By: Joseph Cunningham

"It's been a while since I have committed murder at
Sting" – Ninja Man

The Don Gorgon who many refer to as 'Mr. Sting' is in fighting form and he is ready for action – he sounded the battle cry at Sting Launch held last night at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.

The charismatic DJ made an appeal to the promoters at the launch of Guinness Sting 2007 held at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel last night.

"Send Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Sizzla, Super Cat and Mad Cobra all at once let me kill them lyrically," Ninja Man fired.

The Don Gorgon argued that lyrical competition in the form of clashing, is the institution which is responsible for the meteoric rise of all the biggest names in dancehall history, past and present. They all keep fighting against clashing, saying that it creates violence. But what they need to do is find a way to control the stage area and let the clash happen, Ninja Man pointed out.

Furthermore, he argued, "What I saw on television a few weeks ago was a series of live clashing on national T.V.! Digicel Rising Star competition has taken the Sting idea and is becoming a huge success.
Sting needs to take back its trade mark."

The show will be held at Jamworld in Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica on December 26. This year the show will feature the segments, Dancehall's Finest, The Pioneers, The Upcomers, The Beautiful Ladies of the Dancehall and a segment revealing new talent.

Dancehall's Finest will be organized to feature a special Bounty Killer and Beenie Man display, as well as the other usual suspects. The Pioneers will feature Josie Wales and Buju Banton, the Upcomers will highlight the likes of DeMarco and Shano. The ladies of dancehall will be starred by D'Angel and Barbee.

Sting team member Howard McKintosh revealed that his team will be working in tandem with the Jamaica Defence Force (JCF), which will deploy 1,200 to Jamworld on the night of the event.

Beenie Man's claim that he was being targeted because of political reasons was firmly dismissed by the ruling Jamaica Labour Party.

According to a release on radiojamaica.com his claim was referred to as "Misguided, mischievous and absurd!"

According to Beenie Man, he is being targeted by the new Government because of his support for the People's National Party (PNP).

The JLP stressed that the tax assessment levied on Beenie Man and the action to recover through the courts was initiated long before the present government took office.

They also pointed out that Beenie Man's former manager and PNP candidate, Patrick Roberts, recently stated that it was not the first time the government had attempted to collect the multi-million dollar tax claim.

According to the JLP, Mr. Roberts also stated that his company had challenged the tax assessment in the past.

Beenie Man will be returning to court on December 10 to face the music.

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Not a dime for Money Oh artiste!
Bwoy mi feel it fi true, but how dem fi do that to the Teenage Choice female artiste of the year. Di odda day dem have big charity celebrity bidding up a UWI fi help out a school and bwoy it embarrassing fi true.

Daville, Tanya Stephens, Nikki Z and Christopher get nuff ratings inna di bidding ting, but would yuh believe it dat not even a dime dem couldn't spen pon Macka Diamond?

Yes man mi hear sey di feisty UWI students dem sey dem find it hard fi bid fi dem madda! What a piece a brightness...to how dem meck it sound it woulda come een like sey di artiste deh near menopause...hush yah Macka just gwaan duh yuh ting.

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Mavado kept his promise to assist in ensuring all local schools are able to connect to the Internet by donating 2 computers each to Constant Spring All Age and Charlie Smith High School recently.

The DJ gave God thanks that he was in the position to help students in the country. "I gave to Constant Spring Junior High and Charlie Smith first, because I attended those schools myself, but we will be going to schools around the island. Our aim is to cover every school," Mavado quipped.

Marva Maylor, Business Basic Coordinator at Constant Spring All Age expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the donation. "We really appreciate this donation. I hope that other entertainers will follow and try and make a difference," was her encouraging remarks.

Mr. Dennis Kelly, Principal of Charlie Smith High was both touched and surprised at Mavado's gift as he says, "This donation was a surprise because David Brooks did not have a long stay at this institution and for him to remember us is a really good thing."

Through CONNECT JAMAICA Mavado hope to donate computers every month to schools around the island, raising funds via various events and donations as they capitalize on telecommunications provider Flow Jamaica's offer of free Internet connection to all schools over the next two years.

Yesterday Mavado continued his quest in keeping his promise when he presented St. Michael's Infant School with a complete computer system inclusive of a printer. The presentation was done by his manager Julian Jones-Griffiths and a representative from VP Records' Aurian Wilson.

Next on the CONNECT JAMAICA agenda according to Julian Jones-Griffiths are Shortwood Practising,Swallowfield Primary and a school to be announced in Stony Hill.

Mavado's annual Birthday Bash dubbed the 'Real Mckoy' will take place on Saturday December 1st at the Temple Hall Estate in St Andrew and will be donating a significant portion of the proceeds towards purchasing computers for CONNECT JAMAICA.

"Investing in the future of our nation is not something you need to be inspired to do; it is everybody's duty. I have a powerful voice amongst the people so I intend to also use it positively and to help contribute to the future of our nation," stressed Mavado.

By: Olimatta Taal

Imagine this situation, you need to rent a car but you don't have a credit card. What do you do? You have bad credit but you really want a credit card, could there be a solution? Aquiline Cards is the solution and is available for companies who have employees that can't get the standard credit card.

This is how it works. The Aquiline Card is a Visa or MasterCard that is set up through a pre-paid system that can be used anywhere that Visa or MasterCard is accepted. The card can be used as long as the value has not been depleted. Having access to a credit card of this sort will open up opportunities for more financial services and online purchases.

Aquiline Cards can only be set up by companies. All companies will have to set up their own customer requirements and structure disbursement projects. Another great benefit of this credit card is that clients can get additional cards on an account to permit friends and relatives locally or internationally to have access to funds.

