Topics

31

General Discussion / Seeing TnT with new eyes

« on: March 14, 2014, 10:06:25 AM »

 Well folks,
 yuh know when yuh live in 'foreign land'- going back home  does be preoccupied with one set ah visiting and family ting. I does have a tendency to  go down memory lane looking fuh all the old folks, friends neighbours and gyul friends.

This time ah want tud kinda discover Trinidad and Tobago differently so are putting these questions out dey:

1- What happening in TnT during mid April?- cultural events etc?

2. Best company to rent an affordable and reliable car for about two week?

3. Best roti place in POS?
4. Never been to Zens- is it worth the look?
5. Best shopping for local sports jurseys?

6. What is happening in the sporting world at that time in TnT?
7. Best affordable place to stay in Tobago?
8. Best place to eat in Sando?
9. Anyone with contact  to TnT basketball?
10- Beach lime-

32

Football / Who will be the Next TnT player in the EPL?

« on: January 26, 2014, 12:19:02 PM »

Well folks- who do you think will be the NEXT TnT national to play in the EPL? What are your reasons for your choice?

33

General Discussion / Gratitude

« on: January 13, 2014, 04:40:14 PM »

 
grat·i·tude
ˈgratəˌt(y)o͞od/Submit
noun
1.
the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
 

It is with gratitude and  with humility that I accept the offer to be a moderator- first things first- I  eh get  no memorandum of  financial reimbursement for said duties as assigned hahahahha. Yuh know it is ah volunteer thing so as one who enjoys the virtual 'ole talk' I accepted the task.

I also know that from time to time, as with ' ole talk,' perceived conflicts or differences are played out. At times in a real ' old time Trini fashion with nuff pecong; at other times I have seen it get personal and  offensive. So with that, ah went into meh files and modified a few pointers on conflict, ah use to share with meh staff at the start of the year.

Recognizing the Nature of Conflict

A common belief is that in life there are two things, which we can be sure of: taxes and death, let me add one more to that list: conflict. Anytime people come together to converse, meet or share a common space, the potential for conflict is ever present.

We all have personal values, norms, and beliefs. These often shaped and influenced by the way we perceive the world, make decisions and conduct our routine engagement with others. Sometimes our personal values are in conflict with societal or communal values or beliefs. When these opposing ideas challenge our beliefs, values or norms, we may find ourselves in a conflicting space. How then do we live with conflict? How do we truly honor and respect individual differences? How do we empathize with others who do not share our worldview?

 The following analogies illustrate the contrasting styles or approaches of how some may chose to deal with conflict .

•   The Sprinter: These individuals see a conflict and they quickly run away from it. The conflict is avoided but not dealt with.

•   The Sweeper: These individuals simply sweep the conflict under the mat without dealing with it.

•   The Sidewinder: Individuals may approach conflict in an oblique way and not deal with the conflict itself.

•   The Bulldozer: This individual may approach the conflict head on and in some instances maybe so overpowering that they drive the conflict underground.

•   Grenade Tosser: This individual stirs up the conflict and then runs for cover.

•   Broadcaster: This individual seeks out allies for his/her position. They broadcast the nature of the conflict as oppose to dealing with it.


Using the acronym W.A.I.T. provides a starting point for consideration when encountering a conflicting situation.
•   Words. The words we choose
•   Attitude. The attitude we have
•   Individual. The individual you choose to talk to.
•   Timing. The time you choose to deal with the conflict.- take time o react. Remember  the focus is on the issue not the individual.

Respecting the other

   If you have an issue with me,  pm me (privately)

   If I  see ‘ just’ cause to deal with an issue with you, I'll  pm you (privately)

   If someone has an issue with me and comes to you, direct them to me (I'll do the same for you)

   If someone consistently will not come to me, say, "Let's pm together. I am sure he will respond to  us about this" (I'll do the same for you)

   Be careful how you interpret others. On matters that are unclear, do not feel pressured to interpret my feelings or thoughts. It is easy to misinterpret intentions.

   I will be careful how I interpret you.

   If it's confidential, don't tell.  If anyone comes to me in confidence, I won't tell unless (a) the person is going to harm himself/herself or someone else, (b) a person has been hurt in some way.

   I do not manipulate, I will not be manipulated. Do not let others try to manipulate me through you.
When in doubt, just say it.

Allyuh  ah retired from meh career after many many years, so I eh taking up because ah missing the wuck related stress or wuck pressure- leh we continue on with fun, ole talk, sharing of opinions and mutual respect and leh we show others that we could solve we differences without  the 'Gun talk. Enjoy the virtual lime  without looking over yuh shoulder. Have ah laugh or two or share some thought provoking insights.
Respectfully,
ABTrini

34

General Discussion / Dance with the new bridegroom---

« on: July 30, 2013, 05:08:20 PM »

Making some bold predictions. Now I eh no seer man or I eh have no crystal glass but ah just hypothesizing. Looking ahead to teh country's next general election is like waiting for the hit movie of the year.

