Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • How to exercise all year

    How to exercise all year

    As the new year unfolds with renewed fitness aspirations, veteran fitness instructor Richard Roberts emphasizes that sustainable health transformations require strategic planning rather than drastic overhauls. With four decades of experience since 1985, including his role as an International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro Elite judge, Roberts identifies expectation management as the critical factor separating temporary enthusiasm from lasting lifestyle changes.

    Roberts observes diverse motivations driving fitness journeys, ranging from health concerns post-holiday indulgence to Carnival preparations or general wellness awareness. While acknowledging these valid starting points, he highlights how inadequate programming and impatience typically derail progress. “The process should be measured and gradually applied,” Roberts advises, noting that frustration from unrealistic timelines remains the primary reason for abandonment.

    The expert presents a nuanced perspective on training methodology, challenging the conventional prioritization of consistency over intensity. Recent research indicates the body rapidly adapts to repetitive routines, creating plateaus that diminish both physical results and mental engagement. Roberts advocates for balancing consistent practice with strategic intensity variations to maintain physiological responsiveness and psychological interest.

    Structuring emerges as Roberts’ non-negotiable component for sustainable fitness, describing it as “the single most important element” often neglected. He explains how strengthened muscles without proper elongation create skeletal pressure, joint stress, and reduced mobility—potentially causing inflammation and chronic pain. His recommendation includes dedicating entire sessions to structured stretching while incorporating light warm-ups pre-workout.

    Addressing time constraints, Roberts reframes exercise accessibility through micro-workouts: “15 minutes of cardiovascular exercises and 20 minutes of strength training daily, for at least three days weekly” can yield significant benefits when properly designed. Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and jump-rope offer effective alternatives requiring minimal equipment.

    Roberts specifically addresses aging populations, disputing the assumption that physical activity must decline with age. While recommending caution regarding joint stress from high-impact activities, he encourages machine-based training for safer heavy lifting and recommends allocating 50% of workout time to stretching and cardiovascular exercises for older adults.

    His concluding advice for 2026 emphasizes research-based programming avoidance of fitness fads, and integrating activity as lifelong practice rather than seasonal resolution. “Passion drives excellence,” Roberts concludes, “Make the activity a fun experience while building on adequate rest and recovery foundations.”

  • Full Blown remembers sports-loving grandpa Eddie Hart

    Full Blown remembers sports-loving grandpa Eddie Hart

    The Trinidadian music community is mourning the loss of a revered patriarch and public servant. Eddie Hart, a distinguished community organizer, sports activist, and former parliamentarian, passed away on January 4 at the age of 89. His legacy is being celebrated by his grandsons, the acclaimed Soca artistes and producers known collectively as Full Blown Entertainment.

    Kevon and Kory Hart, the brothers behind the musical outfit, honored their grandfather in a heartfelt social media tribute. They reflected on his profound impact, not only on their personal lives but also on the broader national community. Eddie Hart was the visionary founder of the Eddie Hart Football League, a foundational institution for youth sports development, and also served as a Member of Parliament for the People’s National Movement (PNM).

    The Hart brothers have themselves become national icons, carrying forward the family’s tradition of public contribution through their musical artistry. Their 2026 release, ‘Respectfully Yours,’ has emerged as one of the season’s most popular Carnival anthems, dominating airwaves across the nation.

    In their tribute, the brothers shared a poignant final memory: ‘In our last conversation with him just days ago, we delivered the news that we currently hold the number one song in the country. He struggled to respond but ultimately declared, ‘We’s number one. Keep mashing them up!”

    This moment, they noted, encapsulated his unwavering support and pride in their accomplishments. The brothers affirmed that their grandfather had indelibly shaped his community, earning the honorary title ‘King’ from many who benefited from his leadership and generosity.

    ‘Life was not meant to be accompanied by death,’ Full Blown wrote, ‘but FOR NOW it comes hand in hand. You will always be missed, Edward ‘Eddie’ Hart!’

