HII guys... a Story..Necessity is the Mother of Invention

Wednesday, September 23, 2009 clivia 4 Comments

So I really apologise....but MAS has taken over my life...and I havent been able to give my running commentary on things. I intend to schedule updates into my life ...so that it becomes a daily ritual instead of a sporadic thing.


So I wanted to share a MAS story today..


When you see a costume on the road...that involved a back pack or headpiece..please PLEASE acknowledge the Time, Talent and effort it took to make this slight looking, un assumable piece that your wearing.


It can Be dangerous...lol. So "Clivia the Artist" finally decided to take things into her own hands...literally..and instead of waiting on someone to do this for me ...attempted to do it herself. 

Solder! yes people... welll I cant even call it Soldering. Its WELDING. Yup. Bought me a flame torch, and flux, and pipe cutter...and gloves and visor. Watched Damn YOU TUBE for hours for instructions...lol...cause if they can do it why the hell cant I..right? 

And Your girl is currently framing out her own custom backpack. DAMMIT!! 

Wire benders are amazingly talented..and simple frames are easy for a novice like me. Headpieces sure...Collars sure. My backpack before were more of a Novice/Alternative materials effort...and while they came out beautifully, It felt more craft-ish than professional.

But I've been dreaming about this backpack and drawing it for someone to produce always ends up with a misinterpreted shape.

So your girl gone brave...and making her own frame. EYYY...them torches scary no backside!! I kept having visions of half my face scorched off...and wearing a phantom of the opera mask on the road. I almost soaked my clothes down..just in case a spark flew off and landed anywhere...

So there I am, out on the back patio......dressed in long sleeves in 74 degrees, SUNGLASSES[ didnt have the regulation eye protection], hair tied back and under [No Michael Jackson Moments], sneakers...[people who know me know that this ALONE is something to bring snow to florida]....

Trimming tubing, warming metal....bending it in the shape I want...CAN YOU BELIEVE IT???! Fusing parts...realizing that you have to go in with a plan and layout..before you even turn the torch on. It was so much fun!!

I always said if i could find a Carnival Arts Programme...I would be on it like boiled corn...but necessity is the mother of invention. And I must say....the first trial was rough...lol. but now that i understand the process...Im
SOOOOO excited..and I cant wait to go finish this up.

Wish Me Luck...

Ill show pictures after..


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Friday October 9th 2009

Monday, September 14, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Rise Miami Meets Shine NYC

 Event 3 Friday 9th (4am-Noon)Fantabulous: 
WE Love the Sun Rise Miami meets Shine NYC@ Nocturnal
50 NE 11th Street Downtown Miami 
GO yellow. Bring Your shades.
Wassi One and Back 2 Basics
~~~~~
Black and White Safari

PRESENTS
Black and White, Safari
...The Carnival Edition
An eclectic blend of people from different Nations in Unity
Voted the best Carnival FREE Drinks party for 8 Years
Men & Women: Wear Black! Wear White! Wear Black and White!
Wear yuh animal prints!
@ The Jungle Palace
6101 NW 31st Street, Margate, FL 33063)
15 minutes from Downtown Fort Lauderdale
MUSIC BY
Dorenzo, Sound Rev, Back to Basics, Anonymous, Private Ryan, Sprang International
Admission: Advance Tickets $50.00


~~~~~~~~
Miami Vice

Carnival Friday October 9th 2009
Ice Palace - Downtown Miami
Bunji • FayeAnn • Asylum • Benjai • Denise Belfon • Problem Child
 • Skinny Fabulous • Hunter • Sizwe C • Crossovah
Music by: Kwesi Criss • Eternal Vibes • Crown Prince • Tony Tempo • Savage Won







Hosted by: Papa Keith • Foxy Roxy


Presented by: IP Music • Input Productions • Visionz Entertainment

Tickets start at $35.00
~~~~~
Soca Gold Miami







*** SUPERBLUE ****** KROSFYAH ***
*** BLACK STALIN ****** SCRUNTER ***
*** NADIA BATSON ****** NELSON ***
*** BYRON LEE'S DRAGONNAIRRES *** (Special Tribute to the Dragon)
*** SUNSHINE BAND ****** TIGRESS ***
*** OSCAR B. ***
Friday, October 9, 2009 at 10:00pm
GALAXY SKATEWAY
3737 N. Davie Road Ext.
Davie, FL 
~~~~~
SOCAVIVOR Event 4 International Flag Night


