Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival

New Name: Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Turns Up the Heat this Summer

Same Festival, Same Vibe!

 TORONTO, May 25, 2011 – The Festival Management Committee (FMC) today announced a new name to the Festival that has captured an audience of more than 1.2 million people annually on the August long weekend: The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival (STCC) will be back in July with the same line up of events featuring the Toronto Mas Band Association (TMBA), the Organization of Calypso Performing Artistes and the Pannists, as well as an array of new programming leading up to the Parade on July 31^st. 

“This is the 44^th year for the Parade, and all of the participants are preparing for another major turnout of attendees this summer,” said Denise Hererra Jackson, CEO of the FMC.  “Rebranding ourselves as the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival allows us to move forward with an exciting program that will appeal to members of the community of all ages.”

“The Festival is an important summer celebration of diversity through arts and culture in Toronto and as such, is important to the roots of this city,” said Chris Alexander, CFO of the FMC.  “The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival will continue to grow and meet the needs of the attendees, while reinforcing its relationships with the Toronto community, its sponsors and other stakeholders.”

In addition to its commitment of title sponsor, Scotiabank also announced $10,000 in prizing to be divided among the TMBA, Organization of Calypso Performing Artistes and the Pannists, based on competitive judging.

“Scotiabank’s partnership with the FMC opened an exciting new chapter for the Bank – given our extensive presence in the Caribbean and the importance of this event to the City, our customers and our employees, this event is a natural fit for us,” said John Doig, Scotiabank Senior Vice-President, Toronto Region.  “Today we have come together to reinforce our support for the Festival Management Committee – their decision to rename the Festival, the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival, continues to reflects our diverse and multicultural communities.  We’re looking forward to a great festival!”

The STCC has released the official programme for the summer festivities today, and festival goers will see new additions, including a sports component featuring athletics of the Rugby League.  Programme details can be found in the backgrounder and a new name and logo will appear in all marketing materials as well as on the revised interactive website, www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com.

About the Festival:

The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, revelry as well as visual and performing arts. Now in its 44th year, it has become a major international event and the largest cultural festival of its kind in North America. As Carnival is an international cultural phenomenon, the great metropolis of Toronto and its environs will come alive as the city explodes with the pulsating rhythms and melodies of Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Chutney, Steel Pan and Brass Bands. The Festival Management Committee is responsible for the managing and staging of North America’s largest outdoor festival.

Corporate sponsors of this year’s festival include: Scotiabank, The Toronto Star, Sway Magazine, The Grid, CTV, CP24, The Federal Government of Canada, The Province of Ontario, The City of Toronto, Tourism Toronto, Mobilicity, The Greater Toronto Airports Authority, Ontario Place, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, Toronto Public Libraries, Yorkgate Mall, Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex & Liberty Entertainment Group, The Caribbean Camera Newspaper, Toronto-Lime.Com, and GraceKennedy (Ontario) Inc.

For more information about the programs and events, please visit the festival’s official website at www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com

The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Office is located at 263 Davenport Avenue, Lower Level; Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5R 1E9. Contact info: Tel: 416-391-5608; Fax: 416-391-5693; Email: Stephen@stephenweir.com

Jazz Profile| AUGUSTIN “JAB” DUPLESSIS

Augustin “Jab” Duplessis began his career in music at the age of 15 when he joined the Royal St. Lucia Police Band as a junior bandsman. His first instrument was the clarinet but later he developed a love for the saxophone. Jab has performed with almost every group on the island of Saint Lucia as well as the West Indies Jazz Band, which toured Europe and the Caribbean over a period of three years. After this, he formed his own group, “Third Eye.”

Jab has studied at a number of master classes with renowned musicians such as Bobby Watson from the Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz and Bob Berg and the Wynton Marsalis Band. In 2002 Jab produced a music video featuring an original piece from the band’s first CD, “Awakening” entitled “Ojisten” which is the Creole form of his name “Augustin.”

In 2003, Third Eye performed at the 12th Annual Saint Lucia Jazz and has performed with other well-known musicians such as the Bernard Brothers, Four Play, and Earth Wind and Fire. Today Jab uses his imaginative arrangements in fusing Caribbean and traditional jazz together. He has earned the reputation of being one of the most talented musicians in the Caribbean, rivalled only by his mentor, Luther Francois. Jab is currently working on his next album of songs and the Jazz/Caribbean community cannot wait to hear what comes next.

Feaured with Derede Williams, Jab promises to deliver a show-stopping performance on May 5th at St Lucia Jazz 2011!

Jazz Profile| DYP

DYP, (The Derek Yarde Project), is a young band comprising three of St Lucia’s notorious and multi-talented musicians, coming together for the sole purpose of creating, entertaining and performing music at its best.

Led by Derek ” Puba ” Yarde on Keyboards, Lead Vocals, and Programming, followed by Daniel “Slaque” Edmonds on Bass and Lead Vocals, and to round it off Thygeson “Penn” Joseph on Drums, Vocals and Programming, DYP has managed to grab the minds, hearts and souls of all those who have experienced their performances. With influences ranging from Burning Flames to Kassav to the great Bob Marley, they have managed to create a sound of their own, unlike any other.

The Derek Yarde Project adds some real St Lucian flavour and flair to this year’s Jazz Festival!

Jazz Profile| MIKE STERN

In a career that spans three decades and a discography that includes more than a dozen eclectic and innovative recordings, five-time Grammy nominee Mike Stern has established himself as one of the premier jazz and jazz-fusion guitarists and composers of his generation.

Born in Boston in January 1953, Stern grew up in Washington, DC, but moved to Boston to study at the Berklee College of Music. After performing for years with Miles Davis, in 1985 Stern recorded Neesh, his first recording as a leader, for the Japan-based Trio label. A year later, he made his debut on Atlantic with Upside Downside followed by Time In Place (1988), Jigsaw (1989) and Odds Or Evens (1991). Later on, his acclaimed 1993 release, Standards (And Other Songs), earned him the pick of Best Jazz Guitarist of the Year by the readers and critics of Guitar Player Magazine. His first foray into vocal music, Voices (2001), was also another Grammy nominee. 

