Sunday 31 July 2011

Sometimes Public Relations Work Is Murder

No lock on the nitty-gritty when it comes to covering shooting deaths.
Think Local But Some Act Global


Over the past 17-years I have worked on many PR assignments, most (but not all) have revolved around the non-profit culture sector. It is not particularly financially rewarding work, but, the cause is usually just and you don't have to push dubious projects that people don't want or need (like the Irish diaper cream project I crashed and burned on).

Aside from assisting after a terrorist attack, and some pro-bono work I did for the legal team helping the mother of a murdered Jane/Finch student, I have stayed away from the gritty, painful side of crisis communications.

Today (Sunday August 31st) was different. So was Saturday.

On Saturday I spent 10-hours in the searing heat of summer, rescuing news crews stuck inside parade barriers within Toronto's mammoth Caribbean Carnival. When I wasn't doing that I was on the street herding sex crazedphotographers who seemed determined to get their long lenses cameras right into the nether regions of the thousands of women who played Mas at the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival. A strange profession but it is typical assignment when dealing with the men and women who were cover the annual summer Long Weekend Parade.

The last hour of the day was stressful and dangerous, the attendance was over the top - one official told me 1.5 million. As the parade wound down, thousands of people breached the fences and drunkenly tried to get onto centre stage with the last of the performing Mas players in front of the judging stand on Lakeshore Drive. The police wanted to shut it down; I wanted to get the media out before they got to witness first hand, something really bad happening.

However, the show was allowed to continue - all bands made it onto the street and were judged at the review stand near the Ontario Place parking lot. Somehow we were able to keep the crowds back. The parade ended at 6.10 with only a few minor incidents. Heat. Dehydration. Alcohol.

I left just before 7pm, thinking that once again, the parade had "dodged a bullet". Might be true about the actual parade, but, the same can't be said for one man who was shot dead by the police an hour and a bit after the parade ended.

For a little while the police were quiet about the shooting and the media was unaware of what had happened on Lakeshore Drive. That didn't stop the social media. By the time I got to my home office I already had two cell phone pictures of the dead man lying in the street, sent to me. I also had a link to a cell phone video of the police and dead man.

While following people first hand comments on Twitter and from an associate who is better plugged into the Social Media scene, I was able to brief the festival executive and craft a response (posted on this blog) to the events of the evening before the first media had called.

This morning, the media was on the case. The Sun went big and bloody, the Star stuck to the facts. George Lagogianes at CP24 was tough, ahead of the pack, but respectful for the feelings of the victim’s families and for the devastated organizers of North America's largest Caribbean style event. The same can't be said about Global, who, pushed to try and get the head of the parade to meet her at the scene of the crime to talk on camera about the killing, presumably in front of where he died.

I normally don't push back at a reporter's interview request, but to suggest that we stand on the street in front of a chalked outline of body, seemed to me to be ghoulish. The deeply religious executive members of the parade were still in shock over what had occurred less than 24-hours ago. I refused the interview, telling the reporter that we were shocked at her request. She called to say I misunderstood her request. "I am not that kind of reporter,” said Jennifer Palisoc. " I thought you said that you and Chris (the parade's CAO) were on the Lakeshore!"

I hadn't said we were on the Lakeshore (you can read the exchange below) and told her that I didn't believe her when she said she wasn't "that kind of reporter". I declined the interview. But, after an apology I did set up a streeter in front of a floating restaurant on the Queens Quay. The reporter was curt, didn't talk to me nor shake hands with the man she was to interview. However, the taped exchange did sound fair and balanced.

Later in the day, a female CBC TV reporter managed to dig up a number of long-refuted Sun newspaper stories about murder events that had nothing to do with the parade and attempted to link them to yesterday's tragedy. With titles such as the pre-Caribana murder (a young black make is murdered at a church party in another city 2-weeks before the parade), the Caribana murder (a young black mail skips out of the parade with his friends and two days after the parade is beaten and drown by his companions in Pickering) and the Four Seasons Caribana Murders (two black men, suspected crime syndicate drug dealers, are gunned down in Yorkville over the Caribana weekend) this female reporter was trying to get the festival spokesman to link the event to last night's murder.

When it was pointed out to the reporter that she was simply reading out questions about events that she knew nothing about (she had a list of questions that someone else had penned for her) and that the stories had been labeled raciest by journalists including at least one CBC reporter, she told us that she knew all about racism first hand. " I am from Turkey. I am from Muslim. "

To her credit, the reporter agreed that she would read up on the incidents and advise the newsroom of my objections. She reshot the questions. Waiting to she if is thinking locally or acting Globally.

Global TV tries to get the head of the Caribbean Carnival to conduct an interview at last night's murder scene. E-mail exchange in reverse.

-----Original Message-----
From: "Stephen Weir"
Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 14:27:12
To: Jennifer Palisoc

Here is our exchange: show me where I said I was on the lakeshore. You are the one suggesting we go the murder scene -- no alternatives given
------Original Message------

From: Jennifer Palisoc
To: Stephen
Subject: Re: Interview
Sent: Jul 31, 2011 10:10 AM

My apologies. That was not my intent. Where would you like to meet? We can definitely schedule another location.

Jennifer Palisoc
Reporter, Global News

----- Original Message -----
From: Stephen Weir [mailto:sweir5492@rogers.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2011 09:59 AM
To: Jennifer Palisoc
Subject: Re: Interview

No, to scene of crime (that is really sick-weird). Think maybe we will give this interview a pass -- we don't have the mind set that you obviously do.

