Portmore Sun debuts as signature newspaper of the Sunshine City

From dormitory community to municipality, Portmore, St Catherine, has come a long way. And this month has marked another milestone for what is recognised as one of Jamaica's fastest-growing communities. Portmore now has its very own newspaper, the Portmore Sun. The full-colour newspaper will be published weekly, with blanket distribution to 40,000 households and businesses.

The editorial philosophy of the Portmore Sun might best be described as hyperlocal - an intense focus on the people, events and issues of the local community. Though not the first community newspaper, the Portmore Sun will break new ground with its home delivery model, which will ensure that every resident of Portmore has access to the paper.

Portmore Mayor Keith Hinds, who says he has long lobbied for investments of this kind, is upbeat about the newspaper.

"It is long overdue. The Portmore Sun will go a far way in advancing our sense of community. I'm happy that the paper is becoming a reality under my watch and must thank LIME for their initiative and for once again demonstrating just how much the city and people of Portmore mean to them."

LIME is the charter sponsor of the newspaper. Commenting on the launch, Chris Dehring, chairman of LIME Jamaica, said: "Every great city has its own newspaper which is an important form of identity and an avenue for expression. Not only will the Portmore Sun boost pride and help people to get to know their neighbours, but in showcasing local businesses, the paper will also encourage people to shop locally. With the Portmore Sun, we now have an even deeper connection with the residents here, many of whom, of course, work with our company."

The October 14 inaugural issue featured stories on popular vegetable and fruit vendor Julette 'Paulette' Thomas, the work of the Aintree Citizens' Association to beautify their neighbourhood, as well as an interview with Mayor Keith Hinds on the plans for the deployment of funds collected from property taxes. Also in the issue were several entertainment features and a profile of Waterford High School football star Romar Gordon.