Island Peopele's All-inclusive fete "Amnesia" will he held on Sunday January 14th 2007. Tickets go on sale from next week at the IF house on Tragarete road and are priced at $450.00TT.
Contact number for the IF house is 628- WISH/9474.
TRIBE's "Bliss" all inclusive will be held on Saturday January 13th 2007 and tickets also go on sale next week at TRIBE's mas camp. Masquerader price is $399.00 while non masqueraders/ general public tickets are priced at $450.00.
Contact number for TRIBE is 625-6800.
From the prices seems like it is the same as what I paid this year (for Amnesia) and TRIBE's member's price went up by $49.00!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Chocolate City
Well this looks like a yummy j'ouvert band!
MUSIC:
* 91.9fm Dj's: John Boy, Eezel 'd' Vibe Machine, Shaolin, 40 foot music truck
PRICE: $250
INCLUDES:
* Premium Drinks All Inclusive
* Breakfast
* Liquid Chocolate
* Giveaways
CONTACTS:
* Kwacceyce - 766.6614
* Smalls - 633.3782
* John Boy - 759.0329
* Zarin - 685.0738
* Richard - 684.4528
* Marie 497.9710
* Osie - 495.8049
* Houston - 678.3995
REGISTRATION:
* Corner of Robert and Murray St., Woodbrook
For more information on this j'ouvert band check out D Krewe's website.
MUSIC:
* 91.9fm Dj's: John Boy, Eezel 'd' Vibe Machine, Shaolin, 40 foot music truck
PRICE: $250
INCLUDES:
* Premium Drinks All Inclusive
* Breakfast
* Liquid Chocolate
* Giveaways
CONTACTS:
* Kwacceyce - 766.6614
* Smalls - 633.3782
* John Boy - 759.0329
* Zarin - 685.0738
* Richard - 684.4528
* Marie 497.9710
* Osie - 495.8049
* Houston - 678.3995
REGISTRATION:
* Corner of Robert and Murray St., Woodbrook
For more information on this j'ouvert band check out D Krewe's website.
Mas Jumbies New Website
Diable has gotten a new look with an updated website catering for online registration. I am liking the updated website, there are more options displayed for the costume choices as well as more detail on what the costume entails.
Check out the new website if you are looking for a j'ouvert band for 2007!
Check out the new website if you are looking for a j'ouvert band for 2007!
NCBA Website Updated
One of my earlier articles was about the smaller, lesser known bands that flew under the radar, most without individual websites depending on the NCBA (National Carnival Bands Association) to advertise their presentations.
Well I am happy to see that the NCBA website has been updated with 2007 presentations; so far only a few bands are listed, and among those are stalwarts like Trini Revellers and Rosalind Gabriel, but there are also a five Children's Bands listed, complete with photos/drawings, contact information and prices.
Those bands are Bois Canot "A Tribute to St. James", Auntie Suzie and Friends "Dancers Around the World", Traditions Mas Camp "Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow", Head Start "The Splendor of Nature's Season" and Children of Peace "If We Were Dinosaurs".
For more information on these bands, visit the NCBA website; it is listed under the section Trinidad Carnival, Member Sites.
Well I am happy to see that the NCBA website has been updated with 2007 presentations; so far only a few bands are listed, and among those are stalwarts like Trini Revellers and Rosalind Gabriel, but there are also a five Children's Bands listed, complete with photos/drawings, contact information and prices.
Those bands are Bois Canot "A Tribute to St. James", Auntie Suzie and Friends "Dancers Around the World", Traditions Mas Camp "Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow", Head Start "The Splendor of Nature's Season" and Children of Peace "If We Were Dinosaurs".
For more information on these bands, visit the NCBA website; it is listed under the section Trinidad Carnival, Member Sites.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
New Look Pulse 8
It has been awhile since I have ventured over to Pulse 8's website, I must admit waiting for the page to load with all the flash html and fancy bar scene took away the appeal of frequent vists. Therefore I was quite surprised to see that the website has been amended to cater for those of us with dial up; all the sections are now visable on the right of the page, without having to wait for the page to load. In addition, there are new navigational shortcuts to the top of the website where you can access the gallery or information on what their package entails.
It is also interesting to note that two frontline costumes have sold out; both Sex on the Beach and Anti Freeze FRONTLINE costumes are sold out. Good going Pulse 8!
Sex on the Beach Frontline
Anti Freeze Frontline
It is also interesting to note that two frontline costumes have sold out; both Sex on the Beach and Anti Freeze FRONTLINE costumes are sold out. Good going Pulse 8!
Sex on the Beach Frontline
Anti Freeze Frontline
Post Christmas Damage
Well, it is back to work for us here in Trinidad today, I hope everyone had a very safe and enjoyable Christmas long weekend. Now that the holiday has come and gone I have to assess the “damage” done to my diet over the past few days. Honestly, I did not have any ham, black cake, ponche a crème or rum over the weekend BUT I did have pastelles, scalloped potatoes and a divine chicken that my mom made which was rolled and wrapped with ham. Oh, I also had chocolate cake! As I enjoyed many, many delicious carbohydrate dishes over the weekend my subconscious made a “promise” to myself to cut out carbohydrates completely from January 1st, but I also came to another realization; I would never have the ideal Carnival body even if I starve myself between now and February 19th.
See, I think as humans, worse yet females, when it comes to our bodies we are own worse critics and judges. My husband tells me all the time that I, as a woman, have no idea what men find attractive in female bodies. He for one does not mind stretch marks, though I can’t think of one woman who likes to see those lines on her body. Similarly, many guys I know are baffled that I even want to loose weight for Carnival; to them “thick” is sexy. I believe “Karabana” said it once when I was talking about loosing weight in an earlier post; we can never expect to look like those girls modeling the costumes for TRIBE and Island People (among other bands).
But that is the ideal the bands themselves set for us to achieve, not that they are deliberately telling us we have to look a certain way, but with the girls they hand pick to display their costumes you cannot help but look at the photographs and hear that voice saying “that is how I should look in my costume!”. Fact is though, how many eighteen year olds can afford a $3000.00 costume? The majority of women playing mas are several years older than a teenager, with bodies that have seen children or have passed the age where loosing weight came easily or are simply blessed with curves. This is not Brazil or Venezuela where a surgeon’s knife can fix all our body ails, making those women “perfect” as they show off their sexy costumes; the women who play mas on the streets of Trinidad and Tobago are “real”!
So for all of the women who are now facing the realization that Carnival is less than 60 days away, counting how many calories were consumed on Christmas day, translating into extra pounds that have to be shed before Carnival, get real. There is no way you are going to look like the model in the costume photograph that you have stuck to your refrigerator. Now that we have gotten that clear, don’t give up on your goals, continue to eat healthy, get some exercise and set a goal to look the best that YOU can look come Carnival. No miracles are going to happen between now and Carnival, but with sensible eating habits, exercise and a realistic expectation I think we can all don our costume come Carnival Tuesday and be proud in our efforts.
And though we might think a huge spotlight will be on our love handles or little round belly or even our “fat thighs, just remember that among the thousands of masqueraders on the streets you are just one, and if anyone has time to be looking for flaws on others during Carnival, they have got to be a sour puss not having a good time! In the end, that is all that matters, really, playing your mas and enjoying yourself to the fullest. So take a drink, wine your waist and look around at every other woman, just like you and know that no body is or ever will be “perfect”.
See, I think as humans, worse yet females, when it comes to our bodies we are own worse critics and judges. My husband tells me all the time that I, as a woman, have no idea what men find attractive in female bodies. He for one does not mind stretch marks, though I can’t think of one woman who likes to see those lines on her body. Similarly, many guys I know are baffled that I even want to loose weight for Carnival; to them “thick” is sexy. I believe “Karabana” said it once when I was talking about loosing weight in an earlier post; we can never expect to look like those girls modeling the costumes for TRIBE and Island People (among other bands).
But that is the ideal the bands themselves set for us to achieve, not that they are deliberately telling us we have to look a certain way, but with the girls they hand pick to display their costumes you cannot help but look at the photographs and hear that voice saying “that is how I should look in my costume!”. Fact is though, how many eighteen year olds can afford a $3000.00 costume? The majority of women playing mas are several years older than a teenager, with bodies that have seen children or have passed the age where loosing weight came easily or are simply blessed with curves. This is not Brazil or Venezuela where a surgeon’s knife can fix all our body ails, making those women “perfect” as they show off their sexy costumes; the women who play mas on the streets of Trinidad and Tobago are “real”!
So for all of the women who are now facing the realization that Carnival is less than 60 days away, counting how many calories were consumed on Christmas day, translating into extra pounds that have to be shed before Carnival, get real. There is no way you are going to look like the model in the costume photograph that you have stuck to your refrigerator. Now that we have gotten that clear, don’t give up on your goals, continue to eat healthy, get some exercise and set a goal to look the best that YOU can look come Carnival. No miracles are going to happen between now and Carnival, but with sensible eating habits, exercise and a realistic expectation I think we can all don our costume come Carnival Tuesday and be proud in our efforts.
And though we might think a huge spotlight will be on our love handles or little round belly or even our “fat thighs, just remember that among the thousands of masqueraders on the streets you are just one, and if anyone has time to be looking for flaws on others during Carnival, they have got to be a sour puss not having a good time! In the end, that is all that matters, really, playing your mas and enjoying yourself to the fullest. So take a drink, wine your waist and look around at every other woman, just like you and know that no body is or ever will be “perfect”.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Wedding Review
I finally got a few photos from my friend who was a bridesmaid at Bunji and Faye Ann's wedding along with a report on the events.
My friend Christine, one of the bridesmaids.
The couple's first dance.
From her I learned that one particular female soca artiste known for her rather interesting dress code showed up at the wedding in what she termed an "inappropriate outfit"; I guess some people don't know how to relinquish the spotlight to others for a moment.
Other than the ceremony and reception reportedly went smooth with lots of drinks and a menu which consisted of everything yo u could think of; from doubles and corn soup to Chinese, roti, wild meat and Italian cuisine.
For lots of photos from the event please check out this album at Pointalive.com, and they also have a nice review of the wedding as well as a video!
My friend Christine, one of the bridesmaids.
The couple's first dance.
From her I learned that one particular female soca artiste known for her rather interesting dress code showed up at the wedding in what she termed an "inappropriate outfit"; I guess some people don't know how to relinquish the spotlight to others for a moment.
Other than the ceremony and reception reportedly went smooth with lots of drinks and a menu which consisted of everything yo u could think of; from doubles and corn soup to Chinese, roti, wild meat and Italian cuisine.
For lots of photos from the event please check out this album at Pointalive.com, and they also have a nice review of the wedding as well as a video!
Monday, December 25, 2006
Closer Look at India...
Adjustments are being made to Brian Mc Farlane's website it seems, and I was quite pleased to be able to view an enlarged photo of the costumes. Hover your mouse over the drawings and an option will appear to "click to enlarge" highlighted in red.
