On Arthur‘s Day on September 22, the Guinness Sounds of Greatness will climax with four DJs vying for US$10,000 in cash and prizes, but greater economic gains are in store for the island nation as a result of the competition.
As Verly Dabel, Guinness® Brand Manager for Haiti, explains, “The participants in the contest will earn money, the live bands playing will earn money, as well the judges of the contest.”. “Visibility and general communication for the event will bring money to the pockets of a number of persons. Street vendors in the neighbourhood of the venue will get some business on that day. It's going to be a popular event and we are expecting some 5,000 people.”
Dabel expects that this powerful music experience will be just the first of several for the economically-challenged country. “The response has been encouraging enough to deliver a second edition. Twenty-one Deejays have enthusiastically registered to take part in the 1st edition of the contest,” Dabel said. The final number will be whittled down to four on Arthur’s Day™, Thursday September 22.
The champion in the virtual category will win a new set of DJ equipment and US$750 cash, while the runner-up will win US$750 cash. In the Serato category, the champion will win a new set of equipment and US$1000 cash, while the runner-up will win US$1000 cash. Other contestants will win Guinness gear, and cash prizes.
Dabel said the competitors are very excited about the prizes. “The champions of course will use the new set of equipment in their DJ activities. With these new pieces of equipment, they will be up-to-date in the business, and this is going to be a big plus for them. Winning this contest will aid their popularity in their community and this will help prospects in the business, and in their careers as DJs,” he said.
Like the legendary man for whom the competition is named, Arthur Guinness, Haiti’s competition will contribute to not just individual empowerment but ultimately to the community at large. In addition to the economic benefits provided, the contest will also go a long way towards boosting the morale of a nation which has undergone severe difficulties in the past two years. Dabel added, “As to the cash prizes, obviously money is always welcome, especially in a poor country like Haiti where resources are rather scarce. This money might be used in some cases for back–to-school purposes, as school will re-open in October, just a little time after the contest.”
Dabel expects a great turn out on Arthur’s Day and he is encouraging Haitians to come out to the Parc Midore, Delmas 33, PORT-AU-PRINCE and support the initiative to empower Haiti’s young and budding talent, and celebrate the legacy of Arthur Guinness who inspires greatness within us all.
The concert will reach thousands of Guinness® fans through a regional television simulcast and an online stream live on the official Guinness® Caribbean Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean.
As the much-anticipated Arthur’s Day™ draws closer, noted Trinidadian Band KES is now preparing to display its competence on the stage for the regional telecast of Arthur’s Day™ concert on September 22.
KES has made a phenomenal rise to greatness since its formation in 2005, so it was fitting for the band to be a part of the greatness associated with the Arthur’s Day™ celebrations. The team is expected to deliver a memorable performance alongside I-Octane and Assassin.
KES was formed by Kees Dieffenthaller, Hans Dieffenthaller, Riad Boochoon and Jon Dieffenthaller after Kees exited a cover band specializing in doing cover Billboard toppers, plus popular soca and reggae tracks.
The band has steadily risen to achieve tremendous feats within the region, and has become a household name in North American cities such as Miami, New York, and Los Angeles. It has garnered an envious reputation for its electric and high-energy performances. KES has also released several albums, and has made more than a dozen tracks which made it into the top 10 of major Caribbean charts. Additionally the band has won numerous awards for songwriting, toured globally, and performed at major festivals and events in the United States, Canada and Germany.
KES has also opened for acts such as Sean Paul, Musiq Soul Child, Usher, John Legend, and Rihanna. The band has had its music featured on television shows as well as licensed tracks to popular games on major video game platforms. With this lengthy list of achievements, KES is expected to deliver an engertic performance, to live up to the high expectations of the greatness associated with Arthur’s Day™, which will be celebrated simultaneously across the region on Thursday September 22.
The concert will reach thousands of Guinness® fans through a regional television simulcast and an online stream live on the official Guinness® Caribbean Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean and follow us on Twitter (@GuinnessCarib)
The Arthur’s Day™ festivities will commence with a worldwide ‘toast to Arthur’ in Ireland at exactly 17:59 on Thursday 22nd September; honouring the date Arthur Guinness signed the lease on the St. James Gate Brewery (in 1759) and introduced GUINNESS® to the world. The toast will kick start a jam-packed night of live music performances taking place all across the world, starting in Dublin, Ireland the Arthur's Day™ celebration was set up in 2009 to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the original lease at St. James’s Gate.
Guinness® is hosting the largest social media party in the Caribbean to celebrate Arthur’s Day™ on September 22, which will be streamed live on Facebook.
Caribbean nationals across the region will join the world-wide third annual Arthur’s Day™ celebration to honour the life and work of Arthur Guinness, founder of the Guinness® brewery.
Last year Guinness® celebrated with a huge concert in Jamaica at the National Stadium bringing lucky fans from the various islands to the reggae capital. Social media fans are grabbing up tickets to this year’s explosive event exclusive to Guinness® fans across the region.
This year, the concert is going viral, with tickets to this exclusive event being made available only through the Guinness® Facebook fan page; http://www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean. More than 22,000 Guinness adorers will tune into the celebration via a live stream on facebook and many more through local television broadcasts in more than 13 countries. Regional Guinness Brand Manager Gareth Geddes explained, “The concert will be streamed to various TV stations across the Caribbean and online so that we can connect the Caribbean on that day and in that moment. This is the opportunity for the Caribbean to celebrate Arthur’s Day™ as a region.”
Arthur’s Day Live will showcase some of the Caribbean’s brightest talents on September 22 with the likes of Assassin, I-Octane and KES from Trinidad anticipated to give memorable performances. Geddes believes all three performers are the right fit for the concert. He said, “We chose the acts looking first at the regional diversity. Then we
looked at who was the best in the genres dancehall, reggae and soca, who was available at the time and who would set a standard of excellence in their respective genres.”
Assassin, I-Octane and KES rose to the occasion and will be performing rousing sets. The three artistes will be performing from a location in Kingston, Jamaica.
In keeping with a regional Guinness® community, Guyana will also host a live concert on September 23 with Mr. Vegas as the headline act. More than 10,000 tickets will be given away via the Guinness® Caribbean Facebook page and through local bar promotions in Guyana.
For the last three years, countries across the globe have celebrated the legendary founder Arthur Guinness in a variety of ways, from a simple toast in the local bars to big concerts with thousands of fans. From Ireland and Europe across to the USA, Caribbean and ending in Asia, 24 hours of global celebrations and live music events will mark another year to toast Guinness® and what it represents.
Where will you be raising your Guinness® at 17:59 to celebrate 252 years of Guinness®?
Jamaican dancehall star Clifford ‘Mr Vegas’ Smith is set to be the headline act at the Arthur’s Day™ Live concert slated for the GNS Grounds in George Town, Guyana on Friday September 23, 2011.
The versatile Sing-jay will entertain the Guyanese fans with his slew of dancehall hits, namely “Heads High”, “Hot Wuk” and “Tek Whe U Self” to name a few. Sharing the stage with Mr Vegas on the night will be Guyana’s very own Natural Black as well as the Mingles Sound Machine band. The concert is part of a global celebration recognizing September 22 as Arthur’s Day.
