Kaieteur News

must fight back against Govt.

on -Int’lFinancial expert lopsidedExxoncontract

Price

If Govt. says it wants to renegotiate terms of oil deal, Exxon and partners will come to the table

The Court Must Decide the Fate of Serious Allegations

Inacasethathasgalvanized

public attention, an allegation of rape was made against a government Minister

The police conducted their investigation and the file was forwardedtotheDirectorofPublic Prosecutions who subsequently advisedfurtherinvestigations.

In a dramatic twist, however, the complainant, a teenager, has reportedly withdrawn her complaint. Some believe that this effectively ends the matter We howeverbegtodiffer

We believe that it is for the court to determine the validity of the accusations against the Minister and to determine also whether the complaint can be withdrawn. The role of the State –police, DPP and the courts – is to ensurethatjusticeisserved.

There is an allegation of a crime and that crime is not only allegedagainstapersonbut,iftrue, also represents a crime against society

The fact that the complainant does not wish to proceed further, does not mean that the investigations should be discontinued.

The withdrawal of a complaint does not invalidate the seriousness of the allegations. It is well known

that victims of sexual assault may experience immense pressure, fear,andsocietalbacklash,leading themtoretracttheiraccusations.In suchcases,thejusticesystemmust ensure that every possible avenue is explored to provide justice to victims, particularly young teenagers.

Many years ago, the publisher of this newspaper imported a quantity of footwear A senior army official, Col Godwin McPherson, who was later to become Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, was fingered in the larceny of the footwear

The publisher of this newspaper, Mr Glenn Lall, made a report to the police, and McPherson was arrested The matter was investigated. When it was clear that he would soon be charged,theaccusedmadeanoffer to pay Lall for the shoes. Lall consented and subsequently supplied a statement to the police asking that the complaint be dropped.

However, the then DPP would have none of it and said that a crime had been committed and charges should be laid and the court should decide. McPherson was charged and placed before the court.

The fact therefore that a complainant has been withdrawn does not bring an end to the investigation of the allegation of sexual misconduct against the Minister It is, we believe, for the court to decide on whether to accept the withdrawal of the complaint or to proceed with charges.

Justice cannot be solely determined by the willingness of a complainant to proceed. It must be acollectiveresponsibility,withthe court acting as the final arbiter, weighing all available evidence andensuringafairtrial.

By empowering the court to decide whether to proceed or dismiss charges, we reinforce the principles of due process and prevent the potential of manipulationormisuseofthelegal system.

Byallowingthecourttodecide the fate of the charges, we will be upholding the principle that no individual, regardless of their social status, should be immune to the consequences of their actions. Our legal system exists to protect and serve the interests of the public, particularly the vulnerable. Therefore, the court needs to examinetheevidence,considerthe circumstances, and reach an unbiasedjudgment.

investigatedfor

FRONT PAGE COMMENT

-Raphael Trotman

Citizens must fight back against Govt. on lopsided Exxon contract-Int’lFinancialExpert

In an environment where the government has not onlyrefusedtorenegotiate the lopsided Stabroek Block contract, but allows lax enforcement of the laws governing the sector to continue, FinancialAnalyst and Director of the Institute for Energy EconomicsandFinancialAnalysis (IEEFA), Tom Sanzillo said it is nowuptoGuyanesetofightback

Sanzillogavethisviewduringa recent panel discussion on Guyana’s oil sector, particularly focusing on whether or not its newfound wealth will bring prosperitytothepeople.

He has years of experience in public policy and has also taught energy industry finance. Sanzillo served for 17 years with the City andtheStateofNewYorkinsenior financial and policy management positions and as the first deputy comptroller for the State of New York,oversawthefinancesof1,300 units of local government, the annual management of 44,000 government contracts, and over $200 billion in state and local municipal bond programmes as well as a $156 billion global pensionfund.

The financial analyst has writtenseveralarticlesonGuyana’s energy sector since the country discovered the resources, and like severalotherspecialists,havebeen keeping close watch on the unravelingevents.

Sanzilloinpointingtotheneed forcitizensofGuyanatofightback highlighted that two Guyanese recentlytookExxonMobiltoCourt overtheirfailuretocomplywiththe Liza One Permit, which according to the High Court Judge, warrants an unlimited parent company guarantee to cover all costs in the eventofaspill.

In addition to this, Sanzillo madethepointthattheoilcompany hasbeenfailingtomeettheflaring requirements too and has burned millionsofcubicfeetofgasperday since the startup of production activities This too prompted citizenstoheadtoCourt.

Further, he observed that the company even has an objection to Guyana’sLocalContentLaw,now thatitisforcedtousetheservicesof moreGuyanese.

“The local content law is not Exxon’s only complaint, I mean it cameinthere,itreadthecontract,it knew what the rules were. Now since the beginning, it can’t meet the flaring requirements that it claimeditwouldmeet,”theIEEFA Directorstated.

To make yet another point to support his argument of lax law enforcement by Guyanese authorities, the Financial Analyst stressed that International Lawyer MelindaJankihadwonalegalsuit against the state’s Environmental ProtectionAgency(EPA),reducing

Exxon’sPermitfromthepreviously approved 20 plus years, to five yearsasspecifiedbylaw

To this end, Sanzillo noted, “Theyarecomplainingaboutevery single provision when the IHSMarkit experts who looked at the contract said the contract was effectively one-sided in Exxon’s favour so they already have a favourable contract and now they are saying they can’t meet these, what are effectively, quite I would sayweakrequirements.”

The Financial Analyst argued that one is left to wonder whether theoilprojectswouldbeprofitable for Guyana with all the existing loopholes.Hemadeitclearthathe does believe this to be case for Guyana.

Sanzillo explained that Exxon has “far superior ways” to beat Guyaneseinanynegotiationbutthe government must be willing to participate in addressing the flaws in the contract Instead, the specialist said that the administration has made it clear that it will allow lax law enforcementtocontinue.

“The willingness of the governmenttoparticipateinthisis something that does need to be addressed but it’s not going to change because they’ve made it clear that this is the plan, and the plan will be to allow lax enforcement, to allow this really lopsidedfiscaldealtocontinueand tousetheresourcesthatdocomein which are substantial- I’m not

gonnasaythat’snottrue,thatis-but to use it in a manner, in a pretty standard economic development manner where the politicians control it at the top and it doesn’t get down to the benefits of the people.”

He had also noted that the investments being made by governmentintothenewroadsand the Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project may very well be to the benefit of the oil companies, rather than the citizensofGuyana.

In this regard, the Director of the Financial Institution urged, “The people of Guyana really in termsoftheirgovernment,theyhad better learn how to fight back because we have seen what happenswhentheydon’t.”

IEEFADirector, Tom Sanzillo

Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

GUYANESE – IS OIL LIFTING UP, OR DRAGGING DOWN?

Guyanesehavebeentoldthatthismassiveoilis the end to their extreme hardships, their entry into economic paradise. Has this been their experience since the discovery of billion-barrel oil discoveries? Or, have their individual and collective experiencesbeenofalesserdelight,evenmoreoffinding themselves in a bigger financial hole now that these huge amountsofoilhavebeenfound?

ThePPP/CGovernment,fromleadersAliandJagdeoto ministers make it their duty and put on a show about how much the government has done to boost the lives of citizens,andgivethematasteofwhatbeingarecipientof the nation oil money means. Guyanese have heard with numbing regularity about cash grants, Because we care, pension increases, increase in the minimum wage, and more. Tobefair,thosehavetheirmeritsandhavemadea slight difference for short periods. But they are far from enough, get gobbled up by higher and higher prices for mostofthebasicsofadecentliving.

ItisalsobeyonddebatethatleadersAliandJagdeohave taken good care of their friends in the private sector, and considering how much that group has benefited, there is simply no comparison to what the ordinary citizen has received.

One way to make this possible is through enormous budget allocations for infrastructure projects, in the transportation education, health, and security sectors. It has been drummed into any Guyanese who would listen that the immense spending on infrastructure works is to prepareforthecenturyahead,andtoimprovethestandards of Guyanese. Without saying a word about corruption, thereareelementsofsubstancetothoserepresentations.

So,werevisitthequestion:areGuyaneseaheadofthe gamecomparedtowheretheywerepriortooiltakingusby storm, and making this country the talk of the world? When recipients who qualify add up their cash grants, pensionincreases,andsoforth,aretheywinners?

Orhavethecitizensofthiscountrylostagain,butonly they don’t know it, because their minds have not focused on, and fully understood, what is going on, and what has direct and severe consequences for them in their daily lives? In other words, there are hidden costs, which they havetopay,andwhichmakesamockeryofthecashgrant pittancesandotherincreasesthatcomeintotheirhands.

There are four areas that we will quickly touch to supportwhereatthispublicationstandaboutGuyaneseina deeperholeeconomicallynowthatwehaveoil.

First, the fishing sector in parts of Guyana has been decimated. The result is catches have shrunk, and prices havesoared.

Many citizens consume fish, perhaps most, but now they have to pay more, or do without marine products, possibly jeopardizing their health. Second, the much talkedaboutconstructionboomisreal,withworkgoingon allover,butwithabigdownsideforGuyanese. Building materials and construction labour have skyrocketed, and that now digs a deeper financial hole for prospective homebuilders.

They have to borrow more millions, which means mortgagesarehigher,andmoreinteresthastobepaid. To make the point clear: this wipes out $25,000 cash grants, minimum wage increases, and other aids. VPJagdeo has said that he is concerned about inflation, which is why Guyanesearenotgiventhekindofcash-in-handreliefthat theydesperatelyneed. Curiously,hehasn’tsaidanything aboutconstructioninflation,itsimpacts.

Third,thesteepincreaseinheavydutyvehiclesplying our roads, and most having something to do with the ballooning oil sector, cause continuing damage to costly infrastructure. To fix requires many millions, which Guyanese taxpayers must foot. Fourth, it is said to be seasonal,orgreedymiddlemen,butthepricesoffooditems keepincreasing.

STRATEGIC PLANNING CAN HELP GUYANAAVOID THE TRAPPINGS OF CONTINUED UNEQUALDEVELOPMENT

DEAREDITOR,

As a rapidly developing micro-state, Guyana is susceptible to continued i n t e r n a l u n e q u a l development, a process whereby emphasis is placed on developing certain parts of the country at the neglect or bypassing of others Widely acknowledged by both academicians and policy makers, unequal development cannot be easily or totally eradicated.

Yet,mostagreethatstrategic planning – both long and short term – helps in addressing and alleviating many of the negative consequences of unequal development.

While short-term planning customarily focuses on addressing current societal problems, long-term planning seeks to bring about enduring sustainable benefits with minimal disruptions in the

modes of production, or destabilization in socioeconomic growth and societalharmony

Admittedly, it would be presumptuoustoassumethat the issue of unequal development can be addressed in a single article given the complexity of interrelated factors that contribute to this societal problem. I will therefore focus on the dynamics of Guyana’sunderdevelopment

and the production of unequal development with intent on concentrating furtheranalysesontheissue.

To understand why the PPP/C must continue in its efforts to address Guyana’s unequal development, one must first understand the origin of this societal problem.

Irrefutably, Guyana’s underdevelopment, and its underlyingstructureof (Continuedonpage6)

those same itemstosupplytheoffshoreoilsector From these four areas only, it becomes apparent that the money that Guyanese get they are giving back many times

moreinoneformoranother,andhasoilconsequenceswritten allover

Once again, are Guyanese winners or losers with their wealth?

Some of this could be from the demand for

The natural resource curse is here, but not in its Dutch Disease form

The Era of Authoritarianism Must End

DEAREDITOR,

In some countries, utterances like this can be meetwithstoningandothers

DEAR

EDITOR, The Natural Resource Curse (or the Paradox of Plenty) is already doing damage in Guyana, but not throughitsmostcitedcause, theDutchDisease.

The Dutch Disease is onlyoneofseveralcausesof theresourcecurse–thecurse itself being the observation that countries endowed with abundant natural resources (such as oil) can struggle to effectively use their blessings and often end up with high levels of poverty, misery, and economic underdevelopment.

The Dutch Disease, strictly speaking (given its origins), would occur if our currencyappreciates(thatis, moves towards G$100 to US$1), thus making our exports more expensive and our export industries unable tocompete.

According to the World Bank, signs of this shift in exchange rate were present in Guyana some time ago duringtheheightofthegold industry. But I have seen no similar assessment from the Banktoday.

ButtheNaturalResource Cursehasothercauses.

Thecausenowengulfing Guyana is the surge in government autocratic tendencies, the decline of government transparency and accountability, the sidelining or defanging of public institutions, financial recklessness and waste, the

cronyism, and the corruption.

Thereisnoshortlabelto stamp on this range of ills, hence the tendency, I suspect, of tucking a few of them under the heading of theDutchDisease.

It is quite true that these ills have been at all-time highs under the PPP regime evenbeforeoil.

But oil wealth in the hands of the PPP is worsening and entrenching thesituation.Withbillionsof dollars of guaranteed oil income, the government has its own piggy bank It therefore no longer has to depend on our taxes and, critically, on the conditionalities-laden loans and agreements with the IMF and other such donors and overseers to spend any money

Free flowing oil revenueshavethusremoved key checks and constraints on government conduct. No wonder badness begins to takehold.

So,whereistheevidence ofwhichIspeak?

The Gas-to-Energy project, with no feasibility study (incredibly) and its billion-dollar hidden deals that bypass the parliament andthepublic.

The political hijack of the EPA and the waiving of environmental impact assessments and the none n f o r c e m e n t o f environmentalpermits.

The Su-gate style approach to business investments(meetmeinmy livingroom).

T h e u p s u rg e i n questionable costs of roads and other infrastructure projects with casual indifference.

The manipulation of the national budget into a slush fund. Thetotaldisinterestin economic development planning.

Andmore.Agovernment increasingly unhinged from the normal restraints and accountability pressures is themaindriverofthenatural resource curse we face in Guyanatoday

The resource curse itself is the result of all this – the high and growing income poverty, food poverty, unemployment, cost of living, economic insecurity, infant and maternal mortality, rates of preventable deaths, functional illiteracy, inequality, loss of hope, etc. despite vast oil wealth.

Lastly, it is a different kind of curse that the nation’s economic fate currently rests in the hands of the PPP’s “brightest man in the room”, Bharat Jagdeo – who has reached an intellectual and moral plateau that is too low to transform Guyana and the livesofitspeople.

Respectfully, SherwoodLowe

One of the privileges humans can enjoy is servitude.Itisanexemplary show of humility, selfgratification and the ability to shape communities and thenationwholly

However, the obsession of power among executive membersonbothsidesofthe political divide have been fashionedbyarrogance,selfabsorbing and egotistical behaviours. As the author, I imploreyourpatiencewitha fewexamples:

Afewweeksintoanewly elected government, the MinisterofStatewasseenon aprivatejetposingasarock star

The same Minister when questioned about the secretive agreement by the cabinet to raise their executive compensation package is recorded saying that as a lawyer, he pays his junior staff the increased amount and he has “no apology”forhisutterances.

This is one instance of the pig-headed behaviors by leaders who have become obsessed by power We are reminded by Lord Acton “Power tend to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely”.

Another sanctimonious gangster is recorded in the media berating a member of the public who challenged the status quo with questioning the comrade leader

He retorted to telling constituent to “shut up and that they don’t know what theyweresaying.”

w i t h w i d e s p r e a d condemnation of the senior governmentofficial.

The attitudes and

behaviours of senior membersoverthepastyears have expanded to suppressing constitutional appointments, cronyism in state board membership and widespread discrimination of public servants who oppose their dictatorial policies.

Members within their partiesareseenasopposition who modestly offer constructive criticism and are banished from party events,friendshipcirclesand leadershippositions.

This cannot be the finest display of democracy and leaders who attain public office must be open to criticism.

Recently, another senior member of the cabinet has been charged for alleged rapeofanunderageteenager It is the most disgraced and obscene abuse of executive authority to groom, coerce and forcibly use his position

to attain sexual favors of underagechildren.

His female cabinet colleagues are all silent and so is the political party’s women organizations, Rights of the Child groups, religious and legal bodies like the Guyana bar association.

The deafening silence allows for pedophiliac predators and traffickers seeking to advance these behaviors in the country. Nonetheless,theresponseof the country to executive abuse of power has been promising.

T h e a c t s o f demonstrations, letters and social media commentary provides the gravitas for accountability and the willingness to challenge the statusquo.

Benjamin Disraeli, a worldrenownphilosopheris recorded in history saying that “Change is inevitable.” Letuscontinuetoinfluencea change against Stalinists, despots and abusers of state power ThankYou!

Collin Haynes MPH MBA

We need a clarification from President IrfaanAli

DEAREDITOR, While I am not in support of a public lynching of Nigel Dharamlall in that he should not be fired because of current allegations against him,

PresidentIrfaanAlineedsto clarify that he supports the policeandDPPintheirwork. And,assuchwouldwelcome the Police Force arresting and charging Dharamlall if there is enough evidence to

do so. The DPP can then prosecutethecharges.

The current circus whereby this case is being passedfromthepolicetothe DPPthen back to the Police Forcewillnotdo.

Nigel Dharamlall needs tobechargedornotcharged to end this political circus. Ministers are not above the Lawandeveryoneisequalin the eyes of the Law The Police Force needs to do its

dutyandeitherchargeornot

charge Dharamlall regardless of if the alleged victim withdraws the charges.

Guyanese expect better from their Police Force and

itsDPP

The complainant is a minor susceptible to adult influence/coercion the originalchargesstands.

Sincerely, SeanOri

STRATEGIC PLANNING CAN HELPGUYANAAVOID THE...

Frompage4 unequal development is a product of its colonial past, centuriesofexploitationand expropriation of the country’s resources. Under colonial domination, Georgetown became the locusofnationalcontrol,the administrative center of the d e v e l o p m e n t o f underdevelopment, the instrument for promoting economic activities that benefitedcolonizersthrough the oppression and exploitation of the colonized.

From Georgetown, British-appointed colonial administrators orchestrated and sanctioned plantation o w n e r s ’ v i g o r o u s exploitative activities to suck wealth from the rural sugar cane-fields Their cooperative actions formalized and intensified theextractionofsurplus,and

accumulation of capital that benefitted England, and out of necessity, to a limited extent, Georgetown Gradually, colonizers themselves established, or permitted the establishment of small manufacturing enterprises around Georgetown, primarily to enhance their exploitative pursuits of capital accumulation.

Within Guyana’s rural countryside a few strategically located, colonially owned, sugar factories stood as the sole m a n u f a c t u r i n g establishment.Afewofthese manufacturing entities remain as testimony of Guyana’s colonial history, a history of exploitation, underdevelopment, and the development of unequal development.

Besides being the principal administrative

center of Guyana, Georgetown served as the colony’s foremost contact with the outside world through trade – import and export – activities focused almost exclusively on the extraction of resources. In this fashion, Georgetown and areas within its vicinity developed, while the rest of thecountrythatproducedthe wealth lagged in a state of p e r v a s i v e underdevelopment While Georgetown developed infrastructurally, colonial administrators undertook limited infrastructural development in the rural plantations -mainly dams, bridges, canals, sluices, watermills,andrailroads–all of which to hasten maximizationofprofits.

Utilizing Georgetown as the governing center, colonizers established political, economic, and

social-cultural institutions that primarily facilitated their control and dominance over Guyana. And, through the appointment of White plantation managers and overseers,theyproducedand reproduced colonial dominationatthelocallevel.

African and Indian field laborers, the plantations bulwarksofstrenuouslabor, receivedpitifulwageswhich kept them on the brink of starvation while the Whites livedinluxury

When the Colonials departed Guyana, they practically emptied the colony’s coffers, abandoned a faltering sugar plantation systemandasocietyplagued with socio-economic inequalities.

They also left behind a divided nation, one primed with race-ethnic rivalries and hostilities – an unstable volatile society of their creation.

Mostnoticeably,theyleft a two-tiered economic structure,oneofadeveloped u r b a n i z e d s m a l l m a n u f a c t u r i n gadministrative sector, and a larger underdeveloped rural proletarian-peasantsector

Withthedepartureofthe British, the decay of Guyana’s social and economic structure and relationscontinuedunderthe Burnham-D’Aguiar’s coalition government, and shortly thereafter under Burnham’s autocratic rule. Promoting paramountcy of the PNC party, Burnham, then Hoyt, steered Guyana down the path of deeper underdevelopment.Forover twenty-five years, the PNC government promulgated unequal development policies which almost destroyed the rural sugar plantations and agricultural sectors.

InheritingGuyana’sonedimensional crumbling economic structure, the currentPPP/Cgovernmentis s a d d l e d w i t h t h e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y o f deconstructing the colonialP N C s y s t e m o f underdevelopment and replacing it with one that is equitable and beneficial to all Guyanese. This process of development necessitates reasoned strategic planning to avoid the reproduction of unequaldevelopmentwithin Guyana.

To date, the policy decisions and actions of the PPP/C government indicate steps to tackle and alleviate problems of unequal development through strategic planning This brings me back to the sugar industryasanexample.

Since assumption of political power, the PPP/C government embarked on the difficult task of reconstructing and reorganizing the sugar industry

Once the mainstay of r u r a l G u y a n e s e employment, the sugar industry began to falter primarily due to declining demand for sugar worldwide. By undertaking the transformation of the sugar industry through the consolidation of plantations and the closing of a few factories, the challenge the PPP/C government now faces is how to ensure that revitalizationoftheindustry does not result in the reproduction of colonial style exploitation of labor, followedbythedeepeningof unequaldevelopment.

Sugar as we know is a seasonalcropwhichrequires different skill sets from plantingtoharvesting.

Historically, cane cutters have had to endure several weeks of unemployment after the harvest season whichkeptthemonthebrink of poverty Would the younger generation of Guyanese opt to become cane cutters knowing the economic hardship? This is unlikely

If the demand for sugar

continues to falter, what alternative modes of production are likely to absorbthelaboringclassand simultaneously prevent the d e e p e n i n g o f underdevelopment?

Thisisthedilemmafaced bythePPP/Cgovernment.In this regard a well-informed, executed, and monitored strategic plan would enable the government to address this dilemma, one that incorporates public-private partnerships in the productive utilization of abandoned sugar cane fields – whether this be the expansion of current projects, or the introduction of other sustainable multipurpose endeavours. If they are to assist in addressing the problem of unequal development, such partnerships must include reinvestments, rather than the extraction and exportationofprofits.

Today, information technology has pierced every nook of Guyanese society The poorest of the poor have increasing visual and audial exposure to the possibilities of economic success and material comforts resulting from livingwages.

Hence, living wages and alternative modes of employment during the sugar plantation off-season becomeessential.

With reasoned strategic planning that incorporates public-private capital investments, the PPP/C governmentwouldbeableto continue its policies and programs relating to the social and economic upliftment of rural Guyanese, instead of the exploitation of plantation wage labourers and reproduction of elements of colonial oppression. Such neocolonial relations of economic domination, and surplus extraction, would likely facilitate the continued oppression of wage laborers in the promotion and reproduction ofunequaldevelopment.

NarayanPersaud,PhD ProfessorEmeritus

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JAGDEO AND RENEGOTIATION

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Jagdeo doesn’t want to hear about renegotiation.

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What is that is so frightening about renegotiation to him?

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What could be exposed, given away about him?

His floating around renegotiation will not get him anywhere.

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He can run, he can dodge, but renegotiation of the contract isn’t going anywhere.

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This will be the decider; this will be the game-changer.

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Jagdeo had better change hat vile Exxon contract…

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Or be prepared to change his official title and his official address.

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“Moon duz run til day ketch am.”

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VP Jagdeo yet to be investigated for corruption allegations in hydro deal, oil sector

More than a year has passed since Vice President BharratJagdeowasaccusedby his friend, Su Zhi Rong in an exclusive Vice News documentary of accepting bribes in the oil sector and for the planned Amaila hydro project, but to date an independent investigation is yettobeconducted.

In the 24-minutes documentary, released by Vice News,aNewYorkbasedunder cover reporting agency that exposes corruption by political leaders,Jagdeowasrecordedinhis home having a conversation with twoChinese;onewashisfriendSu and the other, an undercover reporter, Chan, posing as an investor

In the recording, Jagdeo was heard saying, “You'll get the support.Suismyfriend;hegetsall the support...Su deals with all the agreements. I don't, I don't...the thing is that my thing is that I'm in government so I can, I assist from governmentside.That'sit.”

Su then interjected in Mandarin, urging Mr Chan not to talk about the bribe there but was assured by Su in the foreign language, “Don't worry, I will give him[Jagdeo]themoneywithyou.”

The discussions however took a more damning turn as the Chinese duo left the home of the Vice President. In the hidden camera that continued recording, Su was heard telling the reporter that the Vice President's hands are “veryclean”.HewentontotellMr Chan, “Other amounts of money we've handled before have been much bigger, like from the oil company Thehydroelectricpower plant needs tens of millions of dollars. He'll never admit that he's involvedinthis.”

In Su's conversation with the Vice reporter, he claimed to have brokered among other deals, the Amalia Falls Hydro project reportedly won through the paymentofamassivebribe.

Vice News reporter, Isobel Yeung had interviewed Jagdeo in February last year to question his involvement in corruption and bribe-taking as alleged by his friend. Jagdeo later updated the full interview with Vice News on February7,2022.

It wasn't until later that year thatVicereleaseditsdocumentary S e e l i n k b e l o w https://www youtube com/watch? v = s O O F S J q B Y T Y ( T h e conversation quoted above can be found14:00intothevideo.)

The reporters were also told by a timber exporter that “Everything in this country is under the table...thewhole countryislikethat.It'dbemore worrying if they weren't corrupt...basically as long as you

have a good relationship with the Vice President, you are set. You don't need the president, the Vice President.Onephonecallwilltake care of everything.” (This can be foundat6:00)

M e a n w h i l e , i n t h e conversation with Su, the Chinese businessman told the undercover reporters that the money he receives from the transaction will be split with his boss, whom they later confirmed was Jagdeo. Su said, “Yes, the boss is part of it. If wearedoingbusinesstogether,my boss is not going to receive the moneydirectly.”(8:00)

Following the release of the interview in February 2022,

though the allegations are untrue, the matter continues to be sensationalised.

PresidentIrfaanAlisaidduringthe sidelines of an event that the reporter from Vice News merely came with allegations and no solid proof against his VP He said, “It's an allegation” and when further pressed about his position on the matter, responded, “Of course (I would defend my government). Mygovernmentisaboveboardbut I am just saying this to say people are just doing this for sensational headlines”.

ThePresidentpositedthateven

InJuly,followingthereleaseof the Vice News documentary, the President said that the allegations should be probed. The Head of State told reporters, “Any allegations against a system has to be taken seriously…what is clear is that there are some people there who are saying that they are involved in such activity if you look at the video…that definitely requires an investigation. It's a nononsense! It's a no-nonsense and I am hoping that the relevant security and the relevant agencies are looking at this because it is clear that someone said that they areinvolvedsodefinitelytheywill belookingatthat.”

Despite his support for a probe to be conducted, an independent investigation into the damning allegations that has cast a grim light on the future of Guyana's resources is yet to commence. In fact, business as usual has continued with the VP still functioninginhiscapacity Jagdeo, who was never sent on leave, pending an investigation,

had filed a lawsuit against his Chinese friend for the statements he made while interacting with the reporters.

In the meantime, the Publisher of this newspaper, Mr Glenn Lall has called for the President to immediately probe the allegations leveled against the former Head of State.

Lall explained, “These are seriousallegationsagainsthimand it should be investigated thoroughly by an independent

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo

Resources, Raphael Trotman who signed the lopsided oil contract with Exxon has said that the deal can be renegotiated, Jagdeo instead of embracing the development has chosen to mock thecitizen.

To this end, Lall has said, “Our resources are not safe under the management of this man. I hope the people of this country take note. I have seen what happened throughout Africa and Asia where hundreds of millions of people can

commission. It's frightening that these allegations were made in the Vice News documentary in which the men are heard saying that they dealwiththebriberymoneyforoil companies along with the hydro project that Jagdeo is still pursuing What else is not happening behind closed doors with the gas to energy project and moresotheoilsector?”

The newspaper Publisher went on to point out that while the former Minister of Natural

barely scrape a single meal when the day comes in some of the richest countries in both continents.” “The President of Guyana should and must order an independent investigation into these revelations and do so quickly Time is not on the Guyanese people side; our resources can be depleted in a jiffy with today's technology Everything can be gone before he wakes up,” the businessman added.

Jagdeo meets with his friend Su, and the undercover Vice News reporter at his home

THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY

T h e C a r i b b e a n Community (CARICOM) will be celebrating 50 years thisweek.Ithasgrownfrom a grouping of a few states into a regional integration movementencompassing15 member states; and has had both its failures and successes.

CARICOM has had a start-stop history.There was time when the regional integrationmovementwasat adeadstop.

CARICOM has also beenadividedhouse.Itwas certain CARICOM Head, namelyEugeniaCharlesand Tom Adams who supported and even invited the US invasionofGrenadain1983. And Eugenia Charles was even plotting to have Burnham expelled from CARICOM for rigging elections.

However, there have been some noteworthy achievements by the Caribbean Community The most noteworthy has been the single market –concerned with the movementofgoods.Despite having the most uncommon common external tariff, the singlemarketremainsoneof the most defining a c h i e v e m e n t s o f CARICOM.

Regrettably, when it comes to the single economy,therehasbeentoo little progress Free movement of goods under the single market exists but only limited progress is being made in respect to the free movement of capital. Persons still complain about

administrative hassles in rights of establishment in some Caribbean countries. While in recent times, there has been additional categories of workers allowed free movement withintheCommunity,there needs to be much more in regards the liberalization of thefreemovementoflabour

The CSME has been a victim of slothfulness and appears to lack a workable model But the greatest bugbearhasbeenthediverse national interests of the 15 member states. Often when faced with crises, member states view regional integrationasaluxuryrather thananecessityandnational interests takes precedence overregionalintegration. But there are also practical considerations that have hindered regional integration. The region has diverse economic structure and countries at different stages of development. This presents a problem with harmonization, especially the task of having a single currency which can be used in all member states. Some countries also are not keen on liberalizing the free movement of persons for fearofthesocialcostswhich mayhavetobebornebytheir nationals.

CARICOM’s decisionmakingprocesseshavefaced criticism for being slow, bureaucratic, and lacking enforcement mechanisms The consensus-driven approach, while designed to accommodate diverse national interests, has at

Dem Boys Seh...

times impeded timely and decisive action. Despite the relaxation of the unanimity rule,leadersappeartobeillprepared for rapid and decisive decision-making at summits.Thesesummitsare often commonly described as“talk-shops”.

Decisions are made and then allowed to languish.

Irfaan Ali, Guyana’s President, is attempting desperately to revive the still-born Jagdeo Initiative. He is also attempting to dismantletradebarriers.But this is not an original idea from within the Caribbean. Two years ago, the IMF suggested that a 25% reduction in non-tariff barriers and trade costs withinCARICOMcanbring about significant economic gains, suggesting that many of the Caribbean’s initiative are not indigenous to the region.

