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XM Carifesta Cocktail Mix-Off

The place to be after the extravagant opening ceremony for CARIFESTA X was Banks DIH Thirst Park. This was to be the venue for the XM CARIFESTA cocktail mix-off. The event was to see the coming together of the best known cocktail mixers around the country to compete for prizes, a trophy and bragging rights for being the best mixer in Guyana.

There were six competitors in the competition. Each was to mix their own special blend of three drinks; the margarita, the shooter and the cocktail. Two bars were set up so as to minimize time. Each competitor had 3 minutes to mix and pour their special blends using products provided by Banks DIH and other specified ingredients. After mixing their blends each competitor had to present their finished products to the panel of jusdes for the taste test.

Between the changes in drinks to be mixed persons attending the event had the opportunity to listen to the winner of the recently concluded Banks Premium Beer Karaoke competition. He serenaded the crowd with classics from yesteryear, causing some persons to even take to the dancefloor and waltz. Persons were also afforded the opportunity to acquire cocktails, using their chits from the barso as to get a sense of what the competitors were mixing.

Following the sampling of the numerous mixes the judges had the difficult task of selecting the winners for each category and the overall winner of the competition. After much deliberation it was decided that the winner of the mix-off was Vishnu Singh.

Despite the soggy state of the ground due to heavy rainfall earlier in the day the event was well supported.

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Happy Birthday GuyanaLive.com

Only one year after the launch of the website we have established ourselves as a premier authority in the coverage and reporting of events and news of significance to the entertainment industry in Guyana. Birthed out of an idea started by a few idle souls taking pics everywhere they go to catalogue and document their liming and partying activities during the summer, guyanalive.com has rapidly become the place where memorable occasions are captured and stored for your viewing pleasure. Though this is not the first such site of its kind in Guyana it must be recognized that we have rapidly become #1 in the coverage of entertainment activities in Guyana. Placing such activities before an international audience has given Guyanese entertainers and Guyanese culture a platform for exposure and expansion never before experienced locally.

For those who have been following our progress over the past year the following information would be nothing new, but for the befit of those unfamiliar with our progress thus far this will serve to bring you up to speed.

The website was launched at “Into the Night- Music of the 70’s & 80’s” held at the Everest Cricket Club on Camp Street on July 28 2007.The event was organized by the Everest Hikers Hockey Team. This event proved to be an excellent launching pad for the site since the event was, as always, a tremendous success and before 6am the following day all the pics from the event were already uploaded onto the site. This standard has been maintained over the past year and will be continued.

Initially the aim of the site was to provide coverage of parties in and around the city, but some decisions at management level as well as due to the response received, it was decided that events out of the capital would be covered as well. This decision was taken in recognition of the fact that events of significance take place beyond the boundaries of the capital, thus giving coverage to these was aimed at being an adequate representation of Guyana, not just Georgetown. The decision was also taken to cover events related to the entertainment industry which may not necessarily be party related in order to give an holistic view of the entertainment climate in Guyana. This fact is evident in the coverage of the Rodeo held in Lethem which shows the dedication with which we seek to bring the best and wide ranging coverage of events in Guyana.

Over the past year the website has evolved into a place to not only view pics and videos, but into a meeting place for Guyanese worldwide through our forum. Other features of the website that have gained attention and which have also put us miles ahead of the competition include; artiste profiles, guyanalive.com top ten, free sms, music, videos, news, and the recent addition of the Guyanalive.com Blog.

These and other features have given Guyanalive.com a very important role in the promotion of the entertainment industry here in Guyana and internationally. This is a role which will be undertaken and executed with the highest standards possible. Despite a few hiccups that were as a result of circumstances beyond our control we remain the premier website in the promotion and distribution of Guyanese talent here in Guyana as well as putting everything Guyanese, in a positive way, on the international scene.

If all of this has been done within the time frame of one year, imagine what can be done over the next year! Thank you for your overwhelming support because without you we would just be another url on the world wide web. On this our first anniversary we will continue to be “Not just a site but A way of life!” bless and thank you.

