The story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears is, in part, a search for the solution that is just right—not too hot or not too cold, not too big or not too small.

Last week the Governor of The Central Bank of T&T (CBTT) in presenting the Financial Stability Report for 2017 indicated that: “Monetary policy has been neutral so far, given domestic and international factors, and the pendulum is swinging towards a rate increase.”

The CBTT Governor is highlighting the problem that almost every central banker is trying to solve at this moment. That is the ability to fashion an interest rate pathway that does not result in over tightening of the economy but one that is not too loose that it causes overheating.

Finding that balance is critical for maintaining economic stability and that balance is in essence the Goldilocks Rate—not too high but also not too low but rather just right.

The nuance of this dilemma for T&T is that there has been a level of fiscal tightening in the economy that is unprecedented in our recent economic history. This is due to changes in the levels of government spending and current and proposed changes to the tax regime.

In my view, it is the fiscal tightening more than any other factor that has kept inflation rates low as it has placed a dampening effect on the circulation of money within the economy.

The CBTT has sought to counter the impact on the fiscal side by maintaining its interest rate policy position and keeping the repo rate at 4.75 per cent.

While the CBTT Governor has described it as a neutral rate, in the context of the external factors that I will soon highlight and the fiscal tightening already mentioned the maintenance of the 4.75 per cent repo rate can actually be interpreted as accommodative.

The evidence for this is in the continued growth in credit creation where business loans, consumer credit and mortgage loans increased by 5.4 per cent, 6.8 per cent and 7.8 per cent respectively year on year.

These are significant growth rates coming on top of a very high base and it is clear that economic activity in T&T would have been much lower were it not for these levels of credit creation.

Now we are at the stage where the CBTT is signaling an increase in rates and this change in stance are being driven in part by events external to T&T and outside of our control.

Given the external factors our policy response both on the monetary and fiscal side as well as the timeliness and extent of our response become critical to achieving a path to economic growth and stability.

A key ingredient in getting this right would be having reasonably accurate and timely data upon which to make decisions. The long awaited National Statistical Institute, replacing the Central Statistical Office, and set to be implemented in 2019 would be welcome although we run the risk of it being overdue given the current need.

US Fed Effect

The search for a neutral rate starts at the US Federal Reserve.

On June 13 they raised interest rates by 25 basis points to two per cent. This rate hike was long anticipated and the reports suggest that the US Fed was swayed by a robust rate of economic growth. Further they are suggesting two more rate hikes to the end of the year which is one more than the estimate at the start of the year.

The situation is complicated as there is no real consensus over what constitutes the neutral rate in the US and further there is also a lag in terms of the time it would take for monetary policy to affect the real economy.

More than that the market tends to look at the action of the Central Bank in terms of how it may affect the economy but the reverse is also true where the Central Bank has to react to how the economy is affecting current monetary policy and credit creation.

So, seven rate hikes in the US since the last quarter of 2015 is still finding its way through the length of breadth of the US economy. In the meantime, our Central Bank has not adjusted rates. This is in part why I suggest that our local policy is accommodative rather than neutral.

From here the US market is anticipating a continued gradual trend of interest rate hikes with the additional rate hike in 2018 being offset by one less rate hike in 2020.

Overall through the US Fed would be seeking to get to a three per cent Fed Funds rate in 2020.

Officials suggesting that a new economic downturn would be addressed by fiscal policy more than by monetary policy have tempered recent concerns about the US Fed overshooting and causing a recession.

The problem with this equation is that the US has used quite a lot of fiscal ammunition in their recent tax cut.

In addition the risk of a trade war due to recent policy action may complicate the narrative as this is, by and large, uncharted territory in a post globalisation world.

Here at home the increases in US rates and the holding steady of TT rates has reduced the differential between the return in TT dollars compared to US dollars and increased the incentive to hold US dollars.

You will note recent advertisements about investing your US dollars locally.

The difficulty in accessing US has tempered the equation and investors are unable to readily act on the incentive to hold US dollars because of availability. However that does not in any way address the latent demand for US dollars, which continues to build.

Just like the US, T&T have also used up quite a lot of their fiscal ammunition over the past couple years. As US rates increases the pressure to raise TT rates will increase. If, as expected, government borrowing continues at elevated levels then it means that the Government may see an increased cost of borrowing.

In addition, as government borrows, TT dollar liquidity will decline from the excess liquidity position that has existed for over a decade.

This is where great care is needed. A CBTT repo rate of 4.75 per cent has not really been transmitted though the local economy because of the level of TT dollars built up in the financial system. This is why deposit rates have been so low for over a decade.

However as liquidity continues to decline the CBTT rate will come more into effect. What we have to guard against is the proverbial tipping point.

That is the place where borrowing increases in the lead up to an election, Government spending increases, liquidity in the financial system is reduced, the CBTT has to raise rates because of external factors and all of this combined causes local interest rates to rise which potentially places private sector credit on the margin under stress.

All of this is to say that we need to be very careful from here. The CBTT has sent their signal to the market. That signal must now be factored into everyone’s decision-making process going forward.

Ian Narine can be contacted via email at ian.narine@gmail.co

Considered one of this country’s most prolific calypso composers and entertainers, The Original De Fosto Himself (Winston Scarborough) is now in dire need of assistance to offset medical expenses.

