Tag: Trinidad and Tobago

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating World Steelpan Day – Honouring the Rhythm of Our Nation

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Every note of the steelpan carries a story—a story of a people’s resilience, creativity, and determination to turn struggle into something beautiful. When those sweet, vibrant tones fill the air, it’s more than just music. It’s the voice of Trinidad and Tobago, calling to the world.

World Steelpan Day, officially recognized by the United Nations on August 11, 2023, is celebrated annually on August 11. It honours the steelpan as the only acoustic musical instrument invented in the 20th century and as a cultural treasure that belongs not just to our nation, but to the world.

The Journey of the Steelpan – From Humble Beginnings to World Stage

  • Early 1900s – In the working-class communities of Port of Spain, Trinidad, African descendants used tamboo bamboo (bamboo sticks) to create rhythmic music for Carnival. These rhythms were born from traditions that survived the Middle Passage and the colonial era.
  • 1930s – Musicians began experimenting with metal objects such as biscuit tins, oil drums, and dustbin covers. This experimentation led to new sounds, sharper tones, and the beginnings of melody.
  • Late 1930s to 1940s – Innovators like Winston “Spree” Simon, Ellie Mannette, and Neville Jules refined the instrument, tuning sections of the drum to produce distinct musical notes. The transformation from makeshift percussion to a full melodic instrument was underway.
  • 1951 – The Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra (TASPO) was formed to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Festival of Britain. This was a landmark moment—the steelpan was now recognized internationally.
  • 1960s–1970s – Panorama competitions were born, giving steel orchestras a grand stage to showcase skill, creativity, and arrangements. The sound of steelpan became an inseparable part of Carnival and national identity.
  • 1992 – The steelpan was declared the National Instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.
  • 2023 – The United Nations General Assembly declared August 11 as World Steelpan Day, officially recognizing its cultural significance globally.

Why We Celebrate

The steelpan is more than music—it is a symbol of transformation. It emerged from a time when certain drums were banned, yet people found a way to create a new sound, using discarded oil drums and pure imagination. It represents the spirit of turning challenges into opportunities, of finding joy despite adversity.

Today, steelpan music is played worldwide—in schools, orchestras, and festivals from London to Tokyo, New York to Johannesburg. It continues to bring people together, proving that joy is truly a universal language.

Keeping the Rhythm Alive

On this World Steelpan Day, we celebrate:

  • The Pioneers – Innovators, tuners, and arrangers who gave the world this gift.
  • The Performers – Pannists of all ages who dedicate hours to perfecting their craft.
  • The Communities – From panyards to global stages, where music is not just played but lived.
  • The Future – Young players learning to carry forward the legacy with pride.

Let us teach the next generation not just to play the notes, but to understand the story behind them. Let them feel the pride of holding an instrument that is a living piece of history.

Happy World Steelpan Day!
May the music of our national instrument continue to inspire, unite, and celebrate the heartbeat of our people. Because when we celebrate the steelpan, we celebrate ourselves—and the rhythm of our nation lives on.

Posted in Indian Arrival Day, Life, Trinidad and Tobago, You Tube

Celebrating 180 Years of Indian Arrival in Trinidad: A Journey of Resilience and Legacy

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

May 30, 2025, marks a momentous milestone in Trinidad and Tobago’s rich multicultural history — the 180th anniversary of Indian Arrival Day. It is a day to honour the endurance, culture, and contributions of the East Indian community, whose journey began in 1845 with the arrival of the first indentured laborers from India aboard the Fatel Razack.

This historic voyage marked the beginning of a new chapter, not only for those who arrived seeking opportunity, but for the very fabric of Trinidad and Tobago. Over 140,000 Indians would follow over the decades, facing hardship, uncertainty, and cultural displacement. Yet, through resilience and deep-rooted values, they laid the foundation for generations to flourish.

Today, the influence of the Indian community is deeply woven into the national identity — from cuisine, music, and religion, to agriculture, entrepreneurship, and education. Festivals such as Divali, Phagwa, and Indian Arrival Day itself reflect the vibrant legacy passed down through time. Today, Trinidad and Tobago is the home of the 85 ft Sri Karya Siddhi Hanuman Murti which is the tallest murti in the Western Hemisphere and it stands majestically tall at the Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre in Carapichaima. Today, Trinidad and Tobago it is the home of the Indian Caribbean Museum of Trinidad and Tobago.

