2023-MAR-01-0810Hrs
"and this too will pass"
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2023-FEB-10-1500Hrs
Sister Hazel, when I was a youth in Marabella we used to dress up nice on Sundays. And I had a suit in Mausica too for when we had suit fete...which UWI and Centeno men COULD NOT GET IN.
I notice that in "Ladies excuse me" sets, nobody used to come and ask anybody I dancing with to excuse themselves so they could dance with me. I left Mausica wondering about that...because Noel T and my roommate Clydee and other Mausica men did not have trouble with their sets being disrupted so somebody else could dance with them....they did not have that problem.
I did not realise that I was not satorialy desirable....look how many decades before I find out what de problem was.. all the time I thinking that the girls find out I did not go to a prestige school....because some of them Mausica girls was class conscious....dont get me started....
I learned a lot from Fanny Roopchand, and it had class in Mausica....When I started talking to Allison some of her convent friends stop talking to her....because dey say Scratchy ent had class....he did not go to a school where they wore blazer.....Now i finding out i was not dapper....
The other day a Mausican lady from Kirkendale told me that at Mausica she was afraid of me....and I could not understand how that could be...but look it was only last year she told me that, and it late now to fix that and any other shortcomings that I might have had then.
I think I used to look nice in the Mausica flannel jacket and black bow tie...when we went Queens Hall and ting.......and in the glory Guys blue sweater we used to wear on evenings when we decided to throw frogs into the dining room.
I hope Efebo dont read this about frog throwing, because it might remind him about the evening when Marcelin had to climb on the dining room window sill, after me, Kenneth Bobb, Clydee, Wray McBurnie, Gregory Byrne, Noel T, and Foo, entertained with airborne frogs.
Hazel you was from Kirkendale, and I can't remember a girl from that hostel ever saying morning to me, even though I was calypso king, and win the marathon..and also was Victor Ludorum.
Kirkendale Ladies.
What you have to do to please a Kirkendale girl?
Lord Scratchy, calypso King, 1969;Victor Ludorum, same year. (Still could not impress dem Kirkendale ladies).
But Wingate and Villa had nice girls too, and nobody from there ever suggest to me that I was satorialy inept, or that I just did not look good, or did not go CIC.
Theodore Lewis 69
2023-JAN-30-2128Hrs
Dear Mausican,
Good night. On behalf of the Mausica Teachers' Foundation group, I am reaching out to all groups within the Mausican years. Our aim is to put all groups in touch with the Foundation, so that more members can be aware of what is taking place that's Mausican. I would therefore need the name of the group, a person to be contacted and the contact number.
For example, I am aware of the Mausican chat and the Cuban chat and how to get in touch with them, but there are little cells scattered throughout the years with whom we would like to get in touch.
The information can be sent to me at bmmell@yahoo.com. Thanks for your quick cooperation. May 2023 be a wonderful year for us.
Regards,
Barbara Mellowes 66
2023-JAN-26-1306Hrs
What: Reunion 2023
We'll be celebrating 60 years of MAUSICA
Where: in TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
When: July 17 - 22, 2023
Details will be posted here when they become available.
Brenda
"and this too will pass"
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2023-JAN-19-0917Hrs
Details to follow
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2023-JAN-14-0809Hrs
Condolences go out to the family of Robbie Richardson who died on Friday January 13th. He was a part of the 1969-1971 year group. He was married to Kathleen Clarke of the 1970-1972 group. He was cousin to Maureen Sotilleo-Providence (1970-1972). May God comfort his family and friends at this time.
Euline Fox-Peters 72
2023-JAN-13-1906Hrs
Haven forever.
Good to read what Rodney says here. I had gone two and a half years already at John Donaldson with nothing to show when I decided to switch to Mausica. Irma Cambridge lived next door to me in Marabella so I had heard a bit about the collegue....then there was La Porriden on Bob Gittens every morning.....Darnley Gittens' father.
As to remembrances during the first week I went out to play football with the second years who were looking for first year "talent" among freshers to replenish the side. Went out with fellow freshers Nazir Khan, Dave Didier, Ho Sing Loy, Roy Jagroopsingh, Gregory Byrne, Kelvin Newton,. I think Hospy (Horatio Hospedales) came in late....but was a very good player.
Second year footballers in the mud included Efebo Wilkinson (Wilkee), Carlsbury Gonzales, Phillip Kendall, Frederick Beckles, Gerald Hernandez, Leslie Grenidge (Horse), Darnley Gittens, Joe Ragoonansingh, Dalton Taitt, Kent Rennie (Geezmo), Carl Caton,
They cut off my muff early in the week so I needed a trim at the weekend. Then somebody said to me "Scratchy we playing Saturday in Arima, and you on the side!
So I said well I have to skip dat because I have to go to Marabella so that Tanty Popo and Uncle Kyran could see dat ah ent dead, because they looked worried when they were leaving that Sunday evening, as dark clouds began to descend over the campus....as they were driven away leaving me behind.
Irma Clarke had a worrying sign that said "nobody died last year". I was disturbed by that sign.
Anyway, there was the fact that I needed a trim, because I had lost my muff to Fairhaven barbers during the first week.
Well the big men on the team say Scratchy you can't go home Saturday, you have to play. You on de side. And furthermore , we carrying you to see the Joe about this.
Indeed that Friday afternoon at super, before the first week fete, they brought me before the Joe, and lodged their complaint that this is Scratchy, and he want to go home tomorrow, and we have a game.
The Joe looked at me with no pitty, and said well Scratchy you could get your trim in the morning and come back to the campus in time for the game..
I said OK sir.
The whole thing solved. I gone home to Marabella, Tanty Popo shocked to see my head. Went to the barber at Union Junction, then headed right back to sweet Mausica. Played that evening in Arima.