To put it mildly, De Fosto has had a most challenging life from birth. According to his bio, having being abandoned as a baby with no name, he was found somewhere in Belmont by a woman from Tobago by the name of Beatrice Clark. She took him to the Tacarigua Orphanage and given the surname “Scarborough,” borrowed from the capital of Tobago.

From a youth, De Fosto’s musical ability was recognised very early in his life and it was nurtured by the orphanage where, eventually, he would learn to read and score music.

Those of you who might be old enough to remember, might recall that outstanding trombonist performing at the now defunct Brassorama competition at the Queen’s Park Savannah, the cone of his instrument painted in fluorescent orange? Well, that was young Winston Scarborough.

De Fosto made his professional singing début in 1976 with Chicks Come Out to Play. For the most part, his calypsoes were written for easy adaptation by steelbands. With his music-writing skill, he went on to score hundreds of songs for other singers as well.

De Fosto’s Four Lara Four, co-written with the late Merchant, was played by the 1995 National Panorama winner, Amoco Renegades, giving the Charlotte Street steelband its seventh lien on the coveted title.

Blessed with the ability to create melodies that attracted pan arrangers, De Fosto’s Firestorm and Pan Lamentation will the National Panorama titles once more, this time for Trinidad All Stars, in 2002 and 2007, respectively.

Pride of St Augustine, Exodus Steel Orchestra also played its way to the top in Panorama in 2003 and 2004, playing De Fosto’s Pandora and War 2004, respectively.

But, De Fosto, a complete calypsonian, was also making waves in the calypso arena. He placed second in the National Calypso Monarch competition twice. In 2000, he secured that runner-up spot performing Pan Forevermore and One More Kitchener, and in 2007 with Police Money. De Fosto placed third in 2010 singing In A Palace State of Mind, and again made it to the Dimanche Gras final in 2015.

Fund-raising effort by calypsonians

In an attempt to assist De Fosto, members of Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO), mobilised and motivated by popular female calypsonian Lady Gypsy (Lynette Steele) successfully produced a fund-raising concert at the Southern Academy for Performing Arts (Sapa) on Sunday June 24.

Several of De Fosto’s fellow calypsonians performed for free as they gave their support to their comrade who is an icon in the calypso arena and has sang many hits over the years. Supporting the effort were TUCO president Lutalo Masimba (Bro Resistance), former Culture Minister Joan Yuille-Williams and Pan Trinbago PRO Michael Joseph.

Although the show was poorly attended, the performers put on a great show performing a range of songs, including ballads, rhythm and blues and calypsoes.

First on stage was Kurt Allen performing Believe, followed by Mistah Shak with Blueprint, Queen Victoria performing My Way, and Lady Adanna doing Calypso Music.

Also performing were former Extempore Monarch Lingo with Nobody Cares, past National Calypso Monarch Singing Sandra with Voices from the Ghetto, All Rounder, Trinidad Rio, and Baron singing two of his much-loved hits.

The concert culminated with a performance by Crazy who is lobbying on social media for the show to be repeated at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (Napa) in Port-of-Spain as it was of a very high standard.

Several patrons who attended the show expressed disappointment by the low turnout and the lack of support for De Fosto, a musician who has done so much to enrich the tapestry that is T&T music and culture.

As phase one of the pilot of the Live Music District (LMD) draws to an end, the T&T Music Company Limited (MusicTT) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, in collaboration with the Port-of-Spain City Corporation, will host its third Live on the Avenue event. Live on the Avenue III will take place on Sunday, July 1, at Adam Smith Square, Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook, from 4:30 pm.

Live on the Avenue III will close off phase one of the Live Music District with performances by Hadco Phase II Pan Groove and Nex Chapta.

The Live Music District, which launched in March 2018, has since provided local artistes with the opportunities to showcase their talent at various events and locations throughout the chosen phase one district, the City of Port-of-Spain. Registered artistes have performed in venues such as Radisson Hotel, Hilton Hotel, Smokey and Bunty, Kaiso Blues Café, Xperience Event Centre and the Avenue Pub House to name a few.

“The LMD Brand continues to grow in popularity as people recognise the possibilities that come with such an initiative,” says John Arnold, Chairman of MusicTT.

“Live music is a fundamental pillar of the music industry. The designation of creative, cultural and entertainment districts attracts visitors and therefore creates opportunities for jobs and revenue generation. The creation of a Live Music District is a key strategy which MusicTT undertook, through CreativeTT and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, in order to build and develop the local music industry and the country as a whole.”

The LMD brand has been associated with other local initiatives. The Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts has collaborated with the Live Music District to bring music to the public via the Live at Lunch series in Woodford Square and The Port-of-Spain City Corporation has also incorporated the Live Music District into its City Month celebrations via events such as Live at the Promenade, Live at the Gardens and Live at the Square.

The Live on the Avenue series is one of the most anticipated events under the Live Music District. The series incorporates live music performances by registered LMD artists and popular local steelpan bands; it not only showcases the talent of our home-grown artistes but, also, the national instrument.

Live on the Avenue premiered on Sunday, April 22, with performances by LMD artistes Sherisse Collymore, Chenko and Xone, and featured the 2018 National Panorama winner bpTT Renegades.