Trinidad and Tobago has been profoundly shaped by the contributions of its East Indian population. Over the years, these contributions have enriched the nation’s culture, economy, religion, cuisine, language, and national identity. Here are some key areas where East Indian influence is especially notable:

1. Religion and Spiritual Life

  • Hinduism and Islam took root in Trinidad through Indian indentured laborers, and today, both are integral parts of the country’s religious landscape.
  • Temples and mosques are found throughout the islands, including iconic sites like the Temple in the Sea and Sri Dattatreya Yoga Centre.
  • Religious celebrations such as Divali (Festival of Lights) and Eid-ul-Fitr are national holidays, celebrated by all communities.

2. Festivals and Cultural Celebrations

  • Phagwa (Holi) is celebrated with color, song (chowtal), and community spirit.
  • Divali Nagar is a major annual cultural event, showcasing Indian music, dance, food, and spiritual teachings.
  • Indian Arrival Day (May 30) itself is a public holiday commemorating the arrival and legacy of Indian people.

3. Music and Performing Arts

  • East Indians brought with them musical traditions such as bhajans, chowtal, and classical Indian music, which have evolved into unique Trinbagonian forms.
  • The tassa drum is a lively and powerful musical instrument rooted in Indian tradition and now a staple at weddings, funerals, and cultural events.
  • East Indian dance forms, such as kathak and folk dances, have found a place in schools and community events.
Display for Indian Arrival Day taken at The Price Club in Chaguanas (pic 1)

4. Food and Cuisine

  • Trinidad and Tobago’s food culture has been heavily influenced by East Indian cuisine.
  • Dishes like roti, dhal, doubles, sada and fry aloo, channa and curry, and kurma are now beloved national staples.
  • The use of spices, chutneys, and cooking techniques has created a unique Indo-Caribbean flavor.
Display for Indian Arrival Day taken at The Price Club in Chaguanas (pic 2)

5. Language and Literature

  • Words from Hindi, Bhojpuri, and Urdu have blended into local dialects and expressions.
  • Indo-Trinidadian writers, poets, and scholars have contributed richly to national and Caribbean literature, exploring themes of identity, migration, and memory.

6. Agriculture and Economy

  • Early Indian settlers were primarily employed in agriculture and played a significant role in sustaining the sugar and rice industries.
  • Many Indians became landowners and farmers after indentureship ended, helping to feed and support the growing nation.

7. Education and Public Life

  • Indo-Trinidadians have excelled in education, producing scholars, educators, and professionals across fields.
  • They have contributed significantly to politics, law, and public service, with many serving as national leaders, ministers, and diplomats.

East Indian contributions in Trinidad and Tobago are not only visible—they are foundational. From temples to tassa, roti to resilience, and music to multiculturalism, their legacy continues to shape and define the spirit of the nation.

What exactly did we do? That is, in addition to dressing our kids with East Indian wear. Our daughter needed to choose food or delicacy East Indian brought to Trinidad and Tobago. First, she wanted to prepare alloo pies and yes, we did, but then we decided for her project for her to prepare tilly cake with white till (also known as sesame seeds) which is a sweet prepared for Goddess Saraswati especially for Basant Panchami.

The 180th anniversary is more than a commemoration — it is a celebration of survival, adaptation, and unity. It is also a reminder of the shared history that binds the nation together, where diverse roots grow in harmony.

As we reflect on this milestone, let us pay tribute to the sacrifices of the early arrivals, honor the wisdom of our elders, and continue nurturing a future built on mutual respect and cultural pride.

Happy Indian Arrival Day, Trinidad and Tobago — 180 years strong and thriving.

Posted in Education, Learning Opportunity, Life, Love and Blessings, Trinidad and Tobago, You Tube

Celebrating Values in Education

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

As a mom who has been an educator for the past 20 years (yes, I began teaching at a very young age) and who has been enjoying the world of Communications and PR for the last 12 years, I’ve always believed that education is about more than just test scores and textbooks. My students and parents I have worked with over the years can attest to this!

Photo Credit: Sri Sathya Sai Global Council (Sri Lanka)

It’s about shaping character, nurturing kindness, and teaching our children to be good people. That’s why I feel incredibly grateful that my 6-year-old is attending a school that doesn’t just focus on academics but also on values—honesty, respect, perseverance, and compassion.

This being said, today I am celebrating values in education! Yes, you’ve read it right! Why? It’s because I love celebrating positivity and highlighting it as best as I can.