------Original Message------
From: Jennifer Palisoc
To: Stephen
Subject: Re: Interview
Sent: Jul 31, 2011 9:39 AM

Okay, we will be there at noon. Shall we meet right on scene of the incident? Thank you.
Jennifer Palisoc
Reporter, Global News

----- Original Message -----
From: Stephen Weir [mailto:sweir5492@rogers.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 31, 2011 09:29 AM
To: Jennifer Palisoc
Subject: Re: Interview

Yes if you would like. Will be at Ontario Place at noon to the end of day. Chris, the head of the festival, is at Fletcher's Field for the carnival rugby match at 1pm. He will return to Ont. Place at 2.30

------Original Message------
From: Jennifer Palisoc
To: stephen weir
To: Chris Alexander
Subject: Interview
Sent: Jul 31, 2011 9:05 AM

Hello,

We arrange an on-camera interview today?

Thanks,
Jen
Jennifer Palisoc
Reporter, Global News

Cutline - crowd scene top
George Lagogianes (CP24) interviews Festival organizer's Chris Alexander and Denise Herrera Jackson about the shooting.

Saturday 30 July 2011

Statement from the Caribbean Carnival with regards to a fatal shooting this evening

A Statement from the Caribbean Carnival

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is aware that a fatal shooting took place this evening near the Festival parade along Lakeshore Blvd. CEO Denise Herrera Jackson and CAO Christopher Alexander are both shocked and deeply saddened by the news of the lose of life.
"We are saying prayers for the injured and the dead," said Ms. Jackson. " Our festival is about love and community, and to have this happen so close to our event is devastating. We work so hard to make our event safe and family friendly, it is unthinkable that such a thing could happen."
The Toronto Caribbean Carnival held its annual parade today. The parade, which involved over 17,000 performers and musicians, officially ended at 6.20 with the announcement of the prize winners from the parade.
" The shooting occured about an hour after we closed up our operation," said Mr. Alexander. " Most of our staff had left the grounds when were heard the sirens. I went immediately to the site, but, was unable to learn very much about what occurred this evening. We have a very good relationship with the Toronto Police and we trust that details of the what occured today will soon be made public.
The Toronto Caribbean Carnival had over 250 security officers from 5-different firms (including Metro Toronto Police pay duty officers) working on the 4.5 km parade. The police cooporated very well with us to ensure that the parade was safe and successful.

For further information

Stephen Weir
4160489-5868

Band Leader Eustace Wins It All

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS from 2011 KING & QUEEN COMPETITION

Queen of the band

Name: Joella Chichton

Band Theme: Mythical Creatures

Costume name: Metal Morpheus


King of the band

Name: Shane Reid-Mundal

Band Theme: Mythical Creatures

Costume name: King Haites


Female individual

Name: Mishka Crichton

Band Theme: Mythical Creatures

Costume name: Medusa


Male Individual

Name: “Mr.Meggy”

Band Thme: Mythical Creatures

Costume name: Draconia


Ontario Science Centre Innovation in Mas Award: Bitter Lemon Carnival (band leader Clarence Forde) for their King costume entitled "The Storm" portrayed by Keith Pascall, designed by Jackie Forde.

Female Individual of the Year:
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas-K Club
3. Callaloo

Male Individual of the Year:
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas K-Club
3. Mas Toronto

Queen of the Bands:
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas-K Club
3. Callaloo
4. Renaissance Mas

King of the Bands:

1. Carnival Nationz
2. Callaloo
3. Tribal Knights
4. Saldenah Mas-K Club

BULLETIN - AFROPAN HAS WON THE 2011 PAN ALIVE PRIZE. JULY 29, 2011 LAMPORT STADIUM

Thursday 28 July 2011

THIS SUNDAY: Inaugural Caribbean Carnival Rugby Cup

SCOTIABANK TORONTO CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL - NEW EVENT, RUGBY THIS SUNDAY, THE CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL CUP - FLETCHER'S FIELD

"Canada Rugby League is introducing sporting culture to the already massive ScotiaBank Caribbean Carnival. Canada Rugby League is proud to be the first and only official sporting partner of this festival. “I believe that the addition of Rugby League to the Caribbean Festival means that more than ever, there is something for everyone at this diverse celebration of culture.” Said Cory Tukeli, President of the Canada Rugby League.

On Suday July 31st, CRL Presents the Inaugural Caribbean Carnival Cup. Kickoff between Team Canada Wolverines and the Jamaican National team begins at 3:30pm. Gates at Fletcher’s Field open at 2pm with food vendors, a Cool Zone, activities and a live DJ. The facility is located at 2743 16th Ave in Markham, close to Woodbine Ave., extending the Caribbean Festival to this part of the GTA for the first time.

This matchup promises to bring heated Rugby League action to the festival, due to the fierce rivalry developed between the Team Canada Wolverines and the Jamaican Nationals at the Atlantic Cup and other competitions. Find out more about this exciting, historic event atTorontoCaribbeanCarnival.com and CanadaRugbyLeague.com, home of Canada Rugby League and the Team Canada Wolverines."

Cutline: Cory Tukeli announces the new Rugby Cup at the offical launch of the Festival in Toronto.



