Forum: News & Topical Issues
TENSION CAUSES HUGE LOSSES DOWNTOWN - One vendor claims 90% decline in sales (star News)
Several store owners and vendors in downtown Kingston are claiming staggering losses since the announcement of the signing of the extradition request for Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.
The business operators and vendors said they have suffered depressed sales since Monday, with one person even claiming a 90 per cent reduction.
"Nutten nuh gwaan down deh. Wi nuh get fi do no business down deh. Wi haffi pack up back 'cause nobody nah risk dem life because a wah di media seh," one operator said.
The shoe vendor said: "It mash up business bad. It a guh tek a long while fi pick up back. Wi lose 90 per cent a wi sales. Mi a sell down ya 'bout 15 years now and all when war and something a gwaan mi neva see nobody nuh down ya so."
A wholesale operator told THE WEEKEND STAR he has been experiencing a 60 per cent loss. He said that since Monday, far less persons have come downtown.
"On a Tuesday or Wednesday, which is usually a slow day, I could make $15,000, however, since Monday, I could only make $7,000. Most of my clients are afraid to come downtown since the issue," he said.
Another woman, who runs a liquor store, said she has been suffering dramatic loses. "Business has been really slow, I am making a loss, in a nutshell I have made a 50 per cent loss since the issue. Normally, I could make $50,000 on a regular day, however, things are not the same," she said.
Another liquor store owner, however, shared a different view, indicating things have not changed for him since Monday. He said everything has been great and he has not experienced any change.
"Business a run man, things a improve, nuh body nah badda mi, everything smooth. The only problem is things a get tight and nuh money nah run 'cause people a lose dem work cause a di recession," he said.
When contacted by THE WEEKEND STAR, Milton Samuda, president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, also said that he has not received any complaints from his members. "Things are more or less back to normal," he said.
He said a few places had shut their doors early yesterday, but attributed that to the march conducted by residents of Tivoli Gardens.
Samuda said: "Even though the mood and the situation is tense", he hoped people would now be able to go about their normal business.
Sprinting sensation Usain Bolt strikes a pose while wearing a Hublot watch during the announcement of a partnership between the Olympic and World 100m and 200m champion and the Swiss watchmaking company yesterday in Shanghai, China.
The world's fastest man Usain Bolt yesterday signed a deal with luxury watchmaker Hublot Geneve to become the latest in a cadre of top-level sportsmen and women who are currently endorsing the products of the Swiss company.
Bolt, who entertained fans in Daegu, North Korea on Wednesday, speeding to a world-leading 9.86 in the 100m, was extremely happy with the partnership and said: "I am delighted to be an ambassador for Hublot and join some great ambassadors such as Manchester United, Diego Maradonna and Ayrton Senna. I look forward to working together in the future and I hope my times continue to get faster with Hublot," said Bolt.
the perfect ambassador
In a release, Hublot described the double world-record holder as the perfect ambassador for their line of products.
"For Hublot, he is not only an outstanding sportsman, but also a man with a naturally sunny disposition, who shares his gifts with humility. Like Bolt, Hublot is dedicated to the value of sharing, and is committed to sharing the company's own success and making a contribution to support those who are less fortunate. Usain, for his part, is personally involved in a number of children's foundations, particular in Jamaica," the statement read.
"The 23-year-old Jamaican athlete turned sports theories upside down when he picked up three world records in 2008, breaking his own personal best with alarming ease. Usain has the makings of a true champion, he combines exceptional physical qualities with the relaxed and generous attitude of the bon vivant, enjoying games and dancing in his spare time," the statement continued. "He proved his star quality in 2009 and 2010 when he won the sports equivalent of an Oscar at the Laureus Sports Awards, the most important honorary distinction in the international sporting calendar."
Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot, also expressed pride with the brand's association with the Olympic and World 100m and 200m champion.
"It is hugely symbolic for a watchmaker to see his watch worn by the fastest man in the world! the concept of time is sacred for him and for us ... . We measure time, Usain always seems to outrun it," said Biver.
Other popular figures who endorse the Hublot line of time-pieces are legendary songwriter/performer Lionel Richie and record producer The Dream.
Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus driver Annette Howard (left) admires a photograph of herself at the American Airlines jet wreck in December, while her colleague, Roger Jones, looks on. Howard was lauded by The Gleaner Company for her heroic efforts in rescuing some of the victims of the crash in January. - Winston Sill
Annette Howard, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) bus driver who assisted more than 100 passengers of an American Airline plane which overran the runway at the Norman Manley International Airport in December, will have her dream come true this week.
She and her family left for Disney World, Orlando, Florida, yesterday, fulfilling a wish she expressed to Prime Minister Bruce Golding when she paid a courtesy call on him.
long-time dream
The Ministry of Transport and Works made the disclosure in a release issued Tuesday
In the face of extreme personal danger, Howard, who was first on the crash scene, scrambled to get more than 100 of the distraught passengers into her bus and drove them to safety at the airport police station.
The PM gave instruction then, for the necessary efforts to be made to help Howard accomplish her long-time dream. Through a concerted effort, a five-day trip was realised for Howard and her family. This involved securing United States visas for family members and sponsorship to cover the cost of air transportation, hotel accommodation and tickets to Disney World. Their other travel expenses are being met by the JUTC.
The visitors, along with a family member from Florida, in the capacity of a chaperone, will be accommodated at Holiday Inn, Orlando, located within the Walt Disney World Resort, from where they will have access to all the Walt Disney theme parks. They return to Jamaica on Labour Day, Monday, May 24.
In the face of extreme personal danger, Howard, who was first on the crash scene, scrambled to get more than 100 of the distraught passengers into her bus and drove them to safety at the airport police station.
Residents from the 5 East section of Greater Portmore, St Catherine, are still wondering if their jungle justice was enough to deter several men who have being robbing them on bicycles at nights.
According to the residents, for sometime now the men on bicycles have been a menace to the community. So they recently took matters into their own hands.
Last Thursday, they attacked the armed men which resulted in the death of one of them while the others escaped unarmed.
Police reports are that about 9:30 p.m., three men armed with guns and knives robbed several persons in the community. An alarm was made and the residents are said to have attacked the men.
One of the alleged robbers was held, chopped and stabbed. He later died after being taken to the Spanish Town Hospital.
The deceased is unidentified and is said to be in his early '20s, dark complexion, slim build and five feet, six inches tall. The St Catherine North police continue their investigation in apprehending the other men.
The residents in explaining their frustration which led to the attack on the men said; "As dem rob one deh so, a suh dem rob another one over yah suh."
Another resident told THE WEEKEND STAR that in one incident the men went as far as to rob an entire bus stop of people as they waited for transportation.
"Can you believe sey dem go a waan bus stop and rob every single body. No one was spared," said another resident.
Clive Blair, deputy superintendent of the St Catherine South Division, told THE WEEKEND STAR that the police had been aware of the activities of the robbers.
The senior officer told THE WEEKEND STAR that the men have operated with and without their bicycles.
