Guyana Times September 9, 2018

LOOK INSIDE !

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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

Issue No. 3681

Sunday, September 9, 2018

Lawrence to breathe “fresh air” into PNCR Page 9

PRICE

$120 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

No resignation from David P12 Ramnarine – Ramjattan …Assistant Commissioner had “enough” of public service

…says election as chair a resurrection for party

…pledges to nurture youths to take over leadership

Father stabs son to death Salaries for Govt contract workers Page 7 skyrocket – former Minister

6 foreign P10 females detained Page after Rosignol 18 nightclub raid

Region 6 machine operators refusing to Page 18 work without AC

…Chairman slams action as “ridiculous”

Charges against former Ministers

Govt resurrecting “bogeyman” as distraction – P3 former AG

P18 Man charged for threatening to kill brother

Essequibo Coast pensioner kicked out of home P17 … begging for a place to live

The Guyana National Stadium, Providence was filled to capacity as the Guyana Amazon Warriors fans turned out in their usual large numbers to cheer the home team to yet another nail-biting encounter (Dexter Ceres photo)

Despite rising public debt

Businessman pulls Page gun on Police 10

…busted with narcotics, illegal weapon

Guyana borrows US$20M from Islamic Development be spent on maintenance, Bank …to Page 14 engineers for GPL

Passengers P15 refusing to pay increased fares – minibus operations

2

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

news

3

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Sunday, September 9 – 04:00h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h and Monday, September 10 – 04:30h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, September 9 – 16:20h-17:50h and Monday, September 10 – 16451815.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Early morning sunny intervals are expected to give way to cloudy skies, while sunny intervals are expected to return in the afternoon. Partly cloudy to clear skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Southerly and East North-easterly and Northeasterly between 1.34 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 04:03h and 16:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.78 metres and 2.77 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:01h and 22:20h reaching minimum heights of 0.41 metre and 0.42 metre respectively.

SATURDAY, september 8, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS N

01 04 05

06 11 13

FREE TICKET

10 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

04 06 16 22 24 LUCKY 3

4

9

2

9

Afternoon Draw

4

5

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

05

07

08

10

PAY DAY

01 08 09 11 13

13 15 17 SUPER PAY DAY

04 09 13 14 20

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

Charges against former Ministers Govt resurrecting “bogeyman” as distraction – former AG

F

ormer Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall has dismissed recent utterances coming from Government officials about looming charges against former Ministers and officials under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) regime over “Pradoville II”, saying this is a repetitive method of lashing out whenever the coalition Administration in under the heat.

“You will note that every time the coalition Government is on the ‘back foot’ an article appears in the press that criminal charges are imminent in relation to “Pradoville II”. The coalition Government took a beating recently on a number of issues, including, the teachers’ strike action. From all indications, they will take a sound thrashing at the upcoming Local Government Elections. So once again, to distract, they have resurrected their favourite ‘bogeyman’,” Nandlall posited in a post on his Facebook on Saturday.

The former AG’s comments were in response to an article appearing in two local newspapers last week – on Saturday in the Stabroek News and on Wednesday in Kaieteur News.

With regards to the later article, Nandlall made reference to comments made

by Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma who said that the former AG cleared the way for charges to be filed against those fingered in the Pradoville II probe. Minister Sharma was referring to an article Nandlall wrote last month pointing out that Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson got the entire Cabinet to violate the Procurement Act by awarding the $160 million contract to a Dutch company handpicked by Patterson to carry out a feasibility study on the new Demerara River Crossing, without any resort to the procedures mandated by the Procurement Act for such transaction.

According to Nandlall, Sharma’s utterances were just another of his “usually outrageous outbursts”.

“Charges in relation to “Pradoville II” are being bandied about by this Administration over two years ago,” the former AG posited, while adding that the Junior Finance Minister had made a similarly bizarre statement two weeks ago about the Leader of the Opposition.

In relation to Saturday’s article which speaks of looming conspiracy charges against those who benefited

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

from house lots in ‘Pradoville II’,” Nandlall said he found this to be “interesting.”

In fact, he noted “It opens the way for Cabinet members of the coalition Government to be charged

viewed the contract but has failed to terminate it thus far,” Nandlall stressed, adding that he hopes the Junior Finance Minister notes this comments of his as well.

The former AG went on

in a conspiracy for giving themselves a 50 per cent increase in salaries and indeed, for a whole host of decisions, which Cabinet made or sanctioned, including, the rental of a house in Sussex Street as a drug bond for the excessive $12.5 million per month. You would recall that Minister George Norton said Cabinet approved this contract. It is also public knowledge that Cabinet re-

to note too that another interesting dimension to this situation would be whether only former Cabinet members are going to be charged, or non-Cabinet members such as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack; former Chief-of-Staff Gary Best; Dr Compton Bourne and so on will also be charged.

“We have to wait and see,” he asserted.

Last year, the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) had arrested and questioned a number of top officials from the previous Government.

Among those arrested and questioned were former President Bharrat Jagdeo, and former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon. Other former Government officials questioned included Prime Minister and President Samuel Hinds, former Ministers Priya Manickchand, Irfaan Ali, Clement Rohee, Robert Persaud and Jennifer Westford, among others in connection to their role in the “Pradoville II” scheme, where they would have purchased lands.

The current

Administration contends the transactions were a criminal act because of the belief that they were sold below market value. However, the PPP had argued that subsidised housing has always been a part of the legacy of the People’s Progressive Party and that countless Guyanese have benefited from lands sold below market value.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 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

Editorial

Trade unions and the struggle

T

he nine-day strike by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) – for the Government to implement the recommendation of its own task force to award a 40 percent salary increase in a multi-year agreement – has now gone to arbitration. This represents a victory for the GTU, since the PNC-led Government had insisted that its “ballpark” offer of $700 million as a one-off payout was final.

But the victory is not complete, since much depends on the specific arbitrators who would be chosen jointly by the two sides. The GTU will have to continue to insist – as it has done up to now – that only “neutral” arbitrators would be accepted. But the victory should remind other unions in Guyana that if the Government could be so obdurate against the GTU, which has members mostly favourable to it and helped vote it into office in 2015, it means President David Granger is extending the field in which he intends to consummate Burnham’s legacy – brook no challenge to the PNC’s rule by trade unions.

Unions were the incubators for the nationalist movement during the 1950s. They provided the most important institutional links to the lower classes. Unions can serve as powerful mobilisers of opposition when the interests of their members are threatened. Burnham fully appreciated their potential after being swept up by the urban-based, Creole-and-African-dominated TUC into violent opposition against the PPP Government in 1962. The racial riots in the 1960s, amounting almost to a civil war, found the trade unions as the main foot soldiers. In 1962 and 1963, the urban-based, African-dominated unions such as the GPSU, assisted Mr Burnham’s PNC’s collaboration with the CIA to oust the “communist” PPP. These unions were rewarded handsomely with Government positions; influence on policy formation; a tremendously increased membership base (with the increase in the bureaucracy); and a close working relationship with the Government -- soon the dominant employer in the country.

But once safely ensconced in office, Burnham moved to curb the powers of this group, as with every other. He achieved this through several stratagems, all of which the GTU ought to be aware will be deployed against them imminently. First, there was co-opting of the leadership of key unions, such as the Guyana Bauxite Union, and rigging their elections to ensure compliant leadership. Unions became “company unions”, with Government being the “company”. New unions, such as the “Association of Masters and Mistresses,” were launched to provide competition to the GTU via its compliant, overtly pro-PNC executive.

Collective bargaining was placed in the hands of the umbrella TUC. The Government controlled this body through its control of union leadership, as above, and by the creation of “paper” unions; paying their dues and granting them voting rights far out of proportion to their membership. The fact that this administration has already raised the possibility of “collective bargaining” is a very ominous sign.

The militancy of the Linden Teachers would be very worrying indeed, and we can expect reprisals sooner rather than later. There have already been attempts to label the teachers’ strike as “political” – and the GTU leader as “PPP -- and using scabs in an attempt to break the strike. If history is anything to go by, some of the more militant teachers will be dismissed through one stratagem or another.

The entire Trade Union Movement – especially its two “wings” -- must be vigilant to protect the GTU in the coming months from the depredations of a Government that does not appreciate independence of thought, much less opposition.

In 1979, at the PNC’s Biennial Congress, Burnham joked about dangling Gordon Todd, head of the CCWU, after he stood up for his workers against the Government.

He told the delegates: “The trouble with us, comrades, is that we don’t know to read between the lines; we are always reading on top of the lines; we are more democratic than the people who teach us democracy.”

Kudos to the fans: Rain or shine, night or day, it is never a dull moment at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, as the fans always turn up in full support of their home team cheering at the “Biggest Party in Sport”

GECOM must do better

Dear Editor, Even as our teachers undertook a battle for a living wage, information received highlights that many of the teachers who struck may be targeted. The threats suggested that the likelihood of persons from the teaching ranks who had applied for work as temporary Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) staff would be struck off of the approved list if they had been identified in the protests and did not return to work immediately.

It is public knowledge that many teachers form the larger group of public servants from which Elections support staff for GECOM are drawn, in keeping with Section 161A (4) of the Constitution, Cap, 1.01.

The suggestion that the lists of persons selected by GECOM can be influenced speaks volumes, and must not be taken lightly by any stakeholder. It also raises genuine questions regarding the influence the Coalition may have in light of the highly questionable approach used to select and appoint the Chairman, Justice (R’td) James Patterson, who has made some very biased decisions to date.

Be this as it may, the situation brings to light the Government’s conveyed intent, as they seem to take pride

in signalling the imposition of a mechanism to manipulate and confuse in attempting to frustrate and ‘bamboozle’ many stakeholders at the upcoming November 12th Local Government Elections.

On the side of the Elections Commission, a review of GECOM’s Official Manual for Returning Officers and other Election Officials for the 2018 Local Government Elections lends to the similar conclusions of intent of causing confusion or sub-standard approach to the review of the guidance manual.

It is stated on page twenty (20) that: “The number of Candidates on the Proportional Representation List must not be less than the number of Councillors for the Local Authority Area, or more than such number plus ten”.

Accordingly, this translates that any contesting party or group can submit a list of twenty-eight candidates in an LAA such as Eccles-Ramsburg NDC, which has a total of eighteen constituency seats.

However, on page 28 of the same manual, the Proportional Representation component is thus addressed by GECOM: “As was previously stated, each Voluntary Group or Political Party must submit a list with ten (10) or more names of Candidates than the total

number of Councillors for the Proportional Representation Component for the specific Local Authority Area.”

The latter can be interpreted to mean in the case of the Municipality of Georgetown, which has a total of 15 seats for the Proportional Representation Component: that a political party must submit a list of candidates of not less than fifteen and not more than twenty-five (25). This, compared to the previously mentioned 28 (on page 20), is indeed misleading and is proof of incompetence.

There are serious partisan issues with the recruiting of staff under the GECOM Secretariat. Disappointingly, the current Chairman of the Commission has not done much work to demonstrate a balanced and transparent approach as a corrective measure. It is widely known that persons with excellent records, who worked with GECOM since 1992 at various levels, including Assistant Presiding Officers, have not been selected, and the treatment of their application smacks of blatant racial discrimination.

In the case of one such person whose application was rejected by GECOM, that person previously worked as follows: 1. 1994: As Deputy Electoral Registrar and

Deputy Returning Officer.

2. 2001: A s Core Trainer; Disciplined Services Ballot Attendant, (for both Regional and National Elections). 3.

2006: As Trainer, Regional and National Elections; Disciplined Services Ballot Attendant at the General and Regional Elections.

4. 2008: As Supervisor, East Bank Demerara for House-to-House Registration.

5. 2011: As Trainer, Regional and General Elections; Deputy Returning Officer (Supernumerary attached to the Returning Officer- District 4, at the General and Regional Elections.

From the foregoing, one must wonder why such inexplicit decision has been taken

by GECOM to reject the application of a person with the outlined experience and level of performance. Clearly, the appointment of Returning Officers is highly questionable, particularly given the fact that many permanent staff at GECOM are now catapulted to being Returning Officers.

As for the other positions: Presiding Officers, Polling Clerks, and the many others, GECOM will have to do better.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

A brighter future for Skeldon Estate Dear Editor, It is indeed encouraging to see letters like the one by Mr Yusuf in the Stabroek News of 8/8/18, adverting to a bright future for Skeldon Estate, and by extension the Upper Corentyne community.

There is no doubt in my mind that there can be a brighter future for sugar production at Skeldon Estate.

What is also becoming a source of increasing encouragement is the recent expansion

and enhancement of Skeldon Estate Senior Staff Compound as a RECREATION and TOURISM site, being run commercially as another income-generating operation -- which is already attracting increasing usage by residents of the community; as well as an increasing number of visitors, including foreigners and Guyanese emigrants who return to the area for various family affairs; and those who are attracted to the upscale

facilities, including boarding, lodging and recreational.

The rate at which the facilities are increasingly being used points to the possible feasibility of expansion…..perhaps even an additional swimming pool to augment the existing playgrounds and other entertainment activities.

Bravo Skeldon Management!!!

Those who have not recently visited are encouraged to come and see for themselves!

PS: I have just learned that the Estate is being prepared to resume sugar production shortly. This is indeed fabulous news, and credit must go to the management staff and workers in Field, Factory and Administration, as well as the cane farmers for their diligence and responsiveness.

Sincerely, Nowrang Persaud

guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, september 9, 2018

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Is there a move to sabotage A biographical dictionary Govt and Opposition talks? of Guyanese Dear Editor, I had earlier written a letter in which I pointed out a pattern that had emerged over a year or so, which shows that whenever President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo meet, the Pradoville issue resurfaces just after.

I pointed out then that Granger and Jagdeo met on July 19th, 2018 and ‘Pradoville’ resurfaced via a Kaieteur News article on July 22nd, 2018 under the caption ‘SOCU completes Pradoville 2 file, charges ready to be laid’.

The situation was quite similar following the January 3rd, 2018 meeting of the two. This time INEWS, via its January 5th 2018 article, carried under the caption ‘Sittlington to return as Mentor/Advisor to SOCU’, talked about a foreigner continuing his work to ensure that there are convictions in the cases being addressed

by SOCU. Even more interesting was that the news of Sittlington’s return not only came two days after the

Granger-Jagdeo meeting, but it came EIGHT MONTHS after Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan asked for him to return to SOCU. A third case was seen after the Granger-Jagdeo meeting on October 19th, 2017. After that meeting, on November 28th, 2017, there was the Kaieteur News article under the caption ‘Pradoville Two probe…Assessor moves in to value properties’.

Again, we saw this pattern with the June 12th, 2017 meeting and the article that same month by the Kaieteur News under the caption ‘Suspected Pradoville ‘schemers’ closer to climbing court step’.

Not surprisingly, the two met again on August 30th of 2018, and lo and behold, the Guyana Chronicle’s lead story on September 8, 2018 had a headline which screamed, “Charges to be laid soon – as SOCU about to wrap up ‘Pradoville 2’ probe”.

Once again, I’ve detailed these examples to demonstrate that what we are see-

ing is a pattern. And with that said, the question as to whether or not moves are afoot to sabotage talks between the Government and Opposition must be asked.

Secondly, is the President’s Office behind this move? Or is the Prime Minister’s Office? In my view, it seems more likely that it may be the Prime Minister’s Office. You only have to look at the big picture to see why.

If the PPP and APNU engage, the AFC becomes more irrelevant. Its relevance is diminished because it is not among the political players dealing with moving political dialogue forward; the AFC has no seat at the table. If the PPP and APNU engage and reach agreement on issues, what use is the AFC serving?

It has no constituency. Isn’t this reason enough to want to sabotage the Government and Opposition talks to make sure that the AFC remains somewhat relevant?

Regards, Attiya Baksh

November 12 – turning point for M&CC Dear Editor, There is a well-known biblical phrase that says, “The end is nigh!” which refers to a potential apocalypse or the end times from the Christian Bible.

It is safe to say that the end is near for ‘The Fantastic Four’, which ran roughshod over the citizens of Georgetown and their opponents at City Hall for the last three years.

With November 12 fast approaching, with the requirement of having the Council dissolved at least one month before, and with the looming retirement of others, persons should keep a close eye on the possible further ransacking, plundering, looting and pillaging of whatever assets remain there by the departing vice lords.

Who knows, there may even be the attempt to resurrect the motion that was tabled many years ago for Georgetown City Councillors to receive a pension -- a most ridiculous proposition that was confined to Georgetown exclusively; or they may try to raise from the dead the parking meter scam that will see a few persons who have an interest in its implementation benefiting going forward.

An interesting exercise the ‘Bigwigs’ of City Hall should undertake would be to list their achievements and the benefits derived by the citizens for the last three years: the roads repaired, the bridges built, the complete rehabilitation done to the municipal markets, the improvements to the

Constabulary and security in the city, the drainage improvements, street lighting installed, social development in the city, the increases in day care services, the financial audits carried out, etc.

As they say in Guyana, ‘Nah mind how pumpkin vine run, he must dry up one day’.

Sincerely, Sean Levius

Dear Editor, The recent September 5 editorial in sections of the media on Stanley E. Brock (1936-2018), who made an important contribution to the development of cattle ranching in the Rupununi when he was a manager at the Dadanawa Ranch for 15 years (1953-1968), shows the need for someone or a team of persons to compile a “Biographical Dictionary of Guyanese,” to preserve and showcase the contributions made by significant figures, both living and deceased.

Such a publication would inspire and incentivise Guyanese from all walks of life to excel and make the world, and specifically Guyana, a better place.

It is astonishing how many Guyanese, both at home and abroad, have pioneered and made important contributions to knowledge in their chosen fields in both academic and professional disciplines. Most are aware of luminaries in the education, political, diplomatic, legal, medical, literary, economics, and business areas. Such key names like Dr Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, Walter Rodney, SS Ramphal, Forbes Burnham, JOF Haynes, Roy Heath, John Agard, ER Braithwaite, AJ Seymour, Jan Carew, Martin Carter, Edgar Mittelholzer, etc, are all too familiar, and readily come to mind.

