Guyana Times -- Saturday, December 25, 2021

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4872

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021

PRICE

Our next publication will be on Tuesday, December 28, 2021

President Ali reiterates calls for a united Guyana ... says outlook for 2022 exciting but challenging Page 3

Proposed NRF legislation most transparent model – VP Jagdeo A miracle baby “I’ll be home for Christmas for Christmas”

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

“It was his day”: The Ramdhani family missing Gokarn even more at Christmas P26

Page 7

Page 25

– the hope of a travelling cricketer Page 27

Active cases now P at 731 with 44 23 new infections

– no deaths reported

Crime is not out of control – Top Cop P25 Govt working towards modernised, united Guyana – Edghill P10 St Joseph High School alumna admitted to Bar P10

GUYSUCO produced 58,000 tonnes of sugar for 2021 despite floods

– paid over $600M to NIS

Page 24

Alleged child rapist granted bail on armed robbery P8 charge

NEWS

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Dec 25 – 09:30h – 11:00h and Sunday, Dec 26 – No closure.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Dec 25 – 08:15h – 09:45h and Sunday, Dec 26 – 09:15h – 10:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY There will be sunshine during the day. Expect clear skies at night. Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Westerly to Northerly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 08:34h and 20:55h reaching a maximum height of 2.31 metres and 2.37 metres.

Low Tide: 14:25h reaching minimum heights of 0.92 metre.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2021

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President Ali reiterates calls for a united Guyana ...says outlook for 2022 exciting but challenging

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escribing the outlook for 2022 as an exciting one, President Dr Irfaan Ali in his Christmas Day message urged all to unite under the “One Guyana” banner as Guyana recovers from a year of the socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to President Ali, Guyanese must remain thankful even as they celebrate the holidays, in the fact that the country was still able to attract major foreign and local investments. He noted that these investments are likely to contribute to the creation of sustainable jobs, an expanding economy and a positive outlook for 2022.

“The outlook for 2022 is exciting but will not be without challenges as we continue to face a worsening global supply chain. The consequences of which will be continued rising prices for imported goods, supplies and transportation services.”

“This, coupled with climate change and the pandemic, would require robust and strategic policymaking to mitigate against the full consequences of the challenges, both social and economic, as I outlined before,” President Ali said.

According to President Ali, Guyana has seen countless initiatives from the Government, which has ensured the country could continue progressing even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we celebrate these holidays, we must be aware of the countless initiatives that have contributed to a positive outlook for our country. Despite the ravages of the pandemic and its consequences on the glob-

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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President Dr Irfaan Ali

al economy, we in Guyana can still be proud of a robust economy, positive growth, enhanced social services and greater benefits, in cash and kind, being passed down to the population. Indeed, many of these measures do not go unnoticed, and I have received positive reviews from international bodies,” he said.

The President also asked for reflection on those who lost their lives in 2021 due to COVID. He also used the opportunity to urge those still on the fence, to get vaccinated and in the process, support the fight against the

virus.

“It is with great sadness that we reflect on all the lives we have lost in the pandemic. However, we must take strength and be hopeful in the countess human sacrifices and the sense of community the pandemic has generated… I ask each of us to do our part by getting vaccinated, taking the booster shots and wearing a mask when in public,” President Ali said.

“Once again, on behalf of the people of Guyana, I thank our bilateral and international partners, all of our frontline work-

ers and members of the Government, the National COVID-19 Task Force and the Joint Services, for their selfless work in keeping our country safe. As your President, I will endeavour to do everything I can in supporting and implementing a balanced and strategic approach in the continued fight against this pandemic.”

The President explained that even with the challenges, the Christmas season instils in all, the lessons of hope over despair, sacrifices and faith in overcoming challenges. According to President Ali, the combination of faith, trust and hope is what will be needed to carry Guyana into the future.

“Each of us must resolve to be stronger, better, and more committed to individual, family, community, and country development. Let these holidays be reflective of the life we have lived versus what elements are missing in making it better, and more importantly, the commitment to fixing those elements.”

“It is with great love for all of you here in Guyana and the Diaspora, and those in our regional and international community of humanity, I wish all of you, on behalf of my family and I, happy holidays,” the President said.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Christmas amidst COVID-19

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t was in December 2019 - while we had been preparing for Christmas, but were distracted by the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition Government’s refusal to resign following their loss of the No-Confidence Motion (NCM) - that the COVID-19 virus first appeared in Wuhan, China.

Little did we suspect then that the entire globe was about to be overrun by one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. It is surmised that the virus spread to the West before the end of the month, and we suffered our first fatality in March 2020. By Christmas 2020, when a new PPPC Government had been finally allowed into office, there had been 75 million cases recorded worldwide, and 1.6 MILLION deaths.

In Guyana, 6,266 cases were confirmed, and 162 persons had died. The enormity of the threat was still not fully appreciated by the populace, and even though there were restrictions in place on the number of persons in social gatherings, Christmas celebrations were still observed in the usual exuberant Guyanese tradition.

But COVID-19 continued its inexorable global march, with new waves being fuelled by the inevitable mutations of the virus - Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and now Omicron. And as of yesterday, Christmas Eve, the world figures were 278 MILLION infections and 5.39 MILLION deaths. In the US alone, with their most advanced medical care, they suffered 814,000 deaths - 64,000 more than our entire population. But even though our rates of infection and death had eased up by the beginning of this month, our infections had rocketed to 39,998, and deaths to 1,042. More persons had been killed by COVID-19 that by murders, suicides and traffic accidents.

But today is Christmas, and it says much about the Guyanese people that, in most homes - among persons from all faiths - Christmas will be observed, albeit in a more chastened form in some homes. This is a tribute to the human spirit, and we should be reminded that as terrible as the COVID-19 pandemic has been, there have been positives in the last two years. For instance, just 76 years ago, at the end of WWII, the world was swept by the Spanish Flu pandemic that took between 25 and 59 million lives, with 12,000 right here in Guyana.

Unlike then, we are now able to utilise our superior scientific achievements to create several vaccines that have served to blunt the worst ravages of the COVID-19 virus.

Unfortunately, we witnessed the richer countries hogging the vaccines and refusing to fulfill their commitments for a more equitable distribution to poorer countries.

However, in the latter countries, including Guyana, while the governments have paid through their noses for vaccines, a large swathe of “vaccine hesitants” has slowed down the achievement of herd immunity that would be reached when approximately 80% of the populace have either been vaccinated or infected and recovered. Even then, of course, though rare, there would always be the possibility of “breakthrough” infections and fatalities.

Today, therefore, we urge all Guyanese to observe all the protocols that we have been educated about - social distancing, masking, and sanitising of hands plus ensuring that everyone at our gatherings has been vaccinated. While this may appear to put a damper on our usual raucous Christmas celebrations, we must be safe, rather than sorry. Let us remember that the essence of the festival of Christmas is to observe the birth of an individual who emphasised the supremacy of our social obligations to each other. To “love thy neighbour as thyself” is not confined to just thoughts, but extends to actions that demonstrate such love. The actions of love will depend on the context: if our neighbours are hungry, then we must share our food with them; if our neighbours can contract the COVID-19 virus in crowded gatherings, unless protocols are observed, then we must insist that those protocols are scrupulously followed.

This is love in the era of COVID-19. Have a safe Christmas, Guyana.

Staff of the Times Media Group posing for a group photo during their annual Christmas gift exchange and luncheon

Jesus Christ’s exemplary life, teachings offer guidance for betterment, more tolerant society – PPP

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings to all Guyanese, especially the Christian community here and in the Diaspora, for a joyous and blessed Christmas.

The holiday season is a time of joy, goodwill, and sharing. It is also a time for compassion and kindness as we all endeavour to spread peace and love towards our fellowmen and women for the betterment of humanity.

Christmas is being celebrated this year at a time when our country is poised for exciting times ahead,

as

we work towards rebuilding our economy, moving our country forward in new frontiers of development, and creating opportunities for all.

As we celebrate, our Party urges that the true spirit and meaning of Christmas helps us to advance all humanity. The birth of the Saviour Jesus Christ and His exemplary life and teachings are not only inspiring, but offer much guidance for the betterment of all. These lessons provide us with opportunities to build a more tolerant society.

Our wish is that, in this season, the less fortunate would be especially remembered, and in our caring and sharing, our arms would be extended to even the stranger. In the true Guyanese spirit, as a multicultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious society, the message of love is apt.

Cognisant of the ongoing impact of COVID-19, the Party therefore urges everyone to observe the necessary safety precautions during this festive season, in order to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Merry Christmas!

PM urges upholding of tenets of Christmas despite setbacks

Fellow Guyanese, Christmas is here once again. At this time of year, gratitude is one of the strongest feelings we have; and this year, even as we observe it for the second time amid the ongoing pandemic, it is not lost on any of us that the opportunity to meet and celebrate Christmas once again is a blessing.

This year, while we have no doubt suffered losses and disappointments, we were still able to meet with family and friends in a way that we were unable to last year. Yet, the challenges of the pandemic remain before us; and, every day, we, as a Government, as a people, and as individuals, must find new ways to continue to live our lives while trying our best to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

So, even amid the festivities,

we must not forget to stay vigilant, safe, and take every precaution possible, as these are the only ways we can ensure that we protect ourselves and our loved ones while still being able to enjoy the season and all that it brings.

I take this time to extend my gratitude to the Public Servants, frontline workers, the Private Sector, the entrepreneurs, and all those who have been instrumental in working towards ensuring we continue to serve our people even amid necessary restrictions. Because of you, we can still operate on some level of normalcy even at this time. It is because of you that we can still enjoy Christmas.

I urge, too, that we also keep the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ, and the lessons that it teaches - close to our hearts. It is

a time of celebration of life and restoration of hope; a time of giving and joy. These are the tenets to which we must hold fast despite the setbacks that may hang over our heads.

As Guyanese people, whether we are at home or living abroad, we have the amazing ability to shine brightly through our rich culture and practices; and so I look forward to seeing that brightness this Christmas, as a show of that true Guyanese spirit that we have always so proudly showcased. This bright spirit will continue to guide us through the most difficult of times.

I encourage us all to take a moment to pause and indulge in the festivities, and wish you all a peaceful, safe and joyous season filled with love, happiness and prosperity.

Merry Christmas, Guyana!

5 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

May Christ’s values continue to shape and Christmas pierces religious influence our lives, year-round – GTUC barriers, provides opportunity

The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) joins with the Christian community and all Guyanese in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Holiday is not without challenges to the working class and their families who are forced to continue to navigate the pandemic and increasing cost of living… It remains of concern to GTUC that salary/wages have not kept pace with cost-of-living…

GTUC also notes the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has changed its guard. At its Biennial Congress, held on 18th December, Mr. Aubrey Norton was elected Leader along with a new Executive Committee.

