Culturosity

Way Down In The Hole

2008-11-12T11:06:00.001-04:30

Preggers sent me this one like last Tuesday, but I just got around to posting it.

Nuff said.

2008-11-10T22:46:00.003-04:30

Check out the latest razzle dazzle from the boys over at TriniJungleJuice TV. New(ish) episodes every Tuesday.

R. W. Fassbinder Film Series in Port of Spain

2008-11-01T04:03:00.000-04:30

Dear Movie Lovers,

To commemorate the 26th anniversary of Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s death, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in co-operation with MovieTowne is presenting a one-week film series with a selection of some of his most famous films.

Beginning on 5 November the following films will be shown in German with English subtitles at 5.30 p.m. daily:
Lili Marleen, Martha, Lola, Fear Eats the Soul, The Marriage of Maria Braun, Effi Briest and Veronika Voss.
The summaries of the films are attached to this email.
Tickets are available at MovieTowne at a reduced entrance fee of
15,- TT$.

There will be a complementary screening of “Katzelmacher” at the StudioFilmClub (Building 7, Fernandes Industrial Center, Eastern Main Road, Laventille, Port of Spain) on Thursday, 13 November 2008 at
8.30 p.m.

Born in 1945, Fassbinder was a man of many contradictions. Known as a skilled aesthete and perfectionist, he was a rebel against the post-war era as much as he grew up as a part of it. Unlike other directors, Fassbinder primarily focused on the political and social issues of his time, portraying German society and revealing its state of mind. Many famous actors like Rudolf Platte, Adrian Hoven and Luise Ulrich followed his call and stayed with him for the production of a number of movies.
Even though his actual working period lasted only 17 years, Fassbinder’s radical perfectionism, his new aesthetics and of course his political perspective have deeply influenced filmmakers across the globe. Films such as Fear Eats the Soul, Veronica Voss and Lili Marleen as well as numerous television productions and stage-plays have gained him continuing reception and recognition. Often compared to Andy Warhol’s Factory, Fassbinder managed to establish post-war realism in German film, renewing its political status quo, and provided a focal point for actors for many years.

On the Menu: A National Treasure

2008-04-05T19:46:00.002-04:30

Interesting article on the Time Magazine website about the Scarlet Ibis. I went down to the Wildfowl Trust in Point-a-Pierre for the first time a couple weeks ago, and checked out their Ibis breeding program. A definite must see.

And they've got peacocks.

Senior Officer In Sex Romp

2008-03-28T20:31:00.001-04:30

The Guardian reports:

A senior policeman allegedly went skinny-dipping with four illegal Colombian detainees, fed them KFC and then had sex with them in the Point Fortin Police Station.

Amazing.

Aint Nothin' New

2008-03-23T23:50:00.002-04:30

hope to see you aboard the sea prowler (pier 1) on friday 4th april for nothin' new. yeah.

there will be (free) cocktails, the serious business crew will be killing it on the lower deck, and we'll have a special guest dj upstairs, bringing you the biggest hip hop and r&b club bangers.

the boat only holds a hunnerd fitty people, so rsvp is uber necessary! and we push off at ten, so show up early.

Seven Blunders of the World

2008-03-22T10:41:00.003-04:30

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869 in Porbandar, India. He led India's movement for independence from British rule and is one of the most respected spiritual and political leaders of the 20th century. In 1948 he was assassinated by a Hindu fanatic who opposed his tolerance for all creeds and religions. Gandhi is honoured by his people as the father of the Indian nation and is called 'Mahatma', which means Great Soul. Just before he died, Ghandi gave this list to his grandson.

Wealth without work
Pleasure without conscience
Knowledge without character
Commerce without morality
Science without humanity
Worship without sacrifice
Politics without principle

In a just world, every person reaps the reward of her own work - but to be wealthy, you must have people working for you from whom you derive some percentage profit of their work.

A Trini Letter To Santa

2007-12-18T12:36:00.000-04:30

Tuna Puna
Trinidad

December 26, 2006

Dear Santa, Ah know yah probly wonderin why I writin yuh on Boxsing Day, but after opening meh presents and dem yesterday, I just had to write yuh. Santa ah was a real good gyul all year round, ah lissen to meh muddah when she talk to meh, ah help out with house wuk, ah even help de neighbour chilrren and them do dey chaws too. Ah helped dat old Mr.George across d road when d oddah chilrren just watch him and leave him dey. And lissen to meh muddah when she talk to meh, ah help out with house wuk, ah even help de neighbour chilrren and them do dey chaws too. Santa ah study hard in school dis year, so hard that ah come fuss in meh class.

Santa when ah write meh Christmas List to yuh, ah axk yuh for a Barbie princess doll, ah Barbie kitchen, ah Dora the Explorer computer game and a monopoly. So Santa . . . how the fock after reading meh list you would leave under d blasted Christmas tree ah shitty focking light up yo-yo, ah mudderfocking plastic tea-set and ah focking no name dolly lookin like she have polio. Santa is like yuh focking blind or yuh cyah read!

Every year ah say ah would stop believing in yuh focking ass and like ah fool ah does always give yuh ah nex chance but yuh fock again. Yuh focking fat ass dead with me, yuh hear what ah say, yuh dead. Ah go wait for yuh muddahass next year, yuh better don't try to squeeze yuh fat bolockscious ass thru meh louvers, because Santa ah swear ah go fock yuh up, it go be me , you and a guava wood. Just imagine you give that little cokey eye, knock knee, moddaacunt Laurel from across de road, she get everything that she axk for, till she doh even have room to walk around she house.

And Santa, yuh see you and dem focking reindeer and dem, all yah better tink twice bout landing on my house next year, especially dat focking Red noseprick Rudolph, ah go stone he muddacunt, yuh go have to walk back to d focking north pole when ah done with dem. I swear nex year, ah waiting patiently for yuh fat focking ass to come Ho-Hoin' on meh galvanise roof. Ah go do fuh yuh, ah promise, watch and see...

Love,
Kerri Ann.

