'A' Team Friday Weekly round-up

Just to bring back sweet memories of our holiday last year. Let's book up!!

Snowfall - Patsy's Neighbours garden 2nd February 2009

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Folks:

Its now almost 9pm Saturday on a cool evening in Toronto while almost 5am your time in Z'bar and you folks must be fast asleep after I guess a good party and drinks continuing Tony's party.

Thanks for your note Toto, hope you are recovering well. All is well at this end as our weather changes to sunny and getting warm as we are in Spring.

Just wanted to send you folks some information on the reservations for the Hotel during your stay here for the wedding. Many have already booked so far about 14 and I need to reserve for you folks.

So what I suggest either let me know the days of your arrival and I can book the rooms for you or you can send an email with your details to Keith as per below.

M&P and Toto It would be nice if you arrive here a few days before the wedding say Wednesday July 24th 2009 or Thursday the 25th.

Here is briefly our schedule. Waiting to here from B& B on their arrival at my place prior to the wedding as Betty will be helping out Rolina with the cake. In the evening M&P and Toto can join us at home and we men will have a ball while the ladies do the cake work in the basement. Porn movies...

I have emailed B&B on their arrival date. Rooky has confirmed she will be arriving in Toronto on Tuesday and report to the Hotel on Friday afternoon and check out on Wednesday morning for Carriage Hills with us.

On Thursday we have the Church rehearsal and the wedding party and family will be attending. On Friday guest at the hotel will meet for an evening of fun at the Hotel I will join.
On Saturday wedding mass and reception. Transport will be provided.

On Sunday around 1pm morning at home at the hotel will continue past 8 or 9 pm lots of singing and dancing and lots of fun. Main stars Toto singing ambe dodo and Merwyn singing oldies and Benny & Colin playing with the band. Its going to be a wild party

On Monday dinner at my place starting from 4pm onwards for only our gang and my visiting friends ( Clarisse & Myrna) and my immediate visiting family. On Tuesday our gang can go out for dinner.

On Wednesday afternoon around 12 noon our gang will head for Carriage Hills Resort. On Friday I drop M&P to the airport for their flight to Alberta for the wedding not sure if Edmonton or Calgary.

The rest of our gang stays at Carriage Hills until Sunday morning we check out at 10 am. B&B and Toto will come to stay at my place and they can plan their schedule accordingly. I hear B&B want to go to Rhode Island where they will stay with Hilda and Colin, Ida would love to see you both.

Rooky will head for Vancouver on that Sunday afternoon. Toto and me will then paint Toronto "red" and Toto you can stay with me for as long as you want and B&B likewise if you decide not to proceed to Rhode Island.

So you folks will need to check out of the Hotel on Tuesday which means Tuesday night at the hotel and check out is by 12 noon Wednesday when we go to Carriage Hills. Don't worry about the hotel arrangements as I have good contacts with management (Keith).

So folks that's it briefly let me know if you have any other plans and if I can be of any help. Caroline will be mailing all the cards next week.

Toto if you can send me Arvind's mailing address would be great. Man I am just looking forward to seeing and being with you all. Z'bar 2010 here we come .....mambo

Cheers,

John


----- Original Message -----
From: Keith Lovendhal
To: 'John De Silva'
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 10:18 PM
Subject: RE: Change of Email Address
Hi Mr. De Silva

In fact, I already made a reservations for a lady – Rooky Driver

Regards

Keith Lovendhal
Asst. Revenue & Reservations Manager
Direct (416) 502-6877

From: John De Silva [mailto:john.de.silva@rogers.com] Sent: February-25-09 5:40 PMTo: klovendhal@wyndhamtoronto.comSubject: Re: Change of Email Address

Thanks, reservations will be coming soon

John

----- Original Message -----
From: Keith Lovendhal
To: Keith Lovendhal
Sent: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 2:07 PM
Subject: Change of Email Address

Good Afternoon,

Please note that my email address has been changed. Going forward I will be using klovendhal@wyndhamtoronto.com. My previous address is no longer available. In future please contact me via this address only.

Thank you

Keith Lovendhal
Asst. Revenue & Reservations Manager
Wyndham Garden Hotel - Toronto
185 Yorkland Blvd Toronto, ON M2J 4R2
Direct (416) 502-6877 General (416) 493-9000
Toll Free (800) 567-8500 Fax (416) 493-9003
Email : klovendhal@wyndhamtoronto.com
Website : www.wyndhamtoronto.com
P please consider the environment before printing this email

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FRIDAY 27 MARCH 2009 - ROUNDUP BY PERVIN -

(Plus previous messages)

Hi, team.

This is ZNZ calling!! The sea, the sand the breeze and oh my, the starry sky yesterday was like I have never seen it before..............just so full of stars. Oh we miss you all. Just when are we doing it again??

Benito, thanks for your mail. So glad you are doing fine. Those stitches look terrible, but what matters is that you are okay. This is my friday bit. Tomorrow our son and family come and with 2 grandkids, I will not have the time to write. We into town tomorrow, as it is Tony's birthday..........so will have lunch at his place and then pick up the family and return to Bwejuu in time for a swim. The tide was so good yesterday and today. Just did not want to come out of the water...........it was so warm.

Betty, what lovely roses on that cake. Wish I was staying nearby to take classes too!! Next time you come to Bwejuu, you do not cook............you show us how to make the roses and flowers, otherwise no rum and coke for you!! Hope Betty is feeling better now. What is this about her eyes?? We will remember her in our daily novena.

Patsy, not many fruits in season, so you are not mssing out much!! John, I got huge crabs.............mmmmmmmmmm am going to boil and eat as chief cook is not there to do the curry. Rooky, one room still empty, so do you want to come? Oh, the mohogo, sugercane, miskaki stands all have moved to band stand and all the guys are in white uniform, with chef's hats, and Rooky would not mind eating there now.

Okay, am off to sing on the karioke..........chau.
Loves, Pervin.
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John replies ...

Okay guys its say and do what you want Friday just could not wait for today. We had some very interesting emails from B&B.

Benny the photos of the wedding cake are out of this world man..kudos to me Betty what can I say "from one baker (Rolina) to another(Betty)" just fantastic. Orders are going to keep pouring.

