Easter Stars on Parade featuring Bounty Killer and Mavado

In what was seen as an attempt to recover a loss of earnings from the poorly organized Real McKoy tour last year, the Easter weekend played host to another offering from dancehall entertainer Mavado alongside Bounty Killer. The promotional material carried three dates beginning with Birmingham on 21st March, Bradford (although patrons were pre-warned that the venue had yet to be confirmed) and London on 22nd and 23rd March respectively. In keeping with the risk factor now attached to Mavado, a decision was taken by the Police to cancel the Birmingham leg and the Bradford date was moved to Huddersfield. In almost identical terms as the show last year, the London leg went ahead with a heavy Police presence. Units were placed both inside and outside the venue, yet despite the alarmingly visible firearms a fight between patrons ensued, though it was curtailed by the Police within minutes.

In spite of notification to YardFlex in February that Baby Cham and Spice were added to the line-up, our London sources confirmed that the pair did not make the trip. A call placed to the publicist of Spice prior to the event confirmed that she had no booking for the UK. Support acts materialized in the form of Future Trouble, Einstein and Oh Me Oh My.

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The self-proclaimed 'Gangsta Fah Life' artiste Mavado is now living the lifestyle as he is behind bars following his arrest last night on gun related charges.

The entertainer has been charged with two counts of shooting with intent and illegal possession of a firearm.

Mavado, 27, whose real name is David Brooks, was held when he showed up for questioning in connection with a shooting incident on July 27th last year on Mannings Hill Road in St. Andrew.

Head of the Major Investigation Task Force Assistant Commissioner of Police Les Greene said Mavado will remain in custody for at least another 24 hours.

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Things looking up for Bascom X

Caan keep a good man down! Bascom x has gotten back his passport and is gearing up to perform in Florida. The case is not over yet, but gwaan youth, from you can fly and do yuh thing, then the future is already looking bright for you.

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Mavado's show that was scheduled for Saturday March 16, at Miami Soho Studios was interrupted by an altercation outside the venue.

Apparently two men were having an argument outside the club when one of Mavado's entourage who goes by the alias 'Chase Cross' was stabbed by one of the men who was arguing.

This occurred after 'Chase Cross' asked the two men to squash the argument, to prevent the cops from shutting down the show. After walking away one of the assailants, who was in the altercation stabbed him in his neck. He was rushed to the Trauma unit by Mavado and members of their entourage.

We at YardFlex wishes 'Chase Cross' a speedy recovery. People we need to learn how to taper our anger.

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Shaggy was just signed by Pepsi in Europe. "What's Love" featuring Akon the lastest single is # 1 in Europe. Last week the video was the most requested. Congrats to Mr.Bombastic once again.

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Kanye West was spotted in the Mansion New York City, Saturday, with some brown skin chick, not his fiance. Along for the stroll was his manager. Despite what they may think about Kanye, he over tipped the waitress $500 after purchasing a bottle of PJ Fleur Rose Magnum Champagne at $2,100.

I am wondering where was his fiance Alexis, they seemed to go everywhere together but obviously not this time.

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Remember awhile back, we had informed you guys that UB40's front man Ali Campbell is calling it quits. Well he did and YardFlex just learnt that Maxi Priest will be replacing him as the group's front man permanently.

YardFlex photographer was more than prepared to capture this phenomenal event. According to NASA, the next Total Lunar Eclipse will be in the year 2010.

Below are photos depicting the event:

Guilty!

Miguel Collins popularly known as Sizzla appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Thursday to answer to a marijuana possession charge.

According to reports on January 4, Collins was driving a BMW motorcar, which he parked at 121 Windward Road. The vehicle was searched and a
transparent plastic parcel with vegetable matter resembling marijuana was found under a floor mat in front of the driver's seat. He was arrested and charged.

Christopher Townsend Collins Lawyer begged RM Glen Brown to keep the DJs record free. He implored that a tarnished record would blight

He told the court that a tarnished police record could affect the entertainer's chances of being able to perform in countries like The Cayman Islands and certain states in America, where work permits are only offered to individuals with clean police records. No heed was paid to his plea and the artiste was ordered by the RM to have his fingerprints taken and fined a puny $100.

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Vybz Kartel afoul of the law again!

Adidjah Palmer popularly known as Vybz Kartel has once again found himself on the wrong side of the law. This time his mouth has put him in trouble.

Performing at the Amnesia nightclub in Ocho Rios he was warned by police to stop his use of indecent language...but the DJ paid no attention to them and continued his expletive laced performance.

His refuse led to his being arrested by the Ocho Rios police with bail granted yesterday morning and the DJ set to face Ocho Rios Resident Magistrate Court on February 5.

YardFlex would like to offer a solution to get these DJs to comply, stop fining them a measly $1000...let them clean up the streets in front of their fans...or give them some real embarrassing jobs to do!