All of the following drawings are courtesy Brian Mc Farlane's website, and these are the sections I really, really like. For the rest of the costumes please visit the website if you have not already done so. Click on the following photos for a larger view.
Hopefully these sections will be named and priced on the website in the near future, it would be nice to know the names of the costumes. Anyways, I am in love with this white costume! I love the skirt, headpiece and the top. It just goes to show how covered can look utterly sexy.
Although this green costume looks a bit cumbersome with the leg pieces, I LOVE the headpiece as well as the ornate collar worn around the neck/shoulders. I also like that the bottom piece is just a sliver of fabric, showing off the legs and belly; another costume for the ones that like showing some skin.
Another white costume, somewhat similar to the first one that I like with the sleeves and flowing paneled skirt, but I love the headpiece and hand held standard.
I love this totally divaesque costume! It looks like the wearer will be clothed in a jeweled body suit with "fire" shooting from head, shoulders and hip. This might be a challenge to navigate around Port of Spain but it will look spectacular I am sure! Beautiful costume!
Finally I really like the colours of these two costumes, but prefer the male. I love that the male costume includes a sitar and of course, I love the female headpiece though the rest of the costume is a bit too much clothing for my taste. In my opinion this is one of the nicest male costumes in the band.
Well, there you have it, my two cents added about Boyie's journey. I do like the other sections as well, in fact there is not one section that I do not like. It's just that these costumes appeal to me much more over the others.
Here is wishing Carnival was three days instead of two so that I can play with Mc Farlane on the third day. I am so loving these costumes!
All of the following drawings are courtesy Brian Mc Farlane's website, and these are the sections I really, really like. For the rest of the costumes please visit the website if you have not already done so. Click on the following photos for a larger view.
Hopefully these sections will be named and priced on the website in the near future, it would be nice to know the names of the costumes. Anyways, I am in love with this white costume! I love the skirt, headpiece and the top. It just goes to show how covered can look utterly sexy.
Although this green costume looks a bit cumbersome with the leg pieces, I LOVE the headpiece as well as the ornate collar worn around the neck/shoulders. I also like that the bottom piece is just a sliver of fabric, showing off the legs and belly; another costume for the ones that like showing some skin.
Another white costume, somewhat similar to the first one that I like with the sleeves and flowing paneled skirt, but I love the headpiece and hand held standard.
I love this totally divaesque costume! It looks like the wearer will be clothed in a jeweled body suit with "fire" shooting from head, shoulders and hip. This might be a challenge to navigate around Port of Spain but it will look spectacular I am sure! Beautiful costume!
Finally I really like the colours of these two costumes, but prefer the male. I love that the male costume includes a sitar and of course, I love the female headpiece though the rest of the costume is a bit too much clothing for my taste. In my opinion this is one of the nicest male costumes in the band.
Well, there you have it, my two cents added about Boyie's journey. I do like the other sections as well, in fact there is not one section that I do not like. It's just that these costumes appeal to me much more over the others.
Here is wishing Carnival was three days instead of two so that I can play with Mc Farlane on the third day. I am so loving these costumes!
Merry Christmas Everyone!
As we welcome Christmas day in the Western Hemisphere I would like to wish everyone and their families a very Merry Christmas!
I hope the meaning for the season is not lost as we open all our presents; remember it' s a time to celebrate with our family and friends and the gifts do not matter as much as the thought behind them.
And for all those watching their waistlines in preparation for Carnival, take a day off and eat some carbs! I am definitely having a pastelle today, lovingly made by my mom, and enjoying some sorrel and a turkey ham sandwich!
Enjoy your day where ever you may be!
Love,
Saucy !
I hope the meaning for the season is not lost as we open all our presents; remember it' s a time to celebrate with our family and friends and the gifts do not matter as much as the thought behind them.
And for all those watching their waistlines in preparation for Carnival, take a day off and eat some carbs! I am definitely having a pastelle today, lovingly made by my mom, and enjoying some sorrel and a turkey ham sandwich!
Enjoy your day where ever you may be!
Love,
Saucy !
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Early Christmas gift for Chatam residents!
Stop the presses and protests; Prime Minister Patrick Manning in an address to the nation has stated that plans for the two proposed aluminium smelters will be discontinued.
Instead an industrial estate will be established offshore at Otahite where aluminium as well as other industrial activities will take place.
The decision was made coming out of the symposium about the proposed smelter plants, though he did reiterate that the aluminum smelter plants were safe once overseen by guidelines of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).
So this post has absolutely nothing to do with Carnival but the issue has been weighing quite heavy on possibly every Trinidadians mind and now we can breathe a sigh of relief as we welcome the new year. Oh, and this address to the nation sounds as if elections might be called sooner than we think! Our Prime Minister has addressed every issue from the smelter plants to health care to traffic congestion to tertiary education to housing for all.
Merry Christmas everyone!!
Instead an industrial estate will be established offshore at Otahite where aluminium as well as other industrial activities will take place.
The decision was made coming out of the symposium about the proposed smelter plants, though he did reiterate that the aluminum smelter plants were safe once overseen by guidelines of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).
So this post has absolutely nothing to do with Carnival but the issue has been weighing quite heavy on possibly every Trinidadians mind and now we can breathe a sigh of relief as we welcome the new year. Oh, and this address to the nation sounds as if elections might be called sooner than we think! Our Prime Minister has addressed every issue from the smelter plants to health care to traffic congestion to tertiary education to housing for all.
Merry Christmas everyone!!
Wedding pics!
It’s Christmas Eve!!!
Well the spirit of Christmas has finally taken a hold of me, though yesterday I swore of having kids after a trip to the mall with my girlfriend, her 6 month old baby and two nephews; one is two and the other twelve. What a nightmare having to drag a kicking and screaming two year old out of every toy store while we hunt for his Christmas present, a Kawasaki Bike!Today I am taking my mom to the port to get the ferry to Tobago, she is spending Christmas in the sister isle and ever so often sends me into pangs of jealousy that come tomorrow she will be lying on Pigeon Point soaking up sand and that gorgeous blue water!In addition I will miss my mom on Christmas Day; though she did make me pastelles and black cake (did I not say I was on a DIET????) and ham!!
So far I have given everyone their gifts for Christmas; I like people having their present to open on Christmas Day instead of me delivering it when I show up. Yet, strangely enough I have only collected one gift from my mom, and that’s because she is leaving for Tobago today. And despite all my efforts to keep my gift giving list short, I managed to buy gifts for all the kids I know, friends and immediate family!! See, I told you I got the Spirit!
For everyone caught up in the last minute rush of preparations, cleaning, cooking, baking and shopping stop awhile, take it easy and enjoy the season! Have a great day everyone, no matter what you are doing today and for all those who will be out and about on the roads; BE SAFE!!!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Bunji and Faye Ann to wed today
I just want to offer my congratulations to the happy couple on their nuptials today. I hope the weather holds up well and everything goes perfectly, though somethings always happens on the wedding day that throws you for an unexpected turn. I know my friend, who is one of the 13 bridesmaid's, will looking beautiful in her blue dress and hopefully she will furnish me with a report on the day's events as they unfold.
In the meantime, the Newsday spoke with the couple recently and published the interview in their features section.
In the meantime, the Newsday spoke with the couple recently and published the interview in their features section.
Bunji and Fay-Ann tie the knotFor the rest of the article please click here.
By Joan Rampersad Friday, December 22 2006
"Young soca couple Ian “Bunji Garlin” Alvarez and Fay-Ann Lyons will tie the knot this weekend after two years of happy partnership. Newsday spoke to the couple about the upcoming nuptials.
“I feel pretty comfortable about it,” 26-year-old Fay-Ann told Newsday. “A lot of people have been asking me how I feel but it is not a cliff that I am jumping off so there is no reason to be nervous or to get nervous about it. There is really nothing to be scared of.”
The more laid back Bunji, 27, said, “I feel cool, just good, excited inside and no nervousness. I am looking forward to enjoying the day and getting over it eventually. Because that day is going to be hectic so it can’t last forever."
Friday, December 22, 2006
Boyie has arrived
SO, I came home from lunch with my friend “Hot Boy” who is visiting from London for Christmas and another sojourn to the mall (where I ran into “no longer anon”) only to be greeted by the fact that Mc Farlane’s website is up!
If at first you can’t see anything new, click “tools” to the top of your browser window, then “options”, then “clear cache” and refresh the page; you should be able to see the new website then.
Now the website has not fully launched but from the drawings available for viewing the costumes look absolutely stunning! If I were playing in this band it would be a hard decision choosing a section for sure.
What I like about the costumes is that you can immediately identify the theme, some of the costumes looking more like elaborately decorated clothing, and that they are unique since I can not readily recall seeing any costume looking like these in years gone by.
Hopefully this presentation will finally lay to rest the Minshall/ Mc Farlane comparison and I cannot wait to see the website when it is fully launched.
If at first you can’t see anything new, click “tools” to the top of your browser window, then “options”, then “clear cache” and refresh the page; you should be able to see the new website then.
Now the website has not fully launched but from the drawings available for viewing the costumes look absolutely stunning! If I were playing in this band it would be a hard decision choosing a section for sure.
What I like about the costumes is that you can immediately identify the theme, some of the costumes looking more like elaborately decorated clothing, and that they are unique since I can not readily recall seeing any costume looking like these in years gone by.
Hopefully this presentation will finally lay to rest the Minshall/ Mc Farlane comparison and I cannot wait to see the website when it is fully launched.