The Nativity In Basildon

2007-12-18T12:34:00.000-04:30

THE CHAV NATIVITY

There's this bird called Mary, yeah? She's a virgin (wossat then?)

She's not married or nuffink, but she's got this boyfriend, Joe, innit? He does joinery an' that. Mary lives with him in a crib dahn Nazaref. One day Mary meets this bloke Gabriel. She's like 'Oo ya lookin at?' Gabriel just goes 'You got one up the duff, you have.' Mary's totally gobsmacked. She gives it to him large 'Stop dissin' me yeah? I ain't no Kappa-slapper. I never bin wiv no one!'So Mary goes and sees her cousin Liz, who's six months gone herself. Liz is largin' it. She's filled with spirits, Barcardi Breezers an' that. She's like 'Orright, Mary, I can feel me bay-bee in me tummy and I reckon I'm well blessed. Think of all the extra benefits an' that we are gonna get.' Mary goes 'Yeah, s'pose you're right'

Mary an' Joe ain't got no money so they have to ponse a donkey, an' go dahn Bethlehem on that. They get to this pub an' Mary wants to stop, yeah? To have her bay-bee an' that. But there ain't no room at the inn, innit? So Mary an' Joe break an' enter into this garridge, only it's filled wiv animals. Cahs an' sheep an' that.

Then these three geezers turn up, looking proper bling, wiv crowns on their heads. They're like 'Respect, bay-bee Jesus', an' say they're wise men from the East End. Joe goes: 'If you're so wise, wotchoo doin' wiv this Frankenstein an' myrrh? Why dincha just bring gold, Adidas and Burberry?' It's all about to kick off when Gabriel turns up again an' sez he's got another message from this Lord geezer. He's like 'The police is comin an' they're killin all the bay-bees. You better nash off to Egypt.' Joe goes 'You must be monged if you think I'm goin' dahn Egypt on a minging donkey' Gabriel sez 'Suit yerself, pal. But it's your look out if you stay.'

So they go dahn Egypt till they've stopped killin the first-born an' it's safe an'that. Then Joe and Mary and Jesus go back to Nazaref, an' Jesus turns water into Stella.

Sad Kermit

2007-12-14T18:39:00.001-04:30

This is some pretty sick shit. If you likey, check out the Sad Kermit website.

More Vino Xmas Sale

2007-12-14T15:03:00.000-04:30

Premium gift baskets from J Designs, leather belts, jewellery and hand made candles.

This Saturday at MoreVino from 12 noon.

Christmas Shopping, Part Trois

2007-12-13T20:46:00.000-04:30

Yet another boutique in Woodbrook! WARD3010 is on Alfredo Street, just off Ariapita Avenue. They specialize in men's and women's designer clothing, and claim to bring 'celebrity status services' to Trinidad.

Like in case you need to get an Armani Suit at 2AM.

Give them a call on 868.622.1574 or email ward3010clothing@yahoo.com.

Corner of Varick and Broome Street

2007-12-13T20:25:00.000-04:30

Shimon sends:

Was in a cab last night heading to dinner.... saw this and thought of you ... one for your blog .. :)

Chic Shak

2007-12-13T20:21:00.000-04:30

Christmas Post #2! These ladies sell a lot of interesting action. Check them out at 27 Jerningham Avenue in Belmont, right next door to Millhouse Clothing.

CHOICES

2007-12-13T19:44:00.000-04:30

Two of my boys wrote a bunch of scripts for this 10 part mini-series. Tempo took the scripts, hacked them to bits, and produced CHOICES: Roots, Reality and Culture. It's airing now, or you can watch the episodes online at choices.gottempo.com.

Enjoy.

Who Wants To Be A Jillionaire?

2007-12-13T19:38:00.001-04:30

Test your knowledge of useless Trinidad trivia in this Island Style version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.

Link

Sautrelle

2007-12-13T18:50:00.000-04:30

Since it's Christmas, let me point you in the direction of a shiny, [not so] new boutique. Sautrelle is located at 1A White Street in Woodbrook, and they open Tuesday to Saturday from 11AM to 6PM. They're doing a fancy shmancy kinda personal shopping thing, so you gotta call in advance (868.622.8777).

The boutique's owned by DJ Ravin, one half of the Amateurs, so you know they got their shit together.

Zen Rooftop approved.

M.I.A.'s Chutney Extravaganza

2007-12-11T13:17:00.000-04:30

When next you're in Trinidad, head up to Maracas Valley, St Joseph (not the beach). When you get to the Cadbury Estate, turn off the main road and you'll eventually come to a small river with some indians bathing on the side of the bridge. Have some white rum and curried procupine, and you'll understand the inspiration behind this remix.

m.i.a. - boyz (big rich chutney extravaganza)

Bored? Join bchat now.

2007-12-11T12:55:00.000-04:30

Facebook Deleted My Account.

2007-11-12T19:50:00.001-04:00

-----Original Message-----
From: Clark from Facebook [mailto:appeals-comment@facebook.com]
Sent: Friday, November 02, 2007 10:59 PM
To: xxx@hotmail.com
Subject: [rt.facebook.com #7210642] FW: Warning: Your Facebook Account

Hi Christopher,

You have already been given a second chance when we
reactivated your account on 6/20/07. You received numerous
warnings to slow down your activity. Failure to adhere to those
warnings has resulted in the permanent loss of your account.
We will not be able to reactivate your account, nor will you be
able to recover any content within the account. This decision is
final.

Thank you for understanding,

Clark
Customer Support Representative
Facebook

[xxx@hotmail.com - Thu Nov 01 16:44:29 2007]:

hi i got disabled for messaging my friends about my new
facebook group. can you please re-enable my account?

thanks
CHRIS> Date: Thu, 1 Nov 2007 16:28:13 -0700> To:
xxx@hotmail.com> From: info
+ovzopzre@facebookmail.com> Subject: Warning: Your
Facebook Account> > Hi,> > Your account has been disabled
for persistent misuse of the site. Please contact
disabled@facebook.com for more information.> > The Facebook
Team> >
_______________________________________________________________

Alicia Keys Mix CD!