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Grow More Food Festival

The new Guyana Marketing Cooperation in collaboration with the Agriculture Ministry held the Grow More Food Festival at the National Stadium Providence. The event was widely perceived as a success based on the attendance and the response acquired by those who attended the event. This event was in keeping with the recent drive by the Ministry of Agriculture to encourage large, small and medium scale businesses attached to the agriculture industry to grow more food. But this initiative is not aimed solely at the business sector and this event was an opportunity to also encourage families to engage in the planting of kitchen gardens and other small scale agricultural activities to help to offset the effects of raising food prices locally and internationally. Though this initiative is not a new one it is a timely endeavor considering the state of the global raise in oil and food prices.

The event served as a platform for businesses in the agri-industry as well as those businesses who utilize agricultural products to showcase their various products and/or services. The showcasing of these entities would serve to broaden their customer base by giving them publicity and exposure, cause improvements to be brought into the agriculture industry by showing businesses there are others in their field thus forcing them to improve their standards to compete more effectively in the marketplace and by extension benefiting the consumers because competition forces businesses to improve on the quality of their products and services, and it will also serve to improve the agriculture industry as a whole and by extension the economic condition of the country.

The booths on display were an attempt to showcase the various aspects of the agricultural industry. There were displays ranging from the raw products all the way to the finished products and products made from the by products of agricultural materials. There were farmers displaying vegetables and fruits which can be grown on a medium to large scale basis. There were livestock present to show the potential of that aspect of the agricultural industry for development and expansion. Companies that supply farmers with the vital equipment and chemicals that are necessary to the successful production of the produce and livestock were also present to show their products. The skilled craftsmen who utilize the by products of agricultural production were also present to showcase their talent and products. There were even representatives from the fisheries sector there to show the fruitfulness of the land of many waters through the aquaculture industry. Items used in the preparation of food were also on display that can be found locally made by Guyanese companies. As compulsory at any Guyanese event there were numerous food and drinks bars for patrons to enjoy wholesome Guyanese food and drinks all day and night. Not to be outdone were the persons who source and sell plants of various kinds, from seeds of decorative plants to those of agricultural significance like tomatoes and peppers to assist those persons desirous of starting or enhancing their own kitchen gardens, as well as persons selling seedlings and small plants of various kinds.

Even though the primary purpose of the event was to showcase the agricultural potential of the Guyanese people there was also an entertainment aspect of the evening which was appreciated by those in attendance. This part of the evening was to showcase Guyanese and regional musical and creative talent.

There was a fashion display that showcased the creativity of our very talented designers while at the same time showing off some of the best models we have locally. The works of various designers were on display depicting both male and female clothing as well as apparel for various events, indicating the versatility of the designers. It must be stated that the models did an excellent job showcasing the pieces chosen much to the satisfaction the large gathering.

Musical performances were given by local and Trinidadian artiste to entertain the large crowd and to bring the curtains down on a day filled with information and fun in a wholesome family setting. For more on the musical performances be sure to check out the gallery.

By – Andrew Ross

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Bachelors’ and Bachelorettes’ Auction

The final year law students of the University of Guyana with some help from the West Indies and Sri Lanka cricket teams held a bachelor and bachelorette auction in the Savannah Suite of the Le Meridian Pegasus Hotel. The event was held with the aim of acquiring funds to compile a Journal and Yearbook for the final year law students. The highest bidders of the evening would have the opportunity to have lunch with their respective bachelor/bachelorette at the Buddy’s International Hotel.

The bachelors presented to be auctioned brought much delight and excitement to the large female gathering. Considering the fact that there were a greater number of females in attendance as compared to men the response received from the crowd was considerably high. There were a significant requests for the bachelors to ‘take it off’ by excited females in attendance. They were successful as it relates to two of the bachelors one of which took off both his shirt and vest much to the delight of the ladies in attendance. Despite the fact there were more males than females in attendance the bachelors received considerably lower bids than the bachelorettes. This fact may or may not have been attributed to one of the stipulations stated on the ticket. The stipulation was “Heterosexual bidding only”. The bachelor that eventually acquired the highest bid was Mr. Steven Rogers.