The problems associated with decision making are w o r s e n e d b y t h e implementation gap This gap has hindered the full realization of the intended benefitsofintegration.There has been a significant gap between the formulation of policies at the regional level and their effective implementation at the national level Member states often face challenges in aligning their domestic l e g i s l a t i o n a n d administrative frameworks with the CSME provisions, resulting in delays and inconsistencies in implementation This implementation gap has

We want Tuesday as a holiday too!

If some people had dem way, de 4th of July, American Independence Day, would have been a holiday in Guyana. Dem would dump CARICOM Day which is celebrated on de first Monday in July, in favour of celebrating de 4th Julyasaholiday

C A R I C O M w a s established on de 4th July 1973 But we can’t celebrate CARICOM Day on de 4th July Dat would not be right. After all, de founders of CARICOM wouldnothavewanteddem havingtheirdayondesame day as dem Americans IndependenceDay America nah gat no respect fuh people Independence. Dat is why Burnham choose de first

Monday in July rather than de 4th July So, we need another holiday on de 4th July

Guyanese become so Americanized dat yuh does want to wonder whether Guyana is more American thanCaribbean.

After all, we watching American television pon cable We listening to American music just as much as Caribbean music. And we following wah going on inAmerica just as muchaswelocalnews. We using de US dollar fuhtradingpurposes. We gat nuff American franchise stores in Guyana and more to come We importing more from AmericathandeCaribbean. De supermarket full of

been a major obstacle to realizingthefullpotentialof theCSME.

Regional integration theorypositsthatintegration should be able to close gaps in economic disparities among member states. By promoting economic cooperation, integration is supposed to increase trade, investment, and resource allocation efficiency among member states. And along withthese,theeliminationof t r a d e b a r r i e r s , harmonization of policies, and development of common institutions, can help reduce economic disparities

Within CARICOM this has not happened and the disparities have widened Disparities in GDP per capita, unemployment rates, and access to essential services persist, hampering

inclusive growth and social development.

Factors contributing to this state of affairs are structural weaknesses, l i m i t e d e c o n o m i c diversification within the regionandofcoursethefact that external shocks have historically wreaked havoc inregionaleconomies.

But there is a more fundamental flaw within CARICOM. CARICOM is patternedaftertheEuropean Union (EU) integration model. CARICOM is a copycat model. The EU’s free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor and the harmonization of regulations, within the EU, has served as a blueprint for CARICOM’sdevelopment.

The EU’s model of regionalintegrationhasbeen the most successful integration model.What has

made it so successful is the presence of supranational institutions. However, the leaders of CARICOM have failed to have such supranational institutions They fear the erosion of nationalsovereignty.

Unless this is reversed, there is only one place that the regional integration movement will go: downwards.

Happy 50th Birthday to CARICOM!

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

Americanfoods.

We c e l e b r a t i n g Halloween and deh gat nuff people can turn on dem television fuh watch de fireworks on 4th July Nah be surprise if we start trickingandtreatingdoorto door and holding ThanksgivingDinner

We might soon have we own Disney Land in Guyana.

Some people done start flying de Stars and Stripes pon dem cars. And people wanttogotoAmericamore thandesunnyCaribbean.

So give we Monday as holiday fuh CARICOM Day AndaddinTuesdayas de 4th of July fuh celebrate de Americanization of Guyana.

TalkHalf!LeffHalf!

H@RD TRUTHS

BY GHK LALL

US INDEPENDENCE – BEHIND THE SWEET SMILES

Sparkling pictures of the American Independence Spectacular held at the Marriott on Thursday, June 29th are making the rounds. The cameras and lighting were very favourable to all the dignitaries, with the regal host, Her Excellency, Sarah Ann Lynch gleaming with smiles and sweetness. Part of that is the clock signaling the hour nearing when she would finally be abletowipethedustofffrom herfeetofthisrambunctious society of rich, notorious, and troubled people I should do the same.As said frequently, Ambassador Lynch personified excellence, with a capital E for American commercial and other interests during her tour of Guyana. All human mountains were degraded Given the dynamics of physics, the wins she chalked up for America meant that something had to be subtracted (someone loses) tobalancethings. Theshort,

sharp, dirty stick was and is Guyana’s, to paraphrase PresidentAli. What had all theingredientsforawin-win relationship between American interests and for fairness and justice to Guyana turned out to be a win-lose proposition Guyana is left with a barrel thatmakesaworldofnoise, which indicates its emptiness, shortness, and frailness. US Independence celebration pictures flashed with smiling people; no frowns in sight, but one. I laud Ambassador Lynch’s keen diplomatic skills, the jaggededgessmoothedover sosuccessfullylocally Yet, IrecallthatGuyanesesaying –‘aal skin teeth nah laff.’ It fitstoateewhentheGuyana situation is considered from Guyanese eyes. For sure, Americaispleasedwithhow the PPP Government has delivereditssideofthe2020 electionsbargain:nochange to the contract, nothing that impedes Exxon’s constantly ringing cash registers President Ali has delivered

byhidingandevading. Vice President Jagdeo has become an expert at vacillating, tying himself

into knots, immense distortions Opposition

Leader Norton has sometimes smoothly, sometimes crudely, manifested elements of the top dogs in the Guyana Government No insult intendedformenorbeasts.

America is happy with all three pivotal Guyanese political leaders, which the sweet smiles confirm. But the smiles only go so deep. D e s p i t e E x x o n ’ s incomparable prosperity from Guyana, Ambassador Lynchisawareofthesubsea storms Guyanese are unhappy with their government and their national leaders. Guyanese are unhappy with Exxon’s rich take, Guyanese are mightily displeased with whattheirgovernment,their leaders, their parliament, even their court, has been mangledinto,andhowtheir patrimony and existence

have become a matter of exploitative, haughty scorn. Guyanese are angrily aware that corruptions are worse than ever because of more money, more opportunity

The sweet smiles stretch thin The pretenses of PresidentandVicePresident (Opposition, too) leave a bitter taste. People think of change. Changecouldmean uncertainty,ifnotinstability Kentucky Fried Chicken (I use the unhealthy original) and Pizza Hut and Admiral Routledge’s glad handing and trumpeting (lovely speeches) only go so far Now Secretary Blinken comes with his mandate: public handshakes, private diplomatic shakedowns, a little leadership shaking up. StandbyExxon. Easeupon dirty tricks. Stop tricking the people, leaving many out Remember: angry peopleareunstablepeople.

Meanwhile, Her Excellency Lynch was all smiles under the stars and bars. But she is smart enough to know that her crowd of special invitees represent only the haves in Guyana. It is the 750,000 plusoutsideofthatcharmed inner circle, that upper native crust, that matters,

and of whom the great majority are the have nots: there are those citizens provocatively excluded inthisseasonofmore,and watch their own coerced or cajoled into comprising situations, as forced by political circumstances and leadership machinations

Those are the Guyanese most distant from the Marriott bash. They have been subjected to the most c o n t e m p t u o u s considerations, reduced to the lowest denominator AmbassadorLynchspoketo this concern at last year’s American Independence Day shindig. “Inclusion” was her word of choice. Matters have deteriorated since then; passions grow more inflamed by the day Yes, there are those who have sold and been bought, but those are pyrrhic advances. Indeed, the few havehelpedthemselves,asa matter of self-interest and survival, while the harms and hatreds intensify Hate is a frightening word, not used casually Guyanese hate what they have been reduced to, some in parliament are ashamed of themselves;countlessothers

s e e things as they are. They are agitated that thingshavenotbeenasthey shouldorcouldhavebeen.

At the Marriott gala, the smiles were there, and so were the leadership guiles. Both are cellophane thin, and transparently so. This too is obvious: Guyanese smilethroughtheirpain,and amidst the grimaces, they aremostunhappy Itiswhat makes America most uneasy. This is what Excellency Lynch leaves behind as the real legacy of her diplomatic leadership and amid a super giant’s prospering oil lifts Incidentally, thanks for the invitation, Excellency I hope that there is mature American understanding that some kinds of consorting just cannot be. Bonvoyage!

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of this n e w s p a p e r a n d i t s affiliates.)

HARDTRUTHS BYGHKLALL

IDB Launches 'Amazonia Forever,' an Umbrella Program to Boost Coordination forAmazon Region

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on SaturdaylaunchedAmazonia Forever, a holistic umbrella program that aims to scale up financing, share strategic knowledge for decisionmakers,andenhanceregional coordinationtoacceleratethe sustainable, inclusive and

resilient development of the Amazonregion. The announcement was made after a meeting between the IDB's governors for Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and Suriname The governors, who are ministers of finance, economy,

planning or other top officials, signed a joint statement in support of the new program They previously discussed the creation of the program during the IDB's Annual MeetinginPanama.

Amazonia Forever will address the following

priority areas: local people; sustainable agriculture and forestry; the bioeconomy; infrastructure; sustainable cities; and connectivity It will focus on promoting the inclusion of women, Indigenous peoples, Afrodescendants and local communities; climate and

forest conservation; and strengthening institutional capacitiesandtheruleoflaw

“We must look carefully at all aspects of the Amazon region, with people and nature at the center of our approach. There are multiple initiatives in support of the Amazon. And the IDB is the ideal conduit for donors and partners to coordinate efforts for the region. Increasing our collaborationandambitionis critical to maximizing impact,” said IDB President IlanGoldfajn.

“We are honored to have the support of our governors, and we are ready to broaden our current work. Amazonia Forever is an umbrella program that welcomes all

and alliances that can benefit from the IDB's financial instruments, knowledge and regionalmandate.

The IDB governors also established a Network of Ministers of Financing and Planning and a technical group, supported by the IDB, that will oversee Amazonia Forever's progress and results on economic and financial matters, including scaling up financing, joint taxonomies and innovative financing instruments. These efforts aim to contribute to the Amazon countries' resolutions at the Amazon Summit, to be held in Brazil inAugust.

partners committed to the sustainable development of the Amazon region,” he added.

The program will have a three-prongapproach:

1 Platform to map financialresources

2 Project preparation facility

3.ANetworkofMinisters ofFinanceandPlanning

The Platform to map all existing financial resources dedicated to the Amazon from Amazon countries and other donors. It will be a tool which will facilitate new financing and help guide policy and investment decisions.

Amazonia Forever also seeks to create a Projectpreparation Facility to develop investment plans for Amazon territories and significantly scale up the IDB's $1 billion project pipeline already identified fortheregionin2023.

It also aims to enable and support initiatives led by other institutions, networks

The Amazon region is critical to ecosystems worldwide,providing40%of Latin America's fresh water and regulating nutrient and hydrological cycles for the South American continent. Given the growing scientific consensus that the Amazon Basin is reaching an ecological “tipping point,” there is an urgent need to act boldly by implementing a newdevelopmentmodel.

The IDB in a statement said that it has been working in the Amazon region since itscreationin1959,investing in sustainable development and sustainable agriculture, e d u c a t i o n , u r b a n development, social inclusion, and fiscal management, among other areas. Currently, the Bank maintains a multisectoral technical team in each Amazon country and has an Amazon Coordination Unit within its Climate Change a n d S u s t a i n a b l e Development Sector, which i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r coordinating Amazonia Forever

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCY!

In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecency in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.

Week-in-Review from the campaign podium, but (June 25th - July 1st) when in government, realities have to be confronted. Stepping out and Sunday, June 25, 2023 stepping forward is not as straightforward as many believe, 7 years after signing Exxon and it will be interesting to see how contract, Raphael Trotman it navigates through this intricate finally breaks silence, says maze of jealously guarded Exxon deal can be renegotiated interests.”

”The demand for renegotiation of Trotman,afoundingmemberof the Exxon “contract” continues theAFC announced his resignation unabated, and my own view is that from NationalAssembly inAugust no contract is inviolable, and last year The former Member of therefore, it can be Parliament (MP) stated in his book renegotiated…Undoubtedly, if that he had expected an Guyana, as a sovereign state “independent and credible wishes to renegotiate the contract investigation or inquiry” would to get “better” terms, then I would have been commissioned even support such an initiative.”- before 2020 when the next Raphael Trotman Regional and General Elections were due. He even cited that in his Former Minister of Natural last encounter with the Publisher of Resources, Raphael Trotman, who Kaieteur News, Mr Glenn Lall signedthe2016ProductionSharing back in 2020, he did signal his A g r e e m e n t ( P S A ) w i t h readiness to speak to an ExxonMobil and its partners, in a independent Commission of new book, has not only cited his Inquiryonthecontract. support for a renegotiation of the Trotman said, “It seemed then lopsided oil deal but has also urged that he embraced the idea and companies or the interest rates that the agreement can be would advocate for it. But, alas, I attached to the financing of the renegotiated. saw no clamouring for an inquiry projects.

Trotman in his book titled into the signing of the 2016 Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo ‘From Destiny to Prosperity’ Production Sharing Agreement was asked on Thursday during his chronicles the events leading up to with Exxon, Hess and CNOOC. I most recent press conference, the contract signing. He explained, suppose it’s more advantageous for hosted at the Office of the “I have decided to write because I some to keep the conspiracy President, to expound on the rates havebeenencouragedtodoso-lest theoriesaliveandkicking.” being paid to the oil companies the history of what transpired As such, the former Natural when he deferred the question and indelibly becomes someone else’s Resources Minister said that he providedanunrelatedresponse. version of the truth ‘. I write attemptstoprovideaninsightofthe

Earlier in his press conference, because I owe it to my children, inner workings of government, and the VP said Guyana was paying a relatives, and close friends who in particular his portfolio of rate to Exxon as this is a standard stood by my side against relentless responsibilities. Trotman’s book practiceforareturntobegenerated torrents of criticism, vitriol, features 10 chapters, each of which onacompany’sequity “Regardless untruths, half-truths and downright represents an individual episode in of whether you make the financing nastiness…These writings do not time and circumstance, which in the form of a loan or equity you set out to apologize, but to explain, whenbroughttogetherwillprovide have to get a rate return. There is a andtodosowithhumility.” context of the signing according to costofcapitalandthatishowitis,”

On the Preface of his 201-page him. Jagdeoasserted. book,publishedonJune2,2023the Trotman is known across This newspaper in a follow up former Minister said it is his view Guyana and wider afield as the question to the former Head of that no contract is unchallengeable citizen who signed away Guyana’s State’s remarks queried whether and he would support changes to vast riches by binding the country there was a standard rate Guyana is the deal that seeks more for the to the abusive provisions of the paying. The subject of a standard country PSA with ExxonMobil, Hess rate is particularly significant,

He said, “The demand for Corporation and CNOOC The giventhatGuyanahasalreadybeen companiesfromthepassageofnew Agreement by applying to this renegotiation of the Exxon contract was signed by the then warned by the International legislation that can affect their Agreement or the operations “contract” continues unabated, and Minister with responsibility for Monetary Fund (IMF) that the revenues. Transparency advocate, conducted thereunder any increase my own view is that no contract is Natural Resources on October 27, countrycouldlosemassiverevenue Dr Yog Mahadeo had equated this of or any new petroleum related inviolable, and therefore, it can be 2016. byfailingtocaptheinterestrateson as a mockery of the country’s fiscal obligation, including but not renegotiated. In that agreement, Guyana theinvestmentsforitsoilprojects. Constitution. limited to, any new taxes

However, I can’t support a accepted a two percent royalty on The IMF said it is an industry Article 32, which lists out whatsoever, any new royalty, renegotiation based on some its sweet light crude and agreed for norm that the government of the conditions for ‘Stability of the duties, fees, charges, value-added ‘fraud’, which never occurred theoilcompaniestotake75percent day disallows interests from being Agreement’ states at 32.1 that tax(VAT)orotherimposts.”

Undoubtedly, if Guyana, as a oftherevenuetowardstherecovery recovered on loans. Even if this is “Except as may be expressly Despite calls from various sovereign state wishes to of costs for their investment. The allowed, the administration sets a provided herein, the Government sections of society and renegotiate the contract to get remaining25percentisthenshared cap or limit to prevent the full shall not amend, modify, rescind, international experts, the “better”terms,thenIwouldsupport equally between the parties interest amount from being terminate, declare invalid or government is adamant that the suchaninitiative.” guaranteeing Guyana a 12 5 recovered. The IMF pointed out u n e n f o r c e a b l e , r e q u i r e Exxon contract cannot and will be

Trotman, an Attorney-at-Law percent share When Trotman that Guyana not only allows the renegotiation of, compel amended. added that the newly elected signed the PSA, he also agreed to recoveryoftheinterestbutalsosets replacement or substitution, or administration is undoubtedly waive all taxes for the oil nocap. otherwise seek to avoid, alter, or Jagdeo refuses to answer rate of faced with many of the same geo- companies, forfeiting billions of

In his response to the specific limit this Agreement without the return on Exxon investment political and geo-strategic realities US-dollars in revenue for the question however, the former prior written consent of and imperatives that the former A country.

BillionsofUScurrencyisbeing Partnership for National Unity + Besides the fiscal terms, the are not paying anything. The Theagreementgoesontosayat deducted annually from Guyana’s

President told this newspaper, “We Contractor.”

countryhasalsoagreedtoanumber Government of Guyana is not 32.2 that “after the signing of this oil resource to pay back the (

n of other provisions extending an paying anything because they have Agreement and in conformance ExxonMobil-led consortium for its go

r

ent encountered. upper hand to the oil companies in to raise the financing using the best with Article 15, the Government investments in the Stabroek Block, According to him, “It was easy to theadministrationofthesector.For efforts;thecheapestcostof shall not increase the economic yet Guyanese are not privy to the makeboldstatementsandpromises instance, the PSA shields the oil (Continued on page 15) burdens of Contractor under this expenses being racked up by these

From page 14

provisions include: the Guyana had an experience investments for its oil financing that is what they establishment of an account with Blackstone, the projects. are supposed to do as a for the deposit of bonus bids company that was interested The IMF said it is an company, so this is what can until the Minister announces in constructing the Amaila industry norm that the be analyzed even when you their decision on accepting Hydropowerprojectwhereit government of the day lookatthecostbank.” or rejecting the bids; and the wanted a 20 percent rate of disallows interests from

Before further questions specification of award return on equity Jagdeo said being recovered on loans. could be asked, Jagdeo criteria The latter can at the time Guyana could Even if this is allowed, the requested that the press include the signature bonus, have borrowed at an interest administration sets a cap or conference “move on”. The e x p l o r a t i o n w o r k rate between eight or nine limit to prevent the full response from the country’s commitment,aswellasother percent “so it was in our interest amount from being chief spokesperson on the commercial, climate, or interest that we co-invest in recovered. The IMF pointed petroleum sector casts a s o c i a l i n v e s t m e n t the equity”. According to out that Guyana not only gloomy picture on what the considerations that the him, this is how the country allows the recovery of the truecostofcapitalis,andthe Ministerdeemsappropriate. ended up utilizing the funds interestbutalsosetsnocap. total revenue Guyana could While these provisions from the Inter-American Before further questions belosingannuallyoninterest allow for some notifications, Development Bank (IDB), could be asked, Jagdeo payments. in the interest of investors, s i n c e e q u i t y w a s requested that the press

The 2016 Production the absence of transparency remuneratedatahigherrate. conference “move on”. The Sharing Agreement (PSA) provisionswithrespecttothe JagdeothentoldKaieteur response from the country’s inked with ExxonMobil and award of blocks and changes News that the question of chief spokesperson on the its partners Hess and in ownership can leave the Exxon’sreturnrateshouldbe petroleum sector casts a CNOOC allows for 75 in the Stabroek Block could changed In the past, door open for shady put to the company and he gloomy picture on what the percent of the Stabroek mean Guyana is paying companies have sold shares transactions. willthenprovidearesponse. truecostofcapitalis,andthe Block revenues to be US$5 billion annually in in oil blocks without the The draft Bill is now The former President total revenue Guyana could recovered by the companies interestalone.Tothisend,he public being notified by the available for public was however asked to belosingannuallyoninterest for their investments pointed out that Guyana has government. consultation and is available explain if Guyana was payments. Guyana then shares the beenbarelyearningjustover I t i s o n l y w h e n at the following websites: paying a standard rate of The 2016 Production remaining 25 percent profit US$1 billion in profit and c o m p a n i e s m a k e www nre gov gy and return on the equity Sharing Agreement (PSA) with the partners, meaning royaltyayear announcements through www.petroleum.gov.gy. All contribution from the inked with ExxonMobil and the country collects 12.5 Only on Tuesday this press statements and comments should be sent via companies when he pointed its partners Hess and percentoftherevenue.Italso newspaper reported that the investor reports that the e m a i l t o out, “We are not paying CNOOC allows for 75 receives a meager two 26,800 square kilometer (6.6 media finds out and reports jmckenzie@nre gov gy anything. The Government percent of the Stabroek percent royalty on its sweet million acres) Stabroek tothepublic. during the period and by of Guyana is not paying Block revenues to be lightcrude. block,rakedingrossrevenue Now that the Bill close of business on anything because they have recovered by the companies ExxonMobil Guyana’s, of US$9.8 billion in 2022. proposestoofferlicensingin Monday,3rdJuly2023. to raise the financing using for their investments Vice President and Business Currently, Esso Exploration new different regards, this the best efforts; the cheapest Guyana then shares the Service Manager, Phillip and Production Guyana state of affairs will now also

‘ExxonMobil must cost of financing that is what remaining 25 percent profit Rietema during a recent L i m i t e d ( E E P G L ) apply to the issuance of benefit on returns from they are supposed to do as a with the partners, meaning engagement with the press commonly referred to as licences for carbon storage financing Stabroek company so this is what can the country collects 12.5 e x p l a i n e d t h a t t h e ExxonMobil Guyana is andpipelinelicenses. Block projects’- Jagdeo be analyzed even when you percentoftherevenue.Italso company’s investments are producing oil from two The provisions of the ...as company walks away lookatthecostbank.” receives a meager two not supported by loans projects there, the Liza One new Bill which speak to with US$7.4B of US$9.8B The subject of a standard percent royalty on its sweet Instead, Rietema pointed and Two. From its gross disclosures in The Official in 2022 for costs alone rate is particularly lightcrude. out, “To date, all of our revenue, ExxonMobil Gazette only refer to

significant, given that This newspaper reported capital has been sourced deducted a whopping notifications made by the Vice President Bharrat Guyana has already been that the 26,800 square through equity contributions US$7.4 billion towards the Ministerin thelead-upto the Jagdeo on Thursday told warned by the International kilometer (6.6 million acres) to ExxonMobil Guyana. We recovery of its investment awards.The Minister has the reporters that oil giant Monetary Fund (IMF) that Stabroek block, raked in have no loans as you can see for the petroleum related a u t h o r i t y t o i n v i t e ExxonMobil must benefit on the country could lose gross revenue of US$9.8 onthebalancesheets.” activities Meanwhile, applications for exploration returns from its investments massiverevenuebyfailingto billionin2022.Currently,

Businessman and Guyana benefitted from a licenses through a notice intheStabroekBlock. cap the interest rates on the (Continued on page 16) Publisher of Kaieteur News, meager total of US$1 4 publishedintheGazette.The He was at the time Mr Glenn Lall during his billion from the activities in notice specifies the block or responding to a question radio programme aired on theStabroekBlocklastyear b l o c k s f o r w h i c h from this newspaper on the 99.1/99.5 FM said Exxon applications are invited. The interest rate Guyana is was attempting to shut up Monday, June 26, 2023 Minister can also specify the paying the Stabroek Block questions being asked on the period within which partnerswhenhepointedout interest rates Guyana is New Petroleum Bill applications must be made. that this is a standard paying on the loans taken to includes no requirement Additionally, the Minister practice The VP was develop the Stabroek Block to notify public of oil can specify the conditions however reluctant to reveal when he told reporters that block giveaways that need to be fulfilled for the rates attached to the the investments are being submittinganapplication. investmentsbeingmade. fundedthroughequity The new Petroleum The Minister also has the He reasoned, “The thing “The man said last week Activities Bill includes power to require applicants is that financing, so a project how the money invested in several new provisions to for a license to fulfill certain could be financed from Guyana didn’t come from ensure effective regulation. obligations. Applicants may equity or loans, so if you loans, it come in the form of Be that as it may, there is a berequiredtopublishdetails make a loan to the local what he called equity, c l e a r a b s e n c e o f of their application in a company then you have to meaning uncle, is them own requirements to tell the manner specified in the get a return in the form of an company money them invest ownersofoffshoreoilblocks notice. Applicants may also interest payment at a out there...that is what they - the Guyanese people - berequiredtoprovidedetails particular rate. If you make are trying to put in Guyana’s when these concessions are of their application to an equity injection, you get a head, so the interest rate beinggivenaway specific persons and in a return on your equity so that question I keep on talking It therefore means that manner specified in the is it. Regardless of whether about gon disappear,” Lall blocks can be issued or notice. you make the financing in told listeners of his June 19, experienceachangeofhands T h e M i n i s t e r i s the form of a loan or equity, 2023programme. without the public knowing authorised to prescribe you have to get a rate return.

The businessman was thatthisoccurred.Thepublic regulations or issue notices There is a cost of capital and also keen to note that at a 10 also has no sure way of in the Gazette to determine thatishowitis.” percent interest rate on the k n o w i n g w h e n t h e certain aspects related to the The former Head-ofUS$50 billion investments operatorship of a block has awarding of licenses. These State went on to explain that

From page 15

General—conveyed to me that the conference that the judiciary is Esso Exploration and Production State’s case in favor of its treading in murky waters by Guyana Limited (EEPGL) application was strong, and based directing a regulatory agency on commonly referred to as on the merits of the case, there was how to do its job and setting a

ExxonMobil Guyana is producing no reason why a stay could not be timeframe on when it should oilfromtwoprojectsthere,theLiza granted.” completeorders. OneandTwo.

To this end, the body said the In the judgment handed down

From its gross revenue, government will now have to on May 3, 2023, the High Court ExxonMobil deducted a whopping explain why the Hess boss told the Judge ruled that EEPGL is in US$7 4 billion towards the U.S Energy Conference that the breach of its permit which, in the recovery of its investment for the President assured him a stay of the court’s view, unreservedly calls for petroleum related activities full liability protection ruling by unlimited insurance protection in

Meanwhile, Guyana benefitted Justice Sandil Kissoon would be the event of an oil spill. The Judge from a meager total of US$1.4 issued. also issued an Order of Mandamus billion from the activities in the

The civil society body said, directing the EPA to have EEPGL StabroekBlocklastyear “OWOC is concerned that the rule produceonorbeforeJune10,2023, of law is under threat if business the unlimited liability Parent

Tuesday, June 27, 2023 groups can go to the President Company Guarantee Agreement directly seeking solace and and/or unlimited liability Affiliate

Director of Financial Analysis at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), Tom Sanzillo President

New roads, gas plant interventions if they do not like Company Guarantee from an to benefit ExxonMobil courtdecisions.” insurance company with standing rather than Guyanese

In calling on none other than and repute that equates to Grade A improve the living conditions in servants, it has for the past two ...as Guyana’s oil revenue being President Ali to clear the air on the Plus. Failure to comply will see the poorer communities which is consecutive years increased used to keep existing Govt. in matter, the group added, “This is permitbeingsuspended. desperately needed in Guyana salaries by only seven and eight office - Int’l financial expert quite disturbing, as ordinary Kaieteur News previously

“Local leaders choose how that percent,respectively Guyanese do not have the privilege reportedthatExxonanditspartners money gets spent every year and Meanwhile, in the absence of a Director of Financial Analysis ofseekingpresidentialassistanceif havesincelodgedaUS$2Baffiliate theyhavebeenspendingitsofaron feasibility study for the multi- at the Institute for Energy theydonotlikecourtdecisions.” guaranteewiththeEPAasthiswasa capital expenditures and that is not billion US-dollar Gas-to-Energy Economics and Financial Analysis During the J.P Morgan 2023 condition of the stay of execution going to support the kind of project, the President Ali led (IEEFA), Tom Sanzillo does not Energy, Power & Renewables being granted. This complements economic development in poorer administration is confident that the believe that the revenue stream Conference, Hess Corporation was the US$600M per occurrence communities that you want,” the venture will generate cheaper from Guyana’s oil and gas sector is asked to provide an update on the insurancepolicyfortheblock. The financialexpertdetailed. electricityforthecitizens. being prudently managed to ensure legal challenge mounted on its stay on the High Court’s ruling was Instead, he pointed out, “It may It has approached the United futuregenerationsbenefit. Environmental Permit for the Liza granted by the Appeal Court on work to Exxon’s benefit to put in StatesExportImport(EXIM)Bank

During a recent panel OneprojectinGuyana. June8,2023. new roads, it may be Exxon’s to fund its Natural Gas Liquid discussion focusing on the local Two Guyanese men, Frederick benefit to build a new gas plant but (NGL) facility and 300-megawatt energy sector, Sanzillo pointed out

Collins and Godfrey Whyte had Wednesday, June 28, 2023 they don’t need that kind of power plant pegged at US$759 that the government has not been takentheEnvironmentalProtection electricity system in Guyana and million. Oil major, ExxonMobil prioritising saving the funds Agency (EPA) to Court, for failing Trotman regrets heeding whoknowsiftheyactuallyneedthe will be financing the pipeline generated from the industry like to enforce the requirement of the Exxon’s advice to stay silent roads that are being built because aspectoftheprojectatanestimated Norway but has instead embarked Liza One Permit for an unlimited on lopsided contract there is no public process so what costofUS$1billion. on a massive infrastructural and parent company guarantee. The you have is a plan and the plan is to energy development scheme which citizens were successful in their use the money to keep the existing Pres.Ali must explain may very well benefit its partner, litigationandtheJudgeorderedthat political structure in power and conversation with ExxonMobil more than the citizens the guarantee be provided or the that’swhatisgoingtobedone.” oil company on stay of inthecountry Permitwouldbesuspended.