Demonstrators from west Kingston put a wig on this dog as they protested along Spanish Town Road yesterday. - Ian Allen
Thousands of angry west Kingston residents took to the streets in protest yesterday as they sought to rubbish reports that they were being held hostage.
The protesters, mainly women, also openly voiced their support for Christopher 'Dudus' Coke and even say they will die for him.
"A lie them a tell," said one woman who formed part of the almost 400 angry protesters in front of the Denham Town Police Station.
The protest comes a day after police said residents were being held hostage inside Tivoli and Denham Town and their phones had been confiscated.
"See it deh, we come out. Wi nuh know weh di police get fi dem story from. A lie them a tell. We a nuh hostage and nobody nuh tek weh wi phone," said one woman as she and others around her showed their cellphones to THE WEEKEND STAR.
Shouts of "No Dudus, no Jamaica", "No Dudus, no downtown" and "We want Prezi", echoed through the streets of downtown Kingston as the residents walked to Gordon House. They eventually marched back to Tivoli Gardens close to midday gathering just in front the Denham Town Police Station.
Most were clad in white shirts, which they describe as a symbol of peace and unity. "Wi a try show seh is not just a political ting wi a deal wid 'cause a love, peace and unity Prezi seh, so wi naw wear no green, a white wi seh," one woman explained.
One woman created quite a stir as she chose to expose her feelings and her private parts by pulling down her shorts for everyone to see.
Ce'Cile - File
Ce'Cile continues to chart success overseas with news now emerging that her hit single Hot Like We that spent weeks atop the German Black Charts has now been added to the mega-compilation album Bravo Black Hits Vol.21. The Bravo Hits is an annual compilation of the hottest urban hits in that country.
Ce'Cile joins a host of international acts that have songs on the album including Bob Sinclair, Jordan Sparks, Sean Kingston, Peter Fox, Sean Paul, Kanye West and Keri Hilson.
But the dancehall bad gyal is not done there. Her song Talk Talk just debuted at number 38 on the German R&B charts. Talk Talk is the third single released from the German version of her Badgyal album. The song has also been added to the playlist of Jam FM, Germany's biggest urban radio station. "It's nice to once again be on the charts in Germany. Hopefully Talk Talk will get to number one like Hot Like We and do much better and make it to the pop charts as well," she said.
The hard-working entertainer has proven to be quite popular in Europe. Between April and May, she performed at a number of events in Marmande, Toulousse and Lyon in France and at Cologne and Manheim in Germany to very positive reviews.
a bigger impact
However, her plans include making a bigger impact in the United States market. She recently returned from a successful tour of California that included stops in San Francisco, Eureka and Los Angeles.
From there, she went straight to performances in St Lucia and last weekend in St Maarten. While in St Maarten, she sold out the Club Secrets nightclub. Patrons in St Maarten tell THE WEEKEND STAR that scores of persons were turned away after the event was sold out. It was the first time this has happened at the venue for DJ Blaze's Top A Di Top concert series.
But all that is not enough for the entertainer as she continues recording singles for release while working on her new album. Some of her new songs include the provocative but totally radio friendly Coffee that was produced by Kool Face and Nu Betta No Out De produced by Demarco.
She also recently shot the video for her hit reggae ballad Anything that was produced by Don Corleon on the Feminine Rhythm. The video is to premiere this week.
Leftside - Contributed
Stage Name: Leftside
Real Name: Craig Parks
Birth Month: June
How did you get started in the business?
Leftside: Well, I grew up in a very musical home with my father Lloyd Parks (Lloyd Parks And We The People Band) so I've always had great love for the music. Seeing my father playing for so many great artistes, I decided I wanted to be a part of it.
I started off by playing drums at the age of four years old. I also played drums in my father's band when I was 17 years old. I was a part of it for five years. Then I started making rhythms, that's when a lot started to happen for me. I made tracks for Elephant Man, Bounty Killer, Sizzla, Vybz Kartel etc.
What has been your greatest challenge in the business yet?
Leftside: My greatest challenge was when I went solo from the group Leftside and Esco.
What have you been up to lately?
Leftside: Well, my record label (Keepleft Records) has been doing very well, locally, and mostly internationally. I have two artistes on the label, Keida and Syon. My latest project is the 'Unconditional' rhythm, which has two tracks. Unconditional by me (Leftside) and the next track is Trouble by Keida.
Do you look up to any specific artiste and why?
Leftside: Well, I would have to say Shaggy! Simply because he shows hard work and he will never turn down an interview, which is important to any artiste promo-wise. He has good work ethics.
Are you happy with the way things are going for your musical career right now?
Leftside:I'm happy but not comfortable, because there will always be room for improvement and we learn something new everyday. There is a lot I have not achieved as yet so I am still working hard.
Do you have any advice for young artistes coming up?
Leftside: Stay focused and stay true to the sound of Jamaican music, whether dancehall or reggae, and remember it starts with the love for the music.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Leftside: In movies! Acting. That's after the Grammys and Keepleft Records being a crossover label.
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The man, who is known also by his alias "Chemist", was the liaison officer for Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, JLP Member of Parliament for South Trelawny, was shot and his body set on fire in a cane field. It is understood that just after 8 o'clock Thursday night "Chemist" was driving his Nissan Sunny motor car on the Clarke's Town main road when he was intercepted by a white Toyota Corolla motor car. "Chemist" reportedly swerved into the cane field to escape his pursuers but the occupants of the Corolla opened fire on Nissan Sunny before setting it ablaze. The car was gutted and "Chemist" was reportedly burnt beyond recognition. The white Toyota Corolla motor car was found abandoned about half a mile from the crime scene. Investigators are looking into a possible link to Wednesday's fatal shooting of four men by the police in Falmouth Gardens. And Karl Samuda, JLP General Secretary, says he is disturbed by Thursday night's incident in Clarke's Town. "It just indicates the level of savagery and absolute unnecessary violence that has become so typical of our everyday life. We really regret it because this is someone who had worked very closely with the Member of Parliament," he said. |
LOS ANGELES, USA (AP) -- Ex-rap music mogul Marion 'Suge' Knight has been arrested in Los Angeles for investigation of assault with a deadly weapon.
Police say the co-founder of Death Row Records was stopped by California Highway Patrol officers in suburban Gardena about 12:30 am Thursday. Officer April Harding says someone had called police an hour earlier to report Knight had pointed a gun at him in South Los Angeles.
The 45-year-old was driving a white Cadillac Escalade when he was stopped and handed over to Los Angeles police. Besides assault, he was held on a warrant alleging he drove with a suspended licence.
A call to Knight's attorney, Marc Brumer, was not immediately returned.
Some Labour Party members embar****ed by 'Dudus' drama
As the ongoing extradition drama over west Kingston stongman Christopher 'Dudus' Coke continues to shift from the streets to the legal arena, nervous members of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) are admitting that they are embar****ed that a small community continues to hold the nation under siege. The members asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter.
"I am embar****ed that the country has been forced to adopt a wait-and-see attitude as Jamaicans remain unsure about the plans of the people of Tivoli Gardens," a senior member of the JLP commented.
"And it is a community that is represented by the prime minister. I am so embar****ed that he is powerless to do anything about it," the member declared.
