The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) water polo teams showcased their exceptional talent and skill at the Carifta Water Polo Championships 2025, held from November 7 to 9 at the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex in Florida. Despite the event being hosted in Florida, TT was the official host country. The national contingent, comprising five teams, competed against regional teams from the Caribbean and US club teams, securing an impressive haul of five medals. The Under-16 girls, Under-16 boys, and Under-19 boys teams clinched gold medals, while the Under-14 coed team and Under-19 girls earned silver medals. Other participating teams included Bahamas, Bonaire, Curacao, and Cayman Islands. The TT teams returned home on November 10, celebrating their remarkable achievements and solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in Caribbean water polo.
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‘Naps’ edge St Mary’s 1-0, regain control in SSFL title race
In a tightly contested match on November 10, Naparima College secured a crucial 1-0 victory over St Mary’s College on Serpentine Road, St Clair, reclaiming the top spot in the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division. With this win, Naparima now holds 34 points, narrowly surpassing St Benedict’s College, who trail by a single point. The decisive moment came in the 40th minute when national under-17 wing back Jayden Caprietta headed in from a right-side corner, marking the only goal of the game. Despite a lackluster performance, Naparima managed to control the match, fending off St Mary’s sporadic attempts, including a close-range shot by Jaylon Roberts in the 80th minute that narrowly missed the target. The victory positions Naparima favorably with just one game remaining in the season. Meanwhile, Signal Hill Secondary, currently sixth with 22 points, remains a dark horse with five games left, including a pivotal clash against Naparima later this month. In other matches, Arima North Secondary climbed to seventh place after a dominant 3-0 win over Carapichaima East, while St Augustine Secondary moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-0 victory against St Anthony’s. The SSFL season is nearing its climax, with the top five teams separated by just five points and the relegation battle intensifying.
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NCRHA hosts Mental Health Open Day for staff, public and patients
The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) marked Mental Health Awareness Day with a series of events aimed at fostering understanding, reducing stigma, and encouraging mental well-being. Celebrated globally on October 10, the NCRHA extended its observance throughout the month with activities designed to engage the public in meaningful ways. Key events included a Mental Health Open Day at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) on October 15 and another at Arima General Hospital on October 24. These events provided a welcoming environment for individuals to relax, reflect, and seek support. Attendees enjoyed fun games, giveaways, practical mental wellness tips, and one-on-one consultations, all aimed at teaching positive stress management techniques and promoting overall well-being. Prof Gerard Hutchinson, head of the Mental Health Unit, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in bridging the gap between awareness and access to care. He noted a significant increase in individuals seeking help for anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues, highlighting the growing recognition of the need for early intervention. The NCRHA’s Mental Health Unit continues to offer essential outpatient and stress relief services, with approximately 3,000 individuals accessing care monthly across various clinics. Interim CEO Bhadase Seetahal Maraj reaffirmed the NCRHA’s commitment to addressing mental health through strategic, non-judgmental approaches. Chairman Dr Tim Gopeesingh praised the dedication of staff and the encouraging turnout, underscoring the importance of accessible mental health support. The NCRHA remains steadfast in its mission to provide holistic care and ensure mental wellness services are available to all.
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SHOP WITH PURPOSE…
NaturalAnnie Essentials, a Connecticut-based lifestyle brand founded by Jamaican-born entrepreneur Annya “Annie” White-Brown, has relaunched its popular Jamaican Yardie Candle Collection to aid families in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa. A portion of all sales will be donated to support relief efforts. The collection, initially launched in 2023, features 14 hand-poured, scented soy candles, each representing a Jamaican parish. These candles, housed in reusable amber glass containers, have resonated deeply with the Jamaican Diaspora and enthusiasts of Jamaican culture, evoking nostalgic memories of home. Available online and at the NaturalAnnie Essentials Candle Bar in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the candles are crafted with unique fragrance profiles, such as passionfruit, pineapple, and vanilla for the Trelawny candle, and lime, cotton, and sage for the St Elizabeth candle. In addition to the candle sales, the company has partnered with the Jamaican American Connections of Connecticut to establish its Candle Bar as a donation drop-off site for essential items. On December 7, a reggae-themed candle-making event will be held at the Candle Bar, with a portion of ticket sales also contributing to the relief efforts. White-Brown emphasizes her commitment to making a meaningful impact on her homeland, even as a small business. Customers can shop online at naturalannieessentials.com or visit the Candle Bar at 1313 Connecticut Ave, Bridgeport, CT.
