Myths and Magic Kings and Queens

Forgive me if I am late with this one, yesterday was a hectic day for me so now catching up on the new developments over at TRIBE. If you don't know what I am speaking about, take a look at the sketches that have been revealed on TRIBE's website for the "King" and "Queen" of 5 sections:

Isis Queen


Pixie Dust Queen


Silver Mist Queen


Sungod(dess) King


Water Nymph King

The King costumes I like, especially Water Nymph but the only Queen costume I am liking at the moment is Pixie Dust which looks as if a scaled down version could have been a frontline option! Isis does not match up with the Goddess theme to me, where does the top hat and hoop skirt come in though I love the idea of the corset? Silver Mist looks quite avant garde, and one I will have to see how the drawing translates to the real life.

The good news is that these costumes are available for anyone desirous of portraying a King or Queen and the designs can be tailored to the individual, so bits and pieces can be added or removed within the context of the design, all at a cost of course; price range for the King and Queens are not cheap! So, if you are interested contact TRIBE's mas camp for more details.

A.W.O.L. 2008

With the trend of all-inclusive fete prices starting at $400.00+ for Carnival 2008, the cost of rigorous partying will surely buss some people's pockets as one weekend of fetes will drain you at least $1000.00! Thinking about it, if one was to hit up all-inclusive fetes every weekend for January they will spend MORE than the average cost of a costume!

Amnesia is $575.00 by the way and tickets go on sale from Monday the 17th of December at the IF house (628-wish/9474); I am sure by the time the actual party date rolls around on January 5th the price would go up, crossing the $600.00 mark.. that is $100.00US to you people overseas.

Anyway, I was pretty surprised to see that A.W.O.L. is "only" $350.00, though this may not be as popular a party as others during the Carnival week I heard it was very good this year and might be an option for those looking for an enjoyable fete that will not leave you broken!

And on the topic of parties rumour has it that Diamond Vale Breakfast party tickets are SOLD OUT!! Sources say this rumour is spread every year among foreigners, but those in "the know" will be where they are supposed to be on Boxing Day. Good luck in securing your tickets!

Free Costumes to be Won !!!

TRIBERs take note if you have not yet gotten the email:

The Carnival Party Pass

So, I have been informed that there is a TRIBE Carnival Party Pass soon to be released to folks who want to attend all Tribe / Red Ants events for one price with a small savings thrown in as added incentive.

The Carnival Pass costs $1100.00TT and the fetes it is valid for are:

*WITCO ONE Fete January 13th

*Blue Range All inclusive Fete January 19th

*TRIBE Carnival Thursday Fete January 31st

*Blue Range Cooler Fete February 1st

Works out to a minimum $100.00TT savings, but considering that ONE Fete is now $450.00TT if you plan on going to ALL those fetes, the party pass might be worth it.

The idea is a good one, even though I am only interested in ONE fete on the lineup, and in that case I suspect people can buy a pass and pass it along among friends to go to specific fetes. The savings however could have been greater than $100.00, especially if this pass is being offered to TLC Cardholders, but, a savings nevertheless as you know that ticket prices start out at a specific price and when the demand goes up the prices goes up as well.

Thing is the Party Pass has to be bought BEFORE Christmas, so contact TRIBE mas camp for more details as I got the scoop before they started marketing and promotion. Hey, maybe I should add this to my Chrisnival wish list!!

The Oracle is no more....

On the heels of a much anticptaed mas camp opening tomorrow, I got this email which has left me both saddned and shocked as I had alot of hope that for 2008 we would see The Oracle make an impact for Carnival:

Hello Everyone, well it is with a heavy heart but still steely eyed determination I write to tell you the 'The Oracle' is officially off for this carnival.

I want to thank each and everyone of you for the support you have given to this venture and also offer you an explanation that I believe you more than deserve. Before I go on let me inform you that this 'failure' for me is a wonderful thing, it strengthens and tests you to see just what you are really made of,I could go into a corner and weep, but instead I am even more determined now, I have a story to tell and no matter what obstacle is placed before me (feel free to test that theory out), The Oracle will take her place firmly in Trinidad Carnival!! maybe not this year, but she is coming and when next you see her, you will understand her evolution.

Now to the reasonings:-

I can assure you that we fought this down to the very last minute, but there have been certain circumstances surrounding the band that made it impossible for us to 'successfully' mount the sort of presentation that we believe to be fitting to our story. The major reasoning for the postponing of the band is a very untimely delivery of necessary funds for us to be able to guarantee the time we offered. I am a firm believer in doing something as best you can or not doing it at all, and with the short season, elections, prototype issues and others that we were faced with this year it has come down to this, I could do a band, but I would not be able to guarantee my product, and I would not be able to efficiently deliver the beauty and wonderment that I envision in the given time and since my main intent with this band is not for monetary gain, I have decided to cut my losses and allow her another year of growth. So if I cannot be sure of it, I am not going to take the public's monies or trust.

The naysayers

There have been several things said about us and several harsh remarks made by surprising peoples and to this my response is simply, we are killing our own, we are our own biggest enemy and as time passes it gets worse and worse, we really, really need to recognise ourselves and find that highest vision of ourselves, we need to stop the 'fight down' the 'naysaying' and the 'backstabbing' there is enough for all of us, and we cannot stop time from unfurling before us, the most we can do is work with her,we will age, none of us can be the princess forever, unless we find the true secret to eternity, let it pass through you, do not let it stop at you. Art in Trinidad is already so very difficult, so instead of fighting down each other we need to learn to appreciate each other, a lot of us preach it, but we must practice it as well.I wish all the naysayers the peace of the promise and hope for you to become the best most highest vision of your own selves, I know I am extremely excited at the opportunity to spend the entire year creating instead of jamming it all into an impossible six week period.and thank you for making yourselves available for me to test my determination out on.

London

South Connections of London has invited myself and team to design and produce their upcoming presentations in Nottinghill London (once again what is ours is quickly swept up by another man's land) so the mas will continue to grow through the year, but 'The Oracle' is a trinidadian band and she will be known as such, in London it will be myself doing some designs, but 'The Oracle' don't want to come out anywhere else, so she will rest a bit!

All in All

All in all, I can say I do not regret this decision, things happen for a reason, and if you believe in sending out to the universe what you expect to get back, you are already half way there.

Thank you's

In this process certain souls found themselves aligned with us and volunteered to stay in that position to these people I say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you

Thank You

Trini Orisha gyal,
your heartfelt wisdom and guidance and Orisha blessings have reached us giving us the directions of a higher hand.