Live on the Avenue II followed on Sunday, June 10 and featured Desperadoes, CAL Skiffle and LMD artistes Full 100, Neisha Guy and Ms Renuka.

LMD’s phase two is scheduled to begin soon and will now include instrumentalists on the artist roster. Instrumentalists are encouraged to sign up online to be a part of the Live Music District.

To learn more about the Live Music District, or to sign up to the artiste roster, visit www.musictt.co.tt/LMD or follow MusicTT’s social media page: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @MusicofTT (Reporting by Peter Ray Blood)

In celebration of Alta’s 25th anniversary, Alta students around the country were asked to write about the impact the organisation has had on their lives. Since 1992, Alta has provided classes around the country for thousands of Trinidadians who struggle with reading and writing.

Alta students enroll in the programme at many different levels of literacy and leave when they have accomplished their literacy goals.

While it is difficult to manage work and family life alongside Alta classes, students continue to persevere and in all cases see changes in their lives after attending Alta classes. In the coming weeks, Alta will share their pieces through this column. This week, three students from the Belmont venue share how Alta has impacted their lives.

Student name: Elicia

“I always wanted to have my own business but I do not have enough confidence to spell words properly. So Alta is a big step up in my life. I feel better coming to Alta to improve my reading, writing and speaking skills. Now I feel empowered to take part in any organisation and to speak in front of an audience.

I said this is my last chance. I was a bit ashamed but I have overcome it because I felt it was never too late to learn. It is a pity I did not get the help before but nothing happens before its time. I am not the only one struggling.

There are other students in the class trying to better themselves also. We can now take advantage of opportunities that might come our way in the future.”

Student name: Rondell

“I heard about Alta over and over on a radio in a car, while dropping off my son for his first day of preschool. It ran across my mind knowing that I can’t read or spell well. Studying how I played the fool in school and not taking interest in my work, I started to feel bad about myself.

I did nothing good with my life. I now have my king AKA my son and I am hoping that he does better in school. I did not have anyone to show interest in my school work, I intend to show that interest in my son’s school work.

I came to Alta to improve on my reading and spelling skills to help him.

I will love to do CXC English and UWI courses. You are never too old to improve yourself.”

Student name: Brian

“I didn’t finish school. During my attempt to read books or newspapers I had problems with words.

I wanted to improve my reading. When I heard about Alta classes that’s when I said to myself this is my chance. I signed up and since then I am able to sound and break up words.

This makes reading easier and fun. Now I can pick up those same books and read and understand. I feel better within myself and look PICTURE ALTA forward to completing Alta and signing up for CXC subjects.”

Volunteer, Donate or Sponsor-a-student. Call 621- 5708 or email altapos.tt@gmail.com for more info. Keep up to date with ALTA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: ALTA

The trinidad+tobago film festival, in partnership with the Canadian High Commission, has announce the winners of the The Reel Human Rights on Film training programme. Filmmakers Siobhan Millette, Andrei Pierre and Francesca Hawkins will receive $5,000 CDN each. The three short completed films will be shown at ttff/18 in September.

In March 2017, the trinidad+tobago film festival partnered with the Canadian High Commission to present a script writing programme for 15 emerging filmmakers. The workshop was facilitated by Canadian film professional Annmarie Morais who continued to mentor the filmmakers throughout the year.

In March of this year, the same 15 filmmakers attended a two-day workshop on From Script to Pproduction. This was conducted by Film Board of Canada producer Selwyn Jacob, and also included presentations from specialists in human rights issues in order to assist the writers develop an approach to their topic. These filmmakers were then tasked to produce a script for a five minute short narrative or documentary film, on a human rights issue in T&T, or the wider Caribbean.

At the cheque presentation ceremony at the Canadian High Commission, High Commissioner Carla Hogan Rufelds, reiterated that Canada regards human rights as universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. She emphasised that human rights cinema plays an important role in the struggle for justice and dignity, speaking out against censorship and repression. She remarked that “this extremely powerful medium can touch and inspire audiences, challenging individuals to expand their knowledge and perspectives. It can also stimulate healthy dialogue, and ultimately, change.”

An important part of the ttff’s annual programme has been a strong lineup of films that focus on issues of gender inequality, children’s rights, issues impacting the LGBTQI community and other human rights and social and economic inequalities.

According to Annabelle Alcazar, programme director of the ttff: “This programme marries our interest in developing the skills of local filmmakers and writers, with advancing the conversations on human rights in Trinidad and Tobago. We were very excited about this project and we are pleased to see how the filmmakers rose to the challenge of using their artistic knowledge and skill to bring these important issues alive.”

The three successful filmmakers were jubilant about being able to realise their projects. According to Siobhan Millette: “I’m grateful that the Canadian High Commission has afforded me the opportunity to bring attention to one aspect of how these prejudices affect one of the many marginalised communities here in Trinidad and Tobago.

“Often late to the table, it is high time that all citizens are afforded equality and protection from discrimination, violence, unfair treatment and biases under the laws of our land.”

Andrei Pierre remarked on the advantages to his professional development: “This programme has given me robust legs to stand on as a filmmaker. I’ve been able to not just hone my craft, but now have an opportunity to prove it.

