Enthusiasm


I am enthusiastic about life!
Centering myself in daily prayer, I develop a spiritually enthusiastic nature that shows up consistently in all that I do.
The indwelling spirit of God inspires me to act with a confidence that is infused with exuberance. I am guided in how I can serve others and how I can make meaningful differences in my world.
Rising above any thoughts of lethargy or procrastination, I embrace projects and processes with creativity and energy. I act on and share divine ideas.
Throughout my day, I greet others with genuine enthusiasm. My affirmative thoughts motivate me, and my thoughtful actions encourage those around me to move forward in a positive direction.
All manner of accomplishments are realized effortlessly--and with enthusiasm!


"Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord."--Romans 12:11

Matthew Golding, was the last of five children born to Joseph and Beverley Golding in Kingston, Jamaica. His father was a soldier so he grew up on an army base. At the age of thirteen his father retired and his family moved to Portmore, St. Catherine. As a child, Matthew was drawn to music with an innate desire to perform and entertain.

"My mother was a drama teacher and she wrote a lot of plays and still writes to this day," says Matthew, "Maybe that's why I am so dramatic. She is an on fire Christian and that's where I get my Christian roots. My Father was a soldier and that's why I am so militant."

BR>Matthew's greatest inspiration growing up was his older brother Mark (aka RAMROD), who was into deejaying and rapping. Following Mark's footsteps, in 1992, Matthew attended St. Georges College where he wrote his first rap lyrics while in the eighth grade. As his lyrical skills continued to develop, he took up the name "Suicide", for he was notorious for his crazy ways.

From 1996 to 2001, Matthew was part of a group called the Marawdaz. During that time he flipped his style from hip-hop to dancehall. As he was enjoying the growth of his secular career, all the attributes that typically accompany this type of lifestyle were prevalent; girls and a crazy party life. Yet with all that, there was one area of his life that he had not conquered; the unexplainable bleakness and profound emptiness within his soul that he couldn't drink, smoke or manage to chase away.

On September 11th 2001, when the world was waking up to the tragedy of the twin towers in New York succumbing to an outright terrorist attack, another attack of sorts was going on within Matthew. Seeing the grief and finally getting the courage to put a name to the confusion in his soul, Matthew decided not only to surrender his life to Jesus Christ but in doing so, resigned from Marawdaz and dropped his popular alias "Suicide". Although this was a wonderful event, transition wasn't easy as he was now a one-man show without a name. Matthew felt he had to go back to basics, before all the girls, cars, money, jewelry, drugs, and alcohol. He started reflecting on his life and new that he had to make a change.

Armed with this knowledge, Matthew became born again and adopted the moniker of St. Matthew aka "the Gospel Defender." Armed with the catch phrase "readyback", (which means be ready, equipped and prepared), Matthew was ready to take on the World!

Described as "The most engaging voice in gospel dancehall," (Mark Mohr, GospelReggae.com), St. Matthew has now become a force to be reckoned with in Gospel Dancehall arena. In addition to the release of his first three mixtapes and Kingdom Vibrations (with DJ Counsellor and Mr. Lynx), Matthew has been featured on over a dozen top selling gospel reggae albums/compilations.

In addition to his numerous performances on both the gospel and secular circuits, Matthew continues to maintain his rigorous writing and recording schedule. In July of 2006 he was thrown for a loop with the passing of his father in a tragic car accident. Coming out of that St. Matthew has even more resolve than ever before. He refuses to let anything hinder him from his calling. Despite personal and professional obstacles, he is determined to push forward as a Christian Soldier and gospel defender.

"I am who I am... Readyback!"-St. Matthew

This beautiful hymn was penned by a former slave trader John Newton. One night while attempting to steer the ship through a violent storm, he experienced what he was to refer to later as his “great deliverance.” He recorded in his journal that when all seemed lost and the ship would surely sink, he exclaimed, “Lord, have mercy upon us.” Later in his cabin he reflected on what he had said and began to believe that God had addressed him through the storm and that grace had begun to work for him.


For the rest of his life he observed the anniversary of May 10, 1748 as the day of his conversion, a day of humiliation in which he subjected his will to a higher power. “Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ’tis grace has bro’t me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” He continued in the slave trade for a time after his conversion; however, he saw to it that the slaves under his care were treated humanely.

Amazing Grace


Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That sav’d a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.


’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev’d;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ’d!


Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.


The Lord has promis’d good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.


Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.


The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call’d me here below,
Will be forever mine.

A Yardie is having breakfast one morning; coffee, croissants, bread, butter & jam when a Trini man, chewing gum, sits down next to him.
The Yardie ignores the Trini who, nevertheless, starts a conversation

Trini: "You Jamaican folk eat the whole bread?"

Yardie (in a bad mood): "Of course"

Trini (after blowing a huge bubble) "We don't. In Trinidad we does only eat what's inside. The crust, we collect in a container, recycle it, transform them into croissants and sell them to the Jamaicans".

The Trini has a smirk on his face.

The Yardie listens in silence The Trini persits: "Do you eat jam with the bread?"

Yardie: "Of course"

Trini: (Cracking he gum wid he teet and chucklin')"We don't. In

Trinidad we eat fresh fruit for breakfast, then we does put all the peels, seeds and leftovers in containers, recycle them into jam and sell the jam to the Jamaicans".

The Yardie then asks: "Do you have sex in Trinidad?"

Trini: "Why of course we do", the Trini says smirking

Yardie: "And what do you do with the condoms once you've used them?"

Trini: "We throw them away, of course"

Yardie: "We don't. In Jamaica we put them in a container, recycle them, melt them down into chewing gum and sell deh r**s dem ah Trinidad.

Appreciate


Thank You, God, for an abundant life.
Gratitude brightens any day. So today I am on a personal mission to brighten my world with appreciation to God. For all I've been given and for everyone and every situation that has shaped the life I am blessed to live, I offer my gratefulness.
Coming from the heart, I put my love into words of appreciation for my family, friends, and associates, and to those who pass through my day only briefly. I let them all know that I recognize their unique contributions, their efforts, and the gifts they share.
I say silent thank-yous to Spirit throughout the day for blessings and opportunities. With each acknowledgement, I grow in awareness of God as my source of abundance.
My life is full and complete through divine direction, order, and harmony. Thank You, God, for an abundant life.


"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!"--2 Corinthians 9:15

Yesterday while on the way to work, I was listening the news and the report shocked me to the core. You would think that after all the campaign that has been going on regarding child safety we would at least see a dent in the careless deaths of our children.


The news stated that the rate is alarmingly in children under 2 drinking harmful substances such as pesticides and other stuff and ultimately dying.


According to the report the percentage is high and that they are urging parents to be careful so that the numbers can go down.

Now let’s be logical, as a parent, why the hell would you need a report to tell you that you should be careful…isn’t it your duty to protect your child?


Babies will always be curious, they have no sense of reasoning when they come across harmful substances to decipher that they should not put it to their mouths…therefore adults have to be their eyes and everything and ensure that dangerous stuffs are well out of their reach.


Honestly it’s sickening the number of careless deaths that occurring with our children. Some parents are just too lazy or lackadaisical to take the time and properly watch their children. Of course I am not knocking those who tried to dot all the I’s and cross every t where security is concerned and still that ‘unforeseen’ occur. That’s a heartbreak all on its on.


I’m talking about parents who ‘want to brag about the babies’ but can’t be bothered with the day to day drill of watching their kids and properly taking care of them.


Come on, I am dreaming of the day when I can listen the report and hear how the numbers are drastically going down

The voice behind Time To Shine, Laden was granted bail in the sum of $20,000 and was released from lock up on station bail yesterday.


He was arrested by the Junction Police on Wednesday evening for disorderly conduct and using indecent language. Yardflex has already given you the whole drama.

He is to appear before the Santa Cruz Resident Magistrate’s Court on June 9.

Yardflex came across this very interesting article posted on www.eastandard.net all we can say is very interesting...check out excerpts from it.


A few celebrities are falling into illicit affairs with groupies that trap them into one-night stands. Sometimes more. Now an emerging groupie love affair is causing ripples in the industry, writes Stevens Muendo

The massive crowd gathered at the Lugogo Cricket Oval last Saturday night was getting impatient. For over 20 minutes, the technicians were up and down, setting up for Shaggy as enthusiastic fans waited.

But technical hitches persisted and were met with impatience from the wild crowd. At some point, a beer bottle was thrown up in the air as tempers flared. But before it all got out of control, the dancehall king emerged from the backstage to great applause.


His charming persona fused well with his catchy hits and magnetism.


It was hardly a year since Shaggy graced the stage in Kampala and he did not disappoint. His energetic performance was well received


Alongside singer Rayvon, the jubilant fans, sang along with the hits What’s Love, Repent, Church Heathen, Would You Be, She’s Mine, Big Up, Strength of a Woman, Big Up, Summer Time and Keeping it Real.


But it was Wild Tonight, Sexy Lady, Chica Bonita, Sweet Girl that got the crowd, consisting mostly of ladies into a frenzy.


Some ladies got carried away and overwhelmed security as they forced their way onto the stage, to share the spotlight with the dancehall king.


Others were screaming and shouting Shaggy’s name as a group of scantly dressed girls on the front row beckoned the singer, with shouts of ‘take me tonight’ as undergarments flew on to the podium.
Shaggy has on occasion confessed how he loves Kenyan women, so many, including groupies, had crossed the border into Uganda to be near their favourite performer.


It is not clear whether the ladies’ theatrics wooed the singer that night, but word has it that his entourage entertained quite a number. The groupies are said to have dined with Shaggy’s entourage that night, while others camped outside his hotel. A source has it that the girls were outrightly looking for sexual favours.
Back in 2005, during Shaggy’s shaggy tour of Kinshasa, it is no secret that Q FM’s Talia Oyando was duped by an entourage sound-man (Goldenchyll) who claimed to be Shaggy’s musical sidekick.


Talia dated Goldenchyll and at some point there was even talk of marriage. But after some good times at the young lady’s expense, Goldenchyll vanished like a silver mist.


Two years ago, prostitutes were moved from the streets of Kampala during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Now, forget the prostitutes, groupie love is fast becoming the new fad — among ladies not only in Uganda but also in Kenya — and visiting international celebrities have been paying the price in the recent past.


According to unconfirmed reports, American superstar Akon is the father of Susan Awori’s unborn baby. Susan, sister of acclaimed Ugandan designer Sylvia Awori, is said to have had a one-night stand with Akon during his concert in Uganda last year.


During this concert, swears an eyewitness, the number of groupie girls who went back to the Serena Kampala with the star was not small.
One lady in the morning was overheard asking one of Akon’s henchmen for $700 (Sh56,000) for ‘taxi fare’.
"Seven hundred dollars? I already gave ya 700 inches," scoffed the entourage man to the beauty.


The story of the Akon-Awori love child, which has dominated showbiz headlines in East Africa and attracted international Press, could be a but a the tip of the iceberg on how deep girls get into the groove with visiting celebs, all in the name of bragging rights at having bedded a celeb.


Awori is said to have gone round telling close friends that she had indeed slept with the superstar during the Ugandan visit.
Sources from Uganda intimate that Akon and Awori are publicly known to have been close friends for a while now. They have been spotted hanging out in top clubs in East Africa and in the United Kingdom. This union is said to have created a cold war between Akon and Awori’s former boyfriend who is part of a UK-based Ugandan music duo, Da Twinz. According to reports, the two split after Awori flew to Atlanta, US, at the invitation and expense of Akon.


Back here, a Kenyan girl is also claiming that she is expecting a baby by one of the P-Square twins. Apparently, she had relations with one of the twins during last year’s Kenyan show.
The girl who is one of the groupies who dined with the P-Square entourage during their two nights at the then Grand Regency, where a Sh2 million bill was left unpaid.


Everyone recalls how panties and bras were thrown on the stage during the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) concert. Or how, groupies chased P-Square all the way from the airport to their hotel rooms, how even a popular radio presenter was caught on camera back-stage with a shirtless P-Square brother.
The celebrity groupie sensation seems to be the in-thing.


"We already have groupies for hire. They are always on standby every time we have an international artiste coming to town. They are even willing to pay promoters to get all the exclusive moments with the visitors," says one of the promoters who sought anonymity.


"You remember during the Ja Rule concert? How groupies partied with Ja Rule at the private dome backstage, toasting to champagne and doing all manner of immoral things?" she tries to remind us. It was claimed that Kenyan girls had sex with Ja Rule’s entourage under the baleful watch of security guards back stage.
Another popular radio presenter denies having disappeared with The Game the night he performed in Nairobi last year. Security guards, however, say the radio presenter was among other girls who entertained The Game and his team that night after the concert.


Out goes Shaggy and Akon. Who is the next celebrity victim on the line?

Harmony


I am Christ harmony in expression wherever I am.
Any time that discord surfaces in my relationships at home or at work, I pause for a time of reflection. I consider past observances of harmony among people, such as individual athletes of a team and musicians in an orchestra.
As athletes cooperate with one another, they become a winning team. Musicians in a symphony achieve perfect harmony by being attuned to one another.
I recognize that achieving harmony in my relationships takes cooperation and commitment. I have all I need to be a presence of harmony wherever I am through the Christ Spirit within. Following divine guidance, I am blessed. I bless those in my home and at work, those I interact with in person and at a distance. I am Christ harmony in expression.


"As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience."--Colossians 3:12

Former Rising Star Laden who made a big splash on the scene with the hit song Time to Shine was yesterday evening arrested for disorderly conduct and using indecent language.

Laden whose real name is Okefe Aaron was taken into custody by the Junction Police in St Elizabeth.

It is alleged that about 6:30, a friend of Laden was having a conversation with a female student

A police sergeant reportedly approached the student and enquired why she was still on the streets in uniform at that time of the evening, and ordered her home.

Laden who was nearby told the student not to leave.

An argument reportedly developed between Laden and the policeman during which the artiste is reported to have used expletives.

He’s booked to appear in the Santa Cruz Resident Magistrates Court today.

Grace


I am filled with the joy of God's amazing grace.
When I spend a few moments reflecting on God's amazing grace, I am filled with joy. Grace is divine love given to me in any and all circumstances, now and forever. Grace assures me that I am always in God's presence.
I rejoice in the knowledge that I am a child of God. I am therefore loved unconditionally. Knowing this gives me strength even in the most difficult of times.
Perhaps I experienced a time in my life when I prayed for guidance for myself and a friend or family member because we needed direction on life's curving pathways. As we aligned ourselves with the truth of God's grace, all things were possible for us
How blessed I am by amazing grace, flowing within, from, and around me each and every moment of my life.


"Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."--1 Corinthians 1:3

Following the video that was posted on yardflex with the accompanying story, there was a story in the Star about the whole incident.


What amazes me is the fact that the girl in the video Judith ‘Cocky Tractor’ Miller actually acknowledged that she was only unconscious and that a longer version video showed when she regained consciousness.


She related her story saying she didn’t know what had taken place until she herself viewed the video as the last thing she remembered was the dancer – Marvin running towards her.

The show actually took place November 2 last year and according to her "Mi coulda dead, but mi naw stop dance." She was quick to point out that while she has since danced with Marvin several times after the incident, she would never try that dance stunt again.



Honestly the sickening part about her story is the way she bragged in her interview with the Star that she went to another party the same night after regaining consciousness.
Silly me, for thinking that after coming through that ordeal you would be feeling mighty thankful to God and even if you are not a Christian for that night at least you would hightail it home and read a Psalm of praise for life...and take the time to thank the Father up above for saving you from your stupidity…going to another party.



Well for all who were curious, she is okay…and still dancing doing more ‘techniques’ but says she is more careful now.

Check this out, yardflex came across some hot gossip online and according to the story a UK based Ugandan girl is pregnant with singer Akon’s child. In unconfirmed reports heard from within the alleged mother-to-be’s circles, the girl, a major party animal whenever she is in town and whose family has got ties with the Ugandan fashion industry and was rumoured to have spend a lot of time with the singer on his last trip to Uganda is several months heavy.

This would mean that she conceived later after the said Kampala romps as they allegedly took place over nine months ago. Wow...we'll keep you informed.

A wha dis wi a hear sey during the Killa performance gunshot fired. A wha do dem yah people star? Yardflex understand that no one was hurt. To us it would seem that someone got overzealous in the crowd and acted irreponsible. Honestly that's why it's so hard for some people to support dancehall, you always get this kind of behaviour.
On a good note, you can see the Killa was holding his own on the show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdaLiAKSkTw

Imagine, after Freddie a hold him Reggae meets Rockseady show all dem years and a get good crowd, di one year him go add Dancehall to it, is a different story. It come in like seh di dancehall people dem bring dung pure bad blessings pon di man ting. Di crowd nuh turn up and de dancehall artiste … di same one who tell Freddie fi add dancehall to it .... doan show up. And den a go talk bout a true him neva have nuh contract. It look like nobody neva tell him say word-a-mouth contract is just as binding as di paper ting. And, furthermore, look how long Freddie did a promote him ting and Kartel name a call up as one of di performer dem. Why Kartel neva bawl out from dem time deh say him no have no contract and mek him fans dem know say him nah go deh a di show. A almshouse ting dat him keep up pn Freddie and him fans. Him suppose to apologise, cause it doan look good.

