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  • UPDATE: Second victim succumbs in Manchester crash

    UPDATE: Second victim succumbs in Manchester crash

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The Manchester police have reported a second fatality resulting from a severe traffic accident that occurred on the Pen Hill main road this past Thursday. The deceased has been identified as Livingston McEwan, an employee of the National Water Commission (NWC).

    This development follows the earlier confirmed death of his colleague, Lemar Lewis, who also perished from injuries sustained in the same incident. According to official reports from law enforcement, the collision involved two vehicles: a Suzuki Swift and a Toyota Wish.

    The preliminary investigation indicates that the Suzuki, carrying the two NWC staff members, was traveling downhill. The tragedy unfolded when the Toyota Wish, moving in the opposite direction, allegedly veered out of its lane, failing to maintain its left position, which led to a catastrophic head-on impact.

    Emergency services transported three individuals to a nearby medical facility. Despite efforts to save them, both McEwan and Lewis were pronounced dead upon arrival. The driver of the Toyota Wish sustained life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized in critical condition. Police authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances surrounding the crash.

  • My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    My Jamaican Table by Andre Fowles

    Jamaica’s culinary landscape, a vibrant tapestry woven from Taíno, African, Indian, European, and Asian influences, takes center stage in Chef Andre Fowles’ acclaimed new cookbook, ‘My Jamaican Table: Vibrant Recipes From A Sun-Drenched Island’. The publication, which debuted on March 10, transcends a mere collection of recipes, positioning itself as a profound narrative on culture, community, and resilience through food.

    Fowles, a three-time ‘Chopped’ champion and international consultant, channels his Kingston tenement yard upbringing into over 100 modern and traditional dishes. He articulates a philosophy where cuisine embodies legacy and connection, stating, ‘I learned about chopping, stirring, and tasting from my mother and grandmother, but more importantly, about Jamaica’s warmth, effervescence, and perseverance.’

    The compendium navigates the full spectrum of Jamaican eating, from breakfast staples like Mackerel Rundown to iconic Beef Patties and communal Curry Goat. Fowles masterfully bridges tradition and innovation, presenting classic Jerk Chicken alongside inventive fusions such as Oxtail and Gnocchi and a Rum Cake Tiramisu. Each recipe is crafted with accessible instructions, ensuring the island’s complex, spice-forward flavors can be recreated globally.

    Earning a spot in Bon Appétit Magazine’s ‘The Best New Cookbooks of Winter 2026’, the project has garnered prestigious acclaim. The foreword, penned by Bruce Springsteen, lauds Fowles as an artist whose dishes carry ‘a sense of history, place, and heart,’ comparing their impact to a powerful musical chord.

    Beyond the kitchen, the book serves a philanthropic purpose. A portion of its pre-sales proceeds supports the Savanna-la-Mar Inclusive Academy, aiding relief initiatives for its surrounding community. Through partnerships with cultural organizations, Fowles ensures the project actively reinvests in the Caribbean communities that inspire it.

    The launch was celebrated with events including a signing at BEM Books & More in Brooklyn and a forthcoming collaborative four-course dinner with Chefs Lonie Murdock and Corwin Hemming at Isla Restaurant in Washington, DC, on March 18.

  • St James records 16 murders for first three months of 2026

    St James records 16 murders for first three months of 2026

    Jamaican law enforcement authorities have reported a concerning surge in violent crimes within the St James Police Division during the initial quarter of 2026. Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels presented official statistics revealing 16 homicide cases recorded between January and early March, establishing the region as Jamaica’s most violent police jurisdiction.

    During his address at the monthly assembly of the St James Municipal Corporation, SSP Samuels provided comparative analysis indicating a significant year-over-year increase of four additional murders compared to the same period in 2025. The divisional commander further noted an accelerated pace of violence, with seven new homicides occurring since February alone, substantially elevating the three-month total.

    Law enforcement analysis indicates a notable shift in murder motivations, with domestic altercations and interpersonal conflicts now constituting the primary drivers of violence. SSP Samuels emphasized the changing nature of these incidents, stating: “We have observed a measurable decrease in gang-related homicides. The current violence predominantly stems from personal disputes, frequently involving edged weapons such as knives and machetes.”

    The St James Division currently maintains the unfortunate distinction of highest murder rate among all Jamaican police jurisdictions, followed by St Andrew South which recorded 11 homicides during the same monitoring period. These statistics have prompted renewed discussions about community intervention strategies and conflict resolution mechanisms to address the emerging pattern of personally-motivated violence.

