It was really sad to read the news that Witco Desperadoes are fleeing the Hill after all the time they spent there.
The news was sad; whether in the words of the band members or in people’s comments. In my opinion news like this could be an opportunity to whine and weep for those who like to. For the resolute amongst us, it should be a motivation for action though. I don’t think running away could solve the problem. History shows that people who tend to run away find that they will have to keep running!
I wish that artists would behave differently. Art is a message and artists are role models for many of the people around them who not only appreciate their art but also often emulate their behavior.
There is no shortage of artists who used their art to address issues and tackle problems and, became ambassadors of their communities and countries. The fact is, the Desperadoes have many fans and followers, so it wouldn’t really be too hard to turn fear from crime into a campaign to fight and denounce crime. The government by itself cannot fight crime without the active and conscious cooperation of the people. If each and every one of us pointed a finger, instead of remain silent when we see a crime or a criminal, the bad guys would have to run away from us, not the other way around.
Criminals can’t even wish to do their crimes and get away with them when they are surrounded by alert and determined people.
I’m not saying we should all carry arms or physically fight criminals. What I’m calling for is an active civil campaign, led by the athletes and artists we love, that can mobilize the people and enable them to be an active force against crime, not a helpless victim of it. We, as citizens and artists, must revisit our responsibilities toward our community and our country. If we want TT to be safe and secure, we have to do something.
TT is a tiny country, brothers and sisters...we can't keep running. We have to stand our ground!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday Blog Treats
Greetings! The Monday Blog Treats are here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!)? Lots of politics, art (mostly arts because that’s my scene), and people talking about themselves (including me talking about myself).
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
A coming together of opposites...isn't that what the season is supposed to be about? If my enemies come to my door on christmas, I will offer them some nog, cookies and a big can of whoopass!
Pork Dance! Best party of the season! I was there! I didn't eat any of the fancy food though. I had a friend with an iguana once—and I can't eat one! Stewed agouti sounds good, tho!
Price of oil goes up...does this mean that the economy is getting better? Or my wallet is getting emptier?
The way to THIS man's heart IS through his stomach...sooo if there are any ladies out there who want to show up with a plate of something from this list of recipes, you are welcome to do so and will likely get some well-deserved attention!
Michelle Borel’s life story sounds pretty cool. Maybe next time my nieces and nephews are yapping away at me, i'll pay more attention. Maybe she likes bloggers? She's got big dreams...and I've got big dreams...damnit. She has kids. And she's married. Ah well, I'll just have to see her on TV then..
Pregnant, 3 time Soca contest winter AND going strong in 2010. That's a formidable woman! Here's a bit of an overview of the music world here in TT over the last 12 months. Where were YOU when all this was happening? I think I've only kept track of like half of these events! Sorry to do my readers a disservice.
More events in the parang world. The Sancouche Parang Group won the Sweet Lime competition. They look like they're having fun. They're not really that humble, tho!
You know your life sucks when you're in the hospital because of injuries from a fight, and then your enemies follow you to the hospital, pretend to be your brothers and then nearly stab you to death. I think I need to send this guy some better karma—or maybe he's better off in the next lifetime? Yikes.
Well, with all the concern in the US over health care—I have my own concerns! What happens if I travel, get sick and the doctor barely knows where Trinidad is, much less recognizes my insurance?? I think the electronic health card is a good thing, but also sounds like a great target for hackers. Ah well, might be worth the risk—as long as no one stabs me while I'm in my hospital bed!
Aka-lol is keen not to let the year end without yet another blog post on sex and half-naked women. I agree...that's certainly more fun that oatmeal! His words though do have a deeper meaning than just that.
You should also read this if you got one of those fancy and expensive Bose headphones...Apparently they can make you deaf!
The ban-d-wagonist has a couple new music videos...listen good, and do good!
BCRaw, and 48 loads of dog crap!
It's the holidays season, and the Caribbean Pot brings us the recipe for the rich and creamy punch-de-creme...I'd certainly double the "kick"!
GWTO has a severe case of writer's block! He says you can help them by sending your favorite song, and why it's your favorite...I'm not sure how that would help!
Twelve things that, surprisingly, are not yet obsolete.
Read the long history of Santa Clause, from the 17th century to Coca Cola!
On x-mas day, nearly a 100 people (that's a hundred families) were made jobless by a blaze that consumed the mall where they work. It's sad and scary how a spark, or a cigarette butt could change the lives of so many people. We might find consolation int he fact that no one died in the fire though.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
A coming together of opposites...isn't that what the season is supposed to be about? If my enemies come to my door on christmas, I will offer them some nog, cookies and a big can of whoopass!
Pork Dance! Best party of the season! I was there! I didn't eat any of the fancy food though. I had a friend with an iguana once—and I can't eat one! Stewed agouti sounds good, tho!
Price of oil goes up...does this mean that the economy is getting better? Or my wallet is getting emptier?
The way to THIS man's heart IS through his stomach...sooo if there are any ladies out there who want to show up with a plate of something from this list of recipes, you are welcome to do so and will likely get some well-deserved attention!
Michelle Borel’s life story sounds pretty cool. Maybe next time my nieces and nephews are yapping away at me, i'll pay more attention. Maybe she likes bloggers? She's got big dreams...and I've got big dreams...damnit. She has kids. And she's married. Ah well, I'll just have to see her on TV then..
Pregnant, 3 time Soca contest winter AND going strong in 2010. That's a formidable woman! Here's a bit of an overview of the music world here in TT over the last 12 months. Where were YOU when all this was happening? I think I've only kept track of like half of these events! Sorry to do my readers a disservice.
More events in the parang world. The Sancouche Parang Group won the Sweet Lime competition. They look like they're having fun. They're not really that humble, tho!
You know your life sucks when you're in the hospital because of injuries from a fight, and then your enemies follow you to the hospital, pretend to be your brothers and then nearly stab you to death. I think I need to send this guy some better karma—or maybe he's better off in the next lifetime? Yikes.
Well, with all the concern in the US over health care—I have my own concerns! What happens if I travel, get sick and the doctor barely knows where Trinidad is, much less recognizes my insurance?? I think the electronic health card is a good thing, but also sounds like a great target for hackers. Ah well, might be worth the risk—as long as no one stabs me while I'm in my hospital bed!
Aka-lol is keen not to let the year end without yet another blog post on sex and half-naked women. I agree...that's certainly more fun that oatmeal! His words though do have a deeper meaning than just that.
You should also read this if you got one of those fancy and expensive Bose headphones...Apparently they can make you deaf!
The ban-d-wagonist has a couple new music videos...listen good, and do good!
BCRaw, and 48 loads of dog crap!
It's the holidays season, and the Caribbean Pot brings us the recipe for the rich and creamy punch-de-creme...I'd certainly double the "kick"!
GWTO has a severe case of writer's block! He says you can help them by sending your favorite song, and why it's your favorite...I'm not sure how that would help!
Twelve things that, surprisingly, are not yet obsolete.
Read the long history of Santa Clause, from the 17th century to Coca Cola!
On x-mas day, nearly a 100 people (that's a hundred families) were made jobless by a blaze that consumed the mall where they work. It's sad and scary how a spark, or a cigarette butt could change the lives of so many people. We might find consolation int he fact that no one died in the fire though.
Friday, December 25, 2009
X-Mas Blog Treats
Greetings! The Friday Blog Treats are here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!)? Lots of politics, art (mostly arts because that’s my scene), and people talking about themselves (including me talking about myself).
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
A rising calypso star…a last minute x-mas gift if you forgot some inlaw out in the boonies. Hope you get to hear Defosto live sometime.
