And the liquor was at work! - Laranzo Dacres photos
The high-level dance vibe that engulfed the party's fifth staging saw a mixture of patrons from new school leavers to young professionals going wild on the lawns of Capitol at Hope Gardens, St Andrew last Saturday night and it was a night to remember for some.
"It did sick! Mi dance whole heap in the beginning!" said patron Alecia McLeod while dancing up a storm. "Di drink mixes did taste good unlike some I have tasted at other events."
And that was no exaggeration as the Tru Juice cranberry and Appleton mix was a spectacular hit. The cranberry in particular had a sweet, new, interesting and refreshing taste.
Great drink mixes is nothing if the music is not in the right succession and in this case, it was on point as ZJ Chrome turned up the heat with dance hits Nuh Behaviour that extended into a slew of other infectious body-rocking hits calling out the gyrating females that extended throughout his set.
At 2:30 a.m. there was pandemonium within the crowd as the liquor crept up on patrons who started throwing what was inside their cups into the air at the request of DJ Cutty from Coppershot, and some patrons scampered for shelter as the night sky rained liquor.
kept busy
The barmaids were kept busy at the bars, while the sound boxes were strategically positioned after complaints from persons in the Hope Pastures area were related to the disc jockeys by the police. The disc jockeys tent were positioned in the middle of the dance floor and the patrons filled up most of the space between the bars, boxes and the tent.
Even after the World Cup, K'naan's Wavin' Flag still managed to effect an intense splurge of dancing that was reminiscent of a rag-waving frenzy at Carnival.
The vibe was maintained until 3:18 a.m. when the police came. In an effort not to have an abrupt end Code Red jumped from hip hop to gospel with Come By Here Lord. That had some patrons doing Kumina bringing an end to an event that had the right alcohol mixes, energy and vibe.
Left: What was the motivation? Liquor and the right Vybz Kartel song. Right: When the music came her way she did not hesitate to run and violently hop onto this man who was quietly sitting.
These hotties were hard to miss as they enjoyed the vibes at Barcode.
FIFTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD wo*o*dcutter, Norbert Graham of Shaw Castle, St James died at hospital after he was struck by a tree branch at Mount Horeb in the parish yesterday.
Reports are that about 3:00 pm Graham was cutting down a Sweet-wood tree on a farm when a branch fell, hitting him on the head. He sustained injuries and was taken to the Cornwall Regional Hospital where he died.
The Cambridge Police are investigating.
Yendi Phillipps - Contributed
Miss Jamaica Universe 2010, Yendi Phillipps, who rose to stardom after winning the Miss Jamaica World title in 2007, and made the nation proud when she was a finalist in all the fast track events at the Miss World Pageant in Sanya, China, a first for any contestant in the world, now has her eyes set on the Miss Universe Pageant on August 23 in Las Vegas.
Being one of only three queens to have ever copped both the Miss Jamaica Universe and the Miss Jamaica World crown, is a tremendous feat, one that Phillipps is very proud of.
However, since deciding to enter the competition, Phillipps has come under a lot of criticisms from detractors but this hasn't deterred her in pursuing her dreams. According to Phillipps, "I don't pay any attention to detractors. I only focus on the task at hand and the big picture. What I do have to say to everyone is that there is no problem with dreaming and being ambitious just as long as you aren't breaking any laws. And I am encouraging everyone to be ambitious and not focus on the unimportant things."
Being committed is what drives Phillipps to complete and conquer all that she has in her life. She acknowledged that she is very committed, sometimes too committed to the point where she has put her social life on the back burner.
Her Body
"When I entered Miss World in 2007, I was 150 pounds but now in 2010 I'm a healthy 128 pounds. I am not unhealthy nor am I underweight. I have researched my industry and found out what works for that industry so that I can meet the requirements to put Jamaica equal to the other international contestants. I have a strict regime to adhere to. There's gym in the mornings and kick-boxing in the evenings and that is how I got my body to change to what it is now in 2010, Phillipps emphatically stated.
She also got a nutritionist to work with her to ensure that she maintained a healthy lifestyle in preparation for the Miss Universe Pageant set for August 23 in Las Vegas.
Steadfast on her dream to do her nation proud, Phillipps will leave Jamaica in three weeks for Las Vegas for a series of events to culminate with the pageant. To end, Phillipps stated, "I am just looking forward to working with the Trump organisation."
One of the leading reggae shows, Irie Jamboree, held in New York has called it quits for this year.
In a release sent to THE STAR yesterday, it stated that the event's executive team made the decision to forgo the seventh-annual staging for this year and will be focusing on planning for the 2011 festival on Labour Day.
Earlier this year when contacted by THE STAR shortly after the announcement was made that Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Mavado and Aidonia, had their visas revoked, Bobby Clarke, CEO for Irie Jam Radio, said he was unsure of the future of Irie Jamboree and other reggae concerts in the US due to the visa cancellations.
Later, Anthony Turner, Marketing Consultant and Publicist for Irie Jamboree, said that the event would be held in September in New York, as he didn't believe the show would have to be cancelled because of unavailability of these artistes.
"As far as I know, the show is still on. Bounty hasn't performed at the show for four years. The only one that we consistently use is Beenie Man. But there are cultural acts that we could focus on and we could probably inject a little R&B," Turner had said.