Bascom X expected to be released today

News from Bascom X Camp is that the artiste will be home this afternoon. Bail was granted yesterday for the sum of $120,000 and the paperworks are now being done for the singer to hit the streets again.

YardFlex will have a one on one with the artiste later...so stay posted.

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No Bad Blood
By: Joseph Cunningham

All is well, says Barbee, since rumors have been spreading that Beenie Man's brother, better known as Blue, allegedly hit her in the eye at a party.

During an interview aired on a local Jamaican radio station, Barbee said, "It was an accident." She also denied swelling claims that Beenie Man is her lover, stating that herself and the deejay are engaged in a musical relationship.

Further, Ray Alexander, publicist for both musicians reiterated that Barbee was poked in the eye accidentally, and revealed that Beenie Man's brother (Blue) has apologized since.

Lucky Dube, the late African reggae icon will be one of six South African (SA) musicians who were honoured on December 2 at the Tribute to SA Music Heroes Concert at Moretele Park, Tshwane.

Dube, who was killed last month in a botched hijacking, was honoured alongside Busi Mhlongo, Don Laka, Vusi Mahlasela, the late Jabu Khanyile and Queeneth Ndaba.

The concert, which was the brainchild of Sam Mhangwani and Leonard Sithole of Drakensberg Promotions, also saw top talent on the local music scene performing to a capacity crowd.

The Tribute to SA Heroes Concert celebrated its 10th anniversary this year.

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Big stars will stream into Jamaica for the festive season. Yardflex has learnt, that a show which is slated to be held at James Bond Beach, St. Mary, sometime this month, will feature, Boys 2 Men, KC & JoJo , Carl Thomas and dancehall star Bounty Killer.

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Tyrone Taylor who will be remembered for his very popular hit 'Cottage In Negril' died on Saturday, December 1 from prostrate cancer in Kingston.

Tyrone Taylor began his recording career in the 1970s voicing for producers such as Winston 'Niney' Holness. But fame remained elusive for the singer. He hit paydirt in the 1980's when he released "Cottage In Negril".

In recent years Tyrone suffered two strokes and he publicly admitted his battle with drugs. The Elizabeth born Taylor was 50 years old at the time of his death.

Among his other memorable recording was "Members Only".

Yardflex sends out sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.

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Speedy recovery goes out to Adugo from the Yardflex crew.

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Beenie Man has not yet collected the results of a paternity test he did recently to determine whether or not he is the biological father of Marco-Dean.

Reports are that the deejay was to collect results today. In a recent television interview, Beenie Man said there is a possibility that the child is not his, and if it turns out that way, D'Angel would have to repay the entire child support money that he had been paying.

In a press release issued yesterday, D'Angel accused Beenie Man of being fully aware of the DNA results at the time when he made these comments on the television interview.

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Protection for Record Producers

The Jamaica Music Society, An Organization that protects the rights of record producers was launched on Tuesday, at Terra Nova hotel in Kingston.

Evon Mullings, General Manager, says the Jamaica Music Society (JAMMS) will also focus on labels. He explained that JAMMS’ role is set to be very significant in the music industry as it will also be collecting royalties, on behalf of the major international companies, that represent remuneration for usage of their collection(s) in broadcasts and public performances locally.

JAMMS was formed pursuant to the copyright act of Jamaica to administer intellectual property rights granted to producers of sound recordings.

Asylum chief says 'sorry'

Brian Chung, owner of the Asylum Night Club is apologizing for the premature end to the club's 10th anniversary celebrations, held at Mas Camp on Saturday.

Proceedings reportedly came to an unscheduled end when a generator in the building went dead.

During an interview today, Mr. Chung explained, "We had two generators at the venue, one for the sound system and the other for the lights. At around 4:00AM Sunday morning the generator for the sound burnt up and we were unable to fix it in time which resulted in the abrupt end to the celebration."

Further, he revealed that Shaggy and Sean Paul who were the surprise acts of the night were unable to perform due to the technical glitch.

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On the Charts

In related news, Shaggy's album Intoxication is # 1 on the Billboard Reggae Album Chart. The album is characterized by collaborations with Sizzla Kalonge, Akon, Rik Rok and Nasha.

Meanwhile in the number 3 slot on the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart is Ky-Mani Marley with Radio.

I-Wayne's Book of Life is at # 6, Stephen Marley's Mind Control is # 8 and Gangster Life, the Symphony of David Brooks by Mavado is at 9.

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Byron Lee still a run tings

A free concert held on Sunday in Peacock Park, Coconut Grove, Miami, brought out a massive crowd of around 5000 people who enjoyed the sights and sounds of the Caribbean from 3:00PM until 11:00PM. Byron Lee and The Dragonairs punched out their powerful rhythms that never cease to captivate. As audience members showed their pleasure in vibrant movement and song, Jamaica's leading Calypsonian kept up the rhythmic pulsating beats. "Byron can't done...him sell off," a patron exclaimed.

