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As we to wake to yet another Monday morning signaling the start of yet another week of financial trading and not being certain of which direction the current ongoing financial crisis will swing, we as a nation need to be mindful of the links between the economy of the United States and by extension the global economic platform and how it relates to us.

It is totally naïve to believe that the impact for us here will be minimal.  It may have shocked our financial authorities when oil prices closed last week at $78 per barrel. Although early indicators for this week show that on the New York Mercantile exchange, Light Sweet crude rose to just above $80. However a downward trend may continue whether or not the Bush Administration finds a way to stabilize the American financial crisis which would unlock the current freeze on lending by commercial US banks.

A more thorough analysis may be needed in order to assess our true position relative to the global economic meltdown.  Since the greater part of our revenue is derived from taxation on exports such as Petroleum products, Natural Gas and other energy based products, we should take steps ahead of time to soften any necessary impact resulting from reduced earnings.  While it can be said that the oil price is set on the “futures exchange”, very soon, existing contracts will be fulfilled and new ones negotiated.

Another point to ponder is the fact that our dollar is pegged to the US dollar and if there is any significant devaluation of the US currency against the Euro and other Asian Currencies then it will have a direct impact on goods we import from associated countries.  We need to be also mindful that some of our Caribbean neighbors who are dependent on tourism as a mainstay of their economy will be experiencing a lull in business and thereby will be importing less from our manufacturers which will also affect revenue from taxation.

While nothing much has been said about it, the Unit Trust’s US Money Market fund may be affected in some way or the other.

It may be argued that no single aspect of what was mentioned above can in anyway significantly affect our stability, however a combination factors will be consequential.

Our government has embarked on projects which cannot be stopped or even be tempered in any manner.  The thought of halting these will result in a zoo of “white elephants” along the Port of Spain Water Front.  But still in the pipeline are high price projects like the Rapid Rail and maybe others which I can’t remember at this time.  Now maybe a good time to review such projects, looking for alternatives which will achieve the same results of get us mostly there.   

The Rapid Rail idea is a brilliant one which can move commuters in mass amounts freeing up vehicular traffic significantly.  However given the present global situation, we need to ask ourselves if it is worth the risk which is expected to be in excess of TT$25 Billion?  How about aggressively expanding our road network instead, building major freeways from Sea Lots to Sangre Grande, San Fernando to Icacos, and removing all traffic lights along any highway? These only impede traffic flow.  The Water Taxi is easy to implement and should not be stopped. My only grouse with it is that I expected each vessel to have a larger seating capacity, much like those used on the Tobago sea bridge.

Should for any reason the Rapid Rail run into financial difficulty, we will not be able to use any aspect of it unless phases are completed and this can easily resemble the Caroni Racetrack.  A massive highway development project will have more value even if the overall project is incomplete since there will be the ability to complete phases in an easier manner.

Another aspect we can look at is to forcefully move away from the centralistic approach to administration.  Why do I have to go to Port of Spain to register a business? The same network which is used to connect the computers at the ministry of Legal Affairs can be expanded throughout the Country and thereby appropriate supervision be placed in satellite offices in each municipalities.  Too many services can only be attained in the Capital City.

Such a move will also help reduce the bottleneck heading in and out of Port of Spain and should be attempted before initiating such a massive project as the Rapid Rail.  Maybe upon completion of a highway Development/Modernization project and decentralization of administrative services, we may realize that there is not a need for a Rapid Rail. Then we can implement a toll system for highway usage so at that time we can cushion the cost impact of the advanced project which will then be the Rapid Rail.

All I am advocating at this time is that we sober up and realize that some steep corners are ahead which we need to navigate carefully.

Government need to understand that local investors may also curtail their spending being more cautious adopting a skeptic wait and see approach.  Regardless how much government ministers try to play down the projected impact, there will be a high level of timidity among locals with high investment portfolios.

Notwithstanding all that was said before, I believe that should appropriate action be taken immediately, we will be able to soften the inevitable impact.  Now is a good time to surface from the dive, take a look around and observe that the shoreline is not exactly where we expected.  There should not be any panic but total awareness of the prevailing condition and steps taken to avert any negative impact.

Now is the time to re-think.

Photos taken from ttparliament.org

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Sometimes I wonder why we in Trinidad & Tobago are not progressing in the manner we ought to, given the abundance of natural and other resources at our disposal.  Reading the daily newspaper on Republic Day made me realize that we may be moving nowhere at warp speed.

