60 minute read
Linden
18 NEWS SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Linden municipality unable to pay staff – Mayor
Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC) is unable to pay its staff, blaming its revenue shortfall on novel coronavirus measures.
As a result of social distancing measures, the municipality, which has had to reduce its hours of work and have a majority of its staff remain at home, is now faced with issues such as reduced revenues and is presently finding it difficult to pay its monthly staff. Linden Mayor Waneka Arrindell explained that there has been an overall reduction in revenue collection as many people across the region are now at home.
“What has happened is that there’s a reduction in revenue collection...COVID has played a role and we’ve had a reduction in revenue at our toll booth, at the market; because as you know, (at) the market only essential workers are working. And then there’s the 6 o’clock curfew, so even the parks have reduced revenue collection,” Arrindell explained to Guyana Times on Saturday.
She added that while the Council has had to “become creative in an effort to garner revenue, the reality is that it has been unable to pay its monthly staff so far this month”.
“So, we’ve had a great dip. Last month, we were able to pay. We had to do some reshuffling of activities and such to pay. This month, however, we have not been able to pay monthly salaries. We’re trying to maintain the weekly (workers’ salary), but we haven’t been able to pay monthly,” the Mayor reiterated.
Arrindell disclosed that all of the municipality’s staff, except for its Heads of Department, are presently at home. These staff work three days a week; while the weekly paid staff have been receiving payments, the monthly paid workers in each department have not been so lucky.
The Mayor added that it was the hope of the municipality to pay all staff, whether they are at home or not, since the decision to have the staff remain at home is due to Government’s request for staff interaction to decrease in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, she said some staff have since been working from home.
“It’s not that we don’t want to pay, persons would still receive their salaries, but it’s just that at this point we are unable to do so, because we don’t have the revenue. Even the bridge tolls seemingly have reduced. This month, it’s over 50 per cent short from what we usually see from them,” she added.
Arrindell stated that at this point, the municipality did not want to put any additional strain on the public as a means of garnering revenue, hence, at this juncture, it would depend on Government to lend support.
According to Arrindell, it costs some $10 million per month to maintain the functions of the municipality, which includes providing services and paying of staff. She noted, however, that there have been calls for representation by the Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM) of
…looks to caretaker Govt for support
which she currently serves as president.
“From GAM level, they have responded and said they would look into it… so again the Council, we’re calling on the Ministry of Communities to represent us at the level of finance -- to see if they can assist us at least with the basic salary and maintenance of the functioning of the municipality,” she noted.
The Mayor added that the Council was presently being faced with newer challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
(Utamu Belle) Mayor Waneka Arrindell
Amentally-ill man who allegedly stabbed his brother to death last week was arraigned before the Diamond/Grove Magistrate on a charge of murder.
Wensley Williams, also known as “Pooh Bear”, of Lot 411 Buzz Bee Dam, Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD), appeared virtually before Magistrate Sunil Scarce.
It is alleged that between May 21 and 22, the 41-yearold man murdered his brother, Cleveland Hodge, at Old Road, Craig (EBD). The charge detailed that on the day in question, at around 15:10h, Hodge observed that Williams had a knife in his possession. He then approached the mentally challenged Williams with the intention of taking the weapon away from him to prevent him from harming himself.
However, as he went closer, the suspect reportedly slashed him once to his right elbow, then to his left elbow as he used his hands as a bar to protect himself. The suspect further slashed him to his left shoulder and under his right arm.
Public-spirited citizens came to Hodge’s assistance, and he was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, where he was admitted, treated for his injuries, and sent away from the institution at around 19:00h.
However, while at home, Hodge complained of feeling unwell due to the injuries. He was again rushed to the Diamond Hospital, where he was re-admitted and then transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC). He subsequently died around 13:39h on May 22.
Williams has been remanded to prison, and will make his next court appearance on June 24.
Dead: Cleveland Hodge
“Pooh Bear” charged for killing brother
Political parties in Suriname should respect democratic process – Dutch diplomats D utch diplomats have been joined by their EU and British counterparts in calling on political parties in Suriname to respect the democratic process after the country’s parliamentary elections were held on Monday.
President Desi Bouterse
In a joint statement with its allies, Dutch representatives in the country’s capital of Paramaribo expressed hope that the results would be released swiftly and peacefully after four days of tabulating votes.