Thenationalbudgetwaspassed Justice Kissoon’s ruling

The financial expert said with a Hess in his full response to the in January this year to the tune of national budget of approximately Conferencewas:“Yeahnowfirstof US$781.9 billion.Ahuge chunk of The recent comments by John US$3.6 billion, Guyana used about all, this is something that the the funds were streamed to the Hess, Chief Executive Officer US$1 billion of its oil revenue to government disagreed with. We Ministry of Public Works to CEO) of Hess Corporation that support its development scheme. disagreed with, yeah, had a judge enhance the infrastructural Guyana’s Head of State was Henoted,“TheBudget’sdoubledin that got a complaint from an landscape across the country “emphatic that a stay would be put the last two years from just under environmental activist. I mean, it Senior Minister in the Office of the in place” following the High US$2 billion and what you have is happens in our country as well, and President with responsibility for Court’s Order for Esso Exploration large expenditures on capital…it’s said, you know, basically the joint Finance, Dr Ashni Singh in and Production Guyana Limited veryclearthereisnoplantoputthe venture had to have unlimited presenting this year’s Budget said, (EEPGL) to provide an unlimited money away in a sovereign wealth liability in terms of the

“To put it mildly, our transport guarantee from its parent company fund like Norway, there is only an developments, otherwise infrastructure is being expanded has sparked concern among annual budget process and that production had to cease and I can and upgraded at a pace that has Guyanese that the rule of law is annual budget process includes the tell you, the President was very never been seen before in the entire underthreat. oilrevenuesthatcomein.” emphaticthatastaywouldbeputin history of this country. The results Our Wealth Our Country

The Natural Resource Fund place that would have no impact on are visible changes to the physical (OWOC), an independent (NRF) Act passed in December production. The stay was put in landscape and, in particular, to our organization with hundreds of 2021 by the current administration place There is no impact on transportnetworks.” Guyanese members believes sets a framework for annual production.AndIthinkthisisjusta

KaieteurNewsunderstandsthat President Irfaan Ali must clear the Amid a downpour of criticism withdrawalsfromtheaccount. case of the judge not understanding the Ministry received the highest aironthematter from Guyanese and international

According to Sanzillo, the what the petroleum legislation was allocationthisyearwhencompared Following an article published organizations on the oppressive oil country’s leaders then decide how or the petroleum requirements of to the other government ministries. by Kaieteur News in Friday edition contract signed between the revenue is spent. This is the our production programs were, and It receiving a total of $149.5 billion titled ‘Hess Boss tells US government and the ExxonMobil- second year that government I think that matters been put to bed. tosupportitsdevelopmentplans. conferencePres.Ailassuredhimof led consortium in 2016, the tapped the fund to support its Therewasalotofnoiseaboutit,but

In the meantime, a meagre $5 stay in Justice Kissoon’s ruling Ministerwhoattachedhissignature budget. Importantly, the legislation itwasbasicallynoise.” billion was set aside by the before Court of Appeal handed tothedealwentsilent. lacks strict penalties for misuse of

The comments made by Hess administration to cushion the high down decision’ the CEO of Hess Almost seven years after the funds and sets no jailtime for has sparked concern especially cost of living triggered in part by Corporation issued a response. In signing the contract, former mismanagement of the resources. when Guyana’s Vice President

The NRF Law only stipulates jail

the global COVID-19 pandemic. his bid to clarify the issue, John Minister Raphael Trotman admits

Bharrat Jagdeo is also on record as Citizens have been complaining Hess explained, “I called the that he made a mistake by heeding time for the Minister of Finance if saying that rulings by the legal about the spiraling cost of food and Presidentaboutconcernsexpressed to the advice of Exxon to stay quiet he fails to report on any deposits fraternity should be predictable. transportation and other basic by investors about the recent court on the Production Sharing intotheoilaccount. Jagdeo was commenting on Justice items, but instead of significantly ruling,andthePresident—basedon Agreement(PSA).Henow Based on his analysis, Sanzillo Kissoon’sMay3,2023rulingwhen improving wages for public the advice of his Attorney (Continued on page 58) said the expenditure will not he told reporters at a press

Irfaan Ali

Former Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman

Motorcyclist killed in Leonora accident

A2 6 - y e a r - o l d

motorcyclist died on Friday in a vehicular accident along the LeonoraPublicRoad,WCD.

DeadisMuneshwarSinghof CorneliaIda,WCD.

According to reports, the accident occurred just around 18:02hrs and involved a motorcycleCL9563,ownedand driven by Amir Ruplal, a 19year-old of Anna Catherina,

WCD, and another motorcycle CM1052ownedbySingh.

It was reported to the police that Ruplal was heading east along the northern side of the road at a fast rate and overtook a red motorcar when he ended up losing control of his motorcycle, which flipped and collided with Singh's cycle which was travelling in the opposite direction.

As a result of the collision,

both drivers fell onto the roadway and received injuries abouttheirbodies.

Reports are Singh was pickedupbyresidentsinthearea in an unconscious state, while Ruplal was picked up in a consciousstate.

The two were rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where they received medical treatment. Kaieteur News

succumbed to his injuries while receivingtreatment.

T h e 1 9 - y e a r - o l d motorcyclist was treated and later sent away, after which he was arrested and placed into custody

A breathalyzer test was conductedonhimandnotraceof alcoholwasfoundinhissystem.

Singh's body is at Sandy's Funeral Home, awaiting a post mortemexamination.

Dead: Muneshwar Singh

Woman, 20, allegedly raped; police seeking suspect

Police in Region Seven are

currently in search of a man from Bartica, who is accused of raping a 20-year-old woman in the UpperCuyuniRiverareaonFriday

According to the Police, the victim reported to them that she is familiar with the suspect and that on June 30th, at about 18:00 hrs,

the suspect invited and took her to Sixth Avenue Beach at Bartica, where theyhungout.

She further reported that it started to rain which caused them to seek shelter inhismotorcar.

The woman reportedly told police that the suspect forcefully took off her clothes without her consent and had

unprotectedsexwithheragainstherwill foraboutfourminutes.

According to her, the suspect then droppedherhome,wheresherelatedthe ordeal to a friend who advised her to makeareporttothepolice.

The police said they are looking for the suspect to assist with the ongoing investigation.

APA demands investigation into conditions school girl was kept by authorities

The Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) on Saturday said that it is deeply concerned about the recent development in the investigation into the allegation of rape levelled a g a i n s t M i n i s t e r o f L o c a l G o v e r n m e n t a n d R e g i o n a l Development, Nigel Dharamlall, by an Indigenous child.

The APA believes that the alleged instruction of “no further action” to the police, by the child “is a c u l m i n a t i o n o f i m p r o p e r investigation and systemic e m o t i o n a l a b u s e b y t h e authorities.”

In light of Friday’s revelations, the APA is demanding that an investigation into the conditions under which the 16-year-old child was being kept and the police’s conduct of the investigation.

“We are utterly dismayed at this conclusion and await the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions,” the APA said in its statement to the media while calling on the

C h i l d c a r e a n d Protection Agency to answer the following:

- W h a t w e r e t h e s t a n d a rd o p e r a t i n g procedures employed in a d d r e s s i n g t h e allegations?

- How many Welfare Officers were assigned to the care of the child?

- Why was the child d e n i e d l e g a l re p re s e n t a t i o n by i n d e p e n d e n t attorneys?

- Did the Childcare a n d P r o t e c t i o n Agency contract any lawyer to provide legal assistance to the child and her family?

- Was the child isolated from her family and support system?

- Was mental health care afforded to the child during her stay in the custody of the Agency and if yes, how often?

- How did the Agency ensure that the child’s welfare and her rights were a d v o c a t e d f o r w h i l e b e i n g interrogated by the police?

To the Guyana Police Force,we ask the following:

- What were the SOPs employed in dealing with allegations against Minister Dharamlall – a senior Cabinet member?

- Was there any confrontation between the child and the accused?

- How often and for what period were the child and her younger sibling interrogated by the police?

The Association said that the child’s treatment raises serious questions about the authorities’ interest in delivering justice

“ O v e r t h e c o u r s e o f t h e investigation, we have noted reports of the denial of counsel to the child and the Police treating her more like a suspect rather than a victim of a serious crime The APA is also concerned about the role played by the Welfare Officers of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) in this whole investigation. It is clear, from the press reports, that the child’s interests were not adequately represented by those entrusted to protect her,”the APA said.

Additionally, the APA said that it is concerned for the child’s well-being and that of her family

“Allegations of this nature require an enormous amount of strength to be made and we are hopeful that the child is receiving the right mental health and trauma care. This will inevitably shape her future and we view the “instruction” as alleged by the Guyana Police Force to be nothing, but a culmination of the enormous pressures placed on this child and her family”

Further, the Association which represents the interests of Indigenous people called on Guyanese“to ensure that this matter is not swept under the carpet”.

“We call, especially, on our Indigenous brothers and sisters to

demand that the child is protected, and this matter be independently investigated. The protection of our children should be of paramount importance and value to all,” the APA stated.

Moreover, the APA called on the State to uphold its constitutional obligations to protect its citizens – our women and children.

“The government need only refer to ratified documents such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly Article 34 that speaks to the role of the government in protecting children from sexual abuse This must further be informed by General Recommendation No 39 on the rights of indigenous women and girls from the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The re c o m m e n d a t i o n p r o v i d e s guidance on the obligations of the State to appropriately respond to the sensitive contexts that make Indigenous women susceptible to violence and discrimination at all levels. The government has the tools needed to respond to this case in a manner that respects the interests of the child and upholds justice.”

The APA said it will continue to fight for the protection of basic human and other indigenous peoples’ rights and will engage with United Nations and other regional mechanisms to ensure that justice is served.

IfGovt.saysitwantstorenegotiatetermsofoildeal, Exxonandpartnerswillcometothetable-Trotman

Former Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has expressed his belief in a recently published book that theStabroekBlockProduction Sharing Agreement (PSA), signed in 2016, can be renegotiated if the Guyanese government shows a genuine desireforchange.

“Ipermanentlybelievethat if the government signaled an intention to renegotiate some terms, that Exxon, Hess and CNOOC would enter the renegotiations,” the former Ministerwrote.

Trotman who signed the original deal, and has come forward with this view seven years later said the current policymakers, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), have no desire to amend the deal. In his new book ‘Destiny to Prosperity’, Trotmansaidtheagreementis not immune to modifications. The attorney-at-law said that nothing is set in stone, including the agreement’s strong“StabilityClause.”

This clause is one of the reasons that have been proffered as a reason why the con

renegotiated The clause forbids any alteration to its terms, unless all parties, including Exxon and its partners,agree.

Further,ifGuyanawereto amend its tax code or change any law with the effect of infringing on Exxon’s economicbenefit,government would have to exempt the block from the legislative change or find a way to compensatethecompaniesfor theirlosses.

Despite this, Trotman expressed his certainty that if there is a genuine desire to alter the terms, it can be achieved through good faith negotiation and compromise. Reflecting on the initial concerns surrounding the agreement in 2015 and 2016, Trotmaninhisbookexplained that it was important to strengthen the country’s relationshipwithExxon,aUS conglomerate with global reach.

Atthattime,hearguedthat the primary focus was not solely on the financial gains for Guyana but also on establishing a framework that would allow the country to peacefully and comfortably

enjoythebenefitsofitsnatural resources.

While Trotman, a former Member of Parliament (MP) has communicated this opinion, the wider Opposition is yet to deliver a concrete positiononthequestionofthe renegotiation of the Stabroek BlockPSA.

Renegotiatingthetermsof theStabroekBlockProduction Sharing Agreement could provide an opportunity for Guyana to maximize its benefits, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of revenues, while also safeguarding environmental concerns and the sustainable developmentofthenation.

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeohasoftenboastedabout his government’s ability to secure greater benefits from the deal in negotiations with ExxonMobil, through Local Content and the Gas-toEnergy project. However, he has not shown fervour or desire to amend this deal. Despitecriticisingthecontract for being unfair, Jagdeo said that Trotman’s book will not be a bother to the government’s position on the contract.

Murders increase by 36.6% for first half of 2023

…anaverageof13personsmurderedmonthly;

The number of persons murdered in Guyana during the first half of 2023 has increased by 36.6 percent, the Guyana Police Force(GPF)reported.OnFriday,theGPFdisclosedthatatotalof 82murdersoccurredduringthefirsthalf2023.

…anaverageof13personsmurderedmonthly; domesticviolencekillingsdouble

domesticviolencekillingsdouble

That number represents an average of at least 13 persons being murdered every month. Last year, 60 murders occurred duringthefirsthalfoftheyear

Additionally, the GPF said that there has been a tremendous increaseinthedomesticviolencemurderswith33personslosing theirlivesthisyearasopposedto13lastyearrepresentinga153 percentincrease.

There has been a slight decline in the number of disorderly murdersthisyearwhichstandsat32whencomparedto38forthe same period last year Crime Chief Wendell Blanhun told Kaieteur News in a previous interview that disorderly killings takeplaceasaresultofdrunkenbrawlsorfights.

Meanwhile, of the 82 murders that took place, two were execution style killings, six occurred during robberies and nine areunknown(unsolved).

Murders increase by 36.6% for first half of 2023

Phototakenatarecentcrimescenewhereamanallegedlykilledhisgrandmother.

Waterfalls The Waterfalls

Frederick Rampersaud closing in on 3 decades of television & radio services to Guyana

Out of a bag of cement...

Major success recorded at first ever Linden Locsfest

Monique Gilks

Setra Oselmo

Meet this week's beauty, the charming Ms OnessaSweviaEvans. This 21-year-old belle is from Region One, Arakaka village, and is vyingfortheCrownandTitleofMiss Region One. She has completed her first degree in Biology at the University of Guyana, and is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a cardiologist. In the meantime, Ms. Evans, a pharmacist also manages her own small art business 'Palette Paradise'. She is passionate about art, music, and reading and spends her free time painting and spending quality time with her beloved dog. Her favourite quote is by Picasso who said:

"Anything

you can imagine is real."

As Delegate Number Four in the Miss Region One Pageant, this beauty said she has taken on the challenge to bring attention to an issue that has been plaguing not only her region, but also most hinterland regions- inadequate access and low attendance rates in secondary education. “Addressing this critical issue is paramount if we wish to witness economic development and foster personal and economic growth among the youth in

o u r r e g i o n a n d beyond,” Evans t o l d T h e Waterfalls

New Music from Olivia Rodrigo, Lil Uzi Vert, Shakira & Manuel Turizo and More

Check out the must-hear releases of the week

(Billboard) Billboard’s Music thatrefusestopickonesoniclane.Uzi the top 10 Karol G Guide serves as a handy guide to this revels in disparate production collaboration“TQG” Friday’smostessentialreleases—the techniques and daring stylistic and then her key music that everyone will be choices, which is how we get Nicki stripped-down talking about today, and that will be Minaj joining them over a Eiffel 65 s o l o t r a c k dominating playlists this weekend interpolation, a faithful re-creation of “Acróstico” andbeyond. System of a Down’s “Chop Suey!” alongside rising

This week, Olivia Rodrigo sinks called “CS,” and plenty of Rebirth- reggaeton star her teeth into a new era, Lil Uzi Vert esque hair metal hip-hop tracks like Manuel Turizo, rolls out the Tape, and Shakira links who provides the with Manuel Turizo for a summer superstar with an single. Check out all of this week’ assist on a track that picksbelow: moreseamlesslyinto

Olivia Rodrigo, “Vampire” ty playlists Turizo’s

Created with her main Sour deeper tone coincides nicely collaborator Daniel Nigro withShakira’svocalpower, Olivia Rodrigo’s hugely locating a smooth tension anticipated new single that plays into the song’s “Vampire” begins as a thumpingbeat. betrayal-strewn piano ballad Tainy, Data in the vein of “Drivers P u e r t o R i c a n License,” but then opens up producer Tainy has been an into a pop-rock epic full of in-demand collaborator for jittery percussion and years, working with Latin wounded, dramatic vocal runs music’s biggest artists as well as — something like My Chemical English-language stars like Dua Romance’s The Black Parade Lipa and Shawn Mendes, and his refracted through a generat debutalbumDatafunctionsasbotha raised on Taylor Swift and Lana high-concept artistic statement — Rey “Vampire” represents a go-for weaving in lyrics and visuals related the-gusto pop statement that advancing technology, human pushes Rodrigo’s songwriting connection and a cyborg named Sena “Suicide Doors”; at 26 songs, Pink forward as well as satisfies Sour fans. — and a series of heaters for the Tape is designed to be an Itsoundspurposelyhuge,andlikeit’s summermonths. overwhelming listen, with Uzi’s abouttobeinescapable. Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, fantastical world offering a sensory Lil Uzi Vert, Pink Tape Ozuna and Young Miko all stop by, overload.

Anew Lil UziVert album can feel butTainystrivestoturnthecollageof Shakira & Manuel like a blitz, with a sprawling number Data into a cohesive listen, and Turizo, “Copa Vacia” ofsongsandideascomingatyoufrom ultimatelysucceeds. With “Copa Vacía,” Shakira all angles; such was the case with Charli XCX. “Speed Drive” continues a prolific period 2020’s Eternal Atake and its hefty

Indie pop diehards will instantly beginning with her smash Bizarrap deluxe edition, as well as with Pink recognize the synth line that opens team-up“BZRPVol.53,”followedby Tape, their gargantuan new album

“Speed Drive,” Charli XCX’s contribution to the upcoming Barbie soundtrack: that’s the riff from Robyn’s “Cobrastyle,” revived more than a decade and a half after highlighting the Swedish pop star’s self-titled album. Charli takes that hook for a test spin on a short, snappy slice of propulsive pop music, with a chorusthatmovessorapidlyit’llgive you whiplash: “Hot, riding through the streets, on a different frequency,” she sings, bottling up the feeling of driving a little too fast with the top down.

Editor’s Pick: Sampha, “Spirit 2.0”

After earning a mountain of hype thanks to collaborations with artists likeDrake,SolangeandFrankOcean, Sampha delivered on his promise with his 2017 debut album Process, a breathtaking electro-R&B project focused on grief and self-evolution. Then, six years passed, with a few more guest spots but no new Sampha solomaterial.

“Spirit 2.0,” then, is a longawaited return but also a gorgeously pensive check-in: Sampha tiptoes around melodies and orchestrates a elliptical collection of strings, voices and frenetic beats, as if he’s ready to show more of himself after years away from the spotlight but doesn’t wanttorevealeverythingjustyet.

Lil Uzi Vert

Sampha

Olivia Rodrigo

Shakira & Manuel

Tainy

CARICOM AT 50: THERE IS STILL HOPE

By:Sir.RonaldSanders

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States. He is also a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies at the University of London and Massey College in the University of Toronto. The views expressed are entirely hisown.)

July 4, 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of C h a g u a r a m a s , t h e foundational document that brought the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) into existence.

With high hopes and loftyambitions,theheadsof government of the four largest independent Caribbean countries at the time embarked on a journey towardsregionalintegration. They were later joined, to varying degrees of commitment, by 10 other countries.

Reflection on the past five decades reveals that CARICOM has fallen short of its initial promises and failedtodeliverthedeepand meaningful integration that was envisioned, leading to the often-repeated phrase, “CARICOM and CARIGONE.”

While CARICOM experienced some initial success, establishing institutions like the Caribbean Development Bankandmakingprogressin trade, its history has been characterized by sporadic bursts of activity followed by prolonged periods of inaction. This inconsistent pattern has eroded confidence and faith in the CARICOM project among varioussectorsofCaribbean society

Nevertheless, the fact t h a t C A R I C O M ’s frameworkcontinuestoexist isatestamenttotheenduring belief in the benefits of regional integration No government dares to withdraw from it, fearing a popular backlash from withinitsownpopulation.

Despite the revision of the CARICOM Treaty in 2001, which aimed to establish a Single Market and Economy (CSME), progresstowardsthesegoals hasbeenpainfullyslow The establishment of a Customs Union, let alone a Common Market, remains unrealized.

Thelackofacomprehensive regional economic framework has hindered the potential for genuine free trade,cross-bordercompany

establishment, and the free movement of labour a vision that once excited the peopleofCARICOM.

By 2011, the CSME had effectivelystalled,withlittle progress made in advancing regionalintegration.

In 2022, CARICOM leaders acknowledged that trade barriers, particularly non-tariff barriers, were major obstacles to the development of a regional market for agricultural produce, as well as interregionaltransportation.

The inability to overcome even these challenges, especially air transportation, which sufferedasaconsequenceof closed borders during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the significant capacity that CARICOM states have yet to collectivelybuild.

Comparatively, the countries of the European Union (EU), which embarked on integration effortsaroundthesametime as CARICOM, have made significantstrides.

The EU expanded its membership, established a single currency, dismantled border barriers, and empowered a central Commission to make decisions collectively for all member countries In contrast, CARICOM has limped along, burdened by inadequate implementation ofdecisions,mistrustamong leaders,institutionaldecline, andaweakandunderfunded Secretariat.

Numerous reports and commissions have carefully examined CARICOM’s failures and offered recommendations for improvement.

The 1992 West Indian Commission’s seminal work,“TimeforAction,”led by Caribbean luminary, ShridathRamphal,calledfor the establishment of a Caribbean Commission similar to the European Commission Despite the acceptance of some recommendations, crucial proposals regarding governance structures, including the creation of a Caribbean Commission, werelargelyignored.

In 2016, the Jamaican governmentcommissioneda review of its relations with CARICOM, headed by Bruce Golding The commission recommended explicit provisions in the CARICOM Treaty to enforce member states’ obligations and ensure timely implementation of decisions.

Yet, once again, these

recommendations were largely disregarded, further highlighting the challenges ofimplementingmeaningful reformwithinCARICOM.

In 2021, a CARICOM Commission on the e c o n o m y r e v i v e d discussions on regional integration.

It suggested that interested member states should proceed with integration,leavingthedoor openforotherstojoinattheir own pace. However, this report, like its predecessors, hasnotspurredthenecessary action.

T h e d o m i n a n t characteristic of CARICOM has been the jealous retention of sovereignty by individual governments. In their international bargaining, CARICOM governments have achieved success only when they act together.

But there is no established machinery for joint relations with external powers and agencies. Thus, ad hoc collective activities have produced beneficial results, but these have been spectacular exceptions, not theconsistentrule.

This inclination to maintain decision-making power at the national level has hindered progress Bureaucrats, too, have perpetuated this culture of nationalism, often prioritizing their countries’ interests over collective r e g i o n a l w e l f a r e Consequently, CARICOM has struggled to implement regional decisions effectivelyandactinunison, hampering its ability to achieveitsobjectives.

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) serves as a notable example of this contradiction.

Established in 2001 to replace the British Privy Council as the region’s final court of appeal, the CCJ has struggled to gain the full support of member states despite the demonstrated high quality of its jurisprudence Some countries have been hesitant to embrace the CCJ due to concerns over losing sovereignty and fear of politicalinterference.

Asaresult,theregionhas beenunabletounifyundera single legal system, preventing the CCJ from fulfilling its potential as a symbol of Caribbean unity andindependence.

The consequences of limited integration have been signific

(IMF) indicates that deeper regional integration could bring substantial economic benefits. By reducing nontariffbarriersandtradecosts, CARICOM countries could stimulate trade, restructure their economies, and generate net employment gains.Integrationwouldalso allow member states to tap into global value chains, attract foreign investment, and enhance their economic potential.

Thefailuretoseizethese opportunities has come at a cost to the region’s developmentandprosperity

As CARICOM reaches its 50-year milestone, new challenges face each of its memberstatesthatnonecan manage effectively alone. Among them are the impact of climate change including more frequent and intense disasters;newpandemicsfor which they are ill-prepared; increasing transnational crime;gangviolenceandthe spread of deadly weapons;

and narrowing windows to much

n e e d e d

development funds. Allofthese

developments

require more integration, not less.

C A R I C O M

needs a renewed

commitment from member states to prioritize collective interests over narrownationalconcerns.

This shift in mindset should be accompanied by concreteactions,suchasthe removal of remaining trade barriers, harmonization of regulations, and the establishment of effective governancemechanismsthat can enforce regional decisions.

CARICOM must also invest in revamping its institutions, providing them withthenecessaryexpertise, authority, and resources to drive the integration agenda forward.

Enhanced regional c o o p e r a t i o n a n d coordination,withafocuson effective implementation and enforcement, will be vital to restoring confidence and generating tangible benefitsforthepeopleofthe Caribbean.

Hopefully, 50 years of lessons will not go unlearned.

The vision of a fully integrated Caribbean, where borders are irrelevant, and collective strength prevails, canstillberealized.

Responses and previous commentaries: www sirronaldsanders.com

Sir. Ronald Sanders

Are electric bikes the futur of green transportation?

U.S. sales of e-bikes nearly doubled in just one year as commut looked for accessible and affordable modes of transpor

If you’re considering one, here’s what you should kno

(National Geographic) pedalingpower,whileothers thousands of dollars, needs of older adults, people

Nearly everything we do have a throttle and don’t providingahugeobstaclefor with disabilities, and contribute to our carbon require pedaling. The max some would-be riders. Many veterans. footprint.Butatwo-wheeled speed an e-bike can reach is jurisdictions have started “The focus groups solution is zipping through 28 miles per hour, which is following the lead of cities revealed there was a lot of theworldat20milesanhour comparable to moped like Denver, which launched need for recreational options

Sales of electric bikes, or speeds. “[An e-bike] splits an e-bike rebate program in and [improved] quality of alargescaleisinfrastructure. e-bikes,areontherise. the difference between a car 2022, to reduce costs. The life,” says Mitch LaRosa, Most cities–especially low-

In 2021, more than commute and a regular proposedE-BIKEActwould SMI’s chief development income neighborhoods and 880,000 e-bikes were sold in bicycle commute,” says provide a nationwide $1,500 officer “Ultimately, [e- communities of color–don’t the U S , compared with Wake Gregg, founder of The taxcreditfore-bikes. biking] gives folks more have pedestrian-friendly 608,000 electric cars and eBike Store in Portland, Amore accessible bicycle? confidencetogetoutsideand planning That includes trucks That’s up from Oregon. E-bikes require less dothings.” E-bikes are a powerful unsafe streets for people not 450,000e-bikesalesin2020. E-bikes have either hub- physical exertion than After receiving more tool on the road to drivingcars.

Cities, counties, and states drive motors or mid-drive traditional bikes. The pedal than 3,000 donated e-bikes sustainability When it “We need infrastructure are implementing e-bike motors.Attached at the back assistcanencourageridersto from Uber Technologies in replaces trips made by a car, that makes people feel safer rebate programs to respond of the bike, hub motors are bike farther and more often 2020, SMI collaborated with an individual e-bike can and that is safer to be to growing demand. And as simple, durable, and than they would on a local community-based reduce CO2 emissions by traveling on any type of commuters look for more affordable but inefficient at traditional bike, leading to organizations to pilot free e- 225 kilograms each year bicycle,”Dillsays. sustainable and accessible higher speeds Mid-drive more exercise long-term, bike libraries in Buffalo’s That’s equivalent to the The national nonprofit ways to travel, many are motors, mounted in the according to research on East Side and Niagara Falls. emissions produced by one PeopleForBikes advocates asking if e-bikes are the centerofthebike,canhandle riderbehavior. Thesuccessfullibrarieshave passenger flying economy for safer speeds, protected solution. a wider range of torque and This feature also makes since inspired similar from Philadelphia to bike lanes, traffic reduction,

“People just find that [e- speed but are expensive and e-bikes a versatile option for programs in cities like Los Chicago. and more inclusive road bikesare]fun,”saysJennifer difficulttomaintain. older riders and individuals Angeles.

Experts say the biggest planningtomakecitiesmore Dill of Portland State Because e-bikes can go with disabilities that would Pedaling into the future hurdletoadoptinge-bikeson bike-friendly University’s Transportation faster, they require more otherwisepreventthemfrom Research and Education safety precautions than biking. Some women chose Center (TREC) “I don’t traditionalbikes. e-bikes because they make think we can undersell how “You’re going to be them feel safer, research thatcanmotivatepeople.” movingfasterthancarsthink says.

How do e-bikes work? you will. They may not see In2019,SharedMobility

E-bikes have the same you,” says Gregg. When Inc (SMI), a nonprofit components as your stopped at red lights and advocating for accessible, traditional, so-called i n t e r s e c t i o n s , h e equitable transportation, acoustic bicycles: frames, recommends cyclists look at partnered with the National seats, handlebars, and the front wheels of cars to Aging and Disability wheels. They differ in their ensure they’re not headed in Transportation Center powerandspeed. thebiker’sdirection. (NADTC) to better

The speed of a non- Safe e-bikes cost understand the mobility electric bike relies on the rider’s physical strength and endurance. Casual cyclists can pedal at 10 to 14 miles per hour, depending on the terrainandweightofthebike andtherider

E-bikes, however, are fueled by batteries, making them heavier Some models have a pedal assist system with a motor to amplify

E-bikes, electrically -powered bicycles.

Diageo ends its 15-year partnership with Diddy following lawsuit

(CNN) Spirits maker

Diddy said in the lawsuit in a statement that Diageo DiageohascuttieswithSean that Diageo “kneecapped “attempting to end its deals “Diddy” Combs, ending a DeLeon’s sales growth for withMr Combsislikefiring lucrative15-yearpartnership nearly a decade” because the a whistleblower who calls that recently culminated in a company considered it a out racism” and that the racial discrimination

“Black” brand and marketed company’s decision is a lawsuit. ittoonly“urbancustomers.” “cynical and transparent

The music mogul He also claimed that a attempt to distract from charged that Diageo had Diageo executive told him multiple allegations of n e g l e c t e d a n d that if Combs were Martha discrimination.” underpromoted his DeLeón Stewart then “his brands “This lawsuit and Mr tequila, dismissing it as an would be more widespread.” Combs are not going away,” “urban” product in its Diageo has denied the Huestonsaid. marketing, in a suit filed last accusations. Attorney Josh Gerben month. Diageo (DEO) said told CNN that it’s “not

The London-based Tuesday that Diddy has surprising” that Diageo Diageo, which makes well- “repeatedly undermined our wanted to end its agreement known liquor brands like partnerships and threatened with Combs because Smirnoff vodka and Johnnie to publicly defame Diageo “whenever a lawsuit gets Walker whisky, countered (DEO)ifwedidnotmeethis filed that makes such strong that this was a “baseless unreasonable financial allegationsofwrongdoing,it complaint.” In a statement demands ” The company is a sign of an irreparable obtained by CNN, Diageo also said that they’ve break in a business said Diddy’s “bad-faith invested more than $100 relationship.” actions have clearly

million to help grow his “At the moment we are breached his contracts and tequila and accused of him lefttowonderwhat,ifany,of leftusnochoicebutto…end onlycontributing$1,000. the allegations made by Casamigos brands. Diageo ourbusinessrelationship.”

In response, Diddy’s either party are factually how the case resolves, we to that question,” Gerben responded that he has Diageo also filed a attorney John Hueston said accurate.And, depending on may never know the answer said. “amassed nearly $1 billion motion to dismiss his d o l l a r s ” f r o m t h e lawsuit.

partnership.