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Oliver Samuels premières Di Prodigal Pickney in US
Renowned Jamaican theatre legend Oliver Samuels is set to bring his latest stage comedy, ‘Di Prodigal Pickney,’ to the United States, with performances doubling as fundraisers for hurricane relief efforts in Jamaica. The production, written, directed by, and starring Samuels, will tour the New York Tri-State Area over two weekends, beginning on November 14 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and concluding on December 7 in Beltsville, Maryland. Additional performances will be held in Brooklyn, East Orange, Jamaica (Queens), Hartford, and the Bronx. The decision to allocate a portion of the proceeds to hurricane relief was made by producer Patrick M. Reid following the devastation caused by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which struck western Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread damage and displacement. ‘Di Prodigal Pickney,’ inspired by the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son, follows the comedic misadventures of a Jamaican family navigating unexpected challenges. The cast includes acclaimed actress Karen Harriott and rising star Tesfa Edwards. The production has previously enjoyed successful runs in Canada, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, and the UK, earning rave reviews for its blend of humor and themes of forgiveness and redemption. Samuels, a veteran of over 60 theatrical productions, has also appeared in notable films such as ‘The Mighty Quinn’ and ‘Great Moments in Aviation.’ The fundraiser will benefit the Jamaica Organisation of New Jersey and the Westwood High School for Girls Alumnae Chapter, which is rebuilding a medical clinic damaged by the hurricane.
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US seeks to deny residency visa applicants with co-morbidities
The US State Department has issued a directive to embassies worldwide, instructing them to scrutinize applicants for US residency visas and green cards who have chronic health conditions. This policy aims to safeguard the American public purse from the financial burden of providing healthcare to immigrants with costly medical needs. Conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, cancers, diabetes, and mental health disorders are specifically highlighted, as they often require extensive, long-term care. Visa officers are also encouraged to consider factors like obesity, which can lead to complications such as asthma, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure, in their assessments of whether an applicant might become a public charge. The directive emphasizes the need for applicants to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their healthcare costs without relying on public assistance. Critics, including Guerline Jozef of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, argue that this policy could unfairly target immigrants and undermine their opportunities. Local health practitioners, such as Dr. Andrew Dhanoo of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago, stress the importance of fairness, feasibility, and ethical considerations in implementing such measures. Dr. Rishi Ramoutar of Wellnest Caribbean Mental Health Specialists Ltd adds that policies linking visa eligibility to health conditions must balance public health concerns with the dignity and rights of individuals. The directive has sparked debate over its potential to reinforce stigma and discrimination, particularly against those with mental health conditions. Meanwhile, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Trinidad and Tobago underscores the broader challenges of managing chronic health issues globally.
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Pitbull mauls dad, but fearing slow justice, relatives won’t press charges
A retired police officer from Claxton Bay, O’Neil Sookhoo, 62, is recovering after a harrowing pitbull attack at his home on November 10. The incident occurred when a neighbor’s pitbull, which had escaped on November 8, mauled Sookhoo, leaving him with severe injuries to his forearms, chest, and legs. His wife, Sherry Sookhoo, 53, recounted the traumatic event, describing how she intervened by striking the dog with a piece of wood, only for the animal to turn its aggression toward her. The attack ended when Sookhoo used a cutlass to fend off the dog, which then retreated after its owner called it back. The couple rushed to Point Fortin Hospital, where Sookhoo received prompt medical attention. Despite the ordeal, the family has decided not to press charges, opting instead for a compensation agreement with the dog’s owner. Sherry cited the slow judicial system as the primary reason for this decision, emphasizing the need to prioritize her husband’s recovery and the emotional well-being of their traumatized children. The incident has reignited concerns about dog attacks in the community, with Sherry urging measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The attack was reported to the Couva Police Station, and while legal action remains possible, the family’s focus remains on healing and moving forward.