Jouvert/block party
International flag night
Gates open 10pm-10am
@ club space  34 ne 11th downtown miami (indoor/outdoor)
Zan/destra/machel montano/lyrikal/sizwe c/ricky t/ilah/peter ram/ skinny fabolous/red hot flames/nayee of wck/clint of wck/mr benjai n2o/avvy/pumpa/jabba giselle d’wassi one/dj khaled/   more tba
Soca music by: house arrest/g.b/mix master roderick/d-life/frankie mix-a-lot/natural freaks/super b/spoil bratz/mac 10/dorenzo/dj stephen
Reggae room:lady terror /massive b/steelie bashment/young chow/platinum kidz/walshy fire/bashment kid/cancer hi-power/jah stream/fergie & springer/street league/bulletproof
$40 advance tix available
www.socavivor.com
 ~~~~~
SUPERFRIENDS October 9 2009
Brand New Night
Brand New Location
Carnival Friday Nights are safe again thanks too the...
Super FRIENDS!!!!
..... Stay Tuned
Information/Guestlist:
Contact Collin at (954) 673-5734 or at sixaxisent@gmail.com | www.sixaxisent.com
Friday, October 09th, 2009
10:00 PM - 04:00 AM

The Living Room
671 Washington Ave
Miami Beach, FL USA 33139
sixaxisent.com
~~~~~
Scruples Free Blocko
Featuring:
-KES THE BAND
DJ's:
Hi Fidelity | Less than Zero | Rebel | Hypa Hoppa



Soho Studios Miami
2136 NW 1st Ave
Miami, FL USA 33127



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Carnival Thursday Oct 8th Fete Listings

Monday, September 14, 2009 clivia 0 Comments


Socaviv0r 2 - Naughty Or Nice




Event 2 - Naughty or Nice
Wear black to be Naughty, White to be nice
Everyone $15 in all black or all white b4 12am
Music by Massive B, D Life, Walshy Fire, Super B, Natural Freaks, Bulletproof