Lesley Ann-Bernard,
for believing in us and this and adding your expertise and guidance and pulling the strings I was too afraid to pull myself

Afro Chic,
If it were for your faith alone we would have delivered a thousand magnificent bands, and I do not for a moment forget the promise I made to your son, he is free to call me on it and if he doesn't i will call him on it.

Mystie Thongs
Mystie, Mystie, Mystie,girl go strong girl go strong, big things ah soon come from this daughter of the soil (A A but like I have a little rapso in me)

Rommel Lai Khan,
this place have to watch out for you yes, your ambition is scary!

Matthew Jon Ward,
From day one to day now, you waved the flag hard hard, thanks Matthew!
Saucytrini,
for telling the world our story with an impartial voice

This list could go on and on and as I am sure you guys must be tired of reading I will end it here for now, to every single one of you,thank you, thank you and to your own self be true!

(you would swear I won some sort of award, you know what though? I did, I realised some self, I can do this band and realise this dream, not this year, but I can and will, don't worry you won't miss it)

gnothi seauton,

Aaron Schneider, The Saldenah Legacy and the team of 'The Oracle'

Who Can She Be?

Popular local radio station Red 96.7FM was all abuzz this afternoon with allegations of a “sticky finger female mas camp employee” who was caught stealing material from a Carnival Band where she was employed and promptly fired!!! Said female is allegedly the significant other of a popular soca artiste AND it is rumored after being dismissed she is now working with another band!

Now WHY did she steal material? Did she have hopes of making costumes on the side or , maybe she was really selling secrets to the rival band that took her in. To add fuel to the fire, it is said that Ms. Glue Gun fingers is going around “bad talking” the mas camp from which she was fired, when she really needs to "cool it". Once again, don’t shoot the messenger; I am just giving it to you all as I got it!

EDITED TO ADD:
Well, well, well.. after all the speculation that the band in question is VERY POPULAR, I have to say upon getting new information that it is quite the opposite!! No, it is none of the bands that I thought it was before HOWEVER what this young lady had to gain in stealing from the band I now KNOW it is, baffles me!!! Maybe it's a case of the "fox and the grapes" ... and that is all I have to say about this bacchanal!

Temperature The Concert

The short Carnival season means a PACKED fete calendar and on the same day as Amnesia and QRC’s Outta De Blue fete we also have a concert featuring Sean Paul and Machel Montano!!

"TEMPERATURE" Saturday 5th January 2008 @ MOBS 2

Purchase your general addimission ticket at any Francis Fashion / Shoe Locker Store and Get $20.00 Off your ticket for the First 3 days of Ticket Sales!
Purchase VIP Tickets from any Committee Member and Get a Discount on your VIP ticket.

General Adimission Tickets - $150.00
VIP Tickets - $400.00 ($350 if you purchase from a Committee Member)

Outlets:
All Francis Fashions & Shoe Locker Stores Nationwide, Crosby's North & South,
Cleve's Fredrick Street, Kam's Long Circular Mall, Bobby's Bar Curepe,
Southern Styles San Fernando - 653-2707
VIP Tickets Committee:
Jordanna 682-9071 | Michael Sealy 683-6938 | Andros Belfonte 688-8888/6-TICKET | Roxanne 762-9973 | Jerome Lewis 688-8897 | Jules Sobion 755-6592 | Adiesha 746-5546 | Karen 743-9243 | Mark Mollineaux 758-8119 | Kevin Cudjoe 683-5778 | Marc Sitaram 684-3098 | Anya Doyle 781-2883 | Danielle Beaucoud 682-9766 | Gisel Laughlin 762-1377 | Sharmila 713-6466 | Imzaan Edoo 683-5448 | Marty 468-8089 | Dean Ghouralal 461-4927 | Ashley Whittet 773-9300 | Michelle Antoine 364-6969 | Kaleem Amin 689-8329 | Mathew Burke 310-3527 | Kelly De Gannes 778-1879 | Kelly Lawrence 735-7290 | Anson Khan 678-4041 | Kavita Ragbir 310-2925 | Nasser Khan 744-5157 | Shane Baird 785-2241 | Vashti Bajnath 684-4969 | Brendon Fernandes 757-5700 | Khalid Ghany 688-9977
Info Lines: 622-3147 or 622-3115

Savannah Saga Continues

Amid the call to sign the petition for Masqueraders to Cross the Savannah stage that is supposed to be constructed in the Savannah for "pre Carnival" activities, and a subsequent press release which I sent out to the media houses yesterday comes reports that work in the Savannah has been ordered stopped, as reported by the Trinidad Express:

Official: Stop Carnival work at Savannah
Chaos over plans...
Wayne Bowman and Kristy Ramnarine

Wednesday, December 12th 2007



WORKMEN erecting temporary structures in preparation for Carnival 2008 at the south-eastern end Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, were given orders to cease construction yesterday following a directive from a top government official, the Express learned.

The work stoppage and the cancellation of the official launch of Carnival 2008 has added to the confusion surrounding plans for next year's event.

Culture Minister Marlene McDonald said late yesterday: "Keston Nancoo, the Chairman of the NCC, is the person responsible for Carnival and he will put out a statement tomorrow. I have nothing more to say, there is nothing to add and I want to disassociate myself from whatever was mentioned to my secretary when you called this morning."

The Minister was referring to reports that the stop work order came from Prime Minister Patrick Manning.

McDonald was scheduled to deliver the feature address at the launch which was carded to take place at a breakfast meeting at Hilton Trinidad, Port of Spain.

A source from the Culture Ministry told the Express yesterday that Manning had instructed McDonld, that under no circumstances any Carnival activities should be held at the Savannah.

It was only last Sunday, Nancoo took McDonald, Minister of State in the Ministry, Donna Cox and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry Junia Regrello on a tour of the area at the Savannah.

Nancoo then announced that the Parade of the Bands will remain on the road for Carnival 2008. He added that all major pre-Carnival shows normally staged in Port of Spain (including the King and Queen of Carnival competition and Panorama semi-finals) will, however, be presented at the facility currently being constructed on the south-eastern end of Savannah. Nancoo also said then that the facility was expected to be completed on January 10.

Panorama semi-finals are scheduled for January 20. Attempts to contact Nancoo throughout the day at his office and on his mobile phone proved futile.

In addition the official launch of Carnival has been canceled and the new Culture Minister is mum on the subject. Seems like someone has gotten wind of the conflict between building a structure in the Savannah while mas remains on the streets! At least I am hoping that an official of the NCC, NCBA, NCDF and Ministry of Culture knows that we masqueraders are quite displeased over the whole situation; but if the result is to stop work altogether on the Savannah venue that is just a low blow.