Arthur's Day™ is a series of music events which was first organized in 2009 to celebrate the 250-year legacy of the exemplary visionary Arthur Guinness, founder of the Guinness® brewing company.
Some 10,000 tickets to the concert will be given away by the organizers who have utilized all mediums for the promotion, including Facebook. According to the Brand manager of Guinness® Guyana; Lee Baptiste, “It is no secret that social media is the way to go right now and it is with this that we are using this tool to promote and highlight our major concert event.” Baptiste went on to add that ten randomly selected winners on the Guinness Facebook page will receive two VIP tickets each to the concert along with backstage passes and free Guinness® all night.
In addition, tickets are currently being awarded via phone-in question and answer segments on radio and television programs across Guyana. There will be no tickets sold for the event, and patrons can only get access to tickets via the various promotions. Baptiste added that tickets are available to patrons who purchase six Guinness® in local bars and exchange the crowns for two tickets.
Guyana will also participate in the live stream of the Arthur’s Day Live concert on September 22 which features I-Octane, Assassin and KES and the band out of Trinidad. . The concert will be broadcast on LRTV, Berbice; BCN TV, Bartica; RCA TV, Essequibo; and TVG, Georgetown. Fans of the Guinness Caribbean Facebook page can also watch the show live.
For Baptiste, the promotion has been going well as 10,000 patrons are expected for the one-night only concert. “Guinness will be revolutionizing entertainment in Guyana ; we will be pulling out all the stops to ensure a fantastic concert event for our many Guinness fans right here in Guyana,” said Baptise.
Check your local TV listings for viewing times or log ontohttp://www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean to watch the live stream.
Guinness will once again unite the Caribbean Community with music and culture, in honour of the life and work of Sir Arthur Guinness, the founder of the rich, dark brew which bears his name. On September 22, Arthur Guinness Day (AGD) will be celebrated in more than 13 countries across the region as musical champions Assassin, I-Octance, and Kes deliver performances to millions of Guinness adorers simultaneously.
The concert will offer regional fans superb entertainment via live stream at the Official Guinness Caribbean Facebook page. Rising legend I-Octane is very excited about his performance touching many people simultaneously. “This is a great thing to see a corporate business investing in music. Guinness has been supporting music for a long time in terms of charity and reggae music. So I am very honoured to be a part of Arthur’s Day,” he said.
The regional Celebration is part of the global events being held in tribute to the founding father of Guinness®. Last year’s celebration at Jamaica’s National Stadium was well received and sparked requests region-wide for the flagship event to be accessible to all Guinness lovers. In addition to the live stream, the concert will be aired on local television stations in most Caribbean countries.
Gareth Geddes, Guinness® Regional Brand Manager, sees this as a great opportunity for Guinness® loyalists region-wide to unite in music and celebrate the legacy of a visionary and brilliant mind. “Last year we brought Guinness® adorers from the region to Jamaica to celebrate Arthur’s Day™. We heard the markets call for more accessibility to the celebrations and so this year, in addition to the online stream and airing of the concert in local markets mixed with local activities, Guyana will be hosting its own concert on Friday, September 23 featuring Mr. Vegas,” he said.
The Arthur’s Day™ Live TV simulcast will be aired on Synergy TV in Trinidad & Tobago, ZIZTV in St Kitts, ZNS TV in Bahamas, Choice TV in Lucia, CVM TV in Jamaica and Caribbean TV in Antigua and IK TV in St. Vincent; as well as multiple TV stations in Guyana.
Adorers across the region will raise a Guinness® Stout in celebration of the life and work of Arthur Guinness founder of the dark rich brew which is Guinness®. On Thursday, September 22, Guinness® will host the Arthur Guinness Day Live a regional TV simulcast and an online live stream to fans across the Caribbean. The Arthur’s Day concert simulcast features soca band KES and dancehall giants Assassin and I-Octane.
For the last three years countries across the globe have celebrated the legendary founder, Arthur Guinness in a variety of ways, from a simple toast in the local bars to big concerts with thousands of fans. From Ireland and Europe across to the USA, Caribbean and ending in Asia, 24 hours of global celebrations and live music events will mark another year to toast the Guinness® legacy which was spawned from a great man and now lives on through a great team and adoring fans of the brand.
Arthur Guinness was an Irish brewer and the founder of the Guinness® brewery family business. He was an entrepreneur, visionary and philanthropist who laid the foundation for the Guinness® brewery. At 27, in 1752, Arthur's godfather Arthur Price, the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Cashel, bequeathed him £100 in his will. Guinness invested the money and in 1755 founded a brewery at Leixlip, close to Dublin. In 1759, Arthur made a bold move to the city and set up his own business making history when he invested his entire inheritance in a 9,000 year lease on the 4 acre brewery at St James’s Gate in Ireland. Thanks to Arthur, persons have been enjoying Guinness® beer for 252 years, and more to come.
On September 22 the toasting to Arthur Guinness and his legacy will kick off at 17:59 GMT. In the Caribbean many islands will be celebrating Arthur’s Day in local bars featuring live performances by local talent, prizes and drink specials. Across the region, Arthur Guinness Day Live TV simulcast will present the best emerging talent in soca, dancehall and reggae in concert, giving thousands of Guinness consumers as well as Guinness Caribbean Facebook fans access to the global celebration.
Last year the Arthur Guinness Day Celebrations in the Caribbean culminated with an historic concert held at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. No tickets were made available for sale and over 16,000 Guinness Consumers were rewarded with access to the event only after purchasing Guinness and winning their tickets.
Where will you be raising a Guinness® at 17:59?
Post your answers to http://www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean
JAMAICA: Consumers buy two (2) bottles of Guinness at any of the select locations below and receive two (2) tickets to GSOG.
Outlets:
Total Gas Station: Old Hope Road, Liguanea, Blvd and Molynes Road
Bramwell's Texaco: Matilda's Corner (liguanea) and Oxford Road
LG Brown Service Centre: Constant Spring Rd (Dunrobin)
Total Gas Station: Brunswick (Spanish Town)
Cool Oasis: Hagley Park Road
Shell Gas Station: Eastwood Park Road
Petcom Gas Station (beside Megamart): Portmore Mall, Portmore
Texaco Gas Station (by intersection): Braeton, Portmore
Area Code 876 and Bredda Hype to face off on Clash 2 of GSOG on Sat. Sept 10 on TVJ!!!
Area Code 876 and Bredda Hype to face off on Clash 2 of Guinness Sounds of Greatness
The public’s entertainment appetite has again been whet by one of the most superb entertainment displays on the airwaves. The Guinness Sounds of Greatness Competition got off with a bang on Saturday September 3.
This entertainment package will, over the next few weeks, showcase some of the best sound systems in the industry, going head to head to prove the ultimate show stopper for 2011. First out of the blocks was the match up between Crazy Chris and Rich Squad. Rich Squad emerged the clear winner in that encounter.
The next two contenders from the Hot Shot Category will be Area Code 876 and Bredda Hype on Sat. Sept 10 on TVJ at 9:30PM!!!