The greatest benefit of Aquiline Cards is its flexibility and international backing. Where as many cards have limits as to how much money can be used per day, Aquiline is guaranteed to allow you to the opportunity to be more flexible based on the amount of money that is on the card. The card is also connected with banks in Ecuador, Cypress, England, and other areas to give it an international bend with thresholds set by the bankers association. To get an aquiline card, apply on line at: aquilinecards.com.

Seems likes some exciting juicy days are ahead in the lives of the celebs. A gosisp website reported that Lisa Raye's husband, Turks and Caicos Premiere Michael Missick may be having an affair with Eddie Murphy's ex-wife, Nicole Murphy.

According to a story in New York Daily News, Misick and Murphy who were this close at the opening of the Mediterranean Village at Sandals' Grande Antigua resort. Mrs. Misick did not attend.

Spies had a hard time getting any photographic evidence as the premier's bodyguard made sure there were no photos taken of the two. And he did a great job: neither WireImage, the event's official
photographer, nor Access Hollywood, who did a segment on the launch, mentioned either of them being there.

But other guests said the pair seemed especially chummy on Friday, Oct. 5, during a party at the Cricketer's Arms, a pub on the property. And some folks started whispering when friendly kisses were exchanged.

"It's funny - if you didn't know better, you would have thought they were together," says a source on the island...Lisa Raye [responed] through a rep: "Nicole is a good friend, and she and Michael were both there for an event but not together."

Honestly we don' see Lisa Raye letting go her royal marriage without a fight. And don't forget that Nicole Murphy is in a seriously committed relationship with NFLer Michael Strahan.

We will definitely be keeping you posted on this one.

Wow! Rihanna recently attended her cousin Nigel wedding in Barbados and reports coming out on the internet is that she was asked to leave the wedding early!

According to mediatakeout.com the trouble began almost as soon as Rihanna arrived. Reports from guests at the wedding claimed, "I was shocked when I saw what Rihanna was wearing. Every time she moved, her [breasts] looked like they were ready to come loose." The tipster added, "[The bride comes from] a very Christian family. [Rihanna] should have known better than to show up wearing such scandalous attire."

The story doesn't stop there. According to a number of eyewitnesses, Rihanna refused to eat the food offered to other guests. An insider explained that "She brought her own food and wouldn't touch anything else...Our food must not be good enough for a big star like her."

At one point in the evening, the bride's family decided that they'd had enough. As one family friend puts it, "Rihanna was taking away from the [bride and groom's] day so we thought it was best to ask her to leave. She understood and agreed."

But before leaving, one guest claims that Rihanna gave the family a piece of her mind. According to the insider, "She started arguing with [her aunt and her mother]...Even though they were in the back, you could hear Rihanna yelling at her mother." The insider added, "Her mother is a very easygoing woman, so she just stayed quiet and waited for Rihanna to calm down....If she were my daughter, someone would have had to call the police."

Shame on you Rihanna.

Romain Virgo hot
People people! Digicel Rising Star 2007 winner Romain Virgo is red hot. The little shy boy just have the women going crazy. Him can sing, and him not bad to look at either, plus there is something about his shy little self that is just driving women wild.

Can you imagine at the recently held Old Harbour Fish and Bammy Festival how the women galang baad.

Some of YardFlex friends tell us that they have never seen it that bad when it came to any of the other Rising Star winners.

"You shoulda see how dem galang over Romain. Mi mean big, big woman a bawl and grab afta him...bwoy it look like sey from now on Romain aguh need body guard pon stage."

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Beenie Man faces the music
Moses 'Beenie Man' Davis today turned himself in to the authorities to answer to the charge of tax evasion.

The DJ who had a warrant out for his arrest after he failed to show up in court on October 23 was remanded in custody for over one hour before being bailed for $1.5 million.

Beenie Man appeared before Senior Magistrate Owen Parkins in the company of his attorney, Garth McBean.

The DJ and his team will now have the task of unraveling the huge mountain of debt before they return to court in December.

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But what is really happening in the world when a mistress has more ratings than a wife?

In Trinidad a High Court judge ruled on Friday, October 26 that the wife of the late calypsonian Aldwyn Roberts, aka Lord Kitchener, must hand over their Diego Martin home to the family of Roberts's mistress.

According to the report carried in the Trinidad Express Roberts's wife, Valerie Green, said she was hurt by the decision, and said her family and the country may now be justified in saying that Kitchener was not only the Grand Master of calypso and soca, but of dishonesty and deceit.

"These people don't know how Rainorama [Roberts's house at Diego Martin] came there. Is I have it so," Green said.

She defiantly declared that she will not move out of the house, even though Justice Lennox Deyalsingh said she had to move out by the December 31. Her attorneys plan to appeal the judge's decision.

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By: J. Koni

Oprah Winfrey, made a vibrant apology to the parents of students at her school in South Africa recently. The school administration is clouded with a sex-abuse scandal, which has already resulted in the dismissal of one of its dormitory matrons.

Addressing the parents, a tearful Oprah said, "I have disappointed you. I'm sorry. I am sorry." The occasion was an emergency meeting at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.

Allegations began two weeks ago that a "dorm parent" had been accused of fondling a girl and physically and verbally abusing several others, including grabbing them about the neck, beating them and hurling them against a wall. Since these findings have been confirmed Oprah has reportedly taken full responsibility for the immoral occurrence.

The accusations came to light after one of the pupils ran away, purportedly because she couldn't stand the alleged abuse any longer. Winfrey suspended the matron and at least one other staffer. The school's principal, who the girls complained had failed to take action, was placed on paid administrative leave as detectives and Child Protection Services probe the reputed misconduct.

"I trusted her," Winfrey told the families regarding the principal. "When I appointed her, I thought she was passionate about the children of Africa. But I've been disappointed."

