标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In the heart of Tobago’s lush landscapes lies Adventure Eco-Villas, a sanctuary for birds and wildlife, where Agnes and Anthan Solomon have woven a life of love, dedication, and harmony with nature. Their story is one of resilience, cultural fusion, and a shared passion for preserving the environment. Agnes, born in Mabaruma, Guyana, and raised in Georgetown, found her calling in Tobago after a serendipitous meeting with Anthan, a Tobagonian with a deep-rooted connection to the land. Together, they have transformed Adventure Eco-Villas into a haven for both wildlife and visitors, blending their unique backgrounds into a life of service and stewardship. Agnes’ journey from Guyana to Tobago, her reunion with her indigenous roots, and her eventual marriage to Anthan are testaments to the power of love and perseverance. Anthan, a jack-of-all-trades with a background in construction, landscaping, and hospitality, has dedicated his life to maintaining the beauty and functionality of the eco-retreat. Their shared commitment to the environment and each other has created a legacy that continues to inspire. As they guide visitors through the trails, Agnes and Anthan not only share the wonders of nature but also their remarkable story, a testament to the enduring power of love and the importance of caring for the land.

Archbishop Emeritus Edward Gilbert, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church and former Archbishop of Port of Spain, passed away on October 16 at the age of 88. His death was confirmed by the Archdiocese of Port of Spain in an official statement, which expressed deep sorrow over his loss. Gilbert, an American-born cleric, died in a Redemptorist retirement home in Florida, marking the end of a distinguished ecclesiastical career spanning over five decades. Ordained in 1964, Gilbert’s journey in the church was marked by significant milestones. In 1994, Pope John Paul II appointed him Bishop of Roseau in Dominica, where he spearheaded pastoral and structural reforms. Later, in 2001, he was installed as Archbishop of Port of Spain, a position he held until his resignation in 2011, which was accepted by Pope Benedict XVI. During his tenure, Gilbert strengthened diocesan structures, promoted vocations, and fostered collaboration among clergy, religious orders, and laity. His appointment in Trinidad and Tobago, however, was not without controversy. Following the death of Trinidadian Archbishop Clive Pantin, who had served for 32 years, Gilbert’s appointment as an American cleric sparked dissent within the local priesthood. Rev Clyde Harvey, now Bishop of Grenada, resigned in protest, calling the move a “slap in the face” and a form of “re-colonisation American-style.” Despite the initial backlash, Gilbert’s integrity and contributions to the church were widely acknowledged. The Archdiocese extended prayers for his soul and condolences to his family, the Redemptorist community, and all those he served. May he rest in peace.

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.

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.

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.