The Rapidfire Kidz Foundation (RKF) commemorated the first anniversary of the Roland I Khan/RKF Play Park at the Debe Hindu School with a vibrant Day of Fun on October 4. The event brought together children from diverse backgrounds, including those from the Lady Hochoy Special School (Penal), migrant children, and kids from the Islamic Home for Children (Gasparillo). RKF President Kevin Ratiram emphasized the foundation’s mission to create an inclusive environment for children facing significant challenges, fostering a culture of acceptance and joy. The celebration featured a variety of engaging activities, including a bouncy castle, novelty games like giant jenga and cornhole, and the beloved presence of Pizza Man, the mascot from Little Caesars Pizza, who delighted the children with his playful antics. RKF Vice-Chairman Johnny Quash highlighted the community’s generous support, including the donation of 25 pizzas by Little Caesars. The event’s overwhelming success has inspired plans to make it an annual tradition, furthering the foundation’s commitment to enriching the lives of children through play and inclusion.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Dowlath: Verbal bullying can leave lasting wounds
In a powerful address at the Secondary Schools Anti-Bullying Conference held on October 15 at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) in San Fernando, Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath emphasized the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and emotionally supportive learning environments in schools across Trinidad and Tobago. Dowlath urged students to use their voices constructively, to heal rather than harm, and to stand against bullying in all its forms. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering holistic growth in students, not just academic excellence. Dowlath referenced the ministry’s anti-bullying code of conduct, which imposes clear penalties for offenders but also focuses on repairing relationships and restoring harmony among students. He stressed that eliminating bullying requires a collective effort from principals, teachers, school safety officers, parents, and students alike. The minister underscored the role of adults in ensuring that every classroom, corridor, and play area is a safe space. The conference, themed ‘Getting to the Root of It: Bullying Identification and Prevention,’ marked its 11th year and featured dramatic skits by students addressing the issue. Dowlath encouraged students to speak up when they witness bullying and to support one another, reminding them that bullying encompasses emotional and verbal abuse as well as physical aggression. He reiterated the ministry’s prioritization of social and emotional learning through its School Support Services (SSS), which include guidance counselors, social workers, and psychologists. Feature speaker Jenna Julien echoed Dowlath’s sentiments, warning students about the profound impact of hurtful words. The event concluded with Dowlath calling for the conference to inspire a nationwide movement of kindness and real change in schools.
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Kellar, Molino in Caribbean Cup Best XI for first round
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Defence Force captain Kevin Molino and central midfielder Cassim Kellar have been named to the Best XI for the group stage of the 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup. The dynamic duo played pivotal roles in securing their team’s advancement to the semifinals, showcasing their talent in a fiercely competitive Group B that included reigning champions Cavalier FC and 2024 runners-up Cibao FC. Defence Force finished second in the group, trailing only Cibao FC. The team’s journey to the semifinals was marked by a crucial 2-0 victory over Cibao on October 1, where both Molino and Kellar found the back of the net. Molino, 35, opened the scoring with a stunning long-range effort in the second minute, while Kellar, 29, sealed the win with a deflected free kick in the second half. Molino also scored the decisive goal in Defence Force’s 1-0 victory over Haiti’s Juventus des Cayes in August. According to Concacaf’s October 14 report, Molino completed 220 passes and registered six shots, four of which were on target, during the group stage. Kellar, known for his tenacity, made 190 passes, seven interceptions, and six successful tackles. Defence Force is set to face Jamaica’s Mount Pleasant Football Academy in the first leg of the semifinals on October 22 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Mount Pleasant, who dominated Group A with four consecutive wins, also had three players named to the Best XI, alongside three from Cibao FC and two from Universidad O&M FC.