Hope all is well with you folks, those stitches wow...I wonder if they were real....kidding man its Friday. Atleast it will be a relaxing weekend for the two of you.

Pervin & Merwyn hope you two are having a blast out there in Paradise, I get so tempted with all that you have to say. Keep those crabs alive. And what's this, a room specially reserved for our "beach beauty".... hey not fair what about me..... Tom Cruise, remember "satisfaction guaranteed"
I shall gate crash like it or not.... will talk about it this June.

Tony Toto, wow you big time man...I like your website looks good so far continue working on it and maybe Benny can assist. Also, if you want to have me as one of your representative for Canada you can do so.

I could really get you a lot of tours from here. All I ask for my commission is for your aunty Ida to make me that fried king fish and curry the same I had when you invited me over last year. I will fly down every year. Think about it man...in return I shall make the crab curry for you...Deal or No Deal..... mambo ambe dodo...

Just spoke to Hilda and she promised to go online and read all those emails I told her what she is missing out on......and that come June we don't know her....will have to wait and see.

Patsy dear, what's up with you, have you recovered from your holiday....we cannot wait to hear from you before next Friday your turn....

And not to forget our Vancouver star, hope all is well out there in rainy city, have fun and stay forever young .....thanks for the update on Bruno. "Here in my neighbourhood in good old West Hill they say "live free or die" where to go....intend doing just that...mambo

So folks that is all from me for this Friday.. you guys hang in there have fun and enjoy the weekend and lets keep in touch.


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From: Merwyn & Pervin Nunes
To: John De Silva ; BVENTS@aol.com ; rd@helix.net ; tonykosh@hotmail.com ; nadnaz20@yahoo.com
Cc: Patsy
Sent: Sunday, March 22, 2009 8:27 AM
Subject: Re: Off To Zanzibar
Dear Islanders

Its a beautiful Sunday this side of heaven on earth.If all goes well tomorrow should be even better as our bags are packed and we expect to be sleeping at Toto's guest house in Zanzibar. The following day we head for beautiful Bwejuu and will hang around till Easter Monday. We can be contacted in Bwejuu as normal.

BETTY we have not hear from you for ages.How are you my dear girl? Trust the Auntybiotics have worked with you.We do get drips of news about you from Reuters or is it Ranchot. But thats not like hearing from the real you,and only you. You should be proud of being the special cakeist that you are.Ben takes great pride in your works of art and rightly so. Makes me want to get hooked all over again.In fact I did propose to the same chick because then we only had two rings to rub against each other, now atleast we have a couple of coins to call our own.

By the way next year we clock forty since we said " I do " HILDA has forsaken us completely it will not be easy to bond up when we meet again if you do not keep in touch. As for " Someones in the kitchen with DIANA" she must be under Bean's orders. Diana look at this Diana look at that, Diana do this Diana do that Diana move this here Diana move this there. All because of a bad back,but there are other things he does and completely forgets he owns a bad back. DERECK I can well understand not hearing from you. I guess that by now you must have perfected the art of muscle control for the finger pulling trick. ROOKY the lady of class, a lady of substance,the lady from Vancouver, turns out to also be a lady of a few words.As they say in Afganistan "better few words than no words at all". TOTO has been nurseing a cough fo the last two weeks I am going to get him that special mixture "for cough".

Especially in Zanzibar, you guys and dolls are going to be in our minds where ever we go. I had better hop off this e-mail to you and head to the club for Rummy and Bingo, else I will just go on and on and on.

Chao,and fond loves

Merwyn

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Hello team,

Got back from Cornwall a couple of days ago and you know what? There were over 60 emails from you guys!!!! Blimey, I was only away for 2 1/2 weeks - it's crazy. It's taken a while to go through them all, but nice to hear you all are doing well. Benny great news on your hand - you'll be strumming & playing away to your hearts content very soon. Just sorry to hear about poor Betty. Please give her my love and wish her better. She does seem to have a week spot with her chest & throat doesn't she?

Had a fantastic time in Cornwall which is why I chose to stay on longer than originally planned. I rented a cottage in Charlestown (mid Cornwall) where some girlfriends joined me for the first week. I also came across an old friend I hadn't seen in 15 years who owns the whole of Charlestown Harbour and 3 Tall ships which have been used on various films I've worked on before. It was just great to see him again and he showed us girlies a good time, treating us to dinner and then joining us on some of our 'tourist' trips.

After the girls left, I went down to Penzance for the rest of the time. One of the reasons I chose to go down at this time was that there was an Art College reunion which I wanted to attend. I left the Art college in 1974 and hadn't seen the tutors/fellow students from 35 years ago. What an amazing reunion (almost as good as the SJCS one) - I even came across a tutor I didn't remember at all, but who apparently used to give me lifts to & from college! I was so embarrassed at not remembering him. But he turned out to be a real sweetie and took time to show me 'his Cornwall'. Incredibly, all those years I lived down there and hadn't been to many places. Cornwall is truly beautiful. We had a ball and he's inspired me to start drawing again. I hope I can keep it up, but I know that once I start work (at the moment due to start on 11 May, but could be sooner, could be later - just waiting on confirmation of cast), there won't be time for anything. My personal life will come to a juddering halt and that will include not having time to write to you guys too. I'll give you ample warning!!!

I visited U/Ben each day I was down there - he's not been too well recently and had a pacemaker fitted. It was good to see him, but he's looking very tired and worn out.

Sunday is mothering Sunday here - so have asked mum over for lunch. She's doing fine, but beginning to slow down and looking very vulnerable at times. We've had some glorious spring like weather this last week - let's hope it stays that way over the w/end and we can sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.

So that's my news - take care you all. Have a good w/end and stay healthy.
Lots of love, Pats xx
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Hello team,

Hope you guys are all well and doing great.

I guess someone will be writing their 'bulletin' today, and whoever's turn it is, please forgive me if I don't respond. I'm off today to spend some time with friends in Cornwall and probably won't log on whilst there - am going to make the most of being a tourist and visiting some of the areas I've never been to even though I lived there for many years. I'll be gone for at least a couple of weeks (making the most of the time I've left, before work beckons and the long hours & 6 day weeks begin - ah the joys of working in the film industry).

