The recent election outcome could see several ways in which life could change under a President Trump. Here are a few offerings for consideration based on recent statements after last week’s election as well as policy statements he made before his win.

Mr Trump has opposed and has been verbally very critical of the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership deal, and demanded fundamental changes to the NAFTA (The North American Free Trade Agreement) pact with Mexico and Canada.

He has also threatened to impose a punitive 45 per cent tariff on goods from China, causing alarm that the probability of a trade war is quite high. There is a high risk of recession if a trade war results, depressing stock prices and treasury yields for a sustained period. This should be of concern to us in the Caribbean since we have built our small open economies on globalization and free trade over the last two decades. Moving to a new trade regime that must be spelt out would take time. This can also affect our investments which may earn low returns for a longer period.

While President Barack Obama began his term by spelling out his vision of a world without nuclear weapons, Trump has said that Obama’s deal with Iran, which seeks to prevent the Islamic republic from attaining nuclear weapons, would be dismantled or at least restructured.

Trump has also stated that he has no problem if both Japan and South Korea developed nuclear arsenals. He has raised concerns about the US’s treaty commitments to NATO allies that do not provide finance to assist with the cost to running the prganisation, while suggesting a much closer relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Admittedly some of these ideas are not new, but the creation of global uncertainty that removes a dominant power from the global scene means countries will have to militarize to protect themselves.

This will not only be costly for us but also makes us vulnerable to larger hostile countries. The creation of a CARICOM force with a military plan and security net would have to be considered and will require financing to acquire the necessary hardware.

Trump has also made it very clear that Obamacare (the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act which was intended to reform the health care industry and give more Americans access to affordable, quality health insurance and to reduce the growth in US health care spending) will be “released and replaced” although recently he stated that he will keep a few key elements.

In addition, he has indicated that a comprehensive alternative will be developed to encourage competition between markets in different states. If health-care costs increase in the US, this will affect us in the Caribbean as many of our medical tests as well as procedures, including surgeries, are carried out in the US. It will also see pharmaceuticals increase in cost.

Trump has promised the biggest tax changes since those introduced by Ronald Reagan, pledging to cut taxes across the board. He says no American business would pay more than 15 per cent of their profits in tax, compared with a current maximum of 35 per cent.

The top rate of tax would fall from 39.6 per cent as the number of tax brackets are reduced. Any alarming increase in fiscal deficits that attempts to increase national debt and lead to increased imports worsening the trade deficit can weaken the US dollar, making commodities more expensive and affecting our inflation.

US securities, if made unstable, can introduce risk to several portfolios locally and regionally.

These fiscal initiatives can make the US a far more rewarding destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) which can take investor interest and FDI away from Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.

Trump has all but stated that global warming is a hoax invented by China to make US manufacturers uncompetitive, and he has vowed to “cancel” the Paris climate agreement, which built on a deal Obama struck with China.

He also stated he intends to stop all US payments for UN global warming programmes. However, climate change is affecting us in the Caribbean.

The more extreme weather (hurricanes) and rising sea levels introduce vulnerabilities that require investment in building resilience. Dismissing global warming is not in our interest and can harm those programmes that benefit countries in the Caribbean that must strengthen infrastructure, build sea walls and reinforce buildings to withstand more extreme weather and higher sea levels.

One other issue that certainly will affect the Caribbean is the possible change in immigration policy in the US. The current President has supported comprehensive reform that would aim at providing each immigrant with an opportunity to get full citizenship.

Trump has argued of the need to build a wall on the Mexican Border, call for a ban on Muslim immigration and the deportation of eleven million unauthorized immigrants. It must be noted that has been recently revised to 3 million.

He has also suggested extreme vetting of immigrants as a possible policy option going forward. What this will mean for the Caribbean will depend on the specifics of any policy changes.

Certainly, an influx of Caribbean nationals (a number we do not know) would put pressure on the job market, social services, health services, security apparatus, requirements for low income housing, and has other socioeconomic implications. We in the Caribbean must look at what is happening to foresee and prepare for the possible impact.

Government named CAL’s new Board last week although the members of the Board knew of their appointments since early October.

The new board took eff ect on October 14, 2016. Other members of the board are: Vice Chairman Michael Quamina, Vishnu Dhanpaul for the second ti me, Enid Zephyrine, Dr Chris Maharaj and representati ve of the Jamaican government Dennis Lalor.

Eff orts to reach Mr Mohammed at his south offi ce failed, while eff orts to talk with the acti ng CEO Singh also proved futi le.

