WHY IS DRINKING WATER IMPORTANT? ESPECIALLY DURING SUMMER!
ADVERTISING FOR YOUR JAMAICAN SMALL BUSINESSES
YOUNG PEOPLE URGED TO EMBRACE AI & ITS BENEFITS
HURRICANE TIPS FOR YOUR HOME & BUSINESS
JAMAICA RIPE FOR BUSINESS
REGGAE SUMFEST, A BOOST FOR JAMAICA’S TOURISM & CULTURE
Welcome to the July 2024 Summer edition of The Millennial Marketer! As we bask in the warmth of summer, we're excited to bring you a collection of compelling news stories and insights tailored for the modern consumer.
We're thrilled to highlight some groundbreaking developments and events in this issue. First, we explore how Jamaica is among the few countries selected for Meta AI's rollout. This initiative promises to revolutionize the digital landscape, offering new tools and opportunities for marketers and businesses.
Jamaica’s Reggae Sumfest, one of the world’s most iconic festivals, will significantly boost the nation's tourism and cultural sectors. We delve into how this vibrant event showcases the best Jamaican music and draws global attention, enhancing the country's cultural footprint.
Our focus on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) underscores their role as Jamaica's primary engine of growth. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of these businesses, emphasizing the resilience and innovation that drive economic progress.
Many small business owners view 2024 as a 'make or break' year. We provide insights into their strategies and outlooks, offering a glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels their ambitions.
As hurricane season approaches, we offer essential tips for safeguarding your business and home. Our practical advice aims to help you prepare and protect your assets, ensuring peace of mind during potentially turbulent times.
Finally, don't miss our featured article on advertising for Jamaican small businesses. With expert tips and creative strategies, this piece will help you maximize your marketing efforts and effectively reach your target audience.
We hope you enjoy this edition and find inspiration in our shared stories. We welcome your feedback and look forward to continuing this journey.
Warm Regards,
Paul Bauer EDITOR, THE MILLENNIAL MARKETER
The annual Reggae Sumfest is on track to further boost Jamaica’s tourism sector and significantly contribute to the island's economic and social development.
This iconic festival, known for celebrating reggae and dancehall music, attracts thousands of visitors worldwide each year, transforming Montego Bay into a bustling hub of cultural exchange and economic activity.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett lauded the festival’s impact on Wednesday, June 19, emphasizing its vital role in enhancing Jamaica’s global tourism appeal.
“Music festivals aren’t just gatherings of melody and rhythm; they are vibrant celebrations of culture, diversity, and human connection. Reggae Sumfest stands out as a prime destination for travelers seeking unforgettable moments,” Bartlett told the Jamaica Observer.
“Since 2016 — and of course, we exclude the lockdown COVID-19 years — the festival has welcomed approximately 175,000 patrons, including thousands of international visitors. This has helped to boost our arrivals while reinforcing the strong link between tourism and entertainment,” added Bartlett.
He pointed out that Reggae Sumfest has become a cornerstone of Jamaica's cultural landscape under the leadership of Josef Bogdanovich, chairman and CEO of DownSound Entertainment.
“Bogdanovich’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in advancing the island’s entertainment sector. He and his team have done a remarkable job elevating Reggae Sumfest to new heights,” said Bartlett.
“Their efforts have enriched our cultural heritage and driven significant economic benefits, injecting millions of US dollars annually into the local economy,” added Bartlett.
He pointed out that the festival’s ripple effect is evident in the bustling hotels, Airbnbs, restaurants, and local businesses during the event.
“Reggae Sumfest has consistently supported the country’s economy as patrons support various subsectors — from the hotelier to the peanut man. The economic influx extends beyond hospitality, impacting transportation, retail, and other sectors, infusing vitality into the economy and supporting livelihoods,” declared the tourism minister.
We are thrilled to announce the opening of Fairview Beachside Medical, a new Fairview Medical & Dental Centre subsidiary. This facility is a testament to our ongoing commitment to extend our reach and continue our tradition of providing high-quality medical care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment.
