Tourism Trade: Jamaica officially launched JAPEX 2026, the 36th Jamaica Product Exchange, set for Sept. 14–18 in Ocho Rios under the theme “Jamaica Reimagined,” with Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett pointing to Hurricane Melissa recovery—nearly 80% of hotel rooms expected back in operation by then. Public Safety: Police in Jamaica, Queens are seeking a suspect after an alleged daylight sucker punch left a 66-year-old man unconscious; a surveillance image was released and a reward offered. Crime Watch: In St. James, police are investigating reports of a man shot while driving near Sangster International Airport who later made it to the arrivals hall for help. Business & Jobs: Sherwin-Williams has ended manufacturing at its White Marl paint factory in St. Catherine, shifting to imports while the distribution centre stays open. Health: CARPHA opened a new regional reference referral laboratory in Kingston to strengthen antimicrobial resistance tracking and reduce reliance on overseas testing. Digital Scams: Jamaicans are being urged to be cautious with online job offers after warnings that traffickers increasingly use social media to lure victims. Local Economy: Knutsford Express says it’s expanding further, including St Thomas and a Mandeville commercial development, despite profit pressure after Hurricane Melissa. Community Impact: Residents in Cooper’s Pen, Trelawny, say they were caught off guard by a pre-dawn demolition that flattened about 20 squatter houses, with questions raised about legality and notice.