  • Manchester councillors fuss over road repairs

    Manchester councillors fuss over road repairs

    A heated political confrontation erupted during a municipal council meeting in Manchester, Jamaica, as councillors demanded improved collaboration with national agencies regarding road rehabilitation projects. The dispute centered on allegations of poor communication and potential political favoritism in infrastructure work allocation.

    Councillor Karl Smith (People’s National Party, Knockpatrick division) raised concerns about five parochial roads being repaired without proper notification to the municipal corporation. ‘Whether it’s even Jesus fixing these roads, the decent thing is to inform the corporation,’ Smith stated, emphasizing what he perceived as institutional disrespect.

    The debate intensified when Councillor Mario Mitchell (PNP, Bellefield division) alleged that Manchester Central MP Rhoda Crawford showed particular interest in road repairs near her personal property, specifically mentioning roads included in the SPARK program. Mitchell claimed this represented wasted municipal funds and improper coordination between governmental levels.

    MP Crawford vehemently denied these allegations, characterizing them as political propaganda. ‘The political season has long passed,’ Crawford responded. ‘They need to settle themselves and do their work instead of spreading propaganda.’ She clarified that all SPARK roads were selected through consultation meetings with councillors present and provided a detailed list of the approved locations.

    The exchange grew increasingly tense as Minority Leader Omar Miller (Jamaica Labour Party, Craighead division) criticized Mitchell for raising matters he deemed inappropriate for the current meeting. The confrontation highlighted ongoing political tensions between representatives from both major parties regarding infrastructure development protocols and intergovernmental communication.

  • Attacks on oil tankers off Iraq kills one

    Attacks on oil tankers off Iraq kills one

    BAGHDAD, Iraq—A lethal assault on commercial oil tankers in waters near Iraq has intensified regional hostilities, resulting in the death of an Indian crew member and escalating fears of a broader conflict disrupting global energy supplies. The incident represents a significant escalation in Iran’s campaign against Western interests following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions.

    Iran’s Revolutionary Guards publicly claimed responsibility for targeting the Marshall Islands-flagged vessel Safesea Vishnu, alleging the ship ignored warnings and was U.S.-owned. They remained silent regarding a simultaneous attack on the Maltese-flagged tanker Zefyros approximately 50 kilometers from Iraq’s coastline.

    The attacks triggered immediate humanitarian and diplomatic consequences. While Iraqi port authorities initially reported all 51 crew members from both vessels had been rescued unharmed, India’s embassy in Baghdad confirmed one Indian national had died in the assault and 15 other Indian crew members required evacuation.

    This maritime aggression occurred alongside aerial bombardments targeting Iran-backed militias in Iraq. Security officials reported at least nine fighters from Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, a U.S.-blacklisted group, were killed in airstrikes near the Iraqi-Syrian border. Although no party claimed responsibility, the militia blamed the United States and Israel.

    The strategic Strait of Hormuz, conduit for approximately 20% of globally traded oil, has seen severely restricted tanker traffic since Iran vowed to halt all Gulf oil exports while hostilities continue. Iraq’s crude production and exports have subsequently plummeted, threatening the economic stability of a nation where oil revenues constitute 90% of the national budget.

    Iraq’s oil ministry issued a statement emphasizing that ‘the safety of navigation in international maritime corridors and energy supply routes must remain free from regional conflicts,’ reflecting growing concern over the country’s vulnerability as a proxy battleground between Washington and Tehran.

  • Trinidadian chef promoting Caribbean food tourism with pimento sauce

    Trinidadian chef promoting Caribbean food tourism with pimento sauce

    Trinidad and Tobago-based entrepreneur Shaun Alexander is spearheading a culinary movement to position Caribbean cuisine on the global stage through his innovative Island Spiritt Pimento Sauce. As founder of Island Spiritt and co-founder of Foodie Nation Limited, Alexander has developed a strategic approach to food marketing and tourism that showcases the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

    Alexander’s signature sauce represents a departure from conventional Caribbean condiments that emphasize intense heat. Instead, his creation focuses on delivering complex flavor profiles characterized by depth, balance, and versatility. The product is crafted from fully ripened pimento peppers that develop their signature red color and maximum flavor potential when allowed to mature on the tree, combined with natural ingredients including ginger, garlic, and the traditional Caribbean herb chadon beni.

    The concept emerged from Alexander’s recognition of the Caribbean’s underutilized potential in food tourism. “We’re blessed with excellent food that represents a fusion of multiple ethnicities and cultures,” Alexander explained during the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival. He observed that developed nations have long utilized culinary experiences as strategic marketing tools, noting that tourists allocate substantial portions of their travel budgets to dining experiences.

    Through Foodie Nation Limited, Alexander engages in international promotion of Caribbean cuisine while developing authentic products that allow global consumers to experience regional flavors without traveling to the islands. His pimento sauce serves as both a flavor enhancer that complements rather than overpowers dishes and as an ambassador for Caribbean culinary traditions.

