Greetings! The 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. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
Chairman of the National Carnival Commission (NCC) Howard Chin Lee announced yesterday they were able to save $3.5 million from their allocated $121 million. Nice! Usually they go over budget, not under. Also, tomorrow's Panorama semi-finals should be amazing!
Lots of great percussion videos on this blog. I find the ones from NYC particularly cool. NYC is awesome!
Okay, so I was hungry when I compiled these stories and decided to go with the food one---Thai food is pretty great and has a level of spice that I think we islanders can appreciate. So, Thai ladies, feel free to show me a thing or two!
Activism and music have always gone hand in hand in my mind. Savannah Party plugs for the environment--making it easy to party AND promote a cause--protecting our beautiful TT! Although this one is to protect Africa's savannahs--the lands of our ancestors!
BCPires mourns the political demise of Panday and shares an interview he did with Panday from 2002. It’s long so I didn’t read much but I believe the doctrine of reacting to losing power by calling for unrest and civil disobedience does not reflect commitment to law and democracy. And seriously BC, is asking a politician whether he wears briefs or boxers the best way to start a useful interview?
In arts and history news, the National Museum will move into the Knowsley building--where the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently. It'll be near the National Academy of the Performing Arts--so visitors can see all of them at once. Wonder if they'll find any historical treasures or secrets when they move all those filing cabinets!
This is a decent recap of some changes in Carnival and of events of the past week--although I think this guy was more coherent than myself. I can't remember all of these date and times--its just one continuous celebration!
The iPad is NOT a tampon…funny post, man!
This is an issue dear to my heart---where is the pan music on the radio. Obviously we love it, we go to the shows, the amazing turnout at Panorama, the show tomorrow, I could go on forever--when will we get more pan on the radio??
Transistors that have memory!! We’re doomed…the robots are going to take over, and, despite all the sci-fi shows and stories we read, we will give them the power to do it.
Shurwayne Winchester, looking pretty stylin with an especially awesome bike. He seems to be doing well for himself and is over booked! Good luck catching a glimpse!
Well, you'd have to be REALLY out of it to not notice some of the nastiness falling out of the UNC election results. I think some of it has shown people's true colors. Let's play nice, shall we?
And in a moment of sad news, Roland Gordon, chief judge of Soca Monarch passed away early Friday morning. He will be missed.
Robin Montano sheds light on the aftermath of the UNC election. His conclusion: The UNC is weak, divided and will lose the next election!
Conspiracy theory? Maybe, maybe not! I too have my suspicions about the relentless attacks on EDeCOTT…Something about Bagoo’s little crusade just doesn’t smell right!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday Blog Treats
Greetings! The 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 *try* to deliver the 'Treats' twice a week. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
The moment we've all been waiting for! PANORAMA! Pan Tribago says 10 bands qualified for each category! Time is at 6 instead of 7. Competitions for small to medium bands will be Feb 13 at the Queen's Park Havana. See you there!
An almost record number of top performers to compete at the Chutney Soca Monarch--just going to show the growing popularity of chutney. Wild times!
Extensive coverage of the UNC elections and the aftermath from Jyoti Communication...again, I'm not excited!
Jamaica Jazz Festival is set to start next weekend! Should be a blast! Hope we can hear the crooning of the horns from over here.
Well, apparently the US wants to 'help' the Haitians--as long as the Haitians stay on their side of the water--they are mistaking desperate for opportunist. Paranoid and xenophobic, I'd say.
Caricom is having a tough time with Haiti. But then, so is everyone. Everyone also made important and heartfelt strides. I think that counts for something.
This is just too funny and sad at the same time. Socialist soap operas? Soap operas aren't about politics (although sometimes politics are like soap operas with all the drama). Soap operas are about sex.
Tunks wonders “Why do we become afraid of loosing something we don't even have? Why do we become afraid of having something we always wanted? Is it self sabotage or self preservation?”
I think the answer for the second question is that we simply get bored fast. It’s the anticipation and uncertainty about getting something that keeps us excited, but once we have that thing there’s no anticipation anymore. That’s when we start looking for something new, or alternatively become afraid of having the thing in the first place. I dunno! Lol
Pineapple is the theme of the week at the Caribbean Pot! Two cool recipes…A spicy pineapple salad, and the formidable homemade burger…I tried to make it and that burger tasted GREAT…the bold toppings do make a difference!
Hypnotic's lead singer, Chinee, celebrates 20 years. The breeding grown for good music is TT.
For anyone who wanted to join the circus--a TT native did. Kafi Pierre now dances for the famed Cirque du Soliel. I always liked the contortionists, myself.
Tons of roadmixes and remixes, at the TT blogosphere’s music store, aka the ban-d-wagonist!
Making 'true mas,' hand made, old school, the way it should be. Wish I had that kind of gift. Wire benders!
Something of an overview of Montano. A Star of Soca, revealed...altho i already knew most of this stuff.
Soo...the cops are going to follow the law...maybe?
To keep my dear readers informed, I will *try* to deliver the 'Treats' twice a week. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
The moment we've all been waiting for! PANORAMA! Pan Tribago says 10 bands qualified for each category! Time is at 6 instead of 7. Competitions for small to medium bands will be Feb 13 at the Queen's Park Havana. See you there!
An almost record number of top performers to compete at the Chutney Soca Monarch--just going to show the growing popularity of chutney. Wild times!
