RE: Condolences

2021-DEC-17-1026Hrs

I wish to extend condolences to the family of Angela Henry. We both lived in Villa Nova and shared a warm relationship.  May God comfort her friends and family.

Euline Fox-Peters (70-72)

RE: Condolences

2021-DEC-17-0938Hrs

I wish to extend condolences to Anne Kelly-Simmons - White on the passing of her Mom. May the God of all comfort embrace the family at this time.

Anne was my second year. I also remember her as a very helpful person,  very easy to talk to.

Euline Fox-Peters (1970-72)

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-AUG-06

2021-DEC-17-0932Hrs

My fellow Mausicans, I received this message on the 10th December 2021

My dearest family. Aunty Evelyn Hordatt passed away a short while ago. She was 21 days short of her 103rd birthday. Safe in the arms if Jesus. Safe on His gentle breast. May she rest in eternal peace.

Ana

May Miss. Hordatt's soul rest in peace and rise to eternal glory forever and ever.

Myrtle Spencer 74

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-DEC-17

2021-DEC-17-0906Hrs

May the soul of Janet rest in peace ad rise in glory. Amen

Clare Creese-Woodley 72

Re: The passing of another mausican

2021-DEC-13-1254Hrs

Greetings to all my fellow mausicans. I sadly wish to announce the passing of another mausican in the person of Janet Angela Henry, my roommate. ( 70 - 72 ) May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Sheila Warner 72

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-NOV-19

2021-NOV-19-1929Hrs

Well the 68 intake of men in Haven included Reynold Davis, now deceased, who sadly fell of the rail along the way. I loved him and was saddened by his misfortune. A fantastic Haven man when he was right.  Great sportsman, football, cricket. Tenor in the choir. Had been coached by Wes Hall at Fatima.

I remember when he came in. It was during the holidays..1968...since some of us did not go home for the summer...and he had come in straight from Guyana...where he had responded to a call from Forbes Burnham...for Caribbean youth to come to help clear forest for the new City.....and Reynold came in fresh from that....and I found him to be a fitting haven man ....full of our spirit.....

I think Benji was in Haven too. He and Carlton Layne (Carlo), Fabien Alvarez,  Jagessar.....quite worthy additions to the Hall of GENTLEMEN. Our sports capability was enhanced by that 68 intake.

Joe Stevens and Rodney (Acheson) Charles strengthened athletics in Mayfair.

Garth Nicholas strengthened the Villa. A force.

Very worthy men in that 68 intake.  We tried to teach them all we knew. But they were quick learners, and you had to get out of their way.

Then there were the girls who came in 68. Who could run.....Pamela George, Sigrid Sandiford......who could sing....Janice, Rita....

This idea of a new year group coming in to be initiated was exciting beyond words.....You are going to be a SECOND YEAR....good lord......what a thrill....

.exciting even now, as I think about it. But there was also the sadness.....that came with the departure.....from the college generally...and from the hostel.....the characters who gave texture to the place.....leaving......Cecile, Nicoline, Ana, Pat Lashley, Ralphie, Andre Stephens (Uhm, Mr Joseph, I was wondering....),  Bullock, Darnley...and Sahadeo with the cutlass chasing Ian Paul across Fair Haven square during initiation as the rest of us looked on not knowing what to make of it...

Beck...coming to Fairhaven crying with a cutlass in hand one night....because some Havenite went to Mayfair and inadvertently left the water running in a sink in the washroom and it overlflow....and de water run down the hall and flood one or two rooms...one of them Beck's...now deceased...his shoes and thing floaing......and Beck. (Frederick Beckles -66-68, one of the greats.....Football, Cricket....Choir.....and they call him "(Badjohn Teacher Face) because he could get vex sometimes.....and we see him coming to Fairhaven, from Mayfair....crying because most of his things floating in inadvertent water....and prudence said that we should lock the hostel up....which we did.

Haven men being men of peace, and not stupid either.

Scratchie.

Theodore Lewis 69

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-NOV-12

2021-NOV-13-0827Hrs

Scratchie thanks for the History lesson. You left out Bert "Al" Fraser (RIP) the Tunapuna "Panman" who beat the intellectual Lloys Best (RIP) in the General Elections. He was also a havenite and a Bomb Room Room 12 Champion. The Grell Cup was discontinued after 1971. Finbar "Count" Ryan was also a Havenite and Hospy's lil bro Ricardo who was also called Hospy. Great memories I dare say. 

Continue the education.

Allan S. 

Fair Haven Rm#12 1970-1972

Allan S Noreiga 72

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-NOV-12

2021-NOV-12-1938Hrs

Thank you Allan for posting those pictures. Garth had released some earlier. It would be nice if any Mausicans, who were part of the Guyana project, and who have pictures of that really enriching experience (on a range of levels), can post them so that we can produce a photo essay of the trip.

Ainsworth Ancil Ovid 71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-NOV-05

2021-NOV-05-1318Hrs

Looking through my archive of pictures, I stumbled upon these from our trip to Guyana in 1970.

Pic #1

After waiting in Piarco for the whole day, the plane finally arrived to take us to Guyana.  When we landed, Officials were there with photographers to take pictures of our arrival. I walked with my quatro, and I started singing and playing a Mausica folk song. Mauretta. Everybody joined in, spread out and sang our way to the building where the immigration was waiting for us. The officials joined us, but did not know the song, but from the picture, it was clear that they enjoyed our arrival.

Picture #2:

That was where we had our meals. If you look closely, you will see Malcolm Pena still eating. This is where Happy sang his calypso, Panty Raid at Taj Mahal, 10 minutes after the woman came in to complain about losing all her panties. Her exact words were,

" Commander Young, those boys stole all my panties, and I don't think it is funny."

Picture #3

Our sleeping arrangements. Those of us who went to Lethem after working at Mhadia, had to sleep in hammocks.

