RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-29-2247Hrs

just one correction to the blog Winston Montano ( Monty )  and Elizabeth Romain-Montano ( Liz ) are both mausicans from the 69 to 71 group. Thank you

Ansel Knights

RE: TO JAIL OR NOT TO JAIL

2012-DEC-29-1102Hrs

I know the mother of the Princes Town victim ... I knew when she was carrying him ... met him as a toddler ... infant. His mom was a teacher and retired as a Principal. I'll concede my thought process is compromised .... Jail his arse should be the byline.

What is it about Presentation College and Hooliganism. Remember Manning and the Radio Station, Panday ... now Machel. You don't see Naparima Boys Graduates behave like that.

Look at Darren Ganga ... the Epitome Of Class.

Oh Boy! Now my Presentation guys going to come after me ... Jimmy Wong, Tony Deyal, Rawle Aimey, Dr Keith Clifford, Dr Hazare Imambaksh, Dr Anil Ramnanan, Chester Morong, Dr Denzil Seedial.

Seriously ... Regardless of my prejudice, I'll do my duty for a child of Mausica. If you know of Machel's philanthropic work for nationals of TNT .... instances of role model activity for our youth ..

Kindly forward and I'll pass on to the Mausica Alumni so they can petition the Minister Of National Security for leniency.

There is precedence in the Homeland. Remember Dr Patrick Solomon.

Kamal

Alan Simpson

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-29-0821Hrs

Dear Errol and other members of our Mausica Family,

Peace, Joy, Love, The Best of Health and Happiness for 2013 to our Mausica Family.  Many are still asking for the Bank Account #.  Is it possible to change the info. on the form that has been posted on the website.

Let me here put the REPUBLIC BANK ACCOUNT # AGAIN:  IT IS 660-008-543-201 and please make all bank drafts out to CLARE CREESE-WOODLEY (all info. is on a previous blog) remember closing date is: Dec. 31st.

The committee will meet early in January and access the situation re: registrations and give updates by end of January.  The closing date for the 2nd phase of the registrations in February 28th 2013.

Anticipate, Excite, Reminisce July 2013 Not yet around the corner, but on the "home stretch."

ALSO:  Thank you so much, Kelvin Esmond. I support your position.  As someone who has made working with young people my life's mission and who works really hard to help them to understand that, Without Peace There Will Be No Progress In Their Lives; Someone who works to give young people the tools (vocabulary) to help them to share their feelings and to dialogue with each other so that they can understand and empathize, and learn that we are all in this life together, and who echoes the words of Martin Luther King " Either we learn to live together as brothers/ sisters or perish together as fools," I really cannot endorse Theodore's sentiments. but he has a right to them.  We have enough problems with our young people as it is, to have this young national figure behave like a loose cannon.  There have been many other incidents, witnessed by many, backstage and in other places that have gone unreported, involving said figure.  If this goes the way of many others, we will continue to have the lawlessness that is being witnessed every day and which is apparently getting "beyond the control of the those of us who still some measure of "sanity."

I hope that you always remembter the definition of "insanity."

"INSANITY:"  DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND EXPECTING DIFFERENT RESULTS.

2013 is "around the corner" let each one of us do a review and make some attempt to do things differently if we want different (positive and peaceful) results in our homes, with our intimate relationships, on our streets and throughout our society.  We must learn lessons from our indiscretions.

Anna Maria Mora

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-29-0659Hrs

I corrected a Typo and added a mine and one other name.

Dear Errol:

I read the comments of "Kelvin Francois" on my note asking for support of Machel Montano. The point was that he is the child of a Mausican. In any family, there is variation, and we have to cherish all. We remain the Mausica family, and that family is extended, and I would ask for leniency for anyone who belongs to it. Leniency is not to be conflated with condonation. Mr. Francois misses my point, and decides to label me as a "fan" of Machel, and declares that he is not a fan. I believe in forgiveness. I know the parents, and don't need to be a fan to empathise.

The second point is that Mr. Francois refers to me as "an unknown Theodore Lewis". I am not sure what to make of that. There are many, especially those who came after 1970 who I do not know. There are Mausicans who came before 1967 whom I do not know. But that does not make them "unknown." I am among a small group who spent THREE years at Mausica, being called back for a third year for specialist training (agriculture, industrial arts, Home Economics) for the junior secondary schools. So I had more exposure than most, and was active the whole time, in extra curricular activities.

I am known by people who know me. I feel somewhat like Lord Nelson who was called "foreigner" by the immigration people at the airport, and he had to point out to them why he is not a foreigner, just because he had a Green card.

I do not feel I am unknown. I went to Mausica in September 1967, and joined Fairhaven hostel which was the headquarters of the RED GUARD. Red guard men in the hostel included Geezmo (Kent Rennie), Rodney Foster, Calsbury Gonzales, Martin Brathwaite (deceased), Andrew Miguel, Michael Murrel, and Sto (Selwyn Bethelmy). These men ran the place.

In my first week in Mausica I made the football team. On the team were the following second years: Efebo Wilkinson (Goalkeeper), Phillip Kendall, Geezmo, Carlsbury, Frederick Beckles, Joe Ragoonansingh, Darnley Gittens (captain), and Gerald Hernandez.

The first years who joined the team that first week along with me were Gregory Byrne, Nazir Khan, Roy Jagroopsingh (deceased), Dave Didier, Kelvin Newton, and Wray McBurnie.

The next year 1968, a new batch of players joined us second years---Ronald Benjamin, Reynold Davis, Andy Forbes, Richard Spence, among others.

I was in the alumni choir that practiced on weekends. I toured the country with them, and was part of Village Bacchanal, and the recording in the auditorium that was spoiled because there are croaking frogs in the background. I went to Grenada, Martinique, Guadaloupe, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica with the choir. Me and Paddy used to do the little skit in "Long time gyul". I was in Grenada for "Bellingsgate" when the warden heard Gregory Wallace and others cussing and decided to manners we.

I was in the regular choir that sang Clang, Clang, Clang. We lost that night in Queens hall because most of us were studying backstage for a final next day. Our minds were not on singing.

In 1968 when Efebo won the calypso crown, I was third. Gregory Byrne was second.

In 1969 I won the crown, with Pearl Mulrain and Gregory Byrne runners up. Pearl sang "the pudding tumble down (while the Joe was speaking).

I was nearby when the pudding actually fell in the FORMAL DINNER (on Cheryl Gittens-deceased).

I was part of the Fairhaven squad that went to the Villa and pulled Django from the cupboard in which he was hiding so we could TAKE him for disrespecting a Havenite. He had thrown cow-itch on my bed.

I was part of the famous study group led by Gwendolyn Williams, that included Yvonne Fitz-Andrews (deceased), Barbara Davis, Carol-Ann Doolam, Judith Chrysostom, Monica Davis, Bernice Placide, Monica Ali, and Allison Gibbons, and Andrew Lum (tenor).

Gwendoline, Noel Duncan and I were the members of the debating team that beat UWI in the auditorium. Topics in the competition were (a) "nothing is right or wrong: it is thinking that makes it so", and (b) Professionalism in sports frustrates true sportsmanship.

I was the runner up to Geezmo in 1968 in the race from Piarco to the auditorium. I won that same race the next year. On the sportsday I was Victor Ludorum.

So the point is, I was known when I was at Mausica, because like many others, I participated. Fitzy and the Cuff know me still. As do faculty such as Linda Romain and Cliff Bertrand.

It was I who shouted out "Bolero" in the auditorium causing the Principal to find out and send for me, only to be confronted with a very large delegation that caused him to change his mind, about whatever was on it.

I am the Lord Scratchie, from Fair Haven. I was a member of Glory Guys,along with Foo, Clydee, Kenneth Bobb (deceased), Gregory Byrne, Allisford, and Wray McBurnie. I was there when some men from Haven flood the ground floor of Mayfair and Beckles started crying because all of his stuff was floating down the corridor, and he take up a cutlass.

I just don't think I could be unknown with this level of activity, which does not even include my work on campus radio stations in the night, calling home my roommate from Kirkendale.

