分类： society

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a bold move to revitalize cultural tourism and foster economic growth, Kingston Creative has unveiled the Mobay Creative initiative, a groundbreaking Creative Placemaking Programme set to transform Montego Bay into a vibrant cultural hub. This year-long project, centered in St James, aims to strengthen the synergy between the creative and tourism sectors while generating new income opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs.

At the heart of the initiative are two large-scale murals designed to enhance Montego Bay’s visual appeal, complemented by a Creative Placemaking Training Programme. This training will empower local creatives and community leaders with the skills to organize cultural events and develop a thriving cultural district. The project will culminate in the Artwalk Festival, a grand celebration of music, food, and local artistry in Sam Sharpe Square.

Montego Bay’s Mayor, Richard Vernon, emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative, stating, ‘This project reflects our cultural pride, community resilience, and the creative power of our people. It is a visible step toward the inclusive, sustainable city we envision under Vision 2030.’ He highlighted the murals as symbols of the city’s stories, struggles, and aspirations, bringing beauty, opportunity, and dignity to overlooked spaces.

The initiative is expected to directly engage 25 creatives, create 20 paid opportunities, and involve 800 members of the public, while fostering partnerships with at least seven key stakeholders. Andrea Dempster Chung, Executive Director of Kingston Creative, noted, ‘This partnership goes beyond murals; it’s about arts for social and economic transformation. We are excited to collaborate with western creatives and encourage corporations in the region to join this movement.’

Supported by Target 8.9, with funding from the TUI Care Foundation’s TUI Colourful Cultures initiative, the project also enjoys backing from the S-Hotel Montego Bay, the Montego Bay Cultural Centre, and the city itself. Implementation is set to begin in October 2025, with $8.75 million already committed. Coral Purvil-Williams, Destination Manager at Target 8.9, remarked, ‘This partnership unlocks Montego Bay’s creative and economic potential, aligning with the goals of the TUI Colourful Cultures programme.’

In a decisive move, the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) has voted unanimously to file a lawsuit against the Government of Jamaica, alleging that numerous educators were unjustly forced into retirement. The decision, made during a General Council meeting on September 27, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the JTA and the Government. JTA President Mark Malabver confirmed the development, emphasizing that the union has exhausted all other avenues for resolution. The conflict stems from recent amendments to the Pensions Act, which the JTA claims have compelled teachers to retire before the legal age of 65, disrupting their financial planning and obligations. Despite earlier assurances from the Ministry of Finance to address the issue, the JTA asserts that no formal communication or action has been taken since February. Malabver reiterated the union’s commitment to seeking justice through the courts, stating that legal proceedings would commence shortly. The JTA is also engaged in protracted wage negotiations with the Government, with Malabver criticizing the current offer of a 7.5% increase over three years as inadequate. He stressed that the Government must recognize education as an investment rather than charity, urging a fair resolution to both the retirement and wage disputes.

ST CATHERINE, Jamaica – The tranquil community of St Catherine remains engulfed in a wave of anger and sorrow following the brutal rape of a seven-year-old girl, a student at Bermaddy Primary School. The incident, which has shaken the close-knit neighborhood to its core, marks an unprecedented act of violence in the area. Melbourne Thompson, the school’s principal, expressed the collective sentiment, stating, ‘The community is furious; if they could, they might have sought vigilante justice. But there’s also profound sadness, as nothing like this has ever happened here before.’ The attack occurred as the young girl was walking home from school. She was reportedly dragged into a bus by an assailant, sexually assaulted, and left for dead. Fortunately, the victim managed to raise an alarm, leading to the suspect’s apprehension by local residents as he attempted to flee in a taxi. He was promptly handed over to the police, who have since charged him. In response to the tragedy, Bermaddy Primary held a special devotion on Monday to provide solace to students and staff. The event saw the presence of St Catherine North Western Member of Parliament Damion Crawford, Senior Superintendent Hopeton Nicholson of the St Catherine North police, and representatives from the Office of the Children’s Advocate, all offering their support. Crawford proposed the introduction of walking wardens to accompany students on their daily commute home, a suggestion warmly welcomed by Thompson. The principal highlighted the poor road conditions near the school, which deter taxis from operating in the area, making the proposal a practical and much-needed solution. The community, while grappling with its grief, remains united in its demand for justice and measures to ensure the safety of its children.

In a high-profile murder trial unfolding at the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, Constable Noel Maitland faces charges related to the disappearance and alleged murder of his girlfriend, Donna-Lee Donaldson, a social media influencer. The case has drawn significant attention due to the dramatic circumstances surrounding Maitland’s arrest on July 27, 2022. During the arrest, Maitland reportedly uttered the phrase “Jah Jah,” a common Jamaican expression of disillusionment, which has since become a focal point in the trial. A detective sergeant from the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime (C-TOC) branch provided detailed testimony about the arrest, describing how Maitland was apprehended at a law office on Duke Street. The detective recounted that Maitland was in conversation with his attorney, Christopher Townsend, when he was formally arrested for murder. Maitland was cautioned, and his response of “Jah, Jah” was noted. The detective also testified about the seizure of Maitland’s cellphone, which was later submitted to the Communication, Forensics and Cybercrime Division (CFCD) for analysis. During cross-examination, Townsend challenged the detective’s account, suggesting that Maitland neither made the “Jah, Jah” remark nor claimed ownership of the confiscated phone. Maitland, visibly disagreeing with the detective’s testimony, shook his head in the prisoner’s dock. The trial continues as the court examines the evidence and testimonies surrounding this complex case.

