标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In an era dominated by digital screens and fast-paced living, renowned naturalist Faraaz Abdool presents a compelling case for embracing birdwatching as a transformative practice that offers profound benefits beyond mere hobbyism. This ancient human fascination with avian life now emerges as a vital antidote to modern stressors, combining ecological awareness with personal wellness.

Birdwatching stands as one of the most accessible gateways to environmental connection, requiring no special qualifications or equipment to begin. As Abdool demonstrates through striking photographic evidence from Trinidad’s ecosystems, even urban backyards host diverse species like the spectacled thrush with its distinctive eye-ring and complex songs. The practice democratizes nature appreciation, where smiling at a morning wren’s melody holds equal validity to trekking through flooded forests seeking rare potoos.

The psychological benefits are scientifically substantiated: birdsong actively reduces human stress and anxiety by triggering evolutionary responses that interpret melodic calls as signals of safety. Beyond mental health, birdwatching organically promotes physical activity—from gentle backyard observation to strenuous hikes seeking high-altitude species like the orange-billed nightingale-thrush found above 700 meters.

Crucially, birds serve as environmental indicators whose presence reveals ecosystem health. Piscivorous ospreys, for instance, function as living water quality monitors—their survival depends on aquatic ecosystems thriving with fish populations. This interconnectedness means birders become frontline observers of ecological changes, contributing to citizen science through platforms like eBird that compile global data on migration patterns and species distribution.

The practice cultivates patience and presence in our accelerated world, offering natural meditation through focused observation. Unlike screen-based entertainment, birdwatching exercises eyesight on distant objects and engages cognitive functions through identification challenges. It fosters humility amid continuous learning, especially as genetic research constantly redefines species classification—as occurred recently with Caribbean house wrens now recognized as distinct species including the St Lucia wren.

Remarkably, this pursuit requires no financial investment while offering infinite discovery possibilities across all continents and habitats. From dawn choruses to nocturnal hoots, avian activity patterns ensure rewarding observations at any hour. The journey inevitably expands to appreciate unfeathered fauna too—from unexpected southern tamandua anteaters to tegus that share these ecosystems.

Ultimately, birdwatching represents both a personal pilgrimage and scientific contribution, connecting practitioners to the planet’s last living dinosaurs while grounding them in nature’s timeless rhythms. This convergence of ecological stewardship, wellness practice, and citizen science makes bird appreciation not just pleasurable but essential for contemporary living.

In a remarkable demonstration of corporate compassion, telecommunications provider Flow Trinidad has orchestrated a profound holiday outreach initiative entirely funded and executed by its employees. Nearly 100 staff members recently transformed the Bridge of Hope Children’s Home in Sangre Chiquito into a winter wonderland of joy and celebration on December 13th.

The corporate volunteers arrived adorned in festive attire, complete with Santa hats and jingling bells, bringing an infectious atmosphere of Christmas magic to the residential facility. The Bridge of Hope serves as a critical sanctuary for vulnerable children, providing stability and nurturing during pivotal developmental stages. Flow’s intervention created a day of extraordinary experiences featuring interactive games, musical entertainment, and specially curated treats.

The emotional apex of the celebration emerged during the personalized gift-giving ceremony, where each child received individually tailored presents delivered by an employee portraying Santa Claus. This thoughtful gesture created profound connections between the corporate volunteers and the home’s residents.

Spearheaded by Acting Senior Manager Ellen Seed-Gray, this philanthropic endeavor has evolved into an cherished annual tradition that embodies Flow’s corporate mantra: ‘we do it the best, we do it with spirit.’ Seed-Gray emphasized that the initiative reflects the company’s core values and represents their commitment to sharing seasonal spirit with the broader community.

The Christmas outreach forms part of Flow’s comprehensive community engagement strategy that extends beyond seasonal activities. Liberty Business, the B2B division of Flow’s parent company Liberty Caribbean, recently demonstrated ongoing commitment through sponsorship of the Guardian Group’s Shine 5K race. Subsequent to the November 29th event, Flow directed proceeds to the Autism Support Network TT (Rahul’s Clubhouse) and facilitated furniture donations to educational institutions including a secondary school and homework center.

Trinidad is experiencing an unprecedented surge in requests for basic necessities as Christmas approaches, with Members of Parliament across the island reporting overwhelming demand for food assistance from struggling constituents. The situation has created a critical humanitarian challenge during what should be a season of celebration.