Stephen Weir
Festival publicist | stephen@stephenweir.com
or sweir5492@rogers.com
2482 Yonge Street, Unit 45032, Toronto, ONT.
CANADA. M4P 3E3
Tel: 416-489-5868 | CELL: 416-801-3101
www.stephenweir.com

MEDIA ALERT: BIG COSTUMES, KING AND QUEEN COMPETITION TONIGHT

MEDIA ALERT

MINISTER OF TOURISM & CULTURE TO OPEN KING & QUEEN COMPETITION
Honourable Lisa Raitt and Tim Hudak

Thursday, July 28th 2011
7 pm – 12 Midnight
The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival
King & Queen Competition
At Lamport Stadium on Thursday, July 30th

Last year the event was sold out. Big, big crowd expected

What: Ontario Minister of Tourism and Culture, Michael Chan, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, MP Joe Daniel, MPP Jim Karygiannis, MPP Tim Hudak, (Official Opposition Leader in the Provincial House), City Councillor Joe Mihevc and Councillor Michael Thompson will officially open Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival's King and Queen Competition, outdoors at Lamport Stadium.

At the King and Queen competition, costumes, sometimes 20-40 ft high will be paraded in front of a panel of judges so that the King and Queen of this year’s festival can be chosen. These grand costumes take hundreds of hours to design and build, and cost thousands of dollars to produce. Each band must portray a theme that is suitable of the carnival tradition, and each of the costumes competing at this show must convey this theme in a standout, grand way. Ticket info: www.torontocaribbeanfestival.com

Why: This signature show is a sit-down, family event affording its audience an unencumbered opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship of these elaborate costumes before they hit the streets for the 44th annual Parade on Saturday, July 30th. The evening includes Caribbean food, arts and crafts vendors, licensed bar

Who: All of the official 16 competing, 2011 masquerade (or mas) bands make presentations in the following categories hoping to win any of the following titles: King of the Bands, Queen of the Bands, Male Individual of the Year, and Female Individual of the Year. Ontario Science Centre to judge the costumes on the science used in their construction for a special OSC Award.

Other Confirmed Politicians:

· Federal Minister Lisa Raitt

· MP Joe Daniel, (PC)

· MP Jim Karygiannis, (Lib)

· MPP Tim Hudak, Official Opposition leader

· Councillor Joe Mihevc

Councillor Michael Thompson

When: Opening ceremonies scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. sharp. Due to city bylaws, the competition MUST end before midnight. Event runs rain or shine.

Where: Lamport Stadium, 1155 King Street West,Toronto.

Photo Information: Me and Michael Chan.


Media Contact
Stephen Weir, Publicist
Email: stephen@stephenweir.com
Tel: (416) 489-5868 Cell: (416) 801-3101

Bleacher Seats Added, But Parade, As Always, Is FREE

20,000 Ready to Keep on Jumpin’ this Saturday
Toronto July 28 … Fresh on the heels of a highly successful Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival (STCC) Yorkgate Mall Children’s Parade, organizers have announced improvements and a route change to the FREE Big July 30th parade. And, indications are that the will involve a record number of costumed dancers and a record number of people in the stands!
“The Mas Camps are now open, and, according to the Toronto Mas Bands Association, people are lining up to purchase costumes and commit to the big event,” said Festival CEO, Denise Herrera-Jackson. “The route is being expanded to allow more dancers on the road at one time. We expect close to 20,000 people on the route this summer and over 1.2 million people lining Lakeshore to watch them play Mas!”
In addition to changing the route of the parade, STCC is adding a market area, rides, and food, merchandise vendor and paid seating to accommodate up to 30,000 spectators. There is still no charge to observe the parade along the western end of the route. Most of the new seating is near the expanded parade route and does NOT infringe on traditional free viewing areas.
“ We worked with the Toronto Mas Band Association to improve the parade route,” said Chris Alexander, the festivals CFO. “We will start the parade heading east inside the CNE grounds and then head south at the Automotive Building before heading west onto Lakeshore Blvd near the entrance to Ontario Place. This will ensure that all bands will make it onto the parade route this year and there will be seating for anyone who wants to see the parade in comfort.”
The parade will start on the CNE grounds, south of the BMO field. From the BMO field the parade heads east towards the Princess Gates. At the Automotive Building (now called the All Stream Centre) the route turns south to Lakeshore Blvd.
At Lakeshore Blvd the parade route points west, towards its traditional route. Just after the Mas Bands enter Lakeshore they will pass the new Judges stand where they will perform their routines. After leaving the Review Stand the bands will head west in a Road March parade mode.
Near the Judges stand there will be a VIP section where spectators can purchase individual tents for companies and families and friends. They can also be part of the very large VIP tent. Price for the individual tents are $150 and VIPs paying $50 each can purchase that tent for a group.
The bleacher seats near the BMO field are $15 each and the rest of the parade route is free. Seating can be purchased at 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, Urbanology, FLOW 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
Cutline: Chief Bill Blair and Mas Models at the recently held official launch of the Parade.

Wednesday 27 July 2011

Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival helping to swear in new Canadians, media welcome to cover




Media Advisory

Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival welcome 60 new Canadians at a special citizenship ceremony at North York Civic Centre

What: 60 new Canadians from 33 countries and their families will come together for a special citizenship ceremony hosted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival.

Presiding official: Judge Raminder Gill
When: Thursday, July 28, 2011
8:30 a.m.

Where: North York Civic Centre - Council Chambers
5100 Yonge Street
Toronto, ON
M2N 5V7

Special guests: Chungsen Leung, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and MP Willowdale
David Zimmer, MPP Willowdale
Delores Lawrence, Order of Ontario and Chair of Operation Vote Canada
Chris Alexander, Chief Executive Officer, Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival

Media are invited to attend. Photography and audio-visual equipment are permitted.