Area Code: To his rival Fire Blacks warns “nuh tek wi light”
Bredda Hype has a few words for his competitor “mi nuh come fi loose”
Who will tek it? Be sure to tune in and give us your feedback/comments/questions....
Kingston, Jamaica: Sound system greatness returns to national TV with the Guinness Sounds of Greatness reality show on TVJ, starting September 3 at 9:30 pm. The sound clash competition will chronicle the journey of 12 sounds as they vie for the enviable title of Guinness Sounds of Greatness Champion as well as $1 million and top prizes from internationally renowned DJ equipment producers Serato.
The new format of the TV show will not only capture the explosive series of clashes between some of Jamaica’s most popular and renowned sound systems, but the build up and prepping that goes into getting ready for a sound clash.
Guinness Sounds of Greatness, which began in 2008 as an island wide road show promoting the art of sound clash, now celebrates its third season. The made-for-TV series, directed by Jay Will, promises to bring all the excitement, controversy and showmanship that dancehall culture is known for to a national TV audience.
Some of Jamaica’s top sounds who have signed up for this battle of the sounds, and the list is impressive, are Black Blunt, Coppershot, Bredda Hype, Area Code 876, Crazy Chris, Rich Squad, Boom Boom and Maestro in the Hot Shot category. Body Guard, Ricky Trooper, Black Kat and Silverhawk have lined up to defend the veterans’ honour. In the end, one Hot Shot sound will get a chance to go up against a Veteran sound and either be overcome by experience or persevere against the odds.
Each Saturday night for 11 weeks, two sound systems will have to bring their best or go home in what is expected to be an intense fight of wit, song selection, dub plates and specials. The clashes will be divided into four rounds with eight Hot Shots sounds squaring off against each other in the first round.
Brand Manager for Guinness, Gary Dixon, says the competition is a good fit for Guinness: “Guinness has always been committed to Jamaican culture and dancehall so it’s only natural that we would pioneer a show like this and bring it to a national audience. The strength of character, innovation and talent exhibited in this art form exemplifies what Guinness represents and it is important that it is preserved and promoted in a positive way.”
Reigning champion Bass Odyssey will not defend its title as the show clashes with its overseas tour. That means it’s an open field and recording studios all over Jamaica have been busy helping competing selectors secure ammunition for what is expected to be an all out musical war on TVJ.
Tune in to TVJ every Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. beginning on September 3 to find out which sound has what it takes to be a Guinness Sound of Greatness and walk away with more than $1 million in cash and prizes at the grand final on Saturday November 12.
The Guinness Sounds of Greatness TV show brings all the excitement, controversy and showmanship that dancehall culture is known for to a National TV audience this September.
The TV show will embody the traditions of sound systems as 12 of Jamaica’s top sounds (4 Veteran Sounds and 8 Hot Shot Sounds) compete over 11 weeks, vying for the title of Guinness Sounds of Greatness Champion. One Hot Shot sound will have the opportunity to go down forever in sound clash history, or a Veteran sound will reaffirm its position as champion. Viewers will also get an insight into how their favourite selector preps for a clash and what makes him tick.
Guinness Sounds of Greatness has been helping to preserve the traditions of the sound system culture and over the last few years has taken several sound systems on a journey to greatness. Now the show has grown in respect and popularity and this year claims its place as a top bill on the nation's station, TVJ.
AIRING SCHEDULE
Saturdays 9:30PM – 10:30PM
September 3 – November 12, 2011
On TVJ
SOUNDS OF GREATNESS VETERANS
Black Kat
Bodyguard
Ricky Trooper
Silverhawk
HOT SHOTS
Area Code
Black Blunt
Bredda Hype
Coppershot
Crazy Chris
Rich Squad
Boom Boom
Maestro
SHOW PERSONALITIES Host: Shamille Blake – Super Model MC: Leighton “Walshy” Walsh from Black Chiney Commentator: Chi Chi Ching Judges: Each week Guinness will call on 2 popular entertainment personalities who will decide the fate of the sounds
Shamille Blake and Leighton “Walshy” Walsh
PRIZES
The ultimate Guinness Sound of Greatness will receive J$1Million and Rane - 68 or TTM 57SL courtesy of Serato
Second prize winner receives a Rane SL 4 Interface courtesy of Serato
The winner of a SERATO CHALLENGE/ROUND receives any of the all-in-one ITCH controllers courtesy of Serato
PRODUCERS Executive Producer: Gary Dixon Producer: Carleene Samuels TV Producer: Hertha Beckman Director: Jason Williams (Jay Will)
SPONSORS
Guinness
TVJ
The STAR
Gleaner
FAME FM
HITZ FM
PR & PUBLICITY
Alykhat Entertainment
365-3734 / 866-5874
Alykhat@gmail.com
Follow Guinness Caribbean on Facebook and Twitter for exclusive content and prizes:
The development of a distinct brand identity for GUINNESS beer is closely linked with the history of the brand's packaging and advertising. Until the 20th century GUINNESS was supplied in bulk to bottling firms and publicans, who transferred it from wooden casks to bottles. When bottling GUINNESS, each bottler or publican used their own label on the bottles, and so a range of label designs and names appeared on bottles of GUINNESS.
As the overseas trade grew throughout the 19th century, the Company introduced its own trademark bottle label, to help protect its stout brand overseas. This label, introduced in 1862, was the now famous, buff-coloured oval label. This was the first step taken towards establishing a brand identity for GUINNESS. The Company printed and supplied this trademark label to its bottlers, who had to guarantee that they would sell 'no other brown stout in bottle'. This was an early form of quality control as it ensured the publican would not 'mix' various stouts together and call the product 'GUINNESS'.
The main features of the trademark label were the 'Guinness' name, harp device and Arthur Guinness signature. These features were to evolve into the three core elements of the GUINNESS brand identity.
In the 20th century, when official advertising began and new product variants such as GUINNESS Draught were introduced, and the brand identity developed further. The product was now advertised in various media, and in a range of different styles. Measures were taken to strengthen the brand image through standardising its design. A typeface was developed for the 'Guinness' name, now used on its own in posters, television commercials and merchandise, as well as on bottle labels. And a distinctive brand identity began to emerge, with the three main features of the trademark label, appearing as the core elements.
The brand identity was then used to promote GUINNESS, on all forms of packaging, and in all forms of promotional material. The core elements of the brand identity are still in use today, and have been adapted to suit different packaging forms and markets. Subtle changes have also been made to their design over the years, as the brand identity continues to evolve with the brand and product. The most recent changes were made in a redesign of the brand identity in 2005.
Core elements of the Brand Identity
The harp device is based on a famous 14th century Irish harp known as the "O'Neill", or "Brian Boru" harp, which is now preserved in the Library of Trinity College Dublin. The harp device was registered as a Guinness company trademark in 1876.
A number of changes have been made to the design of the harp device since its introduction, including a reduction in the number of strings shown. In 1968 a simplified version of the harp was introduced, and in 1997 and again in 2005 it was streamlined even further when the brand identity was redesigned. Initially the harp appeared in black, but with the introduction of the simplified harp, began to appear in gold as well.