In the last fi ve years, the airline has been through four Boards of Directors and fi ve Chief Executi ve Offi cers (CEOs), two confi rmed and three acti ng. Acti ng CEO Tyrone Tang, a Trinidadian, whose contract ended at the end of October is back in Canada with his family. The latest acti ng CEO positi on is now being held by pilot Jagmohan Singh. The head hunter fi rm looking for another permanent CEO has already selected a number of possibiliti es but the process is ti ed up in bureaucracy.

The new board replaces that led by Phillip Marshall, which was eff ecti ve June 1, 2015; before that Marshall was acti ng chairman.

Caribbean Airlines in a release last week thanked the Marshall board for its dedicated service to the airline and wished them success in the future.

Mohammed takes over the helm at a ti me when CAL is facing a myriad of problems including: some of the higher fares in the industry; on ti me performance and, most recently, trouble on the domesti c service with frequent breakdowns of the ATR fl eet.

It was only two weeks ago that two ATRS had problems and were off the line for several hours causing chaos on the airbridge with lengthy delays. Meanwhile 9Y-TTA which had another engine fi re was in the hangar while personnel from the French company pored over the cause of the fi re alerts coming on in the cockpit.

But this is not the fi rst ti me this parti cular airplane 9Y-TTA has given the maintenance department headaches. It was the ninth ti me that the cockpit warning lights have come on in this parti cular aircraft .

The fi rst major incident with 9Y-TTA and which caused an emergency at Piarco Internati onal occurred on October 10, 2015 when the right engine fi re indicator came on in the cockpit and the aircraft was forced to go into a holding patt ern for close to an hour on a return fl ight from Tobago.

On October 16, the same plane developed a hydraulic leak.

Although the engine was changed on the aircraft , on December 14, 2015 there was a similar situati on when the right engine indicator light again came on, causing the aircraft to circle above the airport before landing safely. While in the fi rst instance the evacuati on of the aircraft caused some passengers injuries, the second did not cause any passenger injuries. CAL was forced to press into the domesti c service the company’s jets.

Regarding the annual government subventi ons, between June 2013 and June 2015 the airline received (US)$196,942,976. Broken down CAL received (US)$35,444,890 in 2013; (US)$158,266,192 the following year and from January to June last year the fi gure was (US)$3,231,894.

Maharaj, in a statement issued last Thursday (November 10), lamented that while “substantial lip service has been paid to the need for Campaign Finance Transparency, to date, nothing has been achieved, with the result that the people of TT are being asked once again to vote (for) a party or candidate without any knowledge as to which special interests have financed their campaign.” “More so, with the recent Cabinet re-Shuffle there is now in the public domain questions regarding the role Party Financiers did or did not play in the choice of the selection of Ministers,” Maharaj stated.

The DT CEO made it clear that the organisation firmly believes there is no need to wait on the passage of legislation “in order to know this fundamental information,” adding that “there is absolutely nothing in law” preventing TT’s political parties and candidates from “disclosing their financiers today.” Maharaj noted that election financing transparency requires proper record keeping of donations, expenditure and sources of cash and in-kind assistance, in respect of the political party, its offers and individual party candidates.

Hence the call by DT for all political leaders in the upcoming Local Government elections to make the following commitments:

Political Party Obligations & Voluntary Disclosures 1) That your Party will comply with all requirements of Section 4 of the Code of Ethical Political Conduct and that you will publish widely and reasonably in advance of Electi n Day, for the benefit of the electorate what due diligence measures your Political Party has established to ensure such compliance.

2) That proper records will be kept of all cash and in-kind donations received by the political party whether directly or indirectly for the purposes of hosting political meetings, print, broadcast and online advertising and other general election campaigning and party expenses (i.e., events, transportation, consultants, custom advertising clothing, gift s). Inkind donations include the provision of goods, works and/or services for the benefit of election campaigning where the payment for, discounted off set and/or donation of service gratis or at below market price has been made by a third party.

3) That proper records will be kept of the total expenditure by the political party and every third party supplier of goods, works and/ or services for the purposes of the election campaign.

4) That 48 hours before Election Day a statement will be disclosed to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the media containing a list of all sources of funds whether cash or in-kind from a single source (including servants and/or agents or representatives) where the aggregate donations exceed $50,000TTD.

5) That within 90 days after Election Day a final audited account will be published and provided to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the media of the total cash and in-kind donations received and the sources of same and the total expenditure by the Party, including third party suppliers of goods, works and/or services, on the 2016 Local Government Election Campaign.

