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GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Message by Hon. Oneidge Walrond, M.P. - Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce

EASTER is usually a very significant period in our calendar. It transitions from the solemn period of reflection for Good Friday, to the celebrations of Resurrection Sunday and Easter Monday. Many of our Christian brothers and sisters will spend time in fellowship. Muslims will also continue to observe the holy Month of Ramadan. In terms of tourism, a large suite of activities will be hosted on the long holiday weekend. This is the ideal period for a getaway. If you are the owner of a 4x4 vehicle, you might want to consider participating in the Pakaraima Mountain Safari. So far, a fleet of approximately 15 vehicles and their patrons have already signed up to traverse the Town of Linden, Mabura Road, the phenomenal Rupununi Savanah and several remote communities in a journey that will span seven days. This promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. Lethem will host the Rupununi Rodeo, which is an amalgamation of culture, skill, and athleticism. Already, most of the hotels in Lethem are fully booked. So, ensure you make arrangements for accommodation before you travel.

The thrilling Bartica Regatta is also back after a two-year hiatus due to COVID. Several experienced boat captains are already lining up for top honours and bragging rights. Here as well, I understand rooms are being snapped up quickly, so make advance arrangements! On Easter Monday, droves of Guyanese are expected to flock the No. 63 Beach and other such spaces to engage in the Guyanese tradition of kite-flying. Outside of those traditional events, Easter is a great time for a family adventure to a part of Guyana you have not visited. There is adequate time to roam from Skeldon to the Pomeroon or escape to the serenity of Moraikobai, St Cuthbert’s Mission or another of our many Indigenous communities, where you can immerse yourself in the culture. As you traverse our beautiful country, do take lots of photos and be sure to share them with the hashtag #DiscoverGuyana. As you go out there to explore, please be careful and observe all the necessary safety precautions. Have fun!

40-vehicle convoy ready for Rupununi Rodeo

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

By Shamar Meusa AS the annual Rupununi Rodeo is set to make its grand return after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, patrons, foreign and local alike, are ecstatic about its return. Two such persons are

According to Danielle, they, along with friends, are adventure-lovers constantly looking for exciting things to do. The Rupununi Rodeo has been a long-standing Easter Holiday tradition in Guyana with thousands of persons flocking to Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) to look on and

you know, we booked our hotel rooms and [are] getting everybody pumped,” Danielle said. To this end, it was revealed that they have been able to visit a number of places and have various experiences since being here. So far, they’ve visited the Abary River and fished there, but have still been

Johnny Pinell and his wife, Danielle, are excited to experience the rodeo on Easter weekend (Adrian Narine photo)

Mounted cowboy lassoes a fleeing bull, Lethem (Duane DeFreitas photo) Johnny Pinell and his wife, Danielle Pinell from Louisiana, United States of America, who are set to make their way to the rodeo as part of a 40-vehicle caravan which includes a group of their friends from Guyana and even other countries. The Pinells, who are partners of a local business here, have been in Guyana for just over four years and will enjoy their first Rupununi Rodeo experience during the Easter Weekend here.

even take part in various events, including wild cow milking, bull-riding and steer roping, among others. She told this publication that the COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on everyone’s exploring here and so they kept an eye out to find out whether the rodeo would be back on this year. “We watched to make sure that it was opening again this year because, you know, we were not sure, and as soon as we found out,

longing to experience the highly-talked-about Rupununi Rodeo. “There’s so much amazing nature that’s here in Guyana and that’s what keeps us going, that’s our treat and now we’re looking forward to experience the Rupununi. We love the offroad journey and ventures and Guyana has so much to explore there,” she said. As it relates to events that the Pinells are looking forward to, Johnny is eager for the journey itself go-

Hold on! Raging bull takes off with vacquero on back (Andrea DaSilva photo)

ing through the Linden to Lethem trail. Meanwhile, Danielle stated that she is also super stoked about seeing how she can help to generate more revenue for places and events like the rodeo as she is interested in promoting tourism in Guyana. She said she hopes to use her expertise and experience to promote the events to a number of persons. Mrs Pinell noted that, through her other business, they have been able to reach out to a number of expatriates who are interested in exploring Guyana. “This trip that we have - I think it’s a caravan of like 40 vehicles going with us and