As one of Guyana’s major two political forces, and principal member in the APNU+AFC coalition, society will look forward to new and more inclusionary engagement with labour and other national stakeholders in realising proper management of the nation’s resources, and development of the poor and working class.

A religion founded to revolutionise man’s thinking and interaction with others,

built on the teaching/principles/values of equality and redemption, finds a world where disparity and injustice reign supreme and the condemned practices of the Scribes and Pharisees’ returning to preeminence. The principles of Christianity that prides itself on being our brothers and sisters’ keepers are waning, and considering this, GTUC urges the return of Christ to Christmas.

Where His birth and teachings are premised on equality, justice and fair play these values would become meaningless when observed in the breach and lip service paid at significant calendar events such as Christmas Day. The equality which protects the individual’s fundamental rights and freedoms to be treated with dignity and respect includes the right to worship in peace, the right to work, freedom of association, legal justice, to own property, economic advancement, and all other inalienable rights.

Respect for equality will ensure systems are put in place to ensure social, economic, and political justice for our fellow man, be it at an indi-

vidual, group or institutional level.

Treating each other fairly will contribute to creating a just society and guaranteeing the equality of all. Whether it be the family, workplace, civic group, or government, where the tone is set in ensuring rules and standards grounded in universal principles of equality, peace and goodwill to all mankind can be assured. The best exemplar in this regard remains Christ, whose teachings and actions were even handed in conceptualisation, application and implementation.

Thus, the peace and goodwill this Yuletide season brings us must not only be for merriment, but committed immersion in the role each and every one of us must play in giving true meaning, year round, to the principles Christ’s life and work exemplified. GTUC therefore enjoins all not only to celebrate Christ’s beginning (25th December), but to give true meaning to its representation in our day-to-day lives.

May Christ’s values continue to shape and influence our lives

Christmas is filled with potential to promote national unity; let us live up to that tradition – PNCR

The People’s National Congress Reform gladly takes this opportunity to join in expressing heartfelt Seasons’ Greetings to the Christian community and to all Guyanese as we celebrate Christmas 2021.

Christmas is an occasion that allows us to enjoy and celebrate together. It is teemed with the potential to promote national unity, as is the case of other festivals in our rich Guyanese culture. It is a time for sharing with each other.

Let this Christmas live up to that tradition.

It is also fitting to express our deepest gratitude to our Party members, supporters, and all Guyanese who have expressed confidence in our leadership. We feel certain that your trust is well founded, and promise to adequately represent you as we remain in contact with our people.

We appreciate very much your firm conviction that we can represent your interest.

We will live up to that expectation. Let this Christmas be the beginning of a new era in which the average Guyanese feels represented.

Our duty is to return to every nook and cranny in each village and community, so as to be aware of our people’s needs and concerns and to articulate them with the aim of improving their lives.

Christmas is a time for giving. The People’s National Congress Reform has been involved in a number of social activities aimed at bringing relief and joy to the poor, the vulnerable, and the disadvantaged.

This tradition we will intensify and increase in the future.

It was the People’s National Congress Reform’s sincere hope that Public Servants would have continued to enjoy increased wages and salaries at a level that would have cushioned the impact of the high cost of living.

Unfortunately, this is not the

GOGEC extends spirit of peace, goodwill

T

he Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our members and supporters, and all Guyanese, especially those who have stood by us and worked along with us in successfully discharging our activities.

We look forward to collaborating with you again next year, and may the spirit of

peace and goodwill of this festive season continue throughout the New Year.

With gratitude from the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), we extend the warmest of Christmas greetings to you all. May the holiday season fill your homes with joy, your hearts with love, and your lives with laughter.

We hope you have a safe and relaxing holiday season.

case. Notwithstanding, it is our sincere hope that our people would continue to be resilient, and have an enjoyable Christmas in these difficult circumstances.

This opportunity is taken to wish our fellow Guyanese a very Merry Guyanese Christmas.

People’s National Congress Reform

to bring people together – ERC

T

he Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends best wishes for peace, joy and brotherhood to Christians and Guyanese everywhere, to crown the spirit of the holiday season. It is time again to celebrate the goodness of humanity with sharing and compassion.

The Commission steadfastly expects that the continued generosity for which Guyanese are known, and their humanitarian thoughts and prayers, would be for the less fortunate. The birth of the Christ child in humble settings, and later as the as-

As friends, colleagues at work, or relatives, make a silent and determined promise to promote tolerance and peace during and beyond the season.

It is a duty that galvanises the efforts of all citizens with one desirable outcome - to achieve national harmony for the sake of our country.

The Commission, nevertheless, cautions everyone in the midst of the observances and festivities to exercise utmost care to stay safe from COVID-19 and its mutating variants.

Merry Christmas from the Ethnic Relations Commission!

National celebration of Christmas speaks to tolerance, unity of Guyanese – GAWU

T

he year-end Season of Christmas is one which is highly anticipated by almost everyone. Indeed, the Season brings the curtains down on our year’s efforts and work, and allows us to reflect on our achievements and difficulties. While the Season has adopted such meaningful symbolism, we also must remember its origins and significance.

Christmas signifies the birth of Jesus Christ, who laid the foundation for the Christian religion. That religion, which is embraced by a large section of the world’s people, has survived many challenges, espouses peace and empathy for the poor, and goodwill towards men.

Today, as Christmas is once again celebrated, it is almost ironic that Christianity’s birth place has been caught in the throes of conflict and violence.

Of course, we cannot fail to recognise that this year’s Christmas Season has been unlike any in the recent past.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc glob-

Let us set aside differences to welcome the spirit of joy, peace this Holiday Season – AFC

The Alliance For Change joins the joyful chorus of those celebrating Christmas 2021.

Christmas is an all-embracing time for Guyanese here at home and in the Diaspora, and our favourite time for family, fun and frolic; and brings out the best spirit of giving and forgiving.

There is much to celebrate this year, despite the challenges that everyone, especially ordinary Guyanese, continue to endure. Unfortunately, our society is being overrun by persons with extremist views and

cribed saviour of mankind, continues to be inspirational with his message of goodness and love for all humanity.

The ERC encourages all to embrace the significance of Christmas, which is relevant for a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and multi-cultural society like Guyana. Like many of our national holidays, Christmas has pierced religious barriers, and participation is seen

by Guyanese from all backgrounds. Such a positive development has served to provide opportunities to bring our people together.

opinions; those grinches who will stop at nothing to ruin Christmas and to destroy the lives and reputations of others.

The overwhelming majority who want a peaceful and harmonious Guyana must not allow a few to drive us into ethnic and hate-filled camps and enclaves.

For a moment, however, let us set aside our differences, our difficulties, and our disappointments, and celebrate the birth of the Christ child and to welcome the spirit of joy and peace for the holidays.

ally, and has significantly curtailed contemporary life.

While mankind continues to face up to these challenges, we see Christianity’s principles of piety, charity, and assistance to the less fortunate shining through the dark clouds that have hovered over our world.

This, like the birth of Jesus the Christ, gives us hope that better days and times are ahead, and that mankind confronted by adversity would not only rise, but surmount the challenges in its way.

At the local level, Christmas has grown into a national observance, with Guyanese from all walks of life participating. This, we hold, speaks to the tolerance and unity of our people, which have been tested in recent times.

Though challenges to national unity abound, we know that our people would not be led astray by those who seek to divide for their own ends.

This Christmas Season sees greater optimism among the Guyanese people. Already, several of their burdens have been lifted, and efforts to lift them out of the hardships placed on them are continuing. It is this hopefulness

that is synonymous with the Christmas Season. And it reminds us that there is indeed light at the end of the dark tunnel. It reaffirms that the people’s struggles were not in vain, and they have won out in the end.

It is with such thoughts in mind that the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends greetings to the Christian community and all Guyanese, as we celebrate Christmas 2021. The Christmas Season signals that the history-making 2021 is nearing an end. It also signals that better and brighter days are ahead, as we see sustained efforts to advance development.

The celebration of Christmas 2021, embraced by so many, presents the opportunity for togetherness to prevail over selfishness and political high-handedness, and sets our nation on the path to harmony as we strive to ensure that peace and goodwill among men and women prevail.

A joyful Christmas and a New Year of hope, from GAWU to all Guyana!

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021

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Foundation

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ong ago, about 2000 years, when King Herod ruled Judea (now part of Israel), God sent the angel Gabriel to a young woman who lived in the northern town of Nazareth. The girl’s name was Mary and she was engaged to marry Joseph.

The angel Gabriel said to Mary: “Peace be with you! God has blessed you and is pleased with you.”

Mary was very surprised by this and wondered what the angel meant. The angel said to her “Don’t be afraid, God has been very kind to you. You will become pregnant by the Holy Spirit and give birth to a baby boy and you will call him Jesus. He will be God’s own Son and his kingdom will never end.”

Mary was very afraid but she trusted God. “Let it happen as God chooses.” she replied to the angel. Gabriel also told Mary that her cousin, Elizabeth who everyone thought was too old to have children, would have a baby boy whom God had chosen to prepare the way for Jesus.

Mary said goodbye to her family and friends and went to visit her cousin Elizabeth and her husband Zechariah. Elizabeth was very happy to see Mary. She knew that Mary had been chosen

by God to be the mother of his Son. An angel had already told Zechariah that Elizabeth’s baby would prepare people to welcome Jesus. He was to be called John. Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then returned home to Nazareth.

An angel visiting Joseph Joseph was worried when he found out that Mary was expecting a baby before their marriage had taken place. He wondered if he should put off the wedding altogether. Then an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said: “Don’t be afraid to have Mary as your wife.”

The angel explained that Mary had been chosen by God to be the mother of his Son and told Joseph that the baby would be named Jesus which means “Saviour” because he would save people. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel had told him to do and took Mary as his wife.

At this time, the land where Mary and Joseph lived was part of the Roman Empire. The Roman Emperor Augustus wanted to have a list of all the people in the empire, to make sure they paid their taxes. He ordered everyone to return to the town where their families originally came from, and enter their names in a register (or census) there. Mary and Joseph travelled a long way (about 70 miles) from Nazareth to Bethlehem, because that is where Joseph’s family came from. Most people walked but some lucky people had a donkey to help carry the goods needed for the journey. Joseph and Mary travelled very slowly because Mary’s baby was due to be born soon.

Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus When they reached Bethlehem they had problems finding somewhere to stay. So many people had come to register their names in the census, that every house was full and every bed was taken in all of the guest rooms. The only place to stay that they could find was with the animals. People often kept animals in the house, especially at night, and used them like ‘central heating’!

