Tag: travel

Historic Manning’s School to benefit from 2026 National Leadership Prayer Breakfast

Flanking Pastor Claudia Ferguson, chair of the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast Committee, are Jonathan Brown (left), Manning’s School board member, and Courtney Campbell, president & CEO of the VM Group.

THE historic Manning’s School in Westmoreland, which was ravaged by the October 28, 2025 Hurricane Melissa, will get a rebuilding boost for its wellness centre from this year’s National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB).

The 46th staging of the NLPB will focus on western Jamaica, with the historic Thomas Manning Building structure, which is believed to be the oldest-surviving part of the institution that was built in the early 20th century, being the focus.

“This year the VM Group and the NLPB have identified simultaneously the charity for sponsorship as the Manning’s School, and we are focusing again on the sick bay which requires significant rehabilitation,” said secretary for the NLPB Committee Reverend Wayneford McFarlane during media briefing on Wednesday.

Past chairman of the NLPB Committee, Reverend Sam McCook, said the project, which is valued at $2.8 million, will be undertaken in collaboration with the Manning’s School Past Students Association.“The project involves spending roughly $2.5 million on a modular structure, $300,000 on some ancillary aspects which they regard as a baseline. That is in excess of what we have traditionally done as a breakfast, and we indicated to the past students that we may not be able to fully fund that, but they welcomed the support and the efforts will be made to compliment what was done,” said McCook.

In the meantime, president and CEO of VM Group Courtney Campbell said its organisation stands in support of all the objectives and the virtues promoted by the NLPB.“We believe in the power of faith, we believe in the effectiveness of prayer, we believe in the importance of unity, and we believe, like many others, righteousness exalts a nation,” Campbell said.

Underscoring Melissa’s devastation to western parishes, the NLPB Committee announced on Wednesday that the annual National Week of Prayer for this year will be launched in that section of the island, with the first service being held at the First Church of the Open Bible in Montego Bay, St James.

The week of prayer will culminate on the morning of January 15 with the NLPB, which will be held under the theme ‘Caring for our neighbour’.

NDTC returns with bold new works, beloved classics

The company in Rex Nettleford’s Kumina (1971).

The National Dance Theatre Company of Jamaica (NDTC) returns to the stage with its 63rd Season of Dance, running from July 18 to August 10 at the Little Theatre in St Andrew.

Performances will take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 5:00 pm, with a special matinee for children on Friday, August 1 at 2:00 pm honouring children in State care and welcoming all children to attend.

This season, the NDTC promises a thrilling mix of beloved masterpieces and exciting new creations. Audiences will once again revel in the timeless brilliance of the late Professor Rex Nettleford’s iconic works:
Kumina (1971), a pulsating celebration of Jamaican spirituality and identity; and Ritual of the Sunrise (1998), a lyrical invocation of renewal and awakening.

The company will also debut five compelling new works, including pieces by emerging local choreographers and distinguished international collaborators. Mattu Perry expands his hauntingly poetic Clipped and Fallen (2025), first glimpsed during the NDTC’s Morning of Movement and Music in April of this year.

Shavaughn Byndloss unveils Home (2025), a poignant meditation on loss and belonging, commissioned by the Phillip and Christine Gore Family Foundation. International guest choreographers Avree Walker and Radnell Marin Pedraza will present Bloom: On Earth As It Is In Heaven (2025), commissioned by Myers, Fletcher & Gordon. The work explores the ethos and enduring legacy of the NDTC, weaving together the rich vocabulary of the African Diaspora with contemporary and Caribbean folk forms. Adding to the diversity of the programme, American choreographer Crystal Frazier brings a bold new voice to the NDTC stage, blending Afro-Diasporic movement with hip hop as a central technique to create Also returning by popular demand is Flight (2014) by Garfield Lemonius, which received critical acclaim in last year’s season for its emotive storytelling and choreographic finesse.