Picture #4

The only person in this picture who is not a Mausican is Charlie. He is the short one in front holding my quatro. He is half Amerindian, and was in charge of our work gang.

Garth Nicholas

1969 to 1971

Sunset Villa

Garth Nicholas 71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-NOV-05

2021-NOV-05-0837Hrs

Fair Haven Bomb Room? Hmmm!

I thought we had banned Grell Cup in Fair Haven...we forgot to put a time limit on it. So I am now finding out that men who came after participated in Grell Cup.

Back in my first year 67-68, De Warden put up a sign on the notice board outside of the assembly hall during Grell cup that said "Fair Haven-Campus Donkey."

Now I have to say that even here in 2021, I still feel quite hurt about that sign, which was really a gross disrespect of the GENTLEMEN of fairhaven, men like Geezmo (Kent Rennie),  Carlsbury, Rodney, Patrick Ali, Anthony Lum, Deodath Ojah Maharaj, Efeebo, Murrel, Miguel, Arthur Hume, Gaston Alleyne, Clyde Maurice, and my Second Year roomate Sto (Selwyn Bethelmy).

Respect to those no longer on this earth... Toco, Phillip Kendall, Oswald Thompson, Hospy, Martin Brathwaite.

So this "Campus Donkey" sign was left up on that board for the whole Grell Cup week.

But during that week Fairhaven fought back, through the fortitude of me and my roomate Sto. We issued an edict that Fairhaven men will NOT take further part in de Grell cup, and in fact that instead of a Bomb Room, we will have a La Basse room and  our room will be it.

We put a sign on the door inviting all to just throw their rubbish in our room, on the floor......we left the room open. And men obliged, emptying their trash....with cane peeling from their foraging of our cane field ...and everything else.

Bomb Room?

Down in the Villa Davis Charles had a Bomb Room. The man cheated, bring Chenille Bed spread from home to put on his bed in the Villa flat, where he was hostel Rep. You go down to de Villa to see this thing and you fraid to enter that room  it so clean and antiseptic. Flowers and ting.

The Warden and his team came down to inspect rooms in Haven, and we left our room open....and I would have given money to hear the Warden react when they went in to "inspect".

The next year, 68, I sang "No Grell Cup" in the calypso contest....came in third..dey tief me....

"Who start up dis Grell Cup business

Nobody eh know

Some Say is de Bald head Warden

Some say is Harry Joe

Whoever it is, dat eh worrying me

Just Tell dem I say

No Grell cup for Lord Scratchie.

I am disheartened to see that men in Fairhaven fell back into de Grell cup to the point of having bomb room.

But I understand. A Fairhaven man beats his own drum, and nobody cant tell him what to do.

Lord Scratchie (Calypso king third place 1968).

Theodore Lewis 69

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-OCT-29

2021-OCT-29-1141Hrs

I was thinking the other day about the art lecturers I encountered at Mausica. Of course Boodoo, but also Thomasos, whom I never quite understood.Two of Thomasos' assignments caused a stir among us on the campus, one was "Stop Thief". The other, was "A mendicant".

"Stop thief" made the rounds outside of class as a kind of Mausica special.

But when Thomasos gave us the assignment of drawing a "mendicant", many of us, including me, did not know, or had never heard about, a mendicant. I had never heard the word, and in Marabella where I grew up I dont think we had mendicants. So many of us did not know what to draw.

Mendicant was a first year assignment, but second years in Mayfair and Haven got on to it, and soon it got into the hostel lexicon, with phonetic adjustments.  Mendicant became a label you could affix to a man. You could say to a man, "you is a mendicant or what?"  Men like Beck, Bullock, Sto, Geezmo, Braf, revelled in this.

I had Thomasos as supervisor for student practice. On the Friday of student teaching, as all may remember, we were back at lunch, and the supervisors were supposed to spend the afternoon  going over the week's experiences with their charges. This of course is where people like Cuffie excelled. But Thomasos was candid about this, and told our group he did not know what he was supposed to do. He walked down the corridor and saw Cuffie and others in front of their groups, in animated posture.

When he came to our group he said, memorably, "all these lecturers, talking, talking, teaching teaching, what are they talking about?"

I remember him vividly. There was an honesty about this that was striking. Maybe specialist lecturers like him should not have been given that role.....maybe it should have been left to those more steeped in teaching methods and classroom management. People like the Cuff, Hordatt, and one or two others.

Scratchie.

Theodore Lewis 69

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-OCT-29

2021-OCT-29-0930Hrs

I am a bit of an expert on prostate cancer...having had a prostatectomy back in 2002 when I was 55. There is a better option now especially the DaVinci robotics surgery, which is nerve sparing.

Severed nerves is the risk in this surgery.  But without the surgery the options are bleak. Although I know someone from Marabella who, like the late Lord Shorty, tried bush tea. He too is now "late".

Prostate cancer leaves you with no bargain really, and some men risk death by avoiding surgery which they believe would emasculate them.

Selwyn Cudjoe had a prostatectomy and wrote a hilarious account of its effects on him in one of his columns. His main point was that he is alive, though a somewhat softer man.

This is the disease that took the lives of Lloyd Best, Carol Keller, and Keith Smith. Large men.

It leaves you between a rock and a hard place. Or something like that.

The local problem is that there is a shortage of urologists. Sawh is the big guy, but Carol complained bitterly about him.

I have heard from Dr. Strisiver my General doctor at St Augustine private hospital that they have the da Vinci option at the hospital.

Brachy therapy is another option, radiation seeds planted....but that depends on how close is the cancer to the skin of the prostate.

Scratchie.

Theodore Lewis 69

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS

2021-OCT-28-0750Hrs

Keep up the good work Errol.

Scratchy's 330 +330=660 brought back memories to when there were moves to raise the salaries to $380.