While trying to understand the ramifications of the 2008/2009 Budget presentation made two days before and coming to terms with the fact that I now have to pay more for premium gasoline and if I choose to purchase a new vehicle I will have to endure a substantial price increase, I expected that those entrusted to effectively defend us will really articulate the sentiments shared by the citizens to those in Government.

However, two days after the budget presentation I am reading on the daily news that opposition Senator Wade Mark alleging that there is Video Tape somewhere showing the Chairman of UDECOTT receiving $27 Million in bribe money (Read the article).  Now I am certain that such video will never surface since this particular Senator has made numerous similar allegations in the past without ever producing and evidence.  But even more than that is the fact that here he is saying $27 Million in Cash.  Yea right —- Cash —- $27 Million.

In a time when we should be serious about treating with the global economic state of affairs and the issue of crime, here we have these non substantiated accusations which seem to be just a waste of time.

The reason why this upsets me is because of the individual who seem to have an agenda to simply speak a bag of garbage whenever he has the opportunity to do it.  Wasting senate time!  In the past whenever he made his claims he never can back it up and always hide under the cloak of parliamentary privileges and I am quite sure this is another instance.

I believe it’s about time that we let these time wasters know how we feel about their actions and with this in mind I will like to announce Senator Wade Mark as JACKASS OF THE DECADE.

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It has been reported that the business closed its doors to the public after the death of the proprietor a few weeks ago.  This resulted in his wife taking control and making the decision that the long standing institution will be no more.

When word hit the streets about the closure, many could not believe that it was the truth.  Some of you (very few) maybe asking now, what was the business of “Villa Capri”?  Well, Villa Capri was a house of pleasure, probably the most prominent establishment in Trinidad & Tobago where Pleasure Dolls, otherwise known to wider public as Prostitutes were employed.  On any given night or even day, there was no shortage of clients.  This happens despite the fact that the general business conducted is illegal in this country.  A visit inside the vistabella, San Fernando compound will immediately arouse any pleasure seeking male because of the assortment of “dolls” which he is greeted with.

While the general view is that such an institution breeds immorality, there is another view that there is a need for the services provided.  Many taxi drivers from Point Fortin and Point Lisas are now saying that they have lost business because of the closure.  “George”, a Point Fortin Taxi Driver said he had a good “hustle” whenever ships came in at Atlantic LNG.  Upon arrival, crew members would immediately seek transport to “Villa” and back.  For this run he could easily earn $200 USD or $1,200 TTD for his transport service which usually lasts less than four (4) hours.  Different ships arrive at the LNG port daily.

Establishments like Villa Capri have for eons been providing service to seamen, business executives, loners and other individuals who for some reason or the other find solace by their visits. Some argue that it is a much needed service for men who are not in touch with female companions, while others take the view that it’s the way to go when wives become bitchy without reason.  Pleasure dolls provide relief without strings attached.  This may be the most contentious issue however, Seechan, who is a regular and is married, said that those who are talking must understand that men has serious pleasure needs and sometime the brick wall implemented by some wives are the sole reason for participation.

 For years Villa has been conducting its illegal trade without much interference.  In recent times there have been regular police raids on the compound resulting in the deportation of female workers from Caribbean and Latin American countries.  Speculation was that since the owner became sick, “pay-off” to the authorities was not happening resulting in the raids.

There is also a suspected link between the importation of female workers from South America and the illicit drug trade.  A particular recent murder investigation has led police to believe that the trading of Pleasure Dolls was the main contributing factor.

In Trinidad, pleasure houses are not widespread and this makes the few that exist very popular.  With the exception of Villa Capri in the south, there are only two others which are well-known having the varied assortment similar to Villa.  One is located in Central and the other in North Trinidad.  Of course there are the more upscale social entities but this article takes into account those available for regulars. A few months ago I remember speaking to a male flight attendant onboard a trip from the USA to Trinidad who asked me how to get a taxi to Villa or the other place in Central. The impact of those institutions is international.

Another similar element available in Trinidad is “Street Dolls” operating mostly in Port of Spain.  On any given night if you should stop for five minutes at the playground at the corner of Robert and Murray Streets in Woodbrook, you would notice at least five “pick-ups”.  Business there is very hectic especially on weekends.