I hardly went home after that. Over the two years.
Scratchy.
Theodore Lewis 69
2023-JAN-13-1600Hrs
My dear Rodney, You are terrible! I laughed out so loud at your last line that everyone around wanted to know what had tickled me. My response was " Only a Mausican would understand." Of course, I know of what you speak only from rumour. You may not know it , but we earned the name, "Kirkendale ladies."
That Mausica radio station would qualify as defamation of character. I recall hearing one night: "Calling KIrkendale! Calling Kirkendale! Hazel, send Garth home! " All the poor innocent man was doing was delivering or borrowing some records. Why all yuh so?
Making freshettes say, " I love you, Freddy, very, very much", to a frog, and even kissing the frog and acusing you of hurting Freddy's feelings if you refused to comply was emotional abuse. That is when education began to go downhill. I am not laughing, but do confess to some grinning.
And just imagine having a less- endowed sister recite, while doing stretching arm exercises," I must! I must! I must. I must increase my breast." I felt sorry for her.The women were just as bad at torture as the men. Mausica was a torture chamber during initiation. So why is nobody looking contrite? Today, I still regret making Morris Marshall sign up for La Sororitee. I also regret singing the calypso, Mamas without Papas, and thank Noel T. and Ken Parmarsad from rescuing me from the cut tail the gang of women had threatened to put on me that night. And we all know what contest the late Arthur Hume won. Oh! Mausica! What memories we have of you.
Hazel Thompson-Ahye 70
2023-JAN-13-0311Hrs
My Fellow Mausicans,
One of the key experiences in my life occurred when I was selected to attend Mausica Teachers College, in 1966.
Thanks to the founding members of the pioneers, 1963- 1965, and Mr. Fitz James Williams and Mrs Daphne Pilgrim Cuffie who founded The Mausica Teachers Choir.
I heard them singing on the radio stations in Sweet TNT. In 1964, they won the Folk Song Championship. They defeated La Petite Musical. I wanted to sing Rice and Peas, Lulu, Sammy Dead and Itanami. I vowed to become a member of that group.
Thanks to my dear friends, Errol Williams and Harrison Joseph, both now deceased, who informed me " Just get five O Level subjects in Cambridge GCE and apply, English Language included.
Today, I want to send a special shout out to Ken Marshall who was my High School teacher in Form 4 at Osmond HS in San Juan. I met him again when I enrolled at Mausica in 1966.
Ken, Steve Martin, Donald Walker, Lloyd Brown and Garnet Luke also taught me how to "dress to impress", lime on Frederick Street and drink Carib beer at Humming Bird on Saturday mornings.
Congratulations to Hazel and Mausicans all over the world for continuing to " Mold A Nation Through Service".
Aye, hear nah man, is 3:00 am. Ah going and sleep.
Next time ah go thank dem pioneers who carved de north-south track across de tennis court and introduced playing chess without a chess board. Thank you Villa Nova, Wingate and Kirkendale.
As usual,
Rodney Foster 66-68
2022-DEC-09-0615Hrs
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02H7ns2wHK4sXwumhSsB1PsnHwT6NrNPyN15UjoRf8fZivSPdVJMeqSBVY8uhgQzkil&id=100002201566065&mibextid=qC1gEa
Dale Scobie 74
2022-NOV-25-1827Hrs
It was with deepest sadness that I got the note from Gwen Williams that our year-group (67-69)colleague Annette Hunte-Lessey had passed away. I am sharing a note on her passing that I have taken from the newspaper Newsday.
Annette was a warm, mild mannered, engaging person.
I hope that over time she was able over to forgive members of our group, along with second years, for being less than supportive of her when such support would have provided her comfort.
She was an outstanding alumnus of the college, as a teacher, and pillar of the San Fernando community till her passing.
Theodore Lewis
https://newsday.co.tt/2022/11/24/remembering-hunte-lessey/
"Remembering Hunte-Lessey
NEWSDAY 3 DAYS AGO
THE EDITOR: Annette Hunte-Lessey, a woman of virtue, worth, and ebullience, will be fondly remembered by many.
Her achievements shattered countless barriers in our history when representations of women were met with many calumnies. Her passing is certainly a great loss to the community of San Fernando.
As a former educator, cultural enthusiast and renowned master of ceremonies, Mrs Hunte-Lessey was indeed divine. She was a woman of faith, strength, and humility.
Therefore we should celebrate her life with deep reverence. My sincerest condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. May she rest in peace.
ANCILLA ASHLEY KIRBY
Port of Spain"
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-NOV-03-2211Hrs
Yesterday, November 2nd. approximately 60 persons including members of the 1972-74 student body, former lecturers Wafe, Briggs and Greaves, former Burser Percival, members of the 73-75 and 71-73 year groups, and spouses of Mausicans laughed, brunched, sang and enjoyed a good lime at the Woodford Cafe in Chaguanas.
Organized by Thora Best, Carol Weekes- Brown, Dale Scobie, Jasper Joefield and yours truly, the gathering was entertained by the humour of Gary Woo Chong, the music and timely interjection of comedy by Anthony Sanchez, the journeys down memory lane by Mr. Wafe and Ms. Briggs, and letters from Mr. Persaud complaining about the "fowl thieves" from Mayfair Mansion and Fair Haven. There were no letters of complaint from "Pineapple Smith".
What a wonderful time we had. Of course, we used the occasion to put attendees on notice that the MTC Foundation will be coming soon. At that time we expect that all Mausicans will jump at the opportunity to make contributions to the fund. Until then, all available resources should be used to hoard these contributions....Sou Sou, under the mattress, "your Nennen or Tanty", Savings club, etc., to keep those charitable donations safe until the foundation is fully registered.