But what about those unsung heroes (both living and dead) who also made similar contributions to other subject areas through their pioneering and hard work? For example, Guyanese Mohamed Jamal Deen, Professor and Senior Canada Research

Chair in IT at McMaster University, who recently received the Order of Canada; and the late Dr V Chis Lakhan, of the University of Windsor, who added new knowledge to the field of Earth and Environmental Sciences; they are two good examples of Guyanese abroad who made outstanding contributions.

How many Guyanese know of the pioneering and important works done by Fr Cuthbert Cary-Elwes, Fr Ignatius Scoles, Sir Robert Schomburgk, Rev. WH Brett, Rev. John Dorman, and Laurence Keymis?

Pandit Ramsaroop Maraj established the Dharam Shala in 1921. In the field of music, Bert Rogers of the British Guiana Militia Band introduced the E-flat alto saxophone after his return from Wembley in 1924. As a further example, the Italianborn Dr George Giglioli, through his research in Georgetown in 1932, identified the “Anopheles” mosquito as the main carrier of malaria in the country.

Such heroes must be profiled for all to know, to be inspired, and to build on their achievements.

In Guyana, the more serious attempt at such a compilation was done by the poet, essayist and memoirist AJ Seymour (1914-1989), whose “Dictionary of Guyanese

Biography” was published in 1984. A decade later (in 1994), Lewiz Alyan’s threepart series “Grass Roots of Guyana” became available, which profiled many key Guyanese in a range of disciplines. Profiles of prominent Guyanese can also be found in other compilations, like CA Wood’s “Biography of the West Indies”, UWI Professor Bridget Brereton’s “Dictionary of Caribbean Biography” (1998), and OUP’s “Dictionary of Caribbean and Afro-Latin American Biography” (2016), to name a few. Even Vidur Dindayal’s two books, “Guyanese Achievers in the UK” (2007) and “Guyanese Achievers USA & Canada” (2011) stand out, but are limited.

With technological advances, the Internet (the world’s library at your fingertips), the National Archives, the Public Library and the UG Library, all it takes is for someone with an open and objective mind; and with an interest to profile our hidden heroes, regardless of political stripe, religion, sexual orientation, race and colour, to step up to the plate, take the lead and start the ball rolling. I would be very willing to assist.

Sincerely, Lal Balkaran Scarborough, Ontario

6 “Reading is fundamental,” – Deputy Chief Librarian SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

vancement.

“We are really working hard to ensure that persons in the society are literate or become that way and reduce the level of illiteracy and the introduction of these programmes we would like to

From left: Deputy Chief Librarian Nadine Moore, along with Senior Library Assistants Merle James and Dihanne Saul

Patrick John reads to his daughter Ella John while Jerrol Rodrigues sits in

eading is fundamental even though technology has come and put a twist on things, I think we still have to continue to read. If people are to stay literate, they must continue to read and develop a habit if reading too as long as they live,” says Deputy Chief Librarian Nadine Moore.

Moore has been working at the National Library for the past 20 years and says Guyanese need to continue to read more. She added that reading alone is not all, rather when one reads they must be able to comprehend and the National Library has been ensuring that programmes are in place to teach the skill of reading and comprehending.

The world celebrated

literacy.

She explained that one would think that a typical day at the library only involves them restocking and checking out books as well as offering advice but revealed that there are a lot of behind the scenes work that they are involved in.

“We have to develop a collection based on demands and request of the general public as well as current affairs to keep our members informed so that is the first thing we try to put in place.

We also have to acquire the materials in various forms and we have to process the materials and put them in the right subject so it is easily accessed. Apart from doing that we also have the behind the scenes work which is getting these materials shelf ready,” she explained.

She noted that they are also pre-

“

R

International Literacy Day on Saturday under the theme “Literacy and skills development”. This year, International Literacy Day, according to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), explores and highlights integrated approaches that simultaneously can support the development of literacy and skills, to ultimately improve people’s lives and work and contribute to equitable and sustainable societies.

Moore says that ILD is very important since it serves to remind leaders and the general population of the status of literacy and its importance in advancing a population. She said at the National Library, they have been providing free and equitable access to information to everyone, on various platforms, to help improve

paring to go electronic by 2019.

“In 2019 we will have resources with an online catalogue and have our rare books collection digitised… we have issues with bandwidth but that is being improved and we will provide advanced services to patrons with regard to resources and have staff technology ready,” Moore added.

Additionally, the National Library has a number of continuous activities to promote literacy. Moore stated that over the years they have seen an increase in the number of young readers, adding that it shows that the younger generation is moving more to books despite the technological ad-

see a turn around the level of literacy. People really underestimate the power of reading and reading is fundamental… we have to read to be kept abreast with technology,” she advised.

50% of children in hinterland access secondary education – UNICEF

A section of the gathering at the World Literacy Day workshop on Saturday

G

uyana celebrated the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) World Literacy Day on Saturday under the theme “Literacy and Skills Development”. In this process, many urges were made for reading to be implemented throughout the metamorphosis of a person’s lifetime.

This comes in light of the fact that many persons in Guyana do not access a secondary education and literacy is the only way to liberate them from the stigma of being illiterate.

Speaking at a workshop, which was held at Grand Coastal and organised by the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC), United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) Representative Sylvie Fouet, gave an analysis of the education sector in Guyana, which highlighted the fact that only half of the children in the hinterland communities attend secondary school after they would’ve graduated from the primary education programme.

Additionally, only 75 per cent of children on the coastland are provided with the opportunity to complete their secondary education.

As such, literacy is important to sharpen their reading and writing skills.

“Literacy is a child’s right that is very important to a right to quality education but overall, literacy also empowers and develops a young person to become an adult. In Guyana, it’s very critical to overcome the fact that there are a couple of challenges that are part of school. Data states that 75

per cent of teenagers will access secondary school in Guyana and maybe outside the coastal area, actually its 50 per cent,” said Fouet.

She added, “Some may not have the chance and others may not continue along the study path. That’s why we need to study literature and literacy is a really good foundation. Also, maybe to give a second chance to teenage mothers or those who have come into contact with the law, literacy is powerful for empowerment.”

A policy was recently introduced to reintegrate teenage mothers back into the school system. The UN representative requested that the policy be implemented at the soonest to prove its effectiveness.

In attendance was also Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo who linked the presence of literacy with the establishment of good leadership.

Chairperson of the RCC, Aleema Nasir also made her contributions towards the discussions which were facilitated stating, “This sustained engagement of the children and youth of Guyana is to provide a beneficial reshaping and reorientation in the thinking, approaches, attitudes and self-confidence of Guyana’s adolescent children.”

In the general world population, it is estimated that more than 750 million adults are illiterate, and two-thirds of this figure are women. Adding to that, some 250 million primary-aged children do not have a grasp of basic literacy skills, while 124 million children and adolescents are out of school.

news

7

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Salaries for Govt contract workers skyrocket – former Minister

A

former Minister has come out swinging at the delay in giving teachers a salary increase; noting that based on statistics, the average salary in the Ministry of the Presidency has gone up by 40 per cent.

This is according to economist and former Housing Minister, Irfaan Ali, who noted there are parts of the Government bureaucracy where there were excessive salary increases in contract workers.

“Take for example, the Ministry of the Presidency, the Department of Project Development and Administration, from 2017 to 2018, reduced the number of contracted staff reduced by 86 to 213… yet salaries reduced by a mere $4.7 million, for the entire year. This meagre decline in salaries corre-

Former Minister Irfaan Ali

sponds to an increase in average salary by more than 40 per cent or from $223,790 to $312,289, monthly.”

Another example used by the Member of Parliament was in the areas of defence and national security. Ali explained that contracted staff

reduced by one, yet, inexplicable, salaries increased by $5.9 million.

“When compared to 2017, average monthly salaries of contracted staff, it was found, increased from $230,798 to $256,752, or by 12 per cent.”

“Under the Public Service Management, from 20172018, contracted staff declined by two, while salaries increased by $39.5 million.

In other words, average salaries under contracted employees, increased from $190,829 to $280,136, or 99.9 per cent.”

According to Ali, the Citizenship Ministry and Immigration Services reduced its number of contracted staff by 74 from 2017 to 2018. Despite this, he pointed out that salaries increased by more than $31

million. Ali stated that when compared to 2017, average monthly salary increased from $65,860 to $251,086, or 312 per cent.

Ali contrasted all these increases with the salary scales teachers currently work with. For untrained teachers, he noted that they are paid a net salary of $65,000. For teachers trained at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), he placed their salary at $85,000.

In addition, Ali noted that for teachers trained at both CPCE and the University of Guyana, their net salary scales rested at $120,000.

He described the situation as a heinous one, when living expenses including at least $28,000 in food is considered.

“Thus, a bit reprioritisation of resources could easily increase fiscal space by more than $6.7 billion, which is enough to address the $4 billion or 40 per cent increase in salaries of our teacher, without compromising any developmental project.”

With pressure mounting on the Education Ministry, it finally decided to give into the Guyana Teachers’ Union’s (GTU) call for arbitration.

The decision was made on

Thursday during the second round of conciliation talks between the two parties, held in the boardroom of the Social Cohesion’s Ministry, Department of Labour on Brickdam, Georgetown.

This process will see the two parties both agreeing on an independent body, to address the issues affecting teachers at present.

The Union is seeking agreements of 40 per cent increases on each year from 2016 to 2020, but Government has stressed that this request is just not feasible for the over 10,000 teachers in the system.

8 news

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

Murder accused charged for threatening woman

S

edley Liverpool, called “Birdman”, was charged and appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’

Courts for threatening a woman’s life.

Liverpool is accused of threatening Unis Lansford on July 9, 2018.

The murder accused denied the allegations made out against him when it was read to him

by Magistrate Leron Daly on Friday.

The prosecutor informed the court that Liverpool is currently on remand pending a murder trial. He however did not reveal how Liverpool came to threaten Lansford.

Liverpool is one of two

men charged with the 2015 murder of Mocha mechanic Terrence Lanferman. In that case, the prosecution is contending that on June 1, 2015, at Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara, along with his co-accused, Kenkassie Lynch, murdered Lanferman. They were committed to stand trial in the High Court for the murder.

Recess…

T

…in September

he Opposition Leader revealed that the Cabinet’s taking a “recess”. He allowed he knows it’s the tradition of Parliament to go into recess…but never Cabinet!! Now, this had some logic to it: after all, Parliament’s supposed to pass laws and debate budgets and such like…all of which have designated timelines. And, then again, after eating $700,000 of food, and (mostly) liquour, at EVERY sitting (which might’ve induced some “lying” - down!!) MPs HAVE to take a break.

From all that rich food, there’s the ever-present danger of them contracting that “rich man’s disease” – gout, which can be excruciatingly painful – and also cirrhosis of the liver from overconsumption of alcohol.

It could very well be that the parliamentary recess – which can last from August to October -- might have resulted from medical recommendations!!

But what’s the story on the Cabinet recess? Unlike the timeline-driven agenda of the National Legislators, Cabinet is the Executive, consisting of the President and his Ministers. They make decisions on running the country. Whatever else might be happening with MPs over at the Public Buildings, the demands of the country’s business never stop! Every week, decisions on all sorts of matters having national import must be reviewed; like, for instance, the Opposition’s claim that there are all sorts of boondoggles in the Budget that could take care of the GTU’s demands for schoolteachers. What happens during the Cabinet recess? The country goes on “auto pilot”??

But when you think about it, there’s probably a good reason for Cabinet taking it easy. And no!... it’s not because President Granger’s battery needs recharging. Janet Jagan was years ahead of him, and weekly cabinet meetings never fazed her. And he’s supposed to be keeping up his old army regimen!

Naah…it’s not creeping senility either, even though Keith Scott’s outburst on teachers might’ve suggested he suffers from that condition. But then, Scott’s no vital cog for Cabinet (or ANY!) decision-making, that’s for sure!!

The real reason is that there’s really nothing for Cabinet to do, since President Granger has unleashed his doctrine of “unilateralism” in decision-making.

He started with making decisions he was supposed to make AFTER consulting MEANINGFULLY with the Opposition Leader. But that was thrown out…like on GECOM, legal appointments, etc. He’s obviously now extended his unilateral decision-making to the Cabinet!!

After all, the Ministers of the Cabinet are all CREATURES of the President, whom he handpicks to run Ministries AND advise him on decisions. From all indications, Granger doesn’t take advice from ANYBODY…least of all from him PRIME Minister, who was supposed to be his PRIME advisor!!

So Cabinet might now be in PERMANENT recess??

No wonder Guyana’s crashing and burning!

…on stiffing T&T

The unilateral decision-making being extended to Cabinet thesis was given further support by the announcement that the President will be meeting TT’s PM, Keith Rowley, next Wednesday to sign that MoU on Oil and Gas cooperation. You might understand President Granger bypassing the Opposition Leader and the GCCI from having some more transparency on the MoU; but wouldn’t he want to be advised by such heavyweight energy mavens like Raphael Trotman on Tuesday’s Cabinet Meeting before meeting Rowley?

Wouldn’t you?!

Since he wouldn’t get any opportunity to have an input, Greenidge, as Foreign Minister, offered some gratuitous advice via the press. However, he put his foot in his mouth by confirming the Opposition’s suspicions of a giveaway in the making. He reminded the nation that TT had given oil free to the PNC regime during the 1970s and 80s, when Burnham crashed our economy. Presumably it’s now (literally) paying back time -- not “payback”!! -- for Guyana!!

And maybe this is why Granger doesn’t need Cabinet??!!

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

news

9

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Lawrence to breathe “fresh air” into PNCR …says election as chair a resurrection for party …pledges to nurture youths to take over leadership

By Jarryl Bryan

W

ith the dust of her historic election as Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) settling, Volda Lawrence has an eye to the future.

According to the Public Health Minister, a significant task will include nurturing the youths to take over the party.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times,

“In terms of the base, I think this is PNC alive, where you start at the group level and can work your way up to the chairmanship of the party… I think that something has come alive in our party. And I want to keep that going” – PNCR Chairperson Volda Lawrence she spoke about her ambitions for the party and what her election represents for the party. According to Lawrence, who won by 346 votes at the 20th Biennial congress, her election represents a resurrection of the PNCR. “In terms of the base, I think this is PNC alive, where you start at the group level and can work your way up to the chairmanship of the party. I

PNCR Chairperson Volda Lawrence with supporters after being elected

think this is bringing back some nostalgia to them. I can say for the Georgetown environment, people have been meeting me and saying, oh I feel so good, I remember this congress and so. I think that something has come alive in our party. And I want to keep that going.”

On the matter of her short and long-term goals, Lawrence explained that this includes improving the accessibility of the electorate to its leaders. The party chair explained that this must therefore include not only herself but the entire leadership.

“Also, I want to ensure that our youths are trained and nurtured to take over the party. And to continue to work with our women, to ensure that they have knowledge that they can be what they want to be and to show them how to do it.”

“So I’m looking to work with those three categories of people. Leadership, youths, and women to ensure that we do all the things we’re supposed to be doing, on a wider scale,” she stated.

History

Lawrence, a chartered accountant by profession, has a long history with the PNCR. While in Opposition, she served as the Shadow Minister of Human Services and Social Protection.

In fact, that was her ministerial designation during the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) initial tenure in Government, before being moved to public health.

She clinched victory at the Congress in front of former Chairman, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams;

and fellow contender, Minister of State Joseph Harmon.

Harmon got 287 votes while Williams secured 183.

The election was a historic one within the PNCR since not only was a female

chairperson elected for the first time but the party is also voted for a female Vice Chairperson in Junior Public Infrastructure Minister, Annette Ferguson, who secured 260 votes. On the other hand, Social Cohesion Minister,

Dr George Norton was elected the 2nd Vice Chairman with 242 votes.

There has been much discussion about potential presidential candidates for the main political parties come 2020 elections.

Turn to page 15

10 news Businessman pulls gun on Police SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

…busted with narcotics, illegal weapon

The unlicensed .38 Special Ruger Revolver

A

n East Bank Demerara businessman allegedly drew a handgun and threatened to

137g of cannabis

shoot two Police ranks after they attempted to arrest him at Puruni Landing, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

causing them to retreat to safety.

According to the Police, at about 08:00h on Saturday, a team of officers –including the duo who were threatened – returned to Puruni on two ATVs and spotted the suspect on a motorcycle.

After signalling him to stop, the man rode head on into one of the ATVs and injured his left leg. He was arrested,

and a search was conducted on his person.

An unlicensed .38 Special Ruger Revolver with three live rounds along with 137 grams of cannabis was discovered in a haversack. The 33-year-old man has since been admitted a patient at the Bartica Hospital under guard nursing a fractured leg.

Investigation is ongoing.

6 foreign females detained after Rosignol nightclub raid

P

Some of the liquor that was seized

olice in Berbice have detained a female night club manager and six female foreign nationals suspected to be victims of trafficking in persons (TIP) following a crackdown exercise on Friday evening at Rosignol, West Coast Berbice (WCB).

The females have been taken into custody and are

assisting with further investigations.

A joint search of the entertainment establishment was also reportedly carried out by ranks of the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) Enforcement Department, during which an assortment of uncustomed alcohol was seized from the premises.

Heritage Spirits

S

atiricus was thinking about his heritage. It was “Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month” and he’d been told everyone should celebrate everyone else’s heritage. Wasn’t it great that Guyana was a “land of six peoples”?? Now he and the fellas at the Back Street Bar had the opportunity to sample the spiritous contribution of every one of those six peoples in Heritage month!!

“Suh which waan abee guh start wid?” asked Cappo, to the other fellas. The Owner of the bar had been forewarned and had all the different drinks on hand.

“Bring de Paiwari!” said Bungi to the waitress. “An’ bring some Pepsi fuh wash am dong!”

“I know one of the old Governor Light said it was a “filthy drink” said Hari, “But do you have to further desecrate it with Pepsi?”

“I think Cappo’s worried about who and who chewed up the cassava to ferment the Paiwiri!!” said Satiricus, as the waitress poured out the bottle into their four glasses.

The fellas downed their Paiwiri in a single go, then washed it down with a chaser of their choice, as the waitress brought a bottle of wine and new glasses.