A collection of boring x-mas wishes from TT officials...All sound like campaign slogans, including this one: President of Painaide Sean Nero: “Betterment for individual pannists and better structural development for the steelpan industry.”...I mean seriously, what does he mean by "structural development for the steelpan industry"?? Even my biases as a pan-lover couldn't help me pretend to get it.
Others are talking about actual results and not just wishes. The finance minister has a Christmas present for TT; inflation is going down, she says! Good news indeed.
Despite the alleged decrease in inflation, spending seems to be going down. That's counter-intuitive, right, economists? What went wrong here?
A party guide for the shiny folk. I think I’m going to Island People’s Fed Up - The Kooler Cooler Fete, Tribe Ice, and Fire Fete’s Blazing Soca.
Next in TT’s quest for world (or at least regional) domination, we’re looking to ‘help’ the Jamaicans with their airline. Only one question—since we’re the best, why do we want to get off the island at all? I can go everywhere I want on a boat, or by feet, or by car. I guess maybe one day I’d like to see New York again, or London, but I can’t go there on Air Jamaica, either…
The big TT carnival is almost here. Check out the festivities schedule and remember that, eh, drink responsibly, is said to be the theme. Wouldn't it be easier to ban driving altogether during the Carnival than to ask people to drink "responsibly"? How much is "responsible" drinking anyway?
To some of us, x-mas is a time of anxiety and ominous songs of anticipation!
The story of an amateur attempt to make a movie! Ever heard of "comparative advantage" guys? People should do things they do best. Otherwise the result would be something like this.
Jumbie reminds us of all the people across the world who are suffering and cannot feel the taste of happiness. He pays a special tribute to Rwanda. I second that.
Jack Warner launched his political campaign for chairman of the UNC by distributing "toys and other goodies". Sick! The kind of stuff that petty 3rd world dictators and would be dictators is not the kind of change we need. can we please keep children and charity away from politics??
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays People!
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
A rising calypso star…a last minute x-mas gift if you forgot some inlaw out in the boonies. Hope you get to hear Defosto live sometime.
A collection of boring x-mas wishes from TT officials...All sound like campaign slogans, including this one: President of Painaide Sean Nero: “Betterment for individual pannists and better structural development for the steelpan industry.”...I mean seriously, what does he mean by "structural development for the steelpan industry"?? Even my biases as a pan-lover couldn't help me pretend to get it.
Others are talking about actual results and not just wishes. The finance minister has a Christmas present for TT; inflation is going down, she says! Good news indeed.
Despite the alleged decrease in inflation, spending seems to be going down. That's counter-intuitive, right, economists? What went wrong here?
A party guide for the shiny folk. I think I’m going to Island People’s Fed Up - The Kooler Cooler Fete, Tribe Ice, and Fire Fete’s Blazing Soca.
Next in TT’s quest for world (or at least regional) domination, we’re looking to ‘help’ the Jamaicans with their airline. Only one question—since we’re the best, why do we want to get off the island at all? I can go everywhere I want on a boat, or by feet, or by car. I guess maybe one day I’d like to see New York again, or London, but I can’t go there on Air Jamaica, either…
The big TT carnival is almost here. Check out the festivities schedule and remember that, eh, drink responsibly, is said to be the theme. Wouldn't it be easier to ban driving altogether during the Carnival than to ask people to drink "responsibly"? How much is "responsible" drinking anyway?
To some of us, x-mas is a time of anxiety and ominous songs of anticipation!
The story of an amateur attempt to make a movie! Ever heard of "comparative advantage" guys? People should do things they do best. Otherwise the result would be something like this.
Jumbie reminds us of all the people across the world who are suffering and cannot feel the taste of happiness. He pays a special tribute to Rwanda. I second that.
Jack Warner launched his political campaign for chairman of the UNC by distributing "toys and other goodies". Sick! The kind of stuff that petty 3rd world dictators and would be dictators is not the kind of change we need. can we please keep children and charity away from politics??
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays People!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday Blog Treats
Greetings! The Monday Blog Treats are here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!)? Lots of politics, art (mostly arts because that’s my scene), and people talking about themselves (including me talking about myself).
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
Meet Josanne Francis, a steel pannist with a promising future and an inspirational story. Here's how she describes her unique relationship with this beloved instrument: “When I play the steelpan, I feel as though I have entered a new place in a new world. A world where there is no worry or pain,”...Go Josanne!
Check out this cool solar-powered 10-seater tram! Everyone wants to test drive it...heck! I want to test-drive it too! It's certainly no zoom zoom kind of ride but come on! the fact that it runs on light is fascinating, no?
BCPires describes a painful experience with internet outage, and horrendous customer service...I have no idea how service providers like the one in this story can suck so much and still be in business!
Why do some people insist on forcing "ethical" questions on us about our food? I love my meat and I'm not going to become a vegetarian wimp, no matter how much "cruelty" there was in the preparation of my dinner. Damn, this makes me hungry!
Yes! painting walls is one of those things that never go according to the plan...and there's always the one or two spots that you discover you forgot to paint only after you think you're done, cleaned the floors and everything, spent an hour getting the paint off your hands and face and of course ran out of paint. And it gets, you go the store and they tell ya they ran out of that shade! You guessed right, it happened to me too.
Jumbie takes us with him on a photo tour of a London market. Thanks for the pictures, Jumbie, and the "Chinese" soursop, you can keep the -4c!!
Violence seems to dominate the headlines of the Express these days in a really scary manner. On the 20th, the headlines read: Rowley on the attack, Elderly doctor kills teen robber, Cops may have used too much force, Robbery victim killed after calling out to robber, Bar owner shot dead, Mom of 11 slain and, Police brutality.
I know there's violence on the streets in TT but this is just too much violence on one page in a newspaper that is not supposed to be limited to crime news. I'm not an expert in journalism but I smell something political behind this.
Ladies, that shiny nice gold jewelery you crave comes at a heavy price for the environment, along with your husbands and boyfriends. To be fair though, Glenn Beck is to blame too.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
Meet Josanne Francis, a steel pannist with a promising future and an inspirational story. Here's how she describes her unique relationship with this beloved instrument: “When I play the steelpan, I feel as though I have entered a new place in a new world. A world where there is no worry or pain,”...Go Josanne!
Check out this cool solar-powered 10-seater tram! Everyone wants to test drive it...heck! I want to test-drive it too! It's certainly no zoom zoom kind of ride but come on! the fact that it runs on light is fascinating, no?
BCPires describes a painful experience with internet outage, and horrendous customer service...I have no idea how service providers like the one in this story can suck so much and still be in business!
Why do some people insist on forcing "ethical" questions on us about our food? I love my meat and I'm not going to become a vegetarian wimp, no matter how much "cruelty" there was in the preparation of my dinner. Damn, this makes me hungry!
Yes! painting walls is one of those things that never go according to the plan...and there's always the one or two spots that you discover you forgot to paint only after you think you're done, cleaned the floors and everything, spent an hour getting the paint off your hands and face and of course ran out of paint. And it gets, you go the store and they tell ya they ran out of that shade! You guessed right, it happened to me too.
Jumbie takes us with him on a photo tour of a London market. Thanks for the pictures, Jumbie, and the "Chinese" soursop, you can keep the -4c!!
Violence seems to dominate the headlines of the Express these days in a really scary manner. On the 20th, the headlines read: Rowley on the attack, Elderly doctor kills teen robber, Cops may have used too much force, Robbery victim killed after calling out to robber, Bar owner shot dead, Mom of 11 slain and, Police brutality.