Now in the release, the organisers stated five reasons that contributed to the cancellation of the show. Among them are the economic recession, the cancellation of artistes' visas and the incarceration of artistes.
high standards
The release stated, "Reggae artistes whose inspiring performances are usually at the core of any successful festival, have been affected by a number of well-publicised events that will hinder the delivery of an event that meets the usual high standards of an Irie Jamboree type, and the equally lofty inherent expectations of its concert goers. Primary among these are visa revocations and artistes incarcerations. Buju Banton- incarcerated; Beenie Man-no visa; Bounty Killer-no visa; Busy Signal-no visa; Mavado-no visa; Vybz Kartel-no visa; Ninjaman- incarcerated; Jah Cure-no visa; Sizzla-no visa and Luciano-no visa."
Other reasons include the 8 p.m. shut down that is imposed on the Roy Wilkins Park venue in Queens where the event is to be held.
The release said, "The New York City mayor's office through the 113th precinct in Queens, has issued orders for events in area parks to be concluded by 8 p.m. This puts tremendous pressure on particular promoters. The event is generally scheduled to end at 10 p.m. It is unreasonable to expect the team of professionals who plan and organise the concert, and whose resources are already strained to terminate the show at 10 p.m. even under the best of circumstances."
Another reason according to the release, is the overall climate in the industry in which they state that the reggae industry is at an all time low.
Other variables included, the siege in Tivoli, the release stating: "recent upheaval in western Kingston borne of the events surrounding the extradition of Christopher 'Dudus' Coke to the United States is an international incident that has had a plethora of adverse ripple effects throughout the diaspora, and implications across economies, from which very few have emerged unscathed."
It continued, "Suffice it to say that this has deemed this 2010 as being a less than opportune year for the concert promoting business. That said, we remain confident that Irie Jamboree 2011 will continue the trend in being the best, and most celebrated reggae concert in North America."
The Police have created an email address to which persons who are being extorted can email their reports.
In a release issued on Monday, the police encouraged persons who are victims of extortion, or who have been approached by extortionists, to contact the Operation Kingfish line, 811, or send messages to jcfantiextortion@gmail.com.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Operations Portfolio, Glenmore Hinds, said, "Trained police officers will answer your calls or reports of extortion when the Operation Kingfish 811 line is used. Persons using 811 to report any act of extortion are not required to give their names. Just give enough information for the police to start investigating and we will take it from there."
The acting DCP explained that it is difficult to secure convictions for the criminal act of extortion, and that is why the police are making this appeal for information.
"In addition to urging persons who are victims of extortion, or who have been approached by extortionists to use the facility of the secure Operation Kingfish telephone line, 811, we have also established an email address to further help persons who want to share information with the police. Persons making use of our email are not required to give their names, just the information," Hinds said.The police are expected to lay formal charges against a man whom they allege to be one of the main suspects in May's gun battles involving gunmen and the security forces in west Kingston.
The suspect, who has only been identified as 'Matthew Luna', was among 191 persons detained during an operation in Wilton Gardens, popularly known as 'Rema', on the weekend. Investigators believe he was one of hundreds of men who challenged the security forces during an offensive which was launched to restore law and order to west Kington and to nab the area's former don Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.
Sources also say he had been on the most wanted list in the Kingston West Division for sometime and was being sought in connection with a number of shooting and one case of murder.
A number of other wanted men from west Kingston addresses were also held in Manchester on the weekend.Fitzroy Gordon was told by Resident Magistrate Marcia Dunbar-Green that he needs to control his temper. He was then told to pay the complainant for the loss of his animals.
Facts before the court are that on February 15, Gordon's crops were eaten by the goats. After warning the owner, the accused man is said to have beheaded the goats.
A report was made to the Point Hill police and Gordon was charged with cruelty to animal.
He had pleaded guilty to the offence when the matter first came up for mention.
The court was told that the goats valued $26,000, however, after deducting the loss of his crop, the court ordered that he pay the difference of $14,000.
The accused man was not represented by an attorney when he appeared.
A woman who apparently sold her husband's car by forging his signature to finalise the sale appeared before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday.
Charged with conspiracy to deceive, obtaining goods by forged documents, uttering forged documents and forgery, is Rachel Seivewright.
Seivewright was represented by her attorney who told the court that his client was not ready to plea.
The court was told that Seivewright sold her husband's car without his permission in Portland and the vehicle had not been recovered to date.The court was further informed that Seivewright exchanged the car for another one.
Seivewright had to submit her fingerprints to the police and will return to court on August 23.The word 'stupid' in reference to the seven-member jury trying the conspiracy to murder case of May businesswoman 34-year-old Althea Morgan Carr and bar operator Stephen Smith, of May Pen, Clarendon, raised strong objection yesterday from Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Jeremy Taylor.
"The crown is fishing and hoping to think you have some stupid people out there," defence lawyer Michael Lorne said as he asked the jury to find that the crown had no case against the accused Smith who he is representing.
Taylor asked Lorne to withdraw the word but Lorne said at first that he was standing by what he said. When Supreme Court Judge Carol Lawrence Beswick intervened and asked Lorne if he were not going to respond to Taylor's objection. Lorne replied "I dont regard them (jury) as stupid perhaps stupid is a strong word".
conspiring to murder
The two accused are charged jointly with conspiring to murder inspector Lorraine Ellison between January and February 2005. Taylor and crown counsel Annette Austin led evidence at the trial in the Home Circuit Court that the policewoman had charged Morgan Carr in 2004 with possession of cocaine and attempting to export cocaine. It is being alleged that Morgan Carr plotted with some men to murder the policewoman because she said that was the only way she could be freed of the charges.
