Carnival Supplies

Since many of you are set to land in the coming weeks, if you have not yet gotten all your Carnival supplies have no fear the stores in Trinidad are pretty well stocked.

Westport has sequin hats and tops; the tops are very similar to the ones I posted from Wetseal and come in purple, black, brown/bronze and navy blue at a price of $90.00. The hats are $27.50 as they have a sale on at the moment:






Westport also has cheap shorts and accessories.

Eye Candy also has their Carnival stock on display; tights at $35.00, body jewels, silver and gold shorts, glitter, makeup .. you get the picture! They have some reasonably priced body jewelry in nice styles as well as boots in gold and silver.



I was not impressed by Wonderful World's stock, it might be that their Carnival supplies are yet to be displayed. The body jewelry was more expensive than at Eye Candy and the designs not as elaborate. What they did have were tiny purses that can attach to your belt in sequins, gold and silver. Not big enough to hold much, but they can easily hold a small cellphone, some money and chap stick.

Micles has tank tops and camis galore as well as boy shorts in lots of bright colours! Tops range from $45.00 to $65.00, ideal for Monday wear. I got my tights today at Micles for $30.00 which is cheaper than last year and the same price as the silky brand tights at Samaroos.

Clear Your Schedule for Island People Fetes

TRIBE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I heard that TRIBERS might be getting an email this week with distribution dates, dunno how true this is BUT check out this article in today's Trinidad Guardian for the full story!! I am estatic to see the photo of Douglas John working on the frontline costumes cause that means mine is ready!! TRIBE is SO getting ready for mas!!! 3 more weeks, 3 more weeks!!!!

Juliette Chung, Stefan Williams and Sameel Lucas work the production line. Packaging costumes accurately and neatly is a key part of the Tribe plan for their masqueraders. At far right, just out of camera range another group checks each box before it is packed.

Story and photos by Mark Lyndersay

Tribe’s mas camp is more of a corporate headquarters, with a meeting room overflowing with supplies, offices and a large warehouse space where costumes are packaged for distribution.

But nothing is made here. The Tribe system is an elaborate network of 18 local producers who create the band in a system that costume production manager Michael Nobrega describes as “the spider’s web.”

Just one costume in all of Tribe’s 2008 presentation, Myths and Magic, has been built abroad, an ornately stitched section called Black Magic, but the headpieces and back packs for the costume have been built locally...........

This elaborately synchronised ballet of raw material and widely distributed assembly centres is linked by big plastic buckets that eventually bring the finished costumes together for assembly, audit and packaging in at Tribe central, in Woodbrook.

Here, the final spit and polish are applied, the costumes packed in handsome brown boxes topped with a silvered Tribe logo on the lid, stacked on neat shelving to await distribution day.

Douglas John prepares head pieces in the family kitchen while his mother, Tessa, prepares lunch at right.

©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

SOURCE: www.guardian.co.tt

ONE Fete in Photos

My review is to follow, but WITCO's ONE fete took place last night and what was lacking compared to last year they made up for with performers:

Kees the Band


Bunji and Faye Ann


Iwer and Sons


Machel HD

Makeup Looks and Tips for a Waterproof Face

Airbrush make up is not the only way to have a "sweat free" face come Carnival. I have been doing some research on products recommended by makeup artists to help your makeup stay on your face during the heat of the day and combined with sweat and misting zones:

All the looks are from Sephora and though the products are not always cheap, think of it as investment in long term beauty as you have the makeup for future use. Click on the highlighted links to take you to the Sephora page with instructions as well as information on all products used.

Look #1 - Waterproof Makeup

My product picks for this look are the eye seal which transforms regular eye makeup into waterproof makeup, waterproof eyeliner and mascara to avoid "raccoon eyes" and the waterproof lipgloss for a long lasting all day shine.

Makeup Look #2 - Smoky Eye



Makeup Look #3 - Shimmery Fairy



I am loving the Frederic Fekkai sparkling shimmer spray for the hair, so perfect for Carnival!

Some more great looks can be found at Sephora, click this link.

Waterproof products recommended by the pros:

Face:
Clinique Almost Makeup
Clinique Superfit Makeup
Clinique Non Streak Bronzer (for very light coverage)
Almay Moisture Tint
Era Face Spray on Foundation
Model in a Bottle

Eyes &Brows
Lancome Aquatique - base for eyeshadow
Lancome Le Stylo Eyeliner
Makeup Forever Eyeliner
Clinique Touch of Tint
Clarins Fix Mascara
Loreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara
Clinique Brow Keeper
Trish Mcevoy Finish Line Shadow Transformer

Lips
Max Factor Lipfinity

Blush
NARS Colour Wash
Loreal Sheer Gel Blush


Photos: Sephora

When Soca "Stars" Blog...

Buh aye aye allyuh ent see who have a website!!! It's Shurwayne Winchester and you can even join his fan club!! Fans can view shots of his new look in the gallery, see the dates and venues where Shurwayne will be performing as well as read his blog:

Thursday, January 10 2008

Stress !
Thanks to you all for giving me the opportunity to grow and for being part of this continous journey.It was great seeing all the faces at the unveiling and nerve racking at the same time.So much going on and so much to do in a time that is flying like a blink of the eye, but until we all evolve beyond the limitation placed on us by us we will just have to make it work .

