-apply early, urges Anthony

Minister of Culture Frank Anthony yesterday issued an appeal for prospective participants in various Mashramani competitions to send in entries early.

Anthony noted that Mashramani involved people participating and encouraged persons to come out to make the events a hit. As regards the Mash Day parade, he noted that many of the big companies, ministries and religious bodies, have indicated their willingness to participate. But he stated that he wanted people to register since there is a deadline to adhere to. The close off date for entries is a week before the parade.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Alfred King said that the ministry’s float is expected to be some 300 strong, while efforts, he said, are being made to get the City Council involved once again in the parade. In an effort to promote the Low Carbon Development Strategy, King said that the Ministry’s float will highlight the flora and fauna of the country.

Meanwhile, Antony urged companies and other interested persons to enter the illuminated building, decorated building and parapet competitions, since last year there were not a lot of entrants. The minister said that those who are not coming out on Mash day can at least decorate their buildings.

Meanwhile, commenting on the chutney competition, Neaz Subhan said that 15 finalists have been selected while three overseas based Guyanese will be made known later.

The final of the competition is to be held at LBI on February 19 along with a Duck Curry Festival. Subhan said that there are a number of young participants and five new entries into this year’s competition.

And the calypso finals are set for the Thirst Park on February 21, with Minister Anthony promising more fluency in the programme. The show is free and Banks DIH, Sales Marketing Executive, Carlton Joao anticipated a good show. That event will also be free.

Also slated as part of the 40th Republic anniversary is a steel band competition on February 14, sponsored by Republic Bank.

The children’s competition is set for February 16 to February 19. The minister pointed out they are contemplating charging an entrance fee for the junior calypso competition, which is to be held at the National Cultural Centre. The proceeds, he said, will be donated to the Haiti relief fund.