The bachelorettes presented were all beautiful and immensely attractive young women. The reception they received by the gathering was very encouraging to the young women and even had the females in attendance cheering. Some of the males in attendance even acquired permission from their female companions to bid on the young women. The highlights of the evening however were the bidding for Melissa Alfred and Samantha Matute. Bidding for Ms. Alfred was intense and fierce by virtue of her beauty and appeal. The attention acquired by Ms. Alfred was much to the delight and satisfaction of those in attendance. The bidding was spirited and fierce as the prospect of having lunch with such a beauty was incentive enough for the men in attendance to keep bidding higher. The bidding was so intense that the final bid was $40,000. The bidding session for Ms. Matute was as energetic and as spirited as that of Ms. Alfred. This fact can be attributed the fact that she happens to be a law student and also to the fact that she is from Belize, which is interesting to know. Her beauty in addition to the prospect of having lunch with such a beautiful woman was enough to motivate the men to bid generously. At the end of the bidding the opportunity to have lunch with Ms. Matute went to the young man that bid $45000.

In addition to the bachelors and bachelorettes up for auction there were also two autographed bats up for auction. The bats were autographed by the players of the West Indies and Sri Lankan cricket teams. This welcome addition to the evening was well received by those in attendance who wished to have these collectibles in their possession.
There was an entertainment segment to the evening which featured fashion and music. The fashion aspect of the evening was an opportunity to display Tie Die and Hand Painted creations of Ms. Jacobs. The males confidently showcased their pieces while the females elegantly displayed cocktail dresses. The designs were colorful and comfortable clothing that can be worn to various events. Mr. Sheldon Walcott entertained the gathering with musical selections done by the group 24K of which he’s a member. Performing the single “Turning me on” was much to the pleasure of the large female contingent in attendance. This musical interlude was much to the pleasure and satisfaction of those in attendance more so the women.

This event was well organized and executed which was evident in the success acquired. It would be fair to say this event was a success and the patrons had their money’s worth. The special effort made to promote local talent through fashion and music was also noted and a tribute to the thoughtfulness of the organizers.

By Andrew Ross

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Guyana vs. Grenada

It started out on a cool calm Sunday afternoon in the capital city Georgetown. The place to be was Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground, Bourda for the opportunity to see Guyana’s Golden Jaguars as they continued their bid for World Cup 2010. The game was against Grenada’s best footballers. There was an air of excitement in the stands as the fans braced themselves to see their team compete, for many this was their first opportunity to see the team in action.

The game saw Guyanese of all races, ages, and class coming together to root for their team of choice. I am almost positive the Grenadian team had supporters in attendance. The stands were filled with persons prepared to watch an eventful and entertaining contest between the two teams. The level of support that the players received was encouraging showing that the fans are behind the team and are willing to show their support by coming out and watching them perform.

The game was spirited and exciting. There were times that I couldn’t see the action in my half since the spectators would all stand up in expectation of a goal. The Grenadians were the first to strike when they penetrated the Jaguars’ defense and were able to convert that opportunity to put them up 1-0 after about 20 minutes of play. The Guyanese were however not to be outdone. Their opportunity came by way of a cross from a right striker into the box of the opposition splitting the defense and causing the center striker to attempt a shot. The shot was initially blocked by the keeper and was deflected to the left striker who was on target for the equalizer. This goal had an electrifying effect of the crowd and lifted spirits all around the ground. It was also an incentive for fans to stay and was a hot topic as the goal came two minutes before the end of the first half.

The second half was not short on excitement because each team sought the opportunity to take the lead and secure the win. In an effort to achieve this goal the game took a more physically aggressive tone. As a result of this the referee was forced to produce a few yellow cards to players from both teams in an effort to calm the tensions on the field of play. This did little to ease the nervous atmosphere that was in the stands. This tension came to an end when a striker from the Grenadian side took advantage of an error on the part of the defense on the Guyana half of the field and was able to penetrate unchallenged into the penalty box. The striker made no mistake in putting his team on top by beating the unassisted goalie. This was much to the dismay to the players but more so the fans who debated how the striker could have made it that far into the penalty area unchallenged. The goal undoubtedly motivated the Guyanese players to seek an equalizer. Several attempts were made on the Grenadian goal but to no avail. As tension built up on and off the field it was seen clearly when a Grenadian player was given a second yellow card and was sent off. Many thought the Guyanese would have sought the opportunity to use their numbers against the Grenadian side who were now one player down to equalize and possibly win, but this was not accomplished.