Another government member commented: "I have never seen this in all my years - one citizen holding a country at ransom."
The statements seemed to have served as a precursor to the massive protest by residents of Tivoli Gardens on the outskirts of the community.
A JLP member noted that most of the events planned for this week have either been postponed or cancelled as the Government and the nation put business on hold becasue of the uncertainty over the stability of country.
Yesterday, the Ministry of Education dispatched a statement advising students living in western Kingston who are sitting the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Exami-nation and are experiencing problems getting to and from examination centres to, where possible, stay with relatives and/or friends outside the area until calm is restored.
The ministry has already made arrange-ments for examinations scheduled to be held at schools in western Kingston to be moved to other locations.
Golding's powers questioned
Shouts of "no Presi, no prime minister" and "no Presi no Jamaica," by protesters yesterday, raised the question of the Golding's powers in the constituency he represents.
Presi - short for President - is one of the monikers applied to Coke.
"Imagine, we have more than an 8,000-policeman-and-woman force and thousands more in the army, including the reserves, and the country is held under siege by one community.
"How long can this continue to happen?" the member asked. "What is the plan that is being executed with the forces that we have?"
The JLP member said the Minister of National Security Dwight Nelson's call for calm, along with his reassurance that members of security are equipped to maintain order, seems lame.
Another member of the JLP says the prime minister urgently needs to put the Manatt, Phelps & Phillips issue to rest by removing those who compromised their positions.
"The situation is out of hand, a bold and courageous move is a necessary to start to bring an end to the ongoing issue including crushing the garrisons.
Hes 22-year-old Michael Christopher Burton, who the police say was a breakaway member of the One Order Gang.
Superintendent of the Division, Assan Thompson, says a team was on operation around 9 a.m. yesterday morning in the Marl Road area of the community, when on approaching a group of men, the police were fired on.
Superintendent Thompson says the police returned the fire and the men ran into bushes and headed towards the bank of the Rio Cobre.
He says the police gave chase and another gun battled ensued.
Burton was found suffering from gunshot wounds.
According to the police, a magazine containing seven 9milimetre cartridges was found beneath his body.
In the meantime, the St. Catherine North police are seeking the publics help in locating two persons of interest.
Theyre Kiddo Russell and another man known only as War Chi
Distant Relatives, the joint album by rapper Nas and deejay Damian Marley has secured top-10 spots in the US, UK, France, Germany and Canada on iTunes Reggae charts since its Tuesday release date, but it still can't debunk Legend, the catalogue album by Bob Marley from the # 1 slot.
In fact, the album released on Universal Republic Records, a division of UMG Recordings -- has yet to crack the top-10 iTunes hip-hop or rap charts which would indicate early cross-over success. Up to Thursday, the album was charting in:
*the US at #2 which is the world's largest music market; and
*Canada at #8.
However Legend by Damian's father reggae icon Bob Marley remains at #1 in the US in addition to 15 other iTunes country markets despite being released over 20 years ago.
Singles from the Nas and Marley 14-track album are also charting in:
*Canada # 1 and #8 with Patience and My Generation;
*US at # 5 and #10 with Patience and Nah Mean;
*UK at #2 and #9 with Strong Will Continue and Nah Mean;
*France at #6 with Ancient People; and
*Germany #8 with Strong Will Continue.
On Tuesday, the 2005 single, Road to Zion from the Welcome to Jamrock album was charting in the UK at #8, it was the first collaboration between both artistes which sparked the Distant Relatives album.
Digital sales are significant as they account for one-third of global music sales and the Apple-owned iTunes is the leading online music store accounting for 70 per cent of world-wide digital sales according to Reuters and Billboard. The album has been categorised on iTunes in the genres of Reggae, Hip-Hop and Rap.
Rapper Nas and deejay Marley officially released their first video on Monday which aired on the US based show, BET 106 & Park. The duo stated on their Myspace.com page that the album is not aimed at being commercial, however it was highly anticipated for over a year.
"What we're about to do right now is go back. Back to a time when rap's greatest hits were created in basement soundrooms, not corporate boardrooms. When dancehall and hip-hop music was all about moving the crowd not moving units," a joint statement read.
The youngest son of Reggae legend Bob Marley, Damian Marley has sold over 500,000 copies of his Grammy winning album Welcome to Jamrock in 2005. Nas has sold over 20 million albums world-wide spanning over a decade. The son of jazz trumpeter Olu Dara, Nas first reached an international audience when his track Halftime was tapped by producer MC Serch as the opening cut on 1992's Zebrahead movie soundtrack. His first full-length album, Illmatic was released in 1994. Since then he has released eight solo albums and three compilation albums that have garnered 11 Grammy nominations.
PAPA Michigan, of Michigan & Smiley fame, recently dropped his first
solo album, Love Iz. Interestingly, the entertainer, born Anthony
Fairclough, has been living in Los Angeles for a year now, the same city
where his former partner Erroll Bennett, with whom he formed the duo
Papa Michigan and General Smiley, also resides.
"This is Papa Michigan, aka Baddingo, Spilingo, Gringo of Michigan and
Smiley yuh nuh, so much names, don't ask me why," waxed the veteran
deejay rhythmically, while adding that even though he and Smiley are
pursuing individual career paths, that does not stop them from
collaborating, especially for live performances
But the focus for Papa Michigan right now is to once again spread some musical diseases by Nic(ing) Up The Dance (as was the title of the first major hit). Among his other major hits were Rub-A-Dub Style and One Love Jamdown.
In this, his second coming as a solo artiste, Papa Michigan is bent on repeating the impact of the abovementioned songs, with his album Love Iz. "Well, Love Iz, is my first real solo effort as an album, yuh nuh," he said, speaking of the set of 17 songs with collaborations featuring Tarrus Riley, with whom he did remake of Diseases, Luciano, Mikey General, Pampi Judah, a rapper name Denario and an the Haitian group, Big O. There are two gospel songs, God Almighty Alone and Love Iz which is a crossover.
A second generation of the father of 10 is also featured on the set. Papa Michigan's daughters provided harmony on about five of the songs, and his son, 30-year-old Nian, who goes by the name News, played on two tracks -- Husla and Brown Eyez.
Included on the album is one of the earliest songs in celebration of the elevation of Barack Obama to the presidency of America. "We made this one long before Barack Obama became president of the United States and I put it out on YouTube... and the song is really saying that Barack Obama is the first black president of the United States. Even before the primaries was over... so it played an integral part in the process," Papa Michigan said. A copy of the recording was sent to the White House.
Papa Michigan & General Smiley were among the first toasters who worked as a duo in the first wave of dancehall music of the late seventies in Jamaica. At the time, Studio One was rekindling its pride of place in Jamaican recorded music, thanks to a new generation of acts that rocked the dancehall. They included singers Freddie McGregor and Sugar Minott.
Recording at Studio One with groundbreaking material such as their first hit Rub a Dub Style, on the classic Studio One rhythm, Vanity. Then came Nice Up the Dance which was a version also of a Studio One rhythm, Real Rock. These singles, with four other tracks, also versions of classic Studio One rhythms, were released on their first LP, Nice Up the Dance. Diseases which came out 1981, along with One Love Jamdown and Nice Up the Dance, were three songs of year, respectively, for three consecutive years.