Opium Garden
136 Collins Ave
Miami, FL USA 33139
~~~

GIRL POWER
Online Tickets here


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sooooo...the Parties... MONDAY!! Socavivor Welcome to Miami

Monday, September 14, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

WEDNESDAY..
Socavivor Series 1 - Welcome to Miami.

Everyone in Green $10 b4 12am
Music by: House Arrest, GB, Back 2 Basics, Young Chow, Spoil Bratz
Club Bed
925 Washington Ave
South Beach
Miami, FL USA 33139


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2009 Official Miami-Broward One Carnival Launching!

Thursday, August 20, 2009 clivia 3 Comments

Look for the VIBRATIONZZ TENT!! And LIVE models in Costumes
finally live coverage from Brown girl...i been slacking i know ...i know


More Info
OFFICIAL MIAMI-BROWARD ONE CARNIVAL LAUNCHING
Saturday, August 22, 2009 @ 9pm to 4 am
location: Mahi Temple, Miami

$10 in advance/More at the Door
1480 NW North River Drive
Roger George, Leon Coldero & Code 868
DJ Mixmaster Roderick, Maestro, Dorenzo, Gary Enforcement, Eternal Vibes
Food by ANNA
Display of costumes of all registered Miami-Broward Mas Bands and Steelbands
28 Mas Bands registered, plus steel bands
Call 305-653-1877

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BUDGET Budget Budget vs Labor Of Love

Thursday, August 13, 2009 clivia 4 Comments

So, Ive been talking to couple section leaders and band leaders for Miami Carnival. and the topic du jour of course is Budget.

With the economy as it is, it's almost becoming a decision by band leaders or section leaders to risk their personal financial position and continue with production or sit out the season.

With Trinidad and Labor Day carnival already upon us, band leaders are finding issues, with materials, and of course production. When you were able to find production groups willing to schedule the time to make costumes for Miami Carnival, because of the seasons being so close together, your finding that your sources for swim suits, for production, for materials, are choosing to pass on your offer because they are ALREADY overwhelmed for Trinidad Carnival.

Which then means sourcing your labor locally. For some bands this is not a problem, but for others it makes things very difficult and would then involve in house production when most people have a 9-5 as well as a mas band.

On top of that is the fact that in Miami you cannot afford to outprice yourself. while people will pay 200+ dollars for costumes in New York for Labor day, for some STRANGE reason, they wont pay that price in Miami. Materials are more expensive, even when bought in bulk, and you cant pass on that bump in price to the masquerader.

So when you go to your section leader or band leader or Mas band, Make sure you tell them thank you for doing this..because it sure as HELL not about profit...its a labor of love.


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One Carnival - If you are having second thoughts..

Wednesday, August 12, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Why Miss this??

* There are TWENTY SIX registered bands participating!!! Twenty six! This does not include the steelbands and non competing entrants in the parade.
* Clearchannel is a sponsor and there will be non-caribbean press and community groups from many english and non english speaking countries that have their own type of carnival..including a Brazil contingent, and a samba school.
* The Streets of Miami have been allocated to the carnival for 11 hours. Let me explain. The Streets. The Party continues in the park...till the following morning.
* I'll have the parade route and times for you in the next few weeks.
* The launch of the carnival is at Mahi Temple In august. EVERY registered band must participate and present. Its going to be almost a Tent City, where each band creates a presentation that should coincide with the Theme of their presentation. And Yes. It is a competition.
WHOOO HOOO.. Admission is $10.00 in advance. All the dj's registered with the individual bands are slated to play, including local soca bands!!

Stay tuned..
Cliv

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Reshoot - Show Girls

Wednesday, August 12, 2009 clivia 4 Comments




I did a reshoot of Show girls this weekend, because I thought it didnt represent well in the first shoot.
Here are the new pics. Opinions?








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Playing Mas for Beginners in Miami

Sunday, August 09, 2009 clivia 2 Comments

If you're playing mas for the first time in Miami, the biggest step is research. Some people believe that you can only play mas in a band where you know someone or someone knows you. If you're playing with a crew or group.. It doesn't matter.

Your priority should be, value for your budget. Most bands in Florida are all inclusive - In that you pay one price and you're provided with your costume, meals, drinks and snacks for the day. Once you have the adequate food and drink, your costume fits and your music is on point, WHO CARES WHO YOU PLAY WITH!! Your process should involve searching for the websites or attending the band launches of the bands registered to play in Florida.

When you find a costume in your price range, you pay your deposit, and at that point most bands will adequately direct you as to what your next steps should be.