In a spirited contribution from the NDTC’s singers and musicians, Dr Kathy Brown’s lively arrangement conFUSION (2025) takes a witty musical dive into the age-old drama of community gossip and those who fuel it.

Other highlights of the season include …minutes and seconds (2008), a poetic work by KerryAnn Henry and Momo Sanno; and Don’t Leave Me (2013) by Jamie Thompson, adding emotional and choreographic depth to the season’s offerings.

Speaking about the season, NDTC Artistic Director Marlon D Simms remarked, “This season, the NDTC presents a fresh, artistically rich and entertaining programme. It is diverse, eclectic, and emotionally layered; every audience member will find something to connect with. Whether it’s the return of timeless favourites or the debut of bold new voices, you’ll see the NDTC as you’ve never seen us before.”

The company remains steadfast in its mission to support nation-building through the arts. Proceeds from the season will benefit a wide range of charitable organisations dedicated to health, education,youth development, cancer care, and community upliftment. Beneficiaries this year include Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP), Jamcoders, ICAN Foundation, Christ Church, St John the Evangelist, St Catherine High School Past Students Association, Wolmer’s Girls’ Alumnae, Jamdammers Running Club, Consie Walters Cancer Care Hospice, Herlene Williams Scholarship Fund, Eve for Life, Kiwanis Club, and Dynamic Connections Scholarship Fund.
Ascend (2023), an innovative and inclusive direction for the company.

Kerry-Ann Henry and Mark Phinn in Flight (2014), choroegraphed by Garfield Lemonius.

Jamaica Stays Strong on Diplomacy

Jamaica has been wisely restrained during the recent news from the US regarding closures, deportations and tariffs. We welcomed Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness’s message to prospective returnees to Jamaica – they have a home here, as citizens of our country. Our collaboration with the USAID had been focused on development and education, projects that we understand can still attract assistance from the US State Department. In response to the recent announcement of tariffs, our Government response to concerned exporters was that they would initiate talks with the US Government.

We hope for a positive outcome, having enjoyed cordial relations with the US, thanks to Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson-Smith, former US Ambassador Audrey Marks and the brilliant team at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade led by Ambassador Sheila Sealy Monteith.

The recent American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ)  Hummingbird Gala reflected the supportive relationship which endures between our two countries. In the presence of PM Holness, the AFJ recognized Elias “Lee” Issa with their International Achievement Award and Paul Issa with their International Humanitarian Award, described as ‘two Jamaican born iconic leaders; one a stalwart in Tourism and the other a trailblazing Humanitarian’. 

The AFJ, comprising current and former US Ambassadors and friends announced grants totalling US$740,000 which were awarded to 54 grantees to support several initiatives  here. These include education, music, sports, homeless, health, skills training, gender-based violence, arts, coding, veterinary care, environmental protection, school-feeding and peace-building programmes, among others.

Grant Certificates were presented last Tuesday at the US Embassy here in Kingston. In the JIS report, writer Judana Murphy quoted Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, who addressed the event:  “For over four decades, the American Friends of Jamaica have remained a pillar of support for our country. Their legacy is etched into the walls of our hospitals, the classrooms of our schools and the hearts of our people. Whether responding to hurricanes, expanding educational opportunities or modernising public health infrastructure, the AFJ has consistently shown up for us.”

Charge d’Affaires, Amy Tachco, also remarked on the ‘generosity and dedication’ of the AFJ. which has been supporting Jamaica’s non-governmental organizations with millions of US Dollars since 1982.

Whether or not we agree with the current political situation in the US, let us remember that we are intrinsically joined through family and friends and applaud our diplomatic ties.

EXPO Memories

Jean Lowrie-Chin

The JMEA Expo, which ended yesterday, brought back memories of its early days and the dedicated volunteers from the then JMA (Jamaica Manufacturers’ Association) and JEA (Jamaica Exporters’ Association).