  • Felician-Moses scores at Royhil Seals Water Polo awards

    Felician-Moses scores at Royhil Seals Water Polo awards

    Emerging water polo sensation Giovanni Felician-Moses dominated the spotlight at Royhil Seals Water Polo Club’s Annual Awards Dinner, held on January 3, 2025, at St Mary’s College Hall. The young athlete secured an impressive trio of prestigious accolades, underscoring his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.

    Felician-Moses claimed the Most Valuable Player award in the Under-14 male category, marking his second consecutive year receiving the Rising Seal award—an honor reserved for the most promising Under-14 player. Most notably, he captured the club’s highest distinction: Player of the Year, recognizing athletes who exemplify technical excellence, tactical intelligence, discipline, and continuous improvement.

    The prodigious goalkeeper’s remarkable 2025 campaign included international competitions where he represented Royhil Seals with distinction. In February, he competed at the South Florida International Water Polo tournament and later at the CAA Water Polo tournament in Curaçao, where his team secured gold in the Under-14 mixed category. Felician-Moses additionally earned top goalkeeper honors in the Under-16 male division at the same event.

    As a fourth-form student at Fatima College, he led his school to gold medal victories in both Under-14 and Under-16 divisions of the Republic Bank ASATT National Secondary School’s Water Polo League and the Secondary School Beach Polo Championships. His national team debut came in November 2025 when he captained Trinidad and Tobago’s Under-14 squad at the Carifta Aquatics Championships in Coral Springs, Florida, simultaneously winning best goalkeeper and a gold medal in the Under-16 male category.

    Looking ahead to 2026, Felician-Moses is poised to continue demonstrating his dominance across school, club, and national team competitions as he progresses to the Under-16 level.

  • Smooth start for 2nd school term

    Smooth start for 2nd school term

    The second academic term in Trinidad and Tobago commenced on January 5 with remarkably smooth operations across educational institutions, despite the temporary closure of the Ministry of Education’s headquarters. Both government authorities and the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) confirmed an essentially incident-free reopening day for ECCE, primary, and secondary schools nationwide.

    The Ministry of Education’s Towers A and B in Port of Spain remained closed on the first day due to ongoing air-conditioning system repairs, with operations scheduled to resume on January 6. Nevertheless, the ministry issued an afternoon media release highlighting the successful start to Term II, emphasizing that teaching activities resumed without significant disruption across the country’s educational landscape.

    Substantial infrastructure improvements preceded the term opening, with 82 approved projects completed between December 2025 and January 2026. The comprehensive enhancement initiative included 35 projects executed under the Vacation Repairs Programme and 47 emergency works addressing critical needs. These improvements encompassed roof and ceiling repairs, sewer and drainage system upgrades, washroom facility enhancements, air-conditioning unit maintenance, water line replacements, and electrical infrastructure modernization.

    The National Schools Dietary Services Ltd (NSDSL) successfully resumed operations, delivering approximately 62,000 breakfasts and 75,000 lunches to students nationwide. Education Minister Michael Dowlath attributed the seamless reopening to coordinated planning among stakeholders, stating: ‘Education is a shared national responsibility, and this smooth reopening demonstrates what is possible when all stakeholders work together to keep our children learning, safe, and supported.’

    TTUTA president Crystal Ashe reported that officers monitored all districts, including Tobago, with Richmond Street Boys’ Anglican School being the only institution remaining closed due to rat infestation concerns. Health and Education Ministry collaboration efforts are expected to facilitate the school’s reopening by January 7. While Barataria Boys’ RC Primary School faced sewer issues, it operated normally. Teacher attendance was notably high, though some student absences were observed—a customary first-day occurrence that Ashe emphasized should be addressed by parents recognizing the importance of every school day.

    On security matters, Deputy Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin confirmed that monitoring programs reported no incidents, with Tranquillity Government Secondary School newly added to the list of institutions receiving police monitoring. The TTPS plans future meetings with the ministry to evaluate security measures and implement new initiatives as necessary.