With the advent of a new party ILP ah seeing the COP triyng to distance themselves from PP in order to establish their own power base. Te UNC will fight hard to run they campaign on denigrating others and tribalism- instilling scaremongering and threats. The PNM would have to rebrand and have a rebirth of its politics so as to have a more grassroots appeal; a once formidable party with mass public appeal is now  fighting to maintain a national support. Too much affinity with middle class consciousness and those striving to gain access to privilege, power and status. have seemingly caused the layman to seek alternatives. Its vast multi ethnic appeal seems to be swaying as the UNC has clearly offered an alternative for power and status to a specific group of people in society.

The ILP is mounting an appeal for those who see the rise of the persecuted ones in society. Victims  of their own doings are perceived as ones who could rise against the system and win.

It will be no surprise if in the next general election in TnT, that the new partnership takes a twisted turn- Who will form a new marriage partner with the new groom? Will the PNM dance with a partner or will the UNC go back  to the altar with a groom who left home establish a new out fit but bleeding yellow in the inside? Leh we begin the speculating.the bouncing start the bouncing start.

35

General Discussion / 'KoolAid' inTnT Politics

« on: July 30, 2013, 09:12:08 AM »

Once more the link with Guyana is present in our political landscape. In past elections there were allegations of  importation and an influx of Guyanese to Trinidad with an intent to sway the ethnic vote. In this election we had the presence of a Guyanese national  making outlandish statements on our shores and what could amount to inciting hate yet many appeared to ignore the ethics of a leader aligning with someone who could stand on his platform and make these statements.Is this what  the electorates are seemingly endorsing in politics today?

After reading and all the publishing of alleged wrong doings, it puzzles me as to how  sane and consciously law abiding citizens would in all good faith support a candidate for leadership . What has happened  here in this by election seemed to have mirrored what occurred nation wide in the last election when people willingly voted current MPs who allegedly were either divisive in their politics, who had firm views along matters of race and some whose political records were tarnished. Yet the 'rabblement ' and fickle  voters , apathetic or not against the establishment cast their votes seemingly oblivious to the corruptible elements associated with these individuals.

Look at the transient nature of  some of the political leaders in governance today? many have had a history of different political affiliations.  This leads to beg the question as to what firm principles do they stand for? or are they chasing any party that would deliver them  the pipeline and access to $$$? How many current Mp's are waiting in the wings to follow in the steps of this current leader of the Green party? These actions seem to indicate that what we have here is an erosion of ethics and principles. Are these politicians the  beacons that we wish for our young people to emulate?  Is this the way in which the young people should aspire and  achieve if ' they bound to have success?'

Today people are now suggesting that this seemingly charismatic leader is on a pathway to changing the political landscape of our country and the tremors of this election victory may reverberate on a national landscape. I say people of TnT what could we be sacrificing  if we chose to follow in this trend? H ave we drunk from the cup of residual ' Jim Jones' Kool Aid? have we been blinded in a drunken stupor? Have rum really   numbed our collective senses of ethics and morality? Are we doomed in our political destiny? We are living today with a government which  the media has exposed time in and time out for its lack of competence and we have read about allegations of ministers and their accumulations of wealth while the majority of this land is infested with crime and people live in dire poverty?

 We are not duncy people- How else do you explain this quirky  political  merry go round? Is someone  feeding  the kool aid  in the water.  This Nectar of the masses, must have  the sweetest tantalizing , intoxicating taste of any drink now in TnT. Mixed with rum upon consuming this sweet, sweet nectar, people probably instantly realize that it is by FAR the best thing they have ever tasted in their entire life, or they lose all sense of judgement.  I am afraid that  if we don't stop the drinking, our political future is doomed like Jonestown.  Please stop Kool and The Gang

Ps ; Two calypsos come to mind:
Gypsy- would he ever do a rendition of his song 'Captain this ship is sinking'
Chalkdust- 'Ah Fraid Karl' -substitute Karl for any one of your favourite ministers and you will get the same refrain.

36

General Discussion / Biggest Dictator News Thread

« on: July 16, 2013, 10:35:37 PM »

Just been reading today's  Guardian and I was struck by the perceived threatening manner in which the  public works minster is advocating  to sway voters:

http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2013-07-17/vote-unc-or-else

Parts of the  article states that a constituent is better served if its mp is part of the existing government.  While this may be meritorious, it does not make it morally or ethical.
Does not a government had a duty to serve all its constituents regardless of their political affinity?  Why hold people at ransom? why threaten people  for votes? Read the reasons he gives as to why  service would be better- seems like all ministers agree to do each other a favour and if you in opposition. then yuh sheet outta  luck unless yuh could present good reasons!!!!!

