An interfaith service is the Deputy Regional Executive Officer’s (DREO) and the mash committee’s choice of a perfect start for the Region Two events preceding Mashramani 2007
In an interview, DREO Carl Parker said that the event cannot be a one-man show and as a result his committee includes members of the business community, the department of education, the police force, the fire service, the New Opportunity Corps, officers of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the general public.
Following the service, the finals of the national chutney competition is scheduled for the evening of February 18th at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground. Decorated buildings will also be judged on the said date. The people’s thirst will be quenched on February 22nd with the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, popularly known as flag raising, and a rich cultural programme to be held at the Anna Regina car park. The day also sees the unveiling of a monument situated at Dartmouth, in memory of the late policeman Walter Brummell who was killed in the line of duty on February 22, 2003. And the day isn’t over as yet. The Evergreen-Paradise NDC has its annual cycle road race from Queenstown to Dartmouth for the benefit of the public. On Mash Day, February 23, a mammoth road march and mash tramp is scheduled to depart Three Friends and Lima at 9:30 am. Participants will converge at the Anna Regina car park for the judging of the floats and presentation of prizes. The floats will be judged in three categories: big, medium and small.
The DREO emphatically said “Essequibians are starved for entertainment and any form of entertainment, once clean will be welcome by all”. He also recalled that last year was well-patronised and he thinks that this year will be even bigger, since it will be held on the road. The former venue, the Anna Regina community centre ground will not be used because it is earmarked by the 20-20 cricket committee for upgrading so as to attract international activities.
Parker would also like the public to know that Region Street and Market Street will be the places for vending. He also stated that spots paid for will be allocated to persons desirous of same. When asked about the budgetary situation, he said that they have budgeted for $1.5 million but the Ministry of Finance will have the last say.
