After a 20-year hiatus from the art world, Orlando Griffith, known professionally as ‘Morpheus,’ is making a triumphant return with his debut solo exhibition, ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep.’ The exhibition, set to open on November 21 at Arnim’s Art Gallery in Port of Spain, delves into themes of memory, grief, and the profound power of presence. Griffith’s journey back to art was sparked by the loss of his father in January 2022, who, in his final days, affirmed Griffith’s artistic vision. This blessing reignited a dormant passion, transforming art into a medium for healing and rediscovery. Griffith’s creative process is deeply rooted in reflection and gratitude, with each piece serving as a tribute to the time shared with his father. The exhibition features 60 works, including 30 paintings and 30 fine-art photographs, each capturing moments of stillness and presence in Caribbean nature. Griffith’s unique approach to art, which seamlessly blends painting and photography, invites viewers to slow down and observe the often-overlooked beauty of the world around them. The title ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ reflects Griffith’s belief that dreams, both literal and symbolic, continue to live within us even when we’re awake. The exhibition is not just a return to art for Griffith but a lifelong conversation with presence, evolving into a series that explores different aspects of stillness and observation. Griffith’s work is a testament to the quiet, reflective side of Trinidad and Tobago, offering a counterpoint to the high-energy Carnival culture. His advice to emerging Caribbean artists is to build from what feels honest to them, trusting that small beginnings can carry global weight. ‘Lucid: Dreams Don’t Sleep’ runs until December 5, with extended viewing hours on Mondays and Wednesdays.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Persad-Bissessar: Ralph free to take legal action
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly supported Minister Anil Roberts’ claims regarding alleged irregularities in the acquisition of three luxury apartments by the family of St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. The apartments, located at the upscale Victoria Keyes development in Diego Martin, were reportedly purchased by Gonsalves’ wife, Eloise, and their children, Storm and Soleil Gonsalves, for a combined value exceeding $4.8 million. Roberts disclosed these findings on his social media blog, ‘Doubles and Coffee,’ on November 11, prompting a heated response from the Gonsalves family, including threats of legal action. In WhatsApp messages to Newsday on November 12, Persad-Bissessar emphasized that Gonsalves was free to pursue legal recourse but maintained that the allegations raised legitimate concerns. She highlighted the suspicious timing of a rent-to-own agreement for one of the apartments, which was finalized on April 30, 2025, just two days after Trinidad and Tobago’s general election and before the new government was sworn in. Persad-Bissessar underscored the disparity between the Gonsalves family’s access to luxury housing and the thousands of citizens awaiting affordable accommodation from the Housing Development Corporation (HDC).
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Rescued Venezuelan teen gives info – 4 human-trafficking suspects held
In a significant breakthrough against human trafficking, a 14-year-old Venezuelan girl played a pivotal role in the arrest of four suspected traffickers in Penal, Trinidad and Tobago. Despite the trauma of her ordeal, the teenager displayed remarkable composure and provided critical information to National Security agents, leading to the successful operation. The Ministry of Homeland Security confirmed the arrests in a statement, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the Counter-Trafficking Unit (CTU), the army, and the police. The pre-dawn raid, codenamed Operation Ironheart, targeted multiple locations linked to a suspected trafficking network and resulted in the detention of two Trinidadian nationals and two Venezuelan men on human-trafficking charges. Three other Venezuelans were held for immigration violations. The rescued girl is now under the care of the Children’s Authority. Deputy Director of the CTU, Dane-Marie Marshall, praised the teen’s bravery, stating that her evidence was instrumental in the arrests. Marshall expressed confidence in the strength of the case, emphasizing the CTU’s commitment to prosecuting offenders. She also highlighted the vulnerability of Venezuelan nationals due to geopolitical and economic challenges in their home country. The operation is part of a broader national strategy to dismantle organized trafficking networks. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander commended the collaborative efforts of the agencies involved, reaffirming the government’s resolve to combat human trafficking. According to the US Department of State’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons report, Trinidad and Tobago maintains a Tier 2 ranking, indicating significant efforts to address the issue despite not fully meeting minimum standards. CTU Director Allan Meiguel noted that since the unit’s inception in 2013, 80 individuals have been charged, resulting in two convictions. He urged the public to utilize the CTU’s 24-hour hotline to report potential trafficking cases.
