Carib Scope

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  • DNO Christmas Shodo : Relive the magic of culture and creativity

    DNO Christmas Shodo : Relive the magic of culture and creativity

    The Dominica News Online (DNO) network is reviving its acclaimed cultural programming this holiday season, bringing back three cherished specials that spotlight Dominican artistic excellence. Originally broadcast in 2021, 2023, and 2024, these meticulously produced showcases highlight the nation’s extraordinary talents across musical performance, comedic arts, culinary traditions, and diverse cultural expressions.

    These programming initiatives were conceived as cultural preservation projects, capturing the vibrant essence of Dominican creativity while providing quality entertainment that resonates with both local and diaspora audiences. The specials achieved significant viewer engagement upon their initial releases, generating widespread appreciation for their authentic portrayal of Dominican cultural heritage.

    This strategic holiday rebroadcast serves dual purposes: introducing these cultural treasures to new audiences while offering dedicated viewers an opportunity to rediscover their favorite moments. The Christmas timing aligns with traditional periods of family gathering and cultural reflection, making the content particularly relevant for seasonal viewing.

    All three full-length programs are currently available through DNO’s digital platforms, providing on-demand access to these cultural documents that collectively form an important archive of contemporary Dominican artistic achievement. The rebroadcast initiative demonstrates media’s role in cultural conservation while leveraging digital technology to make heritage content perpetually accessible.

  • NGC’s $1B LOSS; chairman defends sweeping cuts, blames past mismanagement under PNM

    NGC’s $1B LOSS; chairman defends sweeping cuts, blames past mismanagement under PNM

    Gerald Ramdeen, Chairman of Trinidad and Tobago’s National Gas Company (NGC), has publicly justified sweeping budget cuts implemented by the state-owned energy giant. Framing the measures as essential corrective action, Ramdeen attributed the need for austerity to years of financial mismanagement under the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) administration.

    While NGC reported a substantial $1.6 billion profit for 2024, Ramdeen insisted this figure requires critical contextual analysis. He revealed that the company’s average return on assets stood at a mere 1.6% over the past five years, with return on equity averaging 2.7%—figures he characterized as profoundly inadequate for a national asset valued at $43 billion. More strikingly, the chairman disclosed that concealed within the headline profit was a catastrophic $1 billion loss accumulated by three foreign entities established under the preceding government.

    “The record of the NGC and its subsidiaries under the PNM reveals facts that are stubborn things,” Ramdeen stated, directly challenging former energy officials to publicly account for the vanished billion dollars.

    The chairman accused the previous administration of transforming NGC from a gas company into what he derisively termed the “National Grants Company,” alleging it served as an indiscriminate funding source for activities far beyond its core energy mandate. This fiscal indiscipline, he claimed, persisted over nine years and resulted in NGC declaring unprecedented after-tax losses of $316.2 million in 2020 and $1.3 billion in 2023.

    In response, NGC’s current board has implemented drastic reductions across community, educational, and cultural programs for 2025. Internal budget documents reveal the elimination of numerous initiatives, including:

    – The complete defunding of the $3.8 million i2A youth development program serving fenceline communities
    – Termination of steelband sponsorships affecting Couva Joylanders, La Brea Nightingale, and Tobago’s Steel X Plosion
    – Discontinuation of $7.45 million in sports sponsorships, including the popular “Right on Track” athletics program
    – Elimination of support for the Bocas Lit Fest, Trinidad’s premier literary festival
    – Reduction in human and social development funding by $1.375 million

    These cuts have ignited substantial public backlash and political controversy. Opposition MP Stuart Young condemned the reductions as an “unjustifiable and unforgivable assault on our culture,” particularly emphasizing the cultural significance of steelband funding. Pan Trinbago president Beverley Ramsey-Moore described the move as “a devastating blow” executed without consultation.

    Despite slashing cultural and social programs, the board initially retained certain Christmas commitments including a $1.5 million staff dinner and vouchers for 630 employees, though subsequent decisions significantly reduced holiday event expenditures. The company also maintained a $5,000 gift to 650 employees for NGC’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    Ramdeen concluded that while NGC acknowledges its corporate social responsibilities, future initiatives will be executed “in a prudent and frugal manner” aligned with the company’s primary mission: gas aggregation and sales profitability for the benefit of Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens.

