The sports community in Trinidad and Tobago has been buzzing with activity, showcasing a mix of competitive matches and community-driven events. On November 13, the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo witnessed an intense World Cup qualifying match between Trinidad and Tobago (TT) and Jamaica. TT defender Deron Payne demonstrated exceptional skill, effectively screening the ball from Jamaica’s Renaldo Cephas, much to the delight of the roaring home crowd. The match was a testament to the passion and dedication of both teams as they vied for a spot in the prestigious tournament. Meanwhile, the Eastern Regional Indoor Complex in Tacarigua hosted the Schools 3×3 Basketball tournament on November 14. A standout moment saw a Hillview College player skillfully navigating between two Trinity College defenders, highlighting the young athletes’ talent and determination. Beyond competitive sports, the community came together for meaningful causes. On November 15, the TT Cancer Society and Republic Bank organized the Bubbles for Life 2025 walk at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, raising awareness and funds for cancer research. The following day, the Harvard Club on Serpentine Road, St Clair, was the starting point for the 7 to 70 7K event, which brought together runners and walkers of all ages to promote health and wellness. These events underscore the unifying power of sports in Trinidad and Tobago, blending competition, camaraderie, and community spirit.
作者： admin
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Midfield magic missing
Jamaica’s 1-1 draw against Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in Port of Spain on Thursday kept their FIFA World Cup aspirations alive but highlighted persistent issues in their midfield-to-attack transition. The match underscored the team’s struggles to provide adequate support to striker Rumarn Burrell, who was often isolated due to a lack of creative midfield play. Despite a solid defensive performance from Jon Russell and Isaac Hayden, the duo failed to drive the team forward, leaving Burrell to contend with long balls and loose passes. Bobby Reid, once a reliable link in the attacking midfield, continued to struggle, offering little in terms of line-breaking passes or dynamic movement. Head Coach Steve McClaren acknowledged the ongoing challenge of finding the right balance in midfield, a problem that has plagued Jamaica throughout their qualifying campaign. While the team’s wide play produced moments of brilliance, such as Renaldo Cephas’s second-half goal, it also marginalized Reid’s role. T&T’s Kevin Molino capitalized on Jamaica’s defensive retreat with an 85th-minute equalizer, leaving McClaren frustrated but hopeful. Jamaica now faces a decisive match against Curaçao, where a win secures their qualification, while anything less could force them to rely on intercontinental play-offs.
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The social media government
In a striking shift from traditional parliamentary discourse, Senator Anil Roberts has taken to his daily blog to level accusations against the family of St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. This unconventional approach, characterized by short video clips produced over morning coffee, marks a bold new venue for government communication. Roberts is not alone in this endeavor; Phillip Alexander, a fellow Minister in the Housing Ministry, has similarly used social media to voice contentious opinions, including those targeting Venezuela’s executive vice president, Delcy Rodriguez. These online rants have drawn rebukes from the Prime Minister, yet they continue unabated, reflecting a broader trend of politicians leveraging social media to bypass traditional journalistic scrutiny. The Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has not enforced her public demand for Alexander to ‘stay in his zone,’ suggesting a tacit acceptance of this new communication methodology. This shift towards social media as a primary tool for political communication is not without consequences. The pursuit of viral spread often replaces reasoned debate with theatrics, as seen in Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander’s inflation of a plastic bag for local media. This trend not only leaves the public uninformed but also fosters an environment ripe for misinformation and idle speculation, ultimately devolving political discourse into dissonance and despair.