The main crown witness said Morgan Carr told her about the plot and asked her to go to the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on February 25, 2005 to point out the policewoman to Smith. The witness reported the plot to the police and Morgan Carr, Smith and two other men were held on February 25 shortly after they left the vicinity of the courthouse.
Lorne in his address to the jurors asked them to examine the passport which Smith tendered in evidence to show that in January he went to Barbados, overstayed and Morgan Carr had asked the main crown witness to get another passport for Smith.
Taylor in addressing the jury reminded them that the police said when they accosted the accused and other men on February 25, 2005, Morgan Carr said they were not plotting to murder the policewoman, they only wanted to beat her up. He called on the jury to accept the prosecution's case.THE son of the operator of Longville Park Farm in Clarendon, Philip Bunting, has offered an explanation as to how a man accused of stealing fish from the farm was able to stay under water for more than two hours as reported in last Wednesdays edition of Chat!.
According to Bunting g**** grows out about 1/12 ft into the water of 400 x 200 foot pond.
We knew he could be sticking his nose in the g**** hidden from view to catch breath from time to time, he explained, adding that in light of this he had 13 men stationed at various points around the pond watching to see when and if he surfaced.
According to Bunting four men were also walking around in the pond trying to flush him out.
Two times he was discovered, one felt his foot and another touch a part of his body and he swam awayyet in all of this his head never appeared on the waters surface, Bunting continued.
Bunting gave his explanation on the same day that Doctor Paul Wright suggested that the accused man could have used a reed to breathe while under the water during the ordeal.
You can use a drinking straw or a hollow reed and stay under water as long as you want to, the sports doctor explained.
Buy your copy of today's Chat! newspaper to read the full story...
A curfew has been imposed in sections of the East Kingston under the State of Emergency.
The curfew began at 4:00 am today and will remain in effect until 4:00 am Thursday.
The boundaries of the curfew are:
North along Langston Road between the foot of Long Mountain and Mountain View Avenue;
South along Windward Road and Commission Road between Portland Avenue and the foot of Long Mountain;
East along the western foot of Long Mountain between Longsford Road and Commission Road; and
West along Deanery Road, Langston Road, St James Avenue and Portland Road, between Windward Road and Mountain View Avenue.
During the hours of the curfew persons within its boundaries are required to remain within their premises unless otherwise authorised in writing by the ground commander.
Stoke's Ricardo Fuller rebuilds family home in Jamaica
While England's footballers have returned home in disgrace from the World Cup, and many are now enjoying luxury summer breaks, one Premier League player will be late back to pre-season training for a rather different reason.
Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller is in Jamaica, helping his family after the home he was raised in was destroyed during the recent riots in the country.
ZJ Liquid, real name Michael Brissett, may have found himself in trouble once again. Speculation is active as to whether disciplinary action will be taken against the popular ZJ after an incident that took place during his 'Fresh 2 Death' segment on Wednesday.
The ZIP FM disc jock played an unedited version of Andrew and Wada *lo**'s new song Beggy Beggy on Wednesday in which an expletive was aired. The ZJ immediately covered up the blunder by switching to another song but not before it was noticed by a number of listeners.
expletive on air
Playing an expletive on air is in direct violation of the Broadcasting Commission's rules and regulations. Since the incident the radio station has been playing apologies not naming which programme it happened on. Speculation has been going around as to whether the ZJ will be getting yet another suspension, especially after ZJ Ice filled Liquid's signature 2 p.m.- 6 p.m. slot yesterday.
Several attempts to reach both ZJ Liquid and ZIP FM's station manager D'Adra Williams were unsuccessful yesterday.
When contacted, Chad Young of IRIE FM, parent company of ZIP FM, told THE WEEKEND STAR that no information on the matter could be given at the moment and news will soon be made available to the public.
This will be Liquid's, second blunder since the start of the year. In February Liquid was suspended indefinitely for playing an unedited version of Aidonia's Love It on his show. The ZJ returned to air a month later.
During his absence from radio a 'Put ZJ Liquid back on air' group was formed on social networking site Facebook.com to protest his absence. Since its start in February the page has gained over 7,000 fans.
Yesterday on the page a fan commented, "Guys, I just heard an announcement on Zip about removing some individuals cause of unfit material being played and today di boss ain't on air! Anybody know if him good? Mi poor heart really cyaan tek di stress enuh."
On social networking site Twitter.com, the news of Liquid's absence from radio yesterday also got a few comments with one person stating, "... again, Liquid's gone again?" Liquid also recently started deejaying and shot a video for his song Party Haad at the Blaze Nightclub in Portmore, St Catherine.
Philip Hamilton, Gleaner Writer
Lawyers representing dancehall star Vybz Kartel are heading to court to seek compensation from the State for his detention.
Kartel, whose correct name is Adijah Palmer, spent a little more than two weeks in custody after he was detained under the state of emergency.
But attorney-at-law, Valerie Neita-Robertson, believes the State overstepped its bounds and she wants compensation for the artiste, who was finally released by the police about 7:30 p.m. last Friday.