DiddyaccusedDiageoof Diageo and Combs have failing to market his spirits, partnered on Ciroc vodka which also include Ciroc since 2007. In 2013, Combs vodka, in a similar manner bought DeLeón and formed with its other brands, a joint venture with Diageo including Don Julio and the forthehigh-endtequila. George Clooney-founded

How to Stop Foot Pain From Standing All Day, According to a Podiatrist

- say goodbye to foot pain with expert tips

(Shape) Depending on what type of feet you have c o r r e c t i n g f o o t with inflammation. Trying whatyoudoforworkoryour before you choose insoles or abnormalities, improving out foot reflexology or lifestyle in general, standing orthotics. your overall posture, and massagemayalsobehelpful. for prolonged periods of “Some people are flat- lasting longer on your feet,” Strengthen and time might be unavoidable. footed, have high arches, explains Dr Schaeffer “If Stretch Foot Muscles

Ofcourse,stayingactiveand have heel spurs or bunions. you need a little more TLC

Like any other part of onyourfeetisbetterforyour Insoles simply aid your feet with your feet like a chronic your body, working out your health than sitting at a desk in the right direction so that problem, orthotics would be feet can help strengthen all day, but if you’re not the rest of your body falls youranswer.” them, which can help you taking care of your feet into place,” says Dr Practice Footcare and avoid foot pain later on. “A properly, it can have Schaeffer “When choosing Pain Management great exercise for feet is negative impacts on the rest the right insoles, assess your Of course, overall foot walking barefoot on sand,” of your body, and even your feet or consult a professional hygiene can contribute to suggests Dr Schaeffer “It’s mentalhealth. tofigureoutwhattypeoffeet better foot health. If your a great way to stretch and

If you’re someone who you have.” Basically, you toenails are too long, they strengthen the feet and has to stand all day or is choose your insole based on could be pushing against calves.Additional beneficial always on their feet, we the type of foot you have. your shoe, causing toes to be stretches are toe raises, toe tapped Dr Brad Schaeffer, The goal is to feel stabilized cramped and sore, thus points,andtoecurls.” Board Certified Podiatrist and supported each time you bringing on foot pain If stretching doesn’t and Foot Surgeon at Central takeastep. Topical pain relief creams seem to be helping and foot ParkSOLEandstarofTLC’s You should consider canhelphealthisissueinthe pain is chronic, it might be My Feet Are Killing Me, to custom orthotics if you have interim before you can time to reach out to a make sure you learn how to chronic foot pain that’s purchase insoles or professional You might take the proper precautions affecting other parts of the orthotics. n e e d m o r e s e r i o u s so your foot health doesn’t body “Benefits of custom Soaking feet in a warm, stretching/training from a begin to impact the rest of orthotics include better Epsom salt bath can help physical therapist to help your total wellbeing. Here’s balance, reduced pain from relieve pain by helping to realign your body and whatyouneedtoknowabout the feet up to the lower back, increase circulation and help alleviatelingeringfootpain. choosing the right footwear, inserts,andmoretomaintain · If you notice pain only totalbodyhealthifyou’reon in the heel, you may have yourfeetallday plantar fasciitis, which is a

5 Expert Tips for condition that affects people

Reducing Foot Pain with higher arches. Orthotic

If You StandAll Day insoles, such as Dr Scholl’s

If you’re someone who Plantar Fasciitis All Day stands all day, you probably Reliefinsolescanhelp. already know the body When shopping for strains this leads to that can shoes, Dr Schaeffer eventually turn chronic suggests bringing a traced “Prolonged standing can outlineofyourfootwithyou, r e s u l t i n h e a l t h and “steer clear from any consequences such as shoes that are shorter or backaches, muscle fatigue, narrowerthanthetracing.” and leg and foot cramps,” · Forget the myth of explains Dr Schaeffer “The “breaking shoes in ” Dr added stress to our bodies Schaeffer says shoes should due to long-term, prolonged feel comfortable from the standing can also result in momentyoutrythemon. arthritis and high blood · Look for shoes with a pressure.”Thatmeanstaking stableheelcupandwidebox. care of your foot health can Maintain Proper Posture be beneficial for all other According to Dr health avenues in the body Schaeffer, there are many Here’s what you need to posture techniques you can know try right away to improve

Choose the foot pain. “Remembering to Right Footwear stand with your hips

Choosing the right shoulder lengths apart can footwear can greatly help evenly distribute your improveanyfootpainyou’re weight on your feet rather feeling, so this is a great than leaning onto one leg or place to start if you’re putting pressure on your beginning to notice foot pain heels,”hesays. for the first time. Here are a Use Supportive few quick tips from Dr Insoles or Orthotics Schaeffer on how to choose We already touched on footwear based on the pain insoles a bit above, but you you’refeeling. shouldn’t sleep on this foot

If you’re noticing pain fix since, according to frequent, all-over foot pain, Dr Schaeffer, they can have look for a shoe with better real, tangible results. First, archsupport. it’s important to understand

This Day in History - July 02 July

President James A. Garfield shot

Amelia Earhart disappears

July2,1937

On July 2, 1937, the Lockheed aircraft carrying American aviator Amelia Earhart and navigator Frederick Noonan is reported missing near Howland Island in the Pacific.

July2,1881

Vice President Chester A. Arthur served as

Only four months into his acting president. On September 19, 1881, administration, President JamesA. Garfield after 80 days, President Garfield died of isshotashewalksthrougharailroadwaiting blood poisoning. The following day,Arthur room in Washington, D.C. His assailant, was inaugurated as the 21st president of the Charles J. Guiteau, was a disgruntled and UnitedStates. perhaps deranged office seeker who had Garfield had three funerals: one in unsuccessfullysoughtanappointmenttothe Elberon; another in Washington, where his U.S. consul in Paris.The president was shot body rested in state in the Capitol for three in the back and the arm, and Guiteau was days; and a third in Cleveland, Ohio, where arrested. he was buried. Charles Guiteau’s murder Garfield, mortally ill, was treated in trial began in November, and in January Washingtonandthentakentotheseashoreat 1882 he was found guilty and sentenced to Elberon,NewJersey,whereheattemptedto death.InJune1882,hewashangedathisjail recuperatewithhisfamily Duringthistime, inWashington.

Stephen Hawking breaks British bestsellers records

July2,1992

Theoretical physicist Stephen HawkingbreaksBritishpublishingrecords on July 2, 1992 when his book A Brief History of Time remains on the nonfiction bestseller list for three and a half years, selling more than 3 million copies in 22 languages.

A Brief History of Time explained the latesttheoriesontheoriginsoftheuniverse in language accessible to educated lay people. The book was made into an acclaimed documentary in 1992, which focused largely on Hawking’s own story. DiagnosedwithLouGehrig’sdiseaseinhis 20s, Hawking was told he had only two years to live Despite the sobering prognosis, Hawking pursued his studies in theoreticalphysics,married,andhadason. Eventually, his disease left him paralyzed except for his left hand. He was able to speak, although his speech was difficult to understand, until he underwent a tracheotomy in 1985 during a bout with pneumonia. Afterward, he relied on a mouse-controlledvoicesynthesizer,which improved the clarity of his speech. His familiar, synthesized voice can be heard in the Brief History of Time documentary, a popular Pink Floyd song and an episode of The Simpsons with fellow physicist Leonard Mlodinow He

A recipient of the Presidential Medal of was known for his scientific contributions to Freedom and numerous other honors, cosmology and quantum gravity and was Hawking wrote several additional popular affiliated with the University of Cambridge science books, including Black Holes and and the California Institute of Technology, Baby Universes and Other Essays (1993)and among other institutions. He died on March The Grand Design (2010), which he cowrote 14,2018,inCambridge,England.

Thepairwereattempting toflyaroundtheworldwhen they lost their bearings during the most challenging leg of the global journey: Lae, New Guinea, to HowlandIsland,atinyisland sporadic radio contact with fuel Soon after, she 2,227nauticalmilesaway,in Earhart as she approached probably tried to ditch the the center of the Pacific Howland Island and Lockheed in the ocean. No Ocean The U S Coast received messages that she trace of Earhart or Noonan Guard cutter Itasca was in was lost and running low on waseverfound.

Pres. Johnson signs Civil Rights Act

July21964

On July 2, 1964, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs into law the historicCivilRightsActina nationally televised ceremony at the White House In the landmark 1954case Brown v Board of E d u c a t i o n , the U S Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in s c h o o l s w a s unconstitutional The 10 years that followed saw great strides for the African American civil rights movement, as non-violent demonstrations won thousands of supporters to thecause.

Themostsweepingcivil rights legislation passed by segregation in public places which set strict rules for Congress since the post- such as schools, buses, protecting the right of Civil War Reconstruction parksandswimmingpools. African Americans to era, the Civil Rights Act In addition, the bill laid vote—that have since been p r o h i b i t e d r a c i a l important groundwork for a used to enforce equal rights d i s c r i m i n a t i o n i n number of other pieces of for women as well as all employment and education legislation including the minorities and LGBTQ and outlawed racial Voting Rights Act of 1965, people.

Gonna Fly Now (‘Theme From Rocky’)” is the No. 1 song on the US pop charts

July2,1977

On July 2, 1977, Hollywood composer Bill Contiscoresa#1pophitwiththesingle“GonnaFly Now(ThemeFrom Rocky).”

BillContiwasarelativeunknowninHollywood whenhebeganworkon Rocky,butsowasSylvester Stallone Conti had gained some attention internationallywithhisworkonseveralearly1970s Italian films, including Vittorio de Sica’s Academy Award-winning Il Giardino dei Finzi-Contini, and Stallone had starred in a small film called Lords of Flatbush and played various minor roles in movies andonTV Itwas Rocky thatwouldtrulylaunchboth (Continued on page 39)

Compiled by Richard Francois. (From history.com)

The assassination of President James A. Garfield at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station, Washington D.C., America on July 2, 1881, by Charles Julius Guiteau.

Amelia Earhart (Photo credit: Bettmann/Getty Images.)

Out of a bag of cement...

ByVanessaBraithwaite

ByVanessaBraithwaiteMoore

IIt from

t was the boredom from the

COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, that pushed Linden’s creative artist Monique Gilks, to cultivate her talent for crafting beautiful home décor and personalizedpieces.

Today, Creative Manufacturing Companyissteadilybecomingahousehold name in Linden for sourcing unique and for locallyproducedhomedécoritemsaswell as décor for ceremonial events, personal souvenirsandothercraftitems.

COVID-19 2020, that pushed creative artist Monique Gilks, to cultivate her talent crafting home décor personalized Today, Creative Companyis becoming household name unique locallyproducedhome aswell as souvenirs othercraftitems.

With tenacity and the drive to own her and owngiftshoponeday,whereallormostof the items sold are molded by her hands, Moniquespendscountlesshoursinherlittle craft workshop at her home, refining and perfectingherskillsandmeetingdeadlines forcustomers.

With tenacity own own whereall the sold hands, Moniquespends her craft workshop at her home, perfecting skillsandmeeting forcustomers.

It is hardly a reality to her three years after, that it all started with one sack of cement. “Being the creative person that I am, I looked for ways to delve into my creativityandIcameuponabagofcement

is hardly years after, started one cement. I am, I looked ways to delve into creativityandIcame bagofcement

and so that is how I started creating my cement crafts,” she said Gilks started exclusively working with cement and transforming the aggregate that is mostly used to build houses, into beautifully craftedhomedécor

After realising her knack for this talent which she commercialized, she started testing other materials like wood, fabric, resin and reed diffusers. Three years later, sheownsahome-basedregisteredcompany with a steadily growing clientele and popularityonsocialmedia.

In addition to social media marketing, she also participates in exhibitions where she uses the opportunity to promote her products. She recently participated in the Linden Locfest and wowed many patrons with her exceptional creations. “Whenever I complete an item, I always like to hear persons say, “Oh you made that?”, it gives me that fulfilling feeling and I also like to challengemyselfwhenitcomestocreating things,” she said. Monique is also focused on getting her reed diffusers into more homesbypenetratingthelocalandregional

and so that how I started my cement crafts,” Gilks exclusively working cement and transforming is used build into craftedhomedécor her which testing other like fabric, resin diffusers. Three she a company with steadily growing and popularity addition to social she participates in she her products. Linden wowed with creations. I complete persons say, made me that and I also like challengemyself itcomes things,” she said. Monique on getting her reed homes local regional

markets.

Reed diffusers, which are her signature creationisamaterialthatusesnaturaloilsas scentboostersforthehomeandoffice.Itis deemed a safer alternative to scented candles, and lasts longer Her other home andeventdécorandpersonalizeditemsare of high quality as she sources all her materialslocally

Whiletheremaybeotheralternativesin variety stores such as Chinese stores, supporting a local business as hers means one is supporting local talent at an affordable cost and will be guaranteed durability, standards and uniqueness, all in onepackage.

As an entrepreneur that creates items withherhands,theprocesscanbeverytime consuming for Monique, but she strives to keepabalanceasshealsohasafull-timejob asatypistclerk,andisamotherandawife.

diffusers, her creationis material usesnaturaloils boosters Itis a safer to and andeventdécor personalized quality all locally. there such as at affordable cost and will be durability, all creates her the be for asshe full-timejob as andawife.

work life bit

“It’s not an easy task balancing family life, work life and business life; I try to create that balance…but it’s a bit tiring whentryingtocreatethatbalancebutallin

Continued on page 36

Monique Gilks

GECOMconductsmonthlychecks toensurecleanvoters’list-DCEO

DPI - Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Aneal Giddings has assured that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) conductsregularchecksof the national voters’ list to ensure that the names of deceased persons are not includedonliststobeused atanyelection.

Hemadethedisclosure during a press conference held at GECOM’S command centre, Fort Street,KingstononFriday

“GECOM has been, and now as is required by the amendments made to the National Registration Act Chapter 19:08, we are statutorily required to receive a list from the

General Registrar’s Office, asitpertainstothosepersons who would have been registered as deceased,” he

Palms Rehab. Centre gets 17-seat bus from U.S. Embassy

explained.

He noted that the nationalregisterisreceived on a monthly basis, and GECOM does its due diligence to ensure deceased persons are flaggedaccordingly

“That is the legal way That is the only way that persons are removed from the national register of registrants,” Giddings said

He further explained that GECOM has several mechanisms in place to ensurethatvoterfraudisnot perpetrated, including having voters’ registration i n f o r m a t i o n a n d photographs at the polling stations.

The United States of America (U.S.) Embassy in Guyana on Friday gifted the Palms Rehabilitation Centre a 17-seat passenger bus valued at US$25,000 (G$5.2M).

Thebuswashandedover to the Ministry of Human ServicesandSocialSecurity

In a statement to the media,theEmbassysaidthat “in the spirit of partnership and goodwill between Guyana and the United States, the United States

Embassy in Georgetown donated one 17-seat passengerbustotheMinistry of Human Services and Social Security, valued at of $25KUSD($52MGYD)”

U S Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch and Dr Vindhya Persaud, MinisterofHumanServices

and Social Security, participated in an official handover ceremony at the PalmsRehabilitationCentre, Brickdam.

According to the

Embassy, the donation, was made through the Department of Defense Humanitarian Assistance Programandwillsupportthe transportation for the elderly,aswellasotherswith limitedmobility

“The U.S. Embassy is pleased to contribute to the socialservicesofferedbythe Government of Guyana to senior citizens who have contributedimmenselytoits development,” the Embassy said.

...Creative Manufacturing Company launched

Monique at work

From page 35 all, I have the support of my family and I am grateful for that,” she proudlyrelated She encourages other youth who also possess creative talent, to not sleep on their skills, as they too

can have success stories Monique’s success story started with boredom anda bagofcementbutcontinued with determination to reach her goal of one day owning her own gift shop. “I would say to drown out the noise, justdowhatyouhavetodo,”

sheencouraged.

Persons interested in purchasing items from Creative Manufacturing Company can contact Monique on +592-6859845 or visit her Facebook

Manufacturing Company.

Ambassador Lynch (left) hands over 17-seat to Minister Persaud for Palms Rehab Centre

Deputy Chief Elections Officer,Aneal Giddings

By Vanessa Braithwaite Moore

The first ever ‘Locsfest’ that

was held in the mining t ow n o f L i n d e n w a s deemed a major success, as the event saw hundreds of persons attending to indulge in the variety of activities that were on offer The event which was promoted by Linden’s loctician and make-up artiste Setra Oselmo, aimed to celebrate the richness and beauty of Rastafarian culture.

This was achieved through music, food, fashion, hair designs and other creative expressions of art. The ‘ice, gold and green’ colours radiated within the Linden Themed Park along with stunning decorationsthat were complemented by the welldressed patrons and the many colourful booths.

The event which was held in observance of International Locs Day comprised an exhibition of small businesses within the mining town, ranging from boutiques, bakeries, interior designers and creative artists, an ital and cook-up competition, a conscious concert, a hair and fashion show, a loctician competition and other cultural displays. Both organisers and small business participants expressed satisfaction with how the highly anticipated venture turned out Persons are already anxious for next year’s activity Oselmo said the event was successful in redefining interlocking styles and care as well as the maintenance of natural hair.

Rastafarianism is often seen as an olden way of life marked by chanting and herbs usage, but Oselmo said ‘Locsfest’ made strides in erasing this negative perception by showcasing a beautiful culture that c a n b e e m b r a c e d b y a l l Rastaf ar ianism goes beyond interlocked hair but also embraces a lifestyle that is natural, healthy and mentally conscious.

“This is something that we want to birth or grow Linden people from.” Oselmo said she hopes the event becomes a signature one as well as a major tourism attraction.

Some sponsors of this year’s event include Curelean, Nico Consulting, Sister to Sister Beauty, Beharry LumberYard and the Region 10 Tourism Authority Oselmo would like to thank all the sponsors for their kind contributions towards the success of this inaugural event and looks forward to more corporate support next year.

Major success recorded at first ever Linden Locsfest

Setra Oselmo

The Surprising History of Ketchup

(Reader’s Digest) whereitdidnotresemblethe So why the different mushrooms or even walnuts, sour formula,” Jurafsky Ketchup has long been one hamburger condiment we spellings? “Hokkien isn’t often used to flavor melted says. of the most popular lovetoday “Thestorybegins written with the Roman butter,” says Jurafsky These Ketchup vs. catsup condiments in the U.S., and thousands of years ago, alphabet, which explains ingredients were used British tea drinking the tangy, sweet topping has whenpeoplelivingalongthe why there are so many because the finished sauce wasn’t the only difference got the sales to back it up: coastsandriversofsoutheast different spellings,” says keptforlonger between the two countries. Americans are expected to Asia and what is now Jurafsky “Ke-tchup, cat-sup

The tomato ketchup British vs American spend $5 85 billion on southern China began to and ca-tchup are all attempts origin story spelling also played a role. ketchup in 2023, according preserve local fish and by English, Dutch or

The Brits were likely the “While both spellings were toStatista. shrimp, salting and Portuguese speakers of the first to add tomatoes to used in both countries, That’s equivalent to fermentingitintorichsavory time to capture the sounds of ketchup, notes Jurafsky It ketchup was more common every American spending pastes,” says Dan Jurafsky, a theChineseword.” wasinthemid-1800sthatthe in Britain and catsup in more than $17 on it yearly professor of linguistics at The words ketchup and tomatoes replaced the America, until about 30 But the ketchup Americans Stanford University and the catsup persistedastherecipe mushrooms.Then anchovies years ago, when ketchup know and love—the grilling author of The Language of changed, even though the disappeared from the took over here as well.” staple squeezed on hot dogs Food These pastes were translation in Hokkien no recipes, along with the final When it began producing and the best burgers in confined to the region until longerapplied.“Thesyllable nods to ketchup’s roots as a ketchup, Heinz originally America is a relatively EmperorWuofHanbeganto ‘tch’ still means sauce in fermented fish sauce. But chosetogowiththatspelling new invention, when you expand the nation around Hokkien and Mandarin, and even though tomatoes were todifferentiateitssaucefrom consider the ketchup origin 200 B.C. “Evidence the syllable ‘ke’ means used, this sauce was still its competitors, like Hunt’s story. demonstrates that it was preserved fish in Hokkien,” relatively brown and thin, and Del Monte, who were

Like prepared mustard, during this period that the says Jurafsky. It was also notlikemodernketchup. usingcatsup. mayo, sriracha or ranch, Chinese adopted these fish around this time when

Because tomatoes “When Heinz began to ketchup is part of America’s sauces,”hesays. Fujianese settlers began to decompose faster than the dominate the market,” condiment craze Here, For hundreds of years, travel to places like other ingredients, it was in Jurafsky adds, “other soke-tchupmayhavehelped we’re diving into the these fermented fish sauces Indonesia, where they built 1876 that Heinz produced manufacturers switched enliven their diet,” says surprising and fascinating remained one of the most factories for making the first ketchup made with theirspelling.” Jurafsky “But it’s also history of the sauce. It’s a popular methods of traditional Chinese sauces v i n e g a r t o p r e v e n t

The ketchup of today possible that traders figured foodfactyou’llwanttoshare flavoring food in this region like ke-tchup and that’s decomposition.

Theketchupweeattoday they could market it back with your neighbor at the of China, known today as where the British first

The U.S. ketchup origin on hot dogs and fast-food home as an exotic Asian next cookout (while you’re Fujian—until sea travel and discoveredit. story burgers is actually quite sauce.” He adds that it’s discussing how long to grill trade exposed the world to The British ketchup origin

Inthelate1800s,ketchup similar to the Heinz recipe likely in one of these those burgers or grilling- their flavors “Fujianese story production and popularity from the early 1900s Indonesian port cities that season cleaning hacks, like tradersandseamenlovedthe In the early 1600s, began to rise in America. Tomatoes and distilled the word ketchup first came how to clean a grill with an fish sauce, naming it ke- British sailors who were

“After the Civil War, vinegar are still there, as are intotheEnglishlanguage. onion). t c h u p , which means traveling to Indonesia to manufacturers in America salt and spices like onion

The invention of ketchup preserved fish sauce in tradebegantodevelopataste responded to the greatly powder Sugar from the sailors were purchasing

Before long, British

The origin of ketchup Hokkien, the language of for ke-tchup “Shipboard increased demand by original recipe has been large quantities of ketchup, dates back thousands of southern Fujian and fare (salt pork and dried i n c r e a s i n g k e t c h u p replaced with high-fructose bottling it and bringing it years to southeast Asia, Taiwan,”saysJurafsky crackers) was pretty bland,

This Day in History - July 02

“Men in Black’ premiers in theatres

July2,1997

On July 2, 1997, the science fictioncomedy movie Men in Black, starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, opens in theaters around the United States. The film grossed more than $250 million inAmerica alone and helped establish the former sitcom star Will Smith as one of Hollywood’s most bankable leading men. DirectedbyBarrySonnenfeld(Get Shorty), Men in Black was based on an early 1990s comic book by Lowell Cunningham called The Men in Black Smith and Jones reprised their roles as AgentJandAgentK,twosecretagentswho must protect the Earth from aliens, in the sequels Men in Black II (2002) and Men in Black III (2012). (Neither appeared in the 2019spin-off Men in Black: International.)

Pres. Johnson signs Civil Rights Act

production, tailoring their corn syrup, though Heinz home But like many recipes to American also makes versions with no imports, it was expensive, so consumers, who began to sugaradded(sweetenedwith the Brits started trying to prefer their ketchup a bit honey or stevia), if you’re maketheirown. sweeter and thicker than the looking to adopt some

A London cookbook British,”Jurafskysays. healthiergrillingpractices. from 1742 features a recipe Byaround1910,ketchup Heinz is also still the for ketchup made with beer, (especially Heinz) began to mostpopular,withmorethan anchovies (a nod to resemble the ketchup we dip twice as many Americans ketchup’s fermented fish McDonald’s fries and purchasing it as Hunt’s, the origins), mushrooms, chicken nuggets into today next brand up (their recipes shallots and spices. “The “Manufacturers like Heinz are virtually identical) mushrooms soon became a found that adding even more While ketchup is no longer main ingredient, and from sugar and lots of vinegar the most popular condiment 1750 to 1850 the word helped produce a ketchup in America, ceding that title ketchup began to mean any thatpreservedbetter,leading to mayonnaise in 2021, it is thin dark sauces made with to our modern sweet-and- stillusedandlovedwidely

From page 33

Teddy Bear Carol Connors. Though it lost men’s careers, though The film was thecompetitionforBestOriginalSongatthe Stallone’s from start to finish, but it’s 49th Annual Academy Awards to Barbra difficult to overstate the importance of his Streisand and Paul Williams’ “Evergreen collaborationwithConti.ThoughContitook (Love Theme From A Star Is Born),” it has his inspiration from Stallone’s footage, remained an instantly recognizable piece of Stallone had the film’s critical training and American pop culture. In the years since the fight sequences edited to fit Conti’s music, release of Rocky, Sylvester Stallone has and the interaction between picture and continuedtochurnoutactionflicks,andBill music in Rocky made an enormous Conti has built a hugely successful career as contributiontothemovie’ssuccess. acomposerforfilmandtelevision—acareer

The single “Gonna Fly Now” takes its that eventually included anAcademyAward namefromthealmost-superfluous30words forBestOriginalScoreforthe1983film The of lyrics written byAyn Robbins and former Right Stuff

By Wayne Lyttle

We l c o m e , gentlemen, to a discussion on the significance of prioritizing your health in various aspects of life

Today, we will explore why itisessentialformentotake better care of themselves, especially during their younger years In a fastpacedworldwhereworkand personal responsibilities often take precedence, selfcare becomes crucial for maintaining overall wellbeing While society has traditionally emphasized self-care for women, it is also equally important for men. This column aims to shed light on why men shouldpaymoreattentionto their physical, mental, and emotionalhealthduringtheir youth, and the long-term benefitsthatcanbeachieved through such self-care practices.

PREVENTIONIS BETTERTHANCURE:

Takingproactivestepsto maintain good physical health in youth can help prevent potential health issues later in life By adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, men can reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes,andobesity

BUILDINGA FOUNDATIONFOR LIFELONGFITNESS:

Establishing healthy habitsearlyon,canleadtoa lifetime of fitness and wellbeing. Engaging in physical activities during youth enhances cardiovascular health, boosts energy levels, and helps build strong muscles and bones Moreover, maintaining a healthy weight during younger years significantly impactsoverallhealthinthe longrun.

MENTALAND EMOTIONALHEALTH:

Men often face societal pressure to suppress their emotions and appear strong atalltimes.Thisexpectation can lead to poor mental health outcomes By acknowledging and addressing their emotional well-being, men can break free from this stigma and

Unleashing the Potential: The Crucial Role of Men’s Self-Care in Youth

develop healthier coping mechanisms for managing stress, anxiety, and other mentalhealthissues.

NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS:

Investing in healthy relationships and social connections is essential for overall well-being When mentakecareoftheirmental and emotional health, they can build stronger, more fulfilling relationships with family,friends,andpartners. This,inturn,contributestoa greater sense of happiness andfulfillment.

ENHANCING PRODUCTIVITY ANDSUCCESS:

Prioritizing mental and emotional well-being can have a positive impact on professional success. When men are in a good mental state, they are better

their well-being, they become role models for younger generations By demonstrating the importanceofself-care,they can inspire others to prioritize their own health andwell-being.Thispositive influence can lead to a culturalshiftwhereself-care is embraced by all, promoting healthier i n d i v i d u a l s a n d communities.

INCREASEDLIFE EXPECTANCYAND QUALITYOFLIFE:

Studies consistently demonstrate that individuals who engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, and manage stress have a higher life expectancy and enjoy a better quality of life By investing in their health during their younger years,

their physical, mental, and emotional health, men can lay the foundation for a healthier, happier, and more successful future Whether it’s adopting a regular e x e r c i s e r o u t i n e , maintaining a balanced diet, seeking emotional support when needed, or nurturing positive relationships, every step taken towards self-care isasteptowardsabetterlife. Society is gradually recognizing the significance of men’s self-care, breaking free from traditional gender norms and expectations Men should embrace this shift and understand that prioritizing their well-being isnotasignofweaknessbut an act of strength and selfrespect. By taking care of themselves,mencanserveas positive role models for futuregenerations,shapinga

between their personal and professional lives Taking time for oneself, practicing mindfulness, seeking support when needed, and engaging in activities that bringjoyandfulfillmentare allessentialcomponentsofa well-rounded and healthy lifestyle.

In a world where the demands and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, men must remember that their wellbeingmatters.

fostering healthier relationships.

PERSONAL GROWTHAND SELF-DISCOVERY:

equipped to handle stress, make clear decisions, and maintainfocus.Thiscanlead to improved productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.

LONG-TERM BENEFITS:

Takingcareofoneselfin youthlaysthefoundationfor aging gracefully Healthy lifestyle choices made early on, such as a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can help mitigatetheeffectsofaging, suchascognitivedeclineand physicallimitations.

SETTINGA POSITIVEEXAMPLE FORFUTURE GENERATIONS:

When men take care of themselves and prioritize

men can increase their chances of living longer, healthierlives.

Taking care of oneself should not be a genderspecific concern. Men, just likewomen,shouldembrace self-care practices and prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing,especiallyduringtheir youngeryears.Byadoptinga proactiveapproachtohealth, men can prevent future health issues, foster positive relationships, enhance productivity, and enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant life as theyage.

In conclusion, the importance of men taking care of themselves in their younger years cannot be overstated. By investing in

healthier and more balanced society

Itisimportanttonotethat self-care is not a one-time task or a quick fix; it is an ongoing process that requires commitment and dedication. It is never too early to start investing in one’shealth,andthebenefits can be reaped throughout life.

By making conscious choices to prioritize selfcare, men can enjoy a multitude of advantages, includingimprovedphysical fitness, enhanced mental well-being, stronger relationships, and increased longevity

Therefore, men should embrace self-care practices and strive to find a balance

By making self-care a priority from a young age, men can create a foundation for a future filled with vitality, happiness, and success. So let us encourage men to take care of themselves, break free from societal expectations, and embarkonajourneyofselfdiscovery and self-care.The benefitsarefar-reachingand can positively impact not onlytheirownlivesbutalso the lives of those around them. To further emphasize the significance of men taking care of themselves whentheyareyounger,letus delve deeper into the longterm benefits that can be derivedfromsuchpractices:

STRONGER

RELATIONSHIPSAND SUPPORTNETWORKS:

Building and nurturing meaningful relationships is essential for a fulfilling life.

When men invest in their well-being, they are more likely to have the emotional capacity to cultivate strong connectionswithlovedones.

By taking care of their own mental and emotional health, men can better understand and empathize with others, improving their communication skills and

Self-care provides an opportunity for selfreflection and selfdiscovery When men prioritize their own needs, theycanembarkonajourney of personal growth, exploring their passions, interests, and values This process allows them to develop a stronger sense of self and purpose, leading to increased satisfaction and fulfillmentinlife.

Engaging in activities that promote personal growth, such as pursuing hobbies,learningnewskills, or seeking out new experiences, can contribute toasenseoffulfillmentanda deeper understanding of oneself.

In conclusion, men shouldrecognizethevalueof taking care of themselves during their younger years. By prioritizing their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, men can experience numerous long-term benefits, including improved health, enhanced relationships, personal growth, and career success It is essential for society to encourage and supportmenintheirjourney towards self-care, breaking free from outdated stereotypes and promoting a healthier and more balanced approachtolife.

Byinvestingintheirown well-being, men not only enrich their own lives but alsocontributetotheoverall well-being of their families, communities, and future generations.

Muscular man doing dumbbell shoulder press.

How are skin tags treated?

WHATARE SKINTAGS?

Skin tags are small growthsontheskinthatlook a bit like warts. They are connected to the skin by a small,thinstalk.

Skin tags are common, especially as a person ages. They don’t cause any harm, butifyouhaveaskintagthat isbotheringyou,youshould talk to your doctor about havingitremoved.

They are usually less than 2mm in size, but they can grow much larger. They feel soft, and can be smooth and round, wrinkly and uneven, or look like a grain of rice. They can be flesh c

Skin tags are small growths on the skin and are usually less than 2mm in size.

sometimesdarkblue. If you ever notice a new spotorgrowthonyourskin, you should always see your doctor to confirm what it is. Read

you should be checked for skincancer

Skin tags are made of collagen (a type of protein) and blood vessels surroundedbyskin.Theyare

usually found in the folds of the skin, for example, in the armpits, groin, thighs, eyelids, neck or under the breasts.

WHATARETHE SYMPTOMS OFSKINTAGS?

Most skin tags are painlessanddon’tcauseany symptoms.Butiftheyrubon clothing or jewellery, they maygetsoreandbleed.

Skin tags look different fromwartsandotherbenign skin lesions because of the smallstalkthatattachesthem to the skin. Warts tend to be flat,whileskintagshangoff theskin.