Extensive coverage of the UNC elections and the aftermath from Jyoti Communication...again, I'm not excited!
Jamaica Jazz Festival is set to start next weekend! Should be a blast! Hope we can hear the crooning of the horns from over here.
Well, apparently the US wants to 'help' the Haitians--as long as the Haitians stay on their side of the water--they are mistaking desperate for opportunist. Paranoid and xenophobic, I'd say.
Caricom is having a tough time with Haiti. But then, so is everyone. Everyone also made important and heartfelt strides. I think that counts for something.
This is just too funny and sad at the same time. Socialist soap operas? Soap operas aren't about politics (although sometimes politics are like soap operas with all the drama). Soap operas are about sex.
Tunks wonders “Why do we become afraid of loosing something we don't even have? Why do we become afraid of having something we always wanted? Is it self sabotage or self preservation?”
I think the answer for the second question is that we simply get bored fast. It’s the anticipation and uncertainty about getting something that keeps us excited, but once we have that thing there’s no anticipation anymore. That’s when we start looking for something new, or alternatively become afraid of having the thing in the first place. I dunno! Lol
Pineapple is the theme of the week at the Caribbean Pot! Two cool recipes…A spicy pineapple salad, and the formidable homemade burger…I tried to make it and that burger tasted GREAT…the bold toppings do make a difference!
Hypnotic's lead singer, Chinee, celebrates 20 years. The breeding grown for good music is TT.
For anyone who wanted to join the circus--a TT native did. Kafi Pierre now dances for the famed Cirque du Soliel. I always liked the contortionists, myself.
Tons of roadmixes and remixes, at the TT blogosphere’s music store, aka the ban-d-wagonist!
Making 'true mas,' hand made, old school, the way it should be. Wish I had that kind of gift. Wire benders!
Something of an overview of Montano. A Star of Soca, revealed...altho i already knew most of this stuff.
Soo...the cops are going to follow the law...maybe?
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Not Excited About That UNC Election
I am not excited about the UNC elections, except for maybe one thing. It represents a practice of democracy and, democracy in the state begins with democracy within the political parties, in addition to the awareness and participation of the public.
Other than that, I’m not excited at all about this particular electoral race. That’s because the UNC, since the time they lost have not revised their ways, nor did they inject new faces…same names, same policies.
I am an independent now and I look at both government and opposition from the lens of a citizen who only cares about better services, more construction and less crime. I’m critical of the opposition not for partisan reasons but because it is a “verbal” opposition that talks a lot and does very little.
Anyone can be a good critic….actually there’s nothing easier than criticism. But when someone is given the responsibility of representing a large constituency in the parliament we expect them to do more than the average person on the street. We expect them to offer solutions, propose plans to fix things and, work with the government for the common good. This is called constructive opposition.
Unfortunately this is not what we have. The UNC is a bunch of whiners who think their job is only to attack the government, even when the government does something good! I recall clearly, for instance, how the opposition’s boycotted the NAPA opening ceremony; the institution whose magnificence was acknowledged by foreigners and locals alike. Although NAPA is facility that belongs to the people and offers services to all of TT, the opposition boycotted it just because it came from the government and its construction arm; UDeCOTT.
I would like to remind the opposition that criticizing the government does not improve your ratings. The question is not about who’s in office but rather about who’s capable of providing better programs and better services. What I see in the UNC elections is a clash of names over popularity, not a competition between real programs. The opposition should not expect the public to be interested in their struggle for power. The public will care only when the competition is about addressing the public’s needs and interests.
Other than that, I’m not excited at all about this particular electoral race. That’s because the UNC, since the time they lost have not revised their ways, nor did they inject new faces…same names, same policies.
I am an independent now and I look at both government and opposition from the lens of a citizen who only cares about better services, more construction and less crime. I’m critical of the opposition not for partisan reasons but because it is a “verbal” opposition that talks a lot and does very little.
Anyone can be a good critic….actually there’s nothing easier than criticism. But when someone is given the responsibility of representing a large constituency in the parliament we expect them to do more than the average person on the street. We expect them to offer solutions, propose plans to fix things and, work with the government for the common good. This is called constructive opposition.
Unfortunately this is not what we have. The UNC is a bunch of whiners who think their job is only to attack the government, even when the government does something good! I recall clearly, for instance, how the opposition’s boycotted the NAPA opening ceremony; the institution whose magnificence was acknowledged by foreigners and locals alike. Although NAPA is facility that belongs to the people and offers services to all of TT, the opposition boycotted it just because it came from the government and its construction arm; UDeCOTT.
I would like to remind the opposition that criticizing the government does not improve your ratings. The question is not about who’s in office but rather about who’s capable of providing better programs and better services. What I see in the UNC elections is a clash of names over popularity, not a competition between real programs. The opposition should not expect the public to be interested in their struggle for power. The public will care only when the competition is about addressing the public’s needs and interests.
Monday, January 18, 2010
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, and once on Friday. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
Global Voices Online have more updates on their Haiti earthquake page, including a link to a petition to cancel Haiti's debt. The goal is to collect 100,000 signatures, and they're already at some 76,000...make sure you sign it!
US brings out the high rollers and big names to aid Haiti! Secretary of State Clinton heads to help Haiti. Hope they make progress soon!