Winfrey, described by reporters as visibly distressed, promised the parents that those found to have committed wrongdoing would be punished. Winfrey also gave the students, whom she referred to as her "daughters," her personal telephone number and email address in the U.S. so they could get in touch with her at any time.

By Rootzgirl

I give up! I have been trying to figure out what makes men tick and I now have to admit that I am nowhere close to finding out.

Who knows maybe Madness who just loves to cuss me out can actually give me an hindsight into how the male species function.

Here is my big dilemma – I am trying to figure out what would make a man who is married to a decent, hardworking woman...ambitious, sexy as hell to boot and jeopardize all that for one that's loud, brawling, non ambitious and makes no apologies for it!

Added to that, the skettel makes no secret of the fact that one man can't satisfy her so if you want her, you just have to be prepared to share...and he willingly agrees!

Seriously I am not talking about having a one slap off the skettel and then moving on. I am talking about a big grown educated, responsible man acting like an idiot and the skettel twining him around her little
finger and bragging to her friends about how she has him weak.

On top of that the skettel get too bright and start to call the house, (which the clown fool fool enough to give her his home number) and then having attitude when wife or the legit woman of the house answers.

And can you believe it when the wife questions him about the caller who dissed her, he has an attitude and actually starts to defend her!!

What is the power that these skettels have over you guys that makes you lose your senses…ditching all you have worked so hard to build up?

Let's be real here…you gonna tell me that this woman gives the wickedest slam and all that crap...so at the end of the day was it worth the breakup of your family?

In case you think this is all mumbo jumbo, I have seen professional men acting like idiots around these skettels. They jump and the poor fools asks 'how high'. They shell out money as if it's going out of style to cater to these women's needs and in return, sooner or later wifey can't take any more and she walks out.

Seriously the reason for this article came about because of a friend who allowed his marriage to fall apart over a loud, non ambitious female...who in the end when his wife left him, told him she wasn't interested in washing, cooking or any of that stuff as that's
what's wives are for! He ended up being a drunkard, lost his job and the respect of his friends.

So at the end of the day this one goes out to the guys...tell me...at the end of the day what's the real cost for a good slam?

On Thursday November 15, 2007 an exclusive interview with Terry McMillan, one of the most celebrated African American writers of contemporary literature, will be posted to UNEQ Magazine.com.

Taking a pause from writing her seventh novel titled, "Getting To Happy," McMillan decided to speak out and bring closure to the vilification she has experienced by the public because of misinterpretations that surfaced during her divorce from ex-husband Jonathan Plummer. Details that have never been revealed about her relationship with the now infamous Jamaican gay man who deceptively lived a heterosexual lifestyle as her husband, will be disclosed in what has been described as a no holds barred interview.

McMillan, whose work is characterized by dominant female protagonists has written only brilliantly penned literary works from her first novel "Mama," to those that received more international attention like, "Waiting To Exhale," "Disappearing Act" and the famed "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," that actually somewhat portrays her early life with Plummer.

UNEQ Magazine reports the interview is shocking, with McMillan opening up on issues like mass amounts of money Jonathan stole from her private bank account and a discovery she stumbled upon that was so disturbing it would make any parent completely lose their mind. McMillan issued the following statement as her reasons for speaking out:

"I am not doing this to literally demonize Jonathan Plummer, but he is an evil person to have done the things he has taken pains to achieve. I loved him for years and did everything I could to help him evolve. The reason I told UNEQ Magazine so many of these previously undisclosed details is because he needs to be exposed to the community he is also pimping. He forgets that gay men have sisters and mothers. And it is because he doesn't care, just like he doesn't care if he ever goes back to Jamaica. It is the main reason he went on television to announce his homosexuality. He wanted the people in Jamaica to be embarrassed and to hate him so that in the event that our marriage were annulled - his goal was to use the self-generated hatred sure to come from Jamaica so that he would qualify for asylum and be able to stay in this country if his citizenship were revoked or in jeopardy. This is how slick he is. This was the main reason he and his attorney went on Good Morning America and leaked my so-called homophobic insults to the media and included them in court documents. But the public had no idea of this goal because the focus was on 'Terry the Homophobic Witch' and not his theft, betrayal or deception. What was it that he gave me that would make any man think that I should pay him spousal support? A grown, healthy, gay man who was all of 31 years old? I did not rent a husband. He tried to paint me as Mommie Dearest and apparently some people bought it because he did to the gay community what he had been so successfully doing to me for years and that was to play the sympathy 'I'm-the-victim' card. And he is certainly a very high-profile victim who has taken every opportunity he could to take advantage of his so-call called victimization."

"What I would really like UNEQ Magazine and members of the gay community to be very cognizant of is what is it that he has done since he came out of the closet that might benefit other gay men (and women) who are afraid to come out? What kind of platform has he chosen to draw positive attention to this problem? In every interview he's done, not once does he mention anything he's doing to help other oppressed gay men and women. Someone should ask him about this instead of always focusing on me. I've done more and shown more support for the gay community over the years than Jonathan will ever do. What is it he's doing besides getting a tell-all book published to draw attention to himself with the hopes of making money and once again all by pimping my fame? What has he done? Nothing. The gay men and women who are still suffering in Jamaica have not benefited one iota because of him. Quite the contrary. He gives gay men a bad rep as far as I can see. But he thought everybody was going to love him unconditionally. And look at what a spectacle he is making of himself and a mockery of his sexuality, all for his own personal gain. He could care less about men still in the closet."

UNEQ Magazine attempts to bridge the gap between the urban community at large and the urban gay community.

By: Joseph Cunningham

The Alliance is experiencing resurgence after the bitter split between the core of the unit and Vybz Kartel and Idonia.

