Energy & Diplomacy: T&T is set to strengthen energy security after Venezuela approved new Loran Phase 2 and Plataforma Deltana licences, with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar saying the deals could unlock about 7 trillion cubic feet of gas for processing at T&T’s LNG and petrochemical plants. Oil & Gas Deals: bp has moved to acquire Woodside’s 70% stake in Trinidad’s Calypso project, taking operatorship and full ownership as Woodside exits the Caribbean. Local Governance & Procurement: The OPR flagged flaws in how HDC selected and checked suppliers for its cancelled $3.4B housing project, citing gaps in due diligence and compliance. Public Sector Turnover: A report says 67 people have left State boards or public offices in 14 months, including senior roles at CAL, TSTT, FCB and NGC. Crime & Security: Siparia residents joined a peace walk as police declared Sennon Village and environs a “no-crime zone,” while Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander outlined a broader anti-crime rollout including mobile units and immigration changes. Telecom Investment: Digicel says it’s increasing investment in T&T—expanding fibre, mobile capacity and security infrastructure—while hiring more staff as demand rises. Business & Industry: New Wave Road Solutions is pushing EZ Street cold-mix pothole repairs across the Caribbean. Culture with Economic Angle: Pan Trinbago announced a Steelpan GI Board to protect and certify authentic Trinidad and Tobago steelpans, and T&T will host the 4th Annual Caribbean Music Awards on Sept. 19 at NAPA. Sports & Events: The Great Race went ahead despite rough seas and a yellow alert, with Heatwave winning “First to Tobago” and “Fastest to Tobago.” Local Economy & Jobs: Education book grant payments are expected to begin after Aug. 24, ahead of schools reopening Sept. 7. AI & Skills: Tobago held an AI symposium focused on data, cyber security and future job shifts, while Debe residents are lining up for potential work linked to a planned AI data centre.