Tobago Heritage Festival Being Evaluated

The Division of Community Development and Culture, under whose portfolio the Tobago Heritage Festival lies, will be conducting a two day workshop to evaluate the Heritage Festival. The workshop takes place on Friday September 18 and Saturday September 19 at Mt. Irvine Bay Hotel.

Invitations were sent to a wide range of stakeholders, including Media, Administrators, Village Council Representatives, Performers, Production Crew, Choreographers, the Business Community, Travel Tour Operators, Sponsors, Hotel Staff and others.

The theme is "Keeping our traditions alive: measuring and evaluating our effectiveness," and according to the Division, the sessions will engage the views, suggestions and recommendations of all stakeholders about the effectiveness of the festival and the determine the way forward.


(Above, Pictures of Heritage Festival Opening Night Performances)

Caribbean Creativity Presents ‘Kool Runnings’

At the Unique Caribbean Short Film Program at Rode Loper Festival in Amsterdam on  Saturday September 26, the Caribbean Creativity Foundation will present Kool Runnings.

A wide range of productions will be screened at the Oosterpark, from documentaries and trailers to animation films and music videos. Together they represent the diversity and quality of the current media landscape of the (Anglophone) Caribbean. Armed with a digital camera, a new generation documents the rich stories from the Caribbean and the Caribbean diaspora.

In the short documentary Brooklyn Racine (2009) we follow a young group of Haitian immigrants who have taken their ancient music (rara) from the Caribbean hills and reinvent it on the streets of Brooklyn, while the T&T animation Small Thing Mentality (2009) explores the typical Caribbean phrase ‘small thing’ and how it is really a ‘big thing’ for a person under pressure. And in One Cup of Coffee (2008) we take a look at the fair trade coffee plantation of Rohan Marley, son of Bob Marley, in the Blue Mountains, Jamaica.

The Kool Runnings short film program is composed by Caribbean Creativity in cooperation with the Caribbean Tales Film Festival (Canada), Animae Caribe Animation Festival (Trinidad), Nice Time Productions (Jamaica/France/Netherlands) and several independent Caribbean filmmakers.

For more information, please visit www.caribbeancreativity.nl or email info@caribbeancreativity.nl.

Tobago Heritage Festival - Looking Back Before Going Forward

A recession always seems to cause us to evaluate priorities and the value of money (and the value we get for money.) Of course with this comes the need for accountability in public life, for public funds. Word is the Tobago Heritage is soon to be evaluated and according to yours  is probably long overdue.

Tobagonians have felt for many years that the Heritage has not only become monotonous, but that no improvement or development is evident in the quality of presentations and productions (from lack of professional lighting, to poor stage management, acting and directing – among other things). 

My hope is that this upcoming evaluation will not just be another "talk shop", which leads to no action, but that it will involve meaningful critiques and the development of a plan of action that will be actualised.

Below: Pictures from Pembroke Heritage Festival - Salaka Feast. This event recreates the yearly thanksgiving festival to African ancestors for guidance and favours granted during the past year. The event starts with an early morning meeting at the crossroads where the ancestors are summoned with the sprinkling of rum and sweet water, the blowing of conch shells, the sweeping of sacred ground with the cocoyea broom and prayer. The villagers gather and dress in the clothing and colours of the Nations or Tribes (Yoruba, Kromanti, Ibo, Mandingo, Congo, Temne) and a procession begins which ends at the Pembroke Heritage Park, where singing and dancing takes place. The food is prepared in the traditional way: roasting a whole pig in the ground and baking in the dirt oven etc. Later in the evening the stage production depicts the feast in its entirety within the context of a village story.


























Pictures from Canaan/Bon Accord Stage Production:

Mt St George In Focus

With the election of a new Village Council President and new executive members, the village of Mt. St. George in Tobago is experiencing a renewed sense of dynamism and energy. While it was not able to participate in the Heritage Festival this year, this did not deter the villagers from showcasing its special gifts and talents. During the period of August 23–29, the village produced an event and a magazine which took a socio-historic look at the village. With the theme "Connecting and Identifying" this 'week of focus' included seminars, lectures, fun and games, awards ceremony, culinary arts display, visits to historic sites and a cultural evening.