Maybe someone does not want to rile or embarrass ex Culture Minister Joan Yuille Williams who stated firmly that Carnival will NOT return to the Savannah until the new Carnival Centre is built, yet here is her replacement seemingly making the "impossible" possible. What this bodes for us masqueraders only time will tell, though knowing the stance from this year I am sure the NCBA will grind their heels in and rave at how well mas on the move was, a smoke screen for those "bandleaders" sticking their heads in the sand.

Do not forget to SIGN THE PETITION, please do not use any aliases or nicknames, initials will do if you do not want to use your real name. Regardless of what happens all your signatures and comments will be forwarded to these "decision makers", since everyone is deciding on what is best for US without asking us what is best for us. We the masqueraders are the ones who put on the world's greatest show and for once we will let our voices be heard!

Peter Samuel and friends join Masquerade

Finally, word on Masquerade since the website is still not up and I did not get a chance to visit the mas camp, which will be rectified soon enough:

Peter Samuel & Friends

Dear Friends,

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! to one and all. First let me apologise for the long time without any news. Things are hectic as usual and plans are underway for carnival 2008. First off, we’ll be participating in Masquerade's presentation “Caribbean Splendour“, an exposition of colour and dynamics that I’ m sure that you’ll enjoy.

We know that the season is short and that money will be tight, and in checking around it's clear that everyone has gone crazy with their prices ($2,375.00 - $5,000.00) that is one of the main reason that we choose Masduerade, as their costumes are affordable ($1,800.00 - $1,975.00) All-Inclusive and they are also well made and finished.

Our mas camp is located in the same place as the last two years (2006/2007) 40 Alberto Street , Woodbrook, where you can see the designs up close, we’ll be open from 10.00.a.m. on Wednesday 12th December 2007. There will be the usual lime at Masquerade mas camp ( 19 DeVertueil Street Woodbrook) for all masqueraders and friends on Saturday 29th December 2007 from 5.00.p.m.

For further information please do not hesitate to e-mail hydrofit@wow.net.

Best wishes to all,



Peter Samuel

For a gallery of photos from Masquerade's media launch visit www.trinicrew.com:

News from D Krewe

Masqueraders registered with D Krewe should be quite happy to know that "fast tracking" costume payments does not entitle them to only a special line to collect their costumes but also a chance to win TWO cars! Yup, if your costume is paid in full by January 18th 2008, you, D Krewe masquerader are eligible to win this prize. Also, note that the mas camp will be closed for the Christmasl period from December 19th to January 1st, reopening on January 2nd 2008.

Click on the photo for a larger view of the letter:

Customised Costumes

Here is an idea for you ladies who are not a size 4 and anxious over loosing enough weight to fit into that extra skimpy costume. Though the advice to someone looking to shed a few pounds for Carnival is to exercise and diet, not every one's body responds as fast as they would like, sometimes a slower metabolism or even medical conditions prevent the most faithful gym rat from reaching an elusive goal of being " skinny". I know many ladies who workout, make healthy eating choices and are blessed with stamina and endurance yet they do not resemble the thin, long and lean look associated with someone who is "fit".

Though mas bands provide costume options such as tanikis and whole suits, a more flattering choice for a plus sized masquerader is the corset as pictured below, worn by Rachel Price in Island Events:

Getting a customised corset, however, may not be as easy as ordering a tankini or whole piece. Firstly, the onus on getting a corset is all on you as they are somewhat expensive, though a good one fits superb. If you are interested in having a corset of your own customised to match your costume there are two options; one is to contact the band that you are playing with and ask if your corset can be decorated in lieu of the standard bikini top. Many bands are actually quite flexible and are willing to compromise on this respect.

The other would be to customise your corset yourself. In this regard you can either purchase a corset that matches your costume, reuse the decorations from the regular top you ordered and even add extra beads and sequins. If you are not creatively inclined a seamstress can also do this for you. In fact, a very good seamstress can make a corset to fit as well.

I have seen the corset trend become more popular over the years, Destra Garcia wore one in 2006 when she played in Island People's PRIDE, Trini Revellers for 2007 had several sections with corsets and I even saw a few ladies in the Majorette section of TRIBE this year sporting decorated corsets.

So, just another idea on how to look fabulous for Carnival regardless of what size you are!

Surviving your friends for Carnival

I don’t know what it is about Carnival that can wreck friendships, from choosing a costume to deciding on when to leave a fete friendships have been known to go down the drain during this time of the year. After being the “go to” girl for years, I finally relinquished that title after this year’s Carnival since it almost ruined a friendship.

I would be the one to pick a section, register, make all the communication with the mas camp after registering, constantly inform friends of what needs to be done, organize footwear and costume pick up. And after doing ALL that during Carnival 2007 for my friend AND her cousin, she ended up not picking up her costume because 1. I did not buy her mas tights so she felt unprepared and 2.she called me on Carnival Saturday during my eyelash appointment to ask me to collect both costumes (she and her cousin’s) using MY money and when I put my foot down and said it was not possible the end result was her NOT collecting the costumes. Mind you they both had all week to collect their costumes, but chose to do other things like go feteting at Salybia, instead of going to Cascadia and waited until the last possible moment to call me because they knew I had to collect mine on Carnival Saturday.

This year I took a different approach, which is every man for him/herself; it might be a totally selfish move on my part but I am only putting the effort into making sure one person is prepared for Carnival; ME! When it came time to select a section, I went ahead and made my choice, even if it meant being in a section alone, I chose the costume I wanted without consulting anyone. Surprisingly my friend also chose the same section, though I told her she was quite free to play in another. Her response was that she could not play in a different section “by herself”. Now, if you have played in any band for Carnival you would know that there is nothing forcing you to stay in your section so a friend in a different section can jump up alongside you all day. The one concession I made was for registration, where I did take the responsibility to sign us both up, however that was only because my friend had to work on that Saturday and would have lost out on getting in her section. I also have to add that she lost her TLC number, after I collected her TLC card mind you, and I ended up emailing and calling TRIBE to retrieve it for her.

It must have been a sign that TRIBE sold out so quickly because a few weeks after the fact I was informed that the cousin, the same cousin who threw a tantrum when she found out tankinis were available in her section and “I” registered her in a whole piece (by her instructions), the same one who insisted she was not playing mas if “I” did not get her a taninki, the same one who went to a fete instead of picking up her costume after TRIBE staff put it aside for them to collect on Carnival Sunday, that SAME cousin now wanted to play mas with a friend and wanted to find out if TRIBE still had sections open. I was brutally honest with my friend at that point and said listen, after this year’s fiasco you are on your own with this one, here is TRIBE’s number. At that point I was no longer the person to call for anything, which I think helped, us to remain friends, because I could not handle another drama for Carnival 2008 without using some choice words to express my feelings to all involved.

