At the post general council press conference at the Balisier House in Port of Spain, Khan said Olivierre had “some experience” in the Energy Sector and would be of assistance to him during this financially challenging time for the country.

“She has worked with the NGC (National Gas Company) and I think she would be a good resource in the Ministry of Energy and she would provide some tremendous assistance to me.” He said the Energy Ministry was a fundamental one in the country’s economy so it was necessary to re-energise the sector and “all hands should be on deck.” Khan also addressed the issue of local government reform, saying that the legislation would be tabled at the next session of Parliament.

He said two key parts of the legislation would be to allow corporations to collect and retain property taxes, and that local government councillors would be full-time councillors and they would have executive authority.

He said Government was also working on a system that would allow corporations to be involved in school repairs along with the Ministry of Education and the Education Facilities Company Limited

Deyalsingh was not even prepared to disclose these details when we approached him following his live presentation in Parliament, saying only that such information would be premature. He explained further that the project is now simply at the stage of crafting a user brief and only after that is done that a cost and time line could be established.

Why such an announcement now, therefore, in too general terms about the hospital. Surely the statement is not one that could truly bring comfort to the hundreds of people who must access the hospital compound daily in not the most ideal conditions, bearing in mind that it is only a few days ago that staff, agitated by the lack of basic items in the hospital kitchen, made their displeasure known via loud banging of pots and pans and chanting.

What was also startling in the minister’s announcement in Parliament on Friday, was his revelation about the state of the wing at the hospital that the project is intended to supplant: a facility so structurally unsound that Deyalsingh, in muted urgency, quoted the globally respected Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) as concluding that the block in question has been a disaster waiting to happen in the event of an earthquake.

Deyalsingh did not say whether PAHO indicated what intensity the current block could withstand, but it borders on irresponsibility that no plan has been suggested to get all occupants – patients and health care providers and the public in general – totally out of that block and consequently harm’s way soonest, only some activity that speaks to the lessening of the load on the building.

What this means we do not know, but we do not have to remind the minister that an earthquake is not like a tropical wave which can be predicted and prepared for. This natural threat demands all kinds of long term considerations, and time and time again, we have expressed our concern about our complacency despite the warnings of the people at the Seismic Research Unit at St Augustine that we are in queue for an encounter with “the big one” any time.

All that being said, one cannot dismiss the project as not being necessary. After all, if it attains reality, it will provide a facility for 500 beds, and will offer such ancillary services as accident and emergency, an operating theatre and recovery room, intensive care unit, high dependency unit and a mortuary.

But forgive us for feeling that it sounds almost as the trumpeting surrounding the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex back in the 1970s and the length of time it took between construction and a single patient being treated at that facility.

We anxiously await some kind of time frame for the project so that we could be more hopeful that it would become a part of the country’s health services profile.

There just have been too many announcements about the hospital, from the very sophisticated suggestions from experts at the John’s Hopkins institution of the United States several years ago, to more recent pronouncements by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley.

It is time for us to cease being too general about the Port of Spain General Hospital.

Jackson, 24, is an assistant pastry chef at Jaffa at the Oval and recently earned a gold medal for Pastry Chef of the Year at the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s Taste of the Caribbean Culinary Competition in Miami.

She also won a silver team medal as part of the Trinidad and Tobago National Culinary Team 2017.

She was encouraged to enter Making the Cut, the local competition used to chose the national team members, by the pastry chef at Jaffa.

“I didn’t know much about it so I didn’t know it was actually for the National Culinary Team. I just thought it was a one-off competition.

It was only later on I realised what it was about.” Being a member of the National Culinary Team entailed three months of practising and training with the members for long hours.

She thanked the staff at Jaffa for their support when she went to work tired and fell asleep in the back room, for their encouragement when her confidence was low, their faith in her, and for allowing her to practice in the restaurant’s kitchen.

Jackson said the team had a lot of challenges but they overcame them together as they pushed each other to do more, shared techniques and tips, and helped each other grow as chefs and as people. Most importantly, she learned how to improvise recipes.

“That was so strange to me because every single time I had to make something I have had exactly what I needed.

I had to learn to do things by taste to get exactly what you want. That was something I had to break out from gradually over the weeks.” “One thing the chef said that stuck with me was that the competition was called Taste of the Caribbean, not Looks of the Caribbean, so we had to make sure it tasted really good. A lot of time was spent working on the flavours and getting that right balance.” Jackson achieved that balance with her dish: A Trinidad chocolate bar, Trinidad chocolate biscuit with toasted hazelnuts, chocolate cremeux with Trinidad chocolate orange and Angostura seven- year rum, cassava pone mousse, spiced ginger and orange gelee, a peppered coral tuille and a lime sauce.