“This is the Ogogoro palm Wine from West Africa, where most of our African brothers came from you know,” pointed out Hari.

After they downed the Ogogogo, Bungi, exclaimed to the waitress who’d brought another bottle of wine, “Daa was good stuff gyaal!”

“Ahhh…de Putagee drink!” said Cappo as the waitress did the honours and poured it out.

“Aren’t you worries the grapes were mashed by the feet of the women in the vineyard?” asked Satiricus with a smile.

“Naah…de wine wou’da clean dem foot!” said Cappo as he clinked his glass with the fellas and drained the wine in a single gulp.

As the waitress brought the Bhang – ganja boiled in milk – Satiricus said, “Could I pass on this fellas? I’m feeling woozy!”

“But this is your own Heritage,” said Hari. “You have to take it down!”

But it was the Bhang that took Satiricus down. And he didn’t get to sample the Chinese Baijiu, which floored them all!!

news

11

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

$75M in equipment expected for City Hall by next month

T

United Hindu Diaspora: The challenge

A

t the World Hindu Conference held this weekend in Chicago to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Swami Vivenananda’s address to the World Congress on Religion, I discussed the challenge of internal differences among the Hindu Diaspora.

The term “Diaspora” itself signals a challenge to united action – one that is more contextual and historically contingent and arises ultimately from the fact we are very fragmented. The Hindu Diaspora, which now number at least 20 million, was formed by migrations during four distinct eras: 1) pre-colonial trade Diaspora; 2) 19th century indentured Diaspora; 3) post-1965 Diaspora from India to the West (modern indentureship) and 4) twice migrants – post 1970s expulsions from the 19th century Diaspora to the West. We need to unpack Ravi Dev the term “Diaspora” to appreciate the challenge it presents to united action.

“Diaspora” has only been recently linked with migrants originating from Bharat; starting only in the late 1980s, and was closely identified with Jews. But the experience suggested a typology from the basic characteristics that defining the term, literally meaning “to disperse”. These were primarily the memory of the land from where the dispersal emanated and the longing for return to this “motherland”. There conditions were satisfied in the early Hindu migrants and there was also the rejection by the new host society for being different which paradoxically cause a valorisation of the differences even as changes in practiced were engendered in the negotiation to survive. These contingencies created differences in the perspectives, practices and material products in the Hindu Diaspora.

The challenge is to have the Hindus in the Diaspora see each other as one without being seen as “disloyal” to their present nation-states or in their adaptations to local conditions. In each of these countries, the “persistence” of Indian/Hindu culture created plural societies which challenged the unitary premises of political Liberalism – but for each wave of the Diaspora and in each new society there would be carrying action and reaction. The Europeans – especially the British and French – insisted on assimilation of the various groups in each country to the universalised European culture. This creates several hurdles that must be cleared.

The last three waves that left at different times, also did so from different parts of Bharat and from different sociological circumstances; all of which complicate a common perspective.

Analytically and objectively, they may all be members of the Indian Diaspora (a “group in itself”) but do not identify as a unitary body (a “group for itself”). The experience of the fourth wave, which brought members of the other waves in contact in metropolitan Western countries highlight the challenge.

In NY, for instance, the post-1965 “Indian” Hindus and the post-1970s Caribbean Hindus, have kept a wary distance from each other, even though they are dubbed “Indians” by most of the other New Yorkers”. Most notably, they hold distinct stereotypes of each other and for instance do not attend each other’s Mandirs or celebrations of festivals.

The Caribbean Hindus are struck by the insistence of the Indian Hindus to define themselves by regional labels, such a Gujaratis or Tamils, or more subtly, by caste. Calling themselves Caribbean or Guyanese Indians, they have jettisoned regional and caste divisions. The latter complain that the former presume they are not the “real deal” and do not mix extensively, individually or institutionally and may even evaluate them negatively.

The above challenge can be addressed – and then extended to the new host societies – by demonstrating through our practices that there is a Hindu alternative to dead end that Liberal “multiculturalism” has found itself in both Europe and the US and in other plural societies that thought it was a “solution”. Unlike the West that tries to fit democracy into the Procrustean motto of E Pluribus unum – out of many, one, Sanaathan Dharma envisages creation as the Divinity declaring, “Eko’ham bahusyaam” – I am one; let there be many.

We therefore accept differences as a fundamental feature of creation, and we therefore accept that it is our civilisational task to deal with them positively rather than seek to obliterate them as “divisions”. We can start practicing this value within the Hindu Diaspora and then spread it outwards to other groups in our specific societies. In the accommodation of diversities, I am proud that on Friday, Bharat legalised LGBT sexual relations.

he Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is currently awaiting some $75 million in equipment to serve in the Solid Waste Department, which is expected to arrive in one month’s time.

This was related to Guyana Times by the Director of Solid Waste, Walter Narine on Saturday. He informed that the contract for the supply and delivery of a garbage truck, as well as a tractor and two trailers went to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) earlier this year.

According to Narine, Industrial Supplies of Guyana (ISG) won the bid for the supply of the garbage truck and should be in a position to deliver it in about 30 days’ time.

He revealed that City Hall initially intended to purchase two garbage trucks, but was unable to do so, since it would have exceeded its $75 million budget.

It is because of this the garbage truck project was retendered, since they had invited bids for two trucks.

Narine explained that the cost for one of the garbage trucks amounted to about $40 million.

In a quest to not only lower its expenses but generate an income, the Mayor and City Council made the decision to purchase its very own garbage trucks.

The projects for the much-needed pieces of equipment were taken to NPTAB under the Communities Ministry.

“Ministry of Communities, of course, is doing all the tendering from Government and also on our behalf. Ministry of Communities would have advertised for tender in the newspapers and interested suppliers would have sent in their tender documents,” the Director had previously explained to this publication.

He said that during a statutory meeting held earlier in the year, the Council decided that $75 million would be allocated to his department, to fund the purchase of the vehicles.

The equipment the M&CC purchased were financed using the $200 million subvention from the Communities Ministry, which was granted in this year’s budget.

The country’s two larg-

est garbage collection companies – Puran Brothers Disposal and Cevons Waste Management – withdrew their services on July 30, 2017, as City Hall’s debts had risen to the multimillion-dollar range.

According to the companies, the issue of non-payment has been a long-standing one, with many debts going as far back as 2015.

However, they have since resumed collection after the municipality approached Central Government through the Communities Ministry for a bailout of $475,635,245 to settle the city’s debt to Puran Brothers and Cevons.

The bailout was granted and Central Government decided to pick up the tab until December 31, 2017.

12 news

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

No resignation from Ramnarine – Ramjattan …Assistant Commissioner had “enough” of public service

By Michael Younge

T

he Government of Guyana has denied that it is in receipt of a formal resignation from former Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine, who was not confirmed in that post by Commander of the armed forces, President David Granger, last month when he made a substantive appointment after a one-year hiatus.

Vice President and Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, speaking with Guyana Times on Friday during an invited comment, confirmed that no official resignation has been received from the Assistant Commissioner by his office or the Police Service Commission.

He described as “false” reports in some sections of the media which suggested that the senior law enforcement

officer had resigned, but did not venture to make any other statements beyond that, even though he confirmed in the process that Ramnarine had proceeded on annual leave and other outstanding leave entitlements.

Asked to confirm whether he has resigned or has plans of doing so on Friday, Ramnarine declined to answer the question, explaining only that he wished to enjoy “privacy” while he was on his leave.

“Haven’t I given enough to public service in this country and in the Force?,” he asked before declining to answer any questions about his plans after failing to win the president’s support to remain in the post of Police Commissioner, and the chance to be promoted to the post of Deputy Commissioner.

He would only say that he stands by everything he has

Former Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine

said in the media on the subject matter, and wished to be allowed to live a quiet life.

Last week, reports surfaced that Ramnarine felt he was slighted and had been a victim of the system, having not been chosen to serve as the country’s new top cop, despite the fact that he was senior to

all those who were appointed and promoted. He had even served as the country’s acting commissioner for over a year after Seelall Persaud had retired from the job.

President Granger has insisted that he followed the Constitution and the advice of the Police Service Commission when he appointed Leslie James to the post of Police Commissioner.

He said he relied heavily on the advice of the Chairman, Paul Slowe, before any decision was taken,and he insisted that James was the best choice. Before making his pick and ahead of meeting Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, Granger had outlined that the candidate he would select must be someone who is “unbribable”.

Slowe, last week, was quoted in another section of the media as saying that

Ramnarine was not chosen because of the details contained in his personal and service file, which had some worrying trends about his performance within the Guyana Police Force.

He insisted that he had recused himself from the process somewhat at the level of the PSC because he was head of a Commission of Inquiry which had criticised Ramnarine and others for their handling of an alleged plot to assassinate President David Granger.

Blame game

Also, reports on an online news agency and social media also sought to blame the political Opposition, the People’s Progress Party, and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo for Ramnarine’s non-appointment.

But Jagdeo pushed back on Saturday, explaining that

any entity peddling that view point was engaged in misinformation and lies.

Jagdeo, speaking exclusively with Guyana Times, even reminded that he had enquired why Ramnarine was side-stepped and his name not included on the list of persons to be appointed to various posts.

He noted that his party, the Peoples Progressive Party, has not made any public objections to Ramnarine’s appointment, nor has it endorsed Ramnarine or any other candidate. Jagdeo said any other PPP Members who have done so were expressing their opinions, and have no authority to speak on behalf of the PPP as a collective.

Ramnarine joined the Guyana Police Force in April 1991. He became an Assistant Police Commissioner at the age of 40. He is 49 years old.

news

13

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

14 news

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018| guyanatimesgy.com

Despite rising public debt

Guyana borrows US$20M from Islamic Development Bank

– to be spent on maintenance, engineers for GPL

D

espite Guyana’s rising public debt to external creditors, Government has drawn down US$20 million from the sum allotted to them by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) from its US$900 million resource envelope.

This was communicated by the Finance Ministry on Saturday. The Ministry in a statement revealed that the monies will go towards the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Utility Upgrade Programme, in a bid to bring an end to the black woes.

“The loan will facilitate the rehabilitation of 153 km of GPL’s medium voltage and low voltage network and 6941 smart meters, including the associated transformers, service lines and distribution boxes,” the Ministry stated, adding that will also facilitate “… the rehabilitation and extension of two 69/13.8KV substations at Kingston and Vreed-enHoop, including equipment switchgear, power transformers, rerouting of circuits distribution feeders and cable connections.”

“It will also finance consultancy services for the preparation of designs and specifications for the sub-stations and the site supervision for the works related to the Kingston and

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, alongside IDB President Luis Moreno signed the new loan agreements last year

Vreed-en-Hoop substations, as well as support the existing project management unit by financing additional specialised engineers and technicians to reinforce the existing team.

Guyana first became a member of the IsDB in 2017 and according to the Ministry, Finance Minister Winston Jordan will sign the loan agreement with the bank in Saudi Arabia on September 19.

“Since becoming a member of the Bank, Government has been aggressively pursuing projects that will increase Guyana’s infrastructure and optimise its productivity in the areas of agriculture, trade and competitiveness and human and rural development having committed to the diversifi-

cation of Guyana’s economy in preparation for first oil in 2020,” the Ministry stated.

Debt reporting

The Finance Ministry’s Public Debt Annual Report for 2016 had showed that since 2015, there has been a 4.1 per cent rise in Guyana’s indebtedness to International lenders. A breakdown of the figures showed that total external debt amounted to $240 billion, a 72.6 per cent bite out of the total public debt. On the other hand, domestic debt stood at $90.6 billion, or 27.4 per cent of the total.

The report notes that Guyana's four main external creditors are the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB),

the State-owned ExportImport Bank of China (China EXIM Bank) and lastly, the Venezuela state owned oil company (PDVSA).

Last year’s End of Year Outcome report had also revealed that for that year, the stock of public debt and the public debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio had increased. According to the report, total public debt was recorded at US$1.6 billion, exceeding the projected amount by US$8.4 million. The public debt to GDP ratio actually increased by 0.9 per cent to be recorded at 46.1 per cent.

According to the report, higher disbursements of money from the ExportImport Bank of China (China Exim Bank); the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) and the Caricom Development Fund (CDF), as well as delayed debt service payments, were to be blamed.

When it comes to servicing these debts, the report stated that total public debt service amounted to US$71.7 million for 2017.

This was, in fact, lower by 2.5 per cent than the projected 2017 sum of US$73.5 million.

Loans

These outstanding loan amounts have not deterred Government from borrowing; something the parliamentary Opposition has been critical of. As recent as May of this year, it was announced that Government would be securing a US$35 million “soft loan” from a US$90 million resource envelop offered by the World Bank.

The money, according to Minister Winston Jordan, in an interview at the time, would be to support Guyana’s balance of payment, which has recorded a growing deficit. This is illustrated by the increase from US$53.3 million in 2016 to US$69.5 million last year.

Then there is the $30 billion bond secured a few months ago by the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) and guaranteed by the Government of Guyana at a rate of 4.75 per cent. But even the reasons for the bond are clouded in confusion.

While NICIL has stated that the money will go towards the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s operating and capital expenses, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has questioned details in a memorandum on the bond which he noted indicates the money will be for long-term projects.

The cost of climate change for small islands and coastal nations

C

limate change induced by human activities is happening whether or not we are prepared. However, it will not affect us all equally; the poor and marginalised will experience the brunt of climate change.

Climate change has already resulted in mass migration in Bangladesh, forcing between 50,000 and 200,000 climate refugees to relocate as a result of sea level rise; and this number is expected to rise in the coming years. Hitting closer to home, last year, our Caribbean neighbours suffered from the destruction of both Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Bermuda, Puerto Rico and Dominica were devastated, and a year later are still struggling to rebuild. Furthermore, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Barbuda, and Turks and Caicos were also affected significantly. Last year’s hurricanes took the lives of over 3,191 citizens, and caused damages costing as high as $130 billion.

The hidden cost…

As we continue to rely on fossil fuels to power our economies, disasters like the ones we experience in the Caribbean last year will worsen. Globally, fossil fuels increase greenhouse gas emissions, leading to human-induced climate change creating rising sea levels, increasing storm strength, and killing coral reefs and other critical nutrition- producing environments. There is a correlation between warming ocean temperatures, high sea levels, and increasing impact of natural disasters. National Geographic reported that hurricanes draw their power from warm water; warm and moist air provides greater energy for these storms, boosting their damaging impact. Globally averaged, seas level is expected to rise by between one and four feet in the next century, and this will increase the damage of storm surges.

A year later...

A year later, countries are still grappling with rebuilding from last year’s hurricanes. Even worse, it has been reported that Puerto Rico lost a total of 2,975 lives, as opposed to the 64 that was first recorded. This number continues to rise because of a lack of medical facilities to care for those affected. Many were not able to receive necessary care during the hurricane.

Once again, this disproportionately affects the poor, who are reliant on local facilities. Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda said only $20 million has been pledged to help his country rebuild after Hurricane Irma caused $220 million of damage to tourism-dependent Barbuda.

We are in the middle of hurricane season, and for most in the Caribbean, this means living in fear of what's to come. Small island nations produce less than one percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, yet they are the most vulnerable and are at the frontline of climate-related disasters.

“Climate change is a security issue, and a survival issue for our countries, as we are witnessing right now with the impacts of Hurricane Irma in the Caribbean,” said Enele Sopoaga, Hon. Prime Minister of Tuvalu, speaking at the high-level political event organised by UNDP. Natural disasters worsen the resource and capacity issues of any nation. It is worrisome to think that as a result of climate change, we will experience these events more frequently and with greater force. Last hurricane season, hundreds of human lives were lost, infrastructure was damaged beyond repair, and it seems as through recovery is a long road ahead. This year, we can only hope the Caribbean will have an uneventful hurricane season.

Moving forward

For us to move towards a more resilient future, the international community must reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, and implement stronger policies to curb our current high level of greenhouse gas emissions. Domestically, we have to invest in infrastructure that would withstand the effects of climate change, preserve coastal wetlands to absorb storm surges, and improvements to coastal protection must be accounted for in our budget. Countrywide, we need to prepare prior to storms by strengthening our national evacuation plans and warning systems. More than ever before, it is important to understand Guyana’s Green State trajectory and actively participate in the process. Creating a green economy will not only help in climate change mitigation, but adaptation as well.

You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@ gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

news

15

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Passengers refusing to pay increased fares – minibus operations A look at the Mid-Year Report, 2018: Economic Growth vs Economic Development vs Human Development (Part 2)

I

n last week’s article, it was argued that the 2018 mid-year growth rate of 4.5 percent was attained largely because of the dramatic increase in Government expenditure in comparison to the corresponding half-year period for 2017.

It is important to note that while, in theory, increases in Government expenditure are usually intended to stimulate growth in the economy, the key understanding that ought to be established in this regard is where these expenditures are allocated. If the expenditures are largely concentrated on unproductive activities, such as national events, dietary, other operating expenses, local travel and subsistence, vehicle spare parts and service, and rental of buildings and things like that, then increases in Government spending like these will simply not translate to real developmental growth.

Rather, these will just be a burden on the national treasury, and therefore the allocation of Government spending is what is really important to achieve the desired outcomes of real developmental growth, and not just manipulating one component of the GDP equation, inter alia, mathematical simulation to make the numbers appear to look good. As such, in the context of this argument, it is implied that this level of GDP growth rate does not necessarily reflect the true economic status of the economy with respect to real growth in terms of an expansion of the economy in developmental terms.

For example, this cannot be the case when the rate of unemployment remains relatively high. The last survey that was carried out showed that Guyana’s unemployment rate is 12 percent. However, in a previous article featured under this column some time ago, it was argued that if we were to adjust that figure to account for the 9,000 plus unemployed sugar workers in 2018, then real unemployment rate would be anywhere in the region of 20 – 25 percent.

The unemployment rate of a country is a key indicator that tells of the economic health of an economy; and therefore, with a rate of unemployment hovering over 20 percent, that is certainly not a good indicator, and does not tell a good story in terms of the economic growth direction of a country.

Some of the limitations of GDP to measure quality of life and economic progress “Economists have warned since its introduction that GDP is a specialised tool, and treating it as an indicator of general well-being is inaccurate and dangerous. However, over the last 70 years, economic growth – measured by GDP – has become the sine qua non for economic progress.” (Costanza et.al, 2009).