Fete List
This is a preliminary fete list in lieu of Peter Ray Blood's "official" Carnival schedule which will be released on Christmas day. According to an Express report promoters are not easily finding a venue to host their fetes hence the reason so many venues are listed as TBA:
December:
26th
SOCA-Reggae Fest
Point Fortin Civic Centre
628-3460/4531
30th
Iwer Property
Annual fete Salazar Trace, Point Fortin
628-3460/4531
January
1st
Launch of Chutney/Calypso Touring Tent
Various venues across the island
624-1024
5th
First Taste of Carnival
Sting Nightclub San Fernando
622-6316
6th
St. Francois Girls College All-inclusive
St. John Ambulance and Brigade Headquarters
624-3468
Break 2007
Pier1 Chaguaramas
755-7020
BG's Energy All-inclusive
Chaguaramas Golf Course
628-0888 ext 2130
Comess Trinilimers
Charity All-inclusive
Sevilla Sports Club Couva
352-1452/687-5959/792-2351
7th
Soca in Moka
Trinity College, Moka
Maraval
629-0973,629-2078
12th
Kaiso House Grand Opening
Venue TBA
623-9660
13th
Preliminary of Chutney Soca Monarch
Samar Entertainment Centre Penal
653-8923/653-2908
Fire Fete
National Stadium Car Park
622-6316
BLISS All inclusive
Moka
625-6800
Outta De Blue VIII
Queen's Royal College
Port of Spain
622-2544
14th
Amnesia Ultra All-inclusive
628-9474
UWI Development and Endowment Fund All-inclusive
UWI St. Augustine Campus
653-8923/653-2908
19th
Vintage Fuh So
All -inclusive Calypso Show
Holy Name Convent Port of Spain
681-7013
Klassic Russo launches at Kavemar Pub
Henry Street Port of Spain
Festival Centre for the Creative Arts
Carnival fete
20th
Licensing Fete
Licensing Compound
Wrightson Road Port of Spain
Chutney Soca Monarch Semi Finals
Rienzi Complex Couva
653-8923/653-2908
Bishops Anstey All-inclusive fete
Bishops Anstey High School
786-6655
Soca Broadway
South Opening
Skinner Park San Fernando
628-3460/4531
UNC Carnival Fete
Rienzi Complex Couva
26th
Unite
UWI, St. Augustine
622-3157
Police and CCC Fete
TBA
628-3460/4531
27th
Republic Bank All-inclusive
FCB All-inclusive
Chuntey Glow Paria Suites Car Park
South Trunk Road, La Romain
653-8923/653-2908
Fete with the Saints
St. Mary's College
Pembroke Street
624-8468/684-0557
WASA Fete
WASA Sports Ground, St. Joseph
622-6316
COCA COLA Youth Fest
Venue TBA
28th
Hilton Annual All-inclusive
Hilton. Lady Young Road, Port of Spain
624-3211
Yorke Incorporated All-inclusive
Windsor Road, Valsayn North
684-0557
Children's Fest
Arima Velodrome
February
2nd
Barbarossa Cooler Fete
622-3157
Flour Mills Fete
Compound Wrightson Road Port of Spain
622-6316
3rd
Tobago Fest
622-3157
RBTT Carnival fete
Pier 1, Chaguaramas
622-6316
15th
Beach House All-inclusive
Venue TBA
December:
26th
SOCA-Reggae Fest
Point Fortin Civic Centre
628-3460/4531
30th
Iwer Property
Annual fete Salazar Trace, Point Fortin
628-3460/4531
January
1st
Launch of Chutney/Calypso Touring Tent
Various venues across the island
624-1024
5th
First Taste of Carnival
Sting Nightclub San Fernando
622-6316
6th
St. Francois Girls College All-inclusive
St. John Ambulance and Brigade Headquarters
624-3468
Break 2007
Pier1 Chaguaramas
755-7020
BG's Energy All-inclusive
Chaguaramas Golf Course
628-0888 ext 2130
Comess Trinilimers
Charity All-inclusive
Sevilla Sports Club Couva
352-1452/687-5959/792-2351
7th
Soca in Moka
Trinity College, Moka
Maraval
629-0973,629-2078
12th
Kaiso House Grand Opening
Venue TBA
623-9660
13th
Preliminary of Chutney Soca Monarch
Samar Entertainment Centre Penal
653-8923/653-2908
Fire Fete
National Stadium Car Park
622-6316
BLISS All inclusive
Moka
625-6800
Outta De Blue VIII
Queen's Royal College
Port of Spain
622-2544
14th
Amnesia Ultra All-inclusive
628-9474
UWI Development and Endowment Fund All-inclusive
UWI St. Augustine Campus
653-8923/653-2908
19th
Vintage Fuh So
All -inclusive Calypso Show
Holy Name Convent Port of Spain
681-7013
Klassic Russo launches at Kavemar Pub
Henry Street Port of Spain
Festival Centre for the Creative Arts
Carnival fete
20th
Licensing Fete
Licensing Compound
Wrightson Road Port of Spain
Chutney Soca Monarch Semi Finals
Rienzi Complex Couva
653-8923/653-2908
Bishops Anstey All-inclusive fete
Bishops Anstey High School
786-6655
Soca Broadway
South Opening
Skinner Park San Fernando
628-3460/4531
UNC Carnival Fete
Rienzi Complex Couva
26th
Unite
UWI, St. Augustine
622-3157
Police and CCC Fete
TBA
628-3460/4531
27th
Republic Bank All-inclusive
FCB All-inclusive
Chuntey Glow Paria Suites Car Park
South Trunk Road, La Romain
653-8923/653-2908
Fete with the Saints
St. Mary's College
Pembroke Street
624-8468/684-0557
WASA Fete
WASA Sports Ground, St. Joseph
622-6316
COCA COLA Youth Fest
Venue TBA
28th
Hilton Annual All-inclusive
Hilton. Lady Young Road, Port of Spain
624-3211
Yorke Incorporated All-inclusive
Windsor Road, Valsayn North
684-0557
Children's Fest
Arima Velodrome
February
2nd
Barbarossa Cooler Fete
622-3157
Flour Mills Fete
Compound Wrightson Road Port of Spain
622-6316
3rd
Tobago Fest
622-3157
RBTT Carnival fete
Pier 1, Chaguaramas
622-6316
15th
Beach House All-inclusive
Venue TBA
Red Ants for J'ouvert
For those interested in playing with Red Ants for j'ouvert 2007, the prices are $280.00 for early Ants and $300.00 for late Ants; so I suggest for those wanting to be one of the "early" Ants, contacting TRIBE for more information on registration.
The email address is info@carnivaltribe.com
Other upcoming events are:
BLISS - Sat 13th Jan - Moka
WITCO ONE Fete - Sun 21st Jan - Oval
Red Ants in Blue Range All Inc - Sat 27th Jan
Pan Semis - Sun 4th Feb - QP Savannah
TRIBE Thursday - Carnival Thur (15th Feb) - Oval
Blue Range Cooler Fete - Carnival Fri (16th Feb)
The venue for BLISS is at Moka, glad to see that information has been revealed and I await prices now.
Apart from BLISS I will be going to pan-semis in it's "new" venue at the Savannah (providing of course there is no boycott) and I have been making preparations for that lime already!
The email address is info@carnivaltribe.com
Other upcoming events are:
BLISS - Sat 13th Jan - Moka
WITCO ONE Fete - Sun 21st Jan - Oval
Red Ants in Blue Range All Inc - Sat 27th Jan
Pan Semis - Sun 4th Feb - QP Savannah
TRIBE Thursday - Carnival Thur (15th Feb) - Oval
Blue Range Cooler Fete - Carnival Fri (16th Feb)
The venue for BLISS is at Moka, glad to see that information has been revealed and I await prices now.
Apart from BLISS I will be going to pan-semis in it's "new" venue at the Savannah (providing of course there is no boycott) and I have been making preparations for that lime already!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Still waiting for Boyie
Well the 20th has come and gone and Mc Farlane’s new website has yet to be launched. I find myself clicking the link to the website ever so often hoping for something new, only to be greeted by the same old “preview” site.
All attempts to contact the mas camp for further information on when we can expect the new site to be up and running has proved futile thus far.
I guess I have to keep clicking away until something new appears!
All attempts to contact the mas camp for further information on when we can expect the new site to be up and running has proved futile thus far.
I guess I have to keep clicking away until something new appears!
More Changes for Carnival 2007
Apart from having a new home for Carnival 2007, the Dimanche Gras finals will also see a new feature; calypsonians will be required to perform only one song. Now, for those who are not familiar, the calypsonians usually perform two songs, inter spaced by the showing of costumes for King and Queen of the band.
The reason for this new development has been cited as time control, hence shortening the Dimanche Gras show. Now, I agree that sometimes the show does tend to run a bit long, but for me it was the perfect timing. After Dimanche Gras is over that’s the time to leave home for j’ouvert.
Apparently not all calypsonians are in favour of this change as reported in today’s Express:
To keep reading the rest of the article click here.
The reason for this new development has been cited as time control, hence shortening the Dimanche Gras show. Now, I agree that sometimes the show does tend to run a bit long, but for me it was the perfect timing. After Dimanche Gras is over that’s the time to leave home for j’ouvert.
Apparently not all calypsonians are in favour of this change as reported in today’s Express:
One song? Not now, say calypsonians
Michael Mondezie mmondezie@trinidadexpress.com
TUCO's one song seems to lack harmony.
That was the consensus from several top calypsonians when the national Calypso Organisation hosted a Christmas gathering on Tuesday at its Jermingham Avenue office at Belmont.
While most of the genre's practitioners seemed to agree with the move they were unanimous that there should not be a rush to implement the measure and cited Carnival 2008 as the ideal time to make the change.
Culture Minister Joan Yuille-Williams said on Monday the National Calypso Monarch Finals would be moved to the Jean Pierre Complex and competitors would be required to perform one song instead of the customary two renditions.
To keep reading the rest of the article click here.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Express Opinions on Mas on the Streets
Interesting views on mas on the streets from the Express editorials today; as someone said to me recenelty, we cannot have progress without change and I sense the same sentiments in these excerpts:
Keith Smith:
Full circle wine for Carnival
Keith Smith
Wednesday, December 20th 2006
"I hear tell that Mr Hart has said that mas is for the road but I don't know if, like Archimedes or whoever, this is to be taken as a "eureka!" moment, meaning that next year's mas will now go not into but around the Savannah as the old John Humphrey has long suggested, the 'world's biggest roundabout' (Humphrey again) ringed with bleachers, the crowds (hopefully) cheering, steupsing or maybe just sleeping as MacFarlane, Trini Revellers and the rest make their way unimpeded (again hopefully) around the Savannah circle"...November 22
Well now we'll see, won't we? All those who have been arguing that the Savannah and, more particularly, the Savannah stage, was the biggest constraint to the free flow of the bands will be proven either right or wrong now that, as I sensed weeks ago, the mas is going to go 'round rather that through the Savannah. Let me say - up front - that while I am neither for nor against this new, well, design, I can hardly wait to see if it will make a sequin of a difference..........
but for me, and many (although not most, I suppose) like me, the real taste of this pulsating pudding of a thing is the free-spiritedness let loose in the Carnival air, some of my more enjoyable Carnival moments memorised in front of Doonie's Lucky Jordan recreation club not, mind you, that that was not a minor competition centre itself, only that the competition was not the major component, who win win, leh midnight meet we singing and dancing just like Trotman's drunken sailors, the Carnival now let loose from the Savannah providing a breather for the grass but only that since the plan is for us to wine back in due course to the old vintage, albeit in a new state-of-the-art bottle. So why worry, sister, eat, drink with this, the merriest of monarchs we have managed to conjure up, all ah we already knowing what they done say 'bout tomorrow meeting us done done.
Opinion:For the full articles, please click the highlighted links.
Carnival changes and challenges
Wednesday, December 20th 2006
Carnival is an institution and, as with all institutions, it is resistant to any change not least because people like things to remain as they are, particularly those things that work to a greater or lesser degree. Whatever the criticisms in the past - and there have been some - the Savannah has long been the successful centre of the world-famous Trinbago Carnival....................