According to Neita-Robertson, National Security Minister Dwight Nelson had signed an order on Tuesday, July 13, authorising the release of Kartel.
She told The Sunday Gleaner that her clients prolonged detention resulted in him losing several contracts, including a show he was booked to perform in in Nassau, Bahamas, yesterday.
No respect
They do not respect or regard authority. They have no respect for anybody, and this has to stop, said Neita-Robertson.
From what was told to me, utterances were made to certain media personnel by police officers that they were not releasing him until today (Saturday). I would draw a conclusion from that they didnt want him to meet this engagement, Neita-Robertson said
She alleged that the detention order which her client was served did not state a reason as to why he was being detained.
The attorney said while the polices interview with Kartel was very cordial, there was no specific offence which the police sought to question him about.
When an order is given under the law, then the law must have its course. Police cannot just decide that they are not doing what they are supposed to do and we sit back and accept it, an obviously upset Neita-Robertson told The Sunday Gleaner.
We want to cooperate and want crime to go down, but we will not put up with slackness.
Neita-Robertson charged that Kartel was not the only person who had been kept in police custody after the national security minister signed their release order.
She said several other persons, including women, were being illegally held by the police despite the order for their release.
The attorney said she had also been informed by the national security minister that one of her clients was to be released and placed under house arrest on the recommendation of the Emergency Powers Review Tribunal.
That was days ago, and it has not been carried out, said Neita-Robertson.
As one of dancehalls hottest acts around now, particularly with his hit Clarkes enjoying heavy rotation, Kartel demands, and is guaranteed, top dollar for each show.
Last week, his publicist, Claude Mills, said due to his incarceration, two shows in the Caribbean were postponed. The shows were scheduled to be held in The Bahamas and Trinidad on July 17 and 24, respectively.
He also missed Tidal Wave, which was held at Waves Beach in Portmore, St Catherine, one week ago, leaving his bank book millions of dollars lighter.
The shows include four in the region and 20 in Europe which were under negotiation. Kartel was detained July 2 and underwent intense questioning after turning himself to the Greater Portmore Police Station, some three days after the police named him and five other men as major persons of interest. His detention reflects another missed opportunity to deliver prolific tours or hefty record sales.
"There was Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica, one in Trinidad & Tobago, the Bahamas, and a potential booking for England," stated publicist Claude Mills in a recent telephone interview about Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer. "We were also finalising a 20 city tour in the Europe which is now in limbo," he added.
That tour included the major markets of France, Germany and the Netherlands. Notwithstanding, Mills was upbeat, stating that the authorities have not charged Kartel and that when released his performance fee will likely increase based on hightened demand. Kartel's five-day detention was extended to 30 days since July 8. The artiste was questioned in relation to criminal gangs in Portmore, St Catherine.
Kartel has not capitalised on his earning potential despite his popularity. Globally, Kartel represents one of the island's most visible music 'brands', evidenced by internet traffic which puts him currently as the third most searched deejay following Shaggy, Sean Paul and Damian Marley according to Google Trends search data. All artistes above Kartel, and even Matisyahu, on-par with Kartel, have sold at least 500,0000 records. Selling that many records require charting outside the reggae charts which has mainly eluded Kartel. His best result was number 76 on the R&B/Hip-Hop songs Chart with 'Ramping Shop' in 2009, according to Billboard.
The deejay also has not capitalised on touring the three largest music markets. His visa to the US -- the largest music market -- was revoked some five years ago. Second, Mills admitted that in nearly a decade Kartel hasn't toured Japan or continental Europe, which is the second and third largest music markets respectively. His core earnings therefore come from local and regional shows. But this avenue continues to be under threat as Kartel has been barred from performing in select Caribbean territories, the latest being St Lucia earlier this year. The denial of entry into markets isn't unique to Kartel as other deejays have been denied entry into the US and other Caribbean territories.
"Having lost his US visa has forced Kartel to change his spending habits. It was a blessing in disguise as it allowed him to enter various streams of business," stated Mills alluding to Kartel's label Adidjaheim Records, his branded liquor and condoms.
Music is an important part of the country's GDP. A recent World Intellectual Property Organisation study prepared by Dr Vanus James stated that Jamaica's copyright sector of which music activities form part, contributed $29 billion to the economy in 2005 or 4.8 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).
ONLY GOD KNOWS WHERE BRIDGEZ GET HAR CLOTHES
HI MUMZEL... YES BLACK HAIR FIT U CHILD BUT MI A BEG U DUH GO INA ONE SALON GO DO U HAIR... LADY O SHIN UP TOP WID DI FACE POWDER DAT DOW MATCH...MI NUH TINK DI CHINESE OPERA RUN SUH LATE... SKY JUICEEEEEEEEEEEE HOY MI NUH TINK DEM CARRY UR SIZE INA JERSEY SO U BETTA GIVE IT UPPPPPPPP MI NUH EVEN KNOW HOW U REACH INA IT
And dem go UWI and gwaan like dem is di most GYALLLISS!!!!! NOBODY WUDDA NEVA SUSPECT DEMMMM!! CAUSE DEM ITCH FI EVERY FRACK TAIL AND HAVE UP ALL STEADY WOMAN, WHILE DEM A DO DEM TING ON DI LOW.
A federal appeals court denied on FridayWesley Snipes' appeal for a 3 year prison sentence. Wesley Snipes based his appeal on the argument that the sentence was unreasonable and that he should be considered for a probation.