There was Gloria Millwood, with her impeccable knowledge of protocol, who hosted the Hospitality Suite and Horace Abrahams, both gone to their rest. The longest-serving member of the Expo Committee, Deryck Rose, is still there, though now playing a less active role. Paulette Wong Rhoden of blessed memory was a dynamo, quickly completing her Crimson Dawn display and then running from booth to booth to help them make the deadline for the opening.

One of the most dramatic scenes was of a business owner who arrived the night before opening and was so disappointed with the appearance of his display that he destroyed it single-handedly! The contractors worked all night to get it right, and they did. The best booth competitions were filled with drama and intrigue, with rumours of expensive gifting.

The most amazing displays were sponsored by Butch Hendrickson’s Bold One of Manufacturing programme. They showcased an avenue of displays of upcoming manufacturers, with all the reusable promotional materials created for their ongoing marketing programmes. Visitors were introduced to Lacey-Ann Bartley’s All in Wood, Michelle Smith’s Chocolate Dreams, and Devon and Nayana William’s Lifespan Water.

As we were enjoying our locally grown breakfast, including the best coffee in the world, we heard a call for an Eat Jamaican campaign from a JMEA representative at Expo 2025. Our shop had run an Eat Jamaican campaign about 10 years ago and the logo we created continues to be used. It features “Doctor Bird” complete with stethoscope, a mascot we created, which featured in our cross-island road show with Ity and Fancy Cat. A highlight was a visit to the culinary arts final of the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) with a young Shelly-Ann Fraser. The fact that our home-grown athletes are world leaders should tell us something about the great nutrition offered by our produce.Sure, we saved a few dollars running abroad to shop, but we need to save our economy by supporting the top-class Jamaican-made products which were on display at the JMEA Expo. The business of manufacturing creates employment and the most delicious and enjoyable products. They say the closer to home that you source your food, the healthier it is. Paulette Rhoden used to emphasise also the ready markets in the Caribbean and Central America. The US tariff may focus us more wonderfully on the opportunities that exist outside of the USA.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Messi Euphoria

Jean Lowrie – Chin

Lionel Messi

When we first heard the news, we only half-believed that the great Messi, my husband’s pick as best in football, was coming to Jamaica. It was a chance we could not miss and we booked our tickets while he was pondering which Messi shirt he would be wearing on the big night. We had journeyed to the Barça Camp in Barcelona with hopes of catching sight of the legend, so, yes, he decided on the Messi-Rakuten T-shirt he had bought there. Of course, I would be in my black, green, and gold, no question about that. Messi-mania became apparent on Thursday morning when there were traffic snarls all over Kingston. The entire Jamaica was descending on Kingston — teams from clubs and schools as well as “diehearted” fans.

The traffic to the stadium seemed interminable, but as we opted for special tickets, parking was well organised. This was not the case in the designated area, however. The bracelets we wore were no guarantee for seats and where we saw vendors comfortably ensconced. There was not an usher in sight to assist us, so we had to find separate seats.

However, once Messi arrived on the field for his warm-up, all was forgotten, as we were on our feet chanting his name. The goal from the greatest of all time (GOAT) had us enthralled — we had actually seen a Messi goal right here in Jamaica!The social media posts have been funny and feverish right up to Friday with the hashtag #Messiinjamaica going viral. One suggested that none of our Caribbean neighbours could come close to Jamaica, as our bragging rights had reached new heights.

We saw a video of the fan who got Messi’s shirt and his friends taking turns to pose with it. We saw a security guard who got a clap from Messi almost brought to his knees with joy.The only stadium event in Jamaica which exceeded this was the 1998 World Cup qualifying match. That day, on our way home from the match, elderly folks were at their gates waving the Jamaican flag and cheering. If we had social media then, we would have broken the Internet.

A big thank you to all the organisations which made this event possible, bringing high occupancy to our Kingston hotels and Airbnb locations. Thank you also to Inter Miami CF for embracing Jamaica and flying our flag on its social media posts.

Messi was quoted as saying that he loves Jamaica and, yes, indeed, we love him back!

