As part of its cost-cutting exercise, the University of Trinidad and Tobago is now looking at shutting down some of its 13 existing campuses.

The plan is part of the university’s massive restructuring exercise which started on May 11 with the retrenchment of over 50 academic staff. In line with this, the university will be giving up all campuses deemed surplus to its operations

“The plan was to keep six teaching locations. There is a report but they keep changing it,” a UTT source who did not want to be identified told the T&T Guardian.

It is expected that UTT will give up the Chaguanas (Agora) campus once the main university campus in Tamana is opened.

“They have already met with staff there and indicated this,” the UTT source added.

Agora, which is the only building owned by UTT, will either be rented or leased. It is also suspected that one of the Teachers’ Colleges—Valsayn or Corinth will be closed.

“But this is the fallout if they close Valsayn, the people may gravitate to another institution close by and if they closed down Corinth, people in the south may look to go to the University of the West Indies Campus in Debe,” the source said.

“UTT O’meara may be either sub-rented or given up altogether and Corinth most likely to be given back to the Ministry of Education. Discussions are still underway.”

When contacted for comment on this move, a UTT official who wished not to be identified, declined to speak on the future status of the campuses, but said there are three independent teams “working on the same campus project…Quality Assurance, Capital Projects and the Consultants.”

In January this year, UTT’s Campus at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) in San Fernando was closed down.

Chairman of the Board of Governors, Professor Ken Julien, had previously issued a release confirming that the main university campus at Tamana will be fully utilised to consolidate several programmes now being offered at its 13 campuses and any newly-approved programmes.

Meanwhile, the T&T Guardian was also told that within the last three years, UTT had hired at least 48 academic staff, including four professors, paying out approximately $4 million in salaries per month. The salaries ranged from $12,000 to $45,000 per month. Among the positions hired from October 2015 to December 2017 were: three Instructor Is ($12,000 to $15,000), four Instructor IIs ($15,000 to $18,000), 19 Senior Instructors ($18,000 to $28,000), 11 Assistant Professors ($22,000 to $32,000), two Associate Professors ($24,000 to $34,000) and four Professors ($35,000 to $45,000).

According to a UTT official, it was partly-based on these exorbitant salaries and the fact that academics was deemed to be overstaffed that the university started its retrenchment process with those staffers. So far, 57 academic staffers have received dismissal letters and an additional 287 non-academic staff members are also expected to be dismissed, Education Minister Anthony Garcia confirmed in the Senate late last month. According to these figures, an estimated total of 346 staffers will be losing jobs in the exercise. Garcia also confirmed that apart from staff cuts, other preliminary action to reduce costs at UTT is expected before the start of the new 2018-19 academic year.

On May 18, at a media conference, UTT’s deputy chairman and acting chairman of the Board of Governors, Prof Clement Imbert, indicated that as the retrenchment continues among the 125 academics, next to go will be about 20 managers and four vice presidents.

Relatives of 50-year-old Chaitram Shane Maharaj are now disputing reports that he jumped to his death from the second floor of the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, on Saturday. Saying Maharaj was blind, relatives said yesterday that they intend to have a second autopsy done and to seek legal advice.

His nephew Amir Khan, in an interview with Guardian Media, said last Tuesday his uncle complained of sudden severe blurred vision. On Thursday, Maharaj was taken to the hospital and immediately warded because the cause could not be determined, as he was not suffering from high blood pressure or diabetes. Khan said when relatives visited Maharaj the next day he was scared to come off the bed, as he could not have seen anything at all.

“He wanted to use the bathroom but he was frightened to come off the bed so we had to lift him and help him find his way to the bathroom,” Khan said.

Khan said he was therefore totally baffled by the fact that his uncle would have been able to leave his bed and jump to his death given his condition.

He said on Saturday the doctors called in the family.

“The hospital called my aunt, carried her in a room and told her that when someone drinking and they stop that they react and my uncle started to react violently, so they restrained him on the bed.

“But two months he didn’t drink alcohol because he was staying by my aunt and she is a strict Christian and she does not allow that,” Khan said.

Khan said later on the family was told his uncle was able to free himself, walk past the nurses’ station and jump to his death.

“That is impossible because he cannot see. How would he be able to make himself quiet there and knowing he was scared to even come off the bed the day before.

“We asked the nurses and they said they don’t know anything. So I told her there must be a handover and she should have been informed. She said no and they told us to come off the ward,” Khan said.

Khan said his uncle was a mechanic who loved life and never showed any suicidal tendencies.

In a press release on Saturday, North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) CEO Davlin Thomas had said the patient had a history of addiction.

“I can’t give details about him for a number of reasons, but he became violent and eventually just jumped from the second floor,” Thomas had said.

The NCRHA said it was working closely with the police to locate a next of kin and thus was unable to release any further details of the incident.

The NCRHA said later in a statement it was saddened over the death of one of its patients.

“Our quality department is conducting an investigation into the incident. As the facts of the investigation are gathered, further information will be shared with the media,” the statement said.

But Khan yesterday said the family was further traumatised by this statement, saying, “The NCRHA is blatantly lying. All the time they have been calling us, so how they lying and saying they are trying to locate the next of kin? We brought him in and they took our information and contact.

“They are portraying my uncle to be an alcoholic with no family. Why are they lying? Unless it’s something more and they are covering up.”

Khan said when he requested a copy of the CCTV footage from the hospital he was told the cameras were not working.

Police believe they have made a breakthrough in the shooting incidents that have been taking place in Rampanalagas village over the last few days with the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect.

The man was arrested by Ag Cpl W Cpl Lezama of the Toco Police Station and 16 charges were laid against him.

He is expected to be taken before a Sangre Grande magistrate today to answer the charges.