  • Browne: No one knows what US will do

    Browne: No one knows what US will do

    The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by US military forces from a fortified Caracas compound on January 3rd has triggered extensive geopolitical analysis. Former finance minister Mariano Browne questions what leverage mechanisms the United States will employ to advance its agenda in Venezuela following this unprecedented intervention.

    President Donald Trump’s January 5th declaration that the US intends to temporarily govern Venezuela underscores Washington’s determined stance. During media interactions, Trump asserted that American oil corporations would enter Venezuela to repair its ‘broken infrastructure’ and generate revenue, though he provided limited operational details.

    Browne, responding via WhatsApp, emphasized the inseparable relationship between politics and economics in global affairs. He characterized the operation as fundamentally concerning regime change rather than narcotics trafficking, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s significant trade relationship with the US makes these developments particularly consequential.

    The former minister analyzed that America’s approach demonstrates resource constraints preventing conventional warfare, instead favoring asymmetric strategies involving limited engagements for maximum leverage. Despite Maduro’s capture, his administrative structure remains intact with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez assuming interim leadership while maintaining Maduro’s legitimate presidency.

    Browne raised critical questions about whether Venezuela’s existing state institutions would align with Washington’s directives. This follows Trump’s dismissal of Rodríguez’s long-term political viability, despite her subsequent diplomatic overture seeking ‘balanced and respectful’ bilateral relations.

    Trump simultaneously expressed skepticism about exiled opposition figure María Corina Machado’s capacity to lead, citing her insufficient domestic support. The administration is currently designating alternative leadership candidates for Venezuela.

    Browne highlighted that Trump’s order intercepting ‘sanctioned oil tankers’ reveals broader objectives beyond regime change, identifying China as the primary target. Venezuela’s discounted oil exports constitute a crucial component of China’s energy import strategy, elevating the confrontation to global financial markets where the US holds advantageous position.

    This event signals potential implications for other Western Hemisphere nations, particularly those previously criticized by Trump including Colombia and Cuba. Colombia’s deployment of border troops following the operation, coupled with Trump’s provocative comments about Colombian leadership, suggests regional instability may intensify.

  • KFC starts the party for Carnival

    KFC starts the party for Carnival

    In a strategic brand integration move, KFC has officially launched its ambitious ‘KRUNCHNIVAL’ campaign for Carnival 2026, positioning itself as the definitive culinary and cultural partner for Trinidad and Tobago’s premier national festival. The fast-food giant unveiled this multi-platform initiative on January 5th at Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain, opposite its flagship store location.

    The campaign’s centerpiece features an unprecedented musical collaboration between soca sensations Yung Bredda (Akhenaton Lewis) and Destra Garcia, who have reimagined the classic Carnival anthem ‘It’s Carnival’ with contemporary energy. This revitalized track serves as the sonic foundation for KRUNCHNIVAL, blending generations of musical heritage with modern production values.

    Roger Rambharose, Vice President of KFC and Pizza Hut Trinidad and Tobago, characterized the campaign as a deliberate market disruption strategy. ‘Our approach to Carnival season has always been distinctive and impactful,’ Rambharose stated. ‘KRUNCHNIVAL embodies our commitment to delivering exceptional energy, authentic flavor profiles, and tangible customer value while celebrating Carnival through bold, culturally relevant expressions.’

    Marketing lead Stacey Ryan elaborated on the campaign’s philosophical underpinnings: ‘KRUNCHNIVAL emerged from recognizing that Carnival transcends calendar dates—it represents a cultural consciousness that permeates movement, culinary experiences, celebrations, and social connections. We’re not merely participating in Carnival; we’re redefining how brands can authentically integrate with cultural phenomena.’

