A lot of Obama faces at Brazil carnival

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When Brazil’s annual Carnaval opens this year on Feb. 22, the new U.S. president, Barack Obama, is expected to be in attendance -- in the thousands.

The Associated Press reports that huge support for the African American president among Brazil’s large black population is driving sales of Obama masks for the upcoming celebration.

Plastic masks of Obama are the top sellers, said Olga Gibert Valles, owner of one of Rio’s oldest Carnaval costume producers. Valles’ company has already made 7,000 masks, and Obama’s face promises to be one of the most seen during the loud, colorful procession.

-- Deborah Bonello in Mexico City