The benefits of

SUNSCREEN A Publication of the Communication and Customer Services Department ... Paving the way Volume 51, Issue 76 June 2025 Sunscreen offers numerous benefits for skin 4. Prevents Sunspots and Hyperpigmentation: health. It primarily protects against harmful Sunscreen can prevent the formation of sunspots ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can and other forms of hyperpigmentation caused by sun cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. exposure. Regular sunscreen use can reduce the risk of these conditions and help maintain a healthy, youthful 5. Maintains Skin Tone: By blocking UV rays, sunscreen complexion. helps to prevent uneven skin tone and maintain a healthy, even complexion. Here’s a more detailed look at the benefits: 1. Prevents Sunburn: Sunscreen shields the skin 6. Protects Against Broken Blood Vessels: UV radiation from the damaging effects of UVB rays, which are the can damage the skin’s blood vessels, leading to visible primary cause of sunburn. broken capillaries. Sunscreen helps to prevent this damage. 2. Reduces Skin Cancer Risk: Consistent sunscreen use, especially with a broad-spectrum SPF, can 7. Reduces Inflammation: Sunscreen can help to significantly lower the risk of developing both melanoma reduce inflammation caused by sunburn and other and non-melanoma skin cancers. sun-related skin damage. 3. Slows Down Skin Aging: UV radiation is a major 8. Improves Overall Skin Health: Regular sunscreen contributor to premature aging, including wrinkles, fine use contributes to better skin health by preventing lines, and age spots. Sunscreen helps to minimize various forms of sun damage and promoting a healthy these effects, keeping the skin looking younger for complexion. longer. SPARK RAISING PROPERTY VALUES IN PORTMORE, ST. CATHERINE. ... pg 2-3 Laugh! ... it’s funny! WHEN CONVENTION TURNS CREATIVITY: The Roadster’s Personality Feature with Nickeshia Thomas Wizzard ... pg 12-13 “They’ve heard the good news- Residents of Jasmine Close in Hamilton Gardens, East Central St. Catherine, cheer with joy as their MP Alando Terrelonge addresses the crowd during a recent road opening ceremony. MP Terrelonge highlighted the significant rise in property values following roadway upgrades in their community under the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) Project. See related story on pages 7, 12 and 13. 2 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 23 SPARK ‘Disasters are a Reality, Be Prepared for any Eventuality ...continue from page 22 Some of the core responsibilities undertaken by the NWA during this period include: clearing roadways of debris to maintain Raising property values in Portmore, St. Catherine accessibility for emergency services; inspecting and repairing damaged infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, culverts, and retaining walls; as well as, monitoring flood-prone areas and conducting pre-emptive drain cleaning to reduce the risk of flooding. The NWA also provides technical assessments and reports to support national emergency response, collaborating with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and other agencies. Public education is also part and parcel of the NWA’s approach. Keeping Jamaicans informed about road safety, road closures, and emergency tips is critical during periods of disaster. That’s why the Agency readily accepted ODPEM’s invitation to be part of the Disaster Preparedness Expo, held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Water Square in Falmouth, Trelawny. Hosted by ODPEM, the Expo marked a major highlight on the national calendar of events commemorating Disaster Preparedness Month. With the Atlantic Hurricane Season already underway, the event served as a public reminder of the need for preparation and an all-hands-on deck approach. Among the participating entities were the Ministry of Local Government, National Land Agency, Digicel, and the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA)—all of whom showcased their roles in preparing for and responding to disasters. Real upgrade to Real Estate thanks to SPARK- Dr. The Most. Hon. Andrew Holness The NWA was proudly represented by Miss Janel Ricketts, Prime Minister (Second left) listens in keenly as Alando Terrelonge, MP- East Central St. Catherine explains the positive impact of the SPARK programme as it Community Relations Officer – Western Region, and Miss Susan relates to real estate in the different communities in Portmore that have benefitted, while Robert Morgan, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation with Responsibility for Works (first left) and Varden Downer, Senior Director of Project Implementation at the National Works Agency (far right) Webb, Graphic Artist/Creative Designer. Through conversations, listens in on the good news. educational material, and real-life demonstrations, citizens learned about the importance of securing roofs, trimming trees, Residents of Mahoe Drive, Susan Avenue, Jasmine St. Catherine East Central. preparing emergency kits, identifying shelters, and safeguarding Close, and Ransford Close in Portmore, St. Catherine, important documents. The NWA’s booth focused on the are seeing tangible returns on their residential