Located conveniently on the coast of Negril, Fairview Beachside Medical will enhance the patient experience by merging top-tier medical services with the serene ambiance of a beachside locale. The facility is equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by a team of experienced medical professionals dedicated to providing exceptional care.
The Fairview Beachside Medical team is proficient in delivering compassionate care, but they also share a common commitment to our mission of promoting health and well-being in the community. The range of services extends from primary care to specialty care and holistic wellness programs designed to promote overall health.
In addition to our comprehensive services, they are passionate about education and preventative health measures. Fairview Beachside Medical will conduct regular health workshops and seminars to foster a well-informed and health-conscious community.
Led by Dr. Duval Ashley, the new facility is more than just a healthcare centre; it is a beacon of wellness where patients feel heard, understood, and cared for. Dr. Ashley is a General and Family Physician with knowledge and experience in Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and minor surgical procedures.
The team looks forward to serving the community's healthcare needs at this new location, offering treatments and a holistic approach to health that positively impacts lives.
For more information about Fairview Beachside Medical, Unit 14, Sunshine Village, Westend Road in Negril, Westmoreland, call (876) 536-1199 to schedule an appointment. They are excited about this new journey and are eager to welcome you to the new facility.
Water is indispensable for the proper functioning of our bodies. It plays a vital role in several critical bodily processes, making it a fundamental element for our overall health and wellbeing.
Water aids in digestion. It helps break down food so that your body can absorb the nutrients. A water deficiency can lead to digestive problems, such as constipation and an overly acidic stomach.
Moreover, water is an essential component of our circulatory system. It assists in transporting nutrients and oxygen to different cells in the body, ensuring that our organs function as they should. Without water, our blood would thicken, hindering the flow and leading to potential complications such as blood clots.
Water also contributes to the production of saliva, which is necessary for the initial stages of digestion and preventing tooth decay. Additionally, it plays a significant role in maintaining the body's temperature.
During the summer, we lose more water from our bodies as we sweat more to keep cool. Therefore, it's crucial to increase water intake to compensate for the loss and prevent dehydration, which could lead to fatigue, confusion, and, in severe cases, heatstroke.
The water each person needs can vary greatly depending on several factors. On average, it is often recommended that an adult should drink about eight (8) glasses, or two (2) liters, of water per day. However, this can fluctuate based on individual needs, the level of physical activity, and the weather conditions.
For instance, if you're physically active or live in a hot climate, you may need more water to stay hydrated. Similarly, pregnant or breastfeeding people may need to increase their fluid intake. It's always best to listen to your body and drink when thirsty.
In conclusion, water is a vital part of our lives that we cannot afford to neglect. So, keep yourself well-hydrated, especially during the summer months.
As the government prepares to develop a national AI policy, young people in Jamaica are encouraged to take advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) and not be fearful about the new technology.
Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information, Skills, and Digital Transformation, Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, made the call while addressing a breakout session during the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James on June 18. The session focused on ‘Skills training at the cornerstone of national development through HEART/NSTA Trust.’
Stating that AI “is going to change a lot of the ways that things are done,” Dr. Morris Dixon said it is vital that people embrace the technology and seek to exploit its benefits.
“AI is here, and it is not going anywhere. It is getting smarter and smarter, and we must figure out how to take advantage of it in Jamaica. We must teach our young people how to interact with AI, and that’s really [why] we have started ensuring that our young people understand how it is changing things and not to be afraid of the technology,” she emphasized.
The Minister noted that the Government has formed an AI task force focused on conducting research in the area and providing an evidence-based foundation for developing a National AI Policy.
The task force is expected to identify opportunities for adopting AI technologies, potential economic growth and development areas, and social impacts. The Minister pointed out that AI is already used to aid farming activities such as harvesting and detecting crop diseases.
“We are going to see where more and more businesses have to use technology and AI to continue production, so I would say, do not be afraid of the technology. We are always going to need food. We are always going to need farmers,” Dr. Morris Dixon said.