WHATCAUSES SKINTAGS?

Skin tags occur when extra cells grow in the top layersoftheskin.Theytend to develop when the skin rubs against itself, so are morecommoninpeoplewho areoverweightandtherefore havefoldsofskin.

They grow both in men and women and are more commoninolderpeopleand people living with type 2 diabetes. Pregnant women are also more likely to develop skin tags, although they usually disappear after thebabyisborn.

HOWARESKIN TAGSTREATED?

Skintagscandropoffby themselvesovertime.

If you decide to have a

skin tag removed — for example, because it is bothering you or you don’t likeitsappearance—talkto yourdoctor

Your doctor can remove theskintagsby: freezingthemwithliquid nitrogen cutting them off with surgicalscissorsorascalpel burning them with e l e c t r i c a l e n e r g y (cauterising)

It’snotagoodideatotry to remove skin tags by yourselfsincetheycanbleed heavily or get infected. If you have a very small skin tag, you could ask your doctor how to remove it at home.

Creative Ways to Painlessly Remove a Splinter

It happens when you leastexpectit:maybeyou’re taking a stroll on a pier and you grab the wooden handrail; or maybe you’re building a wooden deck in your backyard; one minute everything is fine, and then suddenlyyoufeelashooting pain.You just got a splinter

Getting a splinter may not exactly be a traumatic experience, but it definitely canbeannoyingandpainful. Andwhilethereisn’talotof genuine danger in getting a splinter, it can become infected if not removed in a timely manner But how do youremoveasplinter?

HOWTOREMOVE ASPLINTER

As with all injuries in life,gettingasplinterisalot faster than removing a splinter It can take a split second for the little sliver of wood to get lodged in your skin, but it requires a bit more patience (and maybe evenamagnifyingglass)and time to reverse the process. For adults, a splinter is u s u a l l y a m i l d inconvenience; for children, though, a splinter can be a harrowing ordeal. The good newsisthatthereareseveral creativemethodstoremovea splinter that will quickly bring relief for you—or for your child. Below are some examples:

TWEEZERS:

A classic in splinter removal, a pair of tweezers canbeyourbestfriendwhen the circumstances are right.

Regardless of how deep the splinter is, if enough of it protrudesfromthesurfaceof yourskin,youshouldbeable topluckitrightout.Thisisa generally less effective method if very little of the splinterisprotrudingorifit’s skinny enough to preclude gettingagoodgriponit.

TOENAILCLIPPERS:

For thicker wooden splinters, or for other materials like metal, nail clippers can be quite effective.Assuming that the splinter is also protruding from the skin, nail clippers can be used in place of tweezers to grab hold of the splinter and yank it out. But the sharp edge on nail clippers can also be used to make a small cut in the skin along the length of the splinter;ifitisn’ttoodeeply embedded, you should be able to cut the skin just enoughtoaccessthesplinter without actually causing yourskintobleed.

NEEDLE:

For splinters that are a little deeper, a small needle canbeusedtoessentiallypry one part of the splinter up and out past the surface of the skin. After making sure to sterilizetheneedlebefore usingit,gentlypokeaholein theskindirectlyovertheend of the splinter that is closest to the surface. Then use the needle to pry the splinter up and out; once enough of the splinterisoutsideoftheskin, you should be able to use tweezers (or even possibly

your fingernails) to remove therestofthesplinter

TAPE:

Sometimes a very tiny splintermayevenbeslightly sticking out of the skin, but tweezers aren’t fine enough to get a grip. In these cases, tape can be used instead. Simplytakeasmallpieceof tape (probably something like duct tape with a little more stickiness than scotch tape) and press it onto the splinter Wait for a few minutes to let the adhesive do its work, and then pull it off;thetapeshouldbringthe splinterwithit.

GLUE:

This works on the same basic principle as tape; pour alittleglue(thesamekindof whiteglueyoumightusefor a science project) over the area and wait for it to dry Then peel it off and the splinter should get pulled along with it. As with the tape, this is generally more effectiveforsplintersthatare small and have some protrusion from the skin’s surface.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE:

For a less violent approach to splinter removal, hydrogen peroxide is a good option When pouredovertheareawiththe splinter, the peroxide will begin to bubble (which happens because of a reaction to the enzyme catalase that is released by thebodyafterdamagetothe skin); this bubbling reaction

can actually get under the splinter and push it to the surface. In some cases, the peroxide alone can lift out the splinter; in other cases, youmightstillneedtoreach for thetweezersto complete theprocedure.

BAKINGSODA:

Baking soda can have a similar effect as hydrogen peroxide,thoughyou’llneed alittlemorepatiencetohave it work effectively. If a splinter is especially deep, you can make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area. Then,coveritwithabandaid or bandage and wait about a day; the paste should move the splinter closer to the surfaceoftheskin.

EPSOMSALT:

This versatile substance canbeusedforallmannerof ailments, and its list of uses includes removing splinters. After dissolving some salts in warm water, soak the splinter-ridden skin in the waterforaround10minutes;

the briny water can help draw the splinter to the surface and make it much easiertoextract.

OIL/VINEGAR:

Ifyoudon’thaveEpsom salt readily available, you can also soak the affected skininoilorvinegarfor2030 minutes; both substances canhelpdrawthesplinterto thesurface.

FRUITS/VEGETABLES:

Asweirdasitmaysound, thereisevidencethatcertain fruits and vegetables can actually help remove a splinter Both onions and potatoes can potentially work: similar to the baking soda paste, cut a very small sliceofeitherfoodandusea bandaidtoaffixittotheskin; afteraday(orovernight),the splinter should be closer to the surface Amazingly, banana peels can also be usedinthesameway

With all of these DIY methods, it’s important to use good first aid habits and make sure the area is clean

before and after whichever method you choose. Since a splinter is actually a foreign object breaking the skin, it’s entirely possible for bleeding or infection to occur To address this, it’s a good idea to keep rubbing alcohol or antibiotic ointmenthandy.

DOINEEDMEDICAL ATTENTION?

Obviously splinters are notaseriousconcern,soany ofthehomeremediesshould work quickly to solve your splinter problems. In some rare cases, however, a deep orlargesplinter,ifleftalone, canactuallybecomeinfected and potentially cause other problems. If you have a pretty bad splinter that you’renotabletoremoveon your own, or if there are signs of infection, you can always stop by one of TrustCare’s convenient locations to have one of our s k i l l e d m e d i c a l professionals provide excellenthealthcare.

Lessons from a Lashpreneur !!! TAKINGA BREAK FROM LASH EXTENSIONS – IS IT REALLY NECESSARY?

So – you love your lash extensions. They make your facelooksofreshandawake, and it’s just so simple to get readyinthemornings…why wouldyoueverstop?

Clientssometimesaskus whentheyshouldbetakinga break for the sake of their lash health. Their biggest worryisthatlashextensions are straining their natural lashes or making them fall fasterthantheyshould. The answer? Properly applied eyelash extensions can be wornindefinitely–aslongas the lash extension applied is the correct length, weight and thickness for your natural lashes, there’s absolutely no reason why they would be damaged. Persons have been wearing lashes for years with zero issues.

Remember, your natural lashes work on a cycle exactly like your hair; there are new itty-bitty baby lashes growing constantly, andolderlashessheddingoff whenit’stheirtimetogo.

I n y o u r i n f i l l

appointment, your lash tech will be on the lookout for new lashes that are strong enoughtoholdanextension, andvoila!You’rebackupto full lash capacity, looking fabulous.

The health of your natural lashes is our first priority. If we think that the extension look that you’re after will damage those lovelynaturallashes,wecan assess them and suggest

simple ways to create a similar look without the weight. We always keep trackofyourlashhealthand if any changes happen we’ll let you know Of course, sometimes you just feel like you need a break from extensions, and that’s okay. sometimesyouneedtobeon abreak.

Hereareourgoldenrules on how to recognise (and dealwith!)alashbreak.

REMOVETHEMINA WAYTHATWORKS FORYOU

You have two options with a break: let the lashes shed gradually over time, or pop into the salon to have t h e m r e m o v e d professionally. It takes aroundfivetosixweeksfora typical lash set to shed completely, and even then you might find a few very determinedstragglers.Ifthis

is easier, we’d say go for it! For those wantingtogocold turkey, a sa removal is best.

ByLatoyaZephyr

It’s a super simpleprocess –a technician applies a removal serum to your lashes and slides off the e x t e n s i o n s We ’ d recommend against home removalsforthesakeofyour natural lashes, as you can never quite be sure how successful/non-damaging they’ll be! Our removal products are fast-working, professional products and none of us here would attemptourownremovals.

TRYASERUM

Lashserumsareaclever way of reviving your lash game – these specially formulated solutions are meant to make your natural lashes grow longer and stronger

Most good lash serums contain conditioning and stimulating ingredients, which can improve your lasheswhenusedonthereg.

These products usually show results after a few weeks, so combining a serum with a break is like a spaholidayforyourlashes!

MAKESURETHE TIMINGISRIGHT

There’s no hard-and-fast rule about how much time you should spend sans extensions, but we’d recommendatleastamonth.

This gives your lash cycle time to reboot itself, with those baby lashes growing through nice and strong.Italsogivesanylash serums a chance to really work their magic! Timing your break right up to the week of big event can be a lovely way to treat yourself, especially if you usually rockaglamlook.

Some clients can spend months without lash extensions, some prefer just one–it’salluptoyou!

CARIMET – PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF METROLOGY ACROSS THE CARICOM REGION

Na t i o n a l Measurement

I n s t i t u t e s (NMIs)acrosstheCaribbean Community (CARICOM) offer metrology services in the form of verification or calibration to ensure there is accurate and comparable measurements within and among member states

Precisemeasurementplaysa key role in the advancement of health, law enforcement, oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture and trade among otherareasintheregion.

To effectively plan, implement, monitor and improve the measurement infrastructure in the region, there is the Caribbean Metrology Cooperation (CARIMET) Committee under the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ). This Committee ismadeupofrepresentatives fromtheNationalMetrology Institutes (NMIs) of the fifteen Member States of CARICOM and the DominicanRepublic.

These NMIs include the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the Dominican Institute for Quality(INDOCAL).

T h e C A R I M E T Committee provides technical assistance to Metrology Institutions across the Region which are looking to improve or increase the services offered to stakeholders. It has the crucial role of fostering c o l l a b o r a t i o n a n d information sharing in k e e p i n g w i t h t h e development of Metrology as a pillar of the National QualityInfrastructure.

Through CROSQ, the committee provides guidance, financial assistance, technical a s s i s t a n c e a n d administrative support to memberstates.

It is also tasked with harmonization of regional metrology laws and regulations, and the establishment and m a i n t e n a n c e o f measurement traceability withintheregion.

CARIMETmembersmet in Guyana on June 28-29, 2023, for the third face-toface meeting of the committee.

The meeting and a workshopwereconductedat

theGNBSwheretheteamof sixteen (16) participants conducted a review of the five-year (2021- 2025) strategic plan of the committee, discussed ongoing projects, facilitated team building engagements for new representatives, and reviewed the committee’s 2023operationalplan.

Under its current strategic plan, CARIMET aimstostrengthentheability ofNMIsinmemberstatesto provide sustainable metrologyservices.

A key focal point in the shorttermistomaximisethe benefits of the International Committee of Weights and Measures - Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM-MRA). The CIPMMRA is the framework through which National Metrology Institutes worldwide demonstrate the international equivalence of theirmeasurementstandards and their calibration capabilities CARIMET, while being aware of the need to strengthen its network capacity and the monitoring of planned activities,hasinthepastfive years made significant advancements in several technicalareas.

This included the development of three Caribbean Reference Laboratories (CaRLs), conducting its first Volume I n t e r - L a b o r a t o r y Comparison and supporting several NMIs towards international recognition Plans are onstream to develop three new

Calibration Reference Laboratories (CaRLs) to ensure the traceability of critical measurements at all developingNMIs.

Over the years, the GNBS has made significant

strides in Metrology and is workingtobeoneofthebest intheCaribbean.Amongthe major achievements of the l o c a l N M I i s t h e accreditation of the Industrial Metrology Laboratory to the ISO/IEC 17025standard.

The Laboratory was accreditedforthecalibration of mass, force and weighing devices, and non-automatic weighinginstruments.

In addition, the Legal Metrology Department of the GNBS won the 2022 CEEMS (Countries and Economies with Emerging Metrology Systems) Award from the International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) The a w a r d r e c o g n i s e s organisations or individuals foroutstandingcontributions to International Legal Metrology In 2023, the Bureau introduced the verificationofnetcontentof pre-packagedgoodsandwill soon add the verification of Sound Level Meters, Tint Meters and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Meters to its long list of verification services provided to stakeholders in the various industries.

Stakeholders in the aviation,manufacturing,law enforcement, oil and gas, agro-processing and other industries are encouraged to utilize the verification and calibration services of the GNBS to ensure quality control, continuous improvement and consumer protection in their daily activities.

F o r f u r t h e r information, please contact the GNBS on Tel: 2190064-66 or WhatsApp 6924627 or visit our website: www.gnbsgy.org or like us onFacebook:gnbsgy

IMAGINATIVE EXPANSION OF NURSE TRAINING BY HYBRID TRAINING PROGRAME

ByPATDIAL

Of recent years, the conditions of nurses and of the nursing profession have been highlighted largely owing to the expressed concerns of Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, who has always pointed out theessentialrolenursesplay inthedeliveryofaneffective NationalHealthProgramme.

There are a number of factors which negatively affectthenursingprofession and among these are the conditions of service, including remuneration, and the fact that so many nurses leave every year, putting an extra burden on those who remaininservice.

Theemigrationofnurses from Guyana and the other

CARICOM territories to the developed world is caused by the permanent shortages of nurses in the institutions of those countries, resulting in work visas for nurses being granted without much difficulty This pull of CARICOM nurses to the developed countries has imposed a financial loss on the nurses’ home countries,

since these countries would havefinancedtheirtraining.

Guyana may suffer most amongCARICOMcountries from this type of emigration because the Guyana health services are expanding at a veryquickrate;intwoyears therewouldbe12newStateof-the-Art hospitals and many more health centres requiring hundreds of

nurses.

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony is acutely aware of the threat of what could be a calamitous emigration of nurses and is exploring ways of bettering the conditions of nurses and bringing more nurses into the profession by extension oftraining.

Atthemoment,thereare only three public nursing schools catering for approximately 250 trainees with a programme that lasts for 3 years. The quality of training compares with the best, but the output of the schools falls well below the present, and more so, future requirements.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Health through its Health Sciences Education Department and the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) have collaborated to devise a hybrid training programme, whereby the number of nurses trained per annum would be increased many folds. Thequalityoftraining would be of the usual high standard, though the methodology may slightly differ from the traditional. Training would be virtual, thatis,bycomputers,andthe clinicalcomponentwouldbe done at simulation centres which would be established along the Coast and in the hinterland.

Invitations to join the course had been advertised and the Ministry expected thatthenumbersresponding wouldbeabout1000,butthe number of applicants turned out to be 1,712 of whom 1,160 were qualified for entry The remaining 552 would be adopted by the Ministry which will bring them up to the required standards,sothattheycould apply for the next cycle of training.

The training would be modernized and have a digital component, so that the newly trained nurses would be comfortable with

the modern equipment increasingly being used in the hospitals. Each trainee nurse would be given a stipend of $16,180 per monthandonthecompletion of training, each would be guaranteed employment by theMinistryofHealth.

This hybrid training programme is both imaginativeandcreativeand characterizestheworkofthe Ministry under the leadership of Dr Frank Anthony, where notable achievements are made without any fanfare. An example of this is Dr Anthony and his Ministry’s handling of the Covid 19 Pandemic where Guyana is placed among the most successfulintheworld.

In Guyana and the neighbouring countries, no one doubts that the hybrid training programme would be a success and applicants from abroad have expressed aninterestinjoining.ButDr Anthony with his usual modesty, remarked, “We want to first make sure that we can get this pioneering programme up and running properly”.

We would strongly recommend that the Ministry, in due course, make the effort to induct more men into the nursing profession and various groups could help in this process including ‘MoM’. The first step in this process would be encouraging men to apply for the training courses.

T h e s e c o n d recommendation we would wish to make is to make efforts to encourage young women from the Indian and Amerindian communities to apply for the training programmes. Young men and women as well as parentsinthesecommunities havelongbeensocializedto feel that nursing is an urban profession. Social workers o r e v e n p o l i t i c a l representatives could explain to parents the value of the profession and of its universality

Is the Dial of Destiny real? Where’s Shia LaBeouf?

All your ‘Indiana Jones 5’ questions answered. (Spoilers!)

W e ’ v e g o t t h e authoritative answers to the most-searched internet queries.

Wa r n i n g : M a j o r IndianaJonesandtheDial ofDestinyspoilersahead!

( Y A H O O ENTERTAINMENT) It’s not the years, honey, it’s the mileage.

With more than four decades of playing the fedora-sporting, whipcracking archeologist (and professor!) Indiana Jones underhisbelt,HarrisonFord hashadhisshareofboth.

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is the fifth and final film in the famed franchise,whichstartedwith the Steven Spielbergdirected, George Lucasproduced 1981 adventure classic Raiders of the Lost Ark at least the final Indy adventure for the 80-yearoldFord.

The story takes place at two (or technically three) pivotalpointsinJones’slife: AttheendofWorldWarIIin 1944, as Jones (played by a de-aged Ford) and pal Basil Shaw (Toby Jones) come between Nazi astrophysicist Jürgen Voller (Mads M i k k e l s e n ) a n d Archimedes’s Dial, a legendary device believed capableoftimetravel;andin the “present day” of 1969, when a naturally aged Jones teams with Basil’s daughter, Helena “Wombat” Shaw (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) to once again keep the dial out of the possession of Voller, who’s now working with NASAin the space race but hassomeseriouslynefarious secretplans.

(Asforthethirdmoment —majorspoilerwarning!— thatwouldbeway,way, way back in time, or 212 BCE in the film’s surprising climactic time-travel sequence.)

Whether you’ve seen Dial of Destiny or just need to know its deal, here are all your burning questions answeredaboutthefifthand finalIndianaJonesmovie.

Is Mutt (Shia LaBeouf) in the movie?

No,ShiaLaBeouf—the troubled actor we once thought would take over the mantleofIndianaJonesafter playing Mutt Williams, the sonofIndyandwifeMarion Ravenwood(KarenAllen)in 2008’s Kingdom of the Crystal Skull — does not appearin Dial of Destiny As LaBeouf pivoted from blockbusters like Indy and

the Transformers series to more arthouse fare (American Honey, Honey Boy, Pieces of a Woman) amidapatternofarrestsand legal issues from 2014 to 2020, his career turned fully toxic in 2020 when he was accused by ex-girlfriend FKATwigsofsexualbattery, assault and emotional distress.

Does the movie explain why he’s missing?

Yes, the movie does explain his absence, and it’s sad news for Indy Mutt, it’s revealed, was killed during theVietnamWar,asthefilm hintsthatgriefoverhisdeath led to why we find Indy living alone in New York City, separated from Marion (whom he finally married at theendof Crystal Skull),for mostofDialofDestiny

What about Marion, Short Round (Ke-Huy Quan) or Sallah (John Ryhs-Davies)?

Two out of three ain’t bad. Marion and Sallah are back for bit parts, though it feels like director James Mangold and company missedagoldenopportunity not finding a way to bring Temple of Doom fan-favorite Short Round back for a cameogivenQuan’ssublime comeback and awardsseason dominance for his Oscar-winning role in Everything Everywhere All atOnce

Atleasttherehavebeena few emotional Ford-Quan reunionsinreallife,withthe pair posing for a viral photo at Disney’s D23 Expo in Anaheim (Quan was cast in Season 2 of Marvel’s Disney+ series Loki) last September, Ford presenting the Best Picture Oscar to Everything Everywhere, and Quan attending Dial’s Hollywoodpremiere.

Sallah, Indy’s cohort from Raiders and Last Crusade, makes two appearances in Dial, first helping Indy travel to Morocco to track down Helena, and in the celebratory final moments withhiswholefamilyintow.

Butit’sMarionreturning to Indy’s New York residence at the very end, with the pair sharing a Raiders-esque embrace and seemingly mending their marriage,thatpacksthemost emotionalpunch.

And despite what the tabloids may say, the 71year-oldAllen remains very recognizableinhercameoas Indy’s longtime love

interest.

Is the Dial of Destiny (aka Archimedes’s Dial, aka the Antikythera) based on a real thing?

Yes. The titular Dial of Destiny is based on a real device dating from the late secondcenturyBCE,known as the Antikythera mechanism.

As Helena explains to Indy in Dial of Destiny, the gear-driven device was retrieved by sponge divers from a shipwreck off the coast of the Greek island Antikytherain1901,andit’s thoughttohavebeenusedto track and predict astronomicaleventsaheadof time.

Althoughthefilmclaims the device — considered to be one of the first examples of an analog computer — w a s i n v e n t e d b y Archimedes, there’s no historical evidence directly linking it to the Greek mathematician, but theories havelinkedthedevicetohis schoolofthought.

However, that’s where thefilmtransitionsfromfact into fiction: the real Antikythera doesn’t look quite as shiny and polished as the film version, it never fell into the hands of the Nazis, and it doesn’t have any mystical powers except forbeinganincrediblepiece ofancientengineering.

If you wanted to get a closer look at the real deal, it’s currently on display at the National Archaeological Museum inAthens, where it belongs.

Did the Nazis really horde treasure and seek supernatural artifacts?

Yes.TheNazisdidhavea specialized art-theft unit — the ERR — dedicated to looting art and antiquities acrossoccupiedEuropefora planned “super museum” that never came to fruition. Andwhileitnevermanaged togetpossessionof,say,the Lost Ark of the Covenant, theHolyGrailortheDialof Destiny,theThirdReichwas also obsessed with the occult.

In 1935, Heinrich Himmler established a paranormal research group, the Ahnenerrbe, which expanded during the war underHitler’sorders.Oneof its schemes involved a plan to reanimate the dead, resurrectingfamousGerman warriors to aid in the war effort.At the center of these two unhinged strategies was one of Hitler’s most desired

pieces of art: the Ghent Alterpiece The giant painting, attributed to the van Eyck brothers, was believedtohaveacodedmap on one of the panels that would lead the Nazis to lost Catholic treasures including theSpearofDestiny(seenin the new film) and the Holy Grail.

ItwasseizedbytheNazis in World War II, and later found hidden in storage in a salt mine. (For more on that story, see George Clooney’s 2014movie The Monuments Men.)

In Dial of Destiny, we hear of Hitler’s plan to get hold of the Lance of Longinus, and on the Nazi treasure train, you can see the Imperial Regalia of the Holy Roman Empire — a seriesofancientobjectsthat really were stolen by the Nazis from Austria during thewar

Was Jürgen Voller a real person?

No, but he was based on one. Voller is very clearly a heightened riff on Wernher von Braun, the German aerospace engineer known as“thefatherofspacetravel” who was a member of the Nazi party and Allgemeine SS and led Hitler’s development of rocket technology

After World War II, though, Voller the most prestigiousofroughly1,600 Germanscientists,engineers andtechnicianswassecretly relocated to the United States as part of “Operation Paperclip.”

Von Braun subsequently workedfortheUnitedStates Army and Dial of Destiny’s future distributor Disney before making his biggest markasoneofNASA’slead space architects in sending theApollo11tothemoon.In

1975, he received the NationalMedalofScience. Where was Indiana Jones5 filmed?

Principle photography for Dial of Destiny took place at Pinewood Studios just outside of London. It marked a return to the U.K. forthefranchise,whichshot thefirstthreefilmsatElstree Studios, the home of Star Wars, before moving to Hollywood for production on Kingdom of the Crystal Skull

The film also shot on location across the U.K., Morocco, and Sicily England’sBamburghCastle, Leaderfoot Viaduct, Glencoe, Biggar and the North Yorkshire Moors railway station were used during the prologue, while Glasgow’s main artery, St. Vincent Street, stood in for NewYorkduringthe

(Continuedonpage46)

The 6 Worst Food and Drinks for

your

Teeth, according to Dentists

Beware of cavities and tooth fractures with these. Here’s how to protect your dental health.

( H U F F I N G T O N POST) With the risks of deadly viruses and unexpecteddisease,itcanbe easy to forget about your dental health But it’s important to prioritize Studies show that there may be a connection between your dental health and cardiovascular disease, and even links to rheumatoid arthritis.

“If you don’t treat your mouth well, there are bacteria that can grow and causedisease,butalso,those bacteria can cause issues in otherpartsofthebody,”said Dr Kim Capehart, chair of the Department of General Dentistry at Augusta UniversityinGeorgia.

Additionally, ongoing tooth pain can impact your mentalhealth,Capehartsaid. All of this means dental issues are something you wanttoavoid—andtreat— whenpossible.

When it comes to keeping your teeth healthy, there are certain foods and drinks that dentists say are particularly harmful; some createabreedinggroundfor cavities, while others can cause actual tooth fractures. Below, dentists share which foods and drinks are most hazardous to your teeth and what you can do to protect them.

Citrus

Whilecitrusisbeneficial forourhealthbecauseit’san excellent source of vitamin

C, its acidic nature makes it tough on your teeth. Citrus can make the acidity levels in your mouth increase, according to Dr Jossen Gastelum, a dentist based in Arizona who posts dental health tips on his TikTok channel.

“Oranges or grapefruits, just basically any citrus can cause that pH in your mouth to decrease, which makes it acidic,” Gastelum said That can result in demineralizationofthetooth ordestructionoftheenamel. Ice

“I know a lot of people really like ice — that is not good for your teeth,”

Capehart said, pointing out that the cold temperature of ice can be tough for people with sensitive teeth, and the hardness can lead to tooth fractures.

Drinkingaglassofwater withicedoesnotnecessarily carry a threat; this mostly occursifyou’rechewingit.

“Believeitornot,lotsof people eat ice ... they’ll just getacupoficeandjuststart eating it,” Capehart. For those people, the risk of damagetotheteethishigh.

Sticky Candy

“I pretty much try to tell my patients anything that’s acidic or sticky, you want to kind of stay away from because they’re very harmful for your teeth,”

Capehartsaid.

This includes toffees, caramels, gummy worms

and anything similar They can get stuck in the grooves ofyourteethandbedifficult to brush out, which means pieces of candy can get left behind, according to Capehart.

The result? “Anything thatstaysonyourteeththat’s not supposed to with sugar … that all that can cause cavities,”Capehartsaid.

Bread And Crackers

Capehart said that bread can be sticky too, which meansitcanalsogetstuckin your teeth and cause dental problems. Bread eventually turns into sugar, which can causecavities.

Gastelum added that crackers are harmful for the same reason, especially for kids.“Andthosecrackersare usually made out of some type of a carbohydrate, which becomes a sugar that then the bacteria [can] also cause damage on your teeth,”Gastelumexplained.

An obvious harmful drinkissoda,Gastelumsaid, but you may be shocked at just how much it can hurt your mouth. “Sodas can be super acidic. They can be at aciditylevelsclosetobattery acid,”heexplained.

In fact, Gastelum said there is a term called “MountainDewmouth.”

“People that actually are chronic drinkers of Mountain Dew actually come in and sometimes can exhibit decay or even destruction in their mouth, similar to people that are doing meth or something likethat,”Gastelumsaid.

He noted that energy drinks are harmful, too “Most of those things are loaded with extra sugars, whichdefinitelydon’thelp,” hesaid.“Buttheaciditylevel in it, of itself, even in the sugar-free versions, is still

reallybadforyourteeth.”

Coffee

Sorry, java lovers: Coffee is another acidic beverage that can damage your teeth, Capehart said. This is true whether you drink your coffee black or with a sweetener, Gastelum added.

For those who add sugar totheircupofjoe,it’sdoubly harmful because of the sugars that are swirling around in your mouth

Anotherdingagainstcoffee?

It stains your teeth, accordingtoCapehart.

Foods That Can Promote

Good Dental Health

Thankfully, there are foods and drinks that can improve your teeth. Start withcrunchyveggies.

“Carrots and crunchy vegetables,Imeanthat’sjust goodforyourhealthoverall, but for your teeth when you go in there and chew, it helps clean it,” Capehart said.

According to Capehart, apples also fall into this category, and Gastelum noted that celery is good for yourteeth,too.

“Those are really crunchy foods that can help to mechanically remove plaque as you’re eating them,”saidGastelum.

Anotherbeneficialfood?

“The fun one that I like to mention is cheese, ” Gastelum said. “Cheese is actuallyprettygoodforyour teeth and can actually be

used toneutralizesomeof theacidsinyourmouth.”

Additionally, cheese contains calcium, which “helpsfortifyyourteeth,and then it stimulates saliva,” he noted, adding that this helps bring the pH levels in your mouthbacktobaseline.

Finally, don’t sleep on beverages like water, milk andgreentea.Theycanhelp maintain healthy acidity levelsinyourmouth.Teacan also“beagoodsubstitutefor people that really like to havelikecoffeeallthetime,” Gastelumnoted.

Other Important Oral Hygiene To-Dos

Brushing and flossing yourteethareimportantoral health basics, but there’s moreyoucando,too.

Gastelum said you should rinse your mouth with water or a pH-alkaline m o u t h r i n s e l i k e TheraBreath immediately after eating or drinking to helpneutralizetheacidityin your mouth. “You should alsowaitatleast30minutes to brush to allow for your saliva to properly buffer thoseacids,”hesaid.

“A good tip is chewing sugar-free xylitol gum after meals for at least five minutes,” Gastelum said “Some studies have shown that helps a lot because the xylitol can actually inhibit the cavity-causing bacteria andthechewingactionhelps to stimulate your salivary flow.”

Is the Dial of Destiny real? Where’s Shia LaBeouf?...

Frompage45

Manhattan moon landing parade sequence.TheEastLondonsuburb of Hackney stood in for Basil Shaw’s home in Oxford, while London’s Hatton Garden also doubledforNewYorkinonescene.

A full-scale replica of a New York subway station was built on Pinewood’slegendary007stagefor the moment Indy rides a police horsethroughthetraintunnels.

Although part of the film takes place in Greece, the production usedSicilytodoublefortheGreek port where Indy meets up with his old friend Renaldo (Antonio Banderas), while all of the Sicilyset scenes were filmed in the real locations including the cave of Dionysiuswhich—likeinthefilm —isfamousforitshugeecho.

For the scenes in Tangiers — including the Tuktuk chase — the productionshotexteriorsinthecity of Fez, while the interior of the Hotel L’Atlantique was built on a Pinewoodsoundstage.

Does Indy die in the end?

Given Ford has plainly stated that Dial of Destiny would be his

last time donning the fedora, fans naturally wondered if Indy would die a hero’s death like his other most famous character, Han Solo, in2015’sStarWars:

The Force Awakens especially considering Ford was teaming with director James Mangold, who managed to kill off Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in the criticallyacclaimedLogan

And while it momentarily seems like Indy might live out his last days chopping it up with Archimedes in 212 BCE (understandably an archeologist’s ultimatefantasy),Indyisultimately safely transported back to the presentday,wherehe’llseemingly livehappily(crankily)everafter Is there an end-credits scene?