“I’m a grateful for the privilege to hold a lens to underrepresented communities and under-addressed issues in our culture, and help tell their stories responsibly and with due empathy.”

Francesca Hawkins complimented the partnership and initiative, saying: “Our names were removed from the submissions to ensure transparency in the judging process. This collaboration between ttff and the CHC has been extremely supportive of film development while also raising awareness on a variety of Human Rights issues in Trinidad and Tobago.”

The trinidad+tobago film festival celebrates films from and about the Caribbean and its diaspora, as well as from world cinema, through an annual festival and year-round screenings. In addition, the ttff seeks to facilitate the growth of Caribbean cinema by offering a wide-ranging industry programme and networking opportunities.

The ttff is given leading sponsorship by BP Trinidad and the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, supporting sponsorship by The National Gas Company of T&T and Republic Bank Limited and contributing sponsorship by FimTT.

Defence Force recorded back-to-back wins within the span of four days to extend its lead in the T&T Hockey Board Men’s Championship Division League competition when play continued at the National Hockey Centre, Tacarigua.

First up on Friday, national defender, Marcus James scored two early goals as Defence Force held off Queen’s Park Cricket Club, in a clash of the unbeaten teams, 4-3.

The Army/Coast-Guard combination unit stormed into a 2-0 lead when James scored in the third and seventh minutes.

However, former Guyana international, Jerazeno Bell pulled a goal back for the Parkites in the quarter before he helped himself with a hat-trick of goals in the 20th and 22nd minutes for an unexpected 3-2 lead.

Former national forward, Neil Lashley then drew Defence Force level in the 42nd minute before national forward Dylan Francis fired in what turned out to be the decisive item for Defence Force in the 56th minute.

Then on Tuesday last, the quartet of Marcus James (29th & 46th), Justin Beharry (39th & 42nd), Anthony Morales (41st & 50th) and Kirth Davis (45th & 55th) all scored twice while Dulu Francis (45th) added the other in a Defence Force 9-0 triumph over Notre Dame.

With the two wins, Defence Force improved its record to four wins and one drawn result so for this season to record 13 points, four ahead of two-time defending champions Petrotrin which has a match in hand while the Parkites are next with seven, the same as Malvern.

In other matches, national forward, Jordan Vieira scored in the 49th minute to earn Fatima a 1-0 win over Notre Dame, its first of the season while Malvern battled past Petrotrin 2-1.

For Malvern, national team duo, Teague Marcano (21st) and Daniel Byer (44th) scored before former national standout Wayne Legerton’s 47th-minute item for the Oilmen.

Police FC chase after a third straight win in the 2018 First Citizens Cup when they face Morvant Caledonia United, on Sunday at Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.

The unbeaten Lawmen may feel they have the upper hand after they thrashed defending T&T Pro League champs North East Stars in the opening match of the group stage 5-1 and edged FCB Cup holders W Connection 1-0 last week Friday at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Balmain, Couva.

Caledonia is coming off a 2-0 triumph over the youthful North East Stars outfit and will be hoping that they receive the support from their fans.

It is the first time this season a match programme will be played in the City. In the first game of a doubleheader at 4 pm, San Juan Jabloteh will come up against MIC-IT St Ann’s Rangers while the Lawmen and Caledonia will square off two hours later at 6 pm.

Police lead the Abercrombie Group with maximum six points from two games but are only ahead of Connection on goal-difference.

Morvant Caledonia has just three points from two games, sporting a similar record with Point Fortin Civic.

Caledonia, known popularly as the ‘Eastern Stallions’ by its fans, stumbled at the start of the campaign after a 2-1 loss against Civic, before rebounding with a 2-0 win last weekend.

Police coach Richard Hood said, “We are looking to maintain the fantastic start to the season.”

He added, “We’ve had a very long and incensed pre-season and during that period we became focused on making this season a success. We also want the entire Police Service to be part of this success by coming out in strong in number to cheer on the team.

I haven’t seen much of (Morvant) Caledonia in this tournament but I don’t expect any surprises from them. They have one style of play which is focused on possession and trying to build from the back.”

However, Hood is mindful his squad—boasting the likes of T&T goalkeeper Adrian Foncette, former T&T youth captain Ryan O’Neil, Kareem Freitas and attacking brothers Jameel and Kareem Perry—can’t become complacent.

“The big thing for us against (Morvant) Caledonia is that we don’t become complacent,” the coach said.

He continued, “We have failed against lesser teams over the years because we didn’t respect them and we (the coaching staff ) have been trying to change this mindset of our players. We can’t just turn up and walk onto the field thinking the win is there because of the quality in our team.”

Last season Police managed just a point against Caledonia in the Pro League with a loss and a draw, but the Lawmen whipped the Stallions 5-1 in the semi-final round of the 2017 FA Trophy before losing 3-1 to W Connection in the title match on December 8.

Police will face Civic in their final Abercrombie Group clash on July 7, while Morvant Caledonia meets Connection on the same day.

The semi-finals are scheduled for July 13 with Immortelle Group winners taking on the Abercrombie Group runners-up and Abercrombie Group winners against immortelle Group runners-up.