On information received over the weekend, a team of police officers attached to Sangre Grande CID and Toco Police Station went to Rampanalagas where the wanted man was confronted and arrested by police officers.

He was taken to the Sangre Grande Police Station where he was interrogated and statements recorded. He was then charged with 16 offences, including eight counts of shooting with intent, possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm to endanger lives, possession of an unlicensed firearm and malicious damage to a vehicle.

For the last few days, villagers had been living in fear because of frequent shooting in the peaceful village of Rampanalgas. Two people were killed, several wounded and just last week an 80-year-old pensioner was shot.

Toco police had beefed up patrols in the village, a popular tourist attraction along the northeast coast, following the incidents.

Villagers, however, were forced into self-imposed curfews starting at 7 pm.

The team of police officers involved in the arrest included ASP Mario Romain, Insp Lutchman, Cpl Raphael, Ag Cpl WPC Lezama, Pc Singh Gadhar and Pierre. Police said warrants have also been obtained for the arrest of more men.

The People’s Mall in Port-of-Spain has once again been hit by fire.

In the latest incident, firefighters responded to a blaze just before 1 am yesterday which destroyed thousands of dollars worth of clothing and merchandise.

A kitchen was also affected.

Mervyn Richards, a board member and shareholder at the mall, also referred as the Drag Mall, said four stores received the brunt of the damage.

He, however, ruled out the possibility that a dispute involving tenants may have led to a fire being maliciously started.

None of the other nearby businesses were affected and many of them were open for business yesterday.

“Everybody here has an understanding. With the two tenants who got the most damage, as far as I know, everything is well with them and with the rest of the people,” Richards said yesterday where he was on site surveying the damage done.

On plans to assist the affected tenants, he said the board will have to come together to discuss the matter before a decision is taken.

“We supposed to have a normal board member meeting this Thursday coming and of course the fire will be the top priority,” Richards said.

He said all the stores were closed when the fire took place, adding there were security officers posted by the location.

“This street is always busy so it’s hardly likely at that at that hour that if someone came to do sabotage, somebody would have seen,” Richards said.

“We have a guy a little higher up the street who was a member of the mall who sells cigarette. He is out quite late so he would see from the front and if they come from the back there is security at the mall and they would not be allowed to come on the inside.”

When contacted yesterday fire officers said the cause of the blaze was still unknown. They said they are expected to return to the scene today.

Video footage of the fire was posted and widely shared on Facebook yesterday.

This is the third fire at the mall within the last few years.

In 2015, a car battery exploded causing a million-dollar fire and destroying 140 booths. In 2017, a blaze destroyed stalls at the mall with losses estimated at $300,000.

After that fire, Richards said promises were made by the government to assist in the rebuilding process but to date, nothing has taken place.

“Our intention is to build over a mall for ourselves and we don’t want to lose ownership in the sense that if they help you they want to take control. We want a building that will uplift business in Port-of-Spain,” Richards said, noting they were speaking about the development of a proper mall structure.

He said this was expected to start within the next three to four years.

One tenant who did not want to be identified said he was grateful the entire mall was not reduced to ashes.

On how the fire may have started, he said, “It could have been electrical or any other thing. But the real issue is many people affected now and they need help.

“Thank God the fire didn’t affect me but it affects me as well because if the other people affected I cannot function.”

He praised the fire officers for what he said was a timely response.

Police are now investigating the murder of a vegetable vendor in Tunapuna yesterday.

The dead man has been identified as Wayne ‘Jarro’ Clarke.

Police said Clarke was at his stall at the corner of Green and Balthazar Street around 11.30 am when he was attacked.

When police arrived on the scene the found Clarke on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head.

Police said Clarke was a former prisoner.

In an unrelated incident, officers of the Northern Division Task Force yesterday found one pistol and a quantity of ammunition during an anti-crime exercise conducted in Tunapuna on Saturday.

According to police reports, officers acting on information went to Sesame Street, where they conducted a search in a bushy area. They found a plastic bag containing one Blazer Lorcin pistol loaded with a magazine containing three rounds of .38mm ammo, a bleach bottle containing 11 rounds of 9mm ammo and 143.2g of marijuana.

No arrest was made in connection with the find.

Meanwhile, officers of the Eastern Division Task Force recovered a pistol and a home-made shotgun following a report of a man being seen with a firearm at Sahadeen Trace, Vega De Oropouche, around 10.45 pm, on Saturday.

Officers went to the location after being contacted and observed a man walking along a track with an object resembling a firearm in his possession. Upon seeing the officers, the man ran off. A search of the area resulted in the shotgun and Browning pistol being discovered. However, the man escaped.

President of the Zoological Society of T&T Narine Gupte Lutchmedial says the 50 offspring of a boa constrictor which recently gave birth will soon be released into the wild

The snake was rescued from a Diego Martin home last month and showed signs it was pregnant. It was subsequently kept at the Emperor Valley Zoo until it gave birth last Friday between 7 and 8 am.

Asked yesterday whether the zoo could keep all 50, Lutchmedial said it would not be wise to do so. He confirmed some of the young snakes would be released at various parts of T&T as it would be good for the wildlife.

“It is our responsibility (collectively) to support what is ours and we must continue to be proud as a nation regardless of colour, creed and race.

We must stand together strong.” These were the words of Brian Gopaul in an interview with the Trinidad Guardian.

Gopaul is the new franchise holder of Miss World T&T (MWTT). He added that the pageant is a great opportunity and it is the country’s responsibility to ensure great representation on the international stage.

Who exactly is Brian Gopaul and why did he decide to bid for the franchise?

Gopaul, who studied Agriculture at ECIAF (Eastern Caribbean Institute of Agriculture and Forestry) was always a very creative child. He was extremely good at taking control of things and transforming it. As he grew older the boy became interested in pageantry and the age of 16, he held his first pageant ‘Miss Gasparillo Composite’ at the Gasparillo Composite School.