The harp is also the official national emblem of the Republic of Ireland and can be found on the Republic's coinage. The difference between the Guinness harp and the Republic's harp lies in the position of the harp's straight edge (sound board). The straight edge on the Guinness harp always appears on the left, whilst the straight edge on the Republic's harp, appears to the right.
Arthur Guinness' now famous signature appeared in the centre of the first trademark label issued in 1862. That signature was based on the signature that Arthur Guinness made, on the lease for the St. James's Gate Brewery, in 1759.
Like the harp device, the signature has been gradually remodelled, becoming a more accurate representation of the original signature on the lease. The colour of the signature has also changed. It first appeared in black on the trademark label in 1862, but was changed to red in 1953 in conjunction with a redesign of the trademark label.
In the most recent redesign of the brand identity, the signature appears in black on a vignetted background as a secondary graphic for product packaging.
The Guinness word was a core feature of the original trademark label. It was not only the product name, but also the name of the family that ran the business. The Guinness name was not only used on bottle labels, but was also used extensively by the Company at the St. James's Gate Brewery - on wooden casks, horse-drawn drays, barges, ships, and even on the Brewery's gates. With the advent of official advertising in 1929, the Guinness name was used on posters, press advertisements, and merchandise. Appearing, all the while, in a variety of lettering styles.
This inconsistency in style was removed in the 1960s when the first official typeface for the Guinness word was introduced. This new typeface was developed by Bruce Hobbs, an artist at the advertising agency that held the account for GUINNESS - S.H. Benson Limited. The 'Hobbs' typeface, as it became known, was launched in 1963, and was initially used on posters only. It appeared in red lettering on a cream background. In 1968 the Hobbs typeface was slightly altered, to a smoother line, and was used for the first time on bottle labels. From then on it was used on all other forms of brand communication.
Further modifications were made in the 1991 and the typeface became known as 'Design Group Hobbs'. It now appeared as gold lettering on a black ground. Then when the brand identity was redesigned in 1997, a new typeface called 'Unified Hobbsian', was introduced. The typeface appeared in white lettering on a black ground, the letters were unified except for a break in the two middle 'N's, and the 'G' was raised slightly above the other letters. The word was redrawn as a wordmark for the new identity in 2005, and no longer exists as a font.
When it comes to a glass of Guinness Draught from the tap, the pour is as sublime as the velvety smooth liquid. As the Guinness enters the glass, swirling clouds tumble as the liquid begins to settle and the creamy head begins to form. Guinness adorers refer to this as the 'perfect serve'. It's somewhat of an initiation to the bold, bittersweet reward that awaits.
Guinness Foreign Extra Stout has long been the drink of choice for Jamaicans, but with the introduction of Guinness Draught, consumers now have a new way to sip greatness.
From the first velvet sip to the last, lingering drop, and every deep, dark satisfying mouthful in between, there's no mistaking Guinness Draught. Pure beauty. Pure Guinness.
Red Stripe, the local distributors of Guinness, recently introduced Guinness Draught in cans. With the aid of a plastic-moulded widget, the device sits atop the liquid inside every sealed can. When the can is opened, the pressure in the can drops. A small amount of beer and nitrogen, trapped in the widget, is forced out through the beer. The surge is born and the famous creamy head that you find in a glass of Guinness Draught served in a pub is created.
Just like a pub-poured pint
The widget gives Guinness Draught in the cans the taste and texture of a pub-poured pint, no matter the place or occasion. According to Guinness Brand Manager Gary Dixon, "It's almost like you're in a pub in Dublin, Ireland when you're being served Guinness Draught. The liquid flowing into the glass, or sitting in the can topped by that creamy head, is a thing of beauty."
Fostering and facilitating skills training, empowerment and peace are the principal objectives of dancehall artiste Sizzla who has partnered with the beverage brand Guinness as they put the weight of their resources behind the development of the Eastern Peace Centre (EPC), situated on Windward Road in Kingston.
The artiste and the corporate entity have collaborated in the staging of The Occasion, a stage show in support of the EPC's efforts, which will feature a full range of dancehall acts including Sizzla himself, Bounty, Assassin and others
Funds from The Occasion will be put towards the development of the EPC, which is a central recreational facility that provides personal development facilities including specialized rooms for a reading, computers, homework, entertainment and leisure which are utalised by young persons from several surrounding communities that have been historically challenged by violence, poverty and crime.
At the EPC, young men and women also have access to the skill training and personal development programmes at the skating rink-turned recreational centre.
The proceeds of Guinness' The Occasion will be used to complete a recording studio, which is currently under construction at the Eastern Peace Centre. "Every community should have a studio", said Sizzla. "A recording studio is the poor-people's factory... that's where we produce, it's where we vibe, it's where we who neva' born wid much, not only make musical products, but get rid of our stress and problems in a way that is constructive. If we did have more studios, we would need less prisons," the dancehall artiste said. "I've already helped them to start the work, but now it needs to be air conditioned, soundproofed and some more equipment. That's why we having The Occasion. It is a big occasion for a big project", Sizzla explained.
Gary Dixon, brand manager at Guinness explained that The Occasion is not just an event, but it is part of a process of partnership between the brand and the EPC. "Ultimately, the EPC helps to build men and women of character. We mean to strengthen communities and help them find intrinsic power to build and develop, in the way we best can. With "The Occasion", entertainment and empowerment brings greatness within reach for the community," Dixon explained
The Occasion takes place tonight at the Eastern Peace Centre. The show features Sizzla, Bounty, Assassin, Determine, Shane-O, Tyrical and many more, with music provided by King Tafari and Rolex.
Kingston, Jamaica: Guinness will give lucky fans full access to see 16 sound systems showcase their talents in a battle of musical wit and turntable skills on Friday July 15 at Red Stripe headquarters on Spanish Town Road.
Gary Dixon Guinness Brand Manager anticipates a great entertainment package; “These 16 sound systems boast impactful and talented DJs and I expect high energy and extremely creative musical mixes in this showdown. Each selector will demonstrate the formula for their sound’s greatness. Guinness adorers will also be able to share in the event through an online promotion on the Guinness Caribbean page.”
The Guinness Hot Shots Faceoff challengers include: 2011 sound of the year Coppershot, Boom Boom, Bredda Hype, Reggae King, Rich Squad with Little Richie and Crazy Chris out of Montego Bay. Also Code Red, Barrington Levy’s sound; Black Roses, Reflections, Area Code 786, Maestro, Bloodline and Shamrock out of Comfort Hall Manchester. Joining the musical battle will be Portmore’s Chromatic and Flava Unit as well as the West Black Blunt.
Tickets for the Sound Clash face off which features 16 of the island’s hot shot sounds can only be accessed by logging on to the Guinness Twitter or Facebook fan page; http://www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean and http://www.Twitter.com/GuinnessCarib
Follow GuinnessCaribean on Facebook and Twitter and watch out for trivia posts, answer correctly and win invitations to see the 16 best hotshot sounds vie for the title of 'Guinness Greatest Hotshot Sound'.