According to the village council, the event was a means to achieve or stimulate many objectives including fostering greater cooperation and unity in the area, connecting to the past to understand the present and shape the future, document the historic and give voice to youth.

Georgia, as it is also known, is a historic location and was in fact the first official chief town/capital of Tobago. Among the many things the event would highlight, are: the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, the Hillsborough Dam, the Prime Minister's Official Residence, the historic Sugar Factory operation, and Fort Granby. Georgians are also very proud to claim that the first Tobagonian to win Miss Trinidad & Tobago and to represent the country in the Miss World Competition came from the village. Other noteworthy personalities from the area include Cynthia Alfred, first woman to be Deputy Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly, and the first Tobagonian to be Vice President of the Senate of Trinidad and Tobago.

The week ended with a grand cultural show at the community centre and the village council promises that this will be an annual event.

Rozelle Phillip - the Trini taking X Factor by storm!

By now, most of you will have received the YouTube video of 21-year-old Trinidadian Rozelle Phillip's magnificent debut on the British talent competition X Factor.

Her voice, her humility, and sincerity have earned her legions of fans not only in her homeland, but in Britain where X Factor fans have fallen in love with her big voice and even bigger heart.

If you haven't, you'll want to check out the two videos posted below. The first is of her audition (backstage and the performance itself) and the second of her interview on Britain's GMTV (Good Morning Television).

Enjoy this wonderful talent from T&T!

Special offer for ENERGY Caribbean Conference 2009!

 

For our MEP readers and Energy Caribbean subscribers, here is a special offer for the IBC Energy Caribbean Conference 2009! 

Energy Caribbean 2009
Caribbean energy in a post-financial crisis world
Monday 7th & Tuesday 8th December 2009 – Hilton Trinidad
Post Conference Workshop: How energy companies can face the challenges of a low-price oil and gas world
Wednesday 9th December

www.ibcenergy.com/caribbean

The recent volatile market conditions and global financial crisis has had a significant impact on the Caribbean energy industry. As we move into 2010, organisations in the energy sector are analysing strategies, operations and opportunities to ensure that their business is successful in a post financial crisis landscape.

The Energy Caribbean 2009 Summit, organised with the support of Energy Caribbean magazine, has been specifically developed to address the pressing issues facing the Caribbean energy sector through a series of discussions, debates, case studies, market analysis and regional reviews.

Energy Caribbean 2009 will offer participants a wide ranging series of topics from high profile subject specialists exploring the region’s hottest issues and themes which are not addressed elsewhere. Attendance is a must for anyone working in the Caribbean energy industry. 

Download latest programme now

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Register your place by 18th September & save up to £600!

Energy Caribbean Magazine reader discount offer:

Please quote VIP code KT0114ECEM and receive a further 10% discount!

Keynote Address The Honourable Senator Conrad Enill, Minister, Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries

Your expert panel of speakers includes:

• Dr Raymond Wright, Consultant, Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica
• Wayne Bertrand, Distinguished Fellow in Practice, Petroleum Studies, University of the West Indies
• Curtis Mohammed, Projects Director, BP Trinidad & Tobago
• Senior Representative, Voyager Energy Ltd
• Bruce Mackenzie, Business Development Manager, Neal & Massy Energy
• David Barrett, Regional Representative, Finder Caribbean
• Helena Inniss, Director Resource Management, Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries, Trinidad & Tobago
• Daniel Sankar, Relationship Manager / Sector Specialist, Energy and Utilities, First Caribbean International Bank

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Attend Energy Caribbean 2009 to:

• Discuss the market drivers and strategic outlook for the Caribbean energy sector
• Hear case studies from energy operators and providers to understand the latest Caribbean developments
• Receive the essential government information and strategy
• Learn about the latest regional developments
• Hear the latest from Caribbean oil, gas and power companies
• Understand the latest industry views on renewable energy
• Assess the major issues with finance, investment and insurance
• Network with key Caribbean energy contacts and hear directly

Download latest programme now

PLUS attend the POST CONFERENCE WORKSHOP Wednesday 9th December “How energy companies can face the challenges of a low-price oil and gas world” The workshop will address the key issues, developments, and innovative thinking for energy companies to overcome market challenges.