There is something inherently wrong with this perceived threatening manner in which ministers in government could publicly come out and make those assertions. Ids thsi what the people voted for?

The PM is also stating the amount of funds that were given to the Mp for that area and allegedly teh improvements were not evident- I ask who was  making the minister at that time accountable? As the leader shuld you not ensure that there are procedures and policies to ensure  accountability for public funds?

And if yuh ministers throwing big parties and yuh not invited should yuh not have an awareness if tax payers money is rolled in with donations?

How could the people stand by and listen to both sides and vote in good conscience for either party? Shame on  politicians for playing with people's livelihood and forcing people to recant to the wills of those in power. SHAME SHAME

37

Football / Liabilities Assets no shows

« on: June 08, 2013, 07:53:51 AM »

I would like to engage readers/ fans in an objective discussion on our current senior men's talent pool. If we could put aside emotional attachments and examine what each player brings to the team, what who would we have at the end of the day?
 Take K jones for example: asset- EPL experience potential threat with his presence height
Liability- no production- has not fulfilled or lived up to potential. Has been a no show .

. K Daniel- Asset- potential in midfield pace
Liability - not dependable- if he was in the armed forces he would be court martial for munity-deserter
No show

Birchall - for all his past heroics yet dating back to the Guyana game his effectiveness has dropped of
Is he now a liability or an asset?
As you go down the list of players you may see an objective trend that tells a story of just how effective our player selection is.
Now if the judge the current performance and results of the multiple team compositions and or experiments do you think the TTFF or the TTFA  could have invested in our U20/ u23 players and begin grooming them in these competitions absorbed the possible licks we taking ; cause with we big team we taking licks anyways . Get a big name qualified experienced coach and begin the 2018 WC build?

If we are going to experiment let's be progressive future thinking and be smart input how we are investing our dollars with our talent pool. Liabilities or assets? No shows are not worthy of our investments.
Which players do you think are liabilities assets or no shows ?  What do you think of investing in quality coaching and focusing the rebuild with players who would be eligible for the 2018 WC? Focus on the core of a team like a u20/23

38

Football / NASL

« on: May 12, 2013, 07:04:19 PM »

Watching a game between Atlanta Silverbacks coached by Brian Haynes against FCEdmonton with Carlyle Mitchell.

Look nah sometimes we are hard on our pro league on TNT but you know the stands is not packed here but they do have a few give ways and promotional events.

The level of play is comparable to our pro league from what I have seen.
I would think our best pro league team. Could hold their own in this league .

39

Football / Breaking News- Un ???? now confirmed report

« on: April 20, 2013, 09:44:35 AM »

ah friend phoned and said that he heard on WACK radio unconfirmed report that  'THE MAN RESIGNED' who will be the new minister of NS?
Anyone could confirm or anyone heard ?

40

Football / Who is Currently our MOST consistent striker?

« on: April 01, 2013, 07:19:47 PM »

In the tournaments leading up to the GC qualification and of late in their respective league play?

Is Wills Plaza worth a  call up for the next friendlies?

Is Darryl Robers worth a call

Is Andre Bocau worth a call? *( midfield)

Scott Sealy? Jason Scotland? ( recycles but are they hungrier now to prove they are  worthy of national duty? )

41

Football / Do the Socawarriors have an inspirational leader?

« on: March 28, 2013, 08:39:05 PM »

One could not help but observed iin the last game against Peru when the player Farfan came on for them, how he lifted up that team and the overall pace and play of the team took on a new dimension.
Do we have such a player  on our team?
Of the players we have who could best fit that role?
Is Jason Scotland worth a look see again or is he  finished with international play?  what ever became of Scott Sealy?

42

General Discussion / Three Myths about Corruption

« on: February 26, 2013, 11:59:38 PM »

Some one sent me this compelling piece from TED talks. This is narrated by Afra Raymond- never heard of him until I saw this. Very insightful and thoughtful work he is doing about  what goes on in Trinidad:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yq3TQoMjXTw&feature=em-subs_digest

43

General Discussion / Our political ideologies? models? frame of reference?

« on: February 26, 2013, 02:08:08 PM »

 It the ever pervasive world of TnT politics have we ever stop to question what models? what frameworks? what style of governance has showered upon our political landscape? do we still cling to the petticoats of a colonial master? or to some chic western style of Americana? or have we transformed or morph into some quasi presidential style imitative republic trying to surge through democratic  party principles? or are we simply recycling one party domination of the past?