    The sauce is produced through natural fermentation processes without preservatives or artificial additives, maintaining authenticity while ensuring quality. Alexander emphasizes that despite its vibrant appearance, the pimento pepper itself is not spicy but serves primarily to enhance and deepen flavors in various culinary applications.

    With plans to expand distribution to Jamaica in the coming months, Alexander’s initiative represents a growing trend of culinary entrepreneurship that transforms traditional foodways into marketable products while preserving cultural authenticity and promoting regional economic development through food tourism.

  • National Stadium redevelopment to create over 14,000 jobs

    National Stadium redevelopment to create over 14,000 jobs

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica has launched a comprehensive redevelopment initiative for its National Stadium complex, with government officials confirming the project has entered its conceptual design phase. Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister Olivia Grange announced that design consultants are currently gathering stakeholder inputs to finalize plans for the transformative project.

    The redevelopment follows a completed assessment and feasibility study finalized in late 2025, which confirmed the project’s viability and strategic importance for Jamaica’s sporting and cultural advancement. The project is structured in three distinct phases, with the current concept design phase running from January through April 2026.

    Minister Grange detailed an ambitious timeline that will see detailed designs completed between May and October 2026, followed by technical designs from November 2026 through June 2027. Construction is scheduled to commence in July/August 2027.

    The redevelopment will significantly expand the stadium’s capacity by approximately 10,000 seats, bringing total capacity to over 50,000 spectators. Architectural plans include new multi-level stands with comprehensive roof coverage for all sections except the grandstand. The stadium’s iconic overhanging arch, recognized as part of Jamaica’s heritage site designation, will be preserved throughout the renovations.

    Additional infrastructure improvements include a new multi-story car park providing approximately 1,800 parking spaces and comprehensive upgrades to Stadium East, which will serve as a temporary venue during construction. These upgrades will include modern changing facilities, medical areas, anti-doping testing facilities, concession areas, restrooms, and a complete running track.

    The economic impact projections are substantial, with the project expected to generate $70 billion in economic output, contribute $34 billion to Jamaica’s GDP, and create approximately 14,900 jobs during construction. Post-completion, the renovated facility is projected to increase revenues by approximately 169% through expanded commercial capacity and enhanced event hosting capabilities, while reducing government subventions to Independence Park Limited by about 70% despite an 83% increase in operating costs.

  • Strike on Beirut seafront kills 8 as Israel threatens to ‘take territory’

    Strike on Beirut seafront kills 8 as Israel threatens to ‘take territory’

    BEIRUT — A targeted Israeli airstrike on Beirut’s Ramlet al-Bayda seafront district resulted in eight fatalities and 31 injuries on Thursday, according to Lebanon’s health ministry, marking a significant escalation in cross-border hostilities. The attack represents the third direct hit on central Beirut since the broader Middle East conflict began.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning prior to the strike, declaring he had ordered military preparations for expanded operations in Lebanon. He specifically cautioned Lebanese President that if the government cannot restrain Hezbollah from attacking northern Israel, Israeli forces would “take the territory and do it ourselves.”

    The strike occurred amid heightened tensions following Hezbollah’s announcement of a major operation against Israel on Wednesday night. The militant group launched approximately 200 rockets and 20 drones toward Israel—its largest barrage since the conflict’s inception. Hezbollah claimed these attacks targeted military intelligence facilities near Tel Aviv and bases south of Haifa.

    At the scene in Ramlet al-Bayda, an AFP correspondent documented significant damage including a destroyed motorcycle and two damaged vehicles. Security forces cordoned off the typically bustling area where blood stains marked the pavement and a small impact crater was visible.

    The strike particularly affected displaced populations sheltering in the area. Aseel Habbaj, who had fled bombings elsewhere in Lebanon, described waking to the explosion that subsequently injured her husband. Neighbor Dalal al-Sayed, who had pitched tents at the seaside believing it safer than southern Lebanon, declared “We won’t leave, we will stay here even if we die” despite the attack.

    Concurrently, Israeli forces struck Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs and the residential area of Aramoun, killing three additional people and wounding a child. Lebanon’s National News Agency reported multiple Israeli strikes across southern regions where Hezbollah maintains significant influence.

    The conflict has produced devastating humanitarian consequences, with Lebanese authorities reporting over 687 fatalities and approximately 800,000 registered displaced persons since hostilities intensified following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes last week.