At the 2008 trial, the actor was found guilty of failing to file tax returns, and not guilty on federal tax fraud and conspiracy charges. A 3 year sentence is the maximum sentence Mr. Snipes could have received.
Judge William Terrell Hodges handed down the sentence, and allowed Mr. Snipes to remain free on bond until he is summoned to serve the sentence. The judge didn't say when will Wesley Snipes report to prison.
A member of Mr. Snipes' legal team said that they were hoping for a complete acquittal and that they will appeal the decision.
Jah Cure
Continuing on a disturbing trend, reggae artiste Jah Cure was a victim of an online scam recently.
His publicist Robert Nesta Morgan said the fraud was detected last week after Jah Cure's manager Delmar 'Della Danger' Drummond received a call.
"Delmar noticed it last week when a promoter from Belize called him asking for the dub that he paid for. Delmar was shocked. He told them to notify the police," Morgan told THE WEEKEND STAR.
He said the perpetrator has been using the social networking website, Facebook, to collect money illegally. Morgan said the crook directed persons wishing to get dubplates, jingles, general info and 45s or make bookings to universaljahcure@live.com, which is an email address that does not belong to Jah Cure.
"Dubs are very expensive and can cost as much as J$1.3 million (US$15,000) depending on the artiste. We know of one person so far. We don't know who else might have been a victim 'cause nobody else has approached us," Morgan said.
"Nothing like this has ever happened with Jah Cure before. All we can do is go to the police. We can't refund what we didn't take."
Since the incident, Drummond, who is also the CEO of Danger Zone Music Group, has issued a statement via his Facebook page.
victim to impersonation
In it he said: "Please note that the Facebook page that uses the email address, universaljahcure@live.com, is a fraud page. It has been brought to my attention that the scammers on this page are trying or have collected monies from potential clients of mine. Please 'only' Danger Zone management or Sobe Ent, along with Caribbean Ent, are authorised to handle Jah Cure's bookings. My sincerest apologies to whomever has fallen victim to this scam."
Morgan said an email was sent to the Facebook owners yesterday reporting the incident. And, the page also disappeared late yesterday evening.
Selector Foota Hype also fell victim to impersonation on Facebook only last month. The person on his fake profile seemed to be collecting money and was also causing other problems.
"I have received calls from foreign, weh people a ask me bout how mi a look dem woman pan Facebook, people calling me bout how must I be putting disrespectful comments about dem on my Facebook page, which I have no idea about because I have no Facebook profile," he told THE WEEKEND STAR.
But Jah Cure and Foota Hype are just the latest victims of Internet fraud. Last year, Twin of Twins and Laden suffered a similar fate on another social networking website, Myspace.
Robert Livingston - Contributed
Some promoters have come in for scathing criticism from Scikron/Big Yard CEO Robert Livingston with regards to their reluctance to seek permission from studios before they use their songs to promote events.
Livingston was speaking exclusively with THE WEEKEND STAR recently, shortly after the unauthorised use of one of the studio's most popular hits was used to promote an event that was held a few weeks ago.
The move by promoters, Livingston said, almost cost him, because at the time, he was negotiating for the song to be used in the campaign for the Smirnoff Dream Weekend, set for the Emancipation weekend in late July.
exploiting record
"A lot of promoters and people who are into exploiting record for commercial uses have to now look into now clearing the songs with the copyright's owner because this is what we live for," Livingston explained. "If I have a popular song and you can take it and do what you want with it and you don't help me to promote it in any way because sometimes they use these songs in a commercial and they think they are helping the song, but they're using a popular song. I have never heard them use a song that is not popular."
In this instance, the popular song that was used to promote the event was Richie Loop's My Cupp, a song which has dominated local charts and also doing well in several markets overseas.
"I had a deal that I had done with Smirnoff, and it doesn't look good that I have a deal with Smirnoff and then they just take my song and use it," Livingston said, the anger heavy in his tone.
He said that the use of My Cupp in the commercials jeopardized his agreement with Smirnoff.
"I went to them and said I haven't used the song in any other commercial and after I said that to them, two minutes later there is a commercial running on the radio," he said. "And I am like, where did this come from? They have no authorization to do that."
Repeated efforts to reach the promoters of the event failed.
What has to happen, if the entertainment industry is to be cleaned up, is that the rights of others need to be respected. "Not just on music," he said. "We need to start looking into those things because our market is small and you have people who live directly off their music. I don't want to say my thing is exclusive, whether it's money or I just give you the rights to use it, something has to be done."
Livingston opined that the music industry in Jamaica is becoming more organised and everyone is recognising that players in the industry are losing big on the financial side of the business. "So whatever ways that the music can be used in branding other similar means it's a form of income, so when someone deprives you of that it's taking away a big portion of your income."
a so it go nuh?? 
Spain beat the Netherlands 1-0 in extra time last night to win soccers World Cup for the first time, becoming the only champion to take the trophy after starting the tournament with a loss.
The Netherlands, which finished as runner-up in 1974 and 1978, had entered the final after winning all six games in route to the final and all eight qualifying matches.
The best
team has won, Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk told Dutch television NOS. Im disappointed. I thought we could make it to penalties.
The game began after an hour-long closing ceremony that culminated with an appearance from former South Africa president Nelson Mandela.
