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  • Person of interest in custody after deadly shooting at Brown University

    Person of interest in custody after deadly shooting at Brown University

    PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Law enforcement authorities have detained an individual connected to a mass shooting that erupted at Brown University’s campus on Saturday, leaving two students dead and nine others injured. The violent incident, which unfolded during final examinations, triggered an extensive lockdown and manhunt before authorities announced a breakthrough in the early hours of Sunday.

    Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed the detention of a person of interest during a press conference, subsequently lifting the shelter-in-place order that had paralyzed the Ivy League institution. “I want to offer my profound thanks to all the hardworking men and women in law enforcement who worked through the night to be able to get us to this point,” Smiley stated.

    According to police reports, the shooting occurred in Barus and Holley Engineering Hall, where examinations were underway. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, seen from behind, walking briskly along a deserted street after opening fire inside a first-floor classroom. Police Colonel Oscar Perez indicated that authorities are “not at this point” seeking additional suspects in connection with the attack.

    Of the nine wounded victims, all confirmed to be students, one remains in critical condition, seven are stabilized, and one has been discharged from medical care. The university has postponed all final examinations scheduled for Sunday.

    Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of terror and confusion. Katie Sun, a student who was studying nearby, reported hearing gunfire from classroom areas. “It was honestly quite terrifying. The shots seemed like they were coming from where the classrooms are,” she told the Brown Daily Herald, recounting how she fled without her belongings.

    Lydell Dyer, another student working in the campus gym, described sheltering with 154 others in darkness. “We had to go gather everybody, bring them up to the top floor, turn off the lights, and put down the blinds,” he told CNN.

    The shooting represents the latest in America’s ongoing crisis of gun violence, with more than 300 mass shootings recorded nationwide this year according to the Gun Violence Archive. Mayor Smiley emphasized the tragic abnormality of such events: “This should not be normal. This should not be the case that every community needs to prepare for something like this to happen.”

    University President Christina Paxson confirmed the tragic loss of two students in a letter to the community, expressing profound grief over the “devastating gun violence” that struck the campus of approximately 11,000 students.

    The university’s emergency alert system activated at 4:22 PM local time, instructing students to “lock doors, silence phones and stay hidden until further notice.” First responders discovered clothing and blood on sidewalks near the engineering building, according to local news reports.

    President Donald Trump has been briefed on the shooting, which he described as a “terrible thing,” while offering prayers for the victims. The incident revives painful memories of previous campus shootings, including the deadliest such event at Virginia Tech in 2007 that claimed 32 lives.

  • Nickyle Ellis bags brace as Racing whip Cavalier 4-1

    Nickyle Ellis bags brace as Racing whip Cavalier 4-1

    A dramatic Sunday in the Jamaica Premier League saw a major shift in the standings, headlined by Racing United’s stunning 4-1 victory over the defending champions, Cavalier SC, at Stadium East. Striker Nickyle Ellis emerged as the hero of the match, netting two first-half goals to set the pace for a decisive win. His early strike in the 3rd minute was followed by another in first-half stoppage time, sending his team into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead. Cavalier’s challenges mounted when Jerome McCleary received a second yellow card in the 61st minute, reducing them to 10 men for the second consecutive match. Although Romarion Thomas managed a consolation goal for Cavalier in the 77th minute, substitutes Dean Andre Thomas (85′) and Tajay Grant (87′) sealed the emphatic victory for a resurgent Racing United. In parallel action, the league’s top spot was thrown into contention as front-runners Portmore United suffered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Mount Pleasant FA, courtesy of a first-half brace from Warner Brown. This result snapped Portmore’s eight-game unbeaten streak and tightened the race at the summit of the table. Other Sunday fixtures concluded with two goalless draws, as Harbour View FC and Molynes United shared the points, as did Chapelton Maroons and Dunbeholden FC.

  • 5 Christmas gift ideas for him and her

    5 Christmas gift ideas for him and her

    As the festive season approaches, the art of selecting meaningful gifts becomes paramount in expressing appreciation for loved ones. This comprehensive guide presents meticulously curated luxury gift suggestions designed to create lasting impressions during the holiday celebrations.