So take care you all.

Much love, Pats xx

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Folks:

Welcome back, Patsy from a long vacation filled with fun and laughter and memories, so happy for you, only you will have to keep in touch with us whether you like it or not .....so says Tome Cruise. Benny great to hear from you the photo was out of this world. Heaven is waiting for you man....( Friday talk).
Benny sorry did not realise you had gone for your operation, great to hear you doing well. Here in Toronto the past weeks has not been very good for us ( Z'bar folks). We had Marino passing away then benji baretto.
Myrna is presently in London as Katusha is not doing well. Hope all you folks are doing well just got to go to a meeeting right now will write more later
Cheers,
John
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Hi Folks:

So good to talk to both you guys. Glad me Betty is making good recovery and Benny you hang in there and take it easy with your wrist. The wedding photos were great.

When time permits, can you guys please if possible confirm what plans you have come up with if any for your trip to Toronto in June. No hurry just need to know.As you recall Rolina wrote to you and Betty stating you HAVE to come and spend time with us before and after the wedding.

So I suggest you folks can arrive at our place either on Friday June 19th, Saturday June 20th, Sunday June 21 so that we have some time to be together and Betty can help with the cake and other stuff. I will be picking you up from the airport. Rolina will set up a programme for the main tiered cake and slices. Last week she cut up the fruits and did the mix which needs to marinate and soak for some weeks.

On Thursday June 25th we have the Church Dress Rehearsal after which some of the bridesmaids ( out of towners) will be coming over to stay with us before the wedding on Saturday. I might check into the hotel.

M&P & Toto will be arriving a few days at the hotel before the wedding and they can join us in the evenings at my place as we the guys can entertain the ladies who will be helping in the basement with the wedding cake and other stuff or we can go to a strip joint and have fun......

So what I will do is book you two at the Wyndham Hotel starting from Thursday afternoon to Tuesday June 30th.
Here is the full programme:

Friday June 26th: all guest staying at the hotel will meet in the evening for drinks and finger foods. Saturday wedding mass and reception ( bus provided). Rooky arrives Friday at the hotel in the evening. About 14 rooms have so far been booked.

Sunday noon to late evening morning at home at the Hotel. On Monday late noon dinner at my place only our gang and family members from my side. Tuesday our gang goes out and on Wednesday afternoon our gang heads for Carriage Hills.

On Friday morning I drop M&P to the airport for their flight to Edmonton for the wedding. On Sunday July 5th we check out of Carriage Hill by 10 am. You both and Tony Toto come to stay with us and you can make any other arrangements you want if you are planning on going to Rhode Island.

Rooky will be leaving on that Sunday for Vancouver. So that's it lots of fun.

Going to watch the match Fulham 1-0 at HT vs./s Man United and Spurs game underway.

Later,

John
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Hey Mama and Mr. Oldies:

Great to hear from you as always, what a way to go man...you folks are going to hit the big 40 next year...wow I here do not know if I can survive another year.....let us know what day and month next year hopefully, and if you folks agree we can come to celebrate with you all.

So true what you say, looks like we have to give up on Hilda and D&D don't know what their excuses are but for sure they have indeed "forsaken" us and god knows if we will ever meet or see them....Hilda this is a warning for you in June when we see you. By the way it was Derek's b-day last week (Mar 19th) looks like he turned 70, where to go "old man".

Hey Pervin, I am surprised you did not have anything to say about me....good one looks like I escaped. I am surprised to hear Toto is nursing a cough after all those emails and photos I have been getting, thought he was on top of the world.

The folks who really had somewhat a tough time was B&B,
despite her illness put up a courageous battle by attending the wedding of the century and looking at all the photos, rightly so you'll had a great time.

Betty, Rolina and Caroline viewed photos of the cake and they both said it was out of this world. Caroline wants to have similar flowers on her cake and Rolina will write to you about it.

And Benny, great talking to you yesterday, I could not believe it when I saw the 2 photos of you with "Jesus & Mary", man you are forgiven all you "sins"... will have a lot to say in the coming Friday column which I will be writing...stay tuned

Patsy I believe is still reeling from her trip reminiscing of the good memories she recalled, good for you and we will all hope and pray all works out well for you in your job search, but as per my earlier email you have to keep in touch and make that effort you will continue to hear from Pervin and me.

Hey lets not forget Rooky, not much news from Vancouver but atleast the one line or two are better than nothing as Pervin so says and my my what excellent comments about "lady from Vancouver"..... getting "J" mambo....

Well dear folks, its a mild Sunday morning here, going to Mass later and will pray for all you guys especially for Hilda and D&D and ofcouse our new "saint" Benny the BO (big organiser) hang in there man you the best and great game yesterday as Spurs beat Chelsea 1-0 .

Do hope me Betty is recovering well and M&P I know you party animals will have a great Easter in Z'bar, wish I could be there but will be going to Pittsburgh to vist Agnel and family.

Salaams Sana to all you folks out there, take care and be good.

Stay Blessed,

As always Tom Cruise
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FRIDAY 6TH MARCH 2009 REPORT by Rooky D

Rookys voicemail - Sorry cannot voice track to post on this blog and appreciate if Rooky would in future post her message as a Video clip.

In brief - Rooky says she can skip the Winter Olympics in Jan/Feb if the team still want to go to Zanzibar or perhaps plan our trip soon after the Winter Olympics in Vancouver

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Response to Rooky's Friday News - 6th March 2009

Hi rookyi am happy you want to come to toto ha ha my prayers are answered

love toto

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Folks: Its still Friday here and say what you want and do what you want still inforce

Hey welll done Rooky, lovely short and sweet voice message, been hearing your voice so often now and always a pleasure, so looks like Winter Olympics is out for me now..... since your preference is for Z'bar in February next year....well way to go mambo....Friday talk I go where you go....nice try right....

Hey Benny no comments from you as yet... okay...as you just have a few minutes to go before the clock hits midnight and you cannot follow-up on Saturday with say what you want....keep it for next Friday.

Well, too early for me to decide, have the Cruise too.. but will think about it after the wedding.....All is well at this end we are having spring like weather here in Toronto and its going to be a great weekend.