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Kairi People hosts Runaway all-inclusive fete on November 12
Kairi People, a renowned event management and promotion company, has unveiled its latest venture, ‘Beats,’ located at the intersection of Tragarete Road and White Street in Woodbrook. This vibrant new venue combines food, drinks, and entertainment under one roof, offering a convenient and accessible hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, ‘Beats’ will function as a ticket outlet for all Kairi People events, further enhancing its utility and appeal. The launch of ‘Beats’ follows the official commencement of Carnival 2026, which was celebrated last Friday at the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain.
In preparation for Carnival 2026, Kairi People is set to host its highly anticipated ‘Runaway’ event on November 12 at the Southern Ranch in Debe. The event promises an impressive lineup of soca stars and entertainers, including Voice, Patrice Roberts, D All Starz band, College Boy Jesse, Viking Ding Dong, Mical Teja, The Freetown Collective, Blaka Dan, Sackie, Anika Berry, Sekon Sta, and Yung Bredda. Notably, the top-rated A Team Band will make its debut performance at ‘Runaway,’ with its all-new frontline cast officially launching on November 13 at The Bungalow Restaurant and Lounge in St Clair.
These developments underscore Kairi People’s commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences and solidifying its reputation as a leading force in Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant cultural scene.
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News report: Maduro planning guerilla response if US invades
Venezuela is bracing for a potential confrontation with the United States as the USS Gerald R. Ford, the US Navy’s advanced aircraft carrier, arrived in the southern Caribbean Sea on November 11. In response, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered the military to prepare for guerilla-style resistance, deploying decades-old Russian-made weapons and planning sabotage operations at over 280 locations. The strategy, termed ‘prolonged resistance,’ also includes ‘anarchisation,’ a tactic aimed at creating chaos in Caracas to make the country ungovernable for foreign forces.
Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López announced a ‘massive mobilisation’ of military personnel and equipment, with land, air, naval, and reserve forces conducting exercises through November 13. López described the deployment as a response to the ‘imperialist threat’ posed by the US military presence.
The US has been increasing its military assets in the Caribbean since August, citing the need to combat narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, particularly from Venezuela. Since September 2, the US has conducted 19 airstrikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, resulting in at least 75 deaths. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group, which includes over 4,000 sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft, is the latest addition to the region.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth redirected the carrier strike group from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean on October 24, in line with President Trump’s directive to dismantle transnational criminal organizations. Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell emphasized that the enhanced force presence would bolster efforts to disrupt narcotics trafficking and dismantle criminal networks.
Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has endorsed the US military actions, dismissing the Caribbean’s ‘zone of peace’ concept as ineffective. However, a recent peace vigil in Port of Spain, attended by 200 people, was labeled a ‘dismal failure’ by Persad-Bissessar. Attempts to reach her and Defense Minister Wayne Sturge for comments on the USS Gerald R. Ford’s arrival were unsuccessful.
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Respect those who gave their lives for nation
The Remembrance Day parade serves as a solemn occasion to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation, protecting citizens from tyranny. This year, however, marked a notable absence of key political and security figures, including the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, the Homeland Security Minister, and the Commissioner of Police, who traditionally lay wreaths in their official capacities. While the absence of these leaders may have been due to valid reasons, it raises concerns about the diminishing presence of dignitaries at such significant events. The author, Gary Griffith, emphasizes that this ceremony is not merely a military affair but a national observance that requires the participation of all leaders. The Prime Minister, as chair of the National Security Council, and the Opposition Leader, as an alternate commander, hold direct responsibilities over the military. Similarly, the Homeland Security Minister and the Police Commissioner play crucial roles in supporting the Defence Force and protective services. Griffith appeals to those in authority to prioritize this event, dedicating just one hour annually to honor the fallen. Such attendance not only pays respect to past sacrifices but also inspires current members of the Defence Force and protective services, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to those who serve.
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Quarry operators meet ministry officials through third party
The Trinidad and Tobago Aggregate Producers Alliance (TTAPA) has announced the reopening of the quarrying industry following constructive discussions with the Ministry of Energy. Nigel Tenia, president of TTAPA, revealed that the alliance has reached a “level of comfort” after indirect communications facilitated by a third party. While Tenia refrained from disclosing specific details or the identities of ministry officials involved, he emphasized that the licensing process for sand and gravel extraction is now imminent. This development marks a significant step forward for the construction and quarrying sectors, which had faced severe disruptions due to the industry’s shutdown. Tenia highlighted that the decision to resume operations was made in good faith, based on recent assurances from the ministry. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the inconsistent licensing system, which often left operators navigating a bureaucratic maze. The reopening is expected to alleviate the economic strain on approximately 3,000 to 5,000 jobs and stabilize the rising costs of aggregate materials. TTAPA, representing 24 quarry operators, also plans to expand its membership to include other legitimate businesses seeking regularization. The alliance aims to collaborate with the government to streamline licensing processes and promote industry compliance. However, Tenia clarified that the current assurances apply only to existing TTAPA members. The announcement follows a peaceful demonstration by TTAPA on November 6, where the alliance demanded government action to address long-standing regulatory issues. Despite the progress, Tenia noted that formal approvals have yet to be issued, and the ministry was not notified of the announcement beforehand. The Ministry of Homeland Security has not commented on whether the police are involved in ongoing discussions with TTAPA.