In 1998, Papa Michigan established his own record label, Rashanco, on which Love Iz, is produced. For his label, he has produced records for Luciano, Half Pint, George Nooks, Lutan Fyah and Jah Mason among others.
As the name of his record label implies, Papa Michigan focuses on cultural music. "Mi really produce culture music, mi nuh produce dancehall music. Because mi nuh inna certain things, it (the music) affi spiritually high," he stressed. He said that his next album will be called Michigan and Friends, and will include Lukie D and a lot of other artistes whom he produced.
He also said that even though he was always active as a performer, now that his solo set is out, he will be even more visible as a solo performer and there are some solo performances in the works. "With this solo album out, the fans are looking forward to some solo performances. I recently did two shows in Florida, I just did some shows in California and I am going up next week to Atlanta to perform, then at the end of July I'll go to Germany to work. So mi have work a do," the veteran deejay told Splash.
Reflecting on the tragic airplane crash in Buffalo, New York, in February in which four of his relatives (cousins) perished, Papa Michigan said it isn't easy but he sees it as a phase in one's existence.
"It nuh easy, but we just have to know sey a life and it's a transition pass on to the next to the next one. So we just have to let go...we had memorial service back in November where it was officially over, so it bring closure."
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Jamaica is pressing ahead with its vision to become a centre for international financial services.
Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Karl Samuda says that a draft bill to establish a statutory body for the development and promotion of the country in that way has been referred to the Attorney-General for legal opinion.
He said it was hoped that the Bill would be passed during the first quarter of the 2010/11 fiscal year.
Samuda also indicated that an evaluation of Jamaica's ability to position itself competitively in this industry and to identify Jamaica's possible product offerings or options for a local International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) is also underway.
"A comprehensive preliminary report has already been submitted and is being reviewed by a committee, established to oversee the implementation of Jamaica's international financial services centre," he said.
Samuda also revealed that work will be undertaken to review the double taxation treaties. This will be done to determine their relevance in the current environment, and whether they need to be renegotiated to support the attractiveness and development of the IFSC, he said.
He said that the government has identified the financial services sector as a priority area for development in this fiscal year.
Mother accused of killing her children attempts to commit suicide
MADRID, Spain (AFP) -- A British woman held in Spain on suspicion of killing her two young children had tried to commit suicide immediately after her alleged crime, a Spanish newspaper said yesterday.
Police declined to comment on the report, on the website of the leading Spanish daily El Mundo.
Police detained Lianne Smith, 43, on Tuesday at the four-star Hotel Miramar on the beach at the coastal resort of Lloret del Mar after her five-year-old daughter and 11-month-old son were found dead in their hotel room.
Her arrest came on the same day that her husband and the father of at least one of the two children, 45-year-old Martin Smith, was extradited back to Britain from Spain to face charges of sexual offences with minors.
El Mundo, which did not indicate its sources, said Lianne Smith had attempted suicide before asking the hotel receptionist to call an ambulance.
"The woman left a (suicide) note explaining that she killed her children and took her life because she was afraid of losing custody of her children" after her husband's arrest on May 6.
It did not say how she had allegedly attempted suicide.
Police yesterday took her back to the flat in Barcelona where she had lived with her husband and children to search for clues.
She is to appear in court today, after the judge receives an autopsy report on the two children.
Spanish media said yesterday that the autopsies ruled out that the children had suffered any sexual abuse.
About 100 people also observed a minute's silence Thursday for the two children in front of the town hall in Lloret de Mar.
BUSINESS interests are demanding a timetable for the commitments to improving governance, made by Prime Minister Bruce Golding during his apology to the nation this week over his involvement in the Manatt, Phelps & Phillips scandal.
The Council of Presidents consisting the heads of 64 private sector organisations who met over the past week, said their members were "deeply disappointed" by the behaviour of the Government.
"While some members of our respective organisations feel that calls for the resignation of the Prime Minister and/or sanctions against all those responsible for bringing the Government and people of Jamaica into disrepute are justified, we are all more concerned about the good governance of the country going forward," said the statement issued today.
Encouraged by the prime minister's words, the private sector want a specific timetable for the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) administration to achieve specific short and long term commitments.
"With this in mind, we intend to put on the agenda of the next Partnership for Transformation meeting a proposal for the creation of a specific timetable for these commitments, separating those that are achievable in the shorter-term and others that are achievable in the longer-term."
The private sector believes the commitments are vital to restoring trust in governance and says that it will do its best, within its own organisations, to help ensure these commitments are met.
"However, in support of the principles of transparency and accountability and particularly in light of the new revelations made yesterday by (deputy prime minister) Horace Chang, we join others in the call for full disclosure in Parliament of the Manatt Affair as a precursor to resumption of the private sectors participation in the Partnership for Transformation discussions."
Strong words were also reserved against threats and criminal acts perpetrated against those who have spoken out over the Manatt scandal
"We encourage all citizens of Jamaica to stand firmly against these acts of intimidation and continue to speak out and to actively contribute to the political, economic and social transformation of our country. We particularly want to encourage and support young people not to be deterred from expressing their views."
The private sector also expressed its concern for the welfare of the residents of Tivoli Gardens and neighbouring communities and called upon the prime minister to restore order in his constituency. Residents there have erected roadblocks to prevent security forces from executing an arrest warrant for local don Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.
The United States have requested the extradition of Coke, a prominent JLP supporter, on guns and drug trafficking charges. It was because of his case that the Government, acting under the aegis of the JLP, recruited the services of Manatt, the US-based law firm, to lobby that country's government.
"Finally, we express our grave concern for the welfare and safety of the citizens of Tivoli Gardens and adjoining communities. We call on the Prime Minister to add his voice to diffuse the potentially explosive situation. The barricades must be removed so that law and order may be restored and the citizens may move about freely."
About the Council of Presidents:
The council is an informal body which meets occasionally on matters of national concern to reflect the view of the Jamaican private sector. It is is led by the five organisations which represent the entire private sector in the Partnership for Transformation.
Those organisations are, the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC), the MSME Alliance (MSME), the Jamaica Exporters Association (JEA), the Jamaica Manufacturers Association (JMA) and the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ). All five are of equal standing and through them the council represents 64 organisations.
DIRECTOR General of the World Anti-Doping Agency David Howman hopes an improved test for Human Growth Hormone (HGH) will come on stream within the next seven months as his organisation tries to close the net on drug cheats.
The current *lo** test for HGH, which was introduced at the 2004 Olympic in Athens, can only detect the substance up to 96 hours after its use.
"What we're doing is advancing that analysis more and there will be a second test for HGH, which we hope will be out -- and the scientist usually tells me off when I put a date on it -- but we hope by the end of the year," Howman told the Observer in a recent interview.
"That window of opportunity which I described in hours will open more to be weeks. That will then be even more significant in terms of catching those who are taking it," he added.
