My Barbados Blog

I ran across Notes from a Small Island blog, and Ingrid Persaud dishes the goings on at Holder's Season in Barbados. Ingrid's account brought back memories of the last Holder's Season I attended - and yes a visit to Wendy Kidd's homes is worth a visit - even if you are not a cultural fan - Linda

Ingrid starts out with . . .
'Tis “the season” to be jolly on our small rock. Visitor numbers peak as the winter birds settle into their villa nests on the West coast. Those who cannot afford to nest here from November through to April make the pilgrimage for a week or two as a brief escape from the punishing northern winter.

We put on major cultural shows for them – international culture rather than the stuff that makes up our other major local culture event, Crop Over. This being little England we particularly thrive on a little of the English cultural and social scene.

Winter birds want to be able to report back to the less fortunate of Abergavenny and Aldershot that they did not miss out on anything and they got a tan. You saw Much Ado About Nothing with the Royal Shakespeare Company at the Festival Hall, London? We did it at Holders Festival in a Globe Theatre, London production. Wish you were there darling!

Read the rest of Ingrid's post at Notes From a Small Island

The RSS News Feed from the White House reads . . .
President Bush to Welcome Prime Ministers of The Bahamas, Barbados, and Belize
 
President Bush will welcome Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham of The Bahamas, Prime Minister David Thompson of Barbados (shown here), and Prime Minister Dean Barrow of Belize to the White House on March 20, 2008.

The Bahamas, Barbados, and Belize are longstanding friends of the United States and countries with whom we share deep social and familial ties as well as the values of democracy and respect for human rights.

The President looks forward to discussing a range of issues--including strengthening democracy in the region, increasing social and trade ties, cooperating on security and crime, and improving the lives of the region's citizens - with these new Caribbean leaders, all of whom have been democratically elected within the past year.

Source: The White House

A variety of world-class music and theatrical performances, ranging from opera to comedy, are lined up in this year's Holders program providing the ultimate sensory experience.

The annual performing arts festival, scheduled to last until March 15, 2008, is held at the breathtaking Holders House in Barbados and has previously been graced by legends including: Pavarotti, Sir Tim Rice and Lesley Garrett.

Holders Season is hosted by the renowned Wendy Kidd, mother to Jodie and Gemma Kidd. The festival is held in the extensive grounds of Wendy's exquisite home, the Holders House, where she regularly entertains British royalty and hosts countless Polo tournaments.

The 2008 Holders Season brings a wide range of festive sights and sounds, from the West End and Broadway musical, to the rhythms of the French Caribbean.

Highlights include a Holders Season favorite, Chicago's 2nd City Touring Company described as "the world's greatest comedy theatre!" Laugh- out-loud comedy giants include Alan Arkin, Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray. In a major coup for Holders, the latest crop of comic talents brings their remarkable brand of improvised humor to the magical garden.

    The current schedule of events is:

     Tuesday, February 26th
     From Shakespeare's Globe Theatre (London) - Much Ado About Nothing

     Thursday, February 28th
     Kit and the Widow

     Friday, February 29th
     From Shakespeare's Globe Theatre (London) - Much Ado About Nothing

     Saturday, March 1st
     The Piano - Keyboard Kings Ben "Boogie Woogie" Waters + The David Rees Williams Trio

     Monday, March 3rd
     Barbados Heart and Stroke Foundation

     Tuesday, March 4th
     Classical Double Mill Bravo!

     Thursday, March 6th
     Comedy Night 2nd City Touring Co. Chicago

     Saturday, March 8th (9pm-10pm)
     6pm-8pm Calling All Kids
     9pm-10pm Poetry on the Gallery - Love is all around

     Tuesday, March 11th
     The Piano 2 - Featuring Simon Mulligan

     Thursday, March 13th
     Gospel and Blues Night with The Campbell Brothers

     Saturday, March 15th
     Gala Night - Direct from New Orleans - The Preservation Hall Jazz Band

Ticket prices start from $15 per person. For more information on Holders Season, visit www.holders.net

Barbados has named Rihanna as an honorary cultural and youth ambassador for the island.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister David Thompson Thursday night at a Bridgetown concert. The Prime Minister also gave Rihanna a "piece of the rock" which turns out is a prime piece of real estate in Apes Hill, St James Parish.

The young Bajan singer also received a Land Rover and a diamond bracelet from some of the event's sponsors, along with a birthday cake to celebrate her birthday which was Wednesday, February 20th.

And American R&B star Chris Brown, who has been romantically linked with Rihanna, traveled with her to the iskland, and was also in attendance at the concert.

Other honorary ambassadors for include Obadele Thompson, who won the bronze medal in the 100 meters at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia.

Sorry I'm so late in posting this, but it's been one of "those" days in the sometimes crazy world of travel - Linda

The Barbados Workers Union strike was called off, but not before American Airlines cancelled their evening flights from Miami and Puerto Rico to the island leaving lots of people stranded. 

The strike was due to start one minute after 12 this morning, and reports say the union is giving the government a chance to mediate. I hope both sides are able to come to an agreement, because just talk of a looming strike is enough for airlines to cancel, and cruise ships to divert to other ports.