The selfish part also extends to choosing footwear and all other appointments that play a part in getting me divafied for Carnival. My friend sounded a bit pissed that I got my boots this year and did not tell her I was ordering them, but when I begged Natalie to take her in as a late appointment last December and she never showed up to get her boots made, well the responsibility of getting footwear is now hers. Friends will try to place the guilt on you once you have decided to put numero uno, yourself, first so be prepared. My friend made me feel as if I was solely responsible for getting her prepared for Carnival.; I had to get her stockings (as in buy them for her), organize her footwear as well as Monday wear for us both. Now, it is nothing for me to give advice on any of these matters, I told her where to go to get her stockings for example, since in my mind she had to match them to her complexion, but I draw the line on babysitting an adult who is quite capable of doing things on their own.

Though I will have to endure my friend’s annoyance with not having me do everything for her, I think if we had continued that type of relationship in regards to Carnival I would have lost it by now. My goal is to have her gain some confidence in being able to do the simple things that she would normally expect me to do, like calling the mas camp when she has a problem or knowing that she needs to find appropriate footwear. I am hoping that she makes provisions to pick up her costume for 2008, as I will not be doing so either; I could not believe that this year it was so easy to NOT collect your own costume and miss out on mas altogether because someone could not do the job for you. If it were me I would get my ass to where ever it needed to be and ensure I had my costume in hand, and not place that responsibility on anyone else.

When I say I am being totally selfish for 2008, that means the only person I am taking care of is me, anyone else can expect to not depend on me to bail them out of any Carnival quagmire! Tough love, I know, but it is the only way I can preserve my sanity when dealing with friends when it comes to Carnival!

New Date and Venue for Amnesia 2008

It has been confirmed, Island People's Amnesia will be held on SATURDAY January 5th and the venue is no longer at Pier1:

I am liking the new date for Amnesia, remember my post about fetes held on a Saturday versus a Sunday? And, the new location is interesting as well, Amnesia was starting to get into a rut of "same ole, same ole" over the years nice to see things changing up a bit for 2008.

Harts is SOLD OUT

Though sections in Harts 2008 Carnival presentation seem to be still open for registration ONLINE, the following notice appeared in yesterday's newspaper:

I guess it is just a matter of time before the website is updated with this information. Carnival 2008 seems to be a good year for mas since we now have two bands totally sold out before the end of 2007; quite unlike the slower sales in 2006!

My prediction is that Island People will be the next band to be SOLD OUT.

New Soca This Morning!!!

It's Saturday, my soca is blasting on the radio as I am doing chores and the sun is shining outside on another warm day in Trinidad and Tobago! As many of you are experiencing snow, rain and miserably cold weather in your part of the world right now, my advice is to tune into ALL the latest soca releases on Toronto-Lime.com and get over the cold weather blues.

I was also quite pleased to see an updated fete list on Toronto-lime as well, however there seems to be one misnomer according to my sources. The ever popular WITCO ONE fete which was/is slated for January 6th, same day as Amnesia, has been moved to January 13th from what I have heard, this is still to be confirmed. Speaking of Amnesia, I am quite surprised that itis no longer being held on the traditional Sunday date, now advertised as happening on Saturday 6th! Since there will be no Bliss next year I am thinking that Amnesia might be on the list once again.

So, I have narrowed down my possible list of fetes:

*Amnesia (all dependent on price)

*ONE Fete

*Panorama Semi Finals

*Eyes Wide Shut

*Salybia

*Diamond Vale Breakfast Party

That list is already starting too look long as I swore off fetes for 2008 unless it is free! Ah well, blame it on the soca music, it has me going bazodee this morning; have a good Saturday ya'all.

Oracle Mas Camp Opening

The Oracle invites you to the opening of its mas camp on Friday 14th December from 8:30pm at the new Herbert Street location.
At Oracle's "first look" you will be able to view/inspect/try on and touch all of the costumes.

Unfortunately registration will not be facilitated on that night but will begin from Saturday 15th December at the mas camp.

Aaron and his dedicated team will be present to answer all questions concerning registration and band related matters.

We look forward to meeting you on the 14th and thanks again for your continued support.

The Oracle Team

Mas camp located at BLUE dot:

Harts Sold Out Update

Two more sections are gone in Harts, South Pacific and Coming to America are now closed. Of the remaining 6 sections only Twilight Zone is still wide open, with both female costume options available. However the other 5 sections have limited availability;the only remaining male costume in the band is in the section Conan, whose female counterpart is sold out along with Showgirls fuchsia.

That leaves (only Female) Last Samurai, Showgirls orange and blue, Ben Hur, Trini Posse Blue Lagoon along with Twilight Zone still having costumes. Bets are on that Harts will be the next band to be sold out!

Victoria Secrets Wild Fashion Show

The Victoria Secrets annual Fashion show was broad casted last night on CBS, and in between my cough medicated haze, I was able to see that the theme for some of the outfits embraced the "Animal Instinct"! What do you think, would you wear these outfits if they were an actual costume and how do they stack up to Island People's designs?

Leopard




Elk


Python


Cheetah


Tiger


Zebra

And if you get inspiration from these photos for Monday wear, check out the Victoria's Secrets website where animal print bras and underwear are on sale.

PHOTOSOURCE: www.theblemish.com

A drop in the bucket..

Thanks to everyone who has signed the petition for the stage so far, to date there are 278 signatures since the petition started. Though this is a great start my goal is to get signatures in the thousands as we masqueraders number that in ONE band alone.

After I have collected the signatures my intent is to write the N.C.C., N.C.B.A. . N.C.D.F. and Minister of Culture showing that masqueraders are in favour of a stage, so please continue to support the petition by getting as many masqueraders you know to sign it.

The best part of all this is reading comments left by everyone, you all have said it so well.. WE WANT A STAGE!

Please Note that the OPTION to donate that comes up after you sign the petition is NOT CUMPULSORY, your signature is recorded even if you do not make a donation.

Fete Footwear

Nothing can ruin your carnival more than stepping out at a fete in the stiletto heels that are all the rage, only to twist your foot in one of the many potholes on the sidewalks of Trinidad, not to mention trying to navigate the uneven terrain on the grounds of a fete without falling face forward. The practical side would say leave the heels at home, unless you are totally going to pose off at a fete and do no walking or dancing all night but sometimes fashion sense is stronger than common sense. If you want to enjoy the fete by wining down low, jumping up high or making treks around the venue to check out the eye candy make sure you wear the proper footwear combining both style with comfort.