As he grew, so too did his passion for all things related to beauty and transformation. Thus, he ventured into Events Planning and Decorating eventually becoming one of the best in his field. Together with his business partner Reiaz Mohammed, he set up his business—Elite Planners Limited.

Almost 20 years later, Gopaul finally got the opportunity he always seemed to miss. “Past delegates of the MWTT pageant notified me that the franchise was available since they thought I would be ideal for the role. They were pushing me to bid. I did some research and spoke to well known people in the field and I decided to send in my application.”

Being awarded the franchise was no easy task for Gopaul. “The members of the MWTT Organisation was very particular since they wanted to ensure the franchise is well represented,” he explained. After the organisation checked the credibility of both Gopaul and Mohammed (who is now the codirector of MWTT), they were awarded the franchise.

So what does Gopaul hope to do with the franchise and what is his role and vision? To this question he answered:

“I want to ensure that our country is well represented on a national level and to ensure that the selection process is fair and that we are proud as country.”

Gopaul added that he hopes to restore the faith in the population in pageantry. “Somewhere along the line, we have lost faith. I think there is a breakdown in society and we need to attend to it. Sometimes all it takes is just one hand.”

The theme of the MWTT pageant is Beauty with a Purpose and Gopaul intends to use this platform to fulfil that purpose.

“We want to use this platform to raise awareness. It is not just for young women but we can use these women to share positive influence on children.

We are going to educate, improve and uplift the spirit of young people across the board. Additionally, we will use this platform for national building and as a national drive. We need national pride and we need to engage the public so everyone can realise their role in taking T&T out there.”

The franchise holder insisted that MWTT is the platform to promote tourism stating that it has the largest viewership across the board.

Gopaul has a lot of hope that these things will be accomplished since he has complete faith in his dynamic team which consists of well known professionals.

This pageant is more than beauty,” he said. “The training the girls will receive is second to none. It is more than just make-up. We want to ensure that these girls are well-equipped in things like International Affairs, Art, History and Culture, Protocol, Health and well-being, Social Media Education, Etiquette and Networking and so much more.”

The new franchise holder has high hopes for this competition and he admits that the support has been overwhelming. “People are looking forward to change” he said.

To the young women of Trinidad and Tobago Gopaul sent out this message: “Follow your dream. Every dream beings with a dreamer and always be the best you can possibly be. We always have personal work to do on ourselves.

It does not end with a pageant.”

Gopaul also requested the help of everyone including the Government and ministries.

He said, “MWTT has an ambassadorial role in representing T&T and at the end of the day it is all about representing the country and putting country first.”

The casting call for MWTT took place last weekend at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Centre. The ten successful candidates selected will be presented to the media soon.

Ag Police Commissioner Stephen Williams said the interest of people for each other in communities ensures their community is safe.

Matelot police station recorded the largest percentage of deduction in crime among all local police stations, with less than 20 serious crimes being recorded in Matelot Village in 2017. Because villagers look out for each other and work with the police, Matelot has declared itself as the safest community in Trinidad.

“Definitely Matelot is the safest community in the land,” said Ag CoP Williams in his address at Sangre Grande Regional Corporation function honouring Eastern Division Police held at the Chamber’s Hall.

The top CoP said there is a big lesson on how people live with each other and how well they relate to protect their community.

He added that he cannot package Matelot and sell it to other communities and commanders of TTPS, but they must learn and share to make T&T a better place.

Williams said when Eastern Division got nine awards as well Best Leader commendation there were grumblings, but reminded that Snr Supt Garth Nelson took up the challenge which led to success.

Williams added that the Eastern Division is monitored on a weekly basis on its progress and getting awards and being the best leader does not happen by accident but with good leadership and that’s why the Eastern Division won its awards last year.

Councillor for Matelot and Chairman of Sangre Grande Regional Corporation Terry Rondon expressed elation over the announcement and pledged the support of the corporation and Municipal police in assisting TTPS in crime fighting.

Rondon related his experience growing up in Matelot where his mother would send him to distribute food to the police officers stationed at Matelot, which developed a relationship with the police, villagers, especially parents and children.

Rondon called upon parents to develop a harmonious relationship with the police in their communities for a better and safer T&T.

He also congratulated Nelson, the 2017 top leader of TTPS and his officers with a plaque for outstanding dedication and commitment to duties in making Eastern Division Region, a safe place.

Also attending the event and making positive comments were Dianne Lakhan, Chief Executive Officer SGRC; ACP Mc Donald Jacob, ACP Municipal Police; Brian Headley; Insp Erica Prito; and, Councillor Anil Juteram who gave the vote of thanks.

RALPH BANWARIE
 

It’s definitely an event not to be missed. Truly a red carpet spectacle with spectacular glitz, glamour and of course couture.

A-Listers like former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam, ace cricketer Dwayne Bravo, famed hairdresser Bally and international model and photographer Calvin French among several other prominent people will all be in attendance at the biggest event of the season—the premier of the The Right Kind of Wrong.

An estimated 400 guests are expected to turn up at the premier gala at Central Bank Auditorium, Port-of-Spain on June 14 which begins at 7.15 pm, with the actual theatrical show beginning at 8.30 pm.

It’s an amazing play directed and reproduced by veteran actor and prominent playwright Fareid Carvalho.

And in true Carvalho style, he promises everything over the top, from the hors d’oeuvres and premium drinks to the production itself.

Carvalho, who has dominated children’s theatre for the past 17 years, is returning to adult theatre with a bang with the recent establishment of Carvalho Theatre.

In speaking about play he describes it as a farce comprising six cast members.

“It’s more than comedy. All patrons will not only get a fantastic comical show with superb acting but with many tasty hors d’oeuvres, exquisite drinks and of course free giveaways,” Carvalho promises.

