, and DeAndre Spence, were celebrated during an awards ceremony held on August 19 at the Jamaica Employers’ Federation headquarters on Ruthven Road in St Andrew. The scholarships, part of the Norris Crooks Scholarship programme, are named in memory of the club’s late esteemed president, Norris Crooks. Each scholarship provides financial assistance of up to $30,000 to students preparing for the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations. The initiative underscores the club’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and supporting young learners in their academic journeys.
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Jamaica spends four times more on imports than it earns from exports – STATIN
Jamaica’s trade imbalance has significantly worsened, with the country spending four times more on imports than it earned from exports during the first five months of 2025, according to the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN). The data reveals that Jamaica’s total import expenditure reached US$3,161.5 million, while export earnings stood at a mere US$773.0 million. This represents a 3.6% increase in import value compared to the same period in 2024, driven by higher spending on raw materials, consumer goods, and fuels. On the other hand, exports declined by 6.9%, primarily due to a sharp 26.8% drop in mineral fuel revenues. Jamaica’s major trading partners included the USA, China, Brazil, Nigeria, and Japan, with import costs from these nations rising by 9.8%. Meanwhile, export revenues to top destinations such as the USA, Russia, Iceland, Canada, and the Netherlands fell by 0.7%, further exacerbating the trade deficit.
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Nepal stun West Indies for historic first T20 win
Nepal etched its name in cricket history on Saturday with a remarkable 19-run victory over the West Indies in a T20 International (T20I) match held in Sharjah. This triumph marks Nepal’s first-ever win against a Full Member nation across all formats of the game, a significant milestone for the emerging cricketing nation. While Nepal had previously secured a T20I win against Afghanistan in 2014, Afghanistan was still classified as an Associate member at the time. This latest victory, however, came against the two-time T20 World Cup champions, the West Indies, underscoring Nepal’s growing prowess on the international stage. The match also inaugurated Nepal’s first bilateral series against a Full Member team, highlighting their rapid ascent in the cricketing world. Nepal’s success was a testament to their all-round team performance. Six of their batters hit at least one six, six bowlers claimed a wicket each, and their fielding consistently outclassed their opponents. After being put into bat, Nepal faced early setbacks with the dismissals of openers Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh within the first 20 balls. However, captain Rohit Paudel and Kushal Malla stabilized the innings, with Malla’s aggressive stroke play, including two towering sixes, providing crucial momentum. Despite losing quick wickets in the latter stages, Nepal posted a competitive total of 148 for 8, aided by some sloppy West Indies fielding. In response, the West Indies chase stumbled early with the run-out of Kyle Mayers. Debutant Ackeem Auguste briefly entertained with two sixes, but Nepal’s spinners tightened their grip during the middle overs, stifling the scoring rate. A sharp run-out by Dipendra Singh Airee further dented the West Indies’ hopes, and experienced batter Jason Holder could only manage five runs before falling to Bhurtel. Despite late resistance from Akeal Hosein and Fabian Allen, the target proved insurmountable, and the West Indies finished at 129 for 9, falling 19 runs short. Nepal’s historic win not only celebrates their cricketing progress but also signals their potential to challenge established teams in the future.
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HOPE FOR SUNSHINE
Jamaica’s Under-21 netball team, known as the Young Sunshine Girls, may not have reached the medal stage at the 2025 World Netball Youth Cup, but their head coach, Annett Daley, remains highly optimistic about their future. Daley emphasized the remarkable growth and potential she has observed in the squad, expressing confidence that with the right support and resources, these young players could seamlessly transition into the senior team in the coming years.
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JCF reaffirms commitment to body-worn cameras amid criticism
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has issued a statement to address what it terms as ‘misleading commentary’ regarding the implementation of body-worn cameras (BWCs) for its officers. The JCF reaffirmed its commitment to the nationwide deployment of BWCs, attributing delays to procurement complexities and budgetary limitations rather than any reluctance within the police force.
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Big People Sundays Groovy Edition: 70s & 80s this Sunday
This Sunday, Ribbiz Ultra Lounge is set to transport patrons back in time with its Big People Sundays Groovy Edition: 70s & 80s event. In collaboration with J Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum and Kool 97FM, the weekly series promises an unforgettable fusion of retro music, vibrant fashion, and high-energy entertainment. DJ Smurf will be at the helm, spinning classic hits and timeless jams throughout the night, ensuring a lively atmosphere that pays homage to the iconic decades. Attendees are encouraged to fully embrace the bold and eclectic fashion trends of the 70s and 80s, from shoulder pads and oversized blazers to tracksuits, maxi dresses, bell-bottom jeans, and tie-dye creations. Brian Chung, co-owner of Ribbiz Ultra Lounge, emphasized the event’s unique appeal, stating, ‘We’re not just offering a throwback; we’re celebrating timeless music, style, and energy.’ Adding to the excitement, prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed guests, offering attendees the chance to showcase their creativity and claim the title of the night’s most stylish. ‘Whether you’re channeling your inner disco diva or rocking bold 80s vibes, this is your moment to shine,’ Chung added. The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of nostalgia, fashion, and music, drawing crowds eager to relive the magic of the 70s and 80s.