Lord Lester (Osuna) sang a calypso with  back-up singers Everard Bobb, Ricardo Hospedales and myself. (apply double entendre profusely to chorus below)

Bring back the three thirty

We doh want no more three eighty

We want back the three thirty

Leh we run by Mrs Cuffie

Valerie telling Happy

Boy doh bother with she

With your three thirty and my three thirty

Six thirty for you and me.

On another note.

Scratchy, your article in yesterday's Express was an interesting and thought provoking one. A walk back in time to the present. I hope this signals a much awaited return to that newspaper.

Finbar

70-72

Finbar Ryan 72

RE: Thanks to all those who assisted and those who participated in Mausica 1971 -'73 Reunion.

2021-OCT-25-1213Hrs

Many thanks to all Mausicans and guests who participated in our 1971 – ’73 Entry into Mausica Teachers College 50th Anniversary Celebrations. A special “Thank You” to our  Mathematics lecturer Mrs. Patricia Briggs, to our first year’s, facilitator brother Howard Spencer, and sister radio announcer/artiste with the golden voice Jemma Jordan, and our year group sister Janice James Quamina for her exclusive, informative and interesting video, together with artistes Xavier Strings and Johann Chuckaree  for their entertaining videos. We are also very grateful to our united team/ Committee members :

3 Pats:- Aqui Abraham, Kalloo Chuckaree, and Phelps-Scott

2 Glorias:-  Griffith Vitales, and Bernard Webb

3 J s:- Janice James-Quamina, Jemma Jordan and Jennifer Jackson David

And Everette Browne, Denzil Walker and Howard Spencer.

We received lots of compliments and it was a pleasure getting in touch with brothers and sisters especially those that we had not seen or heard in many years. Thanks to all. I cannot mention every name of those present or assisted behind the scenes but special mention and sincere thanks to Howard’s family- his wife our sister Myrtle and their son and those who sent us pictures and videos, cds and supportive prayers and well wishes.

We cherish and savour these memories, for they will not happen again with the same/ exact group of people in the same place here on earth.  We would have liked to have all our brothers and sisters with us, but this was not humanly possible. We identified all of the one hundred and eleven students who entered Mausica Teachers College in Trinidad and Tobago In 1971. However we hope to seek and find those who are still alive. For we are our brother’s keeper. R.I.P to all those who have passed on.

Kudos to all Mausicans on Facebook, Messenger, What’s App, no device but everywhere.  Praise and thank God for all and for God’s favour in leading us to a successful reunion for the common good. Amen.

Yours Sincerely,

Patricia Phelps-Scott on behalf of the team.

Patricia Phelps-Scott 73

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-SEP-17

2021-SEP-23-0844Hrs

I don't know if it was the same highway. We were at the start of the project in Mhadia. When we went to Lethem, we went across to Brazil in a dugout canoe. When I sat in the canoe, the water reached the top of the boat. Carlton asked me if I can swim. When I told him no, he got out of the canoe and came across later. He was still in time to play football against the Brazilian soldiers, whose camp we went to.

Another experience in Lethem. One night rain fell, and we were bitten by some flies that the rain had disturbed. The Kaboro fly. They bit us through our hammocks.

Garth Nicholas 71

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-SEP-17

2021-SEP-18-0533Hrs

Hi all,

It is with sadness that we mourn the passing of another Mausican. I met her years ago at a workshop and can attest to her professionalism. I didn't know she was a Mausican. May her soul rest in peace and may there be comfort for her relatives.

Barbara Mellowes 66

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-SEP-10

2021-SEP-10-1804Hrs

A few years ago I was in Guyana and took a maxi taxi (15 seater) that went from Georgetown through the forest, through a dirt track from Linden to Lethem on the Brazilian border and was able to walk across the border to Brazil and then take a bus to Boa Vista. I do not know if it is the same road that my fellow Mausicans helped build. Thank you. On the way back I had to sleep in a hammock in the forest. What a memorable journey that was!

Felix Edinborough 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-SEP-10

2021-SEP-10-1727Hrs

Thank you Phyllis for informing us of the passing of Wallis Wyke . I will follow the live celebration of her life on You Tube tomorrow

Condolences to her family , may her soul rest in peace .

Eileen Pilgrim 1967 - 1969

RE: Condolences

2021-SEP-10-1425Hrs

Condolences to the family of Wallis Wyke. May God comfort them at this sad time.

Euline Fox-Peters 70-72

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-SEP-10

2021-SEP-10-1401Hrs

Interacted with Wallis on a project...and am glad I met her and saw her professionalism....the wonderful Mausica chain affording this....I am 67-69...she was some years after.....sadness.....

Garth I remember that in august 68 A group of our incoming freshers did go to Guyana on this Forbes Burnham venture...including the great Reynold Davis...who had just come into Haven.....

Good to see the pictures.....Of course, Reynold had chosen the best hostel....No Grell cup for we...

Scratchy

Theodore Lewis 69

RE: Dear announcement

2021-SEP-07-1417Hrs

It is with great sadness that we inform you that our dear friend and sister Wallis Wyke 70-72 passed away last week Tuesday morning after a short illness. May she rest in the eternal peace of Christ Jesus.

Phyllis Mottley 72

RE: July 1970

2021-SEP-07-1318Hrs

When Forbes Burnham was starting the highway that would link Guyana with the rest of South America, he invited students from the Caribbean to start the project. A contingent of students from Mausica Teachers College went. These are some of the pictures.

Pic 1: When we landed in Mhadia where we were based.

Pic 2: The Rhupununi Savannah, with some Amerindian houses.

Pic 3: Kaiteur Falls

Pic 4: Some of us with some who were not from Mausica.

Some UWI students from Jamaica, who were always doing pranks, raided the Taj Mahal, (The name given to the tent where their female students were housed), and stole ALL their panties off the line. Gilbert O'Connor, the calypsonian "Happy", composed a calypso about that within 10 minutes of hearing about it.