Residents of St. Catherine’s largest urban township are importance of maintaining clear roadways and proper drainage, investment, thanks to road rehabilitation works crediting the increase in property values to the NWA’s and how residents can help by not dumping waste into gullies and completed under the National Works Agency’s (NWA) current flagship programme, reiterating that they are waterways. SPARK Programme. definitely feeling the SPARK, which have enhanced ease of access, safety, and overall aesthetics in the As the hurricane season progresses, the NWA continues its The Shared Prosperity through Accelerated featured communities. Once plagued by potholes and mandate to ensure the safety and resilience of Jamaica’s road Improvement to our Road Network Programme uneven surfaces, roads like Mahoe Drive and Susan network. Already, the Agency has been conducting island wide (SPARK) is part of the Government of Jamaica’s Avenue now boast smooth, durable pavement and drain-cleaning activities. broader push to modernize infrastructure islandwide. improved drainage, significantly reducing the risk of With the first phase of the programme zoning in on flooding. Jasmine Close and Ransford Close have also Whether it is securing your home, checking in on vulnerable family community roads, in Portmore, it has done more than undergone full rehabilitation, creating a more attractive members, or staying informed through reliable sources, everyone just improve the quality of roadways—it has driven up and functional space for homeowners and those who has a part to play. Let us take the theme to heart: ‘Disasters are real estate values by as much as 20 percent, according commute there. a Reality, Be Prepared for any Eventuality’—and act today, so we to recent statements made by Alando Terrelonge, MP, are not caught off guard tomorrow. continue on next page 22 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 3 DISASTERS ARE A REALITY Be Prepared for any Eventually SPARK Raising property values in Portmore, St. Catherine continue from page 2 Community Relations Officer, Western Region, Janel Ricketts - engages students with valid information about the National Works Agency. Residents of Jasmine Close in East Central St. Catherine cheer as their MP Alando Terrelonge outlines how the SPARK Programme has boosted property values in their communities ‘Disasters are a Reality, Be Prepared for any have left physical damage on Jamaica’s landscape Eventuality’ – the Office of Disaster Preparedness and and psychological impact on citizens to this day. According to MP Terrelonge, the works done in Portmore reflect the Agency’s continued commitment to upgrading Emergency Management’s (ODPEM) Call to Action With climate change intensifying weather patterns, communities through people-centered development. “The SPARK Programme is not only about fixing roads. It’s this Hurricane Season. the frequency and unpredictability of storms have about unlocking the potential of communities. What we’re seeing in Portmore is proof that good infrastructure increased, demanding we all work together to ‘face the lays the foundation for long-term economic and social growth.” Every year, from June 1 to November 30, Jamaica storm’. enters the Atlantic Hurricane Season—six months Real estate agents are able to note that improved infrastructure increases demand in a community, as many during which the island faces the threat of tropical The National Works Agency (NWA) plays a critical Jamaicans living in the parishes of Kingston, St. Andrew and St. Catherine can look to these sections in Portmore storms, hurricanes, and other climate-related disasters. role in Jamaica’s disaster mitigation and recovery for quality roads, improved drainage, and accessibility. The enhancements under the SPARK Programme have While we may sometimes ‘miss’ these disasters, the framework. As the state agency tasked with the positioned Portmore as a more attractive and viable option for middle-income earners, young professionals, and potential for devastation remains real and imminent. development and maintenance of the country’s main returning residents looking to invest. The theme for this year’s Disaster Preparedness road infrastructure, bridges, and related civil structures, Month— ‘Disasters are a Reality, Be Prepared for the NWA’s responsibilities expand significantly during With improved mobility, higher property values, and a renewed sense of pride among homeowners, the any Eventuality’—is a reminder of the importance of the hurricane season. Before, during, and after natural Portmore success story stands as a powerful example of how strategic infrastructure investments can transform community awareness and involvement as well as disasters, the NWA becomes a frontline agency communities. The NWA continues to monitor the area and is exploring further improvements in surrounding coordinated national response efforts. ensuring access, safety, and mobility across Jamaica. neighborhoods as part of the next phase of SPARK implementation. Our offices are transformed to what person’s may It is often said that one must live through a storm to call a call centre- attending to the complaints of many As Portmore residents enjoy the benefits of these