The days entertainment was provided by a good cross section of cultural greats. The Caribbean Folk Dancers threw down some fancy footwork to wonderful sounds and Jovi gave an excellent presentation, as did the eldest Marley son, Ziggy.

Entertainment publicist Ray Alexander received the shock of his life last night when unknown assailants shot up his house.

When Yardflex spoke with Alexander he was still shaken up as he fired, "it happened around 8:45 last night. I heard the sound of gunfire but I couldn't believe the attack was on me. My first thought was, I have not done anyone anything, so who would want to hurt me?" he explained.

According to Alexander he later learned that the car drove about 200 meters from his home, then two men got out, one stocky and another slim built, they walked up to the gateway pushed the gun through the gate and fired several shots towards the bedroom area.

The CEO of Khool International said he came to the full realization that he was the target when he looked through the window and saw crowd gathering at his gate. When he went to investigate it was then they told him what happened.

The matter has since been reported to the Bridgeport Police. The suspect is believed to be someone from the entertainment industry.

International dancehall recording superstar, Moses 'Beenie Man' Davis has offered his humble apology to the Jamaica Labour Party for recent comments made, after his alleged tax evasion case on Monday, October
29.

The apology came after Beenie Man was asked by someone in court, not knowing the person was a reporter, if he thought he was being targeted because of his political affiliation. The dancehall artiste – without giving it proper thought - immediately responded, saying that he believed he was in fact being targeted, and that it is being strongly said around the music circles.

Jamaica Labour Party General Secretary Karl Samuda sent out a press release dismissing the allegation as "misguided, mischievous and absurd."

In a statement issued through Davis' publicist Ray Alexander of Khool International, on Wednesday, October 31, Beenie Man apologetically said, "After deep reflection and investigation it has come to my
attention that the information and the sources around me were not credible and that my statements were grossly inaccurate.

My sources were misinformed and trying to make this issue seem political when it clearly isn't because this matter has been in front of the court from as early as April of this year, but apparently the
documentations were submitted to my past management and not forwarded directly to me.

I have absolutely no bias towards the J.L.P government and wouldn't intentionally try to create any animosity but it is a normal human reaction if somebody tells you that somebody is fighting you to try and defend yourself.

Again I am very sorry and it was irresponsible to act on impulse before verifying that the information was truthful."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Yardflex understands that the 'Original Don Gorgon' Ninja Man who has just returned to the island yesterday met in an accident today along the Junction Main Road. He, however received no injuries and is schedule to perform on Curefest this weekend.

Yardflex is happy to hear that the DJ is not hurt and wishes him all the best.

Yardflex advise all Jamaican to exercise caution when traveling on the road, in this inclement weather.

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Macka Diamond and her publicist Ray Alexander are at odds!!!

Rumour has it that the two have severed ties. However, Ray Alexander says he has no idea what's happening because he hasn't seen Macka Diamond since she returned from Canada some three weeks ago.

He added that the Macka, who is reported to be doing her own booking, has not yet made it official that their working relationship is a thing of the past.

Attempts to get a comment from Macka Diamond were unsuccessful.

Ray Alexander has been Macka Diamond's publicist/booking agent for almost 3 years.

A who really write Macka Diamond book Bun Him?

Ever since the female DJ launched her novel Bun Him tongues have been wagging left, right and center about who really wrote the book. Some women while waiting in line at a popular bank had a field day speculating on the real author, "Yuh can stay dere meck dem tun yuh inna idiot, yuh believe a she really write deh book deh?"

"No sah, somebody ghost write it..." was the comment
from the other woman. This YardFlex reporter was on hand at a popular dance and again that was the topic under discussion with the overwhelming consensus being that someone else wrote the book. Well...all we can say is whether it was written by her
or not...the book a gwaan!

More Macka Passa Passa

Who is Macka Diamond really seeing? Just who is her upfront man? Well those questions cannot easily be answered as word is that she is along with Panther from Black Cat but then again, we hear that she is chasing "a young little boy dancer" so...stay tuned, we might just be able to solve this puzzle soon for you.

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Jah Cure's camp sent out a strong statement denying allegations published on femalefirst.co.uk, that claim The Cure has been banned from visiting the UK where he is slated to perform this month.

According to information on femalefirst.co.uk the singer was denied entry on the basis of his conviction. However, Danger Zone Records said yesterday, "We are aware that there have been circulations on the Internet and other media that Jah Cure has been banned from Britain. We would like to advise that the British authorities have communicated no such ban. It is a fact however, that Jah Cure has procured a work permit for the UK and is now in the process of securing a UK visa, which is a separate application process, but no determination has yet been made on the issue. Until such a determination is made, we find it irresponsible that anyone would wish to purvey such erroneous statements." .

Jah Cure was released in July after serving eight years of a 12 year sentence on rape and robbery charges.