TO REGISTER & SAVE UP TO £600
Call: +44 (0)20 7017 5518
Fax: +44 (0)20 7017 4745
Email: IBC Energy Customer Service
Web: book online now
Remember to quote VIP Code: KT0114ECEM when you register

Join us in December for this strategic conference to hear the latest regional developments for the Caribbean energy sector leading into 2010.

Yours sincerely

Karen Magnusson
Conference Producer
IBC Energy 

P.S Don’t forget to book by 18th September to SAVE up to £600!

International Coastal Cleanups in T&T

Our friends at GreenTnT have passed on information about the International Coastal Cleanups being organised in T&T by the National Planning Committee (NPC).

The NPC emphasises that clean, healthy ocean is more resilient to the effects of climate change, pollution, over-fishing, and habitat destruction. Many of the products thrown into our seas are buoyant and can last for centuries, travelling for years throughout various water bodies, endangering ocean ecosystems and wildlife. 

Here are the clean-ups being organised across the islands. To participate or for more information, contact the individuals listed below.
 
BALANDRA BEACH, TRINIDAD

Carib Glass Works Ltd., Caribbean Network for Integrated Rural Development (CNIRD)

• Dave Gajadhar - 662-2231 ext. 286, dgajadhar@caribglass.com
• Jemma Clarke - 662-2231 ext. 742, jclarke@caribglass.com
• Calvin James – 645-6458, npc.icc@gmail.com

CAURA RIVER, TRINIDAD 

Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), Forestry Division, National Quarries Co. Ltd.

• Krystal Chandler - 634-4291 ext. 2415, kchandler@ima.gov.tt
• Doodnath Rampersad - 622-3217, forestry@tstt.net.tt
• Bernard Rocke - 646-3682, brocke@nqcl.co.tt

CHAGVILLE BEACH, TRINIDAD 

Yacht Services Association of Trinidad & Tobago (YSATT), Heroes Foundation, Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA)

• Gina Carvalho - 634-4938, ysatt@tstt.net.tt
• Patricia Auguste - 622-9255, patriciaaug@yahoo.com
• Petal Baird - 634-4364 ext. 114

LA BREA STATION BEACH, TRINIDAD
Atlantic LNG

• Susan Benasrie - 648-2916 ext. 2536, susanbenasrie@atlanticlng.com
• John Roberts - 648-2916 ext. 2221, johnroberts@atlanticlng.com

LAS CUEVAS, TRINIDAD
Tourism Development Co. Ltd. (TDC), Protectors of the Environment

• Kenda Douglas - 675-7034, ext. 243, kdouglas@tdc.co.tt
• Peter Rampersad – 646-1524, poe_1990@yahoo.com

MANZANILLA BEACH, TRINIDAD
West Indian Tobacco Co. Ltd. (WITCO), Spiritus Sanctus Caring for Life

• Terrica Chavez - 662-2271 ext. 312, terrica_chavez@bat.com
• Marjorie Stephens-Smith - 645-5252

MAYARO BEACH, TRINIDAD  
Solid Waste Management Company Ltd (SWMCOL), Ministry of Planning, Housing and the Environment

• Jason Adams - 625-6678 ext. 270, jadams@swmcol.co.tt
• Candace Amoroso – 623-7501, candace.amoroso@phe.gov.tt

QUINAM BEACH, TRINIDAD
Forestry Division

• Doodnath Rampersad - 622-3217, forestry@tstt.net.tt

SALYBIA BEACH, TRINIDAD
Environmental Management Authority (EMA)

• Nayantara Gayah-Hassan - 628-8042 ext. 2315, ngayah-hassan@ema.co.tt
• Francis Lakatoo – 628-8042 ext. 2301, flakatoo@ema.co.tt

TYRICO BAY, TRINIDAD
Girl Guides, West Indian Tobacco Co. Ltd (WITCO)

• Joseph Chin Cheong - 662-2271, joseph_chin_cheong@bat.com

TOBAGO

• GREAT COURLAND BAY
• BELLE GARDEN BAY
  MINISTER'S BAY, BACOLET
• ROXBOROUGH
• SPEYSIDE

Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Tobago House of Assembly 

• Stacy-Ann Balfour - 660-7636 / 639-2273, stacy4evertt@yahoo.com

For more information please visit www.oceanconservancy.org and www.npc-icc.org

5K for breast cancer awareness - this Saturday!