Here are some pictures from the occasion.
Carlston Gray 74
2022-OCT-26-1748Hrs
Dear Mausican Family,
It is with great sadness that I write about the passing of a dear friend and brother, Montegomery Chapman. Last Saturday he said farewell to us.
The Celebration of his Life takes place on Monday 31st October at 1.30pm at the St. Charles RC Church, Tunapuna.
Condolences to his dear wife, Farida, of over 50 years, and their children and grand children. May God comfort them at this time of deep sorrow.
He was a beautiful person who enjoyed sports. May his soul rest in peace.
Always,
Barbara Mellowes 66
2022-OCT-15-1605Hrs
Congratulations to President Rhonda Benjamin, University of Victoria and her Mausican parents Erlene and Ronald Benjamin.
Congratulations to Dr Premnath Gooptar, for winning a Humming bird medal for education. Mr Guptar was indeed an outstanding Principal.
Happy to hear about the registration of the Alumni Foundation and all other events. The legacy of Mausica will live on if even if it is through our children.
Thanks for the work of Rodney Foster, these emails are made available to us.
Thank you,
Rodney Foster,
Maureen Taylor-Ryan (1969-1971)
2022-OCT-14-1510Hrs
What about the 69/71 year group?
Carl Birjah 71
2022-OCT-13-1812Hrs
Set aside something for Christmas.
Get your last Wills and Testament, your after-life contributions, and your annual gifts and donations together. Soon you will be able to contribute directly to the legacy of Mausica. Our own MTC Alumni Foundation is awaiting the final approval from the Registrar's office.
Let's continue to mould our nation through our service and our gifts.
Carlston A. Gray 74
2022-OCT-11-1459Hrs
10/11/22
My Fellow Mausicans,
Since October 1 is plenty pain. Sometimes ah bawl like twenty Tarzan.
Will we be celebating our 60th anniversary in TNT ?
Time for another Reunion in TNT
Let's do it again.
Rodney Foster 66-68
2022-OCT-09-1920Hrs
Class of 72 - 74 invites you
Hope to see you there
Carol Brown 74
2022-SEP-30-2051Hrs
Thanks much Garvin for that bit of info. re-Humming bird medal awarded to Dr.Premnath Gooptar. A former Teacher and Principal who devoted much of his time to the development of education of children. Congratulations and best wishes to Premnath.
Radica Ramnarine . (73 - 75)
2022-SEP-30-1850Hrs
Establishing the scholarship and bursaries fund is commendable. The work has only just begun. We must continue to fund this objective so that many more aspiring teachers might benefit from the Mausica legacy. Those who were unable to contribute to the first fundraising drive, still have an opportunity to do so. Get family and friends involved, pool the contributions and send a lump sum to Mr. Conrad Thomas. Members of the alumni in Trinidad will communicate to counterparts in T&T how such contributions can be made in the near future.
We look forward to continuing contributions from other Mausicans wherever they reside in the world.
Bernice Stephens 65
2022-SEP-29-1719Hrs
Funded by the Canadian branch of our alumni, the first scholarship awards were recently distributed to students of UTT.
Alumni, Drs. Hazel Ann Depeza and Arthur Joseph were present for the ceremony and spoke to the gathering on our behalf.
The work towards making this a permanent feature of our organization has started. We are awaiting final approval for the MTC Alumni Foundation. Once we receive that approval, all MTC alumni, their families, and anyone who shares our mission and vision are invited to join.
Carlston Gray 72-74
2022-SEP-29-1429Hrs
Hi
You have Claudia Alman listed as having died on your website She is alive healthy and well. Please note.
Regards
Kenwyn Taylor 78
2022-SEP-26-1901Hrs
In this year's National Awards, the Hummingbird Medal Gold was awarded to Dr. Primnath Gooptar for his efforts in education. Dr. Primnath Gooptar is a Mausica alumnus of the 73 - 75 cohort.
Herbert Garvin 75
2022-SEP-01-2116Hrs
Hi everyone,
We are extremely proud to announce that the monetary contribution made by our Canadian alumni to the teacher training program at UTT has been received. The members of the selection committee recently met to review and interview students.
A big shout out, and thank you, to our friends from the north who got this initiative going.
In order to make this award an annual event, we have submitted the registration papers necessary to create the Mausica Teachers College Alumni Foundation. We look forward to our alumni contributing, and funding this program.
Further details about the foundation will be available soon.
Stay safe.
Carlston Gray 72-74 (fifty years)
Interim Vice President.
Carlston Gray 74
2022-AUG-30-0306Hrs
My Fellow Mausicans,
Why was MTC such a sweet experience?
Answer: It was built on a sugarcane field. 65 acres or was it 63?
What was the most favorite game/pastime at MTC?
CHESS. Thanks to the Pioneers. What a legacy!
As usual,
Rodney Foster 68
2022-AUG-29-2326Hrs
ATTENTION ALL MAUSICANS OF THE 72 - 74 COHORT. We are trying to make contact with all persons of that year body. Kindly make contact with the following persons, either through email or WhatsApp: Carlston Gray - carlstongray@yahoo.com or 1 732 407 0871. Carol Weekes Brown - cambrown6@yahoo.com or 1 868 724 5714. Thora Best - thorabest@gmail.com. Dale Scobie - trinidale1@gmail.com or 1 868 681 8877.
Jasper Joefield - jasper.joefield@gmail.com or 1 868 685 2954. Howard Spencer - howieaw51@hotmail.com.
PLEASE SAVE THESE DATES. SATURDAY 1ST OCYOBER 2022 AND SUNDAY 2ND OCTOBER 2022.