51 years later, he still remembers the calypso and sent me the chorus. Enjoy.

Those of us fortunate to make the trip learnt a lot about Guyana and the lifestyle of Amerindians.

Garth Nicholas 71

RE: Sad news

2021-AUG-24-1543Hrs

I was just informed that Monica Lawrence-Lutzak (65/67) passed away this morning in Brampton.

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-AUG-06

2021-AUG-06-1703Hrs

Subject:

Mr. Williams, collection of folk songs.

Mr. Williams had a rare collection of folk songs on open reel tapes. I was told that whenever he went anywhere, he walked with his reel to reel tape recorder, and recorded the folk songs composed and sung in that village and area. From the time I heard about that collection, I was interested in it. I spoke to him about it and he asked me to get a reel to reel machine on which we can play the tapes, and transfer the songs to another medium. needless to say, I tried very hard to find such a machine in Trinidad. Unfortunately, I was not successful.

After that , I heard that he gave the entire collection to a Mausican, who had migrated to America. In my opinion, that body of music, not only will it be very rare, but will be a record of the lifestyle, of the people who wrote the songs. Needless to say, I am still very interested in that body of music. If anyone here knows the person to whom Mr. Williams gave that music, PLEASE put me in contact with that person.

I can be contacted at my email: socalover_99@yahoo.com

or by mobile: 1(868)681-4346

or by this same # on whatsapp.

Sincerely

Garth NIcholas 71

RE: THanks

2021-JUL-16-0151Hrs

My Fellow Mausicans,

On June 30th, 2021, I participated in a Story Slam organized by the Trinidad and Tobago Embassy. Check out You Tube and Facebook

The event was another significant peak experience in my life, similar to  my two-year scholarship at Mausica Teachers College. "Mouth Open Story Jump Out" was a Golden Opportunity.

I used my five minutes to say thanks to meh cousin, Jean Barrington Leon and her husband, Hansel Leon, meh wife, Marjorie Allette, Mausica Teachers College and Sweet, Sweet TNT.

Thank you, sister Brenda for your kind comments.

I suggest  that MTC host a series of  Story Slams. Mausicans have thousands of inspiring stories to share.

According to Mangatal,  "If only these walls could speak, what great tales they would tell."

Thanks to my room mates: Leroy Cox and Carlsbury Gonzales,  the girls from Villa Nova, de fellas and sisters who carved out de tracks and invented de game of "chess", de original members of Mausica Teachers Chorale and of course, De Red Guards.

Aye, Selwyn Jacob, what about a documentary entitled, "The Mausicans".

As usual,

Rodney Foster. 66-68

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUL-09

2021-JUL-09-1845Hrs

Hi All,

Congratulations to Rodney and family. I am always happy to hear of Mausicans who excel at what they do.  Keep up the good work.

Blessings,

Barbara Mellowes 66

RE:

2021-JUL-02-1636Hrs

Rodney Foster did Mausica justice as he recounted his journey to the US. He was one of the story tellers on T & T Association of DC's celebration of Caribbean American heritage.

Rodney spoke proudly of his education at Mausica and at other schools in T&T, in true Rodney style.

His wife made a cameo appearance.

He was entertaining.

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

​RE: Sad news

2021-JUN-30-1301Hrs

Letting you know that Brenda Green (63/65) died in New York yesterday.

May her soul rest in peace.

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

​RE: Condolences

2021-JUN-28-1801Hrs

I wish to offer my condolences to Ansel Knights on the passing of his wife Ancella. We both  attended the Siparia Presbyterian school.

Condolences also to the relatives of my first year colleague Claude Norville. May the God of all comfort embrace them at this time of profound grief.

Euline Fox-Peters 70-72

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLYEMAILS 2021-JUN-25

2021-JUN-27-0049Hrs

My condolences to Ansel Knights and family for the recent loss of his wife. We were at Mausica together

My condolences also go out to the families of the two other Mausicans who have recently passed. May they all rest in eternal peace

Ainsworth Ovid 71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLYEMAILS 2021-JUN-25

2021-JUN-25-1113Hrs

No to mention Sigrid and myself attended St George's College together. Small world.People passing away too quickly.

Clyde Permell 71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLYEMAILS 2021-JUN-25

2021-JUN-25-1101Hrs

Ansil , accept my sympathy on the passing of your wife.Will check you out soon.Clyde Permell 69 to 71 Sunset Villain.

Clyde Permell 71

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLYEMAILS 2021-JUN-25

2021-JUN-25-0525Hrs

Condolences to all and special condolences to Sigrid’s family.  We were Georgians and Mausicans.

Lily Walker 67

Re: funeral

2021-JUN-22-1314Hrs

the link for streaming is   https://youtu.be/PDbp5v1cw5g

Ansel Knights 71

Re: obituary

2021-JUN-22-0502Hrs

It is with deep regret that I have to share with my Mausica Family that my wife Ancella George-Knights has passed beyond.Ansel Knights 69-71. Thanks for all the condolences that I have received and those that are forthcoming. I hope that I may be able to share the link for her funeral service when I receive. The service will be held on wed. 23rd june at 2:00pm at Quarry S.D.A Church

Ansel Knights 71

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-11

2021-JUN-21-2153Hrs

The  funeral service for SIGRID was held on Jun 18,2021 We were able to follow the service on Zoom. It is a pity thatno mention was made  on the media.  considering that she represented T&T so many times. Sent from Mail for Windows 10

Cynthia Lawrence 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-18

2021-JUN-19-1631Hrs

Claude Norville was a 71  73 Mausican, my year group.  A retired Principal from Canada, he was a Monitor in  the CAC of the SEA under the Peoples Partnership and used to attend meetings and training sessions, flying in with our Tobago colleagues. May he also rest in peace.