  • Alpha Academy’s robotics team shines at FTC Jamaica National Robotics Championship

    Alpha Academy’s robotics team shines at FTC Jamaica National Robotics Championship

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Demonstrating remarkable initiative and technical prowess, the Convent of Mercy Academy ‘Alpha’ robotics team achieved a stunning performance at the prestigious First Tech Challenge (FTC) Jamaica National Robotics Championship. Operating without a dedicated coach, the team distinguished itself through exceptional innovation, collaborative spirit, and STEM leadership on a national platform.

    Entering the competition as underdogs, Team Alpha forged a strategic alliance with the American International School in Kingston. This partnership proved highly effective, allowing them to outperform several favored teams. Their impressive run was ultimately halted only in the championship finals by the combined force of Meadowbrook High and Wolmer’s Boys High School.

    Team captain Julianne Campbell expressed astonishment at their success. “It was a surprise even to us,” Campbell revealed. “At the season’s outset, we were novices in robotics. We faced numerous challenges and established three modest goals: to rank in the top ten, then the top five, and finally, to win any award. Despite persistent technical issues on competition day, our scores consistently improved round after round, propelling us unexpectedly into the semi-finals and alliance selections.”

    The absence of a coach necessitated a unique and self-reliant preparation strategy. Campbell elaborated on their methodology: “Without a coach, we begin each season by setting clear objectives. We meticulously track our progress against these goals in the subsequent weeks. When encountering complex problems, we proactively seek mentorship from other institutions. This season, we received invaluable guidance from Team Circle of Wolmer’s Boys and technical assistance from Dunoon Tech.”

    Principal Kali McMorris highlighted the achievement as a natural extension of the school’s educational philosophy. “Ours is a STEAM-focused institution [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics],” McMorris stated. “Our robust IT department has consistently cultivated students skilled in coding and design. We are committed to empowering our students to pioneer the ethical development of technological tools that will benefit our nation.”

    Now, the nine-member squad—comprising seven engineers and two programmers—is setting its sights on future accolades. Campbell outlined her ambitious vision: “My goal for the club extends beyond training the next generation of robotics enthusiasts. I want the team to consistently reach the championship stage after successfully navigating the regional qualifiers in Jamaica. Furthermore, we aim to compete for prestigious awards like the Inspire Award.”

    The Inspire Award recognizes teams that demonstrate holistic excellence, not only in robot design and construction but also in community outreach and gracious professionalism by sharing knowledge with peers.

    This promising team receives steadfast support from the Alpha Alumnae Florida Chapter. The chapter will host its ‘Beyond the Stars’ fundraiser on Saturday, March 14, to bolster STEM initiatives and other academic and extracurricular programs at the school.

    Kerry-Ann Brown, president of the alumnae chapter, framed the team’s accomplishment in a broader context. “This achievement by the robotics team is more than a trophy,” Brown said. “It is a powerful reminder of what is possible when young women are equipped with opportunity, resources, and unwavering support.”

  • Stella Global Realty to host “Sip and See” wealth summit

    Stella Global Realty to host “Sip and See” wealth summit

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Stella Global Realty Ltd is poised to host an innovative wealth creation summit titled ‘Sip & See’ from March 27-29 at the Paradisiac venue in Richmond. The event, orchestrated by author and brokerage owner Tiffany Gray, aims to revolutionize property investment perspectives across the Jamaican diaspora.

    Gray characterized the intensive preparations as a ‘masterclass in Stella speed,’ emphasizing the event’s meticulously planned execution. ‘When our guests arrive at Paradisiac, they won’t merely attend a property viewing—they’ll witness the crystallization of their financial future,’ Gray stated. The undertaking reflects her belief that transformative achievements demand extraordinary effort, noting her satisfaction stems from creating an enduring legacy.

    The summit specifically targets dismantling perceived barriers within Jamaica’s real estate landscape. Gray articulated her mission to replace ‘remittance anxiety with wealth synchronization’ by debunking ownership myths and eliminating procedural delays. Her vision enables investors—whether joining from London or Kingston—to depart with both confidence in securing Jamaican properties and sophisticated wealth-building strategies.

    Registration trends indicate strong interest from overseas Jamaicans, particularly across the United States and United Kingdom. This follows the company’s productive 2025 initiatives that included community rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Melissa.

    Looking toward 2026, Gray announced plans to establish ‘educational authority’ in real estate investment. ‘Our mandate is democratizing wealth building through property,’ she explained. ‘We’re transitioning dreamers into strategists by providing data-driven tools that transform hard-earned capital into sustainable, high-yield legacies.’

    The three-day summit is offered at US$99, with early registrants qualifying for discounts exceeding 50%. Prospective attendees can enroll via stellaglobalrealty.com’s events section, social media channels @stellaglobalrealtyja, or by direct phone consultation at 876-671-7379.