Party Candidate Obligations & Voluntary Disclosures 6) That each Party Candidate will be instructed by the Leadership (a) to conduct and manage their election campaign consistent with the regulatory requirements under the Representation of the People Act Chap 2.01; (b) to keep or cause to be kept a proper record of all cash and in-kind donations received by them whether directly or indirectly for the purposes of hosting political meetings, print, broadcast and online advertising and other general election campaigning expenses (i.e., events, transportation, consultants, custom advertising clothing, gift s); and (c) that full disclosure of the sources of their funds whether cash or in-kind and an estimate of total cash and in-kind donations received and total expenditure on the 2016 Local Government Election Campaign be made available to the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the media within forty-five (45) days of the election.

7) That the Party Leadership will ensure that there are adequate controls in place to monitor Party Candidates‟ conduct and management of their respective election campaigns for regulatory compliance and for consistency with standards of integrity in public life.

Request for Political Party & Electoral Finance Reform 8) That there will be included in the Party Manifesto a commitment that if successful at the election, Political Party and Electoral Finance legislative reform will be undertaken within the five (5) year term after open and adequate public consultations that ensure maximum citizen engagement in the design of the legislation.

We are also renewing our call on the Government to make public its policy position as it relates to Campaign Finance Reform. This policy position should then be subject to extensive debate and consultation with members of Civil Society and citizens across both islands before any substantive legislation is bought before Parliament. Such a collaborative approach would help to restore public confidence in our political systems and signal progress toward the development of a healthy participatory democracy.

Maharaj was awarded “EY Master Entrepreneur of the Year” on Saturday night at the Champions of Business Induction Ceremony and Gala Cocktail Reception held at the Hyatt Regency, Port-of-Spain.

In the video presentation aired at the ceremony Maharaj recalled that his mother was a hairdresser and she had always expressed frustration that she was not able to get makeup for her clients who were darker women.

“I recognised an unfulfilled need in the local and global market,” he explained.

Sacha Cosmetics was started in 1979 in response to that need.

Maharaj said that he wanted to build a premium brand that could eventually be exported and that could compete with international brands. He explained that he decided to build slowly and one product at a time.

“A very long haul,” he added.

He said he wanted a product to solve a problem and came up with a water compounder that was a single shade and could work with any skin tone. He explained the buttercup setting powder became a transformational product for darker skin tones.

“Sacha helps women look better and feel better about themselves,” he said. He explained that they established 10 Sacha Image Centres for women to learn about makeup.

He said the company?s ability to distribute in 45 countries was through e-commerce and their relationship with international shipping company Amazon. He reported they are planning to move into the Latin American market and they already have a number of stores in Panama.

Maharaj has received a number of accolades over the years including in 2012 when the Export Development Forum named him one of the “Top 50 Exemplars and Icons” for the period 1962- 2012. Sasha also won Caribbean Exporter of the Year in 2014 and the company was the official cosmetics of the 1999 Miss Universe, the 2000 Miss USA Pageant, the 2014 Miss Panama Pageant and other international beauty events.

In his acceptance speech Maharaj thanked the organisers “for this tremendous acknowledgement for what we achieved at Sacha and what we continue to achieve”. He recalled that when they first started it was not easy as they had nothing to copy.

“It was like the black and white stage of television. We had no idea what colour would look like,” he said. He explained the basic philosophy was to develop a premium brand to compete with the imported premium brands on the local market and sell it at the same price.

“And if we could dominate these brands, global brands, in this market we knew we could dominate them in every other market,” he said.

He explained that when people hear that when you manufacture something local “people automatically think it is inferior”.

“And when my people would come to me and say ‘boss, our product look better but they buying the imported ones’ I would say to them ‘you know why they buying the imported ones? Because we are not good enough and we have to improve’,” he recalled.

He explained that he keeps a mirror on his work desk so if anything goes wrong he knows where the buck stops.

“And we continued to improve and develop not only products that worked well but products that were truly transformational. And the world is beginning to really appreciate,” he said.

He referenced the earlier video presentation which featured a clip from Australia’s “top blogger” Nikki Perkins who described the buttercup powder as a “gift from God”. He said her blog in which she featured the buttercup powder has received two million views to date.

“This is what is building global brand awareness,” he pointed out.

He reported that online sales is more than 50 per cent of their total export sales and he was very pleased with how their online sales have picked up and are growing.

He pointed out that the buttercup powder is the number one bestselling face powder on Amazon worldwide, which was met with loud applause from the audience.