This Saturday, the Live United Team (representing the United Way) will be among the teams competing in the 11th Annual Scotia Bank Trinidad & Tobago Limited 5K Classic at 4pm. The events starts out of King George V Park, Port of Spain.

This 5K is different, as it is an event raised at raising awareness about and funds for breast cancer prevention. It is open to female participants only (of any age). Proceeds from the event go to nationwide Mammography Screening Programme.

Introducing: the Hyatt Regency Trinidad

In just the first two years after its opening in early 2008, the Hyatt Regency Trinidad – set in Port of Spain's new international waterfront development – will have hosted presidents from across the region for the 5th Summit of the Americas (April 2009), and to the Queen of England, Elisabeth II, and other heads of former and current British territories at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit this November.

This is certainly in keeping with the hotel's claim to be the first in the Caribbean specifically designed for hosting businessmen, meetings, and conferences. It can now claim to have been the venue for two of the biggest policy-setting meetings among international heads of state 2009.

The hotel's offerings are impressive: it can host events of 25–2,500 people over more than 43,000 sq ft of versatile space (including the 16,000 sq ft Regency Ballroom); the latest in meeting technology (audio-visual services, translation facilities and more); and a knowledgeable team of food and beverage managers and event planners.

Beyond its facilities for business people, the Hyatt Regency's accommodation offerings can appeal to any affluent visitor. Highlights include the most extensive executive suite options in Port of Spain; an infinity pool overlooking the Gulf of Paria; outdoor lounge space; restaurant; and its Spa Esencia, the first Hyatt Pure Spa to debut in the Caribbean).

So whether you go there for a business trip, a meeting or special event, for drinks in the lounge, brunch at the restaurant, or pampering at the spa, make sure you take advantage of all the Hyatt Regency Trinidad has to offer!

Photos: Aisha Provoteaux/Media & Editorial Projects Ltd (MEP) (images 1 & 4: Hyatt exterior and front courtyard) and Peter Sheppard (images 2 & 3: Hyatt terrace and infinity pool)

Tobago Cycling Classic returns!

San Fernando Jazz 6.0: Celebrating the Grandmaster - a Tribute to Lord Kitchener

The San Fernando Jazz Festival returns for its sixth installment next month with a renowned line-up of regional jazz musicians.

Hosted as usual atop the San Fernando Hill – offering magnificent views of the city and up Trinidad's west coast – the festival's aim in the words of event manager Carol Carvalho is to revive the cultural landscape of San Fernando. Part of the event proceeds are donated to the San Fernando Mayor's Fund.

The lineup includes Raff Robertson with Arturo Tappin, supported by Lord Superior, Aldwin Albino, the Errol Ince Quintet with Leston Paul, Carlton "Zander" Alexander and the Coal Pot Band, Vaughnette Bigford, and the Desperados Steel Orchestra.

The Jazz Festival goes up on September 26 at 7pm (gates open 5pm). Tickets bought in advance are TT$350 (all-inclusive) / TT$200 (general); and at the door TT$400 (all-inclusive) and TT$250 (general).

Tickets are available at 110 Jazz & Calypso Lounge (Cipero Street, San Fernando); Puff ’N Stuff (Circular Road, San Fernando); Atherly’s By The Park (San Fernando); Crosby’s (San Fernando & Port of Spain); Cleaves (Port of Spain); Cache (West Mall, Trincity Mall & Gulf City Mall); and Ceeveeney’s Boutique (St. James Street, San Fernando).