Referee Howard Webb produced five yellow cards in the first half, more than the combined number of shots the teams had on target. Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas was forced to tip the ball over in the 33rd minute when Wesley Sneijder's pass, played back for the goalkeeper to restart play, kicked off the turf.
Webb brandished two more yellow cards in the first 12 minutes after the break
The Netherlands had the first two scoring chances of the second half. Heitinga headed Sneijders free kick past the goalpost and Casillas saved from Arjen Robben with his legs when the Dutch forward was clear on goal.
Spains David Villa then had two shots that were blocked and Ramos headed over from 12 yards in the 77th minute. Robben went clear on goal six minutes later after holding off Carles Puyol and Casillas raced out to gather the ball, ensuring the teams were tied 0-0 after 90 minutes.
Cesc Fabregas had two chances for Spain in the first extra period before Heitinga was sent off for his second yellow card with 11 minutes remaining following a foul on Iniesta just outside the penalty area.
With the match heading for a penalty shootout, Iniesta won it for his team with four minutes remaining when he volleyed past Stekelenburg.
Stage Name: Vanessa Bling aka Gaza Slim
Real Name: Vanessa Saddler
Birth Month: February
How did you get started in the business?
Gaza Slim: Well a friend of mine introduced me to a friend, and that friend introduced me to Vybz Kartel. We did start link and ting and everything was good, that was in January, and we did Clarks in February.
What has been your greatest challenge in the business yet?
Gaza Slim: Well, so far, I don't have no great challenge yet in the business
What have you been up to lately?
Gaza Slim: Well, recording singles and working hard. I've been recording for Notnice and Don Corleon for singles like Roll We Weed, you know One Man already and there's Mean Man.
Do you look up to any specific artiste and why?
Gaza Slim: Mi look up to every artiste but from mi young mi idol dem a Beyoncé and Vybz Kartel.
Are you happy with the way things are going for your musical career right now?
Gaza Slim: Yes, most definitely, very proud of myself and first and foremost I have to give thanks to God, 'cause widdout him nutten would be possible.
Do you have any advice for young artistes coming up?
Gaza Slim: Do your best and do everything to the best of your ability, focus and be determined.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Gaza Slim: In the future, I want to own a housing scheme, and be doing great music that everyone can listen and relate to.
The Greatest festival on Earth is right around the corner and it's an event that cannot be missed.
With international acts like Chris Brown and Usher, who has the ladies swooning, to local acts like D'Angel, Beenie Man and QQ among others, the event has amassed quite a following this year especially with the younger generation.
To ensure that the concert guarantees ultimate satisfaction, we have compiled a list of the Top-five necessities for the festival.
1. Money - Just in case anything might happen, women need to ensure they 'have you money up' especially all the independent ladies. You never know what might happen at any point in time and it's always good to have your 'get vex money' to chart your own course.
2. Super Hot Outfits - All the paparazzi are out at those festivals, both local and international, so this might be the place to stamp your mark as a fashionista! All three nights carry very different flavours so come dressed to impress you never know when you might be caught on camera!!! So hair - check! Nails - check! Make up - check! And if you have any problems with the looks for the festival, keep reading THE STAR for updates and advice.
3. Comfortable shoes - So we know that you have really hot stilettos but ladies come on, it's really not cute getting stuck in the g****! With so many trendy flats out this spring/summer season you really can't go wrong.
From strappy, funky gladiators to sizzling calf high boots (flat ones of course), there are so many options to make your hot outfits, uber! Bridget Sandals are also very trendy to pair with any outfit. P.S. If you do decide to wear six inch heels, carry a fold out chair to sit down during intervals because though you may look cute in your outfit, the aching feet and blisters at the end of the night isn't so cute.
4. Know the lyrics to all your favourite songs - Certified divas let me hear you scream for Chris Brown, Usher, Shaggy, Beenie Man, and the list goes on!
Know the songs, it feels great when you can sing them line by line who knows they (artistes) might just pick you out of the crowd to join them onstage or throw you that towel that was used to mop their brow.
5. Great company - walk with your clique! It will be so much more fun when you are lyming, jamming and hanging out with your friends rather than being all by yourself! P.S. Don't forget to bring your camera to be the first to Facebook and Tweet the memories.
Reggae duo Chaka Demus and Pliers are suing International recording label Universal Music Group for a whopping (J$860 million) US $10 million in unpaid royalties and trademark infringement.
According to ABC News the suit was filed this week by the reggae duo's lawyers claiming that Universal Music Group, misappropriated and diverted monies owed to the act that had major hits, including Murder She Wrote, Tease Me and Twist and Shout.
The suit, ABC News says, was filed at the US District Court for the Southern District of New York in Manhattan under the artistes' real names John Taylor (aka Chaka Demus) and Everton Bonner (aka Pliers). The artistes claimed in the suit that they signed a worldwide recording deal with Universal-owned label Island Records on October 22 1992, which allowed the artistes to retain all rights to the trademark Chaka Demus and Pliers.
It said Universal Music had "withheld the monies and royalties payments" from the inception of the contract. Not only are the two reggae stars asking for a court award of more than US $10 million, but also demanding an injunction ordering Universal Music to cease the sale, production and performances of the their music.
ABC news attempted to make contact with a spokesman for Universal Music Group but was unsuccessful. Universal Music Group is the world's largest music company and is owned by French media giant Vivendi SA.
