Vincy Mas 2010 has officially begun.

In what can be described as a gala affair, the launch of this year’s festivities kicked into high gear on Saturday, May 8, at the Chamber of Industry and Industry’s Car Park in Kingstown.{{more}}

Before converging at the carpark, whistle stops were held on both sides of the mainland, giving Vincentians an exciting warm up to the calendar of events slated for the next two months.

Minister of Culture René Baptiste officially opened Vincy Mas during the ceremony, which also heard addresses from Carnival sponsors and saw the first public appearance of the ten contestants in the 2010 Miss SVG pageant.

A small sample of many aspects of Vincy Mas was given, including a dance performance by the LaGracia Dance Company, a showing by the lone mas band, Melbourne Artisans, and a showcase by J’Ouvert champions, J’Ouvert Fanatics.

The launch also featured the new song competition in both Soca and Calypso, the extempo competition and steel pan selections done by Sion Hill Euphonium Steel Orchestra and Rythmix Steel Orchestra.

A surprise appearance was also made by calypsonian “Ga-O”, who was well received by the crowd.

In her address, Baptiste noted that the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) must be complimented for the work they have done over the years. Baptiste boasted about some of this country’s achievements, including being one of the three Caribbean countries invited to President Barack Obama’s inaugural parade in the North America.

“We must be really proud of our Vincy Mas. We have a brand that is superior in the whole region,” Baptiste stated.

The Culture Minister said that with the recent opening of a Brazilian embassy in Kingstown, that South American country will be given “a spectacular display of Vincy Mas”.

Baptiste also praised several media houses for being involved in Carnival over the years and urged them to continue to do so. “We have to ensure all partners are on the table, as this is for the interest of our nation,” Bapstiste added.

Meanwhile, president of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Angus Steele, stated that some businesses were “a little bit selfish and they need to come out of that space and be truly good corporate citizens and help.”

“This is not about politics. This is not about who you like or dislike. This is about your own nation, our nation, St, Vincent and the Grenadines,” said Steele, who is also the Country Manager of Vincy Mas sponsors LIME. (KW)