According to WADA, human growth hormone, which is naturally produced by the body, is known to act on many aspects of cellular metabolism and is also necessary for skeletal growth in humans.
"The major role of HGH in body growth is to stimulate the liver and other tissues to secrete insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). IGF-1 stimulates production of cartilage cells, resulting in bone growth and also plays a key role in muscle and organ growth," the WADA website, www.wada-ama.org, states.
Howman conceded that the current test for HGH, which is prohibited both in- and out-of-competition under WADA's List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, is too imperfect.
"It has a limit and to test positive you either have to be stupid, if you know you are going to be tested or the agency that's tracking you knows that you've just received a parcel of HGH and you're likely to have done it," the WADA boss reasoned.
"So unannounced testing (out-of-competition testing) is the way that that person would be detected," Howman said.
Three months ago, UK Anti-doping reported the first case of human growth hormone (HGH) resulting in a rugby athlete being sanctioned with a two-year ban.
The Wakefield Trinity Wildcats player Terry Newton accepted the ban for the presence of HGH in a *lo** sample that was collected during out-of-competition target testing in November last year.
Kartel or Aidonia???
OfficialDream: "Job Done As u know there have been several leaks around many records I do I am pleased to say the Record Champagne which was apart of a FBI investigation, has lead to three individual's who's (sic) been hacking us for the last two years. im sorry u guys have to here (sic) unfinished music so i took it into my on (sic) hands to have every record i make since 2009 logged with a Federal encripted (sic) Tag & will also appear on LK (Love King) And Champagne is not on LK! It never was!"
To be a rude girl you haffi can get him up, fasten yuh seat belt when di ride getting rough, Nuh one pace gal yuh haffi can step it up and when mi set it up mi man cyah get enough
Dancehall diva DAngel, fresh from her Caribbean stint continues to turn up the intensity ahead of the upcoming Summer holidays. The dancehallfashionista now back in the island has once again teamed up withAssassins Board House Records to record her third single with the label titled Rude Girl. The new single sees DAngel narrating the art of pleasuring her partner while exploring the metaphorical gamut with her clever writing skills. The song is due for release in the coming week.
According to DAngel, 'Rude Girl' is the first single of this kind she have done, It gives people a bit more insight into my versatility as an artiste.When asked why she chose Board House to record the single she explained. We (myself and Assassin) have had good musical chemistry, he has always been supportive of my career and his label was also responsible for two of my biggest hits, First Lady and My Life, so I felt this was just another step in the right direction.
Despite wearing several caps including mother and entrepreneur, DAngelthe artiste has found time to assist in the charge led by Mr. Vegas and other members of the entertainment fraternity to rally support for their hospitalised colleague, ONeil Edwards of Voicemail, now battling for his life after he was shot multiply times by unknown assailants while entering his home in Duhaney Park, Monday morning.
DAngels recent trip to Antigua and Dominica was met with much success as she delivered impressive performances at the Krazy Koconuts Club inDominica on May 1st and Coast Night Club, Antigua the following day both sets earned her numerous encores. Other performers include TNT memberTimberlee, the shows were a part of the Ladies Rule Caribbean mini-tour.
Later this month D'Angel is set to blaze at 'Ladies Sundays' at Club Cali inTrelawny.
A MUSS SEE,LISA HYPE BEFORE SHE START BLEACH, INNA HER SCHOOL UNIFORM
Chelsea Car Wash to turn party hot spot - Usain Bolt slows to get speed demon cleaned
Usain Bolt's 2010 Nissan Skyline GTR was among the first set of vehicles to be serviced at the Chelsea Car Wash at its reopening on Wednesday. - Dwayne McLeod
After being closed for a year, the popular Chelsea Car Wash has reopened its doors, but this time it's different.
Owner of the car wash Vincent 'Richie' Richards told THE STAR the location at 2 Chelsea Avenue, St Andrew, will also be used as a party venue and hangout.
"I just built a little bathroom area, I will be building a nice bar and grill area and the place will also be available for rent for keeping parties. I am already getting calls from persons who want to keep events here," he said.
An official re-opening is set for May 28 which, according to Richards, will be attended by a host of personalities.
Entertainers such as Bounty Killer, Anthony B, KipRich, Terry Linen, Nitty Kutchie, Ghost, General B and other popular personalities like Lena British are known to take their vehicles to the Chelsea Car Wash for its regular wipe and shine.
The car wash was re-opened on Wednesday and among the first set of wheels to roll up was Usain Bolt's breathtaking 2010 Nissan Skyline GTR.
Like it's owner, who is the fastest man on earth, the 'black on black' Skyline garnered a lot of attention from spectators, some who took pictures with their cellphones.
"Nuh road nuh deh a Jamaica fi drive dis, it faster than Bolt ... Mi haffi tek a picture," a man said when THE STAR visited the car wash on Wednesday.
St Kitts PM endorses court control of 'Dudus' extradition
St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas has joined the debate in the ongoing controversy surrounding the extradition request for Christopher 'Dudus' Coke.
Two days after Prime Minister Bruce Golding said the attorney general would sign an order for the matter to go to the court, Douglas said it is the right thing to do.
"Let the court decision be your guide. Let the judicial system take over the matter, and once the court says 'Yes, he has a charge to answer', then he should be allowed to answer that charge," said Douglas, in commenting on the case yesterday.
There is now an arrest warrant issued by the court to begin extradition proceedings against Coke, who is a major supporter of the ruling Jamaica Labour Party.
United States (US) law-enforcement authorities had requested Coke's extradition since August last year, saying that he had been under surveillance since 1994.
They said so far nine co-conspirators have given information on Coke's alleged involvement in drug- and gun-trafficking.
The Jamaica Government had in the past defended its decision not to extradite Coke, stating that it would not act hastily and violate the extradition treaty between the two countries.
But in his radio and television broadcast on Monday night, Prime Minister Golding, who asked for forgiveness over the entire matter, said the matter would be sent to the court.
He also revealed that he had offered to resign, but noted that following a series of consultations he decided to stay put.
While stating that it was for the people of Jamaica to decide on Golding's fate, Douglas told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) that the situation reminded him of a similar request made by the US government back in the 1990s for the extradition of convicted criminal Charles 'Little Nut' Miller.
Back to crime life
He pointed out that Miller, who had earlier been freed by the US after agreeing to be part of their Witness Protection Programme, had returned to St Kitts and Nevis and got back into a life of crime.
"Once it was clear that he had started his criminal activity in St Kitts again and the Americans re-quested his extradition, I allowed the court system to have its way," Dr Douglas told CMC.
"Once the court system determined that he should go to the United States to answer charges and he had exhausted his own efforts on the ground, he went," Douglas said.
"We don't hesitate on those things at all and so our own record can't in anyway support that there is official support of criminal activity at that level in my country," he told CMC.
The Kititian leader, who is in Nassau attending the annual meeting of the Caribbean Development Bank, said it was without hesitation that his government had moved to have Miller released into US custody.-- Edited by RHYTAH on Wednesday 19th of May 2010 09:44:50 AM
Security Forces awaiting court’s decision before entering Tivoli
Lawyers for west Kingston strongman, Christopher Dudus Coke, yesterday filed a motion challenging the arrest warrant, which was issued on Tuesday for him to face extradition proceedings in court.
