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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.

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.

In a heartfelt gesture of support, Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin and Ainsley King, president of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO), presented veteran calypsonian Lynette “Lady Gypsy” Steele with a $25,000 cheque. This financial assistance follows the disappointing turnout at her benefit concert, “We Remember You,” held on September 6 at Palms Club, San Fernando, aimed at raising funds for legendary musician Errol Ince, who is now paralyzed due to health complications. Despite her dedication, the event incurred significant debts due to low attendance and unforeseen expenses. The ministry and TUCO stepped in to alleviate her financial burden and contribute to Ince’s ongoing medical care. Minister Benjamin emphasized the importance of supporting cultural icons who have shaped Trinidad and Tobago’s national identity, stating, “Our cultural icons are the backbone of our national identity. We cannot allow them to bear their burdens in silence.” King echoed this sentiment, reaffirming TUCO’s commitment to empowering artistes and preserving the nation’s cultural heritage. Lady Gypsy, while initially critical of the ministry’s delayed response, expressed gratitude for the aid, acknowledging the relief it brought after weeks of financial and emotional stress. Through her Lady Gypsy Help Someone Foundation, she continues to support Ince, who is recovering from surgery and preparing for therapy. The ministry reiterated its dedication to strengthening partnerships with cultural organizations to ensure veteran artistes receive the recognition and support they deserve.

The Rapidfire Kidz Foundation (RKF) is set to transport its guests back millions of years to the age of dinosaurs at its annual gala dinner on November 1. Held at the Achievors Banquet Hall in San Fernando, the event, aptly titled ‘Jurassic,’ will feature a unique Dutch auction of authentic dinosaur fossils, including a spinosaurus tooth and a megalodon tooth. These prehistoric treasures, sourced from reputable websites and accompanied by Certificates of Authenticity, have been artistically framed by Fine Art Ltd. The auction marks a creative departure from the foundation’s usual offerings of autographed sports memorabilia, aiming to raise both funds and eyebrows. RKF chairman Rissa Ramraj-Seepersad highlighted the novelty of the auction, while vice-president Rev Joy Abdul-Mohan emphasized the foundation’s commitment to innovative engagement. The evening will include entertainment by the Shiv Shakti Dancers, vocalists Joel John, Marvin Smith, and David Frank, and calypso and chutney soca artiste Daddy Chinee. A Latin dance competition and champagne giveaway will add to the festivities. RKF president Kevin Ratiram shared that the fossil auction idea was inspired by the TV show ‘Dino Hunters,’ sparking curiosity about the local response to such a unique fundraiser. Proceeds from the event will support the foundation’s charitable projects, including Christmas treats for underprivileged children, hospital donations, and playground maintenance. Ratiram underscored the foundation’s mission, stating, ‘Our main thrust is assisting underprivileged children.’ The Jurassic gala promises to be a groundbreaking event, blending fun, imagination, and philanthropy.