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  • Cyclists to participate in Simmonds High Velocity island ride on Saturday

    Cyclists to participate in Simmonds High Velocity island ride on Saturday

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club officially unveiled its 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride on Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel. The event brought together local and international cycling enthusiasts for a meet and greet ahead of the weekend’s island-wide ride. The main event, scheduled for Saturday, will see cyclists traverse from the Pegasus Hotel to Jamwest Beach in Negril, showcasing Jamaica’s potential as a premier cycling and tourism destination.

    Coach Carlton Simmonds, President of the Simmonds High Velocity Cycling Club, emphasized that the launch was more than a mere introduction; it was a platform for cyclists to unite and celebrate their shared passion. ‘Cycling is my life,’ Simmonds told Observer Online, highlighting the sport’s health benefits and eco-friendly nature.

    During the launch, the club honored John Lynch, Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board, with an award for his steadfast support in advancing cycling across the country and promoting Jamaica as a cycling hotspot. Dominic Beaubrun, Managing Director of the Jamaica Observer Media Group, expressed enthusiasm about cycling’s potential to become a cornerstone of Jamaica’s tourism industry. ‘Cycling can be developed locally to host such events,’ Beaubrun noted. ‘It benefits both locals and international participants, offering a unique perspective on Jamaica’s stunning landscapes.’

    Beaubrun also revealed that the event holds international significance, as the World Cycling Federation has included it in its points accumulation system. ‘Jamaica is one of the few places in the Caribbean and the western hemisphere where cyclists can earn points for major international events,’ he explained.

    Marion Ebanks, representing the Jamaica Tourist Board, praised the event for its ability to merge community, sport, and Jamaica’s natural beauty. The 2025 Kingston to Negril Family Fun Ride will commence at 4:00 am on Saturday, October 19, from the Pegasus Hotel. Cyclists will make rest stops in Moneague, St Ann’s Bay, Duncan’s, and Toyota Jamaica in Ironshore, Montego Bay, before concluding at Jamwest Beach in Negril.

    Approximately 90 riders are expected to participate, with support from the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch (PSTEB) and the Jamaica Red Cross, ensuring safety and medical assistance throughout the event. Key sponsors include the Jamaica Tourist Board, Kem Quick/Portland Jerk, Gav Imports Limited, the Jamaica Observer, Toyota Jamaica, Qmall, Jamwest Beach, Azul Beach Resort, Coco La Palm Seaside Resort Hotel, and Father Bull Restaurant.

  • Reggae acts unite for ‘Higher Education’ benefit album

    Reggae acts unite for ‘Higher Education’ benefit album

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a groundbreaking collaboration, Naya Rockers and Iceland’s Floki Studios have unveiled *Higher Education*, an 11-track benefit album that bridges reggae, ska, dub, and New Orleans R&B. Recorded across 15 studios in five countries, the project features Grammy-winning artists, engineers, and musicians, all united to support youth music education at the Alpha School of Music. The album is backed by the 10-piece Naya Rockers band, which includes reggae legends such as Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith, members of The Skatalites, John Brown’s Body, and Slightly Stoopid. *Higher Education* is both a cultural statement and a musical milestone, showcasing the power of global collaboration.

    Nathan Sabanayagam, founder of Naya Records, drummer, and producer, shared his vision for the project: ‘I wanted to create a classic roots album from start to finish, from recording to vinyl pressing. The inspiration for the lineup came from artists Naya Rockers had previously worked with, including Sister Nancy, Clinton Fearon, and Hector Lewis. For others, it was about reaching out to those I had connections with to see who would join this meaningful endeavor.’

    The album opens with Clinton Fearon’s *Come With Us* and concludes with Mad Professor’s reflective *Thanks Dub*. Side A features Ivan Neville’s title track *Higher Education*, Sister Nancy’s *Teach The Youths*, Hector ‘Roots’ Lewis’s soulful *Thanks*, Stephen Marley’s uplifting *The Right Path*, and Mad Professor’s bass-heavy *Dub With Us*. Side B includes Mike Love’s *Long Way Down*, Angelo Moore & The Tamlins’ unifying *The Brotherhood*, Queen Omega’s empowering *Words of Wisdom*, Micah Shemaiah’s meditative *Same Lessons to Learn*, and another dub masterpiece from Mad Professor.

    Sabanayagam emphasized the importance of supporting Alpha School of Music, calling it ‘the cradle of Jamaican music.’ He explained, ‘From Don Drummond to Horsemouth, Alpha has produced legendary musicians who have influenced me deeply. This project honors their legacy and supports music education, which is the foundation for all musicians.’

    Wade Koeman, director of Flóki Studios, expressed his hopes for the album: ‘I hope it is listened to and loved worldwide, providing substantial support to Alpha. May it inspire others to learn or create music with intention, driving positive impact through their art.’