Santimanitay.

Theodore Lewis.

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-29-0626Hrs

Dear Sir

Seasons Greetings to the Mausican Family!  Kindly include in your directory for receipt of Mausica Weeky E-mails: Kay Soondarlal (68-70).  She could be reached at kaysoondarlal@yahoo.com

Thanks

Dhanpati Lalla-Ramcharitar

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-28-1049Hrs
To Esmond Francois:
Well said.
Myrtle Dickson

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-28-1001Hrs

Dear Errol:

I read the comments of "Kelvin Francois" on my note asking for support of Machel Montano. The point was that he is the child of a Mausican. In any family, there is variation, and we have to cherish all. We remain the Mausica family, and that family is extended, and I would ask for leniency for anyone who belongs to it. Leniency is not to be conflated with condonation. Mr. Francois misses my point, and decides to label me as a "fan" of Machel, and declares that he is not a fan. I believe in forgiveness. I know the parents, and don't need to be a fan to empathise.

The second point is that Mr. Francois refers to me as "an unknown Theodore Lewis". I am not sure what to make of that. There are many , especially those who came after 1970 who I do not know. There are Mausicans who came before 1967 whom I do not know. But that does not make them "unknown." I am among a small group who spent THREE years at Mausica, being called back for a third year for specialist training (agriculture, industrial arts, Home Economics) for the junior secondary schools. So I had more exposure than most, and was active the whole time, in extra curricular activities.

I am known by people who know me. I feel somewhat like Lord Nelson who was called "foreigner" by the immigration people at the airport, and he had to point out to them why he is not a foreigner, just because he had a Green card.

I do not feel I am unknown. I went to Mausica in September 1967, and joined Fairhaven hostel which was the headquarters of the RED GUARD. Red guard men in the hostel included Geezmo (Kent Rennie), Rodney Foster, Calsbury Gonzales, Martin Brathwaite (deceased), Andrew Miguel, Michael Murrel, and Sto (Selwyn Bethelmy). These man ran the place.

In my first week in Mausica I made the football team. On the team were the following second years: Efebo Wilkinson (Goalkeeper), Phillip Kendall, Geezmo, Carlsbury, Frederick Beckles, Joe Ragoonansingh, Darnley Gittens (captain).

The first years who joined the team that first week along with me were Gregory Byrne, Nazir Khan, Roy Jagroopsingh (deceased), Dave Didier, Kelvin Newton, and Wray McBurnie.

The next year 1968, a new batch of players joined us second years---Ronald Benjamin, Reynold Davis, Andy Forbes, Richard Spence, among others.

I was in the alumni choir that practiced on weekends. I toured the country with them, and was part of Village Bacchanal, and the recording in the auditorium that was spoiled because there are croaking frogs in the background. I went to Grenada, Martinique, Guadaloupe, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica with the choir. Me and Paddy used to do the little skit in "Long time gyul". I was in Grenada for "Bellingsgate" when the warden heard Gregory Wallace and others cussing and decided to manners we.

I was in the regular choir that sang Clang, Clang, Clang. We lost that night in Queens hall because most of us were studying backstage for a final next day. Our minds were not on singing.

In 1968 when Efebo won the calypso crown, I was third. Gregory Byrne was second.

In 1969 I won the crown, with Pearl Mulrain and Gregory Byrne runners up.

Pearl sang "the pudding tumble down (while the Joe was speaking).

I was nearby when the pudding actually fell in the FORMAL DINNER (on Cheryl Gittens-deceased).

I was part of the Fairhaven squad that went to the Villa and pulled Django from the cupboard in which he was hiding so we could TAKE him for disrespecting a Havenite. He had thrown cow-itch on my bed.

I was part of the famous study group led by Gwendolyn Williams, that included Yvonne Fitz-Andrews (deceased), Barbara Davis, Carol-Ann Doolam, Judith Chrysostom, Monica Davis, Bernice Placide, Monica Ali, and Allison Gibbons, and Andrew Lum (tenor).

Gwendoline, Noel Duncan and I were the members of the debating team that beat UWI in the auditorium. Topics in the competition were (a) "nothing is right or wrong: it is thinking that makes it so", and (b) Professionalism in sports frustrates true sportsmanship.

I was the runner up to Geezmo in 1968 in the race from Piarco to the auditorium.

I won that same race the next year. On the sportsday I was Victor Ludorum.

So the point is, I was known when I was at Mausica, because like many others, I participated. Fitzy and the Cuff know me still. As do faculty such as Linda Romain and Cliff Bertrand.

It was I who shouted out "Bolero" in the auditorium causing the Principal to find out and send for me, only to be confronted with a very large delegation that caused him to change his mind, about whatever was on it.

I am the Lord Scratchie, from Fair Haven. I was a member of Glory Guys,along with Foo, Clydee, Kenneth Bobb (deceased), Gregory Byrne, Allisford, and Wray McBurnie. I was there when some men from Haven flood the ground floor of Mayfair and Beckles started crying because all of his stuff was floating down the corridor, and he take up a cutlass.

I just don't think I could be unknown with this level of activity, which does not even include my work on campus radio stations in the night, calling home my roommate from Kirkendale.

Santimanitay.

Theodore Lewis

RE: Mausica weekly mailing list additions

2012-DEC-28-0941Hrs

Hi Errol,

Forgot to add the years for Catherine and Althea.

Catherine Rose-Crichlow(rosebushc@hotmail.com)  :  71 -73.

and Althea David (goodcookingmama2@yahoo.com) : 68 - 70.

Thanks and Regards,

Maxine

Maxine Riley-Ironside (67 - 69)

RE: Mausica weekly mailing list additions

2012-DEC-28-0933Hrs

Hi Errol,

Thanks for keeping Mausicans in touch with each other

Please add Catherine Rose-Crichlow (rosebushc@hotmail.com) and Althea David (goodcookingmama2@yahoo.com) to the mailing list.

see you all in July 2013.

Maxine Riley-Ironside

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-28-0502Hrs

Hi Errol,

May God shower his richest Blessings upon you, your family and all members of the Mausica family.

Kindly add-gregory.l.byrne@gmail.com : ('67-'69) to your mailing list.

Sincere thanks.

Kent Rennie

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-24-1806Hrs

Hi Errol, Please add the following 78 grads to your mailling list. With thanks. Angela

1. Ermie Edghill  -gwendrea1949@hotmail.com

2. Christine Kowlessar-Jackson  - christinefree2000@hotmail.com

3. Angus Sookhoo - angus@tstt.net.tt

Angela Jarvis

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY_SEASONS GREETINGS.

2012-DEC-23-0318Hrs

Dear Errol,

Seasons Greetings to all Mausicans and family. May 2013 and beyond shower us with PEACE, GOOD HEALTH,

HAPPINESS and PROSPERITY. Brothers and sisters please remember to register for our 50th Anniversary

Happenings.

Please add to our mailing list, Valerie Ann Francois_Gilbert 1969-71 email....vanng@hotmail.com

God's richest blessings to all Mausicans and family.

Love,

Elsa Joseph

RE: Response to Theodore Lewis e-mail article

2012-DEC-21-0906Hrs

Hi! Erroll,

Seasons Greetings, and I too, join the chorus in thanking you for the great job that you are doing in uniting the Mausica ever growing list of alumni, and keeping us informed of one another. I wonder if you sometimes regret the start of the Blog because it appears to be becoming a time consuming committment, and maybe, a labour of love.

In today's latest Mausica blog, I read the article on Machel Montano, submitted by an unknown Theodore Lewis and felt compelled to post a response. So, can you please include the following in your next Mausica's blog dissemination?

A RESPONSE TO THEODORE'S MACHEL MONTANO'S PLEA:

I was a bit surprised at the amount of e-mail space given to Theodore Lewis' ( class of 67-69 ) article, requesting a show of support for leniency for Soca star Machel Montano. I confess that I did read it in its entirety and that the only things that caught my attention were:

1. Learning for the first time that Machel's parents were past Mausicans--Liz and Monty, from the (68-70) year group. Previously, I didn't know that. ( and)

2. That a group of Mausicans from the 67-69 class, was arrested for liming on Frederick St. That too, I did not know.

Theodore's comments reveal that he is a big fan of Machel and hence, will like to see him get off lightly for the offence for which he was charged and just recently found guilty and now waiting to be sentenced.