The management for deejay Adija Palmer, aka Vybz Kartel, says the artiste did not have a signed contract with the Big Ship Promotions’ Reggae Meets Dancehall Meets Rocksteady held on Saturday at Jamalco Sports Complex in Clarendon.
Kartel, who was one of the biggest drawing cards in the Dancehall segment of the show, failed to turn up, even after promoter Freddie McGregor promised patrons in the wee hours of the morning that “Kartel is on his way”.
After repeated performances from Freddie, obviously in an attempt to give Kartel time to reach the venue, the show finally ended, close to 5:00 am, without an appearance by Kartel.
Kartel’s management admitted that the artiste was not contracted for any other show on Saturday night, but emphasised that Kartel did not attend the event because there was no contract.

Some things just makes you wonder...after the traumatic experience of having five girls from the facility perishing in fire and then being moved to Stony Hill Heart Academy, the police had to be called in regarding another brawl involving the girls.


According to yardflex source the female juveniles behaviour was described as 'terrible"
We are talking real 'skettelish' carrying on.


According to what we heard some of them stripped off their clothes down to their underwear and were talking about who's boyfriend is a gunman…no bwoy these things just makes your stomach crawl.

The police had to be called in as they were engaged in a brawl inside the auditorium in which they were housed.
From what yardflex understand there seem to be a gang thing going on in there and some girls from one faction were up against girls from another faction.


Inside sources revealed that everybody was fighting, some were throwing stones, one of them even punched the house mother with a left, right combination that knocked her down and we're talking about an elderly woman.


Three cops who went there after the report came in received scratches and scrapes when they tried to restrain the girls
All we can say is that these girls need serious help.

We at yardflex would like to send out our condolences to the parents of all those who were killed in the fatal crash involving the 15-year-old who took away his father's pick-up and went for a drive.

All this happened on a late night joyride which turned deadly on Monday when a pickup truck driven by a 15-year-old boy crashed into a utility pole along the Port Henderson main road in Portmore, St Catherine killing three children.

Police identified the dead children as 14-year-old Oshane Salmon; Crystal Robinson, 15; and her brother, Matthew Brown, 10, who the cops said were among a group of six youngsters travelling in the motor vehicle at the time of the accident.

Pity must also be extended to this youth who in his zeal to drive incurred the accident...no doubt he has his own private hell to face and we are not talking about jail time.

But there are questions which must be answered what were these children doing in a pick on a late night joyride. 10-year-old...shouldn't he be under his parents control, his every move being accounted for?

It is too late to preach obedience to those who died, but we must now strive to get this message home to those who can be converted. To obey is tons better than paying the sacrifice...in the case of the driver...we shudder to think of the future that faces him...to the ones who died...they can never be replaced. Their loved ones must now find a way to cope with the pain.

Parents please, teenagers will always be teenagers...adventure, wanting to try something they shouldn't...don't leave your vehicle keys or guns within easy reach...that's like holding out a candy to a baby.

Granted he should have been responsible enough not to listen to his father but prevention will always be much better than finding a cure.

As a community...let's all practice to be each other's guardians...it's the only way we can help each other's kids

Pass It On


I am blessed as I give freely of myself and what I have.
The phrase "return the favor" reminds me to not only accept a kindness with gratitude, but also to give back just as generously.
Yet I don't wait for someone to extend a courtesy to me before I reach out to others. In sharing an idea, helping a family member, or assisting a coworker, I give freely of myself, and in doing so I am blessed. In my community, I give back, knowing that many people have come before me, paving the way. In prayer, I take time to express my gratitude to God.
Whether I give to others something intangible, such as a compliment, or pass along a cherished possession, such as an heirloom, I experience joy and love. In spreading the wealth and passing it on, I make room in the world for true prosperity and abundance.


"It is more blessed to give than to receive."--Acts 20:35

1. When I was born, I was given a choice - A big dick or a good memory.. I don't remember, what I chose.

2. Your birth certificate is an apology letter from the condom factory.

3. A wife is a sex object. Every time you ask for sex, she objects.

4. Impotence: Nature's way of saying 'No hard feelings...'

5. There are only two four letter words that are offensive to men - 'don't' and 'stop', unless they are used together.

6. Panties: Not the best thing on earth, but next to the best thing on earth.

7. There are three stages of sex in a man's life: Tri Weekly, Try Weekly, and Try Weakly.

8. Virginity can be cured.

9. Virginity is not dignity, its lack of opportunity.

10. Having sex is like playing bridge. If you don't have a good partner, you'd better have a good hand.

11. I tried phone sex once, but the holes in the dialer were too small.

12. Marriage is the only war where you get to sleep with the enemy.

13. Q: What's an Australian kiss?
A: The same thing as a French kiss, only down under.

14. A couple just married were happy with the whole thing. He was happy with the Hole and she was happy with the Thing......

15. Q: What are the three biggest tragedies in a mans life?
A: Life sucks, job sucks, and the wife doesn't.

16. Q: Why do men find it difficult to make eye contact?
A: Breasts don't have eyes.

17. Despite the old saying, 'Don't take your troubles to bed', many men still sleep with their wives!!

The news is making the rounds that a girl died at a dance in Seaforth…Dutty Fridayz, fi real wi check out di video and it appears suh fi true.
Di video did disgusting cause from whey wi watch. Di girl lie dung and di man supposed to jump and land pon har proper and start dagger, but him miss and land inna har head and from dat, si girl unconscious.
But di sickening part inna di whole mix up is dat you could hear di selector a sey Di Gal dead, batty kill har.
While watching di video unno notice sey apart from throwing wata pon har nobady nuh meck nuh move fi help har. Or rush har to di hospital…just business as usual and dem a party like nutten nuh wrong. A wha di hell kinda world wi live inna when a simple ting like life nuh mean nutten.
Now wi nuh know if di girl regain consciousness or not…but a hope har family come forward and lick out gainst dem almshouse ting inna di dancehall.
Check out di video and tell mi what dat look like to unno.

Bwoy, mi nah tell nuh lie, we nuh tink it was such a good idea fi Rocksteady meet nuh dancehall at all. Cause a nuff nuff people wi hear sey dem couldn’t badda wid di dancehall part a dat dey package suh dem nah badda guh. Now di classic show never enjoy a bumper crowd at all.

But di ting whey bun mi most of all is di fact dat Vybz Kartel never show up a di people dem show.

Afta how mi read sey Freddie include di dancehall segment pon di show because a one cvonversation whey him did have wid Vybz when dem buck up a airport. And Kartel ask him sey why him nuh include di dancehall part pon it.

Now Freddie teck di suggestion and include it and in di end di people a di show deh pon “a gaza wi sey” and no Vybz Kartel fi come perform.

Personally wi tink sey dat a big, big dis and people need fi hear one official explanation on why him neva tun up.

Next time Freddie fi just do him ting and meck Rocksteady meet Reggae alone.

Forgive
I forgive and enter into a new, positive way of life.
I experience feelings of both relief and empowerment as I forgive. Forgiveness is truly the first step to moving past the reliving of past hurts and regrets. A great weight of negativity is lifted from me, and I have room for uplifting, constructive energy. I take on a positive role in my own life, in my community, and in my world.
This is a new way of life in which I cherish each miraculous creation of God, treating all with care and appreciation. I experience not only contentment (happiness for the moment), but even better, I have an everlasting joy--the knowledge that I am participating in God's circle of unconditional love for all humankind.
As I forgive, I give myself the blessing of being free to live a life of fulfillment.


"Then hear in heaven your dwelling place, forgive, act, and render to all whose hearts you know--according to all their ways."--1 Kings 8:39

Comfort
The spirit of God is peace that soothes my heart.
In honor of those who have gone before me, I dedicate a portion of this day to their memory. Reflecting on their strength of spirit, love, and courage, I continue to be inspired by their lives and to learn by their examples. They contributed to the lives of those around them in unique and meaningful ways.
These dear ones have left an enduring impression on my heart and mind. I am blessed each time I have the opportunity to share a memory about them or follow a bit of wisdom they passed on to me.
As my abiding comforter, the spirit of God brings peace to my heart. At peace about my loved ones, I honor them with my memories and my love.


"Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out from their distress; he made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed."--Psalm 107:28-29

Christ Light
I am energized and ready to take on the day.
The light of Christ shines within me, revealing that every challenge is an opportunity for me to give expression to divine wisdom that is at the core of my being.
Conscious of the spirit of Christ within, I leave all the challenges and concerns that appear during a day with that day. I begin each morning anew, energized and ready to take on the day.
To maintain the momentum, I place any concern or apprehension that surfaces into the light of Christ. I affirm: Christ in me is more powerful than any appearance of a challenge to my mind and body.
My thinking is clear. My conversations are meaningful. My body is energized. I am confident and courageous.


"For it is the God who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,' who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."--2 Corinthians 4:6

Long before it was ready to fling open its doors to their targeted elite patrons, there was a loud buzz about the newest addition to
New Kingston’s hip strip, Pure/Plush club and lounge. But its opening on Friday proved to be pure drama.


Think a black-out for over half an hour and JPS working feverishly (yawn, yawn) to get things right; a break down in the air conditioning system coupled with sweaty bodies packed inside the club like a sardine can, and a long wait on something … anything … to cool you down.


And the amazing thing was, while it was pure problems for the new club, others venues on the strip seemed to be experiencing no difficulties, as it was party as usual.

The club opening was used by Red Stripe to show off their top of the line liquor locally, and this part progressed fairly well. But, getting full speed ahead with the night club Plush, located upstairs, was another matter. Media fave and club owner, golden boy Kimani Robinson told guests that there was an electrical problem which would cause a little delay, but little turned out to be a long time.


However, when the lights finally came back on, invited guests who had chosen to remain, were treated to a decent interlude of music and fab clubbing … even against the backdrop of the lingering smell of fresh paint.

There are some hymns that just touch your soul when you sing it. Not only that but the inspirational words also speak to your circumstances. Starting this week Yardflex will be giving you interesting insights behind some of your favourite hymns

This hymn was written by a pastor. At that time, the custom in town, during celebrations, was for the children to march from one town to another with banners. The pastor wanted the children to sing a hymn as they went. Since nothing was suitable, he wrote one himself—late the night before the march!
He wrote more than 60 books in the British Museum, but was most remembered as the author of “Onward Christian Soldiers.”

Onward, Christian Soldiers

Onward, Christian soldiers,
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before;
Christ, the royal Master,
Leads against the foe;
Forward into battle,
See His banners go!

Chorus
Onward, Christian soldiers!
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus
Going on before.

At the sign of triumph,
Satan’s host doth flee;
On, then, Christian soldiers,
On to victory;
Hell’s foundations quiver
At the shout of praise:
Brothers, lift your voices,
Loud your anthems raise!

Crowns and thrones may perish,
Kingdoms rise and wane,
But the church of Jesus
Constant will remain;
Gates of hell can never
’Gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise,
and that cannot fail.

Onward, then, ye people,
Join our happy throng;
Blend with ours your voices
In the triumph-song;
Glory, laud and honor
Unto Christ the King,
This through countless ages
Men and angels sing.

It's gospel soul at its best with the Songs 4 Worship. The CD features the voices of Peabo Bryson, Regina Belle, and Freddie Jackson each have the honour of singing two selections on this project. Bryson does a stellar job with his cover of the Darlene Zschech classic "Shout To The Lord". Meanwhile, Belle, no stranger to the gospel genre, sinks her teeth into "Grateful", originally performed by Hezekiah Walker and LFC.

Peabo Bryson, Regina Belle, and Freddie Jackson each have the honor of singing two selections on this project. Bryson does a stellar job with his cover of the Darlene Zschech classic "Shout To The Lord". Meanwhile, Belle, no stranger to the gospel genre, sinks her teeth into "Grateful", originally performed by Hezekiah Walker and LFC.

Bryson and Belle partner on the Richard Smallwood anthem "Total Praise". Freddie Jackson's double duty starts with a cover of Andrae Crouch's "My Tribute", a duet with Melba Moore. However, it's his cover of the Deniece Williams-penned "God Is Amazing" that could get the nod as the standout cut of the album. Few men can adequately perform a song originally written for a female vocalist but Jackson makes the song his own with an arrangement that will garner several repeat spins.

Bryson and Belle partner on the Richard Smallwood anthem "Total Praise". Freddie Jackson's double duty starts with a cover of Andrae Crouch's "My Tribute", a duet with Melba Moore. However, it's his cover of the Deniece Williams-penned "God Is Amazing" that could get the nod as the standout cut of the album. Few men can adequately perform a song originally written for a female vocalist but Jackson makes the song his own with an arrangement that will garner several repeat spins.

Sprinkled amid the classic songs are original pieces that find their place that are within this weighty collection of songs. Brian McKnight offers the encouraging and socially relevant "You're Gonna Make It", adding a touch of modern R&B to this classic flavored album. Ruben Studdard's heartfelt "Holding On To You Lord" is another track to look out for that is musically reminiscent of the early Commissioned days.

The cover-filled album offers other unique presentations including Evelyn "Champagne" King's cover of "Open My Heart" and Jody Watley's cover of "Heaven Help Us All".

All in all, the mere concept of this album reminds us that regardless of your genre of music, everyone deserves the opportunity to offer praise. These legends have praise to offer and Songs 4 Worship to encourage the soul.

The fourteen-track project sees production from R&B historian and reissue producer David Nathan as well as Preston Glass, whose credits include work with Aretha Franklin, Kenny G, Natalie Cole, and Earth, Wind, and Fire. This combination gives the album an authentically classic R&B feel, and creates a unique window through which to view these fourteen worship classics.

Honestly just when I think that things can’t get any worse, I read a story that really shakes me up.
Take for example the story in the Star yesterday (Friday) where the 50 year old woman was forced to drink acid and on top of that beaten with a dutch pot in her head.
It makes your stomach crawl just thinking about the act, how cruel do you have to be to do something like that?
What pain she had to endure before dying with her insides on fire, as the deadly substance made its way down. What kind of person does that?
What kind of punishment do you give someone like this? And worse, maybe that person will not be brought to justice as I can’t see anyone coming forward to talk about it.

According to the story the cops now have in custody a Tivoli man who they allege forced a woman to drink acid and beat her in the head with a Dutch pot.
The victim Rhona Graham who was also Tivoli resident, died in hospital a week after being admitted in critical condition.
All this because of an argument she had with someone else, with the ‘bad man’ being called to intervene. She got aggressive to him and he did that to her. True, in these times if you can take the peaceful way out, it’s best, but oh mercy…I don’t think anyone deserves that at all.

In line with tradition, the Montreal International Reggae Festival 2009 aims to please all reggae lovers who make what has become the annual ‘pilgrimage’ for one of the greatest rocking reggae festivals on the planet.

June 26 to 28, 2009 is when the sixth edition of this steadily growing event will be unleashed at a new location - Parc Jean Drapeau, situated on the famous St Helene’s Island.

Stellar performances have always been the norm when ‘Reggae Fest Time’ rolls around and this year’s lineup includes hard hitters like: Sugar Minott, Frankie Paul, Kymani Marley, Sanchez and Capleton. It promises to be three glorious days of reggae music and festive activities, fit for the entire family.

”With its close proximity to the beach and the St Lawrence River, Parc Jean Drapeau is as ideal a location as Montreal’s Old Port was for the past five years,” festival founder and president, Eric Blagrove told Yardflex recently. His sentiment has been echoed widely throughout Montreal, as festival goers have been singing the praises of this new venue already.

Steve Balboa, who told Yardflex he travels in from Mirabel to enjoy each night of Montreal’s Reggae Fest every year, said, “I expect it to be wonderful at Parc Jean Drapeau this year, both for myself and my car…I will finally be able to park with no hassles.”

It will be a hassle-free weekend as “no problems” shall get between revelers and the well produced ‘reggae days and nights’ in store for them. A historic blend will give festival goers a blazing ‘Sound System Night’ as an opener. This is where the famous ‘toasting’ will prevail featuring four of the most ingenious lyricists of all time: U-Roy, Charlie Chaplin, Josey Wales and Brigadier Jerry – all chanting to the selections of Stur-Gav Sound System.

Saturday night has been dubbed, ‘Dancehall Night’ and it comes on the heels of its predecessor, since the ‘Sound System’ style of improvisational chanting on saucy rhythms, realistically gave birth to what is now ‘dancehall music’. Anthony B and Little Hero are slated to join Antigua’s Onyan from the famous Burning Flames and other major acts, for a dancehall ‘stage blazing’ on the second Reggae Fest night.

Closing night will be both nostalgic and current, as the smooth cool sounds of Sanchez and Sugar Minott will make a striking contrast with some of the reggae hip-hop fusions from Kymani Marley.