Because GDP only measures monetary transactions related to the production of goods and services, it is based on an incomplete picture of the system within which the human economy operates. A more complete picture of how the human economic system fits within the social and environmental systems upon which it depends is described hereunder.

The way an economy works is that it draws benefits from natural, social and human capital, and the quantity and quality of such capital, in turn, is affected by net investments from the economy. By measuring only marketed economic activity, GDP ignores changes in the natural, social and human components of community capital upon which the community relies for continued existence and well-being. Consequently, GDP not only fails to measure key aspects of quality of life; in many ways, it encourages activities that are counter to longterm community well-being. Moreover, of particular concern is that GDP measurement encourages the depletion of natural resources faster than they can renew themselves. Another is that current economic activity is degrading ecosystems, thereby reducing the services that until now have been provided to humans virtually for free. For example, in 1997, it was estimated that the world’s ecosystems provided benefits valued at an average of US$33 trillion per year. This was significantly larger than the total GDP at the time. (Costanza, et.al, 1997 & 2009).

Another problem with GDP is its use as a measure of progress in relation to the “threshold effect”. As GDP increases, overall quality of life often increases, up to a point.

Beyond this point, increases in GDP are often offset by the costs associated with increasing income inequality, loss of leisure time, and natural capital depletion (Max-Neef 1995; Talberth, Cobb et.al, 2007). Empirical evidences confirm that beyond a certain threshold, further increases in material wellbeing have the negative side effects of lowering community cohesion, healthy relationships, knowledge, wisdom, a sense of purpose, connection with nature, and other dimensions of human happiness.

(For comments, questions and responses on articles featured in this column, readers can reach the author at jbinsights@outlook.com).

J

ust one week after the $20 across the board fare increase took effect, minibus operators are complaining that passengers are refusing to pay the new price.

Speaking with Guyana Times on Saturday, several minibus operators complained of the uphill battle they are encountering everyday as commuters are refusing to pay the increased fares.

A female conductor on the West Coast of Demerara complained bitterly that although the new fare structure is displayed in her minibus, passengers are paying the previous fare. “Them giving you they own thing and if you ask for the $20 more is a problem. Them wan go report yuh fuh harassment and all kinda thing them ah do,” the woman related.

Another driver, Justus (only name given) who operates in the Route 32 (Georgetown to Parika) zone told Guyana Times, “Some passengers refuse to give us the increase which is clearly demonstrated.

Most of us on the park have the fare structure and yet they choosing to give us what they feel like.”

He said if passengers tell him they are short of a $20, he would try to un-

Minibuses at the Stabroek Market area

derstand their situation, but on too many occasions, passengers are refusing to pay.

A conductor, Mathew (only name given), who works on the Route 42 (Georgetown to Grove) bus park said, “Some passengers would not pay the fare, while some would. If you just tell them de fare raise, they busing you. Is a good while now this thing deh out. Everybody should know what the fare gone to by now, so I don’t think is a situation where they don’t know is wah goin on”.

One short drop car operator chimed in and said that the situation is the same over in the Ramp Road car park. The 56-year-old driver told this publication, “Is everybody tryin to make a living. The fare just raise by $20 and they don’t want

to give us that. They complaining like we don’t have bills and things to do to”.

“Some of us put up a thing in our car saying the short drop fare is $80. You know that people is still be foldin up $60 and giving we. What happen man, we don’t have to eat too?”

Head of the United Minibus Union (UMU), Eon Andrews when contacted on Saturday said he was unaware of what has been happening since the drivers have not officially lodged a complaint.

In relation to passengers refusing to pay the fare he noted, “I haven’t heard anything of that nature, but I have no doubt that that might be so.”

Government in August announced its plans to hike the minibus fares in 10 different zones.

Lawrence to breathe fresh...

While the People’s Progressive Party has indicated that its presidential candidate will be announced by year end, Lawrence’s election as Chairperson puts her in a strong position within the party should President and PNCR leader David Granger not seek re-election.

For his part, President Granger hinted that he would not refuse the offer if called upon to run as the presidential candidate for the upcoming 2020 General and Regional Elections.

During a press conference last week, Granger shied away from directly answering whether he would accept a nomination to run as the presidential candidate at the upcoming national polls, which is expected to be a critical election for the country.

“I cannot answer that question at this point in time, it is speculative, but I am a servant of my party, I’m a servant of the partnership, I’m a servant of the coalition and my duty is to serve and I will not run away from service; that is as much as I say,” he said.

The Head of State went on to outline that he became the presidential candidate for both the APNU

and then the APNU/AFC (Alliance For Change) co-

alition via a democratic process and several steps,

The President of the Union told this newspaper he is satisfied with the Ministry’s decision to implement a $20 increase. He said, “It might not be a lot, but we are satisfied.”

In June, the President of the Minibus Union submitted a proposal for not only a fare increase, but for several other requests to ease the pressure on minibus drivers.

Although the call for a fare increase came at a time where fuel prices were constantly escalating, Andrews had noted that the call for the additional money was not only due to the fuel prices, but several other issues. Because of this, the Union’s President said even if the fuel prices lower, he would not be willing to drop the transportation costs. from page 9

which he will have to abide by in the future.

16

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

news

17

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Essequibo Coast pensioner kicked out of home

… begging for a place to live

L

ife dealt an Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) pensioner a devastating blow after she was kicked out of her home shortly after her husband of 38 years died.

The woman is now at the

mercy of friends and is begging for someone to assist her in getting somewhere to live.

Khalawattie Singh, 66, of Perseverance Estate located along the Essequibo Coast said her husband, Tiwari

Singh, died about three years ago. The duo had been living in their home all of their married life but had no children together. She did have stepchildren and have been caring for them as her own.

The woman related to

WCD sea defence works to commence in 4 weeks

W

ithin weeks, four projects are expected to commence on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) to strengthen sections of the seawall which were ruptured earlier this year.

Chief River and Sea Defence Officer, Kevin Samad, informed Guyana Times of the inclusion of a fifth project in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). Along with the four initial projects, works will also be completed at Chapman’s Grove on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) as part of the fifth project.

Meanwhile as of this week, the contracts will be signed for the manual aspect to commence in approximately one week’s time.

“Last week, we had the award of contracts so next week, we’re going to formally sign the contracts, so I would say within four weeks, we’re going to expect commencement and contractors to start preparatory works and with the materials and so. By four weeks, we should expect mobilisation of contractors at these sites,” Samad said.

It was reported that three of the projects will include works at Leonora, Den Amstel and Uitvlugt and the fourth will entail restoration activities at the sluices.

Recently, Samad was

An area that would be fixed during the works

able to give a breakdown of the areas which are said to be Windsor Forest, La Jalousie, Blankenburg, Den Amstel and Stewartville.

“This is the area at Leonora, Uitvlugt, Den Amstel that was severely affected during the spring tide that weekend when we had the overtopping. The fourth area is at Chapman’s Grove which is in Region Four on the East Coast of Demerara. There is a fifth project that deals with a series of villages. We’re doing some work around the sluices to fortify the transition with the defence sluices at Windsor Forest, La Jalousie, Blankenburg, Den Amstel and Stewartville.”

With respect to other works that were done in 2018, the Chief River and Sea Defence Officer explained that the seawalls in Berbice and Essequibo were also rectified with five oth-

er projects that are currently processing at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

“We had projects that were awarded after the Budget 2018. We had signed a number of contracts and works are progressing on most of the sites and some have been completed.

Works have been completed at Aurora and Westbury in Essequibo, Berbice, Crabwood Creek, Bushlot and at the Ruimzeigt area by the crematorium. Another five areas are awaiting the Tender Board which haven’t been awarded as yet.”

Persons residing on the WCD are eagerly awaiting the works to strengthen the seawall structure as they fear another overtopping in the future. As of now, they are at risk of losing millions of dollars if this occurs.

Khalawatie Singh with all of her belongings packed in baskets, bags and boxes

Guyana Times that about six months after her husband died, his children came and began demanding that she leave the house. She initially fought back but could not have resisted the combined efforts of the stepchildren.

After she was thrown onto the streets, the elderly woman went to stay with some relatives but soon became a burden after which they asked her to leave.

With nowhere to turn to, the woman went to a church in the neighbourhood and was turned away as well after being told she could not be accommodated there.

This forced the already depressed woman to beg a friend for lodging. She was told that she can only stay for a short while since the friend is a single mother.

With tears in her eyes, the elderly woman told Guyana Times that she is praying that someone assists her with an alternative arrangement since she would have to move to the streets if she cannot find a place.

She said she is cognizant of the hardships her friend endures in order to accommodate her and added that she would have knocked on several doors but to no avail.

Some residents in the area are willing to assist the woman if she is granted a plot of land to construct a home. They are also calling on the regional authorities to seek to have a senior citizens home constructed in the region since there are many other cases of parents being shunned by children and left to dwell on the streets.

For now, Singh’s future looks very grim and according to her, it is very hard to go start over since she is not the fittest and cannot compete for a job. She is begging and praying that someone comes along and hears her plight so that she could have somewhere to spend her old age.

She noted that she has lived a God-fearing life and was always helpful to those she could have helped. She added that had her husband been alive, then she would have the comfort of her own house as well as the warmth of her own bed to lay her head at nights. Now she is just consumed by the fact that she may be homeless in the blink of an eye.

(Mohanlall Seulall)

18 news

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

Father stabs son to death A

n argument between family members turned deadly on Saturday evening when a father stabbed his son to death.

Dead is Satesh Kevin Sookdeo of Lot 217 Fifth Street, Foulis, East Coast Demerara.

Reports are at about 20:35h, the 44-year-old man and his wife had an argument when he grabbed her by the neck and began choking her. Seeing what was happening to his mother the 21-year-old and another sibling intervened, but this angered the father, who broke a louvre pane and stabbed his son to his chest.

Neighbours rushed to the family’s aid after hearing screams but by then the younger Sookdeo had already died. The Police were called, and the father was taken into custody.

Dead: Satesh Sookdeo

The 21-year-old was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His body is at the GPHC mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. He was student at the Government Technical Institute pursuing the refrigeration technician course.

An investigation has been launched.

Region 6 machine operators refusing to work without AC …Chairman slams action as “ridiculous”

R

egion Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) Chairman David Armogan has said he is to be blamed for some of the mismanagement in that region as it relates to residents getting value for money.

Armogan, who was at the time addressing the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on the poor performance of machines that are assigned to the Drainage and Irrigation (D&I) system in Region Six, disclosed that several of the equipment are down only because the air conditioning system is not working.

“I don’t know since when an air condition is a big problem for a machine to work.

Since when operators have to get the air conditioner to work a machine? Every private machine that is working in this county doesn’t have air condition. I think we are a tolerating a lot of

Regional Chairman David Armogan addressing the RDC meeting.

Also in photo is REO Kim Williams-Stephens

nonsense in the public system. Some machines are sitting down because the air conditioning is not working.

It is as bad as that. Our operators are not working because they have to be in an air-conditioner system,” the Chairman said.

While referring to what the administration has been accepting as “ridiculous”, Armogan added that many of the operators do not give a day’s work for a day’s pay.

This is so because the administration has not put systems in place to ensure it gets value for money.

“Nobody is checking to

see what is the production coming from these machines.

So we are losing production hours from the machines.

You check and see if we are paying $5000 per hour for a machine and that is putting it at a ridiculously low level; at the end of the day we are losing $40,000 on each one of these machines. That is how economics work; every time you lose time, you are losing money. That is how business operates and the Government has to go that way,” Armogan pointed out.

He also noted that the administration has been spending money on fuel for

work that has not been done.

The Chairman added that it is time to go back to the drawing board so that taxpayers get worth for their tax dollars.

“The time has come for the REO [Regional Executive Officer] and myself to sit down and look at this whole thing. We cannot blame anybody else; we have to blame ourselves for some of the bad things that are happening within the region. We must be responsible enough to go back to the drawing board and look at this thing.”

Armogan noted that Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in which D&I machines are scheduled to work, should give the administration a weekly update as to the amount of work completed.

Armogan is suggesting the operators be paid for measured work and sighted instances where operators would have only worked for a mal portion of the day but would have been paid for the entire day. (Andrew Carmichael)

Man charged for threatening to kill brother

F

orty-eight-yearold Joel Steward of Lot A72 East La Penitence, Georgetown was on Friday arraigned before City Magistrate Leron Daly on five charges, one of which was a threat to cut of the head of his older brother, Godfrey Steward.

Unrepresented by legal counsel, the father of four denied all of the charges.

Prosecutor Sanj Singh told the court that on August 31, Joel Steward made use of threatening language and

threatening behaviour to his brother Godfrey Steward, causing a breach of the peace.

Three other charges Joel Steward faces stated 1: That on September 3, while in the vicinity of East La Penitence, Georgetown, he stole $10,000 worth of materials from Godfrey Steward; 2: That he threw stones at his brother Godfrey while making threatening remarks towards him; 3: That he threatened to kill his brother Godfrey after

Godfrey enquired about some items that went missing from his home.

Godfrey’s enquiry reportedly angered the defendant, and he promised to “cut off” Godfrey’s neck with a cutlass, the court was told.

Prosecutor Singh asked that the men be placed on a bond to keep the peace until completion of the cases.

Joel Steward was place on $15,000 bail for each charge, bringing the total bail to $75,000. The cases will continue on September 11.

sunDAY, september 9, 2018

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2018…

T

Knight Riders seal top-two finish with sixth straight win

rinbago Knight Irfan kept things tight amid the carnage at Riders guaran- the start and end of the innings to give up teed a top-two just 28 from his four. finish in the Hero Caribbean The 180 would just about prove suffiPremier League (CPL) with a cient, though, despite a game attempt from nine-run victory over Barbados an inexperienced Tridents top-order missTridents at Queen’s Park Oval. ing Hashim Amla, Steve Smith and Martin The defending champions Guptill through injury. are now sure of their place in Tuesday’s It was spin that proved the Tridents’ unPlayoff 1 in Guyana, with a second bite of doing with leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed bowlthe cherry in the semi-final should they ing openers Sunny Sohal and Tion Webster need it. with a pair of googlies after a solid openHaving been put in to bat by the Tridents, ing stand, and returning to have Shai Hope the Knight Riders made an imposing 180-5 stumped for 26 in his final over to finish but will still feel they could have got more with 3-28. on a night when half of their stellar top six Tridents keeper-batsman Nicholas found run-scoring easy and the other half Pooran further enhanced his growing repfound life far tougher. utation with 44 from 32 balls, including Chris Lynn got things started with three back-to-back sixes to put a slight dent in successive boundaries in the opening over Fawad Ahmed’s figures, and when he comfrom the first three balls he faced, adding bined with his skipper Jason Holder to put two Hero Maximums before being compre- together a 50-run stand in quick time for the hensively yorked by Chemar Holder for a fourth wicket there was a growing chance of whirlwind 29 from just 10 balls.

Denesh Ramdin then continued to thrive after his recent promotion to number Barbados Tridents Innings Trinbago Knight Riders Innings three as the Knight Riders (target: 181 runs from 20 overs) (20 overs maximum) raced to 50 after just 3.3 22 C Munro c Chase b Khan 28 S Sohal b Fawad Ahmed overs. He struck five fours CA Lynn b CK Holder 29 T Webster b Fawad Ahmed 16 and two sixes in his 31-ball D Ramdin † c Sohal b Khan 51 SD Hope st †Ramdin b Fawad 51.

26 DM Bravo not out Ahmed And at the end of the inN Pooran † run out (Bravo)

44 BB McCullum c Webster b nings Dwayne Bravo mainb Ali JO Holder (c) c Pierre Mohammad Irfan

4 tained his astonishing hitKhan 21 DJ Bravo (c) c †Pooran b CK ting form in this season’s RL Chase not out

14 Holder

33 Hero CPL with two more sixSK Springer not out

12 SP Narine es and three fours in a cameo Extras (lb 5, nb 1, w 10)

16 Extras (lb 1, nb 3, w 9)

13 of 33 from 20 balls.

TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: TOTAL (19.5 Overs, RR: It wasn’t so easy for ev171-5 9.07) 180-5 8.55) eryone, though. In-form Did not bat: DC Drakes, I Khan, to bat: T Hinds, Fawad Yet Colin Munro found life CK Holder, Mohammad Irfan Ahmed, K Pierre, Ali Khan tougher than at any other Fall of wickets: 1-35 (T Webster, Fall of wickets: 1-35 (CA Lynn, time in the tournament. His 4.1 ov), 2-47 (S Sohal, 6.6 2.4 ov), 2-110 (C Munro, 10.4 28 did take him to the highov), 3-92 (SD Hope, 12.1 ov), ov), 3-117 (D Ramdin, 12.2 est ever run tally in a single 4-142 (N Pooran, 16.6 ov), ov), 4-124 (BB McCullum, 13.6 5-153 (JO Holder, 18.1 ov) ov), 5-176 (DJ Bravo, 19.1 ov) Hero CPL season with poBOWLING: Ali Khan (4-0-39-1), K Bowling: Mohammad Irfan tentially as many as four inPierre (3-0-14-0), Fawad Ahmed (4-0-28-1), RL Chase (3-0-29nings remaining, but came (4-0-28-3), P Narine (4-0-27-0), T 0), CK Holder (4-0-42-2), JO at under a run a ball.

Hinds (2-0-21-0), DJ Bravo (3-0Holder (1-0-12-0), I Khan (4Brendon McCullum, an37-0) 0-25-2), DC Drakes (3-0-28other mainstay of the Knight 0), SK Springer (1-0-15-0) Riders’ batting this season, made just 4 from 6 balls before Darren Bravo contributed 20 not out from 24 at the death.

Barbados pulling off an upset.

Plenty of credit must go to the Tridents But Pooran was brilliantly run out by bowlers, who hauled things back impres- Dwayne Bravo’s direct hit from cover besively after Lynn and Ramdin had blasted fore Holder was caught in the deep off Ali the Knight Riders to 68-1 after the Power Khan – who took punishment with the new Play. ball but returned to bowl a brilliant, decisive The Knight Riders would have been 19th over that brought that wicket and cost looking well north of 200 having reached just four runs - condemning the Tridents to 104-1 at halfway, so 180-5 represented a a seventh straight defeat to end their 2018 result for the Tridents. Leg-spinner Imran campaign.

