Tuesday, September 30, 2008

New National Carnival Commission Chairman.......maybe

Chin Lee tipped to be NCC chairman



Former tourism minister Howard Chin Lee is tipped to be the new National Carnival Commission (NCC) chairman.

Sources said yesterday the Pier 1 director was given the nod during last Thursday's Cabinet meeting.

In a telephone interview yesterday, however, Chin Lee, who is also the managing director of Synergy TV, neither confirmed nor denied the report.

The Express understands that Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs Marlene McDonald will officially name the new NCC board some time this week.

The Express contacted the various Carnival organisations for feedback on Chin Lee's proposed appointment and got positive feedback to the move.

National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA) president Owen Hinds said: "He seems to be a very straight forward person and I am of the opinion that he would bring some value to the NCC, especially with his experience in the private sector and Government."

Mahindra Satram-Maharaj, chairman of the National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF), which is part of the NCC board but has over 100 members, said: "In principle we would have no objections because we are prepared to work with anyone who has the interest of Carnival as long as they are ready to work with us."

President of Pan Trinbago, Patrick Arnold, added: "I have no problem with Chin Lee. Pan Trinbago dealt with him when he was the Minister of Tourism and we had a good relationship. I believe he is quite competent."

Outgoing president of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) Michael Leggerton noted: "I have no problems with Howard Chin Lee. If they have chosen him to be the new chairman then they would have known that there is something he has to bring to the table."

Friday, September 26, 2008

Cutting Style: A Taste of Trinidad and Tobago in Fashion and Textiles

Trinidad and Tobago bring high fashion to Toronto
Panorama
by Jon Sarpong


September 25, 2008 3:42 PM

The vibrant energy of the Caribbean will be on display as nationals from Trinidad and Tobago celebrate Republic Day in Toronto with Cutting Style: A Taste of Trinidad and Tobago in Fashion and Textiles.

The fashion gala takes place at the Westin Harbour Castle on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m.


"This event celebrates the culture of Trinidad and Tobago culture," said publicist Wendy Vincent. "It's a grand affair. and we invite families, friends and all those who connect with the region to join us at the gala."

Cutting Style is a joint production of the Trinidad and Tobago Community (via the program advisory committee, representing nationals in Toronto) and the Consulate General of Trinidad and Tobago. The principal objective of the gala is to celebrate Trinidad and Tobago's cultural gifts to the world by promoting the region's fashion and textile industry in the Canadian market.


The event also acts as a fundraiser aimed at providing assistance to children who are living with AIDS in Trinidad and Tobago. A portion of the evening's proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ross Nursery, an organization owned and operated by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, which acts out a vision of supporting and encouraging children.

The gala, which works to raise the profile of Trinidad and Tobago in Canada, has become a signature event for individuals throughout the GTA.

"When thinking about the impact of those from Trinidad and Tobago within this city, people most obviously think of Caribana," Vincent said. "But there is so much more in the way of contribution that is tied to our community. This event attempts to showcase that wide range of involvement."

The event will include the conferral of the Consul General's Diaspora Award for Excellence. This year's recipients are Eleanor Wiltshire-Rodney of Hamilton for her dedication and perseverance displayed through a lifetime of community involvement and Earl La Pierre Sr., a noted musician and educator who will receive honours for his decades of promotion of the steel pan in Ontario. A special award will be conferred on the Naparima Alumni Association of Canada for its 35 years of community work, as well as the group's major contribution to the seven schools in Trinidad and Tobago that belong to the Naparima group.

"Our unique T and T (Trinidad and Tobago) cultural expressions will of course be displayed and demonstrated and our guests will be greeted in true Trini style," said Rita Cox, a partner and organizer of the event. "The stage will be adorned with fabric of rich hues and patterns featuring T and T designs, batik and hand-painted material. This will be a gala with a difference; a new and exciting way of exploring and celebrating some of the many gifts that the people of Trinidad and Tobago share with the world."

For tickets, scheduling and information connected with Cutting Style: A Taste of Trinidad and Tobago in Fashion and Textiles, call Joan Pierre at 905-201-2836 or Bonnie Hector at 905-665-5496.

Jon Sarpong is a diversity consultant. He provides independent diversity training and consultation for various organizations. Contact Jon by e-mailing jsarpong@hotmail.com.

Word on the Street

Here's something fun to do this Sunday.....

