In a dramatic turn of events, the Bahamas’ most renowned Junkanoo groups—the Saxons, the World Famous Valley Boys, Roots, and One Family—have collectively decided to boycott this year’s holiday parades. This unprecedented move, confirmed after a unanimous vote by group leaders on Wednesday, threatens to disrupt the nation’s largest cultural celebration and significantly impact vendors and organizers. Several smaller B groups are also expected to follow suit, with an official announcement from the Junkanoo Corporation of The Bahamas (JCNP) anticipated soon. The decision stems from escalating tensions between Junkanoo leaders and the Davis administration, particularly over the proposed Junkanoo Bill and the government’s decision to transfer control of the parades to a newly established Parade Management Committee. Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture Mario Bowleg’s recent declaration prohibiting private or competing events under the new system has further exacerbated the rift. JCNP-affiliated groups have long warned that these changes could fracture the Junkanoo community, and the corporation has hinted at organizing independent events in protest. However, their efforts appear stifled, as the JCNP was reportedly denied permission to practice at the Sports Centre on November 23. The fallout has left food vendors anxious, fearing a sharp decline in turnout and sales. Despite increased seed funding announced by the government in September, including a $10,000 boost for Category A groups, the dispute shows no signs of resolution. Prime Minister Philip Davis, who met with JCNP officials earlier this month, has distanced himself from the conflict, stating, ‘Don’t bring me into it.’
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Historical context behind Trinidad and Tobago’s engagement with US, Venezuela
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s position on Trinidad and Tobago’s (TT) involvement in regional security, particularly concerning the escalating tensions with Venezuela, has sparked considerable debate. Critics have labeled her approach as overly aligned with the United States or even “far-fetched.” However, a closer examination reveals that her stance is neither unprecedented nor unreasonable. It is deeply rooted in an 80-year history of strategic cooperation with the US, shared security interests, and a pragmatic assessment of contemporary challenges.
TT’s relationship with the US dates back to the Second World War, when the 1940 Destroyers for Bases Agreement led to the establishment of a US naval base in Chaguaramas and the construction of critical infrastructure, including the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway. These developments not only bolstered the Allied war effort but also laid the groundwork for TT’s modern road network. Although the US presence in Chaguaramas ended in 1963, the two nations have maintained a cooperative partnership through various agreements, such as the Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement and the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. These frameworks have facilitated information-sharing, law enforcement collaboration, and maritime security, which are vital in combating transnational crime, narcotics, and arms trafficking.
Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s concerns about Venezuela’s security developments are well-founded. Recent US legal actions against Venezuelan officials, including former intelligence chief Hugo “El Pollo” Carvajal and President Nicolás Maduro, highlight the gravity of the situation. TT is not insulated from the repercussions of Venezuelan instability, as evidenced by the infiltration of the Tren de Aragua gang, now designated a terrorist organization under TT’s Anti-Terrorism Act. This poses a direct threat to national security, border management, and social stability.
When the Prime Minister asserts that any incursion into TT’s territorial waters will be met with force, she is not echoing US rhetoric but reaffirming TT’s sovereignty and right to self-defense. Her engagement with the US on surveillance, intelligence, and counter-narcotics cooperation aligns with the long-standing strategic partnership between the two nations. This pragmatic approach is aimed at safeguarding TT’s people and borders.
However, this cooperation must be balanced with transparency. TT must ensure that its territory is never used as a staging ground for foreign military operations without full sovereign consent. Diplomatic efforts should continue to prioritize peace, dialogue, and regional stability through organizations like Caricom, while simultaneously strengthening TT’s readiness to defend its frontiers.
In essence, TT’s current engagement with the US is neither subservience nor a novelty. It is a continuation of a historical partnership shaped by shared interests, geography, and the need for security in a volatile region. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar’s approach is not “far-fetched” but a rational extension of TT’s historical trajectory and its responsibility to protect the republic.
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Ban fireworks once and for all
In a heartfelt letter to the editor of Newsday, D. Maharaj, a self-described educated and law-abiding citizen, has passionately advocated for a complete prohibition on fireworks, firecrackers, and other noise-making devices in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). Maharaj argues that these traditional forms of celebration, often associated with holidays like Divali, Old Year’s Night, and Independence Day, inflict unnecessary terror on animals, particularly dogs, and disrupt the peace of countless citizens.
Maharaj highlights the distressing experiences of many pet owners who are forced to spend these holidays indoors, comforting their frightened animals or fearing they might escape in panic. The writer shares a personal account of being unable to leave home during such nights due to their dog’s extreme fear of the loud explosions.