The game was nevertheless an exciting contest showcasing the best of Guyanese football talent taking on the best of Grenada. The game was physically charged which saw the whistle being blown seven times for injuries and saw players from both teams being taken off the field on stretchers for medical attention. Regardless of the injuries, the game was entertaining and exciting. There were a few areas of concern in terms of the performance and strategy of the national team but I am sure those matters will be addressed by team management. Disregarding that the teams performance was to be commended and I am sure as they travel throughout the Caribbean in the coming weeks their performance will only get better and they will make us as Guyanese proud.

By Andrew Ross

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Day 1 – Diamond Mineral Hockey Festival

Game 1- Guyana National Under-21 vs. Malvern (Trinidad & Tobago) (Males)

The first game of the tournament saw the youngsters facing off against an experienced Malvern. The experience factor worked against the U-21 within the first 5 minutes of the game when the Trinidadians scored their first goal. Following this initial penetration of the inexperienced defense there was a relentless attack by Malvern. Their constant attack yielded results at the end of the half the scoreboard read: 6 – 0 in favour of Malvern.

The first half proved to be a somewhat humiliating and demoralizing blow to the U-21, but they were not to be outdone. As the second half resumed there was a sense of renewed vigor and determination by the young side. Though frustrated they persisted in attempting to penetrate the defense of Malvern. They were rewarded with a goal after only 4 minutes following the resumption of the game. This however did not stop Malvern from continuing their barrage of their defense so as to secure their victory in the opening game in the tournament. What happened for the remainder of the game was much to the dissatisfaction and dismay of the U-21 players and their fans. The final score for the first game of the tournament was: Malvern 12- Guyana National Under-21 1.

Game 2- Malvern vs. Queens Park (Females)

This game saw two Trinidadian teams facing off. The first indication I got from these teams was they had relatively good knowledge of each other’s abilities and weaknesses. This was evident in the way the teams were able to hold off each other for most of the first half. This spell was broken by Malvern with a skillful goal that caught the goalkeeper off guard. This was followed closely by Queens Park to equalize before halftime.
The second half was more energetic and entertaining for the fans. This was mainly because the game took on a more physically aggressive pattern by the teams. Despite this, Malvern were able to secure two more goals to their advantage. A valiant attempt by the females of Queens Park was however rewarded by another goal to their credit before the final whistle. The final score was: Malvern 4- Queens Park 2.

Game 3- Everest Hikers vs. Old Fort (Males)

This proved to be the feature game of the evening. Not only was the playing on the court fast paced and skillful but the response from the fans and spectators was to its peak. The first team to strike was Everest in the opening minutes of the game. This led to a relentless attack on their goal by the Old Fort strikers. Their efforts were rewarded 9 minutes into the first half to equalize. The efforts by each team to keep the other at bay were successful until the last five minutes of the game when the Everest struck again to secure an advantage going into the end of the first half. However, Old Fort were not outdone, just before the first half ended they scored the equalizing goal on a penalty corner.

The excitement experienced during the first half was repeated and even multiplied in the second half. Hikers regain the lead with a spectacular goal by Mark King from the top of the Old Fort circle. Old Fort responded with two quick goals to take their first lead of the game and put the Hikers in a tough position to regain the advantage or at least to equalize. This wish was granted when Timothy Mcintosh used a short corner to secure the equalizing goal. The final score was: Everest Hikers 4- Old Fort 4.

The tournament continues until Sunday and should feature other teams such as; Everest female, Trinidad Defense Force, Queens Park Men and GCC male and female. This tournament promises to be an exciting and competitive one.
by Andrew Ross

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GuyExpo 2007

 Guyexpo 2007 was hailed as a success by all that not only took part but also by those who were afforded the opportunity to encounter the event for themselves. As you are aware each organizers of an event always promise to come bigger and better than the previous time. Well the organizers of Guyexpo 2007 surely outdid themselves as compared to their presentation in previous years. There was a general improvement of the presentation as well as exceptionally designed showcases which caught the attention of the patrons.

