Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

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  • Fabrienne Foster sets North Texas record to win women’s weight throw

    Fabrienne Foster sets North Texas record to win women’s weight throw

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Collegiate indoor track and field championships witnessed a series of extraordinary performances and dramatic turns this weekend. Fabrienne Foster of North Texas emerged as a standout athlete, shattering both the school record and her personal best with a monumental throw of 19.57 meters in the women’s weight throw at the American Conference Indoor Championships. Her achievement eclipsed the previous school mark of 19.25m, set earlier this year by Allison Stigarll, and surpassed her own prior best by nearly half a meter.

    Meanwhile, at the Big 12 Indoor Championships hosted by Texas Tech University, Annishka McDonald soared to new heights, establishing a personal best and school record by clearing 1.84 meters in the women’s high jump. In a contrasting moment of drama at the SEC Indoors in College Station, Texas, University of Georgia’s Shaquena Foote faced a harsh disqualification from the women’s 400m preliminaries for an alleged lane violation on the opening lap. Her teammate, Dejanea Oakley, provided a silver lining for the Bulldogs by advancing to the final with a swift time of 52.07 seconds.

    Additional notable results included Corey Ottey (University of South Florida) capturing third in the men’s high jump with 2.05m, Carleta Bernard (University of Texas) dominating her 60m heat in 7.25 seconds to qualify for two individual finals, and Daniel Beckford (Northern Colorado) securing a spot in the men’s 60m hurdle final at the Big Sky Championships.

  • More money for refs?

    More money for refs?

    Jamaica’s emergence as a powerhouse for producing elite football referees may soon be accompanied by improved financial incentives on the domestic front. Gregory Daley, the newly appointed General Secretary of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) and a former referee himself, has indicated that increasing match fees for local officials is under serious consideration.

    This development comes as Jamaican referees continue to earn international recognition, with 21 currently on the FIFA panel—one of the highest representations in the CONCACAF region. These officials, who earn approximately $10,000 per match in Jamaica’s Premier League plus a $75-per-mile travel allowance, have become what Daley describes as “the best-kept secret” of Jamaican football excellence.

    Despite the constant focus on the Reggae Boyz national team, Daley emphasizes that refereeing represents one of Jamaica’s most consistently successful football departments internationally. His comments highlight the paradox between Jamaica’s refereeing prestige and the lack of domestic appreciation for these achievements.

    The proposed compensation review would extend beyond match fees to include training sessions and other professional commitments. Daley acknowledges the significant personal investment referees make, often traveling across the island at their own expense while maintaining the highest professional standards required for international competitions.

    Jamaica’s refereeing success story finds further validation with two officials—Daneon Parchment and Oshane Nation—currently in contention for selection to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both are VAR-certified, with Nation’s potential selection automatically including his Assistant Referee Ojay Duhaney.

    This would continue Jamaica’s legacy in World Cup officiating that began with Owen Powell (1998), followed by Peter Prendergast (2002), and several officials at Women’s and age-group World Cups.

    Beyond financial improvements, Daley stresses the importance of enhanced communication and engagement with match officials to prevent past disruptions and build a more collaborative relationship moving forward.

  • Small business operators meet with JPS

    Small business operators meet with JPS

    In a pivotal move to confront the severe energy challenges stifling Jamaica’s entrepreneurial sector, the Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) engaged in high-level talks with the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) this Thursday. The meeting, spearheaded by SBAJ President Garnett Reid, centered on developing actionable strategies to alleviate the financial and operational pressures on micro and small enterprises.

    The SBAJ delegation presented a comprehensive overview of the sector’s critical pain points. These included the burdensome fixed generation costs exacerbated by the constraints of a small demand market, which disproportionately affect smaller operations. The association also highlighted the sector’s acute vulnerability to external shocks, particularly hurricanes, under the current regulated pass-through model that allows costs to be directly transferred to consumers. This model, coupled with limited financial reserves typical of micro-businesses, creates a precarious situation for survival post-disaster.

    Further concerns emphasized were the persistent issues surrounding the reliability of the national electricity grid and the significant strain imposed by recent tariff increases. The delegation, which included key figures such as Chairman of Trustees Reginald Budhan, 2nd Vice President Dennise Williams, and legal advisor Michael Diamond, argued that these factors collectively threaten the growth and sustainability of Jamaica’s vital small business ecosystem.

    The dialogue culminated in a mutual commitment from both JPS and the SBAJ to pursue continued collaboration. The primary objective is to forge fair, transparent, and pragmatic solutions that not only ensure a stable and reliable energy supply for the nation but also create an environment where small businesses can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the Jamaican economy.