And the clocks spring ahead this weekend and Rooky will have to get up an hour earlier for her Gym if she goes on Sundays.....

Have a safe and a great weekend folks

Tom Cruise
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Hello team,

Hope you guys are all well and doing great.

I guess someone will be writing their 'bulletin' today, and whoever's turn it is, please forgive me if I don't respond. I'm off today to spend some time with friends in Cornwall and probably won't log on whilst there - am going to make the most of being a tourist and visiting some of the areas I've never been to even though I lived there for many years. I'll be gone for at least a couple of weeks (making the most of the time I've left, before work beckons and the long hours & 6 day weeks begin - ah the joys of working in the film industry).

So take care you all.

Much love, Pats xx
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So now you get it, see what I have to put up with that Toto..... we have to get him "hitched" when he comes to Toronto in June.....

Hope you folks are doing well and Benny get the Computer of yours up and running fast as we miss your daily "bread". Patsy must be having a ball out there.

Good old Hilda had to put up with 15 C of snow out in the East Coast good for her she would be better off on email... Folks its March so soon and still freezing out here but just maybe 2 more weeks to go for better weather..

First prize to Rooky who magnificently did all her booking and arrangements for Toronto...way to go gal.... see you all soon. Whose turn is it this Friday......

Ta Ta

John

Folks:

How's you all doing. Benny when it rains it pours, thanks for all your emails great reading them all. Me Betty keep up the great work on those cakes and Patsy you must be back from your trip hope you had a great time and missed us too....

B&B have a good trip and have fun in Cambridge. Many many years ago I was there and watched the traditional boat race against Oxford. Wonder if they still have this event. Missed out on Oxford preferring to come to Toronto instead no regrets as Vancouver was close by.

M& P, they silence kills, what are you folks up to, we have not heard from you in a while do hope all is well out there. Toto I continue to be amused with your constant emails and attachments keep it up.

Hey Rooky, saw all that snow you guys had out there in Vancouver this morning, cars were just skidding. Hope you were okay must have missed your Gym...

All well at this end. Caroline has the wedding cards all printed and will be mailing them out soon, I tease that she has still time to change her mind about the wedding, then again I said to her I just cannot wait for my wonderful gang to show up.

Been busy as usual at work but all so well and dandy. Yesterday I had to go in at 7am to do some weekend changes to the phone system for the "spring ahead" time and had to wake up at 6am ( which was 5 am) to be there for 7am which was 6am and only had 4 hours sleep as had gone to a friends and had a few rounds of scotch. Was feeing rotten the whole of yesterday What a difference an hour makes to your body...amazing. Did you folks feel anything. M& P how lucky you folks are living out there....Paradise for sure....

Well that's it from me, you all have a good week and take care

Cheers,

John
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Friday 20th February 2009
JOHN CRUISE - writes

Well folks:

Just a quick one, I think we have had our fair share of emails this week. Unfortunately, I had only two numbers in the lottery draw last Wednesday. No one won it and tomorrrow jackpot is $49 Million. The whole country is going bananas.

Yesterday it was Obama's brief visit to Ottawa his first visit outside America as President. It was crazy 80 reporters from the states and many more from all over the world. It was more like "Tom Cruise" visiting.

Glad all you folks are doing well, latest I have from Goa is that D& D are having fun and Derek as usual is lecturing the visiting folks at the Palminrinha where many of my friends from Toronto are visiting.

I think we should give up on these guys as well as Hilda as we don't not hear from them at all and I am sure some efforts could be made on their part. But again who cares.....man its Friday say, and do what you want and that is what makes it exciting on Fridays stir up some "soup" .

Toto what's up man....should we give up on you as well...okay at least you keep me amused almost daily with your great sense of humor with those photos. By the way those Z'bar Forodani photos were just great. We will probably use them in our Reunion website with acknowledment made to you.

Well folks, as I said I'll make it short, you folks have a safe and a great weekend, be good and have fun. Dont' forget its Oscar night this Sunday. Watch Frieda Pinto

Cheerio

John

Saturday 14th February 2009

Valentine's day - MERWYN 'The BOSS' writes

Dearest Ben, Betty,Rooky,John, Tony, Pervin, Derick,Diana, and Patsy.

Funny how my time to write comes on Valentine Day. When I look back on mylife really in Zanzibar we hardly knew in debth the meaning of the words"Valentine Day".

Let me first of all say in my own way how very much I really love you guys.When we planed our last holiday it was with a good deal of mixed feelings.Never in my wildest dreams did I think that parting would be such a problem.Much as I tried to put up a macho front there was no way that I couldcontrol my eyes from getting blur. So why do I not come out in the open andsay just how much I love you guys after all its Valentine Day. I have done apostmortem on the word "love" in relation to our last holiday and I seethat we sometimes shy away from the word for no real reason. Taking my lovelife in its early days only Rooky knows what I had to go through to win thelove of my life. Rooky was also one of the few people who attended oursimple wedding in Dar. Ben and self had our share of female attraction or ifyou want to call it distraction fine. But once we said "I do" boy did we doit.

Tony, John, and Derick I am glad we shared the absence that time took awayfrom us,we bonded well where age only played a respectable role. Yes I loveyou guys and the older I get the more mellow it sounds. Much as I wouldlike to have spent some time with Diana in the kitchen she was hardly to beseen in that department, only to realise that was just a song.I saved the best for last, and that's Patsy. See how "j" some people canget? Well Patsy my girl you were perhaps the youngest in our group, and yetyou paid me the highest compliment. Though you kept us away from certainpayments at Ben's instigation we still love you and in particular the wayyou handled the finance, with its daily rate of exchange, and variouscurrencies. That was really fun, though not for you.

Pervin and self are not quiet done with the after effects of the fire. Wehave to put up with the land lord,the police, the fire brigade, and thevarious bla bla that goes with such events. We are both putting up a boldfront, and like your sweet selves, the kids, family, friends and members ofthe travel trade have been very supportive. We thank you once again, andwould like you to know that your messages meant a lot to carry us throughthese difficult times. We look at this as your love for us, and we jointlyshare our love for you. Happiest Valentine Day and Night.

Loves, Merwyn.