I was  especially intrigued by this passage from the article from the  NY times proclaiming the transformation which is taking place in Mexico.  http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/24/opinion/sunday/friedman-how-mexico-got-back-in-the-game.html


"Mexico still has huge governance problems to fix, but what’s interesting is that, after 15 years of political paralysis, Mexico’s three major political parties have just signed “a grand bargain,” a k a “Pact for Mexico,” under the new president, Enrique Peña Nieto, to work together to fight the big energy, telecom and teacher monopolies that have held Mexico back. If they succeed, maybe Mexico will teach us something about democracy. Mexicans have started to wonder about America lately, said Bichara from the Center for Citizen Integration. “We always thought we should have our parties behave like the United States’ — no longer. We always thought we should have the government work like the United States’ — no longer.”[/b]


Imagine  three parties coming together to combat some of the challenges thay are facing for the common good of all- how intriguing and novel an idea. Putting aside selfish desires for power for governance and doing whats right for the people - dare I say that it is time our political parties come together to combat the escalating crime instead of  modelling a gang like rivaling turf war ethnocentrism mentality against each other ? Could they come together for the common good of all Trinidad and Tobago?

We need to grow up and rid ourselves of the shackles of American 'gun culture' and gang like mentality that has invaded our shores. It eh today we copycatting the states nah; our idolizing of American culture has become our downfall and these elements which have debased our society will keep us in an impoverish state of social denigration. When will we follow the lead of Mexico and come together for teh common good?

44

Football / Investigation expose Global Soccer Fixing Scam

« on: February 04, 2013, 07:06:14 PM »

After reading this, you have to wonder about  what was possibly sacrificed for one person's gain in our past attempts at qualifying for WC? 1984 versus USA and 90 Haiti> ummmmmm?  Ah woner what profit was gained when we lost out to Guyana?

Investigators expose global soccer fixing scam
World Cup, Champions League matches targeted by Asian ring
By THOMAS ESCRITT, REUTERS
   


A massive number of international soccer games, including World Cup qualifying matches have been targeted as potential fixed affairs. (REUTERS)

THE HAGUE - Hundreds of soccer matches have been fixed in a global betting scam run from Singapore, police said on Monday, in a blow to the image of the world's most popular sport and a multi-billion dollar industry.

About 680 suspicious matches including qualifying games for the World Cup and European Championships, and the Champions League for top European club sides, have been identified in an inquiry by European police forces, the European anti-crime agency Europol, and national prosecutors.

"This is a sad day for European football," said Rob Wainwright, director of Europol. "This is now an integrity issue for football. Those responsible for running the games should hear the warnings."

The world's most popular sport, soccer is played on every continent. The World Cup and Europe's Champions League are beamed worldwide and generate billions of dollars for national associations, clubs and broadcasters.

The matches in question were played between 2008 and 2011, the investigators said. About 380 of the suspicious matches were played in Europe, and a further 300 were identified in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Corruption linked to Asian betting syndicates and organised crime has long been seen as a threat to the game, but Monday's announcement underlines the scale of the problem.

Ralf Mutschke, Director of Security for world soccer's governing body FIFA, said sports bodies and prosecutors needed to work more closely together.

"The support of law enforcement bodies, legal investigations, and ultimately tougher sanctions are required, as currently there is low risk and high gain potential for the fixers," said Mutschke, a German former police officer.

Last year the head of an anti-corruption watchdog estimated that $1 trillion was gambled on sport each year -- or $3 billion a day -- with most coming from Asia and wagered on soccer matches.

Do you think match fixing exists throughout North America's professional sports?
Yes

45

Football / Why allyuh burying

« on: January 27, 2013, 10:58:00 PM »

Look at all ah allyuh  we have Gold Cup friendly coming up and allyuh  trying to bury the threads by posting  some minimal posts about everything other that Trini football.This is partly why we so  catching we ne ne getting supporters. Even online  it have people cyar even contribute to what is we football and sustain a healthy discussion..is all kinda  this forver and la liga and niow africa cup come people wake up and see what we are facing and need to be building!!!!

TTFF must be paying all yuh tuh bury threads  calling for accountability

46

Football / Appointments for consideration to our national football programs

« on: December 01, 2012, 04:04:22 PM »

What could the  national  football program look like under new restructuring and acquiring of qualified coaches: my initial suggestions

Heading up National Men's Programming- Stephen Hart

Working with local coaches Senior team-  Bruce Arena

U17 & U23 coaches- Terry Fenwick & H.Charles

Heading up national Women's Programing- E.Pellerud
National  senior womens' coach- Charmaine Hooper

U17 & 23 coach-

47

Football / Who acting 4cup should not be invited to CCup/GoldCup

« on: November 19, 2012, 08:02:19 PM »

In as much as I have been critical of the selection and the approach of our players in the light of the recent tournament play, let me at this time congratulate these players for battling and getting the job done.