Montreal’s highly commendable reggae music community will also be a major highlight at the three day festival that strives to not only entertain but also to build community. The festival will maintain its underlying theme and motto, “United Against Violence.”

Tracking down Blagrove was a difficult task as he is the epitome of a great multi-tasker. The busy head honcho of Montreal’s International Reggae Festival is also charged by his company’s mandate to bring the best in entertainment to his newly renovated E.B. Club Lounge. Last week’s Terry Linen concert was off the chain and Montrealers are highly anticipating, the June 20th Fathers Day fashion show and dance titled, “Fashionista.”

Blagrove is also a huge supporter of the young people in his community. He is an ongoing major sponsor and role model for marginalized youth involved in organized activities to get them back on track.

Tickets for Reggae Fest are on sale now. Go to ticketpro.ca on the site www.montrealreggaefest.com and check at all Montreal based West Indian outlets.

Spiritually centered, I follow through on a divine plan.
I may feel complete in heart and mind as I reflect upon my past. However, Spirit within encourages me to look forward.
Spiritually centered, I do not base my expectations upon the past--what happened, who I was with, what I did or said. Memories can provide inspiration or insight, but I do not allow them to restrict me.
In prayerful meditation, I receive new revelations of divine inspiration. I see past old limitations. I recognize that I have resources, strength, and insight. My comprehension expands beyond what I would have usually considered.
Infused with new ideas and energy, I am spiritually centered. Aligned with Spirit, I follow through on a divine plan.


"I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?"--Isaiah 43:19

A Jamaican woman was walking along the banks of Dunn's River Falls when she stumbled upon an old empty bottle. She picked it up and rubbed it, and lo-and-behold a Genie appeared.

She talked with him awhile then the Genie told her he would grant her ONE wish. She said she heard from a cousin that she would get three wishes if she ever found a Genie. The Genie said, "Nope, sorry, three-wish genies nuh real, me is strictly a ONE-WISH genie...... So... is wah yuh want?"

The woman didn't hesitate. She said, "I want peace in the Middle East. See this map, I want these countries to stop fighting with each other and I want all the Arabs to love Jews and Americans and vice-versa. It will bring about world peace and harmony."

The Genie looked at the map and exclaimed, "Lawd Lady, A wah wrang wid yu?
PLEASE BE REASONABLE! Dem countries yah a war fi how much thousand a years. Mi shut up inna dis bockle fi 'bout five hundred a dem dey years. Mi good but mi nuh dat good! Mi nuh know if mi can grant dis one.
Du Lady, mek annadda wish!! Mi a beg yuh... Be reasonable."

The woman thought for a minute and said, "Well, I've never been able to find the right Jamaican man... You know, one that is
considerate and fun, likes to dance and helps with the cooking & house-cleaning, and is FAITHFUL. That's what I wish for...a good Jamaican man.

The Genie let out a long sigh, shook his head and said,

"Mek mi see di map again!!!!"

#1 Mavado - I'm So Bless
Last Week: 1 | Weeks On Chart: 16

#2 Vybz Kartel - Last Man Standing
Last Week: 2 | Weeks On Chart: 15

#3 Mr. Vegas - I Am Blessed
Last Week: 4 | Weeks On Chart: 8

#4 Da'Ville - Missing You Right Now
Last Week: 3 | Weeks On Chart: 27

#5 Laden - Time To Shine
Last Week: 5 | Weeks On Chart: 13

#6 Etana ft. Alborosie - Blessings
Last Week: 7 | Weeks On Chart: 10

#7 Konshens - This Mean Money
Last Week: 8 | Weeks On Chart: 9

#8 RDX - Ben Ova
Last Week: 6 | Weeks On Chart: 14

#9 Queen Ifrica - Far Away
Last Week: 10 | Weeks On Chart: 11

#10 Vybz Kartel - Dollar Sign
Last Week: 13 | Weeks On Chart: 6

#11 Harry Toddler - Pray Fi Dem
Last Week: 11 | Weeks On Chart: 9

#12 Tarrus Riley - Start Anew
Last Week: 9 | Weeks On Chart: 16

#13 Mavado - Again & Again
Last Week: 14 | Weeks On Chart: 9

#14 Mavado - High Unda
Last Week: 16 | Weeks On Chart: 4

#15 Beres Hammond - I Feel Good
Last Week: 12 | Weeks On Chart: 21

#16 Alaine - Never Done
Last Week: 18 | Weeks On Chart: 3

#17 Tony Rebel - Another Bill
Last Week: 15 | Weeks On Chart: 15

#18 L.U.S.T. - You Are My Inspiration
Last Week: 17 | Weeks On Chart: 5

#19 Charley Black - Money Dreama 1
Last Week: 20 | Weeks On Chart: 2

#20 Prodigal Son - Head Cyaan Hot Suh
Last Week: 19 | Weeks On Chart: 23

Ever since the Broadcasting Commission flexed its muscles and started banning music with lyrics that are deemed to be sexually explicit and/or promoting violence, there have been grey areas that are left open to interpretation.
The Media Association of Jamaica (MAJ) in an effort to toe the line has compiled a list of songs to present to the regulators for their opinion. Here are the over 200 songs that are in question, as taken from a list being circulated on Facebook. And, please note that this list of over 200 is not exhausted … there could very well be more songs added.

The List
Byron Lee - 001
R Kelly - 12 Play
Lionel Richie - All Night Long
Busta Rhymes - Arab Money
General Echo - Arlene
Shirley Murdock - As we Lay
Scrunter - Bachelor
Akon/Colby Adams/Kardinal Offishal - Beautiful
Bobby Valentino - Beep
Isley Brothers - Between The Sheets
Morgan Heritage - Brooklyn
Jay-Z/ Santo Gold - Brooklyn (We Go Hard)
R Kelly - Bump & Grind
Bob Marley - Burning & Looting
Mutabaruka - By the Bullet By the Ballot
T-Pain/ Lil’ Wayne - Can’t Believe It
Teddy Pendergrass - Close the Door
Sparrow - Congo Man
Eminem/Dr. Dre/ 50 Cent - Crack a Bottle
Smokey Robinson - Cruisin
D’ Angelo - (yes the song with no name)
T.I./ Justin Timberlake - Dead & Gone
BT Express - Do It
Melissa Morgan - Do Me
Prince - Do Me Baby
Shirley Jones - Do Me Baby
Tanya Stephens - Do You Care
Rod Stewart - Do You Think I’m Sexy
Colin Lucas - Dollar Wine
Major Mackerel - Don Ban
Busta Rhymes - Don’t Touch Me
Phyllis Dillon - Don’t Touch Me Tomato
Busy Signal - Done Wid Di War
Sparrow - Dragon Dance
Ziggy Marley - Dragonfly
Buju Banton - Driva
Richie Spice - Earth A Run Red
Madonna - Erotica
The Police - Every Breath You Take
The Dream - Falsetto
Jazmine Sullivan - Fear
Stephanie Mills - Feel Good All Over
Roberta Flack - Feel Like Making Love
Peggy Lee - Fever
Mad Cobra - Flex
Silk - Freak Me
George Michael - Freedom
Sanchez - Frenzy
Baby Cham - Ghetto Story
Richie Spice - Gideon Boot
Junior Gong - Give Dem Some Way
Sean Paul/ Keyshia Cole - Give It To Me
Rick James - Give It To Me
En Vogue - Giving Him Something He Can Feel
Fern Kinney - Groove Me Baby
Bob Marley - Guava Jelly
Beenie Man - Gyal Inna Bungle
Junior Gong - Half Way Tree
Vegas - Heads High
Little Lenny - Health Body
Little Lenny - Herb Man Hustling
Tony Rebel - Hypocrites
Laden - I Really Like You
Bob Marley - I Shot The Sheriff
Divingles - I Touch Myself
Huey Lewis & The News - I Want A New Drug
Joe - I Will Come Again
Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam - I Wonder If I Take You Home
Boys II Men - I’ll Make Love to You
Dianna Ross - I’m Coming Out
I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little
JS - Ice Cream Love
Joe - If I Were Your Man
Luther Ingram - If Loving You Is Wrong
Ginuwine - In Those Jeans
Village People - In The Navy
Snow - Informer
Madonna - Into The Groove
Kayne West - It All Falls Down
Shaggy - It Wasn’t Me
Tanya Stephens - It’s A Pity
Kanye West - Jesus Walks
MTume - Juicy
Roberta Flack - Killing Me Softly
Exile - Kiss You All Over
Faith Evans - Kissing You
Cherine Anderson - Kitty Kat
Carl Douglas - Kung Fu Fighting
Az Yet - Last Night
Calypso Rose - Leh Wi Punta
Kevin Rudolf/Li’l Wayne - Let It Rock (They didn’t even know it was Kevin Rudolf’s song & Lil’ Wayne’s only featured)
The O’Jays - Let Me Make Love To You
The Staple Singers - Let’s Do It Again
Marvin Gaye - Let’s Get It On
Janice McLain - Let’s Spend The Night
Mavado - Life Sweet
Madonna - Like a Virgin
Lil’ Wayne - Lollipop
Bounty Killer - Look Into My Eyes
Kevin Lyttle - Losing Control
Donna Summer - Love to Love You Baby
Bee Gees - Love You Inside Out
The Dream - Luv Songs
Billy Paul - Me & Mrs. Jones
Astronauts - Mek Wi Jam
Kelis - Milkshake
Kartel - Million Dollar By a Mawnin
Bob Marley - Mix Up Mix Up
Barry White - More Baby
Mims - Move
Junior Gong - Blenda
Shaggy - Mr. Boombastic
Shabba - Mr. Lover Man
Lil’ Wayne - Mrs. Officer
Millie Small - My Boy Lollipop
Busy Signal - Nah Help You
Vanity 6 - Nasty Girl
Lieutenant Stitchie - Natty Dread
Beyonce - Naughty Girl
Matterhorn - Never Stop
Usher - Nice & Slow
Copper Cat & Atomic - Nuh Foolishness
Byron Lee - O Carolina
Tapazuki - O Lawd
Fergie - Oh Snap!
Missy Elliot - One Minute Man
112 - Peaches & Cream
Sylvia - Pillow Talk
Bob Marley - Pimper’s Paradise
Square One - Plumber
Tina Turner - Private Dancer
Nelly Furtado - Promiscuos
Chino - Protected
The Dream - Purple Kiss
Tom Jones - Pussycat
Nirvana - Rape Me
TLC - Red Light Special
Anita Ward - Ring My Bell
Fab 5 - Ring Road Jam
Ludacris/ Mary J Blige - Run Away
Sparrow - Saltfish
Byron Lee - Sammy Dead
James Brown - Sex Machine
R. Kelly - Sex Me
Marvin Gaye - Sexual Healing
Justin Timberlake - Sexy Back
Ray J/ Yung Berg - Sexy Can I
Yung Berg - Sexy Lady
Benny Marones - She’s Just Sixteen Years Old
Derrick Harriot - Skin to Skin
John Legend - Slow Dance
Mavado - So Special
Eminem - Stan
Junior Gong - Stuck In Between
Rick James - Super Freak
Wyclef Jean - Sweetest Girl
Sade - Sweetest Taboo
Lady Saw - Sycamore Tree
General Trees - Tansoback
Anthony B - Tease Her
Rupee - Tempted To Touch
Joe - The Things Your Man Won’t Do
Tanya Stephens - These Streets
Mims & Junior Reid - This Is Why I’m Hot
Sisqo - Thong Song
Busy Signal - Tic Toc
Laden - Time To Shine
Byron Lee - Tiney Winey
Shaggy - Too Hype
Square One - Turn It Around
Kevin Lyttle - Turn Me On
Norah Jones - Turn Me On
Teddy Pendergrass - Turn Off The Lights
Keri Hilson feat. Lil’ Wayne - Turning Me On
Barrington Levy - Unda Mi Sensi
Josey Wales - Undercover Lover
Rihanna - Unfaithful
Diana Ross - Upside Down
Madonna - Vogue
Bramma - Voice of the Ghetto
Colour Me Baad - Wanna Sex You Up
Jah Vinci - Watch Yu Frenz
Buju Banton - Water Work
Junior Gong - Welcome to Jamrock
Stevie Wonder/ Q-Tip - What The Fuss
City High - What Would You Do
Tina Turner - What’s Love Gotta Do With It
Grand Master Melly Mel - White Lines
Beenie Man - Who Am I
Johnnie Taylor - Who’s Making Love
Ronnie Dyson - Why Can’t I Touch You
Beenie Man - Wickedest Slam
Village People - YMCA
Lovindeer/ Lady G - You Cook... Yu Eat
Pluto Shervington - Your Honour
R Kelly - You Remind Me
Beenie Man - Yu Know Fi Whine

Rain blessed the launch of the tenth staging of the Portland Jerk Festival on Thursday at the Folly Lighthouse in the parish.
The festival, scheduled for July 5 at Folly Ruins has as its theme “Origins of Jerk” and will feature over 25 authentic jerk chefs preparing a variety of jerked meats including pork, chicken, goat, lamb, fish, conch, lobster and vegetables.


The aim of this year’s festival is “to combine jerk with reggae, family and fun,” and to this end Honey Bun will host a Kiddies Village that will offer some free rides and the Honey Bun Jerk Pepper Bread.


It was announced that title sponsor Pepsi has not renewed their sponsorship after their three-year contract ended, but East Portland MP Dr Donald Rhodd and CEO Casey Bourne were very positive.

Portland Jerk Festival is said to be the largest family food festival in Jamaica and the Caribbean and has created a special niche on the calendar of food festivals.


According to Bourne, “The festival is very important to the economic development of Portland and we see it in going a far way in preserving jerk in Jamaica as uniquely Jamaican.”


There will be a special entertainment package which includes Byron Lee and the Dragonaries, Queen Ifrica, Leroy Gibbons, Tony Rebel, I Octane and Judy Mowatt .

On Thursday, six Canadian visitors to the island had quite a scare when the vehicle in which they were traveling was hit by gunshots, along the Spanish Town Road, in Kingston.
Since then, however, they have been safely returned to their hotel in Montego Bay, St James.
Following investigations by police and meetings with the Ministry of Tourism and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), the Canadians made a stop at Jamaica House for a brief meeting with Prime Minister Bruce Golding; Minister with responsibility for Information, Daryl Vaz, representatives of the Ministry of Tourism, the JTB and the security forces.
Prime Minister Golding gave the visitors the assurance that the government would do everything to ensure their comfort for the duration of their vacation in Jamaica. He also told them that this was an isolated case.

Protected
Safe and secure in God's presence, I live each day to the fullest.
Whether my loved ones and I are together or in different locations around the world, we are one in Spirit. Omnipresent God guides our steps, directs our way, and brings us safely back together.
As the time for summer vacations approaches, I keep my thoughts positive and affirm that all who travel will safely reach their destinations. I see each one gently enfolded in God's loving care. I pray for children who are out of school for the summer and for those attending summer classes.
I meet each day with confidence and in anticipation of good. Safe and secure in God's presence, I live each day to the fullest.


"Like birds hovering overhead, so the Lord of hosts will protect Jerusalem; he will protect and deliver it, he will spare and rescue it."--Isaiah 31:5

Singer DåVille certainly has the know-how to keep his fans musically satisfied.
He was the headline act at a show dubbed ‘A Black Affair’ held at the Krazy Kokunuts Club (formerly Green Grasshopper Club) in Dominica recently where he brought down the place with a superb performance.
The singer had the filled to capacity venue under his spell as he used his magic voice to knock the ladies off their feet. Things in the club got intensely hot when the singer shed his shirt, revealing his well toned his six-pack abs. The female patrons lusted and screamed as they tried to get up closed and personal with the singer.
Proprietor of the club, Frankie ‘Krazy T’ Bellot, was pleased with the success of the show, but more so the performance of DåVille.
The event also featured Dominican local acts MFR Band, Soca Monarch King Daddy Chess, DJs Flip and Mr. Mystic.

What in blazes is happening in the institutions where the young ones should be learning good morals and getting a useful skill for life.
Mercy, I cringed in disgust after reading an article in the Star regarding the disgraceful behaviour of a female teacher at the institution who bent over and spread her buttocks in an act of disrespect to the principal.

Now what I want to ask is, if these are the people charged with the responsibilities of teaching our students, what does that say about the education system?
According to the report in the Star the incident has left many at the school outraged at the very nerve of the teacher, whom term as "ghetto fabulous".
"She nuh ave nuh manners, nuh nuttin," one person said. "Yuh tell her morning and she not even responds. She won't even dress appropriately for work. She come here dressed in rubber flip-flop, tight colourful pants, tight blouse that sometimes shows her belly. Plus, she wears the most ghetto weaves every day." The source continued: "The principal even tried going to classroom recently to carry out an assessment exercise and she shut the classroom door, locking out the principal."
We at Yardflex would hope that the powers that be will look into this situation and ensure that this woman never be allowed to teach at another school.
Why should she benefit from our hard earned tax dollars just so she can flaunt and behave in any way she wants. It is time the government hold those who paid to be good examples for their charges accountable for their actions.
It is a crying shame...teachers ought to do better than that.