People normally slept on a raised/upper level with the animals below to give them extra warmth.

So in the place where the animals slept, Mary gave birth to

Jesus, the Son of God. In those days it was the custom to wrap newborn babies tightly in a long cloth called ‘swaddling clothes’. Jesus’ bed was the manger that the animals ate their hay from.

In the hills and fields outside Bethlehem, shepherds looked after their sheep through the long night. As the new day began, suddenly an angel appeared before them and the glory of God shone around them. The shepherds were very, very scared, but the angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I have good news for you and everyone. Today in Bethlehem a Saviour has been born for you.

You will find the baby lying in a manger.”

Then many more angels appeared, lighting up the sky. The shepherds heard them praising God singing: “Glory to God in highest, and peace to everyone on earth.”

When the angels had gone, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem to see what has happened.” So the shepherds went to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph. The baby Jesus was lying in a manger as they had been told. When they saw him, they told everyone what the angel had said and everyone who heard the story was astonished. Then the shepherds returned to their sheep, praising God for sending his Son to be their Saviour.

When Jesus was born, a brand new bright star appeared in sky.

Some Wise Men in faraway countries saw the star and guessed what it meant. They were very clever men that studied the stars and had read in very old writings that a new star would appear when a great king was born. They set out to find the new king and bring him gifts.

The Wise Men followed the star towards the country of Judea and when they got to the capital called Jerusalem they began to ask people: “Where is the child who is born to be king of the Jews?”

Herod, the king of Judea, heard this and it made him very angry to think that someone might be going to take his place as king. Herod sent for the Wise Men to come to him. He told them to go on following the star until they had found the baby king.

He said: “When you have found him, let me know where he is, so that I can go and worship him.” But Herod did not tell them that he really had an evil plan in mind to kill the new king.

The Wise Men visiting Baby Jesus The Wise Men followed the star towards Bethlehem (where it said that the king would be born in the old writings). It seemed to stop and shine directly down upon the place where Jesus was.

The Wise Men entered the house where they now lived and found Jesus with Mary; they bowed down and worshipped him.

The Wise Men spread the gifts they had brought before Jesus.

The gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Wise Men were warned in a dream, by God, not to go back to Herod. So they returned home to their countries in the East by a different way.

Mary, Jesus and Joseph in Egypt When the Wise Men had gone, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” the angel said, “Take Jesus and Mary and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for Jesus to kill him.”

So Joseph got up, took Jesus and Mary during the night they left for Egypt, where he stayed until Herod died.

When Herod realised that he had been tricked by the Wise

Men, he was furious and he gave orders to kill all the boys aged two or younger in Bethlehem and the surrounding area. This was to try and kill the new King, as his plan to find the location of the new king from the Wise Men had failed.

After Herod had died, Joseph had another dream in which an angel appeared to him. The angel said, “Get up, take Jesus and Mary and go back to Israel, for those who were trying kill Jesus are dead.”

So Joseph got up, took Jesus and Mary and they went back to Israel. But when he heard that Herod’s son was now king of Judea, he was afraid to go there. So instead they went to Galilee, and lived in their old town of Nazareth. (whychristmas.com)

Continued

Step 4: Make the box

Now you need to protect the whole scenery inside a box. Of course, you can get an already made one of the right size, but I don’t mind making my own!

To make the cardboard box, cut 4 large strips of cardboard with the same wideness: they must be wider than the thickness of your layers because you need to keep some free space on the back for the LED strip.

Two strips must be as long as the layers’ long side plus the size of your cardboard’s thickness and the other 2 strips must be as long as the layers’ short side plus your cardboard’s thickness.

Measure your cardboard’s thickness on one end of each strip and trace a line. Carefully use a cutter to cut out that piece, but make sure to leave the lowest layer of the cardboard intact.

When you are done doing this on all of the strips, apply some glue on the cardboard layer at the end of the strip and attach another strip on it, perpendicularly. Do this with all of the 4 strips until you obtain a rectangle.

This is a simple trick to hide the ugly cardboard sides of the box.

Step 5: Make the back and the frame

To make the back of the frame, simply cut a cardboard rectangle that perfectly fits into the box you made. Paint it with white paint or cover it with a white sheet of paper like I did.

The box was not truly completed without a frame, so I finally drew a new frame on a piece of cardboard as big as my box and I cut it. My cardboard was already white, but you can paint it if you want.

Step 6: Insert the scenery in the box!

Apply some glue all around the inside of the box and carefully insert your scenery in it. Slowly push it down until it reaches the position you want. I kept it a little distant from the top of the box, so that there would be some free space between the frame (that you’re going to add now) and the first layer.

Finally, cut out a small slit in the back of the box for the cable to go through. Try to make it close to one of the angles.

Remember to glue the cardboard frame on top of the box to complete your shadow box!

Step 7: Add the LED strip

The last thing that’s missing is the light!

So measure the inside of your box and cut a piece of the LED strip just as long. Attach the strip to the inside of the box, starting close to the spot where you made the slit.

Connect it to the power supply using an adapter or welding it.

Put the back of the box in place with the white side facing the layers, this way you won’t see any brown spot through the hand cut layers. The back I made fits perfectly into the box so it stays in place when it’s closed and I can remove it whenever I want.

Step 8: Light on!

Turn your shadow box on and admire the amazing result!

(Excerpt from lindarose92, instructables.com)

NEWS

7

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Proposed NRF legislation most transparent model – VP Jagdeo V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo has defended the Natural Resources Fund Bill that was tabled by the PPP/C Government in the National Assembly last week, saying that this is the most transparent model that will not only ensure public scrutiny but also parliamentary oversight on the spending of oil revenues.

He was at the time speaking at a breakfast event hosted for Private Sector representatives at State House on Thursday.

Jagdeo explained that the proposed legislation presents an armslength relation between the Government, specifically the Finance Minister, and the management of the Fund, where all the country’s earnings from oil production are being held.

This, he noted, is a major change from the option that was used by the APNU/AFC Administration in which the Finance Minister dominated the management of oil monies and had total control on how much monies could be withdrawn.

“So, what we did here is we inserted a Board of Directors for the management of the Fund, appointed by the President and not the Minister himself… And on that Board of Directors, we now have representatives from the Private Sector and someone from the Parliament that has to go through a parliamentary process [to] get the support of both sides in the National Assembly… That is a major change in terms of the management of the Fund,” he posited.

According to the Vice President, this model presented by the PPP/C Government allows for more scrutiny in the use of oil revenues. He said that no Minister or any

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo addressing Private Sector representatives

other Government officials can arbitrarily withdraw unlimited amounts from the NRF as was allowed in the coalition’s version that was passed in the National Assembly just weeks after the APNU/AFC Administration had fallen to a No-Confidence Motion and was in illegitimate mode. That legislation contained sweeping measures and excessive ministerial influence.

“We have opted now to replace that with a transparent system that every single Guyanese will know now, how much money will come to the Budget [from the Natural Resources Fund] and how much will be saved. Every person now knows exactly how much and by law. So, you don’t have to have the Finance Minister doing calculations every year any longer. This is the most transparent system for transfers [from] the Fund,” the Vice President asserted.

Jagdeo went on to outline that in addition to pub-

lic scrutiny, there will also be parliamentary oversight in the use of monies from the Fund that would ensure the APNU/AFC Opposition to have oversight through the National Assembly.

“Every cent that comes to the Budget [from the Fund] will have to finance projects in the Budget and the Budget has to be debated in the National Assembly…

So, the Opposition will have parliamentary oversight over the expenditure.

The money coming into the Fund, the resources, is just on the financing side but on the expenditure side, it is subjected to a full debate and appropriation in the National Assembly,” VP Jagdeo said.

Moreover, the Vice President pointed out that the Opposition will also have an active role in the Investment Committee that will be established to advise the Board of Directors on its investment mandate commensurate with current conditions, opportunities and constraints in relevant

financial markets. “[The Opposition will] hold Government accountable for the expenditure through the debate on all these resources,” he stated.

Currently, there is approximately US$534 million in oil revenues that Guyana has earned thus far, including some US$388.7 million from the seven lifts of more than 7 million barrels of oil to date, being held in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The PPP/C Government has maintained that it would not touch the monies until the proper legislative infrastructure is in place to manage the use of the funds.

To this end, Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance Dr Ashni Singh last week tabled the Natural Resources Fund Bill in the National Assembly, which states that these monies are only to be used to finance: “National development priorities including any initiative aimed at realising an inclusive green economy, and essential projects

that are direction related to ameliorating the effect of a major natural disaster.”

According to the proposed laws, the NRF will be governed by a Board of Directors, comprising of as much as five members, who will be selected from among persons “who have wide experience and ability in legal, financial, business, or administrative matters.”

But in keeping with the aim of having an armslength approach to revenues earned in the oil and gas sector, the bill explicitly states that the Directors cannot be a Member of Parliament or anyone whose appointment will be a conflict of interest, among other restrictions.

Meanwhile, the NRF Bill also proposes a $10 million fine and five years’ imprisonment for anyone who gives materially false and misleading information or

permit such information to be included in any reports or documents. A similar penalty will be imposed on anyone who discloses official information that are deemed confidential as well as anyone who fails to publish information required to be made known under the law.

Additionally, the proposed legislation also simplifies, makes more transparent and removes the discretion in the determination of the amount that will be transferred from the fund to the National Budget.

The NRF legislation proposes that the maximum withdrawals from the Fund in a fiscal year cannot exceed the amount approved by the National Assembly for that period, and that all withdrawal be deposited into the Consolidated Fund.

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Alleged child rapist granted bail on armed robbery charge A

22-year-old man who is currently awaiting trial at the High Court on a child rape charge, was on Friday granted $150,000 bail after being charged with armed rob-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

bery. Reon Joseph of Wren Avenue, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was arraigned before Magistrate Rondel Weever at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

He pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on December 21, at Duncan Street, Georgetown, while being in the company of another and armed with a gun, he robbed Dawn Jeffery of a 10-pennyweight gold chain, a Samsung phone, a shoulder bag, $40,000 in cash, and other items.

The Police prosecutor told the court that Jeffery was standing along Duncan Street when a white motor car, PVV 7709, pulled up in front of her. Joseph was the driver of the vehicle which had two other male occupants.

The court heard that one of the men exited the car and held the woman at gunpoint before relieving her of

Accused robber/child rapist Reon Joseph

the articles.

The suspect then made good his escape in the waiting vehicle. The robbery was reported to the Police station and ranks trailed the motor car to Joseph’s home.