What a predicament for the coaching staff to be in now? do you go with the 'warriors' that got you to the show? should these players be rewarded for their loyalty and achievements? or do you bring in players now who you believe is better skilled for the next  rounds?

Which players actually wanted to make the trip but had legitimate reasons to be excused and  which players were just  sitting on the fence waiting to see what TnT would do?

Do we build with players that would be the core  for the lead up to 2018? or do we need  to look at instant fixes and success  for our program? Do we put all the eggs into  winning Caribbean Cup and qualifying for Gold Cup cause World Cup 2014 is passe for we?

As we  celebrate our success, I think in my humble opinion there is a bigger picture that we need to consider as be rebuild our football program. Which players have the loyalty and the drive , and the resiliency to wear the national colours despite all the adversity.  After all is that not the true sense of what we are made of?
I am not sure if I like the ideas of having  locals struggle for  recognition, be ill treated by a Federation that is still in shambles, and then be dumped once we get to this point  by foreign  based players who some may or may not be willing to go through the hardships of qualifying.

In my humble opinion no one should be an automatic if you want the exposure and recognition and possible future contracts that come with playing on a national team, you have to make the sacrifices and have to earn that selection like anyone else.

So do we endure  short term pain for long term gain? It all depends on what the bog picture is for our football program. All I know is if we have so called big name players with lucrative foriegn contracts wanting recognition  by playing for a big time cup then they cyar act for cup if they eh come and suffer the hardships of qualifying. Some ah these players does forget  that it may have been their representing TnT  that got them  nice foreign contract and the earnings they are enjoying. Players no matter what ought not to turn their back on their nation. The future , the youths and a nation deserves more from you.

48

Football / TnT X1 corporate sponsoship

« on: August 15, 2012, 11:52:36 PM »

 Appealing to Corporate TnT to sponsor a TnT X1 with all the best possible players we have abroad to have some friendlies against  teh best of the Caribbean. Get a real good Mexican Coach  and put some cutarse on everyone.

That will lift the  fragile [ Whipping  Boy] psyche we  now have. We senior men's football team live a vulnerable  whore  with a gaping hole that all other teams are pounding  and running around laughing. The organization  that pimping we team  eh have no shame  putting we out like that to take constant licking.

Corporate TnT  this is ah plead to save our souls from further humiliation and to take the team and move in a different direction. Save we from the street  ball we playing.

49

General Discussion / What happened to VISION 20/20

« on: April 03, 2011, 05:18:56 PM »

 In trying to  be patient and looking for a hope of  return to a more 'civil' Trinidad and Tobago, I  anxiously await some action some statement from our  government as to what  are the hopes , aspirations and vision for  the future.

Upon cleaning out my files, I came upon a  full page document form the TnT Express Wednesday  July 23rd 2003 p.33. That boldly outlined a VISION STATEMENT for TnT.

• By the year 2020, we will be a united, resilient, productive, innovative and prosperous nation with disciplined, caring, fun loving society comprising healthy, happy and well educated people and built on the enduring attributes of self- reliance, respect, tolerance equity and integrity in which:
  
  

Every citizen has equal opportunities to achieve his fullest potential
         All citizens enjoy a high quality of life, where quality health care is available to all and where safe,      peaceful, environmentally- friendly communities are maintained

All citizens are assured of a sound, relevant education system tailored to meet the human resource needs of a modern, progressive, technologically advanced nation

Optimum use is made of all the resources of the nation
The family as the foundation of the society contributes to its growth, development and stability

There is respect for the rule of law and human rights and the promotion of the principles of democracy
The diversity and creativity of all its people are valued and nurtured.

 Very solid 'motherhood ' statements but without action , concrete strategies to ensure that these are  being worked at, these remain as I found them in some files in ah government office...probably shredded by now.
It's a sad  legacy of government  or elected  parties not working  together and not finding the positive in the other that would be to the benefit of the nation. Are there any contentious issues with  any part of these visionary statements that were geared to take us to 2020?

50

Football / New Announcement: (Sw) proposed new TTFF exec...

« on: March 27, 2011, 09:02:35 PM »

 
Proposed new TTFF Exec ( SW)
An organization for the people by the people of the people.

Flex….Special Adviser
Tallman…. Director/President
E-man..PR/ and  researcher
Coops…Technical Advisor
Small Mag….. assst. Coach
Patriot...manager

Fourmities…select a position or an area that you would like to share your expertise; add titles if you wish
 European Scout……
North American Scout……
Middle Eastern Scout……..
College/University scouts
who want ah job to track players with TnT heritage? ( this involves interviewing numerous ladies to validate)

51

General Discussion / Tsunami heading to TNT?