It’s based on a Rico Suave character who is dating three flight attendants from three different airlines all at the same time but each having no knowledge of the other.

There’s also an obnoxious housekeeper who knows of his charades.

Then there is also Robert from Biche, played by Carvalho.

Robert, who is clumsy and nerdy, comes to Trincity for the first time, and gets enthralled in this comical but precarious situation.

“I was motivated to do the play because of the specific timing of a farce. It’s really about doors opening and closing very quickly.....so as one girl goes in one girl comes out. It actually has the audience aghast for breath,” Carvalho explained.

But moreso, the play signifies a triumphant achievement in Carvalho’s career as it’s the first time he will be in the director’s chair.

“After 17 years of hiring directors I wanted to challenge myself even more. I believe my personality is a rolling stone that gathers no moss.

“I’m always trying to push my creative envelop and to me acting, modelling, King of Carnival competitor, producer, creative director....to add this directing element will be the closure of doing all aspects of theatre.

I’m also a creative director so creatively the costumes and the set of the play are amazing,” Carvalho explained.

The main stars of the show are all men, a feature which Carvalho describes as significant.

His character, Carvalho added, also gives sound business advice.

This aspect triggered many treasured memories for the famed actor whose grandfather Manuel Carvalho, an Portuguese immigrant, came to T&T decades ago.

Manuel, who passed last year at 83, started off as a humble tradesman who quickly turned into a shrewd businessman, establishing Carvalho’s ice cream, Carvalho’s chicken and chips and owning the everpopular and iconic Green Corner in Port-of-Spain.

Manuel’s traits of hard work and determination as well as sound family values have been passed on to his grandson

“My grandfather taught me that family is the most important thing and that you could only trust family as they will go the distance for you.

“He also told me to ‘be alive when you’re alive’,” Carvalho said

The production runs from June 14 to June 17 at the Central Bank Auditorium and will include a blockbuster cast with the likes of Cecilia Salazar and Dese Simon.

And with June 17 being Father’s Day, “two for one specials” are being offered.

Carvalho Theatre is also geared towards igniting public conversations inspired by comical and fabulous characters and also help citizens explore where T&T is heading as a nation.

“There are also serious messages like who we are and where we came from,” Carvalho noted.

But he’s also using adult theatre to develop young upcoming actors by offering job opportunities and create platforms for rising starts to network and engage seasoned members of the theatre fraternity.

Can there be pan without the demonium? Are there ‘demons’ ruling pan – roaming among the pan world hence the bacchanal and confusion from its embryo stage to adulthood, today?

This culture of destructive drama cannot continue to be marketed as integral to this angelic instrument called pan – “allyuh ent see anything with pan is confusion and bacchanal?” many assert.

The word pandemonium originated in the 17th century and comes from the Greek words “pan” meaning all, and “daemōn,” demons.

Prior to my introduction to playing the pan in 1974, the era when my uncle – the late George “Sonny” Goddard – was president of the then-called National Association of T&T Steelbandsmen Association (Natts) and prior to his tenure, every meeting (on pan) was embroiled in cuss-outs and ended with chair-flinging and walk-outs.

Cigarette-puffing, drink-in-hand, hot-tempered, boisterous individuals, had pan in the palm of their hands – their role: to ‘develop’ the fraternity, the art form, sweeten culture and promote the instrument.
Sad though, while the instrument was developed and is being further… meeting acceptance, awakening pleasure and gaining appreciation, globally, personal and key aspects of professional development – respect; confidentiality; professionalism; proper planning, organisational, communication and customer service skills; integrity, trustworthiness; and healthy team spirit – are still in the wings waiting to make its debut centre stage.

While one could boast of having gained relevant knowledge or training, the harsh reality is, the measurement that determines if these talents are effectual is not by simply stating they are our core values, we attended a course or got certified, but solely by the calibre to which self, others, tasks and the business itself are managed or lead – how many people in and out of the fold are satisfied; have we created/do we create ill-will or alienation…how many have fallen away; have we placed the establishment into disrepute; am I honest; what is the world saying; where are we on the success grid – the lyrical question: am I an asset or a liability?

In 2009, a man named Keith Diaz was appointed as President of the governing body for pan, Pan Trinbago Inc. He is admirably noted for having introduced and implemented a series of initiatives that would see movements shift laterally and vertically with a view, that the vertical lever would constantly spiral upward.

Almost 20 years in office nonetheless, the lever seems to have become rusted and falling apart, prompting vociferous calls internationally, for him and his Pan Trinbago band to demit office.

The raging, incessant confusion transpiring with financial accountability, the battle with the Ministry of Culture, the fall-outs with the overarching carnival body, NCC; the lack of receptiveness, objectivity and open-mindedness to advice for betterment, frustrated pan players, internal wrangling – mass turmoil – position the world to sit-up and take note that the “governing body for pan” in the ‘mecca of pan’ hasn’t gotten it right.

It’s not only, that “Everyone Listens” When Steel Talks according to the website, but everyone reacts.

‘Everyone’ isn’t only those currently-involved in pan, but too, those who are for the first time, seeking an investment in the art form.

Is this truly the modus operandi to continue?

For the mecca to make a bold and impressive statement, not only has it become necessary, but mandatory, to engage in a recovery, restructure and rescue program, ensuring those operating its business are self-aware, effectively knowledgeable, adept and able to execute, exemplarily.

Salvaging what good remains and rescuing the fraternity from whatever demons are plaguing, are now incumbent upon six Government Ministries – Culture, Tourism, Community Development, Trade and Industry, and Education – to offer guidelines and standards towards impressive brand and reputation.

There’s Pandemonium apace at Pan Trinbago.

In the May 29 Guardian column, “Three Pan chairmen want Diaz out,” in part it states “The trio are also ‘demanding’ that fresh elections be held….”