Opposition Leader and Arima MP Pennelope Beckles revealed that her office has received thousands of assistance requests, far exceeding normal volumes. “Constituents and citizens from all corners of the island have reached out seeking assistance,” Beckles stated, “many sharing painful stories of job losses in 2025 and the daily challenges they now face.” She attributed the increased visibility partly to her new role as Opposition Leader but emphasized that the scale of need represents a genuine crisis.

Multiple parliamentarians confirmed they are distributing food hampers and vouchers despite receiving no official allocations for such assistance. Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young connected the heightened demand directly to government workforce reductions: “Since June when the government fired Cepep workers and began firing other workers who are amongst some of the most vulnerable.”

The assistance requests extend beyond food to include rent, medical expenses, employment opportunities, and child support. Port of Spain South MP Keith Scotland reported demand has doubled compared to last year, while Diego Martin West MP Hans De Vignes noted “significant and more than usual demand for assistance given all job losses.”

Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales highlighted the compounding effect of reduced donor capacity: “Traditional donors are unable to provide assistance and my constituency office does not have the kind of resources to meet the growing demand.” He emphasized that thousands who lost their jobs in government programs are facing “the worse Christmas of their lives.”

Government MPs including Oropouche East’s Dr. Roodal Moonilal and La Brea’s Clyde Elder are conducting distribution drives with corporate support, while Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo reported distributing food cards provided by the Prime Minister’s office alongside toy deliveries to children.

The crisis appears likely to extend beyond the holiday season, with Beckles noting she has historically continued support into January when financial pressures typically intensify for vulnerable families.

As Trinidad and Tobago enters its extended Christmas season spanning late November through early January, the nation’s Safety Council has issued comprehensive safety guidelines addressing multiple household hazards amplified during festive celebrations. Council President Junior Peters emphasized that reduced safety vigilance during this busy period significantly elevates risks of accidents, property damage, and potential tragedies.

Electrical safety emerges as a primary concern with surging demand for lighting and decorations. Faulty wiring, damaged appliances, overloaded circuits, and amateur electrical work constitute major risk factors. The Council specifically warns against defective cords that can ignite household combustibles and highlights increased electrocution dangers in damp environments. Recommendations include using only properly rated extension cords, employing three-pin grounded plugs for all applicable appliances, and avoiding circuit overloads.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) safety requires heightened attention during increased cooking activities. The National Petroleum Marketing Company mandates cylinders be positioned at least 1.5 meters from heat sources with secure, leak-free connections regularly inspected. Critical emergency procedures outline immediate responses to gas leaks: ventilate areas, shut off gas supplies, avoid all electrical operations, refrain from using open flames or phones near leaks, and relocate cylinders outdoors with damp cloth coverage.

Chemical cleaning products present additional hazards as households intensify cleaning efforts. The advisory strongly discourages mixing chemicals and emphasizes using single products with proper ventilation and protective equipment. All chemicals should remain in original containers securely stored away from children’s reach.

The comprehensive guidelines further address slip, trip, and fall prevention through proper ladder usage during decoration activities, alcohol consumption moderation during hazardous tasks, and special protections for vulnerable populations including infants, elderly individuals, and those with health conditions. Noise exposure concerns complete the safety recommendations aimed at preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s festive spirit while prioritizing citizen welfare.

For the 42nd consecutive year, the Marionettes Chorale transported over 500 special guests to a realm of musical enchantment during their annual Christmas charity concert at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s. The event, fully sponsored by energy giant bp Trinidad and Tobago (bpTT), welcomed attendees from humanitarian institutions including elderly care facilities, children’s homes, youth organizations, and refugee associations.

The concert featured an artistic blend of classical and contemporary arrangements, including a special medley honoring calypso legend The Mighty Sparrow and nostalgic local Christmas favorites such as ‘Make a Friend,’ ‘Listen Mama,’ and ‘Hooray Hurrah.’ Joshua Villafana from Lady Hochoy Home expressed his enthusiasm: ‘I genuinely anticipate this event—they make us feel welcome, and the performance never disappoints. This year, ‘Take Me Home’ was my highlight.’