However, the greatest buzz in the streets concerns the crews' new Medley, titled, "Keeping it Gangster". The medley features Bounty Killer, Mavado, Busy Signal, Wayne Marshall and Bling Dawg.

Yardflex caught hold of Bling Dawg for a few minutes, and inquired of a few things. It was obvious that he was very quiet during the animosities surrounding Idonia and Vybz Kartel's departure.

"The truth is that people will act as they please at times. To each his own. However, The Alliance is as strong as ever and is moving to even higher heights," Bling asserted.

Bling says that throughout the years he has laid the foundation, and now he is focusing on taking his career to a higher level.

"The album is coming, titled "Dawg House" - and it will be released early next year," he revealed. He was very tight lipped on details about the album, but said it would spring surprises.

Popular songs like "How it suh Easy" and "What's Life" are currently building the right momentum before the "Dawg House opens."

By: Joseph Cunningham

Percy Sledge, the legendary soulful singer who has thrilled legions of fans for 41 years performed in Jamaica at the legend billed Classics in Reggae concert on October 28 and disclosed his strong feelings for the island saying his heart is 'nit' with "the land we love."

Percy told Yardflex during a very casual interview, "These days it's not so much about making hits. I have achieved so much over the years that now I am really focused on enjoying life." He said he likes watching baseball, plays golf and has good times with his twelve children.

However, Percy has made his fourth journey to the island because its people have showed him much love throughout his career. He revealed that he first came across Jamaicans when performing in England in 1966. In that year the mega-hit "When A Man Loves A Woman" was released. "I performed in England while on a tour and the Jamaicans in the crowd were so supportive. I fed off their energy for the entire set," he said.

This prompted the singer to perform in Jamaica the following year. "When I got here the love I received was overwhelming, and since then I am always happy to return because the Jamaican love is so sincere."

His hits, "Take Time To Know Her," "Warm And Tender Love" and "It Tears Me Up" are other songs that have crossed the border of race and culture in the way that only a real powerful love song can.

Further, Percy revealed that there are two things he has not achieved throughout his career, and he is about to open a new chapter that could "spell-bind" the music world again. He said, "A spiritual and a Christmas album are the things I want to achieve before I leave this word. The lord has blessed me with some of the most loyal fans in the world and so a spiritual album is how I want to say thanks to the lord."

Regarding the Christmas treat (album), he said that his fans have been requesting it for many years, and he wants to deliver an album loaded with Christmas love songs.

By: Jahni
Photography: Marcus Thompson

Still without the right man and looking fine, Ciara took time to unwind at her 22nd birthday party, hosted by Ayana Frazer. A star studded audience turned out at Club Runway for the New York leg of what is actually a five city birthday tour, with other regions to follow being: Miami, D.C., Bahamas and her hometown of Atlanta.

Ciara walked the red carpet greeting her fans and the press in an elegant 24k gold dress by Jessica Cavalli. Excited about her upcoming movie debut in the film titled, "Mamma Wanna Sing," where she stars alongside, Ben Vereen, Patti LaBelle, Billy Zane and P. Diddys' baby momma, Kim Porter, Ciara said, "I loved working on the movie."

But when pressed about the other loves in her life and the men she is rumored to be dating Ciara was more reserved. "I want a man who will treat me right, I admire a man who has a lot of confidence," she explained, while also hinting of distant plans to become a mother. "I would love five children! But without the right man there will be no kids," she stated adamantly.

Mom hopeful recently cut dairy products out of her diet. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is top on her list of priorities. I give her the best legs in the world award.

When asked how she keeps her amazing figure she breezed, "I work out five to six times a week for over an hour. But I still enjoy dining at Cheesecake Factory, where buffalo blasts and shortcakes are my favorite orders and at Houstons Restaurant where I really enjoy the Ribeye steak. Then I have to go back in the gym the next day!"

Beeming in her golden frock, Ciara spoke of her gifts, saying this year's favorite was a certain handbag and she made no further elaborations on it. Who it came from – remains a mystery.

She spoke of recently being in Korea where her birthday celebration actually began and at the fete the Koreans threw, a fabulous photo developer was thrown in as a gift and this has been a favorite for her in the gift section as well. The gadget relieves Ciara'a recurring fear of having her image violated by public photo processors.

Ciara, you are gorgeous baby! All the best with the upcoming movie and album. And thanks for having Jahni and the Yardflex crew at your party. Rasta live!

Freed from jail but still confined by a house arrest order, rapper T.I. left a US federal court on Friday after posting a US$3million bond, AP reported. T.I. whose real name is Clifford Harris is facing weapons charges.

Conditions placed on his release include remaining at home except for court or medical reasons. According to AP, U.S. Magistrate Judge, Alan Baverman went along with the bond, that was somewhat opposed by government, on the condition that these restrictions are adhered to by T. I. Other limits to T.I.'s freedom were imposed. His passport was seized, he was ordered to refrain from owning guns and to stay clear of witnesses and informants in the case. Only his girlfriend and children have been approved to be with him. All other visitors will have to be court approved.

Arrested on October 13 for allegedly buying unregistered guns and silencers, Harris, 27, faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 fine for each charge. Judge Baverman reportedly warned the rapper against taking the conditions imposed lightly. Breaking any of them would have serious repercussions that could include receiving a larger sentence in the long run.

Next date for T.I. to "check in" with the court system is November 5.

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Dread At The Controls, Inc. (DATC) sent a disturbing heads up to reggae lovers concerning Mikey Dread, the internationally renown "Dread at the Control" reggae legend. Although laden with heaviness the announcement opened with the joyful news of birth.

Congratulations are in order to Monika and Mikey Dread at the birth of their healthy son on October 12, 2007. DATC camp reports that the newborn has already been delegated future controller of DATC.