    The album was mixed by Stephen Stewart and Sabanayagam at Kingston’s iconic Tuff Gong Studio and Anchor Studios, further cementing its connection to Jamaica’s rich musical heritage.

  • Can anyone stop Sir Don in Princess Popstar Trophy?

    Can anyone stop Sir Don in Princess Popstar Trophy?

    The highly anticipated $1.09-million Princess Popstar Trophy, a Restricted Allowance I race for native-bred and imported two-year-olds, is set to take place tomorrow over 5 ½ furlongs (1,100m). The event has drawn a competitive field of six runners, with the spotlight firmly on the American-bred bay colt, Sir Don, who is making his second appearance on local soil. Sir Don’s dominant debut win, clocking an impressive 46.4 seconds over four furlongs, has established him as the clear favourite. His recent morning gallops indicate he is in peak condition, further solidifying his status as the horse to beat. Among the contenders, Tia Maria has shown promise with consistent finishes, while God’s Plan, a debut winner, is expected to challenge for second place. Infinity Star, Brody’s Unity, and Comuna Trece round out the field, with Comuna Trece likely to secure another runner-up finish given her previous performance against Sir Don. The Jamaica Observer’s Supreme Racing Guide provides an in-depth analysis of the runners and their prospects, highlighting Sir Don’s speed and class as key factors in his favour.

  • Bog Walk Gorge impassable

    Bog Walk Gorge impassable

    In a recent development, authorities in St Catherine, Jamaica, have issued a critical advisory to motorists regarding the Bog Walk Gorge. The area has been rendered impassable due to a combination of falling boulders from the surrounding hills and rapidly rising water levels. The local police force has strongly urged drivers to seek alternative routes to ensure their safety. The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. This disruption underscores the ongoing challenges posed by natural hazards in the region and highlights the importance of adhering to safety advisories during such events.

  • King Charles III to make first visit with Pope Leo

    King Charles III to make first visit with Pope Leo

    In a landmark event for Anglo-Catholic relations, Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to embark on an historic state visit to the Vatican on October 22-23, 2025. This visit, announced by Buckingham Palace on Friday, will mark the first meeting between the British monarchs and Pope Leo XIV since his election in May 2025. The trip follows a private visit by the royal couple to Pope Francis, Leo’s predecessor, just months before his passing in April 2025. Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope with a background in missionary work in Peru, was elected on May 8, 2025. The visit coincides with the special jubilee year, celebrated every 25 years, and will include a service in the Sistine Chapel highlighting the shared environmental commitments of the Pope and the King. Additionally, King Charles will visit a seminary training Commonwealth priests, while Queen Camilla will engage with Catholic sisters involved in girls’ education programs addressing issues like sexual violence and human trafficking. This visit is seen as a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between the Catholic Church and the Church of England, emphasizing themes of unity and hope. The Church of England, established in the 16th century by Henry VIII after his split from the Catholic Church, has historically had strained relations with Rome. However, modern times have seen a more amicable relationship between the two faiths. King Charles, who has previously visited the Vatican five times as Prince of Wales, last met Pope Francis in April 2025, despite the pontiff’s declining health. The King, currently undergoing cancer treatment, has long been an advocate for environmental protection, a cause he shares with both Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV.

  • Citi introduces generative AI tools across departments

    Citi introduces generative AI tools across departments

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Citigroup Inc. has introduced four cutting-edge generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools aimed at transforming its compliance, risk management, human resources, and finance operations, the global banking giant revealed on Tuesday. The newly launched tools—Citi Stylus, Citi Stylus Workspaces, Citi Assist, and Citi Squad—are engineered to analyze documents in various formats, generate concise summaries, and provide comparative insights. Currently, these AI solutions are accessible to approximately 150,000 Citigroup employees across 51 jurisdictions, with plans for a comprehensive rollout extending through the end of 2025. Eva Lewis, Citi Country Officer for Jamaica, emphasized that the adoption of generative AI transcends technological advancement, stating, ‘At Citi Jamaica, embracing generative AI is about more than technology—it’s about empowering our team to deliver smarter, faster, and safer banking services to our clients.’ Unlike conventional AI systems that operate within predefined rules, generative AI utilizes advanced language models and neural networks to produce original content based on learned data patterns. Citigroup highlighted that this innovative technology will significantly enhance response times, bolster fraud detection capabilities, and enable more personalized client interactions. With a presence in nearly 160 countries, Citigroup offers a diverse array of financial services to corporations, governments, and institutions worldwide.