Foxy Brown has a new website www.freefoxybrown.com where you can get the entire scoop about Foxy Brown from behind the bars.
Keep the faith and hold tight Foxy...Yardflex sends love and respect.

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Shaggy, Mr. Boombastic himself is back with a blazing new release. Tracks featured include the hit 'Church Heathen' as well as the new bubbler 'Bonafide Girl' featuring Rik Rok, on the
huge 'Shanty Town' Riddim. Other guest artists include, Sizzla, Collie Buddz, and Akon. Mr. Lover Lover always delivers and this album is no disappointment! Album will hit stores November 13th on VP records.

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Amina Blackwood-Meeks' son reportedly physically abused his girlfriend's sister and charges were filed against him and the accuser for assault. A frantically written and disturbing account from the female abuse victim has been circulating newsrooms recently. Attempts to reach the accused and the actual victim were futile at press time, but Yardflex would like all men who physically abuse women in their life to know that we do not support this cowardly act.

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Five medals won by American sprinter Marion Jones at the 2000 Sydney Olympics may be in jeopardy, following the medallist's admitting to taking performance enhancing steroids before those games. Jones has reportedly admitted taking "the clear" for two years, beginning in 1999, and that she was given doses of it by her former coach Trevor Graham, who told her it was flaxseed oil and added that it was to be kept a secret between them, reports the Washington Post.

"The clear" is a performance-enhancing drug Linked to, the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative, (BALCO). BALCO lab is now the center of a US federal steroids investigation. Jones denied steroid use before now – and even lied to federal agents about it, citing fear and panic set in upon recognizing "the clear" as the supposed "flaxseed supplement" and realizing she had been duped all these years by Graham.

The Post reported, Jones pleaded guilty in New York yesterday to two counts of lying to federal agents about her drug use and an unrelated financial matter.

Hi Marion – Yardflex wonders if you never thought about buying your own flaxseed oil one day and checking the difference...

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The video shoot for Da'Ville's single titled "Give Thanks For What You've Got" was shot on September 22 around sections of Heroes Circle and will premiere this week. Directed by Tsehai Scott with song produced by Arif Cooper for Fresh Ear Production, the scenery was shot in an old abandoned building. In the song, Da'Ville sings about the hardship a lot of people go through, having nowhere to sleep and nothing to eat while those who are in a better position to help, ignore the less fortunate. The song also speaks in volumes about family values, while at the same time warning the 'haves' that material things they have today could be taken away tomorrow.

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'da Kink in my hair TV show comes to Global Television on Oct 14 at 7:30pm!

Photos like this one of Lauryn Hill performing in what closely resembles a clown's outfit is to many, displaying signs of being mentally ill. A very disturbing radio report aired recently in Jamaica featured hosts who discussed this mental condition negatively and jeeringly. Yardflex would like to extend our regrets if Lauryn Hill is indeed living with a mental disability at this time. Our [Black, Caribbean. African] culture(s) have been on the whole, traditionally unknowledgeable and often unkind to the mentally disabled, however this is a manageable illness and we wish that Lauryn is not ill, but if she is – we pray for a speedy recovery for her.

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Keyshia Cole releases her highly anticipated sophomore album "Just Like You," today on Geffen Records. "Just Like You" includes Keyshia's hit single with Diddy "Last Night" and guest features Too $hort, T.I, Missy, Lil Kim, Anthony Hamilton, Young Dro and Amina. She will be in NYC, Washington D.C., Atlanta and Chicago.

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An HIV/AIDS Vaccine Trial has sadly failed. The trial that was running tests with clinical trial volunteers, some of whom resided in Jamaica, aimed at discovering the efficacy of vaccines that would stop the spread of the world's most grave pandemic to date. Head of epidemiology at Jamaica's Ministry of Health, Dr. Peter Figuroa said this week, that of the 11 people who contracted the HIV virus while engaged in this particular trial, non were Jamaican. Scientists continue their search for an HIV vaccine, even though this trial was terminated following the reported "11 failures."

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Tarrus Riley, who is currently riding the reggae waves of success following his smashing hits and impressive burst onto the scene, was in a motorcar accident while on his way to perform at the launch of Carol Gonzales' debut album on Thursday September 27. Media and other attendees kept looking over their shoulders for the young hit maker, but he didn’t show up...

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Atlanta's Future Movement Radio – FMR – a hot new Jamaican radio program which airs weekdays (5:30pm – 8:00pm) and Saturdays (9am – 10am), was recently launched in Atlanta on 1010 AM WGUN – a 50,000 watt regional radio station that covers the entire Atlanta metro area, southeastern Tennessee, parts of North Carolina and eastern Alabama. The Jamaican community is thrilled - as this is a long awaited voice being given to them

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Mavado is back in Jamaica safe and sound after his trials...gwaan hold it yah we fren u are not alone…

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Stephen McGregor has a new rhythm that is the hottest thing since sliced bread. It is the "Bees Hive" rhythm and word is that many big artists are lining up to voice on it – it is just amazing. This week Vybz Kartel, Aidonia, Assasin., Mavado, Busy Sgnal, Elephant Man, Anthony B, Chino, Beenie Man, Singing Sweet and Lady Saw have voiced on it already.