The earthquake, caught on tape:
A serious issue for a minute. Water shortages in TT and more predicted in 2010. What will be done?
Mistah Shack, and Sister Renee were a hit. Stars are born and these youngsters keep our pros on their toes--which keeps our ears happy and our music amazing. TT forever!
Spice up your cuisine and burn your mouth with this fiery sauce recipe from the Caribbean Pot! Want some chips with that??
I love ham...BUT, there's no way in hell or heaven i'm paying TT$1,200 for a pound of salted ham, no matter how good they say it tastes!
Akua is a man who shares my values! Steelpan is MY life, too. Who was at the Trinity all Generations Steel Orchestra performance? Feedback? He has 14 years of experience even though he's under 21?! That's pretty impressive.
More bickering about money and exposure, although makes some good points. TT is both unique and mixed and complaining about foreigners coming and participating in our shows is unwelcoming and in bad taste. Trinis play host to the world...remember all the stories about CHOGM? :)
More poetry---Capildeo's second poetry collection well received in London. More beautiful words and thoughts! Again, another sign that foreigners are drawn to TT and TT culture.
Dance! Dance and Performance Institute opening in POS. Sounds pretty good. Let's keep an eye out for this one.
Female boxing champ helping out with a workshop in Barataria. I would love to go up against her, she can maybe help me polish my uppercut.
More foreign influences that only serve to improve TT and TT music. Chutney seems to be the flavor of the season!
Missing Trini's brother heads to Haiti to search for him. We’ll keep our fingers crossed…Good luck man!
A man of beautiful words. Stuck between the old world and the new. Probably worth reading his poetry, since he uses phrases like 'the colonial past mingles with Caribbean heritage to create "an infinitely elastic umbilical chord."
Calypso! Pan! Tobago launched Carnival on Saturday. I, of course, was over with the pan artists!
An Earthquake struck in Venezuela 2pm on Friday as well. Any coverage on that?
I think the voodoo in this story is getting 8,999 songs on an iPod Shuffle. Mine was full at way below 2,000!
To keep my dear readers informed, I will deliver the 'Treats' twice a week—once on Monday, and once on Friday. Some of it good, some of it bad, so I posted just the ones that I liked or thought worthy of your time. Enjoy!
Global Voices Online have more updates on their Haiti earthquake page, including a link to a petition to cancel Haiti's debt. The goal is to collect 100,000 signatures, and they're already at some 76,000...make sure you sign it!
US brings out the high rollers and big names to aid Haiti! Secretary of State Clinton heads to help Haiti. Hope they make progress soon!
The earthquake, caught on tape:
A serious issue for a minute. Water shortages in TT and more predicted in 2010. What will be done?
Mistah Shack, and Sister Renee were a hit. Stars are born and these youngsters keep our pros on their toes--which keeps our ears happy and our music amazing. TT forever!
Spice up your cuisine and burn your mouth with this fiery sauce recipe from the Caribbean Pot! Want some chips with that??
I love ham...BUT, there's no way in hell or heaven i'm paying TT$1,200 for a pound of salted ham, no matter how good they say it tastes!
Akua is a man who shares my values! Steelpan is MY life, too. Who was at the Trinity all Generations Steel Orchestra performance? Feedback? He has 14 years of experience even though he's under 21?! That's pretty impressive.
More bickering about money and exposure, although makes some good points. TT is both unique and mixed and complaining about foreigners coming and participating in our shows is unwelcoming and in bad taste. Trinis play host to the world...remember all the stories about CHOGM? :)
More poetry---Capildeo's second poetry collection well received in London. More beautiful words and thoughts! Again, another sign that foreigners are drawn to TT and TT culture.
Dance! Dance and Performance Institute opening in POS. Sounds pretty good. Let's keep an eye out for this one.
Female boxing champ helping out with a workshop in Barataria. I would love to go up against her, she can maybe help me polish my uppercut.
More foreign influences that only serve to improve TT and TT music. Chutney seems to be the flavor of the season!
Missing Trini's brother heads to Haiti to search for him. We’ll keep our fingers crossed…Good luck man!
A man of beautiful words. Stuck between the old world and the new. Probably worth reading his poetry, since he uses phrases like 'the colonial past mingles with Caribbean heritage to create "an infinitely elastic umbilical chord."
Calypso! Pan! Tobago launched Carnival on Saturday. I, of course, was over with the pan artists!
An Earthquake struck in Venezuela 2pm on Friday as well. Any coverage on that?
I think the voodoo in this story is getting 8,999 songs on an iPod Shuffle. Mine was full at way below 2,000!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Helping Haiti
Greetings. There will be no Monday Blog Treats today. In light of the catastrophic humanitarian situation caused by the earthquake in Haiti, today I will only link to news related to the incident and relief efforts.
Global Voices Online has set up a special page dedicated to the coverage of the earthquake news by blogs and mainstream media and other sources. They have dozens of links to related posts and are constantly updating with new posts.
We all want to help in any possible way. Wordtryst and aka_lol list several numbers you can use to text your donations toward the relief effort. More methods are listed on the earthquake Google page...And many more locations/methods where you can make a contribution.
Do your part! Don't sit idly by!
Prime Minister Manning says TT is sending a US $1 million contribution to the relief effort. I hope our government will consider increasing this number. It’s true we’re in debt and not particularly wealth but we still can do better than this.