Regards,
Howard Spencer 74
2022-AUG-20-1615Hrs
From eileenpilgrim05@yahoo.com 1967-1969 Condolences to the relatives of Mike Duncan. RIP to him
Eileen Pilgrim 69
2022-AUG-19-1733Hrs
Sorry to hear about the passing of talented Mike Duncan. May his soul rest in peace. But am happy to learn about the Scholarship fund and am willing to contribute to its sustainability. Congratulations to those who conceived of the idea and brought it to fruition.
Maureen Taylor-Ryan (1969--1971)
2022-AUG-18-1815Hrs
Fellow Mausicans,
On August 12th, 2022 a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and the Mausica Teachers' College Alumni (MTCA). The goal of the MOU is to create a legacy for Mausica Teachers' College (1963-1975) by offering Scholarships and Bursaries to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Education programme at UTT.
I am happy to announce that, following a six-week fundraising campaign, we were able to reach our financial goal, and on August 13th, $10,000 CAN was wired to UTT to fund the inaugural scholarships and bursaries starting in September, 2022.
We would like to thank everyone who contributed in cash or kind towards the success of this initiative so far. We would also like to acknowledge the contribution of our fellow T&T colleagues who are working on establishing a Foundation to facilitate the longevity of the scholarship programme. This committee is headed by Hazel Ann Gibbs-DePeza.
Further updates will be provided via the Blog and/or word of mouth. As well, a personal "Thank You" will be sent to everyone who made a financial contribution.
Selwyn Jacob/for
MTCA Ad Hoc Committee:
Conrad Thomas Bernice Stephens- Alleyne
Brenda Alexander-Perez Kay Cyrus
Selwyn Jacob Brenda Walters
Selwyn Jacob 65
2022-AUG-12-2051Hrs
On a sad note. Heard of the passing of Mike Duncan (70/72). Our Tobago communities will surely miss him. He was an actor, calypsonian, singer, guitarist, and teacher. May he RIP!
Lionel Henry 73
2022-AUG-11-2140Hrs
Michael Duncan 70-72
Fairhaven
Rip August 10 2022
finbar
'take time
to laugh for it is the music of the soul....'
Finbar Ryan 72
2022-AUG-11-1446Hrs
Last time I went to Tobago, I checked out Mike and Happy at the Sandy Point Beach Club where as part of the Pleasure Pirates they performed weekly on a Tuesday Night.
I recall part of a calypso in tribute to Mrs Cuffie by Sweet Mike ( his calypso sobriquet)
So reach assembly...
8 RTT (ie Radio Trinidad Time)
Get some titilarity
..no vulgarity
Ah begging you please
She gave us all a chance
..to get a high q performance
No dirty pride or bottle pelting
No nocturnal choral speaking.
Farewell Sweet Mike, continue to make music in the heavens.
Finbar Ryan 72
2022-AUG-10-1555Hrs
So, one evening a subset of "Glory Guys" decided to go up for dinner in our uniform, which was a thick blue fireman's sweater with a "Glory Guys" print. Occasionally, we would do dinner in that uniform. We were essentially 67-69 men. I cannot remember the origin of the grouping, but we cut across Mayfair and Haven. The Mayfair men included Kenneth Bobb, Alisford Phillips, Gregory Byrne,Wray McBurnie, and Orman Fournilier (Foo). The Haven men were Clyde Maurice, Noel T, and I.
.
I think we may have done this originally for some makeshift concert, but then sort of held on to it for a bit.
We also sat at the Glory Guys table. Noel was President of the student body. Foo was Minister of Entertainment. Alisford was the resident bassist, and KB piano accompanist.
A wooden sapat was part of the getup, and that sapat could be loud on the auditorium tiles...making for a dramatic entrance into the dining hall if we were in full flight. On the evening in question we decided to entertain the assembled with airborne frogs, as they ate; bags of the creatures had been caught on the tennis court for the event.
Anyway, as we entered the dining hall from the southern entrance, near the staff table, we immediately launched a large quantity of frogs airborne,in random fashion.
This created the desired commotion.
My lasting memory of these proceedings is the spectre of Marcelin Pennoy, a second year, on the sill of one of the dining room windows.
One or two people complained that frogs had fallen into their soup.
I also remember that Efebo, a haven man, was not at all amused by Marcelin's predicament, and that he expressed some displeasure.
The frogs were all home grown, authentic Mausica. .
Scratchy, 67-69.
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-JUL-28-2123Hrs
Hello,
We are happy to report that our donation drive for the MTCA Legacy Scholarship and Bursary Award was a tremendous success, thanks in large part to the generous support of many Mausican alumni, family and friends of Mausica in Canada and the US. Ten thousand dollars ($10K Can.) will be donated to the UTT to provide scholarships and bursaries in the academic year 2022-2023 to students in their final year of the Ba Ed programme. Stringent selection criteria and reporting requirements by UTT are outlined in an updated (draft) MOU, which reflects the results of discussions and agreements between us and the new T&T team led by Dr Hazel Ann Gibbs DePeza. The (draft) MOU was reviewed by two lawyers in Toronto (children of Mausica alumni), who provided useful suggestions to ensure the integrity of the process and the protection of the funds. Their free advice and assistance are greatly appreciated.
The (draft) MOU was just forwarded to UTT and once agreement is reached, it will be signed by the President of the UTT and our MTCA Alumni representative. The funds will only be sent (by wire transfer) once this is accomplished, hopefully in the next couple of weeks. We will continue to keep you apprised of our progress with this important initiative. If you have any questions, suggestions or concerns, we would love to hear from you; please feel free to contact any member of our team, as below, or Dr. De Peza in T&T.
Thankx and Stay Safe.