The election represents a potential milestone for the embattled South American democracy, with its autocratic president Desi Bouterse seeking a third term in office against the possibility of going to prison if he loses the race. According to the preliminary results, the opposition party led by Chan Santokhi appears positioned to seize an historic victory. According to the Dutch embassy, all stages of the election process have been closely monitored, with representatives of the Organization of American States (OAS) expressing concern that the situation may take a turn for the worse.
President Bouterse, embroiled in allegations of murder and wielding brute force to hold on to power, stated on Friday that he will order a recount of ballots if he loses the election. By the week’s end, the president appeared to be trailing the opposition by a considerable margin, according to reports by several media outlets in Suriname, the Caribbean, public broadcaster NOS and Deutsche Welle. (NL
Times)
Global coronavirus cases surpassed 6 million on Saturday, according to a Reuters tally, as Latin America reported a grim milestone of 50,000 deaths from the disease.
Global coronavirus cases surpass 6 million
Countries such as Brazil, Chile and Mexico are struggling to stem the spread of the virus, which initially peaked in China in February before large-scale outbreaks followed in Europe and the United States.
The COVID-19 respiratory illness has claimed more than 367,000 lives worldwide, though the true number is thought to be higher as testing is still limited and many countries do not include fatalities outside of hospitals.
The first 41 cases of coronavirus were confirmed in Wuhan, China, on Jan. 10 and it took the world until April 1 to reach its first million cases. Since then, about 1 million new cases are reported every two weeks, according to a Reuters tally.
The pandemic has claimed more than 367,000 lives worldwide, though the true number is believed to be higher because testing is still limited and many countries do not include fatalities outside of hospitals.
Despite the continued increase in cases, many countries are opening schools and workplaces following weeks of unprecedented lockdowns that have stemmed the spread of the disease - but also hammered economies and thrown millions out of work.
(Reuters)
Port Mourant NDC sends Overseer on administrative leave
Overseer of the JohnsPort Mourant N e i g h b o u r h o o d Democratic Council (NDC), Budwattie Ramnarine has been sent on administrative leave following the alleged discovery of financial irregularities.
This was disclosed by NDC Chairman Mahase Tarrick Doolara during an interview with Guyana Times.
“She (the overseer) is under investigation. We found out that the books have been tampered and she paid herself for working on Sundays, but when we checked the books, there are no record of revenue collected for Sundays,” Doolara said.
He explained that the Overseer has been paying herself $1000 for working at the Port Mourant Market as a Revenue Collector on Sundays, but investigations proved that no such collection has been done on Sundays. Following the discovery, a special meeting of the NDC was held on April 28, and a motion was moved to have her sent on administrative leave.
At the meeting, the Market Clerk related that the Overseer had instructed her and the Revenue Collector not to work on Sundays. This prompted the NDC Chair to ask for the revenue collection the Overseer was asked to produce the arrears revenue book, but she could not.
books, which revealed that between November 2019 and April 2020, there was no record of revenue collected on Sundays.
The Overseer reportedly admitted to the Council that she had been working on Sundays. However, she could not give a satisfactory explanation as to why there had been no revenue recorded in the books for almost half a year.
It was then suggested that she be sent on administrative leave.
The Overseer has in the past been accused of several irregularities at the Council.
During 2019, she was accused of not recording payments made by market vendors who had owed large sums in revenue. When the matter was brought to the fore last year and some vendors were contacted about monies they owed, they all stated that they had cleared their debts.
When the Council met and that issue was raised, porter.
The Council later reported that three revenue books had gone missing. With this in mind, the Council at last Tuesday’s special meeting penned a letter to the Local Government Commission advising that Ramnarine be sent on administrative leave.
The Overseer, who was once dismissed from the NDC and rehired under the current Administration, had been suspended since her reappointment, but the Communities Ministry overturned the suspension.
The Overseer has been accused of assaulting staff members, collecting revenue and not issuing receipts, and asking vendors to lie about the issue. She was also charged with assault of a re
Back in April 2018, the Council suspended her, but she broke the locks to the building and went in and carried out the duties of the Overseer.
In November 2018, she and the then Market Clerk were allegedly involved in a physical altercation. Recommendations were again made for her removal, but the Council was unsuccessful in carrying it out.