    For the discerning woman in your life, consider these sophisticated options:

    1. Signature Fragrance: An expertly chosen perfume serves as more than mere scent—it becomes an olfactory memory capsule. Select from warm vanilla compositions, delicate floral bouquets, or crisp clean aromas that align with her personality, creating enduring sensory associations.

    2. Designer Footwear: Elevate her style with premium sandals from esteemed fashion houses like Bottega Veneta, Tory Burch, or Hermès. These pieces combine aesthetic appeal with practical comfort, offering both luxury and functionality for the fashion-conscious recipient.

    3. Advanced Skincare Collection: Premium dermatological products ranging from potent serums to intensive moisturizers make particularly thoughtful gifts during winter months. Investigate her existing regimen or opt for universally beneficial essentials including cleansers, hydration solutions, and broad-spectrum sun protection, available through luxury spas and premium beauty retailers.

    4. Artisanal Jewelry: Beyond mere adornment, carefully selected necklaces, bracelets, or earrings represent enduring tokens of affection. Opt for versatile designs suitable for year-round wear or commission bespoke creations that demonstrate extraordinary consideration and personalization.

    5. Statement Handbag: Merge fashion with function through a meticulously crafted handbag that complements her lifestyle. Whether choosing bold contemporary designs or timeless classics, prioritize quality construction and versatile styling potential that aligns with her sartorial preferences.

    For the modern gentleman, these refined selections promise to impress:

    1. Artisan Cologne: A sophisticated fragrance selection remains a perennial favorite, with options spanning fresh aquatic notes, warm spicy accords, or rich woody undertones. Research current favorites within fragrance communities or select innovative new releases from niche perfumeries.

    2. Premium Leather Wallet: Beyond its practical utility, a finely crafted wallet symbolizes prosperity and refinement. Select full-grain leather constructions with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring both durability and sophisticated aesthetic appeal.

    3. Designer Belt: A quality belt serves as both functional accessory and style statement. Consider his wardrobe preferences and physical proportions when selecting between luxury designer pieces or understated classic designs that transition seamlessly between formal and casual contexts.

    4. Comprehensive Grooming Ensemble: For the bearded gentleman, a curated collection of specialized products including conditioning oils, styling balms, precision trimmers, and botanical-infused cleansers demonstrates thoughtful consideration for his grooming routine and personal presentation.

    5. Luxury Wellness Experience: Modern men increasingly value self-care, making spa treatments including therapeutic massages, hydrotherapy sessions, and full relaxation packages particularly appreciated gifts. These experiences offer valuable opportunities for stress relief and rejuvenation after demanding periods.

  • Keith and Tex still flying flag for rocksteady

    Keith and Tex still flying flag for rocksteady

    As the rocksteady genre approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, pioneering duo Keith and Tex stand among the few remaining ambassadors keeping this foundational Jamaican music style alive. The pair, who achieved substantial success with late 1960s hits, continue to actively tour and create new music, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the genre that bridged ska and reggae.

    Keith Rowe, based in Tampa, Florida, maintains a radio program dedicated to the rocksteady era (1966-1968), while simultaneously recording and performing with his musical partner. Their latest project, ‘Gun Life,’ produced by Spain’s Roberto Sanchez, represents their ongoing commitment to the genre that produced their classic singles ‘Tonight,’ ‘Don’t Look Back,’ and ‘Stop That Train.’

    Rowe emphasizes the timeless quality of rocksteady in an interview with Observer Online: ‘The rocksteady era produced countless memorable songs whose rhythms have been reinterpreted repeatedly through the decades, affirming their profound impact on Jamaican music. As reggae’s essential blueprint, rocksteady remains a cornerstone of our musical identity.’

    Music historians typically credit Hopeton Lewis’s ‘Take It Easy,’ recorded in late 1966 at Kingston’s Federal Records with Lynn Taitt and The Jets, as the inaugural rocksteady recording. This slower evolution of ska launched the careers of legendary artists including Alton Ellis, Delroy Wilson, Ken Boothe, Desmond Dekker, The Wailers, The Heptones, and numerous other iconic singers and harmony groups.