Included on the venerable jazz magazine’s list of 75 Great Guitarists in February 2009, Stern is an international icon that can’t be ignored at St Lucia Jazz on May 8th!

Jazz Profile| TAJ WEEKES

Born and raised on the island of St Lucia, Taj Weekes grew up the youngest of ten children in a family where music was ever present. By age five, Weekes was singing in church and by the age of nine, he and his brothers had formed a band, playing in local talent shows and at the town hall or parish centers around the island.

Weekes and his band Adowa, unite a true social consciousnes. Blending in elements of acoustic roots, rock and afro-folk simplicity, the band’s vibrant sound defies genre and has garnered critical acclaim. The group’s first two full-length albums are Hope and Doubt and Deidem, which won “Best Reggae Album” at the Just Plain Folks Music Awards. The band released their much-anticipated third CD, A Waterlogged Soul Kitchen, in October 2010.

Named a Goodwill Ambassador by the International Consortium of Caribbean Professionals and recognized by a division of the United Nations, Weekes addresses issues such as global warming, casualties of war, domestic and youth violence, diabetes and health, poverty and the poverty and the welfare of children through both his music and his charity.

Listen to the unforgettable reggae grooves of Taj Weekes at St Lucia Jazz on May 7th!

Jazz Profile| YELLOWJACKETS

In 1977, Robben Ford assembled a group of veteran musicians to record his album The Inside Story. The trio, which included keyboardist Russell Ferrante, bassist Jimmy Haslip and drummer Ricky Lawson, soon discovered a certain “chemistry” and musical affinity that led to their formation of Yellowjackets.

Their debut album Yellowjackets made serious waves in jazz radio, garnering public and critical acclaim. Mirage A Trois followed in its footsteps. After going on a brief hiatus to pursue other projects, they reassembled in time for the 1984 Playboy Jazz Festival, adding percussionist Paulinho Da Costa and their new lead voice, sax man Marc Russo. This landmark concert paved the way for their eventual success both on the Billboard Jazz charts and concert venues around the world, and resulted in the third spicy Yellowjackets album Samurai Samba.

Don’t miss the buzz of Yellowjackets on May 7th at St Lucia Jazz!

Jazz Profile| CHUCK BROWN

Chuck Brown is the undisputed sole founder and creator of Go-Go music, a hypnotically danceable genre deeply rooted in funk and soul that he developed in the early 70ʼs. Foreshadowing rap and many of the major popular R&B styles of the past three decades, Chuck’s signature style earned him a place in American musical royalty.

Brown scored hits like “We The People” and “Blow Your Whistle” in the early 70ʼs, followed by the #1 national hit “Bustinʼ Loose” on MCA/ Source in 1978 (used by Nelly in 2002 in his #1 smash “Hot In Herre). Chuck Brown scored again in the early eighties with the Billboard charting “We Need Some Money,” followed by the massive worldwide cult masterpiece “Go-Go Swing.” 

Chuck Brown has over the years teamed up with scores of legendary performers and producers. One of his latest collaborations was with multi-platinum producer Chucky Thompson to put together a crtically acclaimed album, debuting onBillboard as the #1 Independent CD, the #2 R&B CD, and #37 on the top 200.

Come see this legend at his finest on May 8th at St Lucia Jazz 2011!

Jazz Profile| BAD ASS BRASS

Comprised of some of the UK’s finest young brass players and jazz musicians, Bad Ass Brass was formed in 2008 by a group of friends who takes its influence from the sounds of traditional New Orleans brass bands, but adds its own unique twist.

Since its formation, Bad Ass Brass has performed extensively across London and the UK including Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and the Royal Albert Hall. The group entered the recording studio for the very first time and their self-titled debut album was launched in London in October 2010. That same year the band performed to a sold-out crowd on the main stage at the Cheltenham International Jazz Festival and won a competition that afforded them the opportunity to perform at Saint Lucia Jazz 2011.

On May 5th, live the music and swing to the tunes of Bad Ass Brass!

Jazz Profile| RICHARD BONA

Richard Bona has been described as a gem that possesses one of the best bassists’ voices on the planet. Born in 1967 in Cameroon, Bona started to use his unbelievable, amazing and natural ability to learn any instrument only by watching it. At age 11, he replaced his homemade model with a professional-style guitar. At 22 Bona moved to Paris where he not only studied music, but played with leading French musicians as Didier Lockwood and Marc Ducret, as well as Manu Dibango and Salif Keita.

His move to New York in 1995 would result in the recording of the album My People with Joe Zawinul and a world tour with him thereafter. Bona has served as Harry Belafonte’s bandleader and musical director and has played bass guitar with the most illustrious musicians including: Larry Coryell, Michael and Randy Brecker, Steve Gadd, Bob James, Mike Stern and Chaka Khan. In 1998 he recorded the first album under his own name, Scenes from my life. His multifaceted recordings over the years feature not only his song writing skills and instrumental prowess, but also his rich, expressing, and haunting voice.

Bona returns to Saint Lucia once again, after two electrifying acts at Saint Lucia Jazz in 2000 and 2006. Be sure to see his 2011 performance on May 8th!

Jazz Profile| 4th WORLD

After rocking audiences recently at the 2010 Montreal International Reggae Festival, the St Lucian reggae band, 4th World is set to display their critically acclaimed edgy, irresistible and revolutionary sound at home at this year’s Jazz Festival. Along with the recent release of its fifth album, Stereotype, the group has also announced its upcoming tour of Northeastern USA.

The group includes Nijah “Cold Sweat” St. Catherine, the vocal maestro, who is said to possess one of the best voices in world of reggae; the veteran, Sylvester “Itoobaa” Peter, with his rustic and unyielding voice and knack for combining reggae with blues and jazz; and Darrel “Frenchy” Augier, a man apart, with his breathtaking originality in voice, lyrics and arrangement.

 Join St Lucia Jazz as we welcome home the fresh new reggae vibes of 4th World!

