Tourism Policy Watch: Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association says uncertainty over a proposed GCT increase for the sector is making investors “restive,” with calls to resolve the issue quickly to protect confidence and destination Jamaica plans. Disaster Resilience & Community: WISTA Jamaica will donate hurricane relief supplies to Carisbrook Infant and Primary School in St Elizabeth on Aug 15, funded by its High Tea fundraiser, as the maritime business community backs recovery after Hurricane Melissa. Local Reconstruction: Black River Mayor Richard Solomon pledges full support to NaRRA’s rebuilding push, while St Elizabeth Technical High School is named the new Emergency Operations Command Centre hub for the parish during hurricane season. Healthcare Infrastructure: May Pen Hospital’s $642M outpatient department is on schedule for next-year completion, adding outpatient capacity, imaging and a minor theatre, with jobs expected. Business Cost Control: Pizza Please says it’s tackling higher operating costs by boosting productivity and containing expenses after Hurricane Melissa impacts Ocho Rios operations. Sports & Youth Economy: CPL SchoolYard returns with back-to-school initiatives in Jamaica and across the region, while a basketball camp in Treasure Beach targets 2,000 children and teens with sportsmanship and resilience. International Links: Jamaica and South Africa trade ties get a boost as JMEA welcomes a deputy minister visit; Jamaica also moves to deepen Ghana ties via calls for direct air links.