  • Hitting a sour note

    Hitting a sour note

    The Trinidad and Tobago government’s communication approach has once again demonstrated significant shortcomings, particularly evident in its recent handling of the national emblem transition timeline. Through a discreet legal notice issued on December 18, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander authorized a five-year extension for continued use of the former coat of arms, pushing the full implementation deadline to January 2, 2031.

    This administrative decision was enabled by amendments to the National Emblems of Trinidad and Tobago (Regulation) Act, which received unanimous parliamentary support from both the ruling PNM and opposition UNC parties in January. Notably, then-Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar had previously observed that the legislation granted ministers unrestricted authority to extend implementation timelines through ministerial orders.

    While the extension itself represents practical governance—allowing existing inventory of official materials featuring the old emblem to be depleted—the government’s execution has raised eyebrows. The choice to implement this significant national symbol change through a mere legal notice, without public consultation or formal announcement, contrasts sharply with the administration’s approach to other national matters. Notably, the government had convened a press conference to announce the cancellation of the 2025 Independence Day parade, making the low-profile emblem decision particularly conspicuous.

    The Rowley administration’s handling of the emblem modification process has been characterized by missed opportunities. While the incorporation of the steelpan into the national coat of arms received widespread support, the government bypassed comprehensive public consultation regarding other potential modifications. The removal of Christopher Columbus’s ships from the emblem was widely viewed as long overdue, but the process lacked the democratic engagement that could have strengthened national unity.

    This approach has unnecessarily exposed the government to allegations of operating surreptitiously, creating a self-inflicted controversy that could have been avoided through transparent communication and inclusive decision-making processes.

  • Self-belief driving force to success

    Self-belief driving force to success

    In a compelling examination of personal development, a recent editorial explores the transformative power of self-confidence as the fundamental driver of human progress. The piece, originally published in Newsday, presents a thorough analysis of how self-belief serves as the critical differentiator between stagnation and achievement.

    The discourse begins by defining self-confidence as the unwavering conviction in one’s ability to overcome obstacles and accomplish goals. This psychological foundation emerges as particularly vital when facing new challenges—whether professional interviews, business negotiations, or academic presentations—where innate fears and uncertainties typically surface.

    Stanford Graduate School’s Matt Abraham provides scholarly reinforcement, noting that anxiety itself can be harnessed as a source of courage and significance indicator. The editorial further distinguishes between two archetypes: those who remain confined within their comfort zones and those who courageously venture into fear and learning zones, with self-confidence being the decisive factor.

    Dr. Ivan Joseph, renowned motivational coach, contributes the perspective that self-confidence constitutes a developable skill rather than an innate trait. The article outlines four practical strategies for cultivation:

    1. Embracing failure as an essential component of growth, illustrated by Thomas Edison’s persistent experimentation before inventing the lightbulb
    2. Eliminating internal negative dialogue that psychologist Peter Sage identifies as self-sabotaging behavior
    3. Curating social circles exclusively with positive influences that elevate mental states
    4. Committing to relentless preparation and practice, exemplified by world-class performers like Muhammad Ali, Usain Bolt, Keshorn Walcott, and JK Rowling

    The editorial concludes by emphasizing self-confidence’s broader societal implications—preserving family structures, determining children’s futures, and enhancing national productivity. Without this crucial attribute, the author argues, industries would operate suboptimally, children would underachieve, and workers would lack direction, ultimately diminishing collective potential.

  • Coach Randolph Boyce: A wealth of talent in men’s Under-17 football squad

    Coach Randolph Boyce: A wealth of talent in men’s Under-17 football squad

    With the 2026 CONCACAF Under-17 Men’s Qualifiers approaching, Trinidad and Tobago’s national team coach Randolph Boyce has expressed strong optimism about the squad’s potential. The qualifying tournament, serving as the gateway to the 2026 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, will see TT host matches against Barbados, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, and regional powerhouse Mexico at Hasely Crawford Stadium from February 3-12.