Jazz Profile| MACEO PARKER

Maceo Parker is an American funk and soul jazz saxophonist, who, for the past sixteen years, has been building a new funk empire, known for its fresh and stylistical diversity. His most notorious work was as a soloist with James Brown in the 1960s and  Parliament-Funkadelic in the 1970s. 

Other collaborations over the years included Ray Charles, Ani Difranco, James Taylor, De La Soul, Dave Matthews Band and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. His timeless sound has garnered him a fresh young fan base. Born in North Carolina to a family of musicians, Parker has also produced and recorded many successful albums spanning several decades and covering the genres of funk, soul, jazz and p-funk.  

Maceo Parker’s name is synonymous with Funky Music, and with a band referred to as the tightest little funk orchestra on earth, you cannot afford to miss him on May 7th 2011 at the St Lucia Jazz Festival!

Jazz Profile| LEDISI

This New Orleans native purused her passion for singing from the age of 8 when she joined the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra. With a name meaning ”to bring forth” in Nigerian, Ledisi was inspired by her mother who also performed in local bands. When the family relocated to Oakland, California, the young songstress’s career took off. 

She formed her own band, Anibade, whose sound mixed classic soul and hard-hitting funk with jazzy overtones, and later released two indie albums: 2001′s Soulsinger and 2003’s Feeling Orange But Sometimes Blue. The success of both albums led her to opening perfomances for the likes of Chaka Khan. 

Her 2007 Verve debut album Lost & Found has garnered strong reviews and two Grammy nominations, including one for best new artist. Ledisi has also been able to secure some of urban music’s most respected producers, including Grammy winners Raphael Saadiq and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.

Join Saint Lucia Jazz 2011 as it echoes the sweet sounds of Ledisi on May 4th.

Jazz Profile| ALLISON MARQUIS & ECLECTIC PAN JAZZ

Steel Pan music is synonymous wth the Caribbean, and Allison Marquis is a St Lucian musician who is very familiar with its rhythmic beats. Introduced to the steel pan and music at the age of 13, Marquis later joined the Babonneau Superstars Steel Orchestra in the Carnival season of 1978. Two years later, he asumed the position of Music Arranger for the band, and led the group to several National Panorama competitions over the years.

Marquis’s jazz career began in 1983 in the group Third Eye and continued with performances in the Caribbean Jazz Workshop Group at the Barbados and Guadelope Jazz Festivals, with Andy Narell, the Bernard Brothers and the late Claude Sommier in the Martinique Jazz Festival. At the 2010 Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, he worked with Monty Maxwell and Harvey Millar and his own group, Eclectic Pan Jazz, performed in the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival in 2009. Marquis’s work also included recordings with Emerson Nurse, the late Adrian Clarke of Barbados and Michael Boothman of Trinidad and Tobago.

Drawing on the inspiration of another famed St Lucian musician, Luther Francois, Marquis’s burgeoning musical skill will be  an awesome display on May 4th at St Lucia Jazz event!

Jazz Profile| MERVYN WILKINSON

A true example of  home-bred talent, Mervyn Wilkinson developed a love for music from the age of nine. Referred to by many as ”the man with the golden voice”, Mervyn has won over many audiences and music critics with his powerful vocal ability.

Mervyn’s professional career was launched when he joined the local band, Survival, as lead vocalist at age 20. He later became a member of Onyx, a group of popular St Lucian musicians who performed on all the major cruise ships, including the Queen Elizabeth 2. Through Onyx, Mervyn had the opportunity to share the stage with the great Jimmy Cliff in 1989 at a Summer Festival held in Saint Lucia, and also represented the island at a Caribbean Tourism Organization function held at the famed Waldorf Astoria in New York in 1990.

Mervyn Wilkinson is local talent at its finest. Come sway to his mesmerizing vocals on May 6th at St Lucia Jazz 2011!

Jazz Profile| ANACAONA

Anacaona is an all-female Cuban band founded in the 1930s by Concepción Castro Zaldarriaga and her sisters. As the first female sextet to play ‘Son’, a traditional style of Cuban folk music, the group was created during a period of political unrest and in a male-dominated music industry.

Named after an Indian queen, Anacaona began performing on the radio and in open-air cafes, and was soon elevated to fame locally and internationally. With a unique mix of traditional Cuban beats and contemporary rhythms, this group, currently made up of 13 women, has earned the name of “Las Mulatisimas del Sabor” ( The Super Mulatto Women With Flavor).

Anacaona has performed at numerous jazz festivals worldwide, but St Lucia Jazz 2011 gives you another opportunity to experience their popular Cuban dance music on May 8th!

Jazz Profile| TREY SONGZ

Born Tremaine Aldon Neverson, Trey’s natural talent was recognised at the age of 14, a time when the young singer had no musical aspirations.  However, after winning multiple talent competitions under the persuasion of his friends, Trey went on to sign a recording contract with Atlantic Records.

His first album, I Gotta Make It, was released in 2005 and paved the way for future accomplishments like chart-t0pping singles like “Girl Tonight,” “Last Time,” and “Can’t Help but Wait”, several Grammy and BET Award nominations, and the 2010 BET Award for Best Male R&B Artist, just to name a few.  Trey’s recent release, Passion, Pain & Pleasure, has been described by him as a personal mantra depicting the passion for his work, the pain that results from his personal sacrifices for his work and the pleasure he ultimately derives from his success. 

Allow yourself to be serenaded by the R&B and Hip-hop tunes of the infamous Trey Songz on May 7th, 2011 at St Luciz Jazz!

Jazz Profile| SIXUN

Mirroring the style and musical array of the famous band Weather Report, the French European jazz band, Sixun, was created. Their debut release of Nuit Blanche was made in 1985 with the support of the CIM Jazz School, and since then the band has produced nine other albums, with the latest work entitled Palabre.

Sixun has become known for their blend of world rhythms such as African beats and Caribbean soul. The band is also notorious for the bond between members and the remarkable connection with their audiences during performances.

