The quality of the floats was laudable ; artistry, imagination and talent were most evident in all categories of the floats and we need to acknowledge the efforts of those designers and participants who exhibited their creations.

Mashramani is not only about the float parades; it’s about a calendar of activities that includes dance, drama, singing and the involvement of the Guyanese population in competition to triumph in whatever they participate in. The historic significance of Mashramani is commemorating our country’s Republic status which became 39 this year.

It was a fun-filled day that saw families gathering in the Botanical Gardens and Zoo, along the Merriman’s Mall, the National Park and other places, to catch a glimpse of the float parades and to have a family picnic.

The Mash day activities gave people a chance to dance to good Caribbean music mostly of Guyanese origin.

The atmosphere was wonderful and waves of excitement flowed through children and revellers.

Mashramani celebrations saw people all partying and frolicking around the streets of Georgetown which were spruced up for this event.

So I urge those who “bad mouth” the celebrations not only in the media but around the “town” to be more appreciative for the hard work of others.

Mash was amazing despite the challenges that faced the organizers; so I trust next year all the private sector entities wishing to participate may have the chance to do so with favourable economic conditions.

Cheers to the Mashramani celebrations “One dream, One celebration, One design in 2009”. Judy Pearsall