Angela Jarvis 73

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-18

2021-JUN-19-1624Hrs

Sigrid Sandiford Smith, front right, a picture sent to me by Linda Hodge Waithe, standing behind her, in their St Georges days. We were all once Tunapuna AC  pupils, where Sigrid was known for her athletic prowess. May she rest in peace.

Angela Jarvis 73

RE: Confirm

2021-JUN-18-1606Hrs

Today we celebrated the life of Sigrid Sandiford Smith who transitioned on Thursday 3rd June 2021

Sincerely

Janice Fournillier 70

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-18

2021-JUN-18-1431Hrs

Claude was my second year at Mausica. He lived in the Quarry street area - Behind the Bridge - at some time, because he knew my sister who lived in the Area.

Here are some pictures of him at our reunions.

Carlston Gray 72-74

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-11

2021-JUN-11-1311Hrs

I can confirm Claude Norville who was a student on mine.

Felix Edinborough 65

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JUN-04

2021-JUN-05-2128Hrs

I heard through the grapevine of two former Mausicans who passed recently. One is Claude Norville (71-73) and the other Anthea Sigrid Sandiford Smith (68-70). Can anyone confirm?

Bernice Stephens 65

Fwd: Zoom get together

2021-JUN-03-1022Hrs

Hi Mausica family,

We had our 4th Zoom get together on May 29 and it was a step up.  The Zoom 101 lesson given by Ben Alleyne-Stephens was well received

The film Holy Angels produced by Selwyn Jacob was indeed timely.  The in-depth discussion that followed was informative and Selwyn was very knowledgeable about his craft.

It was karmic that Canadian news headlines of Thursday May 27 reported the discovery of 215 Indgenous children's bodies buried at the site of a school similar to the one in the film.  This issue generated a lot of discussion.

We were fortunate to have in our midst Irma Cambridge-Chadee's son Hayden, who is a high school teacher with the Durham Catholic School Board.  Hayden informed us that his Board has introduced Indigenous studies and he was passionate about his involvement with equity and inclusion in education.

Here is feedback from Magnell Williams-Robinson about the session:

"I was happy to hear your voices even if I didn’t see you.

I felt that Saturday’s experience was very meaningful.  As we see and hear of the evil that was meted out to the Indigenous children both in the documentary and the media in Canada these past few days, we can’t help but think of the negative experiences of all indigenous peoples over the world, as well as all visible minorities, and of course that these things are ongoing in some form or fashion even today!

However, thank God our better Spirits prevail.  We have to focus on the positive while trying to ensure that everyone around us is treated with dignity.

Thank you Selwyn for all you have done and are doing to bring awareness of some of the atrocities that have and are still ongoing."

It is gratifying that we can get together and enjoy one another's company after all these years.  I look forward to at least 2 hours of smiles and warm, fuzzy feelings that  I experience at each meeting.

Thanks Tom (Conrad Thomas) for allowing us to use your Zoom membership - we cannot do it without you

Wow - 21 Mausicans were present, 1 guest and a few grand children popped in.

Looking forward to the next Zoom, tentative July 31 - THEME - casual lime.

"I go bring my friends and you could bring your friends

And we friends we all lime together,

Right here in de back yard"   (Farmer Nappy 2021 road march)]

Brenda

"and this too will pass"

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

RE: HI

2021-MAY-29-1154Hrs

Hi All,

This morning, with great pleasure, I WAS LISTENING to a MTC CD which Selwyn Jacob had put together in 2005. It was so very nostalgic listening to those songs. It began with the announcer ( did not get his name) talking about the Queen's Hall concert being brought to us by Chase Manhatten Bank ( which is no longer in T&T) and Radio Trinidad. 

Selwyn, very interestingly, has two concerts on the CD to add to my listening pleasure. There was Joan Kydd with "Will You Remember Me" beginning the performances. Following her with her sultry alto, was Eulalie Henry singing her well appreciated song " Didn't It Rain". Ancil Ash played the piano . Daphne Cuffie  also sang. ETC. I can't forget Fitzie introducing everyone.

The highlight of the morning was hearing the men and the FOLK SONGS. The men sang "Sweet Jane" and another.  I recognized Elmo and Langdon's voices which were so very reminiscent of those youthful years. It was joyful singing along. There were the Indian song " Jha Jha Jha"  and the folk song "Ratta" which I had not thought of in years. It was indeed a great nostalgic journey this morning.

But  sadly, the record sticks. From  number 22 to 27 . Don't know how with modern technology this problem can be resolved. I was able to limp to 26. 27 could not begin.  I am encouraging you with the CDs,  to listen to those songs. They are sure to lighten your spirits in this COVID-19 time. We are in a terrible place in T&T and must make every effort to keep ourselves safe.

Be safe, Enjoy,

Barbara Mellowes 66

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-18-1318Hrs

It was with great pride and joy that I experienced Jacob's work at the National Film Board of Canada on Saturday 15th May. My first meeting with Jacob was during the first weekend at Mausica when we all were looking to while away the time. My roommate Brenda Wilson was from Point Fortin; she knew Jacob. Together we took a walk up Mausica Road. It's what one did when there was not much else to do. I learned a little then that Jacob loved film and wanted to start a photography club. Jacob did start the photography club.

Clearly, it was Jacob's passion, his heart and his soul and he dug into it, stuck with it, and used that passion to forge a way through the mires of the Canadian experience. He met obstacles along the way and emerged as a beacon for many to follow. In glowing terms, participants shared their short films and stories of what they learned from "our Mausica boy". Every last one benefitted from Jacob's efforts, his films, his stories and his successes. Every last one wanted Jacob to know how much he helped them on their journey.