For the first time in Digicel Rising Stars' history, Jamaica had its say in who would become the host of the competition and Jamaica chose Lady Rennae from a field of five host hopefuls.
Rennae says she is excited and humbled by her selection and notes Jamaica is in for an exciting ride this season.
Lady Rennae says when she received the call that she was chosen as the new host she was overcome with joy.
"When I found out, I ran outside screaming. The phone rang, I answered the phone, and it was Sharon, my mother was beside me, my friends and my neighbours were also there. Sharon was telling me about the voting process and then she said 'Jamaica chose you as the next Digicel Rising Stars host'. I made a whole heap of noise, my mother heard and she screamed also. The only thing that was missing was a couple pot covers."
Hosting the Digicel Rising Stars show has been a dream for Lady Rennae for many years and now that it has finally come through she says Jamaica should look forward to a great year as she fulfils her role as host.
"I'm the mere facilitator on stage between the judges and the contestants. For me, it's an advancement and enhancement of vibes on the show. Digicel Rising Stars has the potential to take on different shapes and forms. Don't get me wrong, the show has a particular structure, but in terms of the personality they put to the fore, with me they'll get someone very bubbly and very down to earth. I'm very expressive, very unscripted and when that meets the scripted Digicel Rising Stars format - that will be a wicked mix."
Rennae says finally getting the Digicel Rising Stars' mic as she hosted the first live show on Sunday July 4 was an overwhelming experience.
"I was trying not to cry when the producers called my name and when I saw my audition on the screen I was overwhelmed, I was trying not to choke up. I was overwhelmed but not in a way I couldn"t handle. Normally I'm at home watching this, on Sunday the people in the audience were a part of the live show and I was the host, it was overwhelming."
Rennae says she's grateful for the support everyone gave her during the campaign to become the next Digicel Rising Stars' host and she's even appreciative of those people who weren't so supportive.
"Much much love and appreciation to the people who supported me, voted for me, rub off them fingertip, words can't express just how grateful I am to them. And to the people who tried to tear me down based on the fact that I wasn't their favourite, nuff respect to you and I respect your opinion and that's fine."
Lady Rennae says viewers can expect real Jamaican vibes this season as she adds her flare and personality to the popular talent show.
The highly anticipated 2010 Heineken Green Synergy competition kicked off on a vibrant note with the staging of the auditions last weekend and Monday of this week.
The auditions were hosted at Beavers in Mandeville, Pier One in Montego Bay and the Quad Night Club in Kingston. Based on the remarkable talents on show, it was evident that this year's competition will be very exciting as it brought out some very skilled and enterprising DJs.
In Mandeville on Friday, it was DJ 47 who stood out above the other entrants and will certainly be making a strong bid for the Championship. Using vinyl through the 'final scratch system', DJ 47 delighted the judges, Alric and Boyd of Fame FM and the crowd on hand with some dazzling turn table skills.
Being the last DJ to play, it was really refreshing to see 47 in action. Of note, DJ Chungy who made it to the finals last year as well as quarter finalist DJ Posey, both from Mandeville, didn't enter.
In Montego Bay the following day it was the reverse of what took place in Mandeville as one of the best on show in terms of skills played first in DJ Monk.
Like DJ 47 he used vinyl (final scratch) and turned up the heat at Pier One with some creative mixes and eye catching turn table skills.
Other DJs who impressed on the day included Margaritaville's DJ Yaro, a protégé of former winner DJ Nikko of Fame FM. In his second years as a DJ it was amazing the level of skills he displayed compared to others who have been in the business much for much longer.
DJ Yaro's mixing skills were impeccable and he played a very entertaining set. His Margaritaville co- worker DJ Blue was also impressive. Entering for the second time DJ Blue seemed more focussed and better prepared and did enough to impress the judges.
Also entering from the Mobay leg were last year's quarter finalist DJ Force Ripe of Hanover and the exciting **** Lee of St Ann, both of whom did well.
Kingston drew the biggest turn-out for the auditions. Last year's semi-finalist DJ Naz turned out in top form and gave a very entertaining set. Once again carrying the tag as the lone female in the competition, Naz will certainly be looking to go all the way this time.
Last year's entrant Ricky Eminence who made it to the radio round also did well. Ricky seemed a more composed and experienced DJ this season.
The format for the 2010 Heineken Green Synergy competition has changed with this year set to be more interesting. It will be a reality TV show which will be aired on TVJ.
"This year will be very exciting where the competitors will live and experience the life of a DJ. We will also have an international acclaimed guest judge which will add tremendously to this year's competition," Heineken's brand manager Keri-Ann McKenzie disclosed.
Co-sponsors for the 2010 Heineken Green Synergy competition are Claro, TVJ, FAME FM, Jamaica Observer, Chat! and Doritos
A COURT in the United States (US) has rejected a request from reggae superstar Buju Banton to be tried separately from his two co-accused.
Buju, whose correct name is Mark Myrie, had applied to the US District Court in the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, to have his trial separated from Ian Thomas and James 'Spencer Clarke' Mack on the basis that this could be the reason the trial was being delayed.
But in an oral ruling, the court denied the request while siding with the prosecution, which had argued that the general rule was that defendants who are jointly indicted should be tried together, particularly in conspiracy cases.