The letter emphasizes that the continued use of fireworks is outdated and unjustifiable, given the widespread suffering it causes. Maharaj calls for immediate action, urging authorities to implement a total ban without further delay. The plea concludes with a resounding message: ‘Enough is enough. No more excuses, no more empty promises.’
This appeal reflects growing concerns about the impact of fireworks on both animal welfare and community well-being, sparking a broader conversation about the need for more considerate and modern forms of celebration.
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Don’t lecture to us, Maduro
In a bold and unflinching open letter to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Curtis A. Obrady of Arima, Trinidad and Tobago (TT), delivers a scathing critique of the Venezuelan leader’s regime. The letter accuses Maduro of transforming Venezuela into a ‘living hell,’ forcing millions to flee due to hunger, fear, and oppression. Obrady highlights the irony of Maduro’s government, which silences dissent and imprisons journalists, now attempting to lecture TT on humanity and deportations. He emphasizes that TT has shown compassion by welcoming Venezuelan refugees, providing them with safety and dignity, but asserts that this compassion does not equate to weakness. The letter concludes with a strong defense of TT’s sovereignty and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s leadership, urging Maduro to address his own human rights abuses before criticizing others.
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Bustr builds Trinidad and Tobago’s creative economy
At just 24 years old, Seth Nurse, an entrepreneur from Arouca, Trinidad and Tobago, is spearheading the development of a ‘creative economy’ in his homeland, with aspirations to expand across the Caribbean. As the CEO and founder of Bustr Media Enterprise Ltd, Nurse has channeled his frustration with the local creative industry’s lack of structure into a thriving business that supports creators, entrepreneurs, and intellectual property (IP) owners. Bustr Media focuses on content development, creative management, media infrastructure, and cultural engagement, aiming to streamline the creative pipeline for films, games, and books. Nurse’s vision is to provide the resources and structure needed to elevate local talent to global prominence. Bustr offers two primary services: extended services, which include development, marketing, legal guidance, and distribution, and commission-based services, where the company acts as a producer for IP projects. One of Bustr’s early successes was collaborating with author Ciara Attong to adapt her novel *Dark and Cold* into a short film titled *One of Iron*. The company also partnered with Accent Game Studios to develop *Riddim Rabbit*, a steelpan-based video game set for release in 2026. Beyond these projects, Bustr is building a robust creative network through initiatives like *WI of the Future*, an online magazine showcasing Caribbean creatives, and *Bustrmrkt*, a touring platform that highlights creators’ work at various venues. Nurse’s journey into the creative industry began at age 14, with stints in drawing, acting, and music. His passion for storytelling led him to film, and he later earned an associate degree in film and video production. The challenges he observed during his studies, coupled with the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired him to create Bustr as a collaborative and supportive business model. Today, Bustr is not only fostering local talent but also laying the groundwork for a sustainable creative economy that could serve as a model for the Caribbean and beyond.
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Rotary Club of Maraval hosts Bubbles n Beerfest on November 8
The Rotary Club of Maraval is set to host its second annual Bubbles n Beerfest on November 8, 2024, at the St Andrews Golf Club in Moka, Maraval. The event, scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM, promises an evening filled with music, entertainment, and charitable giving. Proceeds from the festival will be directed towards vital community projects spearheaded by the Rotary Foundation Committee. Attendees will be treated to two complimentary glasses of Prosecco, two beers, and a delightful array of snacks, ensuring a festive atmosphere. The night will feature live performances by The Collective Classics band, led by Roger Salloum, who will take the audience on a musical journey through the 80s and 90s. Exciting giveaways will also be part of the festivities, adding an extra layer of excitement. Dr. Adele Springer, chair of the foundation committee, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, ‘We are thrilled to bring Bubbles n Beerfest back to our community. The generosity and enthusiasm shown last year made a real difference, and we are excited to see how much more we can achieve together this time.’ Tickets for the event are priced at $375 and can be purchased at Lisa Faye Hand Dyed Silks at the Normandie Hotel in St. Ann’s, Paper Based Bookshop on Alcazar Street in Port of Spain, or by contacting committee members at 760-9714 and 620-1965. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Rotary Club is eager to welcome even more supporters for another memorable evening of fun and philanthropy.