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Mary J. Blige, the Queen of Hip Hop Soul is back! Mary premieres her new single "Just Fine" on AOL Music, produced by "Tricky" Stewart and Jazze Pha. This is the first single from Mary's new album "Growing Pains" It was released in stores yesterday.

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You've heard of the House of Jazz and the House of Blues and how they succeeded in their respective industries by franchising across North America, signing artists, distributing records, and organizing large live events. With the current increase in popularity in reggae music across the world, it is now time for the "House of Reggae" to do the same and take the reggae industry to the next level!

Cezar Brumeanu would like to personally invite you to the grand opening of the first "House of Reggae," featuring live band performances...on Friday and Saturday, October 5th and 6th from 5:00pm till…@1693-A St-Denis, (between Ontario and de Maisonneuve)

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Mavado left many anxious dancehall fans in a lost loop in Atlanta as well as in Trinidad and Tobago as promoters in both places were forced to cancel concerts following a robbery the artiste experienced in Toronto, Canada, ttgapers.com reports today.

It is alleged the DJ was cruelly robbed just after arriving at his hotel and while checking in. In Toronto for another concert, Mavado reportedly lost extremely important documents in the robbery. These include his passport, money, other travel documents and a laptop computer.

Unconfirmed reports – at news time – claim that at Toronto's first Black owned Urban Station FLOW 93.5fm advertisements were run offering rewards of up to C$5000, for the return of Mavado's belongings.

Without travel documents, Mavado was refused entry into the US to perform at his Atlanta gig. He was further distressed to find out another concert scheduled for Gulf City, Trinidad and Tobago would also have to be nullified.

Fans in the twin isles were not the least bit amused or sympathetic to the cause and they felt as if "duped" considering the sign at the club said Mavado had missed his flight instead of explaining the real situation. In anger the fans allegedly got wild and overbearing on Sunday night – with accounts of many making threats at the promoter, Glenroy Watson.

Credit cards also stolen from Mavado were reportedly used at major Toronto commercial centres, in the stores, Best Buy and others.

By: Devon Anderson

The Sunshine Netball Girls of Jamaica lost their 3 game warm up test series to England 3-0 as they prepared for the world netball championships which will be held in Auckland, New Zealand in November of this year.

Played at the indoor sports center in Kingston, the games attracted a large turn out for all three events. In the first game The Sunshine Netball Girls lost 52-32 as their British rivals came out firing on all cylinders. The Jamaicans, who are coached by former player Connie Francis, regrouped however, to salvage some pride - as they lost the second game 46-45 and the series. The third game was just a matter of completing the schedule and this they did losing 49-45.

Come November all Jamaicans will be expecting an improved team, with the hopes that our Netball Girls would have learnt some valuable lessons from the series by then. Currently ranking number 3 in the international netball ranks, Jamaica is beat by New Zealand, who is number 1 and Australia – number 2. England trails all with a 4th place world rank.

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Meanwhile on the track and field front, where Jamaica has historically been very dominating, our track genius, Asafa "World Record" Powell kept up his fantastic running and did not disappoint fans when he won the 100 meters at the 5th International Amature Athletic Federation (IAAF) World final in Stuttgart Germany on Saturday September 22 in a time of 9:83. Another Jamaican Michael Frater finished third in 10:11.Asafa has the world record for this event in 9:74.

Greetings people. Yardflex wants to express thanks to all who send in their views through the comments or via e-mail. The news briefs, although called Yardflex News, will also feature global news... It will not necessarily always be news about Jamaica. Yes - Jamaica is often referred to as Yard...but Yardflex has adapted a style of using "Yard" to title our departments. Continue reading, enjoying and sending your feedback. Letters to the editor and news scoops can be forwarded to: debracole.yardflex@gmail.com.

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Calvin Broadus, world renown as rap star, Snoop Dogg, has escaped prison time for his involvement in an incident in 2006, over the possession of a collapsible baton.
Snoop was arrested after the weapon was found in his hand luggage at John Wayne Airport in Orange County last year.

He pleaded guilty to one count of felony possession of a dangerous weapon in a California court yesterday, and was sentenced to 160 hours of community service and three years of probation. Donald Etra, the star's attorney, says, "We are very pleased with the outcome. Dogg's goal is to make music, not make court appearances." "He wants to get on with his life. He will continue his music and his filming and performing," he added.

Snoop was also ordered to make a charitable donation of $10,000 to a charity called Right Trak, while Etra claims that his felony conviction would be reduced to a misdemeanor after one year if the rapper doesn't violate the law.

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Word around Jamaica has it that Richie Spice is about to exit Fifth Element Records to move over to Cornerstone Records.