She said after her competition, she did not think she would get gold as several things went wrong and the plate she ended up preparing was not the plate she planned to create.

One of biggest challenges on the day was that she could not taste anything as she had taken medication that affected her taste buds. Additionally, she was unable to see properly because her glasses had broken, and she was momentarily distracted by a judge resulting in her cutting her chocolate bars to the wrong size.

“Murphy’s Law was in full effect and the other chefs’ plates looked really, really good. Even after, when I spoke to the judges and they told me they loved how I worked the floor – confidently, clean, organised – I thought they were just telling me that so I wouldn’t feel bad.” And so, on the day of the results she was anxious. She said she could not breathe and was hyperventilating.

It was so bad that she had to borrow an inhaler to help with her asthma.

Her hands were also shaking badly and when she tried drinking water, she choked on it.

When it was announced that she had won gold, she said she was so happy she started to cry. In fact, she was so ecstatic that she hugged everyone on the stage…

twice.

Despite all the hiccups, Jackson said she would definitely return to the competition next year to go after the Pastry Chef of the Year title.

At her childhood church, Crossroads Pentecostal Assembly, she was devoutly involved in music through the congregation’s choir and musician’s team. And her musical inclination followed her through her primary and secondary school years where she was also part of the schools’ choirs.

In 2008, she became part of TT’s first all women’s band, “Nehilet Blackman and D All Girls Band” where she first entered as a vocalist and transitioned to one of the band’s guitarists. “I have been privileged to perform at several highly publicised events, both locally and internationally in countries such as Ghana, the UK, and the Bahamas,” she says of her time with the all women’s band. “Now, I have decided to leave the nest and _ y on my own.” Annessa has the privilege of being one of only a few women music producers in TT, and she suspects she may be the only woman producing gospel music right now. Last year, she released her debut single “Joyful Noise”, a self-produced track that saw great success on the local and regional gospel circuits. The track is a song of praise based on Psalm 100.

Of the track’s creation, she says, “The lyrics came while I was reflecting on how vast and marvelous the universe is. I was amazed at its beauty and wanted to offer up thanks to God.” She explains that her songwriting process usually begins with the idea she would like to convey, and while writing she is always mindful of the lyrics being relatable to others. “I go with what feels good.” Having been surrounded by music for most of her life, she has had the opportunity of working with countless producers but explains the frustration “when you hear something in your head and you are the only one who hears it.” In fact, it is this very frustration that drove her to begin producing her own music. “My background in music and being exposed to so many top-notch musicians and producers has shaped my approach to constructing songs,” she elaborates.

She describes her gospel style as a modern blend of pop, neo soul, and trap music. She is also inspired by the musical genre jamoo (Jehovah’s Music), which was created by the late musical pioneer Lord Shorty, also known as Ras Shorty I. “But I won’t be limited by any particular genre,” she says of the limitations she refuses to set on herself and her music. “Music is one expression of emotion and a song can take any form depending on the feeling involved.” She also refuses to be limited by gender.

Although in a male-dominated industry, she describes her equal work ethic as garnering her just as much respect as and from her male counterparts. “They can’t knock you if you’re working just as hard as they are,” she says lightly. “They respect me as a new producer and never once have I heard ‘You are doing great… for a girl’.” She also hopes, as a producer, to support up-and-coming women artists who need mentorship and support in their musical careers.

She hopes that by setting an example of a successful woman in music, other women can see themselves in her. “I want all women who are interested in music to know that it is not gender specific. You can do whatever you like, do it well, and be respected without the gender tags,” she says of what she hopes her work and creations will inspire. She continues, “Be the bassists, sound engineers, producers, and DJs. This realm doesn’t just need more women in these areas, but creatives who are willing to push the envelope. Your gender should never stop you.” And while the genre of gospel is known for praise to a higher power, Annessa does not only limit her lyrics to that of worship. “Through my lyrics, I try to convey that it’s ok to be human. We win and we lose. On my Soundcloud (soundcloud.com/annessamusic) there is a song called ‘Moving Forward’ which speaks about failures we may come across in our lives and the importance of getting up and continuing on your journey,” she says of the allencompassing lyrics and music she creates, with hopes that every person can listen and have a takeaway.

This month, she will be releasing her next single featuring Nathaniel (known for his single “For Better or Worse”), called “Nobody”. She shares that the track is an upbeat, melodic, and introspective song of God’s love and mercy in her life. “It’s Hip-Hop inspired, so look out for those banging 808s!” she says coyly ahead of the song’s release.