No. Following in the tradition of the four previous films, there is nofinalsceneforfanstoenjoyafter thecreditshaverolled.

However,thereisafunmoment intheverylastshotofthemovie.

As the camera cranes from the streets of New York back up to Indy’s apartment balcony, we see

histrademarkfedorahangingupon awashingline.

The screen begins to fade to black with an iris closing in on the hat, and just before it shuts completely,ahandsnatchesthehat from the line. While not hinting Indyisreadyforanotheradventure —again,Fordsaysthisisfinaltime intherole—itdoessuggestthatthe world-weary professor has finally regainedhiszestforlife.

Is Phoebe Waller-Bridge “the next Indiana Jones”?

This,ofcourse,hasbeenoneof the most hot-button topics surrounding the release of Dial of Destiny After her breakout television series Fleabag (which she created and starred in) and Killing Eve (where she served as head writer and executive producer), the British performer has become one of the most indemand multihyphenates in Hollywood and has contributed to two of its biggest franchises, costarring in Solo: A Star Wars Story and writing Daniel Craig’s James Bondswansong,NoTimetoDie WithherprominentroleinDial,

speculationnaturallyfollowedthat Waller-Bridge could snatch the baton from Ford as he exits the series, especially as a number of other major franchises and characters (Ghostbusters, Ocean’s, Hulk) have been gender-flipped in recentyears.

Rumors ran rampant that Dial of Destiny originally ended with Waller-Bridge’s Shaw literally putting on the fedora, but was changed by Disney and Lucasfilm after test audiences revolted Mangold forcefully shot down those rumors down in December, though,railingonTwitter,“Noone is‘takingover’orreplacingIndyor donning his hat nor is he being ‘erased’thrusomecontrivance.

Andheneverwas,notinanycut or script — but trolls will troll — that’showtheygettheirclicks.”

That doesn’t necessarily mean HelenaShawdoesn’thaveafuture inHollywood,though.

Waller-Bridge is drawing acclaim for her spirited performance going toe-to-toe with Ford in Dial, and, again, WallerBridge has accumulated some

major credibility in the business. It’sreasonabletothinkDisneyand Lucasfilm would at least consider spinning off her character into her ownfranchise,thoughrumorshave also circulated in recent months that a planned Indy-related Disney+ series has been shelved after the failure of this year’s female-ledWillow

Our two cents: Give Ke-Huy Quan’sShortRoundhisownseries! Is IndianaJones5, the last one?

Byallaccounts, Dial of Destiny is the last Indiana Jones movie starringHarrisonFord.

But then again, there was as timewhereweneverthoughtwe’d see the actor play Jones, Han Solo or Rick Deckard again, and he has reprisedallthree.Sowe’llonlysay thiswith95%certainty

And of course, in Hollywood, you can never discount a lucrative series being rebooted with a new actorintherole10or20yearsfrom now

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destinyisnowplayingincinemas aroundworld.

Soda And Energy Drinks

Sauvignon Blanc - A Guide to the Basics

Fantastic ones are produced in France and New Zealand, but Sauvignon Blanc also thrives in Italy, California, Chile, and beyond.

(Food&Wine)Formany inthefarwestofthecountry, to even veal dishes like a grassiness or bell pepper is consumers, Sauvignon in addition to the Adelaide classic piccata preparation. also likely, a result of a Blanc is synonymous with Hills. It also is a great partner for compound in the grape itself New Zealand, and vice In California, Sauvignon cheese, particularly chèvre, calledpyrazine. versa. It makes sense, given Blanc shines in Napa Valley whose own hints of This is the same the sheer number of and Sonoma County (the grassiness find counterparts compound that’s responsible excellent options from both 2020 Alma de Cattleya is inmanySauvignonBlancs. for the bell pepper and the North and South Island. savory and subtly floral, and What Does Sauvignon vegetalnotesincool-climate

But the grape also has a the Acumen Mountainside Blanc Taste Like? Cabernet Sauvignon and beloved home in France, Sauvignon Blanc is crunchy Sauvignon Blanc CabernetFranc. wherethestunningexamples and very layered, with a typically showcases fruit on Sauvignon Blanc is aregrownintheLoireValley long,balancedfinish)aswell the citrus end of the considered to be a semiandBordeaux. as the Sierra Foothills (the spectrum, most notably aromatic grape variety, and California boasts 2018 Andis Codevilla grapefruit, though lemon, its high acidity adds to its countless top Sauvignon Vineyard Old Vines lime, and kumquat are not sense of refreshment. That lends the wine a more though oak-aged or lees- Blancs, as do Chile and Sauvignon Blanc leverages uncommon.Warmer-climate acidity can be attenuated by creamy texture. In general. stirredexamplesmaybebest Argentina Depending on oak to help create a wine of examplesmayleaninamore oak aging and a process Sauvignon Blanc is best ataslightlylesscool(though where it’s grown and who’s depth and richness). Even tropical direction with their called bâtonnage the enjoyed quite chilled, stillchilled)temperature. producing it, Sauvignon producers who are better fruitnotes.Acounterpointof stirring of the lees — which Blanccanbefruit-drivenand known for their Cabs have mouth watering with citrus been crafting noteworthy aromas and flavors, or more Sauvignon Blancs; Ink savory with distinct vegetal Grade and Peter Michael are notes that skew in the phenomenal examples, as is direction of fresh-cut grass theQuintessa“Illumination” or bell peppers. Sometimes, Sauvignon Blanc, which it’salloftheabove! brings together fruit from

Ultimately, Sauvignon Napa and Sonoma to result Blanc is produced in a wide in a wine of exceptional range of expressions at a complexityandappeal. broad spectrum of price Why Should You Drink points, making it one of the Sauvignon Blanc Wine? world’s most popular white Sauvignon Blanc is grapevarieties. capableofbeingproducedin

What is Sauvignon a broad range of styles, from Blanc Wine? fruit-forward, ripe, and

Sauvignon Blanc is a sometimes even tropical, to white wine produced from more vegetal and linear In the grape variety of the same that way, it has the ability to name. In North and South appeal to a wide range of America, New Zealand, and winelovers. Australia, it goes by the In parts of California name of that grape, and most notably, there are even bottles tend to be labeled as producers who are crafting Sauvignon Blanc. In France, Sauvignon Blanc that’s been however, that is generally influenced by oak, which not the case; The wines of lends it an unexpected sense

Pouilly-Fumé and Sancerre, of richness and sweet spice. for example, are produced It also blends very well with from Sauvignon Blanc by other white grape varieties, law,yettheyarelabeledwith most notably Semillon and the name of the appellation Muscadelle, but also as opposed to the grape. Chardonnay

Meanwhile, white Bordeaux In terms of Sauvignon (or Bordeaux Blanc) is Blanc price points, it’s typically a blend of possible to find cheerful, Sauvignon Blanc and bang-for-the-buck bottles Semillon, with some forunder$15,aswellasageMuscadelle as a common worthy ones that climb into addition, even though those thetriplefigures.

grapes won’t typically be The good news is that found on the front label. producers all over the world Regardless, white wines a r e c o n s t a n t l y produced from Sauvignon experimenting with the Blancarebelovedaroundthe styles of Sauvignon Blanc worldnomatterwhatthey’re they produce, and there are called. bound to be great options on

Where Does Sauvignon retail shelves and restaurant

Blanc Wine Come From? wineliststoexplore.

Sauvignon Blanc is most Speaking of restaurants, famously produced in Sauvignon Blanc is a very Marlborough, New Zealand versatile white wine at the and France, where (in the table.Itsvividacidityallows former) its telltale it to cut through butter and gooseberry and grapefruit cream, and its telltale citrus notes shine most brightly It notes help it liven up a wide also does well in Australia, range of foods, from pasta particularly Margaret River with seafood to sauteed fish

Sauvignon Blanc

The Crow & The Pitcher

During a long drought when the Birdscouldn'tfindmuchtodrink, a thirsty Crow discovered a pitcher with some water in it at the bottom. But the pitcher was tall and had a narrow neck,sotheCrowcouldn'treachthewaterno matter how hard he tried. The poor creature felt as if he was going to die thirst.

Then he had an idea. He took handful of little pebbles lying in ground and dropped them one by into the pitcher The water rose a little higher with each rock until it was close enoughforhimtodrink.Didyouknow this is one of the most popular moral storiesforkids?

Moralofthestory:Agooduseof wit and cleverness always helps us out.

The Magical Donkey

OnceAkbargiftedavery precious necklace to his queen which she safely in her room But unfortunately, one day necklace was misplaced, and queen was unable to locate it.

Then Akbar came to know that not only the necklace, but few other precious things have also gone missing in the past few days from his palace. Unable to resolve the situation, he asked Birbal to help. Birbal brought along a friend of his, a magical donkey, to solve the mystery He asked each suspect to go alone in the tent and hold the

Mini Beach

Create a miniature beach scene on a paper

plate with clay, sand, and a jelly ocean! Add other elements that you love about the beach like beach umbrellas, fishes, sea creatures and sandcastles.

SUPPLIES NEEDED

* Large paper plate

*Air dry clay or homemade salt dough *Sand

*Unflavoured gelatine *Blue food colouring *Cocktail umbrella

*Coloured paper *Blue poster paint

*Paint brush

*Crayons

*Glue

* Scissors

1-Mark the shoreline. Prepare a large paper plate. Draw a line to mark the shoreline.

2-Paint the paper plate. Paint the ocean portion of the paper plate blue.

1. Make a tree trunk by rolling a small rectangular piece of brown construction paper Tape or glue the edgeinplace.

donkey's tail and if the person was the thief, the donkey will identify him and give him a good kick. Everyone followed Birbal's instruction other than the thief. As Birbal had sprayed a powerful scent on Donkey's tail and thief avoided touching the donkey'stailoutoffear,hewasfinallycaught. Moralofthestory:Acleverideaalways savestheday.

3-Create a base for the beach. Build the base for yourbeachwithairdryclayorhomemadesaltdough.

4-Cover the dough with sand. Cover the whole surface of the dough or clay with sand. Pat down the sandtoallowittosticktothedoughorclay

2. Create leaves from a small rectangular piece of green paper Cut evenly-spaced slits along its longside.

3.Rollthegreenpaper Insertthe uncut side into the top of the tree trunk.

4.Carefullyopenupthefringes.

5-Create details. Create lots of fun details for your beach. Below are some examples but you can always come up with more creative ideas.

a.) Beach towel - cut a rectangular piece of colored paper and draw some stripes on it. Cut fringes on the edges if you like. b.) Beach umbrella - use a cocktail umbrella or make your own by forming a small paper cone and propping it up with a small stick for the handle.

c.) Palm or coconut tree - create a palm tree out of paper

d.) Clay details - form colored air dry clay or salt dough into little details like a beach ball, a starfish, a sand bucket, a pair of flip-flops and evensomebeach-goers. Youcanevenmakeasandcastle and other sand sculptures out of uncolored salt dough or air dry clay Place them on the beach then cover the scuptures with sand to blend in withthesandybeach.

6-Prepare some unflavored gelatin. Prepare unflavored gelatin according to package instructions. Since this step involves heating or cooking, young kids should be helped by an adult.Add a few drops ofbluefoodcoloringandmix.

7-Pourthegelatinmixture.Wait until the gelatin mixture is lukewarm before pouring it into the bluesectionofyourpaperplate.

FUNWITHPOETRY

I don't know when it happened, I don't know when she came, But she's the one I always knew, Grandma is her name.

She taught me how to tie my shoes, She taught me how to talk, And though I can't remember, I think she taught me how to walk.

And sometimes there were days I'd cry, Or hide my head in shame, But Grandma took it all in stride, And loved me all the same.

She'd wrap her arms around me, And kiss me on the head, She'd tell me that she loved me, When she tucked me into bed.

We discussed the need for each young person to develop a value systembasedonwhathe/she hasbeentaughtaboutproper types of behaviour, on his/her own conscience on what is perceived to be wrong and right, on what are his/her ambitions for future achievements in life, and for the type of person he/she wouldliketobe.

Another step towards this realisation of a true sense of identity is the d e v e l o p m e n t o f interpersonal relationship skills.

Many young people, because of the present environment in which most of them live, which encourages them to start

getting into serious relationships with a special personevenbeforetheyhave acquired proper skills in communication and relationships with the other important people in their lives, spend too much time, thought and energy looking for that special boyfriend or girlfriend.

Thishastetodevelopthat special relationship can also arise from the need for love and acceptance that may be lacking at home due to various unfortunate circumstances. Itnormally leads to a lack of experience in communication and dealingwiththeotherpeople in their lives, and can affect them adversely in achieving successattheirstudies,work and in their community.

BRIDGES

Instead, it has to be seen as worthy of some effort to developtheabilitytorespect and get along well with all other citizens of both sexes. Also, not to focus on one relationship will help in the creation of lasting friendships with others close to you, who will be there for you, to show you love and acceptance, assist in your own development, and be a sourceofhelpinthetimesof materialneed,lonelinessand sadness. Equally essential is the development of intellectualandstudyskills.

As a young person, even if you have passed your examinations and secured a job, you need to appreciate that this is only the start of your education. Acquiring experience and developing your talents must be ongoingfor,astheysay,whena personstopslearningitisthe sameasdying.

The acquiring of knowledge and intellectual upliftment should form the foundation for your future

We are all one

careerandsuccessinlife.

These are the skills in a large way that determine the kind of future, the kind of job, the kind of standard of living you would like to possess, and the people with w h o m y o u w i l l b e interacting for the rest of yourlife.

These will be the measurement by which you will be judged by those who have to deal with you at all levels.

They will also give you that sense of identity which is so important in making you confident that you do measure up to what is required for a person who wants success and happiness inthislife.

It will reinforce your sense of security so that you will be able to go forth into the world knowing that you do have the basics for making of yourself the best you can be, and for doing your part towards making your world a better place for yourselfandallothers.

Connect these islands with bridges until each island can be reached from any other island, and each island has as many outgoing bridges as its number You may only connect islands vertically or horizontally and bridges may not cross. There may be one or two bridges connecting pairs of islands, but no more than two. Each puzzle has a unique solution that can be found without making guesses.

No matter where we are born, We are all human beings, same chemistry, With like feelings and emotions, All corresponding and compatible. You cannot get around it, No matter where you go, You are no better than I, And I have nothing more than you.

The only difference I can see Is in what you think is right, The shade of the skin doesn't matter, We all cry and smile as bright.

The feelings that make us happy or sad, The thoughts making us false or true, Would you believe that I too have All these the same as you.

So let us follow our destiny

On the same road hand in hand, To make the most of ourselves, And our beautiful homeland.

Solutions to last week’s

MAGIC SQUARE PUZZLES

When you have developed yourself to fulfil all your obligations to others, you will feel confident to go forth conf in life to pursue your ambitions. ambi confident

Rose Water: Benefits and Uses

What is rose water?

Rose water is created by distilling rose petals with steam. Rose water is fragrant, and it's sometimes used as a mild natural fragrance as an alternative to chemical-filled perfumes.

Rose water has been used for thousands of years, including in the MiddleAges. It's thought to have originated in what is now Iran. It's been used traditionally in both beauty products and food and drink products. It also comes with plenty of potential health benefits, including the following.

1. Helps soothe skin irritation

One of the greatest benefits of rose water is its strong antiinflammatory properties. These properties can help treat multiple ailments, both internal and external.

2. Soothes sore throats

Doctors often prescribe antibiotics for sore throats, but you may want to try rose water as well. Rose water has traditionally been used to soothe sore throatsTrusted Source. While research is needed to prove its effectiveness, there's strong anecdotal evidence to support it and very little risk in trying it.

3. Reduces skin redness

Rose water has been used as a beauty product for thousands of years, so it's no surprise that it can improve your complexion and reduce skin redness. The antibacterial properties may help reduce acne.

4. Helps prevent and treats infections

Rose water has powerful antiseptic properties, which can prevent and treat infections. Because of this, rose water is often included in a variety of natural and medicinal treatments.

5. Contains antioxidants

Rose petals and rose oil contain a number of powerful antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.

6. Heals cuts, scars, and burns

Rose water has antiseptic and antibacterial propertiesTrusted Source that can help wounds heal faster These properties can help clean and fight off infection of cuts and burns. They can also help cuts, burns, and even scars heal faster

7. Enhances mood

Rose water can have strong antidepressant and antianxiety properties.

8. Relieves headaches

Rose water and rose essential oil are commonly used in aromatherapy to help relieve headaches. This may be due to the de-stressing effects discussed in the section above. One study found Trusted Source that the vapor of rose water can soothe headaches.Another option is to apply a compress soaked in rose water to the head for 45 minutes for positive results.

9. Has anti-aging properties

Rose water is often found in beauty products aimed to reduce wrinkles. That's because it may actually have antiaging effects. In addition to soothing irritated skin, it may reduce the appearance of wrinkles when applied topically

10. Soothes digestion problems

In folk medicine, rose water has been used to aid in digestion and reduce digestive upset.According to a 2008 study, there is some evidence that rose water can positively influence digestion and relieve digestive upset. It may also improve bile secretion, which can further aid digestion.

Forms and doses- You can buy or make rose water relatively easily You can apply it to the skin topically on its own, or mix it with moisturizers or natural oils like coconut oil.You can also use rose water to make rose water tea or rose petal tea. These improve hydration, provide skin benefits, treat digestive distress, and soothe a sore throat.

Potential risks- Rose water is considered to be safe. There are no known risks for the general population to use it either topically or by ingesting it. The only exception is if you are allergic to the substance.

How to use it- You can purchase rose water, or you can make it yourself. Once you have it, there are a number of different ways you can use it, including the following:

Use it as a facial cleanser or toner. Just rinse your face with rose water after washing with your normal cleanser

Use it in recipes, such as hibiscus iced tea with rose water

Create a rose water mist by adding it to a spray bottle. This can relieve stress. You can mist the rose water on your

https://www.healthline.com/health/rose-water-benefits#how-to-use-it

InterestingCreatures... The Vampire Deer

By Shervin Belgrave scarylookingfangs.

than that of the Chinese

TThere are two main water deer and are more like he name vampire species of Vampire deer, tusks. deer might send The Chinese water deer- While animals with such

shivers down found mainly in China- and long pointed scary fangs are your spine, but these the Siberian Musk deer- carnivores and use them to creatures do not suck blood found in the Siberian jungle rip through the flesh of their andisdefinitelyharmless. and other areas of Asia and prey, the vampire deer uses

They are quite small Europe them to defend its territory herbivores without antlers The fangs of the Siberian from intruders and fend off and are only called vampire Musk deer, according to predators. deer because of their long scientists, are much longer Althoughtheydonotlive up to their name as blood suckers, vampire deer do havesomethingsincommon withrealvampires.

Both species are solitary creaturesbutmaysometimes be seen in pairs-during The Siberian Musk deer shorter front limbs The Siberian Musk deer that mating seasons, or groups of inhabits the mid range fangs of males also grow some individuals describe as threes. altitudes of the mountainous longerastheyage. teddybears.

They are also rarely seen areas of Asia, such the The Chinese water deer Although these legendand are only active in the Himalayas and are dark on the other hand are good like creatures are more nightsorduringtwilight. brown with a greyish swimmers and are mostly native to Asia, they can be Althoughthetwospecies looking head and yellowish foundinthelowlandareasof found in some parts of have similar behaviour orwhitespots. Chineseprovinces. Europe. patters, they are quite They also have long They are a lighter shade Source of information different in appearances and muscular hind legs with of brown and are much (https://worlddeer org/vamp liveindifferenthabitats. much slender, weaker and fuzzier looking than the ire-deer/)

Frederick Rampersaud closing in on three decades of television and radio services to Guyana

Charismatic television

G u y a n a ’ s 5 0 t h and radio personality Mr Independence celebration in Frederick Rampersaud is St.Martin. closing in on three decades

Hereflectedthathecame of broadcasting service to a long way with no formal Guyana. training in the field. But

Today (July 2, 2023) Mr accordingtoRampersaud,he Rampersaud celebrates 27 was always drawn to the years on television and 22 radioasayoungster years as a radio broadcaster

“I was very ambitious. I His work on the media wanted to be a radio platforms has earned him announcer, an accountant fans in the Region and and a lawyer I come from a variouspartsoftheworld. Christian home, my

He commemorates his grandfather was a pastor and anniversary with lunches, so on. So public speaking refreshments and giveaways came naturally to me and I c h a r i t a b l e e f f o r t s ,

NTN located on Brickdam, at11:00hours.

T h e Wa t e r f a l l s , Mr to fans during his live radio

started off by hosting particularly during the Georgetown. The fun starts Duringaninterviewwith Rampersaud disclosed that show on 89.1FM in front of pageants such as the Diwali COVID-19pandemic. 47 hampers were also pageantandthatiswhereMr Notably, he has also presented to La Grange CN Sharma and his wife hosted internet online PrimarySchooltoaidintheir Savitri saw me and gave me programmes on Seductive graduation of nursery myfirstbreak.”Rampersaud Sounds, Wee Radio online students. Mr Rampersaud recalled that he was so good 87.7 FM New York and has converted his platform atthenewgig,thatwithinhis 100.1 NY live from the on NTN radio to bring fans first six months as a talk United States of America from several countries show host, he was invited to (USA). Mr Rampersaud has together with the fan club interview the now-late recently completed his growing daily He has also President Cheddi Jagan at Bachelor of Laws (LLB) been involved in several State House for one hour from the University of charitable ventures, Subsequently,hetravelledto Guyana (UG) with a 3.3 donating face masks, motor Trinidad, where he also GPA. To this, he said he bike, hampers, money, interviewed the first female hopes to complete his Legal public address system to Attorney General, Kamla Certification in the near name a few with strong Persad-Bissessar, who later future. support from financial became that country’s Prime

He is hopeful that he will assistance from fans and the Minister Fast forward, more be rewarded and recognized corporate sponsors of his than two decades later, Mr by his country for his programme. Rampersaud,whohashosted contribution to Guyana

His early passion for several radio programmes, Uniquely, Frederick has broadcasting and television has used his platform to do been paying all 27 years for programmes had opened more than just spread his programmes on opportunities for him to visit information. He said that television and radio unlike several countries including through his work as a most in the media who are bein

the master of radio/TVpersonality,hewas beingpaidfortheirservices. ceremonies (MC) for able to spearhead notable

The Chinese Water deer

The Siberian Musk deer

The man with the ‘golden voice’ radio/tv host Frederick Rampersaud

Delays in the construction of Linden to Mabura road will not be tolerated –Edghill

inister of Public Works,

Juan Edghill on Friday warned the contractor hiredtoconstructtheLindentoMabura roadthatdelaysintheprojectwillnotbe tolerated.

AccordingtotheMinistryofPublic Works,theMinistermetwithallthekey players involved in the construction of the road which include the ministry’s engineering staff, Consultant Mott MacDonald, Management Consultant, Politecna, and Contracting Brazilian firmConstrutoraQueirozGalvaoS.A.

The meeting was called for a generalupdateontheprojectsofar,the ministry stated. At the meeting the minister took time to reinforce the urgencyofthisproject,andtheneedfor it to stay on track and be completed withinitscontractualtimeframe.

“The Minister warned that unnecessary delays will not be

tolerated, and those in charge will be held accountable,” the ministry said in itsstatement.

It was reported that in December 2020, the Government of Guyana, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and the Government of the United KingdompartneredtofundtheUS$190 millionproject.

The CDB funded US$112 million, while a grant of £50 million (US$66 million) from the Government of the United Kingdom via the CDBadministered United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund, along with US$12 million provided by the Government covered the cost of the project.

In 2022, following a thorough evaluation process by the CDB and Consultant Mott MacDonald and other specialists, Construtora Queirozñ GalvaoS.A,(BidNo5)wasdetermined

asthemostresponsivebid,meaningfull compliance with all Safety, environmental, social, and health requirements, in upgrading the 121 kilometres of road from Linden to MaburaHill.

This project forms part of a wider development of the Georgetown to Lethemcorridor

KaieteurNewshadreportedthatthis project will consist of two main highways; the width of each lane is approximately 3.6 metres, some hard shoulders both sides measuring 2.4 metres, cyclist and pedestrian lane of two metres, a utility corridor, about 10 bus stops, and nine rest areas just to mentionafew.

The Linden to Mabura Hill road project is just the first phase that will ultimately lead to a completed Linden to Lethem road link that will then completeanoverlandlinktoBrazil.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill alongside ministry officials during a meeting with the key personnel involved in the Linden to Mabura Road project.

Guyana signs roadmap for implementation of Guyana - EU Forest Partnership

DPI - The maintenance of sustainably managed forests, theexpansionofprotectedand conserved forests, increasing restored forests and the number of forest-related jobs, and maintaining the rate of deforestation of natural forests below 0.1 percent per annum, are the ambitious targets that Guyana and the European Union (EU) have signed a roadmap to strengthen their collaboration andachieveby2030.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, and Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, signed the roadmap in the run-up to the EU Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (EU-CELAC) Summit, which is being held this year onJuly17to18.

The move is in line with the recently adopted Joint Communication on “New AgendaforRelationsbetween theEUandLatinAmericaand theCaribbean”.

The roadmap will also aid s i g n i f i c a n t l y i n t h e implementation of the G u y a n a - E U F o r e s t Partnership.

According to an article issued by the EU after the signing, Commissioner Urpilainen expressed her strong support for the work jointly carried out with Guyana.

“Guyana wants to protect and use its forests sustainably Iamgladthatwewillcontinue to work together as partners on this shared ambition. The ForestPartnershipwillhelpus reach our joint climate and biodiversity goals while promoting socio-economic

development,”shesaid. Further, Minister Bharrat andCommissionerUrpilainen discussed the next steps of the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade ( F L E G T ) Vo l u n t a r y PartnershipAgreement(VPA) after its entry into force in June of this year This agreement on bilateral trade aims to improve forest governance and ensure the harvesting and trade of legal timber The minister and commissioner agreed on the next steps to implement the VPA towards the licensing system.

The Forest Partnership and the FLEGTVPAwill help Guyana to enhance its forest bio-economy and attract p u b l i c a n d p r i v a t e i n v e s t m e n t s w h i l e contributing to climate and biodiversity objectives and reinforcing the rights of local communities and Indigenous people.

Through these long-term political commitments, Guyana and the EU have agreed to cooperate closely to ensure sustainable forest management by improving f o r e s t g o v e r n a n c e , strengthening capacities and institutions, and enhancing the business environment; stimulating the forest bioeconomy that generates jobs

a n d s o c i o - e c o n o m i c

development through sustainable forest-based value chains and market access; reduce deforestation through protection and restoration of forests and improved production practices, and facilitate the production of and trade in legal and sustainableforestproducts.

30community roadstobe rehabilitated inSophia

DPI-ResidentsofSophia, Georgetown will continue to feel the government's presence,assome30roadsare set to be rehabilitated in the community

Minister of Public Works, BishopJuanEdghill,madethe disclosure following a walkabout in the area on Saturday

The minister began a rigorous exercise of road assessments in 'B' and 'C' Fields, Sophia, where he announced that works will soonbeginonseveralroads.

“Whatwearelookingtodo is to ensure that wherever we are making investments, wherever we are building roads, that they are highimpact and people will benefit fromtheintervention.Wehave to be able to answer to the real needs of people,” the minister explained.

A similar exercise will be conducted on the East Bank of Demerara.

“We have to do this in every region to ensure that we continue to see what is done, and where the gaps are to ensure that we are getting the correct assessments so that when we proceed with our allocations and expenditure forthisyear,wearegettingthe requiredresults,”headded.

Further, the Public Works Minister emphasised the importanceofplacingfocuson community roads, as these

directly impact the lives of residents.

“We've been looking at the big highways and the major billion-dollar projects But these community streets are really what matters to people because when they come off the highway and they turn off to go into their villages, they want to be able to drive on the road and get there safely, and in comfort,” Minister Edghill underscored.

Accompanied by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister Edghill visited severalcommunitiesalong the East Coast and engaged with residents, assessing roads in need of repair. Several roads andbridgeswereidentifiedfor rehabilitative works, with priority given to those leading toschools.

As Local Government Elections came to a close, the People's Progressive Party/Civic government announced that it will be r a m p i n g u p t h e i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f rehabilitative and constructive worksoncommunityroads,as part of its people-centred agendafordevelopment.

This agenda has seen cabinet ministers consistently engaging residents across the country, identifying issues, and making interventions where possible to improve the lives of Guyanese at the grassrootslevel.

Accompanied by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister Edghill visited several communities along the East Coast

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, during the walkabout in Sophia

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, listens to a resident of Sophia

UN chief calls for international force in Haiti during visit

Aljazeera - Antonio

Guterres arrived in Haiti on his first visit as UN secretary-general in a bid to shine a spotlight on the Caribbean nation’s worseningplightandrequest a multinational force to stabilisethecountry

“I’minPort-au-Princeto express my full solidarity with the Haitian people and call on the international community to continue to stand with Haiti, including with a robust international force to assist the Haitian National Police,” Guterres saidonTwitterafewminutes afterhisarrivalonSaturday

“This is not the time to forget Haiti ”

G u t e r r e s w a s expected to meet Prime Minister Ariel Henry, as well as other political leaders and members of civil society, his spokesperson said

The world body’s leader has raised the alarm about the situation i n t h e W e s t e r n Hemisphere’s poorest country, which has been racked by gang violence, a worsening public health situation, and politicalinstability

Guterres told the UN Security Council inApril that he viewed the insecurity in the capital Port-au-Prince as “comparable to countries in armed conflict”, and said Haitians face one of theworsthumanrightscrises indecades.

Haiti’s minister of planning and external cooperation Ricard Pierre warned the country could descend into civil war if an international security contingent is not deployed soon

The United Nations and Henryhaverepeatedlymade the case for a “rapid action force” to support security services in Haiti, which has not held national elections since2016.

But nine months after Guterres first asked the Security Council for such a force, no country has been willing to step forward to lead one, fearing high risks anduncertainsuccess.

Canada and Brazil have both been heavily involved in discussions, and several Caribbean nations have backedamultinationalforce.

‘Somelevelofsecurity’ President Joe Biden has

madecleartheUnitedStates, which has a long history of interventioninHaiti,willnot lead a force and instead wants to focus on bolstering thefledglingnationalpolice.

Countries have been wary of supporting the Henryadministration,which tookpowerinJuly2021days after the assassination of PresidentJovenelMoiseand has repeatedly said that fair elections cannot be held underthecurrentinsecurity

UN Children’s Fund

(UNICEF) Executive

Director Catherine Russell said after a visit

Guterres

international ‘rapid action force’ to help Haitian police tackle spiralling gang violence

t o Port-au-Prince this week the situation was “shockingly bad”

“The violence was palpable there,” Russell toldAl Jazeera “Clearly, somebody needs to come in to restore some level of security for the people who live there and I don’t think that the Haitian police are going to be able to do that.”In a briefing upon her return, Russell

h ighli g h t e d “unprecedented hunger and malnutrition, grinding poverty, a crippled economy, resurgence of cholera” as well as violence against womenandchildren.

She recounted the horrific story of an 11year-old girl who was kidnapped by five men and raped

“She was eight months pregnant when

we spoke and g a v e birth just a few days later,” she said, noting armed gangs controlled more than 60 percent of the capital and large swathsofthecountryside.