2007-11-12T19:35:00.000-04:00

Question: Like free shit?
Answer: Download Walshy Fiyah’s new Mix CD!

Now!

Christmas Open Studio 2007

2007-11-12T19:12:00.001-04:00

Check out Janice Derrick's fancy fancy range of handmade jewelry and Christmas ornaments. She's hosting a preview on Thursday 6th December (5 - 9pm), and the Open Studio's on Friday 7th December (noon - 7pm), Saturday 8th December (noon - 6pm) and Sunday 9th December (noon - 5pm) at 5 Hamel-Smith Terrace in Cascade.

For more info, email info[at]janicederrick[dot]com or visit her website.

Go get your username

2007-11-12T18:56:00.000-04:00

There is a big Caribbean social site coming out that only a few people know about yet.

Go sign up now and get your username and web address (e.g. caribfriends.com/yourname) before it's gone.

The word is spreading....

Sex Tech

2007-07-23T12:54:00.000-04:00

Makes me wanna go back to school:

Because geeks make great lovers, you have to expect a certain level of practical interest in sex tech. And because this generation grew up with the internet and mobile devices and don't always distinguish between "virtual" and "real" life, they are comfortable with technology as a platform for both physical and emotional intimacy.

Check the academics here.

TrinDeal

2007-07-23T12:01:00.000-04:00

It's time for Trinidad to have it's own auction marketplace, a la eBay. Check out TrinDeal.com, the site is totally FREE for everyone involved. FREE to list items! FREE to sell! FREE to get an online store!

You know i love free shit. To learn more click here.

Fela In The Yard

2007-07-19T19:37:00.000-04:00

I'll be doing a bit of a Fela tribute tomorrow night at Alice Yard. From West Africa to West London, the man and his music have influenced generations of musicians across all genres, including James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Talib Kweli, Vikter Duplaix and so many more.

All are invited to pass through, and maybe tell a friend if you can.

Justin Sobion's works on display in Amsterdam

2007-06-20T15:38:00.000-04:00

Opens tomorrow. Don't think I'll be able to make it, but if you're in Hamster Damn this week or next, be sure to check it out.

51 Miles Auto Safari

2007-06-18T22:49:00.000-04:00

The event takes place on Sunday 1st July, and the deadline for registration is Thursday 28th June.

Registration forms can be dowloaded from http://www.51degrees.biz/, and the registration fee is $150. Forms and fee are to be dropped off at 51 Degrees, or any one of the committee members.

Register NOW!

Swing It Away

2007-06-18T12:35:00.000-04:00

Check out the video for M.I.A.'s latest single Boyz, off her new record coming in July. It was done in Jamaica, and features some crazy dancing and even crazier graphics.

Tainted Chinese Imports Common

2007-06-18T09:16:00.000-04:00

If they're sending junk to the US, you can only imagine what they send to the Island:

For years, U.S. inspection records show, China has flooded the United States with foods unfit for human consumption. And for years, FDA inspectors have simply returned to Chinese importers the small portion of those products they caught - many of which turned up at U.S. borders again, making a second or third attempt at entry.

Read the full story here.

The Price Of Sugar

2007-06-18T09:09:00.000-04:00

A fiery Spanish Priest risks his life to confront modern-day slavery on the sugarcane plantations of the Dominican Republic.

Jamiroquai Bootleg Vault

2007-06-18T09:06:00.000-04:00

Former bass player Simon Merrick has started uploading concerts from every era for all to grab...he got kicked off his first ISP, but you can download the bootlegs here.

Stones Throw Podcasts

2007-06-18T08:59:00.000-04:00

Try saying that five times fast. Go to http://www.stonesthrow.com, hit Jukebox. If you don't have iTunes, click the subscribe link to download the mp3s.

Fete de la Musique 2007

2007-06-18T08:50:00.000-04:00

'La Fête de la Musique' began in France in 1982 and it is held every year on the 21st June, the day of the Summer Solstice. In Trinidad and Tobago'La Fête de la Musique', is organised by the Alliance Française and it has been an ongoing event since 1993.

'La Fête de la Musique' 2007 takes place at the Normandie Hotel on Thursday 21st June from 630PM, and features 3 Canal, Pantar, 12 The Band and others. For more information you can vist www.alliancetnt.com or www.fetedelamusique.fr, or phone them up on 868.622.61 19.

Disturbing Children's Books

2007-06-18T08:20:00.000-04:00

Alex sends this link to your favorite bedtime stories.

Essay on an Indian cow!

2007-06-17T21:58:00.000-04:00

You might forget your English by the time you finish reading this.

This is a true essay written by a Bihari (a person from the North Indian state of Bihar) candidate at the UPSC (IAS ? Indian Administrative Service) Examinations. The candidate has written an essay on the Indian cow.

Indian Cow HE IS THE COW. "The cow is a successful animal. Also he is 4 footed, And because he is female, he give milks, [but will do so when he is got child]. He is same like God, sacred to Hindus and useful to man. But he has got four legs together. Two are forward and two are afterwards. His whole body can be utilised for use. More so the milk. Milk comes from 4 taps attached to his basement. [horses don't have any such attachment]

What can it do ? Various ghee, butter, cream, curd, why and the condensed milk and so forth. Also he is useful to cobbler, watermans and mankind generally. His motion is slow only because he is of lazy species, Also his other motion.. gober (i.e dung) is much useful to trees, plants as well as for making flat cakes (like Pizza), in hand and drying in the sun.

Cow is the only animal that extricates his feeding after eating. Then afterwards she chew with his teeth whom are situated in the inside of the mouth. He is incessantly in the meadows in the grass. His only attacking and defending organ is the horns, specially so when he is got child. This is done by knowing his head whereby he causes the weapons to be paralleled to the ground of the earth and instantly proceed with great velocity forwards. He has got tails also, situated in the backyard, but not like similar animals. It has hairs on the other end of the other side. This is done to frighten away the files which alight on his cohesive body hereupon he gives hit with it. The palms of his feet are soft unto the touch. So the grasses head is not crushed.