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More word...ousted Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller's husband Errald Miller recently left the island for a trip to Miami. Purpose of the trip...to attend the christening of his Miami-born baby.

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Scrappy released his new Soca solo album, "Soca Is Life" this summer and it will be available online for digital download soon. Distributed by Soca's biggest online digital distribution company Faluma, of Germany, the album consists of his 2005 debut single & Road March song "Always Home" that gave him recognition in the Soca arena followed by his current UK Soca chart entry "Love Me" & also his new hot blazing release "Carnival SOS". Scrappy toured the UK, promoting, "Soca Is Life" this summer and says, "The album is the most comfortable project I have to date, It is for my Soca lovers worldwide."

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Kymani Marley launched his new album "Radio" on Monday September 17 in New York. The highly anticipated "Radio" will hit the streets on September 25 and Marley is also to be featured in a new reality show due for release at the same time. Entitled, "Living the Life of Marley," reality series is produced in conjunction with AAO Music, Vox Music Grop, Purfek Storm Productions and the BET Network.
Cameras followed Kymani and family around during preparations to launch the CD Radio. The series will show him working as well as highlight the strong Marley family bond.

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Fifth Element's Etana, who claimed fame with the hit, "Wrong Address" as well as "Can't Water Down and Dilute," is currently busy working on her album due for release in 2008. "Mi have nuff songs," Etana once told Yardflex, and everyone is anxious to grab this album.

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Scatta is now on to managing Anthony B.

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Happy belated earthday (September 21) to Daddy U-Roy veteran of the Dancehall...icon of all toasting .

On Saturday September 22 at the luxurious Snorkel Park in Bermuda, Eva hype and Ruff Ryderz promotions present their 1st annual ORGAZMZ party. It will be an orgy of the latest hip hop, R&B and dancehall served on a digital platter by Bermuda's hottest sounds: Vybez Alliance, Zedhi, Souljah 1 and Imega.

This event promises to be an annual cornucopia of music, maidens and muscle. Leading up to it there will be multitudes of chances to win free entry to this signature event. Listeners need only to stay keenly glued to Bermuda's two hottest radio stations. POWER 95 and HOTT 107.5. The promotional slogan is seductively simple...
MAKE SURE YU CUM

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The Hilton Hotel, New Kingston, Jamaica, pulled out all the stops to join in the Ethiopian Millennium celebrations on Wednesday September 12, 2007. One thing was missing though – and that was a strong presence from the Rastafarian community. Only a handful attended and most were performing as drummers, singers and dancers.

It was a well put together evening with early cocktails, finger foods and later an amazing buffet with special vegetarian, Jamaican and African dishes prepared at the Hilton by a special Rastafarian chef!! Hilton's poolside was splendidly decorated with lights and flowing material...was a good show...and again – it's too bad the key folk didn't know.

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Stephen McGregor has been officially signed to EMI publishing. The young McGregor of Reggae's Big Ship dynasty was featured recently in Vibe. Watch him and Sean Paul roll this fall with their spanking new rhythm.

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EL MAGNATE NIGHT CLUB will appease your musical tease every Friday night. Located at 31 Beverly Hills Drive at JANE & WILSON. TORONTO CANADA, El Magnate gets hot and steamy with - GIRLS PARADE EVERY FRIDAYZ.

Jah Jerry, a founding member of the original legendary Skatalites passed away on August 13, 2007 at the age of 80. Born to Mary Smith and Hubert Haynes, Jah Jerry, born Jerome Gladstone Haynes has not only played an integral role in the development of Ska, he also worked with a wide roster of prominent artistes including, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Toots and the Maytals, Ken Booth, Delroy Wilson and Jimmy Cliff. The catchy Ska beat became a global hit and major influence of music on a whole. A memorial service for Jah Jerry was held on August 29 at Dovecot Memorial Chapel with interment at Dovecot Memorial Park.

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RASE TV’s In The Zone is set to blaze with a new season that debuts across Canada on September 6. Each Saturday In The Zone will air at 11:00pm on CJNT (former CH in Montreal) – and this can be viewed through Bell, Rogers, Videotron and Starchoice. A repeat of the show will air on Sundays at 11:00pm.

Now in its fourth season, In The Zone will continue with the usual exclusive interviews, live footage and the hottest Caribbean music videos. Episode one will feature Montreal’s international hitmaker, Carl Henry. Episode two will feature, Sampaloo and viewers will be kept in suspense as to who the guest host will be each week.

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Portia Simpson Miller outgoing Prime Minister of Jamaica finally conceded the defeat suffered by her People’s National Party (PNP) in Jamaica’s September 3rd General Elections. With Bruce Golding and his Jamaica Labor Party (JLP) supporters shifting further into celebration mode, the table is set for changes and the first real one will come as an ease to the pockets of tuition fee payers – like now…

Jamaica’s Electoral Office has put the official count at 32 seats for JLP and 28 for PNP. This prompted Simpson Miller’s statement that declared, “The People’s National Party accepts the announced preliminary results while reserving all rights under the Jamaican constitution and our electoral laws.” The official count is still underway.