DATC also speaks of Mikey Dread's current health condition, that sees him standing in faith with doctors at Duke University Hospital in North Carolina, where he is undergoing chemotherapy for a diagnosed Brain Tumor.

"Mikey is working towards recovery and does not give up his faith in God," DATC reported.

According to Mikey Dread, "Dread at the Control’s reggae music and dub music continues to Break down the Walls, internationally"

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By: Joseph Cunningham

Mavado and other entertainers who glorify gangster lifestyles are those who Kareem vows to counteract!

He is a Gospel singer who believes that "word power" should not be discredited, and so he says the messages being delivered by "gangster artistes" have been unleashing the wrong spirit on the Jamaican society.

"I want to be an agent of change through my music, promoting love, peace and joy," he said.

Kareem is convinced that music which educates is the way to go, revealing that as a younger man he admired the gangster image as well. The 21 year-old said his involvement in the music world began from as early as age 8, when he would deliver solo performances in church, and at that same age his older brother exposed him to drumming.

August Town, the Jamaican community where Kareem lives is plagued by sporadic outbursts of violence and it is no surprise that his opinion about "message" is as it is! He says he has seeing his community torn apart by poverty and its most infamous side effect, violence.

Out of a desire to see his community and the wider society become a better place, he recorded "I will Give You Love Tonight." "That song was an effort to comfort the poor and needy through my music,' he confirmed.

Beresford Hammond, Mahailia Jackson and Michael Bolton are singers who appealed to Kareem's musical taste buds as a child and they have inspired him since. Often compared to fellow young singing sensation Wayne Marshall, Kareem has own blend of style as well as songs and he is very versatile.

"I want to uphold Gospel music because when Christ left this earth he gave us a mandate to go throughout the earth, on the by-ways and the edges, teaching love, peace, long suffering, and encouraging everyone to love their neighbour as themselves," Kareem said.

Since February of this year he linked with Aramac Entertainment Agency and they have been releasing his music. As a former lead singer with the world renown Katalyst Crew, it was relatively easy for Aramac to promote his music, because Kareem was already a recognizable face and voice.

Songs popularly known from the singer are "It Nuh Easy," "Lift Up My Hands to the Father" and the very hip "Wave Your Hands."
His latest single titled, "Why" has been released recently along with a video. The song underlines some of the challenges faced by law-abiding citizens in the Jamaican inner-city. Fun in the Sun, Genesis and many other major concerts have been blessed with his talent. To see Kareem in full flight real soon, make a visit to Integration Thursday, this Thursday at the University of the West Indies, Mona.

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Reggae star Sizzla Kalonji is being more vocal about Trinidad's politics than he was about the election in his own country.

In an article printed in the Trinidad and Tobago Express Sizzla says he fully endorses the move by the incumbent People's National Movement (P.N.M) to unite the nation's youth at the Beyond Youth Rally at the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, this weekend.

The artiste claimed to have no qualms about making that endorsement since it is in the best interest of the people.

Well he may have no qualms, but a quick scan at the comments at the bottom of the story showed the natives resentment to Sizzla's support.

According to one comment, "Please can we keep Jamaican musicians out of Trini politics. Next thing election time will be murder time."

Another Trini was more vocal in his criticisms, "Well, well, we really reach! The electoral process is being taken for a 'pappy-show.' Now foreign artists are being imported to "Endorse." What the hell Sizzla have to do with Trinidad and our politics? First of all he is Jamaican, let him endorse over there and besides with the quality of life in Jamaica I am pretty sure that with the amount of money he got from the P.N.M he would endorse anything. Well boy, U.N.C have
RITCHIE SPICE and P.N.M have SIZZLA this is a real "party election" huh? Who needs to discuss real issues when we could be wining and putting our lighters in the air, huh? Ridiculous, I am ashamed."

"As musicians, we are the voice of the people we are looking for the equal rights and justice for the people and I am not afraid to meet with the Minister and tell him what the poor people need to improve their lives," Sizzla said in the interview.

Tourism Minister Howard Chin Lee greeted the reggae chart-topper upon his arrival at Piarco International. Chin Lee, the chief organizer of the Beyond Youth Rally, said the initiative is about his party encouraging frugal thinking among the nation's youths.

Chin Lee said choosing Sizzla as their main act was not at all a response to the United National Congress bringing another Jamaican reggae chart-topper, Richie Spice, to their youth rally last weekend. "We have been planning this for three to four months now. What we're doing is bringing together a group of acts that the youth can relate to," Chin Lee said.

Well sah, a wonder what would have happened if Sizzla had been this active in Jamaica supporting programmes for the youths!

By: Elizabeth Smith

"Grown ups and big people say they want early evenings on the town so our production team prides itself in prompt timely concerts," Jeff Sarge told Yardflex recently. As one-third of a partnership that steers South Florida's Master P's Events Inc., Sarge spoke of his company's unique attribute and philosophy that caters to the "Golden" crowd.

With more than 25 years of individual experience in bringing Caribbean and Afro-Centric rhythms and culture to the masses, Sarge and his partners recognized a niche market that was being largely left out; those concert-goers aligning mainly with "the oldies." He said big reggae shows with stellar iconic acts would roll into major cities, begin at midnight – if patrons were lucky – and end in the wee hours before sunrise. This situation forced many of the older crowd to miss out on enjoying amazing performances form reggaes formative leaders.

Luminary artistes like Pat Kelly, Percy Sledge, Ken Booth and many more will now have the chance to truly please their life long fans. "We have worked a great deal in the past with many of the long time musical heavyweights, and our early in - early out strategy is getting rave reviews from the mature crowd," Sarge explained. He said many people comment in amazement at the promptness of his productions while welcoming the change.