A 12-year-old boy was beaten by his stepfather with a tree limb because the stepfather claimed he stoned his goats and tore down their pen.

The incident was mentioned in court after the stepfather, Carlton Hasse was charged with assault occasioning bodily harm and child abuse He is accused of using a stick to beat the child, causing wounds and swellings all over his body.

Hasse pleaded guilty to the charge but told the court that the boy climbed on the fence surrounding the pen, damaging it in the process. He said the boy also stoned his goats.

He also told the court that he had told the boy repeatedly not to trouble his goats. He said the boy's mother had told him not to be too rough on the child, so he merely spoke to him about it. He claimed, however, that the boy cursed him and used expletives.

The child, however, told the court that he was merely trying to pick mangoes. He said he did not attack the goats and did not use expletives.

The investigating officer told the court that Hasse had been in trouble before for a similar matter. Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey told Hasse, " You are a cruel person and you must change your ways."

Hasse was remanded and is expected to be sentenced tomorrow

Free
I am free to dream and to accomplish my dreams.
My physical freedom is precious to me. I treasure the ability to come and go as I please and never want to take it for granted.


Spiritual freedom is of even more importance to me. My mind is free to plan and dream without limits. And anything that I can dream, I can accomplish. God within is my inspiration to set goals and my wisdom to reach them.


I help others exercise their freedom by encouraging them to succeed and even surpass what they believe to be possible. The freedom of Spirit within each of us gives us the power to be and to do.


As I behold the Christ Spirit within myself and others, I see the unlimited potential within us and the absolute freedom that is inherent in our godlikeness.


"For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."--Galatians 5:1

A married couple went to the hospital to have their baby delivered. Upon their arrival, the doctor said that the hospital was testing an amazing new high-tech machine that would transfer a portion of the mother's labor pain to the baby's father. He asked if they were interested. Both said they were very much in favor of it. The doctor set the pain transfer to 10 percent for starters, explaining that even 10 percent was probably more pain than the father had ever experienced before. But as the labor progressed, the husband felt fine and asked the doctor to go ahead and kick it up a notch. The doctor then adjusted the machine to 20 percent pain transfer. The husband was still feeling fine. The doctor then checked the husband's blood pressure and was amazed at how well he was doing. At this point they decided to try for 50 percent. The husband continued to feel quite well. Since the pain transfer was obviously helping the wife considerably, the husband encouraged the doctor to transfer ALL the pain to him. The wife delivered a healthy baby with virtually no pain, and the husband had experienced none. She and her husband were ecstatic. When they got home, they found the UPS man dead on the porch

People still a wonder whether or not di former PM and him entourage of people from di cell company did have US$500,00.00 when dem come back from Cuba last week Thursday. When Nationwide bus di story weekend everybody did inna uproar. And then Missa Patterson and the Digicel people dem issue statement say dem neva have no money like dat with them and no Cuban national neva deh pon di plane. Well, now dat di report is out, we a hear sey di police a go give di report to the DPP and mek dem decide if anybody fi get charge as a criminal or if people just fi get discipline. We want fi see how dis one a go resolve.

What did you do with your old phone?
What a way di cellular war a heat up!! It just too funny. Claro a gwaan wicked wid dem advertising. We hear one pon radio yesterday, it bad like you don’t know. Claro a tell people how dem a di best and say people fi dash weh dem other phone from other network. Den dem ask a question. What did you do with your old phone? Did u sell it? Claro, you ad a happen.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding has received a written report from the Police on their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the arrival at the Norman Manley International Airport of a private chartered aircraft from Cuba on Thursday night, May 14 and which was reported in the media to be carrying a diplomat who had in his possession US$500,000.00.

The investigations have revealed the following:

(1) Prior to the landing of the aircraft, security officials received information that contraband was concealed in a secret compartment of the aircraft. The information did not include any reference to the identity of the passengers.

(2) A search of the aircraft was conducted in the presence of the crew after it landed and after the passengers had disembarked and proceeded to Immigration and Customs at the General Aviation Centre (private wing) of the airport. No contraband was found on the aircraft.

(3) The passengers were processed and departed the airport without incident or interruption.

(4) During and continuing even after the processing of the passengers had been completed, information was circulated among members of the Customs Enforcement Team (CET) who were not physically present at the General Aviation Centre where the aircraft had landed to the effect that:

(a) a former Prime Minister and a number of diplomats carrying diplomatic passports were among the passengers;

(b) a scan of diplomatic baggage suggested that it contained a large quantity of bank notes;

(c) the diplomats had objected to the baggage being opened and searched and had opted to re-board the aircraft and depart.
The Police investigations have not been able to determine the source or origin of this information which has been proven to be erroneous.

(5) The information was reported to a senior CET officer who was not present at the airport. He contacted a senior officer in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions who, in turn, engaged the Solicitor-General by conference call to seek guidance as to how the matter should be treated, given the purported diplomatic status of some of the passengers and baggage. Advice was given based on the information that was presented. By this time, the passengers and crew had been processed and had left the airport.
The incident has revealed weaknesses in the established airport interdiction procedures which require collaboration among all relevant authorities and establishes clear direction and a chain of command to ensure that information is properly evaluated and the appropriate course of action clearly defined. This is essential to ensure that security interventions are not occasioned by misinformation or mischief. The Commissioner of Police is taking action to reinforce these procedures and ensure compliance.

The Police will be submitting a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a determination whether criminal or disciplinary charges should be laid.

A fourth suspect has been charged by Members of the Major Investigation Task Force in connection with the March murder of Ricardo Johnson, in Olympic Gardens, Kingston.

The suspect, Seymour Samuels, joins dance hall artiste Desmond "Ninja Man" Ballentine, his son and another man charged for the 20-year old's murder.

Mr. Samuels, who was charged last week, was remanded until June 1, when he appeared in the Half-Way-Tree Criminal Court on Tuesday.

Investigators say Mr. Samuels was recently captured during a police manhunt.

Mr. Johnson was shot dead along Marl Road on March 16 when persons traveling in a motor car opened fire at a man.

The bullets missed the intended target and struck Mr. Johnson who was standing on the road.

Ninja Man and his son Janiel were later fingered as the gunmen.

The artiste surrendered to the police a few days later, while his 20-year old son and another suspect, Clayton Dennis, were captured in St Ann in April.

The other day I’m like on an ends and a hold a vibe with my peeps, and the conversation got around to the high crime rate in Jamaica. Now to me it seems that all the police and soldier that Jamaica have will never be able to curb what happening. This thing must be stopped from a higher level.

Politicians must stop going in bed with the same people they claim they are trying to shut down. It brings to the fore the big question, do they really want to get rid of criminals? And if they do, that would mean not enjoying the proceeds from their spoils or “being in bed with them” so to speak.

We are sick of the dirty politics running the country and until that is addressed then we will continue to struggle and deal with all these issues.

If you don’t know what I am talking about, take for example this case regarding a certain bad man who left Jamaica 19 O long and set up base overseas.

While man and man pon di corners know that he send funds down here to help certain politicians during their campaign.
Now the party is in power, after 18 years he’s back home, send Range Rover and BMW that’s over the required age limited. He bought a house in Stony Hill and is now living the big life.

You don’t have to ask who made the way smooth for him, as he is wanted in US and plus he robbed and committed more than a few murders here….but he is still a politician pet.

Now you tell me people…you think the government is seriously interested in solving crime…nah…I say clean up their house first…then the country.
By Conscience

Commitment
I choose life!
To demonstrate my desire for increased energy, vitality, and strength, I make a commitment to think and act in life-affirming ways. Knowing my body to be a temple of God, I care for it as I would a sacred creation, for indeed it is.


With awareness of my spiritual nature, I make choices--choices that promote renewal and restoration of my mind and body. I choose foods that promote health, and I keep my body moving with activities that are fun and enlivening.


I exercise my faith with the understanding that I am energized by the spirit of God--my wellspring of health and wholeness.
My choices are affirmations of life. I choose life and experience the benefits of a healthy mind, expressing through a healthy body.


"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God."--1 Corinthians 6:19

Finally, I can say that it seems as if there is a glimmer of light on the horizon when it comes to the protection of our children.

The Ananda Alert system, created to help find children who go missing, was officially launched by Prime Minister Bruce Golding at Jamaica House on Tuesday.
The system was born out of the much publicised abduction and murder of 11-year-old Ananda Dean last year.

The programme will never bring back little Ananda to her hurting parents, but at least through the efforts launched in her name may stop another mother from going through the same kind of pain.

Of course no amount of programmes in the world can take the place of parents giving their children valuable advise such as not going anywhere with strangers, not allowing them to give them things to lure them away, being very alert…and teaching them from early recognize the warning signals that something could be wrong.

Parents too must be vigilant as there are times the person they are leaving their children with are the very ones who are posing a danger to them.

It’s hard to tell as many present the right front that would have that parent trusting them…still be on the alert.

During the launch the Prime Minister made the plea to parents to protect their children who are too young to make informed decision.
We don’t need the Pm to give this warning, it’s time the society came together and rally around the most vulnerable…let us all have each other’s backs in the fight to keep our children safe

Seems Usain Bolt is big business…the latest news is that his recording breaking 150M street race in Manchester England will be available soon in British cinemas in 3D.

To the world we say!

Bolt's record run of 14.35 seconds was captured in 3D by Sky and Filmnova, a division of Nova International who is the international organizer of the Bupa Great City Games.

Nova International has previously captured boxer Ricky Hatton's Manchester homecoming fight in May 2008 in 3D.

Singer, Gregory Isaacs, will leave Jamaica on May 26 to start the Gregory Isaacs: Brand New Me North American tour in support of the CD of the same name.


Part one of the tour kicks off in New Haven, Connecticut at Toads Place and will cover the east coast through the Midwest ending June 22 at the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in Northern California.


Gregory and his 12-man entourage will take a break after June 22 then hit the road again August 1 to start the second leg of the tour which kicks off in Miami, Florida. From there, it wends its way through upstate Florida, North and South Carolina up to New York City then swings over to the west coast where on August 9 there will be a special performance at the world famous Hollywood Bowl in California. Also scheduled for this exciting event are Toots & the Maytals and Michael Rose.


The Cool Ruler, as Gregory is called, will be accompanied by the award-winning Live Wyya, which has been his backing band on all his international tours in the last four years. Live Wyya has garnered a steady following of fans and will be promoting their latest single, Yes We Can, done in recognition of the first African American president Barack Obama. Live Wyya band will do a 45-minutes set prior to providing musical backing for the Cool Ruler.


The CD, Brand New Me, is distributed by Tads Records both locally and overseas.

The Cool Ruler launches clothing line

Internationally acclaimed Reggae artiste, Gregory Isaacs, is about to launch a new clothing line.
According to manager, Copeland Forbes, the launch will officially take place while on tour of North America, scheduled to kick off later this month.
The clothing line, not surprisingly, is named ‘Cool Ruler’, the moniker Gregory has earned as a result of his ‘cool’ and commanding style while singing and performing on stage.
The line will consist of various paraphernalia and a special line of shoes.
Gregory, who completes his North American tour in August, heads off to Europe in November to start a four-week tour to promote the Brand New Me CD in that region.
“It’s not easy in these hard times to book a tour so solid,” said Fobes a veteran manager and tour coordinator who has worked with most of the top reggae acts coming out of Jamaica over the last twenty-five years.
Forbes’ company, Comer Productions Inc, has been responsible for most of the reggae tours staged around the world and will also have tours planned for Luciano, John Holt, Marcia Griffiths, Live Wyya and Coco Tea from summer thru to December in the USA, Brazil, Europe, Argentina, Peru and Thailand.

By Joan Wilson
Boy, honestly, I can’t express how my heart is bursting with pride following the glorious race that triple Olympic Gold medalist Usain Bolt ran. Yes, it was a great thrill when he clocked those amazing times in Beijing, China.

But with his super race that he ran in Manchester, England, we have now started to think “beyond the ordinary” where this runner is concerned.

According to the times that were posted, the last 100m his race showed that he did it in 8.72 seconds leaving us to wonder in amazement what will happen when he steps to the track again in the 100m…could he…will he…I’m sure I’m not the only one thinking that maybe, just may he can shatter his own record and set an almost impossible target for someone to erase.

I have to agree with the runner who came in second to Bolt, “Usain is in a league of his own”.

Which other athlete can party like there is no tomorrow, enjoy fast food, not particularly fond of training, had an accident about three weeks ago and still post that incredible time?

I can’t think of any…except Usain Bolt.

Right now, it feels pretty great to be a Jamaica. In spite of all the negativity that happening in the country, I am glad for days like this when Usain shows the world that we are still a special bunch of people.

I feel like chanting the words of Mavado’s song with a little adaptation of my own, “we’re so special, so special, so special!”

Usain, to di world!

On behalf of Yardflex, we just want send kudos to him for yet another wonderful accomplishment.

On Saturday, the Asylum Night Club in New Kingston experience a power outage that had some speculating on the real cause. Rumours started flying far and wide that the light was disconnected for non payment of bills.

But not so, says Winsome Callum, head of Corporate Communication and as far as she is concerned, nothing could be further from the truth.

According to Callum who was speaking with the utility com-pany got a call from the nightclub about 2:30 a.m. on Saturday regarding the power outage and dispatched an emergency team that had the matter corrected by 4:30 a.m.

"There was no disconnection," she said. "There was a problem on the (feed) that provided power to the Quad. This resulted in the power going out."

The spokeswoman added that JPS only carries out disconnection during working hours, Monday to Friday.

Marsha Rose, operations manager at Quad, made similar comments, stating it was unheard of for a disconnection to have taken place at 2 a.m. She explained that the club was going on when a main transformer blew out in the parking lot, plunging the club into darkness. She said the JPS was immediately contacted.

Bwoy fi real, people can wicked sah!

What’s really up with Nikki Z? Yardflex has it on good source that it was one big pow wow in New York.

According to our sources she was hosting a show in the big apple for Serani when the whole shebang went down.

One of the female selectors Sami from the sound 360 Ladies arrived late, still that was not the whole hottoclaps. The selector started to play and she was doing some good juggling too, so it was strange that Nikki Z would take the mic from her in a way that Sami found to be very disrespectful.

Having taken the mic from her Nikki Z decided to get the show officially off the ground, but Sami was having none of that, she tried to grab back the mic from the ex-Zip jock.

Wrong move! As Nikki Z promptly pushed her and she fell on the floor, quick on her feet, Sami got up and was about to rush Nikki but at this point the security stepped in and held her back.

It may have been the end of them getting physically, but it was the beginning of the ‘word throwing’ and that they did with a vengeance. The still furious Sami returned into the club, determined to have another go at Nikki Z, but the security again detained her to Nikki’s taunting, “let her go, let’s see where this is gonna go.”

The highest valued currency the $5000 bank note was unveiled yesterday by Governor of the Bank of Jamaica Derrick Latibeaudiere.

The announcement was made last week that the new high security note will be introduced into circulation in September of this year.

The note will bear the image of the late former Prime Minister Hugh Lawson Shearer.

A proof note of the new bill will was presented to Dr. Denise Eldemire Shearer, Mr. Shearer's widow, at the launch.

All is in divine order. I know this truth; I live this truth today and every day.
Divine order is established in my life. The spirit of God is working in and through me to guide my ways and light my path. All my circumstances and experiences are brought into a harmonious balance.


I put God first as I go within for guidance. Therefore, my decisions are made with confidence and faith. In the silence of prayer, I clear my mind and refresh my spirits so that my thinking is constructive and illumined. I remain open at all times to receive what God is offering me.


The indwelling spirit of God is both my motivation and my inspiration, encouraging me to look for and expect good. I meet every experience with this expectation and with the understanding that all is in divine order.


"You will decide on a matter, and it will be established for you, and light will shine on your ways."--Job 22:28

In a recent trial, a Falmouth small town prosecuting attorney called to the witness stand his first witness, a grand motherly, elderly woman named Miss Ivy.

The attorney approached her and asked, "Miss Ivy, do you know me?" She responded, "Why, yes of course me know you! Mr. Williams. Me know you since you was a likkle pissing tail pickney, and wata big disappointment you is to you family. You is a ole liard, you cheat pan yuh wife, yuh chat people bizniz, and yuh red-eye, grudgeful and licky-licky. You tink you is a big shot now but you no realize seh you will never amoun to nuttin more dan a two-bit paper pusher! Yes, me know yuh very well alright!!"

The Lawyer was stunned! Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, "Miss Ivy, do you know the defense attorney?" She looked over at the defense attorney and replied, "Of course, me know Mr. Bradley since him was a likkle bwoy too. Him lazy, and good-fe-nothing, him boasy, and him always a gwaan like him white. Him caan build nuh normal relationship with any woman 'cause him a Battyman unda covah. Fe him law practice a di worse eena Jamaica. Him chat nuff, him a ole teef, him dutty and nasty. A three different woman an four man me hear seh him a grind undah covah, an one a di woman dem a you missis (points at juror memeber)!! Yes sah, me know him well." The defense attorney almost died of embarrassment.

