The Jamaica Teachers' Association officially launched its Travel and Wellness Club on the lawns of Blue Cross of Jamaica Limited on October 30, last. The major sponsor of the Club was Blue Cross of Jamaica Limited, and other sponsors were Air Jamaica and British Airways.

Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Claudia Ferguson, Secretary in the Economic Services Department of the JTA, and the conceptualizer of the Club, stated that appropriate incentives will be provided to stimulate and increase travel. Participants can view for various medals: bronze, silver, gold, and the President's medal. She pointed out that all members of the JTA and the JTA Allied Group and their relatives are eligible to become members.

Guest speaker at the function was Mrs. Carrole Guntley Brady, Director General in the Ministry of Tourism and Sport. She praised the teachers for their work in implementing the Tourism Curriculum in schools and for their continued support of the various programmes being undertaken. "We who work in tourism recognize teachers as very valuable community partners," Mrs. Guntley-Brady said. She challenged her audience to support heritage tourism.

JTA President, Paul Adams, said that he was not surprised that the Travel and Wellness Club represented the first of its kind for any comparable organization. "The truth is that JTA has led many innovations and can ill-afford any other position than at the very top," President Adams declared.

Hon. Fitz Jackson, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture, congratulated the JTA for extending its services to its members. He said that teachers would get the opportunity to be exposed to different cultures which would enrich their experience.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Blue Cross of Jamaica, Dr. Henry Lowe, lauded the JTA for its initiative in setting up the Club. "I am pleased to recognize that the Association continues to take a leadership role in ensuring not only the economic health but also in the general health and well-being of the members, "Dr. Lowe said. He pledged his company's support to conduct health seminars and workshops for members of the club.

The objectives of the Travel and Wellness Club are:

o To develop cultural awareness both locally and internationally by exposing club members to different cultures;

o To facilitate visits to historical sites both locally and abroad;

o To promote friendship, goodwill and camaraderie among club members;

o To encourage the proper use of leisure;

o To promote effective money management