Compounding the crises, the flooding and earthquakes that have repeatedly ravaged the country “continue to remind us all just how vulnerable Haiti is to climate changeandnatural

d isasters” ,Russellsaid.

The UN refugee agency said som e 73,500 people fled Haiti last year

The United Nations has said 5.2 million –nearly half Haiti’s population – need h u m a n i t a r i a n assistancein2023.

It has appealed for $720m to deliver aid this year, but so far it

...Antonio

presses for an

him and his team. He led me and immediately tries to kiss contends that the lopsided to believe he was travelling me and he forces himself on arrangement can be

From page 16

with a team which made to me against the wall. I renegotiated. sense.” On the day of the immediately rejected his

Trotman in a new book supposed meeting with the advances and made it clear I titled ‘From Destiny to official and his team, the was not into having sex with Prosperity’which chronicles womansharedthatshedrove him and that nothing was histenureasaMinisterunder to State House, Anna goingtohappen.Itoldhimin the A Partnership for Regina, Region Two where no uncertain terms that I am National Unity + Alliance the official said a meeting not sexually attracted to him

For Change (APNU + AFC) willbeheld. and I start to feel guilty as

Coalition government

However, when she though something was between 2015 and 2020, arrived, she realised: “The expected of me that I did not with a particular focus on vibe is strange It was know...this was my first stint decisions made regarding completely empty except for inpoliticsandsofar,Ididnot the emerging petroleum one gentleman eating at a knowifthiswassomesortof sector, wrote that one of the table. I did not know what to sick initiation process that in mistakes he made was expect but the whole set up order to join the PPP Youth heeding the advice of Exxon and energy was not what I Arm, you have to sleep with toremainhushedonthedeal. expected from a (name its members or in order for Trotman on the preface provided) travelling on me to get a job with the ofhis201-pagesbookwrote, official government government, I had to sleep “At some time, and without business. I did not have any with(theofficial).” realizing when, and during indication that (name She explained that once my tenure as a Minister, I provided) was interested in thedoorsclosed,itwaslikea made two mistakes that can having sexual relations with “flipped switch” with the prove fatal in politics. The me, he never indicated any official. She added that she first was that I depended on, interest and I obviously was surprised by his actions and expected others to come never picked up anything of given that she had never had to a number of other calling for an inquiry for teenage girls at the hands of to my defence and to explain that sort on my radar. I was any sexual or romantic provisions extending an years and while the process public officials, another thingsaway.Thesecondwas never attracted to him or conversation with him. In upper hand to the oil is not one to relish over, he young woman has come that I failed to respond to the interested in him sexually! that moment, she said she c o m p a n i e s i n t h e does find it to be necessary forward to share harrowing critics; believing that the This man is almost 50 years excused herself to go to the administration of the sector At the same time, he pointed details about how she was truth would be seen for what and I’m in my 20’s so I saw washroom. However, by the Forinstance,thePSAshields out that this decision will allegedlyraped,andsexually itis.” him as an elder not as time she exited, the official the oil companies from the ultimately be made by the exploited by a government

According to the former someone who was having a wascompletelynakedlaying passage of new legislation “powers that be”. Trotman, official who had promised Minister, “I had been quite sexualinterestinme.” acrossthebedandlickinghis that can affect their however made it clear, “I am her the position of Regional rightly cautioned by Mr Accordingtothewoman, lips. “He jumped up and revenues Transparency available and will cooperate Executive Office (REO) of Carlton James, media she was taken to a different pulled me onto the bed and advocate, Dr Yog Mahadeo fully, should there ever be t h e R e g i o n T w o specialist, and Exxon’s part of the building tried to coax me into had equated this as a one.Ultimately,ifthepeople Administration. former Director for “resembling a living room.” penetration and anal sex, mockery of the country’s of Guyana need to know all The woman has since Government Relations in “After (name provided) which I refused. He kept Constitution. the details, then there should contacted law firm-Dexter Guyana, never to accept an finishes his food, we walked asking me to unclothe which

Todd and Associates and invitation to enter into a to a different section of the I refused and I kept my said he had expected that an

Inhisnewbook,Trotman beone.”

Tothisend,heexplained, would be filing an official gutterfight,soIchosetostay building,resemblingaliving composure and showed no independent and credible “I have decided to write report to the Guyana Police quiet.” room. As we were out of fear I could not leave the investigation or inquiry because I have been Force. The young woman in Trotman has also called earshot and sight of the man roombecauseheblockedthe w o u l d h a v e b e e n encouragedtodoso-lestthe a statement said she met the for a Commission of Inquiry eating at the table, (name door I kept saying no and it commissioned - even before history of what transpired alleged perpetrator in 2020, (CoI) to be conducted into provided) suddenly looks got to a point where the only 2020. He said this would indelibly becomes someone whenhewasamemberofthe the signing of the 2016 PSA back to make sure we are not thing I can do is nothing. I have allowed him to speak else’s version of the ‘truth’. I People’s Progressive Party’s between the Government of being watched. He grabs my realized (official) had no and share freely and openly write because I owe it to my (PPP) youth group She Guyana (GoG) and the hand in a tight grip and just social cues. Maybe within on what transpired but this children, relatives, and close explained that she was StabroekBlockpartners. casually walks up the stairs half hour, (the official) and I neveroccurred. friendswhostoodbymyside interested in joining the

The member of the AFC to an upper floor with rooms went back and forth about

The former Minister said against relentless torrents of party’s group. She shared party had signed the deal on opposite each other across a having intercourse He he had even shared his criticism, vitriol, untruths, that during her first time behalf of Guyana and was hallway It was very wanted me to cuddle with willingness to participate in half-truths and downright meeting the accused, it was blamed for tying the country strangeandIfeltpityforhim himnakedwhichIrefusedto anInquirywiththePublisher nastiness These writings overdinnerwheretheyhada to the oppressive provisions, because I assumed he do, and I kept putting my ofKaieteurNews,Mr Glenn do not set out to apologize, professional interaction, but which make it difficult for thought I was interested. It layers on to leave. He kept Lall but he noticed that the but to explain, and to do so added that some of his thecountrytorenegotiatefor was embarrassing to have to insisting that I stay and had a businessman did not use his withhumility.” actions that evening “was betterterms. reject him so blatantly and I habitoframbling...asthough platform to advocate for the Trotman’s new book juststrange.”

In that agreement, was wondering what made he was on some sort of high. process. features 10 chapters, each of A few months later, she Guyana accepted a two him think I was interested in He forcefully took my

As such, he wrote, which represents an sharedthattheofficialcalled percent royalty on its sweet him, since I am a lesbian and clothes off and he attempted

“These writings therefore individual episode in time heraboutajoboffer “Ireply lightcrudeandagreedforthe never made any sort of to penetrate me... I tried my are intended to put my and circumstance, which with much vigour that I will oil companies to take 75 indication, I was interested hardest to fight him off. He actions and decisions into when brought together will be at his disposal for the percent of the revenue in getting physical. This was got worked up and sort of their proper context and provide context of the position he mentioned,” the towardstherecoveryofcosts all happening so quickly, my angry when I refused and he perspective and are meant signing according to him. youngwomandetailedinher for their investment. The mind racing as to what’s forcefully performed oral particularlyforthetruthtobe The 201-page book was statement. A date and time remaining 25 percent is then happening and I was sex on me. At this point, I known. There is not much publishedonJune2,2023. was later set for them to shared equally between the perplexed.” disassociated and cried, but new material to be revealed meet. The woman shared parties guaranteeing Guyana The young woman he doesn’t know this as he asmostofwhatisknownhas Woman claims Govt. that she was happy to have, a 12.5 percent share. When recounted that from the busy raping me He is already been publicly Official raped her over “some sort of real Trotman signed the PSA, he living room area, the official physically stronger than me revealed. However, it has promised REO job professional conversation alsoagreedtowaivealltaxes headed into a self-contained and I could not fight him off. beenimpresseduponmethat …cancels contract after with the (official) who said for the oil companies, room. “I scan the room, stay H i s g o a l w a s a n a l

I have a duty to tell all that I being rebuffed he found me qualified for an forfeiting billions of US- at the door, and I’m unsure penetration which I fight off. know.” continuously REO position I wasn’t dollars in revenue for the how to get myself out of this The guilt and shame made

Trotman, anAttorney-at- comfortable with the post, country m i s u n d e r s t a n d i n g me numb, I got dressed and Law told Kaieteur News on Amid growing concerns frankly, so my intention was

Besides the fiscal terms, However, (official) shove left.”Notably,thewoman Tuesday that he has been about sexual abuse by to discuss this matter with the country has also agreed pass me and closes the door (Continued on page 59)

From page 58 released for a two-week technicalbodies.” ahead of a no confidence shared that the official went public consultation on June J a g d e o s a i d t h e motion, sets out to provide under the pillow and pulled 19, 2023. According to the Commission is still on the an added arm of oversight, out a Glock and bolstered it, document, the minister shall cards but did not indicate especially as it regards which she explained, “was be empowered to administer how soon this independent spendingbyoilcompanies. likeasymbolofthreat.” the licensing of petroleum regulatorcouldbeexpected. The Bill states that, “The

Explaining that she was exploration, production, It is noted in the draft oil function of the Commission in a flabbergasted state, the storage and transportation law that the minister may istomonitorandregulatethe woman said she got into her operations- including to delegate any of the powers efficient, safe, effective and vehicle and drove home cooperate with the relevant related to administration of environmentally responsible during which she tried to government agencies petroleum resources and exploration, development process what had just regardingenvironmentaland supervision and inspection and production of petroleum happened to her. She said it safety aspects of petroleum of petroleum operations to a inGuyana.” felt like a “sick nightmare.” operations, and oversee the department, agency or In doing so, the According to her, as soon as conduct of petroleum government body under his Commission, among other she got home, she showered, operations to ensure administrativeauthority. things shall, “ensure well after which she received a compliance with the new Citizens can send their planned, well executed and text message from the law, and the terms of the suggestions or comments on cost-efficient petroleum official who asked whether respective licences and the proposed legislation to o p e r a t i o n f o r t h e or not she had a shower to petroleumagreements. the Permanent Secretary of achievement of optimal which she responded “yes”. The minister is also the Ministry of Natural levels of petroleum he intended on raping me means to take advantage of She added that the official proposed to have the power Resources, Mr Joslyn extraction ” In the again because he was not women. responded to her text to inspect petroleum M c K e n z i e a t execution of its functions, respecting any boundaries messagebysayinghedidnot operations, seek corrective jmckenzie@nre.gov.gy. the Commission is also and seemed to go all black in Thursday, June 29, 2023 showerbecausehewantedto action, and impose sanctions

ThedraftBillisavailable mandated to, “review and hisspirit. keepthesmellofheronhim. fornon-compliance,develop at the following websites: approve budgets submitted

He kept his head down Jagdeo wants to Thewomansharedthatnight terms of reference and www nre gov gy and b y t h e o p e r a t o r s ” ; muttering under his breath, grant minister powers was just the beginning of her qualification criteria for the www petroluem gov gy The “ p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e almost like he would instead of independent nightmare as it got worse grant of exploration and public consultation period measurement of petroleum explode if he doesn’t get his body in new oil law fromthere. production rights, and grant willcloseonMonday,July3, to allow for estimation and way It’s like he has to force

Vice President Bharrat later got signed with one of fornaturalgasandlong-term It was reported that profit oil and gas due to the

She explained that she geological storage licences 2023. assessment of royalty and sextogethigh.

He gets very quiet and Jagdeo is comfortable with the government ministries storageofcarbondioxide. Jagdeo had acknowledged State” and be responsible for mad and forcefully tries to the range of powers and named several officials

put his penis in my bestowed on the Minister of in that ministry who she told the powers the draft law regulator for the oil and gas After the assessment, the underwear while I was NaturalResourcesinsteadof that she was sexually abused proposes for the Minister to sector, that being the agency will “ascertain the standing by the door, he was an independent Petroleum by the other government possess. Petroleum Commission, is cost oil or gas due to the unsuccessfulmainlybecause Commission in the draft official.“Mycontractstarted

These are just a few of that an independent the approval of the exercise.

Inaninvitedcommenton critical to any Government’s operators” It will also I fought him off and also Petroleum Activities Bill, in early November (2021) the issue, Jagdeo said that regulatory architecture, but “ p r o v i d e n e c e s s a r y because his penis is small so which sets out to modernise and would end at the very whiletheCommissionisstill had said too that the absence information to the relevant he couldn’t get what he theregulatoryframeworkfor end of December (2021). to be set up, the Minister has of such a body in Guyana authority for the collection wanted standing I stood my Guyana’s burgeoning oil (The official) nor I had any been given the powers to doesnotmeanthatthesector of taxes and fees from ground being taller and not sector particular meet-ups besides manage the industry. It must is in danger He said too that petroleum operations ” intimidated made him back During his most recent two or three verbal be noted that the task of the establishment or Additionally, the Petroleum down and realized he press conference, hosted at exchanges, all professional establishingtheCommission presence of the Commission Commission has the screwedup.” the Office of the President, pretexts…He kept trying to is ultimately a role for was not “a safeguard” important cost oversight Shortlyafterhebolstered theVicePresidentwasasked get me alone with him and I government; meaning if it against corruption and that it mandate to, “monitor his Glock, the woman said. to explain why the draft law simply refused After intended to put this body in simply ensures that all operators and their trade However, she added that she grantssomanypowerstothe December 2021 had passed, place,itcouldhavedonethis payments for the sector are practices to ensure that scolded him about being Minister rather than an my contract was up in the air or at least commence the properly accounted for, that competitionandfairpractice unable to take no for an independent Petroleum duetobudgetconstraintsand process for the Commission key financial documents are ismaintained.” answer and after that, she Commission,whichisstillto casualties as (the official) tobesetup. not hidden and licences that was able to leave his home. be established, almost four worded it I was never Inthemeantime,theVice are awarded are made public Two dead; three “Idon’tbelievehelistenedto years since oil production reimbursed for the two President said, “The something he said the injured in car and bike a word because he could not activities commenced in the months I signed on as a Commission is not in place Governmentalreadydoes. smash-up in Berbice. rapemeagain.” country This body would be consultant.” so you have to give the The 2017 Petroleum After the incident with tasked with the direct

The woman explained powers to the Minster...so Commission Bill which was Thelifeoftwopersonsin the official, the woman said management of the oil and that a few months after she the minister has the powers tabled in the last Parliament Berbice ended tragically she related her harrowing gas sector and is supposed to was terminated, she got an and the Minister can by the former A Partnership Tuesday night following an escapetoaprominentfriend. play a key role in the opportunity to talk to the delegate these powers. So for National Unity + a c c i d e n t a l o n g t h e

She added that she has accumulation, use and official about the lack of under the law, the Minister Alliance For Change HampshirePublicRoad, related her story to many dissemination of oil and gas consideration and breach of can delegate the powers to (APNU+AFC) government (Continued on page 60) others who empathized with information and advise government contract As her but are scared of losing Government on the sector such, she agreed to meet the their job or get their Most importantly, the official in a public place. businessestargeted. Commission is supposed to However, the official “Many have came to me be a central body for the oil managed to lure the woman andempathizedbutscaredto and gas sector, and to his home, under the be vocal about this because independentintheexecution pretense of needing to pick he is a big government man. ofitsfunctions. upsomething. He simply needs to be In its drive to ramp up

The woman shared that stopped, ” she said production activities, it whiletheofficialmanagedto Moreover, the woman seems such a body would coax her upstairs, she kept shared that while the onlyfunctionasahumbugto her distance. She explained physical evidence of the the development plan of the that he tried to remove her crime has already been People’s Progressive Party clothes while making sexual washed away, she believes In its draft oil law, the advances. that someone of such government has proposed

“I refused to partake in character should not be allowing the Minister to any of his stupid advances a l l o w e d t o b e a controlthesector,ratherthan and used the word rape r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o f anindependentcommission. multipletimes.Iaskedhimif government, using it as a The draft Bill was

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Munir Khan, was riding the electric bike at the time

Dinesh Ramsammy, driver of the car

From page 59

Guyanese and international Corentyne, Berbice. Dead experts have all been calling are: Dinesh “Brandon” o n g o v e r n m e n t t o Ramsammy, a 24-year-old renegotiatethedealtosecure M e c h a n i c o f 1 2 3 6 more benefits for Guyana

Kilcoy/Chesney Housing and its people, since the SchemeandMunirKhan,60, contract mostly favours of lot 59 Albion, Corentyne, ExxonMobil and its coBerbice Information venturers. provided by the police

When the Coalition detailed that the accident government signed the occurred on Tuesday night contract, two discoveries around 23:30 hrs and were made totaling involved motorcar PRR approximately three billion 7985 driven by Ramsammy barrels of oil. To date, over andanelectricscooterdriven eight billion barrels more byKhan. have been found offshore in

Police said Ramsammy the26,800squarekilometers was heading east along the block, increasing Guyana’s northern drive lane at a fast total proven reserves to over rate when he lost control and 11billionbarrelsofoil. slammed into the electric D e s p i t e t h i s scooter that was heading development, Jagdeo west. maintains that the contract

Khan, the driver of the willnotberenegotiated. scooter was flung meters

On Thursday, he told awayandintoadrain. shesaid. accusations that have been contract was first signed in After learning of the selected reporters during an

The car with Ramsammy uttered.” 1999 and no oil was incident, Waterman left his interview that when he saw and the other three Friday, June 30, 2023 Tortman thereafter made unlocked but he) didn’t home and went to confront the Exxon contract initially, passengers flipped several two revelations which were leverage it. So really, when the suspect The duo he met with the then Head of times before turning turtle Despite Raphael publishedbyKaieteurNews: youlookatthesadstate,they reportedly ended up in an State, David Granger to somedistanceaway Trotman’s support for 1) He was advised by Mr put us in and then he will argument which led to a express his disdain. Jagdeo

The driver and electric renegotiation of lopsided Carlton James, a media come now and say you can fight. noted that when former bike rider were picked up in Exxon deal, Jagdeo still specialist and Exxon’s renegotiate now because he Eyewitnesses said that President,JanetJagansigned an unconscious state and says no former Director for had a change of heart, how Waterman allegedly beat the the exploration agreement in rushed to the Port Mourant Government Relations in credible could these suspect but as he was 2019, the government was PublicHospital. WhileformerMinisterof Guyana, “never to accept an people?”

walking away, the suspect desperately trying to get

The injured were also Natural Resources, Raphael invitation to enter into a While the government armed himself with a knife investors to explore so taken to the said hospital by Trotman has now pledged gutter fight,” so he stayed will maintain that the and stabbed him. Waterman “practically we were police and public-spirited his support for renegotiating quiet back then on criticisms contract is lopsided, Jadgeo fell to the ground after p r e p a r e d t o g i v e citizens. Both Ramsammy the lopsided Stabroek Block aboutthecontract;and2)His said there will be no running away and the everything”. and Khan were pronounced Production Sharing view is that no contract is renegotiation. In an effort to suspectescaped. Meanwhile,hesaidwhen dead on arrival, while the Agreement (PSA) he signed inviolableand“thereforecan claw back some of the value Waterman bled to death the Coalition inked the deal injured were seen and with an ExxonMobil-led be renegotiated” hence he lost through several bythetimehelparrived. with Exxon three billion examined by doctors on consortium back in 2016, supports any initiative to get loopholes in the Stabroek Investigations are barrels of oil was already duty, treated and referred to Vice President, Bharrat abetterdealfromExxon. Block PSA, Jagdeo noted ongoing. discovered in the Stabroek New Amsterdam Public Jagdeo insists that the During an interview with that other mechanisms were Block. As such, the Vice Hospital. government will not budge selected journalists put in place. He said these Saturday, July 1, 2023 Presidentsaid,“Theyhadthe

Meanwhile, wife of onthismatter yesterday, Jagdeo gave his include the strengthening of bargaining tool, greater R a m s a m m y, Va s h t i Essentially, that contract thoughts on the foregoing the environmental permits Jagdeo refusing to bargaining tool at that time Amarnauth disclosed that will remain untouched, even revelations. The chief policy and now the regulatory renegotiate Exxon andtheydidn’tleverageit.” she shares two children with though the administration maker for the oil sector said framework for the oil sector contract on 11B barrels While the VP has Ramsammy She said he had agrees that it is fraught with firstly that no self-respecting He said this is the trajectory but condemns Coalition condemned the now takenherwiththechildrento several unfair provisions man would be proud to tell that will be maintained, for not getting more from Opposition party for failing clinicTuesdayafternoonand such as a meager 2 percent the world that he succumbed adding that Trotman’s book 3B in 2016 to leverage its bargaining droppedthemhome. royaltyandatax-freeride. to instructions from an and all its revelations are power to get more for the

He then told her that he Trotman’s support for Exxonofficialtosealhislips mere “wishy-washy” Vice President Bharrat Guyanese people from the was heading out to weld his renegotiation is documented on the contract Jagdeo justifications for the Jagdeo on Thursday told Stabroek Block deal, the car Afterafewhourspassed, in his latest book titled: boasted that Exxon could ineptitudethatwasdisplayed reportersduringaninterview People’s Progressive Party she called him around 21:00 “ F r o m D e s t i n y t o never play such games with between2015to2020. at the Arthur Chung has done no different. With hrs and Ramsammy told her Prosperity”, published by him. He further noted that Conference Center that the an increase of more than that he was going to Skeldon Isaiah Publications at Lot 72 this admission by Trotman Uncle stabbed to death former A Partnership for eight billion barrels of to purchase car parts. “When Church Road, Subryanville, speaks volumes about the after defending nephew National Unity + Alliance proven reserves, the mecallhebackaround10:00 Guyana. In the preface, the type of leadership that

For Change (APNU + AFC) incumbent administration is he seh he deh ah drink with former minister notes: “I existed at the time the A 34-year-old man Coalition had a great bent on keeping the existing demboysandthenmecallhe have decided to write APNU+AFCwasinpower identified as Delon bargaining chip in its lopsided arrangement in back later but the funeral because I have been Withrespecttothenature Wa t e r m a n w a s o n possession- some three place. parlour answer the phone encouragedtodoso-lestthe of negotiations between the Wednesday night stabbed to billionbarrelsofoil-touseto I n f a c t , J a g d e o and seh he na mek it”, she history of what transpired APNU+AFC and Exxon, death at Riverview its advantage to secure a reaffirmed this during his said. indelibly becomes someone Jagdeo said the former Ruimveldt, Georgetown b e t t e r d e a l f r o m interactionwiththereporters

Wife of Munir Khan, else’s version of the regime wasted their while allegedly defending ExxonMobil when it inked on Thursday He explained Naeema Khan, relayed that ‘truth’...And so it is against bargaining chip. He noted hisnine-year-oldnephew the Stabroek Block that while the PPP was not her husband was on his way the dark and dismal that before the PSA was Kaieteur News learnt Production Sharing comfortable with the royalty home from work when he backdrop of Guyana’s signed in 2016, Exxon had that Waterman’s nephew got Agreement (PSA) in 2016. rate for instance in the 2016 was struck. She said he did nascent petroleum sector already unlocked 3 billion into an altercation with his Instead, he argues that the PSA,ithasmovedtoaddress everything for her and that I have decided to give barrelsofoilattheLizafield. alleged killer at a shop in the administration inked an this in the new model oil worked during the day and my side, my context, and The Vice President said, area.Itresultedinthesuspect egregious contract that it contracts being finalized to worked as a watchman some even my defence to the lies, “(Former President, David) assaultingtheman’snephew. nowwantsrenegotiated. govern future production nights. h a l f - t r u t h s , Granger therefore had a The nephew reportedly With a growing number areas offshore Guyana.

His death is a significant m i s u n d e r s t a n d i n g s , greater bargaining tool (than went home and related what of oil discoveries in the FormerMinisterofNatural blow to her and the family misinformation and vile when the PPP did when the had happened to Waterman. lucrative Stabroek Block, (Continued on page 61)

From page 59 of the country’s Resources, Rap Constitution.

Trotman who w responsible for signing

Father, children the contract on behalf burnt to death in of the state recently house fire expressed the view that the oil contract

A father and c a n b e his two young renegotiated. children were on

Trotman in a Friday morning new book titled burnttodeathafter ‘From Destiny t heir Drysdale Prosperity’ said, “The eet, Charlestown demand for renegotiation homewentupinflames. of the Exxon “contract

Dead are 40-year-old continues unabated, and my Michael Richards, his sixown view is that no contract percent of the revenue year-old daughter, Somaya isinviolable,andtherefore,it towardstherecoveryofcosts Richards and four-year-old c a n b e for their investment. The son,SupremeRichards. renegotiated undoubtedly, remaining 25 percent is then According to the Guyana if Guyana, as a sovereign shared equally between the Fire Service (GFS), the fire state wishes to renegotiate parties guaranteeing Guyana started around 06:45hrs the contract to get “better” a 12.5 percent share. When Richards’wifewasnothome terms, then I would support Trotman signed the PSA, he andhadjustleftthehousefor suchaninitiative.” alsoagreedtowaivealltaxes work Neighbours living

Trotman is known across for the oil companies, close by recalled hearing an Guyana and wider afield as forfeiting billions of US- explosion coming from the the citizen who signed away dollars in revenue for the man’s home before seeing Guyana’s vast riches by country flames Kaieteur News binding the country to the Besides the fiscal terms, understands that fire erupted abusive provisions of the the country has also agreed inthebottomflatandtrapped on the scene around 06:48 was fighting to hold back but persons living in the area PSAwithExxonMobil,Hess to a number of other themanandhischildren. hrs and managed to tears said, “…Is ma father at accused the Richards family Corporation and CNOOC. provisions extending an The man’s elder son, extinguish the blaze but the end of the day and duh is of “stealing electricity” and The contract was signed by upper hand to the oil NickRichards,whodoesnot could not save the trio and ma lil sister and lil suspect that the illegal the then Minister with c o m p a n i e s i n t h e livewiththefamily,saidthat the building from being brother…ahlovethem.Only connection could have responsibility for Natural administration of the sector helearntafterarrivingonthe partiallydestroyed. yesterday ma lil buddy tell startedthefire Resources on October 27, Forinstance,thePSAshields scene, that his father was Richards’ wife after me he miss me and a know M e a n w h i l e , f i r e 2016. the oil companies from the seen attempting to run out of learning of the tragedy ma sister miss me too, look investigators said that the

In that agreement, passage of new legislation the building but could not reportedly rushed back to wuh a gah wake up to the building was heavily grilled Guyana accepted a two that can affect their escape. His father reportedly scene and when she arrived nextmorning” and that it may have percent royalty on its sweet revenues Transparency ran back into the building fainted and collapsed to the It is unclear at this time contributed to the victims lightcrudeandagreedforthe advocate, Dr Yog Mahadeo andwasneverseenagain. ground. Her son, Nick who what caused the deadly fire dyinginthefire. oil companies to take 75 had equated this as a Firefighters had arrived

Scenes at the deadly Charlestown fire

Dead: Somaya (left) and Supreme Richards (right)

Dead: Michael Richards

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One diesel Mechanic and Welder Fabricator needed to work in the Interior. Interested persons can make contact on: 701-4000.

Housekeeper/ Maid wanted in Section A, Diamond EBD. Call: 657-8732/ 665-0677.

Chef Express Catering Service is now hiring Cooks and kitchen Assistant, Contact: 506-2211/ 699-5042.

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RJD Construction is hiring Experienced Carpenters and Mason for ECD & EBD area.Contact: RJD Construction 614-7669/ 628-5738.

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At least 25 dead after bus crash and fire in western India

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Police officer Sunil Kadasne told the Press Trust of India news agency that 33 people were on the bus when the crash occurred around 1:30am (20:00 GMT) on Saturday morning [Al Jazeera]

Bus lost control and hit road divider be fore bursting into flames following a tyre blowout, police told local media.

Aljazeera - A tyre blowout caused a bus to lose control and crash into a road divider before bursting into flames, killing at least 25 people in western India, police told local media.

Police officer Sunil

Kadasne told the Press Trust of India news agency that 33 people were on the bus when the crash occurred around 1:30am (20:00 GMT) on Saturday morning on a highway in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra state. Eight survivors were taken to a hospital, he said.

The bus was travelling from Nagpur to Pune on Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway when it crashed and its fuel tank caught fire, local police told Reuters TV partner ANI.

The majority of deaths were caused due to burning, police said.

said in a post on Twitter. Maharashtra state’s Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted separate tweets expressing sorrow, and said they would pay support to each victim’s family, amounting to 700,000 Indian rupees ($8,500).

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives. May the injured recover soon,” Modi wrote in a tweet. Deadly road accidents are common in India, often due to reckless driving, poorly maintained roads and ageing vehicles.

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Farm produce for sale: pumpkin, plantain, lemon, lime, cayenne & apple banana. Call: 688-0417.

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Foden twin steer dump truck, 3 ton canter, Leyland DAF Hiab truck & Foden hauler truck for sale. Call: 652-0251/ 650-0402.

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For the completion of US & Canadian non-immigrant visa applications and Guyana passport applications. Call/whatsApp: 592645-5695.

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APPLICATION FOR MONEY LENDERS CERTIFICATE PURSUANT TO SECTION 4 OF THE MONEY LENDER’S ACT. I, DERVILLE EQUIANO HARRY, of Lot 18 Phoenix Park, West Bank Demerara, Guyana hereby give Notice that I have applied to the Magistrate of the Georgetown Magisterial District for a Certificate under the Money Lender’s Act, authorizing the grant to me of a Money Lenders License to carry on the business of a Money Lender under the title of PHOENIX PAWN SHOP at, Lot Stall# 3 Phoenix Park, West Bank Demerara, Guyana. NOTICE of any objections to the application should be sent forthwith to the CLERK OF COURT OF THE GEORGETOWN MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT and a copy of any such Notice should be sent to the subscriber, DERVILLE EQUIANO HARRY, Applicant.

Dated at Georgetown, Demerara. This 30th day of June, 2023.

Twenty-five people were killed and eight were injured, Maharashtra’s deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis

More than 110,000 people are killed every year in road accidents across India, according to police.

Cops seek ex-girlfriendafter man stabbed following sex in Clarendon

Jamaica Observer - The ex-girlfriend of a man is being sought by police after he was allegedly stabbed in Goshen district in Mocho, Clarendon Saturday afternoon.

The incident reportedly happened after they had sex at the woman’s home, the police said. The injured man has since undergone one operation after he was admitted to hospital in serious condition.

Information reaching OBSERVER ONLINE is that around midday, the man went to visit his ex-girlfriend, had sex with her and reportedly

fell asleep afterwards.

Police said the man was awakened by a sharp pain to his back. When he opened his eyes, he saw his ex-girlfriend standing over him with a knife. He was then reportedly stabbed in his abdomen.

He managed to escape and was taken to hospital. The police were summoned and briefly spoke with the injured man at the hospital, as he was being attended to by the medical staff.

The police said efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the ex-girlfriend.

Continuous Registration Exercise Resumes on Tuesday

The Guyana E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) on Friday announced that it will resume the continuous registration exercise on July 4, 2023, for eligible persons, at all of its permanent Registration O f f i c e s i n t h e t e n AdministrativeRegions. This registration exercise will conclude on November 30,2023.