Boosted by the return of European-based professional duo, middle-blocker Sinead Jack and outside hitter Krystle Esdelle, T&T senior women’s volleyball team will depart tonight for the 17th Senior Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Championship which serves off tomorrow and runs until Sunday.

The T&T ‘Calypso Spikers’ led by Sweden-based captain Renele Forde are the reigning champions and winners of the title for the past six editions. The Team has recorded seven victories overall.

Last year in Kingston, Jamaica, then Greece-based Esdelle, Channon Thompson and Darlene Ramdin all scored in double-figures as the “Calypso Spikers” brushed aside Jamaica 25-12, 25-16, 25-10 to record its sixth straight title.

The victory over the Jamaicans was the team’s third in as many finals, adding to previous triumphs in 1996 in the US Virgin Islands, and four years ago on home soil when the then France-based Thompson was also voted as the “Most Valuable Player”.

The “Calypso Spikers”, triumphs were recorded in 1996, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2017 to move one ahead of long-time rival Barbados (1993, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004) for the most tournament wins.

This time around in Paramaribo, Suriname, the T&T women coached by long-serving Cuban-born, Francisco

‘Panchee’ Cruz will face a much easier route to the title as only the host country, Bahamas and long-time rival, Barbados stand in his team’s way.

The teams will contest a round-robin series at the end of which the top two will contest the gold medal match and the third and fourth placed teams will compete for bronze.

Both the tournament winner and runner-up will qualify to next year’s Women’s NORCECA Continental Championship.

Last month, the T&T women served off its 2018 season with a fourth-place finish at the NORCECA Women’s Challenger Cup in Edmonton, Canada, minus the presence of Esdelle and Jack.

The Caribbean champions were beaten by Canada 12-25, 16-25, 22-25 in their lone pool match after Costa Rica failed to show and in their bronze medal contest, T&T went under to Cuba, 18-25, 17-25, 13-25.

Apart from Esdelle and Jack who come into the team at the expense of youngsters Afiya Alexander and Mikela Mc Gilvery and, the T&T contingent is the same as the one in Canada with Thompson (Ankara Numune (Turkey)/Foton Tornadoes (Philippines), Darlene Ramdin (Generika-Ayala Lifesavers/Philippines) and Forde (Svedala/Sweden), the other players with recent international club experience on the ten-player roster.

Also included are former national captain Kelly-Ann Billingy, a former captain and vice-captain Jalicia Ross-Kydd along with Kiune Fletcher, Afesha Olton and Canada-based Taija Thomas.

Following the completion of the tournament of the CAZOVA Championships T&T will then travel to Colombia to contest the 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games which runs from July 20 to August 3.

It will be T&T’s fourth straight CAC Games tournament and among the opposition will be the host, Puerto Rico and Costa Rica in Pool B, while champions Dominican Republic, Cuba, Mexico and Venezuela will compete in Pool A.

This will be followed by T&T women debut at the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Japan from September 29 to October 20.

At the World Championship in Pool C, 34th ranked T&T will face defending champions and world second-ranked USA, fifth-ranked Russia, South Korea (#10), Thailand (#16), and Azerbaijan (#24) at the Kobe Green Arena.

Fixtures 

TOMORROW
Bahamas vs T&T, 5 pm
Barbados vs Suriname, 7 pm
T&T women’s volleyball CAZOVA team
Renele Forde (Svedala/Sweden), Sinead Jack (Galatasaray/Turkey), Krystle Esdelle (Pursaklar Belediyesi/Turkey), Channon Thompson (Ankara Numune (Turkey) & Foton Tornadoes (Philippines), Darlene Ramdin (Generika-Ayala Lifesavers/Philippines), Kelly Ann Billingy, Kiune Fletcher, Afesha Olton, Jalicia Ross-Kydd, Taija Thomas.
Technical staff: Francisco Cruz (coach), Jarad Cuffie (assistant coach), Keva Stephens (physiotherapist)

Most of the people who love the game of football have a definite favourite to win the tournament and they are even prepared to search the archives in order to prove that their team will win.

Well, did any of us think of the performances of the minnows, whose reputations were only supposed to show up in this pristine competition for the opportunity rather than the chance to win it?

There is a huge amount of education and information embedded in the performances of every team in the 2018 World Cup, simply because the general standard of play all across the board has risen. Could anyone have guessed that the current world champion Germany could have spent ninety minutes on the field of play and succumb to the likes of Mexico and South Korea within a period of 14 days?

The Japanese pushed their way into the round of 16 by simply demonstrating the value of good technique and a perfect understanding of the structural concept of the great game.

What about Senegal’s impressive style of play because of their basic skills properly nurtured into the minds of the young players and coached by one of their own former players - Cisse.

We have continuously enjoyed the brilliance of countries like Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Portugal and more recently Colombia, but unfortunately, we viewed the performances of these teams as if they were in a movie because of their top quality play which is very entertaining.

I wonder how many of our coaches sat closely and viewed carefully to study the methods which were used by the greatest coaches in the world?

Colombia was a case in point. The team started its rise to the standard it is today behind Francisco Maturana, a mastermind of the sport, whose visit to this minnow country could have earned respect and recognition because of the excellence of this brilliant individual.