Source: Jamaica Observer

Sound Advice for JA Immigrants

Jean Lowrie-Chin

Audrey Marks

The concern was palpable at Ambassador Audrey Marks’ first online ‘Let’s Connect’ meeting for the New Year. Ambassador Marks spoke on the Jamaicans who have been affected by the new US Immigration policy. Her keynote guest speaker was Finance Minister Fayval Williams whose presentation had notes of hope for those Jamaicans seeking to be repatriated.

Ambassador Marks noted that of the thousands being repatriated in the Caribbean, only .5% is Jamaican. Of the 56 who arrived in Jamaica last week, only seven had criminal records while the others had immigration offences.  Those with immigration issues, she emphasised, should not be regarded as criminals and every Jamaican will be welcomed home. She noted many Jamaicans have been calling for instructions on how to get home without being subject to deportation and they have been receiving assistance from the Embassy and Consulates.

Attorneys at Law Sekou Clarke and Xavier Francis spoke on immigration concerns. Clarke has expanded his legal services in Florida and was named by Forbes magazine as one of the ‘Top 40 Entrepreneurs to Watch’ in 2025. Xavier Francis has been running a leading immigration firm for eight years.

Clarke said there was collateral damage when undocumented immigrants are separated from their blended families. He noted that in one ICE operation, they went to a location to take an illegal immigrant with a criminal record and ‘scraped up’ others. He advised that getting married to an American citizen is not the only way to become a legal immigrant. He said the T Visa could be applied for by persons suffering from discrimination while the U Visa can be used for victims of crime who would have to furnish a police statement.

There is also the EB-5 Visa available for investors or those who have an existing business. Francis also noted that holders of the F1 Student Visa could self-sponsor themselves for Green Cards if they have awards for outstanding performance or are members of professional organizations.

Francis gave three tips to cope with the new zero tolerance position:

–          Don’t overstay your visa

–          Legal immigrants should carry a copy of their documentation on their phones as every immigrant is at risk of being taken into custody

–          Reconsider the alternative pathways that exist.

Ambassador Marks said that Jamaicans who wish to return to their country should communicate with the Embassy and via Diaspora organizations. The Jamaican Embassy website has been recently loaded with specific information on immigration matters.

Members of the Jamaican Diaspora continue to preserve our culture and want to give back to their homeland. Florida Consul Oliver Mair announced that the fourth annual celebration of Marcus Garvey would be held on February 18. Young Tiffany Haynes expressed her wish to do more for Jamaica and asked for a more intentional programme to strengthen ties.

Marubeni partners with FFPJ to build houses for families in need

On October 28, 2024, in Bongo Town, Victoria, on the outskirts of Linstead, St. Catherine, Marubeni Power International, in collaboration with Food For The Poor Jamaica (FFPJ), provided a new home for Mavadeen Aldred (front, centre), a single mother of three who survived years of abuse and housing instability. Sharing the frame are Marubeni Power International Inc. Senior Vice President Damian Obiglio (third left) and colleagues Takuya Kokawa, associate (front, left) and Keisuke Harada, senior manager (back, left). And Food For The Poor Jamaica (FFPJ) management, Executive Director Kivette Silvera (front, right), Director of Agriculture & Fisheries Nakhle Hado (right) and Development and Marketing Manager Marsha Burrell-Rose.

Since Marubeni Power International, Inc made its entry into Jamaica’s energy sector as one of the major shareholders of Jamaica Public Service Company Limited, the company has not only focused on business growth but also demonstrated its strong commitment to corporate social responsibility.

For many years, Marubeni has been actively engaged in philanthropic activities aimed at giving back to the people of Jamaica.

On October 28, at Linstead, St Catherine, Marubeni, in collaboration with Food For the Poor Jamaica, provided a home for a family in need. The Marubeni team of Damian Obiglio, Keisuke Harada and Takuya Kokawa were there to hand over the keys to Mavadeen Aldred, a mother of three.