Listen to the awesome acoustic and electronic rhythms of this sextet at St Lucia Jazz on May 5th, 2011!

Jazz Profile| ANGELIQUE KIDJO

Angelique Kidjo has been deemed “Africa’s premier diva” by Time Magazine. With four Grammy nominatons, and numerous collaborations with artistes like Carlos Santana and Gilberto Gil, Kidjo has bult a reputation as Africa’s most internationally celebrated female musician.

As the daughter of an actress, dancer and theatrical producer, Kidjo inherited the passion for the arts, and was soon performing in her mother’s theatrical troupe and singing professonally by her twentieth birthday. Inspired by rock, pop and soul music, Kidjo’s Afro-funk beats have led her to international recognition, together with her philanthropic efforts in promoting education for girls in Africa through her foundation, Batonga and as a UNICEF Goodwill ambassador. 

Don’t miss this African Vocal Queen on Friday May 6th, 2011!

Jazz Profile| CARIMI

Carlo Vieux, Richard Cavé, and Mickael Guirand had more than their passion for music in common when they left their homeland Haiti to pursue studies in the US. The trio reunited years later to realize their dream, and Carimi, the first two letters of their first names, was born.

Using profound lyrical content inspired by the country’s current and historical struggles, the group created an unprecedented  wave in the Haitian music industry. With the release of “Ayiti Bang, Bang” in July 2001, the group acquired instantaneous acclaim both locally and internationally, going on to receive Best Album of the Year award and the top places on many music charts worldwide.

Come groove to the sweet zouk melodies of Carimi on Friday May 6th!

Jazz Profile| REGINA CARTER

American Jazz violinist, Regina Carter, was the  first jazz artiste and African American to play Niccolo Paganini’s famed Guarneri “Cannon” violin. With her distinctly diverse musical personality, she has been featured with several symphony orchestras and performed with a variety of artistes such as Aretha Franklin, Lauryn Hill, Billy Joel, Kenny Barron and Mary J. Blige.

Making her first spotlight appearance as the violinist for the all female pop-jazz quintet Straight Ahead, Carter later went on to produce her own works, the latest of which is Reverse Thread, a melody of traditional African folk tunes coupled wth an uncompromising contemporary feel. Carter is a recipient of what is commonly known as the “genius grant,” a fellowship award offered by the prestigious MacArthur Foundation, which provides unrestricted fellowships to talented individuals.

Lauded as one of the finest violinists of her generation, you cannot afford to miss the sumptuously seductive sounds of Regina Carter’s violin on May 4th, 2011!

Jazz Profile| MORGAN HERITAGE

Describing themselves as “a family of artists with a mission”, Morgan Heritage is composed of Memmalatel “Mr Mojo” Morgan on percussion and vocals; Nakhamyah “Lukes” Morgan on guitar; Roy “Gramps” Morgan on keyboards and vocals; Una Morgan, the group’s sole female member, on keyboards and vocals, and Peetah (Peter) Morgan singing lead.

The group’s walk of fame began after an astounding perfomance at Jamaica’ Sunsplash festival in 1992, where they were immediately signed by the recording company, MCA. Apart from the release of their first album, Miracle, the group introduced a warmly welcomed contemporary roots reggae sound, and followed with chart topping hits such as “Reggae Bring Back Love”, “Down By The River” and “Don’t Haffi Dread”. Morgan Heritage continues to gain international critical acclaim througout the Caribbean, UK and Asia.

A true Caribbean festival would not be complete without the smooth reggae flows of one of the region’s legendary reggae bands, so be sure to check out Morgan Heritage at the St Lucia Jazz Festival on May 6th, 2011!

Jazz Profile| JOHN LEGEND

Born John Stephens, this six-time Grammy Award winner, singer, song-writer, musician and producer is fulfilling his childhood ambitions. While pursuing studies at the University of Pennsylvania, John’s career beginnings led him to the roles of president and musical director of a co-ed jazz and pop a cappella group, as well as pianist on Lauryn Hill’s “Everything is Everything”.

His debut was made with the release of Get Lifted in December 2004, which included hit singles  “Ordinary People” and “Used to Love U”, and went on to sell millions of copies worldwide. Since then John has released three other award winning albums, Once Again, Evolver and Wake Up!, has won the 2007 special Starlight award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and has had multiple collaborations with other iconic figures in the music industry.

As the headline performer on Sunday May 8th, the multi-talented musical flavour of John Legend is a must-see!

Toronto Sun Buzzes About the Caribbean’s Hottest Event!

In an article published on March 16th, Toronto Sun’s Tracy McLaughlin recounts her 2010 Jazz experience in St Lucia. Here’s what she had to say about the festival.

A scene on the isle of St. Lucia.

ST. LUCIA — St. Lucians are known to love reggae and country music. So it made me wonder why the little tropical island hosts an International Jazz festival.

But I came back from last year’s three-day event overcome by the variety of world famous artists who took turns making the audience scream, weep, dance, sing or just chill to more soothing sounds.

The festival is a great excuse to visit this charming Caribbean-flavoured island in spring when the hubbub of tourist season has calmed.

First of all a bit of advice to the ladies: If you’ve always been too shy to wear one of those skimpy little sundresses, this is the place to get over it and slip into one. While the venue on adjoining Pigeon Island is casual, it’s hot in St. Lucia and ladies of every shape and size make it sizzle even hotter as they come dressed in strappy sundresses in dazzling colours. Go ahead and do it. You’re going to look gorgeous.

And by the way, this event is not strictly for jazz lovers. The festival rocks with world artists known for not only jazz but also R&B, soul, reggae and hip hop.

I got to do some back stage introductions and was thrilled to chat with the good-natured Grammy award winner Ne-Yo, whose hero Michael Jackson is reflected in the younger hit-maker’s melodic voice and incredible dance moves. It was a show in itself to watch Ne-Yo woo the younger women who dissolved into tears, screams and — at times — absolute hysterics as he handed out roses at the end of his performance.