I know there's violence on the streets in TT but this is just too much violence on one page in a newspaper that is not supposed to be limited to crime news. I'm not an expert in journalism but I smell something political behind this.
Ladies, that shiny nice gold jewelery you crave comes at a heavy price for the environment, along with your husbands and boyfriends. To be fair though, Glenn Beck is to blame too.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Friday Blog Treats
Greetings! The friday Blog Treats are here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!)? Lots of politics, art (mostly arts because that’s my scene), and people talking about themselves (including me talking about myself).
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
I'd like someone to explain Twitter to me, too. I'm just trying to figure that out, then I’ll talk to my blogging cohorts...
Sorry, I know everyone's seen it, but it’s just funny. Poor Joseph! I wouldn't want to have to compete with god, either...he's all-knowing, if you know what I mean...
Jumbie's a bit prolific this week. Here he helps us with our computer problems. I am not as much of a writer as he, so I don't think I'll have this Word Challenge.
What can I say? I like stories about food. This article made me hungry—where do I buy Za'atar again? Headed over to Adam's Bagels for a snack sometime soon...who wants to join?
Cartelwatch is questioning the validity of existing polling techniques. Why is everything a hustle? Some pretty good points, over all.
A how-to guide on how to help the economy...drug money? Well, it makes sense. If we're all broke, then we can't buy drugs, so drug-dealers should invest in keeping the banks alive...right?
Ugly people, listen up, it’s about to get worse. Beautiful people live longer. Or at least 'baby-faced' people do. Drink up, and try not to kill your better looking siblings.
Sexy, heavy breath? Danish butter cookies are good, but let me keep my trees! Although getting a bike might be a good idea—if I didn't get killed by a TT driver in the first mile!
Death by drinking TireShine? Keep your kids out of autoshops! Next...roach killer as toothpaste....wait, they already come in similar tubes..hmm..
I'm not really sure what these blogs are about. Is this a real person? Or a real news feed? She loves music...that's promising...
Avatar, the movie, is getting good reviews, even if you have to risk getting your car stolen to see it.
More adventures of having a child. Makes me glad I just have me and a stray dog. And my mom...I really should call her sometime...Need to know what's happening for x-mas.
Maybe there will be a Carribean airline—might be a good idea, especially since it's pretty expensive to have the national one. But do we want Bajans making the call?
Whistling frogs are on the march. Personally, I think Bcraw's being a bit sensitive. I just have a few drinks, tune them out, and go to bed. I can sleep through anything...and usually do.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
I'd like someone to explain Twitter to me, too. I'm just trying to figure that out, then I’ll talk to my blogging cohorts...
Sorry, I know everyone's seen it, but it’s just funny. Poor Joseph! I wouldn't want to have to compete with god, either...he's all-knowing, if you know what I mean...
Jumbie's a bit prolific this week. Here he helps us with our computer problems. I am not as much of a writer as he, so I don't think I'll have this Word Challenge.
What can I say? I like stories about food. This article made me hungry—where do I buy Za'atar again? Headed over to Adam's Bagels for a snack sometime soon...who wants to join?
Cartelwatch is questioning the validity of existing polling techniques. Why is everything a hustle? Some pretty good points, over all.
A how-to guide on how to help the economy...drug money? Well, it makes sense. If we're all broke, then we can't buy drugs, so drug-dealers should invest in keeping the banks alive...right?
Ugly people, listen up, it’s about to get worse. Beautiful people live longer. Or at least 'baby-faced' people do. Drink up, and try not to kill your better looking siblings.
Sexy, heavy breath? Danish butter cookies are good, but let me keep my trees! Although getting a bike might be a good idea—if I didn't get killed by a TT driver in the first mile!
Death by drinking TireShine? Keep your kids out of autoshops! Next...roach killer as toothpaste....wait, they already come in similar tubes..hmm..
I'm not really sure what these blogs are about. Is this a real person? Or a real news feed? She loves music...that's promising...
Avatar, the movie, is getting good reviews, even if you have to risk getting your car stolen to see it.
More adventures of having a child. Makes me glad I just have me and a stray dog. And my mom...I really should call her sometime...Need to know what's happening for x-mas.
Maybe there will be a Carribean airline—might be a good idea, especially since it's pretty expensive to have the national one. But do we want Bajans making the call?
Whistling frogs are on the march. Personally, I think Bcraw's being a bit sensitive. I just have a few drinks, tune them out, and go to bed. I can sleep through anything...and usually do.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Trinidad Is Not Another Dubai
With the recent news of financial trouble surrounding state-run construction company Dubai World (DW), a few members of the traditional media are drawing poorly conceived analogies between DW and UDeCOTT.
In the span of a few short years, Dubai World undertook an extensive list of unprecedented construction ventures. The skyline quickly transformed as a host of immense new structures went up seemingly over night. In a matter of a few short years Dubai became synonymous with opulence and excess.
This rapid expansion was built on a massive speculatory bubble fueled by a worldwide credit surplus. While there are some signs of optimism, Dubai is now paying the price for its haphazard development binge. For the people’s sake, I hope that Dubai can cover its debts and stabilize its economy.
Yes, DW and UDeCOTT are both state entities involved with development projects but that is where the similarities end. Dubai World is an extremely diversified holding company that participates in construction, hospitality and tourism management, aviation and even financial services. Dubai World’s boastfully pursued these extraordinary ventures in lieu of sustainable projects that would have otherwise contributed to the basic infrastructure necessary for establishing long-term viability of Dubai as a global economic power. The Dubai World model thrived in a sheikdom where decent against the ruling family was seldom heard and rarely tolerated. This stands in stark contrast to the established democracy we enjoy in TT.
DW is a global enterprise whose mission is to make money in ventures around the world and manage the many exorbitant building projects at home. UDeCOTT is a state entity tasked with hiring contractors to conduct development projects that will allow us, as a nation, to reach our long-term goals. This lack of need to turn a profit internally removes any incentive to take on massive debt like that of DW. At their core, UDeCOTT and DW are very different organizations with completely different objectives. Until we see indoor ski resorts cropping in Port of Spain I think its safe to assume that Trinidad is not another Dubai.
In the span of a few short years, Dubai World undertook an extensive list of unprecedented construction ventures. The skyline quickly transformed as a host of immense new structures went up seemingly over night. In a matter of a few short years Dubai became synonymous with opulence and excess.
This rapid expansion was built on a massive speculatory bubble fueled by a worldwide credit surplus. While there are some signs of optimism, Dubai is now paying the price for its haphazard development binge. For the people’s sake, I hope that Dubai can cover its debts and stabilize its economy.
Yes, DW and UDeCOTT are both state entities involved with development projects but that is where the similarities end. Dubai World is an extremely diversified holding company that participates in construction, hospitality and tourism management, aviation and even financial services. Dubai World’s boastfully pursued these extraordinary ventures in lieu of sustainable projects that would have otherwise contributed to the basic infrastructure necessary for establishing long-term viability of Dubai as a global economic power. The Dubai World model thrived in a sheikdom where decent against the ruling family was seldom heard and rarely tolerated. This stands in stark contrast to the established democracy we enjoy in TT.
DW is a global enterprise whose mission is to make money in ventures around the world and manage the many exorbitant building projects at home. UDeCOTT is a state entity tasked with hiring contractors to conduct development projects that will allow us, as a nation, to reach our long-term goals. This lack of need to turn a profit internally removes any incentive to take on massive debt like that of DW. At their core, UDeCOTT and DW are very different organizations with completely different objectives. Until we see indoor ski resorts cropping in Port of Spain I think its safe to assume that Trinidad is not another Dubai.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Monday Blog Treats
Greetings! The Monday Blog Treats are here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!)? Lots of politics, art (mostly arts because that’s my scene), and people talking about themselves (including me talking about myself).