Unlike Theodore, I am not a big fan of Machel. I do recall him as a young Soca king with his enjoyable 'Too Young To Soca' winning song. I also appreciate his talents and his ascendancy and continued reign at the top of the Trinidad Soca scene, plus his energetic performances and his ability to fill and sellout the seats of MSG (New York's Madison Square Garden) etc.. But, can you present evidences of his philanthrophy and/or his positive influence as a role model for many of his young supporters?

Theodore's argument is that people of Machel's high profile and position are targets,  hence that might have been a contributive factor for his involvement in the melee outside of the Zen nightclub, for which he was subsequently charged.

It is Machel's same high profile and role-model status that should propel him to always act and conduct himself with dignity and decorum. Acts of common hooliganism will not achieve that.

You also mentioned his bodyguards, which begs the question. Where were they on that night of the melee, outside of the nightclub? Had they been doing their duties, then they would have been the ones arrested and charged for their involvement in a physical altercation for their duty-bound attempts to protect Machel.

Finally, I would caution you on seeking the involvement of Trinidad's current Minister of National Security, himself a former Mausica graduate from the pioneer (63-65) class.

My respective Mausica brother currently has a plate filled with his own Ministerial problems and at the very least, will not want to be accused of a charge of 'trying to influence' or prompt a leniency decision from the magistrate who is waiting to impose an assault sentence for Machel's violent actions.

Come on Theodore!!! What are you thinking?

submitted by Esmond Francois ( class of 65-66)

RE:

2012-DEC-21-0615Hrs

Hi Errol,

Christmas Greetings to you and to Mausicans everywhere and their families. May the joy and peace of the Christ Child pursue you this Christmas and always.

Kindly add Robbie Richardson, (69-71)  - richardson.robbie2@gmail.com to the mailing list.

With thanks,

Kathleen Clarke-Richardson (70-72)

RE: holiday greetings

2012-DEC-20-1719Hrs

HAPPY HOLIDAYS to our Mausica family.

We wish that each person experiences happiness, love and peace, as we pray for the families of those angels in Newtown whose lives were ended so violently.

The Canadian crew.

Brenda

"and this too will pass"

Brenda Alexander-Perez

RE: Season's Greetings

2012-DEC-18-1639Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,

Season's Greetings once again.

I had to make an unscheduled visit to Barbados to attend a friend's funeral and will spend Christmas here.

I can be contacted at 255-1718. I am staying in Browns Gap, Christ Church until 12/27/12.

Rutherford Hughes are you still in B'dos?

So long for now.

As usual,

Rodney Foster

RE: Inclusion and correction

2012-DEC-16-2048Hrs

Name: Cyril E Gairy not Eric Gairy

Graduated: 1975

Address: Cayman Islands

E- mail: classicg@candw.ky

Cyril G.

Cyril E Gairy

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-16-1200Hrs

Hi Errol,

once again thanks for your invaluable contribution in keeping us alive as Mausicans. Seasons greetings to one and all. TSTT  has done a number on me since I've had no phone and internet services for over a month. They're always working on it.

so, on a borrowed computer, Greetings! Greetings! greetings! to all the N. Americans, Canadians, people out there wherever you are, HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND GOD'S RICHEST BLESSINGS FOR THE NEW YEAR!

Angela (Weatherhead) Jarvis

RE: New addition to Blog

2012-DEC-14-0927Hrs

Hi Errol,

Please add this Mausican to the mailing list, Elizabeth Carol Monsegue .... lizsegue@yahoo.com

"Little D Wingate 1969-1971

Thanks,

Sandra Lewis-Borde (70-72)

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-14-0726Hrs

Hello Errol:

Sometimes we have to look out for the children of Mausica, many of whom have the same spirit, mango not falling far from tree. Yesterday the Express published my letter which was a plea for leniency for Machel Montano, who got into a little altercation some time back. Machel is the son of Liz and Monty, who were in the 68-70 group. The reaction on the Express (31 comments and counting) have been somewhat negative. That tells me that the plea was well founded. There are people who have opposite sentiment to leniency.

Machel is one of ours. A son of Mausica passion. He and his Mausica parents have been able to fashion a business based on his creative talent, and on their entrepreneurial skill. The family has creative control over his exploits. I don't condone violence, but people in his high profile position are targets, hence the reason why they need bodyguards etc.

At Mausica men did not just sit back and take stuff. And the Mausica child cannot be expected to have sand kicked in his face.

We have to hope that the magistrate will see that a first offender who engages in fisticuffs deserves a chance.

This is the sort of thing that Fitzy would have sorted out in his heyday.

(Some of you reading this might have been in the group of Mausicans who were arrested for liming on Frederick street early in the 67-69 tenure--Banlon shoppers--and who probably are still wondering who was the man who came into the court on the day of the case and caused the MAGISTRATE to stand when he walked in, and to dismiss the whole thing just like that).

The bald head man in the wings with the half smile had something to do with that.

There are Mausicans in the cabinet now, including one who was the Minister of Entertaiment (63-65), and now Minister of National Security.

All of us Mausicans should keep positive thoughts about Machel Montano, a second generation Mausican. Those who are inclined please write a letter to the newspapers, asking for leniency.

Somebody could probably write such a letter to the Minister of National security. In my letter to the Express I suggested that he could do some community service by creating an anti-crime video.

Machel is a good Mausica child, with Mausica talent, who should in no way be sent to prison.

Theodore Lewis (67-69)

Lord Scratchie (Calypso King, 1969), (Victor Ludorum, 1969)

Fairhaven Forever.

RE: Additions to the mailing list

2012-DEC-13-1923Hrs

Hi Errol

Please add the following Mausicans to the mailing list:

Claire Thomas Ransome (68-70), her email address: claire_cjt@yahoo.com

Maureen Sotillo Providence (70-72), her email address: maureen.providence@gloc.biz

Alice Alexander Hume (73-75), her email address: humealice@gmail.com

Regards

Joan Parris Brathwaite

RE: Mausica Reunion

2012-DEC-12-2134Hrs

Dear Errol,

Through you, I am sharing my thoughts about the Mausica Reunion. A few minutes ago, I came across the script of the "folk operetta" ( a rather pretentious title for my amateur work), entitled " Mausica Revisited" that I had written for Mrs Cuffie's retirement function. Perhaps we can use it again for the concert at Mausica. It incorporates a number of the folk songs that we loved to sing and will surely bring back memories of our good times and of all our cherished members, such as our dear late Bertie Fraser. Perhaps, too, in the concert, we could recreate our morning assembly and have a few persons, at random, perform or do a speech like we used to do. This should be impromptu and the topics could deal with current issues and could be really hilarious.

What do others think?

Hazel Thompson-Ahye.

RE:

2012-DEC-11-0022Hrs

Hello Erroll,

May you and all our fellow Mausicans have an enjoyable Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

On Saturday 8th, the Board members and a few friends of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Georgia kicked off the holidays with a Trini style parang. After a delicious dinner prepared by Vice President,Joyce Thompson, and her daughter, Natalie, we exchanged gifts and then President  Alan Simpson started playing some parang CDs. It was fete fuh so. Alan produce some chac chac and percussive musical instruments. Mankind get bottle and spoon and Joyce grater. People start tuh sing like real paranderos. We party till about 2:00 a.m. It was like Christmas in sweet TNT.

Yes, may you all have a typical Trini Christmas.

As usual.

Rodney Foster.

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-10-2043Hrs

Dear Errol,

Please add Lazina Razack to our mailing list.  Her email address is lwrazack@yahoo.com

She is from 67-69 year group, my 2nd year.  I met her recently at a T-Party. Had not seen her in many years.  We hugged for a while. Maria

Anna Maria Mora

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-10-1849Hrs

Sir, not sure if I sent this contact to you before, if not kindly include him on your mailing list: Praimraj Boodram (69-71) - gpraimraj@yahoo.com.

