作者： admin

For over a decade, the Arouca community has been illuminated each December by the heartwarming efforts of Ronald Garvin, founder of the Smiley Faces Events Christmas Caravan. What began as a modest Christmas party on Forde Street has evolved into a mobile celebration that brings gifts, music, and holiday cheer directly to families across the area. Garvin, a health, safety, and environment assistant, has dedicated himself to fostering a sense of togetherness and joy during the festive season. The caravan, which features a truck loaded with toys, snacks, and sweet boxes, aims to create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and celebrated. Garvin’s initiative, which started in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has grown to encompass multiple streets, reaching hundreds of children annually. The event not only delivers presents but also strengthens community bonds and inspires acts of kindness. Garvin’s motivation stems from his own upbringing, where his mother’s determination ensured that he and his siblings always had something to look forward to during the holidays. Despite challenges in securing funding, Garvin and his team of volunteers continue to make the caravan a beloved tradition. This year, they hope to reach 500 children, spreading the message of joy, love, and generosity. Garvin encourages corporate Trinidad and Tobago to contribute, emphasizing the importance of giving during the holiday season. The caravan’s impact extends beyond material gifts, offering hope and creating lasting memories for families. As Garvin aptly puts it, the true essence of the season lies in one word: giving.

The tragic death of Romona Victor, a UNC councillor, in a reported murder-suicide carried out by her husband, Rodney Ramsumair, has once again highlighted the pervasive issue of femicide in Trinidad and Tobago. Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayhroo urged women in abusive relationships to seek counselling and walk away, but the reality is far more complex. Despite such advice, femicides continue to rise, with 137 women and girls killed daily by intimate partners globally in 2024, according to the UN. Locally, NGOs like the International Women’s Resource Network report alarming figures for 2025, underscoring the urgency of the crisis. This grim reality reveals systemic failures: women’s complaints are often dismissed by authorities, and protection orders are not always effective. Even when women attempt to leave abusive relationships, they are frequently pursued by their former partners. The case of Ms. Victor, a well-known councillor, illustrates that no woman is immune to this violence. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles have both expressed their grief and called for action. Ms. Persad-Bissessar emphasized the need for a supportive environment where victims can come forward without fear, while Ms. Beckles advocated for a stronger legal system and expanded gender-based policing. However, addressing the root causes of this crisis requires a cultural shift. Harmful attitudes and stereotypes perpetuated among boys and men must be challenged. Men have a critical role to play in reshaping societal beliefs and behaviors to end this cycle of violence.

Former Trinidad and Tobago Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly has urged an investigation into a Central Trinidad caterer following reports of dead lizards discovered in roti intended for school meals. The incident, reported by the Trinidad Guardian on November 25, involved rotis supplied by a Freeport-based roti maker to a company contracted under the National School Dietary Services Limited (NSDSL). The contamination was reportedly detected before the meals reached students. This is not the first time the caterer has faced scrutiny; their services were previously suspended due to concerns over water quality at their facility. Dr. Gadsby-Dolly expressed deep concern, emphasizing that over 62,000 students across Trinidad and Tobago rely on state-provided breakfast and lunch. She called for updated protocols and a thorough investigation, noting that the supplier had allegedly faced similar issues in the past. Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath has pledged to follow up on the matter. The NSDSL’s School Nutrition Programme (SNP) serves approximately 54,000 breakfasts and 79,000 lunches daily to over 800 schools, relying on 68 caterers nationwide. The programme aims to provide a significant portion of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of nutrients through structured menu planning and strict adherence to food safety guidelines.

In a heartfelt tribute, Arthur Dash, a junior counsel who has worked alongside Senior Counsel Israel Khan for over 24 years, celebrates Khan’s recent accolade—an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree from the University of TT. This prestigious honor recognizes Khan’s exceptional contributions to the legal profession, particularly his distinguished advocacy at the Criminal Bar of TT and his 38-year tenure as a tutor at the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS).

Khan, a 1979 graduate of HWLS, was appointed Senior Counsel in 2000. His career has been marked by brilliance, moral courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice. In 2024, HWLS honored him as one of seven distinguished Caribbean luminaries during its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Dash, who has witnessed Khan’s legal prowess firsthand, describes him as a shining example for young attorneys. Khan’s dedication to justice and his profound impact on the legal field make this honorary degree a well-deserved recognition. Dash extends his heartfelt congratulations to Khan for this remarkable achievement.