The government is also considering using fast ferries to deliver aid supplies as quickly as possible.
Scientists send an ominous message; Haiti may not be the last to be struck with such devastating earthquakes. Seismologists warned today that the region should brace for more powerful earthquakes in the future. Well, Maybe getting certified first aid training is not a very bad idea...You don't know when you will find yourself in a position where such training could save a life.
A Trinidadian survivor of the earthquake tells his story.
Global Voices Online has set up a special page dedicated to the coverage of the earthquake news by blogs and mainstream media and other sources. They have dozens of links to related posts and are constantly updating with new posts.
We all want to help in any possible way. Wordtryst and aka_lol list several numbers you can use to text your donations toward the relief effort. More methods are listed on the earthquake Google page...And many more locations/methods where you can make a contribution.
Do your part! Don't sit idly by!
Prime Minister Manning says TT is sending a US $1 million contribution to the relief effort. I hope our government will consider increasing this number. It’s true we’re in debt and not particularly wealth but we still can do better than this.
The government is also considering using fast ferries to deliver aid supplies as quickly as possible.
Scientists send an ominous message; Haiti may not be the last to be struck with such devastating earthquakes. Seismologists warned today that the region should brace for more powerful earthquakes in the future. Well, Maybe getting certified first aid training is not a very bad idea...You don't know when you will find yourself in a position where such training could save a life.
A Trinidadian survivor of the earthquake tells his story.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Enquiry Exposes the Enquirer
An exciting chapter in the conflict between Uff Commission and UDeCOTT is taking place in courtrooms these days. I’m following this with interest since it’s a matter that affects construction and development in this country and it’s been a source of controversy for a long time. I think it is time that we see the truth and get to know the motives and goals of the involved parties and the reasons this fuss started in the first place.
I’m actually glad that this issue has finally reached the judiciary because we’re emotional people and we often make decisions based on sentiments and rumors without examining facts and figures. We often make final judgments based on what a journalist or politician said on a newspaper. We all do this, and it’s wrong because it means we will scarcely make right judgments.
Since I’m a student of politics and business, I would like to share with my readers what I think about this matter. I’m trying here to clarify the picture for the sake of reason…the verdict of the court will later show whether or not I have a good understanding of what’s going on.
I have noticed two things from observing the trial and what’s being written in newspapers. First, there’s a relentless personal attack on Calder Hart that targeted his education, family, background and even friends and relatives. In my opinion, reducing the debate about a large institution with a strategic role in development in the country to disparaging assaults on individuals (in this case Mr. Hart) is a huge fallacy.
If someone has objections to the performance of an institution of this magnitude, they ought to be professional and scientific in presenting these objections. If claims of shortcomings in the policy or performance of the company can be proven with reason and facts, then Mr. Hart would shoulder a part of the responsibility proportional to his role in the company. This is not what’s happening in this case. When I look at the allegations and accusations, they all look like an attempt to frame someone in a conspiratory way. I am pretty sure that none of these allegations will prove legitimate in the end.
This leads me to think that this assault on Hart might be fueled by personal ambitions to overthrow Hart and take his place. Like I said, I think the office is the goal, not the interests of the country.
The second thing that makes me curious is that I often read and hear the following question: why did UDeCOTT give ‘X’ contract to ‘Y’ company and not ‘Z’ contractor? Some have went in their arguments as far as claiming that the companies that get the contracts belong to Hart’s family. I believe this too is wrong and is only a way to mislead the public opinion. Why I think this claim is not true? Any informed observer knows that there are financial and technical terms and conditions under which contracts are awarded to companies. Ironically, no one in their attacks on UDeCOTT and Hart says anything about the actual technical content of the contracts, or whether they are legal and satisfactory or not. The whole clamor is about why this company got this and why this contractor got that!
These points make me believe that the whole matter is fabricated by some companies and contractors who are bitter because they did not get contracts for whatever reasons. I think this is all about those individuals’ business interests, rather than the interest of the country. Take this for example... the news from the courtroom today revealed connections between Kenneth Sirjiu of the Uff commission and Emile Elias of NHIC:
I think this story will be getting more interesting in the coming days and the court will prove whether I’m right or wrong in my analysis of the case. I will try to comment more on this soon as the case develops. This case matters to the whole country and we must get to the truth!
I’m actually glad that this issue has finally reached the judiciary because we’re emotional people and we often make decisions based on sentiments and rumors without examining facts and figures. We often make final judgments based on what a journalist or politician said on a newspaper. We all do this, and it’s wrong because it means we will scarcely make right judgments.
Since I’m a student of politics and business, I would like to share with my readers what I think about this matter. I’m trying here to clarify the picture for the sake of reason…the verdict of the court will later show whether or not I have a good understanding of what’s going on.
I have noticed two things from observing the trial and what’s being written in newspapers. First, there’s a relentless personal attack on Calder Hart that targeted his education, family, background and even friends and relatives. In my opinion, reducing the debate about a large institution with a strategic role in development in the country to disparaging assaults on individuals (in this case Mr. Hart) is a huge fallacy.
If someone has objections to the performance of an institution of this magnitude, they ought to be professional and scientific in presenting these objections. If claims of shortcomings in the policy or performance of the company can be proven with reason and facts, then Mr. Hart would shoulder a part of the responsibility proportional to his role in the company. This is not what’s happening in this case. When I look at the allegations and accusations, they all look like an attempt to frame someone in a conspiratory way. I am pretty sure that none of these allegations will prove legitimate in the end.