He was the only occupant in the vehicle at the time and

as such, he was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Police ranks recovered $5000 from him.

The prosecutor said that Joseph was positively identified by the virtual complainant. Police are currently on the hunt for the two other suspects who are reportedly teenagers. Joseph is due back in court on January 28, 2022.

In 2019, Joseph was committed to stand trial at the Demerara High Court for allegedly raping an 11-yearold girl. At the time, it was reported that he was a serving member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

It is alleged that between December 1 and December 31, 2017, at South Ruimveldt Gardens, Georgetown, he engaged in sexual penetration with a child under the age of 16. He is out on $300,000 bail on this charge.

Christmas Cheers...

T

…for the year he usual greeting today is “Merry Christmas!!” So, your Eyewitness won’t be a grinch. Right up front, he wishes all his dear readers a “Merry Christmas”.

And since he’s a “glass-half-full” kinda guy, here are some reasons for being merry. In this age of COVID - when folks in the “developed countries” hogged all their silver-bullet vaccines, but are dying like flies - we haven’t done that badly, have we? We gotta thank Pres Ali and his team for going the extra mile and scrounging all over the world for vaccines. Because, to be honest, we haven’t really been good boys and girls in getting vaccinated and observing our social protocols! But we woke up this morning, didn’t we?

And that’s a big reason to be merry!!

Another positive is that even though there have been some Opposition sour-pusses around, dubbing the Government an “illegally installed cabal” and calling for protests on every issue under the sun and then some, they’ve been studiously ignored by the majority of their constituents!! Guyanese know when their chains are being yanked!! All of the PNC “influencers” called the alarmists and provocateurs out with their anti-vaxxer line - which they tried to disguise by calling it “free choice”!! Who’d they think they were foolin’??

But the biggest positive was that the PNC FINALLY - after 64 years - held an election that wasn’t fixed or rigged!!

Your Eyewitness has always maintained that no matter how you cut it, slice it or dice it, the PNC’s here to stay. Ethnic differences don’t just disappear like that - not because of the differences as such, but because there will always be leaders who’ll exploit those cleavages! A lot of credit must go to the integrity of the fella picked to mediate, conciliate and arbitrate among the various factions - all of whom knew personally how the system could be jimmied!

And out of that election, the PNC got a leader - Aubrey Norton - who undoubtedly has the support of the masses of the PNC representatives. Some have been caviling about the low voter-turnout of the PNC membership - less than 49%.

But hey!! Have you, dear reader, tried this “virtual platform” for voting? If you can’t get kids to use virtual platforms with teachers and parents pushing, what about party members who’re stretched and stressed about getting that Christmas Dinner on the table!?!

So, c’mon fellas, let’s dive into that ginger beer or fruitpunch bowl, sop up that pepper-pot broth with that plaitbread, dig into that roast pork, and finally round it off with a hearty slab of black cake!!

Remember, “Christmas comes but once a year. Now it’s here, now it’s here! Let’s be merry!! …and jeers But while he’s an optimist, that doesn’t mean your Eyewitness has closed his eyes and acts as if all the negatives around him have disappeared! He’s hopeful…NOT hopeless!! So, some jeers to those who still want to move the goalposts after they lost office in 2020 - by the same rules they’d gained office in 2015! Have they learnt nothing from the great CLR, who asked, “What they know of cricket who only cricket know?” Cricket that defines the true West Indian - even off the field. You “walk” when that finger goes up.

And some great West Indians have walked even without the finger!!

And then we hear that only 57,995 tonnes of sugar were produced in 2021. Now, of course, we’ll hear about “rains and floods”. But hey!! Why weren’t production targets “revised”?? Were they just plucked out of thin air? The target was set at 97,000 tons in view of last year’s travails.

Then, AFTER the floods, this was revised to 79,000 tons!

We need explanations for the missing 21,000 tons. …and sorrow Your Eyewitness waited and waited…but silence. One of the greatest feminists of all times - bell hooks - passed on just over a week ago.

Was it because she was a “Black” feminist?

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt working towards modernised, united Guyana – Edghill

T

he holiday season is in full effect and while it is a time of reflection, Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill said his Government is already making futuristic plans to have a modernised and united country.

Incoming passengers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) were on Thursday treated to a “Guyanese Christmas” as they disembarked from their respective flights.

Speaking on the significance of the holidays, the Public Works Minister outlined that there is a holistic vision to create development within the country by establishing Guyana as a hub in

the region.

“Guyana must be a place where people can come, admire, the comments must be positive. We must be able to bring our people together in oneness. The divisions of yesteryear and the confrontational politics of the past; our energies must be turned into a development cycle of all Guyanese working together to make Guyana a better place,” the Minister added.

The idea is to create world-class infrastructure and equity in the services offered across the country.

In the plans are stadiums, modernised airports, and additional development to the various sectors.

Minister Bishop Juan Edghill greeting passengers at the CJIA (DPI photo)

“Our highways must be super, adequate lights. Our facilities in terms of healthcare must be superior to

what we currently have – world-class. People in the diaspora must be coming to Guyana for medical at-

tention. Our educational institutions must be well equipped with the smart classrooms that we’re building. Our children in the hinterland areas must have the same access to education like our children on the coastland.”

With the challenges of COVID, floods, and economic conditions that affected a majority of Guyanese in 2021, he said the new year should be seen as a turnaround that can bring prosperity and greater development.

“I think every Guyanese is now looking forward for Guyana to rise from that difficult period, out of that era of debt, destruction, dark-

ness, despair, disillusionment; and anticipates hope, future, greater prosperity, blessing on the family, development in every community, the enrichment of our people coming together. it’s just a wonderful occasion for all Guyanese,” Edghill stated.

The Guyanese experience shown to passengers included slices of black cake, steelpan music, locally produced items and other tokens from the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the CJIA. Many travellers included persons who were returning home for the holidays to be with their families.

St Joseph High School alumna admitted to Bar

Attorney-at-Law Esther Osborne

E

sther Osborne, a Guyanese, practised law in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago right after graduating from the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) in 2020.

She even registered her own law firm, Osborne’s Legal Practise, there.

But there is no place like home. With that being said, the former St Joseph High School student has returned to the land of her birth to continue her career. She was admitted to practice law before the courts of Guyana earlier this month by Chief Justice Roxane George, SC. Her petition was presented by Eusi Anderson Esq. While presenting Osborne’s petition, Anderson shared that the young lawyer has always excelled in academics, and has actively been involved in volunteerism.

In brief remarks, Justice George reminded Osborne of her obligations to the bench, her colleagues, and her clients. The Chief Justice said she was impressed with Osborne’s resume and noted that she has no doubt she will excel in her career.

For her part, Osborne vowed to uphold the ethics of the noble profession. She vowed to represent her clients to the best of her ability and respect her fellow lawyers and the court. Most importantly, she pledged to defend the Rule of Law. After completing high school, Osborne read for a Bachelor of Social Science in Communication Studies

at the University of Guyana (UG). Her passion for the law was awakened during the pursuit of her first degree, and upon completing it in 2015, she immediately commenced a Bachelor of Laws at UG. Upon completing her law degree in 2018, she enrolled at HWLS from where she completed her Legal Education Certificate (LEC) - a prerequisite to practise law in the Commonwealth Caribbean - in 2020.

After graduating from law school, Osbourne was admitted to the Bar in Trinidad and Tobago. She interned at two law firms there simultaneously and was subsequently employed at C Griffith & Co Attorneys at Law, in Trinidad, as a Legal Associate.

Prior to this, she completed training sessions at Fitzwilliam Stone FurnessSmith & Morgan Attorneysat-Law, in Corporate Law. Osborne also completed legal training at the Caricom Secretariat in Guyana, under the guidance of the General Counsel.

While attending HWLS, she was a Student Mentor for the school’s mentorship programme. She was also served as the Vice Chairwoman and a Mentor at LBN Ambassadors Youth Group, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

Osborne still manages her legal practice in Trinidad and Tobago and is currently pursuing a Master of Laws at the University of East London.

22 NEWS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Silvie’s giving back to customers for Christmas

Silvie’s Variety Store Grand Prizes

I

n the spirit of the Christmas season, Silvie’s Industrial Solutions on Friday gave back to its loyal customers in the form of a promotion at its Hadfield and High Streets, Georgetown location.

The establishment’s Christmas promotion began back in November and the drawing was held on Friday.

Customers had to spend over 10,000 in-store to get a chance to win fabulous prizes.

Persons who shopped online were automatically entered into the promotion.

A total of eight winners were drawn at the event – four online and four instore shoppers – while four persons who were shopping in-store at the time of the drawing were given the opportunity to answer questions and win on-the-spot prizes.

The grand prizes were two 2600 PSI Pressure Washers, a vacuum and a generator, along with four constatation prizes. Some of the winners hailed from

as far as the mining town of Linden, the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), West Bank Demerara (WBD) and Georgetown.

Marketing Manager Naresa Nabby stated that the company was excited for the Christmas promotion draw as they know their customers would be excited.

She said that customers can expect upcoming promotions from the company as they love to give back to their loyal customers.

Nabby noted that for this year’s annual Christmas promotions, the company wanted to give back more to the people of Guyana who have supported them throughout the years. That is why instead of only selecting three winners, as they have in previous years, they came up with the idea to give more persons the chance of winning something for the Christmas holidays.

The event was hosted by staff members and internet personality and comedian Mark Kazim, who portrayed his infamous “Chinese Man” character.

NEWS

23

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Active cases now at 731 with 44 new infections

– no deaths reported

S

ome 44 new COVID-19 infections were detected within a 24hour period, according to the Ministry of Health’s updated dashboard for Thursday.

With this, the total number of confirmed cases has gone up to 39,042 but only 731 of these are currently active cases. This includes seven patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the remaining 724 persons in isolation, that is, 32 in institutional isolation and the other 692 in home isolation.

Additionally, there are

also six more persons in institutional quarantine.

The COVID-19 death toll remains at 1042 after no fatalities were reported.

To date, some 37,269 persons have recovered from the life-threatening virus – 24 more recoveries than the figures reported the previous day.

Meanwhile, approximately 417,327 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus to date and of this amount, 18,417 males and 20,625 females were found to be positive.

Of the 44 new cases recorded on Thursday, one was from Region One (BarimaWaini), five cases from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), another one from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), a whopping 21 cases from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), 12 from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and the remaining four cases from Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

There were no new cases recorded in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Seven

No indication of Omicron reaching Guyana – Dr Anthony …samples will be sent for genomic sequencing

H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Friday stated that from an epidemiological standpoint, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 has not reached the shores of Guyana as yet.