It should be strongly noted, to move forward and upward, the spirit of ‘rogue’ must be eliminated from the world of pan. Our national instrument is not (emphasise not) ‘gunta culture’.

The nation is already buckling under the effects of rogue and bullying elements, it need not continue to allow this type of conduct.

The Bible states: “Jesus was crucified. He died for our sins.”

In one of his statements, Diaz says, “he feels as though the nation is trying to crucify him.”

While it is unclear whose sins this crucifixion is going to represent, putting the contentious areas aside, there is still a moral compass of sorts that guides the nation, and it will be remiss of the people to not thank Pan Trinbago’s potential predecessors for the contributions they have made as they make their transition, and wish them well.

GOMES, BETTY passed away peacefully on Wednesday 30th May, 2018. Wife of the late Joe Gomes. Mother of Tony Gomes (dec) and Beverly Edghill. Mother in law of Larry Edghill. Grandmother of Ian, Alan, Gerard Rouse and Joanne Patience. Great grandmother of 10. Sister of Vanessa Gomez and the late Louis, John and Val Thomas and Janet Kerr. Funeral service for the late Betty Gomes takes place at St. Anthony’s R.C. Church, Petit Valley on Tuesday 5th June, 2018 at 11am, followed by private cremation. In lieu of flowers, a collection will be taken up for her favourite charity. Funeral entrusted to C&B. For enquiries, please contact Chancellor Walks Funeral Services, 287-0403/04.

BRIDGETOWN—Distinguished academic and cricket historian, Prof Sir Hilary Beckles, believes the “tide is turning” in West Indies cricket, and contends the excellence of the “Jason Holder generation” could lead to a revival of the former World champions.

Speaking during a public lecture series here titled Fire in Babylon: Cricket as Popular Culture, Sir Hilary pointed out that a new consciousness existed in the young generation of current Windies cricketers and as a result, they were now attempting to reconnect with previous high standards of excellence.

He also argued that the development of Caribbean society and West Indies success were intertwined and once societal issues in the region were addressed, he could foresee the emergence of a strong Windies side “in seven to eight years.”

“I believe we are now seeing our way out of this. I believe that the tide is turning. I don’t think it is empty optimism. I believe the tide is turning,” said Sir Hilary, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies and former principal of UWI Cave Hill Campus.

“I believe that the current generation of young cricketers who are coming up—I call them the Jason Holder generation. I believe they are seeing the society differently.

“I’ve spoken to them, most of them are UWI students anyway. They come to the University, they are working class boys and we speak to them. All the young cricketers—Jason Holder, Carlos Brathwaite—these young men who are ready and willing to fight for us.”

He continued: “I have sat in classroom sessions like this with them, to speak about history, to speak about cultural responsibility, nationhood, to explain to them what the IMF (International Monetary Fund) is all about.

“This younger generation who have come through the academy, they understand the problem and they want to reconnect to the Vivian Richards, Michael Holding generation. They want to look over the head of (Chris) Gayle and (Brian) Lara and they want to reconnect with Viv Richards and Michael Holding. It’s a cycle.”

West Indies have been stuck a protracted state of under-performance over the last two decades, and have slumped to historic lows of ninth in both the Test and One-Day International formats.

They have won only four of their last 22 Tests inside the last two years and last year alone, won just three of 23 ODIs, sparking widespread criticism from fans.

But referencing the recent general elections in Barbados where the country elected its first woman prime minister Mia Mottley in a clean sweep of all 30 seats, Sir Hilary said it was evident citizens were demanding of their political and cricketing representatives a standard of excellence.

“Many of you who have seen the team in decline, what your criticism showed was a lack of effort. Many of you were saying ‘I don’t mind the boys losing but show more effort, show more passion, give us some passion,’” Sir Hilary explained.

“But I believe those fans and citizens are coming around again and I believe that to be true because of my association with these young men. All of these things are connected.

“So what I described … as the Mia Mottley revolution in Barbados—all of these things are connected. People are coming gradually to realise that there has to be a standard of expectation from the government and citizens are asking for a minimum threshold, and nobody must fall below that minimum threshold.”

Sir Hilary, who has written several books on West Indies cricket, said he was seeing signs of the changing tide across the region but was careful to note he was not predicting a return to the halcyon days.

He also reiterated the linkages between the region’s political development and Windies cricket, and the need for the continued growth of Caribbean society.

“These things are indeed connected. I have seen it in Kingston, I have seen it in Port-of-Spain. There is a turning of the tide,” he stressed.

“I cannot say this will be to the resurgence of our Test dominance but what I will say is that there are elements that will constitute the potential for excellence, those elements are being put in place and are coming together.

“And I would like to imagine, and I don’t believe in linearity, but I would not be surprised if in seven to eight years or so we become competitive again in this form of the game but first of all I believe we have to fix Caribbean societies.” (CMC)

Over 300 athletes are currently in their final phase of preparations hoping for success at the 24th National Gymnastics Invitational championships carded for this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) at the National Cycling Centre in Couva.

For the first time, the event will be held at this venue under the auspices of the Sport Company of T&T.

The meet, which has been held annually since 1994, is this country’s premier event with brevet and national judges from USA Gymnastics (USAG) officiating at the competition.

This year will see some 300 gymnasts from local clubs and from neighbouring countries participating for women’s artistic gymnastics judges Katie Kollmeyer, Kevin Mabrey MCNamara, Jennifer Cooper Ynestrova and Amelia Spinelli as well as men’s artistic gymnastics judge Kalind Carpenter, all from the USA.

Successful participation at this meet constitutes the qualifying criteria for selection to the national team. At the beginner and intermediate levels, the federation follows the USAG Junior Olympic Men’s and Women’s programme. The senior gymnasts will follow the rules and regulations as set out in the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) code of points.