« on: March 27, 2011, 02:29:56 PM »

TnT could well be in line for a political tsunami if our ministers continue to shake their  'wotless' personal whims in every direction. One person could STOP this and that has to be our elected  honourable prime minister. At this time her acceptance speech on election night must  come to fruition.

If our Prime Minister does not take a strong affirmative strong hold of her ministers and ministries our country could be looking out towards the sea for the incoming political tsunami that threatens the fabric of our society.
Below our ground the earth is trembling with unrest as  ministers  like  holidaymakers throw out promises at will, throw out funds at will, throw out discretion at will and swim about in a quagmire of bumbling without a seemingly decisive plan for social, health and economic well being.

It's always difficult at this time of year for many to see the manifestations of political promises.  Where are we heading beyond ornamental fixes to roadways, beyond increased prize monies at carnival, beyond the buildings of new offices?

This island’s political landscape where we're standing was totally washed out in the last election with a cleansing proportional to the biblical floods of 40 days and 40 nights amidst promises of CHANGE and improved lifestyle for all. Today when you look at it now, there is not a peaceful tranquility to follow; it is just so devastating to witness a disaster unfold because of the lack of competent governance.

Many must be realizing, as time goes on, that we have been duped to vote for mindless promises.  But we do have resilience and determination to allow parties to rebuild to the extent that they would hardly know what was there before.

Learning experience
But if you look closely, the signs are there of another tragic political downfall if the political tides don’t change. The earth is quaking as some of our ministers continue to act in ways that shake at the essence of thoughtful and mindful governance.
The enthusiastic voices which once echoed cries of change and cries of hope are now silenced and muted off by the lack of intestinal fortitude of our elected leaders. In the sky above, should be a big blue arrow pointing in the direction of our government - instructions for what to do if this political tsunami were ever to hit our shores.

Beautiful islands
Serene beaches, filled  with pleau of all kind, doubles and roti vendors, seaside resorts,  diving boats compete with commercial fishing, people of all races, color creed and religion are now  buffeted by strong under currents, and the murky political waters that continue to turn a strange dirty colour.

Our paradise islands once more are under siege of being reduced to rubble among the chaotic bumbling in all public sectors.
What must be done so as to save our nation and to shield us from another political disaster. People who are elected where is your integrity ? Where is your desire to serve all is sectors of society? where is your duty to fulfill your political will devoid of corruption and personal gains? Now is no time to constantly be blaming those who were behind you ; what  pathways are you creating for a brighter and better TNT free of contaminants?

52

General Discussion / Will we be a better society as a result of funds allotted for carnival?

« on: March 06, 2011, 01:20:49 PM »

 Minister of Education, Minister of Arts and Culture, Right honourable Prime Minister,     What is the benefit to human capital as a result of how we choose to spend or allocate funds for carnival? As a society will we be a better place as a result of this spending?

Could we be missing an opportunity to look at a model of learning for social change that may have greater impact if we use of funding differently?

http://www.socawarriors.net/forum/index.php?topic=53055.0

Consider the tremendous amount of money over the years that have been funneled into our sports programs; consider the amount of money that we are  giving to professional athletes? what returns have we gotten that has made a considerable impact on social change?

Consider the whimsical manner in which it was decided to allot 2 million to winners  during the carnival season?  what was the desired impact of that decision?

What if we considered some well intentioned mutual purposes for deploying public funds that would impact not only partial segments of society but influence the core, the roots the foundation of our society? Could we take a look at a model  for social change that is happening in Venezuela?

http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/diana.hollinger/research.html click on this topic  on top of the page:

# "The Venezuelan Music Education Model: an Instrument for Social Change in California?" California Music Educator's Association State Magazine, Fall, 2007.


How could we all begin to be  proactive and solution focused rather than blaming the ills of the past and questions the decisions of the present?

This is just  one humble opinion as a concerned national who would  like someday to retire in his land of  his birth without fear and worry  to face each day.

53

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / Music Education Model: An Instrument for Social Change

« on: March 05, 2011, 10:05:33 PM »

In an era where our nation is  going through such rapid transformation it is with great pride that last night an opportunity was afforded to us to experience our culture though the  medium of the internet. Anyone who saw the Panorama show last night would have been extremely proud of the coverage ( first rate), from the  hosts, to the profiles to the product itself. There must be more to who we are as a nation that revel in partying and jump and wave. Could there be a vital role that our talented musicians play in reshaping the ills of our society?

I was struck by the comments of several comments from those who were interviewed and by  observing a phenomena  that may have merits as we move in our social reconstruction.

Comments from those interviewed commented on the participation of the youths and the care that is needed to ensure their safety and participation with adults; the cross over in gender of having not only female participants but also female band leaders;  the influence of our culture on  foreign intellects ( degrees in pan  now more widely attainable abroad) Cordettes from Grande with a Danish arranger!!!.  heard  one female participant  talked about motivational speaker  presenting to them before their performance another mentioned the fact that their players made a choice to practice as oppose to going partying!!!