Kingston, Jamaica: -- The Eastern Peace Centre (EPC) is a small, ambitious institution joining the east Kingston communities of Winward Road, Rock Fort and Mountain Vew. With the many entrapments of inner-city life, EPC is a haven for the youths of the community who strive for greatness within their community boundaries.
On Friday July 15 reggae artiste Sizzla Kalonji and Guinness will aid their journey to greatness with the hosting of The Occasion at the EPC’s home on 121 Windward Road, Kingston. The title of the show is quite fitting, having been taken from one of Sizzla’s most powerful songs, Rise To The Occasion, – an anthem about succeeding against all odds by using the opportunities presented.
“This show is really about giving the yutes them an opportunity to empower themselves. If Sizzla and Guinness can encourage them to leave violence aside and focus on the positivity of life then we’re happy,” said Sizzla, born Miguel Collins.
The theme of ‘Rising to the Occasion’ is also one that resonates with title sponsor Guinness, which inspires men to Reach for Greatness. Guinness Brand Manager Gary Dixon said the brand wants to communicate to its consumers in inner-city communities such as Burgher that deciding to live a violence-free life is a great move. “Guinness encourages men of character with the will to succeed and this event celebrates that. We’re working with one of reggae’s icons and whose music has inspired many, the result is to raise sufficient funds to help with development programmes to the EPC.”
Like Sizzla says in Rise to the Occasion: “It's for you to make the best in life, know that you got the chance. Get up and step towards your goal, it's all right, fulfill your needs and wants… And the goal is that this show will provide the funds to support this objective.”
The Eastern Peace Centre is a place for at risk youth (14 - 25) to participate in wholesome programmes designed for upliftment. “Our programmes wouldn’t be possible without the assistance of corporate supporters like Guinness,” explained Orlando ‘King’ Hamilton, EPC Director. “We are looking forward to proceeds from the Guinness sponsored Occasion to provide much needed funds for our expansion efforts,” he continued.
The Occasion features music by King Tafari, Rolex and Nitro with performances from Bounty Killer, Assassin, Tyrical, Determine, Shane-O and Sizzla Kalonji. Proceeds from the event will go towards assisting the development of the EPC youth programmes in neighbouring communities.
Commenting on this first staging of ‘The Occasion’, Sizzla noted that, "this year promises exciting and full of surprises setting the stage for an annual event. We're looking forward to be able to give back to the communities and to the youth."
Kalonji recently launched his 65th album at the King Jammys studio in Waterhouse Kingston. 'The Scriptures' album is an acoustic roots reggae album, which sees Sizzla going back to his roots, while grooving professionally crafted reggae beats of international quality.
Doors open with a $500 admission fee before midnight; $700 is needed after. With $1,500 ‘kings’ gain VIP access to the venue and an open bar well stocked with Guinness. “The Occasion” of celebration takes place at 121 Winward Road on Saturday, July 15.
MONEYGALL PUBLICAN OLLIE HAYES POURS THE PERFECT PINT FOR A VERY SPECIAL VISITOR!
As part of his much awaited visit to his ancestral home, the US President Barack Obama stepped into his ancestor’s local pub, Ollie Hayes’ bar in Moneygall Co. Offaly, where he was welcomed with a perfect pint of Guinness.
The US President visited the Offaly town, as part of his visit to Ireland, to meet his distant relatives and see the house that they grew up in.
A special delivery of a keg of Guinness was made earlier this week by Guinness Master Brewer, in anticipation of the President’s visit and much to the delight of publican Ollie Hayes and all the locals who joined him at this momentous occasion, President Obama accepted the warm welcome by sampling a pint of Guinness.
Speaking today, John Kennedy, Managing Director of Diageo Ireland said; “Today marks a fantastic day for Ireland when we welcome US President Barack Obama into Ireland for the first time. What a great occasion also for the President who has had the opportunity to meet his ancestor’s in Moneygall. It is a real honour that he chose to savour a pint of Guinness as part of his journey back to Irish roots, which truly marks an occasion that will be remembered by people all over the world for generations to come”.
Also speaking today publican Ollie Hayes said “We have been waiting in hope for this very day and I can say that is without doubt one of the proudest days of my life. It’s not every day that the US President drops by our bar for a pint of Guinness! It really is a remarkable day for all the community here in Moneygall. We are going to talk about this day for every more as the day that Moneygall made history.”
English Premier League (EPL) striker Kenwyne Jones of Trinidad and Tobago has signed up as Ambassador for the popular Guinness Street Football Challenge.
Jones, who has been showing fine form of late for Stoke City in the EPL and leads his team into the FA Cup finals on May 14, said he is excited to be a part of the tournament and is eagerly anticipating returning to the Caribbean where he can help inspire others to greatness.
“I’m honoured to represent Guinness on the Street Football Challenge. Guinness represents Greatness and the desire to reach for Greatness and that’s something I can relate to,” Jones said. “Every day I go up against some of the best players in the world and I am successful because I work towards greatness each time.”
Jones, 26, noted the significance of the tournament in fostering a sense of unity and togetherness within the communities the tournament is taking place.
“Football has long been the Caribbean’s number one sport and with Guinness focusing on communities, every man will get the chance to display his greatness through the Guinness Street Football Challenge,? Jones added.
The Guinness Street Football Challenge starts this weekend and includes footballers from the eight zones nationwide. The grand finale is set for May 28.
While in Grenada, Jones will present the medals and trophies to the winning team, interact with fans and make himself available for press interviews.
Fans of the Guinness Street Football Challenge will get a rare opportunity to challenge Jones at a skills competition during halftime of the finals. All consumers have to do is say what Greatness means to them and post it on the Guinness Caribbean Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean).
Posts should be made under the “Street Football Challenge”. The fan of the page who gets the most persons to agree by liking the page and commenting on their post will get the chance to challenge Jones during the halftime show of the finals. Entries close one day before final.
Jones pointed out that the Guinness Street Football Challenge is a great platform for players and fans alike to show their support and love for the game.
“The Guinness Street Football Challenge is an awesome opportunity for football players and fans to connect with something that gives them a sense of pride, enjoyment and the ability to display their greatness. Whether you’re the most skilled player or the most supportive fan on earth, this event gives you the opportunity to demonstrate that” Jones said.
Kenwyne Joel Jones (born 5 October 1984) is a Trinidadian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Stoke City. He previously played for Sunderland, Southampton, Stoke City, Sheffield Wednesday, W Connection and Joe Public.
He began his football career with Joe Public in his native Trinidad and Tobago. He moved to W Connection in 2002, and he was a utility player in the Trinidad and Tobago team in 2003 against Finland. In 2004, he joined Southampton, where he was converted to a striker.] He was later loaned to Sheffield Wednesday and Stoke City during the 2004–05 season.
Early career
Jones was born in Point Fortin, Trinidad and Tobago to Lydia and Pamphile. and he attended St. Anthony's College in Trinidad along with his future Sunderland team-mate Carlos Edwards.[ His uncle, Philbert Jones was also a footballer as a prolific forward for Strike Squad that came within a point of qualifying for the 1990 World Cup and was a similar player to Kenwyne; both in style and celebration. He is married to Avalon and has three children: Isaiah, and twins Arianne and Kaelyn. His athleticism and pace, which Sunderland considered attractive, was not established until he joined Sheffield Wednesday in September and began to show his potential.
