CATRGORY:CELEBRATION ------------------------ By Trevor Thwaites Inside Grenada correspondent Monday January 22,2007 GRENADA - Celebrations marking Grenada’s 33rd Anniversary of Independence promises to be a grand affair. Several activities have been organized by the National Celebrations Committee (NCC) which, according to officials, will be fantastic. Nationals gained much respect and appreciation for their patriotism and firm support for the activity last year. The national colours were displayed as never seen before during the celebrations that were dubbed “a big success.” From all indications, it could be even bigger this year. “It will be bigger and better than 2006. We are trying to get more business enterprises to encourage their workers to wear the national colours”, Public Relations Officer of the NCC, Shirma Wells told reporters. “We are delighted by the way they rallied behind the celebrations last year. “We hope it can be exceeded this year”, she said. The beautifications of towns, a beautification competition for communities, a Motorcade, Secondary Schools Quiz Competition and Ball have been organized. Also on the Independence Itinerary are: a Church Service, a Craft Fiesta, National Colours Day and Independence Road Race and the grand Independence Rally(Independence Day –February 7) at the Tanteen Playing Field. The activity last year, which attracted many foreign dignitaries, highlighted the celebrations. An inspiring address by Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell, and a moving and energetic military display by local and foreign troops from Venezuela and the United Kingdom, spiced up the proceedings. The Chinese Military Band also spiced up the celebrations with a thrilling performance. They might not be here in 2007, but some of their countrymen maybe. A Chinese Acrobatic Group is down to perform at the Independence rally. Diplomatic personnel from the country’s more than 50 Foreign Missions are expected to attend the celebrations. The beautification of towns and preparations for the beautification competition in the communities, groups, schools and villages are just about starting. The Independence Motorcade is scheduled for Saturday February 3. The Ministry of Education is coordinating the Schools’ Quiz and the Ministry of Sports is also organizing the Road Race. The Church Service is scheduled for Sunday February 4, the Craft Fiesta is carded for Tuesday February 6 and the Independence Ball is fixed for Saturday February 3 at the home of Governor General, Sir Daniel Williams, in Westerhall, St David. The celebrations are being held under the theme “Enhancing Growth and Revenue, Protecting the Vulnerable”.