One may argue that the stakes were high and hence the motivation and drive to succeed  is inherent but the mere fact that the pan yards are attracting and youths are committing to something so positive has  led me to look more deeply into what possible ways could our government put $$$ into a social program to reach out to disenfranchised youths?

Studies have shown the immense benefits of students studying music and the impact it has on them in other areas of their academic life. venezuela has an initiative going on now on a national scale in terms of using music for social change: 

http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/diana.hollinger/research.html

Click on:  "The Venezuelan Music Education Model: an Instrument for Social Change in California?" California Music Educator's Association State Magazine, Fall, 2007.


I would like to pay a special tribute to the organization that provided us with  the opportunity for the world to see  and share with our culture. This was one very well produced show and in HD. Why can't  these shows be  made available  like this one was tonight?

Instead of all this ppv  COME ON  let our culture be free and open for all to see. Kudos to this organization for a first class act. I trust that this was not a marketing ploy to attract  viewers and turn around and  profit  by charging next year.

I would think that this type of a medium could continue to be not only a show case of our culture but how we are using  our musical talents to  change our society.
IMHO

54

Football / Pan MAN versus Socawarriors

« on: March 05, 2011, 10:01:42 PM »

You know what struck me in a couple of interviews with members of  pan men was the  dedication these musicians put into practicing for this competition. Check two examples:

Shawna the host interviewed a player from All Stars  ; this player talked about the time put in and the fact that before they performed they had a motivational speaker to get them ready.

Next a player from Exodus stated instead of the players going to soca monarch show they stay and practice last night.

What could our Warriors take from watching these musicians perform at  this high standard ; Tonight was a truly proud TnT moment. Tobago represent well.


And who was that TV Host Shawna?

55

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / Most Patriotric Soca/Calypso/Chutney of all times

« on: February 25, 2011, 09:52:09 PM »

Ok so what are some of the most patriotic a soca/calypso or chutney music of all times?

Trini (Benjai): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ha6CP4DE1k

Trini to de Bone (David Rudder): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVDuS_JGHW4
Lorraine (Explainer): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nz92BR_b3jY
Sparrow Come Back Home (Mighty Sparrow): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JCO8c-pHxU

Thank God for TnT by Black Sage

Some very astonishing lyrics.......make yuh feel really proud despite all the nonsense:


http://www.nalis.gov.tt/Independence/PatrioticSongs.htm


Calypso: Portrait of Trinidad (1965)
Trinidad is my land
And of it I am proud and glad
But I can't understand
Why some people does talk it bad
(But I know)
All of them whey runnin' dey mout'
Doh know whey they talkin' bout
They will paint here balck everyday
But the right things they would never say

CHORUS

Like our sportsmen
Being rated among the best
Our scholars have sit and passed every test
And put us right 'longside de rest
(But then)
Our pitch lake is the greatest one of its kind
Our sugar and oil is really refined
So you see, friends, this is a real King
Solomon's mine.

VERSE TWO

They does talk some nonsense
Me eh know whey dey ding it for
Bout so much violence
Man, yuh would swear that we fighting war
We have we delinquents to face
But just like any other place
Well the things they does say bout here
Is really too much for me to bear

CHORUS

Because my people are daily making progress
Without any form of stupidness
And in this way we much gain success
For when we moving
We all move as one body
No bickering between you and me
For our policy stand for racial equality

VERSE THREE

So when a stranger spending
A little time in this lovely isle
Every day you see him
He always have a hearty smile
When his time is up to depart
He would say with pride in heart
I'll be back, you could bet yuh life
And if ah cyah come ah go sen' mih wife

CHORUS

And then he'll tell you
He really wants her to come
To drink a rum and have plenty fun
In this great island in the sun
For Trinidadians (as foreigners do recall)
It doesn't matter whether big or small
Or if you rich or poor, friend
We cater for one and all

VERSE FOUR

So all uh dem whey talkin'
They either drunk or they starin' mad
Or maybe they forgettin'
Mr Universe belongs to Trinidad
And yet
We have men of talent and skill
With high hopes of improving still
And if you think all this is a lie
The Mighty Sniper go tell you why

CHORUS

Now, our steelbands
Is the best talent in the world
By calypsoes our stories are told
With this rhythm to touch your soul
So Trinidad, this lovely land of my birth
Small, but overwhelming in worth
And as you know Carnival is the greatest
frolic on earth.