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
In a show of good spirits, the Panaide Benefit Concert is this Thursday at the panyard of Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra in POS. Should be a good party!
The Obamas wished a Trini centarian a happy birthday. That’s nice….maybe we should all send her cards?
I love Uncles on d bay…Has anyone seen Blood Red Clover(BRC)? Who wouldn’t love a song called ‘I dare you’? Cabezon were casting spells!! That sounds good to me…when it comes to music.
My plan for staying healthy? Eat the delicious things in front of me. If I resist, not only will I want to hurt myself, my aunties are going to nag me forever. Maybe I can increase my cardio by partying?
This was too good to pass up. Why are the wee wee trucks a public health hazard? Can we fix that. We have to be able to carnival without, you know, a major inconvenience!
The Peters family is exhibiting together at The Gallery of Fine Art. Abstract art, sculpture, photography…the whole shebang. Better hurry, the exhibit ends on Saturday!
Wow. Ghana and Nigeria are clamoring at the gates for TT advice on natural gas? Hope they do better than we did! Can we get some Nigerian banking email advice in exchange?
Will Kamla run? Will she not? Will someone just decide already? Is Ramesh looking for good publicity or bad? It’s hard to tell.
It’s always darkest for the dawn…except it’s been dark for some time…is there a light at the end of the tunnel? I guess she’s still avoiding the ‘R’ word.
Book recommendations for X-mas. A number of TT authors. I think the Book of Brats sounds like a horror novel! I think I’m going to read Crocodile instead.
Mas Jumbies is offering an alternative portrayal of 5 L’echo styles for J’Ouvert! Sounds like they’re overachieving. Check out www.masjumbies.com for more info.
Some nasty pieces of reality. Looks like the Contractors Association only represents ¼ of existing contractors because a most contractors do not need minimum standards. Also, if I need a license to drive my car, I would hope the company that builds my house would also have some legal documentation and requirements…
Well, I don’t normally think of golf as sexy, but the pictures on this blog are enough to change my mind! Number 4 says it all for me…
Apparently Ban-D is not quite lucid today. If this is Ban-D with a week off from the world and ‘productive’ I’m afraid to see what he does for his regular gig.
Looks like Bcraw is having some trouble, but is catching a lot of footie! Who has their finger on the Bajan pulse? That’s a tough job.
An important lesson in linguistics! I like lustful and sensual, so maybe I should rethink how I use this term. What’s wrong with promiscuity anyway?
A somewhat depressing call to arms! Be careful what you throw out—keep TT and its animals healthy and alive. More plastic than food?
I think this post epitomizes all that is good and bad about blogging. It lets out the voices in your head…and sometimes those voices say scary scary things.
Just when you thought it was safe to think about X-mas, THIS comes across your web-browser. AHHH!!!!!
And, on the other side of X-mas, we have the Scrooges. I am neither a lover of X-mas, nor a scrooge, but gotta be fair to both sides!
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
In a show of good spirits, the Panaide Benefit Concert is this Thursday at the panyard of Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra in POS. Should be a good party!
The Obamas wished a Trini centarian a happy birthday. That’s nice….maybe we should all send her cards?
I love Uncles on d bay…Has anyone seen Blood Red Clover(BRC)? Who wouldn’t love a song called ‘I dare you’? Cabezon were casting spells!! That sounds good to me…when it comes to music.
My plan for staying healthy? Eat the delicious things in front of me. If I resist, not only will I want to hurt myself, my aunties are going to nag me forever. Maybe I can increase my cardio by partying?
This was too good to pass up. Why are the wee wee trucks a public health hazard? Can we fix that. We have to be able to carnival without, you know, a major inconvenience!
The Peters family is exhibiting together at The Gallery of Fine Art. Abstract art, sculpture, photography…the whole shebang. Better hurry, the exhibit ends on Saturday!
Wow. Ghana and Nigeria are clamoring at the gates for TT advice on natural gas? Hope they do better than we did! Can we get some Nigerian banking email advice in exchange?
Will Kamla run? Will she not? Will someone just decide already? Is Ramesh looking for good publicity or bad? It’s hard to tell.
It’s always darkest for the dawn…except it’s been dark for some time…is there a light at the end of the tunnel? I guess she’s still avoiding the ‘R’ word.
Book recommendations for X-mas. A number of TT authors. I think the Book of Brats sounds like a horror novel! I think I’m going to read Crocodile instead.
Mas Jumbies is offering an alternative portrayal of 5 L’echo styles for J’Ouvert! Sounds like they’re overachieving. Check out www.masjumbies.com for more info.
Some nasty pieces of reality. Looks like the Contractors Association only represents ¼ of existing contractors because a most contractors do not need minimum standards. Also, if I need a license to drive my car, I would hope the company that builds my house would also have some legal documentation and requirements…
Well, I don’t normally think of golf as sexy, but the pictures on this blog are enough to change my mind! Number 4 says it all for me…
Apparently Ban-D is not quite lucid today. If this is Ban-D with a week off from the world and ‘productive’ I’m afraid to see what he does for his regular gig.
Looks like Bcraw is having some trouble, but is catching a lot of footie! Who has their finger on the Bajan pulse? That’s a tough job.
An important lesson in linguistics! I like lustful and sensual, so maybe I should rethink how I use this term. What’s wrong with promiscuity anyway?
A somewhat depressing call to arms! Be careful what you throw out—keep TT and its animals healthy and alive. More plastic than food?
I think this post epitomizes all that is good and bad about blogging. It lets out the voices in your head…and sometimes those voices say scary scary things.
Just when you thought it was safe to think about X-mas, THIS comes across your web-browser. AHHH!!!!!
And, on the other side of X-mas, we have the Scrooges. I am neither a lover of X-mas, nor a scrooge, but gotta be fair to both sides!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
The Puppet Uff Commission
Once again the debate about the Uff commission and the inquiry intensifies in the media and inside the parliament. Seriously, don't we have anything better than this to do? Looking carefully at this craze we see that there is something that does not smell right. Some powerful guys are using the Uff commission as a disguise to serve their political purposes, and maybe make some dirty money.
Once again we see an entity such as the commission stray away from objectivity and professionalism and allow itself to be driven by the political and material purposes of some bitter people in the opposition and of corrupt contractors who had lost great privileges as a result of the channeling of bids through the Urban Development corporation of Trinidad and Tobago (UDeCOTT).
It is evident here that all the time the clamor is based on baseless allegations, not on facts. This as a result distracts the country from real issues and more importantly impedes the pace of construction and development in the country. We, the people, are the ones harmed most by such disruption of economic activity.
The allegations of the opposition and contractors do not change the fact that projects are being completed on time and within budget. Although there is a shy call to conduct a technical evaluation of projects by engineers -and this is something I encourage- this call faints before the highly politicized and unprofessional allegations.
Why do I think it's more about politics and money than honest professional objections? Commissioner Kenneth Sirju has suspicious, yet undeniable, ties with NH International Caribbean (NHIC), which Emily Elias runs. This company, as everyone with modest knowledge knows, lost a lot when bids began to be channeled through UDeCOTT. I do not blame the government for excluding NHIC. All the delays, corruption and inflated costs of the Scarborough Hospital project for instance makes it hard to imagine that a company like this is fit to deliver any good. In fact I am astonished by the contradictions in their talk. They claim they are fighting corruption while they are in bed with a corrupt company like NHIC-the Scarborough Hospital affair may only be the tip of the iceberg!