    The comprehensive campaign will feature limited-edition menu innovations, exclusive Carnival-themed packaging, in-store experiential activations, and strategic digital engagement across social platforms. Consumers can anticipate seasonal promotions and special offerings throughout the Carnival period, with the KFC Trinidad and Tobago mobile application serving as the primary access point for updates and exclusive content.

    This brand initiative represents KFC’s most substantial investment in Carnival integration to date, combining musical partnerships, influencer collaborations, and visual branding transformations across physical and digital landscapes.

  • Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    Slain fire officer remembered by family, friends, colleagues

    The Arima Tennis Club hosted a solemn memorial service on January 5th honoring fire officer Bruce Lezama, whose life was tragically cut short in a brutal murder that has shaken both his community and colleagues. The 47-year-old paramedic and ambulance driver, last seen on Christmas Day, was discovered dead near his Arima residence on December 30th after family members grew concerned about his unusual silence during the holiday season.

    Dozens gathered to commemorate Lezama’s nearly 18 years of exemplary service with the TT Fire Service, describing him as a pillar of his community whose dedication extended far beyond his professional responsibilities. Colleagues and relatives remembered him as a disciplined professional who frequently volunteered his off-duty time and utilized his paramedic expertise to train community members in life-saving CPR techniques.

    His brother Perry Bengoche shared poignant memories of Lezama’s character: “He was the kind of person who actively supported the community and helped young people. If you asked Bruce for work, he would inquire about your skills and provide the necessary tools—whether purchasing masonry equipment for builders or grass cutters for landscapers.”

    The investigation into Lezama’s death revealed disturbing details. Family members initially became alarmed when they couldn’t reach him post-Christmas. A visit to his property showed his gate open, television operational, and vehicle missing—highly uncharacteristic behavior for the conscientious fire officer.

    Despite the trauma, family members expressed surprising appreciation for law enforcement’s handling of the case. Bengoche noted, “I previously had my issues with police, but these officers treated us with exceptional respect, care, and emotional sensitivity across all departments—local police, forensics, anti-kidnapping, and homicide.”

    Fire officer Wallen Amdros, representing over 200 colleagues from Lezama’s batch, emphasized the victim’s impeccable character: “I cannot say anything negative about him. He never drank or frequented social gatherings, which makes his tragic passing even more perplexing.”

    The family continues grappling with unanswered questions about the motive behind the killing, with cousin Keva Reyes noting, “He lived simply without flashy possessions or expensive vehicles. This might stem from jealousy or envy, but we truly don’t understand.”

    With support from community networks and Fire Service officials, Lezama’s relatives are navigating their grief while advocating for justice, determined to honor his legacy of service and compassion.

  • UN rep: Trinidad and Tobago ‘equally committed’ to US, Venezuela

    UN rep: Trinidad and Tobago ‘equally committed’ to US, Venezuela

    In a pivotal address to the United Nations Security Council on January 5, Dr. Neil Parsan, Trinidad and Tobago’s Permanent Representative to the UN, articulated his nation’s balanced diplomatic stance toward both the United States and Venezuela during an emergency session. The meeting was convened following the dramatic January 3rd military operation where US forces apprehended Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores in Caracas, extraditing them to New York to face narcotics trafficking allegations, to which they entered pleas of not guilty.

    Speaking as a representative of a Caribbean neighbor and a historical proponent of peaceful coexistence, Dr. Parsan acknowledged the gravity of recent developments. He expressed gratitude to the Security Council for its swift response while outlining Trinidad and Tobago’s nuanced position. The ambassador confirmed his government’s awareness of the US military intervention and reiterated commitment to US-led cooperative initiatives aimed at dismantling transnational criminal networks that plague regional security and stability.

    However, Ambassador Parsan emphasized that Port of Spain’s cooperation with Washington does not diminish its equally vital relationship with Caracas. He explicitly stated Trinidad and Tobago’s dedication to maintaining a ‘constructive and respectful relationship with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,’ underscoring continued peaceful relations with the Venezuelan people. This diplomatic balancing act reflects the nation’s aspiration to collaborate with all partners toward a safer and more prosperous hemisphere.