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CAL is TT Chamber’s 2025 TT Owned Company of the Year
Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL), the state-owned carrier of Trinidad and Tobago, has been honored with the 2025 Internationally Known T&T Owned Company of the Year Award. This prestigious accolade, sponsored by the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, was announced during the TT Chamber’s Champions of Business: True Stories series, available on the chamber’s YouTube page. CAL emerged victorious among a competitive field of nominees, recognized for its significant contributions to the nation and its impressive international business expansion. The award criteria emphasize corporate excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness, celebrating companies that have established a strong regional or international presence with plans for sustained growth. Past recipients of this award include notable names such as Chief Brand Products, Carib Brewery Ltd, KC Confectionery Ltd, and Associated Brands Industries Ltd. CAL’s dedication to exceptional service, its expansion across regional and international routes, and its role in promoting Trinidad and Tobago’s brand globally were key factors in its selection. Kiran Maharaj, producer of Champions of Business and the chamber’s immediate past president, praised CAL, stating, ‘Caribbean Airlines has become more than a carrier; it is the wings of our region, connecting families, cultures, and nations across 27 destinations in the Caribbean, North and South America.’ The airline’s achievements will be formally celebrated at the Champions of Business Awards gala on November 13 at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad in Port of Spain. Now in its 20th year, the awards continue to highlight the innovation, leadership, and legacy-building efforts that shape Trinidad and Tobago’s business landscape.
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Jordan Vieira lights up national indoor hockey tourney for Parkites
The Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board’s National Indoor tournament continued to captivate fans at the Woodbrook Youth Facility over the weekend, showcasing a series of exhilarating matches. Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC) and Police emerged as standout performers, registering impressive victories across various divisions. In the men’s open category, QPCC dominated with a resounding 19-0 win against Fatima Hockey Club on November 8, followed by a 7-2 triumph over Police the next day. National players Jordan Vieira and Nicholas Siu Butt were instrumental, with Vieira scoring six goals against Fatima and a beaver-trick against Police. Siu Butt also shone, contributing significantly to both victories. In the mixed vets division, Police avenged their earlier loss to QPCC with an emphatic 8-1 win, led by Kiel Murray’s hat-trick and additional goals from Akim Toussaint, Dwain Quan Chan, and others. Meanwhile, Fatima secured a thrilling 5-4 victory over Notre Dame, with Colin Young scoring the decisive goal. The men’s Trinity division saw QPCC continue their dominance, defeating Fatima 8-1 and UWI 3-1, while SHAPE also impressed with a 7-3 win over Fatima. In the women’s Trinity division, Magnolias maintained their lead with a 6-1 win over Paragon, thanks to Samantha Olton’s hat-trick, and a hard-fought 3-3 draw against Police. The tournament is set to conclude on November 22, promising more high-stakes action.
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Prisons officer held with contraband as he reported for duty
A prisons officer stationed at the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) in Golden Grove, Arouca, has been apprehended for allegedly smuggling contraband, including marijuana, into the facility. The officer, who has served for four years, was searched by police from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) upon reporting for duty on November 12 at approximately 8 am. During the search, authorities discovered several packets of plant-like material, cash, and cigarettes on his person. A subsequent search of his vehicle yielded similar items. The officer was arrested and taken to the Besson Street Police Station, where he is expected to face charges. A search of his residence is also planned as part of the ongoing investigation. Acting Prisons Commissioner Hayden Forde was informed of the arrest and emphasized that combating trafficking remains a top priority for the prisons administration. Forde issued a stern warning to his officers, stating that any involvement in trafficking would result in severe consequences, including being transferred to the division where contraband was delivered and facing judgment. He also praised the Prison Service Hotline for providing valuable information and commended the majority of honest and hardworking prison officers who uphold the integrity of the service.