But challenge is also opportunity and one would expect, in the tradition of the Carnival experience, that the problems that arise will be met with the creative skill that has lit up Carnival for close to 170 years. In any case the move away from the centrality of the Savannah is temporary, so any ensuing hue and cry will be completely misplaced given that, in a year or two, all will be as it was before.
Indeed, the country may even grab the chance, as it confronts the shifts in the overall programme, to examine Carnival as a whole to see whether we are doing enough to ensure that it will retain the vitality that has made it the "Mother Carnival" for another 170 years what with the stunningly dramatic shows that today's generation has become accustomed to both here and abroad.
The most negative thing we could do is to become enslaved by the past. The very freeing of the spirit that Carnival epitomises should encourage us to venture into new arrangements while being self-confident enough to affirm those Carnival elements that have given it its distinctive character. Next year will not bring all that much of a change - just enough, perhaps, to give the country a refreshing taste for more change.
Brown skin gal stay home and mind baby!
I was reading Kevian’s “Theory of the Carnival Baby” over at her blog and it got me thinking of the supposedly higher birth rate in November. Seeing as I am born in November and consider myself a Carnival baby that gives credence to the argument of more sexual activity during Carnival not so? The thing is though, for someone who is passionate about playing mas this is actually NOT a bad thing. I mean, I am not talking about having indiscriminate, un-protected sex during Carnival, but planning your baby around the event.
When my girlfriend unexpectedly got pregnant in October last year, forcing her to eventually sell her costume, my first words were “so what happen to mas?” . Yes, I know it should not have been the first thing to come out my mouth, but I was actually concerned about what that would mean for Carnival before anything else. She held out hope for playing mas until January, sold her costume and spent Carnival in Tobago. After which she called me and said she was totally vexed when looking at mas on T.V. and seeing a pregnant Wendy enjoying herself in two bands. See, that is one of my greatest Carnival fears, especially when registering so early, an unexpected pregnancy coming out of the blue and disrupting my Carnival plans.
My co-workers have heard me make the statement that right after Carnival I am going to try and get pregnant so the baby can be born in November, giving me enough time to play mas in February the following year. When I say this I am not joking, though it always elicits a laugh from them. Thinking of it logically it does make perfect sense and truth be told I do know of one person who did plan her baby exactly like that; she had her baby in early December and played mas the following year with Harts.
I think it is an ideal plan so as not to interrupt my joy of playing mas. The biggest hurdle might be loosing the baby fat post pregnancy to be able to fit into the skimpy costume I would have to register for in August. But it can be done; if Heidi Klum can strut down Victoria’s Secrets runway in skimpy lingerie a month after giving birth, a mere mortal like me can hope to look decent enough in two months right? I think the key would be not to put on too much weight during pregnancy, you know some women go all out eating everything in sight, well that just cannot be done if the goal is regain your figure after the baby. All the “experts” have advised that it is not too hard to loose the baby weight if you eat healthy, exercise and breast feed.
So while it might seem like there are much more babies born in November, maybe those mothers are all part of this master plan to keep the mas going the following year. Or, it could mean they did have wanton sex during the drinking and revelry of Carnival and showed the result of their actions nine months later. The fact is, the more I think of having a “Carnival baby” the more it makes perfect sense to me; ironically the baby will be a Carnival baby in every sense of the word. Now all I have to do is convince my husband that I am not crazy and it is actually a well thought out plan. And even though conception may not occur on Carnival Tuesday night at least we can have fun trying for the rest of the month!
When my girlfriend unexpectedly got pregnant in October last year, forcing her to eventually sell her costume, my first words were “so what happen to mas?” . Yes, I know it should not have been the first thing to come out my mouth, but I was actually concerned about what that would mean for Carnival before anything else. She held out hope for playing mas until January, sold her costume and spent Carnival in Tobago. After which she called me and said she was totally vexed when looking at mas on T.V. and seeing a pregnant Wendy enjoying herself in two bands. See, that is one of my greatest Carnival fears, especially when registering so early, an unexpected pregnancy coming out of the blue and disrupting my Carnival plans.
My co-workers have heard me make the statement that right after Carnival I am going to try and get pregnant so the baby can be born in November, giving me enough time to play mas in February the following year. When I say this I am not joking, though it always elicits a laugh from them. Thinking of it logically it does make perfect sense and truth be told I do know of one person who did plan her baby exactly like that; she had her baby in early December and played mas the following year with Harts.
I think it is an ideal plan so as not to interrupt my joy of playing mas. The biggest hurdle might be loosing the baby fat post pregnancy to be able to fit into the skimpy costume I would have to register for in August. But it can be done; if Heidi Klum can strut down Victoria’s Secrets runway in skimpy lingerie a month after giving birth, a mere mortal like me can hope to look decent enough in two months right? I think the key would be not to put on too much weight during pregnancy, you know some women go all out eating everything in sight, well that just cannot be done if the goal is regain your figure after the baby. All the “experts” have advised that it is not too hard to loose the baby weight if you eat healthy, exercise and breast feed.
So while it might seem like there are much more babies born in November, maybe those mothers are all part of this master plan to keep the mas going the following year. Or, it could mean they did have wanton sex during the drinking and revelry of Carnival and showed the result of their actions nine months later. The fact is, the more I think of having a “Carnival baby” the more it makes perfect sense to me; ironically the baby will be a Carnival baby in every sense of the word. Now all I have to do is convince my husband that I am not crazy and it is actually a well thought out plan. And even though conception may not occur on Carnival Tuesday night at least we can have fun trying for the rest of the month!
For the Bunji Fans
Get ready for a Global Musical Experience; on Carnival Saturday, February 17th, Bunji Garlin will be in concert.
This event adds to the roster of parties normally held on Carnival Saturday such as Amnesia, Dawn, Break and the Breakfast Fete. So for those looking for an alternative to the "norm" this one might be for you!
Click on the photo for a larger view
This event adds to the roster of parties normally held on Carnival Saturday such as Amnesia, Dawn, Break and the Breakfast Fete. So for those looking for an alternative to the "norm" this one might be for you!
Click on the photo for a larger view
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Missed the Boat!
Sorry folks just got word that Mc Farlane held a private media launch THIS MORNING!!
Needless to say I missed that one!
The website is scheduled to launch tomorrow, and I am anxiously awaiting the revelation of Boyie's journey depicted by Mc Farlane in mas.
Needless to say I missed that one!
The website is scheduled to launch tomorrow, and I am anxiously awaiting the revelation of Boyie's journey depicted by Mc Farlane in mas.
Carnival Anxiety
Less than two months to go and I woke up this morning feeling worried about my Carnival preparations!
So far the change of diet has been working great, I have lost weight but not enough to, in my opinion, do “Fireman” justice; I still need to loose a few more pounds and Christmas is almost on the door step with lots of temptations! The main problem for me though is finding time to exercise and now that Christmas is here it is even worse! My main form of exercise has been walking the malls instead of walking the treadmill and the only benefit of this is that I have been doing a lot of walking finding no parking spaces close to any of the malls.
I have already made a firm decision to avoid many of the sinfully delicious foods this Christmas; there will be no pastelles, ham, butter cookies, black cake or ponch de crème in my house; sorry for anyone who plans on dropping by. Included on the menu for Christmas are lots of veggies, sea food and salads. I know it is difficult to not have pastelle for Christmas but I cannot afford a set back on the road to Carnival, I have come too far to ruin all my sensible eating choices by gorging this Christmas. I am breaking my “no alcohol” rule stocking the house with Lite Beer (half the carbs. and calories of regular beer), but there will be no other alcohol…no vodka, rum, scotch…nothing at all except Lite Beer! See why for Carnival Monday and Tuesday I will be breaking loose, stage or no stage? All I am seeing with these sacrifices is the goal at the end!
The other thing I have yet to start on is my Monday wear. My plan is to wear a “costume” on Monday and I have already gotten the design, but I have not made any attempts to get to Samaroos to look for the materials I will need for this project. I feel stumped on this whole Monday wear idea and I am seriously thinking of a plan B, just in case I do not have time to get the original costume. It would be really nice if I did not have to think of Monday wear at all, having it provided by TRIBE , like the other band does for their masqueraders.
Also, shopping for clothes is sort of driving me up a wall. I have found some really cute shoes and pants that are perfect for Carnival but I am coming up empty on finding tops. Is it just me or is every store carrying the exact same items of clothing? From Jebelle in West Mall to the cheaper stores on Frederick Street, all I am seeing are tops with that huge belt attached! With my first fete of the season in less than a month I was hoping to find something to wear during all my shopping trips, but I have been coming up empty! I think I need to visit Eva’s in Maraval. Thing is I really don’t like showing up at a party/event and looking like a clone of every other female in the party; it might be in style but that does that mean I am wearing it. Clothing that “speaks” to me are the ones that are different, unique and looks like a one of a kind item. How I miss Elements of Style!
Other items I still have to get, but can possibly wait until late January/February are:
2 pairs of mas stockings (one for Monday, one for Thursday)
Make up (eye shadow, gems, spirit gum/eyelash glue, lipstick, liner)
Tape (for boobs and toes)
Body Jewelry /Decorations
The only thing I have secured so far is my costume and footwear!As I look at the numbers drop daily on my count down clock to Carnival I am getting nervous, is it just me?
So far the change of diet has been working great, I have lost weight but not enough to, in my opinion, do “Fireman” justice; I still need to loose a few more pounds and Christmas is almost on the door step with lots of temptations! The main problem for me though is finding time to exercise and now that Christmas is here it is even worse! My main form of exercise has been walking the malls instead of walking the treadmill and the only benefit of this is that I have been doing a lot of walking finding no parking spaces close to any of the malls.
I have already made a firm decision to avoid many of the sinfully delicious foods this Christmas; there will be no pastelles, ham, butter cookies, black cake or ponch de crème in my house; sorry for anyone who plans on dropping by. Included on the menu for Christmas are lots of veggies, sea food and salads. I know it is difficult to not have pastelle for Christmas but I cannot afford a set back on the road to Carnival, I have come too far to ruin all my sensible eating choices by gorging this Christmas. I am breaking my “no alcohol” rule stocking the house with Lite Beer (half the carbs. and calories of regular beer), but there will be no other alcohol…no vodka, rum, scotch…nothing at all except Lite Beer! See why for Carnival Monday and Tuesday I will be breaking loose, stage or no stage? All I am seeing with these sacrifices is the goal at the end!
The other thing I have yet to start on is my Monday wear. My plan is to wear a “costume” on Monday and I have already gotten the design, but I have not made any attempts to get to Samaroos to look for the materials I will need for this project. I feel stumped on this whole Monday wear idea and I am seriously thinking of a plan B, just in case I do not have time to get the original costume. It would be really nice if I did not have to think of Monday wear at all, having it provided by TRIBE , like the other band does for their masqueraders.
