– hands over Promenade Gardens Bandstand
Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited yesterday launched its Mashramani Pan-o-rama 2009 steel band competition and also officially handed over to the Mayor and City Council, the newly refurbished Promenade Gardens Bandstand at the Promenade Gardens Georgetown.

According to Edwin Gooding, Managing Director of the bank, who delivered the welcome remarks, this step represents yet another aspect of the partnership between Republic Bank and the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport. He added that the bank takes pleasure in sponsoring the  Pan-o-rama competition. Gooding said that the genesis of the bank’s interest in further nurturing and promoting this art form in Guyana was sparked by the talent displayed by the National Steel Orchestra at the recent Carifesta celebrations, and he hopes that the competition would be a stimulus for a general regeneration of interest in pan.

Pan-o-rama is now a part of the bank’s Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) brand for social investments and community outreach initiatives in Guyana and across the region.

Mayor of Georgetown Hamilton Green, assisted by Gooding performed the symbolic cutting of the ribbon in acceptance of the newly refurbished bandstand. The latest refurbishment culminates the banks five-year restoration of the Promenade Gradens, which started back in 2004 and over the years also included the rehabilitation of the lighting, drainage, plumbing, fence and surrounding pavement and public conveniences as well as the maintenance of the flora.

Left in photo is Mayor Hamilton Green as he performs the symbolic cutting of the ribbon in acceptance of the newly refurbished bandstand while Edwin Gooding, Managing Director of Republic Bank looks on.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Keith Booker delivered the feature address on behalf of Minister Dr Frank Anthony. Booker said the ministry is pleased with the contributions made by Republic Bank. He said that the bank has always been involved in corporate and social ventures and urged other organisations to be involved as well.

Green noted that the bank has always been known for its giving and vision and encouraged other banks to follow suit. “I thank you for this gracious and generous contribution and look forward to greater future collaborations as we aim to move our country forward,” the Mayor said.