Check it out!

More Prices!

Remember to bookmark the Fete Price List, people!

Today the list has been updated to include Eyes Wide Shut, Girl Power and Insomnia in addition to Brian Lara's All inclusive. There will be no VIP section for Eyes Wide Shut, tickets start at $200.00. For the full listing of fetes visit my previous post here.

Also for pan lovers prepare to dig a little deeper in your pockets. Tickets for Pan Prelims on January 20th are $150.00 greens (grass), $200.00 North Stand and $250.00 (Paddock VIP). Add a pan lime to that ticket price and pan goers will be paying as much as an all-inclusive fete!!!

Flip Flops Ash Wednesday All Inclusive

Ash Wednesday, the day of rest after the Carnival melee. Some of you may be going to Tobago judging from the fact that plane tickets were sold out for that day since last year, others are planning on heading up to Maracas and the saintly among us will be getting their foreheads smeared with ashes.

For those looking to an alternative to fighting the masses on the ferry over to Tobago or from the crowds on the beach, Par*D is having their second Flip Flops All-Inclusive, Ash Wednesday edition.

For a review of the inaugural Flip Flops fete check Carnival Jumbie's blog as she is one of the Flip Flops promoters.

click for larger view

The cost is $300.00TT which includes free foot massages, free Havaianas, bar b que buffet and all premium drinks. So if you want the feteing to continue for just one more day, before the reality of going back to work and saying farewell to Carnival, this is the event for you!

Tickets are available at:

FLAM COUTURE, Ariapita Ave
Eva's Fashions ,Saddle Road
Havaianas, Long Circular, downstairs Tattoo Farm

Or through Par*D Promotions 689-1132,769-7145,788-2286,683-8863
email: pardpromotions@gmail.com

J'ouvert Band Round Up

The time has come again for the selection of J'ouvert bands and I have tried to gather information on as many of the bands possible, with the omission of Mudders who have not updated their information as yet.

Red Ants
Price $350.00
Package
*Eats
*Drinks
*Jersey (or the option of String Tops for the ladies!)
*Horns
*Music
*Paint

Insomniacs
Price $350.00
Package
*Jouvert Warm Up Pre Party
*Bar
*Security
*50 Ft Music Truck
*Tassa Group
*Insomniacs gear (T Shirt/Tank Top)
*Insomnias Survival Pack
*Breakfast
*Sober Bar

Silver Mudders
Price $300.00
Package
*Premium Drinks
*Fully-catered breakfast
*Security on the road
*Secured parking
*Edible SILVER MUD,CHOCOLATE, HONEY
*Scenic uncongested route
*Great Music
*Fantastic vibes

Yellow Devils
Price $299.00
Package
*Costume (T Shirt/Baby T)
*Drinks
*Breakfast
*Water Truck
*40ft Music Trailer
*Red 96.7 DJs

Mas Jumbies
Price $250.00 - $300.00
Package
*Costume consisting of headpiece, sarong and body paint
*DJ
*Iron Rhythm Section,
*Security Team
*non-alcoholic & alcoholic drinks
*breakfast service
*pre road warm up session
*corn soup

Chocolate City
Price $350.00
Package
*Breakfast
*Drinks
*2 Music Trucks
Chocolate, no body paint

Exotic Essentials
Price $300.00
Package
*Breakfast
*Gift Bag
*Costume


Bubble Bath
Package
*Shower Cap
*Towel
*Jersey
*Free Drinks
*Free Breakfast
*Foam
*Paint
contact:webmaster@red967fm.com

Troopers International
Price $260.00TT
Package
*Premium Bar
*Breakfast
*Security
*Parking
*Secure Route
*Paint
*40ft Music Truck
contact Joel 369-4307, Darren 765 -3027,Sammy 728-1975

QPCC Jouvert
Price $325.00
Package
*Premium drinks (rum, beer, scotch, vodka)
*Food when you return (corn soup, doubles)
*Top security
*Body Paint
*Tassa
*A Wee Wee Truck!!
contact qpccjouvert@gmail.com

Section 8 World
Price $350.00
Package
*Premium Drinks
*Breakfast
*Jouvert 800 Kit (T Shirt, Cup, Whistle)
*Body Paint, Mud
*Water Truck
*Security
*Parking

Something happening in the Savannah......

So, on my way home this afternoon I decided to explore the works taking place at the Savannah, remember the drama when the structures were taken down and moved? Well here are some photos of what is being built:

Stands opposite Memorial Park


Stage... supposedly for pre-Carnival events


Stands in the Savannah


Other Side of the Stands


Booths in the Savannah


I will explore this area some more when I attend Panorama Prelims in the Savannah next week, by then the construction of the orange stands and that whole area should be ready for the lime!

Where will Machel be performing this season?

Before you buy your fete ticket here is a line up of where Mr Machel Montano will be for the carnival 2008 season:

CLICK FOR LARGE VIEW

Boots at TRIBE!

I know most of you divas already have your footwear to match your costume,with carnival being barely 3 weeks away, but for the procrastinators good news is here. The following boots are for sale locally, and at present are displayed at TRIBE's mas camp, so you can pay them a visit and check the designs out in person. Please note that there are no sizes available for trying, the boots are simply on show. If you would like to purchase a pair after seeing them in person, they will be on sale during costume distribution. Once again, the boots are NOT on sale at the mas camp!!