As such, this post is about values in education and it all comes from looking at my daughter’s educational journey. I know it has only just begun but those who know me would fully understand why!  Like any other parent, I want the best for my kids and Longdenville Sathya Sai Primary School has been a pleasant surprise from day 1.

Photo Credit: SSEHV- ISSEA

So, what are these values about? For those who don’t know what values in education are about, they are peace, non-violence, love, truth and right-action. These translate to mean Shanti, Ahimsa, Prema, Sathya and Dharma respectively and they are the five pillars which form Sathya Sai Baba’s Education in Human Values program.

Every day, I see the impact of this approach, not just in homework assignments, but in the little things many would take for granted. These moments remind me that education is so much more than memorizing facts; it’s about shaping the kind of person my child will become.

Being able to see first-hand how the values come together is really a truly rewarding experience. How? Let me tell you!

Imagine a place where values are reflected in actions. Imagine studying it like any other subject but living it in every sense! That’s what it is about and it doesn’t deviate from it.

Education in Human Values (EHV) is timetabled! Every theme for every event incorporates it and parents are not left out. Why? How? Parents get to have a very hands on approach to their kids learning. Let’s call it, ‘accepting responsibility’ because essentially that’s what it is. I am really happy that I opted to share some of the cool assignments with the world over time (yes, I did) and I am happy to share them here with you!

Just click on these links and see for yourself! It’s ‘My Community’ using recyclable material, a Christmas hat, a decoration for the tree (where each student had something to add to the tree), a madhatter design using stuff at home and an “Anything but a bag project”.  Please, click on the links so you can see for yourself exactly why I am excited about each of these projects:

https://www.clickasnap.com/image/4823032/school-project-using-recyclable-material

https://www.clickasnap.com/image/4224397/christmas-hat

https://www.clickasnap.com/image/3999159/christmas-decoration

https://www.clickasnap.com/image/3999179/madhatter-design

https://www.clickasnap.com/image/4224395/anything-but-a-bag-project

This is just one part of it. Let me share some others:

  • I love that the school community is a close knit community.
  • I love the way the kids look out for each other.
  • There is no discrimination against religion or ethnicity.
  • Their school life embodies teamwork and from greeting each other in the morning to taking responsibility for their own actions, the kids are learning that respect isn’t just about being polite—it’s about valuing others and the community they are part of.
  • The kids are being taught yoga.
  • The kids are learning about healthy living and eating in a very real sense.
Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/376121006386936844/

There are many other reasons why this school stands out and I promise there is another post to follow!

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Nature and the Environment

Celebrating 365 ClickASnap Moments: A Year of Nature, Landmarks, Food, Projects, and Motivation

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

A picture speaks a thousand words, and over the past eighteen months, I have captured 365 unforgettable moments on ClickASnap! From breathtaking landscapes to mouthwatering food, iconic landmarks, creative projects, and daily motivation, this journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

365 Uploads of Pictures

Photography is more than just taking photos; it’s about storytelling, emotions, and capturing the beauty in everyday life. Every image I’ve shared has been a reflection of my experiences, passions, and the little joys that make life extraordinary.

Nature’s Beauty 🌎

Nature has always been a source of peace and inspiration. From golden sunsets and towering mountains to delicate flowers and crashing waves, my gallery is filled with moments that remind us to pause and appreciate the world around us.

Landmarks That Leave You in Awe 🏛🌍

Whether it’s famous historical sites, hidden architectural gems, or local wonders, landmarks tell stories of history and culture. Through my lens, I’ve captured places that hold significance and beauty, allowing viewers to travel with me visually.

Food: A Feast for the Eyes and Soul 🍽📸

Food is more than nourishment—it’s art, tradition, and culture combined. From homemade delicacies to restaurant masterpieces, each dish I’ve photographed carries a memory, a flavor, and a unique story.

Creative Projects and Passion 🎨💡

Beyond photography, I’ve shared glimpses of my creative projects, whether it’s DIY crafts, business ventures, or artistic endeavors. These snapshots highlight my dedication to learning, growing, and inspiring others to bring their ideas to life.

Motivation and Positivity 💫📖

A picture can lift your spirits, and that’s exactly what I’ve aimed to do with my motivational images. Whether it’s a sunrise symbolizing new beginnings or a quote against a powerful backdrop, each post has been a reminder to stay positive and keep pushing forward.

Looking Ahead

Reaching 365 photos is a milestone, but this is only the beginning! I look forward to capturing even more moments, exploring new perspectives, and continuing to share inspiration through photography.