“It may not be 100 people on the farm, it may be 10 on the farm plus a lot of technology, but it will still be an important area. That’s where HEART [NSTA Trust] is going in teaching the technology so that our young farmers can understand that maybe ‘the techniques that my grandfather or my father used, I may not be able to use them, but I can still be a farmer and infuse technology in what I do,’” she said.
In her remarks, Dr. Taneisha Ingleton, the Managing Director of the HEART/NSTA Trust, noted that young people live in a time of rapid technological advancement and have more opportunities than previous generations.
She said that the entity is preparing trainees to take advantage of the opportunities, infusing technology into its training programs to give them a competitive advantage. She noted that the school’s certification continues to be in high demand in countries worldwide, as students get First-World training.
The session was part of the activities on day two of the diaspora conference, which was held from June 16 - June 19.
Jamaica will introduce new legislation so taxpayers won’t bear the cost of rescuing troubled financial firms.
“Do not forget that when an institution fails, and the taxpayer has to draw the cheque, then it becomes a lifelong debt around your neck,” said Bank of Jamaica Governor Richard Byles, who announced on Thursday at the annual luncheon of the Pension Industry Association of Jamaica, PIAJ, held in New Kingston.
He added that the Jamaican government would speak more on the matter in the future.
“This legislation is designed to not only make institutions stay safe, but the moment they start showing signs of weakness, to trigger a process that ensures that they do not become a liability to the taxpayer,” said the central bank chief. “That is coming shortly.”
The legislation is expected to form part of the ‘Twin Peaks’ Reform Programme that will make the central bank the regulator of all financial institutions, including insurance firms, investment houses, and fund managers, and reposition the Financial Services Commission as an overseer of market conduct and consumer protection.
Mr. Byles, now 73, said the reforms should be finalized in about two years, just around his retirement.
“I retire in two years and two months,” said the BOJ Governor.
Meanwhile, PIAJ President Sanya Goffe used the occasion to continue championing new legislation for automatic pension enrollment in the private sector.
Byles indicated that the central bank, which will also have oversight of the pension sector under the Twin Peaks reforms, was of like mind.
“It is the right thing at the right time, and you have my endorsement on that,” the BOJ governor said.
The private pension market was last valued at $746 billion in assets under management.
According to a survey by messaging service Slack, about 40% of small business owners think 2024 will be a “make or break” year for their business.
After several years of dealing with the pandemic, rising inflation, and a tight job market, some small businesses – 32% of respondents – aren’t sure they’ll make it through 2024.
Still, others are feeling optimistic about the future. 71% of respondents said they are optimistic about the state of their business this year. But many are still facing challenging issues like a volatile economy, a polarising election on the horizon, and declining sales. In fact, 38% of small business owners said they’re more worried about their business as they enter 2024 than when 2023 started. And only 26% are less anxious.
Despite those concerns, almost three-quarters of business owners said they’re taking steps to improve their business. About half of the respondents said they’re expanding marketing efforts to bring in new customers, 45% said they’re setting money aside for emergency use, and 43% said they’re exploring new technologies to increase productivity and efficiency.
“The state of small businesses in 2024 reflects a clear desire to maximize efficiency with limited resources,” said Jaime DeLanghe, vice president of product management at Slack.
The survey included 2,000 small business owners – half in the tech or retail industries.
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“HOW DO YOU DETERMINE WHAT A BUSINESS “WANT” IS VERSUS A BUSINESS “NEED”? PLEASE SHARE ANY FRAMEWORKS OR METHODOLOGIES YOU USE TO HELP PRIORITIZE WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS.”
HERE’S WHAT YEC COMMUNITY MEMBERS HAD TO SAY:
CAN A BUSINESS FUNCTION WITHOUT IT?