Khan was excellent in claiming 2-25 from For the Knight Riders, though, it’s a his four overs with the big wickets of Munro sixth straight win in a season they will hope and Ramdin to his name, while Mohammad is far from done yet.

SCOREBOARD

19

20

guyanatimesGY.com

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018

T

his may be a match for old men.

On Friday Alastair Cook held a flaky England innings together; on Saturday with the match drifting along, Jimmy Anderson, in harness with an exasperated Stuart Broad, returned for a second spell that suddenly caused torment among the Indian batsmen as they responded to England’s total of 332.

Upon Anderson’s recall India were 94 for two and progressing easily enough after the early loss of Shikhar Dhawan, lbw to Broad’s first delivery, and the departure of KL Rahul to a trimmer from Sam Curran.

Virat Kohli was at the crease, which sharpened everyone’s attention, and runs were coming smoothly.

So Joe Root turned to his senior citizens.

Anderson has yet to dismiss Kohli in this series, though they have had some titanic duels that could be edited into a masterclass for batsmen and bowlers. He was brought back specifically for the Indian captain and soon the ball thudded into Kohli’s left pad.

Anderson appealed with all his might but the umpire Kumar Dharmasena was unmoved. England reviewed immediately to discover that although this delivery would have demolished the stumps there was an orange on the big screen shedding doubt over whether the ball had hit Kohli’s leg in line. As ever the next ball, a rare leg side delivery from Anderson, was glanced for four.

Anderson soon recovered his control and did the second-best thing on his agenda. Still he could not remove Kohli but he did manage to dispatch Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in consecutive overs with two fine deliveries, both of which found the outside edge of the bat. The dismissal of Pujara meant that Anderson had taken more Test wickets against India than anyone else, a fine achievement but not his main objective on Saturday – he wanted Kohli. Now England were in the ascendancy. Now came the exasperation for Broad against India’s debutant, Hanuma Vihari. The ball swung into his pad but Broad’s celebratory appeal was rejected by the umpire Joel Wilson. England declined to review this time, no doubt conscious that Kohli was still at the crease so they needed as much ammunition in their arsenal as possible. It transpired that this delivery satisfied all the criteria so we had the rare occurrence of Broad not reviewing when he should have done.

Soon after, with Vihari still yet to score, the umpire’s finger went up but Broad was only mildly jubilant since the subsequent

Test last Christmas, kept Buttler company for 98 minutes and 98 runs. With a deep-set field they picked up those runs easily with Buttler feeling no need to protect his partner.

It was only after Broad was brilliantly caught by Rahul running back from mid-off that Buttler tried any extravagances. He hit Bumrah for two sixes in an over, the first out of the middle of the bat into the OCS Stand, the second, with a hint of a top edge, threatened to disturb the tranquillity of a former foreign secretary who was reclining in the VIP seats (obviously).

Buttler was finally caught at slip off Ravindra Jadeja for 89, another calm innings that cements his return to the Test team. There has been so much tinkering with the order lately that one hesitates to suggest more change. However, it now feels inappropriate for Buttler, the specialist batsman, to be coming in at seven. After all the shenanigans of this summer, maybe when they get to Sri Lanka they should simply revert to the formula that has the keeper, whoever he is, at seven. (The Guardian)

review demonstrated that the ball was going over the stumps. So in a fraught start to his Test career Vihari survived and before long he top-edged a six off Ben Stokes. The he sliced another delivery in that direction just short of Adil Rashid. He had gone from fraught to frenetic in a couple of overs. It was not hard to distinguish him from his captain as Kohli unfurled some masterful strokes especially against Curran.

Then came the wicket that really counts and Stokes took it. Kohli, on 49, pushed hard in a manner that he would not do against Anderson, and Root at second slip deftly held the catch. Just before the close Rishabh Pant edged to slip. Now England held most of the best cards.

That final session was so much more compelling than the first two, when the cricket often lacked fizz, which was also the pattern on the first day. Perhaps we have been spoilt.

There have been plenty of fireworks (metaphorical ones that you do not have to pay for) in the first four Tests but here for long periods the crowd sat patiently craving some drama.

But then the sun started to dip and the ball moved more deviously, which hardly surprises the old timers around Kennington: “Red Duke at night, bowlers’ delight. Red Duke in the morning and the cricket is boring.”

RJ General Construction supports inaugural Bush Lot T10 Softball

T

he first e v e r Bush Lot Softball Cricket Cup 10-a-side Knockout competition -- one of the country’s biggest softball events -- draws near, and Region 5 (Mahaica/ Berbice) cricket fans are anticipating an exciting bowl off on September 16.

The competition is organised and sponsored by Arrowhead Promotions in association with the Bush Lot United Sports Club, and Romell Jagroop of Romell Jagroop General Construction has said he is pleased to support this event, because it’s the first of its kind that will be played and will help to recognise the young talents of Bush Lot. The businessman said the village has, over the years, produced lots of top hardball and softball cricketers, who went on to play for Berbice and Guyana at some level. He said sports is essential in today’s society,

because youths are going astray and sports is a binder for communities and their people.

The organisers of the event are ecstatic that Romell Jagroop General Construction has come on board this event.

They see it as more than a fit and proper outcome for the development of sport in Region Five.

The organisers would like to thank the businessman for being the first to come on board, and hope other business persons would follow his pattern. Other entities onboard are Vault Night Club of Bush Lot Village, and Cellphonix and Arianna’s Fashions of Rosignol.

Interested teams can contact Carbon on 696-9659, or the following numbers: 6192674, 655-5067, 670-7323 before Friday September 14, 2018 to get registered.

All funds raised would be dedicated towards the development of sport in Bush Lot village.

The upshot is that after two days India are 158 runs behind with four wickets remaining. It was a bonus for England that they scored so many given that they started the day on 198 for seven, yet with Jos Buttler at the helm this did not seem too much of a problem. Rashid flickered briefly until he was lbw to the ever-willing Jasprit Bumrah and then Broad, playing his longest innings for England since the Melbourne

US Open 2018…

Osaka beats Serena to win title

N

of mine as long as you aomi Osaka live. When are you won the US going to give me my Open after an apology? Say you are angry Serena Williams sorry,” she told him. accused the umpire of That led to Ramos being a “thief” in some docking her the next of the most dramatgame - leaving Osaka ic scenes at a Grand just one more away Slam final. from victory at 5-3 up.

Williams was givBoos continued to en a game penalty for rain down, generather outburst, which ing incredible noise, also followed racquet as Williams refused smashing and another to take to the court code violation as Osaka and demanded an inwon 6-2 6-4. tervention from the Osaka, 20, kept her tournament referee. focus to become the Naomi Osaka became the first Japanese to win Eventually she refirst Japanese to win a a Grand Slam title turned to the baseGrand Slam.

Williams refused to shake hands with um- line, serving out a game to love before Osaka showed remarkable focus to hold the final pire Carlos Ramos after the match.

The American, 36, graciously congratulat- game for her first Grand Slam win.

Williams is a national icon in the United ed Osaka at the net after the 20th seed completed an extraordinary victory and, although States, as well as a global star around the Williams’ behaviour will grab the attention, world, and had the backing of the 24,000-canothing should detract from a classy and com- pacity Arthur Ashe Stadium.

But the boisterous crowd was quietened as posed display from Osaka.

“I’m sorry it had to end like this,” a crying Osaka came out firing at the six-time champion.

Osaka said.

Osaka, playing in her first Grand Slam fiWilliams was given a first code violation after Ramos judged a gesture from coach Patrick nal and against her idol, showed no fear as Mouratoglou to be coaching - which is allowed her aggressive approach led to multiple errors on the WTA Tour but not during Grand Slams. from Williams’ racquet.

Williams’ first serve percentage was down Williams insisted she had not received any at 38% and made 13 unforced errors as Osaka tactics from Mouratoglou.

She then received another for a racquet broke for 2-1 and 4-1 leads on her way to the smash at 3-2 in the second set, leading to opening set.

The Ashe crowd, whilst remaining respectRamos docking her a point as Osaka started at ful towards Osaka, was already upset with the 15-0 in the following game.

Williams was furious, walking up to way Williams had been treated by Ramos and Ramos, shouting and pointing at him as the unhappiness turned to anger during the madcrowd started booing in support of the former ness of the second set.

Security staff ran on to the perimeter of the world number one.

The drama continued as the atmosphere in court as Ramos walked off and the Portuguese did not return, as he would usually have done, Ashe became more toxic.

Williams, still angry with Ramos for the for the trophy presentation.

More boos followed at the start of the cereprevious two violations, refused to let the issue slide and launched an extraordinary rant at mony, leading to Osaka pulling her visor down him at the changeover with Osaka leading 4-3. over her eyes to hide her tears. (BBC Sport) “You are a liar. You will never be on a court

CLASSIFIED ADS

sunDAY, september 9, 2018 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

ACCOMMODATIONS Conferences and retreats – full service: Hotel, Catering & Facilities.

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne.

Weddings and anniversaries: Rental or full service: Banquet Hall & Catering. Aracari Resort 264-2946 Alex Wayne.

Aracari Hotel, WBD (Near Harbour Bridge) – All modern amenities, rates from $25. Phone 264-2946-8 Salon/Spa. Cosmetology – full course $100,000, technician $40,000. Aracari Salon and Spa, WBD 264-3312

EDUCATION Jean offers courses in Dressmaking, curtains, floral, cake decorations.

670-2653, 638-8499

FOR SALE ONE FLUFFY DACHSHUND PUPPY 670-265 1 two door refrigerator (foreign use), 1 six hole 20’’ mag-rims with tires, fits tundra, Tacoma, Hilux pick-up, 1 diesel fuel pumps for Hilux 1KDFTV engine, 1 turbo for Hilux 1KDFTV engine, 1 turbo for Pardo 3.0 diesel engine, 1 Small twin tub washing machine. Contact Tel: 220-1630 or 638-1829.

LAND for sale One transported land for sale 100x50ft at Hope Town village West Coast Berbice Price 1.2M Contact # 680-1009

property for sale FORMER SOUTH CENTRAL HOTEL BUILDING, LOT 218 SOUTH ROAD, LACYTOWN, GEORGETOWN. PRIME LOCATION, IDEAL FOR BUSINESS. LAND-6710 SF, BUILDING& ERECTIONS • GROUND, FIRST AND SECOND FLOOR- 1586 SF. EACH • SHED 1485 SF. ALSO, TABLES, STEEL CHAIRS, BIRD CAGES FOR SALE. TEL: 662-9755, 225-1619, 686-0444 BUSINESS PROPERTY FOR RENT (PAPO SHOP). 38 BLOSSOM SCHEME, ENMORE, ECD. 611-4883, 255-0716, 674-6427 Lot mini/farm 100x285 feet, privacy, security, convenience. Garden of Eden, EBD. 592-601-3232 TRANSPORTED LAND WITH COMMERCIAL BUILDING 33X40 LAND(108X200) LOCATED AT LOWER MAHAICONY, ECD. PRICE: 38 MILLION NON NEGOTIABLE. CONTACT: 642-0336, 258-0280, 6556643 LOT 15 PUBLIC ROAD #2 VILLAGE WEST COAST BERBICE. 3 HOUSE LOTS. COCONUT AND MANGO TREES. RICE CULTIVATION. RED SAND. 49FT BY 10,314 FT LENGTH. PRICE $18M. CONTACT: 648-7109, 686-4818 House for Sale. 3 bedrooms, bungalow-style.

Gated community, Versailles. Valued at $35M (Negotiable). Tel: 612-9766 PRIME LOCATION-PUBLIC ROAD, LOT 2 SARAH JOHANNA, EAST BANK DEMERARA. SIZE: 35*101 FT PRICE $6M NEGOTIABLE. TEL: 673-9231, 216-4063, 685-5476 LOT 38 BELLA DAM, WEST BANK DEMERARA, SIZE: 120*40 FT PRICE $4.5M NEGOTIABLE. TEL: 673-9231, 216-4063, 685-5476 Lot 15 Public Road, #2 Village, West Coast Berbice. 49ft x 10,314ft Length. $18M. Contact: 648-7109 or 686-4818 House for sale, 2-family, privacy, security, convenience, $11.5m, Garden of Eden, EBD 592-601-3232

spirituality & ASTROLOGY INDIAN ASTROLOGER AND SPIRITUAL CENTER. INTERNATIONAL FAMOUS ASTROLOGER. MASTER RAJARAM. ALL RELIGIONS ARE WELCOME. RISE, AWAKE AND STOP NOT TILL THE GOAL IS REACHED. SPECIALISED IN READING PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE, FACE READING, PALM READING, BOOK OPENING, SHELLS READING. GIVE SOLUTIONS FOR: HUSBAND AND WIFE, LOVE, PROMOTION, REUNITE LOVERS, BUSINESS, PROPERTY, STOP DIVORCE, SEXUAL PROBLEM, JEALOUSY PROBLEM, FINANCIAL PROBLEM ETC. PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL. CONTACT: 6928449, 693-8655 Spiritual healing: remove blockages, voodoo, excurse, black magic, spell, business, upliftment, pregnancy, love & marriage problems, clearance, etc. Contact: 694-9569 or 683-5228 Sri Guru Raghavendra Astrology.

Master: VEERA BHADRA. Specialized in: PALM, FACE, PATRA READING & HOROSCOPE BOOK OPENING. An expert in clearing negativity in life by using ancient prayer methods. Gives complete solution to your problems like: love, children, finance, job, marriage, finance and education. Meet him once to get guidance. All religions are welcome. Private and confidential. Tel: 695-9805 & 652-6427.

INDIAN FAMOUS ASTROLOGER MASTER VENKATESH ALL RELIGIONS WELCOME SPECIALISED IN BRINGING LOVED ONES BACK, EXPERT IN READING PALM & FACE READING. GET ADVISE AND SOLUTIONS FOR LOVE, MARRIAGE, DIVORCE, FAMILY PROBLEMS, SEXUAL PROBLEMS, FINANCE PROBLEMS, STOP ALCOHOL ADDICTION, SICKNESS, BUSINESS/ JOB CAREERS, VISA ETC. PANDIT CAN REMOVE ANY KIND OF BLACK MAGIC, VOODOO, AND GIVE PROTECTION. CONTACT- 600-8222 WWW.ASTROVENKATESH.COM

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

VACANCIES WANTED. Drivers and Security Personnel. Apply to North West Mining Investment Inc. 344 Middle and East Streets, N/Cummingsburg

WANTED THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) SECRETARIAT HEREWITH INVITES ALL CONSULTANTS AND SUPPLIERS OF GOODS AND SERVICES (INCLUDING THOSE VENDORS WHO PROVIDE HOUSING ACCOMMODATION) TO REGISTER AS PREFERRED SUPPLIERS. ONLINE REGISTRATION OF CONSULTANTS AND SUPPLIERS OF GOODS AND SERVICES CAN BE DONE THROUGH THE WEB PORTAL THAT IS AVAILABLE AT http://vendors.caricom.org/ FOR VENDORS WHO PROVIDE RENTAL HOUSING ACCOMMODATION, ONLINE REGISTRATION IN THE HOUSING DATABASE CAN BE DONE THROUGH THE WEB PORTAL THAT IS AVAILABLE AT http://housing. caricom.org/ QUERIES REGARDING THE REGISTRATION PROCESS IN ANY OF THE DATABASE SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO: PROGRAMME MANAGER, PROCUREMENT, CARICOM SECRETARIAT, TURKEYEN, GREATER GEORGETOWN, GUYANA. EMAIL: PROCUREMENT@CARICOM. ORG OR PROCUREMENT.GROUP2@ CARICOM.ORG

TO LET ONE BRAND NEW APARTMENTPARKING AVAILABLE. ONE 2-BEDROOM BOTTOM FLAT $50,000 PER MONTH. TEL: 226-3430 One-bedroom apartment at Parfaite Harmonie (Dairy) Call: 670-2653, 638-8499 House upper flat, privacy, security, convenience, 2 bedrooms $30,000 Garden of Eden, EBD 592-601-3232

Classified Ads

$5+VAT per word Call: 223-7230

sports

21

Guardians experience mixed fortunes – Eagles record first loss

E

xcitement was in the air, tension was high, and players were poised to play as action continued on Thursday in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association’s (GABA’s) Under-23 first and second division leagues, sponsored by Banks DIH through the Malta Supreme and Rainforest Waters brands at the Burnham Hard Court in downtown Georgetown.

The night featured a double-header that saw representation from Plaisance Guardians in both the first and second division categories of the tournament.

Many may remember Plaisance Guardians from the 2017 tournament, as they were the first runners-up in the first division tournament. However, it was not so this time around, as they lost to Republic Bank Nets 68-61, but Part of the action in the ongoing GABA Under-23, first and second division leagues recovered in the second division match against the Eagles, winGuardians suffered a 7-point defeat to to the effort of the Guardians’ skipper, ning by a score-line of 80-71. the Nets. who led from the front with 23 points In the first division leg of the Scoring for the Nets were Hodyah to help the club get over the line comtournament, Plaisance Guardians’ Stewart (17), Joe Ifill (15), and skipper fortably.

Nikkolai Smith top-scored for the sec- Pelham Doris (13), who all made valuFormer national youth player Nigel ond successive time with 29 points, able contributions as a unit towards Bowen chipped in with 18 points. showing his dominance over the Nets the win for Republic Bank Nets.

The Eagles did not go down withby making light work of their players In the second division match, which out a fight though, showing guts in with consistent three-pointers. commenced at 19:00hrs, Plaisance their 9-point defeat, with Sherland Smith received valuable support Guardians dished out a beating on the Gillis scoring 18 and team captain from teammate Anton Fileen, who Eagles, who lost for the first time in Kheon Evans assisting with 16. scored 15 points. In the end, howev- the tournament. This was all thanks The action continues this weekend. er, it was not enough, as Plaisance

Sparta Boss secure inaugural Guinness Cage Challenge title S

parta Boss remained the dominant team on the futsal scene when they defeated Uprising in the first-ever Guinness Cage Challenge tournament played on Friday evening at the Haslington Tarmac, ECD to secure the title and go home $400,000 richer.