The hassle of buying tickets at the entrance of the event was taken into consideration by the organizers who instead of putting the ticket booths right at the entrance, placed the ticket booths on the streets leading into the exhibition site. This initiative worked as a deterring factor to the long lines usually created and the confusion that takes place as a result. The security checkpoints were well organized so that women and men were searched as they entered the site separately. The security personnel were also very courteous to a man in a wheelchair attempting to get into the event.

The first sight that greeted persons attending the exposition was a wildlife theme display with a macaw and a monkey hanging from two trees forming a canopy bearing the logo: “Guyexpo 2007 Partnering for Progress”. The designers chose a wildlife/jungle setting for the entrance into the event as well, creating a replica of Guyana’s rainforest with representations of its creatures in the tunnel leading to the main center of the event. There could be clearly seen replicas of caiman, monkeys, snakes as well as a jaguar. To add a nicer touch and a bit or authenticity to the display speakers were hidden among the trees playing sounds of nature, making one feel as if they were actually walking through the forest floor.

The way in which the booths were displayed is also to be complimented. There was almost full utilization of the site for booths. The way in which the exhibitors choose to decorate and display their booths was also very attractive and interesting. Most choose to integrate the rainforest theme into their displays, at least those located on the exterior of the buildings erected for booths. The larger organizations chose to spice up their displays to attract attention as well as to get a competitive edge. There were three exceptional displays that came to mind. First was Digicel who sought to add the car of speedster Mark Viera as a part of their display. This attracted customers to their booths in hundreds and it also proved to be a favorite spot to take photographs. Secondly was GT&T who utilized the skills of a sculptor to make an excellent replica of the Kaiteur Falls. This display was given a special spot in which photographers made very good use of the working replica fully equipped with running water. This breathtaking presentation was specially made by GT&T for Guyexpo 2007. Finally there was splashmins. They sought to make a scaled down version of the fun park. This was fully equipped with two power boats with models in bathing suits as well as jet skis in the specially dug out pond to represent the creek. This presentation was well received by those in attendance and attracted a lot of attention to the site.

The variety with which Guyexpo 2007 presented is also unparalleled to previous years. There were presentations form local producers, manufacturers and importers. There were representations of large, medium and small enterprise businesses. The event was not only attended by businesses but also by NGOs and non profit organizations such as the Red Cross. There were also provisions made for foreign countries to be represented by virtue of their business sectors. This is a movement away from an all Guyanese show and an opening up of the economy in keeping with the principles set out in the CSME as well as taking into consideration globalization and not restricting investment into the country. Not only was this good for the companies but it was a step in the right direction in terms of making Guyana a viable investment opportunity to the rest of the world. The variety of the displays made it almost impossible for one to see all the displays in one visit. If the displays were not enough to encourage you to keep going every opportunity you had, the car put up for grabs probably was your motivation. Guyexpo largest cooperate partner Clico Insurance Company Guyana; put a 3million dollar Toyota Carina up for grabs. To get a chance to win this car all one had to do was buy a ticket and write their contact info on the back and drop it into a rotisserie to stand a chance of winning.

The entertainment aspect of the event was well organized and catered for the tastes of almost every age group and musical preferences of everyone there. All one had to do is wait and their choice of music would have been presented. Guyanese artistes were given an opportunity to do their thing for the large crowds gathered. There were well organized and well choreographed dances, well tuned performances and excellent comedy. Not forgetting the excellent job done by the DJ’s on the turntables representing their respective sound systems expertly. The entertainment aspect of the show was so appreciated that GT&T even sponsored an entire evening segment. The blue power concert on Sunday evening was well received and provided a wide range of local artiste with an opportunity to perform for the local crowd. Their performances were well received and appreciated by those in attendance.