Friday 13th February 2009

PERVIN WRITES

Hi Team,Hope all well with you guys. Yes it is Fri and our turn and I was hoping Merwyn would write, but this mzee is busy so you will have to be satisfied, (I mean satisfaction g.........) with mama!!

So what are you guys doing for Valentine?? I am sure Patsy and Rooky with get roses, and red ones at that. Any lunch or dinner dates?? What about you married guys?? Hope you also remember to treat your valentines with roses and dinner..........this is me reminding you, incase you have forgotten, what with all the music, and sorting out photos, the wedding plans, etc. ha,ha . My mzee has not given me flowers for years, BUT he is taking me out tomorrow for dinner, so the salads will have a rest tomorrow, as I am going to order something fishy.

Last night was full moon, and oh, when I see that moon, I just long for Znz. This is the 3rd month we have not been there, what with the fire in the office and we are trying to do some minor repairs in the Arusha house that just did not get done as we are never here for a long time to be able to do it all.

Days and months are already rolling fast and soon it will be Toronto time. It is such a great feeling that we can just book the tickets, pack our bags and come, without having to hassle for visas. Infact the only reason we are travelling this time to Canada is because we want to make use of the visa, before it expires!! So folks, before we know it, it will be june and we will all meet again!! If any of you guys want anything from here, now that you have seen what our masia markets have to offer, just let us know and we will bring it as we will have the weight ..... so let us know. Who want the Chief's chair??

Have you guys made up your minds on the Znz dates? No hurry, am not pushing you, but am just curious!! You know how I plan in advance. After all, I have to plan the bwejuu menu!! Have to fatten you all up. ha, ha.

Brian, our grandson, (Jervin's son), went on a school trip to Znz with 16 of his classmates and 2 teachers. They stayed at Shangani Hotel(previously Moloo Brothers), and they went to eat every evening at the seafront, and he loved the Znz Pizza, and they went to see the dolphins, etc. Listening to him talk, I was hanging on to every word, just hearing about Znz from his point. You would think that I have not been there for ages!! Well, I feel like that anyway!! Brian has been to Znz 3 to 4 times before, but they go straight to bwejuu, so this time he got the feel of our stonetown. Toto took the boys out one day and sent, now don't get jealous, sent for us some haluwa, and did we enjoy it!!

How is the cold treating you all?

Benito and Patsy, we wanted to send you guys some salt to clear your roads!! Here it is nothing but SUNSHINE, so come to Africa, people. I do not want to compete with Benito, so will end up here. Loves to you all korokochos!! Oh, the mangos are in season and fenesi too, and zambarau. Open your mouths ......... no, silly, not for the upepo,.....I am sending you the fruits by e mail ..... eh, I meant fedex.

Loves, Pervin.

Team replies:-

VALENTINE'S DAY UPDATE ... John responds to Merwyn

OMG.........I honestly shed tears after reading this very touching and humble and well written email from you Merwyn.Besides all that went on during our trip in Z'bar, I must truly saw that in Goa last year for the SJCS Reunion I met both you wonderful people and took such a liking towards both you that I felt honoured and privileged to be your friends.I still reminisce the days for me at the Palminrinha started off with a big friendly hug I use to give you Merwyn ( Mzee) and you both were and are such a striking couple.Then Z'bar and the bond became even closer and I do not want to repeat myself with all that took place, it was indeed the best, and will always be the best holiday I will treasure with this great great group and the same feelings go to the rest of you wonderful people.It was so sad when Toto and I had to say bye at the airport in Z'bar, it was just like father and son parting and so was the scene with the rest of you folks. But we had a blast and that compensates for everythingI am so happy we will all meet in June and I am just counting the days and weeks before we meet and for sure 2010 will be a great time for us to meet in Zanzibar.So folks hang in there and make the best of it and again have a wonderful ValentineFondest salaams, and ambe dodo ambe dodo- Good Morning Arusha and Z'bar -Toto pleasant flight:

John

Patsy replies to Merwyn ...

Lovely Merwyn and Pervyn,What beautiful and heart tingling words Merwyn. The feeling certainly from me, is entirely mutual. And the compliment paid to you still stands. That would take a lot of beating.Diana was the youngest in our group - but hey, I'm not complaining. However, I'm still doing the accounts from our trip and wondering where I went wrong. Only joking.Happy Valentines day folks. I couldn't open my front door - so much mail.(ok, ok, they were all bills).Love & hugs.

Pats xx

* * * * * * John replies * * * * * *
Folks:

Did not see the cc to the rest of you from M& P so thought would forward.Friday talk:Hey Mama great to hear from you man....I hope Mzee is going to be nice tomorrow at least you being treated to dinner we here are (and I think some in some parts of Surrey) become like the old fogies no flowers and dinners just have to watch these youngsters having fun.

Would be nice to know what our darlings Patsy and Rooky are going to be up to .... I was waiting for an invite to go to Vancouver .... but no such luck ... Hilda and Colin I am sure will be spending some quality time tomorrow now that the Girls are all at school. ill wait to hear her story.

Toto is fast asleep and will be flying off to Addis Ababa God know what he is up to now while there is so much happening on the Isle. Hear no hotels available as the world famous Festival is on.I better end as time and tide waits for no man. Almost 11 pm in Arusha as Mama and Mzee getting ready to hit the bed and wait for the next morning to come and celebrate V

B&B and Patsy getting ready for dinner, Rooky lunch and me my traditional afternoon tea and English biscuits Hilda must be caught in traffic on her way home to prepare Friday's rice, curry and fish meal for his Excellency ColinHave a safe and a great V weekend and be good.Cheers,John

* * * * * * Patsy replies * * * * * *

In my mind's eye, I'm in Zanzibar, munching on those mangoes. How I wish I didn't have to fantasise - and how I wish, the cold snap would go away and we can get some warm spring sunshine. My Z'bar tan has faded. Rats.Love to you all. Px

* * * * * * Toto replies * * * * * *

Hi Folks

Just to wish you a Very Happy Valantine day I shall be away from the isles as I am leaving tomorrow for Addis Ababa for four days .
Will be back by the end of the week have fun.

I miss you all as Pervin said lots of muyuni mangoes in season shomari and also not forgetting doraini is in season yumiiii. miss you Roooky have a Valantine hug from me.