Sunday, September 28th, 2008
11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Queen's Park


Join us as Toronto kicks off the fall book season with previews of some of the leading Canadian books that may go on to win major literary prizes and dominate the bestseller lists.

On the last Sunday in September, Queen's Park will transform into a booklover's paradise with a marketplace of more than 258 book and magazine exhibits, 248 of Canada's top authors, poets, storytellers and presenters and 198 readings, performances, workshops and other events.

The award-winning Toronto festival delivers a full day of fun for all ages, whether you want to learn how to get published at the Wordshop Marquee, sing along with the crowd at the TVOKids Stage, take in some of Toronto's best arts entertainment, listen to a favourite author read from their latest book, or just sit under the leafy canopy of Queen's Park and enjoy a new found treasure. There is always plenty to see and do at Canada's largest book and magazine festival, and best of all, The Word On The Street and all of its events are FREE!

http://www.thewordonthestreet.ca/toronto/home.asp

A Toronto Fashion Gala with Liz Mannette!

A message from Liz Mannette....

Hello all,

Thank you so much for signing up with us both during the 2008 Toronto. Caribana celebrations as well as at our website www.lizmannette.com. We had a great time in Toronto and we’re coming back at the end of Caribbean Week! The Liz Mannette Collection has been asked to participate in the Fashion Gala hosted by the TT Consulate on September 27, 2008 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel.

Our items of sterling silver and 14K gold will be accessorizing four of Trinidad’s top clothing designers on the catwalk at this elegant affair. In addition to the fashion show, our Collection will be set up on display so people can view the items and purchase their favourite pieces. To obtain further information on the event, please contact Joan Pierre at japierre@rogers.com. This is a great opportunity to maintain connections with our Toronto friends as well as make new ones.

We greatly appreciate the support you’ve shown us by signing up and in turn, we’ve tried to keep you updated on the exciting things that Liz Mannette has been up to via our monthly Newsletter. We hope that you have been enjoying the updates and we look forward to bringing you much more news on sale promotions, events and opportunities. If you have not been receiving our monthly Newsletter, please sign up at our website anytime.

Thank you again for the support and please feel free to check out our online store at http://lizmannette.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f95932bae0e394f74fc88f620&id=2768ff3d57&e=2d0483bfa1 where you can start being rewarded for your purchases.

Best Regards,

Liz Mannette

CARIBBEAN FAIR AT DUNDAS SQUARE

Caribbean Fair at Dundas Square

Friday, September 26 at the corner of Yonge and Dundas Streets in Toronto (www.ydsquare.ca)

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

All are invited to the heart of the city to experience the jewels of the Caribbean. In an explosion of Caribbean food, live music, and electric atmosphere; be temporarily transported in mind and senses to experience the many Secrets of the Caribbean. Premium giveaways and traditional food sampling will also be offered. Representatives from the Caribbean destinations, airlines, tour operators and hotels will be on hand to promote travel to the Caribbean.

This event is open to the public. Free admission.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Wee International's Candy Shop


Welcome to the Candy Shop.......

Wee International is set to bring to us the "first ever band lauch on the world wide web". The lauch of their 2009 Carnival presentation, The Candy Shope is scheduled to take place this evening (Thursday, September 25, 2008) at 7:00 p.m. and can be viewed at the following sites:
www.trinifetes.com and www.blinkbroadband.tt

Wee's website is pretty cool so I'm looking forward to seeing their offering for 2009.

Check out the website at http://www.weeint.com/

Friday, September 19, 2008

Today, in Soca news.....Shurwayne Winchester

Wednesday September 17, 2008 (Trinidad & Tobago) - Shurwayne Winchester has submitted his resignation to the band, 'Caribbean Traffik Jam'. An amicable separation occurred between the former lead vocalist and the band's management, now leaving way for the introduction of great things to come from the SW Limited team.

Shurwayne's tenure with Traffik has spanned a number of years and although his commitment to the business of soca music remains a main factor and priority, he has thoughtfully come to the subtle conclusion that a step in a new direction is now necessary for both the development of his career and for the continued enjoyment of his fan-base.

With one month's notice given to his band-mates and the relative officiators, before his official departure on October 16th, 2008, Shurwayne and his team are confident that this step is certainly one taken in the right direction and will serve as a beneficial move to all parties involved.