In the future, she hopes to have her own record label and work with young creatives, like herself, who are hoping to spread words of encouragement, praise, and love to the world. She also has a special place in her heart for women artists and will continue to represent them through her work.

To other women, she says, “I just need women to know that they can do anything they put their mind, hearts, and wills to. Say ‘NO’ to your doubts and watch your future unfold.”

The 29-year-old playmaker has struggled to regain full fitness and form since he suffered a gunshot wound to his leg, near his Petit Valley home, on December 27 2015.

At the time, Cummings was an integral member of North East Stars, as well as the national squad under the guidance of Stephen Hart.

Cummings joined Central FC ahead of the 2016-2017 season but he hardly managed to get an extended run, both at club and national level. He last played for TT during a 2-2 draw, away to Grenada, in a friendly international on April 29.

However, the easy-going midfielder is hopeful that his stint at Petit Valley/Diego Martin United can see him, not only reconnect with his fans in his community, but earn a contract with a Pro League club in the near future.

In a telephone interview yesterday, Cummings noted, “It’s a community team, and the only reason why I had the thought of coming back and play, until the transfer window opens back, (is because) I wanted to spend some time with the family.

“It’s a village thing, so I just decided to spend time with family and still play football,” he continued.

Asked about the response of the community regarding his move, Cummings replied, “That’s my home team, that’s my village team.

(The) boys will always show me that love. I have experiences to share with them.” He went on to add, “Some players, even (if) they are free agents, they wouldn’t give up (better opportunities) to come and play with their village (because of) pride.” About his fitness level, he said, “I feel good.

It’s just to start to get back form.” However, he does not envision himself returning, as a player, to Central FC. “I (have) crossed that bridge,” he admitted. “I don’t want to cross back that road.

I was a little challenge playing with them but that’s how it (goes) in life sometimes. Not everything you (do) get exactly how you want.” With his new chapter, at least at the club level, Cummings hopes that he will still catch the eyes of the national team’s technical staff, headed by coach Dennis Lawrence.

“Nobody (from the TT staff) hasn’t checked me or called,” he admitted, “but everything will fall into place. God is a good God.” Assistant Petit Valley/ Diego Martin United team coach Gordon Pierre, who is also a television football commentator, spoke of the addition of Cummings, as well as ex-Pro League players Samuel Delice, Kadeem Corbin and twins Keion and Keino Goodridge, to the Petit Valley/Diego Martin United squad.

“To have them back home, we’re trying to rebuild the western peninsula. After passing Port of Spain, there is no (top-flight) team representing the west,” Pierre said. “We’re glad to have back our senior players.

We understand the sacrifice they made in terms of giving up their (immediate) chance to be on the national team by coming down (to the Super League level).” Pierre continued, “we want to build back the community as well.

We think that football belongs to the community and we have set ourselves a three-year plan to be playing at the highest level of football in the country.”

Participating in regular exercise over time has many positive physical, mental, and social health-enhancing properties. The quality of the person’s life vastly improves and vigour as well.

You would have heard this several times but it needs to be repeated that frequent exercise reduces the risk of contracting many diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and depression. It improves your mood and also results in improved longevity and maintenance of independence into older age.

In everything we do there are advantages and disadvantages.

Exercise can have a negative effect on health in the form of injury.

The effects that sport and exercise-related injuries have on an individual’s health can be relatively minor, with only a period of rest needed.

Sport and exercise-related injuries do not just effect elite performers, but are a significant problem at every level of participation.

Around a third of all emergency consultations are directly linked to sport and exercise.

Although participation in any form of activity carries a risk of injury, the overall health benefits of activity far outweigh this risk.

CHELSEA BEDASE El Dorado

This is a cricketer speaking of a cricket match using such repugnant language to seek to explain what needs to be done.

There is no further explanation of why our cricket team now ranks at the bottom of the standings.

KARAN MAHABIRSINGH Carapichaima

They were found at a guest house in Port of Spain, sources of the Criminal Gang and Intelligence Unit reported..

The Puff n’Stuff owner was kidnapped outside his bakery at Circular Road, San Fernando last Wednesday morning..

A ransom of $270,000 was demanded. Later that day, the businessman was freed and dropped off at the side of the Beetham Highway..

Laing was taken to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex in Mt Hope before he was reunited with his family in San Fernando..

The ransom was paid in two instalments which led to his release..

A relative first dropped off $30,000 along a track in Phase 1, Beetham Estate and then hours later drove to Barataria and dropped off a bag containing $240,000 on the pavement near TATECO (Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission) Credit Union..