Residents in the Tivoli Gardens community have since mounted barricades, blocking the entrances to the community.
Senator Nelson says the police will do all in their power in an attempt to diffuse the situation in a non-violent manner.
He says he will gladly welcome the intervention of any church or civic group in mediating the dispute.
Senator Nelson also says he has not received any information that the residents of west Kingston have used electrical power lines in their blockades.
The incident took place at the East London museum.
The suspect is alleged to have broken down the back door to the museum. The alarm went off, giving him a fright, and he ran away.
He climbed a tree and then attempted to jump over the fence. However, he lost his footing and was impaled by one of the spikes on the fence.
The man was discovered by a tow truck driver who heard his cries.
The man was taken to Frere Hospital and it is understood that he is due to undergo surgery.
-- Edited by Lady Hijacker on Tuesday 15th of September 2009 09:43:10 AM
Cobra - File
A Facebook page has been created for dancehall artiste Cobra who was shot while in Portmore on Tuesday evening.
The page, 'Get well soon Mad Cobra!!!', which was created yesterday, boasts pictures of the artiste as well as articles about the shooting incident.
Already almost 100 people have joined the page. One of his female well-wishers said, "God give life and God tek life. Cobra it's not your time yet hun, stay blessed honey."
Meanwhile, a man said, "nuh worry yuhself mi big bredda. If God deh pon owa side, who deh pon fi dem? Yuh a God pikiney. Get well soon bro, we a pray."
Damian Marley - Contributed
Hip-hop icon and 11-time Grammy nominee Nas and the youngest son of Reggae legend Bob Marley, Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley, yesterday announced the release of their highly-anticipated collaborative studio album, Distant Relatives.
Featuring the signature instrumentation and musicianship of Marley with the hard-hitting beats of hip-hop-lyricist Nas, the album title refers not only to the bond that has been formed between the two artistes, but the connection to their African ancestry, which inspired the album's creation.
previous collaborations
In comparison to other previous collaborations between Jamaican and American artistes, Distant Relatives is neither a remix nor a featured guest spot on a single track, but instead, it is a fully collaborative album compilation that has opened the avenues of musical expression.
It is said that Distant Relatives traces the direct line from dancehall, reggae's breakthrough moment 40 years ago, to the rise of hip hop several years later - from Run D.M.C.
This album was created by two iconic artistes to explore and celebrate the correlations and deep-rooted connections between the reggae and hip-hop genres, tracing both sounds back to the African motherland.
musical history
Marley, garnered his own place in musical history when he became the first ever reggae artiste to win a Grammy Award outside of the Reggae category, taking home an award for Best Urban/Alternative performance for his 2005 hit single Welcome To Jamrock. He also won a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album. He is joined by Nas, an Ambassador for hip-hop culture throughout the globe who has released eight solo albums and three compilation albums that have garnered and certified either double-platinum, platinum or gold.
The sound of Distant Relatives features live musicians as well as studio production by Damian Marley and brother Stephen.
middle ground
According to Marley, "I didn't want it to sound like something that would be typical of me, neither typical of Nas, but something where you can still see how there's a middle ground in the music where you can still hear something that is reminiscent of either of us, its been really fun, cause we've been going in the booth together."
"The whole process is gonna be fun," Nas adds. "I think we can have fun helping people. When I think about things we wanna do with this album, it's just limitless."
Nas went on to further explain, "When we first started working, I was thinking about what direction we should go in, cause it's all kinda like the same reggae, rap. But it went to its own thing. We had a few concepts. All basically around empowerment in a way, cause if we're talking about Distant Relatives, we're talking about the human family."
Nas and Jr Gong plan to hit the road following the release of their album, with stops at Bonnaroo and the Heineken Opener Festival in Poland. Prelude to the tour which began at SXSW on March 17 and was followed by two performances in South Florida at ULTRA on March 27 and SUNFEST on May 2.|
Mr. Chen's visa was cancelled for unknown reasons in February. Following interventions at the diplomatic level, he was told to apply for another visa. Mr. Chen is still waiting for a reply. "I don't know. I was told right from the beginning when I reapplied that it might take some months ... I'm patient," he said. |
Beckford Street in downtown Kingston was almost clear yesterday as the tension continues over the 'Dudus' extradition matter. The street is normally known for its usual hustle and bustle of vendors and shoppers.
Thugs from several areas aligned to the People's National Party (PNP) have joined forces with the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) stronghold of Tivoli Gardens to assist in their fight against the security forces.
THE STAR has learnt that some thugs from Matthews Lane, Rema, Hannah Town and Jones Town are now helping the men from Denham Town and Tivoli, areas that previously were their political enemies.
Reports are that not only are the PNP thugs willing to allow the JLP men passage through their communities if necessary, but they have also taken up arms in preparation of an expected fight against the security forces.
special invite
Asked how this was possible, one PNP gangster who was contacted said, "A di president wi a talk bout eno, a dem man dem seh money ova war, so him set certain link weh no normal man couldn't mek happen."
He continued, "Mi know yu grow up hear seh Tivoli man and Matthews Lane man a nuh fren but now dem man deh all a come a wi dance and a get special invite ... So everybody love di vibes and now dat babylon a pressure bossy dem willing fi help."
It is also claimed that men from Tivoli Gardens had offered their support and assistance when the now incarcerated Donald 'Zekes' Phipps was held by the police so now this is just a way of returning the favour.
$100,000
It is said that some of the men called into the area have also been paid. They are reported to be offered as much as $100,000 before being distributed with a weapon.
"Money all run pon some a di man dem weh come in and sign in fi dem gun," another thug claimed.
Efforts to get a comment yesterday from PNP officials were unsuccessful. Calls to some persons went unanswered while others declined to comment.
A senior officer from the Kingston Western police said although they have heard of this they are not able to confirm if it is true.
"We know things are not like they once were and men who were once at odds are now linking so it is not surprising. We have heard the talks but can't say this is how it is right now, it is something we will be looking into," the senior officer said.-- Edited by HABLA RUPTION on Thursday 20th of May 2010 12:29:30 PM
Gunmen are now placing tires atop the roof of several high-rise buildings in Tivoli Gardens and are also storing gasoline nearby, said the police.
The police believe the intention is to start massive fires on top of these buildings to ward off helicopters.
However, in an attempt at a peaceful resolution, the Police High Command says it has written to a number of attorneys who they believe to be part of Mr Cokes defense team.
The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre understands that in those letters the Police have proposed that Mr Coke turn himself in on the condition that bail will be granted.
Mr Coke is wanted in the United States on guns and drugs charges.
Tensions have been mounting in his Tivoli Gardens base since Monday when Attorney General Dorothy Lightbourne signed off on the United States request for his extradition.
Shortly after the extradition request was signed, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Paula Llewellyn secured an arrest warrant which was handed over to the police on Tuesday.
Since then several roads in the community have been blocked by residents who are trying to bar the police from entering.