"It would impair both the efficiency and the fairness of the criminal justice system to require, in all these cases of joint crimes where incriminating statements exist, that prosecutors bring separate proceedings, presenting the same evidence again and again, requiring victims and witnesses to repeat the inconvenience (and sometimes trauma) of testifying," the prosecution claimed.
"(This) would randomly favour the last-tried defendants who have the advantage of knowing the prosecution's case beforehand," argued the prosecution successfully.
The trial is now set to begin in early September with the start date to be set at a status conference on August 4.
Government prosecutors are expected to take three to four days to present their arguments, while the defence is expected to take three days to present its case.
Buju and his two co-accused were arrested late last year and charged with conspiracy with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
The three have been in custody since then awaiting trial.
There is a bizarre twist to the probe into May's police/military operation in West Kingston in which scores of persons were killed.
An investigation is being carried out into the disappearance of one of the bodies of the victims who died during the controversial three day incursion.
Earl Witter, Public Defender, Tuesday night revealed that the body of a man, which was to be autopsied, cannot be found after it was taken to a private morgue situated in downtown Kingston.
The Office of the Public Defender and the Bureau of Special Investigations are monitoring the search for the corpse.
Mr. Witter says attempts to trace it have so far been unsuccessful.
This body has to be traced, x-rayed and autopsied like all the others. Finger prints, photos and other indicia peculiars for this body have already been recorded what is necessary now is for us to find the corpse so the autopsy can be done, he said.
Public Morgue needed
News of the missing corpse follows last week's completion of autopsies on more than 70 bodies of persons who died when members of the security forces and criminals clashed during the three day operation in West Kingston.
Some of the bodies have been released for burial.
According to Mr. Witter, the incident highlights the critical need for a Public Morgue.
What all this points to is the urgent need for a state of the art pubic facility to store bodies like these so we dont have to depend on the private sector to provide an important service of this sort, he said.
Relatives getting help with burials
In the meantime, Mr. Witter says his office has made progress with its request for state assistance in the burial of some of the persons who died during the West Kingston operation.
While not able to say how many of the relatives have asked for help, Mr. Witter said the Ministry of Social Security has been approached to provide assistance.
We try to ensure that all who approach us for assistance get some assistance. The Ministry of Social Security, the Social Development Commission and the PATH Programme are also assisting.
PORT ANTONIO, Portland Two men -- a United States citizen and a British Virgin Islands (BVI) national -- are now in the custody of the Port Antonio police after they were found in the Portland waters on-board a yacht that was allegedly stolen in the BVI.
The 37-foot luxury yacht, named Ruby and which was built in 2008, was allegedly chartered on July 1 for a seven-day cruise around the the coastline of Tortola, BVI's capital.
However, the renters allegedly failed to return the vessel on schedule and a tracking device alerted its owner that it had left BVI waters.
Local police said they intercepted the vessel two miles south-east of the Folly Lighthouse at about 12:30 pm on Saturday and detained the two male occupants. The yacht has been seized by Jamaica's Customs Department.
The owner of the yacht arrived in Jamaica on Tuesday from Tortola to assist in the investigations, the police said.
THE Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) this afternoon issued a statement, saying the party has no current contractual relationships with either Manatt, Phelps & Phillips or Harold Brady and Company since the effective termination of those arrangements.
The party did not in any way advance to Harold Brady & Company any funds or facilitated Harold Brady & Company in making this recently disclosed payment of US$15,000, the party, through public relations committee chairman Andrew Holness, said.
We have since confirmed that this payment was made directly by Harold Brady & Company as a final payment for the commercial obligations that existed as a result of the termination of the contract for services and which fell to the account of Harold Brady & Company, the party said.
The JLPs response comes a day after news surfaced that the American law firm had revealed that the State paid it US$15,000 more for lobbying work on its behalf than was previously disclosed.
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips is the same law firm that JLP affiliates reportedly hired, after being given approval by Prime Minister Bruce Golding, to lobby the United States government on the extradition request for former West Kingston 'don' Christopher 'Dudus' Coke, which was made last August.
A curfew has been imposed in the St Andrew communities of Papine, Kintyre and August Town under the current State of Emergency.
The curfew began at 4:00 am today and will remain in effect until 4:00 am Friday.
The boundaries of the curfew are;
North along an imaginary line from Papine Square to Kintyre;
South along an imaginary line along the foot of Long Hill Mountain, between the August Town Quarry and Princess Alice Drive;
East along the Bedward Gardens Main Road between Kintyre and August Town Quarry; and
West along Hermitage Main Road, University Drive and Golding Avenue, between Papine Square and Princess Alice Drive.
During the hours of the curfew persons within its boundaries are required to remain within their premises unless otherwise authorised in writing by a member of the security forces, who is in charge of enforcing the curfew.
Internet auction site EBay is being sued for $3.8 billion for allegedly infringing on patents held by XPRT Ventures LLC for its payment systems. XPRT Ventures, which represents holders of the patents, on Tuesday sued eBay and its subsidiaries PayPal Inc., Bill Me Later Inc., Shopping.com Inc. and StubHub Inc. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court in Delaware.
XPRT, based in Greenwich, Conn., accuses eBay of violating six patents that let shoppers make purchases online using alternative forms of payment instead of their credit cards, among other processes.
EBay did not immediately return a call for comment.
XPRT's attorneys say the patent holders aren't seeking an injunction but want to be "fairly compensated" for their ideas.
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