  • FIX THE BOWLING!

    FIX THE BOWLING!

    The West Indies cricket team’s impressive five-match winning streak at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup came to a crushing halt on Thursday, suffering a decisive nine-wicket defeat against South Africa in their Super Eight Group 1 encounter in Ahmedabad. The loss has prompted serious concerns about the team’s bowling capabilities and batting strategy from veteran commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira.

    Despite posting a competitive total of 176/8 from their 20 overs, thanks largely to a record eighth-wicket partnership of 89 runs between Romario Shepherd (52 not out) and Jason Holder (49), the Caribbean side proved unable to defend their score. South Africa’s commanding chase saw them reach 177/1 in just 16.1 overs, with captain Aiden Markram leading the charge with a spectacular 82 runs from 46 deliveries.

    Perreira characterized the West Indies bowling performance as ‘ragged’ and called for immediate improvements from head coach Daren Sammy and his staff. ‘The bowling was ragged and Daren Sammy and company will have to look at how they can improve this bowling,’ Perreira told the Jamaica Observer. He particularly expressed disappointment in fast bowler Shamar Joseph’s performance and questioned whether pacer Jayden Seales should be brought in from the reserves bench.

    The batting approach also came under scrutiny after the top order collapsed to 83/7 before Shepherd and Holder’s recovery effort. Perreira noted a apparent lack of execution despite pre-match planning, stating ‘They discussed a plan last night and this morning, but when you go out there and you take guard, the batsmen are responsible for executing that plan.’

    The result leaves both West Indies and India level on two points in Group 1, though the Caribbean side maintains a significantly superior net run rate of 1.791 compared to India’s -0.1. This sets up a crucial final Super Eight match between the two teams on Sunday, with a semi-final berth hanging in the balance.

  • Jamaica Medical Foundation donates cash for tetanus medication

    Jamaica Medical Foundation donates cash for tetanus medication

    In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Medical Foundation (JMF) has allocated a substantial donation of $500,000 specifically for the procurement of tetanus medication. The health outreach organization, which operates as an initiative of the insurance sector, identified a critical gap in post-disaster healthcare as victims faced not only property and agricultural losses but also severe medical shortages.

    A primary concern highlighted by JMF was the elevated risk of tetanus infection, commonly known as ‘lock jaw,’ resulting from injuries sustained in hazardous conditions following the hurricane. Loose zinc sheets and exposed nails in debris created a dangerous environment for residents, necessitating immediate preventive healthcare measures.

    The National Health Fund (NHF) has been entrusted with managing the acquisition and distribution logistics for these essential medications. Leveraging its established network, which includes mobile pharmacy units, the NHF will ensure that even the most remote affected communities receive the crucial tetanus treatments.

    JMF Chairman Orville Johnson publicly praised NHF CEO Everton Anderson and his team for their exceptional efforts in delivering critical medications to hurricane victims, acknowledging their pivotal role in the relief operation.

  • Oversight or overreach?

    Oversight or overreach?

    A contentious dispute over procedural boundaries and parliamentary decorum disrupted Wednesday’s session of Jamaica’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), exposing deep divisions regarding the committee’s oversight authority. The confrontation emerged when Opposition members confronted Government MP Heroy Clarke of St James Central over his persistent interruptions during questioning of state entity representatives. The committee had convened specifically to review the National Water Commission’s recovery operations following Hurricane Melissa, but proceedings quickly devolved into a heated debate about the very nature of the PAAC’s constitutional role. Opposition parliamentarians accused Clarke of systematically undermining their legitimate oversight function by repeatedly challenging questions he deemed outside the committee’s purview. Clarke defended his interventions as necessary to maintain discipline and fairness, arguing that extended questioning by individual members could marginalize others and that infrastructure discussions properly belonged to other committees. The debate revealed fundamental disagreements about interpretation of the PAAC’s mandate, with St Mary Central MP Omar Newell citing specific constitutional provisions that authorize broad examination of government efficiency and administration. Newell called for a reset in committee conduct, emphasizing that “we can’t just bully and shout out to get our own way” and that disagreements should be resolved through proper points of order rather than loud interruptions. St James Southern MP Nekeisha Burchell countered Clarke’s position by asserting that public assets and performance—including infrastructure—fall squarely within the PAAC’s responsibility to ensure value for public expenditure. Committee Chairman Peter Bunting intervened to remind members of their shared objective to serve Jamaican citizens regardless of political affiliation, while subtly referencing Clarke’s former role as Deputy Speaker to underscore expectations of decorum. The exchange highlighted ongoing tensions between government and opposition members regarding parliamentary oversight mechanisms and the appropriate boundaries of committee authority in examining state administration.