If you're playing solo, my bias is for the smaller bands. They tend to embrace you and make you feel as if you are a part of their group, probably because they have more people on hand and more time to attend to the individual needs of their masqueraders. I'm not saying that the large bands are inattentive just that they may not be as hands on as the small to medium size bands.

Miami Carnival Inc's website is a great starting point. They have an updated list of the bands registered to play mas in the parade. There you will find all the contact information, emails, websites and phone numbers of the bands and you can start your process there.

Here is the list as of this post
MAS BANDS
21st Century Steel Orchestra
contact: Mike Kernahan 516-996-8906 ranellis@caribbeanaffairs.info

Acapai Players
contact: Patricia Roberts 786-337-0552 acapai@yahoo.com

Belize Association
contact: Wayne Savery 305-200-1589

Break Awae Kru
contact: Ricky Byer grbyer30@aol.com

Caribbean USA (CUSA) "Pirates Invasion"
contact: Doc Mahabir 786-390-3204 hmahabir1@hotmail.com
www.caribbeanusa.com

Carnival Nationz
contact: Lesley Anne Chantack 954-298-3381
www.carnivalnationzmiami.com

China Mas Group "Celebration"
contact: Alicia Gibbs 305.969.2981 Chinamasgroup@hotmail.com
www.chinamasgroup.com

Community Vibe Organization
contact: Susan Perry-StAnge 239-692-6321 nyolatrinifam@hotmail.com
www.communityvibe.webs.com

D' Gathering
contact: Inskip Morris 954.478.0681 landaudjl@bellsouth.net

Euphoria Promotions
contact: Cassy Sealy 954-610-3516 csealy924@bellsouth.net

Fun Generation
contact: Anthony Irish 786-308-6258 fun.generation@yahoo.com
www.fungeneration.org

Funatics
contact: Tyrone Silva 561-373-1878 djcobra55@aol.com

Generation X "Candy Land"
contact: Gregory Antoni 305-233-0697 generationx@bellsouth.net
www.generationxmiami.com

Major Players
contact: Ruby Allison Limere 305-318-6759 ralimere@aol.com
www.majorplayersmasband.net

Mas Warriors
contact: Claudette Marryshow 754-423-3714 camarryshow@yahoo.com
www.maswarriors.com

Mascots
contact: Nicole Sankar 954-249-1039 nikki_mia@hotmail.com
www.mascotsinternational.com

Miami Pan Symphony Steel Orchestra 2001 Inc.
contact: Carol Barnet (305)233-6135 christineduv@yahoo.com

Middle Essence
contact: Jacinta Seunarine 954-673-3886 jacinta0606@yahoo.com

Musketeers International, Inc.
contact: Pieter Hendrichus 305-495-3440 pieter.hendrichus@gmail.com

Natural Freaks Unlimited
contact: Grayson Peters 718.781.2129 daddygrace1@gmail.com

Party People "Reflections of the Rain Forest"
contact: Michelle Crichlow 305-652-8648 partypeoplemiami@gmail.com
www.partypeoplemas.com

Party Room Squad
contact: Carl Montes 305.301.8538 Montes_cm@bellsouth.net

Riverland Mas Band
contact: Elka Cools 754-214-4608 riverlandmas@yahoo.com
www.riverlandmas.com

Skan D Lus International
contact: Ivy Lewis 786-380-3038 trinlu710@yahoo.com
www.skandlusinternational.com

Ti Chapo
contact: Rolyde Azard 954-536-9407 rolaz9@yahoo.com
www.tichapo.com

Unies International
contact: Alison Adams 954-253-1614 unies@hotmail.com
www.unies.org

VI Treasures
contact: Annette Samuel 954-677-4170 vitreasures@yahoo.com
ww.myspace.com/vitreasures

Vibrationzz
contact: Kizzy Alleyne 954-655-5597 kizzy@vibrationzz.com
http://www.vibrationzz.com

Wassi Ones
contact: Giselle Blanche Thewassione@aol.com
www.wyldness.com

Wifresh Entertainment
contact: Michael Wiggins 321-443-8454 mstrwonder718@yahoo.com
www.caribbeanvibes.org

Most bands have a website that will allow you to pay your deposit online. Balances are paid in cash at the time of pick up and instructions will be given to you then, as to where and when to pick up your costume.This is also a good time to meet your point person, as if there are any issues you can contact them.

Most out of towners arrive in Florida on the Friday or Saturday before the parade on Sunday. If you expect to get into town later that the date assigned for your section, make sure to contact your point person and make special arrangements for pick up.

Keep track of your payments and balances and keep them all in a file. Keep note of the address for your pick up location and the times for your specific section. And most of all have fun.

The Miami experience is unique. Enjoy it!

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Vegas Lights - Showgirls

Tuesday, August 04, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Show Girls Yellow & Purple










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Vegas Nights - Black Jack

Tuesday, August 04, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Black Jack - Frontline and Backline










Type your summary here

Type rest of the post here

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Vegas Nights 2009 - Vegas Lights

Tuesday, August 04, 2009 clivia 0 Comments


Vegas Lights









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Vegas Nights - The Costumes - Jack Pot

Tuesday, August 04, 2009 clivia 1 Comments

Why I've been So Busy.
Our photo shoot was this weekend.
Here are the pictures :)

JACK POT!







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2009 Miami-Broward One Carnival Band - FUN GENERATION!!

Friday, July 31, 2009 clivia 1 Comments

Fun Generation is one of the bands registered to play mas in the Miami-Broward One Carnival Parade.
Their Presentation is called: Splendor of The Seasons
There are four sections with various options on each one:

Spring Blossoms


Jewels In the Sun