Sneakers
I am not a fan of sneakers at all, the only pair I own is for the gym, however sneakers are a staple on the die hard feters comfortable fete footwear. One friend of mine has sneakers in all colours to match her different outfits, and for the most part you can get away sporting the latest Nike at the public fetes like WASA and Soca Monarch where sneakers can come in handy when running from a fight! If the diva in you shuns wearing sneakers because they look bulky and clumsy with your hot little shorts or sexy dress, there are many “fashion athletic” shoes that are more about style than function but still quite comfortable. Among these are also the very popular skimmers, which look very nice with jeans, shorts, capris and even dresses, just don’t wear them with long skirts as they make you look shorter.

Boots
Obviously not your typical wear in Trinidad, not too long ago people wearing boots were mocked and laughed at since it is seen as “cold weather” footwear; today it is more common to see ladies sporting boots and jeans at fetes. Mas boots are an accepted form of footwear and you will not be jeered at, just to be clear. Boots are comfortable, they protect your feet and look stylish. You are more than likely to see boots worn at the more bourgeois all-inclusives where the fashionistas pay particular attention to trends. Personally I love the booties, short ankle boots, but calf high boots do look nice with your jeans and short skirts as well. Of course to make boots work as fete footwear the heels cannot be too high or too thin. Short stack heels, wedge heels and even flat boots are perfect for fetes.

As seen at Eyes Wide Shut

Flats
This choice of footwear is a good option for fetes but take into consideration the venue before deciding on wearing toes out or toes covered. If attending a non-inclusive fete such as Eyes Wide Shut or Bacchanal Wednesday where there will be a large crowd, you may want to protect your toes from getting stepped on especially if you intend to up front by the stage. Ballet flats are in style and are for the most part comfortable, one thing to think about however, is arch support as most of these flats do not offer this as well as looking for flats with a sturdy sole. Ballet flats that mimic real ballet shoes with just a silver of sole are not good for fetes since broken glass can penetrate the thin sole. At all-inclusives you can sport dainty thong or greek sandals, just ensure that the straps are comfortable, not rubbing against your heel or between the toes since your feet take a heavy jamming when feteing

Heels
If you simply cannot give up your heels either save the stilettos for the fetes where you are not going to break a sweat, maybe Lara’s all inclusive would be a good choice to wear them. My recommendation would be to try a wedge heel to offer more support than the stilettos, yet still giving height. Another thing to think about when selecting heels is stability; you may want to look for platform heels and wedges to give you some balance when getting on bad!

Ultimately you want to be comfortable, not only with how your feet feel but also how your feet look, so think twice about what shoes to pack in your suitcase and make sure you do a clothes audit before packing to match shoes with each outfit; helps in narrowing down choices as well as saves you from packing shoes you are not going to use.

All shoes pictured can be found at www.piperlime.com

Sweet Eye for Chrisnival

After the last Sweet Eye Designs open house where custom made, hand crafted jewelry by designer Solange Shaw-Gopual was on sale I have been waiting for a follow up event, and am happy to say that on Sunday 16th December Sweet Eye will once again be hosting a Christmas Show:

With Christmas and Carnival right around the corner those of you in Trinidad have the chance to shop for accessories that can spruce up the feteing wardrobe or even match your costume, that is if you are not already getting Sweet Eye ear-rings with your TRIBE costume. Of course you can also get your Chrisnival gifts if you are into that sort of thing (no one is getting gifts from me this year, sorry, I have my costume to pay for!).

If you plan on going, get there early. The last time I got there way too late and almost everything was sold out!

Please Support the Petition

Visit the link to leave your mark:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/savannahstageforcarnival2008/

Forward to everyone you know; this petition will close on December 17th and all signatures collected will be forwarded to the Minister of Culture, N.C.C. and N.C.B.A on Monday December 18th.

No Savannah Stage for Masqueraders

Coming from the office of the NCC I was just informed that a stage and spectator stands will be constructed at the Savannah where all pre Carnival events such as Panorama and Dimanche Gras will be held. However when I asked why masqueraders will not be crossing the stage if it will be in existence I was told that the BANDLEADERS wanted mas to return to the streets for 2008 so "that is what we will get"!!

Subsequent to that conversation I then spoke to someone at the National Carnival Bands Association N.C.B.A. and was informed that mas will be on the streets "as always" and it was even intimated that the suggested facilities currently under construction may not be ready in time. Also, when pressed as to why the N.C.B.A. took a decision to not use the stage that will be constructed I was eventually given the answer that the location of this new stage is inaccessible as it is located off the parade route ina "remote" area of the Savannah. My question to this was if the location was more accessible would the N.C.B.A. consider using the stage? I was told that discussion never came up in Carnival talks. The only decisions made for use of these new facilities were for the King and Queen of Carnival competitions, Dimanche Gras and Panorama.The Savannah judging point for Mas on the Streets 2008 has moved to the area in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Finally, I also spoke to someone at the Ministry of Culture who said as of now the plan for 2008 is for mas to be on the streets, however all possibilities will be taken into consideration. I wonder how in touch the N.C.B.A. is with the wants of masqueraders who clearly, judging from the response of the news that we will have a stage for 2008, are estatic over the idea of parading on a stage. Who are the bandleaders involved in making those decisions is what I want to know! And, as a slap in the face to all of us parading AROUND the Savannah a stage will lie in waste on Carnival Monday and Tuesday! As far as I can tell it is being constructed in the SAME area as where the "old" stage used to be, yet the N.C.B.A. is saying that will be inaccessible to masqueraders.. that makes NO sense because how will the pan men get their pans in/out of the Savannah for panorama? If they can get unto that stage then surely masqueraders can. I truly believe that the powers that be think that Carnival is "we" thing and that "we", the masqueraders will accept anything they give us because of the love of the mas!

I implore all of you to email the N.C.B.A., let all your friends and family who are playing mas as well send out a petition to protest this turn of events, let your voice as a masquerader be heard; if they are building a stage for Carnival 2008 we want to cross it!

N.C.B.A.
email: info@ncbatt.com
telephone 1-868-628-8650

N.C.C.
Keston Nancoo or Darren Marcel
627-1350
emails can be sent via the website.

Premature Reaction?

What?????????????????????? The information I wrote about concerning mas returning to the Savannah was broad casted on the TV6 News Report last night. In that report, which showed the Minister of Culture and NCC officials touring works at the Savannah, spectators stands were shown and it was clearly stated that ALL Carnival events will be held there, the only question was whether Panorama finals will remain in San Fernando. There was no mention that mas was to stay on the streets, or else I would have said so,yet here is an article in today's Express which says exctly that!

Carnival stays on the road for '08
Kristy Ramnarine kramnarine@trinidadexpress.com

Monday, December 3rd 2007


The Parade of the Bands will remain on the road for Carnival 2008, National Carnival Commission (NCC) Chairman Keston Nancoo made clear yesterday.

