Sadeke Brooks, Staff Reporter

Having been part of the Portmore community for years, Sting is one of the major events that brings revenue to the area.

According to the mayor of the Portmore Municipal Council, George Lee, Sting has been doing a lot for the community, especially its vendors.

"Sting has been part of the tradition of Christmas time. During Sting, it brings people into the community. It not only provides entertainment, but it also provides opportunities for a number of vendors," he told The Gleaner.

While hoping for an orderly and peaceful staging of the event tonight, Lee said he hopes that other major events will be held in the area.

Sting director DiMario McDowell agrees that the event has done quite a bit for both large and small vendors.

"Musical events benefit a community in a myriad of ways. The creative industries of Jamaica have been contributing to the macro-economic development of the country," he said.

"In basic terms, all vendors benefit. As long as the event is being set up, mounted and until it closes, economic opportunities exist for vendors. It feeds many palettes and pays utilities."

Whether these persons are contracted to sell within the venue or outside, McDowell says they all gain from the staging of the event.

He also made mention of the Noise Abatement Act, which stipulates that events should end at 2 a.m.

"Some vendors wish events would go on a little bit longer so that they can sell more," he said.

McDowell continued: "It's like a Fashion Night Out for the small man. It contributes a lot. It is an open opportunity for them, it's like a bonus. It is not just the artistes that make money from a show," he said, adding that large international franchises and other big companies in Jamaica also benefit.