This leads me to think that this assault on Hart might be fueled by personal ambitions to overthrow Hart and take his place. Like I said, I think the office is the goal, not the interests of the country.
The second thing that makes me curious is that I often read and hear the following question: why did UDeCOTT give ‘X’ contract to ‘Y’ company and not ‘Z’ contractor? Some have went in their arguments as far as claiming that the companies that get the contracts belong to Hart’s family. I believe this too is wrong and is only a way to mislead the public opinion. Why I think this claim is not true? Any informed observer knows that there are financial and technical terms and conditions under which contracts are awarded to companies. Ironically, no one in their attacks on UDeCOTT and Hart says anything about the actual technical content of the contracts, or whether they are legal and satisfactory or not. The whole clamor is about why this company got this and why this contractor got that!
These points make me believe that the whole matter is fabricated by some companies and contractors who are bitter because they did not get contracts for whatever reasons. I think this is all about those individuals’ business interests, rather than the interest of the country. Take this for example... the news from the courtroom today revealed connections between Kenneth Sirjiu of the Uff commission and Emile Elias of NHIC:
Goddard spent most of his five-and -a-half-hours yesterday training his guns on Commission member Kenneth Sirju, an engineer, who he claimed repeatedly refused to disclose his professional relationship with NHIC which we wrote about in an earlier post.
Goddard also claimed that Sirju’s company also performed design services for NHIC at the Cleaver Heights development, one of the projects being examined by the Commission and Sirju was personally involved in modifying the designs relating to the retaining walls.
I think this story will be getting more interesting in the coming days and the court will prove whether I’m right or wrong in my analysis of the case. I will try to comment more on this soon as the case develops. This case matters to the whole country and we must get to the truth!
Monday, January 11, 2010
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!
I can like these kind of guns! Maybe the economy will improve once all the monies are put in the correct bank accounts and renters can have an affordable place to live...now if Minister Taylor can just get my landlord to fix the plumbing, 2010 will be the best year yet...
Is Chutney Soca getting less than the rest? Singh thinks so. I think he should've gotten a better contract like Soca Monarch. Either way, I'm ready for all the shows!
More chutney soca...Ayuen of Imjj has changed his band allegiance to Karma and is jockeying to get his face in the spotlight. He certainly loves music, though. It sounds like he's happy, although the next question is who will be the lead singer for Imjj?
Another soca story...there seem to be a lot of them...hmm..wonder why? A good summary of the last decade in soca trends and what we can expect this year. Were you at the Tribe fete or the one at Jenny's car park? I was at the latter, and it was definitely better than last year. Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez! Her comments are hilarious--if she beat everyone while pregnant, imagine what she'll do this year?
Karen Dass goes back to dancing! Yesterday she performed alone at Queen's Hall. Just goes to show, that once a dancer, always a dancer. Can't wait to see her comeback!
Carnival! Carnival! Carnival! Not a huge audience, but great shows! Are you ready for Carnival??
TT Carnival expertise is being given to Nigeria's Cross River State! How...fitting and strange?
The Carnival is a LOT of fun for ordinary people, but there are also bad guys out there. Here’s a comprehensive list of safety tips for you…keep them in mind, but don’t let that ruin the fun for you!
Enough (never enough!) of soca, and back to the pan. A list of pan performances put together by PAN Trinbago. Powder storms! Pan masquerade! Cans for Pans? Have you made your contribution?
A short cap of pan schedules, worth a brief glance.
A non-Carnival related story...A Belarussian poet! She sounds pretty cool, torn between cultures and languages--a story line that I think most Trinis will relate to...
New talent showcased this year...Young Voice! He has a new album out--Jumper Cable...and he needs money...don't we all?
Rats eating cocaine? Money disappearing from the hands of cops? Not surprising, but an interesting article nonetheless. Hope no one looks at what's in my ceiling...
It is true that the public is thirsty for sensationalist news, but it would be nice to know the truth every now and then. It's good that they're sorting this out in court.
Beyonce is on the tip of everyone's tongue...or at least I wish she was on the tip of mine. ;) Carnival VS Beyonce? Which is better? Carnival, of course. But, why not be happy about it all. Parties are parties are fetes are fetes. They're all good for me. Tickets are sold out, people are making money and there's a big party...
I'm not sure what rock this guy has been living under not to know who Beyonce is, but its true that the upcoming concert will wreak both magic and mayhem. I won't be among the people he describes who are going to beg, borrow and steal to finance their way into the show.
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 can like these kind of guns! Maybe the economy will improve once all the monies are put in the correct bank accounts and renters can have an affordable place to live...now if Minister Taylor can just get my landlord to fix the plumbing, 2010 will be the best year yet...
Is Chutney Soca getting less than the rest? Singh thinks so. I think he should've gotten a better contract like Soca Monarch. Either way, I'm ready for all the shows!
More chutney soca...Ayuen of Imjj has changed his band allegiance to Karma and is jockeying to get his face in the spotlight. He certainly loves music, though. It sounds like he's happy, although the next question is who will be the lead singer for Imjj?