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Cleanup at St James Park & Amphitheatre
The St James Park and Amphitheatre, a historic cultural hub in Trinidad and Tobago, is currently undergoing a significant restoration effort led by the St James Community Improvement Committee (CIC). Once a vibrant venue for events like WeBeat St James Live, the space had deteriorated over the years, becoming overgrown with vegetation, a refuge for the homeless, and a dumping site for waste. Under the leadership of President Maurice Simpson and Vice President Keron Moraldo, the CIC has initiated a comprehensive cleanup project to revive the area and restore its former glory. The first phase of the restoration involved removing the fence separating the park from the amphitheatre, which has been repositioned to the curb. Volunteers, including Port of Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne, have joined the effort, using tools like weedwhackers and cutlasses to clear overgrown bushes. The committee aims to create a more aesthetically pleasing environment while fostering community pride and nostalgia. The CIC has also called for partnerships with corporate Trinidad and Tobago to support the ongoing restoration, refurbishment, and revitalization of the space. Originally part of a 1995 ‘master plan’ for tourist development by the then Tidco, the site was envisioned as a cultural corridor within the town center, with plans for improved infrastructure, landscaping, and amenities. The restoration project seeks to breathe new life into this vision, ensuring the park and amphitheatre remain a cherished community asset.
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Abdulah: US strike that allegedly killed Trinis is ‘war crime’
The Alliance of Caribbean People has vehemently denounced the recent US military strike that allegedly resulted in the deaths of two Trinidadian nationals. The incident occurred on October 14 off the coast of Venezuela in international waters, where a vessel suspected of carrying narcotics was targeted. US President Donald Trump claimed the vessel was linked to a designated terrorist organization operating in the Caribbean. However, David Abdulah, an executive member of the Alliance, criticized the action during a media conference at Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on October 16. Abdulah stated, ‘Nobody has the right to engage in extrajudicial killings. Even in open warfare, enemy soldiers must be captured, not executed.’ He emphasized that such actions constitute a war crime under the Geneva Convention, regardless of the victims’ alleged criminal activities. Abdulah also urged Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to retract her support for the strikes, arguing that the narrative of combating narco trafficking is a facade. He warned that any military intervention against Venezuela or an assassination attempt on President Maduro would expose the true motives behind the US actions. In September 2024, the US State Department had denied allegations of CIA involvement in a plot against Maduro.
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Rambarans, Bidaisee star in Red Force Super50 trials
The National Senior 50 Overs Cup, serving as trials for the upcoming regional Super50 Cup, witnessed standout performances on October 15, with players vying for attention from the TT Red Force selectors. At the National Cricket Centre (NCC) in Couva, the Cocrico Warriors secured a commanding 116-run victory over the Steelpan Titans in a rain-affected match. Shatrughan Rambaran starred with a century, scoring 111 off 101 balls, while Navin Bidaisee, a recent West Indies debutant, showcased his bowling prowess with four wickets for 29 runs in five overs. The Warriors posted 275 for four in 37 overs, with Crystian Thurton contributing a brisk 81 off 57 balls. The Titans, chasing a revised target of 297, were bowled out for 180. Meanwhile, at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA) in Tarouba, the Soca Strikers triumphed over the Scarlet Blazers by 106 runs. Cephas Cooper (87 off 96) and Andrew Rambaran (65) anchored the Strikers’ innings with a 115-run partnership, guiding them to 250 in 48.1 overs. Aneal Rooplal and Terrance Hinds led the bowling attack, restricting the Blazers to 144. The final of the tournament is set for October 18 at the BLCA.
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Water safety for all
Recent tragic drowning incidents in Trinidad and Tobago have underscored the critical need for enhanced water safety education. On October 2, 57-year-old Collin Trabulay drowned at Flower Pot Beach, Pointe-a-Pierre, following similar fatalities involving 22-year-old Andrew Curtis Clarke at Penzance Beach and 33-year-old Nigel Dudoon at Columbus Bay in August. These events have reignited calls for greater awareness and preparedness around water bodies. Neil A. Daniel, a seasoned swimming coach with over 34 years of experience and founder of Neil’s Swim School and Tsunami Swim Club, has dedicated his life to addressing this issue. Daniel emphasizes that water safety is not just about swimming skills but also about cultivating awareness and vigilance. He warns against complacency, urging individuals to observe their surroundings, avoid risky behaviors like diving into shallow water, and always swim in groups under supervision. Daniel also highlights the importance of securing open water sources at home, such as pools and tanks, to prevent accidents. He identifies four key signs of drowning distress: the wave, the climb, the stare, and the shout. Daniel advocates for formal swim instruction at any age, stressing that learning to swim is a process requiring time and practice. For those hesitant to start, he encourages taking the first step, regardless of age or fear. In emergencies, he recommends non-contact rescues using tools like sticks or ropes, cautioning against high-risk contact rescues. Daniel’s overarching message is clear: water safety is about respect, vigilance, and preparation to prevent tragedies.