  • Regional countries to send humanitarian aid to Cuba

    Regional countries to send humanitarian aid to Cuba

    BASSETERRE, St Kitts – Concluding their four-day annual gathering, leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have unanimously agreed to dispatch humanitarian assistance to Cuba while establishing a specialized committee to redefine diplomatic relations with the United States.

    The summit, chaired by St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, addressed multiple regional challenges including Cuba’s escalating humanitarian crisis. While specific details of the aid package remain undetermined, Dr. Drew confirmed the collective commitment to support the Cuban people while maintaining regional stability. The Caribbean leaders acknowledged their unique position as historical partners to both Cuba and the United States.

    In a significant diplomatic move, CARICOM will form a three-member committee to develop a new Cooperation Framework with the United States. This initiative follows discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized the Biden administration’s objective to strengthen traditional relationships within the Western Hemisphere.

    The Haiti crisis received substantial attention with the endorsement of Kenya’s leadership role in the UN-authorized Gang Suppression Force (GSF). The Eminent Persons Group, chaired by former St Lucian Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony, presented comprehensive assessments of Haiti’s security and humanitarian situation.

    Additional summit outcomes included:
    – Advancements in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) with expanded free movement provisions for aviation personnel
    – Establishment of a prime ministerial committee to review governance and financing structures within CARICOM
    – Reinforcement of support for Belize’s territorial integrity in ongoing border disputes with Guatemala and Honduras
    – Strong endorsement of the judicial process regarding the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy at the International Court of Justice
    – Mandate for the Reparations Committee to refine the CARICOM Ten-Point Plan for upcoming Commonwealth meetings

    Dr. Drew characterized the summit as ‘a conference of action’ that produced tangible outcomes addressing the most critical issues affecting the Caribbean community.

  • JCCC poised for growth

    JCCC poised for growth

    The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) has ushered in a new era of leadership following its annual general meeting and elections held on February 22 at Curphey Place, St Andrew. Shane Angus, a seasoned figure within the organization, has been elected as the club’s new president, succeeding Naresh Potopsingh.

    Expressing his enthusiasm about the membership’s support, Angus revealed his strategic vision for the JCCC. “We have assembled a purpose-driven executive team with individuals specifically suited for their roles. This alignment is poised to bring significant positive transformation to the club,” Angus stated in an interview with the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

    The newly constituted executive leadership includes Nigel McFarlane as First Vice-President, Gerald Cameron as Second Vice-President, Dwight Burchell as Treasurer, Paul Gammon as Assistant Treasurer, Marcel Brandon as Secretary, and Rick Chang as Assistant Secretary. The broader executive committee comprises twelve dedicated members: Wade Marsh, Rae Parchment, Neville Marsh, Raymond Shields, Courtney Thompson, Nicholas Chang, Vivian Mitchell, Kyle Jaisingh-Byles, Cressmore White, Douglas Ewbanks, Richard Hylton, and Denesh Baboolal.

    Angus, who previously presided over the club from 2013 to 2019, maintained his involvement with the executive committee even during his time overseas. His permanent return to Jamaica in 2025 marks a full reengagement with the JCCC’s mission. He assumes leadership of a club reported to be in robust financial and operational health, as highlighted by outgoing president Potopsingh. The former president’s report noted the club’s current status of being fully updated on all obligations, positioning it ideally for future expansion. Potopsingh also highlighted the club’s strengthened media presence and a notable increase in youth participation at events, thanking members for their support during his tenure.

    Key challenges identified for the incoming administration include addressing issues surrounding back licences for long-term vehicle projects, advocating for a flat registration fee for classic cars, and streamlining the re-registration process for vehicles lacking original documentation. Angus has augmented these priorities with his own ambitious goals: securing a permanent physical headquarters for the JCCC and reinvigorating the club’s core identity as a community for classic car enthusiasts. This involves re-engaging former members and assisting them in restoring and returning their vehicles to the road. A clubhouse would provide a vital social and administrative hub for both existing and prospective members.

    The meeting also served as an occasion to honor distinguished members. Raymond Shields was awarded the prestigious Clubman of the Year trophy, acknowledging his dedicated participation. Awards for outstanding service were presented to Gerald Cameron, Winston Marshall, and Gregory Webster. Brian Madden was recognized as the outstanding club member, while Shane Angus and Michael McFarlane were bestowed the title of Global Ambassador for their contributions.

