Jamaica Gleaner

• ‘Surreal’ Miss Universe Jamaica win for Portlander Celene Hall

  With Celene Hall being crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2026 on Sunday, the parish of Portland was flung into the pageant spotlight for the second time in August, and both times were historic. When 25-year-old Celene Hall was crowned, she became the first woman from Portland to win the title in the pageant’s history. Earlier in August, 28-year-old Miss Portland, Christina Williams, was crowned Miss Jamaica Festival Queen 2026, making her the first Portland queen to win the title in 27 years. Williams was present on Sunday to cheer on her “parisheen” and savour her victory.

• Gospel ministers to stage Ezer benefit concert at NCU

  Music ministers Adrian Walker, Gamel Grant, and David Pryce have joined forces for a worthy cause. Their goal is to support students of the Northern Caribbean University (NCU) who have been severely affected by Hurricane Melissa and are struggling to cover their tuition fees. Walker, Grant, and Pryce have organised a benefit concert, with a portion of the proceeds going directly towards the students’ school fees. Additionally, part of the proceeds will be used to retrofit a studio at NCU Media, providing a space for students and ministers to record and hone their craft.

• Music icon and actor Dolly Parton dies at 80

  AP – Dolly Parton, the country music icon whose soaring vibrato vocals, poignant songwriting and sparkling costumes defined her rise from a log cabin in the Tennessee mountains to the height of stardom and acclaim, has died. She was 80 years old. Known for her curvy physique, massive blonde wigs and skin-tight outfits that served her self-deprecating wit, she was among the most beloved personalities in music and beyond — the rare celebrity whose appeal transcended generations, geography and politics.

• Actress says Hollywood does not protect child stars

  Actress, Anna Paquin has spoken out about the dangers faced by female child stars following the death of Hayden Panettiere. Saying that young performers were “not as protected” by Hollywood as they should have been, Paquin, 44, shared the message on Instagram days after Panettiere, 36, was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, and pronounced dead despite attempts to resuscitate her.

• Celene Hall is Miss Universe Jamaica 2026

  Miss Universe Jamaica Portland Celene Hall is Miss Universe Jamaica. The 25-year-old businesswoman, artist and philanthropist was crowned on Sunday night at the AC Hotel Kingston by Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 Dr Gabrielle Henry, who made her first public appearance at the pageant following an accident in Thailand last year where she represented Jamaica at the global Miss Universe pageant.