Toto

* * * * * Benito replies * * * * *

Pervin

Thanks for your weekend roundup. Excellent posting and excitement is still within as to when the team plan to return to Paradise Palace Zanzibar etc., I will wait for responses from the rest. As for the Sunshine, yes I cannot wait to come to the sunshine of Zanzibar as I desperately need a tan, though right now you cannot catch up, folks keep telling me I need a tan instead of a whitewash so I plan to return ASAP.

Happy Valentine's day tomorrow. I am entertaining at the British Airways Concord Club.

Love to you, Merwyn, the rest of your family and to all team members

Benito

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Patsy reports - Friday 6th February 2009

Hello Team,

Well, as you all know only too well, winter hit us with a vengeance on Monday 2nd Feb - snow came in from Russia with love (they would do this to us, wouldn't they?) and what a beautiful sight. I've attached a couple of pics taken at 8am that morning of my neighbours garden, though Benny's video clip is of course, a lot better. Great to look at, but beastly to drive around in. We haven't had this amount of snow in 18 years and can we cope with it? OF COURSE NOT.

Everything came to a standstill - schools closed, buses, trains all cancelled. Heathrow, Gatwick and minor airports closed. So how do you guys in Toronto/Vancouver and those living in Russia, Sweden, Norway etc etc cope so well, when we're absolutely rubbish? Crazy isn't it? Anyway, the best bit was walking around and seeing people making snowmen, throwing snowballs at each other and just generally being very friendly and warm. So unusual - but I guess, it's that old Brit saying: Spirit of the Blitz. Today in Surrey, it's raining, though the rest of the country is covered in another blanket of snow.

Here's a little poem that says it all. (no, I didn't write it - just borrowed from a friend)
It's winter in Surrey and the gentle breezes blow Seventy miles an hourAt thirty-five below. (well.....a bit of an exaggeration!)Oh, how I love Surrey

When the snow's up to your buttYou take a breath of winterAnd your nose gets frozen shut.Ah, yes, the weather here is wonderfulSo I guess I'll hang aroundI could never leave old Surrey
Cuz I'm frozen to the ground!

Ok, so what else has happened this last couple of weeks?

I've managed to catch up on some of the latest films - have you seen 'Slumdog Millionaire' yet? If you haven't, it's certainly worth seeing. Also been to see 'The Reader' which was very good. Other films that are also worth seeing are: 'Vicky, Christina, Barcelona', 'Doubt', 'The Visitor' & 'Frost Nixon'. Also saw Revolutionary Road which wasn't that good. Still have 'Milk' and 'The Wrestler' to see.

The rest of my spare time is spent helping out mum (she had a cataract operation last week), so have been doing bits & bobs for her, and checking on Father Richards flat in Surbiton, making sure the plants are all watered at Derek & Diana's house (they're still in Goa) and somehow, the time just flies. I blink and the weeks gone. Is this a product of getting old???????????

I can't presume to know what the rest of you guys have done or been up to this last week, and I'll leave it to each of you to individually report on your own lives in your own bulletins. Pervin thanks again for your update last week - I really, really hope things pick up for you & the family in Arusha. It's been a hard start to the New Year for you all. John, good luck with the planning for the Zanzibar do in August - sounds like you've got your work cut out for you.

At last I've been called about work. Charlie Dance (actor/director with whom I've worked with before) has asked me to work on his next film. At the moment he's got 80% of the budget and is working on getting the rest of the money (all down to who will be cast etc). He wants me to start mid May, so this therefore means I definitely won't be coming to Toronto in June. It's sad I know, but John, I hope you understand. I shall be with you all in spirit though. (Benny thanks for the offer of a private jet - now wouldn't that be good?) Talking of private jets: When I last worked with the real Mr Cruise, he had the Warners jet on standby at Prague Airport in case he wanted to travel anywhere, but in the end it was only used to fly his chef to Berlin and/or London to buy his groceries. How the other half live eh?

As to Zanzibar in 2010 - personally I'd be happy to go in March, but ONLY if everyone in our team is happy to go then. However, if not, then let's think about 2011. Benny you've already said you would probably go with Anna/Alex/Anita/Alan next year, so why don't you do that if the rest of us are not able to make it? Given that everyone's idea of the next trip is likely to be very different, we need the time to discuss at length to make sure everyone is happy with the plans.

As you all know, for me personally, the way we planned it last year was perfect - the only difference being that I would not stay in a 5* hotel out of town for more than 2 nights and my choice this time would be to stay at Blue Bay rather than La Gemma. But your thoughts would be welcome. .

That's all folks......so have a jolly dee weekend.

Love & hugs. Pats xx

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30th January 2009

Dear 'A' Team

Friday's Weekly Team Report

Another week goes by and in a day's time it will be February.

First of all hope all our folks are keeping well as always with most of us waiting for the weather to change. "We need the sunshine" for our suntan - sorry you wont notice it on me but all the same let the sun shine on us!

For General Team News - from our end in the UK, as always it is all go and I am now finding it difficult to keep up with all activities as 24 hours in the day does not seem enough. Anyhow now excuses they say, so have to make time for fun and play - not work and play! I don’t know what work is all about 20 years ago.

Keeping track with our Members

Toto Tony, no news from Toto at all other than seeing his skiing photos looking like a real professional. Guess why he has taken up skiing. 1st. So he could ski downhill with the Swedish blondes but above all - here is the answer. He is planning to go to the Winter Olympics in Vancouver with the hope of introducing Rooky to skiing but only thing is that .... quote ... Rooky has said ... "Wow Toto! - I can only cross country - I hate downhill - you are amazing. Rooky". (Toto, you will have to find another attractive sport instead of skiing as Rooky does not like anything downhill so perhaps a game of chess may go down better as you have no chance working your way to the Winter Olympics in Vancouver at the Exclusive 10 Star Pad as this is taken care off. John Tom Cruise may be able to update you a bit more. Too late to spin the coin for first place!

John Cruise (Press Reporter) keeps us alive with daily all-round updates and reminders on the Sport front plus other general news. Great preparations well on the way for the Canadian get-together in June.