Dhanpati Ramcharitar

RE: contact

2012-DEC-10-0546Hrs

Mr. Lashley

Thanks for the weekly updates, very interesting reading/info.

Kindly note this contact number(no e-mail address available) for Michael Baron, Havenite, 1969-1971.

620 5216

Best wishes

Dhanpati Lalla-Ramcharitar

1969-71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-08-2209Hrs

Hi Errol,

Seasons Greetings and a happy New Year to you and yours.

I am interested in registering for the Dinner/Dance for the Reunion of 2013.  Please send me further information on committee members names so that I can make contact with the nearest one to my address.

Thank you and God bless.

With kind regards

Theresa Walker-Allick

RE: Add to Mailing List

2012-DEC-07-1206Hrs

Please add to mailing List: Taylor V. Victor ...vernonvictor@hotmail.com and Wayne Trottman...esietro@gmail.com

Isaac D. Victor

RE: keeping our legacy alive!!!!!!The Mausica Story...

2012-DEC-07-0922Hrs

Errol good job I wish you health, strength and continued vision for this BLOG.

Thanks to Rodney Foster for his "shout out" on my re-election for a second term as president of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Georgia (USA). Also let me say CONGRATULATIONS to Marjorie Foster wife of Rodney who was elected as the assistant secretary of TnTGA, a new addition to the Board. She brings alot of professionalism and fresh ideas to the Board.

I recently spoke to one ah meh Mausican pals Reynold Phillip, principal of St. Thomas RC.,  Mayaro. He visited the States on his summer break, So please include his email in the database reynphill54@hotmail.com.

I have read the blog and I agree with the bloggers that our fine Institution, Mausica must live on. Mausicans have played an integral part in the culture and development of TNT. Finally it is important and crucial to let the nation know and those to come for years and years of the "Mausica story" it is a great one and it must be told.

I hereby move a notion that a Legacy Committee be formed to research and sort out the logistics for implementing the best vehicle to use in telling our STORY. Any seconders?

PS: My CONDOLENCES to (Betty and Dave teachers) and the rest of THE TONEY FAMILY (Sangre Grande)

Mr. Toney was a teacher, headmaster and  principal- He did it his way - MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

Congratulations to MS.  Dyer mother of Bernice Dyer-Regis on reaching her 100th birthday, what an acomplishment.

ALAN P. SIMPSON (76-78)

404 210 9493

trinitoo@hotmail.com

RE: New Contact

2012-DEC-06-0625Hrs

Hi Errol,

Please add Gabriel Cumbermack to the Mausica mailing list-

gcumbermack@gmail.com

Mausica 71-73

Many thanks and all the best for the season.

Sandra Lewis-Borde (70-72

RE: Mausica Reunion Update

2012-DEC-05-2042Hrs

Reunion Update:

Just to let you all know that we have extended the date for Registration/Dinner&Dance to December 31st 2012.  There will be no late payments for this First Phase. We must book the HYATT for the Dinner and Dance by January.  We must understand that Hotels need $$$$ to make the bookings, and with them it is "First Come with the $$$$, will be First Served."  The time has flown. Our committee worked to get information out early (mid-year) to avoid the possibility of missing deadlines for bookings.  We tried.  Keep those registrations and bookings for Dinner/Dance coming.  To all our Trinbago Colleagues, look out for a list with names of committee members and telephone numbers, so that those of you who find this easier, can call and get hard copies of the Registration Forms. We are a committee which will do all in its power to make it easier for you.  Season's Greetings and Season's Blessings. Never forget the REASON for THE SEASON.  Maria

Anna Maria Mora

RE: Living The MausicanLegacy.

2012-DEC-04-1032Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,,

This morning, as I was about to read my Daily Word, I spotted "Mausica Looking Back", a collection of poems penned by my Haven Brother, Carver Milton Scobie.

What a delightful reexperience! I had read the book several times before but this time I discovered new insights into the genius of  Carver Milton Scobie, that man from Sangre Grande.

I urge you to get a copy of this booklet.

At Reunion 2011 in New York, we had a Mausica Network session during which Mausicans displayed and sold their goods and services. I suggest that we repeat this event when we Return to Mausica. Authors, artists, entrepreneurs, toute monde come prepared to showcase your talent, your gifts.

NALIS hosts storytelling and other events that could help us in "Living The Leg acy". Contact Debbie Goodman at Nalis.

During one of my brainstorms with Me, Myself and I, we reflected on the Grell Cup, the hostel Flags, the blankets, the kitchen utensils, the mace, the trophies we won, etc. Where are those artifacts?

Would the conservationists return them for archiving at some museum or UWI and UTT? Some time in 66-68, some plates and teacups with the burgundy MTC logo were introduced. They quickly vanished..  I should have "conserved" a few sets.

Ah wonder if meh visionary pardnahs , Efebo and Geezmo,  could put dey hands on ah set or two. There will be no questions asked.

Performers start rehearsing your acts for the concert. at "Return to Mausica."  In 2011, the "We Limin" session at Hofstra was a g reat success. We transformed a barren classroom to Queens Hall. We will have a ball in the familiar HMJ Hall.

So long for now, my dear friends. Spread the word, "Reunion 2013" will be great.

As  usual,

Rodney Foster

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-02-2039Hrs

Errol,

Please include Claudette Hinkson (claudettehinkson@gmail.com) 72-74 on the mailing list.

I would like to join with the Mausica family in extending condolences to Elizabeth Chew-Lin (Betty Toney 71-73) on the passing of her father David Toney of Sangre -Grande. Mr Toney, a former Principal, was more than a master teacher and he made a significant contribution to the professional development of many young teachers in his time. His principles and modus opernadi continue to have an impact on those of us who were blessed to be mentored by him. May he rest in peace.

Bernice Dyer-Regis

I'm blessed!!

Re: Havenites 1971

2012-DEC-01-1552Hrs

Do you remember these Havenites from 1971? 

Ricardo Hospedales

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-DEC-01-1328Hrs

Good, Ricardo, Keep up the photography. Same to the other photographers who maintain  an update for us who are absent.

I enjoy reading about Bertie Marshall from olden days of Mausica. He was a great one indeed. His name must go down in TnT's history. Musicians attract people from all walks of life and break barriers of language, country, class, religion and  political affiliation. Thank God for them!

I also salute those of my year group '71-73, also '70 and '74 of Mausica....

Roland Gordon (deceased)

V.Duncan

Philomena

Vernella

Earl Knights,

Hudson Phillip

"Sweet" Mike

To name a few, not forgetting Miss June Joseph our teacher and guide, and dear Mrs. Cuffie with Parang in Arima and elsewhere..  My classmates can add the rest who accompanied us to win that trophy at Queen's Hall with the"OUR FATHER" and "YO HEAVE HO"

On another note of Culture, I salute in Art, Critchlow and Makemba with Dr Isaiah Boodhoo who never embarrassed us, but would always say, I like the colours even if the painting was not up to standard.

May God continue to bless us Mausicans to share our God given talents and "look up each other"

Pat Phelps.

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-30-1847Hrs

Robbie Richardson (69-71) in the weekly correspondence. E-mail address: richardson.robbie2@gmail.com

Kathleen Richardson

RE: Planning Committee

2012-Nov-28-2201Hrs

UPDATE FROM THE PLANNING COMMITTEE

Hi Folks

Some changes were made to the Team.

Anna Maria Mora - President

Ajodha Sookhoo - Secretary

Clare Creese-Woodley - Treasurer

(Joan Monica Brathwaite

Angela Mc Alister           Finance Committee

Donald Graham)

A Major League account has been opened at Republic Bank, Chaguanas. The  account number 660-008-543-201.

Persons desirous of depositing their Registration/Dinner/Activities payment  can do so but MUST forward to the Treasurer a copy of the deposit slip along with their Registration form.

The deadline for submission of payment has been shifted to December 31, 2012.