Earlier that day, Laing who was driving a Mercedes Benz sedan pulled up at his business when several men overpowered him and forced him into another car which sped off..

At 4 am, when employees arrived they found the bakery still locked and Laing’s car engine idling..

Relatives said they were thankful the businessman was alive and safe. Investigators believe Laing was marked for some time before the act was carried out..

De Silva, the “Couva Sharks” captain and one of the few surviving players of last season’s historic three-peat champions, scored an uninterrupted second- half double, netting in the 64th and 73rd minutes. Johan Peltier and Nathaniel Garcia completed the comfortable Central win with goals in the 79th and 84th minutes respectively in the second game of a double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.

The result moved coach Dale Saunders’ men — attempting to rewrite history with a fourth consecutive league crown this term — up a spot into third, where they trail rivals W Connection and North East Stars by two points and are tied on seven points with San Juan Jabloteh, who were due to face MIC-IT St Ann’s Rangers yesterday at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima.

Simultaneously, North East Stars were celebrating a third straight win courtesy a narrow 1-0 victory over visitors Morvant Caledonia United at the Arima Velodrome to go level on nine points with leaders Connection.

Former Central FC forward Rundell Winchester netted his second consecutive winner for North East Stars, three minutes before the break.

The 23-year-old lightning- paced Tobagonian forward beat Morvant Caledonia goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel to a ball in the box before heading into an open net.

Derek King’s side remained unchanged from Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Defence Force in Couva and provided the Arima fans — who turned up in the hundreds again — another three points.

Morvant Caledonia (four points), despite being an improved side this season, were again let down by another mistake and slipped a spot into sixth, one point behind Police FC, who climbed two spots with their first ever league win over W Connection under coach Richard Hood.

Defender Gerard Williams scored an own goal, in the 55th, to end Connection’s unbeaten run. Elsewhere Point Fortin Civic picked up their first point this season after four attempts, holding visitors Club Sando to a 1-1 draw at Mahaica Oval.

Kevon Piper had put Sando ahead on 33 minutes but two minutes later Kevin Rouse levelled Civic, who must next travel to Ato Boldon Stadium against Defence Force on July 11. (ttproleague.com)

The swimming competition continued at the National Aquatic Centre, Couva, yesterday where the hosts have gathered a total of 12 gold, 15 silver and 12 bronze medals up till press time.

Puerto Rico have copped the most gold medals thus far with 14, to go along with eight silver and 14 bronze.

Bermuda, Costa Rica and Panama all have a total of 17 medals as they battle for the overall third position.

With news of Dylan Carter suffering a minor injury to his shoulder after yesterday’s preliminary stages, the home crowd was left to wonder if the swimmer would be able to participate in last night’s races. Carter led the charge for TT on Friday night, smashing another national and tournament record, in the 18-and-Over 200-metre freestyle, when he finished in a time of one minute, 48 seconds. He defeated El Salvadoran Marcelo Acosta and Mikel Schreuders of Aruba, who completed the race in 1:51.73 and 1:51.76, respectively.

Carter then helped the Boys 18-and-Over 400m freestyle relay team to gold as they stopped the clock at 3:29.81, ahead of the Bahamas (3:32.42) and Puerto Rico (3:36.0).

Carter qualified for last evening’s 18-and- Over 100m freestyle and the 800m freestyle relay events but was withdrawn from competing as a precautionary measure for the forthcoming World Championships.

Jonathan Farah was his replacement in the relays.

Team TTO continued to rack up the medals, despite the loss of their most influential athlete, as Christian Dieffenthaller copped gold in the 200m freestyle with his time of 2:02.34. He was closely monitored by Puerto Rican Minfer Lebron who finished in 2:02.51 for the silver. His fellow teammate Aqeel Joseph (2:02.68) also had a solid finish to secure the bronze for the hosts as he managed to hold off the other Puerto Rican Ezequiel Negron (2:02.71).

Dieffenthaller also copped gold in the 400m individual medley, blowing away his competition in 4:46.09. Bajan Nkosi Dunwoody’s time of 4:50.97 was enough to secure silver in the race, ahead of Alejandro Panting of Honduras (4:55.02). Gabriella Donahue continued her form in the competition leading the Girls 400m freestyle relay team to gold in 4:04.83. Costa Rica followed behind in 4:05.83 and Barbados rounded off the top three with a time of 4:10.85.

Kael Yorke copped gold for Team TTO in the Boys 15-17 50m Butterfly while Joshua Romany secured the 18-and- Over butterfly category.