He said stock is available in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom though he was not sure how the latter would be affected by Brexit. He reported that the next stop is Amazon India and Sacha is currently undergoing registration.

“And we hope by the end of this year to have Sacha in a market of a billion people all with different skin tones,” he said.

Maharaj thanked the organisers, his staff, family, the Almighty and “most of all the beautiful women of Trinidad and Tobago that gave us our start”.

As winner of EY Entrepreneur of the Year Maharaj is scheduled to represent this country next year in Monaco for the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year.

One which celebrates the fact that all its products, from the 1787 and 1824 premium rums to White Oak, Black Label and Forres Park Puncheon Rum, plus the worldfamous Angostura Aromatic Bitters and the newer Angostura Orange Bitters, are all locally-manufactured products.

Jodhan, speaking at 1787’s TT launch on November 2 at the company’s head office, Eastern Main Road, Laventille, said the rums produced by Angostura “are a symbol of national pride, a treasured legacy, a tribute to the evolution of the rum industry in the Caribbean and the men and women who have nurtured it.” “Steeped in nearly 200 years of tradition, the culmination of a journey that started in 1824, the company continues to make the finest quality rums. The guarantee of the very finest rum, is a promise Angostura has kept to our customers since we produced our first rums. Angostura’s rums are held in the highest esteem not just here in Trinidad, but in many cities all around the world – we have won more than 125 medals at every major international spirits competition for the past decade.” Prior to November 2, 1787 was launched in 14 European market back in September, starting in Copenhagen, Denmark at the Ruby Cocktail Bar, “through product tastings and events with our Master Distiller, John Georges.” Jodhan said invitees consisted of Angostura’s foreign distributors and trade, with “heavy focus (on) the bartenders in each market.

Asked to elaborate on the “Welcome Home” campaign, Jodhan told Business Day it signifies patriotism.

“Our rums are crafted by the world’s best distillers and blenders, born right here in TT and we wanted to showcase this in our campaign. It tells ‘Trinis’ that whether you live abroad, or go away and come back, we want to welcome you home with our rums.” Jodhan added that Angostura has a rum for any occasion and for any taste palette.

“While our international rum range is appreciated and awarded worldwide, we want all ‘Trinbagonians’ to fell a sense of pride when they taste them. So “Welcome Home” to our international rum range.” 1787 replaces 1824 as Angostura’s ‘top’ premium rum; 1824 is aged for a minimum of 12 years.

1787?s “rich mahogany colour with bronze highlights” comes from an ageing process that takes a minimum of 15 years, in charred oak barrels, using a selection of rums carefully chosen from the company’s “vast ageing warehouses”.

Angostura said 1787 “is beautifully balanced, with a medium-bodied palate, and a sweet bouquet of banana, dried fruit and oak with top notes of apples.

Its taste carries a hint of dried prunes and sweet rounded oak notes entwined with toffee nuances, with a long, crisp finish.” With a new rum comes a new look (bottle shape and label) for Angostura’s premium GOLD rums – 1787, 1824, 1919 and 7 yr old.

There’s also a new price for 1824; its recommended retail price of TT $349.99 was changed to $299.99, with 1787 now occupying the ‘most expensive’ spot at $349.99.

Jodhan told Business Day that “the recent increase on the duties” was also reflected in the new pricing.

“For the international rum range, these are our suggested retail prices in TT dollars: Angostura® 1787: $349.99 Angostura 1824®: $299.99 Angostura 1919®: $249.99 Angostura® 7 yr old: $149.99” While all Angostura rums are available locally, Jodhan explained that there are “specific rums being sold in specific markets.” This means that currently, rum drinkers in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Australia can purchase “1824, 1919, 7 yr old and 5 yr old, Reserva 3 yr old white (1787 is available in 13 markets so far).” North American-based consumers can find 1824, 1919, 7 yr old, 5 yr old and White Oak, Black Label and Forres Park in stores now but they have to wait until next year to buy 1787; that’s when Angostura plans to launch its superpremium rum in North America.

“Most of our rums are available in the USA and are very well received. This can be seen through the number of awards we won in USA for taste and packaging for the last ten years. With the launch of Angostura 1787 carded for 2017, this will also allow us a space in the superpremium category which we anticipate will be also well received,” Jodhan stated.