Please note that deadlines  must be kept  if the Reunion 2013 is to be a success.

Clare Creese-Woodley ccreedley@yahoo.com, fax number is 671-3997

Thank you.

Clare Creese-Woodley

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-27-0818Hrs
Please include me on the committee for adopting a school
Rev. Murchison Sylvester

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-23-1443Hrs

I like Maureen Ryan's response to a Mausica legacy. What will it be? It can be more than one thing but I think we might want to consider a legacy that keeps itself going without much monitoring from those we leave behind. To that end maybe a Hall of Fame with pictures, biographies, and plaques set up in a museum or other location. People can visit and read about what Mausica was, its purpose, and its graduates. At the reunion we may have a discussion to brainstorm and get things going. Maybe we could do the brainstorming here on the blog and finalize at the reunion.

Bernice Stephens

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-23-0751Hrs

Dear Errol:

Ansel Knight raises an issue that has been a bother for me for the last two years. Since returning to the country in 2008 I have gone to see Fitzy several times. Gwendoline Williams had done quite a bit in getting him cleaning help for a period. But his living situation has deteriorated to the point where I had given up going there, unable to bear seeing this great man amid the conditions. His brain is at sharp as it ever was and that is a problem, because he rationalises that his dogs have been loyal and he cant get rid of them. But the dogs have torn the place apart and are out of control now.

One long term solution is for contributions that could support the hiring of a cleaner who would go there somewhat regularly. That was Gwendoline's solution for some time. It kept the place clean. But we cant expect a cleaner to follow behind dogs. So removal of all but one of the dogs will have to be a pre-condition he must accept. Further, we could do a makeover of his living room and kitchen. The dogs destroyed his furniture.

He remains as wise as ever, but on the question of his living situation he is completely irrational. I have had at least three prolonged arguments with him on the dogs and lost.

I should have known. He coached the Mausica debating team of 1968, comprised of Gwendoline, Noel T and I, when we beat UWI in our auditorium. He still is the champion debater, not willing yet to concede to his students. But this man is about 94! He has complained about not getting regular newspapers...we could try a bribe here. Its a challenge. We might have to use PSYCHOLOGY.

I think we could we could tell him about Grell Cup, and how we were shamed by him if our hostel was not up to par in Grell Cup week. That might break him.

One year he was unhappy with our efforts in Haven during Grell Cup week because we did not make extra efforts to clean. He placed the following sign on the notice board outside of the auditorium: FAIR HAVEN: CAMPUS DONKEY!

I commend Ansel, and will be among those who show up this next Sunday morning.

But we will have to have a more permanent solution, and that may call for a FAMILY MEETING.

Scratchy 67-69

Theodore Lewis

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-23-0750Hrs

Fellow Mausicans,

I just want you to know that Earl Knight, June George Edwards and I visited Mrs Cuffie a few weeks ago. We were pleased that physically she looks well and seemed very happy to see us. Her care-giver explained, however, that she has “good days and bad days” and made reference to a day the week before when she was totally “out of it”. She also mentioned that Mrs Cuffie’s mobility has deteriorated quite a bit.

Our conversation with Mrs Cuffie revealed that though she is obviously having trouble with her memory, her sense of humour is still with her. She had us laughing when she shared with us how much she likes “to read poultry”. She told us she would welcome another visit with Lancelot Browne and others to play some Parang music for her. I am sure this can be arranged when Lance comes home for Christmas once Mrs. Cuffie’s health permits it.

Blessings and love, 

joy!!!

Joy Valdez

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-23-0300Hrs

My dear errol,

I am moving this edition of the weekly e-mail to my Mausica folder, and would like to use it as issued, in a section of the history posible to be called Mausicans Talking.Please publish this short notice so that all who sent messages for the issue of 11/22/2012, would know of this, so they could object if they wish

Linda Edwards

(Linda Edwrds Romain, Lecturer in History and English

Mausica, 1967-69.

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-22-2119Hrs

Maureen, your ideas are certainly worth exploring.

I feel sure that one area of interest would be the leadership style of our first college principal Mr. Harry Joseph ('Harry Jo' as we all fondly called him), along with that of Mr. Fitzjames Williams, Mrs. Daphne Cuffie and Mr. Roland Maunday. I have promised Maria to send her the eulogy of 'Harry Jo' read by Mr. Williams at the memorial service. In it are insights  of the vision for modernizing education, and moreso, the teaching profession.

Speaking for myself, I have been a beneficiary of this vision. I think of  the 'Grell Cup' competition for the hostels and the embedding of he idea of a maintenance regime for the College; networking with other educational institutions viz. ECIAF... the list can go...

Gwen Williams (1967-1969)

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-22-2051Hrs

Dear Errol,

Please include these sisters in your weekly correspondence.

Jackie Thomas (67_69) email address jacqe001@hotmail.com

Dhanpati Lalla_Ramcharitar (69_71) email address vinnkhem@hotmail.com

Thanks, may God continue to bless you and all Mausicans.

Elsa Joseph

RE: Rembering Bert Al Fraser

2012-Nov-22-1945Hrs

Hi Erroll,

Kindly include the attached tribute to our fellow Mausican, Bertie Fraser, in this week’s blog.

Much appreciated.

Selwyn

________________________________________

"Remembering Bert Al Fraser (aka Bertie) 

I am not sure how the name Bert Al Fraser evolved but to some of his FairHaven buddies, that’s how Bertie referred to himself in those early days. During those innocent Mausica days of September 1963, when traditions were yet to be established, Mr. Joseph (Harry Joe) was eager to see what sort of talent existed in the students he hoped would set the standards for his new teachers’ college.

There was a piano on the stage in the auditorium which attracted a number of students, and invariably Harry Joe would ask about their musical training, etc. During one of these sessions, Bertie walked on stage and proceeded to play Floyd Kramer’s (1960) hit, Last Date, and for most of us listening that day, it sounded as if Bertie was playing a Floyd Kramer hit much better than Floyd himself. At the end of the piece, Mr. Joseph asked Bertie where he learned to play the piano and Bertie replied, quite casually, that he was self-taught. After that Bertie had a lot of fans who admired him and his piano styling. (As pointed out in an earlier blog by June Martin and Marilyn Bart-Layne).

But Bertie was not admired only for his piano playing. For our first Christmas party at FairHaven we got a Parang session going and Bertie was front and centre with his cuatro and guitar playing.

Bertie arrived in Edmonton, Canada, to study music at the University of Alberta in 1969 (or ’70?). I was already there along with Don Walker, since 1968, and fellow Mausicans Irving Frederick and Allan Clovis had preceded us. I was part of a very primitive steelband that played at the Caribbean dances and on Campus. Pretty soon Bertie had taught himself to play all of the instruments in the band, and was arranging as well as teaching most of the band members. Once, he formed a steelband quartet and we were invited to perform the Hallelujah Chorus to his music professor and a number of students. They were simply amazed to see us play the piece without having any written music to refer to. Bertie had taught us well.

In 1970 (or ‘71) we decided to participate in Edmonton’s Klondike Days parade. Even though it was about the Klondike Gold Rush, we decided to put a Caribbean spin on the parade. We got some new players for the band, rigged up some metal stands, and we went on the road, and probably for the first time in Edmonton, a steelband played on the streets of Edmonton. Bertie had arranged Do-Re-Mi from the Sound of Music, and this musical piece captured the essence of Trinidad Carnival in a non-Caribbean setting. I recall three Mausicans playing in the band – Bertie, me, and Heather Ratsoy – dressed in her Klondike outfit. The energy on Jasper Avenue was almost like a steelband on Frederick Street in Port of Spain – during those early Mausica years. It was a sight to behold.

Bertie moved on from arranging for the steelband to playing in nightclubs. The first time I saw a “one–man band” was Bertie performing in a club - with a rhythm machine, a mouth-organ attached to his head, while playing the guitar.

One day as I approached the “West Indian House” where some of us lived, I heard this incredible sound coming from a saxophone – I thought that Fausto Papetti had moved in to the neighbourhood. As I got closer I realized it was Bertie playing a most amazing interpretation the Beatles’ The Long and Winding Road. Again self-taught!