THE Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) says Jamaicas short-term economic prospects are generally positive, with growth in the countrys Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expected for this year.
Acting Director General Dr Pauline Knight said that the improvement in the global economy, the support Jamaica is enjoying from the multilateral agencies, and the reforms being undertaken, should help the country to achieve GDP growth within the range of 0.0 to 1.0 per cent during the April to June quarter of 2010.
There is expectation of continued growth in agriculture and tourism and a turnaround in some industries, which were most seriously affected by the global economic recession, such as mining and quarrying, transport, storage and communication, she explained.
She was speaking at the PIOJs quarterly press briefing in Kingston today.
Dr Knight noted that the turnaround in the mining sector will be bolstered by the reopening of Windalcos Ewarton plant in St Catherine.
She said the PIOJ is also predicting that there will be continued improvement in remittances and exports.
However, she cautioned that the forecast could be affected by shocks to the global economy as well as the risks associated with the upcoming hurricane season and possible increases in world oil prices.
For the 2009/10 fiscal year, real GDP declined by an estimated 2.3 per cent, with real GDP declining by 1.4 per cent during the March 2010 quarter. The agriculture, forestry and fishing; electricity and water supply; and hotel and restaurants were the lead sectors in growth during the quarter.
Johnny Gourzong (Executive producer of Reggae Sumfest) cites reduced sponsor support and increased production and artiste fees as some of the challenges being faced. He said, Reggae Sumfest is important to Jamaicas tourism and impacts positively on the economy and despite reduced sponsorship, we decided it was important to beat the odds and host the Festival this year.
Traditionally, Reggae Sumfest has hosted a mixture of local and international acts, thus giving the event an eclectic mix of good music and performers. In light of the fiscal challenges, Summerfest Promotions reportedly gave great consideration to omitting international acts for this years Festival. Stakeholders agreed however, that international acts should be included on this years lineup, as the mix of genres and cultures is the essence of the event, and that such a cut back would adversely affect Reggae Sumfests marketability. More soon.
The tape, which shows VERY EXPLICIT AND GRAPHIC scenes, was supposedly made a few years ago, before Nicki got hot. And in it it shows Nicki Minaj (or someone that looks a LOT LIKE HER) doing all kinds of freaky stuff.
The people who had the tape are looking to sell the contents for $100,000. Obviously we ain't that kinda BREAD . . . but according to them, they've already got one person lined up to pay the price.
As soon as they negotiate the deal, they'll allow us to post an excerpt.
A resignation…but it's not Bruce - Ronald Robinson admits responsibility in Manatt affair
JUNIOR foreign minister Ronald Robinson has resigned citing personal reasons and his involvement in the Manatt, Phelps and Phillips controversy.
Robinson cited the health of his wife who has undergone two major surgeries, the most recent being this week.
"It is clear that with the pressures of being minister of state over the last two and a half years it has taken its toll and I have not been able to be as supportive as I need to be to her," he wrote in his resignation letter.
He went on to admit culpability for the Manatt affair in which the governing Jamaica Labour Party hired the services of the United States law firm to lobby that country's government over their attempts to extradite Christopher 'Dudus' Coke on guns and drug trafficking charges.
With regards to the current topical situation of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips I acknowledge that my contact with the form could be perceived as inappropriate and for that I accept responsibility and should not have met with them and for this I apologise," he said.
BUJU SAYS BOB MARLEY IS NOT THE GREATEST JAMAICAN MUSICIAN
In an interview with VIBE.com, Payne stated the album will likely be released around Christmas time. This is unreleased 2Pacno remastering or remixingThe songs are from a collection of tracks that were recorded during his Death Row days around All Eyez On Me. I believe that these songs could have been 2Pacs next record if he were still alive.
Demarco - File
Starkutt Records is aiming for an International hit with the recently released 'Premium' rhythm.
Produced by singjay/producer Demarco, Premium features 12 fresh talents with a dancehall meets pop beat.
The rhythm was premiered on radio last week and will officially be released on itunes on June 1. Karl Palmer from Starkutt described the beat saying, "it's not hard-core dancehall so much, it's mostly a pop beat, like 'Island Pop' which is an easy crossover."
Aidonia kicks off the rhythm with Tell Me that is guaranteed to have the females liking his style. Abandoning his super-fast style of deejaying and toning down on the x-rated lyrics, he smoothly says, "you love me style, tell me nuh/wine for me, wine for me baby".
Chevaughn, who is known for songs such as Holiday and Tables, has one of his first solo singles Keep It Blazing which with his clear and strong voice will 'catch on' with audiences quickly.
Also making a solo appearance is Voicemail's Craig Jackson with For You. A touching love song he sings,"I'm living for you/only for you".
swagger and style
Elephant Man moves away from his dancing song and does one for the girls with Just Can't Satisfy deejaying, "gal yuh waist mussi mek out of elastic/to how yuh a bend/dat style deh weh yuh do/dweet it back again/mi waan know which wining school yuh attend".
Chino's Affi Get A Gal is different from the other 'girls songs' on the rhythm as he talks about his swagger and style making sure, "haffi get a gal tonight".
The female singers make a strong appearance on Premium with Alaine, CeCile, Raine Seville, Tessanne Chin and newcomer Uni'verss.
Alaine is singing about her "new love", while CeCile proclaims "mi man nuh careless/him nuh cheat/and him know where to find him yard to get the squeeze".
Raine Seville does her You Got A Girlfriend in a low-pitch song differentiating it from persons such as Alaine and Tessanne Chin as she talks about liking the wrong guy. Chin's voice is as strong as ever in Love Again as she sings about not being afraid to love again.
Other songs include Dance For The Love from Uni'verss, Sanjay's Hard For Love and Hitmaker with Lover & Friend.
According to Palmer, out from Starkutt soon will be a number of rhythms including singles from Demarco such as Leggo Mi Head and Prayer.
IF U COME IN HERE AND TALK BOUT MOTHER...THEN U ADMITT UR A F@G
-- Edited by KrYsIs on Thursday 20th of May 2010 05:09:12 PM
He assured them that the Police High Command is trying to work out a resolution to the impasse created by the extradition request for Christopher Dudus Coke.
All Police divisions will be advised of their level of participation if and when it is required, said Ellington.
The Commissioners pep talk came in a message that was transmitted to members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) and the rural police last night.
In the meantime, childrens advocate Mary Clarke is expressing concern about the fate of the children in Tivoli Gardens regarding the extradition request for Christopher Dudus Coke.
The police say the children are being prevented from leaving the community and are therefore unable to attend school.
Mrs. Clarke says shes concerned for their safety.
'Jamaicans too tief' - Nelson urges public intolerance for praedial larceny
MINISTER of National Security Dwight Nelson says that attempts to eradicate praedial larceny cannot succeed without greater public support.
What we no longer see are desperate individuals trying to satisfy themselves with a simple act what we are now seeing are expert farmers and butchers who drive in vehicles and are well equipped to facilitate their nefarious activities," said Nelson at the launch of the the Praedial Larceny Prevention Programme, hosted at the Hilton Hotel in Kingston today.