upgraded roadways, it is now the responsibility of them to take truly grasp the urgency of preparedness. Hurricanes Jamaicans. care of these roadways so they may survive the duration of the road’s natural life, be it seven all the way up to such as Gilbert (1988), Ivan (2004), and Sandy (2012) 15 years. continue on next page 4 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 21 NWA Recognises Asphalt Day; The Engine Behind Infrastructure Innovation ... continue from page 20 SPARK Revitalizes Targeted Parochial Roads in Portland Notably, Ms. Balfour indicated that the NWA uses Asphalt Day to showcase the Agency’s adoption of sustainable practices or energy-efficient production methods. These energy-efficient production methods are employed by The Shared Prosperity Through Accelerated asphalt plants contractors who Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme are key partners including the is officially underway in Portland. This multibillion-dollar China Harbour Asphalt Plant, road rehabilitation project is not only rehabilitating S&G Asphalt Plant, Alcar roadways and recharging landscapes but also revitalizing Asphalt Plant and Smith’s communities. Asphalt Plant. The first phase of the programme which targets parochial “We have highlighted the use of roads is now targeting four (4) roadways in the parish of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Portland. These are the Black Hill to Rodney Hall to White (RAP) to reduce waste, the Gate and Sandshore and Caenwood Road in Western adoption of Warm Mix Asphalt Portland and Bellevue Road and Islington Road in Eastern (WMA) technologies to lower Portland. The total allocation for these four roadways is Compaction works underway along the Bellevue Road in Portland emissions, and efforts to design One Hundred and Seventy-Three Million Eight Hundred roads that minimize water Accounts Manager, Sandra Grant, takes a break to Senior Bridge and Structural Engineer, Justin Naylor read up on the advances of asphalt throughout the poses with an Asphalt Day brochure after and Ten Thousand Eight Hundred and Sixty-One Dollars damage and extend pavement years during Asphalt Day visiting the booth and Thirty-Three Cents ($173,810,861.33). life. Through education and public engagement. The SPARK commenced in Portland on April 28 on both Agency is therefore reinforcing the Black Hill to Rodney Hall and Caenwood Roads. its commitment to long-term, At the end of June these roadways were 20% and 16% sustainable infrastructure completed respectively. Base works (grading and rolling) solutions,” said Ms. Balfour were underway along the Black Hill to Rodney Hall project while general site clearance and preparation of formation The MTEU is instrumental in works were underway at Caenwood. Outstanding works ensuring materials used meet on these projects include the construction of drainage rigorous standards for strength infrastructure, construction of headwall and the paving of and durability. This includes the roadways with asphaltic concrete. Motor Grader being used to spread approved base material at Bellevue Road adopting modern asphalt design techniques, performance- Over in the east, the Islington Road commenced on May based testing, and strict quality 5 and was 44% complete at the end of June. Bellevue control to extend the lifespan of Road, which commenced on June 9 was 12% complete new roads. at the end of the quarter. Base works were underway on both projects; drainage will be revamped and roadways “Asphalt Day is a reminder that paved with asphaltic concrete. when we build better roads, we build stronger communities and The works being done on these parochial roads are not a more connected Jamaica. only extensive but the likes of which have not been seen The future of infrastructure lies in these communities in decades. It is expected that in quality, sustainability, and All smiles- Laboratory Technician Racquel Shaw (left) once the works are completed, it will enhance economic innovation and the NWA is fully and Manager, Material Testing & Evaluation Daejah activities for residents as well as promote faster and more Balfour share lens as they welcomed individuals to Base works in progress along Black Hill to Rodney Hall roadway committed to delivering on that their booth Asphalt Day May 15 - Brochure reliable transportation of goods and services in the area. vision,” stressed Ms. Balfour. 20 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 5 NWA Recognises St. Elizabeth welcomes the ASPHALT DAY; The Engine Behind Infrastructure Innovation THE SPARK The highly anticipated Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme has commenced in St. Elizabeth. The project is now being implemented Compaction along School Road Middle Quarters along selected parochial roads in the parish. Eight roads had been chosen in the first phase of the project in St. Elizabeth. In Southwestern St. Elizabeth, the School House Road in Middle Quarters, at the end of June 2025, was 18% complete with a contract cost of over $78- million. The other selected road in this constituency, Pondside Road to Hilltop was yet to begin. In Northwestern St. Elizabeth preliminary work commenced along the Holland Village Road with Preparatory work along the