What started as a celebrated wedding catering service has now evolved into Panama’s first fine dining Indian restaurant. Mystic India, after nearly a decade of creating unforgettable culinary experiences at grand Indian weddings across Panama, has officially launched its permanent establishment. This new venture offers residents and visitors a unique blend of authentic Indian flavors, artistic presentation, and exceptional hospitality. Since 2014, the Mystic India team has been traveling annually to Panama to cater lavish Indian weddings, earning a reputation for consistency, quality, and unmatched flavor. Their dedication has secured the trust of numerous Indian families who repeatedly invite them to celebrate their most cherished occasions. ‘We’ve had the honour of being invited to cater weddings in Panama for over a decade,’ a spokesperson for Mystic India shared. ‘Each year, our team travels to Panama to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Guests would often ask, ‘Why don’t you open a restaurant in Panama?’’ That opportunity recently arose, and the team seized it, transforming their years of passion and expertise into a permanent culinary landmark. The result is Mystic India, a stunning new restaurant that redefines the perception of Indian cuisine in Panama. With elegant décor, warm service, and an inventive menu, Mystic India has quickly captivated food lovers across the city. The restaurant’s soft opening was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with a fully booked first night and steady reservations ever since. The buzz continues to grow as the team prepares for its grand opening on October 18, marking a new era for fine dining in Panama City. ‘Mystic India isn’t just about food — it’s about sharing culture, celebration, and connection,’ shared founder Karina Mahbubani. ‘Panama has always welcomed us with open arms during weddings and special events, and now, we’re honoured to make it our home.’ With its blend of traditional recipes, modern presentation, and impeccable consistency, Mystic India promises to be a destination where every meal feels like a celebration.
标签： Jamaica
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Cristiano Ronaldo tops Forbes’ highest-paid footballers list again
PARIS, France (AFP)—Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ list of the highest-paid footballers for the 2025-26 season. This marks the sixth time in the past decade that Ronaldo has led the rankings, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most lucrative figures. The announcement follows closely on the heels of Bloomberg’s revelation that the 40-year-old has become football’s first billionaire. Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, is estimated to earn a staggering $280 million, combining both on-field and off-field earnings. This figure more than doubles that of his closest rival, Lionel Messi, who is projected to earn $130 million, primarily from off-field ventures rather than his on-field contributions to Inter Miami in the United States. The list also features French football icon Karim Benzema, who earns $104 million annually with Saudi club Al Ittihad, and Senegalese forward Sadio Mane, Ronaldo’s teammate at Al Nassr, who takes the eighth spot with an estimated $54 million. Notably, the number of Saudi-based players in the top 10 has decreased by one compared to the previous year, following Brazilian star Neymar’s departure from Al Hilal to return to his childhood club, Santos in Sao Paulo. Neymar, who was third on the list last season with $110 million, now earns a modest $38 million, largely from off-field contracts. Despite the financial might of the English Premier League, which spent a record £2.6 billion ($3.5 billion) on transfers during the summer window, only two players from the league feature in the top 10: Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in fifth place and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah in seventh. Spain’s La Liga, however, boasts the most representatives in the top 10, including three Real Madrid players—Kylian Mbappe (fourth), Vinicius Jr (sixth), and Jude Bellingham (ninth)—alongside Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who rounds out the list in tenth place with $43 million. Forbes highlighted that the combined earnings of the world’s ten highest-paid footballers for the 2025-26 season are estimated at a whopping $945 million.
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‘They don’t want us inside’
In downtown Kingston, Jamaica, a meeting between homeless individuals and local government officials on Wednesday revealed deep-seated resistance to plans aimed at relocating them from Justice Square to shelters. The gathering, held at Marie Atkins Night Shelter on Hanover Street, saw only two individuals express willingness to move permanently, while the majority remained silent or voiced grievances about the shelter’s conditions. Complaints ranged from inadequate food and restrictive policies to alleged verbal abuse by staff. One man recounted, ‘When yuh get di food dem tell wi seh wi haffi leave out,’ while a woman claimed shelter staff often turned them away during rainstorms. Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie acknowledged the issues, promising to address specific complaints, including the removal of a problematic staff member. However, he also urged the homeless to cooperate, emphasizing the dangers of living on the streets, such as past incidents of violence. McKenzie stressed the need for mutual effort to resolve the situation, warning that indiscipline would not be tolerated. Meanwhile, some shelter residents expressed concerns about newcomers disrupting the facility’s cleanliness and order. The relocation initiative follows repeated calls from citizens and the judiciary, particularly after a recent fire at the court building allegedly caused by a homeless individual. Justice Paulette Williams highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue to prevent further incidents. Despite the challenges, McKenzie and Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby remain committed to finding solutions, though the homeless population’s reluctance underscores the complexity of the problem.