Keen observers would note that the flat boots are also what is on sale at Ate Logo the price is $275.00 for the flat boots and $400.00 for the ones with heels. Personally I think the heeled boots might be a challenge for those ladies who are used to playing mas in flat footwear, however I know some of you do play mas in heels so the stacked, chunky heeled boot might be a good option. One of the styles is also a wedge and a high, stacked heel.

I LOVE the material that the boots are made of however, the gold sparkly one is just divine! Instead of adding glitter to the boot yourself it comes already decorated so all you need to do is add your beads, appliques, fringe, braid or feathers. Too bad I cannot wear that height of heel on the road. The orange boots will be perfect for Autumn Sprite!

For more information on the sizes available or any other questions you may have, contact David at 868-355-0165 or 868-464-2521.

Vote on Destra's New Look

To me Destra is channeling Rihanna with this new bob, I am kinda liking it though. What allyuh think, she make the grade or she fail with this one?

click for larger view

Do you Think Destra's New look is HOT???
	Yes
	No
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Photo Source: TRINIDAD GUARDIAN

Monday Wear Idea

One of the bloggers sent me this idea for Monday wear, and I think it is pretty cool if you have the time, patience and a bit of creativity!! Thanks for the tips and the inspiration Paul!!

Hey Saucy,

I am currently doing a costumes for a show for someone in Trinidad and as I was doing it Iwas thinking what a great idea it would be for people to sport their island, logo or even just something to co-ordinate with their costume colour scheme.

I have attached pics at several stages of the bra.

Here is what is needed
1, Bra under wired and padded is best for support I think (colour base to match or blend wit sequins
2, thread (wax coated for strength) if not normal cotton will do
3, fine needle but not so fine it will bend easily
4, 500-700 sequins in whatever colours (cupped is best 8mm and mixed with holographic sequins is can be stunning)
6, Japanese seed beads for locking the sequins on 1-2mm

It took me approx 2 days of about 5 hours of sewing to do the entire bra 34C size I started by sketching my lines and shapes on with tailor's chalk and infilling the detail first at first I was just sewing through the sequin and then through the bead then back through the sequin and into the top fabric of the bra but I then found it easier just to go straight through the padding into the back of the bra and then back into the front again and repeating until the shape or line was completing then to do the base colour infill I started around the edge then around the lines or detail then continued to infill with sequins the tighter they are together the more effective it became as you can see I did a half trini half vincy flag design but anything is possible after some of my peeps saw the bra they want on for the road repping their island but I tell u I ain't sewing them lol mudda work!!!!

Monday Wear for Island People Mas

For all of you asking whether or not Island People will be providing Monday wear, I just got word that they will be giving the ladies boy shorts and the gents T Shirts. The boy shorts provided will be in a colour to match your bra top, if you choose to wear your costume bra top that is. Hope this clears up the issue for all those who were wondering.

Best Dressed at the Fete - QRC Outta De Blue

So many fetes, so little time!

QRC Outta De Blue

I like how these two ladies wore short pants in a season where surprisingly the dress is big at all-inclusive fetes.

Lady #1 has everything well put together, from the hair, to the chandelier ear-rings and clutch it looks polished but not overdone. I also like the contrast with the plaid shorts and satin top.

Though I am not big on the high waist trend, I think lady #2 on the left looks cute in her brown shorts and delicate blouse and gets my vote for the ensemble. Note the cocktail ring!

PHOTO SOURCE:http://www.carnivalscene.com/

Sequined Tank Tops!

I thought these might be nice for the ladies who are looking for a tank top to match their shorts for Monday wear, those of us who have to BUY Monday wear that is. Great thing is it is only $10.00 and sizes are still available in XS to XL online at Wetseal BUT the colours are limited:

Sequin tank top#1




Sequin Tank top #2


Matching Hats at GoJane.com:

Island People Mas Newsletter.. Payment Information

Information on costume payments as per the following email from Island People Mas:

Happy New Year


We at Island People Mas would like to wish you a joyful and prosperous New Year!!! Carnival is less than a month away, are you ready to release your Animal Instincts?!?!?!

Our goal is to keep you informed of all pertinent information regarding payment procedures and costume distribution. Please read below to make sure you are up to date. Thanks again for being part of Island People Mas' Animal Instincts!

PAYMENTS MADE PRIOR TO COSTUME DISTRIBUTION
If you would like to pay of the balance of your costume prior to distribution, you must do so in person at the Island People Mas mascamp located at #11 Stone Street, Port Of Spain. We are no longer accepting any payments via Western Union, Money Gram, Wire Transfer, or PayPal for this Carnival season.

PAYMENTS MADE AT OUR DISTRIBUTION CENTRE
Final payments made at the Distribution Centre can be made by CASH or LOCAL DEBIT CARDS ONLY.

DISTRIBUTION CENTRE SCHEDULE
Shortly, we will notify you of the Island people Mas distribution schedule. Please make sure that you and your fellow IP Mas-queraders are receiving and reading these emails so that everyone is aware of the important dates to come.