Dubbed East Coast Best versus the Rest, the tournament saw home team Haslington bowing to the superior skills of Sparta 1 – 3 and having to settle for being second best, which attracted a prize of $150,000.

Jermin Junior led for the eventual victors with a brace scored in the 6th and 18th minutes. The night seemingly belonged to Sparta, who in Seretse Huntley of Uprising receiving the runners-up accolade from Three Peat Promotions Rawle Welch (right) following the conclusion of the Guinness ‘Cage’ Streetball Championship the 11th minute were giftat the Haslington Market Tarmac ed a goal that gave them a two-possession lead followgoals, scored in the 6th and 12th min- Cozier scored in the 3rd, 6th and 14th ing the own goal scored by the opposi- utes. Leopold Street were awarded the minutes to complete a hat-trick, tion. third place prize of $150,000, while While Kevin Cummings scored in Les Charles Critchlow’s 29th min- Broad Street carted off $50,000.

16th minute. ute goal for Uprising was nothing more In the semi-final round, Uprising Junior warmed up with anoththan consolation, since Sparta were al- sank Broad Street 5 – 4 to secure a spot er double in the semis, as Sparta deready in cruise control and awaiting in the final, thanks to a helmet trick feated Leopold St 2 – 0 on their way regulation time whistle to claim top from Phillip Williams. He scored in to the title. Junior was adjudged Most honours. the 8th, 13th, 22nd and 24th minutes, Valuable Player, while Cozier accuIn the third street playoff, Leopold while Critchlow struck in the 31st. mulated nine goals to win the Highest Street brushed aside Broad Street 2 – On the other side of the pitch, Jamal Goal Scorer award.

0, with Okeene Fraser claiming both

22

guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018

Stalemates all-round as Limacol KO Tournament continues A

double-dose of football action on Friday evening ended in all four teams settling for a draw after two intense matchups, as the Limacol Knockout Football Tournament continues.

Now in its third year, the tournament allows non-elite-league teams to show off their skills on a competitive level. It is the brainchild of the Petra Organisation, which continues to strive for implementing tournaments at various levels.

The first of the two matchups on Friday night featured Campton and Georgetown Football Club (GFC) in what could be considered a hair-raising affair.

La Vaughn Enniss of GFC was the first to fire, in the second minute of the game, giving GFC an advantage, but only for a short time. Several plays later, Oziel Small of Campton produced the equalizer in the 23rd minute. Thereafter, try as they might, neither team was able to cop another goal within the first half of play.

Amidst vociferous and highly partisan spectators, the teams took to the field for the second half of the game, which was shaping up to be more entertaining than the first.

With more determined players on both sides

playing offensively most of the time, both teams recorded several near misses, which could be credited to remarkable goalkeeping.

But when the 90 minutes came to an end, they had to settle for the draw.

The other encounter of the night pitted Santos FC and Grove Hi-Tech against each other in a high-intensity encounter.

After an uneventful first half, which was filled with long balls and saves, the match picked up momentum in its second half.

With the game nearing its end, Grove HiTech’s Denzel Crawford put his team one up; and by the way that goal was celebrated, the team was convinced they had it in the bag. However, they were soon after shocked

A glimpse of Friday night’s action in the Limacol Knockout Tournament

by an equalizer rocketing off the boots of Santos’s Christopher Williams, which resulted in the draw.

A total of 12 teams are competing for bragging rights and a grand prize of $600,000 in this Limacol-sponsored competi-

tion, which will continue tomorrow, Monday September 10, with Grove Hi-Tec facing off with Beacons at 18 hrs, and Campton clashing with Riddim Squad at 20 hrs. All matches are being played at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

CONCACAF Nations League...

GOA makes monetary donation to GFF T

he Guyana F o o t b a l l Federation (GFF) has benefited from a generous monetary donation of four hundred thousand dollars, courtesy of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA).

The donation, made on Wednesday last, was a contribution towards the CONCACAF Nations League – Guyana versus Barbados match, held on September 6 at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, WCD. Receiving the donation on behalf of the GFF was its Social Media Officer Keeran Williams, who expressed gratitude to the

GFF’s longstanding partner for the timely contribution, which a s sisted with costs related to the execution of the match.

The match ended on a 2-2 score line, with a goal from Trayon Bobb in the 46th minute and Neil Danns in the 78th minute.

Barbados’s lone scorer had a brace in the 65th and 73rd minutes respectively.

Guyana’s next match is against the Turks and Caicos in October, which will be the first of two Golden Jaguars’ away matches.

French Guiana will host Guyana in November, and Guyana will play its final qualifier against Belize in March 2019 in Guyana.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, september 9, 2018

23

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2018…

Taylor, Powell setup Tallawahs win over Warriors R

oss Taylor and Rovman Powell struck unbeaten half-centuries as the Jamaica Tallawahs cruised to an 8-wicket win over the Guyana Amazon Warriors in Saturday night’s sold-out match, played under lights at the National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

In a match where the Warriors opted to drop skipper Rayad Emrit following some lean performances, Australian all-rounder Chris Green was given the captaincy, and did well to marshal his team, which fell just short of a few runs in the end.

Inserted to bat after winning the toss, the home team made a strong impression upfront with their top-order; with half-centurion Jason Mohammed cracking three sixes and five fours in his 54 off 33; Shimron Hetmyer making an aggressive 48 with four fours and a six; and new opener

Ross Taylor was left unbeaten on 60 in the Tallawahs victory

The golden celebration of Imran Tahir starts after claiming a wicket

Rovman Powell was adjudged man-of-the-match

et with t h e cheeri n g Guyanese fans, saw the dismissal of the right-hander.

Despite their early loss, the Tallawahs reached 50 in the 6th over, but it was to be salted, as Tahir served up another Googly to disturb the stumps of the other opener, Johnson Charles, for 25.

At the halfway mark, the visitors were 82-2, twelve runs more than the

Shimron Hetmyer sweeps during his innings of 48

Cameron Delport helping to set the tone with a brisk 34, taking the Warriors to 173-6 in their 20 overs.

The Tallawahs were then indebted to Taylor, the veteran New Zealand batsman, who played a typical innings, striking the ball with venom to see his franchise comfortably over the rope, as they ended on 177-2 in 18.1 overs.

The Kiwi ended on 60, with five fours and three sixes, sharing an unbroken stand of 114 with the all-rounder Powell, who struck 55 off 36, with six fours and two maximums to go along with his two wickets.

Warriors’ ace spinner Imran Tahir again was the difference, but despite snaring 2-30, could not pull things back alone.

Opener Glenn Phillips (27) got the chase on its way with a pace as he raced into the 20s in a matter of deliveries with a pair of fours and sixes, courtesy of some flashy shots around the ground. But a well-disguised ‘Googly,’ compliments of the master Tahir, who ran to the Party Stand to celebrate his wick-

ing dangerous in his thirties, but another ambitious attempt to clear the ropes resulted in a brilliant diving catch inches from the rope, courtesy of Powell (2-21) to give Badree his first. With just 70 on the board after the first 10 overs, Mohammed and Hetmyer were then tasked with ensuring the Warriors added 100 more at least.

Hetmyer turned up the heat on Ish Sodhi, who was clobbered for a big six before going for a boundary through extra-cover as the Warriors upped their ante against the spinners, whom Russell opted to have bowl for most of the innings. The left-right combo saw a number of boundaries being scored as the home side brought up their 100 inside 15 overs.

The final overs saw Hetmyer succumbing to a catch in the deep off Grandhomme, after attempting to pull Sodhi just two shy of what would have been a near-perfect half-century. Mohammed turned up the heat on Sodhi with a few masterful sixes; one over extra-cover, following Walton who hit Thomas over the same area a few deliveries prior; and one over mid-wicket, as he soon got to his fifty before being caughtand-bowled by Thomas.

The Warriors will now turn their attention to Sunday’s (tonight) must-win game versus the defending champions, Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR), which bowls off from 18:00h. (Clifton Ross)

Warriors had at that stage, as they entered the last 10 overs with 92 runs needed for a win.

Taylor and the in-form Powell plundered the attack, finding the boundary and beyond with little effort. Taylor eventually reached his second fifty of the season, and Powell followed shortly after as they launched a pinch-hitting spectacle Guyana Amazon Warriors which saw the match ending Innings (20 overs maximum) with a boundary.

L Ronchi † c Powell b Thomas 6 Earlier, a new-look startCS Delport c Powell b Badree 34 ing pair, Luke Ronchi (6) and SO Hetmyer c de Grandhomme Delport, sought to mix things b Sodhi 48 up after Chadwick Walton, JN Mohammed c & b Powell 54 who made an ultra-aggresCAK Walton run out sive 25 down the order, failed (†Phillips) 25 in his opening stint for most RS Primus b Powell 0 of the season. That move also Sohail Tanvir not out 1 backfired when Ronchi played Extras (lb 5) 5 a half-hearted drive and was TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: caught by Powell off Thomas, 8.65) 173-6 who continued to provide the Did not bat: CJ Green (c), KMA early breakthroughs for the Paul, Imran Tahir, V Permaul Tallawahs.

Fall of wickets: 1-18 (L Ronchi, Delport struck three crisp 2.2 ov), 2-60 (CS Delport, 7.6 ov), 3-121 (SO Hetmyer, 15.2 fours early on to get his inov), 4-168 (JN Mohammed, 19.2 nings going in the most posov), 5-172 (CAK Walton, 19.4 itive manner since his arrivov), 6-173 (RS Primus, 19.6 ov) al in the team, and brought BOWLING: O Thomas (4-0up his fourth off Guyanese 40-1), S Badree (4-0-24-1), SA off-spinner Steven Jacobs.

Jacobs (4-0-29-0), IS Sodhi (4The home team went past 0-36-1), C de Grandhomme (20-18-0), R Powell (2-0-21-2) their 50 mark in the 8th over with the South African look-

SCOREBOARD Jamaica Tallawahs Innings (target: 174 runs from 20 overs) GD Phillips † lbw b Imran 27 Tahir J Charles b Imran Tahir 25 LRPL Taylor not out 60 R Powell not out 55 Extras (lb 4, nb 2, w 4) 10 TOTAL (18.1 Overs, RR: 9.74) 177-2 Yet to bat: DA Miller, AD Russell (c), C de Grandhomme, IS Sodhi, SA Jacobs, S Badree, O Thomas Fall of wickets: 1-40 (GD Phillips, 4.3 ov), 2-63 (J Charles, 6.5 ov) BOWLING: Sohail Tanvir (3-0-360), V Permaul (4-0-35-0), Imran Tahir (4-0-30-2), KMA Paul (30-32-0), CJ Green (2-0-18-0), RS Primus (2.1-0-22-0) Result: Jamaica Tallawahs win by 8 wickets

W

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2018…

Taylor, Powell setup Tallawahs win over Warriors Pg 23

Sparta Boss secures inaugural Guinness Cage Challenge title Pg 21

US Open 2018…

Osaka beats Serena to win title

Devon Charles of Sparta Boss alongside his joyous team-mates, collecting the coveted championship trophy and prize monies from Three Peat Promotions Rawle Welch (2nd from right), following their 3-1 victory over Uprising in the finale of the Guinness ‘Cage’ Streetball Championship at the Haslington Market Tarmac

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

Pg 20

September 9, 2018

TIMES BOLLYWOOD: Star Times Hollywood:

Shahid Kapoor, Mira Rajput welcome baby boy Page 14

FREE DISTRIBUTION

World Suicide Prevention Day

SEPTEMBER 10, 2018

Working Together to

Prevent Suicide

PAGE 10

2 Sunday Times Magazine

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Feature

Krishna Persaud with the Jamaica Tallawahs management team

K

Krishna Persaud with cricket legend Rohan Khanai

rishna ‘Kris’ Persaud is a Guyanese/ American entrepreneur and is the largest individual owner of B class apartment complexes in Broward County, Florida but his passion for the game of cricket has led him to acquire ownership of the Jamaica Tallawahs in 2017.

Persaud came from humble beginnings in Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara and achieved towering success at an incredible pace. This achievement is

mostly attributed to his unique ability to identify and capitalize on market inefficiencies across industries. Taking us back to his early days, Persaud said that growing up was a challenge and his parents always encouraged him to think outside of the proverbial box.

He is the youngest of seven children parented by Dhanwantie and Shivpaul Persaud.

He attended the Indian Education Trust College (now the Richard Ismael Secondary School) and later moved to the United

States to pursue a degree in Engineering.

“From a young age, my dad said that Guyana is a very difficult place to make a life and I should think about going to North America and further my studies and try to help the family…I was 19 when I left for the US and I didn’t know anyone there. I didn’t even have any friends just a slight acquaintance,” he recounted.

Persaud said he worked his way up and eventually earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from City College of the City University of New York.

Persaud spent ten years working with several consulting firms and municipalities providing design and construction management services for a wide variety of building systems and public works projects.

After 10 years in the Engineering field, Persaud picked up his family and moved to Florida and began trading stocks in 1995. His would soon find enormous success in this field which made life easier.

However, he then took a break, ventured into the Real Estate world, and began dabbling in apartment complexes. Over the last few years, he bought

and sold over 5,000 apartments in Florida, making spectacular profits.

During this time, he also created two companies, Home Owners Choice and Oxbridge Reinsurance Company, and took them public, listing at the NASDAQ and NY Stock Exchange. For this and other achievements, he received awards from the Tampa Bay INDOUS Chamber of Commerce as one of the most successful businessmen of the year. He holds licenses as a Professional Engineer in the States of Florida, New York and California Following his passion for cricket, Persaud eventually acquired full control of all international cricket events at the only ICC approved cricket stadium in America.

He said that he has always been a fan of thinking outside of the box and while others saw the Stadium as a white elephant he saw an opportunity.

He approached the authorities and signed an agreement to control all international events in exchange for annual guarantees to the County.

Since acquiring the stadium, there have been two international cricket tournaments there as he hopes to have a lot more in the coming years.

When asked about the decision to acquire

the Jamaican C a r i b b e a n Premier League Team, Persaud said that it has always been a dream to own a cricket team. He related that while growing up, cricket played an integral role in his life and the love for the game never died.

“I chose Jamaica because Jamaica has the largest economy in the Caribbean and the market was large and a larger market is a hedge for the growth and you have more underlying forces to push it in the direction of Krishna Persaud growth,” he said.

His advice to young “Jamaica has an excel- people out there is to nevlent pool of talent to draw er forget their roots and from and I think my man- do not follow the crowd. agement team know how He said that Guyana will to integrate the pool of forever be home for him talent from Jamaica with no matter where he lives. the special players in an “My philosophy is live excellent combination to and let live. Three words. make a winning team.

I believe that I should not I think you’ll be see- be curtailed in any unreaing that this year and go- sonable way to do what I ing forward. As a team, I want to do providing that think Jamaica is a force its legal and I am not into be reckoned with. We terested in stepping in won two tournaments anybody’s way in their so far and that is great pursuit of happiness and we may have one on in whatever way they our hand here this year,” choose,” he concludes.

Persaud added.

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine

3

Feature

World Suicide Prevention Day in Guyana

I

n observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, the non-governmental organization (NGO) Prevention of Teenage Suicide (POTS) Guyana will be hosting a seminar, concert and candlelight vigil on Monday, September 10, in the city of Georgetown.

Additionally, POTS hosted its annual walk earlier today. The suicide prevention seminar will be held at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown, starting at 10:00h. The suicide prevention awareness concert, in which teenagers would specifically be targeted, would thereafter be held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The day will culminate with a candlelight vigil held outside of the Sports Hall.

The aim of the events is to create awareness about suicide prevention and mental health issues.

POTS Guyana, being a non-profit organisation, is dedicated to reducing suicide in Guyana, presenting educational talks, and providing bereavement support services to survivors of suicide.

President of POTS Guyana, Lisa Punch, has said, “It is imperative that our young people who are despairing and having suicidal thoughts know that there is help available. All you need to do is to ask for help.”

POTS was established in 2014, the NGO now has 60 volunteers. The NGO’s mission is “to reduce the prevalence of suicide in Guyana through greater access to information, resources and support. Our purpose is to address, educate, coordinate, and provide materials to eradicate suicide and attempted suicide on a local and global level among teens and young adults.”

Additionally, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha would be hosting a number of candle light vigils at various locations throughout the country.

4

Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Feature

S

uicide prevention remains a universal challenge. Every year, suicide is among the top 20 leading causes of death globally for people of all ages. It is responsible for over 800,000 deaths, which equates to one suicide every 40 seconds.

Every life lost represents someone’s partner, child, parent, friend or colleague.

For each suicide approximately 135 people suffer intense grief or are otherwise affected. This amounts to 108 million people per year who are profoundly impacted by suicidal behaviour.

Suicidal behaviour includes suicide, and also encompases suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. For every suicide, 25 people make a suicide attempt and many more have serious thoughts of suicide.

Suicide is the result of a convergence of genetic, psychological, social and cultural and other risk factors, sometimes combined with experiences of trauma and loss. People who take their

own lives represent a heterogeneous group, with unique, complex and multifaceted causal influences preceding their final act. Such heterogeneity presents challenges for suicide prevention experts. These challenges can be overcome by adopting a multilevel and cohesive approach to suicide prevention.

Preventing suicide is often possible and you are a key player in its prevention!

You can make a difference - as a member of society, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague or as a neighbour. There are many things that you can do daily, and also on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), to prevent suicidal behaviour.

You can raise awareness about the issue, educate yourself and others about the causes of suicide and warning signs for suicide, show compassion and care for those who are in distress in your communi-

ty, question the stigma associated with suicide, suicidal behaviour and mental health problems and share your own experiences.

It takes work to prevent suicide. The positive benefits of this work are infinite and sustainable and can have a

massive impact. The work can affect not only those in distress but also their loved ones, those working in the area and also society as a whole.

We must endeavour to develop evidence based suicide prevention activities that reach those who are struggling in every part of the world.

