With another Carnival event in the books, the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Band Leaders Association (ACCBA) has been making a stellar move to remain front runners in the Atlanta Carnival arena. This time, and for a second year in a row, they hosted the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Princess and Queen Pageant, held at the prestigious Omega World Center on May Saturday 2nd, 2009.

After some last minute changes to the decor of the stage, ACCBA's President, Matthew Nelson, started the evening's events with the US National Anthem after receiving the go ahead from host of the evening's proceeding's, Mr. Nigel Fabian. Fabian, a long time comedian in his own right, introduced the 'Princesses' for the afternoon just about 2.30pm, after a few laughs. Aged from 9-14 years, the Princess Pageant went very well. The young women were beautiful and carried wonderful smiles .... which we all know, makes for easy photography.

Like most pageants, the contestants were to be judged on numerous things, not to exclude talent, evening wear, cultural representation and overall presentation. The Princesses did a fantastic job, enlightening the crowd with their portrayal of their country's culture. The following countries were represented in the 'Princess Pageant'; Jamaica, Dominica, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua & Barbuda.

Photos By Neil B.
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Two hours into the event, patrons had an opportunity to visit the Caribbean Cuisine food stalls at the back of the hall. And for those who chose not to do so at the time, Nigel Fabian kept them busy. However, just before the intermission, little Miss Mya Davis, thrilled the audience with her beautiful voice. And after her encore performance, everyone was even asking her for her autograph or suggesting that she should interview for the popular American Idol. I echo those sentiments. She was fantastic!

The show went on without a hitch, and by the end of the Princess show, they were all considered winners as Mr. Fabian rightfully said. However, in the eyes of the experienced judging committee, there was one clear winner who exemplified the true meaning of 'Princess.' Kaiia Krysta Phillips was crowned 2009 Miss Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Princess. 2008 winner, Miss Krystal Brown was happy to hand over her title. After a few photos with her family and the organizing committee, Miss Phillips was elated to be crowned Princess and said that she was looking forward to her year as Carnival Princess.

By 7.30pm, the Queen Pageant got going with host Fabian again. This event featured the age group from 17-21 years. The countries represented were Guyana, Jamaica and the Virgin Islands. This show took a similar pattern but with two distinct additions from the Princess show, to ensure the show was more competitive. The additions were the portrayal of a swim wear and a question and answer section at the end of their evening wear portrayal. In TJJ's eyes, this was the part that made or broke the young adults for the evening. Though tough, they all got through the questions, but not without some discomfort. However, all is well, that ends well. And while the judges had a bit of a problem tallying the scores, ACCBA President, Nelson, did not let that damper the spirit of the evening. While the patrons waited for the results, new artist Charlie D performed his song, "American Woman". By the end of the evening, and though the competition was a bit fierce, Ms. Shayla Cruz of the Virgin Islands (St. Thomas) was announced Miss Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Queen 2009.

After a long evening, the TJJ crew had a great time. Music was provided by DJ Optimistic and DJ Lotto, who kept the party going a little while after the show.

We will see you for Atlanta Carnival 2k9, Memorial Day Weekend (May 22nd-25th). Visit www.atlantacarnival.org for more details.

JoyJuice... Out and About!