Also, shopping for clothes is sort of driving me up a wall. I have found some really cute shoes and pants that are perfect for Carnival but I am coming up empty on finding tops. Is it just me or is every store carrying the exact same items of clothing? From Jebelle in West Mall to the cheaper stores on Frederick Street, all I am seeing are tops with that huge belt attached! With my first fete of the season in less than a month I was hoping to find something to wear during all my shopping trips, but I have been coming up empty! I think I need to visit Eva’s in Maraval. Thing is I really don’t like showing up at a party/event and looking like a clone of every other female in the party; it might be in style but that does that mean I am wearing it. Clothing that “speaks” to me are the ones that are different, unique and looks like a one of a kind item. How I miss Elements of Style!
Other items I still have to get, but can possibly wait until late January/February are:
2 pairs of mas stockings (one for Monday, one for Thursday)
Make up (eye shadow, gems, spirit gum/eyelash glue, lipstick, liner)
Tape (for boobs and toes)
Body Jewelry /Decorations
The only thing I have secured so far is my costume and footwear!As I look at the numbers drop daily on my count down clock to Carnival I am getting nervous, is it just me?
Monday, December 18, 2006
The Minister of Culture Speaks!
All speculation can now be laid to rest. The Minister of Culture Joan Yuille Williams in her address to parliament has stated that UDeCott has delayed construction long enough and while there was a delay the Grand Stand was allowed to be used for activities, however the widow of use kept getting smaller and if there is any more delay it will drive project costs up. In effect, the demolition of the Grand Stand will go ahead as planned with the raw materials being re-used in other projects.
Mrs. Williams stated that it is economical to reuse these materials and that nothing will be lost but the "physical structure" which will be replaced by the Carnival Centre and at that time our Carnival would have come of age. The following plans for Carnival 2007 were revealed:
These revelations have been such an anti-climax; just for one minute I had a ray of hope that they would use the Savannah one more time, even when I should have known better. Now, it is just to move on and make the best of what will surely be a new experience, "mas on the streets!"
Oh, and by the way I am sending an email to TRIBE that I am NOT in favour of Piccadilly Greens as a judging point and I hope they will skip that one!
Mrs. Williams stated that it is economical to reuse these materials and that nothing will be lost but the "physical structure" which will be replaced by the Carnival Centre and at that time our Carnival would have come of age. The following plans for Carnival 2007 were revealed:
- The Jean Pierre Complex will be used for Dimanche Gras, including judging of King and Queen and other Calypso competitions previously held at the Savannah.
- Mas will be on the streets; judging points are Down Town, Piccadilly on the Greens, Queens Park Savannah South (in the vicinity of Princess Building Grounds) and Adam Smith Square. Victoria Square will not be used but bleachers will be constructed for spectators.
- Panorama prelims will be judged in the panyard, semi-finals at the South Western end of the Savannah entering by the Paddock and exiting on Dundonald Street. Finals will be held at Skinner Park in San Fernando.
These revelations have been such an anti-climax; just for one minute I had a ray of hope that they would use the Savannah one more time, even when I should have known better. Now, it is just to move on and make the best of what will surely be a new experience, "mas on the streets!"
Oh, and by the way I am sending an email to TRIBE that I am NOT in favour of Piccadilly Greens as a judging point and I hope they will skip that one!
Same old tune...
The Newsday is reporting that Culture Minister Joan Yuille Williams is expected to make an announcement on the proposed venues for Carnival 2007, today:
To be honest, I have heard this before only to be disappointed when no announcement was made. I am not getting my hopes up today that anything would be different than the last few times the Minister was supposed to make some sort of announcement. I will be keeping my ears wide open, however, just in case the "well placed political sources" are correct.
"Joan to end silence on Carnival venueFor the full article, please check the link to Newsday here.
By SUZANNE SHEPPARD Sunday, December 17 2006
CULTURE MINISTER Joan Yuille-Williams is expected to break her lengthy silence on the contentious issue of the main venue for Carnival 2007 tomorrow. Well placed political sources told Sunday Newsday the Minister, who has been under fire from various quarters over a decision not to stage the festival at the Queen’s Park Savannah, will make a statement on the matter at a special sitting of the House of Represen-tatives tomorrow at 1.30 pm.
According to sources, Yuille-Williams will be delivering a “comprehensive statement” on the venues for next year’s Carnival celebration, including whether the Government will stick to a plan to demolish the Grand Stand and seek other locations for major competitions."
To be honest, I have heard this before only to be disappointed when no announcement was made. I am not getting my hopes up today that anything would be different than the last few times the Minister was supposed to make some sort of announcement. I will be keeping my ears wide open, however, just in case the "well placed political sources" are correct.
Feteing now start....
Remember the days when the only schools throwing an all-inclusive fete for Carnival were Trinity, Bishops and QRC? Well, seems like all schools are now getting in on the action,with nearly every "prestige" school having an all-inclusive fete to aid "school repairs". While I see nothing wrong with this, can someone please tell me if St. Francois finally got their hall after 4 years of throwing a Carnival fete?
And what was once one of the cheaper all-inclusives, St. Francois is now $300.00. Guess that should have been expected with the double digit inflation rate. Trini Limers's fete at $250.00 is "cheap" all things considered, but who are Trini Limers and sorry to say but Couva is too far to go and party! That's a good fete for those South and Central residents though. Presentation College Chaguanas is another fete this "town" girl will pass on, but I am glad to see some all-inclusives being held in other areas of the country.
With Christmas on the near horizon and Old Year's parties stilll to be decided upon, these are the first all-inclusives to be advertised for Carnival 2007,the race is on people!
For more information check out my friends at Triniscene.com (yup got their permission to use their photos). If these are the indication of prices to come, it has just cemented the fact that I will be feteing less for 2007.
I shudder to think of the price of BLISS! Maybe I should put that down as a Christmas gift....yooo hoo, friends/family all yuh hearing?
And what was once one of the cheaper all-inclusives, St. Francois is now $300.00. Guess that should have been expected with the double digit inflation rate. Trini Limers's fete at $250.00 is "cheap" all things considered, but who are Trini Limers and sorry to say but Couva is too far to go and party! That's a good fete for those South and Central residents though. Presentation College Chaguanas is another fete this "town" girl will pass on, but I am glad to see some all-inclusives being held in other areas of the country.
With Christmas on the near horizon and Old Year's parties stilll to be decided upon, these are the first all-inclusives to be advertised for Carnival 2007,the race is on people!
For more information check out my friends at Triniscene.com (yup got their permission to use their photos). If these are the indication of prices to come, it has just cemented the fact that I will be feteing less for 2007.
I shudder to think of the price of BLISS! Maybe I should put that down as a Christmas gift....yooo hoo, friends/family all yuh hearing?
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Mall Madness
Now I know this has nothing to do with Carnival really, but how could I resist a post about the mall at Christmas time!? I have been living at the mall this weekend, visiting both West Mall and Trincity Mall numerous times between today and yesterday. In between shopping for gifts for others (only managed to get a few) I was busy shopping for me with my Carnival wardrobe at the back of mind (guess that's where Carnival comes in!).
My quest scored me some excellent finds at Westport Body (accessories on the cheap!), Suite 16 (you do have to hunt for the good stuff) AND I just discovered Suite 16 has opened a accessory and shoe shop at Trincity.... imagine,cute sandals for $65.00!
Here are some photos of my shopping expedition at Trincity mall; for those in Trinidad check out Suite 16's new store and for those of you overseas I hope these scenes at least remind you a bit of the madness that grips Trinis, sending them into a shopping frenzy, come Christmas time:
New Suite 16 store
Entertainment by Marcia Miranda.
My quest scored me some excellent finds at Westport Body (accessories on the cheap!), Suite 16 (you do have to hunt for the good stuff) AND I just discovered Suite 16 has opened a accessory and shoe shop at Trincity.... imagine,cute sandals for $65.00!
Here are some photos of my shopping expedition at Trincity mall; for those in Trinidad check out Suite 16's new store and for those of you overseas I hope these scenes at least remind you a bit of the madness that grips Trinis, sending them into a shopping frenzy, come Christmas time:
New Suite 16 store
Entertainment by Marcia Miranda.
Boots ! Boots! Boots!
Amid all the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, I made my way to Vamp yesterday as I knew someone had already collected their boots for Carnival, and when I called Natalie she was working on boots for Fireman so I went to take a look at their progress.
I met Natalie in the middle of decorating one of the "Fireman" boots, and I do like the fact that she is trying to make each one unique, but that means she has to come up with different ideas every time! On display was a pair of boots she made for "Jamette" that I found looked really good, I especially loved the tulle on the sides of the boots. Those were wedge boots and I thought they looked hot! Seeing as I did not try any wedge boots when I first placed my order, I decided to try a pair of undecorated wedge boots that just happened to be my size, and they were pretty comfortable so I changed my request to the wedge instead of flats! Luckily my boots were not in production as yet.
So in four weeks time I should be collecting my Carnival footwear, one headache out of the way, and I cannot wait to see what the final product looks like!
Here are some photos of other boots that Natalie has either finished or is working on at her shop (sorry they are so blurry, I did not realise the pics were not in focus until AFTER I downloaded them. Click on the photo for a larger view):
Two versions of boots for "Fireman", I met Natalie working on the one to the left.
Two versions of "Warrior Spirit"
"Jamette", note the Tulle on the sides, cute!
Side view of Jamette where you can see the wedge heel.
"Mirage"
"Goddess"
I met Natalie in the middle of decorating one of the "Fireman" boots, and I do like the fact that she is trying to make each one unique, but that means she has to come up with different ideas every time! On display was a pair of boots she made for "Jamette" that I found looked really good, I especially loved the tulle on the sides of the boots. Those were wedge boots and I thought they looked hot! Seeing as I did not try any wedge boots when I first placed my order, I decided to try a pair of undecorated wedge boots that just happened to be my size, and they were pretty comfortable so I changed my request to the wedge instead of flats! Luckily my boots were not in production as yet.
So in four weeks time I should be collecting my Carnival footwear, one headache out of the way, and I cannot wait to see what the final product looks like!
Here are some photos of other boots that Natalie has either finished or is working on at her shop (sorry they are so blurry, I did not realise the pics were not in focus until AFTER I downloaded them. Click on the photo for a larger view):
Two versions of boots for "Fireman", I met Natalie working on the one to the left.
Two versions of "Warrior Spirit"
"Jamette", note the Tulle on the sides, cute!
Side view of Jamette where you can see the wedge heel.
"Mirage"
"Goddess"
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Masquerade's Website is up!
First I have to apologize for being missing in action yesterday; it was unplanned as I always have Internet access or some facility where I can be online during the day. Yesterday however, TSTT made an error with our wireless system at work and the problem persisted all day, leaving us with no internet connection, and up until the time I left work the IT Manager was still trying to fix the problem with TSTT. Thankfully the hubby was able to come to the rescue and help me out by moderating comments (I so dislike this feature now but it has become a necessity for the time being).