🎉 Join me on ClickASnap and explore my collection! 🎉
🔗 Click to view my gallery

Thank you to everyone who has followed my journey! Your support, engagement, and appreciation mean the world. Here’s to another year of creativity, storytelling, and celebrating existence—one click at a time! 📸✨

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Life, World Steelpan Day 2024

Happy World Steelpan Day 2024!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj
Photo showing the Nada Sangama Steel Orchestra led by His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Yes, today, August 11th, 2024, is World Steelpan Day. In recognition of today’s historical significance, this post is dedicated to the steelpan. As such I begin this post by highlighting the Nada Sangama Steel Orchestra led by His Holiness Parama Pujya Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji.

For those who may not be aware, Trinidad and Tobago is the home of the steelpan. This year, on July 3rd, 2024, the steelpan officially became known as Trinidad and Tobago’s national musical instrument following the passage of legislation in Parliament.

Also, for those who may be unaware, the United Nations has now recognized August 11 as World Steelpan Day. Just a few days ago, on August 9, 2024, Trinidad and Tobago achieved another milestone in securing the steelpan as its own when it attained a geographical indicator (GI) for the manufacturing of steelpans. This was approved by the Trinidad and Tobago IP (Intellectual Property) office and therefore gives all steelpan manufacturers and producers the right to affix the GI branding once established standards of production are applied.

The steelpan is an acoustic instrument with a rich cultural history that reflects the creativity and resilience of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. This distinctive instrument, recognized for its unique and captivating sound, has grown from modest origins to become a global symbol of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and a staple in diverse music genres.

The steelpan’s story dates back to the early 20th century in Trinidad and Tobago. At that time, under British colonial rule, the African descendants who made up much of the population were prohibited from using their traditional drums in their cultural and religious ceremonies. In response to these restrictions, they began experimenting with alternative materials to create new instruments, which eventually led to the creation of the steelpan.

The first steelpans were crafted from discarded oil barrels, which were abundant due to the island’s active oil industry. Musicians would carefully hammer the bottoms of these barrels into concave shapes, with different sizes and depths producing various pitches and tones. This innovative approach laid the groundwork for the steelpan’s development into the instrument we know today.

The 1930s and 1940s were pivotal in the steelpan’s evolution. Innovators like Winston “Spree” Simon and Ellie Mannette played key roles in refining the instrument, exploring different techniques to enhance its sound. Ellie Mannette, often called the “Father of the Modern Steelpan,” was the first to create a steelpan with multiple notes using a full oil barrel, establishing the modern design of the instrument.

As the steelpan continued to develop, its popularity grew. Over the years it has become central to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival celebrations, providing the energetic soundtrack to these vibrant festivities. Steelbands are ensembles of musicians playing steelpans of varying sizes and pitches, became a staple of these celebrations and the steelpan became synonymous with Caribbean musical culture. In this post I have also opted to highlight the Phoenix Steel Orchestra which is based in Belmont for the awesome work this very young vibrant band continues to do and both Junior Regrello and Johann Chuckaree who over the recent years have come together to do great work together! I have also opted to highlight Dr Lennox “Boogsie” Sharpe also known as Dr Len Boogsie Sharpe who is a successful and popular composer and arranger of steelpan music. 

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Happy Independence Day!, Trinidad and Tobago

Celebrating our 61st Independence Day!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Hey everyone! Yes, it’s Independence Day here and I am wishing all Trinidadians and Tobagonians the world over, a very Happy Independence Day!

This year Independence Day is a bit different but all in all a blessed occasion! In this past year especially, I have been able to find out so much more about our twin-island republic and yes, I wear many hats, but collectively, these ‘hats’ have helped me meet some wonderful people in both Trinidad and Tobago.

Today, I celebrate all of them and their respective journeys, their individual pursuits, their successes and their stories. Undoubtedly, they tell the story of our people- determined, patriotic, resilient and committed. They stand in the face of adversity and though at times may not be united, stand together if they really choose to. Over the years we have faced some extremely challenging moments that have shaken us in more ways than one, and yes, we still continue to persevere, but the fact that we choose not to give up is a testimony of its own.

This past year has seen the completion of Time to Travel to Trinidad and Tobago, and I will forever be grateful that I was inspired to use these words by the late Michael Anthony, a renowned Trinidadian author and historian who was born in Mayaro as they perfectly captured my thoughts and ideas in putting together this book.