Joining together is critical to preventing suicide. Preventing suicide requires the efforts of many. It takes family, friends, co-workers, community members, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals, political officials and governments.

Suicide prevention requires integrative strategies that encompass work at the individual, systems and community level. Research suggests that suicide prevention efforts will be much more effective if they span multiple levels and incorporate

multiple interventions.

This requires the involvement of interventions that occur in communities and involve social and policy reforms, as well as interventions that are delivered directly to individuals.

To reach our common goal in preventing suicidal behaviour we as the public, we as organisations, we as legislators and we as members of society must work collaboratively, in a coordinated fashion, using a multidisciplinary approach.

Everyone can make a contribution in preventing suicide. Suicidal behaviour is universal, knows no boundaries so it affects everyone. The millions of people affected each year by suicidal behaviour have exclusive insight and unique voices. Their experiences are invaluable for informing suicide prevention measures and influencing the provision of supports for suicidal people and those around them.

The involvement of peo-

ple with lived experience of suicide in research, evaluation and intervention should be central to the work of every organisation addressing suicidal behaviour.

This year is the first WSPD with the theme “Working Together to Prevent Suicide.� This theme will be retained for WSPD in 2019 and 2020.

We have chosen this theme as it highlights the most essential ingredient for effective global suicide prevention- collaboration. We all have a role to play and together we can collectively address the challenges presented by suicidal behaviour in society today.

On September 10th, join with us and many others across the world who are playing their part in the prevention of suicide.

Be sure to involve or invite other local organisations and collaborators to organise an event to mark WSPD 2018. (International Association for Suicide Prevention)

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Feature

“How I overcame depression”

By Lakhram Bhagirat

R

esearch by various organisations has found that attempted suicide rates and suicidal ideation among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth is significantly higher than among the general population. This is so because of a number of factors but mainly because they are quite often confused by their emotions, coupled with the fact that most of them are worried about society’s perception of them.

In many cases, parents often shun their LGBT children, leaving them without a place to go and that is exactly the story of Jennifer (not her real name).

Jennifer is now 32 years old and she is a Marketing Executive. Because of her job and the fact that she is still somewhat closeted, Jennifer asked us to change her name but her story remains the same.

She hails from Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, and is the only daughter her parents had. But from a very young age, she knew she was different. One may say it is stereotypical but Jennifer enjoyed activities that are not traditionally considered feminine.

She would prefer to fish in the nearby trench or beat the boys in a game of cricket as opposed to having a tea party, as most girls did back then.

She was often dubbed the “Tom Girl” and went through her life doing what she considered normal things. Jennifer explained that she really started feeling uncomfortable in her skin at the age of 14 when most of her female friends started to talk about boys,

whereas she only envisioned her future with another girl.

“I was now entering Form Four and in our class there was this girl in the neighbourhood that had my attention. She dominated my thoughts and I knew it was different for me because I could not, no matter how hard I try, get her out of my thoughts,” she recounted.

However, she could not relate her feelings to anyone close to her because she could not trust them.

Her parents were deeply religious and she knew if they found out, then the Jehovah’s Witness Church, which they are a part of, would mandate them to cut all ties with her unless she repents for her sin. It was a price she was not willing to pay at that age.

She tried to suppress her feelings and did so for the next three years but when she started her studies at the University of Guyana, it all went downhill. She met someone whom she fell deeply in love with and who convinced her to reveal her “true self” to her parents. Filled with the euphoria of her newfound love, Jennifer sat her parents down and told them her truth.

“I can remember clearly, it was a Wednesday night and I had just come home from class and my parents were watching TV. I said to them that I have something to share with them and I then began to tell them about my sexuality and that I met this girl and so on,” she said candidly.

After her parents got the news, Jennifer got the shock of her life when her only brother began telling their parents that they can-

was in shambles.

“I was shattered. The very next day after I moved in with my cousin, she left me home and went to work and I don’t remember anything else but I do know that the last memory I had was drinking a whole bottle of her pills.”

Jennifer’s cousin discovered her unconscious at about 16:30h that day and rushed her to hospital. She was treated and kept overnight. After that, she became a patient of the Georgetown Public Hospital’s Psychiatric Clinic where she was treated for depression.

But that did not stop her from attempting to take her life two more times. She would not tell me why she made two more

not have her in their home.

However, her parents simply asked her to go to her room and they retired for the night. The next day, they sat her down and told her that she cannot continue the relationship and that she would have to pray that God forgive her sins.

She refused because she felt that she was not committing any sins and her parents asked her to leave their home.

“I was barely 17 years old and never worked a day in life. I was always in my parents’ home and now they just threw me out and disowned me. I had nowhere to go and no one to turn to. The girl I was in love with could not accommodate me. It was shattered,” she related.

However, one of her cousins took her in but she

attempts but said she felt it was necessary.

She lived with her cousin for four years after which she moved into her own apartment. When I asked her about the state of her mental health, Jennifer says she is in therapy and overcoming her demons. I asked if she would ever attempt suicide again and she just shrugged and said, “The pain of losing your family, the very people who brought you into this world is one that I can never get over. I am never truly happy but I am trying.”

For now she is focused on advancing her career and possibly settling down as she hinted. But she would not say if she’s dating anyone but did say that she is in a better place now.

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Feature

She was my closest friend

By Lakhram Bhagirat

I

t was sometime around 13:15h on Saturday, March 29, 2014, when our mutual friend, Sarah, received the call informing her that Christine had taken ill and is being rushed to the hospital. We were at work about to commence a new shift and Sarah rushed to be with Christine’s family, while I stayed back and held down the fort but my world shattered a few hours after.

To this day, I remember how that conversation went after Sarah reached the hospital.

“Trev, Chrissy…” Sarah said while sobbing. I heard the wailing behind her and I became paralysed with fear as I braced myself for what was coming. Still silent, she went on “Chrissy is dead. We mama gone.”

I don’t remember any-

thing that happened after that, but remember feeling my insides collapsing and needing air. I rushed out of the supermarket where we worked. I tried to process what I had just heard and the involuntary tears began streaming down my cheeks. I had questions that kept pounding in my head. Why? How? Why? Her name was Christine Peters. She was just 21 years old, full of life and warmth. She was my closest friend. What devastated me was that she committed suicide, one day after we had so much fun.

We never knew why and may never know but we do know how.

Chrissy died a few hours after she ingested a poisonous substance at her Lopinot Road, Arouca, Trinidad home. Her death is not something I talk about and very few peo-

ple know of the amount of pain I felt. It was the first time someone close to me committed suicide and I did not know how to process it. I began blaming myself, as so did Sarah, because we were her closest friends and we failed to recognise she was in grave peril. Her eyes were crying for help but we were deceived by the smile on her face and her constant jokes about our weight and lack of sense of humour.

Those who knew Chrissy would tell you she had the kindest soul and was ever willing. She had a wicked sense of humour and was hardworking. But she had always had trouble expressing what she felt inside and at some point it because so overbearing that she began cutting her skin.

Chrissy and I met in 2013 and we immediately hit it off. We would see

each other almost every day and our bond became strong. We shared mutual admiration for each other and the work we did. She was dubbed ‘the fastest cashier’ in the supermarket chain we worked in. But she was also a hero among our monthly senior citizen customers. She would arrive hours before her shift (if she was on late) or stayed hours after (if she was on early) and push the senior citizens’ trollies around as they did their shopping. She was respectful and never accepted a tip from them.

It was that level of care and unselfish service that made her well-loved. It is that way I choose to remember Chrissy but what haunts me is the way she died and to this day, my heart remains broken because we did not see the signs. I had asked Chrissy about the almost 100 lines across her arms and she would brush it off as her being young and stupid.

It was one day while we were hanging out that she related the reasons that led to her scars and made me promise not to talk about it with anyone. She said “is only you and Sarah know eh, so don’t talk about it or I go beat yuh up.”

After Chrissy died, Sarah and I never got over the fact that she had to go, that she got consumed by the hurt that surrounded her picture-perfect life; that our trio had moved from to two. Eventually, we fell apart but would always bond on her memories.

Every May 8, I say a prayer for her and hope we meet in the after life.

April 3, 2014, was the last day I saw Chrissy’s body but only this time she did not have a quirky comeback or a fancy nickname for me but she was still, in a casket about to be placed six feet under. I remember eulogising her, talking about our bond and how it killed me inside to know that it was broken, that she did not wait for me, and that she left without a final good bye.

The overwhelming feeling of guilt is still with me, but I am trying to get rid of it. Four years is still too short an amount of time to get over losing some who meant so much to you.

Maybe one day I will get over it or maybe I won’t but I do know that it will get better. For now, I listen to her favourite song, Christina Perri’s “Human”, on repeat whenever I miss her.

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Feature

Preserving our literary heritage

By Petamber Persaud

A

t the mention of the name Edgar Mittelholzer, the Kaywana Trilogy readily comes to mind, especially those titles with erotic cover designs. The Kaywana Trilogy comprising of the Children of Kaywana, Kaywana Stock and The Old Blood is an uninhibited family saga covering more three hundred years of Guyana’s history from earliest times – colonization and slavery - to the advent of Independence and democracy. But those titles are only three in an oeuvre of novels numbering twenty-three, published and known; there is a sense of anticipation that there is more to unearth about Mittelholzer.

Also at the mention of the name Edgar Mittelholzer, other novels may readily come to mind depending on taste in literature and affinity to plac-

es; titles like Corentyne Thunder, My Bones and my Flute & The Life and Death of Silvia (set in Guyana), A Morning at the Office (set in Trinidad), The Weather Family, Of Tree and the Sea and The Mad McMullochs (set in Barbados) and Uncle Paul and The Jilkington Drama (England).

Apart from the novels, Mittelholzer has written an autobiography of his formative days in Guyana - A Swarthy Boy - a travelogue, numerous short sketches, short stories, poems and essays. When he died by suicide at age 56 in 1965, he left an impressive array of writings, an achievement far ahead of any of his contemporaries in Guyana and in the Caribbean at that time and to date. In this body of work, he explored themes of class, race, sex, identity, freedom, speaking eloquently to a wide cross section of human-

ity as his books of which many were translated into Dutch, French, Italian and German, the honesty and eloquence of his writing inviting a bittersweet relationship with the critic who made him and eventually wore him down and broke him, truncating an exceptional and spectacular career. Today, it is a known truth that his life and work has suffered insufficient scholarship and critical perception and critical appreciation, robbing the writer his fair dues and the reader full enjoyment of one of the most significant names in Guyanese and Caribbean literature.

The publication of Creole Chips And Other Writings of Edgar Mittelholzer edited by Juanita Cox, the acknowledged authority on Mittelholzer, is an attempt to right many wrongs in the life and work and the perception and misconcep-

tion of that Guyanese pioneering writer, sporting many firsts in Anglophone Caribbean literature.

Frank Birbalsingh commented that at the time of Mittelholzer’s death, ‘when no Guyanese writer had yet gained international recognition, he had already established basic genres of Guyanese or West Indian fiction: the novel of manners, the historical novel, the ghost story, science fiction, and what he calls comedy-fantasy’.

Creole Chips and Other Writings contains twenty-five sketches, twentyfour short stories, thirteen essays & personal writings, five dramatic pieces, twenty-two poems, a novel The Adding Machine, and a well-crafted and beautiful children story labeled ‘Poolwana’s Orchid: A Tale for Juveniles’ running into fourteen pages of reading delight.

Cox in her introduction declares that the material for this came to her attention ‘as the result of background research for a PhD thesis: Edgar Mittelholzer 1909 – 1965) and the Shaping of his Novels’, confessing that her ‘initial interest in these pieces was thus on the usefulness of their content rather than their literary qualities’, later discovering that these shorter pieces offer ‘useful insights into the emergence and development of the novelist’s key but complexly interlinked and often abstruse themes (e.g. religion/oriental occultism, sex death, crime); his literary, philosophical and other influences, and sociological preoccupation with dynamics of race, colour and class’.

That this is a first attempt to collect the shorter pieces in one volume is commendable for more than one reason; this would now serve a primary source material for researcher, offer better understanding and appreciation of the life and work of Mittelholzer and stimulate further research.

In conclusion, it is prudent to give Dr. Cox the final word on her magisterial work by quoting the final sentence in her introduction: ‘…my hope is that this collection will be enjoyed by a wide range of readers, add to the already diverse range of Caribbean short stories, poetry and plays, and be recognized as an important contribution to the canon of Caribbean literature’.

Notice to Readers

WHAT’S HAPPENING: New Arrivals: Monsoon on the Fingers of God (poetry) by Sasenarine Persaud; Red Hibiscus (novel) by Scott Ting-AKee; Aftermath of Empire:

The Novels of Roy A. K. Heath (literary criticism)

by Ameena Gafoor.

Responses to this author telephone (592) 2260065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

The Fight My body’s cold lips are blue why did I do this because of you?

I feel the earth below me like a pillow under my head no knives, no guns, but pills instead.

The bottle lays empty cap unscrewed what did I do? What did I do?

My spirit floats my body lays my lover finds me and he prays I reach for him I'm sucked away like a deep crest of a wave he pounds the ground screaming why oh why?

I asked myself why did I? My parents arrive, my best friend too I thought to myself, What did I do!?

I look away the pains to deep my life is over because of me I look back for one last glance they zip me up in the body bag.

I did this to ease my pain I lost instead of gained as I look down my family I regret that night my life stopped ticking because of a fight.

By Anna

If you have a poem and/or short story you would like to publish on our Literary Corner page, please email to timessundaymag@gmail.com. Kindly include your correct name and a contact number in your email. If you have any questions, please call 223-7230 or 223-7231.

8

Sunday Times Magazine

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine

9

10 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Tourism

G

uyana’s capital city is filled with wonderful architecture as well as a rich history. It is situated on the Atlantic Ocean coast at the mouth of the Demerara River and was nicknamed ‘Garden City of the Caribbean. This year the City celebrates its 175th Anniversary so let us take a look at some of its wonders…(Photos by Subhash Haimraj)

The 1823 Monument is a commemorative monument located on Seawall Road and opposite the Guyana Defence Force’s Camp Ayanganna headquarters, Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown. The monument pays tribute to the slaves and heroes of the 1823 Demerara Revolt, which is considered the largest uprising in Guyana’s history. It was unveiled by former President Donald Ramotar on August 5, 2013 and was sculpted by Guyanese sculptor Ivor Thom.

RED HOUSE (KAMANA COURT) is located at Lot 65-67 High Street, Kingston, Georgetown is the building known as Red House. Red House is also known as Kamana Court and is commonly referred to as the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC) which is currently housed at the location. The building is a 19th century colonial structure. The edifice housed the colonial secretaries from 1925-1953. One of its former residents was Sir. Eustace Woolford, a Speaker of the Legislature of British Guiana.

Georgetown City Hall is a nineteenth-century Gothic Revival building located on the corner of Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic in Georgetown, Guyana. The building was designed by architect Reverend Ignatius Scoles in 1887, and was completed in June 1889. The building houses the offices of the Mayor, the City Council, and the City Engineer. Georgetown City Hall was often described as “the most picturesque structure” and “the most handsome building in Georgetown”, as well as “one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Caribbean”.

Stabroek Market Clock, Georgetown

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Ingredients

2 tsp curry powder 1 tsp geera(cumin) 1 tsp garam masala 1 tbsp crushed garlic 1 tbsp chopped thyme 4 tbsp water 3 tbsp oil 1 medium onion 1 hot pepper 4 cups water ½ tsp salt 2 scallion, finely chopped 1 ½ cup coconut milk 2 lbs crab

Dumplings

1 1/4 cup all purpose flour 3/4 cup self rising flour 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup margarine 1/2 half cup milk

Instructions

Make a curry paste by mixing the curry powder, geera, garam masala, garlic, thyme and water in a small bowl.

In a large pot over medium high heat, add oil. When the oil is hot add curry paste and stir. Lower the heat to medium and cook for 5-7 minutes until the curry darkens.

Add onion and stir fry for 2 minutes or until the onion softens. Add pepper, water, coconut milk and salt and bring to a boil.

Add crab and cook until the sauce thickens. When the sauce is thick, turn off the stove and stir in scallion.

Tips* I used snow crab for this recipe but you can use your favorite crab. Fresh or frozen works well. I cut the snow crab legs in half and cracked the claws so that the meat will be flavored with the sauce.

L

ooking for dramatic, elegant, affordable wall art? These DIY giant paper flowers are simply stunning, and they would make the perfect backdrop for a wedding, party, nursery, little girl’s room, or any elegant feminine space.

Materials

Glue Gun 65-pound cardstock 18 gauge wire Wire clippers Scissors and/or cutting machine Thin wooden dowel for rolling 3 inch circle punch Fringe scissors(optional) Petal templates

Instructions

Begin by laying you template on your cardstock of choice and trace your petals.

Large petal 1st layer– 6-8 cuts Medium petal 2nd layer– 6-7 cuts Small petal 3rd layer– 6 cuts Extra small petal 4th layer– 5-6 cuts

For Dumplings

Combine flours, and sugar in a bowl. Add margarine and rub into flour until it resembles coarse cornmeal (you can use a fork or food processor or mixer also). There shouldn’t be any big lumps of margarine. Add milk to form a soft dough. If you prefer a more dense dumpling, add less milk.

Divide dough into 12 even pieces, and form into flattened circles, about 1/2 inch in thickness. Set aside and allow to sit for 15 mins.

In a sautee pan, add canola oil to about 1/2 inch deepness. On a medium fire, heat oil. Add dumplings, about 5 at a time (adding too many at once will lower the temperature of the oil). Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side. Dumplings should be golden brown. Remove from oil and set on a plate covered with paper towel. (Jehan

Powell)

C

Ingredients 8 cups seedless watermelon cut in cubes 1 whole cucumber seeded and chopped Juice of 2 limes 2 cups water ¾ cup sugar Instructions Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree.

Place a large strainer over a bowl or pitcher then pour then strain the puree. Use the back of a spoon to help push the juice through the strainer.

