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  • Digicel service disrupted in St Mary, St Ann and Trelawny due to electrical fire on utility lines

    Digicel service disrupted in St Mary, St Ann and Trelawny due to electrical fire on utility lines

    Residents and businesses in St Mary, St Ann, and Trelawny, Jamaica, are currently grappling with significant telecommunications disruptions following an electrical fire that severely damaged utility lines. Digicel, a leading telecommunications provider in the region, confirmed the outage in a statement released early Friday morning. The company attributed the service interruption to the extensive damage caused by the fire, which has compromised its infrastructure.

    Digicel assured customers that its technical teams are on high alert and prepared to commence repairs immediately. However, they emphasized that safety protocols must be strictly followed, and clearance from relevant authorities is required before any restoration work can begin. The company is collaborating closely with the utility provider to expedite the resolution process and minimize the impact on affected users.

    In its statement, Digicel expressed sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused and extended gratitude to its customers for their understanding and patience during this challenging period. The company remains committed to restoring full service as swiftly as possible while prioritizing the safety of its personnel and the public.

  • Carnival in the City launches on November 7

    Carnival in the City launches on November 7

    The National Carnival Commission (NCC) is set to kick off Carnival 2026 with a vibrant launch event at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain on November 7. Titled ‘Yuh Go Love Dis,’ the event aims to foster greater inclusivity and accessibility, bringing the festivities directly to the people. NCC CEO Keiba Jacob Mottley emphasized the commission’s commitment to making Carnival a shared experience for all, stating, ‘The mandate of the NCC is to ensure everyone has access to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival because it belongs to all of us.’ The day-long event, running from 9 am to 6 pm, will feature live performances, traditional Carnival characters, and addresses by Minister of Culture Michelle Benjamin and NCC Chairman Peter Kanhai. Highlights include a lunchtime performance by reigning Panorama Champions Republic Bank Exodus and a children’s zone with cultural exhibitions and activities. The NCC has also partnered with the Port of Spain City Corporation and local police to ensure safety and smooth operations. Additionally, the event will support local commerce by hosting craft vendors throughout the day. This initiative is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate Carnival and measure its economic impact, with the government collaborating with the Inter-American Development Bank on a study to assess its contribution to GDP. Stakeholders, including TUCO president Ainsley King, have praised the launch as a step in the right direction, emphasizing its potential to engage new audiences and celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage.

  • US travel woes mount as govt shutdown prompts flight cuts

    US travel woes mount as govt shutdown prompts flight cuts

    The United States is grappling with significant disruptions in air travel as a directive to reduce flights at 40 major airports took effect on Friday. This measure, aimed at addressing air traffic safety concerns, comes amid a prolonged government shutdown that has left tens of thousands of air traffic controllers and airport security staff without pay. The Trump administration has mandated a four percent reduction in flights, which is expected to escalate to 10 percent by next week. Major hubs such as Atlanta, Newark, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles are among those affected. Over 800 flights were canceled on Friday alone, with American Airlines reporting 220 daily cancellations, Delta Airlines cutting 170 flights, and Southwest Airlines canceling approximately 100 flights. Travelers are experiencing extensive delays, with some airports reporting average wait times exceeding two hours. Authorities emphasize that the reductions are a proactive measure to prevent potential safety hazards. ‘We’re not going to wait for a safety problem to truly manifest itself,’ stated FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

  • Meaning behind Mamdani

    Meaning behind Mamdani

    The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s mayor on November 4 signifies a transformative moment in American politics and a beacon of inspiration in the global arena. At just 34 years old, Mamdani’s triumph is historic: he will become the city’s first Muslim mayor, the first of South Asian descent, the first born in Africa, and the youngest in over a century. His victory, securing 50% of the vote against Andrew Cuomo’s 42% and Curtis Sliwa’s 7%, underscores a significant shift in a traditionally Democratic stronghold, where past mayors like Eric Adams and Bill de Blasio enjoyed far more decisive wins.

  • Volunteerism alive and well in Caroni Central

    Volunteerism alive and well in Caroni Central

    In an era where many communities rely on systemic solutions to address local issues, Caroni Central stands out as a beacon of grassroots activism and volunteerism. Spearheaded by MP Dr. David Lee and Councillor Anil Baliram, a dynamic team of volunteers has taken charge of transforming neglected public spaces and tackling overgrown vegetation, a long-standing problem in the area. With Cepep and URP services temporarily suspended, the leaders adopted a hands-on approach, rallying residents to maintain high-risk zones such as roadsides, recreational grounds, and open lots. This initiative not only ensures cleaner and safer communities but also fosters trust between citizens and their representatives. A particularly inspiring aspect of this effort is the active participation of young people, who are learning the value of civic pride and responsibility through direct involvement. This model of community engagement promotes teamwork, environmental respect, and a shared sense of purpose, leaving a lasting impact beyond the immediate results. As the work progresses, Caroni Central is witnessing the growth of something far more significant than well-kept spaces—a revitalized community spirit that underscores the essence of true governance.

  • Is Studley Park up to the task?

    Is Studley Park up to the task?

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Chief Secretary Farley Augustine recently celebrated the granting of an export licence to the Studley Park Quarry in Tobago, marking a significant milestone for the island’s economic autonomy. The licence, issued on November 4 at the Tobago House of Assembly Legislature in Scarborough, has been hailed as a tangible step towards reducing Tobago’s reliance on external economic support. However, questions linger about the quarry’s ability to capitalize on this opportunity and generate meaningful foreign exchange earnings. Critics argue that outdated equipment and low productivity could hinder the quarry’s ability to meet export demands consistently. Additionally, the regional market for construction materials is highly competitive, with established players dominating in terms of product quality, pricing, shipping reliability, and marketing reach. Without urgent modernization and strategic improvements, the licence may remain a symbolic gesture rather than a catalyst for economic growth. The success of this initiative now rests on the Tobago House of Assembly’s ability to address these challenges and transform potential into tangible results.