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New date for The Red, Gold, & Green Ball
In response to the devastating effects of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica and surrounding regions, the organizers of The Red, Gold & Green Ball have rescheduled the event to November 16. Originally set for November 1, the gala has been reimagined as a Hurricane Relief Gala, shifting its focus from celebration to compassion, unity, and Caribbean resilience. The event aims to garner support for Jamaica, the homeland of the featured headliner, Junior Kelly. The Red, Gold & Green Ball – Jamaica Hurricane Relief Gala will retain all previously announced performances, including Junior Kelly, Isasha, Jamelody, Ziggy Rankin, Black Chariot, Matsimela, Xixgon International, S Carter & Gilligan, and Lion Twins. Special appearances and tributes will also be unveiled. The gala will feature donation tickets, allowing patrons to contribute financially to regional relief efforts, as well as a canned food and beverage drive, with all collected items delivered directly to aid agencies. Additional relief initiatives will be announced as partnerships develop. Existing tickets remain valid for the new date, and attendees are encouraged to retain their tickets and participate. The event now symbolizes hope, solidarity, and reggae resilience, extending its mission beyond glamour to one of giving back. For more information, visit RedGoldGreenBall on Instagram and Facebook or call 718-6515 for tickets and donation options.
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519’s I Pink I can raises funds for breast cancer patients
October, recognized globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a poignant reminder of the millions of lives touched by this disease. In alignment with this cause, 519 Restaurant hosted its third annual ‘I Pink I Can’ event on October 26 at the C3 Centre in San Fernando. The event, part of the restaurant’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, aimed to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer support. Hundreds of attendees, including notable figures such as former West Indies fast bowler Courtney Walsh, gathered to celebrate the occasion. Walsh, who also marked his birthday in October, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming launch of the 519 brand in Guyana. Michael Rooplal, Director of 519, emphasized the importance of regular health screenings for early detection and urged corporate Trinidad and Tobago to sustain their efforts in cancer awareness and patient support beyond October. The event featured a photobooth, live celebrations, and a portion of the proceeds directed toward cancer-related charities. Rooplal highlighted the community’s unwavering support, stating, ‘We’re proud to play our part in the fight against cancer while providing a memorable experience that brings our community together.’ Kiran Singh, President of the Greater San Fernando Chamber of Commerce, also attended, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the initiative.
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Windies in search of T20 sweep in Bangladesh
The West Indies cricket team is poised to secure a clean sweep in their three-match T20 series against Bangladesh as they prepare for the final showdown in Chattogram on October 31. This potential victory would mark their first series sweep since August 2024, when they triumphed over South Africa 3-0. Since then, the West Indies have struggled, winning only two out of nine T20 series, including the current one against Bangladesh. The first two matches of this series followed a similar script, with the West Indies batting first and securing victories by margins of 16 and 14 runs, respectively. In the opening match on October 27, captain Shai Hope and Rovman Powell led the charge with unbeaten scores of 46 and 44, respectively, propelling the team to a total of 165/3. Bangladesh fell short, bowled out for 149 in 19.4 overs, with Jayden Seales and Jason Holder claiming three wickets each. The second match on October 29 saw the West Indies falter after a strong start, collapsing to 149/9 despite half-centuries from Hope (55) and Alick Athanaze (52). Romario Shepherd and Akeal Hosein then stepped up, taking three wickets apiece to restrict Bangladesh to 135/8. Head coach Daren Sammy has expressed concerns over dropped catches and may consider changes to the starting XI, particularly with Sherfane Rutherford’s poor form. Following this series, the West Indies will face New Zealand in a multi-format tour starting November 5, aiming to avenge their 2-1 T20 series loss in 2022.
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Don’t lectureto us, Maduro
In a bold and unflinching open letter addressed to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Curtis A. Obrady of Arima, Trinidad and Tobago (TT), delivers a scathing critique of the Venezuelan leader and his regime. The letter, published in Newsday, accuses Maduro of transforming Venezuela into a ‘living hell,’ forcing millions to flee due to hunger, fear, violence, and political persecution. Obrady highlights the hypocrisy of Maduro’s regime, which has been accused of silencing dissent, imprisoning journalists, and driving families to seek refuge abroad, now attempting to lecture TT on humanity and deportations. The author emphasizes that TT has shown compassion by welcoming Venezuelan refugees, providing them with safety, dignity, and support—actions starkly contrasting with Maduro’s oppressive governance. However, Obrady asserts that compassion does not equate to weakness, defending TT Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s right to enforce border security and protect the nation’s interests. The letter concludes with a powerful reminder that Venezuelans fled to TT seeking leadership, order, and humanity—qualities absent under Maduro’s rule. Obrady urges Maduro to address his own human rights violations before criticizing others, reaffirming TT’s unwavering support for its Prime Minister and its commitment to standing tall against dictators.