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KOLONii moves ‘Forward’
KINGSTON, Jamaica — KOLONii, a burgeoning talent in the music scene, is poised to make a lasting impression with the launch of his inaugural single, *Forward*. Produced by the acclaimed Emmanuel ‘TvchPoint’ Aden, the track is being hailed as a transformative anthem that resonates with themes of resilience and hope. TvchPoint, a Grammy voting member with over two decades of experience in music production and artist development, immediately recognized KOLONii’s potential after hearing a voice note from the artist. ‘KOLONii’s delivery is fearless, his narrative is authentic, and his message is universal. It’s not just about survival; it’s about hope—a voice the world needs,’ TvchPoint remarked. For the producer, this release signifies more than just a new record; it’s a testament to his faith in the next generation of Jamaican artistry. KOLONii’s debut is a powerful blend of raw authenticity and unwavering determination, encapsulating a universal message of growth and perseverance amidst adversity. With his compelling delivery and poignant storytelling, KOLONii represents a new wave of Caribbean artists rooted in struggle yet driven to succeed. As he celebrates this milestone, fans can anticipate more from the rising star, with new projects already in development. ‘This is just the beginning. There’s so much more to come, so stay tuned,’ KOLONii shared.
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X, Y, Z, shouldn’t matter
Everald Warmington, Member of Parliament for St Catherine South Western, has tabled a motion in Jamaica’s House of Representatives calling for significant amendments to the Representation of the People Act (ROPA), which governs the country’s electoral processes. Warmington, a government MP, proposed eliminating the requirement for voters to mark their ballots with a cross (X) using a black lead pencil, arguing that this rule is outdated and restrictive. He suggested that voters should be allowed to use any implement and make any mark that clearly indicates their choice. Additionally, Warmington advocated for extending voting hours from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm to accommodate modern lifestyles and technological advancements. He also called for a full re-verification of the voters’ list, citing concerns about inflated voter registration numbers and inaccurate turnout statistics. Warmington further proposed amendments to allow election agents to operate closer to polling stations, ensuring they can effectively perform their duties. These reforms aim to enhance the transparency, accessibility, and efficiency of Jamaica’s electoral system. Parliament will decide whether to debate the motion, with the next local government elections scheduled for 2028 and the general election by 2030.
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Boyd and Aidonia added to Bell/Zaide football festival
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The 40th edition of the Bell/Zaide Memorial Football Festival is set to take place on Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, at Winchester Park. This year’s event will feature notable participants, including former national football player Walter Boyd and renowned entertainer Aidonia. Both confirmed their involvement after being approached by organizer Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell during the Reggae Boyz match against Bermuda. The festival, which supports various charitable causes, may mark its final iteration due to rising venue and security costs. Campbell expressed his intention to collaborate with the Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) to preserve the legacy of the event and its honourees. He emphasized his commitment to aiding basic schools, stating, ‘In life, everybody needs help sometimes.’ The festival commemorates Jackie Bell and Dennis Ziadie, two Jamaican football legends who tragically passed away during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. This year’s honourees include Douglas Bell, Andrew Price, Neville Granville, Karl Tyrell, and Ronald Watson. Four teams will compete: Masters and Celebrities, Christian Ambassadors, St George’s Old Boys, and Referees XI. The Masters and Celebrities team will feature Laa Lee, Jahshii, Nesbeth, Boyd, and Aidonia, while the Referees XI will include Karl Tyrell, Oshane Nation, Carvel Banton, Alexi Perry, and Jassett Kerr.