Here's what the Barbados Nation News reported - Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry Relieved the Strike is Off

National strike in Barbados on Wednesday - one of the biggest tourist days. When I first heard rumors of the strike, I wasn't sure it would actually come about, but according to these three blogs (Barbados Free Press, Cheese on Bread, and Notes From the Margin) - it's definitely possible! So rather than re-hash what has already been said, I have posted these blogs, and you can follow the links - Linda

Barbados Free Press says, "I had to laugh at the quotes from Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association President Alvin Jemmott that the day chosen for the nationwide strike - Wednesday - is the worst day because it is the busiest tourism day of the week. Ah…. Yes, Mr. Jemmott: that is precisely why the BWU chose Wednesday for the strike."

According to BFP Sandy Lane, the most expensive property on the island, has been stocking up on supplies - but the question is will locals cross the picket line. This could get real messy, and cause lots of media attention for the posh resort. Read Sandy Lane to Fly in Strike Breakers

Cheese on Bread Blog posted "Royal Mess", and says, "Well, it's looking like Barbados is headed for a national strike on Wednesday. According to the DAILY NATION, "the central issue in both cases has to do with the dismissal of workers, as the employers stand their ground not to rehire the 29 people involved in the disputes."

Notes From the Margin Blog Posts "Down to the Wire" - A national strike does seem to be about to happen in Barbados, (barring a last minute settlement by the intervention of the  Prime Minister) In both cases of dispute (Sandy Lane and the Royal Shop) no one seems to be shifting their position.

The Caribbean International Film Festival will take place in Barbados April 9-13 at which "Hit For Six!" will be screened.

"Hit For Six!" is a fictional account of a West Indian cricketer who fights a match-fixing charge.

Since its establishment in 1992, the Pan African Film Festival has promoted cultural and racial tolerance and understanding through the exhibition of film, art and creative expression featuring quality films from the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, the South Pacific and Canada.

Visit the "Hit For Six" website for more information - http://www.hitforsix.com/ 

Bajan artist Rihanna was nominated for six Grammy Awards this year, and took home the Award for Best Rap/Song Collaboration for the song "Umbrella" featuring Jay-Z.

She also performed live with the 80’s band The Time at the awards show this past Sunday.

I really don't understand why Barbados Tourism doesn't take full advantage of using her more in their marketing campaigns. Also most of the information about Rihanna is not from the local Barbados news, but other news outlets around the world.  

Whether you like her music or not, becoming an award winning world wide star is quite an accomplishment for this young Bajan. Many younger travelers have inquired about visiting Barbados only because they know that Rihanna is from the island, and they have expressed a desire to learn more, and possibly visit.  

Boyce Voice goes a lot farther with his posting on Bajans giving more support to one of their own.
 

I found these pictures through Google alerts for Rihanna. Haven't done a posting on her for awhile, so I thought I would post this for her fans - of course I'm a fan also.   

In fact over 4,000 visitors have come to My Barbados Blog in search of postings on the Bajan artist in the past few months.

So Rihanna fans enjoy!   

See all pictures of Rihanna at Digital Glamour Photography Blog

We've been so busy lately, and haven't had time to visit our blog friends and partners.

But, I stopped by Barbados Free Press tonight, and saw their posting "Moses Wood, Tuk And The Barbados Landship" - Linda.

Barbados has the distinction of being the only country with a "Landship Movement", which is comprised of a Navy that never goes to sea.

See our blog page for more information on the Barbados Landship. Also check out the history of The Tuk Band.

Take a little time to check out this Google video, which will give you a first hand look at The Barbados Landship, Moses Wood and theTuk Band. BIG THANKS to Barbados Free Press for bringing this to our attention.

View The Barbados Landship - Preserving the Ship and Its Engine

Enjoy the best reggae on the island at Jumbies in the St Lawrence Gap. The first show was yesterday, and "Raggae Nights" will run March 27, 2008.

The event is being presented by Banks Beer, Jumbies, Bird's Eye Music and CRS Music, and sponsored by HOTT and Love FM.

Barbadian music star David Kirton will be performing life every Thursday night. Kirton's new album "Time for Change" is nominated for seven Barbados Music Awards - including Entertainer of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year.

Visit David's website for more info about him, and his music.

"Raggae Nights" Inside Thursday Dates at Jumbies-  Nov 15, Nov 22, Dec 6, 13 & 20, Jan 3,10,17 & 24, Feb 7, 14 & 21, Mar 6, 13 & 20.

"Raggae Nights" Parking Lot Thursday Dates at Jumbies (on these dates, the raggae night moves indoors to Jumbies parking lot, with many guest artist more local and regional) - Nov 29, Dec 27th, Jan 31st, Feb 28th, and Mar 27 is the final day.

Special date: Feburary 7 - (Celebrating Bob Marley's Birthday, which is on Feb 6).

Bajan Blog "Cheese on Bread" says . . . 