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Alette Liz Williams launches The Media-Ready Masterclass
For nearly two decades, communications strategist Alette Liz Williams has been a driving force behind the scenes, helping organizations in Trinidad and Tobago and beyond achieve credible media exposure. Her expertise has bolstered the visibility of prominent entities such as the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF), PAHO/WHO, the Bocas Lit Fest, First Citizens, and Conference Connection (Suriname). Williams, who also serves as an adjunct lecturer at COSTAATT and the UWI Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business, has emerged as a trusted authority in visibility strategy. She is the lead communications strategist for Iconiq Creative, a US-based agency, and her recent feature in Black Entrepreneur Magazine underscores her growing influence in the field. Now, Williams is taking her expertise public with the launch of The Media-Ready Masterclass, a virtual training session designed to help executives, brands, NGOs, and communications teams understand the enduring importance of earned media and the challenges organizations face in securing it. The session, scheduled for November 20 from 9 am to 12 pm via Zoom, will offer participants downloadable templates, a one-week replay, and access to a live Q&A. Williams emphasizes the widening gap between online content production and genuine visibility, noting that many teams focus heavily on social media and digital tactics without grasping the true value of earned media. ‘The return on investment is richer when a newsroom, station, or journalist chooses to feature your work,’ she explains. ‘That level of credibility cannot be replicated. It changes how the public sees you and how you see yourself.’ Williams also advocates for responsible advertising as a way to support the media landscape, highlighting its measurable impact on public trust and brand value. The masterclass will guide participants through frameworks to identify exposure-limiting gaps, understand journalistic newsworthiness, and position stories to align with editorial needs. ‘I’ve spent most of my career preparing other people for interviews, features, and major announcements,’ Williams says. ‘This masterclass is about giving people the tools to earn that kind of attention deliberately, not accidentally.’ Through her company, Outright Concepts Ltd, Williams has helped clients secure over US$1 million in earned media coverage across local, regional, and international campaigns. ‘There are organizations doing exceptional work that the public never hears about,’ she says. ‘I want to change that.’ To register, e-mail connect@ocl.agency.
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A journey Down Memory Lane
Former Calypso Queen Tameika Darius recently hosted a heartfelt concert, ‘Reflections 2, Down Memory Lane,’ to honor her mother, Angela ‘Angie’ Darius, for her unwavering support and contributions to the family’s musical legacy. The event took place on November 9 at the Little Theatre, Southern Academy of the Performing Arts (SAPA-South), and featured a medley of songs penned by Angie, performed by her daughters and grandson. Tameika, who began her calypso journey at the age of five, was joined by her sister Makeda Darius, also a former Calypso Queen, and her son Xhaiden Darius, the reigning Junior Calypso Monarch. The concert highlighted the family’s deep gratitude for Angie’s love and dedication, with performances including Xhaiden’s ‘The Right to Play,’ Tameika’s ‘Who’s De Man,’ and Makeda’s ‘My People Arise.’ The evening also featured notable artists like Vaughnette Bigford, Roderick ‘Chuck’ Gordon, Renee Fortune, and Freetown Collective’s Muhammad Muwakil, who captivated the audience with their renditions of classic and contemporary calypso hits. The event concluded with a collaborative performance of Muwakil’s 2025 hit ‘Take Me Home,’ featuring Xhaiden, leaving the audience inspired and moved by the Darius family’s musical journey and their tribute to a matriarch who has shaped their artistic paths.
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Rig worker widow’s cry: ‘If not his body, at least bring back Pete’s clothes’
After nearly 11 months of uncertainty, Candacy Phillip and her family are finally seeing a glimmer of closure as efforts to retrieve the remains of her husband, Pete Phillip, have commenced. Pete, an employee of Well Services Petroleum Co Ltd, went missing after the Heritage East Soldado Field rig partially collapsed on December 22, 2022. Presumed dead by the company four days later, his body has remained unrecovered due to the unstable structure of the rig. Candacy, who gave birth to their son Javon months after the tragedy, expressed that even if only his clothing is found, it would provide the family with the closure they desperately need. ‘I’m hoping they find at least the clothes he wore during his last hours,’ she said tearfully. The recovery operation, led by a US-based marine salvage contractor, is now underway, focusing first on stabilizing the rig to ensure safety and environmental protection. Pete’s sister, Paula Baxam, remains hopeful that enough of his remains will be found to hold a proper funeral. The family has endured months of delays, including bureaucratic hurdles and safety concerns, but now awaits the outcome of this critical operation. Meanwhile, the Phillip family’s plight echoes that of others, such as Coast Guard Able Seaman Kieron Simon, whose body remains lost at sea after a counter-narcotics operation in February.