See you soon,

IP Mas
The Fun Has Just Begun

2008 Carnival Fete Prices

Some of you have requested that I keep you updated with the Carnival Fete ete prices, so these are the ones that I have available at the moment and I will be adding more Fetes as the prices are released.

January 12th
Bishops Fete -$500.00 & $750.00
St Mary’s/CIC Fete- $425.00
Wicked in White- $140.00
Presentation College All Inclusive "Soca Fusion" - $400

January 13th
US embassy Fete -$500.00
Yorke All Inclusive Fete- $400.00
WITCO ONE FETE -$450.00

January 18th
Central Bank All inclusive fete - $425.00
TCL All inclusive - $400.00

January 19th
NGC - $550.00
Belex All Inclusive - $350.00
La Dolce Vita- $600.00
Blue Range All Inclusive - $350.00
Machel Montano Alternative Concept 3+3 - $200.00 general, $400.00VIP

January 20th
Ah Drift In De Oasis All Inclusive $500
UWI Champagne and Pearls – $600.00
Friends of the Blood Bank All Inclusive – $ 400.00

January 27th
Jamboree Sunday – $140.00
Sokashoka All Inclusive $385.00
Harts on Fire All Inclusive (Normandie) 450.00
Carec - $700.00

January 29th
A.W.O.L All Inclusive– 350.00
Eyes Wide Shut - $200.00


January 30th
S.O.S. Lost In Paradise All-Inclusive - $350

January 31st
Michael Headly Salybia All Inclusive Fete - $700.00
Beach House - $600.00
TRIBE Ignite - TLC top up $250.00, ltd adv masqueraders $280.00, non masqueraders $300.00

February 1st
Break Biche All Inclusive – 400.00
Options All Inclusive - $350.00
Girl Power - $250.00 general, $495.00 VIP

February 2nd
Atlantis 600.00
Euphoria All Inclusive 380.00
Eclipze All Inclusive - $475.00
Insomnia - $199.00 General, $350.00 VIP
DAWN - $150.00 General, $250.00 VIP (non premium drinks)

February 3rd
Diamond Vale Breakfast Party – 400.00
Sunny Side Up III - TTD$900 couple tickets. (Male and Female or two Females)
Individual male and female TTD$500/ USD$84.
Moka Explosion - $800.00
Canboulay - $200.00
Dancing in the Sanctuary - $600.00
Brian Lara All Inclusive - $1150.00 - $1200.00

Wednesday February 6th
Flip Flops All Inclusive - $300.00

India Comes a calling

Maybe the fact that Brian Mc Farlane's 2007 portrayal was entitled India might be the reason that he reports to the Newsday that costume manufacturers from that country have contacted him to have his costumes made in India:

As the Carnival season this year is a very short one some “mas men” have found a quick fix by having costumes imported from companies in India, China and other countries.

This was first revealed by bandleader Brian Mac Farlane. He said he received e-mails and calls from representatives from a company in India asking him whether he was interested in importing his Carnival costumes from them.

“The gentleman that spoke to me insisted that I should be interested in his offers of bras and bikini bottoms because other bands locally imported from them and I told him that I do not subscribe to that kind of Mas and I make my costumes from scratch,” he said

I find it bemusing that the Newsday would assume that the reason for costumes made in India and China has to do with a short Carnival season when this has been the norm with many bands for YEARS. Island People representative Wyatt Gallery openly admitted that they have their costumes made in China as well as Curtis Eustace of Evolution who told me the costumes were designed in Trinidad and sent to India for production. Even TRIBE has gotten in on the act as I was told the beading on Black Magic was done in India as no one could do the job locally.

It was also quite hilarious that every band contacted by Newsday admitted to knowing of this practice but not doing it themselves:

When Sunday Newsday contacted other bandleaders their overall comments were they were aware of it but they are not the ones that do it.

When co-producer of Trini Revellers, Jeff Gillette, was contacted he said he has heard of bandleaders doing that but not his band.

Nina Mc Kenzie of Genesis took the cake when she said “This is the first time I have ever heard of something like that,” once again Nina needs to stay away from the toxic fumes of the Evo Stick Glue. For the full article, check out today's SundayNewsday edition or get it online here.

HEAT at Fire Fete!!

Ok, allyuh know I did not go to Fire Fete last night (I have never been in all my life either) but I hear REAL piccong was throwing left right at center at the OTHER event raising temperatures last night. Seems like every soca artiste that performed at Fire threw some heat at King George the V Park !

Added to that, the Fire man himself Mr Bunji Garlin was spitting flames to express how he really feels about the rumours that he had gone sorf since getting married saying he has no HIV, no AIDS and he have ONE woman who vex at that lorse! He went on to imply that certain soca stars have been indulging in obeah (voodoo to the foreigners) and that the soca mafia has been telling the radio stations not to play other soca artistes tunes!

The bacchanal continues as Bunji allegedly said he will get vex and call names just now!! Call names I say, that will make the next fete he performs at even more interesting!!

Are you feeling the feeling ?

With such a short Carnival season those of you not living in Trinidad, just coming out of Christmas celebrations, bundled up for winter and are not in tune with the music you are probably missing the Carnival vibes. For those of us here in Trinidad with the start of the feteing season things are quickly heating up, well at least for me as I am only just getting the Carnival excitement with my first fete coming up on Sunday.