He had earlier had trials at Manchester United and Middlesbrough in 2002, and further trials at West Ham United and Rangers in 2004. Jones revealed in an interview with Simon Bird that he had to travel around Europe looking for a football club, or face a career in the Trinidad army; he said "It was hard because I'd just had my son and it was make it — or join the army. I had a family to support and at that time, it was either this is it... or I go into the services. I was ready for that life."
Club career
Jones began his professional career with Joe Public in his native Trinidad and Tobago in 2002. He soon moved to W Connection where he played for two years.
In July 2002, Jones signed for Southampton from W Connection for a nominal fee after a trial. W Connection's Chairman David John Williams described Jones' move, saying: "When Kenwyne Jones was transferred to Southampton, I told you all that he is going to be the biggest thing in Trinidad and Tobago football since beside Dwight Yorke. In December 2004, while on loan to the Football League One club Sheffield Wednesday, he scored seven goals in seven games, and returned to Southampton in January 2005 where he played in games against Liverpool and local rivals Portsmouth.
Before the start of the 2006–07 season, Jones scored a hat trick against Anderlecht in Southampton's last pre-season game, Meanwhile in the Football League Championship Jones scored two goals against Birmingham City on 29 November that ended 4–3 to Southampton. On 26 December 2006, he received the first red card of his career for a push on Mark Hudson in the match against Crystal Palace. He scored another two goals against Southend United in a 4–1 win on the last day of the season to ensure a place in the play-offs for Southampton,] following this, Jones was injured for the play-off semi-final defeat at Derby County but finished the season with 16 goals.
On 11 May 2007, Southampton manager George Burley stated that "Kenwyne is another Didier Drogba in the making, as far as physical attributes, his strength and power in the air are second to none" This followed news that Derby County wanted to sign Jones for around £5.5 million. Jones submitted a transfer request to Southampton on 24 August 2007 and went on "strike" until a move could be agreed, requesting not to be selected for the forthcoming league match against Stoke City.
On 29 August 2007, it was confirmed that he had joined Sunderland in a deal valued at £6 million with fellow-Trinidadian Stern John moving to Southampton. The Trinidadian striker made his debut for Sunderland on 1 September in a 1–0 defeat to Manchester United and scored his first goal for the club in a 2–1 home win over Reading on 15 September.
Jones was linked with a £12 million player move to Liverpool in November 2007, with Peter Crouch moving to Sunderland. Jones was again linked with high profile clubs on 21 December 2007, including Chelsea and Liverpool, but Sunderland manager Roy Keane insisted that he would be going nowhere.] Jones scored his fifth goal at the Stadium of Light, with a header from the near post off a corner kick, in Sunderland's 3–1 win over Bolton Wanderers on 29 December. Chelsea captain John Terry praised Jones, saying: "Jones was fantastic and I have played against him twice now. He is a very good player, very hard working and probably the best in the air in the entire Premier League, he really is that good" after Chelsea had won the match 1–0 on 15 March 2008.
On 1 June 2008, Jones suffered a knee ligament injury in a collision with goalkeeper David James in the seventh minute of Trinidad & Tobago's 3–0 defeat against England. He made his first appearance of the 2008–09 season playing for 60 minutes in Sunderland reserve team's 2–0 victory against Wigan Athletic., followed by a return to Sunderland's first team in the Tyne–Wear derby on 25 October 2008 as a second-half substitute, when he helped Sunderland to secure a 2–1 victory over their local rivals. His first goal following his return came on 12 November in a 2–1 League Cup defeat against Blackburn Rovers. He continued his recovery from injury with a goal, again against Blackburn, on 15 November 2008 as Sunderland won 2–1.
Jones put an end to speculation linking him with a move to Tottenham Hotspur by signing a 4 and a half-year contract at the Stadium of Light on 27 January 2009. After a spell of six games without a goal, Jones scored against Manchester United in a 2–1 defeat.] On 22 August Jones contributed to Sunderland's 2–1 victory over Blackburn Rovers scoring two goals. Jones again contributed with two goals for Sunderland when they were at home to Wolves on 27 September, in a 5–2 win. One goal being the highlight of the game, curling the ball home from 22yards out.]Jones scored his fifth goal of the season with a header against Manchester United, outjumping Ben Foster to give Sunderland a 2–1 lead but in the dying moments of the match at Old Trafford, Patrice Evra's shot was deflected in for an own-goal by Anton Ferdinand to level it up and end the match as a 2–2 draw. Jones scored his sixth goal of the season with a close-range header against Manchester City which City won 4–3. On 6 February, Jones scored his seventh goal of the season with another header against Wigan Athletic which ended up 1–1 at the Stadium of Light. Jones then scored again against Manchester City bringing his tally to eight, with a spectacular header at the Stadium of Light, which ended up 1–1. He also opened the scoring against Wolves on the final day of the season.
Stoke City
On 11 August 2010, Jones signed for Stoke City on a four-year-deal for a club record fee of £8 million. Jones has taken a wage cut in order to join Stoke.
"We need goals in our team and we also need strong competition among our strikers if we are to continue improving at this level."Kenwyne will give us that. It's no secret that I am one of his biggest admirers, he did a smashing job for us when he was here on loan. "He was very young back then but I believe that he has the best years ahead of him as a top striker." —Stoke Manager Tony Pulis on Kenwyne Jones.
Jones took over the number 9 shirt from the departing James Beattie who has joined Rangers. He made his second debut for City against Wolverhampton Wanderers on 14 August 2010, he made a bright start hitting the crossbar with his first shot. However after falling awkwardly from a challenge from Jody Craddock on 14 minutes Jones was forced to come off. On 13 September, Jones scored his first goal for Stoke on his home debut against Aston Villa in a 2–1 win. Jones followed this by scoring against West Ham United, Fulham in the League Cup and Newcastle United. He scored the second goal on 13 November in a 2–0 win against Liverpool at the Britannia Stadium.
After six games with out a goal and some criticism from supporters, manager Pulis revealed that Jones has had personal problems which have affected his performances. He ended this run with a goal against Everton on New Year's Day.
International career
Jones has been capped at under-18, under-20, under-23 olympic team and the Trinidad and Tobago national team.
He made his debut for the Trinidad and Tobago national team on 29 January 2003 in a match against Finland. Jones scored his first goal on 25 May 2005 in a 4–0 win against Bermuda. He was later selected by Trinidad and Tobago for their 2006 World Cup campaign, where he made his first appearance in the competition in a 2–0 defeat against England on 15 June 2006 at Frankenstadion, Nuremberg. Jones was named as Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation's Player of the Year for 2007. Jones said, "A lot of big names have won this before and I never really thought about something like this happening to me".
He was neither cross , angry nor miserable, instead it was a mature Rodney Price, his Bounty Killer persona left somewhere outside the venue, who entertained at Paradise Park, Westmoreland for the 2011 staging of Western Consciousness early Sunday morning.
