ACTIVITIES for the Mashramani 2011 celebrations are reaching fever pitch. The groovy Soca Monarch was a huge hit. The Junior Calypso Competition lit up Linden and had spectators asking for more. Both the Masquerade and Steel Band Competitions were very well received, and the Children’s Competition showcased an abundance of talent and great potential for  growth . The Adult Calypso Competition brought public awareness to many pressing social issues, Chutney was a blast, and the Children’s Parade a glimpse into the future. Now it’s ‘Las Lap’ and time to get ready to MASH!!

Mashramani Day is fast approaching, and many Guyanese are preparing for the big occasion. For some, it’s just work,  with no time to celebrate. Others are using the day to stay at home and relax. But those who understand the true significance of the day will be celebrating after a year of hard work. I spoke to a number of young Guyanese, and enquired about their plans and preparation for Mash Day.

Alana Lewis is 21 years old and said that she is working hard to get money for Mash. She has started to organize her mind as to what she will be wearing. Alana dreams of becoming a journalist, and explained that she’ll soon go shopping with her friends. Her attire will be Short Pants, Sneakers and a Big Hat.
“I’ll walk with snacks and a colourful Mashramani rice. Sweet-and-sour-chicken, mashed potato on the side, and a healthy salad will make up the food for that day. We’ll pack a picnic basket, have some beverages, a blanket to spread, and, of course, a camera to capture special moments.
“After the day’s activities end, I’ll go to a show; maybe ‘Kartel’, if he comes. If that show ends too early, I’ll go clubbing. Last year I went out too late on Mash Day and missed everything. This year I’ll stay home from work and have a ball.

Alarik Baksh, aka. ‘Paper’ is 19 years old. This young man disclosed that he enjoys Mash Day every year.
“I go into the National Park with the family, and we take along food and drinks. We try to see all the floats before going onto the field to play cricket. Most years, I’ll meet my friends there, and we just cool out. After the Mash Day activities, I’ll go into a club till morning.”
Alarik said he’d like to see more floats and more Guyanese participating in Mashramani this year.

Sueann Gibbons, Latacia Headley, and Tracyann Headley are 18, 34 and 15 respectively. These three young women are relatives and live in close proximity to each other.
Sueann has already started  buying her clothes for Mash. She revealed that her outfit  is short and something that can take in plenty of breeze. She will be waiting for the nicest band to pass on Mash Day, so that she can join it. “I have to collect enough money from my parents to enjoy myself. I remember having lots of fun at Mash time as a kid.”
Latacia plans to make some nice snacks for February 23. “I’ll make some poulouri and egg balls, take along some water, and buy some confectioneries for the children. We’ll find a nice spot on Thomas Lands so that everyone can view the floats, and allow the children to play while waiting for the next float.”
Latacia and her two sisters plan to go together with all their children. “I want the children to have fun and see everything. At the end of the day, they must have a good story to tell friends in school or write about.” Each sister will cook a different pot, and everyone will share in it.
Tracyann  is going out on Mash Day to have lots of fun. “I’m getting my clothes ready; they are going to be very nice. I am wearing a colourful top, simple bottom, and flashy footwear. I’ll leave together with the rest of my family, then meet my friends later. We’ll walk around and enjoy the costumes and latest fashions. I wish that Mash could be a two-day affair like Trinidad and Tobago. I feel that if that happened, many more people will participate.”

Celena McLean and Samantha Lewis are both ten-year-olds and quite energetic. They are looking forward to an enjoyable day this Mash. They too are eying some new clothes.  Both girls echoed the fact that they have already gotten permission from their parents to go to Mash. They plan to see all the beautiful costumes and floats, and enjoy the delicious foods.
Celena likes the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport’s band, and  Samantha is backing G.T & T. They both intend to have a blast on Mash Day.
The time for indecision is over. It’s time to make plans for Mash. So get your outfits ready, organize the food and drinks, pick the best spot for the family, and don’t forget to walk with a camera. You don’t want to miss out on the chance to capture some magic moments of pure joy. GET EXCITED!! GET READY FOR MASH!!