We must not forget either that Emily Elias himself was a major financier of the opposition-he does not deny this. Politics, not just money is what this is about. The Uff commission is being shamelessly exploited as a tool in this war.
We are entitled to know what good is this commission doing us? For years all we got has been the impediment of development and projects that could serve the people. Add to this all the time wasted in the parliament elsewhere on endless boring sessions; precious time that could have otherwise been used to solve real problems like crime.
Do we really need the commission? Imagine it didn't exist. What would we, the people on the street lose? Nothing!
I rejoice when I see a building rise. What really upsets me are those who always like to put the stick in the wheel. I wish we could just focus on building and give up the negative and pessimistic attitude. Like Robertson said in a recent article in the Guardian, we are a nation blessed with gas and oil but cursed with negativity.
Once again we see an entity such as the commission stray away from objectivity and professionalism and allow itself to be driven by the political and material purposes of some bitter people in the opposition and of corrupt contractors who had lost great privileges as a result of the channeling of bids through the Urban Development corporation of Trinidad and Tobago (UDeCOTT).
It is evident here that all the time the clamor is based on baseless allegations, not on facts. This as a result distracts the country from real issues and more importantly impedes the pace of construction and development in the country. We, the people, are the ones harmed most by such disruption of economic activity.
The allegations of the opposition and contractors do not change the fact that projects are being completed on time and within budget. Although there is a shy call to conduct a technical evaluation of projects by engineers -and this is something I encourage- this call faints before the highly politicized and unprofessional allegations.
Why do I think it's more about politics and money than honest professional objections? Commissioner Kenneth Sirju has suspicious, yet undeniable, ties with NH International Caribbean (NHIC), which Emily Elias runs. This company, as everyone with modest knowledge knows, lost a lot when bids began to be channeled through UDeCOTT. I do not blame the government for excluding NHIC. All the delays, corruption and inflated costs of the Scarborough Hospital project for instance makes it hard to imagine that a company like this is fit to deliver any good. In fact I am astonished by the contradictions in their talk. They claim they are fighting corruption while they are in bed with a corrupt company like NHIC-the Scarborough Hospital affair may only be the tip of the iceberg!
We must not forget either that Emily Elias himself was a major financier of the opposition-he does not deny this. Politics, not just money is what this is about. The Uff commission is being shamelessly exploited as a tool in this war.
We are entitled to know what good is this commission doing us? For years all we got has been the impediment of development and projects that could serve the people. Add to this all the time wasted in the parliament elsewhere on endless boring sessions; precious time that could have otherwise been used to solve real problems like crime.
Do we really need the commission? Imagine it didn't exist. What would we, the people on the street lose? Nothing!
I rejoice when I see a building rise. What really upsets me are those who always like to put the stick in the wheel. I wish we could just focus on building and give up the negative and pessimistic attitude. Like Robertson said in a recent article in the Guardian, we are a nation blessed with gas and oil but cursed with negativity.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Friday Blog Treats
Greetings! The Friday Blog Treats is here! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!). Lots of politics, art (mostly arts), and people talking about themselves.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
NAPA’s first show just ended. 11,000 people attended! Wow! That’s pretty good for a new venue. I wonder what show is next? I found that NAPA has a fan page on Facebook and they say they will be posting showtimes and ticket info soon...Keep an eye on that.
The La Chapelle Dance Company presents ‘Toybox’ this Christmas. Eric Williams Auditorium this weekend! Should be a good show.
I kept eating pork after swine flu, chicken after avian flu…it’s important to eat, right? If I stop eating, I’ll be just as sick as if I caught the flu, anyway…
Speaking of eating, apparently Slim-Fast works better than advertised! It’s being recalled because it might give you the runs!
Crab buljol sushi? Sign me up! I can’t cook, but I can eat.
The famed breathalyzer-it's happening! Can I test one when I go to a bar next time, to see who of the ladies wants a ride home…with me? ;)
Will Los Alumnos win the Parang Showdown again? I think they’ve won…6 times? More? Who are you rooting for?
So. Do you think you’re funny? I mean, really funny? Then check yourself at Naomi Abiola this weekend…comedy show!
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse…you could be named one of these gems!
This week, Now is Wow’s bird dies…maybe you should leave the glass door open to preserve the wildlife?
Apparently, in the UK, my normal habit of visiting new neighbors would be considered ‘trespassing’. Oops. I could use more presents, tho!
I think this blog should come with a translator…who’s this guy, anyway? I do agree that you should go get hair cut with clean hair. I still prefer TT women, tho.
Well, this is another political blog. Must be that time of the…week? A somewhat scathing commentary on the People’s Democracy.
Well, I don’t really follow politics, but I found this analysis to be fairly on-target. Can they really develop enough momentum and organization to oust the PM?
I have two forks! Actually, this is a post about poverty. I think you can measure poverty in many ways. I have two dollars in the bank, BUT I’ve got my laptop, can bum some internet AND sit on my butt and write you these tidbits!!
I think Tiger Woods should just get his own reality tv or soap out of this. Drama! Drama! Drama! AKA LOL seems like he’d like to try some of the same. Too much work for me!
A music video from Ban-D. It’s not that catchy of a song, but some the girls are worth checkin out! I like the line ‘you want to be a rock star when you can’t even sing’. Nice shout-out to MJ at the end. Here's another song from Ban-D. Apparently Dave Kelly’s Madhouse records tracks will be available for download! Anyone wanna bum me a free track or two?
Well, you know you have to open a blog if the title is ‘Hitler’s Toothbrush,’ right? All I can say about the blog itself…gross man. Keep it to yourself.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
NAPA’s first show just ended. 11,000 people attended! Wow! That’s pretty good for a new venue. I wonder what show is next? I found that NAPA has a fan page on Facebook and they say they will be posting showtimes and ticket info soon...Keep an eye on that.
The La Chapelle Dance Company presents ‘Toybox’ this Christmas. Eric Williams Auditorium this weekend! Should be a good show.
I kept eating pork after swine flu, chicken after avian flu…it’s important to eat, right? If I stop eating, I’ll be just as sick as if I caught the flu, anyway…
Speaking of eating, apparently Slim-Fast works better than advertised! It’s being recalled because it might give you the runs!
Crab buljol sushi? Sign me up! I can’t cook, but I can eat.
The famed breathalyzer-it's happening! Can I test one when I go to a bar next time, to see who of the ladies wants a ride home…with me? ;)
Will Los Alumnos win the Parang Showdown again? I think they’ve won…6 times? More? Who are you rooting for?
So. Do you think you’re funny? I mean, really funny? Then check yourself at Naomi Abiola this weekend…comedy show!
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse…you could be named one of these gems!
This week, Now is Wow’s bird dies…maybe you should leave the glass door open to preserve the wildlife?
Apparently, in the UK, my normal habit of visiting new neighbors would be considered ‘trespassing’. Oops. I could use more presents, tho!
I think this blog should come with a translator…who’s this guy, anyway? I do agree that you should go get hair cut with clean hair. I still prefer TT women, tho.
Well, this is another political blog. Must be that time of the…week? A somewhat scathing commentary on the People’s Democracy.
Well, I don’t really follow politics, but I found this analysis to be fairly on-target. Can they really develop enough momentum and organization to oust the PM?
I have two forks! Actually, this is a post about poverty. I think you can measure poverty in many ways. I have two dollars in the bank, BUT I’ve got my laptop, can bum some internet AND sit on my butt and write you these tidbits!!
I think Tiger Woods should just get his own reality tv or soap out of this. Drama! Drama! Drama! AKA LOL seems like he’d like to try some of the same. Too much work for me!