When he removed himself from the national coaching job to work with FIFA, another great South American, Senor Jose Peckerman of Argentina, who coached numerous national teams of his homeland, accepted the offer of Colombia to take the country’s quality of play to another level. The answer is speaking for itself today in this World Cup.

I wonder how many coaches got together with their students in order to assist them to develop greater understanding and the purpose of hard work which results in success at any level?

From now on, the final 16 countries should be closely followed, not only as if you are going to a movie, but to seek to understand firstly, the dedication of their people who would show appreciation for victory and shed a tear for defeat. As soon as the Brazilians, Argentines and the Colombians stuttered in their early matches, the world had already begun its chants to imply an early trip back home for them. They forgot to understand the lessons which could have been learnt and allowed their absence of knowledge, football education on the field, and the art of teamwork in its simplest form.

Each time this opportunity presents itself, I am disappointed by the lack of interest of a people who claim to want to be better than they are at present.

The World Cup is very close among the 16 nations that have advanced to the second round and for the first time in our history, few would care to select a winner. Keep watching, not only to see whether your team goes on to win, but also to focus on the intensity of effort, dedication and commitment each team will display in an attempt to celebrate with the Cup at the end.

According to the Cambridge English dictionary, a chameleon, beside being a lizard that changes skin colour to match what surrounds it so that it cannot be seen, a “chameleon” is also a person who changes their opinions or behaviour according to the situation. Born Khori Francis in Carenage, the second child of Hugh and Deanna Francis, Khori (better known as Ziggy Ranking), the artiste has been changing musically for more than three decades, always keeping in touch with the pulse of the people.

Chameleon is the appropriately titled CD by Ziggy, comprising a whopping 21 original tracks, each carefully crafted and produced into something worth listening to and enjoying.

Ziggy was always destined for a life in music. From an early age, took the stage at his local church, singing in his Sunday school choir. At just nine, he became a master drummer under the tutelage of legendary Toby Tobias. Later, as a teenager, he tested his ability in battle at local “blockos” where he won many chanting competitions. Ziggy’s first real exposure to the local music circuit was back in the 80s when he teamed up with Ajala for the hit single Soonani.

With music seemingly being a living, beating cell of his body, Ziggy became known as “One Take” because he could make-up and record a song in one take — a necessity since he would have only his lunch hour off from work to do it.

When Ziggy’s mother realised this was more than a phase, more of a passion, she urged him to follow his dreams, now immortalised on track 11 of Chameleon, and titled Dreams.

Ziggy migrated to New York to attend Queensborough Community College where he earned an associate degree in music technology, and released one of his enduring classics, Miserable Life. As Ziggy sings in Dreams, “a Miserable Life made me.” It is Miserable Life that Ziggy is most recognised by locally.

Upon returning to native Trinidad, Ziggy continued developing his skills as a singer/ entertainer, collaborating with acts such as Blazer and H2O Phlo, V Bozeman from the series Empire and Arista Records soul artiste Angie Stone. To date his hits include Miserable Life, Zion Train, Girl Next Door, Love How Yuh Wining, Morning Ride, and many more.

Now the father of two daughters, aged 15 and eight, Ziggy lives a simple life, so it comes as no surprise that his favourite dish is corn beef and rice. Ziggy’s wide range in vocals, his ability to write and produce his own music and his lovable personality, have gained approval from an ever growing fan base.

That fan base is expected to grow even more when lovers of good music, not just at home but globally as well, get a listen to Chameleon. I found the album reminiscent to the era of Marley as it is old school reggae. Well balanced, Chameleon could be the embryo for a full length Ziggy Ranks concert.

Tracks to catch my ear on Chameleon include Falling, the provocative and sexy Morning Ride, No Love, a composition I found to be a perfect compliment to Voice’s Year of Love, Dance Turn Over, the serious Stalker, a warning to young women about the evils of social media, Feel Free and Unforgotten.

Ziggy shows his versatility on Chameleon because, as die from his old school reggae tracks, he has also produced tracks with sweet kaiso/soca lavways, like Leave, Cock Back and Keys to the City. On the inspirational I Go Be Back, the artiste also includes a pan sample.

Speaking to Ziggy last weekend, he said that he is into his family, video editing, doing research into music and engineering.

Chameleon has scuttled that most inaccurate belief that T&T artistes and music are seasonal, appreciated only at Carnival.

Artistes like Blackie, Nigel Rojas and rock bands jointpop and Skid Nevely who are turning that notion on its head, are complimentary to Ziggy Ranks.

He said if its one thing that his experience of living in the US has taught him is people enjoy all kinds of music. Ziggy said when he returned home, he was determined to break the perception that T&T music is seasonal.

It is obvious that a lot of thought and creativity went into the making of Chameleon and it took Ziggy two years to complete. One of his challenges was to select 21 compositions out of many more to complete a balanced album.

About his hopes for Chameleon, Ziggy wants his music to go out there, beyond T&T, “to represent the red, white and black universally, to show the world the calibre of talent T&T has.”

About his musical style, Ziggy told T&T Guardian: “World music inspires all. God is the boss and family is important.”

These simple philosophies fuel his life and music.

Ziggy is also viewing the ongoing World Cup tournament in Russia. His favourite team, Brazil.

As the Lower House finalised business yesterday, counting down to the upcoming Parliament recess —early July—MPs seemed to have shifted to battle mode for July 16 by-elections.