Fans of the artiste who has notably delivered two consecutive Road March title tracks in 2004 and 2005 along with Groovy and Power Monarch contenders and essentially winners are now invited to stay tuned and extremely informed as a transformation, the likes of which will amaze, will be revealed in the weeks ahead.

For further insight on this and many other issues related to Shurwayne Winchester, his fans and his music, log on to www.shurwaynewinchester.com

++++++++++++++++++++
Courtesy of Toronto-Lime

Monday, September 15, 2008

New Bands for Caribana??

The Toronto Mas Bands Association (TMBA) is accepting applications for two (2) new competitive (costumed) bands wishing to take part in the 2009 Scotiabank Caribana Parade.



Applications Must Be Received No Later than September, 26, 2008



For further information, contact

Nip Davis @ 416-286-0097

or e-mail to nipdavis@hotmail.com



By mail: Nip Davis

5 Oak Knolls Crest, Scarborough

Ont., M1B 4V1

Sweet Pan in Toronto........Autumn Leaves on Steel

The 5th edition of Autumn Leaves on Steel take place on Saturday October 11th, 2008 at the Ontario Science Centre. Advance Tickets are $30.00. Check out the flyer for more details or visit http://www.panartsnetwork.ca/




"PAN BELONGS ON A WORLD STAGE"
- Max Roach

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

bmobile International Top-up

While surfing the net this evening I stumbled upon this special offer from bmobile. Apparently, one can now top up bmoblile accounts of friends and family from overseas. Just visit any location in the U.S. or Canada displaying the International Top Up Sign and follow these instructions as indicated on the bmoblie website:

Here's how
:
  • Provide the correct bmobile number to be topped up, making sure to specify T&T's country code 868 e.g. 868 123 4567
  • Request any amount between $5 and $75 in the currency where the top-up is being purchased e.g. $20 USD or $20 CAN
  • Pay for the value of the top-up requested
  • The cashier/agent will send the top-up to the mobile phone specified
  • The credit is applied to the bmobile number specified in TT dollars and the recipient will receive a text message alerting them that they have received a top-up

Recipients must have an active bmobile prepaid account

I haven't noticed any of these International Top Up signs in Toronto and the website doesn't provide a list of locations.......sooooo if you know of a spot or have used this new feature let me know if its worth trying. I would mind topping up my mum or dad's account once in a while. However, I am feeling a little bit sorry for all those people who already have to deal with a thousand and one requests from overseas family members.....Send dis for meh,bring dat for meh. Now they'll be hearing.....Top me up!!! LOL.....bmobile yuh good......

SOCACIZE

Well, I'll be honest......since the end of Booty Fitness Camp in early August I haven't done much in terms of keeping up my exercise routine. I know, I know.....ah stickin'!!


So to overcome this lull and to stay in shape as the fall season rapidly approaches I have decided to sign up for.......

So what is SOCACIZE you say......


SOCACIZE™
A creative blend of high/low impact aerobics, African and indigenous Caribbean dance movements performed to Calypso, Soca, Zouk, Reggae music and on occasion drums. Prepare for a one hour SOCA jam! Socacize™ includes cardio, weight training, toning and tightening drills and combos to help you tone those troubled spots: arms, abs, legs and butts! The ultimate goal of the program is to work-out with emphasis on carefully selected music and movements to synchronize with the mind and body to burn calories FAST (up to 1000 per session).


WOW....am I ready for this?


SOCACIZE was started by Ms. Ayana Lee Rivears. Here is a a little bio on her as taken from the SOCACIZE website:


Ayanna Lee-Rivears is a dancer, SOCACIZE / aerobics instructor, teacher and choreographer. She started dancing at the age of 12 with Ballet Jordan in Toronto, where she was trained in ballet, modern, and jazz. As a native of Trinidad and Tobago, Ayanna was interested in learning the dance styles practiced in that particular country. With a threshold of confidence, Ayanna ventured to Caribbean Folk Performers where she was exposed to indigenous Caribbean, African and Modern Contemporary dance styles. During this time she established a reputation as “Limbo Dancer Extraordinaire” which has in turn, led her to tour extensively in the USA, Virgin Islands, Asia, Canada and the Caribbean. She has also opened for Destiny’s Child with the Boom
Tang Boys at the Royal Thompson Hall.