Another soca story...there seem to be a lot of them...hmm..wonder why? A good summary of the last decade in soca trends and what we can expect this year. Were you at the Tribe fete or the one at Jenny's car park? I was at the latter, and it was definitely better than last year. Fay-Ann Lyons-Alvarez! Her comments are hilarious--if she beat everyone while pregnant, imagine what she'll do this year?
Karen Dass goes back to dancing! Yesterday she performed alone at Queen's Hall. Just goes to show, that once a dancer, always a dancer. Can't wait to see her comeback!
Carnival! Carnival! Carnival! Not a huge audience, but great shows! Are you ready for Carnival??
TT Carnival expertise is being given to Nigeria's Cross River State! How...fitting and strange?
The Carnival is a LOT of fun for ordinary people, but there are also bad guys out there. Here’s a comprehensive list of safety tips for you…keep them in mind, but don’t let that ruin the fun for you!
Enough (never enough!) of soca, and back to the pan. A list of pan performances put together by PAN Trinbago. Powder storms! Pan masquerade! Cans for Pans? Have you made your contribution?
A short cap of pan schedules, worth a brief glance.
A non-Carnival related story...A Belarussian poet! She sounds pretty cool, torn between cultures and languages--a story line that I think most Trinis will relate to...
New talent showcased this year...Young Voice! He has a new album out--Jumper Cable...and he needs money...don't we all?
Rats eating cocaine? Money disappearing from the hands of cops? Not surprising, but an interesting article nonetheless. Hope no one looks at what's in my ceiling...
It is true that the public is thirsty for sensationalist news, but it would be nice to know the truth every now and then. It's good that they're sorting this out in court.
Beyonce is on the tip of everyone's tongue...or at least I wish she was on the tip of mine. ;) Carnival VS Beyonce? Which is better? Carnival, of course. But, why not be happy about it all. Parties are parties are fetes are fetes. They're all good for me. Tickets are sold out, people are making money and there's a big party...
I'm not sure what rock this guy has been living under not to know who Beyonce is, but its true that the upcoming concert will wreak both magic and mayhem. I won't be among the people he describes who are going to beg, borrow and steal to finance their way into the show.
Friday, January 8, 2010
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!
The ban-d-wagonist seems to have embarked on a quest to upload some 150 soca and calypso tracks for the Carnival!
GWTO posted more songs with people's reflections on them. I think this project is a success!
Here's recipe for a so called "ultimate curry chicken"! I don't know what's so ultimate about it...people make curry chicken all the time...I have to admit though that this looks very good!
A fellow blogger is celebrating a fifth blogoversary...Congratulations! I can't wait to celebrate mine too...getting a little jealous there! Though I'm not jealous about the no drinking no smoking thing...I proudly intend to keep these two delicious bad habits.
Ok, so Panday says he will quit politics if he loses...big deal! Seriously, why do politicians think we care about their winning and losing? I personally don't give a damn about names and faces...I care about work. But politicians don't care about success in their job as much as they care about winning...that's why we don't hear them say "I will quit if I screw up".
A fellow blogger poses an important question about our politicians and political parties....I agree, and think we need to get answers, or at least search encourage some thinking.
While we're still talking politics, check out cartel watch's theory about why Rowley opposed the property tax.
A call we must answer, to save a life!
Spiderman(ia)! (via Jumbie)
aka-lol is also in favor of Beyonce's concert...raises some good arguments too.
Oh, and the sales seem to be juuuust fine!
I just love it when the backstabbing starts among incompetent politicians!
Scary ride man! We live on an island people! those in charge of these boats should be very very careful about the quality of their boats.
The brass festival; the re-birth is back...expect it on the the 6th next month!
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!
The ban-d-wagonist seems to have embarked on a quest to upload some 150 soca and calypso tracks for the Carnival!
GWTO posted more songs with people's reflections on them. I think this project is a success!
Here's recipe for a so called "ultimate curry chicken"! I don't know what's so ultimate about it...people make curry chicken all the time...I have to admit though that this looks very good!
A fellow blogger is celebrating a fifth blogoversary...Congratulations! I can't wait to celebrate mine too...getting a little jealous there! Though I'm not jealous about the no drinking no smoking thing...I proudly intend to keep these two delicious bad habits.
Ok, so Panday says he will quit politics if he loses...big deal! Seriously, why do politicians think we care about their winning and losing? I personally don't give a damn about names and faces...I care about work. But politicians don't care about success in their job as much as they care about winning...that's why we don't hear them say "I will quit if I screw up".
A fellow blogger poses an important question about our politicians and political parties....I agree, and think we need to get answers, or at least search encourage some thinking.
While we're still talking politics, check out cartel watch's theory about why Rowley opposed the property tax.
A call we must answer, to save a life!
Spiderman(ia)! (via Jumbie)
aka-lol is also in favor of Beyonce's concert...raises some good arguments too.
Oh, and the sales seem to be juuuust fine!
I just love it when the backstabbing starts among incompetent politicians!
Scary ride man! We live on an island people! those in charge of these boats should be very very careful about the quality of their boats.
The brass festival; the re-birth is back...expect it on the the 6th next month!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
I vote YES for Beyonce!
Are we really going to see Beyonce in the Carnival? The news is very exciting! I think it will give the Carnival a special flavor this year.
I’m a big fan of Beyonce and certainly would not miss her-I bet-fantastic show! I’m also sure most people agree with me, well, except for the whiny Express which posted on its front page a petition not to invite Beyonce!