“(But) you were Education Minister for five years…!” Education Minister Anthony Garcia berated UNC’s Tim Gopeesingh for a repeated query whose answer Garcia—and the loudly rumbling PNM benches—felt Gopeesingh should have known.

Priming up and “pounding” by both sides has been on the increase amid the election climate. In Tuesday’s Senate, where Finance Minister Colm Imbert came under Opposition pressure on the Galleons Passage issue, Imbert was clearly irked having to respond to what he deemed “fake news”. Such was his annoyance, Senate President Christine Kangaloo cautioned his language repeatedly.

Composure also went AWOL in last Friday’s Opposition no-confidence debate against National Security Minister Edmund Dillon, who demanded UNC MP Barry Padarath, “shut up.”

Padarath got his own back yesterday, saying, “We’ve noticed in such motions against Ministers Dillon and Rohan Sinanan, Prime Minister Keith Rowley hasn’t participated to defend them.”

If there’s been distance between Rowley and his ministers on no confidence issues against them, his credos have included letting “chips fall where they may”. At last Friday’s Mt Hope “Conversations”, Rowley rerouted audience queries to the relevant ministers as they arose.

But if recent ministerial outbursts (“malkadi” in UNC Senator Wade Mark’s view concerning Imbert’s behaviour on Tuesday) signal “pressure” on Government, it’s not unexpected, pre-election.

Challenging term. Pressured public hardball Opposition scrutiny.

The ruling PNM might have won the 2016 Local Government polls easily, astride the wave of their 2015 general election victory. This week, PNM officials projected the July 16 Belmont East and Barataria polls will be won on election day based on machinery.

The polls are a three-way race among PNM, UNC and the 17-month-old Progressive Empowerment Party (PEP). The latter’s presence could indicate how successful a third party might be plus sentiment about Government and Opposition. Whether a low poll - which some expect may be changed by PEP’s offerings - remain ahead. Spotlight “fight”, however, is straight PNM/UNC.

For PNM, the polls will test a party in Government (with resources) battling downturn circumstances and unpopularity. Results will signal the success of PNM’s public messaging during the term and planners will have to hope for better numbers than in 2016 if Government’s boasts of good management in the past and present and future confidence by the public are to stand.

Same numbers as 2016 won’t help its post-poll message. Worse: less votes.

Officials are working towards a 43-45 per cent voter turnout (more than the 34.4 per cent of 2016) in a campaign where hopes are high that voters may be sympathetic to the work of PNM councillors Pernell Bruno (Barataria) and Darryl Rajpaul (Barataria East), whose deaths caused the polls.

This afternoon, ministers do a “Power Walk” in both seats. Election experts like Noel Garcia are supervising Barataria, which UNC lost by 350-odd votes in 2016 and particularly targets following perceived issues with Government by some Muslim Mohammedville voters.

Yesterday’s Anti-terrorism bill finalisation came on the eve of tonight’s functions by two Muslims groups who invited the PNM and UNC leaders. Both – whose stocks will be tested in polls - so far haven’t walked in the areas.

Also, PNM September internal polls where Rowley’s leadership is up for contest follows the by-elections whose results could impact on PNM’s.

UNC planners, hoping for 50-60 per cent voter turnout, agree machinery is key. Barataria campaigning’s been aggressive to ensure better mobilisation, which officials say was weak in 2016. Campaign managers are local and UNC’s chosen a fresh Belmont candidate, high profile in the area. Its 2016 candidate contested unsuccessfully twice.

Anything over 49 votes in Belmont – UNC’s 2016 tally – will show upward movement. UNC will be challenged to see if its public messaging against Government’s management is effective. If it fares worse than its 2016 figures - in a downturn, crime spiralling landscape unflattering to Government- hard Opposition rethink will be necessary.

Next couple weeks to July 16 could better reveal chances.

An almost total silence has befallen our twin-island Republic since the inauguration of the PNM regime in 2015. This silence is broken only by gunshots and the cries of pain from victims and their families of the most heinous crimes. It has become natural that ‘PNMites’ would exult over this deafening silence and point to escalating crime as evidence of results of the former regime’s stewardship.

All but the loyalists understand the dim situation at hand and are ready to face realities. In a section of our society, there is bewilderment, hesitation and something like panic. One would be a fool to think that any of these feelings are actually being shared by our political leaders or those who have hitherto arrogated to themselves leadership.

The Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha has been working very hard to make the best out of a bad situation. We do not act as though our country is demoralised. On the contrary, we believe that circumstances have taken an extremely favourable turn in that the country is crying out for unity and the timing is ripe for a national revolution.

The words of the Mahabharata (Hindu religious text) apply with renewed vigour: “Never should a prince and leader bow his haughty head to fear, Let his fortune be however desperate, death however near. If his soul grow faint, let him imprison weakness in his heart, keep a bold and open countenance and play on a hero’s part. If the leader fear and faint, then all behind him faint and fear. So a king of men should keep a dauntless look and forehead clear.”