Guyexpo 2007 was such a success an extension was requested, but this was quickly refused by the minister of tourism. The reason this request was turned down was the fact that every year Guyexpo is usually held for 4 days then held over for a fifth night, this year however the event was held for 6 days taking previous years into consideration. The impact of this year’s exposition and the opportunities it afforded local and foreign investors cannot be fully seen at this point but from all indications Guyexpo 2007 was a monumentally successful representation of Guyanese culture and manufacturing potential, it also afforded Guyanese the opportunity to see what the world has to offer. Guyana was indeed put on show at this year’s event and I can hardly wait to see what is in store for next year.
by Andrew Ross

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International Bar 2007

The Rotary Club of Georgetown held its annual International Bar at thirst Park on Saturday, September 22nd. This event was well supported by Guyanese from all walks of life. The environment was wonderful and inviting; the entertainment was excellent and there was no shortage of food and drinks for the many persons present. The organizers covered almost every hiccup with thorough planning and experience gained over the years. There were two mobile ticket booths located just outside the entrance; this served to deter the usual bootleg ticket vendors such big events attract. The security was tight as was expected. Males and females entered the ground separately and were searched by GEB security officers equipped with metal detectors. This was done to prevent the entry of firearms and other weapons unto the premises. There is a small walkway leading to the ground. Patrons used this walkway to have their tickets punched by Rotary Club members seated just inside the park. This served to prevent a backup of persons at the main entrance, allowing the free flow of persons onto the ground.

Immediately upon entering the ground it was clear that this was a major and very successful event. If you are familiar with the size of Thirst Park, you know that it would take quite a crowd to full it; the Rotary Club pulled this accomplished this effortlessly. The crowd consisted primarily of young people. There was a “liming” atmosphere near the entrance to the ground where many persons were engaged in hearty conversation, while others played the various games available. The older patrons were found in the section directly in front of the stage. This section was furnished with chairs and tables to allow comfort while enjoying the live entertainment offered. There was no shortage of activities for the attendees. There were several game booths that afforded persons the opportunity to win prizes. In addition to the games, there were food booths set up around the perimeter of the ground so that regardless of one’s location, food was never far away. These booths sold a mind-boggling variety of dishes. There was food to satisfy every taste, craving and eating habit. The only persons who faced any kind of problem were those who eat pretty much everything. For these, deciding what to get first and what looked and smelt best, was quite a task. The drinks bars were well stocked and offered a variety of beverages, catering to everyone’s preference.

The evening’s entertainment was rich, and every item was well executed. The event was used as a platform to display Guyanese talent as all performances by local artistes who represented both themselves and our entertainment industry very well. The main performances were by the various dance schools and groups found in Guyana. The dances were choreographed to some of today’s hottest dancehall, R&B, hip hop and soul selections. This highlighted not only skill, but versatility on the part of instructors as well as students. There was a comedy segment done by Mr. Kirk Jardine a.k.a. CHOW POW. He was very well received. The originality and hilarity of his jokes caught the attention of those persons who were not even paying attention to the stage initially. International Bar has become a calendar event for Guyanese of all ages.

The Rotary Club of Georgetown must be congratulated on a job well done. If you missed it this year, you missed a great time as well as the opportunity to enjoy a variety of quality Guyanese entertainment and cuisine.

by Andrew Ross 

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The City Mall

One of the most, if not the most, new and exciting places for young people to socialize is the City Mall located in the capital city at the corners of Camp and Regent Street. This establishment is yet another indication of the modernization taking place in Guyana today thanks, in part, to the private sector.

As you enter the huge building you are entering a centrally air conditioned atmosphere that is encouraging and inviting. You are greeted by a spectacle that is the first of its kind in Guyana. The escalator is the first, and quite possibly the main attraction located within the four story building. I remember clearly that when the mall was first opened to the public, there were curious persons coming down to Camp and Regent just to take a trip up and down the escalators. There were those who were afraid and nervous but as soon as this feeling was overcome by curiosity and courage they bravely took a step onto the machine. There were also some persons who fell while attempting to use the machine. Their pain and embarrassment served only to amuse those who would have witnessed the incident-there was no sympathy. There was one lady who was unaware as to which was up and which was down and attempted to go up the wrong one and fell flat on her back as a result.