“In the book “Profit First,” Mike Michalowicz discusses how startups are so scrappy and don’t waste money on anything unnecessary while still managing to function and scale. But by the time a company gets bigger, there are a lot of wasteful and unnecessary expenses. If the business can function without it, I categorize it as a “want” versus a “need.” ~ Rachel Beider, PRESS Modern Massage
THE MOSCOW METHOD
“I employ the MoSCoW method (Must have, Should have, Could have, and Won’t have) to determine business needs versus wants. Musthaves are essential for the business to function and meet its goals, indicating needs. Should-haves and could-haves are beneficial but not critical, often categorized as wants. This method allows for clear prioritization and resource allocation. For instance, upgrading essential software is a need, while aesthetic office improvements might be a want. When considering a career break, use the MoSCoW method to prioritize activities that are essential for your personal and professional development over those that are merely desirable.” ~ Thomas Griffin, OptinMonster
“At our B2B marketing agency, we determine a business “want” versus a “need” by focusing on strategic alignment and impact assessment. Our approach involves first understanding the client’s overarching goals and operational requirements. Needs are identified as critical investments that directly contribute to achieving these objectives, ensuring core functionalities and growth opportunities are supported. A rigorous cost-benefit analysis complements this to gauge ROI and resource allocation effectively. Wants, while beneficial, are viewed as enhancements that may not be immediately essential but could provide additional value when resources allow. By prioritizing based on this framework, we ensure that our efforts and investments are aligned with driving sustainable growth and maximizing client success in their respective markets.”
~ Samuel Thimothy, OneIMS – Integrated Marketing Solutions
“To distinguish between a business “want” and a business “need,” I focus on evaluating impact and necessity through a holistic lens. I begin by clearly defining the business’s short-term and long-term objectives. Understanding these goals provides a solid foundation for identifying what is essential versus what is merely desirable. Next, I assess how each potential action or investment aligns with these objectives, considering whether it directly contributes to achieving key goals. If an action is crucial for meeting these goals, it is typically a need; if it enhances or adds value without being critical, it is more likely a want. I also perform a cost-benefit analysis, comparing the costs involved with the expected benefits of each potential action. Needs usually show a clear and necessary return on investment (ROI) or are essential for maintaining operations, while wants might offer benefits that don’t necessarily justify the costs if resources are limited. Additionally, I create a prioritization matrix to plot actions based on their impact and effort. Needs often fall into high-impact categories, while wants are often lower in impact.” ~ Michelle Aran, Velvet Caviar
“When distinguishing between business “wants” and “needs,” it’s crucial to consider the overarching strategic vision of the company and its immediate operational requirements. One effective approach incorporates a holistic view that combines financial analysis, strategic alignment, and risk assessment. Start by outlining clear short-term and long-term business objectives. By understanding these goals, you can better evaluate whether a particular initiative is essential for achieving key milestones or if it simply adds value without being critical to success. Next, conduct a rigorous costbenefit analysis for each potential action or investment. Needs should demonstrate a clear and necessary return on investment (ROI) or be vital for sustaining daily operations. In contrast, wants may offer benefits that, while desirable, may not justify the associated costs, especially when resources are constrained. By integrating these elements into your decision-making process, you can effectively distinguish between business wants and needs, ensuring that resources are allocated strategically to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence in alignment with the company’s overarching goals” ~ Robert De Los Santos, Sky High Party Rentals
“Distinguishing between business “wants” and “needs” is crucial for effective resource allocation. I use a framework: Impact vs. Cost: Needs directly and significantly impact core business functions. They might be essential for daily operations, legal compliance, or maintaining a competitive edge. Wants, while potentially beneficial, have a less critical impact or a higher associated cost. Necessity vs. Discretionary: Needs are essential for business survival or growth. They are non-negotiable expenses or investments directly tied to core functions. Wants are discretionary expenses that enhance operations or employee experience but aren’t fundamental for survival. Urgency vs. Timeline: Needs often have a clear deadline or require immediate action to avoid negative consequences. Wants, on the other hand, can usually be deferred or implemented on a longer timeline. By analyzing potential initiatives through this framework, you can categorize them as needs or wants.