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US steps up diplomacy in Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda to combat narco-terrorists
The United States Southern Command (SouthCom) is intensifying its efforts to bolster military presence in the Southern Caribbean, combining diplomatic engagement with military strategy. This initiative aligns with President Trump’s directive to dismantle narco-terrorist networks operating from Venezuela, which are reportedly exporting cocaine and fentanyl to the United States. On October 15, SouthCom Commander Admiral Alvin Holsey concluded his visit to Grenada with a high-level meeting at the police headquarters in St. George’s. He was joined by Royal Grenada Police Force Acting Commissioner Randy Connaught and National Security Advisor Willan Thompson to discuss bilateral security measures addressing regional threats. SouthCom emphasized the importance of its longstanding partnerships with Caribbean nations in combating transnational criminal organizations and illicit traffickers. Grenada’s government, led by Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, disclosed that the US has sought permission to install radar equipment and deploy technical personnel at the Maurice Bishop International Airport. Meanwhile, SouthCom showcased its military capabilities, including the deployment of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit with AH-1Z Cobra and UH-1Y Venom aircraft, conducting live-fire exercises over the Caribbean Sea. These operations are part of the USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group’s mission to disrupt drug trafficking and enhance homeland security. Admiral Holsey also met with Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Telbert Benjamin, to strengthen regional cooperation. However, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne reiterated his country’s stance against hosting foreign military assets, emphasizing neutrality and sovereignty.
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Replacing VAT with sales tax requires care
In a groundbreaking move, Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has announced a review of the Value Added Tax (VAT) regime, with plans to potentially replace it with a sales tax. This marks a significant departure from the fiscal landscape, where VAT has been a cornerstone since its introduction in 1989. The proposed shift aims to simplify the tax system, ensure revenue preservation, and promote equity, particularly for low-income households. However, the transition requires meticulous planning, including legal amendments, administrative restructuring, and IT reconfiguration, which will take considerable time. The budget also includes measures to make certain food items zero-rated, acknowledging that VAT will remain in place for the foreseeable future. The current VAT system has been a major revenue generator, contributing $6.6 billion in 2023, $9.5 billion in 2024, and an estimated $8.3 billion in 2025. These figures highlight the importance of careful implementation to avoid replacing one set of challenges with another. The idea of a sales tax is not new; it was first considered in the 1980s but was shelved due to administrative complexities. While businesses historically favored VAT, the proposed review signals a recognition of the need to address systemic inefficiencies, such as delayed VAT refunds and audit inefficiencies. A sales tax, applicable only at the point of transaction, could simplify the process and shift focus from what is being purchased to who is purchasing it.
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St Francois Girls’ College Orchestra leads cultural exchange in Panama
In a historic celebration of Caribbean culture, the St Francois Girls’ College Steelpan Orchestra has been invited to lead a series of steelpan workshops and performances in Panama, commemorating the country’s National Day of Calypso on October 17. This initiative, organized by the Center for Arts and Culture in Colón, aims to reconnect the province with its West Indian roots through the vibrant rhythms of steelpan music. The orchestra will conduct interactive workshops for secondary school students across Colón, culminating in a lively concert that honors the region’s rich musical heritage. This cultural exchange, facilitated by Afro-cultural activist Selvia Miller, Ernesto Polanco of the Institute of Art & Folklore, and Aleah Guitan of Trinitica International, underscores the deep historical ties between Panama and the Caribbean. Colón, home to descendants of Trinidadian, Jamaican, and Barbadian laborers who migrated during the Panama Canal construction, has long embraced calypso music. The introduction of steelpan aims to create a melodic bridge between generations and cultures, fostering a renewed sense of pride and memory for the Afro-Caribbean diaspora.