In the Friday briefing, the Minister said once this strain is present, cases would double in three days. This trend has not been detected by health authorities.

“If the Omicron variant is in Guyana, we’ll see a rapid increase in cases because in countries where it’s circulating, cases double. Every three days, you have a doubling of the cases. We have not seen that as yet so from an epidemiological point of view, we have not seen that. That’s an indication that it’s not here as yet,” he suggested.

The new strain has been detected in 100 countries – an indication that it will reach Guyana at some point in time.

Upon signs that it is here, he said provisions are in place to send samples for genomic sequencing. For variants to be detected, samples need to undergo genomic sequencing to examine the strain.

“Given the way it is

spreading around the world, we would anticipate at some point that it would get to Guyana. We have mechanisms in place that when we have such suspected cases, we’ll be able to take those samples and send them to a lab that will be able to do the sequencing.”

Data surrounding the new strain points to higher transmissibility and reinfection. It is said to be 5.2 times more infectious than the Delta variant.

Nevertheless, it was stated that Guyana still has cases of the Delta variant circulating.

“At this point in time we don’t feel that we have Omicron but we still have a lot of Delta cases and Delta is more severe in terms of its hospitalisation,” Dr Anthony stated.

Since the reopening of airports in October 2020, there have been 64 imported cases. Persons are continuously screened as they arrive in the country, along with the requirement that they be vaccinated completely and in the possession of a negative PCR or antigen test.

5 to 11 vaccines

Providing an update on

the vaccines for the five to 11 age cohort, the Minister said Caricom is actively working to secure an agreement with Pfizer-BioNTech.

“We have provided that information to the Caricom Secretariat and the arrangements that they have had with Pfizer before, I think they’re working on similar arrangements to acquire vaccines for children between 11 to five. We have indicated an interest and we have given them the quantity that we’re looking for,” he said.

Even if the jabs are unavailable as a donation, Dr Anthony said Government is prepared to set aside funds to purchase the vaccines. Attention is also being paid to oral antiretrovirals since the FDA would have given approval for two such drugs – Paxlovid and Molnupiravir.

“We’re following that and we are working on mechanisms whereby we can actually procure them to get them in Guyana as early as possible. These are new things and we really would like to have them, especially the Paxlovid because the efficacy seems to be very good.”

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD DECEMBER 24, 2021 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

44

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

32

REGION 1

1701

REGION 2

1584

REGION 3

5197

REGION 4

18,193

REGION 5

1478

REGION 6

3697

REGION 7

1810

39,042

REGION 8

623

37,269

REGION 9

2486

REGION 10

2273

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

692

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

7

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

6

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

20,625

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

18,417

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020 NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

410,076

FULLY IMMUNISED

293,260

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

(Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

In order to curb the rising number of cases in the country, the Guyana Government launched its COVID-19 vaccination exercise back in February and is aggressively rolling it out across the various regions in order to achieve herd immunity. In fact, it has also started administering booster shots.

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1042

The latest vaccination figures show that over 440,000 adults have received a first dose vaccine while more than 314,000 are fully immunised.

With regards to adolescents, approximately 30,198 got their first dose and some 21,503 are fully vaccinated.

In addition, over 10,400 booster shots have been administered to the adult population.

Persons are encouraged to get immunised since the

COVID-19 vaccine provides a layer of protection against severe symptoms of the deadly COVID-19.

Nevertheless, as more people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly masking in public, social distancing and frequent hand washing and sanitising.

The measures also include vaccination requirements to access any public building such as restaurants, places of worship, schools as well as Government buildings.

24 NEWS GuySuCo produced 58,000 tonnes of sugar for 2021 despite floods SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– paid over $600M to NIS

T

he Guyana Sugar C o r p o r a t i o n (GuySuCo) on Friday revealed that, owing to the flooding, its 2021 production target has been revised to 58,025 metric tonnes, compared to 88,890 metric tonnes in 2020.

This was stated in the corporation’s preliminary report for 2021, which showed that 4300 hectares of sugar cane were destroyed by the flooding for the year. This is equivalent to more than 52,000 house lots. GuySuCo was able to rehabilitate only 38 per cent of those damaged canes.

Albion Estate, which was expected to contribute 50 per cent of sugar cane cultivation, had a mortality rate of 80 per cent due to the floods.

This is cane that would have otherwise been harvested in the first crop of 2022. Berbice estates as a whole experienced 72 per cent more rainfall in 2021 than in 2020.

So unprecedented was the flooding GuySuCo experienced earlier in the year that “the Corporation drained some 4.5 million tonnes of water off the land daily during the 65 days’ flood, which is enough water to fill 2000 Olympic- sized swimming pools.”

However, GuySuCo CEO Sasenarine Singh was quoted in the report recounting the progress the Corporation

has made since the new Government took office.

“The opening balance sheet given to the new executive management after the new Dr Irfaan Ali Government came to office illustrated that the Corporation was never compensated for the G$60 billion as a result of the Vested Order that harvested Skeldon, Enmore, Wales and Rose Hall from the books of GuySuCo,” the CEO stated.

“When we turned up at Rose Hall for the initial take-over/hand over process, GuySuCo found a graveyard of scrap metal, as the factory was allowed to deteriorate, and many of the functional moveable machines that GuySuCo left at the location in 2017 either disappeared or fell into unrecoverable disrepair.”

GuySuCo also had to grapple with labour shortages, which, according to the corporation, negatively impacted harvesting. As such, the report recommended that GuySuCo move towards increased mechanisation.

“To compound the challenges of 2021, the industry was faced with a dismal shortage of labour (average turnout in the 2nd crop of 2021 being 49 per cent), which compromised critical operational activities such as harvesting. The outcome from this situation was that the factories did not have ad-

GuySuCo has paid a hefty sum of money over to NIS for the year

equate canes to grind consistently for a 24-hour period, thus increasing inefficiencies.

“This is why mechanisation at this time is critical to reduce the production period and increase the throughput in the factories in the productive months. The Field Operations and Research Director (ag) stated that what is critical is “two shorter crops with more output per day, and this will help to reduce cost in the industry,” the preliminary report stated.

It was further explained that the degree of mechanisation that would be required would end up costing over $3 billion in urgent capital investment to convert land, procure machinery, and implement field infrastructure.

GuySuCo also revealed that it was able to meet its obligations to the local brown sugar market for 2021. Additionally, the Corporation has enough brown sugar in its bonds to last until Valentine’s Day 2022, when the factories are expected to recommence grinding.

“GuySuCo has launched

into a forward-looking marketing strategy that is advancing the sale of value-added packaged sugar (Demerara Gold and Enmore Crystals brands) with the primary focus being the local and Caricom markets. The Corporation’s strategy is to move the industry away from the EU bulk market that procures sugar at an average

price of US$400 per MT when compared to US$600 MT in the Caribbean market,” GuySuCo further explained.

Further, GuySuCo added that it has paid over $600 million to the National Insurance Scheme for 2021.

This was confirmed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GuySuCo, Sasenarine Singh, who told Guyana Times that the Corporation has fulfilled its requirements for NIS contributions.

“We paid $623 million in NIS since May 2021, and GuySuCo has been paying its NIS obligations every single month since May 2021,” the GuySuCo Executive explained to this publication.

Another development is that the Corporation’s audited reports are now current.

This includes reports dating from the year 2017 to 2019.

Singh explained that these reports were all completed in one year.

“And we’re set to complete the 2020 and 2021 audits before we start 2022,” Singh further explained.

Traffic management still a challenge along EBD corridor

J

A section of the Eccles-to-Diamond bypass road

ust days after the Mocha-to-Diamond interlink road has been opened to ease traffic congestion on the East Bank corridor, Regional Commander of the Division said traffic management is still a challenge.

He was at the time making his address at the Annual Awards Ceremony at the M&M Banquet Hall, East Bank Demerara.

“Traffic management continues to be a challenge for ranks within the Division, however, I can say with pride that we have some of the most dedicated traffic ranks who have devoted themselves to ensuring that traffic is managed efficiently, Sunday to Saturday -throughout the year, hence the country’s Best Cop being a traffic rank from 4B came as no surprise.”

The Commander further went on to say, that there are traffic reductions in some areas, but in other areas, there has been an increase.

“I must note that while we would have had reductions in other areas of traffic, there was an 11 per cent

Regional Division 4B Commander, Mahendra Siwnarine

increase in fatal accidents for the year so far when compared with 2020. I would like to assure all gathered here that we will strive to ensure that the remainder of the year records no further accidents of that type and at the same time appeal to the public to use the road with extra caution during this period.”

Meanwhile, traffic congestion in and out of the Great Diamond Housing Scheme on the East Bank of Demerara was expected to significantly ease with

the highly-anticipated opening of the alternative access road to Mocha.

Plans are also in place to connect Eccles on the East Bank to Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara, which will initially connect to Eccles and then further on to Diamond and Timehri.

These projects are all in the overall context of the India-funded Bypass Road Project which would link the East Bank Demerara corridor to the East Coast of Demerara, creating a new highway in the backlands.

NEWS

25

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A miracle baby for Christmas

By Shane Marks

T

his is the season to be jolly. It is a time for laughter and love.

This season is all about basking in the happiness of everything around us and there is perhaps no one happier than Annecia George and her husband Lakeram Bridgepaul.

For the quiet couple from the Cinderella County, their Christmas miracle came months early but ever since his arrival, he has been fighting.

Three-month-old Javarious Annecia George is everything and more than his parents hoped for.

For them, he is their miracle boy.

Annecia and Lakeram hail from the quiet Essequibo Coast village of Good Hope and expanding their family is something they have wanted for quite some time now. However, this is not their first attempt at growing their numbers.

She lost her first child just last year and the pain was insufferable so when she got

pregnant this time around, Annecia wanted to do everything to ensure that she carried her baby to term. She found out that they were expecting in April of this year and began to embrace the journey with absolute care.

Her routine changed and she took on very light chores and left the heavy lifting to her support system – her husband and family.

Everything was going well until September 24. It was a shock and an all too familiar feeling when Annecia realised that she was going into labour.

“I was very much scared.

A lot of things were going through my mind because I was studying if my child was going to survive. Is he going to be okay,” she told Guyana Times during a recent interview.

The 31-year-old mother knew that her time was not just yet and wanted to do everything and more to ensure that her precious baby boy remained tucked away in her belly until it was safe

for him to make his entrance.

But in true showman fashion, Javarious was charting his own path. His script was ready and he was about to enter centre stage.

At just six and a half months in the womb, Javarious’ chances of survival were slim and his parents knew that. Annecia was beyond worried and all of the pain from her previous experiences began crawling to the surface.