Meanwhile customers in Latin America currently have access to 1824, 1919, 7 yr old and 5 yr old. Jodhan said “White Oak and 1787 will be introduced in 2017.” Closer to home, Caribbean rum drinkers would be able to buy “1787, 1824, 1919, White Oak, Black Label, Forres Park, Single Barrel, Vat 19 and Royal Oak.” While the Duty-Free market is “very important” to Angostura, representing what Jodhan said is “a significant part of our business,” she did not go into details except to say that Angostura rums “are only in our local duty free shops at present” and that “there has been no change” in sales following the drop in oil prices.

Asked how the company expects the introduction of 1787 to change this, Jodhan replied, “We expect Angostura 1787 to create more interest in our rums as it is beautifully packaged, representing the essence of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a great addition to our premium rum range and would make an ideal present for Christmas.” It’s often been said that during times of economic difficulty, people often spend on quality rather than quantity.

Business Day asked if Angostura was therefore ‘banking’ on 1787 to do well locally because rum connoisseurs would prefer to spend money on one bottle of 1787 versus the same amount of several bottles of cheaper rum? “Global trends are showing that consumers are demanding more from their spirits; flavour, complexity, heritage et cetera. Angostura 1787 is a rum that appeals to that trend whether locally or abroad. If quality is the consideration, then Angostura 1787 definitely fits the bill,” Jodhan declared.

This also applies right here in TT, where there’s been an increase in demand for “premium gold rums,” Jodhan told Business Day.

On average people spend about 90% of their time indoors. International studies have found that indoor air pollutants are generally two to five times greater than outdoor pollution levels.

You are more likely to get sick from pollution in your home and office than from pollution in the air outside. In fact, the American College of Allergists has found that 50% of all illnesses are caused by indoor air pollution.

This article focuses on some common IAQ Questions and Answers.

What is Indoor Air Quality?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines IAQ as the temperature, humidity, ventilation and chemical or biological contaminants of the air inside a building. IAQ refers to the quality of the air inside buildings as represented by concentrations of pollutants and thermal (temperature and relative humidity) conditions that affect the health, comfort and performance of occupants. The growing proliferation of chemical pollutants in consumer and commercial products, the tendency toward tighter building envelopes and reduced ventilation to save energy, and pressures to defer maintenance and other building services to reduce costs may foster IAQ problems.

How do you know if the indoor air quality in your workplace is poor?

Poor indoor air quality in buildings is usually characterized by complaints by 20% or more of occupants of various symptoms that occur for more than two weeks, and who experience rapid relief after leaving the building.

What are the causes of poor indoor air quality?

Poor indoor air quality can be caused by numerous factors some of which are:

• Poor ventilation due to improper airflow and continuous re-circulation of the indoor air. This is usually evidenced by the feeling of sleepiness and lethargy particularly in the afternoon and usually occurs in buildings with split air-conditioning units only.

• Lack of adequate air filtration of the circulated air. This is usually evidenced by materials coming through supply vents in offices and is caused by the absence of air filters on air-conditioning equipment.

• Poorly maintained air-conditioning systems are frequent sources of biological substances that can be inhaled, leading to breathing problems. Such systems are usually evidenced by water collecting on ceiling tiles due to condensation on the ducting, water collecting in drain pans, dirty air filters and the occurrence of a musty odour. Mould growth may be occurring if the ceiling tile turns black. White growth on furniture may also be mould particularly if there is a temperature and relative humidity problem in a building.

• The improper use of cleaning chemicals, freshly painted walls, new furniture and activities such as construction works can also lead to indoor air quality problems.

What symptoms are often linked to poor indoor air quality?

It is common for most people to report one or more following health issues:

• Dryness and irritation of eyes, nose, throat and skin

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath

• Hypersensitivity and allergies

• Sinus congestion

• Coughing and sneezing

• Dizziness

• Nausea

What can be done to improve the indoor air quality in office buildings?

Attendance to the challenges of IAQ should be done on a systematic basis. Too often ad hoc responses are the order of the day. By introducing outdoor air into buildings, specifically, air that is properly filtered and cooled before it is mixed with circulated air this can improve conditions. For places like Port-of-Spain, a closing mechanism should be installed on outdoor air intakes which prevent smoke and odours from fires, from entering the building.

Companies can also try the installation of air filters with a Minimum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) of eight on air conditioning unit’s results in proper filtration which can remove many contaminants that can cause people to become sick.

Lastly, do not conduct vapor/gas and dust releasing activities such as painting, duct-cleaning, sanding etc when buildings are occupied. These activities should be done when the building is vacant to allow the entire premises to be properly ventilated afterwards.

What should you do if you think the indoor air quality in your building is poor?