Additionally, a prioritization matrix can be helpful. This involves plotting initiatives on a grid based on urgency and impact. Needs that are urgent and high-impact take top priority, while wants with lower urgency and effects can be placed on hold or reevaluated.” ~ Kristin Kimberly Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC
“Determining a business “want” versus a business “need” often involves evaluating the impact on core operations and goals. One effective framework I use is the Eisenhower Matrix, which categorizes tasks based on urgency and importance. Needs are typically urgent and important tasks directly affecting the business’s functionality and strategic objectives. Conversely, wants may be important but not urgent or urgent. This methodology helps prioritize resources and efforts toward activities that sustain and grow the business. When evaluating a career break, consider using similar prioritization techniques to ensure the time off aligns with your essential personal and professional goals.” ~ Andrew Munro, AffiliateWP
“Assess the potential impact or ROI. Consider if an investment will yield higher efficiency (either a productivity boost or time savings), reduced costs, or improvements to sales. Weigh that against the projected spend and then see if it’s ultimately something you need or want. Most of the time, things in the ‘want’ category can’t be justified using simple math.” ~ Firas Kittaneh, Amerisleep Mattress
“Businesses need to differentiate between initiatives that are a “want,” and those that are a “need,” as prioritizing the latter can make a significant impact on the company’s long-term success. To determine which initiatives are critical for the business, it’s necessary to evaluate factors such as alignment with business goals, urgency, ROI, and resource constraints. By taking a thorough and analytical approach to decision-making, businesses can avoid investing in initiatives that may not provide the desired return and instead focus their efforts on those that will yield the greatest impact.” ~ Benjamin Rojas, All in One SEO
IN TODAY'S FAST-PACED AND COMPETITIVE MARKET, EFFECTIVE ADVERTISING IS CRUCIAL FOR THE SUCCESS OF SMALL BUSINESSES, ESPECIALLY IN A VIBRANT AND DIVERSE MARKET LIKE JAMAICA. WHETHER YOU'RE A LOCAL SHOP OWNER, A SERVICE PROVIDER, OR AN ENTREPRENEUR, REACHING YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE AND STANDING OUT FROM THE COMPETITION REQUIRES STRATEGIC PLANNING AND INNOVATIVE APPROACHES. HERE ARE SOME KEY STRATEGIES TO HELP JAMAICAN SMALL BUSINESSES ADVERTISE EFFECTIVELY.
The first step in any advertising campaign is to understand your target audience. In Jamaica, this means considering the local culture, preferences, and purchasing behaviors. Conduct market research to gather insights about your potential customers. What are their interests? Where do they spend their time online and offline? This information will help you tailor your advertising messages to resonate with your audience.
Social media platforms are powerful tools for small businesses to increase visibility and engage with customers. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are widely used in Jamaica. Create compelling content that showcases your products or services, shares customer testimonials, and offers promotions. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages promptly. Social media advertising also allows you to target specific demographics, making it easier to reach your ideal customers.
Influencer marketing is gaining traction worldwide, and Jamaica is no exception. Partnering with local influencers with a strong following can help you reach a larger audience Choose influencers whose values align with your brand and who can
Jamaicans value community and social interactions. Participating in local events, fairs, and markets can provide excellent opportunities for advertising your business. Set up a booth, offer demonstration samples, and engage with attendees. This increases brand awareness and allows you to build personal connections with potential customers.
Everyone loves a good deal. Offering promotions and discounts is a tried-and-true method to attract customers. Create limited-time offers, bundle deals, or loyalty programs to incentivize repeat business. Promote these offers through various channels, including social media, email newsletters, and in-store signage.
No advertising campaign is complete without tracking its effectiveness. Use analytics tools to monitor the performance of your ads. Pay attention to metrics such as engagement, click-through, and conversion rates. Analyzing this data will help you understand what works and what doesn't, allowing you to refine your strategies for better results.
Collaboration can be a powerful way to expand your reach. Partner with other small businesses in your community to cross-promote each other's products or services. This can be done through joint events, co-branded promotions, or shared social media campaigns. Collaborations can help you tap into each other's customer base and create a sense of community support.