Mavedeen is on a path to a brighter future thanks to the compassion of Marubeni and the dedicated efforts of Food For The Poor Jamaica and ending decades of instability, uncertainty and woe. In 2011, after leaving an abusive partner, Aldred moved into a one-room structure belonging to her grandmother; it was later demolished due to safety concerns. In 2021, she moved to Bongo Town, Victoria (Linstead), into a house owned by a caring friend. It had a deteriorating ceiling that leaked whenever it rained and posed ongoing difficulties for the family of five (Aldred, her three children and her mother), who are striving for stability and safety.

“We have been collaborating with Food For The Poor Jamaica because we see the excellent work they have been doing over several decades. Their values align with the Marubeni creed: Fairness, Innovation and Harmony,” said Damian Obiglio, Senior Vice President, Marubeni Power International Inc. 

He continued: “When it comes to harmony, there is no better place to develop this than in the home. A loving home is the foundation of harmony. It is a place to build family values, a place to study, a place to rest.”

This partnership highlights the importance of community support and corporate responsibility in helping those in vulnerable situations. “Partnerships foster a spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility. When we unite our efforts, we maximise resources and inspire others to join the cause,” said Food For the Poor Jamaica Executive Director Kivette Silvera.

“I am incredibly grateful for the support we have received,” said Aldred. “This new house will not only improve our living conditions but also bring hope and security to my family.”

Avelo to introduce low-cost flights from Connecticut to MoBay this fall

ST JAMES, Jamaica — Beginning November 16, 2024, Avelo Airlines will operate its first scheduled international route between Jamaica’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ) and Hartford’s Bradley International Airport (BDL).

These non-stop flights will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, providing an accessible and affordable travel option for passengers.

Introductory one-way fares between MBJ and BDL start at US$178.

The airline made the announcement on Wednesday.Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between Montego Bay, St James and the capital region of Connecticut.Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett has welcomed Avelo Airlines’ announcement.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Avelo Airlines to Montego Bay with their new direct flights from Hartford, Connecticut. This route is of great significance as Connecticut and the surrounding areas represent a major market for visitors to Jamaica. Additionally, these regions have a high concentration of Jamaica’s Diaspora, making this new service a vital link for families and friends. We are confident that this new connection will not only enhance convenience for travellers but also boost tourism and strengthen the cultural ties between our nations,” Bartlett stated.

Avelo Airlines announced this expansion as part of the largest growth initiative in its history, introducing nonstop service from Bradley International Airport to seven new destinations, including its first-ever international flights. Alongside Montego Bay, Avelo will also launch flights to Cancun, Mexico, beginning November 20, 2024.

“The Ministry of Tourism commends Avelo Airlines for recognising the value of expanding their service to Jamaica and looks forward to a successful partnership that will benefit both destinations,” Minister Bartlett added.

Founded in 2021, Avelo Airlines has quickly established itself as a leading ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States. With a focus on providing affordable and convenient travel options, Avelo has rapidly expanded its network to include a variety of domestic and international destinations. The airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative service has made it a popular choice among travellers.

GAP effects leadership changes at Kingston airport

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), operators of the Norman Manley and Sangster international airports and the PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL), has effected significant leadership changes.

These appointments, actualised as of April 1, aim at delivering the best possible customer service and excellence in airport management and operations.

Chiefly, seasoned Mexican aviation professional, Fernando Vistrain, will assume the role of GAP country manager for Jamaica.

According to the Guadalajara-based airport operators, Vistrain brings a wealth of experience to the position. He joined GAP in 2003 and has held various key positions within the organisation, demonstrating exemplary leadership and dedication throughout his career.

Mr. Fernando Vistrain, Country Manager for Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico (GAP) for Jamaica

Vistrain’s extensive experience in aviation security, operations management, and strategic leadership makes him the ideal candidate to lead our operations in Jamaica. His track record of success, coupled with his deep understanding of the industry, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the services and facilities at Norman Manley International Airport.