Today is the 61st anniversary of our Independence! Here’s to many, many more filled with positivity! “Together we aspire, together we achieve!”

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMjLsG7J8/

Posted in Celebrate Today, Education, Learning Opportunity, Life, Surviving Covid-19

Announcing my Online Classes: IELTS (Academic & GT), CELPIP, ESL, CSEC

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

https://livexp.com/rachaelann-2427bb

Hi,

 
Have you been looking for alternatives to help you, your friends, children or other close loved ones in accessing tuition online?
 
 
In the event that you are wondering why online options are better at this point, it is because of the very fact that Covid-19 has placed several challenges and restrictions around the world. These have created so many trying options that many have not expected.
 
As people the world over continue to get things back to normal many still need help to prepare for their exams- (at least not the way they want to) and parents have been put in a position to help them get their education and help them prepare. To view my profile and sign up for my sessions please click on the link below:
 
 
 
Rest assured that I am offering many great options. Over the years I have acquired a lot of experience as an ESL Teacher. In addition to being TEFL Certified, I am also a trained IELTS Specialist for tutoring students preparing for IELTS Academic and General Training. I have also gained a lot of experience in tutoring persons preparing for CELPIP exams for all the strands being tested on as well.  Bear in mind too that I am also continuing to provide tutoring for CSEC Exams for English (A), Office Administration, EDPM and POB. 
 
IELTS, CELPIP and ESL Tutoring are available to people from all around the world. My CSEC online classes in particular are available to persons from several Caribbean countries and surrounding countries namely Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, Jamaica, Belize, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines and Suriname. 
 
What benefits are in store for those who join my classes other than online tuition?
 
1. Videos on demand and ample notes
 
2. Opportunities for individual attention & personalized feedback
 
3. Lessons, assignments & quizzes that are easily accessible
 
4. Courses that are offered at great prices
 
5. An opportunity to benefit from discounted offers when provided
 
6. An opportunity that will help them realize that they should not give up
 
7. Having me as your Lecturer- means having someone who is dedicated, committed and passionate about teaching and helping others as well as a host of other benefits including my years of experience.
 
Here is your invitation to join me for any of my online classes!
 
I urge you to make full use of this opportunity and to share it with others! It is in every sense, yours for the taking!
 
I look forward to seeing you there and looking forward to working with each person who signs up. Here is my video introduction!
 
 
Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating World Happiness Day 2018!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

“For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Today (March 20) is World Happiness Day! I hope that your day was filled with happiness and if it was not, I hope that there was some measure of happiness for you today! If it hasn’t been like that yet please know that the day is not over and happiness will greet you soon. It will appear in the form of laughter, a smile or a kind word.

Happiness we can all agree should come from within and can manifest itself through any of the ways mentioned above- in a smile, a kind word, a thoughtful gesture or just pure laughter!

Here is a link to some quotes which I found and I am happy to share:   https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/happiness

Hopefully there is something there which can resonate with you and also something that was able to pique your interest.

In continuing allow me to ask,  have you heard what the UN report said about Trinidad and Tobago’s happiness Index? Please have a look at this video:

Now look at Trinidad and Tobago in relation to the top 10 countries that are the happiest in the world.

Now stop for a minute and ask yourself what makes Finland the world’s happiest country. Then be sure to look at the video below.

In closing this is my message to you: Spread the love, spread the laughter, spread the happiness! 

Stay away from anyone who tries to steal your happiness! If you cannot stay away from the one who tries to steal your happiness just do not let them or their negativity or their nonsense get the better of you!

From me to you, Happy International Happiness Day 2018!

 

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating the spread of information via the Internet!

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Can you imagine the world as it would be without the internet? I am not sure you can or you might be remotely interested in doing such!

clipartpanda.com
Image courtesy clipartpanda.com

Today I choose to focus on news! So much goes on around us and true enough sometimes we are oblivious, or unaware! Do you know how much has happened in the world that you may not have heard of yet? It’s a lot and I am using this opportunity to share some of it! Click on the links as you come upon them. Each link will lead you to something that has happened very recently in the world and interestingly enough all of these stories have taken place in the past 48 hours.