The judge ordered both counselors to approach the bench, and in a very quiet voice, said, "If either of you rassclawt bastards ask her if she knows me, a gwine lock up oonu rass eena jail fe contempt!."

By: Joan Wilson


He burst on the scene in the 90s with a string of hits include Shelly-Ann and Pencil…his fresh style and humour made him an immediate hit in the dancehall. Wallace Wilson aka Red Rat, now performing under the moniker Double R is still going strong.

Yardflex had a one on one with the DJ and it was hard not to notice that he hasn’t lost his easy charm and great sense of humour.

Double R who says he has been performing since the age of four said his inspiration came from his father who was a prominent person in the industry. His dad who played the guitar for Byron Lee and the Dragonaires and produced his first album Soft Lee. His dad was also a writer, producer and musical director for Cynthia Schloss and Boris Gardner.

It was not surprising when the music bug bit Red Rat, now with over 15 years in the biz the DJ has performed all over the globe. Responding to Yardflex question on some of the places he performed he jokes, “it would be easier to tell you where I’ve not performed,” he said with a teasing smile.

The DJ has performed to rave reviews every stop he makes and for him there can be no greater ‘award’ than to see the looks on the faces of his fans when he steps on stage.

When it comes to flexibility and not being limited to any one style Double R will be the first to tell you that he doesn’t set a limit on himself. “As a producer and a songwriter you have to keep up to date with what’s going on in the music world and move with the time,” he stressed.

With the downtown in the economy Double R is not allowing that to faze him in his usual down to earth style he pointed out that “Recession affects people that don’t plan.” He continued, “It’s all about moving with the times again. There are still artistes selling over six and eight million unit,” he pointed out adding that artistes must realize that regardless of what the situation, good music will always sell,

The DJ also had a few words for those who hold artistes ransom with the practice of payola, “Jamaica is not the only country that has payola, and payola will still be going on whether we like it or not. I don’t agree with the practice whether in Jamaica or anywhere else…but I personally feel if you have a good tune, payola or not it is going to buss,” he said.

Since being in the business, Red Rat has worked with some of the biggest producers and has performed on many top riddim including Scandal, Sweet Sunshine…he has recorded hits such as Dwayne, Tight Up Skirt, Over the past decade he has had the chance to make some worthwhile international connections such as Groove Armada from the UK, Lord Kossidy from France, Mims and many more.

As he looks ahead to his next decade in the business Double R says he wants to help the younger generation coming up who wants to make their mark in the business, as such he will be featuring some of them on his label.

Regarding the fight some of his fellow DJs are getting from the gay community Double R says, “Every artiste is entitled to do what they want in his or her career. Art is a form of expression regardless of what kind of art it is. The Bible teaches that homosexuality is wrong so if artistes want to place that message in their music, they should be allowed to without fear of repercussions.”

What’s on the horizon for this DJ…marriage…”soon!”

Inner Peace



With unwavering faith, I release all to God. Peace fills my soul.
At times I may feel that I'm becoming overwhelmed as I carry out the responsibilities and tasks that are expected of me. Circumstances may spiral out of control. Unexpected news may stoke fearful feelings. Then what do I do?


Becoming still, taking a deep breath, I remember the words of a century-old hymn: "It is well with my soul." I spend a few moments in prayer knowing that all is well in spirit and in truth.


When I want to remove myself from a negative situation, I may take a walk, which energizes my mind and body. My thoughts become clear for positive decision-making and healthy choices.


I relax and release all to the divine order that is perpetually moving in my life. Peace fills my soul.


"Be still, and know that I am God!"--Psalm 46:10

YardFlex understands that there was a shooing at Jr Reids club on Eastwood Park Road on Saturday night. It is said that Jah Cure had an altercation with someone from jail, who's friend in turn stepped to him. Jah Cure allegedly drew a knife at the person approaching him. The friend then called his posse who came to the club and shots were fired. One man was shot and injured.

Ziggy Marley’s newest release, Family Time made its debut this week at the coveted top spot of the Billboard Top Reggae Album Chart.


Family Time pushed ska band Easy All Stars, Easy Stars Lonely Hearts Band to the number two position. This spot was formerly held by Rasta Got Soul, the most recent offering from deejay Buju Banton. Banton recently made his debut at number two, to much fanfare, and has since been unable to knock Easy All Stars from the top of the charts. Rasta Got Soul peaked at number 2 and now slides into the number 3 slot.
Over on the Billboard Top 200 chart, Family Time made its debut at #149 and slid into the #20 slot on the Top Independent Albums chart.


Family Time was produced by Don Was and features members of the Marley family including Rita, Cedella and his daughter Judah alongside other international acts including Paul Simon, Jack Johnson and Willie Nelson as well as actress Jamie Lee Curtis who narrates two stories.


Ziggy is quoted in an interview as saying the record “represents my daily family life and is inspired by my three-year-old daughter Judah and baby Gideon. It was a joy to make and opened up new avenues in my creativity.”


Family Time was released on May 5 by Tuff Gong Worldwide.

Why dem Jamaican artistes and sports people woan learn fi careful whey dem sey to foreign journalist cause from whey wi si it always come back fi haunt dem.

Now KLAS play clippings Chris Gayle interview and from whey mi listen to mi nuh get di feeling sey him hate West Indies cricket and can wait fi focus pon 20/20 cricket.

Di woman put har own spin pon di interview and den everybody a run wid it…lef di man alone. Him did done tell dem sey him a fill in and never have nuh intention mek teck ova di captaincy fi di rest a him cricket career life. So wha him waan smady younger fi teck di reigns? Mi hear di man sey him wi be willing fi guide whoever dem select till dem aright, but him waan do odda tings wid him life and dat when you a captain, you too bogged down and it lef little room fi focus pon odda tings. Nutten wrong wid dat? So how everybody a act like sey de man betray di whole country and di whole a di West Indies.

But it serve Chris Gayle right him shoulda member sey dem journalist love put words inna dem mouth and phrase tings fi get one bigger sensation outa it. Nex’ time him fit ink twice before him start fi ansa question.

But all wi a sey is dat, unno low di youth man, walk a mile inna him shoes before unno start to form opinion.

By Buffilous:
Bwoy mi a tell you from di odda day, mi just a pree what a teck place inna di country. Unno nuh realize how dem a pick off people like fly now. In just three days all up to fifteen people a dead.

In light a dis it meck mi start to tink bout which business a di safest one right now fi invest inna. It certainly can be stage show cause dat’s di biggest risk right now. Sometimes all when you have a good package is not a guarantee that it will work out. Look pon Sumfest, May almost done and wi still caan si no press release fi si a which international act dem a have fi di night dem. In fact wi hear sey Sumfest a keeo, but wi still nuh hear much fire bout it.

Mi a sey all a dat fi sey dat di only business smady who sure fi get new business everyday is di funeral undertaker. Him nuh haffi wonder if nuh new business a come in di ongle ting him haffi tink bout is whey him a guh put so much bodies.

Bwoy di odda day mi a drive a come in from Ochi and mi affi sey dat di amount a hearse whey pass mi inna dat short space a time, mi couldn’t help but wonder a how come so much people a drop out.

Now who now drop out through violence, a guh through natural cause…so if you add di shooting and stabbing death to the natural cause one…di figure staggering.

So fi real, mi deh ya a tink sey maybe mi a hunt fi money inna di wrong field…a might have fi change courge and borrow a smalls fi open a funeral home…mi nuh know…whey unno tink.

But a wha dis a circulate pon di entertainment scene sah. it nuh nice at all and we at yardflex still inna shock pon some a di news whey wi a hear...seh di female singer whey everybady love a touch pon di two side a di fence. She have har straight up man and she have har woman pon di side tuh. Wi all hear sey one a di time smaddy walk in pon har a get har ting sort out proper from di business woman inna har office. No sah...we pray dat dese are jusr rumours...

Which DJ have baby mama drama
But a which DJ baby madda haffi drag him ass a court because him woan mind him pickney? From what wi hear unno woulda shock if unno really find out a who...him di deh bout him talk a lot of conscious tings and livity and all dat crap and caanev even sort out him owna youth. Wi hear sey di woman a di original, one whey him have from long long time maybe far back as Ethiopia and now him a guh play har like dat...no sah...we hope him nuh badda meck di court decide...but do whey him supposed to.

The findings from the autopsy report on the body of a taxi driver have prompted the police investigators to revisit the crime scene for new evidence, as they now suspect foul play.
The autopsy report on the body of Fitzroy Samuels, a taxi driver in Portland, has revealed that he was strangled.
Samuels, also known as 'Shorty', 37, was found hanging from a length of rope at Passley Gardens in the parish on May 3.
The police said during the autopsy, which was performed on Tuesday in Kingston, several fingerprints were detected around the dead man's throat.


Samuels was last seen by residents shortly after 7:00 a.m. on the morning of May 3 when he went to a nearby shop to purchase cigarettes.

The Port Antonio police are investigating.

A woman who marketed herself via the Internet as a real estate broker and beauty queen was hauled before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Wednesday to answer to charges of pretending to be someone else and obtaining money through this identity.


The accused woman, Karen Facey, pleaded guilty of obtaining money by false pretence.


The court was told that Facey obtained $250,000 from the complainant after identifying herself as a real estate broker and beauty queen. It was suggested that both persons met over the Internet where the accused placed a photograph on her profile showing another person instead of herself.

The complainant, who resides in Cayman, and the accused became friendly after frequent conversation and he started sending money to her.


When he arrived in Jamaica to meet with the accused, he could not find her. However, when the complainant was finally able to meet the accused, the matter was reported to the Half-Way Tree Police Station and Facey subsequently charged.

On Wednesday May 13 the headlines could have read another way as a small child who was on his way to St Peter and Paul School was attacked by dogs that were not properly fenced in.

The frightened child in a bid to avoid the dogs ran into the road where he was hit by an oncoming motor car.Thankfully his injuries were not life threatening…but things could have easily gone another way.

Unfortunately this situation is not unique in Jamaica and the sad part about it is that the government doesn’t see this as something dangerous.A lot of homeowners make the conscious decision to raise dogs for protection, company whatever the reason without having the proper facility to keep them in.

The government needs to implement proper steps to ensure the safety and well being of individuals who these dogs are a nuisance to.A lot of folks get up in the mornings and have to face the unpleasant sight of what the dogs did on their lawns or in the yard with the dog owners not taking the least responsibility.

In fact bringing to their attention can cause you to face their wrath.If that boy had died then who would have been responsible? We are sure that those same dogs will be rushing another child or anyone who happens to be walking down that street.

Jamaican needs to adopt some of the rules that are in place in America or Canada…owners are responsible for anything their dogs do…and to make them accountable too.If this rule is implemented, then we would see fewer dogs roaming the streets and others would think twice about raising them unless they can properly fence them in.

Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friends…don’t let them be our enemies.

Prosperity

Divine love is my source of abundance. My life overflows with good.


Whenever feelings of lack begin to surface, I quickly reverse my thinking and affirm: My life is filled with the abundant love of God. Divine love is my unlimited supply in all matters and my definitive answer to every doubt or concern.
Centering myself in God, I devote time to prayer. Exercising my faith, I achieve calm and balance. With a spiritual perspective, I realize how prosperous I am. I have patience because I know that the perfect fulfillment of my faith is being revealed.


When the answer appears, I witness the power of God at work in my life. What could the source of this activity be other than divine love? Divine love is the source of my abundance, and my life overflows with good.


"But the meek shall inherit the land, and delight themselves in abundant prosperity."--Psalm 37:11

When the Morgan Heritage clan made the announcement that they would be pursuing solo careers, perhaps some wondered if it would be the end of the group.

The band comprise five of Denroy Morgan’s children have been together for more than a decade chalking up hits such as Don’t Haffi Dread, Down By The River, Best Friend and She’s Still Loving Me. Their last album Mission had the thought provoking track Nothing To Smile About.

As much as the band was making their name and creating a big impact on the scene, the members were feeling as if they needed more. Hence the decision to pursue solo careers.

"It's just that after doing seven studio albums and two live albums and touring the world for the past 10 years, doing it over and over again, after a while you become predictable and we don't want to be predictable," said Peetah Morgan, lead singer for the world-famous reggae band.

In 2006, Una announced she was taking leave to be a mother and spend time with family. Then just about a year ago, the remaining members decided to pursue a similar course of action.

Gramps has since been touring successfully with India.Arie and has performed on a few solo dates. He is also working on a solo album. Peetah has also been pursuing a solo career and working with artistes like Guyanese songbird Timeka Marshall, Busy Signal and other members of the Juke Boxx crew. Mr Mojo, who is the production boss in the Morgan Heritage set-up, has been working on his own album, and Lukes has gone into management and currently shepherds roots/reggae artiste Lutan Fyah.

But all these individual moves don't spell the demise of Morgan Heritage. In fact, it's quite the opposite.

still a family

"Morgan Heritage is a family. It's not like the group is breaking up," Peetah declared. "We, as a group, have already planned out our whole strategy on what we're trying to accomplish, what we're going do with the group in the meantime. People are going to be so overwhelmed and appreciative of what we're going to give the audience concerning Morgan Heritage, after we put out these different things."

Those different things are already beginning to bear fruit.

"With us doing this, our Morgan Heritage website and our MySpace are getting so many new hits from people who have never heard of the group," Peetah said. "Gramps did a duet with India.Arie on a new album and he has been on the road with her promoting it.

"And, all of her fans who have never heard of Morgan Heritage before are now discovering Morgan Heritage because Gramps is on the road with her. So it's even bringing a whole other fan base to the group that would not have been possible had we not done this divide-and-conquer situation."

Wow, there is no limitations when you are blind. Frankie Paul is proving that when it comes to the fairer sex...what's the big deal if you are blind...check out this story in Chat!

Singer Frankie Paul says he has not one, but four wives pending in the West African state of Gambia, where he has been living for he past 11 years. This, however, represent a few steps down from the seven he was quoted as having on hold five years ago.


A state which is 95 per cent Muslim, the singer says he was converted to that religion in 2001 and it is that which allows him to exercise the option of choosing multiple legal partners.


“I can marry several times and they will all be legal,” he told Chat! in an interview recently backstage Riche Stephens’ Take Me Away concert on which he did a cameo.
He added, however, that he was not yet ready to marry any (or all) of the wives as there were certain things he needed to put in place first.


In the meantime, the artiste, who describes himself as a “sort of government minister for one of the provinces”, has adopted nine children for whom he is totally responsible. “I have adopted seven boys and two girls ranging in ages from 13 to 18,” he said with pride.


The blind singer, who enjoys a good relationship with the Gambian president, Yahya Jammeh, is the musical director on call and is looking forward to again performing for the president on his May 25 birthday bash.


“Every year there is a huge celebration for the president’s birthday and I always perform for him. He’s a wonderful person and the country is so peaceful when compared to Jamaica…and the economy is fine,” Frankie Paul explained.
He recently released an album on the VP Records imprint, Think Say Dem Know Me. The songs, he says, were recorded in London.

A man was arrested in connection with the rape of a five-year-old girl in Ocho Rios who was abducted last Friday. The man will be questioned soon by the police.

Police reports are that last Friday, the child was at the market in the care of relatives. It is alleged that the attacker lured her away. The child was later seen by a taxi operator walking naked on a deserted road. He took her to the police station and she was later taken to hospital where she was examined. The police say though it is suspected that she had been raped, they have yet to receive confirmation from doctors.

The child however had marks of abuse all over her body. She reportedly also had a wound to the forehead.
The Ocho Rios Police are investigating.

I enfold you in the prayers of Silent Unity and give thanks for answered prayer.
I pray for others, enfolding each person--near or far--in loving thoughts of strength, wisdom, prosperity, and well-being.


I may feel the need for additional prayer support, however, when a friend or loved one is going through a difficult situation. I call the Silent Unity prayer ministry. Hearing a gentle voice on the phone soothes me and enables me to focus on the truth--God is always within me and those I care about as our ever-present help.


As my prayer with Silent Unity comes to an end, I offer a silent prayer for the one who just prayed with me and for the people around the globe that Silent Unity holds in prayer each day. I envision all tenderly enfolded in God's care, and I give thanks for the answers to prayer.


"I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you."--Philippians 1:3-4

Controversial deejay Rodney Pryce, aka Bounty Killer, will appear in the Traffic Court on July 29 to answer to charges of obstructing traffic and disobeying a red light.
Pryce, who was charged in relation to an incident that occurred on December 29, 2008, had his case called up in court yesterday but his lawyer was absent, therefore a new date was issued.


Police reports are that Bounty Killer and his entourage were on their way from a party on Hillview Avenue, off Eastwood Park Road when he disobeyed a red light. He was signaled to stop by the police, but allegations are that he ignored the cops and sped off, ignoring other red lights.