Our life's journey takes us on paths where we meet people for a season, a reason, a lesson to be learned, or for a lifetime of grace. Jacob's presence is all that! Many of the pictures of Mausicans make me go "oh goodness, whatever happened to so and so?" Sometimes we forget who attended during our time. Not so with Jacob. He certainly was not forgotten by a long shot.

Congratulations again Jacob from Ben. Your work exemplifies your character, your thirst for good, and your tenacity of purpose. I am so very proud of you!.

Bernice Stephens 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1442Hrs

The Douglas family and I have a special relationship. Mr. Douglas taught me at Belmont Intermediate. When I started teaching at Western Boys RC, Mrs. Douglas, his wife, was a teacher there, and some time later, I also taught their son. We were very fortunate to have lecturers like we had in Mausica. The unmistakable impression I had was that They were concerned primarily about the students, their welfare, and ultimately, what was best for T&T.THANKS TO THEM ALL.Garth Nicholas '69 to '71

On Friday, May 14, 2021, 02:30:50 PM GMT-4, Yahoo! <socalover_99@yahoo.com> wrote:

Hazel,One regret I have about Mausica, is that I never heard the calypso "Mammas without Papas". If you still remember the words, please send them to me. I heard about it, but that's all. If you don't want to put it in the chat, you can email me at socalover_99@yahoo.com

Garth Nicholas 1969 to 1971

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1431Hrs

Hazel,One regret I have about Mausica, is that I never heard the calypso "Mammas without Papas". If you still remember the words, please send them to me. I heard about it, but that's all. If you don't want to put it in the chat, you can email me at socalover_99@yahoo.com

Garth Nicholas 1969 to 1971

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1427Hrs

Such wonderful memories of that beloved place. Mr Douglas had such a dry sense of humour for which some loved him; and to the annoyance of others. We fondly referred to him as Dougie. In his very first class, he gave each of us a brand new lab book. Then he said, " Congratulations, you each have 100 marks. I hope by the end of the year, you still have some."

Joan Fulchan 74

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1418Hrs

As Hazel wrote about the famous lines of some of our lecturers, I am reminded of a few: Mangatal (whom we called Mangee) - 'Some points are pointless", Osbourne - "All at Mausica is not love and kisses, Harry Joe -with his discipline of natural consequences (Dewey). II hope I didn't misquote.

Felix Edinborough 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1410Hrs

Hazel,

Thank you for your lovely email which took us back to happier times in Trinidad & Tobago at the venerable institution of Mausica Teachers' College when we were young, happy and carefree and where Principal Harry Joe, Mr. Fitz Williams, Mrs. Cuffie, Mr. Mark, and all those wonderful lecturers who gave us generously of their time and talents, and  who significantly shaped our lives and gave us beautiful memories which we treasure up to today.

We have faith that the resilient people of our beloved homeland will survive this trial and that Covid will be defeated sooner more than later.

Vernetta Calvin-Smith 65

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAY-14

2021-MAY-14-1257Hrs

tks for this very good piece, hazel

Rudolph Williams 70

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-APR-30

2021-MAY-13-2219Hrs

My dear Fellow Mausicans,

I do hope all of you are safe and healthy and, so, too, your loved ones. What is happening now is so unprecedented in our lifetime. It is so surreal that we may feel the need to pinch ourselves to believe this is really happening in our hitherto comfortable world. Swet Sweet Trinidad has been plunged into sorrow and fear because of this CoronaVirus. We really have been jolted out of our comfort zones and forced into a realization of what is most important in life. 

Let us continue to cherish one another and be grateful to those who have shaped our lives. Today, my husband brought home this week's Cathoic News and on the memorial page I saw a picture of Raphael Douglass accompanied by some words written by his widow. He was such a lovely person. Nearly all of our lecturers have gone to the Teachers' College in heaven. We were truly fortunate to have been taught by the best lecturers and we all have our favourite memories of them. Their faces are all very vivid in my imagination and I can still recall some of their famous lines. Mr Dukhan, Mr. Lougheide, Mr Maundy, Mr Baptiste, Mrs. Mohan in her sari, Ms. Joseph, always dressed to the nines, and well made up, Miss Wood ( who would say, if you called her Miss Woods. "I am only one Wood". Ms Roopchand who shared, " Everybody calls me Fanny. I am divorced." And Mrs. Cuffy, "Better late than never, eh, Hazel." I will never forget Mr. Brown and his wife, at whose home I could be sure to get a meal when I was too late for dinner in the dining hall. It was the first time I had eaten pumpkin pie, which I still make up to today. I recall his telling me he was so disappointed in me when I played a heated round bottom flask in our hostel Carnival band. I had put a pillow to improve on nature and I wined down the place. He could not believe it was the same young lady, whom he trusted to baby-sit his children, Eric and Debbie. Oh Mausica! Those were the days. I will say nothing about the calypso I sang, Mamas Without Papas, that nearly got me a cut tail.Thank God I was rescued by Ken Parmasad and Noel T. that night. 

Wash your hands, Wear a mask and wait at least six feet apart, when in public . Stay home, if you can. Love you all. God Bless

Hazel Thompson-Ahye 70

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-APR-09

2021-APR-09-1838Hrs

Mrs Massiah was called back to her maker about five years ago (or maybe more). She was in a senior citizen's home for some time and I got a chance to visit her there, then she was eventually taken by one of her daughters and eventually departed this life. May she rest in peace.

Felix Edinborough 65

RE: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-APR-02

2021-APR-02-1722Hrs

Thanks for that, Brenda. I hadn’t seen it the first time so I was very happy to learn about Selwyn’s accomplishments. Kuddos to him.