For more information on Canadian citizenship ceremonies held across the country, please visit the Celebrate Citizenship section of Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website at www.cic.gc.ca.

The Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine and arts. Now in its 44th year, it has become a major international event and the largest cultural festival of its kind in North America. For more information, please visit the festival’s website at www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com.


Media contacts:

Jen Burkholder
Media Relations, Ontario Region
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
416-954-2819
jen.burkholder@cic.gc.ca

Stephen Weir
Media Relations
Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival
416-489-5868
stephen@stephenweir.com

Tuesday 26 July 2011

ScotCaribbean Carnival Kicks Off Celebration at Toronto Pearson


SCOTIABANK TORONTO CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL

ATTENTION:

City, Assignment, Photo, News, and Lifestyle Editors
Media Advisory/Invitation July 21, 2011
Caribbean Carnival Kicks Off Celebration at Toronto Pearson


- Chef Roger Mooking, the Bahamian Junkanoo Legends and Steel Pan Players Welcome Guests -

Toronto, ON – Get ready to jump up Toronto! In celebration of the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2011, Toronto Pearson is welcoming guests in style to the city’s world renowned celebration of Caribbean culture. On July 27, Toronto Pearson will transform into an island oasis, bringing the best of Caribbean music, food and culture to Canada’s premier airport.

As part of Toronto Pearson’s renewed focus on guest experience, media are invited to jump start the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival weekend while the airport surprises and delights guests arriving into Terminal 3 with Toronto chef Roger Mooking, and the world renowned Bahamian Junkanoo Legends from the Bahamas on hand to entertain Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival guests as they arrive in Toronto.

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

1. Performance by world renowned Bahamian Junkanoo Legends from the Bahamas that starts at departures and will make its way to arrivals in Terminal 3. Band member John Zonicle will be onsite and available for interviews.

2. Sampling of Caribbean fare, including salt cod fritters prepared by one of Canada’s premier chefs, Roger Mooking, available for interviews by appointment after the demonstration

3. Steel Pan Players

4. Interviews with Toronto Pearson and the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival representatives

DATE: Wednesday, July 27
TIME: 3:45 p.m.

· 3:45pm – The Bahamian Junkanoo Legends start at Terminal 3 departures, performs en route to Terminal 3 arrivals

· 4:00-4:15pm – The Bahamian Junkanoo Legends arrive at stage area in Terminal 3 arrivals

· 4:15pm – Roger Mooking cooking/demo/sampling

WHERE: Toronto Pearson, Terminal 3, International Arrivals. For drivers, park in the Terminal 3 garage and you will be given a parking voucher at the event. Directions to Terminal 3 parking can be found here: http://www.torontopearson.com/en/toandfrom/directions/

WHO:


Roger Mooking has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s premier Chefs by developing a culinary philosophy built on perfect execution of globally inspired culinary traditions. As a third generation restaurateur and chef he began his formal training through the George Brown Culinary Management Program where he earned Top Student Honors diploma and is now the Chair of the Professional Advisory Committee.

Roger continued his training at Epic Dining Room in Toronto’s world renowned Royal York Hotel before co owning and consulting on many food and beverage operations.

He is the Host and Co-Creator of his own internationally broadcast television series Everyday Exotic. He is also the Co-host of the upcoming series Heat Seekers airing on Food Network Canada.

In addition he is the recording artist and creator of Soul Food; a unique food and music project released by Warner Music. For Roger, music and the epicurean world are seamless. One feeds the body, the other the soul; it is all food in all its various forms.

The Bahamian Junkanoo Legends: born from a group of Bahamians missing Junkanoo music - the sweet sound of their home. This group simply wanted to share the most recognizable culture and distinct music from the country of their birth to their new home. After a 20 year absence from the Festival's parade, the Association of Bahamians in Canada have resurrected the core group with a contingency of 50 "Legends" flying up from the Bahamas.

About Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival

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 oversees the running of North America’s largest outdoor festival.

Corporate sponsors of this year’s festival include: Scotiabank, The Toronto Star, Sway Magazine, The Grid, CTV, CP-24, The Canadian Federal Government, The Province of Ontario, City of Toronto, Tourism Toronto, The Greater Toronto Airports Authority, Ontario Place, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, Toronto Public Library, Yorkgate Mall, Liberty Grand, FLOW FM, The Caribbean Camera Newspaper, Toronto-Lime.Com, Urbanology Magazine and Grace Kennedy Foods.

For complete listing information, visit www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com, the only official website for the Festival. Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Festival Office is located at 263 Davenport Avenue. Lower Level, Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Tel., 416-391-5608; Fax, 416-391-5693; Email: info@torontocaribbeancarnival.com

About Toronto Pearson International Airport

The GTAA is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada's biggest airport and one of the largest airports in North America in terms of passenger and air cargo traffic. In 2010, Toronto Pearson handled an estimated 31.9 million passengers and is ranked 4th largest in international passenger traffic in North America. The focus of the GTAA continues to be on competitiveness, growing the airport's status as an international gateway, meeting the needs of our guests and ensuring the long-term success of the organization, our airline customers and the regional economy.
CUTLINE:
Top: Celebrity cook Roger Mooking hit it out of the park while cooking on CP24 (and shamelessly promoting the GTAA taste of the carnival.
Bottom: Mas Dancers stand behind Mooking's spread for Breakfast TV.