Team captain Shanta Roopchan dominated the Achievers Women Cricket Club (AWCC) 2018 Awards with as many as eight trophies that included top 30 overs player, T20 player and player of the year. The club held its Eighth annual gala event at the Touch and Taste Restaurant and Lounge, California on May 27.

Delivering the feature address was T&T’s Women’s Cricket Association (TTWCA) Ann Browne-John, who emphasised the need for players to have clear goals and a strategy to accomplish them. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong family bond. Browne-John sentiments were also echoed by Secretary of the TTWCA, Ingrid Maxwell, and television and radio personality, Mariah Ramharack who chaired the programme.

Chairman of the Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation Henry Awong expressed his pleasure that the team plays out of his corporation and he invited the club to have a discussion with the possibility of having a home ground for the 2019 cricket season. Club President, Dave Chattergoon, was awash with happiness not only on the team’s 2018 performance but also its continued growth since its establishment in 2011. He challenged the youngest team in women’s cricket to continue to work hard as the potential of playing for the senior national team as well as the West Indies is definitely within their reach.

He expressed his gratitude to club’s management and the parents and supporters who rallied with the team. Commendations were extended to the principals of Couva East Secondary Denise Mungal-Gosyne and Holy Faith Convent Sister Theresa Vialva for working with the team through the use of their school facilities and encouraging their students to be part of the team. Tara Bansi, physical education, Holy Faith Convent, was not only instrumental in introducing players to the team but also provided support

ACHIEVERS WOMEN CRICKET CLUB ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR 2018

• Successfully defended T20 Championship
• Runners- up- 30 overs League
• Three players represented the National U 19 team- Anjali Goordeen, Steffi Soogrim and Daylia Alexander
• Anjali Goordeen and Steffi Soogrim named in the West Indies Development Under 19 squad
• Five players selected to the national secondary school league to tour Canada: (Shunelle Sawh, Daylia Alexander, Hema Mahabir, Steffi Soogrim, Anjali Goordeen)
30 Overs League Batting
• Most Runs - Shanta Roopchan (136 runs)
• Highest Score - Shanta Roopchan (46 not out)
• Best Average - Shanta Roopchan (27.00)
Bowling
• Most Wickets - Steffi Soogrim (13 wicket)
• Best bowling - Steffi Soogrim (4 wickets for 29 runs)
• Best Bowling Average - Tenesa Garcia (7.00)
T20 League Batting
• Most Runs - Anjali Goordeen (118 runs)
• Highest Score - Anjali Goordeen (38 runs)
Steffi Soogrim (38 runs)
• Best Batting Average - Anjali Goordeen (15.00)
Bowling Honours
• Most Wickets - Shanta Roopchan (13)
• Best bowling - Shanta Roopchan (5 wickets for 8 runs)
• Hat-trick- Shanta Roopchan
• Best Bowling Average - Tiffany Assoon (3.62)
• Most Improved Player - Anjali Goordeen
• Most Disciplined Players - Shunelle Sawh and Azariyah Ali
Five Players of the Year
• Anjali Goordeen - 201 runs and 9 wickets
• Atiya Lara - 133 runs
• Daylia Alexander - 145 runs and 11 wickets
• Shanta Roopchan - 199 runs and 23 wickets
• Steffi Soogrim - 118 runs and 18 wickets
Under 19 Player of Year
• Steffi Soogrim- 118 runs and 28 wickets for 234
• Most Valuable Player 2018
• Shanta Roopchan- 199 runs and 23 for 174 runs

T&T Super League (TTSL) president Keith Look Loy is making good on his promise to have the super league on television for local and international audiences.

Yesterday, the TTSL boss signed a two-year gentleman’s agreement with Peter C Lewis, the T&T Entertainment Network owner at the Hutt Shutts Sports and Entertainment Centre, Tacarigua with the intentions of improving the quality of the super league, as well as provide an opportunity for clubs to become self-sustainable.

The arrangement will see each club receiving live television coverage on FLOW, while a half-hour packaged programme will be put together for airing every Wednesday night from 9 pm.

Fans can catch a glimpse of matches via ttentv.com or tten on any google device. Broadcasted matches will also be picked up all the way up to the Caribbean in Barbados, Curacao, St Vincent, St Lucia, Bahamas, St Thomas, Grand Cayman and St Maarten, where potential markets exist.

Look Loy yesterday said, however, that clubs will have a responsibility to sell themselves and the league through advertising, based on the stage they put before the public.

While the new deal will provide a chance for some teams to receive gate receipts, other clubs that do not have a closed or fenced facility as its home can capitalise on increased spectator support that can lead to the sale of jerseys and other memorabilia. Look Loy believes a criteria for clubs to maximise on the new partnership deal is by structuring itself internally or being prepared to deal with coming opportunities.

The league is set for kick-off on Saturday with a mouth-watering clash between FC Santa Rosa and Tobago campaigners Bethel FC at the Arima Velodrome, Arima.

Look Loy said a treat awaits fans and supporters through live entertainment from soca artistes Olatunji, Rome and others, as well as a popular Arima rhythm section and other entertainment. He also did not rule out an after match lime.

Look Loy, whose team finished runner-up to Hydro Tech Guaya United last season, told the media that invitations for his opening match have already been sent out to Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Shamfa Cudjoe, who will be a supporter of the Tobago team, and Arima Major Lisa Morris Julian, who has supported Santa Rosa for many years.

Lewis said the super league appealed to him because of its organised structure which features promotion and demotion.

He called on corporate T&T to follow in their footsteps to help local sports, saying: “Charity begins at home.”

The partnership, Lewis explained, is aimed at helping clubs to help themselves so that they will not have to go begging for handouts.