  • Bill Clinton denies wrongdoing at grilling on Epstein ties

    Bill Clinton denies wrongdoing at grilling on Epstein ties

    Former President Bill Clinton appeared before a congressional committee investigating Jeffrey Epstein connections on Friday, firmly denying any knowledge of the financier’s criminal activities while Democrats intensified calls for similar scrutiny of Donald Trump’s Epstein ties.

    In his opening statement shared publicly, Clinton asserted he severed all connections with Epstein well before the financier’s 2008 conviction for sex offenses. “I saw nothing, and I did nothing wrong,” Clinton declared to the House committee conducting the deposition behind closed doors in Chappaqua, New York.

    The proceedings revealed sharp political divisions, with Republican committee chair James Comer vowing to ask “lots of questions” about Clinton’s documented associations with Epstein, including 27 flights on Epstein’s private plane and 17 White House visits during Clinton’s presidency. Republican representative Anna Paulina Luna noted Clinton’s cooperative demeanor during questioning.

    Democrats countered that the investigation unfairly targeted political opponents rather than pursuing legitimate oversight. Committee member Suhas Subramanyam stated, “Let’s be real, we are talking to the wrong president,” emphasizing that Clinton answered all questions while Trump should face similar scrutiny.

    Clinton indirectly referenced Trump in his statement, noting that “no person is above the law, even presidents — especially presidents.” Trump responded with sympathy for Clinton, telling reporters he disliked seeing him deposed while maintaining skepticism about the investigation’s validity.

    The deposition followed Hillary Clinton’s testimony on Thursday, where the former secretary of state challenged lawmakers to question Trump “directly under oath about the tens of thousands of times he shows up in the Epstein files.” Both Clintons had initially resisted subpoenas but complied after Republicans threatened contempt of Congress charges.

    Notably, Bill Clinton acknowledged extensive interactions with Epstein through Clinton Foundation humanitarian work but denied visiting Epstein’s Caribbean island or having any awareness of his criminal activities. “Not only would I not have flown on his plane if I had any inkling of what he was doing — I would have turned him in,” Clinton stated.

    The proceedings occurred amid heightened security in Chappaqua, with dozens of journalists and Secret Service personnel surrounding the Clinton residence. Both Clintons criticized the closed-door format, with Bill Clinton comparing it to a “kangaroo court” and advocating for televised sessions.

    Epstein died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, with his death officially ruled a suicide though surrounded by persistent conspiracy theories.

  • Soul Sundays makes moves

    Soul Sundays makes moves

    A Jamaican music event, Soul Sundays, has dramatically exceeded its creators’ expectations, evolving from a local liquor store promotion into a nationally celebrated phenomenon with international aspirations. Conceived by promoter Shane Buchanan and his brother as part of a weekend trilogy—alongside 90s Dancehall Fridays and a Saturday night experience—the Sunday concept was intentionally designed to be a soulful affair.

    The event’s trajectory has been described as ‘mind-blowing’ by its founders, with its growth accelerating significantly towards a pivotal 2026 expansion. A major turning point arrived with the acquisition of premium sponsorships from Appleton Estate, as title sponsor, and Campari. Buchanan emphasizes that such high-profile partnerships serve as powerful endorsements, attracting discerning patrons who associate quality brands with exceptional experiences.

    These strategic alliances provide substantial financial backing, enabling the organizers to enhance production value and craft increasingly memorable experiences. Buchanan confidently asserts that Soul Sundays now stands as Jamaica’s premier soul music event, crediting the sponsors for significantly elevating its prestige.

    Soul Sundays has carved a unique niche by attracting mature audiences and couples seeking authentic soul music that once dominated Jamaica’s nightlife. The event serves as a sanctuary for those who appreciate classic sounds, effectively reviving a nostalgic vibe that has become scarce in contemporary nightlife.

    The recent Valentine’s edition exemplified this atmosphere, featuring fireworks, rose distributions to female attendees, and an emphasis on celebrating love. Mark Telfer of J Wray & Nephew Limited explained that Appleton Estate’s title sponsorship and Campari’s involvement perfectly aligned with enhancing the event’s passion element, coinciding with Campari’s ‘Win Your Passion Moment’ campaign.

    The experience seamlessly blends generations through its musical programming, with two DJs strategically catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and younger patrons discovering classics for the first time. This creates an energetic yet soulful environment characterized by passion and nostalgia.

    With growth surpassing all expectations, the brand is now preparing for both local venue changes and international expansion. Buchanan proudly announced plans for Soul Sundays to launch in the United States by 2026, accompanied by bookings of both local and international entertainers to further elevate the entertainment package. From its Portmore origins to the global stage, 2026 is poised to become the event’s most transformative year yet, fundamentally reshaping Jamaica’s Sunday night culture.