Holland Village road a cost of over $83 – million at the end of June, this project was 20% complete. Work is set to begin on the Grove Hill parochial road, which abuts the Administrative Assistant in the Directorate of Finance and Accounts, Josiene Brown Nelson, (right) listens in keenly as White Hill main road. Laboratory Technician Racquel Shaw tells her more about the significance of Asphalt Day. In Southeast, St. Elizabeth works were progressing The National Works Agency (NWA) celebrated Asphalt Day on May 15, 2025 highlighting its pivotal role in road along the two corridors that form the first phase construction and the success of the many programmes and projects including the Shared Prosperity through in this area. In Gayle Town, which adjoins the Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) Programme undertaken by the agency. Junction to Top Hill main road; grading and compacting of base layer material was complete. For the Agency, key highlights of the day were the workers and professionals who are integral in the modernization Grading along the Gayle Town PC Road of the roadways which ultimately contributes to our national development. As well as educating other colleagues who were not directly involved in ‘asphalt processes’ so they could be made aware and have a greater appreciation Works were in progress along the Tryall parochial for what it entails. road where grading and compacting of base layer material had also been completed. This project Manager of the Material Testing and Evaluation Unit (MTEU) at the NWA, Daejah Balfour underscored the was just about 10% complete as at the end of June. importance of asphalt to national development, primarily through major projects like SPARK. In the ensuing months, works are slated to “Asphalt development is foundational to many of the projects undertaken by the NWA. Many of the project’s commence on several other roads. These include objectives include improving road durability, reducing frequent maintenance and enhancing safety, are achieved Broomfield Town, Queensberry and Slipe. The through modern asphalt paving techniques and materials. Therefore, using high-quality asphalt mixes, improved scope of work will include new drainage features, compaction methods, and better design to ensure that roads last longer and perform better under Jamaica’s kerbs and surface replacement. climate and traffic conditions,” said Ms. Balfour. Grading along the Tryall PC Road continue on next page 6 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 19 SPARK FROM THE Serving our communities one road at a time INTERN’S DESK Many Jamaicans are now witnessing in As summer rolls in, many As the summer progresses, I’m excited to continue real time advances in the quality of the students like myself are learning, growing, and contributing to the NWA. I hope nation’s infrastructure. This is especially diving into internships this internship will give me more than just practical true in communities that have long awaited that offer a glimpse into experience—I want to gain a deeper understanding of meaningful upgrades. This renaissance is their future careers. For how powerful communication can shape public service happening through the Shared Prosperity me, this summer is more and connect people in meaningful ways. through Accelerated Improvement to our than just an opportunity Road Network (SPARK) Programme, a JMD to gain experience, it’s $45 billion project, where the government a chance to explore the As a member of the has split the funds equally to benefit main world of communication summer program at the and community roads. in action at the National National Works Agency Work Agency (NWA). (NWA), I am excited to With the rollout of the first tranche of the Kamilia Williams I’m Kamilia Williams, have the experience programme, several key roads across St. Communication and Customer a student at Northern Service Intern and be a part of the Catherine and Kingston have now been Caribbean University communication team. fully paved. The works are being managed majoring in Communication with an emphasis in As an aspiring engineer, by the National Works Agency (NWA) and Journalism. this certainly is a new these completed sections are evidence area for me to explore. I of the agency honouring its mandate of When I found out I’d be working in the Communications am certain I can and will building safe, reliable, and quality roads Department, I was both nervous and excited. I’ve Arianna Lamey learn a lot of important Lincoln Terrace located in Central Kingston Communication and Customer for Jamaicans, with a keen focus at the always loved writing and storytelling but now I get things while working Service Intern community level. to see how that plays out in the real world where as part of this dynamic people rely on communication to keep things running team. I look forward to acquiring new skills and Communities that have to date reaped the benefits include: smoothly. Whether it’s writing for NWA’s newspaper or behaviours that I can apply in my future whether it be Orange Grove Road, St. Andrew – Residents of this once patchy and uneven road can now commute with ease just helping with surveys. out socially or in the working world. Being unfamiliar