ADVERTISING FOR JAMAICAN SMALL BUSINESSES REQUIRES A MIX OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN STRATEGIES TAILORED TO THE LOCAL MARKET. BY UNDERSTANDING YOUR AUDIENCE, LEVERAGING SOCIAL MEDIA, UTILIZING LOCAL INFLUENCERS, INVESTING IN CONVENTIONAL ADVERTISING, PARTICIPATING IN COMMUNITY EVENTS, OFFERING PROMOTIONS, TRACKING YOUR RESULTS AND COLLABORATING WITH OTHER BUSINESSES, YOU CAN EFFECTIVELY INCREASE YOUR VISIBILITY AND GROW YOUR CUSTOMER BASE. YOUR SMALL BUSINESS CAN THRIVE IN JAMAICA'S DYNAMIC MARKET WITH THE RIGHT APPROACH.
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Senator Hon. Aubyn Hill says Jamaica is one of the most attractive investment destinations in the Caribbean and is urging more diaspora members to do business there.
Senator Hill addressed a panel discussion on Monday (June 17) at the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James, on the topic ‘Jamaica Open for Business: Transforming Investment and Enterprise in Jamaica through Diaspora Engagement.’
He cited the local currency's stability as a key reason for investing in the island.
“There is no foreign exchange control in Jamaica. Clean money comes in, and clean money goes out,” he noted.
He said the Government's ability to undertake infrastructure development and deliver critical services, particularly during the pandemic, without raising taxes speaks to the economy's strength.
“We’ve gone through a pandemic where we had to spend $100 billion of Jamaican money that we didn’t plan to spend, yet we didn’t borrow any new money or raise taxes. In fact, for the last eight years…what we have done with taxes is cut them. We cut the payroll tax twice and cut VAT (value-added tax) once,” Senator Hill said.
He added that the infrastructure buildout, real estate potential, and Jamaica’s position as the logistics hub of the Caribbean also make the country attractive to investors.
“This is where your money should be. Come to Jamaica,” Senator Hill appealed.
For Grace Burnett, the CEO of GraceKennedy Financial Group, the highly productive and English-speaking talent pool is a significant reason Jamaica is open for business.
“Our literacy rate is well over 92%, and we have a stable democracy. When you look at some of the endorsements we have received from overseas institutions on ease of doing business and how we are performing as an economy, we have a very stable, strong regulatory framework and a supportive environment for starting and growing a business,” she explained.
Brando Hayden, Managing Director of JN Fund Managers at JN Group, explained that the risk management and infrastructure necessary to comfort investors are firmly in place.
“When you come to Jamaica, not only are we open for business, but your investment or participation is backed up by solid infrastructure. We have the Jamaica Central Securities Depository. When you invest through the stock market, whether a bond or a stock, and they also do private equity and private debt, you know there is a solid record for your investment. You know exactly how much you have from the depository, and you get your dividend payments,” Mr. Hayden said.
Meanwhile, Leighton Smith, Chief Executive Officer of VM Finance Limited and VM Overseas Offices at the VM Group, underscored that Jamaica’s economic stability, strategic location, financial sector strength, skilled workforce, and diverse investment opportunities make It attractive to investors.
“What makes Jamaica the perfect landscape is when we think of the trade policies that exist… in terms of being the strategic location, which allows gaining access to markets – CARICOM and the United States,” Mr. Smith said.
Facebook, WhatsApp, or Instagram users have noticed a new character pop up answering search queries or eagerly offering tidbits of information in their feeds with varying degrees of accuracy.
Meta AI is here to help, according to Meta Platforms’ CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who calls it “the most intelligent AI assistant that you can freely use.” As with any new technology, there are hiccups, including bizarre exchanges when the chatbots first started engaging with real people. One chatbot joined a Facebook moms’ group to talk about their gifted child, and another tried to give away non-existent items to confused members of a Buy Nothing forum. Meta AI hasn’t been universally welcomed. Here are some tips if you want to avoid using it.
Some Facebook users don’t like the chatbot, complaining online that they are tired of having AI imposed on them all the time or want to stick with what they know. So what if you don’t wish to use Meta AI butting in every time you search for something or scroll through your social feeds? Well, you might need a time machine. Meta and other tech companies are in an AI arms race, churning out new language models and persuading – some might say pressuring – the public to use them.
The bad news is that there is no one button to turn off Meta AI on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, or WhatsApp. However, if you want to limit it, there are some (imperfect) workarounds.
