Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce was celebrated in grand style on Friday at the first-ever ATHLOS event, held at Icahn Stadium in New York. The occasion marked a tribute to her illustrious 18-year career, which she recently concluded. Fraser-Pryce, a guest of honor at the women-only professional track and field gathering, was lauded for her unparalleled contributions to the sport. In a heartfelt social media post, ATHLOS hailed her as an ‘icon of the sport,’ honoring her ‘lifetime of speed, excellence, and legacy.’ Adding to the grandeur, American tennis superstar Serena Williams crowned Fraser-Pryce with a bespoke tiara crafted by the renowned luxury jeweler Tiffany & Company, symbolizing her regal status in athletics.
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Targets hit, but
One month into its operation, Jamaica’s Rural School Bus Programme has exceeded ridership expectations, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz announced on Friday. The initiative, which aims to provide safe and affordable transportation for students across rural areas, has seen an average of 16,600 students daily, surpassing the ministry’s initial target of 15,000 for the first 60 buses. However, the programme has faced several challenges, including logistical adjustments, minor accidents, and reports of students falling ill during transit.
During a press conference, Vaz acknowledged these issues but emphasized that no major incidents resulting in injuries or fatalities have occurred. He highlighted instances of disorderly behavior among students and medical emergencies, such as nosebleeds and fainting, which were promptly addressed with the help of drivers, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC), and local authorities. To mitigate these challenges, the ministry has opted to deploy law enforcement monitors on buses instead of assigning wardens, following consultations with the education and finance ministries.
JUTC Managing Director Owen Ellington reported 21 incidents during the programme’s first month, including minor accidents involving third-party vehicles on narrow rural roads. To enhance safety, the JUTC has implemented strict disciplinary measures and onboard monitoring technology to track driver behavior in real time.
Infrastructure issues, particularly the poor condition of rural roads, have also posed significant challenges. Vaz noted that the transport ministry is collaborating with the National Works Agency and municipal corporations to prioritize road repairs in affected areas. Additionally, departure times for some routes have been adjusted by 30 to 45 minutes to better align with students’ schedules and reduce early “dead runs.”
Despite these setbacks, the programme’s popularity has led to concerns about overcrowding, with demand for seats exceeding supply in several parishes. Vaz assured that the government is addressing this by expanding the fleet and improving scheduling efficiency. He also hinted at further adjustments to routes and pickup locations to ensure punctuality and prevent overcrowding.
The Rural School Bus Programme, launched on September 8, currently operates 60 buses across 12 dispatch points, serving 250 schools islandwide. The remaining 44 buses from the government’s initial 110-bus commitment are expected to be rolled out by the end of the current school term. Once fully implemented, the initiative aims to provide safe transportation for students across all 14 parishes, with plans to procure additional buses for future phases of expansion.
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TOOTHLESS!
In a dramatic turn of events at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Curacao delivered a stunning 2-0 victory over Jamaica in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifying final round on Friday night. This defeat marks Jamaica’s first loss in the campaign, leaving the Reggae Boyz in a precarious position in Group B. Curacao’s goals, courtesy of Livano Comenencia and Kenji Gorre, propelled them to the top of the group with seven points, overtaking Jamaica, who now trail with six points. With only the group winner guaranteed a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Jamaica’s fate now hinges on Curacao dropping points in their remaining matches, including the return fixture in Jamaica. The Reggae Boyz must also fend off Trinidad and Tobago, who climbed to third place with a 3-0 win over Bermuda. The match saw Curacao dominate early, with Comenencia’s 25-yard strike in the 14th minute setting the tone. Despite Jamaica’s efforts, including near-misses from Tyreece Campbell and Jon Russell, Curacao’s defense held firm. Gorre’s spectacular goal in the 67th minute sealed the victory, leaving Jamaica’s late VAR-overturned goal by Richard King as a mere consolation. The Reggae Boyz now face a must-win clash against Bermuda on Tuesday, while Curacao prepares to host Trinidad and Tobago in their next fixture.
