Panamanians plan 29th Annual Tribute to Independence
On the anniversary of Christopher Columbus allegedly setting eyes on the Americas, Panamanians plan a momentous tribute to the heritage and culture he bequeathed as an emissary from Spain.
Members of the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York plan their 29th annual procession from President Street to Classon Avenue, adjacent to the Brooklyn Museum, on Oct. 12.
Revered as the largest Panamanian parade in the world, none other held outside of the isthmus claims the distinction.
Honoring educators, artists, and celebrities who have established a cultural footprint on the acclaimed ‘bridge of the world,’ this year’s festivities continue to exalt culture, tradition, and folklore in commemoration of their Nov. 3, 1903 independence from Columbia.
That the date also coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month and previews an eclectic Manhattan celebration through the streets the following day adds to the alluring parade.
As usual, foods, fashion, beauty queens, marching bands, and regional representatives will showcase the diversity distinguishing Isthmians from other Latinas.
Mexico kicked off the month-long revelry with parades hailing Spain’s Spanish-speaking imprint on Venezuela, Guatemala, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, Argentina, and other Caribbean and Latin American nations.
The month’s pageantries will end on Oct. 15, the weekend the Central American Republic flaunts its unique style and traditional music.
Panamanians also slate a gala affair on Oct. 10, where a dressed-to-impress crowd will boost their coffers during a fundraising event at Antun’s Catering in Queens.
Honorees include 2023 parade queens Catherine Paulinho and Colette Rogers-Whyte with MC Willie Panama.
For more information, check Panamanian parade.org or dicpny@gmail.com
Jamaican immigrant Sonia Chin tries to measure up against Indian migrant pachyderms. Photo by Vinette K Pryce
100 Pachyderms on parade in Manhattan
It’s true, the best things in life are free.
Proof of that famous saying is evident along Ninth Ave., where 98 life-sized Indian and two African elephants dominate the thoroughfare.
The beauteous exhibition is not only magnificent, but the touring troupe of life-sized elephants will enlighten Americans about a devastating catastrophe on the faraway continent that threatens the future of the animals and remains virtually unknown, which may be the most alluring aspect of the free attraction.
The fact is that The Great Elephant Migration represents a herd from artistry created by 200 indigenous Indians determined to save their beloved animals. Reportedly, a toxic invasive weed is forcing animals to change their action to find food. The elephants’ hunting for a safe diet threatens their existence.
In collaboration with like-minded philanthropists here, conscientious wildlife advocates are compelled to raise money to save the species harmed by the shrub known as Lantana Camara.
At first glance, the brownish plant product might resemble bamboo. Flowering plants, when treated, produce a bendable and malleable texture that resembles bamboo.
Reports are that the project’s creators used the crop to manufacture the vast specimens displayed in the Meatpacking District.
They plan to sell endearing replicas, which, in turn, will help save the animals.
All creations – mothers and calves, some with tusks of ivory and without, big-eared African pachyderms, smaller-eared Asians, all with beautiful, brown eyes that seem to penetrate every stare.
All the elephants on display represent orphans or real-life survivors from a reserve on the continent.
The purpose is to entice interest in the drastic situation and invite purchasers.
The beginning asking price for a calf is $8,000, with a giant pachyderm maxing at $22,000.
The exhibit started in Rhode Island and will travel across the country, stopping in Miami, Florida, Browning, Montana, and Los Angeles, California.
New York is only the second stop along the journey.
See it before it takes off on Oct. 20.
With a spacious abode, sensitivity to wildlife conservation, and an affordable purse, you can, too, ask your guests to take note of the elephant in the room.
Catch you On the Inside!