It was a man transformed, except for his trademark full black outfit.
"A long time me a sing good songs but it's like them like when me get cross, angry and miserable," Price stated to the hundreds of screaming, whistle blowing fans. Churning out hits such as Down ina the ghetto, Poor People Fed Up, Mi Caan Believe Mi Eyes, Living Dangerously, Sufferer, Ready fi dem, and Stronger.
Breaking from his breathtaking performance Price encourged parents to send their children to not only regular school, but Sunday school as well, stating that children should be accessible to the Almighty, a well as have a solid education. After delivering a host of other conscious hits Price exited the stage near 5:00am after a performance that will be on the lips of many days or even weeks.
Even Beenie Man who climaxed the show had to congratulate Price for his strong performance making mention that both he (Beenie Man) and Bounty Killer had performed for free.
Another headliner of the night was Tanya Stephens. Stephens who says that she was celebrating the 'un-celibacy' of Rastas spitted out the lyrics to singles including as Take Him Back, You Nuh Ready Fi Dis Yet, After You, and Ninja Bike. Declaring her love for men, the versatile lyricist also delivered Its a Pity and These Streets saying that there is no truth to the rumour that she dislikes men.
The 'Fire Burning' rasta as expected was in a no nonsense mood as he 'bun a fire' on homosexuals and rapists. Throughout his 15-minute stay on stage Lutan spit lyrics to singles including Justice, Healthy Lifestyle and Africa.
D'Angel, Turbulence, Freddie McGregor, and Hero was also well received by the Western Consciousness audience. Other performers included the Dubtonic Kru, Harry Toddler and Hezron to name a few.
The show in his 23rd staging promoted by Worrel King lived up to its name except for a few minor problems including a long delay in the wee hours of Sunday morning as a band change was to be. The Sane band also provided excellent backing services and the MCs for the night were DJ Linkage of Linkage Radio in New York and Denise 'Ises' Miller.
Kingston, Jamaica: Ace deejay Bounty Killer decisively dismissed the notion that he can't help but being 'cross, angry and miserable' when he surprised fans with an incredible 'culture-lace' set at Western Consciousness 2011, which climaxed at Paradise Park, in Westmoreland, early Sunday morning.
Bounty Killer soon had the fans rocking gleefully to his lyrics as, in between declaring that, 'a long time me a sing good songs but it's like them like when me get cross, angry and miserable,' he rolled steadfastly through songs like, Poor People Fed-up, Cyaa Believe Me Eye, Originality, Down In The Ghetto and Before Dem Seek God.
After declaring that, "they can take away my visa but they can't stop my voice from leave yah," Bounty Killer got even hotter, reeling off, Born As A Sufferer, The Country Mash-Up, Book,Cellular and Too Dangerous, before taking a break to encouraged parents to send their children to both regular school and Sunday school, arguing that the children should be exposed to God as well as a good education.
After a lyrics-filled half hour, Bounty Killer exited the stage. However, the appreciative fans demanded more and the clearly pleased deejay unleashed, Gimme Back Me Hennessey, and after briefly speaking about his recent run-ins with the law, fired off the song, Stronger, as his parting shot.
Beenie Man, who closed the show in the aftermath of Bounty Killer's stellar performance, was quite generous in congratulating his former arch-rival, getting the crowd to join him in applauding the performance. Following that, Beenie Man played a tidy set, reeling off several hits as he enjoyed himself with the fans, especially the ladies.
After watching fellow female deejay star D'Angel playing a restrained set during which she held her own with songs like, Hot Gal A Road, First Lady, and Time Of My Life, a less than subtle Tanya Stephens came close to the edge on a few occasions with her thought-provoking lyrics.
"I will be celebrating the un-celibacy of rasta tonight", the lyrically astute Tanya Stephens bypassed and in some instances switched words as she skilfully delivered songs like, Cyaa Handle De Ride, Goggle, Mr. Mention, Bomb Wuk, Tek Him Back, These Streets and It's A Pity, in a non-controversial manner.
London-based King Sounds was velvety smooth. Sharing his set with deejay Supa Sass he was absolutely masterful. Clad in full white and looking almost biblical with his flowing white beard, the veteran singer was as crisp as a compact disc, churning out hits such as, Book of Rules, Games People Play, Give Dem Love and I Shall Sing, which was complemented by the blazing lyrics of Supa Sass.
Reggae messengers
Reggae messengers Luciano and Big Ship captain Freddie McGregor were both masterful and composed in their respective sets. Luciano was quite clinical in his cover of Peter Tosh's, Legalize It, during which he puffed on a spliff, much to the delight of the fans while the elder statesman McGregor, kept them dancing with songs like, Africa, Push Come to Shove and Big Ship.
From a roots music perspective, House of Leeds recording star Iyahblazze and Lutan Fire, who is recovering from a recent bout of illness, were both very good. Lutan Fire was crisp on songs like, St Jago Dela Vega and Blood Stain while Iyahblazze got an encore after belting out, What If, Rasta and Woman I Need.
On a night when musical instruments were solidly represented, top-flight show band, the potent Dubtonic and Uprising Roots both played pleasing sets, combining sweet vocals with soul-stirring instrumental delivery. After their set, Dubtonic left no doubt why they were recently voted the top reggae band in the world.
With others acts like the solid Droop Lion, the velvet-smooth Hezron, the lyrically potent Little Hero, a mature-sounding Harry Toddler, the resurgent Turbulence, the Canada-based Jah Cutter and the deejay policeman Stamma T also chiming in with good performances, it would appear that promoter Worrell King got the mix just right.
Kingston, Jamaica: The history-making Arthur Guinness Celebration which drew over 17,000 patrons to the National Stadium last October and which provided memorable performances by Wyclef Jean, Lady Saw, Wayne Wonder, Mavado and Freddy McGregor together, will be available on DVD this week.
The concert was part of a global celebration for Guinness founder Sir Arthur Guinness and was recognized with several awards and accolades including Event of the Year by the Jamaica Observer and Show of the Year by Excellence in Music Awards (EME’s). Additionally, the epic, joint appearance by dancehall masters Beenie Man and Bounty Killer at the concert copped the EME Award for Most Memorable Performance for 2010.
International superstar Shaggy was impressed with the Celebration and lauded the concert citing it as, “one of, if not the best production ever done in Jamaica”. Guinness, and Executive Producers TEAM Solutions, partnered with Phase Three Productions and Main Event Entertainment Group to plan and execute the tribute to Sir Arthur.
The concert was shot entirely in High Definition (HD) from a variety of cameras including a rarely used overhead camera mounted to a mini helicopter flying over the National Stadium. The cameras had total access to the concert venue and captured all the action on the stage, in the audience and behind the scenes.
This special DVD has now immortalized the significance of the Celebration locally, regionally and internationally. The professionally developed DVD boasts several bonus features to compliment the 90-minute show highlight package. The bonus features include the Arthur Guinness Toast hosted by deejay/comedian Iceman, testimonials on greatness by well-known Jamaicans, Guinness international commercials and more.
