Calvin 'Ridley' Smith :: Gratitude for a Lifeline

Calvin 'Ridley' Smith talks about his earlier days as lifeguard at Boston beach.
There are angels everywhere....and I don't mean the winged and haloed kind. I'm talking about the people we encounter from time to time who throw us a lifeline just as we're about to go under.

Calvin 'Ridley' Smith has been one such person. As the official lifeguard at Boston beach from 1971 until June of this year, Ridley has been that lifeline for thousands of us. I for one am forever grateful he was at the beach the summer of my 12th year when a cousin and I had ventured out too deep.

Ridley, who prides himself on being Jamaica's first black surfer, is also known for his calm demeanor and infectious personality. As Lorraine Washington of Panama puts it, "My husband and I have been coming here for the past 32 years and the reason we keep coming back, apart from the natural beauty, is Ridley."

So, as he's come to the end of this phase of this life, I've just got to say thanks again Ridley and, to use his own words, "International Respect!"


(l) Sonya of Argentina visits Ridley at Boston beach along with long-time friend (r) Lorraine Washington.
Boston beach, Portland.

Syreta's Healing Hands :: Equilibrium Through Touch

Client Kaycia Minott-Haynes  treats herself to the relaxation benefits of a massage.
Syreta's friends and family always knew she had the gift of healing through touch. "Whenever they had aches and pains I would give them massages, and they all commented on how great they felt afterwards," she reminisces about her teen years growing up in Port Antonio. Before long she became the 'go-to' person for a great therapeutic massage.

These days, not much has changed. Having studied and practiced in Europe for over 10 years, the VTCT certified Massage Therapist and Reflexologist has returned home to give some healing back to her hometown. As such, she opened Syreta's Healing Hands realizing two life-long dreams of working for herself and healing through touch therapy. Here she offers Reflexology, Remedial, Aromatherapy, Indian Head, Hot Stones and Swedish massages.  

With a client list primarily of athletes and elderly persons, she wishes more non-sports people would take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of massages. Apart from the benefits for joint and muscles ailments, she stresses the overall health-improvement (increased vitality, concentration, relaxation, better sleep), clients usually experience from this therapy.  

"I believe everyone should try it at least once. It's a gift I've been blessed with, and I'd travel the world doing just this."

To make an appointment you can contact Syreta's Healing Hands at 876-398-2904, syretam@yahoo.com or by visiting her office at 18 Harbour Street, Port Antonio.

Syreta takes a break from work.

Loads of Love for Louise

The charming & witty Louise Williams
I like to think that everyday is a great day. And while there are days when it's not so easy to see evidence of this, last Saturday wasn't one of them.  It was a perfect day for a luncheon at the breathtaking Norse Hill in San San and everyone who helped Jennifer Poirier celebrate her mom's, Louise Williams', 94th year felt it too. Friends and loved ones came together under the massive Ficus tree for a delectable buffet, laughter and the outpouring of love for the Portie matriarch.

I thought I'd share some of my favourite photos of the event while I look forward to doing it again next year:)

Spectacular view of Alligator Head from Norse Hill

(top left) Mr and Mrs Lawson welcome Nellie Walker; (top right) Howard and Georgia Pottinger 
(bottom left) Jennifer Poirier, Syreta and Sydoney Massop; (bottom right) Mrs McKenzie in conversation with Mr & Mrs. Wiggins

(top left) Alma, Jean and Wayne of Norse Hill; (top right) Bill & Gainelle Bailey 
(bottom left) Betty Narcisse makes a point to Dr. Terry Hall; (bottom right) Jennifer shares a funny story


(L) Rev Grace prepares to sample the delightful selection. (r) Brandon and Rohan Lawson lounging after lunch