He said those engaging in praedial larceny are now highly sophisticated and that their actions are causing despair for the victims.
When I look at the news reports of the victims of praedial larceny, men and women who have invested their savings, who have mortgaged their properties I am frightened.
Minister Nelson says the army and the police will be engaged to apprehend the criminals, adding that video surveillance systems have been acquired as part of the efforts to stamp out the practice.
Meantime Lieutenant Paul Dunn has been appointed as Praedial Larceny Coordinator, to be assisted by other personnel from the ministry.
I commit the input of my ministry today to be an active partner in the fight to help our farmers, he said.
The Minister says the Crime Stop Programme has also been involved and sensitisation programmes will be implemented to assist the security forces and the judiciary to recognize the severity of the challenge being faced by farmers.
The Praedial Larceny Prevention Programme is the responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in collaboration with the Ministries of National Security and Health.
The programme is intended to strengthen legislation, public education and establish tracking` systems.
Grizzly loose in Tivoli Gardens - Residents stockpile guns, petrol, police say
THE police high command said this morning that they have information that residents of Tivoli Gardens are in possession of the 50-calibre Grizzly Big Boar sniper rifle.
In addition, the police said they have information that the residents have also stockpiled petrol.
US gun manufacturer LAR Manufacturing said on its website that the Grizzly Big Boar is a rifle that leaves its competition in the dust.
Its powerful .50 calibre BMG round blows its targets to pieces, the site says.
The police are appealing to all law abiding residents of the affected areas (mainly Tivoli Gardens and Denham Town) to call the police if they need assistance. The police are also appealing to these residents to report any acts of criminality and are assuring these citizens that they have nothing to fear from the presence of the security forces as we intend to conduct our operations in a professional manner in accordance with the law and in the interest of all concerned, a police news release issued today said.
‘We are not being held hostage!’ - Tivoli, Denham Town residents say they're free to leave
HUNDREDS of angry residents from Tivoli Gardens and Denham Town are this morning insisting that, despite police information, they are not being held hostage in their communities.
A lie them a tell, said one woman who formed part of a large group of around 400 angry protesters who gathered in front of the Denham Town Police Station
Tivoli Gardens and Denham Town residents protest outside the Denham Town Police Station this morning.
The action from the residents comes a day after police reports that residents were being held hostage inside Tivoli and Denham Town and that their phones had been confiscated.
"See it deh we can come out. A lie them a tell say we held hostage and them take way we phone. See we phone deh," said one woman before jumping over debris used to block one of the entrances to the area.
This morning, a Nationwide Radio report also carried quotes from a woman in the Tivoli Gardens community, who was heard saying that the residents were prepared to die for don Christopher Dudus Coke.
Meanwhile, reports from teachers in schools in the area are that the students who are doing exams have been allowed to leave to sit their exams. The Ministry of Education yesterday moved the exams from several schools in West Kingston to other centres amidst concerns about the violence in the area.
Jah Cure
Reggae singer Jah Cure, born Siccature Alc**k, had his bail extended until June in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday when he appeared on a charge of possession of ganja.
According to the allegations, the police saw a white BMW driving recklessly along Dunrobin Avenue when it was signalled to stop. It is alleged that the vehicle stopped and the police approached and spoke with the accused man.
The police alleged that he asked the accused man if he had ganja in his possession and he said "yes". The vehicle was searched and it is alleged to have a quantity of one ounce of ganja. The accused man was arrested and charged.
The 32-year-old entertainer is known for songs such as Love Is, Reflection and his recent hit Call On Me with Alison Hinds.
He will return to court on June 22.Jamaica Observer columnist vying to succeed Gordon Brown - Female MP of 23 years wants to lead British Labour Party
DIANNE Abbott, a daughter of Jamaican immigrants and a columnist with the Sunday Observer today announced she is running for the leadership of the British Labour Party.
The leftwing Member of Parliament for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, who becomes the first woman to enter the contest, Abbott says she is confident of attracting the necessary 33 nominations to contest the ballot to succeed Gordon Brown who is stepping down after losing the recent general election as Prime Minister.
She is the outsider among the six MPs to have joined the race so far. Her rivals are David Miliband, Ed Miliband, Ed Balls, John McDonnell and Andy Burnham.
I am not just another man in a suit. Theres not a lot of difference between the candidates so far. I am standing because I represent real choice, not a return to the Blair/Brown politics of the past 13 years. I voted against the Iraq war which is the single biggest source of disillusionment with Labour," she said.
She said that she hopes to provide a more diverse alternative to other candidates and to campaign on immigration and civil liberties issues.
"I do not believe that we lost the election because of immigration, as some of my rivals seem to be suggesting. I am a truly independent candidate who will create real change out of the ashes of New Labour, and reclaim the true identity of the Labour Party. I want to provide a platform for debate about who should be the next leader, and that debate would not be complete without a candidate, like myself, who represents a more diverse choice.
Born in 1953, Abbott was became 34 years later the first black woman to be elected to the British parliament. A former career journalist she still appears weekly on BBC radio and television.
Rapper Bow Wow is claiming that the screen cap of a tweet he reportedly sent asking one of his followers for oral sex is actually a fake image that has been Photoshopped.
It all started with reports that the rapper was allegedly attempting to send a direct message to one of his fans asking for some dome, which is slang for oral sex. But instead, the tweet went to all 430,000 of his followers some of whom saved a screen cap of the message, according to Allhiphop.com.
The tweet stated: How much for some dome? How far are you from Richmond? [See video below.] According to Bow Wow, the message is a doctored Photoshop image.
The tweet that was posted was photo shopped. Just recently I did an interview on how I never pay for sex [Ozone's Sex issue], so I guess someone felt the need to write some bogus tweet before my original tweet, Bow Wow told AllHipHop.com in a statement.
I have damn near 500,000 followers on Twitter. If I were to tweet such foolishness it would have been all over Twitter in a matter of seconds.
I dont know why people feel the need to try to s**t on my name or what I represent. All I want to do is please my fans, make more millions, make sure my family is straight and have fun.
In related news, Cuff Ur Chick a single featuring Fabolous and Drake from Bow Wows new album leaked today (May 12) and his Cash Money Records debut has been pushed back as a result.
My album not coming til next year!! I was holding on to that record. It was not suppose to drop. That was my dream project. F**K! the rapper tweeted.
[The] song was for my fans man! Any song could have leaked. But not that one. That was gone be surprise for yall. A yr [year] early? F**king yr early?
The rapper, according to Allhiphop.com, was dumbfounded as to why someone would doctor up one of his tweets, leak his music and spread lies, just to make him look bad.
Ive never done nothing to no one. I dont beef with n***as, I dont waste time blogging about people, I just make hit movies, and #1 records, Bow Wow told AllHipHop.com.
I dont know what they are set out to do but it wont work against someone who knows the game and has been successful at it for the past 10 years.
No matter how much you dislike me you cant take away that Ive sold 10 million albums, 6 arena tours, and Im still here.
I came out in 2000, I cant name u 5 artist who are still around from that time, but I am. Im only 23 the best has yet to come.
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