    The genre experienced significant resurgence during the 1990s through concert series like Heineken Startime, which revitalized careers for many original artists. Keith and Tex have maintained consistent European touring schedules since reuniting nearly three decades ago, with 2024 marking their twelfth consecutive year performing for dedicated audiences abroad where vintage Jamaican music commands substantial followings.

    When asked about his personal rocksteady favorites, Rowe highlighted Alton Ellis’s ‘Willow Tree,’ The Techniques’ ‘Queen Majesty,’ Delroy Wilson’s ‘I’m Still Waiting,’ Bob Andy’s ‘Too Experienced,’ and Hopeton Lewis’s ‘Sounds And Pressure’ as definitive examples of the genre’s enduring artistry.

  • Portmore United host Mount Pleasant FA as JPL resumes

    Portmore United host Mount Pleasant FA as JPL resumes

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Premier League (JPL) resumes today with four pivotal matches headlined by a top-tier clash between league leaders Portmore United and Caribbean Cup champions Mount Pleasant FA at Ferdie Neita Park.

    Portmore United ascended to the summit after a mid-week victory against Waterhouse FC, displacing Montego Bay United from the top position. Their opponents, Mount Pleasant FA, arrive with soaring confidence following their most dominant performance of the season—a decisive 5-0 triumph over Tivoli Gardens.

    In other fixtures, defending champions Cavalier SC seek redemption after suffering an unexpected defeat to Molynes United as they welcome Racing United to Stadium East. Simultaneously, Harbour View will host Molynes United, while Dunbeholden FC faces Chapelton Maroons in a critical bottom-table encounter.

    Portmore United enters the match in exceptional form, having secured victories in both games since the league resumed after Hurricane Melissa. They anticipate a formidable challenge from three-time finalists Mount Pleasant FA, whose recent offensive explosion suggests a potential turnaround in their seasonal trajectory.

    Historical data indicates tightly contested matches between these sides, with neither team ever scoring more than two goals in their previous meetings. Both clubs have demonstrated defensive solidity this season—Portmore has conceded merely seven goals across 11 matches, while Mount Pleasant has allowed only six in seven outings.

    Although Mount Pleasant claimed two victories in last season’s three encounters, Portmore secured the third round matchup and aims to extend their winning momentum. Mount Pleasant’s offensive duo Daniel Green and Warner Brown—both scoring braces in their previous match—pose significant threats, while Portmore counters with five players who have each netted two goals this season.

    Cavalier SC, currently fourth with 16 points, can draw level with third-placed Racing United with a victory. Harbour View appears revitalized under new coach Vassell Reynolds, earning four points from their last two matches while scoring nine goals. Meanwhile, the Dunbeholden FC versus Chapelton Maroons fixture features two teams narrowly above the relegation zone, both desperate for points amid offensive struggles.

    Today’s full schedule:
    • Dunbeholden FC vs Chapelton Maroons (3:00pm, Dunbeholden)
    • Harbour View vs Molynes United (3:00pm, Harbour View)
    • Portmore United vs Mount Pleasant FA (3:00pm, Ferdie Neita Park)
    • Cavalier SC vs Racing United (4:30pm, Stadium East)

  • Cindy Rose wins 800m at US college meet

    Cindy Rose wins 800m at US college meet

    Jamaican track and field talent continues to make waves in the US collegiate circuit as several athletes delivered standout performances across multiple indoor meets this weekend.

    Cindy Rose, formerly of Holmwood Technical and now competing for Indian Hills Community College, secured her first collegiate victory by dominating the women’s 800m at the Iowa State University Holiday Invitational. The 2025 Carifta Games silver medalist clocked an impressive 2:16.84, currently the leading time in the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) indoor season. This triumph follows her third-place finish in the 1000m (3:02.01) at the Washburn Alumni Invite just one week prior.

    Rose’s Indian Hills teammates equally demonstrated their athletic prowess. Hector Benjamin, an ex-Jamaica College sprinter, achieved second overall in the men’s 60m with a swift 6.83 seconds before claiming another silver in the 200m with a time of 21.70 seconds. Meanwhile, Jaquan Coke, previously of Kingston College, set a personal best of 2:26.43 in the men’s 1,000m to secure second place, significantly improving upon his previous mark of 2:27.98. Kemmario Bygrave, another Jamaica College alumnus, placed sixth in the competitive men’s 800m with a time of 1:51.41.

