In a stunning display of skill and teamwork, Pleasantville Secondary School delivered a crushing 12-0 victory over Chaguanas South Secondary in the quarterfinal of the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Girls Big 5 competition. The match took place on November 9 at the Lewis Street grounds in San Fernando. Leading the charge was Nikita Gosine, who netted an impressive five goals, while her sister Natalia Gosine contributed a hat-trick. Kiriah Fortune and Zara Chase also made significant impacts, each scoring twice. The dominant performance has set up a semifinal clash for Pleasantville against St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain. Meanwhile, the other semifinal will feature Five Rivers Secondary against the Tobago champions. Reflecting on the victory, Pleasantville coach Brian London expressed confidence in his team’s title prospects, emphasizing their consistent relevance in the competition. Looking ahead to the semifinal, London recalled their earlier 2-1 win over St Joseph’s Convent in the season’s opening Super Cup match. He highlighted the team’s growth through rigorous training, team-bonding exercises, and participation in the Queen’s Park women’s tournament, which showcased their potential when playing their intended style of football.
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Vigil for peace calls for unity, reflection amid regional tensions
On the evening of November 9, a modest yet diverse assembly gathered at Woodford Square in Port of Spain for a candlelight vigil advocating peace. This event coincided with Trinidad and Tobago’s annual Remembrance Day, traditionally a time to honor those who perished in World Wars I and II and other conflicts. However, this year’s vigil shifted focus to address the pressing need for peace and dialogue amidst escalating regional and political tensions. The gathering saw participation from at least ten civil society and religious organizations, including the Concerned Muslims of TT, the Emancipation Support Committee, and the Joint Trade Union Movement (JTUM), among others. Representatives from Muslim, Hindu, and Christian communities, as well as cultural and activist groups, were present. The event was set against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical strain between the United States and Venezuela, a situation that has drawn Trinidad and Tobago into diplomatic crossfire. Recent controversial remarks by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, urging the US to ‘kill them all’ in reference to alleged drug smugglers, and her accusation that Caricom was ‘siding with Venezuela,’ added to the tension. Despite these political undertones, organizers emphasized that their involvement was not political but a collective appeal for peace. Rauold Keith Simon, shaman of the Warao Community of San Fernando, stated, ‘This is not political; this is purely spiritual… We want peace.’ However, his message carried a warning: ‘We won’t take it any more. We will fight back.’ Cacica of the Warao Nation of TT, Anicia Benjamin, offered a somber reflection on the long-term consequences of conflict, drawing parallels to the prolonged recovery periods post-World War II. Religious leaders also used the occasion to emphasize moral responsibility and collective renewal. Pandit Lloyd Mukram Sirjoo, head of the Trinidad Academy of Hinduism, urged greater spiritual engagement from citizens, lamenting the neglect of moments of prayer and reflection. JTUM reaffirmed its support for the initiative, calling for the Caribbean to remain a ‘Zone of Peace’ and warning that military escalation ‘can only be to the detriment of Caribbean people.’ The union stressed that progress ‘requires stability and peace,’ pledging solidarity with all groups advocating for calm and unity.
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Murdered Rio Claro businessman buried
During the funeral of Sylvan Boodan, a 58-year-old businessman tragically murdered on November 3, the officiating imam delivered a heartfelt message to the mourners gathered at his home on Tabaquite Road in Rio Claro. The funeral, streamed live on social media on November 9, became a platform for the imam to reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of living with purpose and compassion. He emphasized that life is a one-way journey, urging attendees to make amends and live harmoniously with others while they still have the opportunity. The imam also stressed the inevitability of death, reminding everyone to prepare for the afterlife and cherish their loved ones, particularly their parents. He encouraged mourners to express their love and gratitude to their parents, as memories are the only remnants left after their passing. The body of Boodan, who was gunned down near his car in Poole Village, was laid to rest at the New Grant Cemetery. The imam’s message resonated deeply, urging everyone to live without regrets and make the most of their time on earth.