Bertie returned to Trinidad after he graduated with his Music degree in the mid-seventies, and soon after I remember seeing a newspaper clipping indicating that he was now a successful arranger for one of the local steelbands. Then he was into politics, but that experience did not last too long.

Sometime in the early 80s (?), I got a call from a mutual friend – “Bertie was back in town”. That winter night in Edmonton, a few of us sat with Bertie and a bottle of Old Oak, as he regaled us with his stories as a politician, and his relationship with Dr. Eric Williams. How ironic, I thought, Bertie, through his music, was probably one of the first Mausicans to be involved in politics at the national level.

I saw Bertie in Toronto in the late 80s amongst a group of Mausicans planning a 25th anniversary celebration, and once after that – in New York about six years ago. In the almost 50 years of first meeting Bertie, whether it was arranging Lara’s Theme (from the movie Doctor Zhivago) for a bride in Edmonton who chose a steelband to play for her wedding, or performing an incredible pan “ramajay” on the tenor pan playing Summertime, during a summer concert, his musical talent is what I remember, most of all.

He was a true Mausica Pioneer, and an early contributor to the establishing of the Fairhaven and Mausica culture.

Rest in peace, my friend.

Selwyn Jacob"

RE:

2012-Nov-22-1430Hrs

Hi Errol,

It appears that the prevailing thought is that the proposal be disseminated on the blog. Please do so on your next installment.

RickYA

________________________________________

"PROPOSAL FOR “ ADOPT A SCHOOL” INITIATIVE

We have been involved in education for most of our lives and this is an effort to continue having an effect on the educational system of Trinidad & Tobago by a “micro”  instead of /in conjunction with “macro” strategy. The availability of  a well rounded education to the people of any community directly affects the upward mobility of individuals and the general progress of  the group.

OBJECTIVES.

The Mausica Teachers College Alumni should commit itself to adopting a school and concentrating our human, pedagogical, financial, organizational and experiential resources to the adopted school to facilitate and enhance the learning experience of the students. 

METHODOLOGY.

1.Criteria for selecting the school:

a. Location.

b. Needs.

c. Some form of application process which allows us to gauge the school’s commitment to the program.

d. Other.

2. Involve Principal and Staff:

a. Sell program to school Administration.

b. Include a PTA component.

c. Discuss the limits of our assistance.

d. Discuss our intrusion into the life and functions of the school, and what we intend to accomplish.

e. Length of our adoption.

3. Resolve Bureaucratic/Ministry concerns.

4. Develop criteria for measurement of progress/results.

ORGANIZATIONAL.

Committees would need to be set up to review applications and select the school; supervise the project; prepare a report to be delivered at our reunion; deliver interim reports so that at the end of two years we are not suddenly aware that the project is not going well; accounting regarding expenditures on the adoption.

Additionally, there has to be a separate committee dedicated to fund- raising, and accounting. Financing and accounting transparency are always paramount.

There is, additionally, the requirement of longevity and sustainability of commitment to the program which may necessitate a legal structure that survives the existing body of Mausicans.

I have discussed the broard outlines of the program with some of us prior to this submission, but would hope that it merits further consideration, and, if possible, rapid implementation.

Constructive tweaking, amendments, recommendations, criticisms, modifications are expected and welcome.

COMMENTS  FROM OUR COLLEAGUES.

1. The committee responsible for implementing the program should include a student.

2. May need to adjust the school day for specific participants in the program, or the entire school.

3. Address transportation needs if there are changes in the school days, eg: starting classes earlier so that extra or co-curricular activities can be incorporated.

4. A meals component.

5. Tax free legal status for the project, especially to accommodate fund raising.

Forgive me if I have left out any comments relayed to me. It was not intentional. Please add them via the blog."

Winston Yallery-Arthur

RE:

2012-Nov-22-1424Hrs

Hi Errol,

All indications, based on the responses, are that the proposal should be on the blog so that others may weigh in with their comments/suggestions. Therefore, would you please do so in your next issue. 

Rick YA

RE: URGENT WAKE UP CALL

2012-Nov-22-1030Hrs

“Greetings to my fellow Mausicans in the name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.”

I visited Mr. FITZ JAMES WILLIAMS and was appalled and saddened at what I saw. I need not hurt your eyes by relating anything.  Matthew 20:28 relates that Jesus said the He did not come to “be ministered unto, but to minister”.  Galatians 5:13 says that we must “by love serve one another.”

I have read about the great work and influence Mr. Williams has had on all Mausicans. Recently he was awarded an Independence award.

For those of us who do know and for those who may not know, he played a great, very great role in my spared life. All that I am asking is that those of us who can go take a look now, DO SO. He lives at JUBILEE ST, TUNAPUNA.

My main request is for all who can to gather on Sunday 25th November 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to give yeoman service. Men, walk with your brush cutters, cutlasses, rakes, etc.  Ladies, walk with your mops and cans, brooms, vacuum cleaners, hand brushes and dust rags, etc. Maybe some can walk with foodstuff to cook or bring already cooked.

Mausicans, we need to show that we truly appreciate Mr. Williams. My number is 374-6862. Let’s show by our willingness that we love our neighbours as ourselves.

ANSEL KNIGHTS;  1969 - 1971 

Love to all.

P.S.  Judith Leonard-Hills, Phyllis Mottley, Annamaria Mora, ORGANIZERS…………PLEASE DO SOMETHING!!!! 

Ansel Knights

RE: add

2012-Nov-21-2044Hrs

Thanks for keeping the family together. Please add this member to the flock. marjorie.roachmoore@gmail.com 70-72.

Clare Creese-Woodley

RE: new email address

2012-Nov-19-2347Hrs

Hi all,

My new email address is: brenda.3ba44@gmail.com .   By now many of you know that my former e-address was compromised and has been inactive since last Friday.  At first I was frantic, then I breathed a sigh of relief when I realised that I would have a break from the computer.  I am happily back on line now, but promise myself that I would check emails once a day instead of every 5 minutes as I did in the past.  This would free up a lot of my time for other more worthwhile pursuits, I hope.  I must admit though that I felt violated and embarassed, especially as my phones rang non-stop all day Saturday.  (...and that too has passed).  One positive from all of this is that I know now how many people care about me.

I would like to thank all who supported me during my recent trip to Trinidad to facilitate the delivery of my books to NALIS, those who entertained me, phoned me or spent time with me.

Congrats to the committee on the success of the luncheon on Nov. 11.  Am so sorry I missed this one as I returned home on Nov. 7.

Are there any plans for a function to be held around carnival?  The get together that was held at Paraiso in Feb. of this year, was a hit.

Mausically yours,

Brenda

"and this too will pass"

Brenda Alexander-Perez

RE: Legacy Planning

2012-Nov-19-2331Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,

I was thrilled to read the contributions about our legacy  in last week's blog.

Thank you Ainsworth, Maureen, Scratchie,  Slim  and Graham.

Let's all  put our heads together and Live and Leave that Mausica Legacy.

Mr. Mangatal, a lecturer in my time, 66-68, used to say, "If only these walls could talk, what great tales they would tell."

My friends let us become talking walls and record for posterity "The Legacy of Mausica Teachers College." We are blessed to have historians like Mr Williams, Ms Hordatt, Mrs. Cuffie, Mrs. Helen Timothy, Dr. Bertrand, pioneers and other alumni who can help us accomplish our goal

One evening when I was writing my first book, "Remember Wen?",  I heard a hymn on the radio asking the question, "How will they know unless we tell them?"

Yes, Mausicans, it is our responsibility to record  and tell the world about Mausica.

Today, one of my dear friends and former lecturers, Linda Edwards Romain, reminded me that the North American Thanksgiving celebration had its roots in the kindness of the native American Indians who shared their grain with the early English settlers who had planted their seeds at the wrong time   Years later they were repaid with brutality and forced unto reservations. Today the highly commercialized holiday hardly acknowledges the existence of the Native Americans.  On Nov 6th. 2012, thank God the majority of voters remembered the good deeds of President Obama and his team.