A music video from Ban-D. It’s not that catchy of a song, but some the girls are worth checkin out! I like the line ‘you want to be a rock star when you can’t even sing’. Nice shout-out to MJ at the end. Here's another song from Ban-D. Apparently Dave Kelly’s Madhouse records tracks will be available for download! Anyone wanna bum me a free track or two?
Well, you know you have to open a blog if the title is ‘Hitler’s Toothbrush,’ right? All I can say about the blog itself…gross man. Keep it to yourself.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Tuesday Blog Treats
Greetings! Here is the next step in the building of my TT blog! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!). Lots of politics, art (mostly arts), and people talking about themselves.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to do this twice a week—and yes I know it's Tuesday, not Monday!
Anyway, here it is. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
You like Christmas Carols? If the answer is yes, you should hang out at the Hyatt. Wish I could go!
A Gospel Star on the Rise!
Making Trinidad and Tobago the crown jewel of the Caribbean. Yes! That’s what TT is.
Princes Town Theatre Workshop is back in action after their fire. Way to go!
Cold War Indy Movie you might like…
I know it’s lame, if not actually morbid, of me…but a man was found dead in KFC. I don’t think that will be good for business.
Taxes…Don’t dare touch my cookie jar!
Comment: Anne Fridal has some surprises for us on Saturday…are you going to the show?
Governmentt recovers $TT 30M from Piarco investigation...Good Job. Now, don’t spend it all in one place!
Bows to the Emperor, Happy Birthday from Trinidad.
Manning off to Cuba for medical check-up. I know the Cubans make good cigars, not sure if their hospitals are as good!
This article has some good advice. Check out dem gunz!
The Scarlet Ibis and the Cocrico. Trinidad and Tobago. Props to the Queen.
Political Frankenstein?
No bloggers won awards! Maybe they’ll award me next year. I’ll count on your votes!
Who has the cash to go to Napa Valley? Pipe dreams!
This blogger is at war with themselves…
Crazy drivers!! *shakes my fist*
A very brave little bird!
World Cup Predictions! Who’s going to Capetown?!
This is uh…deep?
A little nerdy, as usually is the case with this blog but certainly something to think about…
I want some homemade rotis….
A blog, answering a blog, answering a blog…about exercise machines. Hmm…maybe this should go with the article on good workouts?
Not sure if I’ll be putting either of these items on my X-mas list…maybe if the thong comes with the girl?
A catchy, if sort of simplistic song on someone’s blog.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to do this twice a week—and yes I know it's Tuesday, not Monday!
Anyway, here it is. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
You like Christmas Carols? If the answer is yes, you should hang out at the Hyatt. Wish I could go!
A Gospel Star on the Rise!
Making Trinidad and Tobago the crown jewel of the Caribbean. Yes! That’s what TT is.
Princes Town Theatre Workshop is back in action after their fire. Way to go!
Cold War Indy Movie you might like…
I know it’s lame, if not actually morbid, of me…but a man was found dead in KFC. I don’t think that will be good for business.
Taxes…Don’t dare touch my cookie jar!
Comment: Anne Fridal has some surprises for us on Saturday…are you going to the show?
Governmentt recovers $TT 30M from Piarco investigation...Good Job. Now, don’t spend it all in one place!
Bows to the Emperor, Happy Birthday from Trinidad.
Manning off to Cuba for medical check-up. I know the Cubans make good cigars, not sure if their hospitals are as good!
This article has some good advice. Check out dem gunz!
The Scarlet Ibis and the Cocrico. Trinidad and Tobago. Props to the Queen.
Political Frankenstein?
No bloggers won awards! Maybe they’ll award me next year. I’ll count on your votes!
Who has the cash to go to Napa Valley? Pipe dreams!
This blogger is at war with themselves…
Crazy drivers!! *shakes my fist*
A very brave little bird!
World Cup Predictions! Who’s going to Capetown?!
This is uh…deep?
A little nerdy, as usually is the case with this blog but certainly something to think about…
I want some homemade rotis….
A blog, answering a blog, answering a blog…about exercise machines. Hmm…maybe this should go with the article on good workouts?
Not sure if I’ll be putting either of these items on my X-mas list…maybe if the thong comes with the girl?
A catchy, if sort of simplistic song on someone’s blog.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Friday Blog Treats
Greetings! Here is the next step in the building of my TT blog! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!). Lots of politics, art (mostly arts), and people talking about themselves.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
2012, the movie appears to be the big hit this season. I have not watched the thing yet but some people seem to think the story could very well apply to the situation in Trinidad and Tobago. Creepy stuff! Guess I should investigate and use this as an excuse to go to the movies, heh, as if I need one!
Finally, the Banana War is headed to end, and in a good way for the Latin American countries, and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states and the United states.
Experts say we have a moral crisis. This is interesting, although I think that every generation cries wolf about the next. I have some faith in our young people.
I know we have horrible drivers in TT, but I love cars with powerful engines. Will someone make me a V8 Car Club member for X-mas?
Speaking of big-ass cars. Here are some videos produced by UTT students in which they talk about traffic congestion and accidents....not so fun!
Indo-Caribbean Jazz Sitar! AND a family heritage. WOAH. That’s a lot of culture in one piece of music!
Jason shares his music passion...It’s true man. Sometimes you just need to strum out your pain on a guitar. Let me know if you hear Jason’s album-- Transformed by Truth.
Ambassador Ashanna! You’ll always be Miss World to me!
Woah, tough break kid. He’s in prison because he’s afraid if he leaves, he might die…that’s pretty rough.
A show this Sunday at the Alchemy! D Rapture Unplugged!
The last CHOGM story, I promise! The picture says everything! Props to the Silver Stars!
Here’s a somewhat depressing song. Maybe you should cheer up?
Cre Ole. I think he’s our most regular blogger. He joined a gym. Maybe I should try that? This might be related to his food post and guilt!
I'm not sure what this is about but the title is catchy. Maria, The Headless Dental Treater!
I don't think treater is a real word anyway!
Will work for food? I think this guy’s job sounds great—maybe I can have this gig as a successful blogger?
Some commentary from Jumbie, about the scholarships scandal.
Create your own organic garden? Sounds like work. Can’t I just sample from yours?
Too TRUE! All of our social networking sites are designed by NERDS.
Apparently Lily wants to learn how to bake. Maybe she should talk to the blogger from the Carribean Cuisine blog from Monday.
To keep my dear readers informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Friday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
2012, the movie appears to be the big hit this season. I have not watched the thing yet but some people seem to think the story could very well apply to the situation in Trinidad and Tobago. Creepy stuff! Guess I should investigate and use this as an excuse to go to the movies, heh, as if I need one!
Finally, the Banana War is headed to end, and in a good way for the Latin American countries, and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states and the United states.
Experts say we have a moral crisis. This is interesting, although I think that every generation cries wolf about the next. I have some faith in our young people.
I know we have horrible drivers in TT, but I love cars with powerful engines. Will someone make me a V8 Car Club member for X-mas?
Speaking of big-ass cars. Here are some videos produced by UTT students in which they talk about traffic congestion and accidents....not so fun!
Indo-Caribbean Jazz Sitar! AND a family heritage. WOAH. That’s a lot of culture in one piece of music!
Jason shares his music passion...It’s true man. Sometimes you just need to strum out your pain on a guitar. Let me know if you hear Jason’s album-- Transformed by Truth.
Ambassador Ashanna! You’ll always be Miss World to me!
Woah, tough break kid. He’s in prison because he’s afraid if he leaves, he might die…that’s pretty rough.