The audience slipped into a nice easy mood as it listened to the laid-back, sexy sounds of Corinne Bailey Rae, another Grammy winner, with hits like Girl Put Your Records On. The petite performer with the big voice not only sings like an angel, she gives off an aura of being in harmony with the world.

I expected a ho-hum performance when the old timers did their Men of Soul performance, but I was wrong. These famous ’60s, ’70s and ’80s stars — Jeffrey Osborne, Phil Perry, Howard Hewitt and Freddie Jackson — captured the audience and had them swooning.

“You want some more?” howled high-energy R&B artist Osborne as he made some hip-swivelling moves while performing his solo pop hit: Can Ya Woo Woo Woo?

Osborne also sang On The Wings Of Love.

The grand finale of the event was when worldwide reggae wonders Shaggy and Maxi Priest who had the place rocking.

During intermissions it was fun to try the local party food — fish cakes, shark bits, green-banana salad or a cold Piton beer, an island lager named after the stunning Pitons, St. Lucia’s famous dormant volcanoes that rise out of the sea — or just roam the grounds of the 300-year-old ruins of a seaside fort.

I left realizing the friendly people of St. Lucia are not just in love with country, jazz, blues, soul or reggae — this is an island where the people are in love with music.

And it seems they are always up for a good party.

IF YOU GO TO ST. LUCIA

The 2011 St. Lucia Jazz Festival — which is marking its 20th anniversary — takes place April 30 to May. 8. For details, see stluciajazz.org. For travel information, visit the St. Lucia Tourist Board website at stlucianow.ca.

This story was posted on Mon, March 14, 2011

Link to the Article: http://www.canoe.ca/Travel/Caribbean/2011/03/08/17534496.html

St Lucia Jazz Festival 2011- Live the Music!

If you’re up for a great party then you should be heading to Saint Lucia Jazz this April 30th – May 08th!!

Hey Guys!!

I’m Vernette Eugene, and I’ll be joining Karlyn in bringing you the latest scoop on the artists, events, and everything you need to know to get you all set for St Lucia Jazz 2011- straight from the island! As a young St Lucian and Jazz enthusiast, this festival is just one of the many facets of the island that makes me truly proud to be “Looshan” (Slang for ‘St Lucian’). It brings together all the things I adore about my island- the food, the scenery, the sunshine, the people… and of course, the music!

This year the St Lucia Jazz Festival celebrates 20 years of a rich tradition of renowned talent, outstanding entertainment and scrumptious cuisine, all against a backdrop of the island’s picturesque scenery. Termed “The Best Party in the Caribbean”, the Festival unites thousands of local, regional and international music lovers each year. With a history of award-winning talent like Wyclef Jean, Kenny G., Shaka Khan, Anita Baker, Seal, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, and so many more, the St Lucia Jazz Festival provides the perfect setting for a unforgettable vacation or staycation.

Hoping to top previous festivals, this year’s event promises a tantalizing fusion of soul, R&B, jazz, folk and reggae music from the biggest names in Caribbean, African, North American, Latin and European entertainment.

Be sure to check out the official website for full lineup, ticket and travel information and updates: http://www.stluciajazz.org/ 

~Live the Music!~

Enter to win a trip for two to St Lucia and come Jazz it up with moi:)

Hey guys,

The St Lucia Tourist Board is giving away a trip for TWO to St Lucia!!!!! Here’s your chance to visit my beautiful island to “Live the Music” at the 2011 St Lucia Jazz Festival! More details here : http://www.stluciajazz.org/jazz_sweepstakes2011/ 

 Contest begins on March 28th and ends on April 22nd.

Below is a gorgeous view of Rodney Bay, in St Lucia. Good luck and I will save you a rum punch!:)

I am counting down my days!

Give back and stay beautiful:The Knapsack Project 2011

I strongly believe that when you do care about someone else and when you give back, it helps nurture your internal beauty. So here’s an opportunity for you to do so!

Che Emmanuel (brother of my friend Anika) has a project called the  Knapsack Project 2011, an inititative aimed at providing less fortunate children in St. Lucia with the basic necessities for school.

Such a great initiative! Do support…and add points to your beauty bank!:)

See the below link for a copy of the PDF file and how you can be of assistance.

Knapsack Project by Che Emmanuel[1]

Milan was fantastico!:)

  I celebrated my birthday in Paris & Milan this year(me on my bday in Feb) Milan was everything I hoped for and more…the people, the language, the food, the shopping…did I mention the food?…Absolutely amazing!

The Cathedral…I look at such architecture in amazement, trying to figure out how this was built with such limited tools back then. Such amazing talent!:)

The streets were magical, romantic and as I mentioned before, the architecture was breathtaking! Here are a few pics from my trip. Hope you are inspired as I was:)

Do you have the right to lead?

What gives a man or woman the right to lead? – Great question isn’t it? My boss forwarded me this excerpt from a book entitled “The Right to Lead” by John C Maxwell. I was inspired to learn more when I read the pointers below and was ecstatic when my boss said to order one for everyone on my team! John also provides some key guidelines to help one become a better leader. I don’t think we all have the right to lead. Leading can be a very lonely road/position sometimes. It’s also not a popular role – it’s a serving role in my opinion. And nothing is too small for a leader to do. What’s interesting is the focus on “YOU” and making yourself the kind of person people would want to follow. As always it begins and end with “YOU”. See how important “YOU” are?:)

What are your thoughts on the subject? Have you read this book? Let me know. Would love to hear your thoughts!:)

From The Right to Lead – By John C Maxwell

The key to becoming an effective leader is not to focus on making other people follow, but on making yourself the kind of person they want to follow. You must become someone others can trust to take them where they want to go.

As you prepare yourself to become a better leader, use the following guidelines to help you grow:

1. Let go of your ego.

* The truly great leaders are not in leadership for personal gain. They lead in order to serve other people. Perhaps that is why Lawrence D. Bell remarked, “Show me a man who cannot bother to do little things, and I’ll show you a man who cannot be trusted to do big things.”