She could not have fought the course of nature and just decided to do what was best to give her son a fighting chance, because she knew he would have to fight dearly.

Annecia went into the delivery room with one wish and one mission that intertwined with each other so perfectly that both had her son’s best interest in common. She was determined to give birth to her son and she continued to pray that he would be delivered safely.

That was all she wished for. It was her early Christmas wish.

The delivery process was smooth as the doctors and nurses at the Suddie Hospital waited to take care of their newest patient. He arrived into the world and was immediately rushed

away from his mother.

There was no time to bond with him or to coddle him. From the moment his head came peering out, Javarious was battling every element to survive. He was placed in the incubator – his womb away from his mother’s womb – where he got all the care possible for him to survive.

Annecia was left on a hospital bed with two empty arms, longing to hold her newborn baby. She said that it was a tough experience not being able to hold her child, having to watch the nurses carry him out of the room as soon as he came out of her womb. She wept every time she saw him locked away in his little glass bub-

ble.

“It was hard,” she said as she recalled watching him take injection after injection.

It took a toll on her because her emotions were unstable. Less than a year prior she had suffered a traumatic incident and now she was watching her son battle with every breath he took. She could not have held him, fed him or even cleaned him. She was helpless.

After two months of constant battles and extreme care by his doctors and nurses, Javarious was ready to go home with his mother. She was overjoyed to have her son home with her.

Annecia stated that the transition from the hospital to home was smooth, adding that now she is out of the hospital, life is beautiful.

Javarious’ parents are grateful to God and the doctors and nurses at Suddie Hospital.

Lakeram is a construction worker and is quite often away from home but makes sure he checks in with his little family as often as possible.

For them, Javarious is everything and more they could have wished for this Christmas.

J&L Supplies spreads Christmas cheer to children, elderly of Mon Repos

Crime is not out of control – Top Cop

C

ommissioner of Police (ag) Nigel Hoppie is debunking the claims that crime is now a major issue around Guyana.

In fact, the Top Cop said that ranks of the Guyana Police Force have been working assiduously throughout the year, which has led to a major decrease in criminal activities.

“Crime is not out of control as is the prevailing perception in society,” the Police Commissioner said.

This statement was made during his address at an awards ceremony for outstanding ranks of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Thursday.

The Commissioner believes that this cognisance is being fuelled due to the level of violence attached to some of the criminal activities that are being reported.

He further said that criminal events and the Guyana Police Force are being sensationalised by the media, specifically social media personality “critics”, which has left a bad taste in the public’s mouth about the Police’s performances.

“Although we faced many challenges with manpower and equipment, we managed

Employees of J&L Supplies Guyana Inc spreading Christmas cheer to children and senior citizens of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara

J

Police Commissioner (ag) Nigel Hoppie

to maintain an effective patrol strategy and investigative capability which has seen a positive reduction in crime,” Hoppie said.

Only recently, the Commissioner pointed out that due to the performance of the Force, the country has recorded a 21 per cent decrease in serious crimes for the year, compared to 2020.

Moreover, the Top Cop has highlighted that this is the “highest degree of reduction” in serious crimes in the past ten years.

&L Supplies Guyana Inc – a local company that provides services and materials to the oil and gas and other industries on Friday spread Christmas cheer to children and senior citizens of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The company, which is located at Lot Y Area B Good Hope, ECD, collaborated with Senior Pastor of the Full Life New Testament Church of God, Bishop Patrick Findlay, to distribute toys and hampers to residents of the community.

The company’s Sales Manager, Julio Medina said, “J&L Supplies is pleased to help people and serve people, and we are looking forward to getting more in touch with people of the community. This is just the beginning of many more initiatives we are planning for our community engagement activities”.

The distribution of the

toys took place at the Full Life New Testament Church of God in Mon Repos, where at least 100 children benefited. Food hampers were delivered to the homes of elderly persons of the community. The children were also treated to snacks, bev-

erages, hot dogs, and snow cones, much to their delight.

Meanwhile, Bishop Findlay said, “We were happy to collaborate with J&L Supplies to bring joy to about 100 kids and 30 families at this time. I applaud the initiative of J&L, and

God will bless them and prosper them. We hope we can do more of this collaboration to serve the community”.

J&L Supplies Guyana Inc wishes the Guyanese public a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

26 FEATURE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

I

t’s that time of the year again: that season when love pervades the atmosphere, and bonds are formed and new relationships are birthed. Whether newly-engaged or married, there is a special reason to be even more grateful for one’s state of being during this Christmas season.

It will be the season of many firsts to come, as, for the first time, many couples will be continuing traditions of the old and creating new traditions and memories together with love at the centre of it all.

For some, like Timothy and Rachael Jaikarran, their journey as husband and wife will be entering uncharted territory, as they would be spending their first Christmas together. Many would remember the couple featured in Guyana Times 2021 Valentine’s Day edition. Back then they were engaged, but they have since tied the knot on August 7, 2021, and has been enjoying four blissful months of marriage.

For Timothy and Rachael, it was not always a fairy tale. The couple have had their share of hardships in their relationship, but they nevertheless made it work. They met in church, and became friends; and the rest is history, as they started “talking”, and from there it led them to the altar. But before marriage, spending Christmas was a bit different, as the couple would only have a couple of hours outside of church on Christmas Day to spend time with each other, and after that, a few moments of video chatting before going off to spend time with their respective fam-

ilies.

This newspaper sat down with the couple and “picked their brain” as to what new traditions they would be setting, and what they are expecting for the holidays.

Q: What was it like before you were married?

Timothy: “I remember it like it was yesterday.

We didn’t get much time with each other, but we longed for the day when we would be able to spend that quality time together. We knew that for that to happen, we had to remain strong, because everything in life is all

Q: How do you plan on spending time with both families?

Rachael: “We have prepared a schedule that would allow us to share our time with both families. Christmas Day will be spent with my in-laws, while the next day will be spent with my family.”

The couple sharing a moment

about patience, and it is my belief that good things come to those who wait; and it did. As you can see, I’m spending my first Christmas with the woman of my dreams.”

Q: Who is going to be doing most of the cooking?

Rachael: “My husband decided that he would be doing

most of the cooking, since he loves to be in the kitchen at Christmas. However, we have prepared a list of dishes and agreed on who would be responsible for preparing each dish. While one would be focused on the main course, the other would focus on the desserts and drinks.

Q: How are you going to manage the merging of two traditions this year?

Timothy: “I understand that spending our first Christmas together means that we both would have different ideas on how to celebrate this festive occasion. So, for us, what we have planned on doing is making a compromise mixed with combination. Each of us would be bring out the best of our traditions and combining them.

For example, with the food, the dishes are a mixture of her and me combined. Decorating and

Timothy and Rachael Jaikarran tied the knot on August 7, 2021

shopping etc, we have merged those, so each person would feel at home without having to say the other is being one-sided.”

Q: Are there any traditions you are upkeeping this year?

Timothy: “Listen, traditions are a must. There are traditions of old, and then there are traditions that we as a couple are going to make. Not saying that old traditions are bad, but we have the option of making our own and enjoying it to our hearts’ content. We intend to go carolling this year.

Despite the COVID-19, we can still carol in a safe way while observing all the necessary protocols. We are going to go on romantic evenings, cooking in the kitchen together, and a plethora of other things.”

The couple explained that it’s a joy and privilege to be spending the first Christmas together, as it allows them to

appreciate each other’s traditions along with the company of their respective family and friends. They have said that spending quality time with the one you love is something that everyone must aspire to experience, as it is the best feeling in the world, knowing that you will be able to spend forever with your better half.

The couple have further advised that for those who are going to be spending their first Christmas together, the key is to not just be loving because of the season, but have the same love for your partner all 365 days of the year. They noted that nothing is perfect, but with God as your example, always maintaining a positive mentality and togetherness, any problem can be overcome.

The Jaikarrans’ parting words were, “We just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a productive 2022.”

“It was his day”: The Ramdhani family missing Gokarn even more at Christmas

By Jemima Holmes

“W

e miss him every day, nothing is more than the other, personally and in the sport,” a teary-eyed Emelia Ramdhani said.

Glancing up at the many photos that adorn the walls of their home, her voice remained low and shaky, as the weight of realisation hindered her ability to speak.

The topic is a most difficult one and the reaction was expected; to lose a family member, a soulmate, the father of your children, is an unexplainable loss and Mrs Ramdhani is just now coming to grips with this.

Pillars of strength beside her, were Narayan and Priyanna, who also put on a brave face for the cameras,

mere days before the most family-centric holiday across the world, and a mere two months after they lost their father, coach, mentor and friend.

Christmas is always regarded as a time for family, merriment and celebrations but hardly ever, is thought given to those dealing with a loss. For the Ramdhanis, the loss of the late Gokarn is still fresh in their minds and there are constant reminders of his impact, in every aspect of their lives.

“It’s been difficult, not easy for sure. I mean, he carried our whole life, he was mommy’s best friend, our father and an extraordinary father, so we definitely miss him and it’s not the same,” Priyanna said.

With a small chuckle, she

reminisced on her father’s workload that now seems mammoth to them, as they take the reins.

She explained, “All the badminton stuff, we see all the work he used to do, it’s a lot of work. And now his work has been split between the three of us and it’s still too much and we appreciate that every day. It’s been a difficult time for us but day by day, not much of a choice but to stay strong.”

Narayan added, “All these pictures, he put them up before, he was all about memories. If you were to check his Facebook, it was memories, so, between the three of us we’d like to keep his traditions going”.

And the traditions Gokarn Ramdhani held were many, his striking personal-

One of the many photos of Gokarn Ramdhani displayed in their home

ity made him many friends, his kindness and commitment earned him the respect of most and his love for a good party made him good company. Especially at Christmas, his family waded through their fond memories of him during the holidays, most of which included a grand celebration, guests and wholesome family time.

“We would have family over, everybody gather and play music and have fun.

That was his day, Christmas Day,” Emily related to Guyana Times.

For 19-year-old Priyanna, this will be the first Christmas spent without her father and it is the little things, which may seem like a regular old practice to some, that she will miss the most.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

FEATURE

27

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Jemima Holmes

A

cricketer’s travelling life is one that most would envy. Jetting off to Dubai this week and London the next is a fantasy that many young boys and girls envision even before they become acquainted with the rules of the sport. What they cannot fathom, however, is the rush at the airport terminal, the hurry to get bags checked, the anticipation of seeing the team buses arrive, and the sheer anxiety that is followed by one question: “Will I make it home in time?”