For more information, contact:


For Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival:
Stephen Weir
Stephen Weir & Associates
stephen@stephenweir.com
416-489-5868; 416-801-3101

Craigg Slowly
Stephen Weir & Associates
CraiggSlowly@gmail.com
416.333.6781

For Toronto Pearson International Airport:

Noor Marzook
Edelman
noor.marzook@edelman.com
416-849-8914


Issued By:

Stephen Weir
Stephen Weir & Associates | stephen@stephenweir.com
or sweir5492@rogers.com
2482 Yonge Street, Unit 45032, Toronto, ONT.
CANADA. M4P 3E3
Tel: 416-489-5868 | cell: 416-801-3101
www.stephenweir.com

Sunday 24 July 2011

The man in the Red Bra is our new Caylpso Monarch!

Structure Wins It All

The 2011 Calypso Monarch competition was held this evening at the Chinese Cultural Centre’s P.C. Ho Theatre in Scarborough. Structure beat out 8 other competitors in a 4-hour showdown amongst Canada's best Caylpso singers.


Structure (Bryan Thornhill) won the crown, besting last year's Queen, Macomere FeFe (Eulith Tara Woods) and long-time performer Panman Pat (McNeil). Woods and McNeil tied for second place.


Structure won the contest in part because of a song that he wrote and performed about a series of murders that occurred around Canadian Air Force Base Trenton. Structure wore a woman's pair of red underwear underneath a Canadian Forces' green jump suit, much as Russell Williams, the convicted Trenton murderer and fetish burgler, is known to have worn.

THE RESULTS

Calypso prize goes to Structure

Canada’s top calypso music prize – Kaiso 365 – was captured by Bryan Structure Thornhill before a capacity crowd in the P.C. Ho Theatre of the Chinese Cultural Centre. In a hotly contested battle between nine singers performing two songs each, Barbadian-born Structure also won the coveted People’s Choice Award and several other Special Awards for Lyrics, Melody, Presentation, Originality, Rendition and Humour.

2011 “KAISO 365” CALYPSO MONARCH RESULTS

Winner Structure – Bryan Thornhill
2nd (tie) Macomere Fifi – Eulith Tara Woods
Pan Man Pat – Pat McNeilly
4th Beginner – Michael Moore
5th Spice – Denise Quammie Alexander
6th Mr. Wonderful – Steve Clarke
7th (tie) Newton P – Newton Phillips
Redman – Michael Thomas
8th King Smokey – Clieve Henry

2011 “KAISO 365” CALYPSO MONARCH – SPECIAL AWARDS

BEST LYRICS: Structure – Trenton Monster

BEST MELODY: Structure – Trenton Monster

BEST PRESENTATION:
(tie) Structure – Trenton Monster
Newton P – Old Age Pension

MOST ORIGINAL CALYPSO:
Structure – Trenton Monster

BEST RENDITION:
Structure – Trenton Monster

BEST COMPOSITION ON A LOCAL TOPIC:
Panman Pat – Stop The Gravy Train

MOST HUMOUROUS CALYPSO:
Structure – Trenton Monster

BEST ARRANGEMENT:
Michael “Skel” Redhead – Tackling The Issues(sung by Macomere Fifi)

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Structure
Structure has won the Calypso Monarch title in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007.
Structure will take home a cash prize of over $6,000.00 and will be sent to represent Canada in London, U.K in next year’s Notting Hill Carnival, as part of an exchange programme with the Association of British Calypsonians (ABC) that saw their 2010 Calypso Monarch Alexander D Great perform here as a Special Guest.
For more information contact OCPA at (416) 795-2722 or visit our website at
www.ocpacalypsoca.com


Cutline: some of the 8 other contestants stand behind the throne as Structure is crowned the 2011 Calypso Monarch.
Middle: Singer King Cosmos (Henry Gomez) strips Structure on stage revealing a set of red women's underwear.
Bottom: Structure sings his winning song to the media.

Thursday 21 July 2011

Read charities into this Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival announces programmes that benefit from Friday Night's Gala Fundraiser at the Liberty Grande (CNE Grounds)

(Toronto) – In partnership with the Toronto Public Library Foundation, STCC presents an evening to celebrate the Culture of Carnival, recognize 5 key contributors and to raise funds for the Dr. Rita Cox Endowment Fund. The Rita Cox Endowment Fund for Black and Caribbean Heritage supports The Rita Cox Black and Caribbean Heritage Collection at the Toronto Public Library. The Collection features more than 16,000 print and audiovisual materials for adults, children and teens about the black and Caribbean experience with special emphasis on Canadian material. The collection is available at convenient library locations across the city: Parkdale, Yorkwoods, Malvern and Maria A. Shchuka branches.

This year 4 STCC Tribute Awards will be presented to Glenda Bostic for her dedication and commitment to furthering calypso through the Organization of Calypso Performing Artistes, John Kam – a veteran involved in production of the festival for over 25 years, Pat “Panman” McNeilly – a dynamic contributor to both calypso and steelband in Canada and the late Elton “Smokey” John who will remembered by all from inception of the festival in 1967 to the formation of the Toronto Symphony Steel Orchestra and the making of pans in Toronto. The Kathy Searles Volunteer award will be presented to Frances Lochan, Event Manager of the King & Queen event which takes at Lamport Stadium each year.