WALTER ALIBEY
 

Emmanuel Chuniesingh and Abraham Francis both played unbeaten to lead Arima Hawks to an emphatic 8-1 spanking of WASA ‘B’ when the East Zone Division One and Two Table Tennis Tournament served on May 28.

Team captain Chuniesingh defeated Joshua Dass 11-9, 11-2, 14-12; Sheldon Graham, 11-4, 11-13, 13-11, 11-8 and Ronnel Forde 8-11, 11-9, 11-6, 13-11 while Francis swept past Forde 11-4, 11-3, 11-9, Dass 11-7, 11-3, 11-2 and Graham 11-6, 10-12, 8-11, 11-7, 11-8. However, Samuel Humphreys’ could not complete the whitewash of WASA ‘B’ after he fell to Graham 10-12, 12-10, 9-11, 18-16, 8-11 but had wins against Forde 14-16, 10-12, 11-5, 11-8, 11-9 and Dass 11-8, 11-9, 11-5.

D’Abadie Youths’ Sherdon Pierre, Carlisle Cleveland and Daryl Rampersad battled past Arima Hawks comprising the trio of Linda Partap-Boodhan, Rawle Parsons and Wayne Oudit 5-4.

Parsons registered victories over Daryl Rampersad 11-4, 11-3, 11-4, and Carlisle Cleveland 11-6, 11-7, 11-5 while losing to Sherdon Pierre 10-12, 11-8, 4-11, 11-13; Partap-Boodhan had one win over Rampersad 11-4, 11-6, 11-7 but was beaten by both Cleveland 7-11, 6-11, 11-13 and Pierre 4-11, 6-11, 10-12 while Outdit beat Rampersad 12-10, 11-6, 11-6 after losing his first two matches, 11-9, 10-12, 11-9, 4-11, 6-11 to Pierre, and 7-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-7, 7-11 versus Cleveland.

WASA ‘A’ team of national women’s champion Brittany Joseph, Chelsea Fong, Ambika Sitram and Nyla Bissessar had much better fortune as they outclassed WASA ‘B’ 7-2 on Thursday.

Fong had wins over Sheldon Graham 15-13, 11-6, 10-12, 11-13, 12-10; Jahred Corbin 11-7, 14-12, 9-11, 11-4, and Ronnel Forde 11-3, 11-6, 11-2. Joseph overcame Forde 11-5, 11-9, 11-0, Graham 11-7, 11-8, 11-8 and Corbin 11-4, 11-7, 11-8 and Sitram fell to Corbin 5-11, 3-11, 7-11, but recovered to defeat Forde 11-5, 11-9, 11-9 before another loss, this time to Graham, 6-11, 10-12, 3-11.

Today, Arima Table Tennis Club hosts Arima Hawks while tomorrow, WASA ‘A’ entertains D’Abadie Youths, and on Friday, D’Abadie faces WASA ‘B’. The four-teams A-1 Division competition will serve off on Thursday with WASA ‘A’ featuring Curtis Humphreys, Yuvraaj Dookram and Kenneth Parmanand facing WASA ‘B’ while on Friday, D’Abadie Youths come up against WASA ‘A’. Arima Hawks is the fourth team in the A-1 competition. Matches start at 6.30 pm.

Trying to process a lot of things that are happening in T&T can be detrimental to your spirit and soul. It’s simple and convenient to pivot to feeling bewildered.

Adversity is causing many to simply disengage themselves from the process.

Yesterday someone was sharing their perspective about the state of play in T&T and their conclusion was, to protect their personal peace of mind they have to act as if they live in a parallel universe- there is the reality of what is going on in T&T and how they choose to experience the reality of life in T&T. One is real and the other is a fantasy.

That conversation got me thinking about the importance of focus and zoning out a lot of the noise. It’s as if we are all living in a parallel universe, there is no truth anymore, only how you interpret and reframe what is before your senses.

Every day at Olympic House at Abercromby Street in Port of Spain, the T&T Olympic Committee (TTOC) is faced with choices. Regardless of how negative and dismaying the facts, truth or reality may be or appear, the TTOC must reframe and demonstrate to every stakeholder the benefits of the Olympic partnership.

The Olympic partnership is a compelling platform to develop programmes in achieving brand enhancement, revenue generation or legacy building.

Under brand enhancement, the Olympic partnership can foster brand differentiation and create an emotional connection but in an environment where there is so much negative noise, shining through the negative-clutter can be a test of mental stamina and endurance. In the 2016 TTOC annual report I shared this message: “Without a vision...we perish...Transformation...Transformation and modernisation guided every thought and action.”

Obstacles, problems, mistakes and failures are mere stepping stones to learning, improving and growing. Embracing transformation and change is the impetus.

Business development and revenue growth, innovation, creativity, out-of-the-box marketing and rebranding, and new programmes that are athlete and people-centred. National Sport Organisations are facing existential decisions of which parallel universe to choose.

There is no place to hide in the prevailing environment.

He has ruled the airwaves for four decades with a voice that exudes confidence, charisma and character.

Indeed it’s no wonder he’s referred to as “Mr President” by his colleagues.

It’s a well deserved sobriquet that Christopher Boynes has not only earned but one which is truly a reflection of his persona.

Today, Boynes, fondly referred to as Chris, marks his 40th anniversary at Guardian Media Ltd.

His is a story of shining success, of sheer grit and determination which has placed him among the very greats in the broadcast industry. And Boynes has achieved this amazing feat against all odds.

His journey began from humble beginnings where he attended Western Boys’ Primary School, now Sacred Hearts Boys’.

Not being as academically inclined as his nine siblings, Boynes was unsuccessful at the then Common Entrance exams.

Undeterred, he became an exemplary pupil, setting the standards high in discipline, so much so that at 16 he was recommended by the school’s principal for the position of office boy at Charles McEnearney, now Diamond motors.