    At the University of Iowa’s Jimmy Grant Invitational, former Edwin Allen High runner Leanna Lewis continued the trend of strong Jamaican performances by capturing second place in the women’s 600m with a time of 1:30.23 while representing Iowa.

    Adding to the throwing events highlights, David Beadle of Hastings College, who previously attended Cornwall College, commenced his final eligible season at the UNK Pre-Holiday Classic. Beadle placed fourth in the men’s weight throw with a heave of 15.62 meters and registered 11.97 meters in the shot put competition.

  • Alkaline Foundation joins aid effort

    Alkaline Foundation joins aid effort

    In a significant humanitarian response, the Alkaline Foundation Corporation has mobilized to deliver essential relief to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. Founded by renowned dancehall artist Alkaline, the organization provided critical aid packages to residents in the severely impacted parishes of Westmoreland and Trelawny.

    During early December, a dedicated 10-member team from the foundation conducted outreach missions to multiple affected communities, including Stratbougie in Westmoreland, along with Bunkers Hill and Deeside in Trelawny. The distributed relief packages contained vital food supplies, necessary toiletries, and other crucial household items for families struggling in the aftermath of the catastrophic weather event.

    Kereena Beckford, official spokesperson for the Alkaline Foundation Corporation, emphasized the grassroots nature of the relief effort. “This initiative operated without corporate brand sponsorship. All provisions were funded directly through the foundation’s resources, supplemented by generous contributions from compassionate individuals who recognized the urgency of this crisis. Their solidarity enabled us to extend support to the most vulnerable families,” Beckford stated.

    The assistance arrived as these regions continued grappling with extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica as a Category 5 storm on October 28. The hurricane resulted in tragic loss of life, claiming 45 victims nationwide, while causing widespread destruction across multiple parishes including St Elizabeth and St James alongside the targeted areas.

    Established in 2014 by the artist behind hit tracks such as ‘Things Mi Love’ and ‘Live Life’, the Alkaline Foundation has maintained a consistent philanthropic presence. Previous initiatives have supported institutions like the Maxfield Park Children’s Home and various cancer-related causes.

    Beckford described the emotional impact of witnessing the conditions in affected communities, noting the resilience of residents amidst overwhelming challenges. “Community members openly shared their profound struggles, revealing the depth of their current hardship. Despite facing unimaginable despair and uncertainty, they demonstrated remarkable gratitude and uplifting joy throughout our interactions. The experience was both humbling and profoundly inspiring,” she reflected.

  • Attorney warns of ‘troubling risks’ from US military strikes in the region

    Attorney warns of ‘troubling risks’ from US military strikes in the region

    A significant escalation of US military operations in the Caribbean is generating substantial concern among human rights experts and regional analysts who warn of potential catastrophic consequences for Caribbean nations. The deployment, initiated under President Trump’s directive in late August, has already resulted in lethal strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels claiming over 80 lives.

    International human rights attorney Jodi-Ann Quarrie emphasizes that while increased military presence might deter criminal elements, the unprecedented scale of militarization poses severe threats to essential economic sectors. “The Caribbean’s heavy dependence on agriculture, shipping, aviation, and tourism creates particular vulnerability,” Quarrie explained. “Once bombing commences, commercial vessels will avoid these waters, flight paths will be rerouted, and fuel access could be severely disrupted.”

    The region’s tourism industry, already fragile following Hurricane Melissa, faces potential collapse if global perception labels the Caribbean as a conflict zone. Quarrie noted that international tourists would likely cancel vacation plans regardless of the actual geographic scope of hostilities, as global media would inevitably broadcast headlines about ‘war in the Caribbean’.

    Legal experts challenge the legitimacy of US military actions, noting a fundamental shift in approach. Previously treating drug smuggling as transnational crime requiring interdiction, evidence collection, and due process, the United States has now reframed it as a non-international armed conflict. This reinterpretation enables lethal strikes without traditional judicial oversight, raising serious human rights concerns regarding due process and presumption of innocence.