Autumn Leaves


and
Winter Snow



Prices run from $150.00 to $170.00
Check their website here for pictures and options on Costumes.

See you on the road Fun Generation!
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Uhm...Shoes Anyone?

Friday, July 31, 2009 clivia 0 Comments


SOO...I'm already looking for boots to play mas in...for both Miami and Trinidad. After browsing Sweet 7 this morning...I started my annual search for my carnival boots, especially since I intend to break them in good and proper before I have to use them.

Over the years I've found a couple places that I go back to to check for boots. I play mas in Heels..In FLORIDA!! and for Trinidad this year, the plan is for a wedge heel - My feet ache when I wear flats.

So I figured I'd share them here:

There's Shoe Ocean
Price Range $36.00 to as Low as $10.00


Their boots run the gamut of colors and Heel styles, and the prices are so good that you can buy 3 at time and not have the guilt trip after! They also offer free shipping on orders over $100.00. What I like about them is that I can put in my shoe size, and like a personal shopper, bring up all the shoes available in your size.

I looked at these today :
Am I giving Hints???

I especially like the Camel one...because you can dress it to suit whatever youre wearing with a little paint and feathers and ..STUFF!! The most expensive of these is $30.00


There's also my constant fall back My Diva's Closet ...but that's not even secret!!.
Every carnival Diva I know goes to this site
Their boots though are usually on the HIGH side... Like these!



Then there's Gojane.com



Their options on flats are extensive, and their clearance prices sometimes drop as low as $10.00 so you can have options!! Check these out! That yellow one is $8.50!!!




Happy Shopping!!

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Vibrationzz Check List

Friday, July 31, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Prototypes Done
Photoshoot DONE Yessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
Website PENDING...Deadline Sunday August 2nd.

Registration Sunday August 2nd


:)

Thanks Models! and our sexy photographer :) and our host location!! Thank you!!!

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A Preview - Flamingo Casino

Wednesday, July 29, 2009 clivia 2 Comments

Like I probably mentioned before, I'm Creative Director of Vibrationzz Mas Band here in Florida, and like all the other bands gearing up for Miami Carnival, our reveal is ....phew ..almost here. :). As always with Mas, some things step out of your control and you deal with it as best as you can...but I believe I can SAFELY say....that our reveal will be this weekend. :)

However, thats not to stop me from sharing the pictures of the ONLY outside section that has been contracted to produce with Vibrationzz.

For Newbies, an Outside section means, that a seperate group or person will pay the Mas band a fee for each masquerader. They will in turn design, produce and market the section. For all other intents and purposes, the section is a part of the band and is treated as such.


Meet:

Flamingo Casino
A Section In Vibrationzz Mas 2009 Miami Carnival Presentation
of "Vegas Nights"
Produced by Rhonda Berment Designed By Christine Sadler


Rhonda is already accepting registrations for her section at her website: Flamingo Casino .
Check out More pics Here and Register here.
Costumes are $160.00 and there are multiple options for the body pieces:
i.e: One piece/Boy shorts etc.
Be sure to check her out!!!!!

Congrats Rons.

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While I've been busy

Friday, July 24, 2009 clivia 4 Comments

The following things have happened.

We had the launch of one of the new, well kinda new bands in Florida. Party People. Party People was one of the mas originators of the Miami Carnival. After a few years though the membership and e-board kind of merged into other bands, but with the 25 th anniversary of carnival and the merging of the carnivals this year they have re-emerged. You can see pics from their launch party and view their website here. You can also see pics of the launch at Islandbox.com


Another Section Euphoria in Wassi Ones Mas Band launched their presentation for carnival 2009. You can see their pics here.

There also was an event called the launch of One Carnival that was not in fact the official launch of the Miami-Broward One Carnival event, but some of the participating bands presented. I was unable to attend this event but will soon have a review from a person who did attend.

What is also of note is that I attended one of the Miami-Broward One Carnival Committee meetings where all the bands registered to parade were to attend.

When I tell allyuh Carnival is Bacchanal ...whether is Trinidad, Miami Or Timbuktu....Carnival is bacchanal. Things of note however is that all bands have to sign a contract stating that they understand the rules and regulations of the parade.

This was not an easy task, and I still feel like we left the meeting with so many things unresolved. I still feel too that bands are holding on to the negative feelings associated with the split of the carnivals in the first place. Instead of being combative, the bands should try to make this merged experience the best that it can be. I wish we could all let go of past experiences and face this new experience with an open mind.