2. Become a good follower first.
* Rare is the effective leader who didn’t learn to become a good follower first. That is why a leadership institution such as the United State Military Academy teaches its officers to become effective followers first – and why West Point has produced more leaders than the Harvard Business School.

3 Build positive relationships.
* Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. That means it is by nature relational. Today’s generation of leaders seem particularly aware of this because title and position mean so little to them. They know intuitively that people go along with people they get along with.

4 Work with excellence.
* No one respects and follows mediocrity. Leaders who earn the right to lead give their all to what they do. They bring into play not only their skills and talents, but also great passion and hard work. They perform on the highest level of which they are capable.

5. Rely on discipline, not emotion
* Leadership is often easy during the good times. It’s when everything seems to be against you – when you’re out of energy, and you don’t want to lead – that you earn your place as a leader. During every season of life, leaders face crucial moments when they must choose between gearing up or giving up. To make it through those times, rely on the rock of discipline, not the shifting sand of emotion.

6. Make adding value your goal.
* When you look at the leaders whose names are revered long after they have finished leading, you find that they were men and women who helped people to live better lives and reach their potential. That is the highest calling of leadership – and its highest value.

7.Give your power away.
* 01140..
One of the ironies of leadership is that you become a better leader by sharing whatever power you have, not by saving it all for yourself. You’re meant to be a river, not a reservoir. If you use your power to empower others, your leadership will extend far beyond your grasp.

~~~~~~
John Maxwell is an internationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author who has sold over 12 million books.

You can order the book here: http://www.amazon.com/Right-Lead-Study-Character-Courage/dp/0849957680

Enjoy & Be Inspired:)

Can’t do it all….

So I have a confession…..sometimes I feel like I can do everything and in some cases end up over-committing. Doing this has negatively impacted my personal life, my business and so much more. I find myself trying to play catch up and you never really “catch-up”. There’s always something to be done and if it’s not business, it’s my community work or something else.

I had my “AHA” moment when I realize that I can’t do it all (I know some of you might be thinking that, I should know that by now) and yes you’re right I should and I do. But I suffer from the super woman – “I think I can do everything cause I don’t have any kids so I can cram everything in now syndrome”. You know the one a few of us suffer from? LOL.

That being said, once I realized that I cannot keep on doing this, saying “No” became much easier. What really helped me was assessing whether or not the request fits the vision or goals I have for myself. If it’s not aligned with my vision and plans for myself, I say “No”. It’s as simple as that. So next time someone approaches you about a new project or a new request, take a moment to assess and ensure that it aligns with your overall goals. If it doesn’t, then politely say “No”.

Until then, keep on Celebrating YOU!:)

There are no Coincidences!!

Hey…so as you know I draw inspiration from words, people, stories. I love being inspired – you know the spurt of adrenalin you feel after reading some thought provoking words.

Friends, family send me inspiring thoughts daily and once I read them and forward to my friends, I file it away in my inspiration folder. This way I can easily find inspiring emails when I need them.

So today I share with you one of my favs…

In life everything that happens, happens for a reason! There are no such things as chance, an accident or a coincidence. You reading this Daily Word today is a direct result to a thought or message that you willed into your life! The people with whom you spoke to yesterday or will speak to today all had/have a message for you and it is up to you to see and understand that message! Embrace the power of your thoughts and realize that you are the creator of your life!! Thoughts become things!! Good or bad it is all your fault!!! Change your thoughts you change your circumstance!! But always understand that the way it is is the way it’s suppose to be!! There are no coincidences!! Life is what you make it!!
-Ash’Cash

“Nothing happens by chance… No such thing as luck. A meaning behind every little thing, and such a meaning behind this. You may not see it all real clear right now, but you will, before long.”
-Richard Bach

“Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be”
-George Sheehan

“In the magical universe there are no coincidences and there are no accidents. Nothing happens unless someone wills it to happen.”
-William S. Burroughs

“There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from.”
-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

“Everything happens for a reason. Every action has a reaction. Always remember that whats meant to be will always find a way to come about.”
-Unknown

“The answers to life’s questions lie inside you. All you need to do is look listen and trust.”
-Cherie Carter-Scott

Item of the Week – Stone Center Gem Ring

Stone Center Gem Ring - charlotterusse.com

As the holidays near (much faster than we actually might like ), we start looking in our closets for outfit options for upcoming events. Basics to jazz up any outfit start with gorgeous statement pieces like this cocktail ring. The Stone Center Gem Ring from Charlotte Russe  is an excellent addition to your collection. From after work parties to New Years Eve, this ring will have you covered. Visit charlotterusse.com for more wallet-friendly ideas.

Warren Buffet and Jay-Z on Success and giving back..

Part of me staying inspired is watching, listening and reading up on other successful individuals…they always impart some words of wisdom which helps me on my journey.

Some key points:

“Having the discipline and  the confidence in who I am , to be yourself” – Jay-Z

“The best moat you can have is your talent. Develop your own talent – no one can take that away from you” – Warren Buffet

“You don’t have to change who you are, but you need to adapt to change in order to be successful in your business..be aware.” – Jay -Z

“Running a successful business – learning what you’re good at and what you’re not.” – Warren Buffet

“I really did know I was going to be rich – I knew I had something that was gonna work.” – Warren Buffet

“If I want to take off my own tooth – I won’t do it myself. I want to get in done properly, so I will turn it over to the specialist, the expert in that field. I cannot do everything myself.” – Warren Buffet

“If you succeed a 100% in philanthropy all the time – your projects are too easy. Choose things where you might fail.” – Warren Buffet

“Recognize the poor decisions you’ve made and why they were poor. Do not expect perfection from yourself…expect to do good.“- Warren Buffet