"It's easy to take your culture and way of life for granted, and to think there's nothing unique about the way you speak as a people. We Bajans have our own way of expressing ourselves, and I'm sure visitors probably wonder what the heck we're saying."

Cheese on Bread is adding a daily segment on how to speak like a Bajan - head on over to find out more.

Barbadian national pledge of allegiance - I pledge allegiance to my country Barbados and to my flag, To uphold and defend their honour, and by my living to do credit to my nation, wherever I go.

The island of Barbados is celebrating 41 years of independence on November 30.

The national flag of Barbados is comprised of three equal vertical panels - the centre panel of gold and the outer panels of ultramarine. A broken trident in black is located in the centre of the flag. Blue represents the sea and sky of Barbados, while gold represents the sand of the islands beaches. The symbol at the centre of the flag represents the Trident of the mythical sea god, Neptune - the shaft of the trident is broken symbolising Barbados' break from Britain.

Actually the independence celebrations last all month with a variety of community events, fairs and sporting events, which lead up to the national holiday on November 30.

The National Independence Festival of Creative Arts celebrates Barbadian music, dance, drama, arts and crafts, photography, and the best in each group are chosen at the conclusion of the festival.

Independence Day starts off with a big parade and ceremony at the Garrison Savannah. By nightfall the parliament buildings and businesses in the capital city of Bridgetown are all lit up with blue and gold lights, as well as all the highway roundabouts on the island. Blue and gold are the national colors of the island.

Keith Clark is a well known Bajan photographer that captures the essence of what Barbados used to be.

Whether it be some old chattel house, an old soft stone house, or some other dilapidated dwelling, Keith says, "you can still find some subtle beauty in them."

Also check out Keith's book, Old Barbados through Photography, which brings Old Barbados back to the forefront via photography.

Visit Keiths site - Barbados In Focus

Barbados own Rihanna won big time at the World Music Awards  - "Female Entertainer of the Year" honors and taking the prize for the "World's Best Selling Pop Female Artist."

World Music Awards 2007 list of winners

Legend Award for Outstanding Contribution to R&B - Patti LaBelle
Legend Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music - Celine Dion
World's Best-Selling New Artist - Mika
World's Best-Selling Pop/Rock Male Artist - Mika
World's Best-Selling Pop/Rock Female Artist - Avril Lavigne
World's Best-Selling Rap/Hip-Hop Artist - 50 Cent
World's Best-Selling Rock Group - Linkin Park
World's Best-Selling R+B Artist - Akon
World's Best-Selling Pop Female Artist - Rihanna
World's Best-Selling DJ - David Guetta
World's Best-Selling Latin Artist - Mana
Male Entertainer of the Year - Mika
Female Entertainer of the Year - Rihanna
World's Best-Selling Internet Artist - Akon

Best-Selling Artists from around the world:

Africa - Akon
America - Justin Timberlake
Australia - Silverchair
Britain - Mika
Canada - Avril Lavigne
China - Jay Chou
Netherlands - Within Temptation
France - Christophe Willem
Germany - Cascada
Ireland - U2
Italy - Laura Pausini
Middle East - Amr Diab
Russia - Silver
Spain - Miguel Bose
Scandinavia - Nightwish

November is National Diabetes Month

The Barbados Diabetes Foundation, in partnership with the Lions Club of Bridgetown and the Barbados Diabetes Association, has planned a call to action program for Barbados.

Three agencies were joining forces to ensure that people living with diabetes and those who are at risk know of all their options in the treatment and prevention of diabetes.

Barbados is thought to have one of the highest per capita ratios of diabetes. At present, one in ten Barbadians has the disease and more are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

In an effort to educate the Barbadian public to the plight of diabetes, the foundation, in conjunction with its partners the Lions Club of Bridgetown, and the Diabetes Association, has planned two major events.

A public lecture will be held on November 14 (World Diabetes Day) at Sherbourne Conference Centre at 6:30 p.m., and an expo entitled Global Village will be held on November 17 and 18 at Hilton Barbados hotel. (PR)

November 14 has been designated by the United Nations as World Diabetes Day - Year of the Child. 

More than 100 iconic sites and buildings around the world are currently set to light the World Diabetes Day skyline on November 14!

On December 20 2006, the General Assembly of the United Nations passed a landmark Resolution recognizing diabetes as a chronic, debilitating and costly disease.

The Resolution designates World Diabetes Day as a United Nations Day to be observed every year starting in 2007.

Nearly 21 million children and adults in the United States are living with diabetes, and another 54 million people are at-risk.

African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asians, and Pacific Islanders are the high risk groups here in the U.S.

In a Nation News article Tony Best writes that Bajans who are abroad remain a significant source of foreign exchange for Barbados, remitting almost BDS$600 million to their birthplace last year alone.

The money, sent mainly to families by relatives in North America and Britain, may now be the second-largest single source of foreign exchange for the island.

These recent figures are from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) Multilateral Invest Fund which track the flow of money from immigrants and others back to Latin America, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other regions.

Jamaica, Haiti, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, in that order, have the largest single immigrant communities in North America and the remittances tend to match those numbers.

Read full article at the Nation News