After completing the Fitness Instructor Certified Program at Canadian Fitness Profession (Can-Fit-Pro) Ayanna started “Socacize™ to promote a fun way to exercise with a combination of dance moves, weight and strength training. She works closely with various fitness centres (Premier Fitness, Flirty Girls, etc.), corporate companies, recreation centres, schools, and dance companies. Ayanna currently conducts these spirited and energetic classes throughout the GTA.


Classes throughout the GTA. That means there could be a class in your neighbourhood so why not sign up!!


Check out the website for more info: http://www.socacize.com/

The 2008 Fall Schedule has not been posted on the website yet so here is the class info I received by email:

2008 Fall Sessions
&
**NEW**
Soca Salsa!
Enjoy flirtatious and sensuous dance routines
With a fusion of soca, salsa and mambo music
Learn Soca Salsa from Basic to advanced dance patterns

Soca Salsa
Schedule
Scarborough **NEW** location
Tropicana Community Services
670 Progress Avenue, Unit 14
(Progress & Consillium Place Dr.)
Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm
September 30, October 14, October 21
October 28, November 4, November 11,
November 18, November 25, December 2nd

9 sessions (single)-$126.00
Drop-in $16.00 per class

SOCACIZE™
Fall Schedule
Brampton
JC Dance Complex
181 Rutherford Rd. S, Unit #1 (2min off hwy 410)
Sundays 2-3pm
September 28, October 05, October 19,
October 26, November 02, November 09
November 16, November 23, November 30
(No classes October 12)

9 sessions $126.00; Drop-in $16.00 per class
________________________________

Brampton **NEW**
SOCACIZE ™ KIDS (8-12yrs)
JC Dance Complex
181 Rutherford Rd. S, Unit #1 (2min off hwy 410)
Sundays 1-2pm
September 28 Oct 05 October 19
October 26 November 02 November 09
November 16 November 23 November 30
(No classes October 12)

9 sessions $90.00; Drop-in $12.00 per class
________________________________

Scarborough **NEW LOCATION**
SOCACIZE ™ KIDS (8-12yrs)
Tropicana Community Services
670 Progress Avenue, Unit 14
(Progress & Consillium Place Dr.)
Saturdays 12:30-1:30pm
September 27, October 4, October18,
October 25, November 1, November 8,
November 15, November 22, November 29
(No classes October 11)

9 sessions $90.00; Drop-in $12.00 per class
________________________________

Scarborough **NEW LOCATION**
Tropicana Community Services
670 Progress Avenue, Unit 14
(Progress & Consillium Place Dr.)
Saturdays 1:30-2:30pm
September 27, October 4, October18,
October 25, November 1, November 8,
November 15, November 22, November 29
(No classes October 11)

9 sessions $126.00; Drop-in $16.00 per class
____________________________

Maple
SOCACIZE ™ KIDS (8-12yrs) **NEW**
Dance Passion Studio
3175 Rutherford Rd, (Unit #65)
Concord, ON (Vaughan Mills Plaza)
Sundays 10:00-11:00 am
September 28, October 05, October 19
October 26, November 02, November 09
November 16, November 23, November 30
(No classes October 12)

9 sessions $99.00; Drop-in $13.00
__________________________________

Maple
Dance Passion Studio
3175 Rutherford Rd, (Unit #65)
Concord, ON (Vaughan Mills Plaza)
Sundays 11:00-12:00 noon
September 28, October 05, October 19
October 26, November 02, November 09
November 16, November 23, November 30
(No classes October 12)

9 sessions $135.00; Drop-in $17.00
__________________________________

Downtown
Aurora Live INC
392 Queen St. (Queen & Parliament)
Thursdays 5:30-6:30 pm
October 2, October 9, October 16
October 23, October 30, November 06
November 13, November 20, November 27

9 sessions $135.00; Drop-in $17.00
__________________________________


**Special Promotions**

Early Bird Soca Salsa Special
Register for 9 sessions by September 12th & save $14

Valued Member 9 session’s -Free!
Register 2 or more friends or family members
(Maple & Downtown locations only)

Returning Member Appreciation - 10% discount
Socacize™ sessions
________________

Gift Certificates Available
________________

Registration

Ayanna
Cell: 416-728-5545
ayanna@socacize.com
www.socacize.com
Look out For
Socacize Appreciation Event in September– details to follow soon!

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