During this registration exercise, any person who will be 14 years and older by the 31st December, 2023, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalization or registration, or is a citizen from a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for oneyearormore,canapplyfor registration, providing he/she wasneverregistered.

The Commission in a statement said that existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records such as a request to correct or change their names, date of birth, occupation and update their addresses are advised that those transactions would also be facilitated during this exercise. Persons desirous of conducting any registration transaction whether new r e g i s t r a t i o n o r changes/corrections to their particulars are required to visit the GECOM Registration Office responsible for their area of residence with the relevant source documents

whichare:

·OriginalBirthCertificate, valid Passport, Adoption Certificate, Naturalization

Certificate or Certificate of Registration, and Deed Poll along with original Birth Certificate (if applicable) in t h e c a s e o f m a k i n g applications for new registration.

Original Marriage

Certificate, Marriage

Certificate with Decree

Absolute for divorced women, Deed Poll with Birth

Certificate, or a new original Birth Certificate reflecting the new name in the case of a p p l i c a t i o n f o r change/correctionofnameand otherparticulars.

Registration transactions can be done during the official workinghoursoutlinedbelow:

Mondays to Thursdays 08:00hrs – 12:00hrs 13:00hrs – 16:30hrs Fridays 08:00hrs –12:00hrs13:00hrs–15:30hrs. For further information, persons are advised to visit

GECOM's website at www gecom org gy, follow the Commission on Facebook at Guyana Elections Commission, or call 2250277-9, 223-9653, or 2231300.

Dutch King Willem-Alexander apologises for country’s role in slavery

BBC - The King of the Netherlands has formally apologised for his country’s roleintheslavetrade,saying

he felt “personally and intensely”affected.

The country became a major colonial power after

the 17th Century, holding territories across the globe, and Dutch slave traders traffickedmorethan600,000

people. King Willem-Alexander on Saturday called the practicea“horror”.

The royal family did nothingtostopit,hesaid.

He was speaking at an event marking the 160th

anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the country - it was unclear ahead of the event whether the King would apologise for the Royal Family’s role in the practice.

In June, a new study revealed that Dutch rulers received the equivalent of €545m ($595m) in today’s money between 1675 and 1770 from colonies where slaverywasenforced.

During his speech in Amsterdam, King WillemAlexanderconcededthatthe “monarchs and rulers of the House of Orange took no stepsagainst[slavery]”.

“Today I’m standing here in front of you as your King and as part of the government. Today I am apologisingmyself,”hesaid.

“Today, I am asking for forgiveness for the crystalclearlackofaction.”

Accompanied by his wife Queen Maxima, the King acknowledged that he couldnotspeakfortheentire nation,buthetoldthecrowd that “the vast majority” of Dutch citizens “do support the fight for equality for all people, regardless of colour orculturalbackground”.

“After acknowledgment and apology, we can work together on healing, reconciliation and restoration,”theKingadded. His speech received cheersfromthecrowdatthe Keti Koti Festival - the c o u n t r y ’s a n n u a l commemoration of the abolitionofslavery

Saying sorry for slavery leavesDutchdivided

During the 17th Century the Netherlands conquered large swathes of territory in regions that now make up Indonesia, South Africa, Curaçao and West Papua, and became a key player in the transatlantic slave trade.

Thousands of people were trafficked from Africa to Dutch colonies in the Caribbean and S o u t h A m e r i c aamounting to around 5% of the entire transatlantic slave trade - before the practice was banned in 1863

But in the nation of Suriname, it continued during a mandatory 10-year transition period, causing untoldgriefandpain.

Women’s 3x3 team dominated by CCS

previous loss to the Dominican Republic (17-21). Despite their struggles, the Guyanese women’s team will continue to compete in the classification round of the tournament today.

Guyana Golf Association...

This presents an opportunity for them to regroup, analyse their performance, and strive to showcase their skills and determination in the upcoming matches.

File: CAC

Caption: Jamaicy Ogle, Kennesha Leacock and Shania Sears at the CAC Games Women’s 3x3 Tournament

The Guyana women’s 3x3 team continued to face challenges at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in El Salvador, as they suffered another lopsided loss.

Following their initial defeat of 8-21 against the Dominican Republic, the team consisting of Shania Sears, Jamaicy Ogle, and Kennesha Leacock encountered a stubborn Centro Caribe Sports (CCS) squad and were defeated by a score of 4-21.

The absence of Ruth Adams, a professional player based in Spain, further weakened the Guyanese team.

Guyana found themselves outmatched by the Centro Caribe Sports team, who were determined to secure a victory after their previous loss to the

Dominican Republic (17-21).

Despite their struggles,

Sunday June 02, 2023

ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)

Today your brain is supercharged, Aries. If you've been thinking about doing some writing or have put off analyzing a particularly tricky problem, this would be the perfect day to get started.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

With today's planetary energy, you'll find yourself a little more extraverted than usual, Taurus. You'll finally be able to say what you really think about things.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20)

Today you're unstoppable! You're a very hard worker by nature, and with the current planetary alignment you'll be able to accomplish even more than usual.

CANCER (June 21–July 22)

Discard those items from the past for which you really no longer have use. As much as you like to surround yourself with objects of sentimental value.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)

Intimacy will be in the air over the next few days. Loved ones suddenly want to spend more time with you, and you'll want to invite friends over every night! By all means, do.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Se pt. 22)

Feeling unusually adventurous, Virgo? You're often motivated by your idealistic expectations, and the planetary configurations today .

the Guyanese women’s team will continue to compete in the

classification round of the tournament today.

This presents an opportunity for them to regroup, analyse their performance, and strive to showcase their skills and determination in the upcoming matches.

Scotland crush...

From page 69 force in the development of the sport as evident from the fact that Maggie DaSilva went on to serve as captain of Rockley Golf Club in Barbados.

According to Ms. Fields, “the women were united and the atmosphere was familylike but the competitiveness was always there and no-one played a friendly game during competitions.

Many of the women were wives of diplomats and expats but we Guyanese were amongst the best players.”

Valli Fung, who has not played in Guyana since 2003 explained, “my family was very competitive, with my sister Debbie active in both golf and tennis.

I believe that greater things are in store for the sport in the years ahead as more expats are in-country like the older days.” She added that golf is one of the more expensive sports and traditionally, the average person

would not have had access to even learn the game.

The common regret from the stateswomen of golf was that they could no longer play the sport they love at the same level even though their passion and love for the game has never diminished.

They still share memories of the years gone by over games of bridge and mahjong at Norma Fung’s home and reminisce about the good old days.

In announcing the awards, President of the GGA Aleem Hussain said, “it would be remiss of us to not acknowledge the struggles and contributions that these women made to our sport during its formative ye ars and this is an honor long overdue.

If we have inadvertently omitted anyone who was an integral part of the sport, we apologize in advance and ask that they contact us at 6450944. We will always hold them in the highest regard.”

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

The celestial energy signals a pleasant change for you today, Libra. Finally, the overpowering emotions that have been surging from your relationships will subside. You are now beginning a more contemplative phase.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

This is a good day to devote time and thought to spiritual pursuits, Scorpio. Do something inspirational that instills a sense of wonder deep in your soul.

SAGIT (Nov.22–Dec.21)

A new phase in your life is beginning, Sagittarius. The previous phase could be interpreted as having taught you to be serious and devoted to professional responsibilities.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

Today's aspects might clear up some rather sketchy ideas about your professional future, Capricorn. If you long for a change, such as daring to undertake a more artistic pursuit.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

You have acquired some sound confidence in yourself, Aquarius. Now it is time for you to show everyone else by actually putting it to use in your life.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)

Today's planetary energy should compel you to commit certain acts of self-affirmation that are needed to define your territory and protect your rights.

From page 71 found long-on off Joseph, Scotland did not panic as Cross was there to continue guiding the chase, first with George Munsey and then with Berrington, to complete victory in the 44th over.

For West Indies, this defeat continued their decline in white-ball cricket.

The two-time T20 World Cup champions had crashed out in the group stage of that tournament last year.

It led to a major white-ball shake-up with Pooran stepping down as captain and Daren Sammy being appointed as the white-ball coach.

Sammy joined forces with Hope for this World Cup Qualifier, but the campaign has been disappointing, with defeats to Zimbabwe, Netherlands and now Scotland ending West Indies’ chances of qualifying for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India this October.

Guyana in action against the Dominican Republic at the CAC Games Women's 3x3 event

One Guyana Breeders Cup 2023 lines up at the Bush Lot Turf Club today

Today the Jumbo JetThoroughbred R a c i n g

Committee’s (JJTRC), One Guyana Breeders Cup 2023 Horserace Meet unfolds at

the Bush Lot United Turf Club located at Sea View Park, Bush Lot,West Coast,

Berbice.

The action will commence 1:00pm sharp

with a well-structured 8race card, which features incentives amounting to

over G$7 Million in cash and prizes, with bragging rights being the order of thedayfromgrudgeraces Suriname horses Black Cat and Jet Lee among other should serve a severe treat to the local line up which include Ariana’s Vision and Wild Texas Tom, Jessica pride, Convertor, Looking to heaven,IcecreamSunday, Early bird, Bank note, GT bossandNotthistime

While permanent stands are not yet in place at the venue, Nasrudeen Mohamed Jnr , head of the organising committee, has indicated this should not be a problem and fans will becomfortable

He had informed that four trailers have been brought in and placed alongside the track where thestandsoriginallywere

The trailers would be covered to provide much needed shelter from the sun and a quantity of chairs would be available for additional comfort

As seen in the Guyana Cup, a newly designed walkthrough entrance will be set-up to ensure a smooth flow in and out the event. Clearly marked signs will be erected to ensure all patrons and c o m p e t i t o r s a r e d i r e c t e d t o t h e i r respective areas to guarantee a hassle-free experience

Meanwhile, the side entertainment also promises to be to the fans desire and patrons are expected to leave the venuefullysatisfied

A major sound clash of the leading DJ’s in the country looms and the venue promises to be rocking as the DJ’s spin their musical magic as the hunt bragging rights and lucrative cash prizes said to be in the vicinity of $3M

T h e J u m b o J e t Thoroughbred Racing C o m m i t t e e h a s collaborated with the Guyana Police Force to ensure traffic congestion d o e s n o t a f f e c t surrounding areas and commuters

Guyana Golf Association Bestows Honorary Membership to Pioneer Female Golfers

Women golfers in Guyana never took the back seatinthe70’s,80’sand90’s withfemaleplayerswinning manylocalandinternational titles, and that trend is becoming more evident as now over 65% of new players in the country are female, with players such as ChristineSukhram (11time Guyana Female Champion); Dr. Joaan Deo (2-time Guyana Female Champion and Suriname Open Champion) and 3-time Current Guyana Open and Suriname Champion ShanellaLondoncarryingon thewinningtraditions.

Thefirstwomenofcolor started playing golf in the 1970’s shortly after the golf club was relocated from the current National Park to the sugar plantation in Lusignan. Elma Seymour, wifeofrenownedpoetryA.J. Seymour and Gertrude Seymour (no relation) were amongstthepioneers.

Without the sterling efforts of these women golfers in the past, the current players would probably not been able to haveaccesstogolf.Itiswith

thisinmindthattheGuyana GolfAssociationishonoring past female players with Honorary Membership in recognition of their contributionstothesport.

D o r e e n ‘ D o d o ’

DeCaires, Joan Fields, Valli Fung, Norma Fung, Caryl Pearson, Debbie Fung, Norma Clarke, Doreen Ragnauth, Berry Chee-aTow, Maggie DaSilva and Mary Affonso are being awarded Honorary Membership in the Guyana Golf Association as a thank you for paving the way for thousands of female golfers tofollowintheirfootsteps.

Inyearsgoneby,women were regulated to play on

Tuesdays and the weekends reserved for men’s tournaments. But owing to theirincreasingnumbersand talents, the tournament format was changed to include the women on Saturday, resulting in many wins overall by female players in the weekly tournaments.

Doreen DeCaires was one of the first Guyanese women to win the Female Open Championship in Guyana and Grenada (1990’s)andwasthesecond woman to be captain of the golf club, following in the footsteps of Mary Affonso. She was amongst the first women to represent Guyana in Trinidad, Barbados, AntiguaandGrenada.

According to Ms. DeCaires, “I have been around golf in Guyana for over 53 years, and what Aleem Hussain and the Guyana Golf Association has done for the sport in a few short years, with the cooperation by the Ministry of Education, is remarkable and I take my hat off to him and his team for their unwavering dedication to

West Indies fail to qualify for 2023 ODI World Cup… 13th edition will be the first without the two-time champions

West Indies have failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup after losing to Scotland in the Super Six stage of the ongoing World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe. Only the two finalists of that tournament make it to the World Cup in Indialaterthisyear,andWest Indies now can’t reach the final.

Theywerechampionsof the first two World Cups in 1975and1979,andrunnersup in 1983; the 13th edition ofthecompetitionwillbethe first without the team from theCaribbean.

West Indies had to play the World Cup Qualifiers because they finished ninth in the ODI Super League, and only the top eight teams gain direct entry to the tenteamtournament.

They were grouped with Zimbabwe, Netherlands, USA and Nepal in Group A of the Qualifiers, and the

format of the tournament was such that the top three teams from each of the two groups made it to the Super Six stage However, the teamsthatprogressedwould carry forward points earned fromtheirresultsagainstthe other teams that also qualifiedfromtheirgroup.

West Indies began the Qualifiers with victories against USA and Nepal but then lost to Zimbabwe and Netherlands. So while they qualifiedfortheSuperSix,it meant they took zero points into that round, while Zimbabwe carried forward four points and Netherlands two. From Group B, Sri Lanka qualified for the Super Six with four points, Scotland with two, and Omanwithnone.

ZimbabweandSriLanka thenwontheirfirstSuperSix matches,takingtheirtallyto six points each. It left West Indies needing to win all

grow golf in Guyana. I am trulyhappytoseethissortof development happening in mylifetime!”

The longest serving secretaryofthefirstgolfclub in Guyana was Melissa Humphreys (rest in peace),

demonstrating that not only werethewomengoodonthe fieldbuttheywereadriving (Continuedonpage67)

threeoftheirgames-against Scotland, Sri Lanka and Oman - to have a chance of catching up to Zimbabwe or Sri Lanka. But with the defeat to Scotland, the maximum West Indies can get to is four points - not enoughforthetop-twofinish needed for a World Cup tickettoIndia.

This setback is a continuation of West Indies’ decline in the limited-overs format.

Theyonlyjustmadeitto the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, via the World Cup Qualifiers, where they sneaked into the final at the expense of, coincidentally, Scotland in a rain-hit game.

Theythendidnotqualifyfor the Super 12 stage of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, after winning just one(againstZimbabwe)and losing two (to Scotland and Ireland) of their group matches.

Doreen DeCaires

YBG/ExxonMobil Boys and Girls School’s Basketball Festival underway

The Youth Basketball

Guyana (YBG) and

ExxonMobiljoinedforcesto

kick off the Regional Basketball Under-18’s conference,settingthestage

for an exhilarating start to the Boy’s and Girl’s Under18 National Schools

Scenes fromYBG Regional Basketball conference on Friday

BasketballFestival. Heldon Friday at the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Officers’

Training Centre in Georgetown, the conference served as a platform to educate,inform,andprepare participants for the upcomingcompetition.

StartedonJuly1standset toconcludeonJuly16th,the highly anticipated National Schools Basketball Festival (NSBF) promises two weeks ofintensebasketballaction

Thetournamentwilltake place at the renowned National Gymnasium, located on Mandela Avenue With over forty top-tier high schoolsandatotaloffifty-six teams, the NSBF will showcasetalentfromvarious divisions, all vying for the ultimate glory of being crownedchampions.

Ye s t e r d a y, t h e

ExxonMobil NSBF commenced with great enthusiasm, featuring an impressive lineup of seven exhilarating matches. The tournament opener marked the beginning of an intense b a t t l e a m o n g t h e participating teams. As the title sponsor for this prestigious event, ExxonMobil continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to supporting youthbasketball,reinforcing their dedication to community services and capacity building among youngathletes.

Itisnoteworthythatthisis the second consecutive year thatExxonMobilhaspledged itssupporttoyouthbasketball inGuyana

The2023NSBFpromises

to be a thrilling event, featuring some of the most prominent teams in the region Powerhouse schools such as Saints, New Amsterdam Multilateral, Bishops, President College, and Marian Academy are among the notable participants who will showcase their skills and compete for the coveted championshiptitles

The tournament’s success and impact would not be possible without the generous contributions of thesponsors.

Alongside ExxonMobil, the National Sports Commission (NSC), GBoats Guyana and Beharry Group of companies have also stepped up to support this remarkable sporting event.

Former National Long distance champion Joe Davis passes away

An iconic Guyanese long-distance athlete has completed his last mile and takenhisfinalbreath.Joseph Daviscalled‘JoeDavis’who ruledthetrackinlong-distance events for more than two decades, died in the US He sparkled from the 1950s throughthe1970s Hislovefor thesportsawhimcompeting beyondhispeak,hangingup hisbootsinthe1980s.

Joe Davis became a household name in Guyana, earningthenickname-Kingof theDistance Onthetrack,he dominated the 5000m and 10000m He also left his competitors behind in the Marathonandhalfmarathonroad races Thelongerthedistancethe better it was for Davis Davis etchedhisnameintheannals of Guyana’s athletics His storied career includes grueling battles with the likes of Harry Powell, Moses

Joe Davis

Dwarka, George De Pena, Clem Fields and Godfrey Washington.

Former national middledistancechampionJerrickCorlette remembers Davis’ outstanding career and applauds his contributiontothedevelopmentof scores of top athletes from Berbice. Davis hailed from Corentyne,Berbicebutlivedmost of his life in East Canje before migratingtotheUnitedStates He and the late national middle distance champion Ulric Williams were a dominant pairfromEastCanje.During their h

,

dominated the longer distances and Williams dominated the middle distances.

ItwasDaviswhopopularized aroadracefromSkeldontoNew Amsterdam - an event he won multiple times He also created excitementaroundanannualroad racethatstartedfromthedefunct No. 19 Toll Station, East Coast of Berbice and saw competitors bursting for the finish line in New Amsterdam.

DavisworkedattheRoseHall EstateandservedintheGuyana PoliceForceHecompetedforboth entities with success and representedGuyanaatmanymeets intheCaribbean Davis was 86 years old when he took his last breath. A celebration of his life is being held in the United States of America, today Hewillbelaidtorest on Monday, July 3rd (Samuel

Whyte)

Scotland crush West Indies’ World Cup hopes

(Cricinfo) - Five years ago in Harare, West Indies were the beneficiaries of a controversial umpiring decision and a timely rain interruption that secured their place in the 2019 ODI World Cup, at Scotland’s expense. There was no such luck for the two-time champions in 2023, as West Indies crashed out of the running to qualify for the World Cup in India by suffering a seven-wicket losstoScotlandinHarare.

Thus the 13th edition of the ODI World Cup will be the first without the West Indies,whowonthefirsttwo tournaments in 1975 and 1979,andalsomadethefinal in1983.

Scotland, meanwhile, arestrongcontendersforone of two World Cup spots up for grabs at the Qualifiers; they have four points, while Super Six leaders Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe have six each. Allrounder Brandon McMullen was the star with both ball and bat, taking three wickets and scoring a

half-century in Scotland’s maiden ODI win against WestIndies.

West Indies came into this match knowing that a loss would knock them out because of the Qualifier format, which had them carryingforwardzeropoints from the group stage to the SuperSix.

To pile on the pressure, Scotland captain Richie Berringtonaskedthemtobat in tough conditions, and their top three fell to McMullen within the first six overs. Johnson Charles wafted one to cover point, Shamarh Brooks was out slashing a wide ball to slip and Brandon King was double-bluffed by the cover fielder being pushed back, andendedupspooningafull and straight ball back to the bowler

ChrisSolewentbouncer andthenlengthtosendKyle Mayers’ off stump cartwheeling. Shai Hope’s attempttotemperaggression with caution was ended by Safyaan Sharif, who turned

back the clock to their faceoff in the 2018 Qualifier by opening up and nicking off Hope. McMullen bowled nine overs on the trot and ended with match-winning figuresof3for32.

With the score on 60 for 5, Jason Holder and Nicholas Pooran focussed on stabilising a rocky start, batting together for 50 balls and scoring only 21 runs. But Mark Watt tempted Pooran with a flighted ball that was slog-swept, out of nowhere, into the hands of Christopher McBride at the cow-cornerboundary

Romario Shepherd joined Holder to put on 77 runs for the seventh wicket, but when Shepherd tried to raise the tempo in the 37th over, he was caught by a flying Sharif at point. Three balls later, Chris Greaves trappedHolderlbwandWest Indies were eventually all outfor181inthe44thover ScotlandlostMcBridein thefirstoverofthechasebut that wicket united McMullen with Matthew

2023 Mayor’s Cup draws nearer

With just over two weeks until the 2023 edition of the Inter-Ward Knockout Nine-a-side Knockout Football tournament, named after the esteemed former Mayor Hamilton Green, is set to commence. Organised by former national coach Lennox Arthur, this highly anticipated tournament will unfold from July 16 to August27.

Coach Arthur has been hosting this prestigious tournamentformorethan23 years, paying homage to the former Prime Minister of Guyana and Mayor of Georgetown, Hamilton Green,whohasbeenanavid supporter of sports throughouthiscareer

A total of thirty-one teams have been confirmed to participate in the competition Representing regions such as East Coast Demerara, East Bank, West Bank, Georgetown, and Berbice, these teams will fiercely compete for the coveted title.The first-place winner will be awarded an impressive prize of $500,000, while the runnerup will receive $250,000. The third and fourth place finishers will also be

rewardedwith$150,000and $100,000respectively

Expect to witness the participation of renowned teams like Victoria, Timehri, Beterverwagting (BV), Buxton, Bourda All Stars, Road Warriors, Gold is Money, Stewarttville, Lilliendaal,Ann’sGrove,Club

45, Dynamics, Mocha, Back Circle, Stabroek Ballers, Festival City Ballers, Airy Hall,SpartaBoss,BentStreet, Pouderoyen, Mahaica and manyothers Theseteamswill add to the excitement of this remarkableevent

On the opening day of the tournament, spectators can look forward to eight thrillingmatches.Theaction kicksoffat17:00hoursatthe Georgetown Football Club (GFC)ground,withTucville facing off against Buxton. ThiswillbefollowedbyBV battling Timehri at 17:30. The evening continues with

Cross and the pair carefully negotiated the new-ball threat. In the 12th over, Akeal Hosein lured McMullenintoaslogsweep but Mayers dropped the chanceatdeepmidwicket.

McMullen flat-batting a hard-lengthballfromAlzarri Joseph for a six down the ground in the 17th over indicated that he was in control of the chase. Both batters predominantly worked the ball around, rotated strike and racked up fifties during their 125-run stand.WhenMcMullen

(Continuedonpage67)

Road Warriors taking on Victoria, Gold is Money meeting Airy Hall, Melanie and Mahaica, Bourda All Stars striving to overcome Two Friends, Mocha clashing with Ann’s Grove and Lilliendaal facing off againstDynamic.

The tournament is also sponsored by GTT Plus, Caribbean International Distributors Incorporated (CIDI), National Milling Company of Guyana Incorpprated (Namilco), ENet,JohnFernandesLimited, Genequip,Busta,StarRental, Eddie’sBobcat,BKGroupof companies, New GPC Incorporated, SuperBet, Dr Linden Dodson, Toolie Persaud Limited and Group of companies, Eton Cordis, Cummings Electrical Company Limited and

t i o n a l Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA).

r n

Matthew Cross and Brandon McMullen broughtup a century stand. (ICC via Getty Images)

Tournament’s Coordinator, LennoxArthur

Former Mayor, Hamilton Green

All set for Kennard Memorial Turf Club CARICOM Day meet tomorrow

BySamuelWhyte

An Action pack day of racing is anticipated when the Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) CARICOM Day horse race meet get on the way tomorrow Monday 3rd July at the club’s track Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne Berbice.

With preparations complete and close to 60 of Guyana’stophorsesentered, thousandsareexpectedtobe in attendance for what is expected to be a pulsating dayofracing.

The six race card has over $4M in cash trophies and other incentives on offer Horse owners and punters are taking no chances with owners’ fine tuning their charges for the bigday

The feature event for animals’ classified G3 non winners and lower over 7furlongs has the top animals in that category penciledtogo.

A virtual who is who with the likes of American Traveler, Nuclear Fire Memories, Amerceable Kate, Republican and Pocoyoalllookingintiptop shape at work outs Bragging rights is also at stake in addition to the sumptuous $500,000 and trophy at stake for the winner

All the other event has fullgatesandreportsarethat animalshavealreadyarrived at the venue in preparation forthecontest.

The other races are J1 and lower over 6 furlongs; the three years old event for maiden horses also over 6 furlongs; a race for Guyana Bred two years old horses over 5 furlongs. the L class Open race and the matchup forJandLnoneearnersover 6 furlongs Outstanding performers will receive accolades compliments of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall and the organisers. The day’s event will be conducted using the rules of the Kennard Memorial Turf Club Bugle timeis13:00hrs.

Honorary President and Matriarch of the KMTC Mrs. Chan Kennard and the Board of Directors will like to inform owners that barring any unforeseen circumstances all prize money will be paid before the end of the day’s proceedings.

Last minute queries can be directed to Niketa Ross 662-4668, Ivan Dipnarine 331-0316, Basil Bactowar 6617815, Fazal Habibulla 6577010 or Isaac Dalloo 6890629.

8th Digicel Schools Football Championship… Regions One, Seven & Ten off to intriguing starts

Th e D i g i c e l Schools’Football Championships, Regional Competitions, continuedonFriday,June30 with action kicking off in Regions One, Seven and Ten, while the excitement continuedinRegion4.

InBarimaWaini(Region One), Hosororo and Waramuri Secondary walkedawaywithvictories.

Hosororo defeated WaunaSecondary1-0,while Waramuri eased past

Kamwatt Secondary 3-1

Bruce Vincent netted a hat trick for Waramuri in the 15th,25thand43rdminutes, while Ravi Benjamin netted Kamwatt’s consolation in the4thminute.

In Region 3, Leonora Secondary over came Vergenoogen Secondary 30.GoalsfromKeonGrantin the 42nd and Tromayne Hercules in the 47th, accompaniedbyanowngoal in the 12th minute, accountedforLeonora’s3.

Meanwhile, it was a nail biterofagamebetweenWest minister Secondary and Vreed en Hoop Secondary

Afterbeingdrawn2-2atthe end of regulation time, the battlewentdowntopenalties where Vree den Hoop grabbedthevictory,3-2.

On the East Bank of Demerara, Soesdyke S e c o n d a r y s e n t 4

unanswered goals past Camille’s Institute. Jermin Lewis led the charge for Soesdyke with a hat trick in the 14th, 26th and 42nd, while William Davis netted theotherinthe52nd.

President’s College picked up their second win of the tournament, when action continued in the East Coast of Demerara division.

Shamar Barrington netted a brace for PC in the 48th and 59th on their way to the 2-0

win over Bygeval

Secondary The other game of the on the Coast saw BuxtonSecondarygaininga walkover,overAnn’sGrove Secondary

In Region 5, Mahaicony Technical Institute defeated WoodleyPark3-1.Woodley Park’s Winton Hartman added his name to the scoresheet first in the 16th, but Jaheim Drakes, Rolston McDonald and Duward Wilson netted in the 44th, 55thand63rdrespectivelyto sealthewin.

S u b s e q u e n t l y , BelladrumSecondary edged Fort Wellington Secondary 1-0. Dendray McKenzie was the lone marksman on show for Belladrum in the 26th.

OverinRegion7,Bartica Secondary trounced Three MilesSecondary8-0.

Another exciting game came when the Region 10

competition kicked off with a close battle between Kwakwani Secondary and New Silver City Keron Phillipsfoundthebackofthe net twice for Kwakwani in the 10th and 55th, while Wisburg’s Clinton Fingal and Rawle Heney netted in the14thand65thtolevelthe scores.

The game went down to penalties, from where Kwakwaniprevailed3-1.

M e a n w h i l e , t h e tournament had ten matches playedyesterday,withtoday expected to have 14 on the card.

Today’s fixtures –Sunday,July2

RegionOne(1):

Hosoror vs North West Sec (Green Park) July 03, 202314:00hrs

Waramuri vs Santa Rosa (2 miles Ground) July 03, 2023,15:30hrs

RegionTwo(2): Wakapoa vs Anna Regina (Anna Regina) July 03,2023,13:00hrs

Charity vs 8th of May (Anna Regina) 03, 2023

14:30hrs

RegionThree(3): SemiFinal

PatentiavsWestMinster (Leonora) July 03, 2023,

14:30hrs

Georgetown: West Ruimveldt vs St. Joseph’s High (Education) July03,2023,14:00hrs

TucvilleSecvsExcelsior (Education) July 03, 2023, 15:30hrs

South Ruimveldt vs ChaseAcademy(Education)

July03,2023,17:00hrs

Region (4) East Bank Demerara: Diamond vs Supply (Education) July 03, 2023,

12:00hrs

RegionFive(5): SemiFinal B u s h l o t S e c v s Mahaicony Tech (Rosignol)

July03,2023,16:00hrs

RegionSix(6): NewAmsterdam vs Port Mourant(ScottGround)July 03,2023,13:00hrs

Berbice High vs Tagore Memorial (Scott Ground)

July03,2023,14:00hrs

RegionTen(10): Linden Foundation vs McKenzie (Wisburg) July 03,2023,14:00hrs Wisburg vs Harmony (Wisburg) July 03, 2023, 16:00hrs

New date and venue for International Friendly between Guyana and Ethiopia

The much anticipated historic international friendlybetweentheGolden Jaguars and Ethiopia will now be held on August 2 at the Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia,UnitedStates.

Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde agreed to the change of date and venue request by the Ethiopian FootballFederationtogivethe African football body more time to secure relevant clearances The match, which willbethefirstbetweenGuyana and an Africa team since the Federation was founded 121

yearsago,wasscheduledtotake placeonSaturday,July8atthe Subaru Park in Philadelphia from7:30pm “Weareexpecting ourfirstoutingagainstanAfrican Nationtobeverycompetitiveas we continue to cultivate more sportingrelationshipswithinthe Confederation of African Football” President Forde explained

FIFA World Ranking has Guyana’s Senior Men’sTeam at 169 and Ethiopia, the onetime Africa Cup of Nations champions, at 143 as of June 2023 Teamsarerankedusinga pointssystemoninternational form based on their current

performances. The August clash is expected to be memorable experience for both teams, with the Golden Jaguars using this match as a warm-up for the Concacaf Nations League which kicks offinSeptember Thiswillalso beEthiopia’sfirsttimeplaying intheUnitedStates.

The GFF has once again appealed to fans and corporateGuyanatosupport this historic international friendly,astheGFFseeksto create more high quality playing opportunities and exposure for the Golden Jaguars.(GFF)

Leonora’s scorers Tromayne Hercules (L), Keon Grant (C) and Dfinidy Miggins.

The match will be the first between Guyana and anAfrica team since the Federation was founded 121 years ago.