The police say they caught up with Pryce in Half-Way Tree and requested that he accompany them to the police station to do a a breathalyzer test. He reportedly refused and after a stand-off, Bounty reportedly abandoned his Range Rover in the middle of the street and drove away another vehicle. The Range Rover was later towed.


When the case was mentioned in court yesterday, the defence applied for another trial date.

Roots singer Etana says she is “humbled and happy” at the honour bestowed on her at last Sunday’s International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) held in New York.
Etana triumphed in the categories: Best Female Vocalist and Best Album.

“Everytime someone thinks of me and my work with such high regard that they believe I deserve an award, it just a humbling experience,” says the Strong One who was quite happy and humbled by the award.

Etana, who is now preparing for her summer tour of Europe, returns to the island in time for the 17th annual Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.

She recently released videos for the songs Blessings, which features Italian-born Rastafarian reggae crooner, Alborosie, and Caltariba System, both from her debut VP Records album, The Strong One.

In an interview with Vibe magazine last week, Ziggy, the eldest son of Bob Marley, gave his comments on an issue which many YardFlex readers have been weighing in on. The remarks made by deejay Buju Banton that Bob Marley is not the greatest reggae artiste as “greater persons are yet to come”.


The Grammy Award-winning recording artiste started off by declaring his love for his father.
“Me love my father, you know? And me love all of my elders and my heroes. And I would never say anything to put down any of them. From Bob to Toots to Peter to Bunny I wouldn’t say anything to put down any of those guys. You understand? I lift up them. Those are our heroes. We lift them up. We don’t put them down.”He added, “My father wasn’t a person who brag about himself. It’s what he has done that has made people speak of him how they speak of him. He just does his music and that’s it… You got people who think differently but my father and a lot of these artistes, you can’t even talk about them in just the sense of Jamaica. It’s the world we haffi talk bout. So that’s all me have to say, we lift up our heroes we don’t put them down,” Ziggy reportedly told Vibe Magazine.

Ziggy in now promoting his latest release Family Time (Tuff Gong / Universal), as well as a new album of his father’s classic songs, many of them remixed for young listeners, called B is For Bob (Tuff Gong / Universal).

Jamaican Amtrak Tale


Three Americans and three Jamaicans are traveling by an AMTRAK train to a conference. At the station, the three Americans each buy a ticket and watch as the three Jamaicans buy only a single ticket. "How are three people going to travel on only one ticket?" asked an American.

"Watch the ride my yute!" answers a Jamaican.

They all board the train. The Americans take their respective seats but all three Jamaicans cram into a restroom and close the door behind them. Shortly after the train is departed, the conductor comes around collecting tickets. He knocks on the restroom door and says, "Ticket,please." The door opens just a crack and a single arm emerges with a ticket in hand. The conductor takes it and moves on.

The Americans saw this and agreed it was quite a clever idea.



So after the conference, the Americans decide to copy the Jamaicans on the return trip and save some money. When they get to the station, they buy a single ticket for the return trip. To their astonishment, the Jamaicans don't buy a ticket at all. "How are you going to travel without a ticket," asks one perplexed American. "Watch the ride my yute!!" says a Jamaican.

When they board the train the three Americans cram into a restroom and the three Jamaicans cram into another one nearby. The train departs. Shortly afterward, one of the Jamaicans leaves his restroom and walks over to the restroom where the Americans are hiding. He knocks on the door and says, "Ticket, please".

With a fresh outlook on my world, I make a new start in life.

One change in my life may initiate nothing more than me making simple modifications. Another change may lead to an incredible transformation for me.


It's those life-changing events that may cause me to feel as if I'm starting over. And that is okay, because a new start holds the promise of my greater good. I consider each day a golden opportunity for me to have a fresh outlook on my world.


I may be going out on my own or coming together with others in a new family. I may be starting a career or making a career change. No matter what the situation or timing of it, God is my constant companion, and with God, I am always making progress.


"All of us, with unveiled faces, seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord, the Spirit."--2 Corinthians 3:18

Jackass seh di world no level and a really true. Not even two weeks after Bolt crash him 2009 BMW di people dem ova di insurance company just laugh off dem teet and pay over the cheque fi di $15 million car. Everybody know seh insurance claim a di hardest money fi get and all three months after you car crash you still a wait wid you hand pon you jaw fi you money. What a helleva advantage Bolt have ova everybody why fi him claim haffi settle so fast. We hope seh who have a dat deh company line up outside and doan leave till dem get dem money. We love Bolt and everything, but some tings just not right.

Alaine and har BMW to di worl’!
We love how Alaine coulda just fork out di million dollar and pay off di cutoms people dem after dem claim say her BMW did undervalue. But, to how di release from the customs people dem did write it look like say dem did a carry feelings fi di girl. Everybody know say Alaime a no di only person who bring in vehicle and customs do dem check and say the vehicle undervalue. So why a she alone dem haffi send out big vulgar release pon, like dem wan’ dun di girl career. Alaine, you and Don just gwaan mek good music and doan watch no face. You BMW a tek life and it doan crash.

Alaine’ didn't know BMW was undervalued

Reggae singer and songwriter, Alaine Laughton, is adamant that she did not know that the damaged 2007 BMW motorcar she had imported had been undervalued.
In a statement, the singer declared that “The third party handled the entire importation process including submitting the documentation which undervalued the vehicle to the Customs Department without my knowledge or consent.”
She was therefore quite surprised, when after crusing around in her vehicle for a year, the customs department informed her that their investigations showed that she had made false declarations and she would be slapped with a fine.
According to a release from the Customs Department, the artiste, declared the car was valued at US$8,915 but investigations revealed that this value was understated.
The BMW was seized and a penalty of three times the duties avoided was imposed, that is JA$1,388,000.00 for breaching sections 209 and 210 of the Customs Act

This penalty was paid and the vehicle returned to Alaine prior to the release of Monday’s statement by Customs.
release quoted Walker as saying.
Alaine rose to prominence locally with the sngle No Ordinary Love . She appeared in the movie Clara's Heart alongside Whoopi Goldberg. Laughton has also penned songs and provided back up vocals for the US-based stars, Cam'ron and Freeway.

By Joan Wilson
Julian Marley’s new album Awake is a message he wants to send to the world. In a one and one with Yardflex the son of the late Bob Marley says he has chosen this name for his new album because “This the time when the world should awake through music.”

In speaking about the album he says that he was inspired to do the album by everyday things seen in the world.

“Listening to this album should give positive feelings,” he said about his latest project.

Julian says it was a good feeling working on the album as this time around he got more ‘hands on’ approach on the production side more thoroughly.

Born in London in 1975, Julian has been blessed both by his father's great talent and legacy and by the unique perspective that comes with an upbringing in a multicultural community. Since recording his first song at age five at the Marley family home in Kingston, Julian has become a skillful, self-taught musician, mastering the bass, drums, and keyboards.

In 1989 he released his first album, titled "Uprising" -- also the name of his new band. He moved to Jamaica in 1992 and began to work with such reggae veterans as Aston "Family Man" Barrett, Earl "Wire" Lindo, Tyrone Downie and Earl "Chinna" Smith.

A veteran performer despite his youth, Julian has performed at Jamaica's Sumfest and Sunsplash shows, and has toured in Japan, Brazil and Mexico. He and brother Damian were also featured as part of the "Marley Magic" North American tour in 1996.

Produced by himself, Stephen and Junior Gong, Awake was two years in the making and listening to it, it is more than worth the wait.

With his album ‘Awake’ completed and released the singer is now looking forward to doing more collabs with his siblings. He will be teaming up with Stephen, Junior Gong to do a single entitled Violence in the Streets, and also on the agenda is a combination with Mr Cheeks from the Lost Boys entitled Oh Girl.

Legendary rapper Joseph ‘Run DMC’ Simmons’ son was arrested for ganja possession on Friday night according to published reports.

It is alleged that Joseph "JoJo" Simmons Jr bought weed and was seen rolling the illegal substance in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, according to gossip news site tmz.com.

Sources within the police department told the site that the 19-year-old was inside a car when he was apprehended.

The sources also charge that he tried to escape by reversing and almost struck a police vehicle.

Simmons Jr. was charged with resisting arrest, attempted reckless endangerment, and criminal use of drug paraphenalia in addition to the possession charge.

No statement has been issued by the Simmons family or a representative.

Simmons, Jr. stars on the show "Run's House" with his father and the rest of the family.

It was big drama at a burial at Meadowrest Memorial Gardens in St Catherine on Sunday when four men were stabbed and injured during a fracas that broke out.

The fight took place between residents in the area and men who went to the cemetery for the burial according to police report.

Among the four that were injured are a security guard, a cemetery employee, a resident of the area and a man who came with the mourners.

According to reports at about 5 p.m., persons said to have connections with the burial of a man from Omara Road, drove to Meadowrest and demanded that the burial be done immediately. When their demands were not met, they were said to have attacked and stabbed the security guard and the employee.

Police say following this, the attackers were set upon by the residents. During the ensuing mêlée, the two other men were stabbed and a Toyota Hiace minibus, apparently used by the mourners, destroyed.

While there are claims and counter claims the police said the matter will be thoroughly investigated.

I am open to my good in thought, attitude, and expectation.
I value the wonderful qualities of children. As I watch a group of children absorbed in playful activity, I see that each child is intent on what he or she is doing, eager to learn and free from concern.


Having this open, receptive, jubilant attitude is a perfect way for me to live my own life. Willing to receive divine direction, I expand my eagerness to experience life's offerings. More opportunities open to me because my heart and spirit are open. I am receptive to God's love, healing, and abundance, and I am free from doubt and concern.


I take time to honor the child in me in thought, attitude, and expectation. I am a spiritual expression in human form, and all I need for healthy, joyous, prosperous living is mine. With eagerness and openness, I receive my good, in expected and unexpected forms.

A post mortem carried out on 10-year-old Tameka Thomas has revealed that she died from multiple blunt trauma and manual strangulation.

This comes after she has been missing from her home at Inverness district, Sandy Bay, Clarendon since Monday, the body was discovered near her home the police reported.

No motive has not yet been established for the killing or anyone held in relation to the killing.

According to police reports about 5:00 pm on Monday, Tameka left home to visit her grandmother at nearby Terrance in the Sandy Bay area. When she did not return as expected, a missing person report was filed with the police.
Relatives and residents who went to look for Tameka found her body in bushes behind her house.

Di people dem really love Shebada. Stampede and fight and bere tings a gwan outside of him concert at Mascamp last night. Some people who already buy the tickets cut out and go home before the concert even start because of all the madness.

By Joan Wilson
Life has reggae singer Denroy Morgan knows it is not the same. The singer had a powerful experience which has seen the direction of his music and his life going through a dramatic transformation.

The result is his latest album Theocracy Reign which is a musical documentation of the change that is brought about in his life.

Denroy had a one on one with Yardflex about his experience that took place in 2005.

“I was going through a lot between family structure, musical career and his parents "it became too much for me. I was torn in four different directions," he said.

After his inner turmoil, he felt convicted by the Holy Spirit to go on a three-day fast.

That fast was the beginning of other revelations in his life. Out of the fast he abstained from sex for three months, then he embarked on a search for the right assembly to fellowship.

Even though Morgan had been raised in the Christian principles, he still had not found exactly what he was searching for. That search led him to Bethshalom, Ashabba Israel and the Twelve Tribes of Israel and finally to the Ethiopian Orthodox Coptic Church of North and South America, where he got baptised and today remains a loyal servant.

Since then it is all about the ministry and his calling to impart truth and be an example to his fellowman.
Theocracy Reign is result of three years of soul searching and growing on the new path he has embarked on.

Next on Denroy Morgan's horizon is his upcoming book, a biography outlining his spiritual journey which will see Elizabeth Fellon co-writing it with him, with a tentative date for completion set for early next year.


In between that Denroy's mission is set; "I will be educating others through Interfaith Ministry with the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Jamaica, Rasta community and entire Christian community."

He also has plans to stage a big event that will "unite the people".

"I hope to bring about an event that will bring us together to 'churchical' issues that so badly need to be addressed among Rasta and Christian communities. To bring about manifestation of the oneness that exists between the righteousness of God and man and to accept the restoration of the Davidic Covenant and the gospel of Jesus Christ as the Messianic fulfilment of God's promise to King David."

Denroy Morgan is known for his legendary chartbusting single, I'll Do Anything For You, and later more hits such as Sweet Tender Love, Happy Feelings and Africa Is Calling, Denroy broke records in 1984 when he signed with RCA Records. That deal led to the release of the album Make My Day and marked him as the first reggae artiste to be signed to RCA Records.

Desmond Ballentine aka Ninja Man and his son Janile Ballentine who are charged jointly in connection with the March 16 murder of 20-year-old Ricardo ‘Ricky Trooper’ Johnson were remanded until May 28 will their case will be next mentioned again.

Both are facing charges of conspiracy to murder and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Clayton Dennis, a third man charged in relation to the incident, was not brought to court because of an outbreak of scabies at the Hunts Bay lock-up.

The Constabulary Communication Network reported that Johnson was sweeping his yard in the company of a friend at Mall Road in St Andrew on the day in question when a motor car with three men aboard drove up. An argument developed between Johnson's friend and the men who left but later returned with guns blazing. Johnson was fatally shot in the incident.

Ninja Man turned himself in to the police, while his son and the other accused were held during a police operation in St Ann.

My, my you would think that with all their tertiary education they would act with a little more sense…but no imagine ending up in court for a stupid fight over a carton box.

Such was the case between two female students of the University of the West Indies who got into a fight over the carton box resulting one of them being landed before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court to answer assault charges.

The accused, a final-year student, is accused of throwing a box at the complainant and then hitting her in the face several times, causing swelling which was still obvious when the complainant turned up in court.

The complainant told the court that the accused, who is her flatmate, asked her to take some of her things home during the holiday. The accused is not a Jamaican. The complainant said she brought back the items, but in a different box, and told the accused that she wanted the box back.

She told the court that an argument developed about the box and its ownership and on the day in question, the accused tore off a part of the box, threw it at her and then punched her in the face repeatedly. She also told the court that the incident caused her to miss two exams. She said the accused was violent and was a troublemaker on their flat. She said the accused was determined to continue the despute even though she was offered other boxes.

The accused, however, told the court that she did not throw the box at the complainant. She said she had problems with her flatmates who were smoking and triggering her asthma and was frustrated with the living arrangements.

Both parties were told to speak with a probation officer, with a view for mediation and are to return to court on May 14.
What are these girls learning in school, someone pray do tell.

I am prepared for new experiences.


As I reflect upon the flow of good, constant in my life, I picture streams of water rushing into a sand castle moat. The trench fills quickly as liquid curls past turrets, beneath bridges--in, around, and under.


Much like this flow of water, wherever I have room--in drawers, schedules, living areas--objects or projects can collect and fill space. Knowing this, I keep my spaces open to make room for the flow of God's good that is always available to me. I de-clutter areas at work and home, within vehicles and lockers.


As I prepare for each new experience, my mind is open to insight and my heart, to understanding. I am blessed in every facet of life. Limitless substance is my heritage. I release and clear the way for blessings of energy, time, and substance.
"Thank You, God!"


"Now the Lord has made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land."--Genesis 26:22

This Sunday the world over will be celebrating Mother’s Day…but how did it all come about? How come we are now recognizing the significant contribution that mothers have made from creation?

The history of Mother's Day is centuries old and the earliest Mother's Day celebrations can be traced back to the spring celebrations of ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. During the 1600's, the early Christians in England celebrated a day to honor Mary, the mother of Christ. By a religious order the holiday was later expanded in its scope to include all mothers, and named as the Mothering Sunday. Celebrated on the 4th Sunday of Lent (the 40 day period leading up to Easter), "Mothering Sunday" honored the mothers of England.

In the United States, Mother's Day was loosely inspired by the British day and was first suggested after the American Civil War by social activist Julia Ward Howe. During the Franco-Prussian war in the 1870s, Julia began a one-woman peace crusade and made an impassioned "appeal to womanhood" to rise against war. In 1872, she went to London to promote an international Woman's Peace Congress. She began promoting the idea of a "Mother's Day for Peace" to be celebrated on June 2, honoring peace, motherhood and womanhood. In the Boston Mass, she initiated a Mothers' Peace Day observance on the second Sunday in June, a practice that was to be established as an annual event and practiced for at least 10 years. The day was, however, mainly intended as a call to unite women against war. The celebrations died out when she turned her efforts to working for peace and women's rights in other ways. Howe failed in her attempt to get the formal recognition of a Mother's Day for Peace.

When Ann Jarvis’s mother died in Philadelphia on May 9, 1905, Anna missed her greatly. Anna felt children often neglected to appreciate their mother enough while the mother was still alive. She intended to start a Mother's Day, as an honoring of the mothers. Supported by her friends, Anna decided to dedicate her life to her mother's cause and to establish Mother's Day to "honor mothers, living and dead." She started the campaign to establish a national Mother's Day. She hoped Mother's Day would increase respect for parents and strengthen family bonds.