Conrad Thomas (for)
Mausica Teachers’ College Alumni
Conrad Thomas Bernice Stephens-Alleyne
Brenda Alexander-Perez Kay Cyrus
Selwyn Jacob Brenda Walters
Conrad Thomas 65
2022-JUL-28-1839Hrs
Alas! We have made significant strides towards forming the Mausica Teachers College Foundation.
Led by the efforts of Conrad Thomas and our Canadian colleagues, enough funds were raised to provide scholarships and bursaries to 4th year Education students at UTT. A Memorandum of Understanding, between UTT and Mausica Teachers Alumni, is awaiting final signatures. We expect that these scholarships wìll start this September.
To ensure that the presentation of these scholarships outlive us, we have set the wheels in motion to create a foundation. This purpose of the foundation is to receive and distribute funds to deserving students who exhibit the "Mausica Spirit".
At this time, a name search is in progress. This will be followed by registration of the group as a non-profit organization.
An alumni meeting will be scheduled soon to share information and the good news.
Hazel Ann Depeiza is the chair of the organizing body.
Carlston Gray 74
2022-JUL-15-1835Hrs
Great job, team! Proud of you all for your "sticktoitiveness" to coin Harry Jo.
It always feels good to give back in some little way.
Have a great weekend.
Magnell Robinson 65
2022-JUL-07-1709Hrs
Hello to all Mausicans,
Many thanks to all who contributed to the scholarship fund. We are happy to give something back by supporting a student at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. We received our training, board, and lodge, free during our time. I make a special appeal to those who have not yet made a donation. Things can be financially difficult so gather a few friends or family members, make a small group and collect from them. Every amount counts, no matter how small. We welcome your contribution in this first drive or in future fundraisers.
Bernice Stephens 65
2022-JUL-01-1223Hrs
Thanks to all who contributed to the scholarship fund. The response has been good but we can improve on it. Remember that there are many aspiring teachers who now have to pay for teacher education which Mausicans received free of charge. We had housing, food, books, and tuition plus a stipend. This is a great way to give back. Anyone missing this first funding drive can get in on the next. One or two of our colleagues in Trinidad would benefit. Thanks for what many of you have done and thanks in advance for what you will do in future.
Bernice Stephens 65
2022-JUN-30-2315Hrs
June 30th, 2022
My Fellow Mausicans,
"In all circumstances, give thanks."
Thanks to the core members of the scholarship committee for the launch of a worthy cause. Just like the vision of Mausica Teachers College, this too will be successful.
This week I visited YouTube and listened to MTC 1964 and
1966 Folksong Champions. What an outstanding achievement!
We revolutionized folksong signing in Sweet TNT, the Caribbean and internationally.
Please visit the site and experience the joys of being a Mausican.
Thank you pioneers and staff for creating a memorable legacy.
The Scholarship Fund will be another commendable milestone.
As usual,
Rodney Foster 66-68
2022-JUN-24-1242Hrs
Could I have the banking details for the Trinidad bank? I would like to make a contribution.
Cerrone Glasgow 73
2022-JUN-09-2213Hrs
On June 2, 2022, our team sent an email to alumni (Canada and US) requesting donations in support of the MTC legacy initiative, i.e. the MTCA Scholarship award initiative.
(Please see below for a copy of the letter, which includes instructions on how to donate.)
The donation drive will last approximately 4-6 weeks with a target of $10K Cdn. After one week, we have had generous responses from a total of six (6) Mausicans, whom we thank for their contributions.
We encourage you to show the true Mausica spirit by donating TODAY. Our alumni base is small, so your generous contribution will go a long way in assisting a few students trying to enter the teaching profession in TnT.
E-TRANSFERS: If you have/had problems with the e-transfer process at your bank, please ensure that you follow carefully the interac e-transfer steps outlined by your bank or contact them for assistance. Since our account is registered, there is no need for a security question.
Please note that a group is presently being organized in TnT to kick off a similar initiative. We have been advised by UTT that procedures are being put in place to accept donations directly. This should be ready in a few weeks and we will let you know accordingly into the account.
Please feel free to share this information broadly with other alumni, your family and friends.
Best Regards,
Dear Mausicans, family and friends of Mausica,
As you may know, we are a small team of Mausican alumni located in North America (Canada and US), who have taken on the challenge of keeping the MTC name and memory alive by establishing a legacy in Trinidad and Tobago that will reflect our MTC motto:”Moulding a Nation through Service”.
We are now at the most critical stage of the initiative, i.e. funding the scholarships to the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), and are seeking your financial support to continue the MTC legacy. We have set our goal at ten thousand dollars (Canadian) for the coming academic year. This funding drive will last from June 1 to July 15, 2022.
We encourage you to donate generously and to share this letter with family and friends of Mausica. Your donation will make a lasting impact on a future educator and will set the stage for subsequent years.
Make a contribution TODAY and become a Patron of the MTCA family.
We are really counting on your support and generosity to make this a success.
HOW TO DONATE:
I. - E-transfer to: mtcascholarship@gmail.com
- Our RBC bank account name: The Mausica Teachers’ College Alumni (Canada)
OR
II. Mail:
- Make cheque payable to: The Mausica Teachers’ College Alumni (Canada)
- Complete the donation form attached and Mail to one of:
Conrad Thomas (1-613-899-0493) | Selwyn Jacob | Brenda Alexander-Perez |
Note:
- e-transfers from US are subject to a service fee of $17.50 Can.
- Please submit your contact information so that we may send you an acknowledgement of your donation. Also, please let us know if you do/do not wish to have your name published.
- Additional information can be obtained by contacting any of the above.