Jamaican lovers of classical reggae will get a chance to live the early evening concert experience on Sunday October 28, 2007 when these "Kings of Productions" take their tactical smarts to the National Indoor Sports Center, adjacent to Jamaica's National Stadium.

"Classics in Paradise" is the name of the show planned for that evening and it will feature Percy Sledge, Leroy Sibbles, Peaches and Herb, Pat Kelly, Ken Boothe, The Cables and Fab 5 Band.

Sarge, who can be heard weekly on New Jersey's WFMU 91.1 FM and New York's WVIP 93.5 FM, said Master P's Events will sign off the year with Florida based concerts on November 17th and 18th headlining: Chuck Jackson, Ben E. King, John Holt, Half Pint and The Melodians.

By: Joseph Cunningham

Luciano, "The Messenger" continues to communicate principles of peace, love, human rights and justice, this time, on the continent of Africa.

Luciano will share a stage with the likes of American platinum-selling crooner, John Legend, and fellow Reggae super-stars, Bounty Killer and Mikey General.

Speaking with Yardflex, a few hours before his flight to that continent, he said, a festival is being staged by the Ghanaian Government as an ongoing effort to raise funds in support of the country's guinea worm victims.

"Promoters of the show have selected a few stars from different genres who produce music which represent the voice of the poor," the messenger revealed. The show will take place at the Independence Square in that country, on Saturday, October 27.

In recent times, Luciano has been reaping the benefits of his consistently conscious music. Earlier this month, the Order of Distinction (O.D.) was bestowed upon him by the Jamaican Government, in recognition of his service through music to the Jamaican society.

"I felt very special, realizing that I was being recognized at the same time with the likes of U-Roy, Carlene Davis and other elders who I have emulated throughout the years," Luciano said.

And, he has taken courage from the "Order," revealing that his upcoming album, "Jah is My Navigator", follows closely behind the award and will be the "icing on the cake" during this exciting period in his career. He says the album will feature a number of surprises, adding that his production on the album is at a high level that will take his career to a new frontier.

By Richie B - host of "HOT MIX" on HOT 102 FM
TOP 20 DANCEHALL SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 2 12 Give It Up-Beenie Man feat Barbee-357 Records(1wk@#1) U-1
02 1 16 Wine Pon It/Talk To Me-Munga- Casper Productions(1wk@#1) D-1
03 4 11 Conscience-Cham- Don Corleon U-1
04 3 14 The Days-Busy Signal-Daseca (4wks@#1)D-1
05 6 8 Bubble Like Soup-Timber-Lee- Ward 21 U-1
06 7 11 What I'm Gonna Do-Bugle-Daseca U-1
07 5 12 Love Is Wicked-Brick & Lace- 180 Entertainment(pp#5) D-2
08 9 6 Dem A Sissy-Assassin-Don Corleon U-1
09 10 7 Nah Go A Jail-Busy Signal-Jam 2 U-1
10 8 11 Take My Place-Munga-Don Corleon(pp#6) D-2
11 12 5 Tell Dem Don't Follow-Buju Banton-Heart of Love U-1
12 15 4 No Man-TOK-Don Corleon U-3
13 11 17 Bounce Along-Miss Triniti feat Edee-Unseen Lab(pp#5)D-2
14 16 4 Me and My Dogs-Mavado- Baby G U-2
15 13 26 Tease Her-Anthony B-Trinity 7 Records (2wks@#1) D-2
16 17 5 Crab Inna Barrel -Shane-O-Iceman U-1
17 19 2 Everybody Dance-RDX -Apt 19 U-2
18 18 23 Back It Up -Beenie Man-357 Records (5wks@#1) NM
19 20 2 Pick It Up & Drop It - Sean Paul-Birchill Records U-1
20 14 23 Caan Cool -Chuck Fender-Birchill Records (3wks@#1) D-6

TOP 20 REGGAE SINGLES

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 1 15 Roots-Etana-Freemind (2wks@#1) NM
02 3 18 Show More Love to the Youths-Sizzla-Feed the Children U-1
03 4 9 Revolution -Edee feat Irie Love-Unseen Lab U-1
04 5 7 The World Is A Cycle-Richie Spice-Fresh Ear U-1
05 2 20 Sticky-Jah Cure-Danger Zone (3wks@#1) D-3
06 6 16 Sing To Me - Noddy Virtue-Reflection NM
07 8 11 Silly-Lady Saw-First Name U-1
08 10 9 Poverty-Cocoa Tea-Minor 7, Flat 5 U-2
09 14 6 Fallen Soldiers-Demarco-Star Kutt U-5
10 12 8 Praise God- Little Hero-Inspire U-2
11 13 7 Take My Wings-Christopher Martin-Fresh Ear U-2
12 15 12 I'm Waiting -Cecile-Danger Zone (pp#7) U-3
13 7 23 Below The Waist-Queen Ifrica- Penthouse (2wks@#1)D-6
14 11 11 Stab Vampire- I-Octane-Arrows (pp# D-3
15 17 4 We Nuh Trust Dem-Prestige-Timeless Records U-2
16 19 3 Mi Nah Rub-Queen Ifrica-Downsound Records U-3
17 9 22 Mi Salt-I-Maroon- Downsound Records (1wk@#1) D-8
18 18 3 St. Jago De La Vega-Lutan Fyah-Mac D's NM
19 - New Bonafide Girl-Shaggy feat Ric Rok and Tony Gold- Big Yard
20 16 5 Lucky Day-Cutty Corn- Danger Zone (pp#16) D-4