Persons who suspect their building has poor IAQ can start by following the above steps. Additional measures include ventilating the building by opening windows and doors once the building is located away from major vehicular traffic and any other potential gas and dust releasing activity and conducting an indoor air quality assessment. IAQ assessments should be conducted once every year as part of an annual risk assessment or when major changes to the buildings layout and processes occur.

Why should I conduct an indoor air quality Assessment?

Understanding and controlling common indoor pollutants can help reduce your risk of indoor health concerns. Air sampling can help with this by determining the quality of the indoor air through monitoring for a range of pollutants and comparing them to acceptable limits set by reputable organizations. An indoor air quality assessment predominantly includes testing for gases, dust and mould.

Why should I use CARIRI’s IAQ services?

CARIRI has positioned itself as a premier technology Institute based on service quality. Quality is a hallmark of the services provided to clients in Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and extra regional markets. As part of its commitment to providing the highest quality services, CARIRI has established several quality management systems that work together to maintain the Institute’s overall high quality standards such as ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 17025:2005.

Along with our other quality certifications, CARIRI is also STOW certified.

CARIRI also has a multi-disciplinary team with extensive experience and a wide range of skills to meet the needs of the client. The team is headed by an Environmental Specialist who is supported by a cadre of professional and technical staff that are Council- Certified Environmental Consultants accredited by the American Council of Accredited Certification (ACAC) and the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB) which is the most prestigious certification specific to Indoor Air Quality.

Some of the services offered by CARIRI in the area of Indoor Air Quality include but are not limited to:

• IAQ Testing & assessments

• Ventilation systems inspections

• Microbial IAQ testing

• Noise surveys

• Occupational health risk

assessment

• Sick building syndrome surveys

Contact CARIRI’s AQMS department today to help you “Clear the Air.”

Air Quality Management Services (AQMS)

Trincity West Industrial Estate,

Macoya,

Tel: (868) 285-5050 ext. 3300

Email: iaq@cariri.com

This article is to help guide our members and non-members alike along a path of financial planning our counselling as you may call it. The current economic climate calls for much thought and consideration into our planning and the execution of those plans.

In this context, we wish to suggest some pointers which we believe will help you to enjoy Christmas and at the same time to be ready to start the New Year on a successful financial path.

The Christmas season is one of the times that we experience the highest seasonal spending. Back-to- School season being the next closest competitor. Unfortunately, however, when the calendar turns to January, the negative effects of this spending begin to set in: higher than expected credit card statements, tighter finances than imagined, increased stress, and regret over the amount of money spent. You must take steps to avoid overspending.

Before you get on the shopping trail, prepare a budget clearly itemizing how much money you wish to spend on each item such as gifts, clothes, appliances, decorations, etc.

Stick to this list. It should be your guide for Christmas and similarly for life.

Retail Stores heighten their advertising during Christmas time.

They are doing their job and we must respect that. You must also review your strategies and heighten your awareness of what is taking place in the market. And, they will certainly understand that the also need to respect you.

Review cost of items from various stores and compare quality and price that will match your budget and pursue your shopping from an informed and smart perspective.

Avoid shopping by impulse for things that you just see and want.

Purchase only what you need, Watch your credit card. Avoid using this for unnecessary purposes as the ‘dragon’ hidden in high fees and debt will dismantle your finances and your family support systems in the New Year. Remember there is life after Christmas.

As far as is possible, call stores first to be sure that they have want you need. This will avoid unnecessary travel expenses whether by taxi or gasoline for your vehicle.

In the event that you are travelling outside of Trinidad and Tobago, research the best travel and hotel options with the key factor of cost in mind. We support family time, moreso at Christmas but it is important to monitor the cost of these of these desires to verify whether after it is done, that living expenses in the New Year will be within your budget. If it is not, you may choose to forego travel until a more appropriate time.

Keep your calculator or note pad with you to track spending. This is a key component to wise financial stewardship and your due diligence here cannot be over-emphasized. You do not need any specific software to track these expenses – a simple pen and paper will do the trick for you! Comparison with your budget is the next prudent and ongoing step.

Ignore temptations where you see that there is extra money in your hand. Save it in your credit union! You must remember that your credit union is your best friend and feel free to discuss your financial challenges with officials there. You must guard against the temptation of loan sale by other financial institutions which makes ‘taking a loan’ easy. Ask about the loan fees and all hidden costs. Compare with your credit union.

Bear in mind that a loan with a credit union will always be the most cost-effective way of borrowing.