The demise of “Villa” has left many patrons wondering “where next”? Some say that there is no need to look far since in close proximity there is a long standing rival who has been playing second fiddle and is now ready to step up their game?  The challenge is, can they do it?

The Villa de Capri was comprised of four (4) buildings with over one hundred (100) rooms occupying almost an entire block in an upscale San Fernando neighborhood.  It was registered as a Hotel however the maximum length of stay for most guests did not exceed one (1) hour.

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  “OBEAH”
Why it still exists 

I write this article with a high degree of passion because it directly relates to myself.  Just for the records, I am a person who believes in logic and simply discards superstition.  Now, I am fully aware that a lot of friends, acquaintances and even relatives may not agree with me, but I believe in practicality rather than fallacy.

I am writing this article in relation to a family issue which I believe should be made public since it is of importance to many.

Some people who know me may be aware that my son has been diagnosed with a rare medical condition which required surgery to be corrected.  At this time, I wish to state that a couple surgical procedures have been performed and all have been reported as being successful. For this I give thanks to almighty God and many others who I will mention at a later date.

My point of concern is, what would have been the outcome of this situation had I not been persistent in demanding answers?  Please bear with me as I lay the story.

Sometime during the later half of 2006, my son found it difficult to hold things in his hand and at school was losing grip of his pen. As a result, could not write properly.  He then decided to switch his writing hand from left to right.  A few months later the same thing began happening to his right hand.  Subsequently, it was noticed that he had what appeared to be a stiff neck. 

Out of immediate concern, he was taken to a much respected and highly recommended neurologist/surgeon at a prestigious San Fernando private hospital (seeking legal advice before naming). MRIs and CT Scans were conducted. After several consultations, the presiding doctor indicated that he was simply suffering from an acute form of Stiff Neck which he termed “Spasmodic Torticollis”.  He recommended that “Botox” be injected into the muscle to relieve the spasm.  However, he indicated that he never before performed the procedure.

This did not settle too well with me so I decided to seek another opinion.  After a few referrals, he began visiting Dr. David Toby in Port of Spain.  During that period, his condition worsened to the point where he could not walk.  He was then hospitalized at the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital where MRIs & CT scans were reordered from a different institution. It was discovered then that his spinal cord was being compressed in the area of the C1 vertebrae at the base of the skull.  A condition diagnosed as “Basilar Invagination”.

One of the symptoms of this condition is “sudden death”.  During the following days, his right hand became weaker until the point of being paralyzed.  His legs were also weak and walking became difficult.

Eventually, he was taken to the Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami where a couple surgeries were performed and thus far, success has been reported.  He is still warded there; however, I can report that his condition is improving.

Now, my grouse is this, had it not been for me questioning the San Fernando doctor’s diagnosis, my son could have been dead while he injected Botox and the compression became worst.  This Doctor actually indicated that the MRIs did not specify anything which indicated any problem, hence his theory of acute muscle spasm.  He also told us that he consulted with another Doctor regarding the case.

I later found out from other sources that the MRI scans received from the San Fernando Private Hospital were performed with outdated equipment and that the resolutions of the films were of low quality. In other words, they were not clear.

During the early stages of my son’s illness, I was approached by many friends and relatives who suggested that I take him to a spiritual healer since the doctors cannot determine what was wrong.  Many suggested that it could have been a “spirit Blow” and that medical resources may not have the answer.  I was surprised at how many people actually believed in such happenings. I know that a lot of you believe also.

However, I decided to be strong in my resolve against the belief of superstition and sought a practical explanation for the existing condition.  The result is; I now have a realistic hope that my son Jamol, will live a normal life.

There were those who were saying that we already tried the hospital (the mentioned private hospital is regarded as one of the best in the country) and nothing was happening.  There was no worry about whether he was getting the best medical attention. 

Had my son died as a result of his condition, before being properly diagnosed, I can imagine what would have been said; “d boy was good all de time, somebody pelt ah spirit blow and d father eh believe it, he only studying dem doctors who couldn’t do nutten and he leave him tuh dead”.

I have heard similar stories like that in the past.  However, I would like to state that we need to step above the realm of associating illnesses with superstition.  I am also aware that some situations are generated by mental conditions but, medical treatment is available for those types also.

The perception of “Obeah” exists when we rely on inept doctors or inadequate equipment to diagnose our medical condition.  When they fail, we resort to the realm of superstition and rely on unnatural mediums for help.