TOP 10 ALBUMS/CD CHART

TW LW WC TITLE/ARTISTE/LABEL
01 3 5 True Reflections-Jah Cure-VP Records(1wk@#1) U-2
02 1 7 Gully Sit'n-Assassin- VP Records (1wk@#1) D-1
03 4 9 Biological Warfare-Cocoa Tea-Minor 7, Flat 5 U-1
04 5 4 Sean Kingston-Sean Kingston-Beluga Heights/Epic U-1
05 2 14 Coming Home-Ras Shiloh-VP Records (2wks@#1) D-3
06 8 4 Foreva-Wayne Wonder-VP Records U-2
07 6 16 I-Space -Sizzla-Greensleeves (2wks@#1) D-1
08 7 15 Gangster for Life (The Symphony of David Brooks)-Mavado-
VP Records(2wks@#1 D-1
09 - New The Biggest Reggae One-Drop Anthems 2007-Various Artistes-
Greensleeves
10 - New From August Town-Duane Stephenson-VP Records

_____________________NOTES_____________________________________

Numbers in bracket indicate the number of weeks at the No. 1 Spot.
Key: U - Upward, D - Down, NM - Non-Mover
TW - This Week, LW - Last Week, WC Weeks on Chart, PP in bracket -
Peak Position

Beenie Man thriving amidst controversy
One thing we can say about Beenie Man he sure can roll with the punches. All hell seem to be breaking loose in his life on a personal level what with the tax charges, his breakup with his wife and the rumoured link with Barbee – the DJ is still forging ahead career wise.

Even while his presence was needed in court Beenie was in New York with Barbee putting the finishing touch on their 'Paddy Cake' video.

Currently he holds the number one position on Richie B's Jamaica Countdown Charts with sexy singer Barbee with their combination single 'Give It Up'.

For real it takes a really good entertainer to maintain a strong fan base in the midst of so much negativity.

Barbee also seem to be weathering the storm where their rumoured relationship is concerned as recently in New York she performed to rave response from the audience.

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By: Elizabeth Smith

"Without confidence you're always ill-treated and never respected," Mikey General says and his 9th album, "Confidence in Self," sends this message in its title track.

Yardflex interrupted Mikey General yesterday as he was preparing to head out once again to the Motherland. Ghana is his destination this time and he will be featured at a special concert to be held there on October 27th that also has John Legend, Bounty Killa and Luciano on the bill.

Having just returned from Ethiopia and taking part in the Millennium celebrations there, Mikey General spoke passionately about this "special time" in world history, and how it correlates to his latest release. "You better have confidence in self or your choice will be defeated...I wanted to send a message to the world, because it is a special time for African people. We have entered the Ethiopian Millennium as well as the 77th anniversary of His Imperial Majesty's crowning. At such an important milestone we must reflect on how to achieve our goals despite being held back...and that can only be done with confidence in self first," he explained.

Obviously possessing oodles of confidence himself the General, who made a notable transformation of sorts some 15 years ago, explained how his crossing of paths with Luciano resulted in the blossoming of his own career. Having been boosted as one of UK's top dancehall toasters and dubplate masters, with number one hits like “Kuffen Dem” and "My Commanding Wife," Mikey General yearned for a change that would enhance his spiritual leanings. "To tell you the truth, coming back to Jamaica revived my career. Meeting up with Luciano at a time when he was just starting out and the influences of his strong faith and jovial spirit helped me to go deeper," he stated.

The rest is history. With his Xterminator camp affiliation Mikey General went full steam ahead into the conscious reggae music realm from then on - spurning out hit after hit of crucial messages for the world.

Ghanians will have the pleasure of experiencing his performance this coming weekend and everyone should grab a chance as well by picking up the album, "Confidence in Self." Riveting cuts on the album include, "Cuss Dem" as well as one of Mikey General's favorites done in collaboration with Luciano called, "Steal Away."

As he hastily made his exit from the phone to finish packing, Mikey General said, "In my music the message is clear and very important. Take for example, “Steal Away.” It says – Steal Away, Steal Away, Go take a little time to pray."

Photography By" Dreamy Riley

The Staff of YardFlex Inc would like to wish our CEO Deborah Cole a Blessed, Happy and Enjoyable Birthday. We hope the LORD continues to shower you with his blessing abundantly. May you live to see many many more.

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By: Elizabeth Smith

Hedonism III was a buzz with excitement recently with one of the hottest shows on the North Coast of Jamaica gracing its poolside stage. Entertainment Director, Nichel Lindsay said, "There's always a competition going on here and we are consistent with inviting top judges."

On this early October evening there were slightly dressed, chiseled men pouring out of the backstage woodwork, flaunting their well packed stuff for not only a room full of patrons, but also for 5 judges - there to decide who would walk away with US$500.00 plus 4 nights complementary stay at the super all-inclusive Hedonism III and the 2007 title of Mr. Caribbean International.

It was show time just as the delectable dinner buffet was wrapping up and attendees got ready for their visual dessert. Each contestant strutted his hunky stuff down stage center, right and left to the delight of onlookers and scrutinizing eyes of expert judges.

Included in the panel were, radio and television host, Denise Hunt and Jamaican Olympian, Juliet Cuthbert. This was a clear indication that excellence was the only expectation for that entire evening.

Neither crowd nor judges were disappointed as the six-packed, sugar sweet eye candy did their thing. Introductions were first, and this is where the audience realized the massive amount of talent stored within those "build bods," who hailed from shores as far as Canada and the US.

True pageant format was adhered to and contestants reappeared, presenting themselves: in dapper formal attire, showing their creative abilities and parading in swim trunks (or were those swim strings). The woman hosting, had an inaudible, rugged voice at times, but like many of the ladies in the room she was really taken in by the heated moments onstage and at one point uncontrollably decided to walk over to a contestant and undress him using her teeth. His garment – a red swim thong.