BACKGROUND:
Several months ago, we embarked on an initiative with this objective in mind to provide educational scholarships to future educators in T&T. We targeted the Faculty of Education (B Ed programme) at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), where the teacher training program reminded us to some extent of our experience at MTC. We subsequently came to an agreement with UTT that we would provide funding for a full year’s tuition and other expenses for a few students entering their final year, commencing with the 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition cost is presently $12K tt; books are estimated at $3600 tt .
While the UTT administrative team is close to completing development of a policy and Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) that would govern the MTCA Scholarship Award, the team has worked feverishly to put in place scholarship criteria and banking arrangements in Canada. It has shared an update on progress with all MTC alumni at a Zoom meeting on May 7, through email and also the weekly blog. There has been general support from the alumni body and a small group has set about developing a similar model in T&T with the support and guidance of our team.
Funds collected will be remitted by e-transfer to UTT. An accounting for all funds collected will be provided by the alumni team and UTT. Scholarship winners will be selected by UTT according to the agreed upon criteria and will be published by UTT and shared with all alumni.
Levels of Support:
Contributor up to $500
Innovator $500 - $999
Luminary $1,000 - $2,499
Visionary $2,500 +
With Thanks.
Mausica Teachers’ College Alumni
Conrad Thomas
Brenda Alexander-Perez
Selwyn Jacob
MTCA Scholarship Award
Thank You for your Support
Please Complete
Mr/Mrs/Ms .____ First Name_____________________________ Middle
Initial_____
Last Name______________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________Apt
#____________ City_________________________________________ Prov. _________________
Postal Code____________________________
Telephone_______________________________________ Email__________________________________________________
Recognition Name: I
do not wish to have my name published as a donor. Y/N
Gift Information: I
would like to support MTCA Scholarship Award with a donation of: $___________ q My cheque payable to The Mausica Teachers’ College Alumni (Canada) is enclosed
Mail cheque to one of:
|
Conrad Thomas (1-613-899-0493) |
Selwyn Jacob |
Brenda Alexander-Perez |
Note:
- e-transfers from US are subject to a service fee of $17.50 Can.
- Acknowledgement of deposits received will be made in writing to all donors.
- Questions? Please contact any of the above
Thank you for your generous support.
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2022-JUN-03-1401Hrs
I am for the Mausica Scholarship which must be awarded to a teacher of less than ten years in the Service and who, through recommendation by the Principal of the School and two members of Staff and a member of the School PTA, has demonstrated some of these qualities that shaped the Mausican: resiliency, a sincere love for their students as he/she goes beyond the call of duty for them (this is bearing in mind what we had heard as the mantra - you can’t learn children if you don’t love them); and engagement in the all-round development of the students i.e outside of the sphere of the classroom influence e.g extra curricular activities. It is said that the teacher who sees him/herself as teaching or influencing a child for one year is not helping the child for life.
Let us go for it. It should surely make a difference in T&T.
Jasper Joefield 74
2022-MAY-30-1138Hrs
Do include the following with attachment in the next blog
It was such a joy to attend last Saturday's Mausica Zoom meeting at which there were two main highlights viz. the Proposed Mausica Teachers' College Scholarship Award Programme; and the tribute to the much celebrated Pioneer Desmond Waite who has just transitioned.
I fully support the Scholarship Award Programme and this has led me to my MTC archives.
Attached is the memorable document In Memoriam service to our first esteemed College Principal Mr. Harry Joseph (HarryJo) who led a Teacher Education team including the incomparable Daphne Pilgrim Cuffie, Roland Maundy, Fitzjames Williams, June Joseph, Hamlyn Dookhan, Fanny Roopchand, Wilfred Phillips, Ralph Douglass, Matron, Ishiah Boodhoo, and Evelyn Hordatt.
We owe a debt of gratitude to these pioneering Teacher Educators led by Harry Jo who imprinted on our year group 1967 - 1969: 'You cannot teach them (learners), if you do not love them' ... a mantra that so many of us chanted throughout our teaching careers, and generally in life.... '
Let's see the MTC Scholarship Award Programme as a 'love' tribute to Mausica, acknowledging how our personal and professional identity has been shaped.
Bring back the ole times days.... bring back the ole time ways.....!! (Richard Nappy Mayers)
Gwendoline Williams 69
2022-MAY-20-1536Hrs
Pearl I think that Princes Town was very well represented with that memorable contingent of four. That pudding song won for topicality. Very very Mausican event, that pudding ceremony. I was at the table on which the pudding fell....Errol Jones, Raymon Mendes, Stanisclaus....among the pall bearers...
very very sad Memories because Cheryl Gittens was at the table and came out the worse...the pudding itself weaponized with alcohol and very much on fire as it fell--on her...
There were other South people in our year group who were a bit older..I think Roy Jagroopsing ...Gaston Alleyne, and Ormond Fournilier would not have been teens....
I think the age balance was right....generally speaking...The people in charge of this thing were wise beyond words..
they designed the community..
Students like Mervyn Sandy kept the place on even keel with their maturity....
Scratchie
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-MAY-19-1449Hrs
Brenda
"and this too will pass"
Following are video extracts from the Zoom meeting of May 7, 2022.
Meeting notes along with the slide presentation and Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Scholarship Award were shared on last week's blog.
A letter of Invitation to Donate will be sent out soon.
Comments, questions or suggestions can be sent to:
mtcascholarship@gmail.com
OR contact any member of the team members as below.
i. Presentation on Scholarship Award
https://drive.google.com/file/d/16W7XUD4cFxZr5vxhYus2Ly5R32MXykHO/view?usp=sharing
ii. Q&A and Discussion:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G9Y0tA8eRgl91ylPlSWNMNcYoVCycdGD/view?usp=sharing
iii. Tribute To Desmond
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R76j2-WmYNnTvehIr1FIzLzjSY2ZexpE/view?usp=sharing
(P.S. Please excuse the video quality; there were technical challenges).