Modern couples are increasingly taking charge of their wedding aesthetics, from selecting vases and candleholders to designing signage and table numbers. The DIY approach to wedding décor has surged in popularity, particularly among budget-conscious couples. However, the aftermath of the wedding raises a critical question: What becomes of the décor?

**The True Cost of ‘Saving’**

At first glance, purchasing your own wedding décor appears to be a cost-effective strategy. However, the initial savings can be deceptive. Hidden expenses such as shipping, customs duties, local delivery, and insurance can inflate the budget significantly. For instance, importing items into Jamaica can add up to 30% in additional costs due to taxes and brokerage fees. When all these factors are considered, the supposed savings may vanish.

**Décor as an Investment**

Viewing wedding décor as an investment can provide a different perspective. For couples hosting large weddings, the need for 20 identical table centerpieces may never arise again. However, for those planning smaller, intimate gatherings or who frequently entertain at home, repurposing items like vases and candles can justify the initial expenditure. Alternatively, some couples opt to resell their décor, though this requires planning and effort.

**Storage & Sentimentality**

Storage is often an overlooked aspect. Finding space for oversized lanterns or numerous glass chargers can be challenging, especially in smaller living spaces. Some couples choose to gift their décor to friends or family, while others find sentimental value in items like monogrammed signs or custom table numbers, which can be repurposed as home décor.

**Practical Tips Before You Purchase**

1. **Estimate Shipping Costs**: Use online calculators from FedEx, UPS, or your shipping provider to avoid surprise fees.
2. **Know the Customs Rules**: Research Jamaica’s duties and taxes before ordering, and consider working with a customs broker for larger shipments.
3. **Budget for Insurance**: Protect fragile items during shipping to prevent breakage.
4. **Plan for Storage**: Decide beforehand whether you’ll keep, resell, or donate items, and be realistic about the space you’re willing to sacrifice.
5. **Think Long-Term**: Consider whether the items will be reused, add value to your home, or simply become clutter.

**Conclusion**

While buying your own wedding décor can be a sensible choice for some couples, particularly those with smaller weddings or frequent entertaining plans, the hidden costs and logistical challenges often outweigh the savings. Whether you choose to repurpose, resell, or create a memory box with keepsakes, planning for the post-wedding phase is crucial.

Shikima Hinds
Managing Director
Shikima Hinds Events Concierge
Tel. 876-925-4285 or 876-361-0910
Email: shikima@shikimahinds.com
www.shikimahinds.com

When purchasing wedding décor online, consider hidden costs like shipping, customs duties, taxes, and brokerage fees. (Photo: amazon.com)

The Court Administration Division (CAD) in Jamaica has announced the temporary closure of the St Elizabeth Parish Court in Black River to undertake essential refurbishment works. During this period, all court matters originally scheduled for Black River will be relocated to the Santa Cruz and Balaclava outstations to ensure continuity of judicial services. While the court itself will be closed, the administrative office will remain operational to handle court-related business and inquiries. The CAD has urged the public to direct any questions to stelizabeth.parishcourt@jamaicajudiciary.gov.jm or contact (876) 435-9829 for assistance. The division has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the closure and expressed appreciation for the ongoing cooperation of stakeholders. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance court facilities, ensuring they are safe and accessible for all Jamaicans.

MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The search for Jayden Smith, a missing 12-year-old student from Manchester High, persisted into Tuesday afternoon, with a coordinated effort involving firefighters, police officers, and local volunteers. The operation focused on the Perth area of Mandeville, where teams conducted door-to-door inquiries and inspected unoccupied buildings in hopes of locating the boy. Fitzroy Donaldson, District Officer at the Jamaica Fire Brigade, confirmed that despite extensive efforts, no credible leads have emerged to determine Jayden’s whereabouts. The search was temporarily suspended just before 3:00 pm. Jayden has been missing since Friday when he left school. Authorities issued a high alert on Saturday, describing him as having a dark complexion, slim build, and standing approximately 152 centimetres (five feet) tall. The community remains on edge as the search is expected to intensify in the coming days.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) has announced a two-week delay in the publication of its preliminary 2022 Population and Housing Census results. Originally slated for release on Tuesday, the findings will now be disclosed on October 15, coinciding with the Caribbean Community’s (Caricom) Statistics Day. This regional event underscores the critical role of data in shaping policy and fostering development across the Caribbean. The new release date also heralds the resumption of Statin’s Quarterly Press Briefings, a platform designed to enhance public engagement, transparency, and dialogue with key stakeholders. The census data, eagerly awaited by policymakers and planners, is poised to inform Jamaica’s national planning, resource distribution, and development strategies in the years ahead. As the nation’s principal authority on economic, social, demographic, and environmental data, Statin’s findings are integral to Jamaica’s progress and decision-making processes.