He was speaking to reporters after taking newly appointed Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs Marlene McDonald, Minister of State in the Ministry Donna Cox and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry Junia Regrello on a tour of the southeastern end of the Queen's Park Savannah which will be used for the Carnival.

"For 2008 it will again be 'Mas on the Road,' a format that came in for high praise from bandleader after testing it at this year's celebrations," Nancoo said.

He added that all major pre-Carnival shows normally staged in Port of Spain (including the King and Queen of Carnival competition) will, however, be presented at the facility currently being constructed on the south-eastern end of the Savannah.

"A decision will have to be made later on this week as it relates to the Panorama finals," he said.

Panmen have been complaining about the high cost of going to Skinner Park, San Fernando for the competition, which was staged there last year.

This morning took me from elation from the news of having a stage to confusion and vexation! If this is indeed true I am about to petiton Marlene Mc Donald, the new Minister of Culture, at the absurdity of building a stage ONLY for Dimanche Gras while mas will remain on the streets? That makes absolutely no sense. Stay tuned for more news as I get to the bottom of this!

MAS BACK IN THE SAVANNAH For 2008!!!

The ONE wish I did not ask Santa for was to have the Savannah stage so I can parade in all my frontline H.O. glory for Carnival as it was all but a lost cause last I heard!! Well, I am over and above excited to shout it from the top of my lungs "WE HAVE A SAVANNAH STAGE FOR 2008!!!!".

Keston Nancoo from N.C.C. and Marlene Mc Donald new Culture Minister announced today that works are in progress constructing the new facilities at the Savannah; with 8 weeks left, the Minister of Culture stated that she is pleased on the progress and that all major Carnival competitions will return to the Savannah for 2008.When asked about Panorama finals, however no word was given on if the finals will be held at the new Savannah venue.

Just last week, while driving around the Savannah I did observe works in progress and wondered if the construction of booths had already started. Hearing that it is in fact the Savannah stage being re-constructed I would have never thought that I was witness to this event.

Mas on the move BACK TO THE SAVANNAH for 2008!! All my boredom is officially over, this is what I was waiting for people!! Eight weeks to go until the ultimate showcase on the GRAND stage!!

S.O.S.

Just a quick word to say that I was unavoidably offline ALL DAY today (DOWN WITH TSTT) and only just got back internet service. Back to regular blogging tomorrow!

Oracle Mas Camp Update

On December 10th Oracle will open the doors to it's new mas camp at 8-10 Herbert Street St. Clair (old Lonsdale building). In the interim the mas camp at Morne Coco Road Maraval continues operations. Looking forward to visiting the new location soon!

Fast Track Confusion!!

Well seems like TRIBE's infoblast has caused some confusion among many masqueraders. As I understand it the deadline for ANY pre-payment on your costume, wether via Senvia or at the Mas Camp is December 31st. If you pay off your costume in full by this deadline it puts you in the fast track line come collection day.

However, if you do not pay in full your next opportunity will be when you collect your costume. As far as I can tell from that email payments in January will not be accepted EXCEPT on collection dates which will be revealed in a later email.

Now, I am guessing that the mas camp will be closed during the month of January for preparations since Carnival is so early and the band is sold out. The last week of January is Carnival week and the week when costumes are normally distributed anyway.

People were not paying attention when I kept saying that there is only ONE paycheck between now and Carnival!! So, scrape up your dollars in December, explain to people they will be getting no gifts for Chrisnival and pay off for your costume ONLY IF you want to be in the fast track line. If you don't care about lining up on collection day, don't sweat it, you still have the option to pay for your costume when you collect.

Sold to the highest bidder!!

I love the ebay commercial where bidders are portrayed as horses at a race and as they all charge towards the finish line one guy gets a cramp in the leg, taking him out of the running. Bidding and auction sites are very popular these days, an item goes up for sale and the seller basically says “make me an offer” to the persons desirous of obtaining said item. I am all for auction sites once you are getting a deal, I even used priceline.com to book my hotel and as their advertisements says scored a 4 star hotel for ¼ of the regular price. Little did I know that Carnivaljunction.com has now become an auction site where costumes are being sold to the highest bidder, and unlike ebay or priceline desperate masqueraders are not getting a deal but getting milked instead!

Of course it does not help when the Costume Wanted advertisements blatantly states that the buyer is willing to pay more than cost price, if someone is that distressed about getting a costume as a seller you are tempted to take advantage of that need, and that is exactly what they are doing. When costumes wanted out number costumes for sale 3 to 1 and at the mas camp the waiting list is hundreds deep, getting the costume you want is a cut throat business.

One young lady sent me an email where the seller of the costume could not guarantee the sale because they were waiting for the highest offer and invited the girl to place a bid; she wanted advice on what to do. Now, I am not taking any moral high ground on this issue, if people are quite happy paying more than a costume sells for because they want to be part of the TRIBE experience, all power to them! Personally I would NOT pay anything more than the advertised price for a costume. As much as I love playing in TRIBE, if I missed out on my chance of a costume I would either take my chances that someone will sell their costume through the mas camp or that there are still honest enough people out there who would sell the costume at the given price or even consider not playing mas at all. See, giving into this trend means that next year the situation will be worse and may well emerge into a Hannah Montana situation!

If you haven’t heard Hannah Montana concert tickets are now being sold for thousands of dollars because scalpers bought them up, capitalizing on the teen market who want to go to her concert come hell or high water. Parents were so upset that an official in Miami wants laws changed to guard against scalpers in future. Rumors have always been ripe that certain party promoters in Trinidad give scalpers tickets to sell outside fetes during that hectic Carnival week while at the same time claming that tickets were sold out at the official sales venues, therefore leading to people paying up to 3 to 4 times the regular ticket price. Sadly, costume sales are heading in the same direction!!

Hypothetically, imagine that enterprising persons seeing the extreme anxiety in acquiring costumes after they are sold out at the mas camp decide to turn costume resale into a viable business. That would mean as soon as open registration begins, an individual or individuals register for several costumes, effectively leading to the section being sold out before legitimate masqueraders get a chance to purchase a costume. Then, said individual/s advertises the costumes on Carnival Junction and sells to the highest bidder. What this does is creates a huge demand for a product which is unfairly resold at an exorbitant price.

Not everyone selling a costume, however, is selling to make a profit; quite a few advertisements have indicated that the costume is being sold at the same price as at the mas camp. Honest persons just looking to get the costume off their hands. The temptation to sell for more is surely great I can imagine, but with costume prices already so high to me, it would be unconscionable to further inflate the prices. To those looking to purchase costumes I am not here to give advice, only you can know what the entire Carnival experience is worth to you. For those selling costumes the “fair” thing is not to sell to the highest bidder but to sell the costume for what it is worth and to the person who contacted you first. If you want to sell your costume for more money by all means go ahead, hey if someone is going to pay the price who am I to say what is right or wrong.