At night time have poses by looking down on the ground and he shouts. His eyes and nose are like his other relatives.

This is the cow....

We are informed that the candidate passed the exam, and is now an IAS, is bihar in somewhere...sorry somewhere in Bihar.

Is he gonna sing a song about this one?

2007-06-17T21:54:00.000-04:00

In case you missed it, here's a video of Akon's latest underage onstage antics.

Only On The Island

2007-06-17T21:50:00.001-04:00

Sent by Rachael, for your information.

How to start each day with a positive outlook

2007-06-17T21:45:00.000-04:00

1. Open a new file in your computer
2. Name it "Patrick Manning"
3. Send it to the Recycle Bin
4. Empty the Recycle Bin
5. Your PC will ask you, "Are you sure you want to remove Patrick Manning?"
6. Firmly Click "Yes"

Germans Not Amused

2007-06-17T21:33:00.000-04:00

LONDON: (AFP) British tourists have left the residents of one charming Austrian village effing and blinding by constantly stealing the signs for their oddly named village. While British visitors are finding it hilarious, the residents of Fucking (Austria) are failing to see the funny side. Only one kind of criminal stalks the sleepy 32-house village near Salzburg on the German border - cheeky British tourists armed with a sense of humor and a screwdriver. But the local authorities are hitting back with the signs now set in concrete, police chief Kommandant Schmidtberger is on the lookout.

“We will not stand for the Fucking signs being removed,” the officer said. “It may be very amusing for you British, but Fucking is simply Fucking to us. What is this big Fucking joke? It is puerile.” Local tourist guide Andreas Behmueller said it was only the British that had a fixation with Fucking. “The Germans all want to see the Mozart house in Salzburg,” he explained. “Every American seems to care only about ‘The Sound of Music’ (the 1965 film shot around Salzburg.) The occasional Japanese wants to see Hilter’s birthplace in Braunau.”

“But for the British, it’s all about Fucking.” Guesthouse manager Augustina Lindelbauer described the village’s breathtaking lakes, forests and vistas. “Yet still there is this obsession with Fucking,” she said. “Just this morning I had to tell an English lady that there were no Fucking postcards.” We don’t know how severe the stolen sign problem there really is, but Austria is indeed home to a town called ‘Fucking’ (48′ 03″N 13′ 51″E). Pronounced “fooking,” the little hamlet of Fucking is named after the man who founded the village in the 6th century. His name? Focko.

Mongolian Grill

2007-06-17T21:19:00.000-04:00

Jesus came to Philip Lau in a dream and said to him, "Phil boy, you hadda take this stir fry thing down to Trinidad. I counting on you to make this happen." And Philip said, "yeah boy Son of God, I go handle that eh man, but i could only find a space in Chaguanas, I hope that go work for you."

If you're ever in Price Plaza, and can't deal with the overly priced, overly fried Ruby Friday's or TGI Tuesday's, be sure to check out that Mongolian Grill. It's mm mm good.

Genghis Khan approved.

Free! Free! Free!

2007-06-11T21:22:00.000-04:00

12 The Band will be playing at Woodford Cafe tomorrow (Tuesday) night from 9:30PM. Mmm...angsty.

Tony Roma's

2007-06-11T21:20:00.001-04:00

What can I say about this place that hasn't already been said about Sealots: you should avoid it at all costs, and everything smells like fish.

Surface Computing

2007-06-01T19:05:00.000-04:00

Man, I heart the future.

Pantar for Songshine's 2nd Anniversary

2007-05-31T19:50:00.001-04:00

Gillian Moor has more anniversaries and birthdays than Dr Hyde and Papa Rocky squooshed together. The open mic concert series will be two years old on Sunday 3rd June, and Mungal Patasar will be stomping through to celebrate. Shows starts at 7PM and tickets cost $40. No weeping and moaning cuz it aint free, grab your tix at Trevor's Edge, or call up Gillian on 868.760.4655.

Embah's Big Day Out

2007-05-31T19:36:00.000-04:00

Heelo Ameericains...please try to attend the opening of Embah's exhibition this Saturday June 2nd, at White Columns in NYC. It runs from 6-8PM, and the exhibition has been generously supported by Martin and Rebecca Eisenberg.

WHITE COLUMNS is at 320 West 13th Street, and you can reach them on 212.924.4212.

Genius.

2007-05-31T19:28:00.000-04:00

Everyone knows I am an NJAC man (I've got the t-shirt to prove it), but someone signed me up for the UNC popaganda mailing list, and I received this gem:

The Barataria/San Juan executive is having a cake sale on Saturday 9th June from 8am-12pm. It will be held downstairs the constiutency office:
Railway Road
San Juan
Next to El Socorro taxi stand, downstairs Trendsetters garment factory.
For further information please contact the office at 674-4788/ 674-0387/ uncbaratariasanjuanexecutive@yahoo.com
Thank You
Rennie Mohan
Secretary

I think downstairs Trendsetters garment factory is a great place to have a cake sale. Please Baratarians (San Juaners?), buy a cake with Panday's face on the front.

Voix - An Art Gallery

2007-05-31T19:22:00.000-04:00

Who would think there was an art gallery in Cocoyea Village? Chinese restaurant, crack house, art gallery...makes perfect sense. But wait, this is the same community that has an olympic size swimming pool, but no water to fill it. Right.

Anyway, “Innumerable Viewpoints IV” runs until June 6th, and features the work of over 30 artists. The Gallery is located at #14 Naparima Mayaro Road, Upper Cocoyea Village in San Fernando, and for more info you can call Natasha Byron at 652.0710/768 .9664.

It's the biggest group show Cocoyea has ever seen!

I've got a thing for pictures.

2007-05-31T19:07:00.000-04:00

If you've got a thing for pictures, give Joanne Johnson a hail, she's looking for volunteer photographers:

A mobile unit will tour our country from June to October this year to host community discussions about environmental awareness. The intention is to gather consciousness from the people of T&T towards protecting our land against the proposed smelter and to set precedents for further indiscriminate industrialization.
You can offer as little or as much time as you feel joyfully willing and able
Get one other person to contribute in some way
A camera will be provided

Check the Smelta Karavan website, or call Joanne at 629.6582/ 355.6930.