What that also meant was that I was unable to keep abreast of all the Carnival happenings and only just realized Masquerade's website is up and running. Their portrayal for 2007 is "Golden Heritage, a Tribute to Mas" and the official band launching took place last month at the Anchorage.
From the website, prices range from $1450.00 to $1695.00 with the option of paying an additional $400.00 for all-inclusive. Music is to be provided by Dil-E-Nadan and Crosby Sounds.
To be honest, some of the costumes look a bit” dated" in design, but I do like The Gathering and the male Viva Zapata! Check out the website for photos!
What that also meant was that I was unable to keep abreast of all the Carnival happenings and only just realized Masquerade's website is up and running. Their portrayal for 2007 is "Golden Heritage, a Tribute to Mas" and the official band launching took place last month at the Anchorage.
From the website, prices range from $1450.00 to $1695.00 with the option of paying an additional $400.00 for all-inclusive. Music is to be provided by Dil-E-Nadan and Crosby Sounds.
To be honest, some of the costumes look a bit” dated" in design, but I do like The Gathering and the male Viva Zapata! Check out the website for photos!
Minister Hart vs Minister Williams
For those who are not aware, there are four Ministers for the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs. They are, Joan Yuille Williams (Senator), Eulalie James, Edward Hart and Eudine Job-Davis. All Minister's are based at Head Office with Edward Hart housed at Culture Division, technically making him "in charge" of Culture ;but as everyone has come to realise there is only ONE Minister with any real power which is Joan Yuille Williams.
Amid the controversy surrounding the staging of Panorama, Minister Edward Harts has now found a voice and is in favour of the Grand Stand being demolished after Carnival as reported in today's Express newspapers:
This is a prime example of the right hand not knowing what the left is doing; I would love to see if he has the testicular fortitude to challenge the "senior" on this matter as indicated in the last line of that article. Again, we will just have to wait for further developments in this Panorama/Savannah soap opera.
Amid the controversy surrounding the staging of Panorama, Minister Edward Harts has now found a voice and is in favour of the Grand Stand being demolished after Carnival as reported in today's Express newspapers:
..Hart: Demolish after Carnival
Anna-Lisa Paul alpaul@trinidadexpress.com
Saturday, December 16th 2006
The Panorama competition should remain in the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, says Minister in the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, Eddie Hart.
Speaking with reporters at a function at the Arima Town Hall yesterday, however, Hart said this was his view as a participant in the cultural event.
"As a panman, I am supporting the views of the panmen who feel that we could return to the savannah for this event, and next year when demolition starts, well, we'll look for other venues."
In his capacity as a Government minister though, Hart said, "It is the senior minister (Joan Yuille-Williams) who has been meeting with all the interest groups. I was never privy to those meetings and I just have to say what I hear."
Revealing that he was not present when Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold met with panmen on Thursday to discuss the matter, Hart said he had heard "there were a lot of views" and "a lot of bitterness" between factions from the north and south.
He explained that the southern bands argued they have been journeying to Port of Spain for over 40 years, and questioned why bands from the north could not now do the same.
Claiming that Port of Spain bands were considering the cost of such a move, Hart reminded persons that Pan Trinbago had begun judging at panyards across the nation for the preliminary stages in an attempt to "cut costs".
Hart said while the demolition at the savannah had not started, the panmen could see no reason "why the event cannot take place in the savannah, and after Carnival, well then, demolition could begin".
Hart said he has yet to meet with Yuille-Williams to discuss the matter, but that he was "anxious to meet with her, since questions are always coming to me".
This is a prime example of the right hand not knowing what the left is doing; I would love to see if he has the testicular fortitude to challenge the "senior" on this matter as indicated in the last line of that article. Again, we will just have to wait for further developments in this Panorama/Savannah soap opera.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Iz We ting!
"Iz We Ting" is on a mission,this group of friends with over 4 years experience producing sections in Poison want to show the "big" bands that it is possible to provide an affordable costume and an all-inclusive experince without robbing people blind.
Catering for only 275 masqueraders the goal is to keep the band small, and so far, from all indications, the concept is getting some attention. The two female costumes in the photos are what is being offered for the ladies and the males have a choice of playing Blue Devil or the male costume pictured. Prices range from $1500.00 ($250.00US) for female costumes and $1200.00 ($200.00US) for the male costumes and this price includes meals on both Monday and Tuesday and drinks. Costume downpayment is $500.00.
To read more about the concept behind Iz We Ting checkout their Myspace :
http://www.myspace.com/137851959
For more information you can contact any of the persons listed:
Carlton 683-7796
Alicia 712- 7536
Summer 620-5636
Tim Kee 722- 6515
The Headlines Say it all....
Thursday, December 14, 2006
News Flash.. No Grand Stand.. No Panorama!
This just came across T.V.6 news; Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold has announced that if the Grand Stand is torn down and an alternative venue is suggested for Panorama 2007 decisive action will be taken, and there will be no Panorama !
I am stunned, finally someone is taking a stand against the demolition of the Grand Stand when it is entirely feasible to use the facilities one last time, and start construction of the Carnival Centre after February. No preparation work has started, the Grand Stand is still standing and the demoliton is scheduled to take place over the course of a few months! So, it makes perfect sense to wait until AFTER Carnival to start this project. Afterall, the propsed Carnival Centre was supposed to be in construction phase as I type, and yet after Carnival 2006 nothing was done... for 12 months the Savannah has stayed untouched.
I am anxiously awaiting the response of Culture Minister Joan Yuille Williams to this statement; Panorama has intrinsic value to Carnival and I cannot fathom NOT having Panorama, in any form, that is prelims, semis or finals, next year.
For more of Patrick Arnold's views on the Panorama fiasco read/listen to this interview on "When Steel Talks."
I am stunned, finally someone is taking a stand against the demolition of the Grand Stand when it is entirely feasible to use the facilities one last time, and start construction of the Carnival Centre after February. No preparation work has started, the Grand Stand is still standing and the demoliton is scheduled to take place over the course of a few months! So, it makes perfect sense to wait until AFTER Carnival to start this project. Afterall, the propsed Carnival Centre was supposed to be in construction phase as I type, and yet after Carnival 2006 nothing was done... for 12 months the Savannah has stayed untouched.
I am anxiously awaiting the response of Culture Minister Joan Yuille Williams to this statement; Panorama has intrinsic value to Carnival and I cannot fathom NOT having Panorama, in any form, that is prelims, semis or finals, next year.
For more of Patrick Arnold's views on the Panorama fiasco read/listen to this interview on "When Steel Talks."
Dante’s Inferno launches Tomorrow
This one is for all the South masqueraders.Reigning south band of the year "We People International" will be launching their 2007 Carnival presentation Dante's Inferno at the Sting Night Club on December 15th. Music will be provided by Invazion and DJ Sean.
The mas camp is located at 110 Cipero Street and for further information please contact Dawad 758-7090/653-9725, Joan 485-0699, Clunis 684-8929,Paula 652-7373,Gregory 678-8962, Terrance 620-4307 or Anastasia 685-1719.
The mas camp is located at 110 Cipero Street and for further information please contact Dawad 758-7090/653-9725, Joan 485-0699, Clunis 684-8929,Paula 652-7373,Gregory 678-8962, Terrance 620-4307 or Anastasia 685-1719.
Christmas Gifts for Your Carnival Baby
Even though I an being somewhat of a scrooge this Christmas, only buying gifts for a few since I am not celebrating Christmas in the traditional sense I thought of those of you who are still trying to rack your brains to think of gifts for friends and family members who are certified Carnival babies.And for anyone thinking of getting me a gift, I would be quite happy with any from this list, especially #1!
1.Pay off the balance on their costume. This is the ultimate gift for someone who is playing mas next year, but if you cannot afford to pay off the balance making a payment towards their costume is as good a gift as any. And with so many bands accepting payment online you can get this gift without ever having to leave your home.
2. Matching footwear for their costume. This takes some input from the person for whom the gift is intended; try to get an idea of what type of footwear they are interested in getting. Some people prefer boots over sneakers as well as the fact that the footwear has to be a match to the costume.
3. Clothing and shoes. When shopping for clothing take into consideration that you are buying items that will be used for going to fetes and limes. It can be nice tops, a pair of jeans or short pants. Get clothes that are in style but look for unique pieces so that he/she will not be look line a clone when partying. Shoes might be tricky if you are living abroad where it is winter, but try to find cute sandals, wedge heels and flats. Many shops now have “resort wear” that cater for people escaping the cold weather on vacation, so you should be able to find appropriate clothing and shoes.
4. Make up. This one is tricky since you are essentially getting her makeup to match her costume. Items to get would include makeup primer, lipstick, eye shadow and eyeliner. It is crucial to pay attention to the brand she already uses, do not deviate from that norm. Most women would already have an idea of what colours they are interested in by now, it will not hurt to ask nicely if she has started shopping for makeup for Carnival. The ultimate gift in this respect would be to sponsor a makeup artist to do her makeup on Carnival Tuesday.
5. Spa certificate. This is to be used for that body polish, manicure or pedicure before Carnival or it can be used for a massage after Carnival as well. A very flexible gift that allows the person to enjoy a day of pampering.
6. Luggage. This is for the Carnival babies that do not live in Trinidad. Let them travel in style with new luggage; get suitcases on wheels and for the ladies get the matching makeup/overnight kit as well. Do a search for reviews on the best brands to get and luggage these days come in some fun colours and designs, no need to stick with boring black.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Tribe Xmas Info Blast..
Well I must be late because I have only just checked my mailbox and saw an email from TRIBE.
See,that fete calender was totally wrong, BLISS is one month from today as I reported before and not January 7th as dated on the calender; the all inclusive fete will be held on January 13th, 2007. No mention of venue or prices, but I see they are holding a parang lime on December 22nd and members get a special price so hoping the trend continues for all TRIBE's events for Carnival 2007.
In addition this year they are having the charity drive again, accepting donations of food items. Last year I fully supported the Christmas charity and I intend to make my donations once again.
Finally, the rest of the email basically states that you can choose to pay off your costume before collection date either at the mas camp or for overseas masqueraders (U.K., U.S. and Canada) through senvia. If you pay for your costume in full by January 31st you join the "fast track costume collection line", maybe that is some kind of incentive, but suppose lots of people pay off for their costume early then that line won't be so fast now will it.
Anyways, just a little update for those who may not have gotten their email as yet.
See,that fete calender was totally wrong, BLISS is one month from today as I reported before and not January 7th as dated on the calender; the all inclusive fete will be held on January 13th, 2007. No mention of venue or prices, but I see they are holding a parang lime on December 22nd and members get a special price so hoping the trend continues for all TRIBE's events for Carnival 2007.
In addition this year they are having the charity drive again, accepting donations of food items. Last year I fully supported the Christmas charity and I intend to make my donations once again.
Finally, the rest of the email basically states that you can choose to pay off your costume before collection date either at the mas camp or for overseas masqueraders (U.K., U.S. and Canada) through senvia. If you pay for your costume in full by January 31st you join the "fast track costume collection line", maybe that is some kind of incentive, but suppose lots of people pay off for their costume early then that line won't be so fast now will it.