we are excited about… so it’s locals and expats, people from Australia and even Canada,” Johnny interjected. He added that a lot of people who were initially planning on coming to Guyana will be making the journey for the trip. Danielle said: “So, everybody’s getting their trucks ready… which boosts up the economy as well, it helps with the economy the preparation for these things.” When asked about how they expect the experience and the journey to go, they both said they are accustomed to riding and driving through trails and are ready to go through. “We’re from the coun-

try in Louisiana… so we are accustomed. In fact, we brought ‘em here, we have our side-by-side four-wheel drive, we have three fourwheelers. This is going to hit right at home for us. We are pumped,” Johnny said. Danielle added: “So, it’s going to be exciting for everyone… and people from Guyana, tons and tons of people, our friends that are from here that have experienced it that have been waiting for a moment for a break away, with COVID and everything else and work.” Johnny and Danielle are expected to start their journey to the Rupununi on Thursday.

Brazilian rider mounts a bull at Rupununi Rodeo, Lethem (Patricia Rash photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

What’s Happening for Easter Weekend? … Highlights from Guyana Tourism Authority’s Director (ag), Kamrul Baksh

GUYANA’S Easter celebrations are certainly one of a kind. As with most religious observances, Easter highlights just how diverse our culture is. So, why not celebrate the Easter season filled with a number of events that will certainly captivate you?

For some Guyanese who are religiously connected to Easter, the entire weekend is observed in reverence. Easter egg hunts and kite-flying events also play a part in the celebrations. But there are also a lot of other activities that make an exciting Easter

A mounted cattle-driver tames a herd of bull (Guyana Tourism Authority photo)

time, especially for our local travellers. 2022 marks the return of highly anticipated events. From the Pakaraima Mountain Safari to the Rupununi Rodeo, and specially curated tour packages from our local operators, there is an activity for everyone to enjoy. PAKARAIMA MOUNTAIN SAFARI The Pakaraima Mountain Safari offers an exceptionally exciting yet equally captivating approach to observing the Easter season. For seven days, from April 10-16, this “adventure of a lifetime” will take travellers through rugged terrain, stopping in more than ten Indigenous villages before reaching its final destination, the

A line of vehicles journey the trail on the Pakaraima Safari (Rainforest Tours photo)

breathtaking Orinduik Falls. Local tour opera-

tors will guide travellers through some of the most beautiful geological fea-

tures, filled with a rich history to be experienced TURN TO PAGE 5a

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

What’s Happening for Easter...

FROM PAGE 4a in Guyana. Why not include this in your Easter celebrations? So, get your ATVs, dirt bikes and 4x4 jeeps ready for the experience of a lifetime. THE RUPUNUNI RODEO Much like the Safari, the Rupununi Rodeo is a staple Easter weekend event for many Guyanese, so the announcement of its return was, without a doubt, wellreceived. On April 16 and 17, this event will capture the true essence of the Indigenous lifestyle in the interior Savannahs. Be marvelled by the serene simplicity of the grasslands perfectly juxtaposed with the rough cowboy activities. Of the main events, the bull-riding, bareback bronco, wild-cow milking, steer roping, and even barrel racing are definitely some top contenders. Spectators will also enjoy the horse races

and even the family fun park. Officially licensed tour operator, Adventure Guianas, will be offering special packages during this period to experience the beauty of Kumu and Moco Moco Falls as well as a trip to Boa Vista, Brazil. So, take advantage of this 48-hour party filled with cultural grandeur from the live folk music, cultural dances, and of course, traditional drinks. Gate opens at 10:00 hrs, but the real fun begins at 15:00 hrs until well into the night. SPECIALLY CURATED EASTER TOUR PACKAGES And of course, some of our officially-licensed tourism businesses such as Bimichi Eco-lodge, Blackwater Adventures, Elite Kayaking & Nature Tours, the Jungle Bug, Ride Along GY, and Wanderlust Adventures GY have a number of packages available during the Easter Season.

Find more details on the Guyana Tourism Authority facebook page to guide your Easter holiday

planning. You can also call the GTA directly via WhatsApp on +592-6884155, via telephone on

+592-219-0093 – 6, or by email query to info@ guyanatourism.com Guyana boasts a

Lone vehicle on the Rupununi trail

u n i q u e a p p ro a c h t o Easter celebrations— try it! Happy Easter, everyone!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Canopy Walkway featured in virtual concert for Easter weekend release