If you have got zero zeal for Carnival 2008 at this point in time here are a few tips to start feeling the feeling:

• Tune in to a local radio station with an online feed, I recommend RED 96.7 for the latest Soca and a whole lot of Carnival comes talk! Bookmark this link.

• Start packing for Carnival.

• Go shopping for fete gear; though it might be too cold to lure you out your house in search of sandals and hot shorts in winter, browse online at the many websites that are wrapping up Christmas sales.

• Start working out; find yourself in a gym with your I Pod blasting soca music and bust down some wining moves to get the waist ready for action.

• Look at last year’s Carnival photos and reminiscence on the fabulous time you had. If you are on facebook or myspace change your profile picture to one of you in a Carnival costume.

• Put a carnival countdown clock on your PC at home and at work.

• Make a photo of your costume your screensaver.

• Break out the gems and begin decorating your BLING cup!!!

• Wear your carnival shoes around the house to break them in, don’t forget to jump up, wine down low and lift your leg up to make sure they are truly ready for the road.

• Host a “Carnival We Coming” lime with your friends; do each other’s makeup, decorate boots or simply get together to plan your feteing schedule. Make sure you have some rum cocktails on hand with soca music pumping and this might be another time to break out the old carnival photos on a slideshow!

• Get some “Pick Up Cards” made. Have you ever met a guy or girl at a fete or on the road, connected, sparks were ignited but lost their number because you were too drunk to remember it? With the “Pick Up Cards” you simply slip them the card with your name, phone number and or email address (or as much personal information you wish to reveal) which is much easier than writing the number on your palm or trusting a friend to store it on their cell phone. If you already have business cards this will work as well. (Thanks TP for this fabulous tip!).

• For those playing in bands that are not providing Monday wear, this is a good time to start planning your ensemble. Whether you plan on wearing a simple T Shirt or are more creatively inclined to put together an outfit, envisioning yourself in your creation on the road for Carnival Monday will surely get you feeling the feeling

• This might be a good time to work on decorating those boots or sneakers. Just because you are wearing sneakers does not mean you cannot add some rhinestones or sequins to jazz them up as well! There are many craft stores that sell all the materials needed, so find yourself to the nearest one and stock up on gems, spray paint and glitter! Go wild!

• And finally, read this blog and ALL the Carnival blogs daily! Join in the chat, leave comments ask questions. Sometimes it is hard to get excited about something when you have no one else around you that shares in or understand s your interest. Hopefully connecting with other people with the same plans as you should get you in the mood!

We getting ready for mas again!!!!!!

January 23rd is fast approaching, for those playing in TRIBE that is when costume distribution begins and the workers at the mas camp have been HARD at work getting things organised I was told! I heard that they were counting costume pieces last weekend, which isn't as easy a job as it sounds:

I happened to be at the mas camp yesterday to pay for fete tickets and got a sneak peek of some costumes all packaged out in plastic bins and even met one of the men responsible for making the certain costumes locally.

From the little I saw of the costume pieces that were housed at the mas camp, the work is very detailed and looks just as pretty as all the protoypes! I even saw a tiny peek of MY section so I am VERY excited now! I guess this is the type of work a band that has sold out quite early can produce and I am hoping this is an omen that 2008 will be the BEST YEAR EVER with TRIBE!

2008 Sold Out Sections Update

Here is where we stand.. 4 weeks until Carnival:

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

ALL MALE SOLD OUT

TRIBE
All sections sold out

HARTS
All sections sold out

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
Earth Rhythms

IMAGE NATION
Entourage

RONNIE AND CARO
Wildfish

Pulse 8
Gypsy Caravan

The Trini Carnival ULTIMATE Packing List

You should already have an idea of how to dress to fete and the type of clothing to shop for when it comes to parties from my previous posts and also the kind of footwear that will be needed for comfortable feteing.

So, we shall leave out clothing from this ULTIMATE packing list which comes as a compilation from the contribution of all the overseas bloggers who so graciously shared with me all that is going into their suitcases to Trinidad. If anything is left out please let me know by leaving a comment!

Good luck in meeting the weight limit!

DOCUMENTATION
Airline Tickets
Passport
Copies of passport and Identification cards
Drivers Permit
Copies of Hotel Confirmation/Bookings
Copies of Emails pertaining to accommodation/car reservations
Copies of all receipts for fete tickets purchased online
Costume Receipt
Letter of costume transfer (if buying a resold costume) as well as copies of seller's ID card
A list of all items packed
Photo evidence of your luggage and contents in case it is lost by the airline

ON THE PLANE
Travel pillow
Flip flops (practical, fancy)
I Pod
Duct tape (for when they buss yuh overstuffed suitcase)
Ziploc Bags
Ear Plugs


SUN PROTECTION
Sun block with high SPF
Aloe Vera Gel (cools sunburns)
SPF Chap Stick/ lip-gloss
Sun glasses
At least 1 hat
Foot cream (something that tingles)