Fernando holds a diploma in Industrial Processes and a BSC in Aeronautical Engineering from Instituto Politécnico Nacional in Mexico City. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the Universidad Anáhuac, Mexico City. Currently, he is pursuing a master’s degree in Human Resources Management, Vistrain is committed to furthering his expertise and contributing to the continued success of Kingston Airport Limited.

Additionally, Sitara English-Bayfield will take over as CEO at Kingston Airport Limited.

Mrs. Sitara English-Bayfield will take over as the Chief Executive Officer of Kingston Airport Limited.

English-Bayfield is an accomplished professional with a strong finance and administration background. She has been serving KAL since October 2019, functioning as its director of finance and administration, where she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

With over a decade of experience in financial management and project planning within the aviation industry, English-Bayfield brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Her proven track record of success and dedication to excellence make her the perfect candidate to lead Kingston Airport Limited into its next phase of growth and development.

Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Economics and a master’s degree in Economics from the University of the West Indies, Mona. She also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Finance and Financial Law. English-Bayfield is a certified International Airport Professional (IAP), having completed the requirements of the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP) offered jointly by the Airports Council International and the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Sangster to get $3-billion immigration hall

Photo by Janet Silvera
From left: Audley Deidrick, president and CEO of the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ); Mark Hart, AAJ chairman; Transport Minister Daryl Vaz; Senator Janice Allen, opposition spokesperson on tourism; National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang; Richard Vernon, deputy mayor of Montego Bay; David Pratt, principal, PRT Group Inc; Shane Munroe, CEO – MBJ Airports Limited; and Odette Dyer, Jamaica Tourist Board regional director, break ground for the new immigration and security halls at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.

WESTERN BUREAU:

Ground has officially been broken for the expansion of a new immigration hall at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, St James, valued at US$18 million (J$2.88 billion).

The project is part of the final phase of the overall US$300 million expansion efforts undertaken this year. The previous stages involved lengthening the runway, realigning the entrance and exit for departing and arriving passengers, and the creation of a new shopping concourse.

National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang underscored the urgency of this expansion during the 20th anniversary celebration of MBJ in Montego Bay.

The existing facilities face challenges coping with the influx of visitors and workers, particularly during peak periods. With some 30 flights arriving daily between noon and 3 p.m., the immigration hall’s capacity is stretched, processing 5,000 to 6,000 people within a limited space.

Chang emphasised the imperative of ensuring a seamless experience for visitors to Jamaica, urging contractors to prioritise efficiency.

Acknowledging travellers’ frustrations during peak hours, he explained the cyclic nature of tourism, where numerous flights converge during specific time frames.

The expansion aims not only to alleviate congestion, but also to enhance processing speed with the installation of six-seater gates and electronic gates.

Chang stressed that creating a more spacious arrival area is crucial for efficient crowd management.

Since MBJ assumed management of Sangster, the Government has invested $500 million to bring the airport up to international standards. The immigration and outgoing security expansion represent the concluding phase, with Chang expressing gratitude to immigration and customs officers and the MBJ team. He affirmed the commitment to creating a better working environment for them.

New master plan

Looking ahead, plans include increasing the number of desks, seater gates, and eGates for Jamaican nationals returning home. Anticipating the growth in tourism and airport traffic, a new master plan is in development, extending Sangster’s capabilities beyond 2033, as shared by Audley Deidrick, CEO and president of the Airports Authority of Jamaica.

Deidrick emphasised the successful partnership between MBJ and the Government, noting improvements in service levels and operational efficiencies recognised by the Airports Council International. Sangster International Airport currently serves more than 45 direct destinations globally, playing a pivotal role as a tourism hub.

Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, reflected on the airport’s history, citing milestones such as the installation of boarding bridges, expansion of the terminal, and ongoing construction of retail areas. The retail programme, comprising food and beverage locations and duty-free shops, continues to evolve, enhancing the overall passenger experience at SIA.

Source: Jamaica Gleaner – https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/lead-stories/20231216/sangster-get-3-billion-immigration-hall