Take note of the photographs, the video footage and all the information that is shared. Here we go:

clipartsco
Image from cliparts.co

The first story focuses on sad news. There was a lot of damage done! Thank God that you are safe, sound and alive! A 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan.  http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-35511884

This is information regarding the same earthquake that was reported 11 hours earlier. http://www.dnaindia.com/world/report-magnitude-64-earthquake-hits-taiwan-over-100-trapped-in-collapsed-building-2174506

The US, UK, Spies Agencies and Media Companies….what’s the connection? Check this out: http://www.news.com.au/world/breaking-news/us-uk-eye-letting-spy-agencies-get-data/news-story/efb74747ec9d86e9d010bcd5b089da99

Do you know that a crane collapsed in lower Manhattan yesterday morning and it killed one person and injured two others? If you didn’t here is the link to an article that contains some footage an onlooker captured- http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-35511457

This is a little closer to home and it is about a crisis in Haiti which has turned deadly: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-35508709

At this stage too news world be incomplete without mention of the Zika virus. This was released a mere 18 hours ago and it focuses on precautions that men should take regarding this virus-http://edition.cnn.com/2016/02/05/health/zika-urine-saliva/

For those who might be considering travelling this bit of information might prove to be useful as it focuses on Puerto Rico’s governor declaring a health emergency as more Zika-related cases emerge: http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2016-02-05/the-latest-brazil-finds-active-zika-virus-in-urine-saliva

Here is information on a much lighter note. Star Wars continues to be a big hit as expected. Here is the proof: http://www.news.com.au/world/breaking-news/star-wars-to-hit-us2b-in-global-sales/news-story/4d6a8116df2b733ce167edda4568bcbb-

This is one of the first things that grabbed my attention this morning http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2016-02-05/cyber-cops-now-hold-key-case.

We can all agree that locally there is a lot of disturbing news. This is something from our local news which you might want to read. It’s from the Trinidad Guardian and concerns information about the explosion at Kleen Rite Dry Cleaners earlier in the week: http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2016-02-05/gas-delivery-driver-hailed-hero

Another trending topic in local new is the new VAT regime here in Trinidad and Tobago. There is a hotline number here and other useful information for readers: http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2016-02-05/bir-penalise-vat-culprits

Water shuttle passengers will also be very pleased to find out about a new shuttle service from Marabella to the Water Taxi Terminal. You can read more about it here: http://www.looptt.com/content/new-shuttle-service-water-taxi-passengers

Hopefully some information within this post has been of help to you. Keep up with what’s going on around you please! Embrace every opportunity to learn more! Celebrate it!

Here is what you may want to find out more about:

zika
courtesy cw39.com

Aerial picture of a site where buildings collapsed after a powerful earthquake hit Tainan, southern Taiwan
A site where buildings collapsed is seen in this aerial picture taken after a powerful earthquake hit Tainan, southern Taiwan, February 6, 2016. Courtesy REUTERS/Xinhua

 

loopnews
courtesy Loop News

 

In closing it’s Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago! Whether or not you’re taking part in the festivities I wish you the very best! Have a safe and enjoyable weekend everyone!

 

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating Music

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Music is my solace and it’s a sign I’m relaxed. Hearing me singing and enjoying music is something not many may have witnessed but it’s something Shiva has witnessed on so many occasions. I’ve never gotten around to taping it for those who might find it hard to believe, but the truth is, at that moment you’re thoroughly enjoying the moment.

There is so much truth in these statements:

Bob Marley -“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.”

Friedrich Nietzsche- “Without music, life would be a mistake.”

Victor Hugo- “Music expresses that which  cannot be put into words and that which  cannot remain silent.”

We don’t feel pain when we are really into the music do we? We don’t. Further to this, can we imagine life without music? Surely we cannot, now can we? Music is just so full of energy and rhythm. The lyrics, the beat and everything we can think about are proof that it’s soothing, through and through!

It’s pure therapy for most, including me. It relaxes and it’s healing also. Here is an example:

Can you think of the effect soca, calypso and parang have on Trinidadians and Tobagonians! It’s the perfect example especially when Carnival and Christmas come around.

Just a few weeks the Digicel Rising Stars 2015 completed. Now in Trinidad and Tobago we can all agree that is a big thing as it’s local talent and an outpouring of our local talent . The winner was Angela Didier. Here is some of what you missed:

This past week marked the Finals of The Voice Season 9. It was such a great season that was also overflowing with pure talent.

Music appeals to us in various ways. It means different things to all of us!

Now this is how I need your help everyone! I really would appreciate it! Please share your responses to these two questions:

What does music mean to you?

Which song/ songs make you laugh? Which songs make you sing along?

Hopefully you have enjoyed this but please remember I’m looking forward to hearing from you!