    The team entered an intensive residential training camp on December 15 to enhance tactical cohesion and individual skills. The talent pool received a significant boost on December 19 when five UK-based players—Kayden Bancey, Jashaun Christmas, Archie Lovatt, Ate Ormonde, and Eden Ormonde—joined the domestic contingent. This infusion of overseas talent comes as both the U-17 and U-20 national teams conduct simultaneous training camps.

    Boyce, initially appointed as TT’s U-20 coach in August 2024 before transitioning to lead the U-17 program, revealed that response from international players has been overwhelming. San Juan Jabloteh coach Marvin Gordon has subsequently taken helm of the national U-20 team.

    Via a TT Football Association (TTFA) media video released on December 24, Boyce explained the camp’s objectives: ‘The purpose was to bring in the boys after their Secondary Schools Football League season and to evaluate several international players from the US and England. The camp was well-represented and the players have put in the work.’

    The coaching staff has assessed an impressive pool of 42 players, with Boyce particularly enthusiastic about the talent display. ‘We have a wealth of talent,’ he emphasized. ‘What they have displayed shows we have good resources to represent our country well.’

    Evaluation criteria extended beyond technical skills to encompass tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and psychological preparedness. Boyce noted they were assessing ‘how disciplined they are, how they could work as a group together, and how they could function as a team.’

    With approximately five weeks remaining before their opening qualifier against Barbados, Boyce and his staff face critical selection decisions. Practice matches served as examinations of player capabilities, and the coaching team must now evaluate which athletes best meet their competitive requirements.

    The path to World Cup qualification is direct—the eight group winners from CONCACAF’s qualifiers will advance automatically to November 2026’s global tournament in Qatar.

  • Best Dressed Plate announces Caribean culinary winners

    Best Dressed Plate announces Caribean culinary winners

    The culinary world turned its attention to Caribbean gastronomic excellence as Best Dressed Plate unveiled its honorees for the highly anticipated 2025 Caribbean Culinary Impact Awards. Now in its second edition, the awards program has significantly expanded its reach, recognizing outstanding achievements across four distinct regions: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Caribbean itself, through six competitive categories.

    Founder Nneka Nurse, who also serves as Academy Chair for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, revealed the strategic thinking behind this year’s expanded format. “The introduction of regional honorees acknowledges the substantial influence and numerical strength of the Caribbean diaspora in these critical markets,” Nurse explained. “This approach highlights the undeniable global reach of our cuisine while celebrating its diverse expressions across different cultural contexts.”

    The awards ceremony introduced two special recognitions this year: the Sylvia Hunt Lifetime Achievement Award and the Best Culinary Destination Award. The inaugural Sylvia Hunt honor was presented to Chris DeLarosa of Caribbean Pot, a Trinidad-born culinary pioneer based in Canada. DeLarosa received recognition for his decade-long mission to democratize Caribbean cooking for global digital audiences. Meanwhile, the Grenada Tourism Authority captured the Best Caribbean Culinary Destination award, celebrated for successfully positioning the ‘Spice Isle’ as a premier gastronomic tourism destination.

    Jamaican culinary talent demonstrated remarkable dominance across all regions, securing twelve recognitions and underscoring the island’s significant culinary export influence. Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados also delivered strong performances, reinforcing their status as culinary leaders within both the region and diaspora communities.

    Nurse emphasized the organization’s commitment to elevating Caribbean cuisine and its practitioners: “Best Dressed Plate is dedicated to honoring the men and women who not only preserve our history, legacy, and identity through their craft but also continuously innovate to position our cuisine at a global level. These awards celebrate our hardworking, innovative chefs and kitchen professionals across the Caribbean and diaspora. The moment for Caribbean cuisine has arrived, and through these awards, we aim to inspire our people while guiding global appreciation for our culinary traditions.”

    The complete list of honorees showcases the rich diversity of Caribbean culinary talent, with winners representing multiple islands and categories including Trailblazing Chef of the Year, Rising Star Chef, Best Restaurant, Excellence in Culinary Entrepreneurship, Outstanding Food Content Creator, and Best Food Truck/Pop-Up Vendor across all four recognized regions.