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Jamaica Observer, Gleaner move to sign joint venture agreement
In a landmark move for Jamaica’s media industry, Jamaica Observer Limited (JOL) and Gleaner Company Media Limited (GCML) have announced their decision to form a formal joint venture (JV) by the end of the calendar year. This strategic collaboration, initiated through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in early August, aims to explore operational efficiencies by outsourcing shared printing and distribution logistics services, print production, and distribution networks. Following a comprehensive fact-finding period, the two independent entities have agreed to establish a JV focused on creating a unified logistics model for print production and distribution. The partnership is expected to yield significant cost savings, improved delivery timelines, and enhanced consumer service. Anthony Smith, CEO of the RJRGleaner Communications Group, emphasized that the JV discussions have meticulously outlined the coordination and efficient logistics required to ensure the stability and integrity of both operations. Dominic Beaubrun, Managing Director of JOL, highlighted the transformative potential of this collaboration, noting its practical and forward-thinking approach to preserving the industry. Despite the joint venture, both companies will retain their independence, with separate ownership, operations, and editorial control, ensuring continued high-quality journalism and service to their respective audiences. The Gleaner, established in 1834, and the Observer, founded in 1993, bring decades of experience to this innovative partnership.
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Trinidadians among those killed in latest US bombing at sea
In a tragic incident earlier this week, two Trinidad and Tobago nationals were among six individuals killed in a United States military airstrike on a small vessel in international waters near Venezuela. Gary Aboud, secretary of the non-governmental organization Fishermen and Friends of the Sea, confirmed the deaths of Richie Samaroo and Chad “Charpo” Joseph during a radio broadcast on Thursday. Aboud expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the families of the deceased, condemning the act as a violation of judicial processes and international law. He also warned local fishermen to avoid venturing far from the shoreline due to the heightened risk of being targeted. The Trinidad and Tobago Government and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) have yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar has publicly supported the US military’s anti-narcotics campaign in the Caribbean, stating that she has no sympathy for drug traffickers. The US military has intensified its presence in the region, deploying additional assets, including a nuclear-powered attack submarine and reconnaissance aircraft, as part of its efforts to combat drug cartels. This latest strike marks the fifth such operation in the Caribbean, resulting in a total of 27 fatalities. Relatives of the deceased have vehemently condemned the attack, describing it as “inhumane” and “unjustified.” Lenore Burnley, the mother of Chad Joseph, insisted that her son was not involved in drug trafficking, while Christine Clement, his grandmother, revealed that he had been living in Venezuela and had previously survived another attack while attempting to return home. Aboud has called for Prime Minister Persad Bissessar to be held accountable before the International Criminal Court for her support of the US military actions.
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NSWMA apologises, vows to end garbage collection delay
The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) has issued a public apology for ongoing garbage collection delays across Jamaica, with Executive Director Audley Gordon pledging to resolve the issue within the next few weeks. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer on Wednesday, Gordon expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to residents and outlined efforts to address the backlog, including extended working hours and additional collection trips. He emphasized that improper waste disposal practices by the public have exacerbated the problem, urging Jamaicans to adopt better habits to ease the burden on collectors. Gordon also highlighted challenges such as mechanical issues with collection vehicles and the time-consuming task of clearing illegal mini dumps within communities. While acknowledging the recent acquisition of over 100 new garbage trucks by the government, Gordon stressed that an additional 200 trucks are needed to achieve optimal operational standards. He also addressed concerns about street sweepers in downtown Kingston, noting that investigations are underway to ensure accountability. Gordon called for collective responsibility, urging the public to play their part in maintaining a clean environment by adhering to proper waste disposal practices.
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JUTC urges parents to register children for rural school bus fare card
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) has issued a call to action for parents and guardians of children utilizing the rural school bus program. With the impending shift to a cashless fare system set for November 1, 2025, the JUTC emphasizes the urgency of registering for the electronic fare payment card to ensure uninterrupted service. Currently, the program transports approximately 16,600 students daily, yet only 4,900 have completed the registration process. The JUTC, in a recent media release, highlighted the critical need for immediate action to avoid potential disruptions. Since its inception, the rural school bus service has been free of charge. However, starting November 1, 2025, a fare will be introduced, making the electronic payment card the sole method of payment. Registration is mandatory for all students using the service. Parents can register online via the JUTC’s dedicated portal, and printed forms will also be distributed by bus drivers. Completed forms should be returned to school principals or designated administrative personnel. The JUTC has assured that registration will remain an ongoing process as the company works to expand and enhance the rural school bus program over the next two years.