GROOMING
Shaving Cream
Razors
Hair Remover/Depilatory
Deodorant
Eye drops
Contact lenses
Contact lens solution
Contact lens case
Re- wetting Drops
Lotion
Toothbrush/paste
Mouthwash
Dental Floss
Feminine wipes
Wet Wipes
Breath mints!
Chewing Gum
Double Sided Tape
Bra Inserts
Stick on Bra
Nipple Covers
Tide to Go Stain Remover Pen

MEDICATION
Pepto bismol
Tums
Imodium AD
Prescription Medication
Birth Control
Condoms
Elastoplast
Mini First Aid Kit
Blister Lotion
Chafing Powder
Gel Insoles
Insect repellent
Milk of Magnesia
Hand Sanitizer

FOR DE COSTUME
Glue Gun
Glue Sticks
Spray Paint
Bling Cup
Waterproof Powder for Feathers
Travel sized sewing kit
Extra pins and Velcro tape for outfit and costume adjustment.
Comfortable Shoes, Sneakers or Boots for the playing mas
Gel Insoles
Mas Tights
Glitter

MAKEUP NEEDS
Spirit Gum
Face Jewels
False Eyelashes
Makeup
Concealer
Moisturizer
Bronzer
Glitter Lotion
Makeup Remover
Blotting Sheets
Q tips
Vaseline

BODY/HAIR CARE
Pumice stone
Exfoliating body gloves
Nail polish /remover
Curling iron
Blow dryer
Flat iron
Comb
Brush
Hair clips/bows
Hair Pieces/Extensions
Braid and Weave Spray
Hair Scarf
Shower cap
Anti Frizz Hair Serum
Shampoo and Conditioner
Inflatable Foot Spa (the Epsom salts you can get in Trinidad!)

GADGETS AND COMMUNICATION
Camera/camera bag
Waterproof Camera
Disposable Camera
USB cables
USB Drives
Video Camera
Portable DVD Player
Laptop
Cell phone for conversion if applicable
Chargers and/or batteries for all your electronics
Voltage Converter
Power Cords for all electrical implements
List of all friends’ contact info
A small telephone book with a copy of all the numbers from your cell phone.

DOH FORGET
J’ouvert shoes and outfit
Monday Wear
Bandanna
Whistle
Handbags
Money Pouch
Watch (waterproof)
Costume Jewelry
Extra backs for earrings
Water shoes, if you plan to be walking/swimming where there is coral or sharp rocks.
Bathing suits
Towels for the beach
Socks
LOTS of Underwear
A Bottle of Johnnie Walker - black, blue, red, green doh matter, come one come all
Rum Flask
Key Chain Bottle Opener
Goodies for friends and family

Island People Open Sections

Contrary to the email sent out on Facebook there are still open sections in Island People, albeit only in limited sizes and only at the mas camp; online registration is sold out. The following are sections which are open for those females still looking for costumes :

Crocodile
Dragon Lizard
Man O War
Red Tiger
Zebra

Bishops Fete is still on ....

But the venue has moved:

Hi everyone
Rumours have been flying fast and furious.

Here's the real info.

No - we are not cancelling, we have not cancelled, tickets are selling well as usual, and we have a really great fete planned for you.

The fete has been moved to QRC grounds. The National Stadium had booked multiple events on the same night, one was us and the other was Gyal Farm. The two large events cannot co-exist in the same venue at the same time.
So we decided to move the fete.

This venue is larger and easier to layout, and we will be making provision to mitigate any mud on the field.

Parking - we are finalising parking areas, and will let you know as soon as we have that info.

Looking forward to seeing you on Jan 12th at QRC grounds!

Are you ready for a laugh?

The most honest advertisement on Carnival Junction to date; so honest it is pretty damn hilarious:

Tribe: Mystique (Male, 30 waist, Non-Veg meal)


Don't want to waste anybody's time, so:

* Selling for a profit...non-negotiable
Original Price: TT$ 2,400
Selling Price : TT$ 3,000

*I've only paid the downpayment of TT$900 which means you'll pay me TT$1,500 (Orig downpayment + Profit) and then the balance (TT$ 1,500) will be paid by you on collection day at Tribe

* Will write up a letter to present to Tribe so you can collect the costume, but will not be transferring costume to your name (I'm keeping the TLC)
Price: $ 3,000

Want to bet he gets it sold AND keeps his TLC too? P

Pan Posse!

Panorama Semi Finals is on January 20th and the Pan Limes have already begun advertising. Now I am one who normally shows up at Panorama with my own little lime, food and drinks but in 2006 while looking for an extra ticket to enter Panorama one young lady sold us her ticket and threw in her "Pan Lime" with Insomniacs for free.

Included was a T Shirt , bag, cup, whistle and all-inclusive hand band which got you drinks all day. The great thing was that where we had set up our own lime Insomniacs were right above us on the stands so my friend who was lucky enough to get the Insomniacs drinks band didn't need to go far to partake in the spirits. I like the idea of the all-inclusive lime since it eliminates the need for you to walk with anything but yourself to Panorama, and it might be an option for me and my friends this year since the number of limers will be considerably smaller as the overseas people will not be in Trinidad at that time.