  • Brioche buns at home

    Brioche buns at home

    NAOMI ANDERSON

    PORT OF SPAIN – In the vibrant culinary landscape of Trinidad & Tobago, Unicakery has established itself as a pioneering force in artisanal baking education. Founded by seasoned pastry expert Naomi Anderson, this innovative studio has demystified the art of brioche-making for home enthusiasts through its structured workshops.

    The distinctive characteristics of brioche – its golden crust, tender crumb, and subtle sweetness – originate from its enriched dough composition. Unlike conventional breads, brioche incorporates substantial quantities of eggs, butter, and milk, creating a hybrid texture that bridges the gap between traditional bread and pastry. This versatility allows for both savory applications like gourmet burgers and sweet preparations such as French toast.

    At Unicakery’s professional facility, brioche serves as a fundamental teaching tool for introducing students to enriched dough techniques. The studio’s systematic approach begins with precise measurements: three cups of all-purpose flour combined with granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt form the dry base. The wet components – warm milk and two large eggs – are carefully whisked before incorporation.

    The mechanical kneading process, executed using stand mixers with dough hooks, spans approximately ten minutes until achieving optimal elasticity. Critical to success is the gradual incorporation of softened unsalted butter, allowing each increment to fully emulsify before adding subsequent portions. The resulting dough should present as smooth and slightly tacky without excessive stickiness.

    Shaping techniques involve dividing the dough into uniform portions hand-kneaded into spherical forms. After placement on baking trays with adequate spacing, the buns undergo a 30-minute proofing period until achieving 50% volume expansion. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes produces the characteristic golden-brown coloration.

    Anderson emphasizes technical adjustments: “For novice bakers, incremental flour additions can correct overly hydrated dough. An egg wash application pre-baking enhances visual appeal through glossy surface finishing.” The completed brioche buns demonstrate excellent freezer stability and can be refreshed through gentle reheating.

    With twelve years of professional pastry experience, Anderson has cultivated Unicakery into both a specialty dessert destination and educational hub. Her pedagogical philosophy prioritizes technical understanding and confidence-building, enabling students to replicate bakery-quality results in domestic kitchens. The institution continues to expand its culinary outreach through community classes and creative mentorship programs.

    For additional information regarding baking courses and schedules, visit www.unicakery.com or follow @unicakery across social media platforms.

  • New Year’s brunch in style

    New Year’s brunch in style

    As the calendar prepares to turn to 2026, culinary enthusiasts are presented with the perfect opportunity to welcome the new year with an exquisite seafood brunch that celebrates Caribbean culinary traditions. Food expert Wendy Rahamut presents an array of sophisticated yet accessible dishes that transform locally sourced ingredients into memorable gastronomic experiences.

    The centerpiece of this culinary celebration features a salt cod and potato casserole, a reinterpretation of Caribbean salted fish that combines flaky cod with tender potatoes in a creamy, herb-infused sauce. For elevated appetizers, individual shrimp thermidors make a remarkable comeback with their luxurious Parmesan gratin topping, while spicy crab fritters offer a crispy, flavorful bite that awakens the palate.

    The menu diversity continues with a Caribbean seafood quiche that beautifully incorporates local shrimp, fresh herbs, and creamy egg custard within a flaky pre-baked crust. Each dish demonstrates how traditional techniques can be adapted for contemporary celebrations while maintaining authentic flavor profiles.

    Critical to the success of these dishes is proper technique: the shrimp thermidor requires careful temperature control to prevent curdling while achieving perfect gratinization, while the salt cod casserole demands precise soaking and preparation of the salted fish to balance flavors. The crab fritters offer flexibility with both frying and baking options, accommodating different dietary preferences.

    All ingredients highlighted in these recipes are readily available within local markets, allowing home cooks to source fresh components while supporting regional producers. The comprehensive recipes provide detailed measurements, step-by-step instructions, and alternative preparation methods to ensure successful execution for cooks of varying experience levels.

    This culinary approach not only creates an impressive New Year’s spread but also honors Caribbean food heritage through modern interpretations that maintain cultural authenticity while appealing to contemporary tastes. The combination of textures, flavors, and visual presentation makes this seafood brunch an ideal way to commence 2026 with culinary sophistication and cultural appreciation.