Voter turnout at Monday’s election was a pathetic 60% of the eligible voters in Jamaica.

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Verizon wireless made an announcement last Tuesday that they had managed to land an exclusive deal with the Universal Music Group to distribute ring tones to its customers from the catalogue of Bob Marley. By the Thursday of that same week however, Marley survivors decided did some stirring up of things as they made an announcement of their own – to file a lawsuit to block the Verizon/Universal deal
KLAS Sports Radio in Kingston, Jamaica has added another award to their roster.

This one however, is one of the most prestigious, as it singles out the dynamic sports program, “Score Board” – bestowing on it the honor of being, the Best Sports Feature Program in the Caribbean Region. Each year The Caribbean Broadcasting Union, which is the umbrella group for broadcasting entities across the Caribbean, presents awards to media houses for excellence in different areas of the profession. Yardflex congratulates KLAS FM’s entire “Sports Board” team

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The Silver Spoon Club in Wembley, London became a gruesome and bloody scene last weekend when gunshots ran out while revelers danced and grooved. The senseless raining of bullets took one victim who was fatally shot.

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Bermudian dub poet Ras Mikal is in Jamaica – ready to do the lyrical shuffle in studios once more. He continues to be controversial, highlighting truths and sometimes unpopular issues. Watch out for his work as well as for the huge influx of “poetic culture” that permeates Jamaica.

Craig Dennis was laid to rest today, August 22, with a thanksgiving service for his life. Held at the Greater Macedonia F. B. H. Church, with Interment at Meadowrest Memorial Gardens, Kingston, the service was attended by hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues of Craig’s from the reggae fraternity, who turned out to pay their last respects.

Spoken of so eloquently by loved ones and in a beautifully executed remembrance piece by his cousin, Tafari Burns, Craig passed away on August 3, 2007 in a motorcycle accident. Today, he was laid out in a uniquely designed casket that had baby blue accents and a portrait of Craig painted on it. Laying there as if in the blue sky, Craig was kissed, touched, cried over and viewed by a crowd that has been waiting for Hurricane Dean to pass, in order to pay their last respects.

A member of the Big Ship musical family, Craig was lauded for his good-natured and forgiving ways. One presenter spoke of his own difficulties with being strong, since he was ripped apart inside by his close friend's passing; and this was the general sentiment, especially so for Nagga Heptone, a member of the original Heptones, who is also Craig's dad. Unable to sit inside and follow along the with entire service, Grandpa Nagga, kept up with the quick pace of both Craig's energetic infant sons in the church yard – it was an emotional overload for him as well as for Craig’s mom, Joann, his sisters, brothers and entire family.

One post Hurricane Dean reality, is the lack of electricity in some areas of Jamaica and subsequently many buildings are without cooling systems. Despite the heat in the church and obvious wish to go through the service in good time, people kept going up to express their feelings about Craig, in monologue, rap and song.

Brother, Fabian Clarke, had to be consoled while reading the eulogy and he said it was unfortunate that Craig's blossoming career was cut so short - prematurely halting his brother's vision of building a substantial legacy for his two infant boys. Craig's biggest hit to date was a song done on Stephen McGregor's 'Power Cut' rhythm entitled, "Real Bad Man no Talky Talky."

Artists like, Freddy McGregor, Movado, Yeshemabeth McGregor, Geoffrey Star, Delly Ranks and Stephen McGregor were in attendance.

On Tuesday August 21, 2007, two days following the devastating affects of Hurricane Dean, a generator caused what turned out to be a minor fire at Jamaica's Pegasus Hotel. Located in New Kingston, the Pegasus is a major center for tourism and entertainment. An eyewitness said somehow the entire foyer became filled with smoke and the entire hotel was then evacuated. Fire and police crews responded quickly and one person suffered from smoke inhilation and was taken to hospital for treatment. The situation was brought under control by rescue teams.

Upcoming reggae/dancehall artist Craig Dennis died Friday Morning, August 3rd, 2007. According to reports Dennis was partying at the Asylum night club and left shortly before his death at around 4:00am when the motorcycle he was riding crashed into a parked car.

Dennis was a member of the Big Ship Music Family and had his biggest hit to date on Stephen McGregor's 'Power Cut' Rhythm entitled 'Real Bad Man no Talky Talky'. Freddie McGregor stated that the Big Ship Family is truly devastated by the untimely death of a son & brother and our condolences go out to his family, primarily his mother and his children.

Craig was in the process of finishing his album which featured tracks produced by various producers including Stephen & Yeshemabeth Mcgregor, Delly Ranks and Father Romie from Exodus.