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Central cops arrest 4, seize guns, ammo, ganja
In a series of coordinated operations across the Central Division, law enforcement officers have successfully apprehended four individuals and confiscated a cache of illegal firearms, ammunition, and narcotics. The operations, which spanned from November 7 to November 9, were conducted based on intelligence reports and targeted various locations within the division.
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Resilient spirit of pan – Ramesy-Moore says Panorama launch staged without government funds
The launch of Panorama 2026 at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain on November 9 marked a vibrant celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, the steelpan. Despite facing funding challenges, the event showcased the unifying power of pan music, drawing enthusiastic crowds and highlighting the resilience of the steelband community. Pan Trinbago president Beverly Ramsey-Moore described the day as “a happy day,” emphasizing the joy and unity that pan brings to communities. She noted that while the event was staged without government funding, the turnout was “very good,” and the steelpan world continues to enjoy strong support. Ramsey-Moore stressed that pan is not just about the final performance but the entire journey, from community practice sessions to the grand spectacle at the Savannah. She also expressed hope for future government support, particularly for the establishment of a permanent headquarters for Pan Trinbago. The event featured performances by bands like the Royal Stars Pan Symphony and the Laventille Rhythm Section, who volunteered their time and talent. Marabella West councillor John Alibocas, attending his first town launch, praised the event’s ability to bring people together and boost the local economy. Despite the financial constraints, the launch of Panorama 2026 demonstrated the enduring spirit of Trinidad and Tobago’s steelpan culture.
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Two Killed, Several Injured in RTA’s Over the Weekend
A series of devastating road traffic accidents over the weekend in the Cayo District, Belize, has left two people dead and several others injured, prompting urgent calls for enhanced road safety measures. The most severe incident occurred early Sunday morning in Ontario Village, where a car driven by 27-year-old Jovan Middleton struck a culvert and overturned. Middleton died instantly, while his passenger, Ashley Mejia, 27, sustained critical injuries and later succumbed to them. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. In a separate incident on Saturday night, two motorcyclists collided in Teakettle Village, resulting in injuries that required hospitalization. Their current conditions are unknown. Another accident in Belmopan involved a motorcycle and a pickup truck, with the motorcyclist rushed to the Western Regional Hospital for emergency care. Witnesses at the scene alleged that the pickup truck driver appeared intoxicated, further highlighting the dangers of impaired driving. In response to the escalating number of fatal accidents, Chester Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Transport, expressed deep concern, particularly about the rising incidents involving motorcycles. He announced that the ministry is collaborating with the Belize Police Department to intensify highway patrols, establish checkpoints, and enhance officer training. Additionally, stricter traffic laws, already approved by the Cabinet, are set to be presented in the House of Representatives this month. Williams emphasized that while legislative measures are crucial, the collective responsibility of all road users to adhere to traffic laws is essential to curb the alarming trend.
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A new flavour of culture
The Barbados Food and Rum Festival, under the leadership of Carol Roberts, CEO of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), has evolved into more than just a culinary event. It has become a vibrant platform showcasing the island’s creativity and talent. Roberts emphasized that the festival is designed to offer both locals and visitors an unforgettable gastronomic experience, blending traditional Barbadian flavors with modern culinary innovations.