Members of the Legacy Planning Committee
Conrad Thomas Bernice Stephens-Alleyne
Brenda Alexander-Perez Kay Cyrus
Selwyn Jacob Brenda Walters
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2022-MAY-14-0732Hrs
Scratch and Gwen are so correct in their assessment of Arthur Hume. I don't know how it happened but in '97 the four of us from Princes Town were mature students near the cut-off age of 25 and as alluded to by Scratch it showed. Judith Suite and I were roommates for both years at Kirkendale, and subject to correcction, Oswald (Bing) and Arthur also remained together for both years. Yes Gwen you are correct. Maestro and I were good friends and up to a few years ago I was telling someone that if we had kept up the friendship I might have been a calypsonian myself. You might remember 'Walk with yuh key' a pun on persons who sang off-key, and 'De puddin' tumble down' a satire on the event at the Christmas dinner.
I bounced up Arthur ever so often at the supermarket jn Princes Town and we almost forget the shopping as we chatted and chatted and chatted. Arthur remained with the same trim size and was always as neat as ever. He still moved with the speed of lightning. That is why his death hit me for six.
However it is a road we all must take, and from all reports he lived a worthy life. May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory
Pearl Yvonne Mulrain 69
2022-MAY-06-1439Hrs
Rest in Peace Arthur. How well I remember your quiet demeanour, love of the cuatro, and absolute neatness of attire.
Your brother Maestro, to this day, remains one of my favourite calypdonians... His Bionic Man rendition and death soon thereafter brought me much personal pain.
Rest in Peace Arthur and Cecil.
Gwendoline Williams 69
2022-MAY-06-1438Hrs
Pearl, thanks for the alert that Arthur Hume has died. This is very very sad news. He was indeed a member of the 67-69 group, a Haven man from Princes Town, he and his roomate Oswald Murray both from there.
I remember that he had studied German, among other languages. He often demonstrated usage of the language in the Haven corridor, deploying it as part of the welcome repertoire to which Haven men resorted when the 68-70 group came in.
What makes this death and that of other Mausicans of my era so numbing is that the only image I have of him is one when he was about 20-21, very much alive in the Haven.
Did not see him since we parted company at graduation. There was a maturity about him, which Oswald complemented.
I had an email exchange with him short years ago, when I was trying to track down the lyrics of his brother Maestro of the song Concert at the hall. We had a chat onnthe phone. Pearl you had kindly provided his telephone number.
The image of him as a mature man is helpful, communicating the seriousness I remember.
Scratchie
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-APR-29-2242Hrs
Arthur Hume was a student of '67-'69
Pearl Yvonne Mulrain 69
2022-APR-29-1452Hrs
Dear Brenda
It is very heart-warming to see that our dear brother Desmond Waithe is being celebrated with respect and love in several communities he had served with his music in Trinidad.
Do you know whether his funeral service tomorrow 30th April will be on Youtube or Zoom?
Many thanks
Vernetta Calvin-Smith 65
2022-APR-28-1841Hrs
INVITATION to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Time: May 7, 2022 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84169776445?pwd=WDlJcysvaXhlMkFObm5xclhKT0xDZz09
Meeting ID: 841 6977 6445
Passcode: 010812
AGENDA:
1. MTC Legacy: Alumni Scholarship and Bursary Award at UTT starting academic year 2022-23- presentation and discussion of details. All are invited and encouraged to participate.
2. Desmond Waithe: A MTC alumni tribute to our dear friend and colleague. Please let us know if you would like to provide a tribute to the memory of Desmond
Conrad Thomas is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Time: May 7, 2022 03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Brenda
"and this too will pass"
--
Brenda
"and this too will pass"
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2022-APR-22-1242Hrs
Dear Mausicans & Desmond’s family & close friends,
Tenderly,
May time heal your sorrow
Gently,
May friends ease your pain
Softly,
May peace replace heartaches
And May all our warmest memories of Desmond remain.
I will always remember his gentlemanliness & his warm,
infectious smile & I haven’t seen him for years.
May the blessings of this Easter season keep you all strong!
Magnell Williams Robinson (63-65)
2022-APR-22-1041Hrs
This is a wrenching death. Desmond stood out in a place of stars. He moved out of Mausica into the country, and he carried on. It is good to see the contribution of Ronald Richardson (Ritchie) here...the photo from Phase II.each layer of the place...each year group, the many ripples, affected....Thanks to Hazel Thpmpson-Ahye for the John Boulay video.....his Mausica signature....
The Mausica notion of an alumni choir was such a genius idea...the place continuing to grow and to flourish outside of the 64 acres. Harry Joe, The Warden, The Cuff....all glory.
Scratchie
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-APR-22-0830Hrs
Fellow Mausicans,
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Desmond Waithe and I wish to extend condolences to his family and friends.
Desmond was a dear friend to me. We were in class together in high school and in Mausica Teachers’ College where we were roommates for the entire two-year period. Most graduates talk fondly about the MTC experience as do I but having a Desmond as a roommate enhanced my Mausica experience. In my retirement I visited TT yearly, and I always got a visit from him provided he was not globe-trotting at the time. On some visits, he reminded me of our days in high school and activities that I had long forgotten. His visits were always pleasant and enjoyable. When he was unable to visit, Desmond took me to steelband events in the QPS, Skinner Park and Starlift and Exodus panyards. I was also privileged to take in one of his musical performances at NAPA. Desmond was never without ideas as to how to make me feel at home in TT.
I will always remember Desmond as a kind, thoughtful person with a wonderful sense of humour and a dear friend. The fact that our friendship lasted for over half century until death do us part, is further testament to his boundless patience. Desmond was a good man. I shall miss him dearly.