By:Alan Lewin

On august 7, 2007, about 140 Candidates were nominated to contest the August 27 General Election. Both the ruling People's National Party headed by Portia Simpson-Miller and the Opposition Jamaica Labour Party headed by Bruce Golding nominated 60 Candidates each to contest the election which is expected to be an evenly contested one.

At press time, the National Democratic Movement were expected to Nominate 11 candidates, 20 less than in 2002, eight from the International Ethiopian World Federation Incorporation Party, Four Independent and other minor political parties. Several supporters along with their candidates were seen parading by motorcade throughout the streets across Jamaica. There were no reported cases of political confrontation despite shouting power and shower with fist and two fingers symbolizing the signs for the P.N.P. and J.L.P.

Unrelated violent incidences reported yesterday however, include the fatal shooting of a policeman and the injuring of another as well as the tragic killing of an innocent citizen, allegedly shot by a policeman who was chasing a suspect through the woman’s home. The deceased woman had no connection to the person being pursued.

By: Alan Lewin
Captain Barrington Irving Jnr, the first black man and the youngest man to fly around the world solo was honoured at a reception held in Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay, Jamaica on Saturday August 4, 2007. Born of Jamaican parentage, Captain Irving was presented with a citation and the key to the City by Montego Bay’s Mayor, Councillor Noel Donaldson. Several thousand Jamaicans braved the boiling sun to get a glimpse of this historical pilot and request his autograph. Onlookers were pulling out papers, books, t-shirts, old Jamaican money and other articles to be signed by Captain Irving.

The ambitious young man made references to his early years as a student pilot when his responsibilities included washing the aeroplanes and compared those times to today. At this time, he said he owns his own airplane.

At a reception in Kingston, Captain Irving was presented with the Musgrave Award for young achievers by the Prime Minister of Jamaica, the Most Honourable Portia Simpson-Miller.

Alan Lewin
Singer Jah Cure who was recently released from incarceration, paid a visit to the inner city community of Paradise Row in Montego Bay, Jamaica on Friday August 3 rd, 2007. Jah Cure met with several prominent entertainment and sports personalities. The visit to Paradise Row was to show his respect to the people of the community who have being staging an annual Jah Cure Birthday Bash for the past five years while he was in prison.

He was accompanied by his danger zone management team. The past student of the Montego Bay Secondary High School also met with some of his school friends. Jah Cure was glad to be in the community once again after being away for over eight years, and promises to be back often. He then jetted off to some radio interviews and also the Negril area where he may be possible visiting the ATI Treasure show over the weekend.

A number of accusations have been made to defame and destroy the reputation of Michele "D'Angel" Downer-Davis by her husband, Moses "Beenie Man" Davis in regards to their marriage. After her husband's appearance in The Gleaner and other press with Faith "Barbee" Jackson,having affectionate moments, he has done several interviews to justify his actions.

It was during these interviews that he accused his wife of infidelity
when it is evident that he is the guilty one. Mrs. Downer-Davis is
hurt by the accusations and appalled by his lies. He also denies
several acts of physical abuse including a recent altercation where he
removed her wedding ring from her finger and physically assaulted her
which led to her receiving four stitches on her face.

"I feel that our problems are a private matter and he should have never discussed it in the media. The way he has done this is not fair to me or our child Marco-Dean. My child is my priority and that is why I am speaking out to clear my name that has been scandalized by my husband. Moses has a larger responsibility than most people; he is a public figure, yet he and so many others treat women less than human with sexual and violent assaults. I am hurt by his actions but I am strong," D'Angel explains. "I will continue to be the best parent to our son. I do wish Moses all the best and will continue to be respectful of his career," she continues.

According to an article in The Gleaner, Senator Dorothy Lightbourne,
Attorney-At-Law and JLP spokesperson on Gender and Children's Affairs
says, "In 2005, there were 5,527 reported incidents. The figures for
domestic violence could be much higher, as many cases go unreported. I
appeal to our women to not cower in fear - speak out, get help, seek
redress."

Each year acts of violence: physical, emotional, sexual and psychological have been committed against thousands of women and girls in their communities, their schools, their workplaces, their homes and in the street.

In the same article from The Gleaner, The Most Hon. Portia Simpson
Miller: Prime Minister of Jamaica had this to say, "The sad fact is
that the majority of the violence committed against women is carried
out within the private sphere of the family, with devastating
consequences for the well-being and proper development of those
children who are directly exposed to it."

In the meantime D'Angel will continue to use her career as a platform
to entertain and educate around women's rights, self-love and
empowerment. She does not wish to do interviews around the specifics of her marriage with Beenie Man but you will hear clear messages through her music and live performances.

"I want to thank the thousands of people both here and overseas who
have either called, sent emails, and flowers lending their support to
me and my family during this very sensitive time. It is so refreshing
to see so many people come forward in support and that has motivated me to strive to become a better Artiste, a better Business Woman and a
Stronger Mother for Marco Dean," concludes D'Angel.

Too excited to eat, Jah Cure was a calm bundle of emotions Sat