FOR local folk/rock musician, Gavin Mendonca, and Leader of the Buxton Fusion Drumming Group, Marlon ‘Chucky’ Adams, it’s not just about highlighting the beauty of Guyana in their music and performances, but they want to tell the world about the country’s rich history, and the importance of protecting the earth, trees, and wildlife. Last September, Gavin and Chucky embarked on a musical expedition through the North Rupununi that took them from Iwokrama to Atta Lodge to Rock View Lodge where they recorded a series of live performances at various locations for a self-produced virtual concert series called “Folk It Up: Rupununi”. The two have embarked on this latest project as yet another way to contribute to the preservation of the country’s folk music and culture, whilst highlighting just a few of the hidden gems of North Rupununi, one of Guyana’s most scenic regions. Filmed by Azikiwe ‘Ziggy’ Denheart of Infinity Productions, the first video was released on New Year’s Day. It was filmed on the summit of Turtle Mountain in the Iwokrama Rainforest. This Easter weekend will see the second video, filmed near Atta Lodge, released. Additionally, the duo recorded footage for an experimental music video/ short film that will revolve around protecting the jaguar and rainforest conservation. “Rainforest Conversations” is the working title for the original composition. “The Iwokrama Rainforest is one of the largest, protected rainforests in the world and home to many species of plants and wildlife. Part of preservation of culture and heritage involves preservation of our natural resources. “We want to highlight the beauty of Guyana, not just as tourist gems, but for the rich history and importance of protecting the earth, trees, and wildlife of Guyana - all which belong to our home,” Gavin told this publication. From experience, Gavin said he has found that people around the world love to experience and participate in new cultures and

activities, so he seizes every opportunity to promote his home country when he’s touring. “Music is a universal language and our folk music is contagious. Everyone likes to dance and sing along. “Our folk songs allow for just that - with their ‘call and reply’ nature. For example, I say ‘Rick chick chick chick’

and the crowd says ‘Congatay!’ Teaching Guyanese folk songs to audiences is very easy and very much fun,” he expressed. He’s witnessed hundreds of people from New York City to Dubai chanting along to iconic Guyanese Folk Songs such as ‘Small Days’, ‘Mahnin Neighba’ TURN TO PAGE 11a

Gavin and Chucky have embarked on a musical expedition through the North Rupununi

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

MovieTowne Guyana to unveil ‘Easter Wonderland’ display

IF there’s one company that is known for pushing the envelope, as far as displays are concerned, it’s MovieTowne Guyana. On April 10, at 17:00 hrs, the company will unveil its ‘Wonderland Garden’-themed display fashioned after the fictional classic, ‘Alice in Wonderland’. “The kids can enjoy a witty Alice in Wonderland show, where Alice, the silly Mad

Hatter, the Evil Red Queen, and twins, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, will make appearances. “Tickets for the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ production cost $1000, and can be purchased at the entrance of Wonderland Garden,” the Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown-based entertainment company said in a press release. MovieTowne’s Wonderland will open on weekdays

from 14:00 hrs, and on weekends and holidays from 12:00 hrs, the company added. The display will end on April 30. Tickets cost $500, and can be purchased at the Box Office or

land, where you can interact with him daily and get instant photos. “[Also], try your hand at the curious version of Croquet, among other games such as

the entrance to Wonderland. “Bring the kids to enjoy the magical teacups ride, the central attraction in Wonderland. The Easter Bunny also takes up residence in Wonder-

Plinko, Prize Pull, and Lucky Spin. Get crafty at the Easter craft station, and enjoy amusing face-painting designs. “While wandering through Wonderland Garden, look out

for Alice, the Rabbit and his watch, the Cheshire Cat, and the Red Queen’s Guards,” the company’s statement read. Promising to be a fitting event for the family, MovieTowne Guyana also said the Mad Hatter will be a special guest at the ‘Madd Tea Party’ on April 17 in Wonderland

Garden. “Enjoy scrumptious treats from Madd Tea Cafe while interacting with the amusing Mad Hatter. Tickets cost $1000, and can be purchased at the entrance of Wonderland Garden.” There will also be a Crazy Hat competition with special prizes.

MovieTowne’s design and construction team puts the finishing touches on the display to be opened on Sunday (Delano Williams photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Canopy Walkway featured...

