Saint James Market

The OLDEST STRUCTURE in St James is now threatened with CLOSURE by the City Corporation of Port of Spain. The Mayor and by extension the Council has sent out signals that the Market has run its course. To those in the know the Market is not just a building for Vendors to "ply" their trade, it is the Centre of St James and as far as memory goes this is where everything happens. Culturally, Socially, Economically and Politically the Market has served as the place where all residents gathered on a daily basis but especially so on the weekends.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

On December 3, 2010 the International Day of Persons with Disabilities commenced at Hios Oasis. Several special guests were Mr. Brian Lewis Honorary Secretary of the Special Olympics Committee as well as Dr. Jennifer Rouse the Director of the Ministry of Aging. All of those in attendance were greatly satisfied with being there. During the evening several commendations were given to Mr. Anton La Fond for his advocacy with persons with disabilities.

The Loss of a St. James Staple

The St. James Community and by extension the St. James Times expresses its sincere condolences to the family of Ricardo McKenzie, better known as Smokey from the iconic Smokey and Bunty bar on the Western Main Road in St. James. Smokey, 56, was an entrepreneur, community activist and sportsman. Smokey will be missed by all those who frequented the establishment that has become symbolic to the St. James community.

St. James' Motivating Advocate

Congratulations!

St. James Times congratulates Mr. La Fond on his addition to material that is lacking in regard to individuals with disabilities. This publication demonstrates the ability of differently abled individuals and the strengths of Mr. La Fond as an advocate and educator.

We Living With Doubts ; By: Merlin Mannette

Inspirations By Merlin Mannette
“We Living with Doubts”

We Living a lie, and I wonder why
Sometimes, sometimes I does cry, oh me, oh my –
We talk about unity, about integrity
About transparency, which I don’t see
We aspire to achieve, what we don’t really believe
Actions speak louder than words, we have all heard –
Yet I see segregation, I see discrimination
Too much separation and increased desperation
These things we could live without, but
We Living in and Living with Doubts—
© 2010

Reflections of WEBEAT 2K10

St. James Honours a NEW Icon

St. James Times had the opportunity to interview a new St. James Icon who received a National Award. The Independence Awards that accompanies our celebrations of nationhood had special significance to the people of St. James this 2010 year. Ms. Cynthia M. Toney was awarded the Medal of Merit (bronze) for public service. Ms. Toney, no stranger to high awards (awarded the Golden Poui 1994 by the Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago), displayed the proverbial 'cool as a cucumber' as the interview progressed.

Ms. Toney’s award was for public service all well deserved, but her passion is scouting. She indicates that her 'boys' are the inspiration for what she does. Her love of children and adherence to the rules of discipline is evident as she speaks about camping and encouraging respect with good attitudes in both scouts and parents. Strength and honour, two important elements in building good citizens and integral to scouting flows from Ms. Toney. She sets herself as an example to her subordinates and encourages proper leadership. Forty (40) years of scouting has revealed its rewards. Ms. Toney thanks God for the recognition of her work and was happy to see such good work rewarded. Her future is bright. She sees herself continuing on the road of scouting the by-product of which has enriched lives and greater value to the general public.

St. James Times and by extension the St. James community wishes to congratulate Ms. Cynthia M. Toney on her achievement! She has been added to the ranks of St. Jamesanians whose accomplishments serve to demonstrate the quality of talent that abounds in our community. God’s blessings and continue the good work.