  • Ricky Jaipaul eyes Red Force first-class team place

    Ricky Jaipaul eyes Red Force first-class team place

    In an inspiring sports narrative, Trinidad and Tobago cricketer Ricky Jaipaul has dramatically reignited his national team prospects after nearly a decade in international wilderness. The left-arm orthodox spinner, now representing Marchin Patriots, has forced his way back into selection contention following an impressive performance in the 2025 CG United Super50 Cup tournament.

    Jaipaul’s return to the Red Force setup marks his first national appearance since 2017, when a split webbing injury prematurely ended his tournament participation against Barbados. His recent campaign saw him emerge as the team’s second-highest wicket-taker with six dismissals across three completed matches, while recording the tournament’s fifth-best economy rate at 3.48 runs per over.

    The 31-year-old’s journey back to elite cricket represents a testament to perseverance amid professional adversity. His original exit from the national team coincided with the emergence of fellow left-arm spinners Akeal Hosein and Khary Pierre, both of whom advanced to West Indies selection during Jaipaul’s absence.

    Rather than abandoning his ambitions, the Chaguanas-born athlete maintained his competitive edge through local club cricket with Merry Boys and Central Sports. During this period, he achieved the extraordinary feat of capturing all ten wickets in a single innings—a rare accomplishment in cricket history.

    Jaipaul’s resilience stems from challenging life circumstances that saw him leave his family home at age 15. Forced to mature rapidly, he balanced landscaping work with cricket development, eventually establishing his own landscaping business, RL Landscaping, which he continues to operate alongside his sporting career.

    The spinner’s motivation was further tested in 2023 when he suffered a severe compound thumb fracture during a championship final. Medical professionals warned he might never regain full finger mobility, making his subsequent return to competitive bowling particularly remarkable.

    His national recall came via a phone call from selector Rajindra Mangalie, which reduced the cricketer to tears of fulfillment. “It was my dream to actually play cricket for TT,” Jaipaul reflected. “It was the happiest moment of my cricketing career.”

    Despite his successful return, Jaipaul remains focused on continuous improvement, targeting selection for Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 first-class campaign. His philosophy—”Even if you think it’s over, it never is until you give up”—encapsulates the determination that has defined his extraordinary comeback journey.

  • Hello World makes it a hat-trick of Gold Cup titles

    Hello World makes it a hat-trick of Gold Cup titles

    In a spectacular display of equine excellence, the champion racehorse Hello World cemented its legendary status by capturing an unprecedented third consecutive Gold Cup (Grade I) victory at Santa Rosa Park in Arima on December 26. The Boxing Day event culminated with Hello World, under jockey Dillon Khelawan’s expert guidance, demonstrating remarkable dominance by pulling away from stablemate The Goddess Nike in the final stretch to secure a 2.5-length triumph.

    The historic victory places Hello World alongside racing immortal Airofaith, who last accomplished the Gold Cup three-peat in 1958. Trainer John O’Brien, celebrating his tenth Gold Cup victory, watched as his two top contenders—Hello World and The Goddess Nike—executed a strategic race after early leader Sneaky Cheeky set the pace.

    Despite a troubled start that nearly left him at the gates, El Chico Malo mounted an impressive recovery to claim third position under jockey Jovika Boodramsingh, with Valiante finishing fourth under Richard Balgobin.

    The day’s co-feature, the Grade II Juvenile Championship, delivered equal drama as King Jumbie produced a stunning late surge under jockey Jovika Boodramsingh to overtake Sweet Bird and Dream Maker in the final 40 meters. The Lexter Alexis-trained colt secured a half-length victory in a breathtaking finish that required photo review to confirm placements.

    With the racing calendar expanding from 12 to 15 events in 2026, O’Brien expressed optimism about the sport’s rejuvenation, noting the substantial turnout and Hello World’s potential for Horse of the Year honors following its Stewards Cup and Gold Cup successes.

    The 2026 season is scheduled to commence on January 24, with anticipation already building for Hello World’s next chapter in racing history.