Discard the pulp. This is best served cold. (Jehan Powell)

ut all your petals out once you have finished tracing. You can make this process quicker by stacking 2-3 sheets on top of one another and cutting several out at once. Use binder clips to help keep paper from moving Now you want to cut slits at the bottom center of each petal, about an inch, slightly less on the smaller petals.

Now starting with the first layer put glue on the inside edge and overlap the slit, but not too much or your petals will be too tight when assembled to get all the smaller layers in. Do this with all the petals. You can overlap a little more on the 3rd & 4th layer Next, you will curl all the petals back. You can do this by hand or use a thick wood dowel or a fat pencil works too.

Assembly time. Starting with your 1st layer base

petals, you want to add some glue to the outer edge of one petal and precede to overlap another petal at about a 45` angel and press firmly for a second or two.

Continue in this fashion until all the base petals meet together forming a circle in the center of the flower. Watch the angel of placement as you go around making sure you leave enough room for the petals to come together evenly at the end of the circle.

Start the second layer of petals alternating between the base petals.

Continue alternating petals adding the third layer Continue alternating petals adding the fourth layer.

To create the rolled centerfold a piece of card stock in h a l f- l e n g t h wise, cut the paper down the middle.

Lay the 2 pieces on top one another and fold in half again. Begin cutting slits all the way down the paper.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Puzzles ACROSS

1

6

11

16 21

22

23

24 25

26

27

28

29 31 33

35

36

37 38

39

40

41

42 44

47

48

49

53

54

55 56

57

58

59

60

61

62 64 65

66 67

68

69

70

71

72 74

75

78

79

80

84

85 86 87

88

89

90

91

92

93

95 Fanatic’s feeling Japanese gateway

96 “Moon” ender “Golden Boy” playwright 97 Reverse Humerus opposite

98 “Gil Blas” writer Gem surface 99 Singer Randy -Capsize

100 Jewelry box item -- Philippe watch

101 Run in the wash Maine campus town102 Canoe gear Popeye’s girl 104 Quay Spree

105 Food cooker Powerful adhesive

106 Ice cream treat Mountain retreat

109 City near Stockton Car-safety activist

110 Shrink in fear Boards Amtrak 111 Jaguars or pumas Terrible 115 Season Remunerated 116 “Peer -- “ Use poor judgment

117 Jungle pig Makes potable 118 Grain grinder Romanov rulers 119 Derrick Kewpie

121 More pleasant Mlle. in Barcelona 123 Lukewarm They, in Calais 125 Aerie builder Neon -- (aquarium fish)

126 Legionnaire headgear Places to splash

127 Griffith or Zola Prickly

128 Shut down Brought to bay 129 Knight’s mount Ale sources 130 Attack (2 wds.)

Tends the garden

131 Passed out cards Jewelry items 132 Ad spiels Safari boss

133 Mountain pools Berry products DOWN Atom-splitting 1 Floated downriver Actress -- Hagen

2 Hazard a guess Garnished with 3 carrots Leases Brown seaweed

4 Fixes firmly Cheery tune 5 In theory Nero’s 506 6 Unclogs Like soy milk (hyph.)

7 Skips stones Tedious

8 Ike’s command Survey

9 Black gold (2 wds.)

Bump into 10 Aloft Patella 11 Concentrate Roll tightly

12 Of a historical period Rock’s “cushion”

13 Marshal’s problem Finch and sparrow

14 Camera supports John, in Glasgow

15 McDonald’s clown L’eggs product 16 Dear, as memories Relief

17 In the style of Big Dipper neighbor

18 Autumn beverage Peanut shell 19 Turn inside out -- -poly

20 -- incognita Margin notes 30 The thing’s Became frayed 32 Friar’s title Diplomat’s asset

34 Rancor (2 wds.)

Caterwaul

37 “Bopper” lead-in Sparkling

38 Confers knighthood NASA counterpart

39 Mach 1 breakers Shoe-box word 41 Hepburn and -Male elephant 42 Well mechanism Yerba -- (San Francisco, once)Orient 43 Charged particle 44 Nerve Book store?

45 Climber’s device

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY’S WORD -- PELLAGRA

(PELLAGRA: peh-LAG-ruh: A disease associated with a deficiency in niacin in the diet.)

Average mark 28 words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 39 or more words in PELLAGRA?

paella page pager pale paler pall pare peal pear pearl

plea earl laager lager lapel large leap legal agape agar

ager algae aper area gala gale gall gape gaper gear

glare grape raga rage rale rape real reap regal

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

46 47

48

50

51

52

54

55

56

58

59 60

63

64 65

66 68

69

70

72

73

Silly Dweeb Become tiresome Comforter stuffing Drifted about Fits of pique Mr. Dennehy Fruity pastry (2 wds.)

Monsieur’s son Chocolate bean Russell or Cobain Mislay Clear the wings Douse a donut Nosegay The thick of things Swift Gangster’s girl Flora and fauna Eggplant color Coyote’s plaint

74 Flared garment (hyph.)

75 Reside

76 O’Donnell of “The View”

77 Burnoose wearers 78 Misty

80 Secluded valleys

81 Paris river

82 Form a gully

83 Church council

85 As if bushed

86 China’s dollar

87 Sherpa, often

89 Long story

90 Nectar gatherers

91 Jo March’s professor

94 Wholly absorbed

95 Two, on the Rhine 96 Harshly 97 Demands

99 Of years past (hyph.)

100 Enchant

101 Most forward

103 Put on

104 Remove branches

105 Ink partner

106 Big trucks

107 Go along with 108 Vaulted

110 Insert mark

111 Bona - 112 Neighbor of Chad

113 DeGeneres sitcom

114 Mushers’ rigs

116 Chivalrous deed

117 Legendary archer

118 Like a sage

120 Ms. Peeples of TV

122 Hush-hush org.

124 Play with bubble wrap See Solution on Pg 14

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

S

amsung’s head of mobile has said it is “time to deliver” foldable smartphones, fuelling speculation the company is about to reveal a bendable device.

In an interview with CNBC, DJ Koh said Samsung’s consumer research suggested there was demand for a foldable phone.

Several phone-makers are rumoured to be developing devices with flexible screens that can be folded in half, without a hinge or

seam in the middle.

However, Samsung told the BBC it did not currently have “anything to share”.

DJ Koh told CNBC that the development process for foldable phones was “complicated” but added that the company had “nearly concluded” it.

However, he said, a foldable phone would need a clear purpose before the company released one.

“Even unfolded, what kind of benefit does that give compared to the tablet?” he said.

“If the unfolded experience is the same as the tablet, why would [people] buy it?

“Every device, every feature, every innovation should have a meaningful message to our end-customer.”

Samsung faces fierce competition from Chinese phone-maker Huawei. In July, Huawei became the second-biggest smartphone seller in the world, overtaking Apple.

(BBC)

Microsoft announces Surface event for October 2

M

icrosoft is planning to hold a fall press event in New York City next month. The software maker has started sending invites to the media on Friday, asking for a “moment of your time.” The event will start at 4PM ET / 1PM PT on October, and focus on Microsoft’s latest hardware, software, and services. While there have been rumors of an “Andromeda” dual-screen device, we’re not expecting to see this particular hardware at the event.

Instead, the event will likely include refreshes of Microsoft’s existing Surface hardware. Microsoft has reportedly been working on a big redesign for the Surface Pro, but that design isn’t likely to be ready until next year. Instead, we’re expecting Microsoft to refresh its Surface Pro line and Surface

Laptops with the latest Intel processors. It’s also been two years since Microsoft first unveiled its Surface Studio, and this all-in-one PC is definitely overdue a refresh.

The fall event will also likely include a focus on Microsoft’s services and hardware across both home and work, and how apps like Your Phone play into that.

Microsoft did a similar thing for both the Surface Studio and Surface Laptop launch, with apps and services that went beyond just a hard-

ware unveil. Microsoft is starting to reveal its next Windows 10 update features, codenamed 19H1, so we’ll likely see some of those at the event. We could also get a closer look at the Surface Hub 2.

Microsoft’s press event is scheduled in between both Apple and Google’s own announcements. Apple is holding its own iPhone XS event next week, and Google just announced its Pixel 3 press conference for October 9th.

(The Verge)

The inventor of the hoverboard is making e-skates to rival Segway

T

he history of the hoverboard is rife with patent wars, companies suing each other over who invented it first, and poorly made copycats that caught on fire. US entrepreneur Shane Chen was the first to file a patent for a “two-wheel, self-balancing vehicle” for his company Inventist in 2013, and now he’s announcing another invention called the Hoverwheel.

The Hoverwheel works like a pair of e-skates, with each foot sitting on top of a self-balancing wheel. It uses the same electrical motor as Inventist’s Hovertrax design, and is currently patent pending. It’s got a top speed of 7.5 mph, with a maximum

range of seven miles. It also looks a lot like Segway’s $399 e-skates, the Drift W1, which recently debuted at IFA. No price is mentioned yet for the Hoverwheel, which is expected to be released by the end of the year.

This might stir up some more drama between the two companies, which are already in the midst of a legal battle. Segway sued Inventist in 2015 for violating a number of its patents, including “balancing vehicles and methods for transporting individuals over ground.”

Meanwhile, Inventist is no stranger to suing its own imitators. Following a patent agreement with Razor which gave the company the exclusive right to sell hoverboards in the US, the two entities have taken on knockoff hoverboard makers like Swagway and IO Hawk. (The Verge)

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Bollywood/Hollywood

S

hahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput have become proud parents to their second child. The Bollywood couple welcomed a baby boy on Wednesday, Delhi Times reported.

Mira was admitted to Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday evening. Her mother was also spotted at the hospital by photographers.

Shahid and Mira are also parents to their elder daughter, two-year-old Misha. They tied the knot in 2015 and in a recent interview to Rajeev Masand, Shahid talked about his wife with a lot of love. “I got lucky. I married Mira,” Shahid said. “She’s as normal as it gets. We kind of hit it off and decided to get into an arranged marriage. By God’s grace it’s been wonderful, the last three years, and she’s been a huge part of that for me.”

Mira was a student in Delhi

University when Shahid met her. They married after a brief courtship. But despite the fame, Shahid said he has always craved normalcy in his life. “I’m very simple as a person,” he said. “And although I might live a very lavish lifestyle, I’m very happy I share my life

F

ormer Spice Girl member Mel B was ordered by a judge Tuesday to undergo random drug and alcohol testing as part of her bitter custody battle with ex-husband Stephen Belafonte.

Judge Mark Juhas ordered a “full-scale evaluation” of Mel B and Belafonte’s joint custody arrangement for their 7-year-old daughter Madison, Sky News reported.

Mel B, whose real name is Melanie Brown, will have to undergo random drug and alcohol testing for four months. The singer and Belafonte will also not be allowed to drink alcohol or take drugs at least eight hours before taking custody of their daughter.

In court papers filed Friday, Russell Updegraff, a former caretaker for Mel B’s children, claimed the singer put her children at risk because of her drinking habits. Mel B reportedly fired back and denied the claims.

The court appearance didn’t seem to faze the singer. Mel B returned to her hosting duties Tuesday evening on “America’s Got Talent” for the live semi-

finals with fellow judges Howie Mandel, Heidi Klum and Simon Cowell.

The judge’s order on Tuesday comes after the singer told The Sun last month that she’s entering rehab following her post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis that stemmed from her divorce. She later appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” to clarify her statement and explain why she’s planning to seek professional help.

"I've been in therapy since my father got diagnosed with cancer nine years ago," Mel B said on the show. "My therapy changed a little bit because I was in a very intense relationship, which you can all read about in my book."

She said she has PTSD, but denied being a sex addict and an alcoholic.

“You know, I was with the same person for 10 years and that was quite a turmoil, very intense. That's all I can say about it. I'd like to say a lot more, but we're on this show—let's keep it P.C.,” Mel B said. “But yeah, I address a lot of those issues [in the book] and I did kind of have to ease my pain...I do suffer a lot from PTSD.”

J

ust a couple of months ago, Kim Kardashian met with Donald Trump at the White House to discuss prison perform, with a focus on the case of Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year-old great-grandmother who was serving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense. The week after Kardashian's visit, Johnson was granted clemency, and the White House announced Johnson's sentence would be commuted.

Now, Kardashian is working to free another convicted felon. Page Six previewed Kardashian's soon-to-be-aired appearance on Jason Flom’s "Wrongful Conviction" podcast, and the outlet reports that she is working to free Chris Young, a young man who was reportedly sentenced to life in prison—without parole—for marijuana and cocaine possession after he was arrested in 2010.

Kardashian shared photos of her White House meeting on Twitter, writing: "It started with Ms. Alice, but looking at her and seeing the faces and learning the stories of the men and women I’ve met inside prisons I knew I couldn’t stop at just one. It’s time for REAL systemic change."

In the podcast, she reportedly ex-

with someone who has a similar mindset.”

The actor, who is currently busy promoting his next, Batti Gul Meter Chalu and has begun his prep for the Hindi remake of Telugu hit, Arjun Reddy, says he can barely manage a week’s off for his second child. He will also be seen in a biopic on Asian gold medallist boxer Dingko Singh.

Speaking to Mid Day, Shahid said that while in the case of Misha, he was off work for several months, in case of his second child, despite his best efforts, he just couldn’t do much. “During Misha’s birth [in 2016], I took a couple of months off. This time too, I was negotiating to take a month-long break, but things didn’t work out. I will get only a week off from work. It is too short a duration, but such are the circumstances.” (Hindustan Times)

plains why she chose Young's case.

"Yesterday, I had a call with a gentleman that’s in prison for a drug case—got life. It’s so unfair," she said.

"He’s 30 years old. He’s been in for almost 10 years."

Kardashian explained that Young

was sentenced so harshly because of mandatory-sentencing regulations, and that she's spoken to former Tennessee Judge Kevin Sharp, who actually resigned from his position because the law forced him to give out such a lengthy sentence. Sharp told The Tennessean in 2017 that he was working to get Young released from prison.

"I was on the phone with the judge that sentenced him to life who resigned because he had never been on the side of having to do something so unfair," Kardashian said.

Kardashian says she has allies in the White House to help her with her cause. The reality star said that she speaks regularly to Trump son-in-law and aide, Jared Kushner, and that when she first wanted help with getting Johnson out of prison, she contacted Trump's daughter Ivanka.

"I figured Ivanka [Trump] would totally understand and feel the same thing that I felt," she said. "So, my first call was to Ivanka."

Flom's complete interview with Kardashian is set to be available Wednesday. (Harper’s Bazar)

A

tlanta police Officer Stephanie Brown tells news outlets that seven people were stopped late Wednesday afternoon when police smelled marijuana coming from a car near downtown Atlanta.

A

ishwarya Rai Bachchan is all set to add another feather to her already loaded cap.

The former Miss World will be bestowed with the inaugural Meryl Streep Award for Excellence at the first Women in Film and Television (WIFT) India Award.

The award ceremony, established to honour the best female talent in Bollywood and Hollywood, will take place in Washington DC on September 8.

In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, WIFT India said that the Fanney Khan star will be rewarded for showcasing a “distinction in her craft and for expanding the role of women within the entertainment industry.

Speaking about the award named after veteran Hollywood actor Meryl

A search of the vehicle yielded marijuana and cocaine. The 33-year-old born Tyrone William Griffin Jr. was arrested, but the other six were released without charges. It's unclear why Griffin was the only one arrested.

According to Fulton County jail records, Griffin is charged with possessing cocaine and less than 1 ounce of marijuana, as well as obstruction. The musician was scheduled to perform in Atlanta on Wednesday as part of G-Eazy's The Endless Summer Tour. Reports didn't include comment from him or representation.

Streep, WIFT India founding president Petrina D’Rozario said, “Whether it is her extraordinary body of work or her charitable endeavors, Ms. Streep is an inspiration for all.”

“Our aim here is to encourage others to think outside the norm of genderbased hiring practices and give females of all nationalities an equal chance to vie in fields dominated by men,” she elaborated.

Apart from Aishwarya, director Zoya Akhtar and Dhadak star Janhvi Kapoor, among others, will also be honoured at the event.

WIFT India is part of WIFT International, a network which promotes professional development and achievement for women in the film industry, video, and other screen-based media. (Hindustan Times)

Crossword Solution

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Take work home with you if it will help alleviate professional stress. Staying on top of your responsibilities is encouraged. Don’t jeopardize your reputation or position.

Size up your options and TAURUS choose what’s best for you.

(April 20- You can make substantial May 20) gains and build good connections with people if you take part in events that are linked to professional opportunities.

Don’t trust someone who GEMINI is trying to sell you some(MAY 28- thing. An emotional tactic June 20) used to get you to buy into something or volunteer your services for free should be handled with intelligence.

What you share with family or friends will spark an (June 21- idea that can turn into a prosJuly 22) perous endeavor. Trust and believe in yourself and what you are capable of doing.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Don’t make a change just because someone else does.

Avoid overspending on luxuries you don’t need just to please someone. You cannot buy love; you must earn it. Offer empathy and affection.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

New scenery will stimulate you mentally, physically and emotionally. You can make a positive adjustment to your lifestyle if you undergo a transformation.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

You need clarity in your life. If you don’t fully understand something, ask questions. Find out where you stand so you can decide what to do next.

Interacting with people who SCORPIO (Oct. 24- share your interests or creative Nov. 22) skills will lead to interesting op-

Peanuts

portunities. Taking short trips, visiting old, familiar places or reviving old friendships is favored.

SAGITTARIUS Communication must be (Nov. 23- handled carefully. Don’t say Dec. 21) anything that may be twisted or used against you. Protect your reputation and avoid gossip.

Don’t reveal your plans, opinions and personal information.

Calvin and Hobbes

You can charm others into CAPRICORN seeing and doing things your (Dec. 22- way and make some lucraJan. 19) tive investments if you stay focused on positive change.

Romance and personal contracts are encouraged.

Don’t be a follower. If AQUARIUS someone indulges or over(Jan. 20- spends, don’t feel you must Feb. 19) keep up. Play it safe and don’t put your cash, possessions and reputation on the line.

You’ll attract a lot of atPISCES (Feb. 20- tention. Helping others will Mar. 20) make you feel good and will lead to some positive changes in your life. A romantic gesture will stabilize a personal relationship.