Host for this year’s gala dinner program is Itah Sadu – owner of A Different Booklist. Itah is an author and storyteller who shares the rich oral traditions of the Caribbean, Africa and Canada with her audiences and is well known to Toronto Public Library and the Dr. Rita Cox Endowment Fund. Entertainment include the reigning Calypso Monarch “Macomere FiFi”, D Juiceman, Hummingbird Tassa Group, Pan Fantasy Steel band. The jum-up starts at 9:30 pm featuring DJ Desmond Peters from Wack Radio in T&T and a live band “The Vibes”.

On Friday, July 22nd, the Liberty Grand Complex (Toronto’s CNE grounds) will be transformed into an island of sensational colour, rhythmic vibrations and exotic extravagance. It will be dinner for over 500 guests featuring the melodious sounds and culinary splendor of the Carnival through music, costumes, magnificent dinner program and fundraising activities such as silent auction, swag bags and CRA approved donations box.

Tickets are now available and can be purchased at the Festival Management Committee’s downtown offices 263 Davenport Avenue. Lower Level) or on-line at http://www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com . Doors open at 5.30 pm for cocktails and the sit-down dinner begins at 7.30 pm. Tickets - $160 / Table -$1,600.

About Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Produced by the Festival Management Committee, Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Festival is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, revelry as well as visual and performing arts. A major international event and the largest cultural festival of its kind in North America – Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean 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.

Corporate sponsors of this year's festival include: Scotiabank, The Toronto Star, CTV, CP24, Flow 93.5, Eye Weekly, The Federal Government of Canada, The Province of Ontario, The City of Toronto, Tourism Toronto, 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 Grace Kennedy (Ontario) Inc.

Photo - Two CBC guests at the 2008 Gala.

MEDIA: You are welcome to cover BUT you are not guaranteed a meal. PLEASE confirm with Stephen Weir. 416-489-5868 . Ontario Minister Best and Federal Minister Kent will be speaking at the Gala.

For Further Information, contact

Stephen Weir Stephen Weir & Associates
stephen@stephenweir.com 416-489-5868; 416-801-3101

Wednesday 20 July 2011

Singing Competition this Saturday evening in Scarborough - Calypso Monarch


2011 Calypso Monarch Competition
Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival


The Organization of Calypso Performing Artistes (OCPA) will hold the KAISO365 Calypso Monarch Competition, Saturday, July 23, 2011 to choose the top Calypso singer at the Chinese Cultural Centre, (P.C. Ho. Theatre) 5183 Sheppard Avenue, East, (Parking entrance on Progress Avenue).
Finalists this year are: Spice, King Smokey, Beginner, Newton P, Mr. Wonderful, Panman Pat, Structure, and Redman.
The nine finalists – eight plus last year's winner Macomere Fifi - will perform two newly composed calypsos before a panel of judges. Each song will be awarded points out of a maximum of 100 points divided into five (5) categories as follows:
Lyrics 30
Melody 30
Vocal Rendition 25
Originality 10
Presentation 5
In addition, there will be the following special awards categories: Most Original, Best Competition on a Local Topic, Most Humorous, Best Arrangement, Best New Artiste.
The Calypso Monarch Competition attracts singers from across the GTA and beyond and has been held annually in Toronto for the past 30 years. The 2010 first prizewinner was Macomere Fifi singing, “ Haiti will Rise Again” and “Your Turn To Die”. Macomere Fifi will be defending her crown.
The Organization of Calypso Performing Artistes is a non-profit organization whose offices are located at Suite 120 – 215 Spadina Ave., Toronto ON. M5T 2C7.

Monday 18 July 2011

Junior Carnival Parade Down Jane Street - Results



UNOFFICIAL RESULTS OF THE SCOTIABANK TORONTO CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL JUNIOR PARADE


Parade of the Bands

Rank Band Leader Band Theme Points
1. Jamaal Magloire, Toronto Revellers, Welcome to Oz, 261
2. Dexter Seusahai, Tribal Knights, Legends, 260
3. Marcus Eustace, Carnival Nationz, Mythical Creatures, 259

Male Individual

1. Jalen Gause, The Timid King, Jamaal Magloire/Toronto Revellers, Welcome to Oz
2. Maven Lee, Symphony of D’ Sea, Mark Deleon / Mas Toronto, Mas in Atlantis- A Carnival Mythology
3. Courtney St. Louis, Guardian of the Rainforest, Dexter Seusahai / Tribal Knights, Legends

Female Individual

1. Anastasia La Rose, Good Witch of the North Jamaal Magloire/Toronto Revellers, Welcome to Oz
2. Canisha Edwards, Lost Treasures, Dexter Seusahai/Tribal Knights, Legends
3. Sariah, Seon Jelly Jamboree – Shake and Wine, Mark Deleon / Mas Toronto, Mas In Atlantis A Carnival Mythology

Queen

1 Calena Seusahai, Cleopatra, Dexter Seusahai/Tribl Knights, Legends
2 Rebecca Martinez, Hope and Tranquility, Narisa Ali/Blues Carnival Fusion, Mirage of Drums
3. Shanisse Kaola Jackson, Arabian Dancer, Will Morton / Fantazia International, Come Dance With Me

King

1. Demeko Minott, The Gryphon, Marcus Eustace / Carnival Nationz, Mythical Creatures
2 Fabion Lee, Young King Neptune, Mark Deleon / Mas Toronto, Mas in Atlantis A Carnival Mythology
3 Ty Williamson, Tim Man, Jamaal Magloire / Toronto Revellers, Welcome to Oz

Friday 15 July 2011

Kiddies Parade, Jane/Finch, 2,000 kids in mas costume, Saturday 11am, Yorkgate Idol too!