“The best way to share philanthropy is to lead by example.” – Jay-Z

Click on the link below to listen to the entire interview …and Be Inspired!:)

http://video.forbes.com/fvn/forbes400-10/jay-z-buffett-forbes-success-giving

Blake Lively looking lovely at movie premiere “The Town”

When a dress so sharp, so sleek ,so ultra black and sexy catches your eye in one glance, you can’t help but advise your Fashion Editor to write about it   While scrolling through my daily posts today, Blake was immediately spotted looking absolutely stunning in this sexy LBD while attending her movie premiere “The Town”  in Boston,US on Tuesday September 14th. How can us budget-conscious fashionistas get this look? Check out the equally fabulous “Fitted Ponte Dress” at CharlotteRusse.com. Click here for details!

Happy Shopping!

Kahla B.

H&M’s newest partner is…french designer Lanvin!

Past designs of Lanvin, courtesy of vampedny.com

It was announced yesterday that French luxury designer, Lavin , will be collaborating with national retailer H&M. All pieces will be in stores November 20th in North America and November 23rd worldwide!!

Alber Elbaz, artistic director of Lanvin, has this to say about this fantastic decision : “H&M approached us to collaborate, and see if we could translate the dream we created at Lanvin to a wider audience, not just a dress for less. I have said in the past that I would never do a mass-market collection, but what intrigued me was the idea of H&M going luxury rather than Lanvin going public.”

H&M has been known to to make gorgeous limited edition collections that make us all literally run to the nearest mall for a chance at purchasing a single piece. Past designers include Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney.

Ladies and gentlemen…mark you calendars…:) Visit www.hm.com to preview the collection on November 1st!!

Kahla B

Attention Fashionistas! Banana Republic now ships in Canada!!

Yes, that is right my fashion friends!!! Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic now offer shipping within Canada!! For all purchases over $50 within the same order, you are entitled to Free Shipping right to your door.! Just when you thought you didn’t have time to run to the mall for a new trench coat, now you don’t have to! Visit http://bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca immediately and be sure to check out their new “Stylish Work” section for all of their pretty office outfits.

PS!! Gap Give and Get Program is offering shoppers 30% Off August 26th – 29th to support their non-profit partners!! Which means extra saving towards your new fall additions!! What are you waiting for?? Happy Shopping!!!

Kahla B

Taste of The Danforth…but what about fashion??

Taste of the Danforth was a fabulous time with the girls last weekend but when the chill of the night sets in at night, how do you stay warm while enhancing your outfit?

I decided to pull a quick look together with a scarf as opposed to a casual cardigan. Super cute and contrasting against neutrals, my girlfriend’s blue scarf across my shoulders was the perfect choice.

You too can easily throw a scarf over your shoulders for quick warmth or to accessorize your look without blowing your budget. Check out these cute options from American Eagle…all under $20! (available at www.ae.com )

Being Thankful:)

Today I woke up being thankful… The minute I open my eyes, my thankfulness begins. I say Thank you every morning before lifting my head off my pillow.

Saying Thank You and being full of thankfulness and gratitude helps keep the positive thoughts and feelings in. It also lives very little room for  negativity to enter.:) Negativity saps your energy – it drains you, so I encourage you to focus on the things you are thankful for.

We all have lots going on, with work, family, children, dreams, goals etc…so I encourage you to make this your mantra: think thankful thoughts, speak thankful thoughts, be thankful at all times…

Being thankful helps us focus on the good & not the bad.

Being thankful makes it easier for us to smile.

Being thankful helps us realize and reminds us how blessed we are…

Being thankful allows joy to be in and around us..

Have a thankful day!

Danke!

Walking Etiquette

We all need to remember that Etiquette is all about respectful and acceptable behavior between individuals. I work at Scotiabank, Scotia Plaza in the heart of the financial district. Some of you may not be aware, but there is an Path(underground) connected to lots of other financial institutions and stores. The underground is usually packed with people..and last week I couldn`t help but note that several individuals are not aware they are not exercising proper etiquette  when walking in a large group.

Walking etiquette? Yes you read right…The following points should be considered when walking in a heavy traffic area.

• Please do not swing your arms back and forth when walking. Note that you are in a crowd and everyone is trying to get by. Hitting someone in the groin or stomach (ouch)  isn`t cool. Please keep your arms close to your side when walking – no swinging.
• If you would like to catch up with Mary, please stand off to the side and not the middle of the walkway. People are trying to get to work and it`s not polite to stand and stop the flow of traffic.
• Do not stand on both sides of the escalator – note that one side should be for people who would like to ride up and the other is for those who would like to walk. Please stand behind the individual who`s riding and keep the other side free.
• Do not stand at the entrance of the escalator and catch up with Bob. Please stand off to the side, away from the entrance. Mary or John  should not be going around or between you to get to the escalator.
• Please be aware of your bag, when walking. Do hold it in front of you or closely to your side. Do not brush or knock anyone over with your bag.
• Keep your phone in your pocket and watch where you are going. Bumping into people can be a bit annoying esp if it`s because you weren`t paying attention due to the incoming text from Jackie.

Hope you remember those tips! Share with your friends and family and feel free to send me any tips you would like to share as well.

Karlyn

My Therapy

My coping mechanism….

Some of you may know how hectic my schedule is..I do have lots on my plate and sometimes I do think I am a bit crazy. (I heard it`s sane to think that you are a bit crazy)..lol. Anyways MUSIC…yes you know the good stuff from way back when? Takes me to that place where all is OK..that happy place!! Stress has no business being in your life..so do ensure you kick it out! Music helps…and also signing along off key and dancing also helps.lol..(So I`ve heard..lol).

I LOVE music..it`s the ultimate therapy for me and always puts me in a great mood! This being said I love browsing my friend Geena Lee`s blog..she has some great mixes on there..So tonight I am grooving to the Lovezone whilst I sip on some Shiraz…Enjoy! Thanks Geena!
To hear the mix, enter The Lovezone: http://lovezoneradio.blogspot.com/2010/05/episode-25-lets-hear-it-for-boys.html

Have a great week!

PS: Don`t forget your homework – Be Inspired and Celebrate YOU!

Random Thoughts

So…I have some random thoughts I’d like to share with you, which may not belong to any particular subject or topic…just random thoughts..