This Is Intense.

2007-05-31T19:04:00.000-04:00

I have no idea what it is, but i want one.

Updates, anyone?

2007-05-31T19:01:00.000-04:00

Forgive me, but I've been busy re-organising my Scotch Tape collection.

Pilar you are Jah sunshine.

2007-05-31T18:57:00.000-04:00

Enjoy heaven, my friend. Nice knowing you - I know you'll have some extra hard questions to ask the next time we meet.

Studio Sale - Tessa Alexander

2007-05-26T23:23:00.000-04:00

Tessa's moving out of her studio at CCA7, and is currently hosting a sale of several framed and unframed works. For more information, you can check her out down at Studio 3 at CCA7, or give her a holler on 745.6816. Pick up something nice, to match the drapes or whatever.

Breaking News

2007-05-26T23:15:00.000-04:00

I know this is super short notice but please try to come down to the National Museum tomorrow (Sunday) for about 4:30PM. Mungal Patasar is doing an open air show, and he's really, really good.

So be there.

Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival - Call for Submissions

2007-05-25T07:22:00.000-04:00

This year's Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival will be held in September and October. It opens at Movietowne, and hits up St. Augustine, San Fernando and Tobago, before closing with the Animae Caribe Animation and New Media festival at UWI, October 25-27.

The deadline for submissions is June 30th, and for more information contact ttfilmfest[at]wow[dot]net. They don't want to talk to you, otherwise they would've put their phone number.

Full Circle Art Centre

2007-05-23T02:39:00.000-04:00

I had lunch at this place on Monday - it's a gallery/ art supply shop/ café. The place smells nice, and they make good juice. They're at 54 Gallus Street in Woodbrook (between Ariapita and Tragerete), and the gallery/ shop hours are 8:30AM - 4:30PM (café hours are 9AM - 2PM.

The picture above is by Maisaa Moses, one of several artists that are currently on show.

How To Drive In Trinidad

2007-05-23T02:34:00.000-04:00

1. Turn signals will give away your next move. A real Trini driver never uses them, besides if you do the driver on the lane on which you are trying to get in front of will just accelerate to not let you get in.

2. Under no circumstance should you leave a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, or the space will be filled in by somebody else, putting you in an even more dangerous situation and also delaying you to your destination.

3. The faster you drive through a red light, the lesser the chance you have of getting hit.

4. Never, ever come to a complete stop at a stop sign. No one expects it and it will result in you being rear-ended.

5. Never get in the way of an older car that needs extensive bodywork, especially someone with no insurance ...the other guy doesn't have anything to lose.

6. Braking is to be done as hard and late as possible to ensure that your ABS kicks in, giving a nice, relaxing foot massage as the brake pedal pulsates. For those of you without ABS, it's a chance to stretch your legs.

7. Never pass on the right when you can pass on the left . It's a good way to prepare for people entering the highway.

8. Speed limits are arbitrary numbers, given only as a suggestion and are apparently not enforceable in T&T.

9. Just because you're in the right lane and have no room to speed up or move over doesn't mean that a Trini driver flashing his high beams behind you doesn't think he can go faster in your spot.

10. Always slow down and rubberneck when you see an accident or even someone changing a tire. This is seen as a sign of respect for the victim.

11. Learn to swerve abruptly. Trinidad is the home of high-speed slalom driving.

12. It is traditional in Trini to honk your horn at cars that don't move the instant the light turns green. Even though you are at risk of getting shot by the driver in front of you if you do this. Psst....you may be at similar risk from the driver behind if you don't.

13. Remember that the goal of every Trini driver is to get there first by whatever means necessary.

14. 'Flipping someone the bird' is considered a polite salute. This gesture should always be returned.

Hasselburger

2007-05-23T02:31:00.000-04:00

Rolling around the floor in just his jeans, the Hoff makes a clumsy attempt at eating a burger - which lasts six minutes.

Genius.

Ocean Style Magazine

2007-05-23T02:09:00.000-04:00

The latest issue of Ocean Style just hit the magazine racks. Or you could hug a tree and read it online.

Hello Indian People, Culturosity Loves You.

2007-05-23T02:00:00.000-04:00

Check out Brownscape Production's Brownbag Magazine, chock full of Asian American content. They'd put out this documentary a coupla years back called Made In India, about arranged marriages.

Maybe if you ask nicely i can ask Deepti for the bootleg corner bodega version.

First Totally Black-Owned Search Engine

2007-05-23T01:57:00.000-04:00

And you can tell just by looking at it. Could this be the busiest front page EVAR?

The Thing About Blogging

2007-05-23T01:52:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you start off blogging all hot and sweaty and you feel like yeah man i going to do this and talk about that, but then you just kinda get bored of it and go back to watching porn and downloading songs.

The Invisible Man

2007-05-23T01:42:00.000-04:00

Interesting New Yorker article on Banksy, one of the most influential artists of the 21st Century. Or whichever one it is that we're in.

Roadside Cuisine

2007-05-23T01:35:00.000-04:00

I knew a girl back in the day that wouldn't 'eat by the road'. She endured a relatively sheltered childhood, and rebelled against her parents by dating on of my boys - a serious KFC/ Mackie D/ BK's kinda guy.

Anyway i have found that in Trinidad the most consistent eating experience is Roadside Cuisine. Whether it is a Kanhai roti, George X doubles, Yellow Cart burger or a Brown punch, you know that both the service and the quality of the food will remain consistent. Every now and then somebody on the team might get the shits (not me), but i've seen more roaches coming out of the kitchen at Tiki Village than on the sidewalk outside Kanhai.

Australia bans cricket tour to Zimbabwe

2007-05-15T23:38:00.000-04:00

Since when did cricket get so dramatic off the field?

Prime Minister John Howard said Sunday the Australian government has banned the country's cricket team from touring Zimbabwe in September because he does not want to support the regime of a "grubby dictator."