Guinness Brand Manager Gary Dixon said the DVD will be a reward for Guinness consumers when they buy a Guinness six-pack at selected supermarkets and retail stores island-wide. “We’ll also be giving away copies of the DVD on our Guinness Caribbean Facebook page and at our weekly Guinness-sponsored events such as Happy Thursdays,” said Dixon. Facebook fans will have an opportunity to win copies of the DVD and premium Guinness Swag by participating in quizzes and other interactive promotions.
Greatness lies in all of us and over the next eight weeks, soccer players from communities across St. Vincent & the Grenadines , along with their fans, will exhibit their greatness through the Guinness Street Football Challenge.
The scrimmage football tournament will have the best players of neighbouring communities vying for over $10,000 in prizes and bragging rights of being the greatest community team in the country.
“The Guinness Street Football Challenge provides an opportunity for consumers to demonstrate and connect with greatness at a personal level, giving them inspiration and hope while reminding them that irrespective of their current circumstances they are capable of GREATNESS,” said Kasai Simmons, Guinness Brand Manager for St. Vincent Brewery Limited.
The competition begins 16th April 2011 at Kearton’s Hard Court and ends 4th June 2011.
Competition will take place in the following communities:
1. Barrouallie
2. Georgetown
3. Arnos Vale
4. Sion Hill
5. Kingstown
6. Layou
7. South Leeward
8. Biabou
9. Calliaqua
10. Canouan
11. Port Elizabeth, Bequia
12. Mustique
13. North Leeward
14. Sandy Bay
15. Marriaqua
16. Union Island
PRIZES
1st place winner ............................................... EC$2,000.00
2nd place winner .............................................. EC$1,000.00
3rd place winner .............................................. EC$500.00
4th place winner ............................................... EC$250.00
Semi Final winner ............................................ EC$200.00
Quarter Final winner ....................................... EC$200.00
Sweet 16 winner ............................................. EC$200.00
Preliminary winner .......................................... EC$200.00
The Guinness Street Football Challenge will be bolstered by the association with a renowned football star in the English Premier League.
“We will divulge details on our international ambassador shortly but this player is someone who, on his own journey to Greatness, will inspire others to be great,” said Kasai Simmons.
FAQs
What is the Guinness Street Football Challenge?
The Guinness Street Football Challenge is a community-based football competition that is being activated in 10 countries across the Caribbean. The competition provides the platform for our consumers to exhibit their greatness through football both as a player and a fan.
Where and when will it take place?
The Guinness Street Football Challenge will take place at the following communities:
What does the Guinness Street Football Challenge include?
The competition will pit community teams against each other in an elimination format. The competition will be supported by consumer activations in bars and on match days at the event. .
Is this the first time the Guinness Street Football Challenge is being held?
A similar programme was held last year in Guyana which proved to be very successful. From that initial activation, we decided to develop a full through the line campaign for the entire Caribbean.
What countries are participating this year?
Haiti, Antigua, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, Guyana, St. Vincent, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts, and St. Maarten.
Is the Guinness Street Football Challenge on Facebook?
The unforgettable experience at the Arthur Guinness Celebration has been captured on DVD for consumers, and Guinness will be giving away free copies.
The 90-minute DVD of the one-night mega concert held last October at the National Stadium in St Andrew excellently captures all the elements that came together to make the event great and will remind patrons what to expect at the second staging later this year.
Event of the year
The Arthur Guinness Celebration has been recognised as the event of the year and for having the best performance of the year, Beenie Man and Bounty Killer's combined performance.
The concert was part of a global campaign marking Arthur's Day. Jamaica's concert was considered one of the best executed and drew the largest audience.
The DVD features performances by Wyclef Jean, Busta Rhymes, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Mavado, Lady Saw, the Big Ship Family and Shaggy, who called the Arthur Guinness Celebration one of the best local productions ever.
Patrons will be able to get their hands on one of the DVDs by purchase a six-pack of Guinness in any participating supermarket or retail store, while stock lasts, or log on to www.facebook.com/GuinnessCaribbean for a chance to win.
Patrons attending Guinnesss-sponsored Happy Thursdays also have a chance of nabbing the hot commodity.
The exclusive Arthur Guinness Concert production was shot by Phase Three Production and features concert performances, behind-the-scenes highlights, interviews as well as production and fan reaction the overwhelmingly successful concert.
The entire production was shot in HD using 10 cameras including aerial panoramic shots, crowd-pleasing performances and audience-interaction shots. The 90-minute special was edited by Michael Cushnie and is expected to hit stores next week.
T&T’s widest and most inclusive street football competition, the Guinness Street Football Challenge was officially launched yesterday at the VIP room of the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Wrightson Road. The community-based challenge is an invitation for 768 players, comprising 96 teams to represent six zones across the two islands including central, south, north-east, north-west, east and Tobago. Challengers over the age of 18 will compete for a grand prize of $30,000 beginning with in Central Zone, next week Saturday at Edinburgh 500 Recreational Grounds basketball court in Chaguanas from 10am.
Each zone will consist of four groups of four teams with each group playing in a round-robin format over a two day period. The winning team of each group will play in a knockout round against another top team of the same zone to determine the team that advances to the final round. The final round will begin with a quarterfinal then to the semifinal and then final. The “quarterfinal” will also be played in a round robin format of two groups. The best two teams of each group will advance to the semi-final stage.
There will be one winning team of eight players. A maximum of five players are allowed to play at a time with three substitutes to make up the team. After hosting a similar competition last year in Guyana, which proved successful, Guinness will be hosting the Street Challenge across the Caribbean in an effort to “establish Guinness as a brand of football in T&T and across the Caribbean,” according to Melicia Wilson, Guinness Marketing Manager. The street football format promotes skills involved in close control and short passing as “small goals” will be used, removing the place of goalkeepers in the competition.
To add to the excitement of the pacier version of the game, Guinness has promised the attendance of a renowned English Premier League footballer, who will be named in the coming weeks. Teams are free to enter, but will require a deposit of 24 Guinness bottle caps to register and can do so through popular bars and pubs across the country. All players must be over the legal drinking age. Further information can be accessed on facebook.com by searching the keywords “Guinness Caribbean”.
Schedule of match days
Central — Sat April 16 (10am-6pm) Edinburgh 500 Recreational Grounds
Tobago — Fri April 29 (6pm-9pm) Sat April 30 (10am-6pm) Roxborough Complex Carpark
East — Fri May 6 (6pm-9pm) Sat May 7 (10am- 6pm) Malabar Basketball Court
South — Fri May 13 (6pm-9pm) Sat May 14 (10am-6pm) Skinner Park Basketball Court
North-East — Fri May 21 (6pm-9pm) Sat May 22 (10am-6pm) Lower 6th Avenue Barataria Basketball Court
North-West — Fri May 27 (6pm-9pm) Sat May 28 (10am-6pm)
Mucurapo Road Basketball Court
Final PlayOffs — Sun May 29 (10am-6pm) Jean Pierre Complex, Mucurapo
On Arthur‘s Day on September 22, the Guinness Sounds of Greatness will climax with four DJs vying for US$10,000 in cash and prizes, but greater economic gains are in store for the island nation as a result of the competition. 