Patsy, I think I have upset her so since my last email to her, there has been no further update. If this is not the case, as she is another socialising lady, come what may, wet or windy, Patsy would be out on her regular luncheon parties and what else, leave it to your imagination as she is a lady free like a bird on a tree. May be she is planning a quick trip to Zanzibar on her own as don’t think she can wait for 2010 or 2011. With her unlimited friends and family members who can match her style, why not scoot out to Zanzibar as the "A" Team cannot settle on dates. Don’t blame you lovely.

M&P, we feel very sorry for all the work ahead of them in bringing their business office back in place after the unfortunate problem, but with their enterprising family team-work, all is going well and soon everything will be normal.

Rooky, the one liner which hits the screen often with quick responses is better than nothing said. She surprised us greatly with her lovely voice last Friday instead of our emails. Yes, much better than typing so all I had to do is use my voice simulator and convert her voice into text to save her message for our record. Do you know when she was very young she could play the piano so all 10 fingers work well - typing would not be a problem but figured out her high level social life takes most of her time, late late nights and being a high flying executive director in her own business means - "pop in to the office after the gym if she feels to do so" and only if the weather is bad. If the weather is good, she would be walking along the beach lapping up the sun. What a cool life.

Hilda, garden crazy so spends most of her time in the garden and playing with her lovely pet dog. Email's, she is not interested and does not have time and would rather stroll downtown, chat with the ladies - not missing out the men, whilst Colin is out on his business trips, another lady of leisure, but in the evenings whilst Colin strums away on his guitar after dinner, with a glass of wine, Hilda entertains with her sexy dancing which forces Colin to keep playing. This is why he is such a great guitarist. (Candid camera has caught all this in action - don’t ask questions).

As time is moving on and few decisions have not been made - some of us in limbo re planning 2010, I have listed a couple of items below with a short brief and would like some feedback from our team members in due course.

Prestige Wedding in Toronto - June 2009
(Toronto Extravaganza 'De Silva's' Entertainment programme with Music Explosion)(Wild break at Carriage Hills - Everything goes!!).

Caroline's Wedding in Toronto is approaching fast and before long we will all be having fun in Toronto especially with most of the gang staying at the same hotel, and with all the plans to follow prior and after the wedding confirms we are out for a fabulous time in Toronto under the professional organisation of the De Silva's so team "I can't wait".With the extended break at the Carriage Hills - what can we say; it will be Red and Black Label flowing so we can expect wild parties all night!!

"A" Team Holiday in Zanzibar 2010. (Yes/No)
Original plans for end July / Early August has been cancelled due to election time and with Jan/Feb ruled out due to the Winter Olympics in Vancouver (John & Toto making headway) - Think 2010 is ruled out. (Yes/No).

Proposals perhaps those anxious to go to Zanzibar in 2010 (early Jan/Feb).Suggestion - Any member wanting to visit Zanzibar with their personal friends should do so as and when they please and perhaps our "A" team plan a trip in 2011. Let's hear from you all.

General Guideline to planning a holiday with a group of friends.
We the "A" team were very fortunate we were a superb team with no problems at all, and everything we did together was great fun to include the great safari, pity John and Rooky were not with us in Arusha.

From my personal experience gained being able to ID what preferences each member enjoys best, I have put together some of my findings and it may be useful if anyone is planning a new team of personal friends to go on holidays together, make sure most are compatible.

These are only my views so do not pay too much attention.
One has to consider: - what the individuals love best on a holiday in Zanzibar.

Some folks are sun and beach lovers and love to be by the seaside.
Some love Stone town and can spend more time around the town.
Some like good 4/5 star hotels with all comforts and will not settle for less.
Some can eat downtown in cheap restaurants and enjoy the street side late night eating. I too enjoy this if not in company with a large party. I can handle anything but in moderation.
Some are happy to have any accommodation as long as it is clean and comfortable.
Why spend big bucks on 5 star hotels?Some like night time entertainment whilst on holidays with LIVE music every night.
Some love to be by the poolside enjoying the sunshine, a few cocktails and a good swim. Some with much attention to history of the country would prefer being with the locals learning their culture.
Some love enjoying picnics with some of our local folks as we did which is great fun.
Some like sightseeing going to ruins, plantations etc., whilst others would prefer basking in the sun.
Some (large parties) prefer to be in an All-Inclusive hotel where everything is found. Like La Gemma.Conclude.

With our "A" team, our stay with Merwyn & Pervin was exceptional and what I call top flight with everything found and nothing to spare. Wining, dining, music, games all inclusive. It was M&P who helped make our holiday VERY SPECIAL where all the above was achieved at M&P's palace in Bejeuu. None of us missed out on anything. It was a record breaking holiday once again thanks to M&P.The hospitality, friendship and kindness shown by M&P will always be remembered and once again has been extended to us on our next trip, but as we would say WE CANNOT TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SUCH KINDNESS, so in future and should we the "A" team return to Zanzibar hoping to spend a few days with M&P, if we are not allowed to share all expenses, we would not venture to the Palace. I cannot speak for others but be assured, Betty and I will NOT make our way to the ALL FREE, ALL INCLUSIVE at Bejewu Palace. M&P must agree in advance that we all chip in. Money does not grow on trees so for all enjoying Paradise Zanzibar, without a doubt we would all be happy to share all expenses if we are to yet again enjoy the great company of the Nune's at the Palace. All said and done, if all our team members confirm it will not be possible to plan our next trip in 2010, I would suggest once again, individuals should do what they wish as we know Patsy cannot wait to go back so Pat, your lovely sisters would love to join you and since you know all the ropes, you could have a great time in 2010. All you have to say to whomever, we are going to Zanzibar on ... date ... to .... Book your flights and don’t ask questions.

I too may also plan a trip in Jan/Feb 2010 with just a total party of 6 so we may meet on the island as you had proposed Jan/Feb being a good time. Any of our "A" team members welcome to join but the schedule I plan would be 3 days in town, this time may be Serena/Tembo, then to La Gemma for a week, a few days at Blue Bay and that is it. In between we will tour the island for a day trips, picnics, visit to M&P's Palace, hopefully a Sunday lunch and swim and also hope M&P will join us at La Gemma etc.

"A" Team Holiday in 2011.
Failing our group holiday in 2010, we must focus for 2011 and make it a must. I personally would love to go back with our full team if possible which will be great fun.