The cricketing schedule has no regard for personal time, or preferred holidays and age-old traditions like Boxing Day. Test matches are sure to keep cricketers busy during the holidays. Of course, in recent times, especially with the dawn of the Coronavirus pandemic, many players have been fortunate enough to travel with their families, but this is just a luxury that only few enjoy.

Guyana’s Romario Shepherd is one who had often dreamed about the jet-setter life that comes with being a West Indian cricketer. “Well, as a kid growing up, I always wanted to know what it was like being in a plane; but now, on these long flights, I certainly know what it is like…,” the right-arm pacer said with a chuckle.

He then added, “Being on a flight for hours and the airport hassle is the only mentally challenging part for me.

Romario Shepherd and family

Other than that, I enjoy travelling, exploring new countries and cities.”

And like anyone would imagine, travel during the pandemic has not made it easier on those who utilise the airways frequently.

“I think I’ll be answering for everyone when I say bubble life is very hard on us mentally, and it shows when some players leave tournaments and stuff,” he related to Guyana Times.

“But you just have to try and understand it is what it is…,” he said. “This is what it takes to do what you love.

‘Am I going to miss a holiday?’, ‘Will I make it in time for my child’s birthday?’, ‘How will I get to pick up a gift if time runs out?’”.

One can imagine how tense the atmosphere is when finding out upcoming tour dates. Only recently, the West Indian team on tour in Pakistan, of which Shepherd was a part, was cutting it pretty close to the holiday season with a December 13- 22 tour scheduled for One Day and T20 Internationals to be played. In that situation, with just three days to get home for Christmas, it made the Guyanese cricketer ponder

on being away for the holidays.

“Being away from your loved ones is always tough, especially if you have little kids who do not understand the job situation and so on,” Shepherd shared. “So, every chance I have to video chat and stuff, I do.”

Given Guyana’s rich Christmas celebrations, Shepherd figures this would be the holiday not to miss, and he just can’t imagine not spending the festive season with his son Romauldo and partner Terencia.

“I think it is very important, especially for Christmas as a West Indian,” the cricketer told this publication. “So, I don’t think I would ever want to spend Christmas away from my family,” he added.

However, the 27-year-old is fully cognisant that sometimes ‘push comes to shove’, as Guyanese would say. “I mean, if I have to, it has to be something that they would understand that I have no choice,” he explained.

Recent developments have removed from Shepherd’s shoulders the burden of ‘getting home in time’, as the ODI series in the West Indies tour of Pakistan has been postponed. As such, he is now able to focus on the grand reception he always receives from his family upon his return home; and he anticipates some entertaining stories from little Romauldo.

He candidly told this publication, “Well, he is always excited to see me whenever I’m back from tours, and I’m always happy to get back to him and the family”. With a laugh,

he added, “Then he will tell me all the stories he can remember when I was away.”

Even though his dad is on tour, Romauldo has spared no opportunity to keep him informed on his

Romario Shepherd and his son Romauldo

Christmas wish list, which, according to his dad, has continued to grow day by day.

“Yes, he always keeps reminding me, and there is always something else to (add to) the list,” he shared light-heartedly.

One can only imagine how little Romauldo’s face would light up when he sees all the gifts he wished for lying under the Christmas tree; and, to boot, his father being right there to help open those presents. It makes it all worthwhile for dad to be home for the holidays.

“It was his day”: The Ramdhani family...

From left, Narayan, Emelia and Priyanna Ramdhani

“This is my first Christmas without him. Narayan was in Canada for a few Christmases, this is mommy’s first without him as well and we’re definitely going to miss that because every year when it’s Christmas season, we would set up the tree together, play Christmas music, put on lights,” the young badminton player explained.

Her elder brother chimed in about their plans to spend Christmas with other family, saying, “It’s going to be different but we’re just going to do what he would want us to do.

So, have a good time, eat food

and just be around family”.

The biggest change that the Ramdhanis will experience this Christmas, is not hosting the holiday festivities at their East Bank Demerara home. This event was usually Gokarn’s crowning moment, as he played both hospitable host and grill master.

“Every Christmas we would be the family to host. He would barbeque, mom would cook. He would barbeque every single year, he loved to barbeque, that was one of his favourite things.

Narayan’s birthday, his birthday, that was one of his tra-

ditions we’ll miss,” Priyanna reminisced, when asked about her father’s Christmas traditions.

“We’re going to miss him being around, he was always the life of the party. Him and his larger-than-life personality, we’re going to miss that. He brought the party wherever he was,” Emelia added to the sentiments.

Narayan’s reality is a bit different, since he has spent the holidays in Canada owing to badminton duties. As such, his personal challenge is on the court.

“For me, being in Canada for most Christmas, I think badminton is going to miss him more. Because he was like my manager, every tournament, I never had to do anything, I just had to go play, so that’s going to be different,” the elder Ramdhani sibling explained.

Throughout this devastating journey, there has been insurmountable support for the family, both from the Badminton fraternity and outside of it.

Mrs Ramhani touched on this, noting that their support system has been even more encouraging during this season.

She disclosed, “My brotherin-law, his brother here, everybody. People reached out all the time and they still do. Like the kids, they’re saying because it’s Christmas and they know this will be the first Christmas without him, so, everybody is reaching out.”

When probed about how she has navigated the past two months, especially with having to remain strong for her children, she related to this publication that is in fact the opposite.

“The two of them are keeping me going. I don’t have a moment to slip up, they always keep me in line. I always

FROM PAGE 26

Narayan and Priyanna display a photo of their father alongside the many trophies he coached them to win

tell everybody, they are keeping me strong, it’s not the opposite way. They’re the ones who are carrying me really,” Emelia said, holding back a well of tears.

Even though the Ramdhani

family will join their other relatives for the festivities of the season, it is impossible to forget Gokarn and the liveliness he brought to their Christmases; after all, “That was his day, Christmas Day”.

28 FEATURE

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Rupa Seenaraine

“S

treet theatre brought to life” most fittingly describes the tradition of masquerading during Christmas in Guyana. It is a sight to captivate the attention of the masses, but one that had been evidently dying with the passing of every year.

With roots dating back decades, masquerade has

Mashramani in February would see the resurgence of the masquerading sequel.

Now, a sprinkling of masqueraders surface leading up to the holidays, and the sight of teenage boys taking over the role is fading.

However, new generations are still trying to breathe life into the culture.

Guyana Times caught up with Collin Holder, who hails from the community of

Masquerader Simon Pompey

Lining Mandela Avenue for the daily performance

formed part of the holiday tradition, and the older folks would attest to the popularity of this practice as Christmas Day nears.

Decked out in vibrantly sewn accoutrement sporting all the flair, the dancers would bend and contort their bodies in the most cinematic way, making sure everyone around was magnetised to their performance. Their dance is typically accompanied by drums and flutes, shaping a unique cadence.

Especially in Georgetown, the intersection of commercialised streets or shopping zones would most certainly see a group of dancers, or maybe more, trying to appease the crowds with their animated acts. And whether you’re window-shopping, busy in the bustle, or simply passing by, it is definitely a treat for the eyes.

History finds masquerading as a part of the Guyanese tradition with the coming of African slaves under British rule. It is said that the Ibo and Yoruba tribes of West Africa imbedded this art form in their celebration of the harvest festival and “when the gods visited”. Over time, those under slavery in the Caribbean would practise their culture during the relaxed setting at Christmas time, creating a new tradition as the years elapsed.

Other than Christmas,

Victoria on the East Coast of Demerara.

Together with about a dozen boys, he shared that with the pass-

train them to dance, and come out on the holidays.”

He added, “Every year, we’re out here to just have fun. This is our culture, masquerade. It’s about 10 to 15 years since I’m doing it with these little guys here. School closed and the guys coming out.”

And he is correct. Even with sightings of masqueraders on the street, the flair once seen with older groups has faded, with lesser grace and agility now attending the dances. Now the flute is absent in a majority of bands, and is replaced with makeshift drums and jingling instruments.

Masquerading along Vlissengen Road

The performance is usually accompanied by drums

ing of older generations, it has been a challenge to keep the practice alive. He managed to put together a group of boys, and they have been able to perform along the busy city streets.

On Vlissengen Road, the seasoned masquerader was taking a short break from the scorching heat when he expressed, “Most of the old folks just passed, so the younger ones [are] now picking it up. I just love this, so I just come and pick it up back, and get the youths,

Holder said early November would mark the start of their preparation for the season. They would get their outfits stitched together, and ensure the drums were intact to hit the streets. From the early morning hours until sundown, the show would go on.

They would retire home and prepare to return after the next dawn appeared.

“In November, I started making the costumes, get the seamstress to sew their clothes and prepare to come

Masquerader Collin Holder (left) playing the drum

out. We started, and up to now we’re on the road. If not here, we’re at Lamaha, sometimes Main Steet.

Around the town, we’re just moving and dancing, keeping it alive.”

Over at Mandela Avenue, another group led by Simon Pompey is also buzzing. He hails from Ann’s Grove on the East Coast of Demerara.

Having recognized that the tradition was slowly becom-

ing extinct, the 25-year-old said he rounded up a group of boys within the community to master the art form.

But they are still learning, as they practise on the streets.

“I started from small, growing up knowing it’s our culture. So, I decided to continue with it. I used to play with a masquerade band, and to continue the culture, I created my own band…It’s

our culture, so I think we should show some respect to it. We want to keep up the culture, and we like the music,” he shared.

Even with a permit, he said, there are some challenges when law enforcement officers are monitoring the traffic situation at some points. But Pompey said the upliftment from people who enjoy their performance is their driving force to return.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2021

H

arbhajan Singh has announced his retirement from all formats of the game. In a video message on Twitter, the former India offspinner said, "In many ways, I had already retired", but because of his commitments with Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, he was forced to delay the announcement.

"There comes a time in your life when you must

take some tough decisions and move ahead. I have been meaning to make this announcement for the last few years, but I was waiting for the right moment to share it with all of you: today, I am retiring from all formats of cricket," he said. "In many ways, I had already retired as a cricketer, but hadn't been able to make a formal announcement. I haven't been an active cricketer for a while.

But I had a commitment to Kolkata Knight Riders, and wanted to spend the (2021) IPL season with them. But during the season itself, I had made up my mind to retire."

Harbhajan last turned out for India in March 2016 in a T20I against UAE in Dhaka in that year's Asia Cup. Harbhajan, now 41, made his international debut back in March 1998 in a Test match against Australia in Bengaluru. He picked up two wickets in an eight-wicket defeat. He went on to play 103 Tests, for a haul of 417 wickets - still the fourth-highest for India - at an average of 32.46, with an innings best of 8 for 84 and a match best of 15 for 217, both recorded in India's two-wicket win over Australia in the Chennai Test of 2001, which gave them a 2-1 win in an iconic series.