Are they kidding me!? Why do some people like to politicize everything, including entertainment? The Express went as far as condemning the plan to bring Beyonce as a waste of taxpayer money and a distraction from the Carnival’s traditional entertainment. Some of those journalists out there drive me crazy!
All countries, even poor ones try to give their national festivals by inviting international celebrities…aren’t we allowed to have fun like the rest of the world does?
I completely disagree with those who don’t want Beyonce here. I think her presence would be an awesome addition…not only to our entertainment but also to TT’s attractiveness to tourists.
I recall Dubai’s international tennis tournament, which started small. Dubai persisted in bringing international tennis stars and the tournament became a world event that brings millions of dollars through tourism and broadcast rights.
People always use Dubai as an example of success but when we try like Dubai people start to object! It doesn’t make any sense!
I vote YES for Beyonce!
I’m a big fan of Beyonce and certainly would not miss her-I bet-fantastic show! I’m also sure most people agree with me, well, except for the whiny Express which posted on its front page a petition not to invite Beyonce!
Are they kidding me!? Why do some people like to politicize everything, including entertainment? The Express went as far as condemning the plan to bring Beyonce as a waste of taxpayer money and a distraction from the Carnival’s traditional entertainment. Some of those journalists out there drive me crazy!
All countries, even poor ones try to give their national festivals by inviting international celebrities…aren’t we allowed to have fun like the rest of the world does?
I completely disagree with those who don’t want Beyonce here. I think her presence would be an awesome addition…not only to our entertainment but also to TT’s attractiveness to tourists.
I recall Dubai’s international tennis tournament, which started small. Dubai persisted in bringing international tennis stars and the tournament became a world event that brings millions of dollars through tourism and broadcast rights.
People always use Dubai as an example of success but when we try like Dubai people start to object! It doesn’t make any sense!
I vote YES for Beyonce!
Monday, January 4, 2010
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!
Today is the 367th birthday of Sir Isaac Newton...Hat tip to the fans of Sir Isaac for reminding us!.
Photo Project 365…a photo a day from the ban-d-wagonist. Bandi does have an ‘eye’!
For food lovers, another mouth-watering recipe from the Caribbean Pot. This time we have breadfruit simmered with stew pork and coconut cream!
Looks like GWTO’s calls for song submissions (to help break the writer’s block) are being answered. Check out a bunch of good songs and read why people like them…cool stuff.
A couple passive-aggressive/hilarious WiFi moments!
Parang season ended on Sunday...and the steel drums that I love will begin soon, however this article is a great tribute to a form of music found here in TT that, like all other things, improves with the diverse cultures of our islands. What's your favorite parang instrument? Mine is the mandolin--what beautiful chords!
10,000 applicants to the UNC in one month? That seems exaggerated, no? An article for anyone who wants to examine details of UNC politics...
On the Hunt! Stealing people's dogs? $400 for agouti...everything about this story is outrageous. I think I'll stick to wild hog and tattoo...its cheaper. Like me! Tattooing phone numbers on your dog's ear? That also seems like a tricky thing to do!
Ansar Sattar, won the 2008 Animae Caribe award for Most Promising Newcomer. This guy is pretty funny. Where do I get some of his cartoons/comics?
At first I thought this was an article trying to recruit us to the military...then I realized that it meant to recruit us to exercise...I'm not sure which of the two is less likely...here are some tidbits for those of you who want to recover from X-mas and New Years indulgences.
Where were you for New Years? As far as I'm concerned, I'm STILL partying...just napping in between the fetes!
I think this little girl is going to grow up with fangs and scales...or at least a little weird. Shrugs...snakes are cool.
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!
Today is the 367th birthday of Sir Isaac Newton...Hat tip to the fans of Sir Isaac for reminding us!.
Photo Project 365…a photo a day from the ban-d-wagonist. Bandi does have an ‘eye’!
For food lovers, another mouth-watering recipe from the Caribbean Pot. This time we have breadfruit simmered with stew pork and coconut cream!
Looks like GWTO’s calls for song submissions (to help break the writer’s block) are being answered. Check out a bunch of good songs and read why people like them…cool stuff.
A couple passive-aggressive/hilarious WiFi moments!
Parang season ended on Sunday...and the steel drums that I love will begin soon, however this article is a great tribute to a form of music found here in TT that, like all other things, improves with the diverse cultures of our islands. What's your favorite parang instrument? Mine is the mandolin--what beautiful chords!
10,000 applicants to the UNC in one month? That seems exaggerated, no? An article for anyone who wants to examine details of UNC politics...
On the Hunt! Stealing people's dogs? $400 for agouti...everything about this story is outrageous. I think I'll stick to wild hog and tattoo...its cheaper. Like me! Tattooing phone numbers on your dog's ear? That also seems like a tricky thing to do!
Ansar Sattar, won the 2008 Animae Caribe award for Most Promising Newcomer. This guy is pretty funny. Where do I get some of his cartoons/comics?
At first I thought this was an article trying to recruit us to the military...then I realized that it meant to recruit us to exercise...I'm not sure which of the two is less likely...here are some tidbits for those of you who want to recover from X-mas and New Years indulgences.
Where were you for New Years? As far as I'm concerned, I'm STILL partying...just napping in between the fetes!
