The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) Fire Service is grappling with a critical shortage of essential equipment, a situation that has persisted for over a decade. Acting Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Andy Hutchinson voiced his concerns during an educational fair at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain on October 10. Hutchinson emphasized that while acquiring new equipment is crucial, the lack of ongoing training programs has exacerbated the challenges faced by fire officers. He highlighted the need for comprehensive training to operate advanced equipment, such as Hazmat trucks, which are currently underutilized due to insufficient training. The last significant investment in the Fire Service was made in 2014 under the People’s Partnership administration, which allocated $53 million for vehicles, stations, and training. However, with the change of government in 2015, funding was withdrawn, leaving the Fire Service to rely on aging vehicles, some of which are up to 28 years old. Hutchinson criticized the recent purchase of substandard breathing apparatus sets, which fail to meet the safety standards of previous equipment and pose risks to fire officers. In 2024, Fire Service Association president Keone Guy also raised alarms about the outdated and insufficient gear used by fire officers nationwide, including shortages of hydraulic rescue tools, portable pumps, generators, and personal protective equipment. Despite these challenges, Hutchinson remains hopeful that the upcoming national budget will address these long-standing issues. He praised the dedication of fire officers and the collaborative efforts with Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, expressing optimism for future improvements.
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John Campbell, Shai Hope show grit against India with fifties
In a remarkable display of resilience, West Indies batsmen John Campbell and Shai Hope staged a crucial partnership on the third day of the second Test against India at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Campbell remained unbeaten on 87, while Hope scored 66 not out, guiding the West Indies to 173/2 at stumps. Their unbroken 138-run stand for the third wicket provided a glimmer of hope for the visitors, who had been staring at an imminent defeat earlier in the day. The West Indies still trail by 97 runs to avoid an innings defeat, but their performance marked a significant improvement after a dismal first innings. Earlier, India had enforced the follow-on after dismissing the West Indies for 248, following their mammoth first innings total of 518/5 declared. Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler for India, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/82), while Ravindra Jadeja contributed with 3/46. Despite the odds, Campbell and Hope’s aggressive yet composed batting has given the West Indies a fighting chance to extend the match.
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Cameroon’s 92-year-old president poised for eighth term
Cameroonians headed to the polls on Sunday in a pivotal election that could extend the 43-year rule of Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state. The 92-year-old president, who has held power since 1982, faced 11 challengers, including former employment minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 79, who unexpectedly energized voters in the central African nation. With half of the population under 20, many of the eight million eligible voters have known no other leader in their lifetime. Polling stations in the capital Yaoundé saw steady crowds throughout the day, with officials reporting a calm and orderly process. Biya, who has won every election in the past two decades with over 70% of the vote, remained cautious, telling reporters after casting his ballot, ‘Nothing is certain. Let’s wait until we know the name of the elected official.’ Political analyst Stephane Akoa noted that while the ruling system has significant resources to influence outcomes, the campaign had been unusually vibrant, raising the possibility of surprises. Polling stations closed at 1700 GMT, with Jean-Alain Andzongo of the national electoral authority confirming the process was peaceful.
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‘War is over’ in Gaza, Trump says on way to Middle East
US President Donald Trump embarked on a critical peace mission to Israel and Egypt on Sunday, boldly declaring that \”the war is over\” in Gaza despite lingering uncertainties surrounding the recent ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas. This swift visit aims to highlight Trump’s pivotal role in brokering last week’s agreement, though it unfolds during a fragile period as Israel and Hamas negotiate the next steps.
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Seiveright commends Hendrickson family for leadership in manufacturing
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senator Delano Seiveright, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, recently lauded the Hendrickson family for their enduring contributions to Jamaica’s manufacturing sector and their philanthropic endeavors. The commendation came during discussions held at the National Baking Company’s headquarters in Kingston, where the family’s leadership in the industry was highlighted.
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Happening Now: 21st Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament underway in St Mary
The 21st annual Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament has officially commenced at the Oracabessa Bay Fishing Beach in St. Mary, Jamaica, attracting over 60 skilled fishermen from across the island. This prestigious event, now in its second decade, continues to be a highlight in the local sports calendar, drawing both competitors and spectators alike. Participants are vying for top honors, with the first and second marlin caught on the opening day both weighing an impressive 235 lbs. The stakes are high, as the ultimate winner will be awarded a grand cash prize of $100,000, a state-of-the-art boat engine generously provided by YAMAHA, and a host of other valuable rewards. The tournament not only celebrates the art of fishing but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among participants and patrons. Photographs capturing the excitement of the event, courtesy of Akera Davis, showcase the vibrant atmosphere and the thrill of the competition.