In the previous Test in Kolkata, made famous due to VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid's batting all day while following-on, Harbhajan had played a major role in India's stunning come-from-behind win, bagging 13 wickets in the match.

Harbhajan also turned out in 236 ODIs from 1998 to 2015, taking 269 wickets at

29

33.35 and an economy rate of 4.31. He played 28 T20Is, taking 25 wickets at an average of 25.32 and an economy rate of 6.20. His overall tally of 707 international wickets is the second-highest for India, behind Anil Kumble's 953.

"I have no idea about the future, but whatever I am today is because of cricket. I will be immensely happy if I can be of help to Indian cricket in any role in the future," Harbhajan has said.

Harbhajan has had great success in the IPL too, taking 150 wickets in 163 matches, fifth on the all-time list.

Harbhajan also took 20 wickets in 22 Champions League T20 matches, leading Mumbai Indians to victory in the competition in 2011.

Harbhajan's longest association with a franchise was with Mumbai Indians, who bought him in the 2008 auction and retained him ahead of the mega auctions in 2011 and 2014. Released ahead of the 2018 mega auction, Harbhajan had two years with Chennai Super Kings before finishing up with Knight Riders.

"It has been a beautiful journey over 25 years, right from the gullies of Jalandhar

to becoming the Turbanator of India," he said in the statement. "Nothing has been more motivating for me than stepping out on the field while wearing the India jersey.

"Like every [Indian] cricketer, even I wished to bid goodbye in an India jersey, but fate had something else in store for me. Irrespective of the side I represented, I have always given my 100% commitment to ensure my team finishes on top - whether it was India, Punjab, Mumbai Indians, CSK [Chennai Super Kings], KKR or the county teams of Surrey and Essex."

Harbhajan had plenty of success across formats, including being part of two World Cup-winning teams with India - in 2011 and in 2007 for the inaugural T20 World Cup. His greatest achievement, arguably, remains the performance in the series against Australia in 2001, when he bagged 32 wickets in three Tests while no other Indian bowler took more than three wickets.

Harbhajan's feat included taking a hat-trick in Kolkata.

"If you ask me about my cricket career, my first real happiness was the hat-trick I took in Kolkata, becoming

the first Indian bowler to do so in a Test match. I also got 32 wickets in the three Tests in that series, which is still a record," he said.

"Following this, the T20 World Cup win in 2007 and the [ODI] World Cup win in 2011 were most important for me. Those were moments that I can neither forget nor express in words as to how big that happiness was for me."

As for the future, Harbhajan said that he has "no idea" what he would do, but indicated that it would be connected to the game.

"Cricket was, is, and will always be an important part of my life. I have served Indian cricket for years, and will continue to strive to serve them in the future," he said. "I have no idea about the future, but whatever I am today is because of cricket. I will be immensely happy if I can be of help to Indian cricket in any role in the future.

"Now I begin a new chapter in my life, which starts with its own challenges.

Believe me, your Turbanator is ready for the examination!

Just keep showering your love on me." (ESPNcricinfo)

mitted itself to organising a minimum of 5 internal tournaments for teams in each zone, including grassroots tournaments, mini-cricket academies, social skills seminars, special coaching clinics, and to obtain at least one 100’X 24’ pitch cover. Clubs in each of the zones would receive cricket balls and scorebooks.

The BCB would also assist generally with items such as catching cribs, stumps, coaching manuals and water pitchers, among others. Foster also stated that first division teams would also benefit from a special donation of cricket balls to assist them to cover expenses, while several commitments were also made to some members of the BCB, including Chesney, Whim, Kildonan, Rose Hall Canje, Mt Sinai, Guymine and Port Mourant.

Port Mourant, once the leading cricket club in Guyana, is now undergoing a period of rebuilding, and

would receive much assistance from the BCB in this regard. The Berbice River Cricket Association, smallest sub-association, would receive special attention with tournaments, gear and training programmes planned over the next two years, while clubs in the area would collect assistance.

The area was assured of fulfilling its long-cherished dream of playing first division cricket, as the BCB would allow it to play in the Ivan Madray 20/20 tournament with the other established first division teams.

Commitment was also made to work along with the Umpires Association to lift the standard of umpiring, and to provide a developmental fund along with other assistance as required. Special attention would also be paid to the training of several prelevel-one coaches for clubs, and the training of scorers in an effort to lift the submission of match reports to the board from clubs.

Foster, who authored the manifesto, stated that his administration would work very hard to fulfill every commitment made, and bluntly told his executives to either step up or move on. Noting what the first four years of his administration had achieved, the CWI Director stated that he expects much more to be done between 20222023, as the BCB strives to produce at least ten West Indies players across all the levels. Laziness, corruption, favouritism and a negative attitude would not be allowed in his administration.

Special praise was reserved for 21-year-old Public Relations Officer Simon Naidu, who over the last two years has made sure that every activity of the BCB was promoted across the nation.

Foster told delegates at the AGM to make sure that they keep their copy of his slate manifesto, and to follow the progress of each commitment.

- hosting of 50 tourneys on BCB agenda

BCB President Hilbert Foster and PRO Simon Naidu

F

our years ago, when the Hilbert Fosterled administration took over the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), the cricketing structure in the Ancient County was on the verge of falling apart, due to internal conflicts and poor management.

Today, the BCB is widely considered the role model of cricket management across the country and even in the Caribbean. Last Sunday, the BCB hosted its elections and the Hilbert Foster slate was reelected unopposed as delegates rewarded Foster for his out-

standing leadership over the last four years.

Team Progress created history in cricket administration in Guyana when it presented an eight-page manifesto to delegates of the AGM. The manifesto detailed the many achievements of the BCB between 2018 and 2021, and reviewed the dismal situation Foster and his executives had inherited.

The manifesto included the slate’s commitment to the overall county and to the five sub areas - West Berbice, New Amsterdam/ Canje, Lower Corentyne,

Upper Corentyne and Berbice River.

Among those commitments are the hosting of 50 tourneys at all levels; expansion of the coaching programme; educational grants for 300 youths, to be paid out over two years; over ten million dollars in assistance to clubs; and twenty million to youth cricketers in form of gear, uniforms, cycles and educational materials.

Three hundred youths would benefit from involvement in social seminars; by the end of 2023, the county would have adequate pitch covers; the BCB Office would be upgraded; sub-associations would continue to receive financial grants; and several international players would visit the county for coaching sessions.

The slate has also committed to working with all stakeholders, be very transparent, and to represent the interest of every Berbice player and official.

The group has also com-

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

- happy to spend Christmas with family

By Brandon Corlette

S

tarting 2021 as the leading wicket-taker in the Regional Super50, then getting married, playing for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, seeing the birth of his first child, getting a maiden call-up to the West Indies team at the T20 World Cup, and then making his T20 International debut against Pakistan were some of the major events Motie bowling during his of Gudakesh Motie’s life debut match this year. against Asked if all these acPakistan complishments are his Christmas gifts, Motie said he still has a lot more to accomplish. “Firstly, I’m thankful for

life. I am feeling very hopeful and confident not just for the holidays, but throughout the year. It has been a great experience for me. I won’t say I have all the gifts I need, because there is a lot more to accomplish,” he said.

Life for cricketers is more challenging these days, since the COVID-19 pandemic sees players being locked in a bubble. “Honestly, it’s very tough. Not much I can do. I try to utilise the time to reflect on my game, go on the internet, watch videos, talk to my family and stuff. I am very happy to spend the holidays with my family, especially to be with my son. He brings a lot of joy and happiness,” Motie added.

Motie, a Stag ambassador for the United Kingdombased cricket entity, has certainly done a lot of travelling this year. He has said, “Mentally, it is very tough, but I love what I am doing, so I always find ways to be comfortable.”

This Berbician, who plays for the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club on the Corentyne, had figures of 0-29 in four overs, which included 10 dot balls. He opened the bowling against two current giants of the game, Babar Azam and Mohamed Rizwan. Despite having a dropped chance off his bowling, the controlled spinner was beyond happy to make his international debut.

“I am extremely happy to

make my T20 International debut. I worked very hard for it. Honestly, I was not nervous, but I was hungry for the opportunity to go out and showcase my talent,” he says.

Motie has played 29 First-class games and claimed 100 wickets. He has been the leading wicket-taker in the last Regional Super50 tournament, claiming 17 wickets in seven matches at an economy rate of 4.56. He had best bowling figures of 4-45, with a stellar average of 16.64.

In the CPL, Motie played six matches, and impressed with eight wickets at a brilliant economy rate of 6.52.

He also had a best bowling figure of 3-25 in his debut season at a top average of 15.50.

Motie has also gained valuable experience as a reserve player at the T20 World. With a lot of cricket to be played in 2022, Motie remains hungry, as he hopes to extend his good run.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2021

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

Good things come to those who train incessantly…

5-time Men’s Physique Champion Emmerson Campbell aiming for Pro Card in 2022

Emmerson Campbell

By Timothy Jaikarran

I

t is an established saying that good things come to those who wait. For Emmerson Campbell, good things come to those who train incessantly, as, on December 19, 2021, he stormed to his fifth Men’s Physique title at the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation’s Seniors Championships.

The talented Campbell has proven time and again why he is the best in his category. In a prior conversation with this reporter, Campbell was confident that he would claim his fifth title, and so he did on Sunday night.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, he was asked his view on winning his fifth title, and Campbell said, “And yeah, it’s quite rewarding. I’ve been prepping all season, all 2021. I mean prep! And as you know, I went to CAC and got second, and I really wanted to end the season on a high. So, I’m glad that I did that, and I got the fifth title and I got a victory.”

In terms of what is next for Campbell, he revealed that it would be the CAC next year, as he is going for the pro card. Campbell related that as it pertains to his training, it was always easy, as it is something he loves to do. But the hardships of dieting and eating the same foods over and over were not something he fancied, but he nevertheless gave it his all.

Campbell used his closing remarks to thank the sponsors and media for a job well done in making the event a success. “Big shout out to Fitness Express! Big shout out to the National Sports Commission! Big shout out to DTS Trading and all the sponsors who came on board to make this event a success! Thank you guys very much! And to the media, big shout out to the media as well.”

Campbell is a two-time CAC silver and bronze medalist (El Salvador, Dominican Republic and Mexico); five-time Mr Guyana Men’s Physique Champion; three-time Stage of Champions Men’s Physique Champion; and Darcy Beckles silver medalist (Barbados). He is also a Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and National Sports Commission (NSC) Sports Journalist of the Year, and a certified personal trainer and nutritionist.

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