Whats new. No T-shirt bands...hmmmmm. Bands will be penalized on points for starting late. hmmmmm. How can you force your masqueraders to be on time when they just left a party the night before? There are still soo many things to sort out. I hope the next meeting is more productive.

Things to look forward to

The reveal of MY BAND's presentation "Vegas Nights"
YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Generationx's Band Launch that I will be attending..

Stay tuned!!

Cliv Out!
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HI People - Update coming!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

I apologise for the LULL in information... a lot is going on, so I'm going to consolidate all the information in a post that Im working on now.

Carnival is REAL BACCHANAL!!


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I Have a Confession..

Tuesday, July 14, 2009 clivia 5 Comments

I

am


A LABOR DAY Carnival VIRGIN!!

yes I said it..

Never played mas on the parkway...
never went to a backyard party..
or a boat ride..Yeah i SAID it ...no boatrides...sigh
I know ...I'm embarrassed too ..
even the little sister did better than me..
My cousin plays every year...
and my carnival crew from NY always support me in Miami without fail...

Hopefully...i fix that this year... :)

Anyways... i have pics and posts coming soon....on the Launches that took place over the weekend.

see you soon

Cliv
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2009 Miami One Carnival Events - Socavivor - It's Fantastik!

Friday, July 10, 2009 clivia 2 Comments

It's Fantastik
7 Days NINE Events.



International Flag Night!!

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CUCHINI...! Pay Attention- The CAMEL TOE Eradicator

Wednesday, July 08, 2009 clivia 1 Comments

I cant take credit for this!!
My friend and blogger friend Nickie Nix is the one who brought it to my attention on her blog. I was cracking up when i noticed that you could send this "product" to people anonymously.

Welcome to "Cuchini" The CAMEL TOE eradicator.
Yes, they do have a website.
Yes, you can send them anonymously to the CT challenged.
But...
is it a carnival need.
Check the pics..



The Cuchini Pad

What is The Cuchini?

The Cuchini is a comfortable, light-weight material that adheres to any undergarment (panties, bikini, sports attire, etc). It smoothes the ridges of a woman’s mons pubis area providing a smooth and camouflaged appearance. This eliminates what is commonly known as "Camel Toe."

The Cuchini products are designed by women to provide comfort and convenience.

As we have evolved, hair down there is a thing of the past. As the landing strip and Brazilian wax have become prominent in today's world, there is no bush for the cush. And though Camel Toe may be a hot topic... it's not to the gal sporting it!
The "Cuchini."

1. Smoothes the ridges of a woman’s mons pubis area.
2. Keeps undergarments clean.
3. Can be used with or without underwear.

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

$5.95 Shipping on all domestic orders

Price: $16.95
List Price: $20.95
You Save: $4.00

check it out yourself....

Thanks Nix

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Recycled Costumes - Curioser and Curioser!!

Tuesday, July 07, 2009 clivia 3 Comments

Things are getting so interesting!

I jus read on Saucy and Sweet 7 that Carnival Nationz is offering its masqueraders in Toronto carnival the chance to play mas in Miami. I Mean a two for one deal is always good in this economy.

But...I know though that MCI has always stated that bands who use costumes that were used in another carnival were not able to compete for the prize money. In fact bands that we KNOWWW buy left over costumes from Triniad Carnival have to RE-DRESS the pieces...so that they dont get called out as full on Recycling. And believe me they DO GET called out!! Behind the scenes drama in Miami is off the chain!!

For the most part though bands in the MCI carnival have done their own production/assembling locally..so yes it gets dog eat dog if they THINK youre using costumes from a prior carnival..lol. Carnival is Bacchanal!!!

I wonder how they're gonna deal with that too? And do the masqueraders really care if their band is getting Judged or not?

So many questions for this One Carnival Committee?? I cant wait to get the answers..


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2009 Miami Broward One Carnival - Tshirt Bands or Not

Monday, July 06, 2009 clivia 3 Comments

Historically Miami Carnival committee has limited the amount of T-Shirt Bands in their carnival. I kind of understand their reasoning in that it detracts from the creativity and display that is associated with a true Carnival.

Outside of Natural Freaks in the parade, most bands have to adhere to the policy of a costume: In this case A Headpiece, wristbands, a neck piece and decorated belt.....to qualify as a costume. Bands that were adorned in a T-shirt could not possibly be judged in the same category as other bands who made the effort of creating a FULL costume, and they were judged as such.

Natural Freaks I BELIEVE were considered a MUD band - and a mud band is as inherent to carnival as the costumed bands. So they were afforded that distinction. But even they had to conform and have at least ONE costumed section in their presentation.