  • Trump refiles $15 bn defamation lawsuit against New York Times

    Trump refiles $15 bn defamation lawsuit against New York Times

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited his legal battle against The New York Times by refiling a $15 billion defamation lawsuit, according to recent court filings. This move comes just weeks after a federal judge dismissed the initial complaint in September. The lawsuit, now streamlined to 40 pages from its original 85, targets The Times, three of its reporters, and publisher Penguin Random House, accusing them of publishing “false, defamatory, and malicious” content. The legal action specifically highlights a book and two articles that Trump claims were designed to tarnish his professional reputation. The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages of at least $15 billion, along with punitive damages to be determined at trial. This renewed legal challenge is part of Trump’s broader campaign against media outlets he perceives as biased against him. Since his return to the White House, Trump has escalated his criticism of the press, restricting access to journalists and filing multiple lawsuits demanding substantial compensation. In July, he sued media mogul Rupert Murdoch and The Wall Street Journal for $10 billion over reports about a book and a letter allegedly sent to Jeffrey Epstein. Additionally, Paramount settled a $16 million lawsuit with Trump regarding election coverage on CBS News’ “60 Minutes,” which he claimed was unfairly edited to favor his 2024 election rival, Kamala Harris.

  • JNCB announces interest rate and fee adjustments starting December 1

    JNCB announces interest rate and fee adjustments starting December 1

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a strategic move to adapt to the shifting economic environment, Jamaica National Commercial Bank (JNCB) has unveiled plans to revise interest rates on savings and fixed deposit accounts, alongside an overhaul of its service fee structure. These changes are set to take effect on December 1, 2025. The bank emphasized that the adjustments follow a meticulous and periodic review process designed to ensure competitive returns and sustainable value for its customers. JNCB has urged its clientele to familiarize themselves with the forthcoming modifications by accessing detailed information on the bank’s official website at jncb.com/fees. This proactive approach underscores JNCB’s commitment to aligning its offerings with the dynamic financial landscape while prioritizing customer satisfaction.

  • Guyanese gov’t hints at implementing tougher laws to deal with gambling

    Guyanese gov’t hints at implementing tougher laws to deal with gambling

    The Government of Guyana has unveiled plans to introduce stringent regulatory reforms and taxation measures aimed at curbing the escalating gambling crisis, which has left numerous families in financial turmoil. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo highlighted the alarming proliferation of gambling activities, which have transitioned from traditional hotel-based casinos to pervasive mobile applications, exacerbating social issues, particularly among single parents. Speaking at his weekly press briefing, Jagdeo emphasized the detrimental impact of a lenient licensing and taxation framework, which has facilitated the unchecked spread of gambling across the nation. Originally intended to bolster the hotel industry by generating supplementary revenue, the issuance of casino licenses was initially restricted to establishments with at least 150 rooms and high service standards. However, the landscape has drastically shifted, with hundreds of small gambling outlets now operating nationwide, many of which are accessible via apps enabling 24/7 betting. Jagdeo expressed grave concern over the societal ramifications, citing numerous accounts of families being torn apart and parents squandering their earnings on online betting. He stressed that while the government respects citizens’ rights, gambling must be transformed into a high-cost, tightly regulated activity to deter excessive participation. The proposed measures will include robust taxation policies and a call for a cultural shift in attitudes towards gambling, which he believes undermines long-term aspirations such as homeownership and financial security. The decision to act swiftly has been bolstered by appeals from religious organizations, with Jagdeo firmly stating, ‘We are not going to allow that to continue.’

  • Sean Paul and Dua Lipa’s No Lie sells 1.8 million units in the UK

    Sean Paul and Dua Lipa’s No Lie sells 1.8 million units in the UK

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Nearly a decade after its initial release, the collaborative hit ‘No Lie’ by Sean Paul and Dua Lipa continues to resonate strongly in the United Kingdom. On October 17, the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) awarded the track a 3x platinum certification, recognizing sales and streaming equivalents surpassing 1.8 million units. Originally released in November 2016 as the lead single from Sean Paul’s EP ‘Mad Love: The Prequel,’ the song also found a place on Dua Lipa’s 2018 deluxe album, ‘Complete Edition.’ Crafted by British producers Sermstyle and Pip Kembo, with contributions from Sean Paul, Andrew Jackson, Emily Warren, and Sermstyle, ‘No Lie’ has become a global phenomenon. Its official music video, directed by Tim Nackashi and filmed at West London’s Sunbeam Studios, has amassed over 1.4 billion views since its January 2017 debut. While the song failed to chart in the United States, it achieved significant success across Europe, peaking at #10 in the UK and securing Top 20 placements in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Scotland, and Slovakia. Additionally, ‘No Lie’ has garnered numerous certifications worldwide, including Diamond in Brazil and France, 4x platinum in Italy, 3x platinum in Poland, 3x gold in Germany, gold in Denmark, 2x platinum in New Zealand, and platinum in Spain, Austria, Canada, the Netherlands, and Poland.