‘Skandalus’ crowned Tobago senior king of the bands

In the senior parade of the bands in Scarborough, “Skandalus” with its presentation The King’s Court emerged winners, “Lue Ann and Associates” with its presentation The United Kingdom of Great Britain was second and “Gloria Stoute Next Generation” was third with Gathering of the Tribes.

Winners in the medium parade of the bands, first “Lindley & Associates” with Butterfly Utopia, second “Frolic Central” and third “Gems City”. While in the small band category “Minstrels of Tobago” copped first place, “Mas Masters” second and “Francis & Associates” were third.

Jouvert king winner was George Leacock and Blair Harrypersad was crowned queen. Jouvert band title in Scarborough was won by Radio Tambrin 92.7fm with “Legendary”, the presentation Oil Spill @Labrea.com was second and “Bagatelle Crew” was third.

Source:expresstrinidad

Tobago Mas Men Unhappy

Yesterday some of Tobago bandleaders vented their frustration over the horrid organisation and judging of the Carnival bands in Tobago. The Tobago Carnival Bands Association has now called on the Tobago House of Assembly's Chief Secretary to intervene in this Band of the Year results controversy. 

The Carnival Bands Association noted that persons judging the events were not qualified to do so as they did not have the slightest clue as to what they should be doing or examining. Many of the Band leaders also noted they had to repay the Commission the grant issued for Carnival because the commission stationed persons during the Carnival to count how many persons were in the Band. For the monies given the Commission demanded at least 20 persons in the various Bands.

The Tobago bandleaders has therefore called for the resignation of the Festival Committee in wake of the Band of the Year results. In wake of all this, the Tobago Festival Commission says it will investigate the Band of the Year results.

Tobago bands bring flavour to the stage

More than 20 bands— small, medium and large—crossed the stage in Scarborough on Carnival Tuesday, in a sea of colour and creativity.

Revellers danced and pranced yesterday to the music of Austin "SuperBlue" Lyons, along with the spectators who came out in their numbers, to enjoy the final day of Carnival 2013. The popular choice was SuperBlue's "Fantastic Friday".

Among the bands to parade before the judges was Lue Ann Melville and Associates with her presentation of A Taste of Tobago.

This band was one of the large bands to cross the stage, with sections including the Spirit of the Reef, Drums of Freedom, and the Guardian of the Rain Forest.

Melville said while the making of a Carnival band is an expensive one, she has no regrets.

"I will always continue with my mas as long as God gives me health and strength," she said.

Other bands included Lindy Melville and Associates and her presentation of Precious Gems, which included the Tiger's Eyes' bright yellow feathers which fluttered before the judges, along with other fun colours of purple and peach.

There was also Trinbago Flavours by Sandra Gopaul, with some of the tasty food Tobago is famous for, including the ever-popular crab and dumpling.

Activities continued into the night with traditional mas and the senior band of the day.

Reproduced from Trinidadexpress

Tobago Be HIV Smart This Carnival

In less than one week our entire country would be in full "free up" mode. Carnival is known as a time which celebrates with whine and jam, revelry, and high levels of consumption of alcohol. As such,  this season is categorized and known as a high-risk period for transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, however, there is little education and awareness on the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases prevention during this time of the year.

At this time of year, emphasis should be placed on behavior modification programmes. Society have accepted many  lax conduct for carnival and as this behavior become coupled with the increase consumption of alcohol, many persons may be prone to making irrational decisions with dire consequences to their lives. 

As we prepare to revel,drink, dance and let loose our selves let us be HIV smart. The battle agaisnt HIV is every ongoing and sometimes society's activities may work counter to the efforts that we make. Remember abstinence is the key to zero cases of infection, but if you may engage in sexual activities use a condom. 

Remember Prevention is better than Cure. 

Tips to remember

•Always walk with your own condoms

•Know your limit with alcohol and other substances
•Reduce your risk- no need to go all the way.
•Keep to your partner
•Get tested regularly
•Know your rights

For more information, contact Red Initiatives at redtnt@gmail.com or call 687-6536, 301-0690 or 664-1863.