Performed by Sniper

56

Football / Ask yuh Questions for the newly appointed coach of the TNT Soca Warriors

« on: February 25, 2011, 06:05:53 PM »

Supposing you the ‘average fan’ ( I use this term loosely as I think the fans in here are more than  average), was given the opportunity to pose some questions to the newly appointed coach of the TnT  senior men’s team, what would you ask him/her in regards to:



• Plans for building a sustainable and competitive senior team
  Developing local talent to an international level
  Selecting the best available talent to represent TnT at all levels of competition
  Establishing positive working relationship with the TTFF
  Creating a core team of assistant coaches. Technical directors and support staff appointed or in your locus of control?
  Your perspective on ensuring the best available foreign talent is available to you
  Required allotment of  ‘friendlies’ and or preparation camps
  TnT have not qualified for any major tournaments, how do you plan to keep a competitive interest and a framework for identifying talent and interest in WC2014 campaign?
  •Ensuring collaboration and positive working relationship with local coaches in the pro league and our junior national teams
  •What autonomy would you like to have in charting the course and build up to qualifications for WC2014?
  •What accountability measures would you put in place for: you as a coach, the coaching staff, the players and the TTFF?
  •How would the average fan be able to tell that you, the team and the TTF are attaining your goals?

57

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / The best interracial 'Horning songs' from TnT

« on: February 20, 2011, 03:01:04 PM »

In looking at the themes from Chutney, soca and Calypso, which songs could you recalled that dealt with the topic of interacial relations? this is one I recalled from last year:

The Victim: asks the question
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/0WgBRX4gc4k" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/0WgBRX4gc4k</a>

The woman gives her response:
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/wQUtUhvDd_c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/wQUtUhvDd_c</a>

Then the response
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/RcazjA0A2MA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/RcazjA0A2MA</a>

And the horner man response

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/wQUtUhvDd_c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/wQUtUhvDd_c</a>

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/HuaDPaHG9fI" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">http://www.youtube.com/v/HuaDPaHG9fI</a>

hahhahahahahhaahhaha

58

General Discussion / Actress of mixed ancestry pick white spouses...ummm

« on: February 20, 2011, 11:13:26 AM »

Ah trying to figure this out....all them good looking actress with mixed ancestry seemed to fail at relationships with black men...why?

Halle Berry......lawd gyul why did yuh not come to Trinidad

Lisa Bonet

Jasmine Guy

Karyn Parsons

59

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / How many actors/actress do you know.. with TnT roots....?..

« on: February 20, 2011, 10:55:10 AM »

Did not know this actress had Trini roots:

Tatyana Ali
Actress | Producer | Soundtrack
View Resume | Official Photos »

On January 24th 1979, Tatyana Marisol Ali was born to Sonia, who was a nurse from Panama and Sheriff Ali, a retired police officer from Trinidad. At the age of four she started singing and got a taste of fame when she begged her mother to take her to an audition for Sesame Street. She went on to perform in many productions in her native city... See full bio »

Also Nia Long another actress who appeared on the show:

 Nia Long was born in Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A to Talita, a teacher and printmaker, and Doughtry "Doc" Long, a high school teacher and poet. Her family is of Afro-Trinidadian descent.

60

General Discussion / Living the ( Privileged) life in Trinidad Tobago..Now and Then

« on: February 12, 2011, 07:20:43 PM »

 A recent visit to Trinidad and checking out  the Rugby crowd introduced me to a segment of expatriates that are living  'd' life in Trinidad according to their own admission. It makes me wonder how they are so insular to the crime and the vicissitudes of  daily life as experienced by the ordinary citizens.

Them too, there is  this segment of our society that frequents the  bars like Shakers and one  by the Queens Park Oval where ah Carib is over the $ 20 dollar mark!!!!  and look nah some ah dem places is by membership only.

So how is it that if I choose to retire back in Sweet Trini, I have tuh  be subjected to a way of life that is different from the foreign man? Look nah subjected in many regards too.
Doh talk about the woman scene;....there is ah breed of Trini women who does only run down foreign.... ah see fuh meh own eyes why? the man and them dishing out the dollars. and look nah thsi happening  for donkey years.
Sparrow sang about it :
" Money dey love money they crave ...behind bumping  they walking in saga thing just because" Yankee dollars.

So what does it take to live the life in TnT?  check out some footage from the  50's

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JerT7GmGfs0

History of Carnival and class structure: we inherited some of these things from them same euro-settlers who came here. So what we getting from these present days expats?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyN82x5_hjM   carnival Origins

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtUVR76tAhA&feature=related


I eh go lie I kinda envy this so called privileged lifestyle that this few seem to harbor in my land. How does an expatriate, leave a lifestyle and come and adjust and live in TnT and proclaim that they eh going back? Then yuh have Tnt nationals abroad who eh going back home?  Things real back tuh front yes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FIiw5hlBk8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yMp_BLWuso&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMjtBd6gtww&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s04e-P4hxjM&feature=related