  • Preedy launches duet with Patrice Roberts at Acoustic Experience

    Preedy launches duet with Patrice Roberts at Acoustic Experience

    The first-ever performance of the new duet ‘Bacchanal Mode’ by soca queen Patrice Roberts and National Freestyle Champion Akeem ‘Preedy’ Chance became the highlight of Preedy’s Acoustic Experience event on November 2 in St Clair. The intimate backyard venue, chosen for its lush ambiance, was filled with hundreds of patrons who were treated to an unforgettable evening of music and celebration. Roberts made a surprise appearance, joining Preedy on stage just after 9 pm, elevating the event to new heights of excitement and satisfaction. The duo’s performance, despite being a debut, was described as surreal and nostalgic, with Preedy reflecting on his journey as an artist. The event also featured opening acts by Aaron Duncan, Kimba Sorzano, and Tevin Hartman, who set the stage for Preedy’s grand entrance around 8 pm. Preedy, known for his charisma and vocal prowess, captivated the audience for over two hours, weaving musical stories and interacting passionately with fans. The night was further enhanced by performances from Kimi, reggae icon Isasha, and Freetown Collective, with music by Temperature The Band and chorale accompaniment by Armonias Magnificas. Roberts praised Preedy for his determination and growth, expressing pride in his achievements. The event also featured refreshing cocktails by HybridTT and delectable nibbles by Cup of Joe Cafe, with hosts Jynnyn and Akeem 5.0 keeping the entertainment flowing. International culture journalist Jeanette ‘JLova’ Mitchell highlighted Preedy’s role in cultural preservation and his growing artistry. ‘Bacchanal Mode,’ the song and music video, was released earlier this week, marking the beginning of a vibrant Trinidad Carnival season and an exciting 2026.

  • Reflections 2 concert: Former monarchs go down memory lane

    Reflections 2 concert: Former monarchs go down memory lane

    Former calypso queen Tameika Darius is set to captivate audiences with her upcoming production, ‘Reflections 2: Down Memory Lane,’ at the Little Theatre, SAPA, on November 9. Known for her iconic songs like ‘Ah Come Out to Equalise,’ ‘Now More Than Ever,’ and ‘Jahaji Bash,’ Darius has been a prominent figure in the calypso scene since her childhood. Recently returning from the Trinbago Toronto Festival, she is ready to showcase a blend of traditional calypso, jazz, gospel, and storytelling in this unique performance. Darius promises a heartfelt journey through her life experiences, emphasizing family roots, cultural preservation, and the intergenerational transmission of musical heritage. The event will also feature a surprise reveal of honorees and a special guest performer. Joining her on stage is her nine-year-old son, Xhaiden Darius, a prodigious talent who has already made waves as the reigning National Junior Calypso Monarch and Schools’ Intellectual National Chutney Soca Monarch. Xhaiden, who has performed at prestigious events like Barbados-Carifesta XV and the Trinbago Toronto Festival, will deliver several duets. Other notable performers include Roderick ‘Chuck’ Gordon, Vaughnette Bigford, Renee Fortune, and Freetown Collective. Darius describes the show as a celebration of community, continuity, and the enduring vitality of calypso, proving it remains a dynamic and evolving art form. The performance begins at 5 pm.

  • Panorama 2026 launches November 9 at the Queen’s Park Savannah

    Panorama 2026 launches November 9 at the Queen’s Park Savannah

    The 2026 Panorama season, organized by Pan Trinbago, officially commenced on November 9 at the iconic Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain. This year’s theme, ‘Legacy: Ours to Love, Ours to Cherish,’ underscores the cultural and spiritual significance of the steelpan, an instrument born out of struggle, creativity, and community spirit. The event, described as a celebration of rhythm, resilience, and identity, featured libations, prayers, and performances by renowned steelbands such as Massy Trinidad All Stars, bp Renegades, and Republic Bank Exodus. Admission was free, with attendees encouraged to wave the national flag as a symbol of unity and pride. Pan Trinbago President Beverley Ramsey-Moore emphasized the festival’s role in empowering youth, engaging women, and preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural legacy. However, the season faces challenges, including the withdrawal of sponsorship by the National Gas Company (NGC) from three bands and Pan Trinbago itself. Ramsey-Moore appealed for corporate and state support, highlighting the festival’s impact on community development. Despite these hurdles, she remains optimistic about the future of the steelpan movement, stating, ‘Pan will never die.’ The competition begins with single pan band judging on November 12, culminating in the Large Band finals on February 14, 2026.

  • Army win 2nd leg 1-0, but miss out on Caribbean Cup final

    Army win 2nd leg 1-0, but miss out on Caribbean Cup final

    In a thrilling second leg of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup semifinal, Mount Pleasant Football Academy secured their place in the final with a 5-2 aggregate victory over Defence Force, despite a 1-0 loss in Kingston, Jamaica, on November 5. Defence Force, the TT Premier Football League champions, fought valiantly but fell short of overturning the significant deficit from the first leg. Mount Pleasant now awaits the winner of the semifinal clash between Universidad O&M FC and Cibao FC, who are set to face off after press time on November 6. Defence Force’s captain Kevin Molino gave his team a glimmer of hope with a 13th-minute goal, but their reliance on counter-attacks and limited possession (32%) proved insufficient against Mount Pleasant’s solid defense. Goalkeeper Isaiah Williams shone for Defence Force with seven crucial saves, but Mount Pleasant’s first-leg dominance ensured their progression to the final and a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. Defence Force still has a chance to qualify for the Champions Cup through the third-place playoff against either Cibao FC or Universidad O&M FC.