Marina Ramsankar 66

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-APR-02

2021-APR-02-1237Hrs

Thank you for sharing.  Anyone has any news of Mrs. Massiah?  ( Any news)

Lily Walker 67

RE:

2021-MAR-29-1918Hrs

Hi, sending the sad news of stalin Neehall passing

Feizal Mohammed 66

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-26

2021-MAR-28-2306Hrs

Great one Brenda.  The web of talent that Harry Joe, Mrs Cuffie, Fitzzie(endearing) Lance Lougheed, Mr Philip, Mr Bhodhoo, Mrs Massiah, the entire cadre of exemplars who unveiled the greatest in us all and shared it so generously with so many, Gratitude floods my entire being with the slightest thought of Mausica and those pioneering two years.

Allan Clovis (1963-1965)

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-26

2021-MAR-26-1235Hrs

Thanks for sharing Brenda.

Congratulations again to Selwyn for all the great work he has done in Canada.Your post also takes me back to some years ago when as Consul General of T& T in Toronto, I attended an event in Toronto and saw this person on stage talking about a film he had made. I recognised that it was Selwyn Jacob my Mausica brethren whom I had not seen in many, many years and hadn't a clue that he was in the film industry, but my heart was swelling with pride.

Vernetta (Calvin-Smith) 65

RE: Celebrating our own

2021-MAR-25-1410Hrs

While cleaning up my email, I found the invitation to Selwyn's honorary degree ceremony. I don't know if this was submitted to the blog before, but we can never beat our drums too much. In this unusual time we need opportunities to  celebrate.

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-12

2021-MAR-18-2255Hrs

Hi Selwyn,

You are welcome.

Permit me to disagree with you in that it is a labour of love which made it a very "easy feat".  The blood of Mausicans runs in my veins.

I want to thank all of the Mausicans for their contributions without which it would not have been possible.

Thank you and stay healthy!

Errol Lashley 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-12

2021-MAR-18-1544Hrs

Hello Errol,

On behalf of all Mausicans, I would like to THANK YOU for the excellent effort you have made in organizing and compiling these Mausica treasures - text, data, web - and making them available to our colleagues at large. This is no easy feat, and to think that you have been doing this voluntarily for the past 17 years says a lot about your commitment.

Upon opening up the links last Friday, I was taken aback by the wealth of material that you had assembled. I spent about 2-3 hours just absorbing the memories.i left Mausica in 1965, and Trinidad in 1968, and for a long time, my perspective was limited to that time frame. Then came the 40th reunion, and the 50th, the Blog, and now Zoom, and my perspective has been evolving ever since. I feel that with this addition, all of us Mausicans, will be able to see and get a bigger picture of the real MAUSICA.

Thanks again and all the best!

Selwyn Jacob 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-12

2021-MAR-13-1234Hrs

Hi Irmin,

You're welcome and thank you.

Errol

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-12

2021-MAR-12-1259Hrs

Hi Errol,

I MUST pause and congratulate you for undertaking this massive exercise and executing it so brilliantly.   The thoughtfulness that went into the categorizing and labeling of the folders, the genius of prefixing the picture folder with the name of the sender.. There are no words to express my appreciation. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Irmin Lewis-Mckenzie 67

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-MAR-05

2021-MAR-07-1053Hrs

I was digging through some old archives and found 2 keepsakes, my award plaque and a write up I received some years later in the Prince George's Journal (newspaper).

Bernice Stephens 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-26

2021-FEB-28-1348Hrs

Hj Rudolph Williams,

I Will check out ttinsider.com . I aways look forward to memries of Mausica.

Blessings to you.

Eileen Pilgrim 1967-1969

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-26

2021-FEB-28-1117Hrs

We sadly announce the death of Kenneth Phillips from Tobago.(69-71 - i think).. He was a deacon of the Catholic Church in Tobago.

Felix Edinborough 65

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-26

2021-FEB-26-1627Hrs

Thank you for "The mother of all eye openers"! I read, ooing and aahing each story in awe and disbelief. Yes, this is a keeper for sure. Keep them coming folks.

Bernice Stephens 65

RE: Mausica

2021-FEB-22-1114Hrs

Hi folks,

pls visit my site ttinsider.com for an article on mausica which I hope will evoke fond memories for you as it did for me. Keep up the good work on the blog which i always look forward to reading. Blessings to you all.

Rudy Williams 68-70

RE: "YOU DO IT"

2021-FEB-19-0040Hrs

February 18th, 2021.

My Fellow Mausicans,

I love you. Every single one of you.

I just had ah Mausica flash back. Yuh remember dem nights wen we jus stop studying fuh some stressful exam and decide tuh talk plenty sh**, give fatigue, go an reap some oranges from our orchards, go by Fitzie or Harrison for something tuh eat and drink, No Rum Punch. Or better yet go an play some chess, if yuh could find some vacant rooms. Or like meh cousin, Carlston, describe it, "have a midnite snack!" And den go next day and ace de exam.

Frens, ah jus leave some serious work tuh read de Mausica Blog, written two, three years ago. Yuh talk bout therapy.

Aye, hear nah, wen Nature talk, everybody should listen. Very Carefully. You will hear voices urging us "To be something, do something and leave something."

Mr. Williams' words keep haunting me. "You do it." he said during one of our conversations.

One translation is "We do it."

Yes, we Mausicans pledged to "Mold A Nation Through Service."

It warms my heart when my Mausica brethren and sisteren tell the world what we have become, what we are doing and what we are leaving.

Keep up the good work. Wen is de nex virtual lime.

As usual,

Rodney Foster 66-68

RE: No Carnival - Carnival Zoom Lime

2021-FEB-16-1559Hrs

We held our third Zoom lime on Feb. 13, 2021.  These virtual limes were originally organised for the Toronto posse to continue getting together during the pandemic.  We included other Mausicans from other locales and we now have a dedicated group who enjoy the virtual meetings.  

25 people attended the last Zoom meeting which went on for 5 hours.  People came and went at their leisure. Some of us remained for the entire time.  Welcome first timers - Allan, Monty, Farida, Maureen and Yvonne.

Kay's message below sums up the lime.