I would also hope that if you are buying a costume, inflated price or not, that the person is also going to do the proper procedure and transfer the costume in your name therefore giving you the chance for a TLC card in the case of TRIBE or pre-registration benefits for past masqueraders with other bands the following year. The unfortunate incidents are when costumes are sold and remain in the name of the seller; imagine paying double the price of the costume down payment to a seller and still loosing out on the chance to get first dibs on the costume of your choice the following year.

My only issue is that this trend does not bode well for the future and it would be a shame when the only resort available to persons looking for a costume at the last minute is to pay these inflated prices. Remember the days when one could go to a mas camp on Carnival Saturday and purchase a costume that was not collected at a “cheap” price? When there is such a demand for costumes in certain bands, with persons paying much more than it costs bandleaders are not going to be selling costumes “cheap” after costume distribution is over, even though those costumes already have a down payment paid towards the total price! Those days are now a thing of the past. Everyone wants to be part of the “in thing” at any price.

Carnival Preparations Info Blast

Dear TRIBE Masquerader,


As we gear up for the 2008 Carnival Season, please take a minute to read the information below regarding final payment and costume distribution.


Further Payments on Costumes

Payment Location, Final Dates for Payment, Accepted forms of Payment

Senvia, 31st December, Credit Card Only

Mas Camp, 31st December,Cash & Linx Only

Cascadia Distribution, Dates, Cash & Linx Only
(Dates coming soon)

· New Senvia Users – http://www.senvia.com/Carnival/MasBandInstructions_TRIBE.pdf

· Existing Senvia Users – http://www.senvia.com/Carnival/MasBandInstructionsExisting_TRIBE.pdf

Mas Camp Opening Hours – Monday to Friday: 12:00 noon – 6:00pm

Fast Track your Costume Collection

· Masqueraders who have paid IN FULL for their costumes by Monday 31st December, 2007 will be granted TRIBE’s Express Service to minimize waiting time in the queue.

· The EXPRESS Service expedites the process of collecting your costume.

Costume Resale & Transfers

· If you have sold your costume, please contact TRIBE with the name of the new owner along with their email address and contact number.

· Our email address is info@carnivaltribe.com or you can fax us at 1-868-625-6800.

· The last day to transfer names on costumes is Monday 31st December, 2008.


Collecting Costumes for another Person
· You must present a copy of the registered costume owner’s ID (with Signature) along with a singed “Authorization to Collect” letter. This letter must be presented at the time of Costume Collection.

· Please do not email us this letter.

Costume Distribution
· The Distribution Schedule will be emailed to you and posted on the website at a later date.


Thank you and Happy Holidays!

15 seconds too long!!!

They always say be careful what you wish for, there I was complaining about being bored when the Lord sent a lil Earthquake to shake me up!!! As far as I have heard, today’s Earthquake which occurred at around 3:00pm local time, lasted for approximately 15 seconds which seemed like forever, and initial reports puts it as 7.3, this is still to be confirmed.

I tell you, my sixth sense kicked in, because as soon as the slightest tremor started and I jumped off my chair, grabbed my keys which are always nearby and headed for the doorway, where I stood and looked at the mirrors in my porch shaking. Thinking I had to be going crazy and it was my heart thumping against my chest that was causing me to imagine the mirrors were shaking, any doubt was soon put to rest as the walls started swaying, everything rattling accompanied by that low rumbling recognisable by anyone who has ever experienced an earthquake before!!

Then, it did not stop but just got gentler until eventually everything went still. That was the longest 15 seconds ever! So the aftermath is that all my cupboard doors came open, but nothing fell thank God. And everyone is safe and sound. I have heard that it was felt throughout the islands, as far as Antigua. I pray that everyone is safe and that we do not get any aftershocks or further earthquakes for the day as my heart cannot take it! I rather be BORED!

Saucy's Chrisnival List

Dear Santa,
My nice side totally outweighed the naughty side this year and you should be proud that my mouth was not as Saucy as it was last year. No caustic comments and lambasting bands for the Carnival 2008 season, in fact I had little to complain about as most of them are doing a very good job on the public relations front for Carnival 2008, even the errant bands of this year seem to be making an effort to get things right next year.

Now it wasn’t all easy for me to be good, at times I was tempted to call out some bands on talking the talk and not walking the walk. And choosing the right adjectives to describe loathsome costumes has got to be the most difficult thing ever when right on the tip of my tongue are words like hideous, dreadful and revolting. It was also a hectic band launching season and my attempt to make to as many as I possibly could left me exhausted!

Thus, I think I am in a position to call down a few requests on Chrisnival wish list and they are as follows:

1. The balance paid off on my costume of course as it is twice as expensive as my costume this year and my salary did not double. It is not an issue of hanging my hat where it can’t reach either, but just because I can afford it does not mean the gift will not be greatly appreciated.

2. Tickets to any of the all-inclusives fetes; I am not being picky here but if I had to select only one it would be Salybia… and CAREC… and Moka… you get the idea!

3. Rewards for being a TLC holder, yeah, I am yet to gain anything by having this coveted card so I am wishing that the powers that be give us extra special discounts to events. My idea is that with each event you attend you rack up points which can then be used to get a free ticket!

4. A Goody Bag with real goodies. I know, I know I have made this request time and time again but it’s a small thing to ask for, if the bandleaders do it right many people will be pleased. Hey, double the cost of the costume means double the “stuff” in the Goody Bag!!

5. I have totally given up on the idea of getting FREE Monday wear, but how about at least allowing the sale of TRIBE T shirts and Baby Tees? Please and thank you.

6. All inclusive vacation package to a destination of my choice, even though has nothing to do with Carnival I am dreaming of visiting Punta Cana or Cancun or Greece!! Hook me up nah Santa!

7. Finally Santa I ask for a wish not for me but for all the revelers putting their faith in the many new bands making their first appearance t in 2008, and that is for the band leaders to deliver all their promises and ensure that each and every masquerader has an excellent time for 2008!