On the Facebook mobile app, tap the ‘search’ button. You may get a prompt to “Ask Meta AI anything.” Tap the blue triangle on the right and then the blue circle with an ‘i’ inside it. Here, you’ll see a ‘mute’ button, with options to silence the chatbot for 15 minutes or longer or ‘Until I change it.’ You can do the same on Instagram.
Nonetheless, muting doesn’t wholly eliminate Meta AI. Meta AI’s circle logo may still appear where the search magnifying glass used to be – and tapping on it will take you to the Meta AI field. This is now the new way to search in Meta, and just as with Google’s AI summaries, the responses will be generated by AI.
Like an overeager personal assistant, Meta AI also pops up under posts on your Facebook news feed, offering more information about what is discussed in the post – such as the subject of a news article. Turning off this feature is impossible, so you must ignore it.
Tech websites have noted that one surefire way to avoid Facebook’s AI assistant is to use the social network’s stripped-down mobile site, mbasic.facebook.com. It is aimed at people in developing countries who use older phones on slower Internet connections. The primary site has a retro feel that looks crude compared to the current version, and it seems even worse on desktop browsers, but it still works on a rudimentary level without AI.
IN THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE BERYL, WE SEE FIRSTHAND HOW HURRICANES CAN CAUSE SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO BOTH BUSINESSES AND HOMES. WITH PROPER PREPARATION, YOU CAN MINIMIZE THE IMPACT. WITH THE PROMISE OF AN ACTIVE 2024 HURRICANE SEASON, HERE ARE SOME ESSENTIAL TIPS TO HELP YOU STAY SAFE AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY.
1. Secure Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to cover windows. Make sure doors are securely fastened, and consider reinforcing your garage door, which is often a weak point during storms. Installing impact-resistant windows can also provide an extra layer of protection.
Create an Emergency Kit: Assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that includes nonperishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and a multitool. Ensure you have enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Don't forget to include items for pets if you have them.
2. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Regularly maintain your yard by removing dead branches and trimming trees and shrubs. This helps prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds, which can cause damage to your home or block evacuation routes.
4.
3. Check Your Roof: Ensure your roof is in good condition by inspecting it for loose shingles and potential leaks. Consider adding hurricane straps to secure the roof to the walls of your home, providing additional strength against strong winds.
Have a Family Plan: Develop a comprehensive family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting places, and a communication plan. Ensure that all family members know and practice the plan regularly. Keep a list of emergency contacts and essential documents in a waterproof container.
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5 Install a Generator: Power outages are common during hurricanes. Consider installing a generator to ensure you have a backup power source. Ensure it’s properly maintained and you have enough fuel to last several days.
Backup Important Data: Regularly backup and store all crucial data in a secure, off-site location. Consider using cloud storage solutions to ensure data can be accessed even if physical locations are compromised. Regularly test your backups to ensure data integrity.
1. Protect Physical Assets: Move valuable equipment, documents, and inventory to a safe area, preferably above potential flood levels. Consider installing flood barriers, sandbags, or sump pumps to protect against water damage. Elevate electrical equipment and ensure that critical systems are protected from water intrusion.
2 Develop a Business Continuity Plan: Identify critical business functions and create a detailed plan to maintain operations during and after the hurricane. This plan should include alternative work locations, communication strategies, and resource allocation. Regularly review and update the plan to address new risks and changes in the business environment.
3. Communicate with Employees: Ensure all employees are familiar with emergency procedures and have a way to communicate during the storm. Establish a phone tree or email chain, or use a messaging app to keep everyone informed. Conduct regular drills to ensure that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
4. Review Insurance Policies: Thoroughly review your business insurance policies to ensure they cover hurricane-related damages, including wind, flood, and business interruption. Update coverage as necessary and keep copies of all insurance documents in a secure, accessible location.
5. Strengthen Your Building: If possible, invest in structural improvements to make your building more resistant to hurricanes. This could include reinforcing the roof, walls, and foundation and installing storm-resistant windows and doors.