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Creamery Yogurt partners with Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society
In a significant move to bolster cancer awareness and support, Creamery Yogurt and the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society (TTCS) have forged a strategic partnership. The collaboration was officially announced at a press conference in Port of Spain on September 26, marking a new chapter in the fight against cancer. Under this initiative, for every tub of Creamery Yogurt purchased, $0.50 will be donated to the TTCS, directly funding their cancer education, screening, and patient support programs. This partnership, which runs from October 1 to November 30, aligns with Creamery Yogurt’s mission to foster healthier communities and make a tangible social impact. Anastasia Pickering, Creamery’s brand manager, emphasized that the collaboration reflects the brand’s commitment to wellness beyond its products, encouraging consumers to contribute to a greater cause with each purchase. Liza Yunis, TTCS treasurer, praised the initiative as a vital boost to the society’s decades-long efforts in cancer care. Marć Clarke, marketing manager at Hadco Ltd, Creamery’s local distributor, highlighted the power of private-public partnerships in driving meaningful change. This campaign not only raises funds but also empowers consumers to participate in the fight against cancer, demonstrating that collective small actions can lead to significant societal impact.
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Central FC agree to pay Fenwick long-overdue title bonus
In a significant legal ruling, Central FC has been mandated to compensate former head coach Terry Fenwick for the bonus he earned by leading the club to victory in the 2015 TT Pro League. The High Court, presided over by Justice Robin Mohammed, issued a consent order on September 22, resolving the long-standing dispute between Fenwick, the club, and former director Brent Sancho. The case, initiated in 2020 by Fenwick’s legal team, sought the release of his contractual bonus, which was contingent on the club’s league triumph. Despite Central FC securing the $870,000 prize money in October 2016, Fenwick’s share remained unpaid. Represented by attorney Peter Carter, Fenwick argued that the club had failed to honor its obligations. Carter noted that the consent order signifies Central FC’s acknowledgment of liability, with payments commencing on October 1 and set to continue monthly until the full amount is settled. Fenwick, who previously coached Central FC during the 2013-2014 season, briefly managed Belgian club CS Vise before returning to lead Central FC to Pro League glory in 2015. While the club was not represented by an attorney during the hearing, a director was present and willing to reach a compromise.
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Dragon gas zombie
The United States has imposed a stringent six-month deadline for Trinidad and Tobago to renegotiate the Dragon gas deal with Venezuela, as per the October 8 OFAC license issued by the Donald Trump administration. This contrasts sharply with the two-year waiver granted under President Joe Biden in 2023 and the two-and-a-half-year extension sought by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. The deal, described by some as “resurrected” and by others as “undead,” has become a political battleground, with the US aiming to exert pressure on the Nicolás Maduro regime while influencing Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign policy alignment.
For the ruling United National Congress (UNC), the situation offers a chance to validate recent diplomatic efforts and undermine the People’s National Movement (PNM)’s claims of energy policy success. Dr. Rowley’s resignation earlier this year and his endorsement of Stuart Young were driven by his desire to secure the Dragon deal. However, the UNC’s adept maneuvering has shifted the US stance, potentially eroding what could have been a cornerstone of Dr. Rowley’s legacy.
Dr. Rowley recently described the OFAC situation as “fluid,” expressing concern over the Prime Minister’s declaration that the deal was dead. Meanwhile, Mr. Young’s hasty press conference in April, following a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a critical tweet from Mr. Trump, further complicated matters. The UNC and PNM both face criticism for their lack of transparency, with Mr. Young’s reference to a “30-year license” misleadingly referring only to Venezuelan authorization.
Despite its significance, the Dragon deal’s political impact may be overestimated. Repeated appeals to citizens for credit on abstract future economic benefits, which may never materialize, offer limited political traction.
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All must account for public funds
As Trinidad and Tobago prepares for the 2025/26 budget presentation on October 13, the Joint Consultative Council (JCC) has issued an open letter to Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, emphasizing the critical need for accountability and transparency in public procurement. The JCC highlighted the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act, enacted in 2015 under former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, as a transformative tool for ensuring responsible use of public funds. However, since its implementation in April 2023, the Office of Procurement Regulation (OPR) has reported uneven compliance across public sector agencies. Notably, the Ministry of National Security, which received nearly $7 billion in the last fiscal year, remains among the top non-compliant entities. The JCC stressed that such lapses risk eroding public trust and undermining the safeguards the Act was designed to establish. The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has also been flagged for serious non-compliance. With budget discussions underway, the JCC urged the government to demonstrate decisive leadership by ensuring all public bodies adhere to the Procurement Act, thereby restoring confidence in the management of national finances.
