In a thrilling conclusion to their T20 series, the West Indies secured a resounding five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Chattogram on October 31, completing a clean sweep of the three-match series. Middle-order batsmen Ackeem Auguste and stand-in captain Roston Chase were the architects of this triumph, delivering a match-defining 91-run partnership that steered the visitors to a commanding total of 152/5 in just 16.5 overs, successfully chasing Bangladesh’s 151 all out. Auguste’s explosive 50 off 25 balls, including five sixes and a boundary, complemented Chase’s equally impressive 50 off 29 deliveries, which featured five fours and a six. Despite early setbacks, the duo’s heroics turned the tide in favor of the Windies. Bangladesh, opting to bat first after winning the toss, relied heavily on opener Tanzid Hasan’s brilliant 89, but the hosts struggled to build substantial partnerships. The West Indies bowlers, led by Romario Shepherd’s hat-trick (3/36), Khary Pierre’s economical 2/23, and Jason Holder’s 2/32, dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup. Shepherd’s hat-trick, achieved across two overs, was a highlight, though he remained unaware of the feat until informed by his teammates. Amir Jangoo, replacing captain Shai Hope, contributed a solid 34, while Rovman Powell and Gudakesh Motie ensured the Windies crossed the finish line with ease. This victory underscores the West Indies’ dominance in the series and their ability to perform under pressure.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
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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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Back to base: Soldiers, sailors on high alert
The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force has been placed on heightened alert as Parliament prepares to debate an extension of the state of emergency. This development coincides with international media reports suggesting an imminent US military strike against Venezuelan targets. The immediate call for all active soldiers, sailors, and air guard officers to report to their encampments has sparked widespread anxiety and a surge of rumors. An internal directive ordered all military personnel to report to their respective bases by 6 pm on October 31, including those on pre-retirement leave, sick leave, or vacation, who were instructed to remain on standby. The message emphasized, ‘This is not a drill,’ urging personnel to make necessary personal arrangements. Reports from the Miami Herald and Bloomberg, citing anonymous sources, indicate that the Trump administration is preparing to escalate its campaign against Venezuela’s Maduro government, accused of facilitating narco-trafficking. Bloomberg noted that President Trump hinted at potential military operations, stating, ‘The land is going to be next,’ following a series of maritime strikes against suspected drug-running vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since mid-September. These operations are part of Trump’s renewed anti-narcotics drive targeting alleged drug trafficking routes linked to Venezuela and regional criminal networks.
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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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UN Human Rights head: US attacks on boats illegal
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has strongly criticized the United States for its airstrikes on boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, which are allegedly linked to drug trafficking. Türk asserts that these actions violate international human rights law. In a statement released on October 31, Türk revealed that over 60 people have been killed in these attacks since early September, with no justification under international law. He emphasized that these operations, framed by the US as part of anti-drug and counter-terrorism efforts, fall under international humanitarian law but still fail to meet the stringent requirements for the use of lethal force as outlined in international human rights law. Türk called for immediate, independent, and transparent investigations into these incidents. He acknowledged the complexities of combating drug trafficking but urged the US to adhere to international legal standards, including relevant counter-narcotics treaties. Türk advocated for the use of established law enforcement methods, such as intercepting boats and detaining suspects under criminal law, rather than resorting to lethal force. The US has not named any other countries involved in these operations, but reports suggest that the US is also considering strikes on Venezuelan military bases. The Trump administration has labeled Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro a narco-terrorist, a claim Maduro denies, accusing the US of attempting to orchestrate a regime change. Maduro has called for peace, stating that Venezuela will defend itself against any external threats.
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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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Sturge declines to confirm whether Defence Force on high alert
In a tense exchange during the House of Representatives’ Urgent Questions segment on October 31, Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge refused to confirm whether Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force personnel had been ordered to return to their bases. The question was posed by Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales, who sought clarity on the matter ahead of the debate on extending the state of emergency. Sturge cited Standing Order 27 (g), which allows ministers to withhold information if its disclosure is deemed contrary to the public interest. Despite the minister’s evasive response, an internal message revealed that all military personnel were instructed to report to their respective bases by 6 pm on October 31. The directive also extended to officers on pre-retirement leave, sick leave, or vacation, who were ordered to remain on standby and prepare for potential confinement. The message emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, ‘This is not a drill.’ The developments have raised questions about the government’s preparedness and the implications of the ongoing state of emergency.
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US warship leaves quietly amid Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela fallout
The USS Gravely, an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided-missile destroyer of the US Navy, concluded its five-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago on October 30, departing from the Port of Port of Spain amidst significant regional and international controversy. The vessel’s presence, which included joint training exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, further strained relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accused Trinidad and Tobago of collaborating with the US and the CIA to provoke military confrontation in the Caribbean, claiming the visit was part of a broader plan to destabilize Venezuela. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissar, however, welcomed the destroyer’s visit, praising the US military’s regional efforts, including anti-drug trafficking operations. The departure of the USS Gravely was marked by minimal public attention, with only a small group of onlookers present. Among them, a man of Chinese descent criticized the ship’s appearance, calling it a ‘piece of junk.’ Most bystanders avoided engaging with the media, citing fears of online backlash given the heated debates surrounding the visit. A local driver, who chose to remain anonymous, defended the US’s role as a regional ally, emphasizing Trinidad and Tobago’s long-standing cooperation with the US in areas such as military training and surveillance. He also criticized local media coverage of the event, accusing journalists of being unprofessional and failing to hold those in power accountable.
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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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Guardian Holdings records $237m in profit
Guardian Holdings Ltd has demonstrated sustained growth in its third quarter, posting a profit of $237 million attributable to equity shareholders for the period ending September 30. This marks a significant 20% increase, or $40 million, compared to the $197 million reported in the same period last year. The company’s consolidated financial statements attribute this growth to the expansion of its core insurance operations across English-speaking Caribbean nations, the Dutch Caribbean, and the Netherlands. Chairman Robert Almeida emphasized the group’s commitment to sustainable, long-term value creation, supported by operational efficiencies, disciplined cost management, and favorable market conditions. Key achievements during the quarter included a robust performance ratio, a substantial rise in earnings per share from $2.58 to $5.52, and a 28% increase in return on equity. Additionally, Guardian Holdings successfully refinanced its $1.02 billion bond by issuing a $1.05 billion secured multi-tranche bond. On October 3, credit rating agency CariCRIS reaffirmed the group’s ratings of CariAA- on the regional scale and jmAAA on the Jamaican national scale, maintaining a stable outlook. Almeida also highlighted the group’s strong capitalization and regulatory compliance. Insurance revenue for the quarter grew by $109 million, reaching $1,588 million, while other operating expenses increased by $37 million to $244 million. The board proposed a third quarterly dividend of 23 cents per share, bringing the year-to-date total to 66 cents per share, a 43-cent increase over the previous year. For the nine months ending September 30, the group reported a profit of $1,281 million, a 114% increase from the prior year, driven largely by the sale of Thoma Exploitatie BV in January. Excluding discontinued operations, the group’s profit from continuing operations stood at $630 million, a 7% increase over the previous year. Almeida noted that the core insurance operations remain robust, with insurance service results outperforming the prior year by $207 million or 34%.