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More first-class cricket necessary
The West Indies cricket team’s recent performance in the T20 series against New Zealand has brought to light significant challenges in their batting strategy. Despite moments of brilliance, such as Romario Shepherd’s commendable bowling efforts, the team’s inability to build a solid foundation has been a recurring issue. Shepherd, reflecting on the second T20 match, acknowledged the need for better planning and execution in setting up the innings. He emphasized the importance of being alert on every ball, given the small boundaries and high-scoring nature of modern T20 cricket. However, the third game saw the West Indies fall short by nine runs, with New Zealand taking a 2-1 lead in the series. This loss underscored the team’s over-reliance on the lower order to post competitive totals. The root of this problem lies in the lack of first-class cricket and two-inning matches in the West Indies, which are crucial for developing batsmen capable of excelling in all formats. The financial responsibility for organizing such tournaments falls on Cricket West Indies (CWI), highlighting the need for structural reforms to nurture future talent.
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Diabetes and foot care
As World Diabetes Day 2025 approaches, the theme ‘Diabetes and Well-being’ underscores the importance of holistic health management for individuals living with diabetes. Among the critical yet often neglected aspects of diabetes care is foot health. For diabetics, foot care is not merely a cosmetic concern but a vital component of overall well-being. Poor circulation and nerve damage, common in diabetes, heighten the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations if left unchecked. Regular foot examinations, daily inspections, and wearing appropriate footwear are essential preventive measures. Moisturising the skin is equally important, as dry skin caused by nerve damage can lead to cracks, creating entry points for infections. Using diabetic-specific moisturisers can help maintain skin hydration and reduce complications. For those seeking to indulge in pedicures, diabetic-friendly spas offer specialised care, ensuring procedures are conducted with utmost safety and precision. Communication with spa staff about medical conditions and specific needs is crucial. Beyond foot care, diabetics must also prioritise sun protection. High blood sugar levels can impair collagen production, making the skin more vulnerable to damage. Applying high-SPF sunscreen and wearing protective clothing can mitigate risks of sunburn and skin cancer. Daily moisturising, staying hydrated, and avoiding harsh chemicals are additional steps to maintain skin health. Regular skin checks for abnormalities are vital for early detection of potential issues. As we commemorate World Diabetes Day 2025, let us remember that proactive care of feet and skin can significantly enhance quality of life and prevent serious complications. Your well-being is in your hands—prioritise your health daily. Delicia Burris, owner of Glorious Touch Health and Wellness Spa, emphasises these practices for a healthier future.
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Trinidad and Tobago’s Kobi Henry: We must set tone vs Reggae Boyz
Trinidad and Tobago’s central defender Kobi Henry has called on his teammates to adopt an aggressive approach from the outset in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Jamaica. The crucial match is scheduled for November 13 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. Henry emphasized the importance of setting the tone early rather than waiting to fall behind, a pattern that has plagued TT in previous games. With TT needing two consecutive victories against Jamaica and Bermuda to keep their World Cup hopes alive, the stakes are incredibly high. Currently, TT sits third in Concacaf Group B with five points, trailing Jamaica (nine points) and Curacao (eight points). Only the group winner secures direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, while the runner-up enters the intercontinental playoffs. Head coach Dwight Yorke announced a 26-man squad on November 10, including newcomer Roald Mitchell, a striker who has impressed in the US league. Henry highlighted the significance of home support, urging fans to rally behind the team. Despite the absence of injured regular starter Rio Cardines, utility player Noah Powder expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and determination. The team remains optimistic, with Henry noting high morale and a collective focus on seizing this historic opportunity.