This is exactly what we believe. In times of high and heinous

A Colombian fan celebrates his team’s victory over Senegal during a live telecast of their 2018 World Cup match in Bogota, Colombia, on Thursday. PICTURE APcrimes, you should not be demoralised. Your hearts and hopes for your children should be high as ever and you should not show fear. On the other hand, if you feel demoralised and are suffering from sinkings and searchings of the heart, you ought to take some trouble to hide it. (See Mahabharat supra)

Our people, let’s unite! The rank and file are not cowering down. What the country wants and needs is affirmative action by the people in charge. In the past, the SDMS has spoken out at the risk of sometimes being the only responsible organ of public opinion. We have a duty to lay our views before the people and we have not failed to do so.

Almost 1400 murders in less than three years are untenable. Whether you look at it from the elemental point of view of the Government’s performance or the state of the laws of the country, crime enforcement, deterioration in societal values and unemployment, the fact remains, we have reached rock bottom. We can only pull ourselves up, and pull ourselves we must.

What the country wants and needs is a pronouncement of some kind of policy. It need not be a detailed or indiscreet pronouncement, but at least a lead is wanted. Some form of leadership is needed!

To date, the Dr Rowley led Government has failed the people of T&T on the burning issue of crime. They are behaving as though crime is a natural consequence, an inevitable check and balance on potential overpopulation. It is as if they just don’t care. Failure after failure by the people who purport to lead us. Where do we go from here? How do we rise up from this unfortunate state of existence?

“Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; Where knowledge is free; Where the world has not broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls; Where words come out from the depth of truth; Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection; Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit; Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever widening thought and action - into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.”(Gitanjali by Rabindranath Tagore)

Trinidad and Tobago, let us unite now or forever shall we bear the fruit of bad action. If we fail to wrestle crime now, we shall forever be plagued with rampant senseless murders and rapes. If the powers that be are not hearing us, then let us unite to rid ourselves of them. Let us unite now! Let us unite to ensure that we have a government committed to eradicating crime before it is too late. We are currently treading a path that will continue to be marked red and caked with innocent blood.

T&T senior women’s volleyballers will serve off the defence of their Senior Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Championship crown today against little fancied Bahamas from 5 pm in Paramaribo, Suriname.

Last night, the Renele Forde-led 10-member team and three officials departed for Suriname and will have one training session this morning at the competition venue, ahead of this afternoon’s start of the four-nation tournament which will also feature the host country and former champion Barbados.

T&T will enter the tournament as winners of the past six editions.

Last year in Kingston, Jamaica, then Greece-based Krystle Esdelle, Channon Thompson and Darlene Ramdin all scored in double-figures as the Calypso Spikers brushed aside the Jamaicans 25-12, 25-16, 25-10 in the final and prior to the team’s departure, Forde was confident of returning home with the title once again.

“We are very satisfied with how of preparations have gone after a kind of slow start. The core of the team is a very experienced one and we are all ready to compete and with only four teams competing and based on recent performances we expect Suriname to provide our biggest test,” a confident Forde said yesterday.

Despite Bahamas and six-time winners Barbados not being considered as major contenders, Forde noted she and her team-mates will not be underestimating any opponent.

“We will be going into each match with a very focus mindset and we’ll respect for each opponent, but our aim is to return home with the CAZOVA title once again,” said Forde.

The Calypso Spikers’ seven triumphs include victories in 1996 under former coach Macsood Ali followed by 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2017 all under the supervision of Cuban-born Francisco “Panchee” Cruz, to move one ahead of long-time rival Barbados (1993, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004) for the most tournament wins.

The four teams will contest a round-robin series at the end of which the top two will contest the gold medal match and the third and fourth placed teams will compete for the bronze medal.

Both the tournament winner and runner-up will qualify to next year’s Women’s NORCECA Continental Championship.

This will be the second tournament of the year for the Calypso Spikers after a fourth-placed finish at the NORCECA Women’s Challenger Cup in Edmonton, Alberta in northwestern Canada, minus the presence of European-based duo, Esdelle and Sinead Jack.

Jack and Esdelle have returned and will be joined by Ramdin, reigning “Most Valuable Player” awardee Thompson and Forde as the professional players in the team.

Tomorrow, T&T faces Barbados from 9 am before ending round-robin play against Suriname from 7 pm ahead of the final and bronze medal matches on Monday night.

Trainer John Leotaud can continue his winning ways today as he holds the aces for the feature event over 1,200 metres on the main track at Santa Rosa Park, Arima.

Leotaud sends out Maha Raja and Rocket Wheels in the feature event on the Arima Race Club (ARC) Day 20 eight-race card. Apprentice Ri Hernandez has been booked to partner topweight Rocket Wheels which will have her burden lightened to 56.5 kilos. She is expected to go very close.

The one I fancy is stablemate Maha Raja, which must be respected with 57 kilos and Kerron Khelawan in the plate. This grey horse has loads of speed and if allowed to dictate the pace the colt could snatch victory in the Modified Benchmark Handicap for horses rated 70-55. Maha Raja has run two good races and should be a concert pitch for this event.

Glenn Mendez has the two main rivals to Leotaud with his pair of Golden Choice and Integrity.

Golden Choice refused to race last time out but won well the start before. This horse must be respected with Dillon Khelawan in the saddle.

Ricky Jadoo will be aboard the in-form Integrity and this horse is expected to run big once again in the ten horse field.

Post time is 1.05 pm.