I think this little girl is going to grow up with fangs and scales...or at least a little weird. Shrugs...snakes are cool.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Year Blog Treats
Greetings and Happy New Year everyone! The 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 (except for New Year's day!), when 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!
What it is like to be invited to the Prime Minister’s New Year party?
Atillah offers some inside, since she just had that experience. Though honestly I think she’s being too cynical in her review. Well, whatever! I guess people just have different ideas about having fun.
I have not had the flu in over a year too and, I don’t use any of the fancy aromatherapy stuff. Strangely enough, the last time I had flu was on New Year’s Eve 367 days ago. Maybe BC and I are taking turns with flu on new year eves?
Some good travel blogging from the Lifespan of a Chennette. All you need to know if you’re planning on going to Grenada! From hotels , to food, to places where you can chill and snap a couple cool photos.
Do we need a ‘cultural change’ to start using solar and other renewable energy?
Maybe, but here’s what I think…cultural changes take years, no, decades to happen. Technology, fortunately, develops faster. You can’t do much today to convince people that solar is better when it costs 4 times more than power from the grid. Cultural change will happen faster if the industry can cut costs down so that solar costs only 2, instead of 4, times more than grid power.
Some bloggers just confuse me. How in the world does the news of “having another nephew” file under “cooking and food”??
Some blogger was really mad at 2009! Why? Because she had only 131 blog posts in that year…! In retrospect I must be so pissed about 2008 and all the years before, because I didn’t even have a blog. Wait, I guess I’m not making any sense either!
Anyway, TT fishermen think 2009 kicked butt! Man! That’s one helluva big fish!
Bye parang season! Welcome carnival!
If you still don’t have plans for the 16th AND, can spare $650, then this might be the right fete for you! I personally think it's more convenient and a LOT cheaper to drink Johnny Walker at home.
Tobagonians take to the streets armed with ’Death to Lawlessness’ posters!
Now that’s the kind of action all good citizens of this nation must take part in!
the breathalysers are working and the streets are safer!...” breathalyser testing done on a well-travelled roadway on a night known for binge drinking-Old Year’s night into yesterday (New Year’s Day)-netted NO drunk drivers.”
An optimistic assessment of the prospects of TT’s economy in 2010. Now I’m no economist, but the numbers here seem to be drawing a pattern, and it looks like a good one!
Women punching each other in the face is not exactly my idea of the most entertaining sport to watch…I can watch a pillow fight for hours though!
Minister Browne says we should not be afraid of the property tax…” he said persons encountering difficulties in paying property taxes can ask for deferrals, and “the time before which unoccupied property and un-assessed land could have been forfeited to the State, has been extended from five to 16 years.”…These sound like good enough guarantees to me. I wasn’t afraid in the first place though...I own no property!
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 (except for New Year's day!), when 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!
What it is like to be invited to the Prime Minister’s New Year party?
Atillah offers some inside, since she just had that experience. Though honestly I think she’s being too cynical in her review. Well, whatever! I guess people just have different ideas about having fun.
I have not had the flu in over a year too and, I don’t use any of the fancy aromatherapy stuff. Strangely enough, the last time I had flu was on New Year’s Eve 367 days ago. Maybe BC and I are taking turns with flu on new year eves?
Some good travel blogging from the Lifespan of a Chennette. All you need to know if you’re planning on going to Grenada! From hotels , to food, to places where you can chill and snap a couple cool photos.
Do we need a ‘cultural change’ to start using solar and other renewable energy?
Maybe, but here’s what I think…cultural changes take years, no, decades to happen. Technology, fortunately, develops faster. You can’t do much today to convince people that solar is better when it costs 4 times more than power from the grid. Cultural change will happen faster if the industry can cut costs down so that solar costs only 2, instead of 4, times more than grid power.
Some bloggers just confuse me. How in the world does the news of “having another nephew” file under “cooking and food”??
Some blogger was really mad at 2009! Why? Because she had only 131 blog posts in that year…! In retrospect I must be so pissed about 2008 and all the years before, because I didn’t even have a blog. Wait, I guess I’m not making any sense either!
Anyway, TT fishermen think 2009 kicked butt! Man! That’s one helluva big fish!
Bye parang season! Welcome carnival!
If you still don’t have plans for the 16th AND, can spare $650, then this might be the right fete for you! I personally think it's more convenient and a LOT cheaper to drink Johnny Walker at home.
Tobagonians take to the streets armed with ’Death to Lawlessness’ posters!
Now that’s the kind of action all good citizens of this nation must take part in!
the breathalysers are working and the streets are safer!...” breathalyser testing done on a well-travelled roadway on a night known for binge drinking-Old Year’s night into yesterday (New Year’s Day)-netted NO drunk drivers.”
An optimistic assessment of the prospects of TT’s economy in 2010. Now I’m no economist, but the numbers here seem to be drawing a pattern, and it looks like a good one!
Women punching each other in the face is not exactly my idea of the most entertaining sport to watch…I can watch a pillow fight for hours though!
Minister Browne says we should not be afraid of the property tax…” he said persons encountering difficulties in paying property taxes can ask for deferrals, and “the time before which unoccupied property and un-assessed land could have been forfeited to the State, has been extended from five to 16 years.”…These sound like good enough guarantees to me. I wasn’t afraid in the first place though...I own no property!
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