6. BY TAKING THESE STEPS, YOU CAN BETTER PROTECT YOUR HOME AND BUSINESS FROM THE POTENTIALLY DEVASTATING EFFECTS OF A HURRICANE. STAY INFORMED ABOUT WEATHER UPDATES AND FOLLOW THE GUIDANCE OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO STAY SAFE. PREPARATION AND VIGILANCE ARE CRUCIAL TO MINIMIZING THE IMPACT OF THESE POWERFUL STORMS.
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MANOR PARK PHARMACY: CONSTANT SPRING RD., KINGSTON
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“The Small & Medium-sized Enterprise sector (SME) is the Jamaican economy's primary engine of growth and development. The Small Business Association of Jamaica (SBAJ) has successfully represented the SME sector in its growth and development since 1974.”
The second vice-president of the SBAJ made these remarks at the SBAJ business social, held at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston, St Andrew, on May 31, under the theme ‘Grow Your Business Through Networking.’
The SBAJ, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is a voluntary, not-for-profit membership organization formed in November 1974 by a group of business people headed by the late Dr. R. Danny Williams. The SBAJ evolved into the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, Jamaica Business Development Corporation, and other well-known organizations.
“I’m recommending that we have a memorial in honor of the late Dr. Honourable R. Danny Williams for his outstanding contribution to the growth and development of the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise,” Reid told the gathering.
While the mission of the SBAJ is to support the economy of Jamaica through the development of the small business sector, the vision for the SBAJ is “to become an organization of national, regional and international impact with economic, social and political advocacy, while being the voice of the small business sector in Jamaica.”
Michael Leckie, president of the SBAJ, also spoke at the occasion. He shared that 88% of small business owners say inflation is impacting their business, according to the Bank of America Small Business Owner Report.
“We believe Jamaica is no different in that regard. Further, a survey of our US, UK, and Canadian trading partners suggests that interest rates are the highest in the last 27 years. More findings are very similar to what we know in Jamaica.”
Small businesses say that 62% feel their business has fully or partially recovered from the pandemic, and nearly half (48%) cited increased consumer spending over the past year as a key driver in their recovery. Additionally, 70% of business owners plan to seek financing for their business in the year ahead, and 26% plan to hire, the highest percentage since fall 2018, according to the Bank of America survey. And how does this augur for SBAJ stakeholders?
“We want to partner with our stakeholders to make accessing expansion tools more accessible. First, many of our members are turned away from the banks due to their credit reports and scores. We believe it is time for the Ministry of Commerce to partner with the Consumer Affairs Commission and the Bankers Association to host credit repair clinics,” Leckie said.
He also believes that borrowing could be vital for many businesses over the coming months as “cash becomes tight and the economy becomes more unpredictable.” Yet, higher interest rates make it more expensive to borrow, thus creating a challenge to funding, growth, and future prosperity.
“So there must be a way to create a culture where credit specialists help small businesses improve their credit score to open up new lines of credit. Next, we are open to partnerships to make accessing grants a greater part of the mix of funding available to small business owners. Again, training on how to write grants would be key, as the applications are truthfully onerous,” Leckie revealed.
“And finally, we at the SBAJ believe that the stakeholders in this biz social that mark our 50th anniversary have all the tools necessary to help our members achieve a healthy credit score and positive cash flow, making it easier to find funding. And with extra cash in the bank, you’re set to ride out the challenges of high inflation and rising interest rates.”
Senator Aubyn Hill, minister of industry, investment, and commerce, was slotted as the keynote speaker. He believes that entrepreneurs cannot get rich doing business in Jamaica. He suggested that the SBAJ try to help members sell to the wider Caribbean and the Jamaican diaspora. His ministry has supported this idea by hosting travel missions to the Caribbean.
We offer our deepest sympathies for the loss and damage that Hurricane Beryl may have caused for you and your family. We understand that this may be an incredibly tough time for you, and we want to extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones. Your challenges may be immense in rebuilding, but we want to offer our support in any way we can.
Our courage and determination as Jamaicans in the face of adversity are truly inspiring, and we believe that we will come through this stronger than ever!