    The emergency session also featured a statement from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who expressed profound concern that the US military action disregarded established principles of international law. Guterres warned that this ‘grave’ action could establish a dangerous precedent for future inter-state relations, highlighting the broader implications of the event that triggered the council’s meeting.

  • Garvin Guerra to go before SoE tribunal

    Garvin Guerra to go before SoE tribunal

    In a significant legal development, Garvin Guerra, son of recently-released businessman Danny Guerra, is scheduled to appear before Trinidad and Tobago’s State of Emergency Review Tribunal on January 6th. The younger Guerra has retained the services of British King’s Counsel Richard John Thomas KC, the same attorney who successfully represented his father, to challenge his preventive detention order (PDO).

    Garvin Guerra was initially arrested alongside his father on November 20th under allegations of gang membership, illegal arms trafficking, money laundering, and unauthorized quarry operations. His detention order specifically accused him of maintaining access to high-powered firearms with alleged intentions to assassinate a government minister and escalate attacks against rival gangs in public areas.

    The legal proceedings gained momentum following the dramatic release of Danny Guerra on January 2nd, when Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander revoked his detention order. This development occurred mere hours after the Guerra legal team escalated their challenge by issuing a pre-action protocol letter to Minister Alexander, threatening immediate High Court proceedings unless the detention was revoked or comprehensive disclosure provided by the January 2nd deadline.

    The Guerra case has drawn attention to the functioning of the SoE Review Tribunal, which defense attorneys have criticized for failing to act with sufficient urgency to protect constitutional rights during the state of emergency. Attorney Thomas KC received official authorization from Attorney General John Jeremie through Legal Notice No. 1 of 2026, gazetted on January 5th and signed January 2nd, to practice in Trinidad and Tobago specifically for this case.

    Background investigations reveal that both Guerras faced previous charges on October 11th for unlicensed aggregate processing, for which they secured $50,000 bail each. These charges stemmed from a major police operation on October 9th that targeted an illegal quarry at Manuel Congo, Guanapo, resulting in the seizure of multimillion-dollar processing equipment and the detention of 18 individuals including the Guerras. All defendants have since appeared in court regarding these separate charges.

  • FRENCHMEN CLIMAX Red Alert

    FRENCHMEN CLIMAX Red Alert

    As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, fashion-forward celebrants at Frenchmen Climax demonstrated that style traditions remain powerfully alive in contemporary culture. The longstanding custom of wearing red for good fortune—symbolizing luck, love, and prosperity in the coming year—was prominently displayed throughout the festivities, though many attendees confessed their choices were equally influenced by aesthetic appeal.

    Tuesday Style Fashion captured the sartorial elegance of the evening, documenting not only the predominant crimson hues but also the emerging trend of soft, off-white tones. The latter choice aligned remarkably with Pantone’s recently announced 2026 Color of the Year: 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, described as a gentle, airy neutral that embodies serenity and new beginnings.

    Among the standout appearances, entrepreneur Adrianna Bryan presented a floral interpretation of the red tradition, while Tashi Nailz World owner Tsahai Douglas incorporated bold red accents into her bejeweled ensemble. The white trend manifested elegantly through Live and Direc Production Director Cheryl Peart, who selected an ivory lace suit, and Select Brands Category Manager Kedish Suckram alongside Kloset Klutch principal Naketa Hosang, who both opted for sophisticated all-white outfits.

    Partygoer Kadian Samuels embraced the festive spirit in a red mini dress from Monokini Collection, while Scotia Wealth Marketing Manager Simone Hull made a striking impression in vibrant crimson. Artiste Tosh Alexander channeled confidence in a body-hugging Babyboo creation, and National Commercial Bank Investor Relations Manager Belinda Williams consciously chose white to symbolize her clean slate approach to the new year.