Generally, except for some special loans, the interest rate is 1% per month on the declining balance. This works out to approximately 6.6%.

Your shares will be used as collateral for loans, but the beauty in this is that it also remains intact and attracts dividends at an average of 4.5% per annum. It simply means that while you are repaying your loan at a minimum interest rate, your shares are earning interest for you.

More importantly also, is the fact that credit union members are the owners of the credit union and you have the right to attend your credit union’s Annual General Meeting, question the Board and give guidance on matters that concern your finances. You do not have that opportunity in another financial institution.

In summary, we ask that you pay very close attention to your financial welfare at all times. Enjoy every moment of the season with your family and loved ones.

But, remember avoiding overspending during the holiday season may not be easy.

It certainly requires extra time and effort.

But trust us, in January -you will thank, not only our League, but yourself for being a ‘true and honest friend to you’.

We wish you a safe and enjoyable Holiday Season

This article is to help guide our members and non-members alike along a path of financial planning our counselling as you may call it. The current economic climate calls for much thought and consideration into our planning and the execution of those plans.

In this context, we wish to suggest some pointers which we believe will help you to enjoy Christmas and at the same time to be ready to start the New Year on a successful financial path.

The Christmas season is one of the times that we experience the highest seasonal spending. Back-to- School season being the next closest competitor. Unfortunately, however, when the calendar turns to January, the negative effects of this spending begin to set in: higher than expected credit card statements, tighter finances than imagined, increased stress, and regret over the amount of money spent. You must take steps to avoid overspending.

Before you get on the shopping trail, prepare a budget clearly itemizing how much money you wish to spend on each item such as gifts, clothes, appliances, decorations, etc.

Stick to this list. It should be your guide for Christmas and similarly for life.

Retail Stores heighten their advertising during Christmas time.

They are doing their job and we must respect that. You must also review your strategies and heighten your awareness of what is taking place in the market. And, they will certainly understand that the also need to respect you.

Review cost of items from various stores and compare quality and price that will match your budget and pursue your shopping from an informed and smart perspective.

Avoid shopping by impulse for things that you just see and want.

Purchase only what you need, Watch your credit card. Avoid using this for unnecessary purposes as the ‘dragon’ hidden in high fees and debt will dismantle your finances and your family support systems in the New Year. Remember there is life after Christmas.

As far as is possible, call stores first to be sure that they have want you need. This will avoid unnecessary travel expenses whether by taxi or gasoline for your vehicle.

In the event that you are travelling outside of Trinidad and Tobago, research the best travel and hotel options with the key factor of cost in mind. We support family time, moreso at Christmas but it is important to monitor the cost of these of these desires to verify whether after it is done, that living expenses in the New Year will be within your budget. If it is not, you may choose to forego travel until a more appropriate time.

Keep your calculator or note pad with you to track spending. This is a key component to wise financial stewardship and your due diligence here cannot be over-emphasized. You do not need any specific software to track these expenses – a simple pen and paper will do the trick for you! Comparison with your budget is the next prudent and ongoing step.

Ignore temptations where you see that there is extra money in your hand. Save it in your credit union! You must remember that your credit union is your best friend and feel free to discuss your financial challenges with officials there. You must guard against the temptation of loan sale by other financial institutions which makes ‘taking a loan’ easy. Ask about the loan fees and all hidden costs. Compare with your credit union.

Bear in mind that a loan with a credit union will always be the most cost-effective way of borrowing.

Generally, except for some special loans, the interest rate is 1% per month on the declining balance. This works out to approximately 6.6%.

Your shares will be used as collateral for loans, but the beauty in this is that it also remains intact and attracts dividends at an average of 4.5% per annum. It simply means that while you are repaying your loan at a minimum interest rate, your shares are earning interest for you.

More importantly also, is the fact that credit union members are the owners of the credit union and you have the right to attend your credit union’s Annual General Meeting, question the Board and give guidance on matters that concern your finances. You do not have that opportunity in another financial institution.

In summary, we ask that you pay very close attention to your financial welfare at all times. Enjoy every moment of the season with your family and loved ones.

But, remember avoiding overspending during the holiday season may not be easy.

It certainly requires extra time and effort.

But trust us, in January -you will thank, not only our League, but yourself for being a ‘true and honest friend to you’.

We wish you a safe and enjoyable Holiday Season

Marley is a huge advocate of sustainable, organic foods and of being aware of what you put into your body; many recipes in the book are vegetarian, vegan and/or gluten- free. Some include ingredients from his line of hempseeds and flavoured coconut oils, Ziggy Marley Organics. Marley dedicates the book to his family, Mother Earth and his readers, and declares, “Cook and live life with purpose.”