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SEWA TT to send over 1,000 food buckets to Jamaica
In a remarkable display of solidarity and compassion, approximately 150 volunteers from SEWA TT, a non-governmental organization, dedicated their Sunday to packing essential relief items for hurricane-stricken Jamaica. The event took place at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas, where volunteers meticulously filled plastic buckets with food staples, hygiene products, and other necessities. These buckets, designed to be sealable, pest-proof, and reusable, are set to be shipped to Jamaica later this week, aiming to reach those in dire need by early December.
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TTP nominees vow to tackle crime, unemployment
The Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has entered the second day of its rigorous screening process for candidates vying for seats in the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections. The event, held at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on November 16, saw nominees accompanied by enthusiastic supporters as they presented their cases to the party’s screening committee. Led by TPP political leader Farley Augustine, the committee has been meticulously evaluating candidates since November 13, focusing on three of the 15 electoral districts. Among the districts under scrutiny were Buccoo/Mt Pleasant, Plymouth/Black Rock, and Bethel/New Grange. Notably, incumbent Terance Baynes, Assistant Secretary of the Division of Infrastructure, Quarries and Urban Development, was among the two candidates screened for the Bethel/New Grange district. The remaining eight candidates for this seat, including Tynielle Jack and Cloyd Williams, faced the committee on November 16. Earlier in the day, nominees for the Mason Hall/Moriah seat, including incumbent Ian Pollard and first-time contender Allan Stewart, underwent the screening process. Stewart, accompanied by his family, expressed confidence in his performance, emphasizing the importance of youth representation. Retired police officer Bevon Dennis highlighted his focus on safety, security, and employment opportunities for young men. Pollard, seeking re-election, defended his track record, attributing challenges to financial constraints and political opposition. The TPP’s screening process underscores the party’s commitment to selecting capable candidates for the THA elections, with a focus on community development and effective representation.
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All set Gin ‘N’ Juice 31
The iconic party Gin ‘N’ Juice is set to make a grand comeback on December 6, celebrating its 31st anniversary with a special White Christmas Edition. Hosted at Devon House in St Andrew, the event promises to transport attendees to the golden era of nightlife, blending nostalgia with festive cheer. The theme draws inspiration from the enchanting concept of a snowy winter, creating a unique tropical twist on the holiday season. Co-promoter Gregg Smith shared insights into the event’s vision, emphasizing its goal to evoke the serene beauty of snow while offering a vibrant escape for attendees. The celebration will feature musical performances by renowned DJs Delano from Renaissance, Timmy from HMV, and Kurt Riley, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Beyond entertainment, the event also serves as a sanctuary for volunteers who have been tirelessly supporting Hurricane Melissa relief efforts, providing them with a well-deserved break. With meticulous preparations underway, Gin ‘N’ Juice aims to deliver a night of joy, relaxation, and community spirit.
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Lutan Fyah’s Only Jah Knows get video
Renowned reggae artist Lutan Fyah has unveiled the official music video for his spiritually profound single, ‘Only Jah Knows,’ on November 3, 2025. The release stands as a heartfelt homage to the Jamaican communities ravaged by Hurricane Melissa, blending the artist’s signature conscious lyricism with soulful melodies. Originally featured on the ‘Reggae Vibes’ rhythm by Reggae Vibes Music, the track has resonated deeply with audiences for its timeless exploration of life’s challenges and the unwavering belief that only the Almighty comprehends one’s path. The newly launched video amplifies this message by incorporating real footage of the hurricane’s aftermath, juxtaposing scenes of devastation with moments of recovery. Lutan Fyah’s emotive performance, set against this backdrop, transforms the video into a poignant testament to compassion and resilience. By honoring the indomitable spirit of his people, the artist underscores reggae’s enduring role as a beacon of hope during adversity. The ‘Only Jah Knows’ video is now available for streaming on Lutan Fyah’s official YouTube channel, encouraging viewers to reflect, remember, and draw strength from the belief that all things are guided by Jah.