In recording our story let us remember the roles played by the PNM and its visionary leader, Dr. Eric Williams, and his entire government, The Opposition Party, DLP,  the pioneers, the auxiliary staff: Ms.  Martin , the matron, Lohan, Count Julian, Mr St Rose, Manswell, Scanty, Super, Ms Massiah, the local and froreign staff from Canada and many others.

Yes , we have our work cut out for us but we can do it.

As usual,

Rodney Foster

RE: Happy Thanksgiving

2012-Nov-19-2117Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,

Aye, hear nah man, ah couldn't wait until Thursday tuh read meh Mausica Weekly E-mails.

Errol, my big Mausican Brother, yuh have meh hooked on de blog so ah had tuh take ah peep. Ah does google "MausicaTeachers College" an jes read fuh so. Thanks ah million.

As we in North America prepare for the Thanksgiving celebration, my thoughts flash back to Sweet TNT and my beloved Mausica where I spent two beautiful years. I heard about MTC through its folk song choir singing songs like Lulu and Rice and Peas. I am forever indebted to Mr Williams, Mrs. Cuffie and the pioneers for imprinting the name Mausica Teachers Chorale Society on the minds of the world. Long Live Mausica.

The theme for Reunion 2013 is Living the Legacy which could be expanded to Living and Leaving a Legacy because the process is simultaneous.  As Graham and Scratchy noted, we have to devote some serious planning to ensure that the memory of MTC will never be forgotten. Therefore, we should form a " Mausica Legacy Planning Committee" and set aside some time during our reunion to lay some concrete and steel foundations.

Our founding Father, the late Harry Joe, said "Money  Is Not  A Problem''. Remember he had athletes open accounts at Sports and Games to  buy track shoes and other attire to paticipate in Mausica Sports Day. Some ah dem never run in spikes. Not tuh mention how de fellas use tuh shop at Habibs,  Manshop and Morris in Arima tuh dress up sharp, sharp tuh impress de sisters from Villanova, Wingate and Kirkendale..De girls an dem use tuh be real stylish too. It was real competition. Den it had fellas playing Brag and other card games from sun up tuh sun down on payday. An goin by Harry's in Arima tuh beat some cold beers an eat roti an fry chicken. All dat we did on a stipend of $40.00 a month. So doh tell meh Mausicans cyar stretch ah dollar. So ah Million dollar endowment fund is not out of de question. Ah know dat is jus pocket change for some Mausicans!  Accordin tuh Stalin, "We could make it if we try." We cannot depend on others to build our legacy.

On a recent visit to Trinidad,  I was a guest on Wack Radio for thirty minutes. I mentioned Mausica and requested that  they play a folksong. My wife, Marjorie and sister Joan Brathwaite said it was refreshing to hear MTC on the air again. Therefore, I suggest that we flood the media with news about Reunion 2013. Plan to have about five hundred guests at the gala. Remember that we are an expanded family. In  Grenada, the daughters of Carol Cook, Joan Bathwaite and Inez Grey Riley all had a good time. There were some tall, handsome youngmen there too. Ahye? Marina from Canada brought her husband, Phillip.

Aye Maria, people could attend only de gala? If so, spread de news. Remember we have some senior citizens in de family now.

By de way Mausican Alan Simpson was elected for a second term as President of the TNT Assoc. of GA. Accordin tuh Maria Mora, Mausicans like salt, we in everyting.

It was good tuh hear about meh Osmond High School pardnah,  Ojah. Wat about Shyam Dass and Albert Ho Sing Loy. Tell dem come tuh Reunion 2013. De las time ah see dem was in 2003, at de Center of Excellence. Joey an Alisford had we dancin nonstop.

Allyuh remember de debate between MTC and GTC in 1967 or 1968. One stammering debater declare, "Well, you know that Trinidad is an island surrounded by water."  Heavy voice Darnley Gittens shout out, "We know dat. Tell we someting dat we eh know."  Mas in de place. Laughter too bad.  Den he pardnah in de nex round was readin out some statistics.( dat spell right?). He say, " One hundred and eighty-five thousand, no thousand and fifty-nine." (185,059). More laughter an mas in de place. De Joe vex and he face start tuh twitch. GTC bus we arse.

Watch out fuh dem zeros.

Ah gorn. Ah volunteer fuh de Legacy Committee. We have all de expertise tuh establish ah solid Mausica Foundation. Come on Noel T and others let 's get to work.

As usual.

Rodney Foster.

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-16-0930Hrs

RODNEY FOSTER'S CONTRIBUTION of Nov. 8 was quite refreshing. I commend him for his determination to use our dialect in this forum. I'm surprised to hear that some people didn't like that. It is disappointing to see that some people haven't yet accepted the value of our dialect. Dialect introduces familiarity, instant understanding,camaraderie, pleasant feelings of acceptance and joy, social creativity and good expectations. These human experiences were part of our stay at Mausica, The uniqueness of Mausica enriched our Trinbagonian persona. Mrs. Cuffie tried to help us appreciate our dialect. The nostalgia brought on by Rodney's letter is good for us as we move towards the celebration of our 50th. Anniversary. I certainly wish we all able to enjoy those celebrations next year. P.S. This letter was written in standard English because it is important that non-dialect persons get the message! I luv inglish jes like ah luv dialek. I sorry dat mih mudder din teach mih de patois that she used to talk. Imagine I talking inglish, Trini dialek, patois and de Spanish ah learn in secondary school. FOUR languages! I sure ah coulda geh ah job in de U.N.

Donald Graham

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-16-0911Hrs

My condolences go to Eugene St.Hillaire on the death of his sister. Eugene was a pioneer; those of us from the south (roomate Brenda Wilson, Selwyn Jacob etc) will remember his quick laughter and fun ways. I did not know his sister but I did know his wife and her sister. Life brings its moments of sadness but it also balances that with those great moments of pride, joy, and achievement. Let's relish the better things. God Bless Eugene and his family.

Bernice Stephens

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-16-0838Hrs

Hi Everyone,

Please ignore any emails that are requesting $ and state that I am in trouble.  I am at home and I am fine.  My email has been hacked.

Brenda

And this too will pass

Brenda Alexander-Perez

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-16-0754Hrs

Hello Errol,

Thank you for keeping me and all other Mausicans informed of all that is happening in the Mausica Alumni. I do appreciate all that you are doing to make this possible tremendously. Sadly though, I have not received any emails since Oct,11. I shall be very grateful to have the weekly emails resumed. I also ask that you add Claire Matthias to your list. She is a graduate of the 68-70 year group. Her email address is claireedearie@hotmail.com. A million thanks.

Jean Kalloo-Boyce 68-70

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-16-0740Hrs

I feel if Mausicans having a brunch or punch anyplace including the oval or savannah, here or overseas, all ah we should know bout it...especially Haven men, we being the greatest hostel in the world, producing heroes like Rodney Foster, Kent Rennie, Deodath Ojah Maharaj...real heroes, not to mention Carlsbury, Efebo, Phillip Kendall, Sto, Arthur Hume, Clydee, Lum, Benjie, Reynold Davis, Miguel, Murrell...

And ah notice Ainsworth torquing robber...like Progues....bout how Mausicans catalyze, and fantasise... and dis and dat....but some ah dem did thief orange too, and not men from Haven only... and PNM did lock up one or two...so under all de ole talk we better lie low in case police still looking for some ah we...although...

with a Mausican as Minister of National Security ..it might be possible to arrange blanket arm nesty.

Ah gone.

Theodore Lewis (Lord Scratchie)

Fair Haven-67-69 and forever

Calypso King 69

RE: Mausican Legarcy

2012-Nov-16-0725Hrs

To Errol Lashley and others

Subject: Regrets

Dear Errol and other Mausicans,

I do apologise for my absence from the fund raiser. I did not realise that my family had planned a memorial for decease family members, two of whom were Mausicians, Allison Taylor-Mentore and Ingrid Taylor-Murray (Abenkina Ome) at my home for the same day.