As a result of her efforts the first mother's day was observed on May 10, 1908, by a church service honoring Late Mrs. Reese Jarvis, in the Andrews Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. The Mother's Day International Association came into being on December 12, 1912, to promote and encourage meaningful observances of the event. Anna's dream came true when on May 9, 1914, the Presidential proclamation declared the 2nd Sunday of May to be observed as Mother's Day to honor the mothers.

Today, Mother's Day is a day honoring mothers, celebrated on various days in many places around the world. It is the day when you acknowledge your mothers contribution in your life and pay a tribute to her, often with flowers and gifts. It complements Father's Day, the celebration honoring fathers.

So this Mother’s Day, those of who still have mothers make sure you take the time to show her your love.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - It's proven that hip-hop originated from rap, which was spawned from dub, which is the stepchild of reggae, whose current offspring is dancehall. It's also a fact that no other music event in North America showcases reggae and hip-hop like BEST OF THE BEST. The international music festival, billed as the "Best Caribbean Show in North America," will be fusing Caribbean and mainstream urban flavors on Sunday, May 24th at Bicentennial Park in Miami, Florida.

Reggae and it's offshoot hip-hop have seen no bigger stage than BEST OF THE BEST, presented by Miami-based premier promotions company, JBJ Entertainment. With a lineup that includes Rick Ross, who currently has the #1 hip-hop album this week on Billboard (Deeper Than Rap), and the top dancehall, reggae and soca acts from the Caribbean, BEST OF THE BEST is definitely delivering its promise of bringing you the top artists in this ultimate showdown of these genres.

"Hip-hop lovers love reggae and reggae lovers love hip-hop," states DJ Khaled, president of Def Jam South and a featured artist on this year's bill. "It's the best of the best - the best of both worlds. The energy of both genres is just amazing."

Rick Ross also appreciates the reggae genre, so much so that he has signed a Jamaican dancehall artist called Magazeen to his Mayback Music Group. Magazeen is also featured on his new album, on the reggae-tinged "Yatch Club," and on BEST OF THE BEST alongside Ross.

"When it comes to reggae, I'm a huge fan of it and I'm very selective of the artists that I choose to get caught up with," discloses Ross. "My first encounter with reggae was Bob Marley so I try to stay in that realm with artists like Capleton, Sizzla and Mavado, and that's exactly what BEST OF THE BEST is. When I first heard the lineup, I was going to come and jump out and surprise everyone but we made it official."

Dancehall star Elephant Man is the only Caribbean artist signed to a major hip-hop label. Inking a deal with Bad Boy, his latest album is a potpourri of dancehall and hip-hop, the same formula for BEST OF THE BEST. "I love hip-hop because it reminds me of reggae," reveals Elephant Man. "The beats and the flow we use in reggae dancehall are the same beats and flow they use in hip-hop. The baseline patterns and grooves are the same, so I love it just like I love dancehall - same way, no difference."

In addition to Rick Ross, DJ Khaled and Elephant Man, the show will be hosted by T-Pain and features a star-studded bill that includes Jeezy, Beenie Man, Mavado, Bounty Killer, Serani, Wayne Wonder, Capleton, Destra, Tony Matterhorn, Spice, Kip Rich, Flippa Mafia, Christopher Martin, Cocoa Tea, Ras Penco, Ce'Cile and The Stones.

VIBE, TEMPO, TRACE, ALLHIPHOP.com and 24hourhiphop.com have been added as media partners for the show, which takes place at Bicentennial Park, located at 1075 Biscayne Boulevard in downtown Miami. Park gates open at 1:00 pm and show time is set for 1:30pm sharp. The 10-hour event does not end there. Everyone is invited to the official Best of the Best After Party, at Bongos Nightclub (located behind the American Airlines Arena), immediately following the show.

Tickets are now available via Ticketmaster and bestofthebestconcert.com, and at select locations across Florida and New York City. For more information, log on to www.bestofthebestconcert.com or call 1-305-438-9488. Please direct all press inquires to bestofthepress2009@gmail.com.

Bwoy di time dread, mi neva know mi woulda live fi si di day when a man coulda admit sey pum pum nuh wut nutten again.


Yeah man, if unno tink sey a lie wi a tell, just have a chat wid di woman dem a New Kingston, dem a bawl out hell cause nutten nah gwaan fi dem.


According to one likkle catty whey confess to yardflex, nutten nah gwaan at all and di wuss ting is dat dem have stiff competition from di man dem pon di cawnas.


"Bwoy it dread, sometimes when wi si some criss car pull up and swear sey wi a get lucky, ongle fi realise sey a nuh wi dem want, a di man dem pon di cawnas dem come fah."


The other day a man called to one of the pros hanging out at New Kingston and she didn’t answer…you should a hear di way him address har.


"Gwey gal, you a gwaan like sey money deh pon punny…kip dat…a batty a dweet…"


Mercy wi at yardflex couldn’t believe wi eaze all now, it a ring from whey di bwoy she. A wha really deh country yah a come to sah.

I move forward, knowing that God is all-powerful and everywhere present.
Letting go and letting God requires trust on my part. I trust because, in my heart of hearts, I am assured that God is all-powerful and everywhere present.


There is always a plan of divine order active in my life. Yet when I cannot perceive how the pieces of life fit together, I may need to remind myself that there are divine answers to this puzzlement that I may not have even imagined.


I liken this trust to seeing a ship sailing toward the horizon. As it sails out of view, I let go of its image but know that it still exists and continues to sail on.


Although I may navigate through some rough waters in life, I trust God to guide me. I let go of the need to know all the details of a solution, knowing that God is ever present.


"In God, whose word I praise ... in God I trust; I am not afraid."--Psalm 56:10-11

Popular singer Gyptian will be questioned by the Stony Hill Police in connection with the alleged assault of a man in Stony Hill recently.

According to the police they received a report from the injured man, saying he was assaulted after being involved in a squabble about money. The man is said to have had to seek treatment at the Kingston Public Hospital after the incident.

It is alleged that the victim was asked to visit the singer at a location in Stony Hill to discuss the theft of $300,000 belonging to the singer. When he got there, he was sent to the back of the premises to look at something. He was attacked by three men who beat him all over the body with a pickaxe stick. He reportedly suffered injuries to the head, hands and feet and is unable to walk or move his hands.

Although no report was made against the singer, the police say he will be questioned as investigations continue

Seems as if the powers that noted took a look at what we posted on yardflex sometime ago. We hit out against the heavy tax on essential items and questioned the fact that run and cigarette remained untouched. Still we we not the only ones questioning that, the people of the country cried out against the heavy tax and now comes the announcement that mokers and drinkers will now have to shoulder the bulk of the taxation measures intended to plug the hole in the government's budget.

After weeks of heated public debate, Finance Minister Audley Shaw on yesterday afternoon (Thursday, May 6) rolled-back consumption tax on several controversial items previously announced in the government's tax package.

In closing the 2009/2010 budget debate, the Finance Minister announced most of the items on the earlier list would no longer attract General Consumption Tax (GCT).

This includes the contentious tax on printed material.

Mr. Shaw said while those materials will no longer be taxed, the tax will remain on newspapers.

Computers will however, continue to attract GCT.

Adidjah Palmer aka Vybz Kartel yesterday failed to show up in the Black River Resident Magistrate’s Court in St Elizabeth for the hearing into a lawsuit filed against him.

Kartel is being sued by Christman Extravaganza promoter GT Taylor after he collected a deposit for the yearly show and failed to turn up.

Yesterday, the court was informed that Vybz Kartel had collected a deposit and had agreed to return it because he did not turn up at the show.

Resident Magistrate Stanley Clarke has postponed the matter until June 3.

.

The popular annual music festival Reggae Sumfest will take place this year from July 19 – 25 in Montego Bay.

On July 19 it will be the beach party and the ensuing three days of epic live performances (starting with Dancehall Night on Thursday, July 23) that make up the annual event, will captivate the thousands of tourists and Jamaicans alike who make the trek each year to this, the Mecca of reggae music festivals.

Presently the Sumfest organizers are busy negotiating the acts for the usual slate of international inclusions in the line-up, some of the top flight local acts have already been confirmed. Among them, is the King of the Dancehall, Beenie Man. Last year The Doctor, as he is also called, brought a fitting finale to Dancehall Night exhibiting high energy and his usual flair. Once again, joining The Doctor on the line up is his lyrical counterpart, Bounty Killer.

Included in this year's roster is high-riding, dancehall act, Mavado. The Gully Gadd will be taking the Sumfest stage following a year-long ride on the charts and the success of his sophomore album, Mr Brooks... A Better Tomorrow. His Alliance counterpart, Busy Signal is also on the bill.

Reigning prince and princess of reggae Tarrus Riley and Etana, will also be sweetening the 2009 Sumfest offerings. The two have been having a spectacular year captivating radio stations, music charts and audiences world-wide showing love and appreciation for their music. In what has been a rare occurrence for the past several months, the individuals making up the reggae group Morgan Heritage will be performing together on the Sumfest stage, almost a year since they split directions in pursuit of solo projects. Also confirmed for the line-up is veteran reggae crooner

As a child of God, I am healthy and whole. I live a complete and balanced life.


I am more than my name, personality, career, and image portray me to be. I am a child of God who has been created to be healthy and whole.


I feel a resounding yes from the spirit of God within me each time I affirm: I am a child of God. Knowing who I am and claiming this truth in every circumstance, I am both energized and at peace.
I am physically strong, mentally alert, and spiritually centered. I speak words of faith about the life within the cells of my body, and that life responds as healing and renewal. I am whole and holy. God's spirit is both personal and transcendent, within me and everywhere around me. I have a vitality that sustains me in all that I do. Healthy and whole, I live a complete and balanced life.


"It is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God."--Romans 8:16

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

By Rootsgirl
Honestly this government must take us all for first class idiots. Just look into the situation the minimum wage was three thousand and seven hundred dollars. Following the budget debate the grand announcement was made that it will not be four thousand, wow, imagine that all of three hundred dollars has gone on it. Imagine dat, the government is so thoughtful…they are thinking about all those poor mothers who are struggling to send their children to school and put food on the table…jeez, I’m so overwhelmed at their generosity that I want to cry.

Yeah right, if I shed any tears it will be for the poor mothers and fathers who are already struggling and now it seems as if there is no real end in sight.

Three hundred dollars…and let’s see they put over eight dollars on the hike on gas, they didn’t touch rum and cigarettes, they tax noodle, salt and all the basic stuff that poor people need and yet they somehow imagine that $4000 per week is enough to put food on the table, pay the bills and get the kids off to school.

I lift my hat to all those champion women out there who are beating the odds and managing to somehow make two ends meet…even though in others eyes it’s a miracle.

For real the minimum wage is a biggest joke I have ever seen, the only thing is I can’t afford to laugh.

It’s time that emphasis is placed on the real background of the country, the hardworking mothers and fathers who are still managing to maintain their home and provide decent values for their children. The minimum wage is a joke with the only ones laughing are those who claim to care about us.

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

It was a very overwhelmed Poor and Boasy that walked away with the top spot in the Magnum King and Queen of the Dancehall finals on Saturday at Weekenz, Constant Spring Road.

He could be seen wiping his eyes as the reality of the moment struck home that he had indeed gotten rid of his competitor RC and emerged the King taking home the prize money of $1M.

After his competitor, RC, gave a smooth performance, Poor and Boasy's video showing his journey through the series was shown. At this point, there were deafening shouts of "Poor and Boasy" in the venue. Later, "Bup, bup bup" were among the things the people shouted while they knocked everything in sight, including the zinc and boards at Weeekenz. They beat so hard that a large section of the board separating the venue from outside was knocked down. And, it was not until it neared the end of his set that Poor and Boasy's voice could be heard as the crowd slowly quieted.

Poor and Boasy, who was one of the crowd favourites, brought Miss Kitty to tears. "Since I've been here, it's the first time tears have come to my eyes. You see Poor and Boasy, mi love him from mi heart," Miss Kitty said and then later commended the other three finalists, RC, Destiny and Tiki.

Afterwards, another crowd favourite, Tiki was crowned ahead of Destiny, who outshone her in the lyrical clash at the previous show. But who would have guessed that while Tiki was receiving her million-dollar cheque, people would be shouting for Poor and Boasy again? Well, they did and the shouts were accompanied by extremely loud knocking of all forms, even as Tiki sang No Gal Nuh Hotter Than Me.

As Poor and Boasy was being crowned, the crowd could not control itself. Ice, cups and bottles were among the things thrown around by some people as part of their celebration. In addition, everyone wanted to take photos of the two winners.

But before the crowning, there was some Miss Kitty/Celebrity drama that had the crowd laughing. In the previous show, while being questioned by Pretty Boy Floyd, Celebrity, third-place winner in the female category of the competition, said Miss Kitty "could not stop her". So it was quite interesting to hear Miss Kitty reply: "I want people to understand that this is a competition and somebody has to go home. Your attitude determines your altitude. That is why we have RC, Poor and Boasy, Tiki and Destiny onstage and not somebody looking like a celebrity."

Right after, Celebrity came out and started her song with, "Miss Kitty caan stop me." Some people expressed disappointment and one man in the audience said: "She need fi humble herself. She nuh know seh Miss Kitty can buss har pon har show tomorrow?" And the word-throwing continued when Miss Kitty sang, "A nuh our fault nutten nah gwaan fi dem."

Before the drama and the shouts, there was fashion from Dexter Pottinger's 3D Designs. There were also performances from other top-10 contestants such as Tesha, Bingy Links, Nazine, Jody Miller, Tanto Blacks, Sasha Lee and Mr Kruger. Keiva and the Cosmic Dancers also displayed some acrobatic moves.

Poor and Boasy and Tiki won $1million each.

Rainy weather and cold temps did not put a damper on the 28th Annual International Reggae and World Music Awards, which took place at the state-of-the-art York College Performing Arts Center in Queens, New York on Sunday, May 3, 2009.

Celebrities filed into the venue hours before the show began, to walk the red carpet and give media their undivided attention. Then the curtains went up and the show was first emceed by Copeland Forbes, pinch hitting for Tony Rebel, who later turned up to take over his hosting duties.

The audience was entertained all night with exciting performances from some of the top names in Caribbean music, including Tarrus Riley, Calypso Rose, Beenie Man, Machel Montano, Alison Hinds,Tony Rebel, D'Angel, Gramps Morgan, Duane Stephenson and Barbee, all backed by the Dean Fraser Band.

The awards presentation saw some funny moments as fans screamed their choices and awardees teased each other. Beres Hammond, Mavado, Machel Montano, Queen Ifrica and Etana all walked away with two trophies each. Tarrus Riley won "Best Male Vocalist," Beenie Man took away the "Best Male Deejay" prize, Alison Hinds scored "Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer," Stephen McGregor nabbed "Producer of the Year," and Shaggy was honored with the "Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award."

"I first want to extend a note of thanks to each and everyone for your hard work," stated Ephraim Martin, president of Martin's International & Associates and producer of the IRAWMA. "I value and appreciate all of your hard work and effort in making the 28th IRAWMA a success." As the curtains closed on the 28th IRAWMA, everyone present at the awards applauded, paying respect to one of the longest running awards ceremony in the world that honors reggae and world beat music.

2009 IRAWMA Winners

Bob Marley Award for Entertainer of the Year
Beres Hammond

Recording Artist of the Year
Mavado

Best Male Vocalist
Tarrus Riley

Best Female Vocalist
Queen Ifrica & Etana (TIE)

Best Song
Mavado - "So Special"

Best Album
Etana - Strong One

Best Crossover Song
John Legend & Buju - "Can't Be My Lover"

Best Gospel Song
Stitchie & Elephant Man - "What A Mighty God"

Best Female D.J./Rapper
Queen Ifrica

Best Male D.J./Rapper
Beenie Man

Best New Entertainer
Serani

Best Calypso/Soca Entertainer
Alison Hinds

Best Reggaeton Entertainer
Daddy Yankee

Best Latin Entertainer
Shakira

Best Compas Entertainer
Nu-Look

Best African Entertainer
Alpha Blondy

Best Soukous Entertainer
Awilo Longomba

Best Hip Hop/R&B Entertainer
Lil Wayne

Outstanding Contribution to World Music
Wyclef Jean

Most Outstanding Stage Personality
Machel Mantano

Best Music Video
Stephen & Damian Marley - "The Mission"

Best Poet
Mutabaruka

Most Educational Entertainer
Morgan Heritage

Most Outstanding Show Band
Machel & HD Band

Most Consistent Entertainer
Calypso Rose

Most Promising Entertainer
Lutan Fyah

Most Improved Entertainer
Tanya Mullings

Best Instrumentalist
Dean Fraser

Best Backing Band
New Kingston Band

Most Popular Selector
Stone Love

Concert of the Year
Irie Jamboree

Promoter of the Year
Sumfest

Producer of the Year
Steven McGregor

Songwriter of the Year
Beres Hammond

Award for Spiritual Service through Music
Lutan Fyah

Community Service Award
Ziggy Marley, U.R.G.E.