MEDIA ALERT

The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival
2011 Yorkgate Junior Carnival Parade
11am Set to roll down Jane St. Saturday, July 16th


WHAT: 2011 Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival/Yorkgate Mall Junior Carnival Parade
Close to 2,000 children in Mas costumes.
WHERE: Parade starts at Shoreham Rd (Black Creek Pioneer Village). Travels south on Jane Street. Review stand at Driftwood/Jane. Ends at Yorkgate Mall Parking Lot for Party, Entertainment and Awards.
WHEN: 11am start at Shoreham Rd Ribbon cutting ceremony with
Judy Sgro MP York West and Mario Sergio MPP York West
1pm Yorkgate Idol ContestYorkgate NW parking lot
2pm expected end parade, Yorkgate NW parking lot
2.30pm – 4pm Kid’s party and awards.
Yorkgate NW parking lot

WHY: Bringing the traditions of carnival to Jane/Finch. Also referred to as Kiddies Carnival, it comprises masqueraders (or mas) players/dancers who range in age from toddlers to teens; many of who go on to play in the main Carnival parade when they become adults. And just with adult bands, each junior band must portray a theme suitable of the Carnival masquerade tradition. Competition titles up for grabs include: Junior Band of the Year; Jr. King of the Bands; Jr. Queen of the Bands; Jr. Male Individual of the Year; and Jr. Female Individual of the Year.
NOTE: The TTC will be operating a special bus service during the Saturday Parade which will drops passengers off on Jane St. within site of the review stand. The 108 Downsview Bus will be short-turning at Jane throughout the parade.

Yorkgate Idol is an exciting grade 9 to 12 youth talent singing competition with a mix of Rhythm and Blues (R n B), Reggae, gospel and other forms of music. The live show will be held in the parking lot at 1 pm. Yorkgate Idol is a spectacular event that brings together youth, businesses, professionals, organizations and community residents together through arts and culture for community development.
For further information, contact: Stephen Weir, Stephen Weir & Associates stephen@stephenweir.com416-489-5868; 416-801-3101
PICTURE: Parade mask for Kiddies Parade

Wednesday 13 July 2011

MEDIA PREVIEW OF SCOTIABANK TORONTO CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL ART SHOW AT THE ROM (Media Only)

You are cordially invited to the MEDIA PREVIEW for:
Toronto's Carnival: Festival Photographs from 1967 to Today


MEDIA PREVIEW

Thursday, July 14, 2011, 10:00 am
Royal Ontario Museum
100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON

RSVP required - best to email me asap
416.586.5529 or mediarsvp@rom.on.ca
Enter via the Bloor St. W. entrance of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal
Doors open at 10:00 am.
Public Opening: Saturday, July 16

Friday 8 July 2011

Big Route Change for the Big Parade. Tuesday July 12 presser with entertainment and costumes. City Hall Noon

MEDIA ALERT

STILL JUMPIN’ – THE LAUNCH OF THE SCOTIABANK TORONTO CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL, NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE
Tuesday, July12th 2011
Noon – 2pm


Official Launch for the Carnival at Nathan Phillips Square
Provincial Minister of Tourism and Culture – Michael Chan
Big Changes To The Big Parade to be Announced
Mas Dancers, Calypso Performers, Soca Music and More

LATE BREAKING BULLETIN - I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT RUNNER LERONE CLARKE WILL BE AT THE KICK-OFF TODAY Lerone Clarke AT NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE

What: 2011 is kicking off the 3-week summer festival at Nathan Phillips Square. The NOON HOUR launch showcases the many events that will entertain and energize Toronto. Speeches. Musical performances. Dance troupes and dancers in Mas costumes. Calypso singers. Soca music. Pan orchestra.

Location Note: The launch is at City Hall NOT the David Pecaut Sq as previously announced

Why: Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival is an important tourism event. It annually brings hundreds of thousands of tourists into the city. This year, the parade route is being changed!!
Announcement on Tuesday. New Media Partner to be announced. New events to be announced.
Who: Scheduled to speak – The Honourable Michael Chan, Councillor Joe Mihevc and festival CFO Chris Alexander. Other dignitaries will be announced soon
When: Media tent opens at 11.30am. Last chance for media to register for the big parade.
Speeches 11.59 am to 12.30 pm. A cavalcade of entertainment until 2pm.
Where: Nathan Phillips Square. Queen Street -- Toronto City Hall.
How: All media are welcome to cover the event. www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com. The public is encouraged to attend this FREE EVENT

PICTURED: 2010 Parade - by Layton Wang-Wu


-30-

Media Contact

Stephen Weir, Publicist Craigg Slowly, Publicist
stephen@stephenweir.com craiggslowly@hotmail.com
Toronto Office: (416) 489-5868
Cell: (416) 801-3101

Stephen Weir Publicity Campaigns: Installation of Ivan Eyre’s Monumental Bronze Sculptures

Stephen Weir Publicity Campaigns: Installation of Ivan Eyre’s Monumental Bronze Sculptures

Wednesday 6 July 2011

Junior Carnival Parade kicked-off at Yorkgate Mall - Jane Fnch.