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Tancoo’s call to Trinidad and Tobago diaspora – Come back home to build up TT
In a heartfelt appeal during the opening of Divali Nagar on October 11, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo urged the nation’s diaspora to return home and contribute to the country’s renewal. Speaking in Chaguanas, Tancoo likened Trinidad and Tobago to ‘our Ayodhya,’ referencing the epic poem The Ramayan, where the Hindu god Shri Ram returned after 14 years of exile to become king. He emphasized that the country’s diaspora, whether born in Trinidad or of Trini ancestry, should bring their skills, resources, and love for the homeland to ignite a new era of hope, prosperity, and justice. Tancoo’s message was clear: ‘Your exile is over. Your Motherland calls for you to come home.’ He called on the diaspora to invest, teach, mentor, and share their experiences to help build a nation that shines as a beacon in the Caribbean and beyond. The minister also urged citizens to banish corruption and greed, embrace fairness, and unite as one people. The Divali Nagar, a cultural festival celebrating the Hindu festival of lights, served as the backdrop for this appeal. Surujdeo Mangaroo, president of the National Council of Indian Culture, highlighted the festival’s role as a ‘national institution of cultural and moral development.’ He stressed the importance of investing in Divali Nagar to preserve values like discipline, respect, and compassion for future generations. Mangaroo pointed out that the festival’s children’s programs act as living classrooms, instilling values that guide young citizens toward responsible and compassionate leadership. This year’s theme, ‘Loka Sangraha’ or ‘Welfare of the World,’ called on attendees to rise above self-interest and act with compassion, justice, and solidarity. The event featured traditional performances, deya lighting ceremonies, and vibrant displays of East Indian culture, underscoring the festival’s dual role as both entertainment and education.
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WATCH: Soup King re-opens at Market Place
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Soup King, a beloved local brand, made a triumphant return on Saturday at Market Place, located at 67 Constant Spring Road. To mark the occasion, the establishment offered free soup to its patrons during the grand reopening event. Adrian Wilson, co-owner of Soup King, expressed his enthusiasm for the relaunch, stating, ‘Soup King is a brand I’ve had before, but we’ve relaunched, and today is the day to do a grand sampling for all our customers, new and old. We’ve given away 500 soups and are just hanging out and vibing with our customers.’
The event drew both loyal and new customers, many of whom shared their excitement. One long-time patron reminisced, ‘This isn’t my first time at Soup King. I used to visit them when they were on Lynders Road. I’m having the seafood fiesta, which is my favorite soup. If you haven’t tried Soup King yet, you’re missing out.’ Another customer, a self-proclaimed soup enthusiast, added, ‘I’m a soup man. Sometimes I boil a pot of soup and freeze it for later. When I come here and find their chicken soup and shrimp soup, which taste amazing, I’ll be coming back repeatedly.’
The relaunch not only celebrated the return of a cherished local business but also reinforced the community’s love for Soup King’s offerings. The event was a vibrant gathering of old and new customers, all united by their appreciation for good soup and good company.
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Close ties between Jamaica and Japan forged by Blue Mountain Coffee says outgoing Ambassador
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s outgoing ambassador to Japan, H.E. Shorna-Kay Richards, has extended heartfelt gratitude to the Association of Japanese Importers of Jamaican Coffee (AJIJC) and its chairman, Tatsushi Ueshima, for their steadfast dedication to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee trade. Speaking at a recent reception during the Joint JCEA/JACRA Meeting with the AJIJC at Tokyo’s Big Sight Convention Centre, Ambassador Richards highlighted the association’s “generosity and unwavering commitment” to the industry. She emphasized the pivotal role the AJIJC has played in fostering the development of Jamaica’s coffee sector over the past seven decades, describing it as a “pillar of support and a true partner.”
Ambassador Richards, whose tenure was extended by six months beyond its original June 2023 end date, acknowledged the AJIJC’s innovative marketing strategies through its Promotional Committee. These efforts have introduced Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee to younger Japanese consumers, ensuring its continued relevance in a competitive market. Notable initiatives included distributing 2,000 packets of the premium coffee at Tokyo’s Yushima Tenjin Shrine to students preparing for university entrance exams and showcasing the brew at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.
Richards also commended Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association, for his visionary leadership in maintaining the global excellence of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee. Dr. Grant, whose recent doctoral dissertation focused on strategies for profitability among Jamaican coffee farmers, reciprocated by praising Richards for her instrumental role in promoting the trade in Japan. He highlighted her efforts in organizing trade shows, fostering industry collaboration, and facilitating the distribution of 10,000 coffee seedlings donated by 7/11 to Jamaican farmers.
In recognition of her contributions, Dr. Grant and Mr. Ueshima presented Ambassador Richards with a plaque of appreciation, honoring her service to the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee industry and the strengthening of bilateral ties between Jamaica and Japan.
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Sharon Gordon’s Sheribaby earns Grammy consideration for Best Audiobook
Sharon Gordon’s debut book, ‘Sheribaby,’ has been shortlisted for consideration in the Best Audiobook, Storytelling, and Recording category at the 2026 Grammy Awards. The provisional lists for the prestigious awards were unveiled by the Recording Academy on October 3, with official nominees set to be announced on November 7. The 68th Grammy Awards ceremony will take place on February 1 in Los Angeles. ‘Sheribaby,’ written in Jamaican patois, chronicles the life of its titular character from 1969 to 1975 in Rollington Town, a middle-class neighborhood in East Kingston. The book has garnered widespread acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Jamaican culture and its universal resonance. In an interview with Observer Online, Gordon expressed her pride in the recognition, highlighting the book’s ability to connect with readers on multiple levels. She noted that many Jamaicans in the diaspora have described ‘Sheribaby’ as a nostalgic time capsule, evoking personal memories and cultural identity. Gordon’s decision to write in patois was a tribute to Louise ‘Miss Lou’ Bennett-Coverley, a legendary Jamaican folklorist and actress who advocated for the use of Jamaican dialect during British rule. Despite initial criticism, Gordon remained steadfast in her commitment to authenticity, a choice that has cemented ‘Sheribaby’ as a modern classic. The New York-based author, who has lived in the U.S. for over 45 years, has held book signings in New York, Florida, New Jersey, Toronto, and Maryland, further amplifying the book’s reach.