Audience members went wild, but did not get as out of hand as they did when the guys did their dance moves that of course included some serious bumps and grinds. It only got hotter and the air became laden with suspense, as folk chattered about who they thought was the best and should walk away as the crowned Mr. Caribbean International.

There were eliminations and then the final decision was handed in. Othneil 'Neil Prince' Haliburton from Jamaica was named winner.

It was a tough decision to make – and the now confirmed "Best Best," will sit on this Hedonism Hotty throne for this his reigning year.

The secret is out! R&B singer Chris Brown has not been officially linked with a girlfriend...well (roll the drum please) it seems he and Caribbean queen Rihanna are now a hot item.

According news surfacing on the internet a source close to Rihanna camp the two have been secretly dating for months now. But a few days ago they came out in public for the first time.

The insider revealed that, "Rihanna was performing at the House Of Blues [in Los Angeles] and Chris Brown came out to see her. He sat in the audience while she performed and the two left together and went back to his [place] - which is off Sunset Blvd and Doheny."

And there's more. According to the story in mediatakeout.com Chris Brown is wildly in love with Rihanna. The insider blabbed "Chris can't get enough of [Rihanna]...he follows her all around the
country." And a few weeks ago, he even got a similar tattoo as the Bajan beauty. The insider added, "It was his way of showing how committed he is to her."

Unfortunately for Chris, our insider claims that Rihanna doesn't feel as strongly about him. The source explained to the website, "Rihanna still dates other people. At this point in her life she's all about
having fun ... She's told Chris [Brown] that she wants to slow things down, but he's not listening."

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A wha a gwaan between Buju and Ky-enie
A wha dis mi a hear bout some passa passa between the Gargamel, Buju Banton and Kye-enie. Mi hear sey Ky-enie did a have one affair with a woman who is involved with a prominent member of Buju's camp.

But yuh done know sey whatever do inna secret mus' come to light and a suh it buss out sey him a trespass pon people territory. Mi dear from him affair come to light Buju nuh waan appear pon no more show wid him.

Suh now mi know why anytime Buju deh pon a show yuh nuh hear peep fire bout Kye-enie all when the show dem a feature di Big Yard family (Shaggy, Rayvon, Schreechie and Red Foxx) that Buju has performed on!

Bwoy all mi can sey is yuh si whey punash cause...artiste careful who fah milk yuh go crawl inna...cause it caan worth yuh career!

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By Rootzgirl

Damn if I do and damn if I don't. People, people, please read the article carefully before you start to put words into my mouth! I am amazed at some of the comments and I have to wonder...did I imply that!

Sorry if I am stepping on a few toes in this article but I am tired of women getting pregnant in an effort to lure the man from his upfront woman.

The lengths some women will go to in competing to keep what's not hers. Every time the man's ligit woman get pregnant, the matey pregnant too! Give me a break here, what's the catch anyway. Yeah we done know the man wutless aready, but does that mean you have to be
a breeding box just to keep a hol' on him?

It's sad and sickening to see these women without pride doing everything to hang on to a man that’s not even theirs.

I am a woman, but I wish I could get inside their heads to figure out what kind of satisfaction they derive knowing they are having these men 'outside children' that the man can't even let his wife know about. He has to hide and carry the smalls come and give to you. Many times you begging him to stay over and just sleep the whole night with you...because he is trying to hide the fact from his wife that he has another woman.

Where is the satisfaction when you have two or three kids and the man can't even come to some of the big events such school plays, soccer match etc...next thing wifey gets suspicious.

What kind of victory you think you have over the wife even if you have kids for the man and his wife don't?

If you were so damn hot, how come the man not signing divorce papers and popping the question to you? Or come he is hanging on for dear life to the woman he is referring to as his 'upfront' woman and you are still perched on the sidelines?

Wake up women! Come on have some pride and give yourselves more rating than that. Just because the man wants to have his cake and eat it too doesn't mean that you have to be his meal.

Children are the most beautiful gifts that God could ever give, but don't tarnish their beauty by having this stigma hanging over their heads.

Yeah, mi back broad, suh cuss if you want, but done the baby competition ting, "pickney caan hol' man again!"

In my next article, I have a bone to pick with the
men...peace out.

With the promise of a million dollars worth of cash prizes the Magnum Kings and Queens of the Dancehall competition is sure to be a great watch. The aim of the show is to uncover the best female and male dancehall artists Jamaica has to offer. On the 3rd of November recruitment will begin in Sav-La-Mar, and will then move on to Mandeville, Ocho Rios, Portmore, and finally Kingston.

Asylum Nightclub was the site of the launch recently. Zinc lined walls covered in dancehall paraphernalia, the magnum girls strutting around in the latest dancehall fashions and jerk pans cooking up a storm made this event feel like a regular street session!

Jamming to the tunes of Stone Love, guests had a fantastic time of it. MC Empress and Miss Kitty explained to the crowd all the ins and outs of the competitions. Aside from the musical performances viewers will be treated to a comedy talent search and showcases of the latest dancehall fashions.

Broadcasting of the auditions will begin in January 2008 and eliminations will been seen live between February and April. Both the crowned King and Queen will receive $500 000 as well as a production deal for release of their own single and video. Already one of dancehalls best producers, Cordel 'Scatta' Burrell, has agreed to judge the competitions. There is also a mystery judge who the sponsors are staying very tight-lipped about.

Beenie Man salt bad
Beenie Man's troubles keep coming like a flood at him. A warrant was issued yesterday for the DJ after he failed to show up in court to answer to charges of tax evasion.

According to the news Beenie Man owes J$47 million in taxes! Wow! Poor Beenie, when you salt, you salt bad.

Everyone on the street now wondering what kind a crosses this a follow dem king.

"Beenie Man need fi get a good bathe star, one man caan salt suh," one ardent fan was heard commenting on the DJ's woes.

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