Major change for the location of the review stand
The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival
2011 Junior Carnival Parade
Set to roll down Jane St. Saturday, July 16th



Toronto, ON: 05.07.2011: The volunteer organizers of the 2011 Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival/Yorkgate Mall Junior Carnival Parade are expecting a large auidence at this year’s parade, so much so that a major change has been made in the set-up of the annual event. This year, the judges’ review stand will be midpoint in the route, along Jane Street, allowing more spectators and parents to see the children perform before the judges.
For the past 10-years the bands have been judged at the start of the parade along Shoreham Drive (Black Creek Pioneer Village). The parade will still start on Shoreham Drive but the review stand will be about half way along the route which travels from Shoreham to Jane, ending in the parking lot of the Yorkgate Mall (Jane & Finch).
”We are expecting close to 2,000 children this year,” explained organizer Greta Best. On Shoreham Road there isn’t the room to accommodate all the spectators. By moving the reviewing stand to Jane Street literally thousands and thousand of people can see the kiddies performing their routines in front of the judges.”
The TTC will be operating a special bus service during the Saturday Parade which will drops passengers off on Jane St. within site of the review stand. The 108 Downsview Bus will be short-turning at Jane throughout the parade.
Traditionally held two Saturdays before the main Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival parade, the Junior Carnival Parade sponsored by Yorkgate Mall is highly anticipated by young Carnival masqueraders.
Also referred to as Kiddies Carnival, it comprises masqueraders (or mas) players/dancers who range in age from toddlers to teens; many of whom go on to play in the main Caribana parade when they become adults. And just with adult bands, each junior band must portray a theme suitable of the Carnival masquerade tradition. Competition titles up for grabs include: Junior Band of the Year; Jr. King of the Bands; Jr. Queen of the Bands; Jr. Male Individual of the Year; and Jr. Female Individual of the Year. The afore-mentioned costumes are more elaborate than those of the average band members, and most often, are built through volunteer efforts with the involvement of its actual young portrayer.
“The TTC will be oncea again offering bus service up to the middle of the parade route on Jane St. ,” says Greta Best, Event Manager of the Junior Carnival Committee, “to help spectators get up to see the parade and cheer the children on. But other than that, it will be the same wonderful parade it is every year. It really is a great opportunity for the younger set to enjoy their Carnival. The opening ceremony is at 10.45am, with the parade starting at 11am sharp. So we encourage everyone to come early so as to get a good spot along Jane Street see the mas.”
Children are asked to join their respective band at 9am in the assembly area located on Shoreham Drive off Jane, just south of Black Creek Pioneer Village. The parade will travel west on Shoreham Drive, past the judging point at 31 Shoreham Drive (in front of Shoreham Public School). The parade then turns south onto Jane Street where it will travel until Yorkgate Blvd. It will turn west on Yorkgate Blvd and travel south ending at Hullmar Drive. Once the parade is over, there will be entertainment, DJ music, food vendors, steelpan music and a market place in Yorkgate Mall’s car park.


Each band has three (3) marshals per twenty (20) masqueraders to ensure an orderly progress and good conduct along the parade route. A panel of five volunteer judges will adjudicate all bands using the following criteria: Visual impact (max. 20 marks); Authenticity (10); Creativity (20); Mas on the Move (10); Clarity of Theme (10); Presentation (20); and Craftsmanship (10) for a total of 100 marks. The order of merit is determined by discarding the highest and lowest score per participant. The judges’ decision is final, and is announced at the end of the parade.
Organizers of the event predict that there will be close to 2,000 children on the parade route. Parents wanting to get their children involved in the party should visit the festival website to find the address and phone number of a mas camp. Children register with the band and purchase a costume for the parade. Children don’t have to belong to any special club or culture to join in the fun. All are welcome.
The parade ends at the Yorkgate Mall (at the intersection of Jane St and Finch Avenue). Here the children will enjoy lunch, take in live entertainment and await the results from the parade. As well, the finalists of the Yorkgate Idol contest will be performing and the winner will be announced at the Junior Carnival post parade party.
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 oversees the running of the outdoor festival.
Corporate sponsors of this year’s festival include: Scotiabank, The Toronto Star, Sway Magazine, CTV, CP-24, The Canadian Federal Government, The Province of Ontario, the City of Toronto, Tourism Toronto,, The Greater Toronto Airports Authority, Ontario Place, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Ontario Science Centre, The Toronto Libraries, Yorkgate Mall, Liberty Grand, FLOW fm, Urbanology Magazine, The Caribbean Camera Newspaper, Toronto-Lime.Com, and Grace Kennedy Foods.
This year, the Official Launch for the Festival will take place at Noon on Tuesday July 12 at Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto. The main parade will be staged on Saturday, July 30, 2011; 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.
For complete listing information, visit www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com, the only official website for the Festival. Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Festival Office is located at 263 Davenport Avenue. Lower Level, Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Tel., 416-391-5608; Fax, 416-391-5693; Email: info@caribanafestival.com
For further information, contact: Stephen Weir, Stephen Weir & Associates stephen@stephenweir.com416-489-5868; 416-801-3101

PICTURE INFORMATION): TOP Two types of head gear at the launch of the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Three children from the Tru DYNASTY Mas Camp are wearing feathers while in back, PC Jen Francis wears a regulation Metro Toronto Police bike helmet. She works out of Division 31. Photo by George Socka.
MIDDLE: Scotiabank VP Christine Williams spoke at the Tuesday press conference. Photo George Socka

BOTTOM: Denise Herrera-Jackson, Festival CEO, also spoke at the press conference. Photograph by George Socka