Why does Mugabe look so much like this guy?

Smelly

2007-05-15T23:32:00.000-04:00

Noble Douglas’ Lilliput Theatre presents their 2007 production, Smelly. Directed by 3Canal's Wendell Manwarren, Smelly is a commentary on our nation’s state of development and environment, addressing local issues including the smelter projects and Vision 2020. It will be presented this coming weekend (May 18, 19 and 20) at Queen's Hall. $60 for adults and $40 for kids, tickets are available at Crosby's Music Centre in St James or from all Lilliput students.

Congrats Jeanille

2007-05-15T23:27:00.000-04:00

Ms Downtown Island won Best Actress at the Bridgetown Film Festival for her role in the new film Hit For Six. HFS won “Best Barbadian Film” from a field of seven films and Best Cinematographer of the Festival went to Richard Lannaman.

In related news, fellow Trinidadian Yao Ramesar won Best Director for his film Sistagod.

Take a bow!

Relevant Theatre - Oui Mama!

2007-05-15T23:23:00.000-04:00

The title of 'Undisputed Limbo Queen' is not to be taken lightly, and Relevant Theatre's latest production celebrates the life of its esteemed holder, Julia Edwards-Pelletier. There's an utterly inappropriate joke that I'm not making here, but the show takes place on Saturday 19th May at the Strand. For info call the Strand box office at 868.623.5108.

Reminder - Haiti Now!

2007-05-15T23:18:00.000-04:00

The Haitian culture seminar continues til Thursday at Centre for Language Learning Auditorium at UWI St Augustine. Maksaens Denis and Robbie Styles kill it Audio/Visually from 6PM on Wednesday.

Swan Chinese Restaurant

2007-05-15T23:05:00.000-04:00

So I was finally able to catch Swan open on Monday. Basically they have an OPEN sign hanging in the window, but you're at the mercy of the owners. I pressed the buzzer today and luckily someone answered. The service was good and the food was excellent - unlike a certain dive on Ariapita Avenue that may or may not serve Dim Sum on a weekend.

Oral sex linked to throat cancer

2007-05-14T10:20:00.000-04:00

"I've got a headache" seems tame in comparison:

The New England Journal of Medicine study said the risk was almost nine times higher for people who reported oral sex with more than six partners.

Link

Friday! Friday!

2007-05-10T08:53:00.000-04:00

3Canal will be passing through the Yard. Will they sing a song? Will they get into a long winded debate over topics I'm not bright enough to follow?

More [less] importantly, there will be rice and peas and stew chicking on sale. Yummay.

Talking starts at 8:30, and for more info you can call Sheldon on 868.723.0060.

Tonight! Tonight!

2007-05-10T08:47:00.000-04:00

Two local documentaries at the Studio Flims Club - a new one about the Kilimanjaro School in Cocorite, and a not-so-new one about Trinidad Carnival.

UP AND DANCING - THE MAGIC STILTS OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO (Harald Rumpf/2007/T&T-Germmany/51’)
The documentary “Up and Dancing” follows the lives of several students and teachers of the “Kilimanjaro School of Arts and Culture” as they prepare for upcoming carnival parades in Port of Spain, Trinidad.The film takes a realistic yet tender look at the practitioners of the traditional art of stilt walking; characters popularly know as Moko Jumbies.Practiced primarily by youths from low-income families in the Cocorite hills, “walking” has become a creative diversion from the sometimes harsh realities of poor urban life.
CARNIVAL ROOTS (Peter Chelkowski/2003/T&T-USA/90’)
“Carnival Roots” is an electrifying documentary film about the people and the music that fuel Trinidad’s carnival.Made over a period of three years while in collaboration with some of Trinidad’s most dynamic designers, musicians, masqueraders and historians, “Carnival Roots” manages to touch on some of the major elements and themes that shape carnival as we know it today.With great clarity the film offers an insight into the historical links between traditional mas and the development of new forms within carnival.What emerges as the film progresses is not a presentation of carnival as revelry and fun but a vision of carnival seen as the act of a nation forging it’s own identity.From camboulay to steelband, to calypso and soca the film emphasizes of the power of transformation that is inherent in the domain of carnival. “Carnival Roots”
which features the music of Machel Montano, Black Stalin, Bunji Garlin and Super Blue among others, is elegantly shot on 16mm film and would have to be considered one of the most definitive films made on the subject of carnival.

Flims from 8:15, doors open at 7:30. Admission free free free and drinks on sale.

How To Ignore Your Sociologist

2007-05-07T11:14:00.000-04:00

This dude called Dr. Agozino, who's head of the UWI Department of Behavioural Sciences and coordinator of their Criminology Programme, writes the most amazing garbage for Vanguard, a Nigerian newspaper. You've GOT to check out his work!

I didn't even know Nigeria had the internets.

Conversations In The Yard

2007-05-03T03:07:00.000-04:00

Saltfish and dumpling this week! They advertise Robbie Styles again this week, but last time they talk out the man, better to just go for the food.

Alice Yard always worth checking.

Concrete Dance

2007-05-03T02:48:00.000-04:00

Sounds like UK madness, this Thursday at Trevor's Edge. Spencer in the I-trol Tower, and I might very well come through and do that dirty thing - one turntable, talking through the headphones, milkcrate full of dubs, even the crazy breakdancing dread from the record store in Rockers.

Admission free free free.

May Songshine

2007-05-03T02:45:00.000-04:00

Songshine returns to Trevor's Edge this Sunday, amidst no controversy whatsoever. Jamming starts at 7, and admission is free free free. It's Gillian's birthday, so at least walk with a beers money to say thanks for the music over the last two years.

For more info, call 760.4655.

Slight Curry, Plenty Tabanca

2007-05-03T02:40:00.000-04:00

I wouldn't be caught dead at the Squeeze (this is no exception), but Dougie's band is playing on Friday from 9PM. Tabanca is this amazing blues band that i first ran into a few years ago at the No Name Bar On Gatacre Street With The Heineken Sign And Not Much Else. Plus they got a German dude on geetar.

Tell yer mum!