A show this Sunday at the Alchemy! D Rapture Unplugged!
The last CHOGM story, I promise! The picture says everything! Props to the Silver Stars!
Here’s a somewhat depressing song. Maybe you should cheer up?
Cre Ole. I think he’s our most regular blogger. He joined a gym. Maybe I should try that? This might be related to his food post and guilt!
I'm not sure what this is about but the title is catchy. Maria, The Headless Dental Treater!
I don't think treater is a real word anyway!
Will work for food? I think this guy’s job sounds great—maybe I can have this gig as a successful blogger?
Some commentary from Jumbie, about the scholarships scandal.
Create your own organic garden? Sounds like work. Can’t I just sample from yours?
Too TRUE! All of our social networking sites are designed by NERDS.
Apparently Lily wants to learn how to bake. Maybe she should talk to the blogger from the Carribean Cuisine blog from Monday.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
CHOGM
The city is quiet-relatively-again as CHOGM wrapped up. It was nice to see the nation excitedly engaged in world event of this magnitude. Maybe it was the fact we had a national holiday and we did not have to go to work. The joy was mixed with a sense of pride in being an active member of the international community and making a contribution to other countries.
What adds to the pride is that those attending the conference praised the organization and hospitality that made many visiting leaders say they felt at home. Add to this the intense security preparations. While traffic was chaotic and the city full of life and excitement, the feeling that we could see security officials virtually at every street corner. This made me think that Trinis are indeed capable of achieving world class results.
I strongly feel that Trinidad is on its way to occupy a prominent position in not only regional, but world affairs, especially after the Summit of Americas conference and a visit from so many other world leaders. CHOGM and Summit of the Americas gave the country a great boost in this respect. There is no better way for countries to advertise themselves than hosting such international events. It was unique opportunity to showcase our vibrant culture and economic potential.
I would like to see the government ambition to host the CHOGM Games meet with success. Economic benefit from the games would be exponentially higher than was the case with CHOGM. Such events will increase Trinidad’s stake as a destination for tourism and investment. It could open new horizons for our economy and strengthening our position as a center for economic and social activity in the western hemisphere.
What adds to the pride is that those attending the conference praised the organization and hospitality that made many visiting leaders say they felt at home. Add to this the intense security preparations. While traffic was chaotic and the city full of life and excitement, the feeling that we could see security officials virtually at every street corner. This made me think that Trinis are indeed capable of achieving world class results.
I strongly feel that Trinidad is on its way to occupy a prominent position in not only regional, but world affairs, especially after the Summit of Americas conference and a visit from so many other world leaders. CHOGM and Summit of the Americas gave the country a great boost in this respect. There is no better way for countries to advertise themselves than hosting such international events. It was unique opportunity to showcase our vibrant culture and economic potential.
I would like to see the government ambition to host the CHOGM Games meet with success. Economic benefit from the games would be exponentially higher than was the case with CHOGM. Such events will increase Trinidad’s stake as a destination for tourism and investment. It could open new horizons for our economy and strengthening our position as a center for economic and social activity in the western hemisphere.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday Blog Treats
Greetings! Here is the next step in the building of my TT blog! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!). Lots of politics, art (mostly arts), and people talking about themselves.
To keep my dear readers (do you exist??) informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Thursday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
First of all, my heat goes out to those in parts of West Trinidad that witnessed floods. Hope everyone is Okay.
CHOGM was here. Overall it was a success. A small country, maybe, but certainly a worth partner of the rest of the world in addressing the big issues.
Of course, everyone appreciates TT hospitality. I'm proud of PM Manning!
Still, it looks like some were less than impressed with CHOGM...Seriously!? Lighten up, man!
Wow, that sucks—Vanuata’s PM lost his job for coming to CHOGM! Don’t worry, Natapei, we can build you a new Island to rule...we've got plenty of hungry contractors!
Centre for Creative arts lauds culture greats. A documentary on the life of celebrated and Road March and International Soca Monarch Austin Lyons, SuperBlue is coming out! It’s about time! Viva Soca!
Desperadoes honors members—Jean Reid sure has some class!
There was also a news story about this. Apparently the US and the UK have nothing better to do than to follow Trinis around…lame.
Looks like someone procrastinates even more than I do!
Happy 43rd Independence anniversary, Barbados!
Then there's of course the obligatory cricket update!
More parties! Wait…is this in London?
An art exhibit, called INTIMATE, will be at the Moksha Yoga Studio in POS! Looks pretty cool…
Soo…where are the pictures?
An important article on the pioneers of parang music. A tragic story of love, foreign accents and music. What else do you need?
Another Soca legend! Relax and enjoy the music is right!
Golden goblets! I'll say cheers to that as long as we don't have to pay for them! It was nice of the Queen to bring them along.
I might be lead by my stomach, but I think this is my new favorite blog! Man, do I love anything with coconut!
To keep my dear readers (do you exist??) informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Thursday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
First of all, my heat goes out to those in parts of West Trinidad that witnessed floods. Hope everyone is Okay.
CHOGM was here. Overall it was a success. A small country, maybe, but certainly a worth partner of the rest of the world in addressing the big issues.
Of course, everyone appreciates TT hospitality. I'm proud of PM Manning!
Still, it looks like some were less than impressed with CHOGM...Seriously!? Lighten up, man!
Wow, that sucks—Vanuata’s PM lost his job for coming to CHOGM! Don’t worry, Natapei, we can build you a new Island to rule...we've got plenty of hungry contractors!
Centre for Creative arts lauds culture greats. A documentary on the life of celebrated and Road March and International Soca Monarch Austin Lyons, SuperBlue is coming out! It’s about time! Viva Soca!
Desperadoes honors members—Jean Reid sure has some class!
There was also a news story about this. Apparently the US and the UK have nothing better to do than to follow Trinis around…lame.
Looks like someone procrastinates even more than I do!
Happy 43rd Independence anniversary, Barbados!
Then there's of course the obligatory cricket update!
More parties! Wait…is this in London?
An art exhibit, called INTIMATE, will be at the Moksha Yoga Studio in POS! Looks pretty cool…
Soo…where are the pictures?
An important article on the pioneers of parang music. A tragic story of love, foreign accents and music. What else do you need?
Another Soca legend! Relax and enjoy the music is right!
Golden goblets! I'll say cheers to that as long as we don't have to pay for them! It was nice of the Queen to bring them along.
I might be lead by my stomach, but I think this is my new favorite blog! Man, do I love anything with coconut!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thursday Blog Treats
Greetings! Here is the next step in the building of my TT blog! What’s happening in the world and blogosphere (greater than the world!). Lots of politics, art (mostly arts) and people talking about themselves.
To keep my dear readers (do you exist??) informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Thursday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
CHOGM is here and tomorrow is a school holiday! Yeah! Wait…I guess it doesn’t apply to me.
Oh, yeah, and Her Majesty the Queen is here!
Some like to describe her as a “...celebrity, a much-loved figure, the personification of the UK, and a busy servant of her countrymen, the Commonwealth and a wider humanity.” The Queen is many things to many people, but she’ll always be a friend to me ;)
Don't know where to spend Saturday night yet? Here's a suggestion. I haven’t been there myself yet so let me know if you go. When will I be declared a ‘liquor ambassador?’
Mary Could Dance is back in town! It will be on for two nights only—November 28-29—at the Naparima Bowl. San Fernando. Is anyone going? I will have to check out tickets.
I always knew CURRY would save me! This story also has some sophisticated tips for cooking with curry. It turns out it's not that simple after all!
A legal -literally- Birthday present.