I’m sure we’ve all heard how Sandra Bullock’s husband cheated on her, along with the Tiger Woods mess etc.

I think that by constantly writing, talking, and showing pictures of Sandra, etc, that the media is kinda glorifying cheating. And who cares about the husband? Stop writing about him! If he’s scum, then why are you writing about scum? or even talking about him?

Do we like seeing others suffering and in pain? Can we allow people to go through their pain without making a circus show out of it? I’m not saying not to write about it, just write once or twice and let it go! Geesh..

I think that these people need to deal with their cheating spouses in private -whether or not they’re a  celebrity .

That’s all for my random thoughts for this evening…Thanks for reading..I feel much better now that I’ve let it out.

Go celebrate your fab self!

Karlyn

My Community Work ~ A rewarding experience!

One of my favorite quotes by Martin Luther King -”A man hasn’t started living until he rises above the narrow confines of his own needs to the needs of the greater community” is my reason for doing what I do. I am living my life by serving others and it is one of the best experiences Ive had!

I am the Chair of the Harry Jerome Awards, the largest award show celebrating excellence in the black community. With over 13 award category, we award individuals who exemplify excellence in various categories: Arts, Media, Entertainment, Leadership, Business, Young entrepreneur, Academics, Athletics, Lifetime Achievement, Trailblazer, President’s Award,  My role is to manage the various pieces of the show – from managing the relationship with the venue, ensuring the call for nominations is sent out, dealing with the food, ensuring that the planning committee is in place and every one is geared to go! Production & Audio is handled by two amazing individuals – Karl Hutchinson and Cleve Sandy. They make this job a whole lot easier!!:) Along with Michelle Ambrose, Flozel Lewis, Kim Nemhard, Nevelette Diveney, Pat Gloudon, and many other amazing individuals help ensure that the attendees have an amazing experience! You guys are really the best!!:) THANK YOU.

One of the most challenging part is finding the right volunteer with the right skill set. All positions on the planning committee including my own is a volunteer position and most importantly these individuals need to be able to work under pressure and changes as they come along.  It requires lots of dedication, passion and energy to not only work on this event, but to also work with various individuals from different backgrounds.  I am lucky to work with these amazing individuals, whose dedication to giving back shows in the level of commitment and quality of the work they provide.

My experience is a rewarding one -  I develop my leadership skills, enhance existing skills and develop new ones which may not be possible on my regular day job. This year the keynote speaker was the Right Hon. Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada. Here are a few pics..Enjoy and hope your volunteering experience is as rewarding as mine:) If not change it! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Until next time, Be Inspired and Celebrate YOU.

Karlyn

My Workout Routine

Hello…sa ka fete?

So I’ve been going to the gym at least 3 times a weeks now..started last year fall..I’ve also fallen off a few weeks but I’ve made a conscious effort to ensure that I make it a part of my schedule and not the other way around:)  I found it really hard to stick to it before, until I saw the unwelcome dimples on my thighs along with a muffin top which actually went away in the past when I sucked it in. Now no amount of sucking in hides it..:( YIKES! Now before you guys go off and yell that I don’t have any, go look at some of these celebrity pics with those skinny girls with cellulite (such a bad word) I prefer dimples or cottage cheese. It’s real!

I believe it was Ciara who said that half of the work happens outside the gym, it’s what you eat, how you eat etc. So true! Everything in moderation will ensure that you maintain and keep your figure slim. I try to take the stairs at every opportunity, when I go grocery shopping, I walk home with the heavy bags, and most importantly drink lots of water!!

I’m no expert but will share interesting tidbits and facts with you as I go along. My personal trainer has changed my diet – no more Special K. This has been replaced with Oats (like the really natural one) not the one with maple brown sugar or vanilla almond & honey – these contain way too much sugar!!! The  areas I would like to tone are: stomach, legs and yes a firm butt.  The exercise in the video below tone your legs and  stomach. You can also do this at home if you have a stool/low chair:) Remember to drink lots of water!!

See video here 10817324

Remember to be inspired and celebrate you:) You’re worth it!

Karlyn

Movie Review ~ The Bounty Hunter

The Bounty Hunter by Topaz McKenzie

Jennifer Jennifer Jennifer

I’ve been a big fan of Jennifer Aniston since the illustrious days of the  Rachel and before she fell in love with Ross. I love Jennifer Aniston known as a fashionista, yoga enthusiast and the rejected one of hunky Brad Pitt. Alas, the buck stops here. I cannot sit through another Jennifer Aniston, woe is me, frozen face with perpetually stringy hair movie. I am done; I said nothing when she bored me to tears with her forced acting in “The Break Up”, I uttered not one complaint over “Derailed” aka Snoozefest 2005 and don’t even get me started on “Marley & Me” .  I believe in Jennifer I really do and I know she has it in her to be an Academy Award winner if she would stop acting in ill-suited roles.

Her turn as Nicole Hurly is so cringe inducing I have no idea where to begin. If it’s not the age inappropriate wardrobe, it’s the non-existent chemistry between her and Gerard Butler (who the word on the street is she’s dating) This movie had too many plots which included shady racketeers, informants and unrequited love. Many of the jokes fell flat and I found myself wishing that movie would focus on something and end the eternal merry-go-round of characters and unnecessary scenes. The true stand out of the movie was Jennifer’s mother Kitty brilliantly played by Christine Baranski. She played the aging diva role to the “T” and provided much needy comedy as the lusty chain-smoking nymphomaniac. Yes, I did chuckle a few times but I was shocked that in today’s economy a studio would throw finances behind a must see for SUNDAY NIGHT movie.

In my opinion her best work is character work, she never quite gets the middle-aged mother or high –powered associate but she catapults off the screen in her quirkier roles, hapless wife and broke college friend. Take it from me honey, if you’re searching for longevity, accolades and to annoy Angelina take the complicated roles. Take the part of the girl with the great personality who can’t land the boyfriend or the politicians wife turned drug dealer. Whatever you do, reach deeper than surface and allow yourself to be complicated..your audience will thank you for it.

Still in theatre in Toronto…go check it out and let us know what you think…

Trailer

Carol Allen – Part Two