Tobago Laglee

2007-05-03T02:29:00.000-04:00

My boy Colin did this shoot in Tobago on the weekend. Pretty straightforward stuff, 'cept the picture doesn't show the chickens hanging out in the drain, or the fat man/crazy man directing traffic, or the amazing heritage buildings that will soon be torn down and replaced by gaudy celebrations of 21st century island architecture.

Long sigh.

Haiti Now!

2007-05-03T02:20:00.000-04:00

Haitian DJ/VJ Maksaens Denis will be doing his thing on Wednesday 16t at the UWI Humanties Building. The show is free and runs from 6PM to 8PM.

This experimental set combines the music and video of Haitian DJ/VJ Maksaens Denis. Part of the Haiti Now! Art, Film, Literature seminar at UWI, Denis will collaborate with Robbie “Styles" Persaud, a Trinidadian folk musician, producer, remix artist, and member of the 3canal band, the cut+clear crew. The abstract and real visual images—many taken from everyday Haitian life— are mixed live and are played off against the mix of dance music styles, which include ambient, drum 'n' bass, and tribal.

For more info, call up 662.2002 x2469.

One Finger Snap

2007-05-03T02:16:00.000-04:00

The Sean Thomas Quintet will be performing live on Friday 25th May and Saturday 26th May at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop. Show starts at 9:30PM and tickets are $100, available by calling 632.3061. Sean Thomas is one of the most talented drummers i've ever seen, and the Quintet features Samantha Gooden and Corinne Gray on Vocals, Theron Shaw on Electronic & Acoustic Guitar, and Michael Nysus on Electric Bass.

Checkidout.

Scandal In Parliament!

2007-05-03T02:10:00.000-04:00

Due to public demand (everyone was at jazz), "Scandal in Parliament! Duck and Run!" has been extended for three nights - Wednesday 2nd (long gone), Thursday 3rd (tonight), and Friday 4th at Queen's Hall.

If you loved the scandal and laughter of "Run For Yuh Wife" then "Scandal in Parliament! Duck and Run!" will have you in throes of laughter as the colourful mix of characters, including Members of Parliament and a Minister get involved in bacchanal that could have reprucussions in a pending general election.

Showtime is 8:30PM and tickets are $100, available by calling the box office at 624.1284 x1, or 721.3260.

35 Cents

2007-05-03T01:54:00.000-04:00

Writer and director Paul Anthony Morris’s latest work is an action packed political satire that takes us into the sometimes surreal world of politics and survival in Jamaica. 35 Cents, the first major work for Crying in the Wilderness Productions, plays at the Blue Elephant Theatre in Camberwell, London, from 8th May - 26th May (Tuesdays to Saturdays).

It’s election time in Jamaica and the campaigns are already smouldering with intimidation and violence. Fatigued by ever increasing levels of poverty and corruption on the Island, a new student organisation called the ‘No Confidence Movement’ enters the political arena. Their mission, to lead the electorate on a national boycott of the general elections to protest against International and Corporate interference in the Island’s affairs. However, as our young
protagonists prepare to embark on their campaign, they are confronted with the reality that political power comes at a price. The question is, who’s going to pay?

Tickets cost £10 and the box office can be reached at 020 7701 0100. Post Show Discussions will be held on the 17th and 24th, hosted by Kwame Kwei-Armagh.

All you ever wanted to know about Rapso but were afraid to ask

2007-05-03T01:46:00.000-04:00

On Friday 11th May, the Rapso Community will host the 1st International Rapso Conference. The conference is a One Day Only affair and will feature interactive lectures and discussions, as well as performances by Rapso and Spoken Word artistes, and a craft market full of things to buy. The conference will be held at the National Museum and Art Gallery, and is free free free. For more info, call 663.0327 or email antheaoctave@yahoo.com.

African Movie Marathon

2007-05-02T11:15:00.000-04:00

The UWI Kenya Academic Research and Cultural Exchange Project will be hosting a Movie Marathon/ Fundraiser on Saturday 12th May at the Center for Language Learning Auditorium, UWI. They are trying to raise funds for 26 students to get to Kenya, cuz it's not like the UWI could use their own cash to send some kids to Africa.

2:30PM ($35) LUMUMBA (2000/ Raoul Peck/ Haiti)
5:00PM ($50 Double Feature) YESTERDAY (2004/ Darrell Roodt/ South Africa) and TSOTSI (2005/ Gavin Hood/ South Africa)

For ticket info contact Akilah (714.6757), Tyehimba (730.4693) or Melissa (716.4791). I kinda hoping there's a dancing competition for a trip to Africa or something.

Forget The O.C.

2007-05-02T10:29:00.000-04:00

Ok so it's not exactly My Super Sweet Sixteen, but Season One of Westwood Park has finally been released on DVD:

This first of the six seasons of Westwood Park weaves the story of the DuSoleil and Gunn-Monroe families, whose affluent and picture-perfect lifestyles become less than idyllic on closer inspection. The manipulative and power-hungry Herbert dominates the Gunn-Monroe clan, while the conscientious and upstanding Jonathan heads the DuSoleil family. Set in lush and luxurious locations rarely seen in Caribbean dramas, Westwood Park is driven by the universal themes of love, hate, power, greed and corruption.

Westwood Park: Season One is available for purchase on Amazon, at the bargain price of thirty fo' ninety nine. I think I will have one.

Broadcyass Yuhself

2007-05-01T11:24:00.000-04:00

Bored with MySpace, Hi5, Facebook, Youtube, et cetera ad infinitum? Check out WestIndianTube.com - it needs no explanation. Guaranteed to waste countless precious hours of your life, that you will never ever be able to recover. Enjoy.

The Artists' Lime

2007-04-24T22:46:00.000-04:00

The Centre for Arts & Technology (the same cats that brought you Jazzy Wednesdays), present their latest project: The Artists' Lime. Billed as "a unique opportunity for artists to meet, interact and develop relationships" it takes place on April 25th, from 6PM.

If you're an artist, please check it out and let me know what REALLY happens When Artists Lime. I feel SO left out.