Organize tours of NAPA? DUH! Why hasn’t this already been set up? I want to get the first look!
Trinidad slips down the corruption scale; the goal is to go up! Barbados is up! What’s going on in Barbados? There’s a good blog post from Robin Montano about this if you scroll down.
A somewhat long-winded, but useful history of performance space in Trinidad. Looking forward to next week’s article!
Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe 2010! Vote for our women! Appreciate our women! I know it will make me sound like a softie, but this one’s my favorite!
Booze and Jazz! A great combination! Did anyone go?
Anya, I feel misrepresented, too! Can I get your number, and we can talk about it? Maybe…over dinner? At my place?
Not much of a blog…but has a list of major art events in the area. Anyway, they should fire their webmaster.
Almost Paradise? It perfectly fits my definition of paradise!
My attempts to stay trim are not going to work with sites like these...
Glad we’re smarter than the South Koreans! We get our porn for FREE.
"All of the essential elements needed for the rise of a totalitarian state exist and lie latent in Western, democratic society.”
Really!? What about theocracies and one-party regimes then? Sounds like a cool movie, though!
Singh int he White House...Cool pictures of the evening.
Banana tax wars to end? I say let them work, let them eat bananas.
I am thankful to Trinidad Carnival Diary, at least for showing me that someone here is blogging every day! Something I can aspire to!
And don't miss this Machel Montano clip and some commentary—down ladies! Down!
It’s true that we drive like madmen…but I thought that was part of TT self-expression…
Another crappy day in paradise!? I feel ya, man, but let’s go to Disney World all the same.
Bras wanted!? and other cool pictures.
For all you dancehall fanatics out there…you know who you are...
A rough way to start the week, man! Don’t drink the Koolaid…
To keep my dear readers (do you exist??) informed, I will try to do this twice a week—once on Monday, when the week begins and once on Thursday, before the fetes begin. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
CHOGM is here and tomorrow is a school holiday! Yeah! Wait…I guess it doesn’t apply to me.
Oh, yeah, and Her Majesty the Queen is here!
Some like to describe her as a “...celebrity, a much-loved figure, the personification of the UK, and a busy servant of her countrymen, the Commonwealth and a wider humanity.” The Queen is many things to many people, but she’ll always be a friend to me ;)
Don't know where to spend Saturday night yet? Here's a suggestion. I haven’t been there myself yet so let me know if you go. When will I be declared a ‘liquor ambassador?’
Mary Could Dance is back in town! It will be on for two nights only—November 28-29—at the Naparima Bowl. San Fernando. Is anyone going? I will have to check out tickets.
I always knew CURRY would save me! This story also has some sophisticated tips for cooking with curry. It turns out it's not that simple after all!
A legal -literally- Birthday present.
Organize tours of NAPA? DUH! Why hasn’t this already been set up? I want to get the first look!
Trinidad slips down the corruption scale; the goal is to go up! Barbados is up! What’s going on in Barbados? There’s a good blog post from Robin Montano about this if you scroll down.
A somewhat long-winded, but useful history of performance space in Trinidad. Looking forward to next week’s article!
Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe 2010! Vote for our women! Appreciate our women! I know it will make me sound like a softie, but this one’s my favorite!
Booze and Jazz! A great combination! Did anyone go?
Anya, I feel misrepresented, too! Can I get your number, and we can talk about it? Maybe…over dinner? At my place?
Not much of a blog…but has a list of major art events in the area. Anyway, they should fire their webmaster.
Almost Paradise? It perfectly fits my definition of paradise!
My attempts to stay trim are not going to work with sites like these...
Glad we’re smarter than the South Koreans! We get our porn for FREE.
"All of the essential elements needed for the rise of a totalitarian state exist and lie latent in Western, democratic society.”
Really!? What about theocracies and one-party regimes then? Sounds like a cool movie, though!
Singh int he White House...Cool pictures of the evening.
Banana tax wars to end? I say let them work, let them eat bananas.
I am thankful to Trinidad Carnival Diary, at least for showing me that someone here is blogging every day! Something I can aspire to!
And don't miss this Machel Montano clip and some commentary—down ladies! Down!
It’s true that we drive like madmen…but I thought that was part of TT self-expression…
Another crappy day in paradise!? I feel ya, man, but let’s go to Disney World all the same.
Bras wanted!? and other cool pictures.
For all you dancehall fanatics out there…you know who you are...
A rough way to start the week, man! Don’t drink the Koolaid…
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
It Was Worth It
I've been contemplating writing for a long time but every time I tried I couldn't find enough motivation to actually write. Add to that a mental laziness that struck me recently.
But now here I am and here's my blog! Today I will defeat laziness and start writing, as an art lover, and big steel drums fan, I have found my inspiration in the new Arts Academy of Trinidad and Tobago.
As Trinidad and Tobago created steel drums, I hope this Academy will have positive impact on the future of steel drums locally and internationally.
I was lucky and managed to get to see the opening festivities. For those of us who love art, I couldn’t agree more that the wait was worth it:
Indeed it was a fantastic opportunity to look at such a beautiful monument of architecture that speaks of the potential of our land, and our people.
This experience was heart-lifting, and restored my faith in the future of my country. Amidst all the bad news we hear every day about crime and corruption, this fine institution comes as a sign of reassurance that this country is trying to go in the right direction.
Put aside the magnificent architecture, what really makes me happy and optimistic is the service this building is going to offer to the future generations and to make us once more enjoy and appreciate the beauty of art. This, my friends, is no trivial matter. A lot of our problems today arise from the fact that many of us have regrettably lost sense of beauty and ceased to appreciate art. These, along with knowledge, are the foundations of true civilizations, not power and money.
As I look at this fine institution, I can only picture in my mind the dozens after dozens of the young men and women who will one day become proud graduates. Those are the artists and creators of the future who will hold our flag high and make all of us proud.
My gratitude to all those who worked hard to make this possible
But now here I am and here's my blog! Today I will defeat laziness and start writing, as an art lover, and big steel drums fan, I have found my inspiration in the new Arts Academy of Trinidad and Tobago.
As Trinidad and Tobago created steel drums, I hope this Academy will have positive impact on the future of steel drums locally and internationally.
I was lucky and managed to get to see the opening festivities. For those of us who love art, I couldn’t agree more that the wait was worth it:
As the heat intensified and the size of the line grew, one person wondered aloud whether the wait would be worth the while. "It will be worth it," replied an elderly man who tried to escape the sun's rays by hiding in the narrow shadow cast by a wall. "The kind of equipment I see, it will have to be worth it. "You think it easy to get water, lights and music to synchronise?" he asked, referring to the fountains on the outdoors, which when lit move in tandem with melodies that occasionally emanate from the site.
Indeed it was a fantastic opportunity to look at such a beautiful monument of architecture that speaks of the potential of our land, and our people.
This experience was heart-lifting, and restored my faith in the future of my country. Amidst all the bad news we hear every day about crime and corruption, this fine institution comes as a sign of reassurance that this country is trying to go in the right direction.
Put aside the magnificent architecture, what really makes me happy and optimistic is the service this building is going to offer to the future generations and to make us once more enjoy and appreciate the beauty of art. This, my friends, is no trivial matter. A lot of our problems today arise from the fact that many of us have regrettably lost sense of beauty and ceased to appreciate art. These, along with knowledge, are the foundations of true civilizations, not power and money.
As I look at this fine institution, I can only picture in my mind the dozens after dozens of the young men and women who will one day become proud graduates. Those are the artists and creators of the future who will hold our flag high and make all of us proud.
My gratitude to all those who worked hard to make this possible
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