At many a MCI meeting arguments would break out between costumed bands as to why Natural Freaks was being allowed the PLEASURE of being the last band on the road. The reasoning was - They're a mud band. You don't want them dirtying up the pretty mas.

[What they didn't say is that the stragglers love this band....and that the crowd following them is so large that crowd control demands that they are last. I'm speaking for myself as a veteran mas player in Miami. After I cross the stage in my pretty costume..BEST BELIEVE I running back to catch Natural Freaks for a dutty jump up]

Broward Carnival though has been less stringent in the past about what defines a costume band. Tshirt and Camo bands abounded, but this too was an outlet for those who couldn't or wouldn't spend the higher cost of Pretty Mas. I'm intrigued to find out what the middle ground of this situation will be. Meetings re scheduled soon for the band leaders and the registered bands and hopefully this will be addressed then. I'll make sure to give you the details of the outcome.

I hope the decision is one that will keep all the varied types of masqueraders happy and participating.

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Blogger Blessings

Monday, July 06, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

I feel so BLESSED today. I wanted to thank two bloggers that i stalk on a regular basis for giving me a referral on their own popular blogs.

First I have to thank Saucy of Trinidadcarnivaldiary as referring me as her go to for info on Miami Carnival. PRESSHA now I cant ignore my blog and watch HGTV instead..I have to be worthy of the honor. Thank you Saucy!

And secondly I have to thank www.therealchattypatty.com for her blessings too. I read This blog daily right after I get my mediatakeout fix in the mornings..lol. I run to her blog for some daily insight. Like I told Patty, you never know where you are gonna find your motivation and inspiration for the day , and her blog has been that for me on many an occasion.

Thank you ladies...Keep writing...cause I'm reading :)

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2009 Miami-Broward One Carnival Launch

Friday, July 03, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

OFFICIAL MIAMI-BROWARD ONE CARNIVAL LAUNCHING
Saturday, August 22, 2009 @ 9pm to 5 am
Location: Mahi Temple, Miami
Code 868
Roger George,
Leon Coldero
DJs
Display of costumes of all registered Miami-Broward Mas Bands and Steelbands
Call 305-653-1877 for Information

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Miami-Broward One Carnival 2009 - Where you staying??

Thursday, July 02, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Ok...so you decide you coming for Carnival in Florida. Smart move.

So...where are you gonna stay? With your aunty that live there but that gonna lock you out when she realize day break reach and you ain't home yet?

Or with your friend from college who boyfriend act like he is a real sadist...and don't want people in he space?

Or your uncle who wake you up at 7am when you JUST reach home to feed you oatmeal for breakfast? Or how about if you decide you gonna "VISIT" a friend but you know you cant bring them home.

For some of you that don't have a cool ass relative ..lol...like me... who don't care that six people on the floor in blankets....as long as they driving themselves and you ain't have to pay for for them to get in the fetes...I suggest Extended stay Hotels. They have both suites and studios.

Now mind you , if you wanna turn the carnival weekend into a mini spa get away relax fest.....feel free to check out the Loews, Doubletree, the Delano, go right ahead.

But if you balling on a budget, and you really using to the room to S^&t, shower and shave....and you just wanna warm up some coffee in the morning and then hit the road...i suggest the Extended Stay Hotels.

And I'm not speaking generally, Ive stayed in them myself. Just try not to find one close to TRAIN TRACKS!! cause ahm...yeah...well.

BUT I digress, these places are clean, modern and fare way better than the motel. With double occupancy its even better....and all the money you save you can then put into a rental car. Most of them actually do packages with Hertz and you can get a discounted rate on your rental with a package deal.

All suites come with a fully-equipped kitchen, appliances and linens, Unlimited local phone use, a computer data port and personalized voice mail, Housekeeping and guest laundry facilities,Select properties offer exercise centers and pools.Wi-Fi high speed Internet access available in every room - chain wide!!

In ft Lauderdale from Friday to Friday, October 9th to the 16th [cause i checked] rooms start at 39.99 f0r double occupancy. In Miami, rooms start at 64.99 for double occupancy a night. Of course in Miami rates are higher...but it's more central. If you're planning to rent a car, it doesn't matter much because once on the turnpike everything is 15 minutes away!

Next Thing. Flying into Ft Lauderdale is always Cheaper! So Is staying there. Fares on everything is cheaper..and like I said the drive is 15 minutes to everywhere. I've also noted that the hotels seems to be more clean and well maintained.

So book early and Ball on a budget!

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I'm Excited!! Season Starting

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

The Band Launches starting soon....