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Good time for fireworks to go silent
The Editor: Fireworks have long been a source of celebration, but their adverse effects on hospitals, doctors’ offices, elderly and children’s homes, businesses, residential communities, and zoos are increasingly alarming. The Emperor Valley Zoo has highlighted the detrimental impact of fireworks’ loud noise levels, which not only distress animals in the zoo but also pets and their families. Numerous accounts detail the difficulties faced by both animals and their owners. Within minutes of fireworks starting, smaller birds exhibit intense fluttering and often die, while other animals show visible signs of trauma. Dogs, with their superior hearing, become frantic due to the echoing noises. Imagine being unexpectedly subjected to such loud blasts—people are left scrambling to comfort their distressed pets. In 2019, the zoo reported the tragic death of a small male kangaroo from shock and trauma caused by fireworks in Queen’s Park Savannah. This incident underscores the urgent need for action. For years, there have been public calls for a complete ban on fireworks. However, if fireworks must continue, they should be strictly regulated. For instance, they should only be allowed on certain public holidays and at specified times, such as between 11:30 PM and 12:30 AM on Old Year’s Night. This would give animal owners time to prepare their pets for the inevitable noise. Additionally, fireworks celebrations should be relocated from social hubs to large, sparsely populated venues. The advent of silent fireworks in 2025, which only illuminate the sky, offers a promising alternative that would be welcomed by the majority of people—and undoubtedly by animals as well. Our animals and the families they are part of cannot continue to endure this suffering. Ishmael Tarouba via e-mail.
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Dennise Demming celebrates 70 with 7K event
While many individuals approaching their 70th birthday might choose to celebrate with a family gathering, an international trip, or an elaborate dinner, Dennise Demming has opted for a unique and inspiring way to mark this milestone. An enthusiastic runner for several decades, Demming will host a 7K race on November 16 at 6 am, starting at The Harvard Club near Nelson Mandela Park in St Clair. The route will encompass the Queen’s Park Savannah and Ariapita Avenue in Woodbrook before returning to the starting point. Demming, a dedicated member of the TT Road Runners for over 20 years, has garnered significant support for the event, including from her son, Dr. Keita Demming, who is traveling from Canada to participate. The primary objective of the race is to encourage individuals to prioritize their health. Demming highlighted the concerning prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Trinidad, emphasizing the societal impact of poor physical fitness. She expressed her concern over the rising number of illnesses and deaths linked to lifestyle choices, which motivated her to organize this event. Demming also stressed that people often delay taking their health seriously, and she hopes to inspire at least 200 participants to join the race. The event is open to everyone, not just her family and friends. Reflecting on her own journey, Demming shared that at age 40, she realized her health was deteriorating and decided to adopt a healthier lifestyle, which led her to complete ten marathons over the years. She has also participated in marathons in Cuba and Canada. To make the event inclusive, Demming has arranged virtual races for friends in England, Canada, and Barbados, allowing them to participate simultaneously in their respective countries. Those interested in supporting Demming’s initiative can register at www.raceroster.com.
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National powerlifting team picked for North American Regional Bench Press Champs
The Trinidad and Tobago Powerlifting Federation (TTPF) has unveiled a formidable ten-member squad to compete at the North American Powerlifting Federation (NAPF) Regional Bench Press Championships in Panama City, Panama, from October 22-25. The team, announced via an Instagram post on October 7, features a mix of seasoned athletes and rising stars, all poised to make their mark on the international stage. Among the standout competitors are Deresay Alleyne and Kezia Hunte, both of whom have already proven their mettle at the NAPF/Pan Am Regional Championships held in the Cayman Islands earlier this year. Hunte clinched gold in the 76kg open category, while Alleyne secured silver in the 84kg open division. Alleyne further cemented her reputation by claiming the overall female title at the National Bench Press Championships in June. The team also includes Rondel Hunte, the overall male winner at the national championships, alongside a diverse group of athletes such as Sabir Abdul-Malick, Shay Grant, and Shaquille Nelson. Rounding out the squad are masters competitors Dale Hosten and Orion Williams, as well as junior athlete Keshav Maharaj. Leading the team as coach is Marlon Belfon, a veteran of the masters category, with Gabre McTair joining as a referee. The team’s participation follows a recent triumph by national champion Joseph McDonald, who set a new world junior record in the bench press category at the International Powerlifting Federation World Classic Junior Powerlifting Championships in September.