Anyways, just a little update for those who may not have gotten their email as yet.
Panorama Stays in the Savannah!
Well, there is one ray of hope at least I will be enjoying Panorama semi-finals in the Savannah, albeit in a new location it is still much better than any other alternative! As reported in today's Guardian, which I will from now on christen the Carnival newspaper:
Now, I don't want to hope too much, but seeing as they are going to be constructing stands and a stage for Panorama, could it be that FINALLY somebody has been listening to all our protests and that if we pray hard enough they will leave these stands and stage up for the rest of Carnival and we WILL get a stage to cross? One can only hope that the powers that be see some sense in this !
" BY CORDIELLE STREET
The 2007 Panorama semifinals will stay at the Queen’s Park Savannah (QPS) in Port-of-Spain.
But the final of the event will indeed be held at Skinner Park, San Fernando.
And for the semis, instead of the Grand Stand and North Stand, patrons will have to accustom themselves to enjoy the “jamming” in West and East stands, Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold disclosed yesterday.
The Panorama semis—one of the major Carnival events traditionally held at the QPS—have been saved a trip down to the south of Trinidad and will be relocated to the western end of the savannah, he said.
Arnold said that Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs Joan Yuille-Williams has finally agreed to the proposal sent to her months ago by Pan Trinbago, to utilise the western end of the QPS.
This means that the traditional exit point for steelbands leaving the Savannah, after crossing the stage, will now be their entrance via Victoria Avenue.
This paved area of the QPS will now become the main drag, and a stage will be constructed, possibly utilising a portion of the current QPS paddock.
This depends on how far the salvage demolition of the current QPS facilities by the Urban Development Corporation of T&T (Udecott) has reached, said Arnold.
The “new” home for Panorama will technically be sharing part of the current facilities while the new stage and stands will be erected less than a quarter-mile from the Grand Stand.
The paved area is enjoyed as a recreational facility by the general public and was a major point of contention for environmentalists and mas designer Peter Minshall when it was paved in 2000 by former National Carnival Commission (NCC) chairman Carlos John.
The price tag for the paving then was more than $5 million. The NCC will be in charge of constructing the new temporary facility for the Panorama semis.
“It looks like we are going to turn and go left and come off the stage. But we may have another plan, where we do not have to enter onto the grass,” Arnold said.
Details are still being worked out, but one thing is for sure: the North Stand and and Grand Stand have seen their last days and new East and West stands will be constructed with the stage dead centre.
Arnold claimed that construction of the stage and two new stands will cost significantly less than previous years when a grand stage and North Stand were erected.
Udecott announced on Monday its intention to demolish facilities at the QPS in the new year, to make way for the $450-million Carnival Cultural Centre.
It is left to be seen if the San Fernando Carnival Committee’s proposal of a $1 million first prize for the champion band in the 2007 Panorama competition holds, as the city will for the first time host the national Panorama final at Skinner Park.
“We were not going to take 34 bands to South,” said Arnold, dismissing finally any such idea of a Panorama semifinal round in south Trinidad.
Concerning the $1 million cash prize being offered by the San Fernando Carnival Committee, Arnold said: “That has nothing to do with us. We have submitted a Carnival budget and it was in our budget for $1 million first prize.”
Attempts to contact NCC chairman Kenny De Silva were futile.
©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited
Now, I don't want to hope too much, but seeing as they are going to be constructing stands and a stage for Panorama, could it be that FINALLY somebody has been listening to all our protests and that if we pray hard enough they will leave these stands and stage up for the rest of Carnival and we WILL get a stage to cross? One can only hope that the powers that be see some sense in this !
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Still looking for flights and accomodation?
I am not promoting any one company over the other, but I was checking out Carnival Junction and saw that Island Soul Promotions has advertisements listed for hotel accomodation as welll as airfare to Trinidad for Carnival; I know ticket prices on certain dates are now well over $1000.00US so for the procrastinators you might want to contact Island Soul if you are still looking for airfare of a place to stay.
For more details on both advertisements you can check out Carnival Junction under the categories "Carnival Flight Deals" and "Carnival Accomodation", see the website is not only about looking for costumes wanted/for sale.
Here are the deals advertised:
For more details on both advertisements you can check out Carnival Junction under the categories "Carnival Flight Deals" and "Carnival Accomodation", see the website is not only about looking for costumes wanted/for sale.
Here are the deals advertised:
Air Specials
Thanks to last month's air sale, we are nearly sold out on air-only. Remaining flights include: 697.00 USD JFK-POS-JFK 13FEB-22FEB, 757.00 USD JFK-POS-JFK 16FEB-21FEB, 761.00 USD BWI-POS-BWI 14FEB-24FEB.
Only a few remain; make your deposit today
email: info@islandsoulpromotions.com
voice: (800) 921-6955
web: http://www.islandsoulpromotions.com
Accomodation
Island Soul Promotions has several affordable packages available for Trinidad Carnival 2007. We pride ourselves in providing you with a number of hotel options and flight itineraries, as well as additional package add-ons such as fete tickets, ground transportation, and costumes.
Make a deposit on your package between now and December 10th to receive up to 20% off at the Carnetta's Inn, our moderate level accommodations located in Maraval. Looking for something a little more luxurious? Join us at the otherwise sold out, centrally located Crowne Plaza. We still have rooms left!
email: info@islandsoulpromotions.com
Island Soul Promotions, Inc.
The Ultimate Carnival Experience!
No new news................
Well for once I have trumped the Guardian, the news being reported today is exactly what I posted yesterday. At 2:34PM I left this comment in my post about the pan chroming factory:
"I tried calling the Director of Culture, but he is on vacation!Spoke to someone at the NCC and they said we STILL have to wait for more information later down in the week and they are in the process of preparing to take down the Grand stand soon."
Report in today's Guardian:
For the rest of the article please visit the Trinidad Guardian's website.
By now I am sure it is clear that the Minister of Culture will not be making any big announcement on Carnival plans. The information I got yesterday from a Ministry official was that "UDECOTT will make an announcement concerning plans for the construction of the Carnival Entertainment Centre which will be followed by another announcement by the N.C.C. which will out line the schedule for Carnival 2007."
Therefore we should expect the N.C.C. to reveal the alternative venues for competitions such as Panorama and Dimanche Gras sometime soon and mas will be on the streets as has been alluded to by the media over the past few weeks.
No Savannah langniappe people, when the Grand Stand comes down that single act will symbolise the end of an era.
"I tried calling the Director of Culture, but he is on vacation!Spoke to someone at the NCC and they said we STILL have to wait for more information later down in the week and they are in the process of preparing to take down the Grand stand soon."
Report in today's Guardian:
Grand Stand is no more but...
Minister still to reveal Carnival plans
BY CORDIELLE STREET
IT is official.
The Grand Stand at Queen’s Park Savannah is scheduled to be demolished in the new year, dashing all hopes of masqueraders enjoying another Carnival crossing the big stage.
However, Minister of Community, Culture and Gender Affairs Joan Yuille-Williams is yet to announce an alternative venue or venues for major events traditionally held there.
Yuille-Williams promised on Friday that plans would be revealed yesterday after a meeting between the Ministry and officials of the Urban Development Corporation of T&T (Udecott).
A media release yesterday from Udecott, however, made no mention of alternative Carnival plans. Instead the organisation announced its “regret” in informing the national community of the Grand Stand’s demolition.
“As many would appreciate, after dealing with the projected cost for the new Savannah facility that was almost double in price of what Cabinet had authorised, Udecott was forced to address the issue of value engineering and methodology in an effort to bring this project to within the cost parameters established by the Government of T&T.
“Udecott now feels that this development can go forward within the price parameters established by the Government and proposals from pre-qualified contractors will be sought in early 2007,” stated the release. ....
©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited
For the rest of the article please visit the Trinidad Guardian's website.
By now I am sure it is clear that the Minister of Culture will not be making any big announcement on Carnival plans. The information I got yesterday from a Ministry official was that "UDECOTT will make an announcement concerning plans for the construction of the Carnival Entertainment Centre which will be followed by another announcement by the N.C.C. which will out line the schedule for Carnival 2007."
Therefore we should expect the N.C.C. to reveal the alternative venues for competitions such as Panorama and Dimanche Gras sometime soon and mas will be on the streets as has been alluded to by the media over the past few weeks.
No Savannah langniappe people, when the Grand Stand comes down that single act will symbolise the end of an era.
Monday, December 11, 2006
D Day update...
Time in Trinidad is 3:03PM and so far no news of any official announcement on the Carnival parade route.
I have spoken to the persons at the NCBA and NCC and they have not heard any word as yet either. My attempts to contact the Director of Culture has proven futile as he is on vacation and no word at all from any other Ministry officials.
I will update this post as news comes in.
UPDATE:
3:29 PM. Just spoke to an official from the Ministry of Culture who said that the Guardian report got it wrong. I was informed that the Minister of Culture did not state that today will be the day that she will reveal all Carnival plans.
What was supposedly said was that UDECOTT will make an announcement concerning plans for the construction of the Carnival Entertainment Centre which will be followed by another announcement by the N.C.C. which will out line the schedule for Carnival 2007.
In addition, it was clearly stated that there will be nothing new to be revealed, as we have been hearing over the weeks Carnival 2007 will be a parade on the streets.
I have spoken to the persons at the NCBA and NCC and they have not heard any word as yet either. My attempts to contact the Director of Culture has proven futile as he is on vacation and no word at all from any other Ministry officials.
I will update this post as news comes in.
UPDATE:
3:29 PM. Just spoke to an official from the Ministry of Culture who said that the Guardian report got it wrong. I was informed that the Minister of Culture did not state that today will be the day that she will reveal all Carnival plans.
What was supposedly said was that UDECOTT will make an announcement concerning plans for the construction of the Carnival Entertainment Centre which will be followed by another announcement by the N.C.C. which will out line the schedule for Carnival 2007.
In addition, it was clearly stated that there will be nothing new to be revealed, as we have been hearing over the weeks Carnival 2007 will be a parade on the streets.
Trinidad to get pan chroming factory....
I don’t know what to make of the Government’s claims that they will be establishing a steelpan chroming factory in Trinidad and Tobago sometime in the near future as reported in today's Guardian newspaper. Not wanting to be a cynic, the first thought that comes to my head is that this is a long overdue necessity and one that I will believe when I see it. On my way to Trincity I see the abandoned building, still sitting incomplete which is/was to be the headquarters for Pan Trinbago; if the Government is yet to complete the housing for Pan Trinbgao, what makes them believable when they say a steel pan chroming factory is “coming soon”?