The City Mall offers four floors of shopping convenience and pleasure. The ground floor features stores and booths which have movies, cell phones and craft items. The Food Court is also found on this floor. Various eating houses have taken the opportunity to give their business more exposure. This makes items such as burgers, ice cream, fried chicken, milkshakes, juices, sandwiches and pastries available to the mall-goers. There is also an area within the Food Court for seating purposes and furnished with tables for you to enjoy your meal. On the first and second floors you can find clothing, footwear, lingerie, personal hygiene items, colognes, gift items and there is even a barbershop and an internet cafe. On the third floor there is an arcade with various exciting games for the fun- loving individual. There is also a double theatre. on the third floor that is not quite completed which should bring more visitors to the mall as soon as its doors are opened.

With all the features and attractions present in the mall, it has become the premier place for young people to meet and hang out, mainly on Saturday afternoon. Added to the fact that the mall is a hot spot young people find it almost instinctive to go to the mall to hang out, have something to eat, surf the web or just to see who they might run into. Young people put on their best outfits and head for the mall on Saturday afternoons just to have a good time, and look good doing so. The city mall promises to be one of the most exciting and important places that will be involved in shaping the cultural development of the new breed of Guyanese.

By Andrew Ross

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Guyana Night 2007

Guyana Nite 2007 was hailed, in many regards, a successful event this year. The event was hosted at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence on the East Bank of Demerara. The event attracted businesses, both large and small, which have a vested interest in the agricultural sector in Guyana and its development.

When taking the location and level of entertainment expected at the event, it was really very affordable. The cost of entering the stadium was just $300 per person. This made the event a very attractive feature especially for those living on the East Bank. There were large crowds gathered at the entrance of the show with persons eager to get in. The line I was in extended all the way to the Buddy’s Int’l Hotel, located approximately 300 meters away from the stadium’s entrance. This also shows the capacity of the facility. The security at the facility was undoubtedly tight given the fact that it was handled by both the Lions Club and the Guyana Police Force. As a result, criminal elements were dissuaded from entering the venue. There were also female ranks of the Police Force to search the women and children. This showed initiative on the part of the organizers. This aspect of security preparations is usually taken for granted by organizers of other events. No backup at the security checkpoints allowed the free movement of persons onto the grounds. The efficiency and courtesy on the part of those handling security must be applauded.

The presentations themselves were well displayed in spacious white tents. The arrangement of the boots available for display was done in such a way that the entire ground was fully utilized. Space was abundant allowing a multitude of persons to be able to enter the compound, interact and move freely.

The businesses which brought their produce out for display came not only from within the immediate sphere of the agriculture industry but also from industries utilizing the by-products of agriculture products. They came from the agriculture sector, the craft industry as well as the food and drinks producing sectors. They represented the small stall holders, the large regional companies, as well as the government. Some of the larger companies on show were Sterling Products Ltd., Banks D.I.H. and Demerara Distillers Ltd. Representing the smaller production companies were the Culture Ambassadors and a few other craft industries. There were also food and drinks bars compliments of M&M’s Snackette, along with the beverage producing giants: Guyana Banks and DDL. One of the most memorable displays for me was the company which bottles coconut water. This industry has the potential to really thrive once it is taken seriously. The amount of coconuts which go to waste all over this great land of ours can be used to generate money not only from local markets but from the region, and even internationally. There was also no shortage of entertainment for those in attendance. The entertainment for this event was taken care of by local soca star Malo, Mingles Sound Machine, Travelers’ Sound System and The New Melody Makers’ Band. These entertainers kept the crowd lively with songs from today’s hottest artistes and ensured that they did not miss a beat. There was a small contingent of the crowd who had probably already seen all the exhibits and was just taking some drinks while enjoying the music being produced for their enjoyment. This crowd seemed to be enjoying themselves very much. The Guyana National Stadium hosted people from all across Guyana and from all walks of life, including the Honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds along with the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Robert Persaud who paid keen attention to the displays. This government sanctioned event was hailed a success by all patrons as well as those whose products were on display.

by Andrew Ross