Of course TOTO our Zanzibar star, entertainer and bird puller must be with our team at all times (his good staff will run the business), and with playboy John Cruise, no holiday is complete.
Talking about cool Rooky, she holds the trump card with all games so will keep on winning most/all of the games, and though good players like Merwyn and Toto may fight hard, they have to battle John Cruise (Satisfaction Guaranteed) too. Rooky blends superbly well with everybody and is great fun being around so must be included.

Patsy on the other hand will ensure we all behave ourselves, will oblige taking on the responsibilities of being our financial manager as she did a fabulous job on our first trip. For those who remember Prison Island, what did Patsy do? She kept a close eye whilst we were all swimming so hopefully she will keep proper watch (BAYWATCH) when we are out in the deep.

We will have to ensure she has a bikini during her duties Baywatch beauty, and will treat her to a good straw hat (does not get sunburn) and a few rum and cokes.

Pervin our Commander in Chief and first class organiser - "Do What I Say". "A" Team whatever Pervin says, we have to obey. E.G. Command: Folks, swimming 5.30 pm - everybody in the water at 5.30 pm sharp. John, you are cooking the crabs, Betty you do the washing up. Benny, gets some music going. Toto, how about the games. Caretaker, need some Madafus. Household lady assistant (the well dressed tall slim assistant), lay the table for breakfast and make sure there are mandasis and bananas.

Merwyn our main man and master of all - super cool Merwyn who moves slowly but swiftly will never fail to keep everyone entertained with his superb jokes and good sense of humor. Merwyn is Betty's hero and sometimes finds it hard to ID whether Merwyn is serious or just joking but now has come to conclusion that Merwyn is just full of fun and nothing is ever serious. Next time round, Merwyn will conduct the sing along sessions backed by our Andrew Sisters.

Hilda, mama mia - she speaks her mind and will give anyone stick on the spurt of the moment. A superb all-round sport who must be with us at all times. Only trouble, she has a million friends in Zanzibar so she has the freedom pass to disappear and re-appear as and when she pleases. Early breakfast and she has disappeared. Again Hilda is just superb to have around with her jokes and laughter. What next from a Tanzanite ring - I would not even try to guess as Mr. Moneyman Colin says - go and enjoy yourself, buy what you want and bring back half of Zanzibar if you so wish.

Toto, our Islands Travel Minister and most liked person on the island, we would be lost without his laughter, his jokes and love jokes too. He is a natural entertainer and never lets anyone down. His company is very special as he attracts the right bees so the party is not complete without Toto Tony Madeira from Madeira Tours. Also nothing is a challenge to him and never will he say cannot be done.

John Cruise, boy or boy, Satisfaction Guaranteed at all times. I do not think the party is complete without John who motivates all the members at all times. He helps make things happen and we need the go ahead from Mr. Cruise for our next holiday. He will trigger the dates and we will put our travel programme in place.

Benny & Betty, the oldest folks in the team are very honored and privileged to be with you all on such fabulous holidays as experienced in 2008. It was a holiday which will never be forgotten, My contribution to the next holiday 2011 will be - Fresh Fish, Octopus and live music as I now have a real lightweight portable keyboard so all folks plenty of group singing.

Will also give free swimming lessons to anyone who cannot swim. Guarantee you will swim like a fish. Just trust my swimming lessons. Betty on the other hand will provide some good cooking if and when the opportunity arises. She is most relaxed on holidays, enjoys all the fun and activities and shocked me when she sang with Rooky and Diana (Merwyn's Karaoke). I have a video clip plus the one of Patsy and Diana dancing! Next trip Midnight Swims a must. John this is your department to organise as the ladies all say YES to you so they are for certain Satisfaction Guaranteed - high tide or low tide what may under the moonlight.

Well all our great "A" Team folks. This is all for now. Dont know whether it was my turn to report but as no one has done so, I have rattled away as to what has come to my mind. Hope I have not again upset anyone as Betty always tells me I keep upsetting others with what I say.

Remember 'Time and Tide waits for No Man' so plan ahead as 'Forward Ever, Backward Never' We must work fast for 2011 and hopefully some of us may meet up in Zanzibar in 2010 as I plan to go with just 2 couples making us a team of 6 with our close relatives and friends.

I love you all.

Benito

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Rooky's Voicemail will be added here after I convert into Video

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John Writes - Friday Roundup.

Folks:

We have reached the mid month of the new year. Hope all is going well for everybody. Here in Toroto its freezing cold and hopefully by this weekend we should be getting some relief..

Looks like we are all up by now except Vancouver where the sun is slowly coming out as the GYM folks get ready for their VIP clients

Toto I hear is packing his bags and should be heading for home this weekend. He had a tough time out there in the cold and I hear he lost about 10 pounds. The blondes will surely miss him. Hey Tony thanks for those photos of the Swede gals selling the cakes.

Patsy sounded quite vibrant yesterday and looks like she has overcome the flu bug. Have a lot of chicken soup and keep warm. Folks are waiting for her roast lamb I hear.

B&B, party is over man, hear Mr. B is excited with his new "toy" which he got as a present. Practice and figure it all out and we are going to enjoy it here in June. Me Betty I heard is too busy with grand children, a handful 7 of them. Relax and take it easy life is good.

M&P what's up, hear you folks are relaxing and taking it one day at a time, good for you. Merwyn you better polish your "oldies" as June awaits you..... Mama word in Toronto is that you are a brilliant cook and the goan restruatants here in Toronto are advertising....come soon...

The Parsee folks here in Toronto are longing for the goan flavor food and my friend Nargis Jasavalla has retired and needs someone to take over her catering business. I strongly recommended you.... better still you can join me in Vancouver .... what says you.

Hey Rooky, I hear its your turn next Friday should be okay just say and do as you wish as its only Friday....Well folks you all have a safe and a great weekend, some you have stay blessed until next Friday.

This is me, going to be a busy day for me in this cold and have a few task to do getting my website updated. Wish Mr. B could check it out but the man is a pro in the entertainment and tourism side and has been duped "BO" ( Big Organizer). Good for you man...

Stay tuned,

Cheers and Mambo sana,

John