A dedicated team of bpTT volunteers collaborated with personnel from the Military-Led Academic Training (MILAT) program, led by Corporal Levi Collins, to provide VIP treatment to all guests. This included coordinated transportation and personalized seating assistance. Collins emphasized the profound impact on volunteers: ‘This experience has shown our trainees the significance of contributing to society. Feeling the appreciation and making a difference is unforgettable.’

The enduring partnership between bpTT and the Marionettes was highlighted by chorale secretary and founding member Joanne Mendes, who noted the overwhelming positive feedback and the critical role of corporate support in sustaining the event. bpTT President David Campbell praised the collective effort: ‘Our staff’s genuine care and respect for every guest magnify the impact of this event. The collaboration with the Marionettes and MILAT generates an irreplaceable energy, especially meaningful during the holiday season.’

The event concluded with bpTT Vice-President Carissa Bissoon escorting 91-year-old Marionettes co-founder and national music icon Jocelyn Pierre to her seat, symbolizing a legacy of artistic excellence and compassionate community engagement that continues to define the Christmas spirit for countless beneficiaries.

In a significant enhancement to bilateral law enforcement cooperation, the United States Embassy has delivered substantial equipment and facility upgrades to the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service’s Canine Unit. The formal handover ceremony occurred on December 17 at the Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTRC), marking another milestone in the ongoing partnership between the two nations.

The equipment donation encompasses specialized tools including a Stihl mist blower with gas canister, Stihl brush cutter with harness, electric pressure washer, canine training equipment including flirt poles and Starmark fetch balls, Kong Classic toys in multiple sizes, and washable dog pads. These resources are designed to enhance the operational capabilities and animal welfare standards of the canine unit.

A notable achievement unveiled during the ceremony was the completion of a purpose-built whelping facility, constructed by Prison Service personnel using materials funded through US Embassy support. This new breeding infrastructure enables the unit to develop its own lineage of working dogs, reducing dependency on external procurement and creating potential for specialized training programs.

Further enhancements included the comprehensive refurbishment of two canine transport vehicles, significantly improving the unit’s mobility and operational readiness for various security scenarios.

The ceremony was attended by Prison Commissioner Carlos Corraspe alongside Deputy Commissioners Hayden Forde, Curtis Guy, and Elvin Scanterbury. The US delegation featured Kelley Whitson, Chief of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, accompanied by Saleem Boochoon and Nathan Johnson. Debbie Jacob, a longstanding advocate for prison rehabilitation initiatives, also participated.

Commissioner Corraspe highlighted the canine unit as “one of the pockets of excellence” within the prison system and emphasized the strategic importance of the international partnership. He reminded officers of their critical role in national security, urging continued pursuit of operational excellence.

Ms. Whitson reaffirmed her office’s commitment to sustained collaboration, while Mr. Boochoon praised the unit’s professional standards and expressed optimism about future joint initiatives.

Concurrently, the Prison Service launched a new rehabilitative program where YTRC residents receive instruction in canine care and treatment. This initiative provides practical vocational skills aligned with the center’s mission to prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society.

In a poignant seasonal reflection, commentator Steve Alvarez contemplates the universal human experience of navigating life’s inevitable challenges alongside moments of profound joy. Writing during the Christmas period, Alvarez observes how both personal hardships—from financial instability and housing struggles to illness and loss—and collective crises like wars and famines test human resilience.

The central thesis examines the fundamental role of governance in managing these challenges. Alvarez argues that citizens delegate crucial responsibilities—education, healthcare, public safety, and community maintenance—to elected officials precisely because these services exceed individual capabilities. This delegation, however, carries immense responsibility that should never translate into exploitation or self-aggrandizement.

With Christmas symbolism as backdrop, the commentary calls for a renewed commitment to servant leadership. Alvarez invokes the Christmas narrative’s emphasis on love and sharing as foundational principles that should guide political representation. The piece advocates for recognizing human diversity as strength rather than division, drawing parallels to the natural world’s varied beauty.

The reflection culminates in an impassioned appeal for national unity in Trinidad and Tobago. Alvarez emphasizes that overcoming life’s ‘storms’ depends not on their cessation but on collective management through political will and mutual appreciation. The commentary closes with a seasonal hope that elected representatives might prioritize service over self-interest, working toward realizing TT’s potential as a ‘perfect paradise’ where citizens unite to improve life for all.