For those who are unaware, this proposed local steelpan chroming factory is many years behind the other factories in Japan and the United States which have been manufacturing not only our steel pans, but also providing tuning services, sheet music and other accessories to complement the steel pan. It is with much embarrassment, on our part, that I read a history like this about one of the manufacturers of steel pan in Japan called Steel Pan Lab Curepe, and you can find the rest of the following article on the official website here:
So, for eight years this Japanese man has been visiting Trinidad, perfecting his skill in all aspects of the steelpan, takes his knowledge back to Japan opening a store that sells steelpans which is ironically called “Curepe!” .And during this time our Government does nothing to rival other countries who are basically slapping us in the face with a much improved version of our own invention. Yet , as is reported in today’s Guardian, we are not even getting a factory that manufacturers the steel pan, but only one that chromes the pans after they are made:
So while the focus is shifting after all these years to the fact that the steelpan is a viable business that should be supported by our Government, I think they are still lacking the vision of a real factory, much like Panyard Inc, an American company that calls themselves "World Leaders in Pan Innovation and Technology". Reading the history of that company yet again, I feel ashamed that the best the Minister of Culture can throw our pan men is just a Chrome factory.
Someone needs to tell Mrs. Yuille Williams that we are still lagging behind, a chrome factory alone will not cut it. What we need, Mnister of Culture, is a factory to rival those in North America and Japan. Maybe I am the only one who sees something wrong with this news, it appears to me that the powers that be are only trying to appease the pan men over the fact that there will be no Savannah for next year's Panorama. The funny thing is that even in doing so, they are still being short changed; too little, too late.
For those who are unaware, this proposed local steelpan chroming factory is many years behind the other factories in Japan and the United States which have been manufacturing not only our steel pans, but also providing tuning services, sheet music and other accessories to complement the steel pan. It is with much embarrassment, on our part, that I read a history like this about one of the manufacturers of steel pan in Japan called Steel Pan Lab Curepe, and you can find the rest of the following article on the official website here:
“In 1993, Susumu Muraji came back to Japan from Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. He built a band named "Domestic Steel Pan Combo", played with the Steel pan (Steel drum) in front line, to let them know how nice instrument the pan is. They played many famous cover tunes from any kind of music at mainly in Kobe, Japan. Two album tapes and one sample tape was published in two years. He also played in other style, Duo or Trio in the restaurant, and other places as a professional. He preside steel pan school in Ashiya (next city of Kobe), and in Tennouji (big town in Osaka). ……
In 1997, Muraji went to the Trinidad again, and he played in the carnival "Panorama" as a member of the steel band "Moods" from Curepe, Trinidad. He got plenty pans for his students and for himself, then he went to United States to watch what's going on around the pan in U.S., then back to Japan. After that, he went to U.S. again, and got the technique of tuning of the pans. He opened a shop that customers could 'choose' 'good' pans with 'stabilization of prices', named "Curepe" in Nishinomiya ……..
In1998, 1999 and 2000, he kept going to Trinidad and Tobago to play in Carnival, He got plenty Trinidadian friend again. Steel Pan Shop Curepe sold plenty pans, also to Kyoto College of art. Curepe gets customer's trusts from them good after care. Curepe also advised making mini-pans to Takarazuka, Nishitani-junior school, and Asahi news paper. Curepe started make Middle-sized-pan, Bass pan. Nov.2000, Steel Pan Shop Curepe changed the name to Steel Pan Lab Curepe.”
So, for eight years this Japanese man has been visiting Trinidad, perfecting his skill in all aspects of the steelpan, takes his knowledge back to Japan opening a store that sells steelpans which is ironically called “Curepe!” .And during this time our Government does nothing to rival other countries who are basically slapping us in the face with a much improved version of our own invention. Yet , as is reported in today’s Guardian, we are not even getting a factory that manufacturers the steel pan, but only one that chromes the pans after they are made:
“The Government has outlined a package of products which it believes will create and sustain a viable steelband industry in T&T, says Culture Minister Joan Yuille-Williams.
Speaking during the PCS Nitrogen Starlift’s golden jubilee celebration and awards ceremony at its headquarters on Mucurapo Road, St James, on Friday night, Yuille-Williams told steelbandsmen that educating, training and employing this category of entertainers was high on the government’s list of priorities.
And to start things, Pan Trinbago would get its long-awaited chrome factory. The minister said:
“When steelpan instruments are made and tuned, they have to be chromed. Once again, the Government is prepared to come forward, this time with the establishment of a chrome factory.
“A building to house the factory has already been identified and a budget allocation to get the project off the ground has been approved by Cabinet.”
So while the focus is shifting after all these years to the fact that the steelpan is a viable business that should be supported by our Government, I think they are still lacking the vision of a real factory, much like Panyard Inc, an American company that calls themselves "World Leaders in Pan Innovation and Technology". Reading the history of that company yet again, I feel ashamed that the best the Minister of Culture can throw our pan men is just a Chrome factory.
Someone needs to tell Mrs. Yuille Williams that we are still lagging behind, a chrome factory alone will not cut it. What we need, Mnister of Culture, is a factory to rival those in North America and Japan. Maybe I am the only one who sees something wrong with this news, it appears to me that the powers that be are only trying to appease the pan men over the fact that there will be no Savannah for next year's Panorama. The funny thing is that even in doing so, they are still being short changed; too little, too late.
Japanese infusion.........
For those who went to Machel Monatno’s Alternative Concept 4, you might remember a diminutive Japanese singer by the name of Minmi who came onstage to perform her hit “Summertime”, a mix of soca and Japanese pop, though admittedly the crowd at Alternative Concept could not understand one word that came out of her mouth except for “summertime”. But, I think it just goes to show how yet again the Japanese have taken Caribbean culture and put their stamp on it. We have Junko contorting her body in all sorts of acrobatic positions to take the title of Dancehall Queen and now we have Minmi spreading what sounds like soca globally.
Well, I guess it was only a matter of time before one of our soca artistes decided to collaborate with Minmi and the man who first brought a Japanese flavour to Carnival in 2004 with Junko is doing it again; in 2006 Machel Montano is collaborating on a soca song with Minmi. Need I say how much I am looking forward to what comes from this collaboration. Call me biased, but I think Machel teaming up with other artistes always produces a hit!
For more information on Minmi you can visit her official website and to see a video of Summertime click the photo of Minmi which will take you to Synergy TV's website:
Well, I guess it was only a matter of time before one of our soca artistes decided to collaborate with Minmi and the man who first brought a Japanese flavour to Carnival in 2004 with Junko is doing it again; in 2006 Machel Montano is collaborating on a soca song with Minmi. Need I say how much I am looking forward to what comes from this collaboration. Call me biased, but I think Machel teaming up with other artistes always produces a hit!
For more information on Minmi you can visit her official website and to see a video of Summertime click the photo of Minmi which will take you to Synergy TV's website:
Sunday, December 10, 2006
All will be revealed tomorrow...
The Trinidad Guardian reports that Culture Minister Joan Yuille Willams will reveal all plans concerning Carnival 2007 tomorrow. I cannot wait to hear/read all that will be proposed, I mean it is about time that we hear something about all these plans that are in the works. It seems that there is no possibility that the stage will be used for a last time as indicated in the following article, taken from today's Guardian:
CULTURE MINISTER Joan Yuille-Williams will announce the Government’s plans for Carnival 2007 tomorrow.
Yuille-Williams said on Friday that after a meeting, tomorrow, with the Urban Development Company (Udecott), she would reveal the plans for Carnival 2007.
The minister was speaking during PCS Nitrogen Starlift’s golden jubilee and awards ceremony at its Mucurapo Road, St James, headquarters.
With exactly 70 days to go before the two-day national festival, there has been much speculation on the burning issue of plans for Carnival 2007, especially as regards a main venue for the mas. The Grand Stand on Queen’s Park Savannah has been dubbed “a point of no return” by the Government, until the proposed state-of-the-art Carnival Entertainment Centre is built.
Pan Trinbago, hardest-hit by the closure of the Savannah venue for Panorama, has submitted alternative proposals, and is eager to know the final decision.
Meanwhile, the San Fernando City Corporation has recommended Skinner Park as venue for the National Panorama finals, and is courting panmen with a proposed $1 million first prize.
Michael Legerton, president of Trinbago Unified Calypso Organisation, has announced the Jean Pierre Complex and Strand performing arts centre as prospective venues for major calypso events, while the National Carnival Bands Association has thrown its support behind Minister Yuille-Williams—whatever her plans are.
A meeting between the culture minister and heads of the special interest groups drew protests from Ainsworth Mohammed, deputy chairman of the National Carnival Commission (NCC), who subsequently resigned.
He charged that the line minister was attempting to “micro-manage” the affairs of the body, which has authority for the national festival.
For the moment, Kenny de Silva, who resigned in March, shortly after Carnival 2006, remains as caretaker chairman of the NCC, since Yuille-Williams has not accepted his resignation. —With reporting by Sean Nero
©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited
Are mas men feeling the pinch?
Interesting article in the Trinidad Express today, reporter Ruth Osman examines the factors of high prices of costumes, increased taxes on acohol as well as the yet to be decided new venue for mas and how these factors are affecting the mas men:
Christmas bells, bikinis and beads
In the midst of the festive season, bandleaders weigh in on the uncertainties of Carnival 2007
Ruth Osman
As shoppers throng malls in search of Christmas gifts and decorations, preparations for Carnival 2007 are already underway.
Bandleaders began costume production as early as August. And with all of the bands already launched, patrons are now rushing to ensure that they get the costume of their choice.
Dean Ackin, bandleader of Tribe, told the Sunday Express that more 90 per cent of his band is already sold out.
Business for Pulse 8, Genesis and Island People is also going well, according to their bandleaders.
But their optimism about next year's big party is tinged with uncertainty.
Where will Carnival be held next year?
Meg Cheekes of Pulse 8 says that Government's silence on the issue is likely to have a negative impact on the bands:
"Things like that put us in a bind. We can't plan and in order to give our masqueraders an exclusive product, we need to be able to advise them."
Although Dean Ackin agrees that uncertainty about the route puts some pressure on bandleaders, he believes that Carnival can't help but be a success:
"At the end of the day, Carnival is going to come off in a big, grand way because the individual bands will treat with their masqueraders as they've always done," he says.
But even he admits that the absence of a stage might put a damper on the festival. Especially since many view it as the climax of the event.
A colleague put it this way: "How we could do without the stage? That's the 'lallee' of the whole thing. That's the sauce."
Ian McKenzie of Genesis believes that Carnival 2007 should be held in the Savannah:
"I think the Minister should think again and make this the final year... let people have the climax of Carnival this year."
Uncertainty about Carnival's route is not the only problem faced by bands. Marked increases in alcohol have wreaked havoc on their budgets.
"We have to absorb the cost," Cheekes said. "Government needs to be aware of the cycle of Carnival... they can't put all these things in place after we start marketing."
In the meantime, the bandleaders are getting their houses in order.
"We're finalising negotiations with caterers for food, music truck providers, DJs... we're preparing for the big street party," Ackin said.