“I was in post-primary level and one day I was late for school. The principal called me and I thought I was in serious trouble. But to my surprise he said someone from McEnearney came across requesting the best student to work for them. I was selected out of everyone,” Boynes reminisced.

A year and a half later, Boynes joined the Trinidad Broadcasting Company (TBC) group, a position which he was nudged into by his eldest brother Dean who was a technician at the company.

Incidentally, Dean had a local band, the very popular Dean and the Celebrities, a much sought after music aggregation back in the day.

“Radio then wasn’t like changing dials. There was just a switch: ‘A’ and ‘B’ sources. At that time there was just one radio station but with two sources of music,” Boynes explained.

His first post at TBC was a library clerk where he was responsible for sourcing music for the day’s programming.

“I was also responsible for sending out programmes to the Caribbean. In those days there were a lot of plays on radio. The soap operas people watch on television now were very prominent on radio,” Boynes said.

Boynes, who turns 57 this year, swiftly rose through the ranks as his thirst for knowledge propelled him to fine-tune his craft.

He then became library assistant and often held down the fort when the chief librarian was unavailable.

It was during that time that his interest in the technical aspects of radio was piqued.

“I would learn as much as possible. I would come to work very early and leave last just learning the studio gadgets and all that came with it.

“Few people on board recognised my technical skills. There was also the opportunity to freelance in studio and once I had free time I would do a recording for one of the producers,” Boynes said.

This led to the sphere in East Indian programming which he also mastered.

“Radio Trinidad back then was cosmopolitan. There was a mixture of different types of music including urban and East Indian. Among the big names I worked with are Faizan Ali, Raffi Mohammed and Salisha Baksh,” Boynes recollected.

Moreso he was also privileged to be trained by the likes of Bob Gittens, Barbara Assoon and Don Proudfoot.

In paying homage, Boynes testified that such figures were instrumental in shaping him to also become a stalwart in his own right.

“The other side is definitely a win-win for me because I only attended primary school. I never took one course in broadcasting in my life. Since I started here I buried my life in this establishment. I gave it my all.

“I even observed how words were pronounced. There was an instance where I kept hearing the words ‘meteorological officer.’ I used the method in primary school to practice over and over to ensure I had the proper pronunciation because that was a tongue twister for me,” Boynes chuckled.

One of his peak periods was on 95.1, then Rhythm Radio 95, where his name was further established.

The late Holly Betaudier, known as the “Arima Kid,” was the musical director of the station who Boynes also worked closely with.

Today, Boynes is one of the very few radio personalities who has perfected the art of “riding the music.”“

Rennie Bishop, another giant in the industry was my mentor and he taught me this particular skill. There are some DJs who talk over the vocals which prevents the listener from enjoying the music.

‘That was a ‘no no’ as serious discipline would take place. Unfortunately that does not exist any more,” Boynes noted.

Due to his outstanding professionalism, work ethic and astounding talent Boynes is much sought after at popular events throughout the country.

Boynes is married to longstanding GML employee Shirlana Sifonte-Boynes who is his rock. The couple has enjoyed some 30 years of wedded bliss.

On reflection of his years at GML, Boynes said, “Having gone through the highs and lows, the especially the lows in this company...that’s what made me a better person....to always be respectful and understand issues from management’s perspective.

“I’m glad for the experience; good, bad or indifferent.”

The Indian Arrival Day holiday may have come and gone, but every day is a great day to celebrate a country’s cultural diversity and upbringing. The contribution of people of East Indian descent has greatly added to T&T’s identity as a nation, and what better way to continue commemorations, to keep the pages of our story turning, than with song and dance?

After a very successful 70th anniversary dance production last weekend, on Sunday, June 10, the Little Carib Theatre, Woodbrook will stage an intimate performance starring some of the country’s most prolific classical Indian dancers and choreographers, Susan Mohip and Mondira Balkaransingh and company.

Their rich backgrounds in the equally emotive and illustrative Kathak and Odissa dance styles respectively will serve to tell a story on the Woodbrook stage, continuing to fly the flag for age-old Indian traditions which have been embedded into T&T’s cultural fabric since 1845.

Dancing since the age of three, competing by age seven, “Baby Susan” Mohip has blossomed into her role as one of Trinidad’s leading creative and film dancers, as co-founder of the Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, director of the Susan Mohip Dance Company, and Classical Indian Dance instructor at the academy for the performing arts, University of T&T.

She has taken her passion for the poetic and rhythmically-rich movements of Kathak on extensive tours through the Caribbean, South America, Canada and India, even having performed for many foreign dignitaries including the Prime Minister of India, Prince of Wales and the President of Botswana.

The concert also honours the work of Nrityanjali Theatre’s Mondira Balkaransingh, who found her love for Odissa under the dedicated training of nationally awarded masters at India’s Bharatiya Kala Kendra in Odissi.

Odissa is a beautiful classical style steeped in Hindu mythology originating from the temples of the Eastern coastal state of Odisha in India, but finds its fit effortlessly on the stage in Trinidad under her masterful direction.

Given the title of a cultural icon by the T&T government in 1994, it’s no surprise that dance has taken her all over the world representing both the governments of T&T and India, and that her body of artistic work spans more than 40 productions and counting. Nrityanjali Theatre has a Humming Bird Medal (Gold) in part thanks to her, and Balkaransingh can even be credited for having written the Dance Curriculum for local secondary schools.

The concert is one of four productions the Little Carib will stage specially to celebrate 70 years as an institution in the city for Performing Arts, and completing the bill will be none other than internationally-renowned classical sitarist, Sharda Patasar, daughter to award-winning musician Mungal Patasar.

Showtime is 6 pm and tickets, costing $150 each, can be purchased at the venue. For bookings and further information, call 622 4644.