We must always be practical and vigilant regarding the health of ourselves and loved ones.  Demand appropriate answers from practitioners, if vague answers are forthcoming, seek advice from other professionals in the field, consult the internet and speak to practical people.  Inadequate medical care can cost someone their life.

The world has changed significantly regarding the “halo” worn by doctors.  Their diagnoses are frequently challenged by informed patients and sad to say, sometimes are found to be terribly flawed.

In the past, many lives were lost because individuals chose to listen to their “healers” rather than seeking extended medical advice. I urge my fellows to always get your pennies worth, push the envelope as far as you can.

For some, I know that it is difficult to depart from a teaching which has been at the core of your very existence.  From a young age, most of us were taught to believe in the supernatural and once your mind accepts it then you will see things which confirm your belief.

You may now be asking whether I believe in God and his ability to heal and the answer is yes.  However, I believe that God works when man has tried his best.  My faith in God is unwavering but I also believe that there is a difference between faith and foolishness.

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A PRAYER FOR OUR NATION SUBMITTED BY ALICIA VIA GUEST BOOK
Dear Heavenly Father,

We come to you today, humbly lifting up our country Trinidad and Tobago.

We ask Lord that you remove the dark cloud of crime that has settled over our land.

We know that with you all things are possible, and trust in your love for the restoration of Peace, Love and Community in our country that is called by your name.

Influence our leaders and people living in the two islands so that they can find an effective solution to restore law and order.

We pray that you breathe a fresh breath of your Holy Spirit over our land and remove all lawlessness, murder, kidnappings, immorality and corruption.

Lord, because we believe that you are Powerful and Mighty we place Trinidad and Tobago in your hands and promise that we will do our best and continue to rejoice at your presence in our daily lives to stay focused on you shining a light of holiness upon your people.

In thanksgiving we pray to you Father, AMEN.

2 Chronicles 7:14
‘If my people which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sins AND HEAL THEIR LAND’

As I was reading recent comments in the guest book relative to the crime situation in Trinidad and Tobago which I believe was ignited by an Express Newspaper article headlined, “Six Murders in Sixteen Hours”. It once again dawned on me that our country is not the paradise we project and as usual the questions began “flying” through my mind seeking answers to this dilemma.

A dilemma because, T&T has for the past decade and more been enjoying economical success, employment is at its lowest, all citizens have the capability to aspire for whatever their heart desires, the island people are generally friendly, and love to have a good time.  So then why all the hatred which result in these senseless murders?

Someone mentioned to me once that somewhere in the Bible it states that if the nation fails to punish wrongdoers, then God’s wrath shall be unleashed upon the nation for the blood of the innocent.  It was further pointed out to me that a particular group in T&T caused innocent lives to be lost and even attacked the nation’s highest office.  To date, this group is still able to enjoy the benefits enshrined to law abiding citizens and in some cases, members are given privileged treatment over the average resident.  I was also told that God works in mysterious ways.  Then I was asked if I can identify any group or organization which can be linked to many of the murders, kidnapping and robberies happening in our once peaceful T&T?

My spiritual advisor went on to tell me; it is one thing not to avenge the blood of the innocent due to lack of evidence, but to know and do nothing about it is willful disobedience  to the law of God and the penalty of which is his wrath.   He told me to pay close attention to those responsible for causing innocent lives to be lost and their relationship to the current tyranny.  Those who have eyes to see let them see and those with ear let them hear.

Spiritual discernment normally has no recognized place in governance of a nation, but as a people claiming to be God fearing and abiding, we owe it to ourselves to do that which we believe to be just according to God’s directive.  Pampering criminal elements is not of God.  Showing weakness to lawbreakers is also against his liking. 

The spate of lawless behavior in Trinidad & Tobago does nothing positive for our country and has to be stopped.  We cannot continue playing the lawful game with elements of lawlessness.  How can we play by the rules when they break all the rules?  Criminal elements must be eliminated whether right or wrong.  In these times of wanton behavior, tough measures must be advocated and not the pillow talk which states that crime will be reduced in three years.  The time to act is now.

And by all means, the mistake made by not severely punishing those responsible for causing innocent lives to be lost and attacking the highest office in our country, is more of a spiritual blunder than a political one.  Rectifying the blunder will return our nation in harmony with our creator.

When we are baffled by logic, we need to observe the spirit.  The spirit guides when man’s judgment fails.