April 21, 2000

In March, Marlene Moraldo, an MGH surgical technician, participated in the annual carnival celebration in Trinidad. Each year a three-day costume competition is held as part of the festivities. Moraldo, originally from Trinidad, entered the contest as a first-time contestant and placed third among 47 other participants.

The elaborate costume, made of feathers, cloth and wire, was made by a friend of Moraldo's. This was the first time someone from the United States has won a title in this competition.