Concerning Ovid's suggestion on "Our Legacy", we really need to think carefully about this. What's our Legacy?  Many Mausicans have died already and in time there will be no one left.  How do we really want to be remembered? Whom can we enthrust to continue remembering us.  Can we have a Scholarship Fund? " An exhibit/museum - A House of Mausicans , A book about the Mausican Dream, the Results of the Mausican Experience - Pre Service Training - Did it work etc. What about A Mausican Hall of Fame, A Memorial Stone to Mark the past location of the college outside the original location or on any new structure that replaces the building. It can become a historical site, a tourist attraction.  There are all kinds of possibilities, as deep and wide as any Mausican alive can think.  Perhaps, we can also share our teaching experiences or how has the Mausican Experience shaped our  lives, my career etc. This topic really needs exploring.

Thank you Errol for your hard work and the fund raising committee for a well done Labour of love.

Best regards,

Maureen Taylor-Ryan

RE: New Email Address

2012-Nov-14-2153Hrs

Dear Errol,

Thanks for your invaluable contribution to Mausicans all over the world.

Please add to your list, Deodath Ojah-Maharaj, 1967_69.

His email address is deodathojah@hotmail.com

God's richest blessings to you and our Mausican family.

Elsa Joseph 1969-7I

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-14-1833Hrs

please include Majorie Richardson-Beckles to receive emails. Her address is eleb40@live.com

Althea Butler

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

RE: Death Of Hudson Rogers' Mom

2012-Nov-13-1903Hrs

Hello Everyone,

Just to let you know that Hudson Rogers' mom passed away Friday last. The funeral service will be held on Friday 16th, at Guides Funeral Home, Coffee Street, San Fernando, 1200 noon. Hudson Rogers is a '72-'74 graduate! We would like express our sympathy to Hudson and his wife Elsa (73-75). We know that this is a hard blow, coming so soon after your father's death in July. May God grant you His perfect peace!

Myrtle and Howard Spencer

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-13-1125Hrs

Please include Phil Smith on your mailing list philbrick.smith@gmail.com

George Bobb

RE: New email address

2012-Nov-13-0626Hrs

Dear Sir,

This is to let you know my new email address. I was forced to change the old one due to spam where someone was trying to get money in my name.

Thanks,

Lawrence Holder.

RE: Fund raising Brunch

2012-Nov-12-2231Hrs

Hello Errol,

I know we can't thank you enough for helping us to share news and information.  May God continue to bless you richly.

On Sunday November 11th one hundred and ten( 110 ) members of the Mausica Family gathered at Jaffa @the Oval for our Fund Raising Brunch.

It was truly a family reunion. The venue was lovely, the food was delicious, the atmosphere was scintillating and the people were absolutely fantastic.

We all had a great time. The time was too short.

If this is an indication of what is going to happen next year we ARE in for a treat.

A heartfelt thank you to the other members of the organizing team - Angela Mc Allister, Angela Jarvis, Elsa Joseph, Kathleen Richardson and Donald Graham.

Blessings all

Phyllis Mottley

RE:

2012-Nov-11-2231Hrs

Today I attended a pre-reunion fund raiser and there was a good showing of Mausicans. It was so good seeing my colleagues once again; some I had not seen since I left Mausica.

The sister of Mausican Eugene St.Hillaire died earlier this week. Her name is Bernadette St. Hillaire-Joseph. I think he is a pioneer.

Euline Peters

RE:

2012-Nov-11-2124Hrs

I felt so sad to hear about the passing of Myrna DesVignes. My condolences to her family. Myrna was my roommate in her first year during my second year, '71-'72 in Kirkendale. I can still vividly remember her ever ready smile. May she rest in peace.

Hyacinth Vanderpool

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-09-0717Hrs

Rodney buoy, eye car bee leave dart. Pee pull dough lie-que Trini torque?

Felix Edinborough

RE: Thanks

2012-Nov-08-1701Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,

I have been a bit hesitant in writing ever since one of my dear friends told me that some people didn't like my use of  our Trini dialect, our language, in my contributions. Until someone can provide me with an accurate, flavorful, Standad English translation for "Aye, hear nah man." I have decided stick to my style.

Eating ah roti wit knife an fork could never be as enjoyable as eating one wit yuh fingers. Try eating ah doubles wit knife an fork!

I believe that my description of de lime by meh pardnah Clive Grell in Arima may have prompted that comment.

Imagine ah lime wit fellas like Ralphie Precilla, Caton, Alisford, Lloyd Brown, Leslie Greenidge, Selwyn Thompson,

Taitt, Andre, Efebo, Clive and yours truly. Two women: meh wife, Marjorie and Mary, Clive wife. Food and drinks flowin. Enless recollections, plenty  **it talk and lots of laughter. It eh have no other language dat could accurately describe dat experience but Trini dialect. So allyuh leave meh alone. I am back.

Aye, hear nah man, the numerous expressions of condolence on the  passing of my mother are greatly appreciated. It's a blessing to be a member of the Mausican family. Some attended the wake nights, the funeral and the repast, catered by Clive and Mary; others called or sent emails. Heather and  Linda from Villanova, Havenites Geez, Scratchie and Efebo, it was good hearing from you. I look forward to seeing you at Reunion 2013.

Fellas , we will sing our version of Guantanamera.

Dats all fuh now. Please share your views on the use of Trini and Tobago dialect in our literature.

What's the difference between the two. Well hear dis. My uncle in Tobago told my sister, Paula, dat his wife "had operation yesterday". Paula thought de woman had some kind of surgery.  De woman had de ***ttings, diarrhea.

Ah gorn.

As usual,

Rodney Foster.

Re: sandy

2012-Nov-03-2357Hrs

To those Mausicans who have been adversely affected by the passage of Sandy I send words of encouragement as you pick up the pieces and try to rebuild. The road ahead may not be easy but you will be remembered in our prayers.

To the DesVignes family I would like to extend sincerest sympathy as you mourn the passing of Myrna. The Mausica family is saddened to hear of her passing and offer prayers that the Almighty will strenghten you in your time of sorrow. May her soul rest in peace.

Clare Creese-Woodley

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Nov-02-1123Hrs

Dear Rodney,

Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your Mom. I know she was your hope and joy and her passing touches me deeply.

As Always,

Linda Heywood

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2012-Oct-31-1649Hrs

Sandy surely hit hard and my thoughts and prayers are with all who are suffering the run through and the aftermath.   I hope that fellow Mausicans have not been impacted.... we seem to be everywhere now. Hoping for good news in the coming blog.

Pat Ryan

RE: Many thanks

2012-Oct-28-1243Hrs

Thanks also, to Kay and Tom for your kind words of support.

Sincerely

Penny

--

"Mind what you say.  The Universe is always listening"

"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans"

John Lennon

"Living your life - Eat well, Drink sensibly, Laugh often, Dance gracefully, Sing out loud, Give freely, Indulge occasionally, Love intensely, Listen intently, Pray quietly, Invest wisely, Speak truthfully."

Janet Lashley

RE: Thank you for the Mausicans

2012-Oct-27-0823Hrs
Errol,
The following is from Bertie's family for our blog.
Brenda
"And this too will pass."
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Germaine Fraser
To: Brenda Alexander
Sent: Friday, October 26, 2012 11:59:07 PM
Subject: Thank you for the Mausicans
Dear Friends,
We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you for all the prayers, expressions of sympathy and concern sent on the passing of Bertie. Your thoughts and prayers have certainly helped us through this difficult time. Special thanks to those of you who were able to visit or call him during his illness, or to assist his daughters in any way during the time they took care of him.
For the many tributes to Bertie on the blog, in the newspapers or made in any other way - we say thank you so much for your kindness. We are sure you all would understand and forgive us for mentioning a few names here - thank you to Brenda, Terrence, Farida & Monty, Esmond, and Arthur.
Some of you, too, have recently lost loved ones and we extend sympathies to you. We join with you in praying for them all:
"Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord
And let perpetual light shine upon them
May they rest in peace.
Amen"
Victoria, Camille, Nicole, Germaine and Danielle
Brenda Alexander-Perez