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De China Import Expo als springplank naar de wereldmarkt
The China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, the world’s largest trade fair, has once again proven to be a monumental event, bringing together thousands of exhibitors and visitors from over 150 countries. Spanning an impressive 430,000 square meters, the expo showcases China’s commitment to opening its market and reinforcing its pivotal role in the global economy. The event serves as a critical platform for countries and businesses to strengthen their presence in the Chinese market, fostering innovation and collaboration. Rwanda, for instance, has participated in every edition since the expo’s inception, witnessing a nearly 30% annual growth in exports to China, particularly in the agricultural sector. A standout success story is Rwanda’s chili pepper industry, which secured a $2 million order for chili oil during the first CIIE, leading to the country becoming the first African nation to export dried chili peppers to China in 2021. This initiative has created jobs for hundreds of local women and significantly improved their living standards. Colombia, making its debut as a guest country this year, utilized the expo to introduce products like Arabica coffee, emeralds, chocolate, and beef to the Chinese market. According to Sergio Cabrera, Colombia’s ambassador to China, the CIIE helps businesses adapt to evolving consumer trends and optimize their strategies. From Europe, Angel Prieto, an innovation specialist from Spain, described the CIIE as a ‘magical platform’ where connections between European startups and Chinese industrial chains flourish. The expo is not just about showcasing and selling products but also about building sustainable partnerships. As a participant in the China International Press Communication Center 2025 Program, I had a unique behind-the-scenes look at this global event. The media center provided top-notch facilities, including 5G Wi-Fi and translation equipment, ensuring seamless reporting. The organization was impeccable, from reception to departure, reflecting the immense effort invested in making the event a success. Exploring the vast complex, I encountered diverse exhibits, from Nigeria’s vibrant cultural displays to China’s exquisite Kashmir textiles. World-renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Chanel were prominently featured, highlighting the expo’s global appeal. The CIIE is more than a trade fair; it is a convergence of culture, innovation, and economy, fostering long-term international cooperation and creating unforgettable experiences for participants worldwide.
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Government shutdown becomes longest in US history
The United States government shutdown has now extended into its 36th day, marking the longest such closure in the nation’s history. Initiated on October 1 due to Congress’s failure to agree on a new funding deal, the shutdown has left hundreds of thousands of federal employees without pay and millions of Americans without access to critical services. The impasse between Democrats and Republicans has persisted for weeks, with no immediate resolution in sight, though some lawmakers have expressed cautious optimism about a potential breakthrough. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican, hinted at a possible resolution, stating, ‘I think we’re getting close to an off-ramp here.’ The previous record for a government shutdown was set during President Donald Trump’s first term, lasting 35 days in 2019. The current shutdown has had severe consequences, including delayed paychecks for federal workers and growing concerns about disruptions to air travel. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that certain parts of U.S. airspace might need to be closed if the shutdown continues, as 13,000 air traffic controllers are working without pay. Low-income Americans relying on government assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), have also been affected. While a court ruling mandated the release of contingency funds for SNAP benefits, Trump has suggested that full benefits will only be restored when Democrats agree to reopen the government. The Republican-controlled Senate has repeatedly attempted to pass a short-term funding bill, but Democrats have refused to support it unless Republicans agree to extend healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans. As the November 21 funding deadline approaches, lawmakers face increasing pressure to reach a compromise. Some moderate Democrats and Republicans have shown willingness to negotiate ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, offering a glimmer of hope for an end to the prolonged shutdown.
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PM Browne Denies Claim of Separate ‘YIDA State,’ Says Zone Only Has Satellite Government Offices
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has firmly refuted allegations that his government is considering the creation of an independent ‘YIDA State’ within Antigua, labeling such claims as baseless misinformation. Addressing the issue in a recent online statement, Browne emphasized that the Yida Special Economic Zone operates under a conventional framework akin to similar zones worldwide. He explained that the zone merely hosts satellite offices for government agencies, such as customs and civil aviation, to enhance service efficiency and support investment activities. These offices are funded by the zone’s operators, ensuring streamlined regulatory processes without granting any form of sovereignty or autonomy. Browne’s remarks were in direct response to an article by Real News Antigua, which had suggested that the Chinese-backed YIDA development might evolve into a self-governing entity exempt from Antigua and Barbuda’s laws. The report had further alleged that the zone could establish its own parliament, government, and currency while remaining under the country’s Constitution—a proposal reportedly opposed by some legal experts but allegedly endorsed by Attorney-General Sir Steadroy Benjamin. The Prime Minister’s clarification underscores that the government’s approval is strictly limited to administrative functions aimed at fostering economic growth and simplifying bureaucratic procedures. The YIDA project, initially approved nearly a decade ago, was designed as a private-sector initiative to stimulate tourism and industrial development in northern Antigua.