Marley shared one of his favourite recipes from the book, his Coconut Dream Fish. While making the recipe, you’ll reach the three stages of “coconutiness” — and upon consuming, likely transcend into a state of pure bliss.

Ziggy Marley’s Coconut Dream Fish

4 fillets wild sea bass

Salt, to taste

? tsp lemon pepper

4–6 tbsp Ziggy Marley’s Coco’Mon Coconut Oil, or coconut oil of your choosing

? cup vegetable stock

1 medium onion, chopped

2 medium bell peppers

3 garlic cloves

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (some chopped for garnish)

6 whole Jamaican allspice berries

? tsp cayenne pepper

? tsp curry powder

? cup coconut milk Lime, quartered, for garnish

Season fish fillets with salt and lemon pepper in the same skillet you will cook with.

Rub 1 tbsp coconut oil onto seasoned fish, massaging for a few minutes. You’ve reached stage one of coconutiness. Remove fillets from pan and set aside. Warm remaining coconut oil in the skillet over medium heat until oil is hot. Return fillets to pan and fry on each side for 3-5 minutes, until slightly browned.

Remove fillets and place in a dish. You’ve reached stage two of coconutiness. Add 4 tbsp vegetable stock to the same skillet and scrape all the fish goodness from the bottom, deglasing the skillet and stirring. Lower heat if necessary, so as not to burn.

Add onions, bell pepper, garlic, ginger, thyme, allspice, cayenne pepper, and curry powder, and stir until mixture starts bubbling (about a minute or so). Stir in coconut milk, remainder of vegetable stock, and heat 2-3 minutes until it comes to a boil, then reduce heat. Lay fish fillets back in the pan and simmer for a few minutes, just so the fish can incorporate all the sauce. Try to make sure the fillets are kept whole. Turn off heat, garnish with fresh chopped thyme and lime wedges, and serve on a platter, family style. You’ve reached the final stage of coconutiness.

The dish is gingery and coconutty with a hint of curry and a little spice. It taste clean and will leave you feeling well-fed but not full – Jamaican style.

(Reprinted with permission from Ziggy Marley and Family Cookbook: Delicious Meals Made with Whole, Organic Ingredients from the Marley Kitchen

The 24-year-old has had a sub-par year on the track which culminated in an early exit at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

He revealed yesterday that he is spending time in Orlando, Florida seeking medical advice and training and with his new home, he believes his fortune is on the up again.

“It has been a long promised gift since 2013. It is never too late to receive your own home and I am definitely thankful for everyone who made it possible.

The Minister of Housing Mr Randall (Mitchell), the Minister of Sports Mr Darryl Smith, also Corporate Communications and Mr Newman George (HDC Chairman) along with Mr (Edwin) Skinner my local manager and Mr Hasely Crawford, they were all part of the team that pushed for me to get it. I am really thankful that it is possible now and I am just ready to move in and be comfortable.” Smith, who was present at the ceremony, said he was disappointed that the last Government did not fulfil their promise.

“Mr Gordon and I met prior to the Olympics about what are his needs moving forward and he reminded us of one of the promises that was made to him which was a home by the former regime and I was flabbergasted to hear that it wasn’t done,” the Sports Minister declared.

Mitchell explained, “It was more than a promise made to Mr Gordon, this was actually recorded in a Cabinet minute of 2013 in recognition of Mr Gordon’s prowess and his outstanding performance at track and field, he was promised a house. We are now here fulfilling that promise because for some reason there was a failure on the part of the last Government to actually carry through with that.” With the World Championships scheduled for next year, Gordon is confident that he still has what it takes to compete at a high level.

“I think the best is yet to come. I don’t see anybody who will want to count me out; I am 24 years old, I have done a lot for the country, I have done a lot for myself.

The guy (Kerron Clement) who won the Olympics this year, he is 31 years old, the guy (Felix Sanchez) who won before that he was 36 years old.” Gordon explained that his recent health problems has affected his rhythm on the track and rhythm is crucial in his event.

“The thing is, with my event, the hurdling event, it is a maturity event. It is the same thing with Keshorn (Walcott) and his event it is a maturity event so the stronger, the more spatially aware that you become and understand with the hurdles, it is about rhythm. With everything that has been taking place with me over the last year and a half, it has affected my rhythm and I am just trying to find my rhythm back right now.”