FROM PAGE 7a and ‘Gangamani’. In May, Gavin will head to Kansas City, Kansas to perform at the annual ‘Folk Alliance International Folk Music Summit’ - the largest gathering for world music and folk musicians from across the globe. Gavin shared that his focus is always to share Guyanese culture with the world, learning the real business of music on a global scale, and continuing to chase dreams and open new doorways for himself as well as the Guya-

nese music industry. Meanwhile, Gavin and Chucky will soon be releasing ‘Folk It Up Vol. 2 (Kross Kolor Records)’, the second of their series of folk albums which they said are “aimed at recording all folk songs and keeping them in the ears of Guyanese, young and old, and music enthusiasts around the world.” Apart from highlighting the beauty of Guyana through film and visuals, the duo’s goal is to contribute to the preservation of Guyanese folk songs and culture

The second video production to be released was filmed at the Canopy Walkway

through music. In fact, both Gavin and Chucky believe that, as youngsters, they can make a positive impact on the preservation of Guyanese folklore, even in a modern-day society dominated by pop culture and “flooded with foreign content.” The video to be released this weekend will

be streamed on YouTube and Facebook (Creole Rock Page) or at www.creolerock. com. “We continue to relentlessly pursue our mission and dreams – which at times could feel like climbing a mountain – but, once you keep going you will eventually make it to the top,” Gavin said.

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Local folk/rock musician, Gavin Mendonca (right) and Leader of the Buxton Fusion Drumming Group, Marlon ‘Chucky’ Adams

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Bounce Back!...

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Bartica Easter Regatta returns In these flashback photos from pre-pandemic years, Bartica residents and visitors gathered at the local beach to watch the races

AFTER a two-year hiatus due to strict COVID-19 precautionary measures, the Bartica Easter Regatta will make a comeback next Monday. Anticipated to be one of the biggest ‘bounce Backs’ since the COVID-19 measures were gradually lifted, the nine-day event will feature a plethora of activities TURN TO PAGE 13a

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Bartica Easter... Flashback: Scenes from the previously held Gospel Fest at the 2019 Bartica Easter Regatta FROM PAGE 12a for the sports fanatics, party-goers, children, and elderly alike. The Regatta comes on the heels of the recent announcement of relaxed COVID-19 guidelines announced in February, a press release by the Bartica Regatta Committee said. “The Bartica Regatta Committee has decided that the residents of Bartica and the general Guyanese public will not be denied [any] of the events that they love so much,” the committee’s statement said, vowing a return to the glory days. The theme for Regatta 2022 is “Bounce Back”, a less-than-gentle nudge for patrons to step out of the restrictive lifestyles they lived for the past two years and

celebrate. Regatta will kick start with a grand gospel festival, promoted by the ‘Chosen Generation Band’, at the Bartica Tarmac. This will be followed by a series of football tournaments which will eventually give way to the ‘Bartica Reunion Road Jam’. Also returning this year is the high-energy ‘Regatta Power Boat Races’ at the Bartica Golden Beach and Racing Circuit. The Regatta Mega Concert will also return this time at the Bartica Basketball Tarmac, featuring artistes from around the world. Finally, a ‘Wash Down’ will be held at the Bartica Golden Beach, closing the curtains on this year’s revival event.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Ramesh Shibsahai: The Region 5 farmer promoting tourism 15a

GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022

Bird-watching along the river

RAMESH Shibsahai, 59, who operates the Mahaica River Birding Tours, in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, revealed that, as the effects of the pandemic on businesses are eased, major expansion is planned for the touring company. Shibsahai, who was born in West Coast Berbice and later settled in Biaboo, Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice), got his start in farming from an early age after following in his father’s footsteps. He continues to farm but also finds time to operate the River Tour company for over 15 years, and conducts bird-sighting tours along the river, fishing tours, along with boating services. Shibsahai said there are over 150 different species of birds identified along the Mahaica River. On regular tours, some

35 to 50 different bird species are easily noticeably. “We get some chance to see the river otters, we get the howler monkeys, we got a few different monkeys and so on too and the main attraction here is the national bird — the Canje Pheasant,” Shibsahai said in an interview with this publisher. Adding to his business, he hopes to build a new waterfront deck which will allow guests of the tour to enjoy meals on the waterfront before or after going on the tours. “We want to actually put in two cabins later on too; if I develop and look at the business and see how it goes, I expand from there as well,” said Shibsahai. With further expansion, growth of tourism in the Biaboo area is expected. Contact Ramesh on (592) 621-7332.

A Howler Monkey cradles its young

Not the biggest catch, but good enough

We got another one!

The journey from our Central Georgetown office to Biaboo Village, Region 5 (Mahaica-Berbice)

Giant River Otters

One of the bird species usually seen along a tour

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Easter Buzz Supplement, Friday April 8, 2022