XOXO
Saucy

Sold Out Section Update

Island People has emblazoned on their website that sections are SOLD OUT, well that is only applicable to online registration. A few sections are still available In House for registration though I believe sizes are limited:


ISLAND PEOPLE
Female:
Lioness
Kingfisher Bird
Silver Fox
Dragon Lizard (Frontline)
Great Egret
Cheetah
Polar Bear
Black Widow Spider


Male:
Kingfisher Bird
Silver Fox
Zebra
Great Egret
Polar Bear
Cheetah
Red Tiger
Lion
Black Widow Spider

TRIBE
All sections sold out

HARTS
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
Apocalypto
Jewel of the Nile
Geronimo
Sahara
Pirates of the Caribbean
300
Karma Sutra
Prince of Egypt
Queen of Sheba
Chicago
Troy
Sampson and Delilah
South Pacific

BRIAN MC FARLANE
Winds of Horror
Demise of Oceans
Fires of Rage – Female
Pestilence – Female

EVOLUTION
African Gold (frontline)

DREAM TEAM
Emperor Butterfly
Wild Orchid

Bored?

Ok, so with Carnival now 9 weeks away isn't it beginning to seem as if we are now in a lull as far as excitement and preparations go? Having to make plans much earlier this year (I know some of you bought your ticket since April for example) in anticipation of an early 2008 Carnival coupled with the fact that almost all bands have already launched has led to what I have termed a state of boredom.

I am still awaiting word on if new band Taboo is really making a debut for 2008 and for Masquerade's website to launch, just to see some new costumes. Other than that TRIBE has sold out, Harts is close behind as only a few sections left and all other bands are probably hoping to have a few sections sold out come Carnival. There is nothing else to look forward to for the rest of the year.

I have everything ticked off on my Carnival list as well:
Costume - Check
Footwear - Check
Make up appointment - Check
Eyelash appointment - Check
Hairdresser appointment - Check

Geez, the only thing I have to really do is start decorating my boots, which I cannot do too early as I am using pieces of my costume to complete the job. Oh, and I have to find a top for Monday wear as I already ordered boy shorts along with my costume. What else is there left to do?

There was so much excitement before band launching season with rumours of costume designs and possible section names, then the launches came fast and furious, all too soon petering off until now.. nothing. I think what has killed the anticipation for me as well is TRIBE selling out so early; last year I was eagerly keeping track of which sections were going off the market for all the bands, and up until Carnival week not all sections were sold out in any band!

It seems as well that there are two types of masqueraders, on one hand we have the ones who lock down their costume from the day the band opens for registration. These are the ones that create a hype and frenzy. Then we have the procrastinators, the ones who cannot make up their minds on a band or a section and take this indecisiveness with them into the New Year finally purchasing a costume on Carnival Saturday! These masqueraders kill the hype really.

So as I try to shake off this period of listlessness I am hoping something comes along to create some controversy; last year we were all so concerned about a venue for mas with the Savannah gone as well as with the high price of fetes and costumes. This year we are just so complacent, no talk of fetes being outrageously priced, bandleaders digging out or eyes with costume costs or that we should lobby for a stage. In fact there is little talk of Carnival 2008 at all! The Facebook groups have even gone silent and internet forums go for days without a new posting! The only website getting some action is Carnival Junction as desperate persons are still trying to get into TRIBE.

The only consolation that I can take comfort in is that very soon the fetes will start, bringing the live performers on stage to inject some exhilaration into the season. We also have all the j’ouvert bands to look forward to and hopefully the launch of Taboo who has promised so much and yet has delivered so little. And to all of you people dejected over TRIBE selling out completely, not thrilled with Island People’s avant garde costumes, glum over Mc Farlane’s depressing theme shake out of it and look at the other bands that are still open for registration! It surprises me that in a year when there are so many new bands, so little is publicized about them; start talking people, spread the word and breathe some life back into Carnival 2008!

La Dolce Vita

It must be the Sweet Life in truth! A "regular" (read non stoosh extra inclusive ) all-inclusive at $600.00!!!

And the word of the day is ...

Chris.nival (krsnval)
n.
1. Trinidad and Tobago fusion of the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus with the period of merrymaking known as Carnival which immediately follows the commemoration of Christmas on December 25th.

2. November/December are the months of Chrisnival celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago with the official Carnival festivities beginning on December 26th.

I was first introduced to the word "Chrisnival" on Friday at a mini bloggers lime where a few of us met up to hang out with blogger cb who was visiting from D.C. over the weekend. At the time I thought the word was in jest, slang made up to identify the fact that Carnival 2008 is so short that celebrations are usurping Christmas in all quarters.

It was to my surprise that I saw an event advertised in the daily news papers as a "Chrisnival Lunch"!! So the word has now become official! The lunch, which was held yesterday, featured a Christmas menu of ham, turkey, pastelle with parang and pan as the entertainment. In addition, Carnival costumes were on display! I can just imagine the Christmas purists gritting their teeth at this blurring of the already fine line of where Christmas ends and Carnival begins!

Year after year you hear complaints that not enough "respect" is paid to Christmas over the anticipation of Carnival; too many calypsoes on the airwaves and fetes start as early as Boxing night. Having band launchings commence from July set the ball rolling for Carnival 2008 and it seems as if Carnival is going to smother Christmas this year. Being someone who is not big on Christmas, this hybrid of two polarized celebrations does not irk me, however I feel somewhat emphatic to those persons who just want to celebrate Christmas without having Carnival tacked on!

When bands have yet to sell out and merchants are also vying for the Christmas shopper’s ONE pay check before Carnival “Chrisnival” translates into a poly to try and woo both the Carnival and Christmas enthusiasts to me. So, I am looking forward to Santa showing up at my house singing soca and carrying a bag full of goodies like fete tickets or a Carnival costume this year.. merry, no, happy Chrisnival ya’all!

Body Jewels

I was introduced to this website Jewel Storm that offers crystal jewelry online by another Carnival Diva who purchased from them. There are body jewels on sale in Trinidad at stores such as Wonderful World and Eye Candy, however I find the selection is somewhat limited in colour and styles. Chances are you are if purchasing locally you will see several people wearing the same thing! Jewel Storm does offer more choice in terms of colours and variety and can be an option for those looking to get all the accessories matched to their costume in advance of arriving in Trinidad.

Section III

I was thinking recently that though we are all clamoring for prototypes of Oracle's costumes, to match the vision with the reality, bands that are more "artistic" than the regular bikini and beads might find it wise not to reveal entire costume.

See, when constructing bikini mas with beads, feathers and sequins bought wholesale which is then hot glued to a bathing suit it is easy to replicate the prototype displayed at the band launch. Many of these costumes are even produced outside of Trinidad and Tobago in countries like India and China. But when one has to create each piece of a costume by hand, there must be room for artistic license, think of it as each costume being an exclusive piece of art with the designer tweaking the final product to create an exact vision which might differ slightly from the original product.

Neither Brian Mc Farlane nor Peter Minshall is big on revealing costume prototypes either, so just some food for thought this morning.

ORACLE SECTION III