Marcus Garvey Humanitarian Award
Shaggy

Best Song in Tribute to Barack Obama
Cocoa Tea - "Barack Obama"

SPECIAL: Int'l Reggae & World Music Hall of Fame/Lifetime Inductee
Clive Hunt, King Short Shirt, Sweet Honey in the Rock

SPECIAL: Master of the Caribbean Award
Mighty Sparrow

SPECIAL: Martin's International/Inter-Culture Award of Honor
Granville Straker

SPECIAL: Award for Contributions to Music, Arts & Culture
Hon. Olivia "Babsy" Grange

SPECIAL: Producer's "Respect" Award
Usain Bolt

SPECIAL: Awards of Appreciation for Contributions to Music Industry
Owen Dalhouse, Brigadier Jerry, Road Int'l, Heavy D

I have been blessed with teachers, counselors, and coaches who influenced my progress in meaningful ways. They offered me wisdom and knowledge gained through experience and education. At times I may have been unsure of myself or my choices, but they bolstered my confidence by pointing out my strengths and abilities. They guided me, helping me to find my own way.


Now as I offer a helping hand to young people, I accept the role of mentor as a sacred responsibility. I am patient and generous as I encourage them to stretch beyond any perceived limitations to realize their own self-worth and strengths. I challenge them to learn and to grow. I hold a vision of them excelling in life, and I take joy in seeing them reach their success.


"Give instruction to the wise, and they will become wiser still."--Proverbs 9:9

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Ashon Williams

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: MARIE MENDOZA

Yardflex has been keeping you up to date with the Buju debate and we just had to bring you his response that was printed in the Jamaica Observer yesterday.

The Gargamel sent out a fiery response to his critics. Check out his letter below

Dear Editor, To the supporters of an ignoble regime who choose to hold our people and our music in stagnation, I respond personally. Yes.

You all took my statement out of context and I am not surprised.

I am quite aware of how much you would like to tarnish, but you cannot stop truth.

This music evolves like everything else in life.
For you and all your so called 'musicologists' to say the music is all about one person is totally unfair to those like myself who have been making a significant contribution.

Now, let us get this clear, Bob was great, talented, charismatic, the teacher, the father.

But what about Peter Tosh, Alton Ellis and Bunny Wailer? We owe our musical greatness not just to one individual but concerted effort by a brave set of people.

Now after almost 50 years have gone, a new sound and a generation have emerged.

Must we subject them to the scrutiny of an age gone when our reality is much different?
Give us a chance to grow.

Bob was never loved by you in life.

You are all hypocrites who I think are all the real cause why our music has failed to grow over the years with your open embrace for what would contribute to the backwardness of a nation.

If only you would get paid for doing meaningful work.
You think we all are stupid if you are not the slave driver's protégé.

Buju Banton
10 Carlisle Avenue
Kingston 8
Jamaica

Yardflex came across the following article on bajan.wordpress.com and if you thought that Beenie Man didn’t diss Rihanna in Barbados then think again. Some Bajans are really worked up over it.
Below is the article that was posted on the website and some of comments that were posted.



Ambassador Rihanna did a cameo at Reggae On The Hill last week during Beenie Man’s performance. For BU family members who don’t have the ear to understand what he is singing in the video here is the hook line Me no have fancy car, but me no give you no scar. From reports Rihanna lingered on stage for a little while and then scuttled with her tail between her legs.

The dignity of Ambassador Rihanna exposed by what some people would call a thug in Beenie Man. It is no secret that many of the dancehall/dub artistes who frequent Barbados are very well known to court rooms around the world. We thought it laughable that several of the dancehall/reggae artistes who performed at Farley Hill last week complained about the treatment meted out by the Royal Barbados Police Force. Did they believe that our police force is clueless? People get ‘high’ just walking through the crowd at one of these shows!

Sorry guys but we give the police the benefit of the doubt on this one.

Of interest to Barbadians is the active involvement of Al Gilkes who post-National Cultural Foundation Chairman duties has taken to promoting these shows with a passion. It is difficult to imagine that Mr. Gilkes had responsibility for promoting cultural activities in Barbados in the recent past. His eagerness to foist the popular Jamaica genre of music makes us question his decision making as NCF Chairman. This is the same Gilkes who has has bleated to all of Barbados that the government should push down the Farley Hill ruins. No discussion about rehabilitating the building, he jumps to push down. Makes you go ummmmmm.

The BU household maybe alone on this one because even our Prime Minister seems to be comfortable with the shows if we are to judge by his appearance. No wonder our Youth Ambassador can be insulted by a lout and there is not a murmur from a soul.

I am not a big fan of Rihanna but I am upset and I agree with David that we allowed a Jamaican lout to insult our own star.
Can anyone imagine if a Barbadian went to Jamaica and insulted or embarrassed Usain Bolt or any of the other Jamaican heroes.

Until we Barbadians start respecting and loving our own,this sort of treatment will continue.It serves us right.

Look how Norman Faria,Vic Fernandes and all the other Guyanese were and are guest of Barbados and the insults and ridicule we constantly receive from those ungrateful bastards.

Rihanna I hope you are learning your lessons.I know you are a pompous,arrogant,immature little girl.I know of your behavior at the Accra Hotel,at the Hilton Hotel and also your behavior at The Cliff Restaurant recently when you made the waiter take back in the food about 3 times.
Rihanna I also remembered when you criticised Barbadians and said that Barbadians are jealous of your success and you had many bad & hurtful things to say about Barbadians.Nevertheless you are one of us and you have done us proud and you should be respected for your successes.

No matter my background, religion, or ethnicity, I share a spiritual heritage with every other citizen of the world. God is "above all and through all and in all."
Created to experience and express the love of the indwelling spirit of God, I shine with radiance and light. As part of a loving universe, I am one in Spirit with all others.


I am blessed with health and prosperity, with love and courage. The goodness of God is within me, and I bless the world as I express divine goodness in my thoughts, words, and actions toward all.


From the love of God that is within my heart, I act with compassion, peace, and understanding. I reach out with kindness to assist those in present need, to make friends of strangers, and to rejoice in the divine blessings that we all share.


"One God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all."--Ephesians 4:6

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Location: Manhattan, New York
Photos by: Marlon Myrie

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photos by: Milton Raynor

Photo by: Milton Raynor

Since his statement about Bob Marley and his influence on the music, Buju Banton seemed to have opened a can of worms on this comment.

Some have supported it, while others are chastising him for making such a statement. Yardflex now reprint this letter that was carried in Sunday Observer…this person made some strong points in his defense of Buju Banton…of course it’s his opinion and you are all entitled to yours.


Don't crucify the dread!


Dear Editor,No one said Bob Marley was not a great musician but the situation of whether or not he is the greatest is a relative one.

The attention that Buju Banton is getting from the media and some Eurocentric individuals is unfair and many of the critics were not even present at the launch to hear the context in which the statement was made. It is no doubt that these persons are overlooking the fact that Jamaican music is being stifled as each time a song comes out of Jamaica it is supposed to sound like Bob Marley.

Since Bob Marley was promoted as "Jamaica", to embrace the dynamics of inspiration and modernism is to not produce "good music". It is now that many persons know how lucrative the image of Bob Marley is that they are able to look beyond his "natty head" and chastise Buju. We are stuck and until we realise that reggae is not Bob and he is not the embodiment of the only good Jamaican music we are stagnating our young musicians.

It is no secret that the Marley name is the most promoted commodity in reggae music as even now his name is synonymous with reggae. Having moved from a time when it was abominable to play the rasta man songs, it is surprising that many are now rising to proclaim him as the greatest when every day other Jamaican talents are fighting to be recognised. Some time ago I was fortunate enough to see a launch with Roger Steffan on PBC Jamaica and he recounted a situation in which he was asked, "what can someone do to win a Grammy?," his response was "change your last name to Marley." Such a perspective challenges Jamaicans to question whether our other musicians are getting the attention they deserve. Why should the greats like Dennis Brown, Peter Tosh and Jimmy Cliff be subject to the shadows of Bob Marley since over the years there has been so much controversy to whether or not Bob Marley penned many of his "hit songs."

I recommend that the persons who are taking Buju Banton's comment out of context sit down and form an official Reggae Industry and stop allowing foreign factors like Roger Steffans to determine what is "good Jamaican music". Music is dynamic, embrace the change (by the way Asafa was the greatest until Bolt dethroned him). Give talent a chance.

I am sick and tired of motorists losing their lives on the road. Just over the weekend we lost a few lives too many. One Spur Tree Hill accident saw one family losing their provider…in an accident that might have been avoided.

A motorbike stunt team member lost his life on Highway 2000…and there is no doubt that speed was a factor.

According to the news report the incident occurred several hundred metres from the Old Harbour Bay Road exit on the West Bound leg of the highway on Sunday.

They say Robert Lawson, 34, of Dunrobin Acres in St. Andrew and several of his colleagues had just exited the Old Harbour Vineyard Toll Plaza heading towards Clarendon when he sped ahead of the group and lost control of the bike.

The motor cycle slammed into a rail killing him on the spot.

The crash site which spanned over a 100 metres saw bike and human body parts littering sections of the Highway resulting in the West bound lane been cordoned off for nearly three hours.

It is understood that the group was heading to an annual bike Fest in Clarendon.

Last year, two members of the same stunt team were killed in similar fashion.

This accident comes several days after world triple record holder Usain Bolt and two females were involved in an accident on the Highway.

Usain Bolt story might have read the same way, but for the grace of God.

Now Yardflex just want to say to all those motorists on the road…please take your time…remember it makes no sense hurrying if you end up not reaching at all.

What is this life coming to, when a schoolboy is stabbed and hospitalized because he is involved with a girl! What makes it worse is that the person who is upset about the affair is a female…yes, you guessed it, she has lesbian instincts.

According to a report carried in Saturday’s star the students are all from a high school in St Catherine.

The 17-year-old fifth-form student was subsequently arrested and is expected to be charged next week.

According to Detective Constable Marcus Vernon of the Area Five Division, both students reportedly got into an argument in which the 17-year-old boy, who is also in the fifth form, was accused of having an affair with another schoolgirl slapped in the face

"Based on the reports we have received from other students, the two got into an argument over the boy's supposed involvement with another girl. The boy's attacker is said to have a crush on that girl,” the Star reported.

According to the police, during a heated exchange of words, the boy was slapped in the face.

It is said that the boy walked away but was reportedly attacked a second time and was stabbed in his back.

He was rushed to hospital where he was admitted while the girl was later arrested.

Oh boy this world just ain’t right.

Jamaica’s Usain Bolt has a goal in mind and now having the record for the fastest time on the track, he is now after another Carl Lewis record and that is to be the highest paid athlete…earning as much as US$10 million for the year in appearance and endorsement fees.


Bolt wants to become the first track athlete to earn US$10 million a year in prize money, appearance fees and endorsements by the 2012 Summer Games, the New York Times reported recently. If his financial goal is realised, it would place the 22-year-old Jamaican in an income bracket above the sport's all- time elite, including Lewis, who reportedly pocketed between US$5 million and US$7 million a year during his glory days.

Wow…ambitious goals…but then again we are talking about someone who we see if he sets his mind to accomplish something can do it.

I let my Christ Light shine, and my joy is complete. During a challenging time, I may let the adverse influence of circumstances that are beyond my control cause me to feel down. Thank goodness, I bring myself back up by knowing and affirming that the source of my joy is within me. Whenever I notice that my focus has gotten off center, I turn my thoughts to the indwelling Christ Spirit. The moment I do, I feel my spirits lift. Joy stirs within me to warm my heart and transform my thoughts with peace and inspiration.


The Christ Spirit within makes my joy complete. There is joy in letting the Christ Light shine through me as love and optimism, as truth and understanding. Knowing that my joy cannot be taken from me, I am empowered to live life fully and completely.


"You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy."--Psalm 16:11

In Touch Weekly put out a 4 page story about Gwen Stefani's husband Gavin Rossdale and an alleged former lover "Marilyn" (Peter Anthony Robinson) . It is said that the couple maintained a 5 year relationship in the 80s when Marilyn was in the Highlight of his career as a European rockstar. Gavins rep denies any such affair. Boy George first broke the story in his 1995 book "Take It Like A Man", to which both parties had denied. Marilyn now claims to have denied the affair as to protect Gavin, who had asked him to do so. "He was just becoming successful in America. I agreed to lie agaisnt every grain of my being" Marylin says. In an exclusive interview with In Touch, Marylin gives detailed information about the love affair stating "we were together for 5 years but it felt like 40. He was the love of my life." Marylin claims NOT to be gay and that he has dated more women than men.

(Chorus)

No other love

No other touch

Gimme gimme oh so much

Turn me on, turn me on

(Verse 1)
Won’t you please get out of my head
Get back into my bed now, come kiss me, come with me

Cause’ I can’t hardly sleep without you, can’t stop thinking bout you girl

I want you, I need you

And I’m ready for love, I’m ready for us to lose control

Oh you know and I know that

(Chorus)

No other love

No other touch

Gimme gimme oh so much

Turn me on, turn me on
No other kiss

No one like this

Feeling that I can’t resist

Turn me on, turn me on, turn me on

(Verse 2)
I had my share of lovers
But there is no other girl, your special, now let’s go
Cause love I want you more than ever, want to do whatever now

To keep you, I need you

And I’m ready for love, I'm ready for us to lose control

Oh you know and I know that

(Chorus)

No other love

No other touch

Gimme gimme oh so much

Turn me on, turn me on
No other kiss

No one like this
Feeling that I can’t resist

Turn me on, turn me on, turn me on
[Estelle]
I say your turning me on now, say your turning me oh-oh-oh-on
Say your turning me on with your smile, to your lips, to the words of this song ah know
I used to say I was too young, now I’m grown up
But I put you where you need that strong, real goodie good loving
Stevie wonder said it’s been so long
And Imma a give it if you need it are you ready to receive it
Boy I-I-I-I-I (wanna give you some love), I wanna give you some love and affection, you got my attention

See I’m ready for love, I’m ready for us to loose control
Oh you know, and I know that

(Chorus)

No other love
No other touch

Gimme gimme oh so much
Turn me on, turn me on
No other kiss

No one like this

Feeling that I can’t resist
Turn me on, turn me on, turn me on

Nah someone must be lying this hell can’t be true. If the report on mediatakeout is anything to go by then very soon an explosive book will be hitting the shelves on the singer’s so called affair with a man who is only going by the name of ‘Russell’.

Russell claims he will be telling all and will be coming with some shocking secrets…if that’s the case we all we can say is let’s see what he has.

Tami bruck whey fi do har own ting


Yea man wi hear sey Tami Chynn cut ties wid Universal records, cause afta 4 years and di ongle ting dem duh fi har is release one album fi har inna Japan and di one single whey name Frozen…but come to tink of it, wi not even get nuh big big buzz pond a single deh…but a suh it guh when nuh much promotion nuh gu inna whey yuh do. She sey she a cut ties and she waan fi handle har affairs herself as di label neva did a do one jack squat whey she foncern…well wi wish har all di best and hope she can get di break through fi buss it big inna di business…cause fi tell di truth we did really a wonder if dat did eva guh happen.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Bwoy Buju Sir up a bunch a worm
Bwoy di comment whey Buju meck bout Bob Marley is not the greatest and dem tings have people fired up. Nuff people a cuss him off sey a bad mind and mi read two comment inna di Observer whey dem a respond to him statement and put him inna him place sey him nuh know whey him a talk bout. Some pon di streets agree but nuff a dem vex and sey him a try fi belittle di big singer.

75-year-old Jamaican immigrant Barring Perrin who died on December 22 last year is still in a Florida funeral and is now rotting.

This was brought to the fore when a state inspector reported smelling a strong odor during a March 26 visit to Epps Mortuary and said she found a badly deteriorated body, which had either been inadequately embalmed or not embalmed at all. The body was also not refrigerated.

However, the funeral home owner Lawrence Epps said he used his own money to embalm Perrin since his Jamaica-based family did not want to help with the costs.

Epps who’s now had an emergency order prohibiting him from embalming bodies says he knows he will be vindicated.

In God, I am complete--spirit, mind, and body.
I appreciate that there are wonders of nature that satisfy my senses so completely. For instance, the sweet aroma of the lilac bush greets me even before I come near it. Lavender-blue clusters invite me to take a closer look and touch the velvety soft blossoms, which are a beauty that I know will last for only a short time.
It is prayer, however, that offers me a completeness that moves me past what my senses offer me. In prayer I am fully in the presence of God. I sense the Holy Presence within and around me with every fiber of my being. I feel the sacredness of my oneness with God and all creation.
I understand that in God I am complete--spirit, mind, and body. I am a whole and holy being. I continue to be blessed by this awareness as I keep it active throughout the day.
"While we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word."--Acts 6:4