We have lost an exceptional musician with a pleasant and gentle disposition deserving of all the accolades heaped upon him
Errol Lashley 65
Des, it was indeed a great pleasure knowing you. Rest in peace!
Bye now,
Errol
P.S. Don’t forget to respond to my last WhatsApp chat. I am told that this app runs in the cloud.
2022-APR-22-0558Hrs
My Dear Mausicans,
We mourn the loss of one of our pioneers, Desmond Waithe, a musician to his soul, like Bertie Fraiser who has gone on before him. Desmond's contribution is widely known. He will always be remembered by me as one who held a cuatro in his hand with a smile on his face. Well done, Desmond. May you rest in peace.
May God comfort his family as they mourn the loss. May God comfort us all.
Always,
Barbara Mellowes 66
2022-APR-21-1436Hrs
My Fellow Mausicans,
Desmond Waithe was a quintessential Mausican. He and several of the men and women of the 63-65 year group, the PIONEERS, set the standards for all the Mausicans that followed in their footsteps.
When my Brother, Carl Caton, shared the sad news of Desmond's home-going, I recommitted myself to working with all Mausicans who would like to create "The Mausica Legacy".
It's now 2: 30 am EST.
I'll be back with some suggestions.
Let's put our thoughts and lists together. "Together We Aspire. Together We Achieve."
As usual,
Rodney Foster 66-68
2022-APR-21-1122Hrs
Dear All,
We are united in grief over the death of our beloved Desmond Waithe. He meant so much to so many of us. I knew him from my Best Village days even before I entered Mausica. I remember when I had my interview for entry into Mausica. The panel became excited to learn I was into these cultural pursuits. During initiation week, I sang John Boulay and some believed long afterwards that I was a Tobagonian. I had not seen Desmond for years, until a few years ago, when we met at a Marionettes concert at Queens' Hall. We were delighted to see each other and shared a big hug.
He has contributed so much and deserves more than a silver medal. May He rest in peace.
Hazel Thompson-Ahye 70
2022-APR-20-0949Hrs
Another talented musician has left. Thanks Desmond for the music.
Desmond Waithe
https://youtu.be/Q7_3VvAfnd8
Brenda Alexander-Perez 65
2022-APR-11-1317Hrs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRO6Lz2hDJQ
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-APR-09-1508Hrs
Hi Rodney:
I was sorry to hear about the passing of Horse (Leslie Greenidge)..Sunset illa man. I called Sto, who lives in Champs Fleurs, but he was unaware.
Horse was a blue blood Mausican from the 66-68 year group. These passings affect me. I had come to think of the Mausican as indestructible. I still think us to be so.
Is that not the lesson from these Mausica children?
We are finding that they too can sing...and indeed can descant..
The curtains are being drawn on early generations, only to open again...for the Children...
Gwennie reminds us of some of the anchors, .Harry Jo, Daphne Cuffie, Roland Maunday, June Joseph, Fanny Roopchand......add Lance Lougheide, Wilfred Philips (Alisford's old man), Bert Baptiste, Hamlyn Dukhan, Evelyn Hordatt.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#search/mausica+teachers+college+albumn?projector=1
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#search/mausica+teachers+college+albumn/FMfcgxwHNWBVWXsxPHFhXdQsRhLGlgzq?projector=1
Recently I had a great lime with Clyde Ballantyne (Pool) and Lynette Mark.....shooting the breeze about ole times.....During our conversations I solved the puzzle about who was the author of the great Mayfair flood that saw the shoes and other belongings of Frederick Beckles (Beck; Badjohn Teacher Face) floating out of the Mayfair lobby...causing Beck to think, wrongly, that the culprit was a Havenite.....
As I indicated in an earlier post, Beck was so distraught at seeing his belongings floating down the Mayfair corridor that he crossed Fairhaven Square with a cutlass...We in turn, drawing upon vaunted Haven commonsense and agency...and also resorting to prudence...had decided to lock the entrance to our hostel...and also to fortify in defensive posture...
But it appears from the authoritative account I heard from "Pool" that Beck had gone to the wrong hostel in search of the culprit. Remember there were only three, so he really had just two degrees of freedom. But he guessed wrongly. Or did he?
There was also an authoritative, apparently first-hand, account, that men from Haven had been in the washroom of Mayfair that night, and what reason could there have been for Havenites to be in Mayfair washroom after hours? The only thing I can think of there is that they might have gone over there to play brag, with men like Joe Ragoonanan, Jerry Hernandez, McDonald Rodney, Beck, and Gregory Byrne.
Scratchy.
Theodore Lewis 69
2022-APR-09-0028Hrs
Hello Maria,
It’s great hearing from you.
Please help organize the 2023 MTC Reunion in TNT. Yes, let’s replicate the Trinidad and Tobago itinerary.
A return to the Hyatt, Hilton or Bucco, Charlotte Ville, Annette Alleyne’s Theater, Allan Clovis’ Arawak,
Heritage Month and visits to TV stations and print media would be ideal and launching of The Mausica Teachers College Charitable Foundation would be most uplifting. The MTC Legacy.
“Can We Talk?”
As usual,
Rodney Foster 66-68
2022-APR-03-2149Hrs
My Felllow Mausicans.
First, I would like to congratulate the Blackman family on their joyful achievement. Keep it up Jewell.
Next, I convey my condolences to Brenda and her entire family.
On Sunday Carl Caton informed me that his roommate at Mausica, Leslie Greenidge, passed away on Friday in Arima.
Leslie was my Sunset Villa pardnah in my first year at MTC.
Rest in peace, my brother.
Veda and family, we lift you up in prayer.
May the Good Lord comfort you.
Sincerely,
Rodney Foster 66-68