Brenda

"and this too will pass"

"Hello Everyone,

Thank you all for continuing to find ways for us to get-together during these unusual times.

I thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon as it was nostalgic, educational, informative and most of all fun. It is heart-warming seeing everyone.

Special thanks to Farida for her wit and the piece on forgetfulness. Quite appropriate for the gathering.

Thanks to Maurus who supports the youth and young adults through mentorship and scholarships. Ben for her endless drive to educate and uplift.

Thanks to Rick and Conrad, for ensuring that children in Trinidad have computers for their virtual learning, and finding other ways to continue to give.

Thank you Selwyn for highlighting important issues through film and being willing to share long forgotten pictures with us.

Brenda, thank you for the hostel pictures that brought back so many wonderful memories.

With Gratitude & Love

Kay"  Brenda

"and this too will pass"

Brenda Alexander-Perez 65

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-12

2021-FEB-14-0913Hrs

Great seeing many Mausica Alumni on Saturday 13th. We chatted, laughed and enjoyed the camaraderie. South Floridians recently sent tablets to Trinidad. That notice was posted in the Newsday newspaper. Rick, Brenda Alexander, Arthur Small and I will continue to receive short stories of Mausicans' achievements. Remember to state the year and hostel. Those of you who have photographs of Mausica events can forward them to Selwyn Jacob. Please also identify who is in the picture and the event. See you all again soon.

Bernice Stephens 65

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-12

2021-FEB-12-1926Hrs

Just love  reading these blogs from Mausicans before my time. I thought my years were memorable but yours seem to more enjoyable. Two of the best years of my life.

Joan Fulchan 74

RE:

2021-FEB-12-0559Hrs

It is good to see the posting on Clifton De Coteau.

That early photo from sports-day is priceless.

I am trying to work out where it was run. It does not quite look like the ground in the mud behind the homes of Lougheide, Douglass, Romain, Dukhan. 

Maybe an early version of that track?

Should there not have been a rule preventing a first year from winning the hundred?

I did not like reading that Fairhaven was beaten in the relay. Was that allowed in those days? Were the runners who represented Haven allowed back in the hostel?

I share a lament of early days in the country that was published in the Express of February 12. It is a lament. The country was much richer in many ways in the days when Mausica reigned, than it is now.

Shout out to Carlsbury, blessed with a mom who is ageless.

Scratchie

Theodore Lewis 69

RE: Remembering Clifton DeCoteau

2021-FEB-11-2359Hrs

MTC Annual Athletic Meeting - Friday, March 19th, 1965.

First meeting involving both first and second year students.

Winner of the 100 yards - Clifton De Coteau; 2nd Gilmore Stephens; 3rd either Yallery-Arthur or Dudley Dickson.

(Rick, can you confirm)?

At the next assembly I had to explain to Mr Joseph how we allowed a first year student to defeat a second year. I told him that Clifton was pretty fast. He smiled. I’m his mind he was already thinking that Mausica an even stronger relay team to compete with the other teachers’ colleges.

At the same meet, Clifton was anchoring his hostel in the 4x100 relay, and he made up a big lead to nip the Fairhaven anchor at the finish line.

Excitement was in the air. Hey Another first year victory. I still remember the finish. I was running the anchor leg for FairHaven.

If you have additional info or corrections, please send them in to the Blog.

Selwyn Jacob (63-65)

Re: Fwd: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-FEB-05

 My condoences to "Archie" whom I fondly remember spending a year with at th Vila in 1969 with th ever present Garth

Rudolph Williams 70

RE: Ann Francois 1969-‘71

2021-JAN-31-0229Hrs

This  name is missing from the 1971 graduates listing. She was the wife of the deceased Thomas Gilbert, a Mausican.

Please note that Theodora Thomas of the same year body passed last year. Wife of  Neville Archibald, a Mausican

Ainsworth Ancil Ovid 71

RE: Condolences

2021-JAN-24-2129Hrs

We mourn the sudden passing of Clifton De Coteau (64- 66) .His funeral takes place tomorrow morning at the St . Steven's AC  church tomorrow at 9.00. am.

May his family be comforted, while his soul rest peace.l

Barbara Mellowes 66

Re: MAUSICA WEEKLY EMAILS 2021-JAN-22

2021-JAN-23-0642Hrs

The passing of Clifton de Coteau and Ronnie Wilson, very very sad news. Quintessential Mausicans both. Both kept going....Ronnie returned to give back...then teamed up with the Cuff at Valsayn.....DeCoteau the leader at a school, then in politics...I am happy that I encountered both on our shared journeys...

Scratchie

Theodore Lewis 69

RE: Victor Hunte

2021-JAN-02-1150Hrs

Just saw a notice that Victor (Junior) Hunte died on Boxing Day. My condolences to his family and the Mausica family

Ainsworth Ancil Ovid 71

RE: Fwd: Reflections on 2020. Pedro

2021-JAN-01-2330Hrs

January 1st, 2021

My Fellow Mausicans,

"In all circumstances give thanks."

How blessed we are to be Mausicans, beneficiaries of that group of visionaries who conceived and successfully delivered Mausica Teachers College, in 1963.

Last night, when I called my dear cousin, Jean Barrington Leon, to wish her Happy New Year, she shared some sad news with me.

Jean informed me that Ken, the brother of our mutual friend, Pamela Wilson Mann, had died.

"Yuh mean, Ronnie?"

Jean confirmed that it was our Mausican Brother, Ronnie, whose home name was Ken.

Let's keep the family in our daily prayers.

Ronnie was a Mausican and Trini tuh de bone. He made significant contributions to Mausica and TNT. He was modest.

Errol, could you retrieve and post that outstanding biography?

Rest in peace, Brother Ken/Ronnie.

Sincerely,

Rodney Foster 66-68

http://www.mtcalumni.com/MTC/ronaldWilson.pdf