    Former Jamaican UN Ambassador Curtis Ward suggests alternative motivations behind the military buildup, including potential regime change objectives in Venezuela. “The US may be planning to remove President Nicolás Maduro, secure control of Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves, or intimidate military leadership into surrendering him,” Ward stated. He characterized the drone strikes as extrajudicial killings without foundation in US or international law.

    The situation creates tangible dangers for local populations, particularly fishing communities operating in affected waters. Ward confirmed that fishermen’s safety concerns are justified given the unpredictable nature of military operations.

    Regional governments face critical decisions regarding collective response. Ward urged Caribbean leaders to advocate for dialogue rather than military confrontation, warning that pursuing narrow national interests over regional cohesion could lead to irreversible fragmentation of Caribbean unity.

  • Media Association expresses regret at passing of RJRGleaner CEO

    Media Association expresses regret at passing of RJRGleaner CEO

    The Jamaican media landscape is in mourning following the sudden passing of Anthony Smith, Chief Executive Officer of RJRGLEANER Communications Group, who died Sunday morning after battling a brief illness. The Media Association Jamaica Limited (MAJL) has issued an official statement expressing “profound regret” at the loss of the prominent media executive.

    In their memorial release, MAJL extended heartfelt condolences, stating: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Anthony’s family, colleagues, and loved ones during this very difficult time.” The association highlighted Smith’s significant contributions to Jamaica’s media sector during his tenure at the helm of one of the country’s leading communications conglomerates.

    Smith’s professional journey with RJRGLEANER began in 2022 when he assumed the role of Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Print and Digital operations. His exceptional leadership capabilities and strategic vision led to his promotion to Chief Executive Officer in January 2024, a position he held until his untimely passing.

    Before transitioning to the media industry, Smith established himself as a distinguished figure in the telecommunications sector. With formal training as an engineer, he accumulated extensive experience holding multiple senior executive positions across Jamaica and the broader Caribbean region. His corporate portfolio included significant roles at telecommunications giants Cable & Wireless and Massy Technologies Limited, where he developed a reputation for innovative thinking and transformative leadership.

  • Mona Prep dominate to retain JISA Under-12 netball crown

    Mona Prep dominate to retain JISA Under-12 netball crown

    Mona Preparatory School has cemented its legacy as a youth sports powerhouse by achieving an extraordinary three-peat victory at the Jamaica Independent Schools Association (JISA) Under-12 Netball Championship. The triumphant squad secured their latest title with a commanding 14-4 victory against Emmanuel Christian Academy in the championship finals held December 11 at the Leila Robinson Court within the National Stadium complex.

    The championship-winning roster featured exceptional performances from Victoria Alexander, Malia Brown, Emma Chuck, Zyla Demetrius, Cariel Gibson, Arianna Gordon, Amira McDonald, Tamoi Nelson, Gabrielle Phinn, Zuri Sang-Prescott, Amira Serinash, Kiara Shirley, Skylar Smith, and Nyla White. Their decisive win earned them the prestigious Region 1 overall championship title.

    This victory culminates a remarkable season characterized by technical excellence and outstanding discipline. Throughout the 2025 competitive season, Mona Prep maintained an unblemished record in official matches while accumulating multiple honors including JISA Under-12 Netball Rally Champions, Zone 4 Winners, and Competition Winners trophies.

    The team’s statistical dominance proved equally impressive, scoring 152 goals while conceding merely 27 throughout the season. Their defensive prowess reached near-perfection during the netball rally tournament, where they allowed just one goal against while scoring 25.

    Their sole setback occurred outside official competition in an invitational match against the Cayman Islands Under-16 national development team—a valuable experience that provided high-level competitive exposure.

    JISA President Tamar McKenzie emphasized the significance of maintaining athletic programs following Hurricane Melissa’s late October impact. “Sport plays a critical role in restoring normalcy, building resilience, and supporting the emotional well-being of our students after disruption,” McKenzie stated. “I commend all schools for their commitment to completing the season and extend congratulations to Mona Preparatory School on an outstanding and well-earned championship.”