Bands calling out for models for photo shoots....
So you know people guarding their info like mama birds guarding their eggs..
I love it!!!

Around this time the social hermits [myself included] start circulating again...
You want people to see you and ask you..."So what you doing for Carnival??"...
So that the next time they see you they approach you again....
That's the mas chick....we should talk to her..

You also wanna go out and get a feel of who people are excited about ...
and SWING that energy your way if you can..
Talk to Promoters ....work out your collaborations...
See what dj's people responding too..
Carnival is Bacchanaal...
And Strategy too....
Time to Listen
Every man for himself...

It's Carnival :) I'm planning to attend as many of the launches myself..
NOOO NOT TO MACO!! hahaha...
Steups ..Well Yes...what else you goh call it????.
I wanna See what people doing...
and see what spectrum our band/our designs fall into...completely unbiased of course...haaaaaaaaaaaa

Its not feasible in Miami to have the extravagance and luxury of Trinidad COSTUMES!!
But I think the COSTUME part is not the strength of Miami Carnival...
For People who Can't go home... and these days that a Large percentage...
Miami offers an escape in many ways - Climate,Energy...at a reasonable price...if you plan it right.

An escape from the day to day lives....if only for a moment . I think that's why new Yorkers CONVERGE on South Beach....so for a few days they live that SOBE Life...

Then for the parade, they can Imagine themselves home..
Drink on the road, Sun on your skin and Biscayne bay over the water..
That's precious for me.... and for many...

And a Joint carnival this year...just means there is more to share with everybody else...

Bigger and Better and Brighter and Badder!!

I CANT WAIT!!


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Honor Them while theyre here....Jesus Saves

Tuesday, June 30, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

Everybody's mourning of MJ is personal...
so instead of Hashing that here ..

This is what I'm saying...
We must honor our own...
and Honor them while they are Here... Alive and Kicking...

SOO all the people who laugh at me about Jesus...
...Be Prepared!! BE FOREWARNED!!

If you thought I had a David Rudder fixation.....or I'm a 3Canal groupie..poor you!!

And its not just about Machel...its About all the others too

I just wish we would Value our icons...before they pass...
Before we don't have access to the genius that they are anymore...

Especially with our own music...[calypso/kaiso]..
they're leaving us!!...with all their instincts and knowledge and experience and innate connections..Something that EVOLVED from US...from OUR national experience!!

They're leaving us...and it feels like no one really cares that they are...
So eventually...we'll forget ...and not even know all the brilliance that was there before...
and if your own people don't acknowledge....don't appreciate...then who...WHAT are you.??
The WORLD is mourning MJ...

Yet even in our trinidad society our greats have died...in silence...and near poverty...and sick...
No acknowledgment...from Us..
Just Dust....


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2009 Miss Miami Carnival - Fathers Day Event

Tuesday, June 16, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

The organizers of the Annual Miss Miami Carnival Pageant is presenting an Event On Sunday June 21st, 2009
A Fashion Show, Dinner and Dance Fundraiser



At the Grand Ballroom of Sunrise
7100 West Oakland Park Boulvards
Tickets are $40.00 in advance and includes dinner
Special Guest is Shawn "Da Mastamind" Noel
For More Information Check out the website here

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Curioser and Curioser....One Carnival Launching 2009

Thursday, June 04, 2009 clivia 0 Comments

SOOO.. .I'm browsing through Facebook ...and i get an invite for an event..
For a
"One Carnival Launching!"



So I start to panic one time and send the link to Boss Lady cause I didn't hear anything about it...and it means the Multiple personalities start emerging.

Its for a One carnival Launching but apparently not for all the bands/associations/groups. Huh? A separate Launch....in a Joint carnival? huh? Hmm.. oh well...
The Info reads as follows:

S.O.C.A. and South Florida Band Leaders Association presents: "ONE CARNIVAL LAUNCHING" in celebration of Caribbean American Heritage month and the unification of Miami and Broward Carnivals.

Live performances by PATCH and BLAXX alongside steel bands Silver Stars,Lisa Steel Orchestra and Rising Stars.

D.J.s performing DJ Redz, DJ Vibesman, Mixmaster Roderick and DJ Cleve.

This is a unity presentation in collaboration with:
socagold.net
CUSA
uwifete.com
socagoldlive.com

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR UNITY !

Only $10.00 admission and kids under 12 are free.
YES - BELIEVE IT...ONLY $10.00 ADMISSION

Food and drinks on sale..bring the whole family.

For more information:
305-490-7830
954-628-6106
561-309-3620

DONT MISS THIS EVENT..SHOW YOUR SUPPORT OF SOUTH FLORIDA CARNIVAL'S LONG AWAITED UNIFICATION !

Also lookout for the PIRATE INVASION for Carnival 2009!
Come see beautiful Pirate Girls invade the Fete!

Whatley Plaza aka The Gardens
Located off 7th Ave and Palmetto 826
Plenty of parking on-site
go to: www.whatleyplaza.com

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