thanks to the newly laid asphalt surface. with how the profession works, I am eager to observe Something that I hope to achieve at the end of this the professionals in the field and hopefully develop an 14th Street, Greater Portmore – A vital link within the community, this street now boasts a smooth and durable summer is to grow. I want to learn what it’s really like understanding of how the area works and how they finish. Motorists and pedestrians alike have welcomed the improvement, cutting down commute time into major to work in a professional environment, how to take mesh their work and findings with other departments town centres significantly. feedback, how to write stronger and how to bring ideas within the agency. to life. I’m hoping to build some confidence too because Mountain Pass Road, St. Catherine – Residents since feeling the ‘SPARK’ have renewed public confidence in stepping into a space where everyone already seems As a fairly non-social person, I hope these 6 weeks local infrastructure. The paving has also opened opportunities for improved transport services and commercial to know what they’re doing can be a bit scary. will help to break my shell, bringing me out my comfort activity, especially farming. zone and building my confidence and communication I also want to make connections and hear other skills. Lincoln Terrace, Kingston Central – Located near the heart of Downtown Kingston, Lincoln Terrace has people’s stories. Everyone here has such a clear benefited from focused attention under the SPARK initiative. Roads once riddled with potholes and drainage sense of purpose and it’s contagious. Being part of a Overall, I think this summer program will benefit me issues are now paved and are now able to withstand the crisis of blocked drain that can lead to flooding. team that’s helping people across the country to figure both in my future career and otherwise. I hope I’ll be out the problems they are facing with the road. That’s able to make the most out of everything I will learn in Mansfield Avenue – This residential stretch has undergone a complete facelift with fresh paving, providing a something I’m proud to be part of even just for the my six (6) weeks at the NWA. safer, more reliable commute for residents and others who traverse this area. summer. The paving of these roads forms part of the larger mission of the SPARK Project, which according to Minister continue on next page 18 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 7 NWA Bridge Programme to strengthening national resilience to natural disasters... continue from page 17 SPARK- SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES ONE ROAD AT A TIME ... continue from page 6 Without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Robert Morgan who provided updates on the progress of the SPARK Programme, confirming that construction is actively underway across the island. “We expect by mid-August, we’ll have about 130 roads under construction and by the end of the year, we’ll probably be constructing some complete, some not, probably 160 roads,” he reported. As the programme continues, more community roads are slated for improvement. Residents are now being encouraged to care for these roads so they may last as long as their design life which is up to 15 years. Manager, Communication and Customer Services at the NWA, Stephen Shaw said that with proper care, including keeping drains clear of garbage, can see the rehabilitated roads lasting well beyond the design life. Residents he said should therefore take care of the infrastructure as they would their car or homes. Capping of piles in north abutment Laboratory Technicians making cubes to be used for testing of concrete Over the course of the last three months, activities on site saw the driving of piles, the cutting and capping of piles, and the pouring of phases of both abutments. As it now stands, the site is starting to look like a bridge and this is a welcomed sight for the community, which after much anticipation can look forward to seeing a new bridge in place by the end of the calendar year. NWA’s project manager on site, Daniel Laing, reported that the work is progressing amidst construction challenges and the community is fully on board and supportive. “The community has expressed a certain contentment and commendations in having the bridge rebuilt. They have welcomed the development as they have felt it was long overdue, and it will provide a face-lift for the community. Residents have also stated that they are pleased with the rate of progress on the project.” The bridge is being constructed at a cost of $249 million by Dwights Construction Limited. Mountain Pass Road located in St. Catherine 14th Street, Greater Portmore located in St. Catherine Orange Grove Road located in St. Catherine Mansfield Avenue located in St. Andrew FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM! Preparations for blinding concrete on north and south abutments Reinforcement bars and formwork in place for pour- ing of abutment foundation Completed foundation for north @nwajamaica 8 ROADSTER Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 Volume 51, Issue 76 | June 2025 ROADSTER 17 NEW BRIDGE Princess Hotels and Resorts Partner with the