So, these are the two limes that I have gotten information on so far, if you know of others that are "advertising" drop me an email at trinicarnivaldiary@yahoo.com:

Insomniacs Pan Lime
Sunday, January 20, 2008
11:00am - 10:00pm
Northern Greens - Queen's Park Savannah

*T-shirt
*Drinks [Scotch, Vodka, Rum, Beer, Chasers]
*Corn Soup
*Doubles
*Insomniacs Power Punch
*Pan Supplies
*Rhythm Section [a TRUE Panorama Staple!]
*other Insomniacs items

Package Cost: $220 [does not include Ticket]
insomniacs.crew@gmail.com

Red Ants Pan Posse
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Northern Greens - Queen's Park Savannah

*Top ( Regular Tees and strappy tops)
*Souvenir Mug
*Lunch (Pelau (chicken and Vegetarian)
*Drinks - Vodka, Rum, Heineken, chasers
*Riddim section
Price - $150.
Deadline is Wednesday 9th January
arief@arcevents.com

Mas Jumbies La Reine de Démon Rouge

J'ouvert Band Mas Jumbies has unveiled the first of 6 section leaders/characters from their j'ouvert band "Jab"; she is called La Reine de Démon Rouge:

That is one sexy j'ouvert costume! I have also been informed that Angostura is now an exclusive sponsor of Mas Jumbies, so congrats to them as a relatively new band with lots of talent! Check out the Mas Jumbies website for photos of the costumes as well as to get some more information on Jab 2008!

Happy New Year!

Absolutely my most favourite photo of 2007, the view from my hotel window on South Beach Miami!

One month and two days to Carnival 2008!

First fete of the season, Soka in Moka takes place tonight.

The madness has started !

Fast Track or Not?

To fast track or not to fast track, once again I am asking myself this question on the very last day to make the choice. After the experience I had collecting my costume this year I swore I was doing fast track for 2008, however I did not expect the fast track deadline to be so early and I am thinking the longer I hold on to my money the better it might be. Call me paranoid but I keep thinking “what if”, what if I get in accident before Carnival and I can’t play mas, how am I going to sell my costume at the last minute and recoup allll my money? When you have to fork over $2,500.00 and not get the product in hand until the next month that’s when the questions arise; is fast track really worth it, how much faster do you really collect your costume, with TRIBE being VERY organized there really isn’t that much of a wait unless you happen to be collecting on Carnival Saturday!

This year it was so easy to collect hubby’s costume, which we did during the week, however collecting my costume on Carnival Saturday was another story. I am hoping the fact that costume collection is slated to end on Carnival Friday , February 1st as per the emails from TRIBE that Carnival Saturday might be reserved for persons who could not collect on the days set aside for each section and that frontline masqueraders will be able to collect on a day during the week as well. Of course I am hoping this so that it will save me a trip to the mas camp today! The other thing is that I can stay at home and pay the balance via credit card BUT then there is that SENVIA credit card fee!

The incentive to pay off early, apart from the speedy collection, is the added prize of wining your costume free, however I highly doubt that I would win, I mean would it not look very suspect if I win a free costume? When I sold my costume this year and got into Sailor the Anti-Saucy Crew took the position that TRIBE did me a favor to shut me up (still laughing at this one) so you could imagine the uproar if Saucy wins her costume free!

Anyway I still have a few more hours to decide whether or not I am going to pay off my costume today, but how many of you have decided on the fast track route for 2008.. .or not to fast track?

EDITED TO ADD:
After all this contemplation I bit the bullet and paid off for my costume!! Thanks for all the comments, you guys made me realise that it is easier to just have this over and done with. Now it's MY costume paid in full! lol

2007 Year End Review

As we come to the close of 2007 it is time to reflect on all the happenings in what as been an exciting Carnival year!

Masqueraders no longer had the Savannah Stage for 2007 and mas on the streets, though hailed as successful, still encountered the same problems of long waits for some bands. Work on the much anticipated Carnival Centre has yet to commence.

A number of new bands have entered the mas landscape giving masqueraders more choices among them Wee International, Ronnie and Caro, D Krewe and Evolution. Though quite exciting with their concept and costumes, Oracle bowed out of the race and Taboo never launched.

Even with these new bands TRIBE still accomplished a SOLD OUT band in one month, followed by Harts who was also completely sold out in December. Maybe it had something to do with the fact that these two bands held a historically early band launch in July!

The early Carnival Season spawned a new word for Christmas; “Chrisnival” bridged the gap between Christmas and Carnival to the vexation of Christmas loyalists.

Once again the Savannah issue has been the site of much controversy. The Culture Minister revealed plans to host pre carnival activities in the Savannah with a temporary stage and stands proposed to be built. Subsequent to this all plans were halted and construction taken down. The new site moved to the Western end of the Savannah with plans for both Panorama and the King and Queen Competitions to be held at Skinner’s Park in San Fernando. While Pan Trinbago is mum on the subject bandleaders are upset at the latest development. Coming together to protest the fact that only Brian Mc Farlane received an increase in prize money the newly formed Association of Band Leaders plan to protest the Ministry of Culture today.

Normally I would give the best/worst costumes of the year but will deviate to highlight the two most sought after costumes for both TRIBE and Island People as advertised on Carnivaljunction.com:

Black Magic


Silver Mist


Silver Fox


Kingfisher


Sold to the highest bidder!