I still want two slight!

2007-04-24T22:38:00.000-04:00

Some frenchies spent a bunch of cash to do a report on "Bacteriological quality of doubles sold by street vendors in Trinidad and the attitudes, knowledge and perceptions of the public about its consumption and health risk."

It's a must read! Print it out and wrap your doubles in it. In related news, a partner of mine sent in this report on a recent tragedy in south Trinidad:

Sunday: Karamath roti shop on the coffee in sando upstairs burning dong - talking real smoke and ting - Trinis line up downstairs buying roti downstairs while upstairs burning…no lie!

Only on the Island.

51 Miles Auto Safari 2007

2007-04-24T22:26:00.000-04:00

The folks at 51 Degrees wrote in to say that they'll be doing it again on Sunday 24th June. Registration will begin at the end of May, so stay tuned for more. The Pinky Polly Racing Team WILL win it all.

Link Attack

2007-04-24T21:52:00.000-04:00

Sheryl Crow has officially changed her name to Miss Dookie Crumbs.

Richard Gere kisses an Indian, gerbils burn effigy in protest.

Forget SSS, this is probably the Best Show Evar. Period.

For all you denim heads out there in Reader Land (all none of you), here's an interesting article to share with friends and family, if you're having difficulty explaining your obsession.

Is Mims really hot? You decide.

The show must go on!

Thanks Howitgolook, Nick Dangers, Rachael, Anya and Wattie. Whew.

Get Ready To Have Your Hair Burnt Off

2007-04-24T10:15:00.000-04:00

Benihana opened on Thursday at Trincity Mall. I'd tell you to "ask for so and so", but it isn't that kinda party. Plus, if you said that I sent you, they'd probably ask you to leave. Alla out and holla back, let us know what you think of the place.

Akon's the new Arrr Kellayyy

2007-04-21T02:29:00.000-04:00

I know y'all seen the clip, so I aint even gonna link it on the front page. But word on the websternets is that the pastor's daughter aint nothin but fo'teen! I can't front though, her boobs looked grown. Thing is, it seems that dude just travels the world, dry humping all the chicks in his path - check this video of Arr Konny jamming Tara Reid.

Shit aint that serious to me though, I've seen worse at carnival. Besides, I think Elton John sent him down here to wreak havoc on church leaders. Could Trickydad be have the Best Year Evar?

Weekend Wrap

2007-04-20T09:55:00.000-04:00

There's loads of stuff going on this weekend - roller skating, bowling, concerts, DJ sets, instores - just none of it on the Island.

On Friday, Robbie Styles the Remix King is gonna be running some tunes down at the Alice Yard. But they're gonna have an "open discussion about the issues that confront artistic people in our country", so have fun with that.

On Sunday, The Centre for Creative & Festival Arts presents Cultural Odyssey: "The Trini Experience". Something about a $250 jazz brunch. Tell your mom.

Also on Sunday, check out the Greenlight Network's concert.

Yawnsville. I'll be at home listening to re-runs of Jus Jase's listening session for Joe's new album. Except not really.

Slow Week.

2007-04-20T09:38:00.000-04:00

People on the Promenade (do we still call it Brian Lara or did they take it back?) have the strangest conversations:

Ten year old number one: "yeah, and my girl real like de way i does talk."
Ten year old number two: "serious? and she's a Trinidadian?"

Construction worker: "not me nah, whenever i get that voicemail thing, i aint callin yuh back. people does see me - how come yuh aint callin meh? - but nah boy, not me and dat nah."

Grossly overweight woman: "how yuh mean dey doh smell deyself! i does always smell mehself! [raises left arm, sniffs] hrmph, [raises right arm, sniffs] hrmph. yuh mus know when yuh need someting!"

It's like everybody in the world has the same problems, it's just some are way more badly dressed than others.

funniestmanevar.

2007-04-17T15:19:00.000-04:00

This clip gets four thumbs up. And I've only got two hands.

Youtube took down the original link, if you can't see the embedded player, click here to view.

Asian Sensation

2007-04-13T13:39:00.000-04:00

Ok so I may or may not have a minor obssession with asians. Anyway a friend of mine sent me this article related to the current preparations for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing:

Along with spitting, rundown housing and bad manners, add unintelligible English to the list of things organizers of the 2008 Beijing Olympics want to ban.
Municipal officials promised Wednesday to crack down on awkward Chinese-inflected English, known as "Chinglish," and asked the public to help police bad grammar and faulty syntax.

For some serious sentences-but-not-sentences, check out Engrish.com.

Hug A Tree, Save A Kitten

2007-04-13T13:29:00.000-04:00

The Greenlight Network is having a concert on Earth Day - that's Sunday 22nd April to the uninitiated. They'll also be launching an environmental CD, titled Greenlight Network, Volume 1. They'll be selling 50 special first edition Greenlight Network CDs, each sporting a unique CD cover with original artwork created by different local artists.

The show takes place at the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, and tickets are $40, available by calling Shivonne at 758.7915. The CDs cost $120, and all proceeds benefit environmental projects.

Black Friday in the Yard

2007-04-13T13:22:00.000-04:00

Sheldon sends:

This Friday 12 The Band's Engineer Marcus Sammy will be playing music from his personal collection and trust me he on a different level. He have music to make yuh pores raise allyuh.

There's also some dirty talk that German Jazz Quartet Count Count may be passing through. If your name is Eno and your mate rocks up everywhere with his "just in case" guitar, then you know it's going to be a good time.

Rum and pelau on sale, action starts at 830PM.

Bat N Ball

2007-04-13T12:50:00.000-04:00

Jackie Hinkson's group show opens at 101 Art Gallery in Federation Park next Tuesday. Bat N Ball features Sundiata, Che Lovelace, Jasmin Thomas-Girvan, Kwynn Johnson and others, as they present their take on cricket. The show runs ends on Thursday 26th April, and exhibitions hours are Tuesday to Friday 9AM to 5PM, and 10AM to 2PM on Saturdays. For more info, contact the Art Society of Trinidad & Tobago at 628.4081.