Bandleaders to protest tomorrow

Wed The Trinidad Guardian has this report on the brewing controversy over prize monies awarded to Brian Mc Farlane; the following band leaders have now come together to fight the seeming injustice of awarding only Mc Farlane an increase in prize money:

Mike “Big Mike” Antoine of Legacy; Dean Akin of TRIBE; Earl Patterson of Masquerade; Ian McKenzie of Genesis; Paul Sing of DreamTeam; Roland St George of D Krewe; Stephen Derek of D’ Midas; NCBA secretary Renwrick Brown of Stampede; and Trevor Wallace of Trevor Wallace and Associate

The bandleaders have dubbed their united front "The Association of Bandleaders" and if this matter is not resolved have threatened to boycott all "NCC competition venues, especially Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain and ultimately embarrass the State." So that means the possibility exists that Island People Mas, Harts, Pulse 8, Ronnie and Caro,Evolution and Mc Farlane could parade at these NCC venues regardless; guaranteed wins for the large bands Harts, Island People and Mc Farlane with medium bands Evolution, Pulse 8 and Legacy also having the 1st, 2nd and 3rd spots!

While I think it is awesome that the bandleaders have come together against the NCBA and NCC, it would be more effective if ALL bands gave their support to this Association but I guess the tribal wars would never lead to unity for some bandleaders, which is really a pity.

Adventures in Detox-ing

It is not with fondness that I remember when my grandmother would administer to me as a young child a wicked cocktail called "carrot water" as a "cooling" to "clean out" the body. This potent liquid was consumed daily for as long as a week, and was subsequently followed by the most dreadful thing ever; a purge!! That senna tea would be so lethal it cramped the stomach and meant you spent a lot of time in the toilet!! Oh and the joys of a spoonful of castor oil and epsom salts! This was all usually done during the August vacation before going back out to school.

Today the purge has been sophisticated and hailed as a not only a weight loss method by celebrities but also a way to help the body rid itself of accumulated waste. Of course no one calls it a purge in Hollywood, it is all about colon cleansers and colonics! My friend swears by the colonics she takes routinely as a tool aiding in weight loss; alas I have yet to brave that tube inserted in the rectum! And that "cooling" granny used to make is now labeled a "detox" as in using fresh fruits and vegetables to get rid of toxins in the body. Which leads me to the fact that I am now in my third day of "detoxing" and between me and you, my grandmother's carrot water was much easier!

I had taken the vow to "cleanse" my body of all the bad things consumed over the two days of Christmas celebrations and went shopping for all the ingredients for the detox while I was shopping for turkey and cookies! As soon as Boxing Day was over day 1 of the detox began with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in water as soon as I woke up the next day. What a way to wake up! When the vinegar hits your throat you feel like gagging and then the aftertaste lingers until you move on to having fruit for breakfast. Lunch that day was steamed broccoli and cauliflower served up with 1/2 cup of brown rice:

In between I had snacks of more fruit and sipped echinacea tea. For dinner I made a nice big pot of cabbage soup, in it went mushrooms, cabbage (of course), tomatoes, onions and the secret ingredient of vegetable juice. Everything was going well that day, down to the rice cakes which tasted like styrofoam that I munched on while looking at a movie. It all went downhill when I was possessed to take a drink of vodka and cranberry juice! No explanation as to why I did it, but the effects were brutal as I was a lush in no time.The hubby said after I passed out on the couch he tried to get me to bed and I woke up screaming,chasing him around the house fighting; I have no recollection of that event. Lessened learned, alcohol and detoxing DO NOT mix!

Yesterday I woke up feeling terrible, this was not your usual hangover as I felt sick all day, sick and tired. That is another side effect of the detoxing, you have no energy. Now I am napping during the day, something I never do. Day 2 was pretty hard simply because of the lingering effects of the alcohol and the fact that the hubby drank ALL my cabbage soup!!! That pissed me off to no end as another side effect of the detox is irritability.

This morning I woke up with a headache, but I am still plodding along with my glass of water flavored with apple cider vinegar, it was not so bad as instead of sipping it I chugged it back like shots of tequila! Breakfast is the best part of the day as I just had a nice big bunch of grapes, yummy!! And I get to have bananas in a couple hours as well. My goal is to do this detox for two weeks (if I can last that long!) and then switch back to my low carb regimen. As you can see from the meal plan it is basically eating a combination of fruits and vegetables with NO MEAT, and I am not advocating or recommending this for any one to try as it is not for everyone.

As I continue my detox program I will let you know the pros and cons as well as the side effects, but I can say from now it is not easy at all! I figure that in the end it will all be worth it as I hope to emerge feeling more energized, ridding myself of the nagging headaches and sluggish feeling that has been dogging me these past months and with the added bonus of possibly loosing a few pounds as well. Stay tuned for more adventures in detoxing!

You know Carnival is coming ...

When you see these booths around the Queen's Park Savannah:

The strange thing is that the booths line the outer perimeter of the Savannah, then navigate INSIDE as in the photograph and where the bands usually exit they return to outside the Savannah. This strange placement leads me to believe that MAYBE they expect the bands to pass THROUGH the Savannah (no stage) since there is construction across by the Princess Building grounds.

I cannot wait to see the plans for the actual parade route as the placement of the booths indicate that there is some expectation for persons to be trafficking inside the Savannah!