Back then, the then Chairman Ishwarsammy Narinesammy had told this publication that it was not the first time allegations of this nature have been levelled against the Overseer.
However, the following working day after the letter was issued for her to proceed on administrative leave, Ramnarine was seen entering the building and opening the office.
Meanwhile, the LGC has sent a letter to the Overseer dated April 9, informing her of the allegations levelled against her.
The Overseer opening the door to the office after being sent on administrative leave
You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com Dangerous, desperate APNU/AFC rulers
Dear Editor,
I called the State-owned Guyana Chronicle the APNU/ AFC coalition “rag sheet” in an earlier letter. However, l am forced to reconsider my description after seeing the May 30 front page of the Guyana Chronicle with a screaming headline “600 not in Georgetown but voted” placed above a photograph of the protesters and a burning building in the riots in Minneapolis. The subliminal messaging to the supporters of the defeated Granger-led Government is unmistakable.
The fact that the Guyana Chronicle would try to link the just cause of the protesters of all races in response to police killings of Afro-Americans that has gone on unabated for decades and blatant racial discrimination against people of colour in many US cities with Aubrey Norton and the APNU/AFC downright lies of voter irregularities in the March 2, 2020 elections in Guyana reeks of duplicitous and reckless journalism.
The article that triggers the headline “600 not in Georgetown but voted” is fraught with allegations and downright lies orchestrated by Aubrey Norton on behalf of the APNU/AFC coalition. The allegation is a dog whistle to incite supporters.
In fact, this allegation of migrants voting by APNU/ AFC leaders dismisses the Chief Justice’s ruling in August 2019 that residence is not a constitutional requirement; once a person is registered and on the voters’ list, they can travel to the Polling Station where their name is on the OLE to vote whether they live in Linden, Lethem, or any other part of Guyana, or overseas. It is their constitutional right.
In every election, Guyanese registered voters crisscross Guyana to go to vote in their respective electoral divisions; Guyanese living abroad whether along the borders or further afield like the USA and Canada return home to vote. Suddenly, now that the APNU/AFC has lost the 2020 elections, this is no longer acceptable.
Surely the PNC/APNU/ AFC rulers can remember their appeal at the many fund-raising rallies it held in the diaspora for people to come home to vote for Granger in 2015. Surely they can remember the huge numbers of Guyanese it financed to come home to vote in those same elections?
The lead up to the March 2, 2020 elections was no different. The APNU/AFC coalition made the same appeals at its fund-raising events in the USA and in other countries for people in the diaspora to return home and vote. The PPP/C and other parties contesting the elections did the same appeal to registered voters living overseas.
May l remind the APNU/ AFC of statements they made in 2020 to the diaspora as reported in the media.
The January 20, 2020 issue of Demerara Waves reported “ The incumbent A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) is now eyeing overseas-based Guyanese to return home to vote on March 2, 2020, after at one stage insisting that the names of migrants must be removed from the voters' list. APNU candidate, Ronald Bulkan declared this position at a public meeting held at the Kitty Market Square, Georgetown. “The next area I would like to speak to help any undecided that we might have among us here tonight and those who are listening in other parts of Guyana, those who might be abroad but planning to come back to participate in these
Georgetown Mayor’s comments disingenuous
Dear Editor,
The Giftland Mall has viewed the recent statement by the Mayor of Georgetown with alarm and considers his comments disingenuous. It is important to note that within the last three months, both the Giftland Mall and its Chairman have moved from “entrepreneurs extraordinaire” and the largest single Private Sector social development project in Guyana, providing significant economic development and employing thousands gainfully, with a strong social conscience, champion of the poor and community ties, to “a delinquent puppet of the Opposition, a greedy and corrupt entity and a bankrupt and tax-delinquent company”.
This begs the question – how in three months have we turned from Guyana’s showpiece to this morally reprehensible entity? How did this transformation take place? This is what the public needs to be aware of and decide on – where this is originating and why this ongoing attack by elements within the coalition, led by a prominent figure, who has already attacked us in public along with his cronies. Why is it important to tarnish and discredit the sterling reputation of the Giftland Mall and its Chairman, Roy Beepat, who, until three months ago, was considered a friend and ally of the coalition?
What has happened in the last three months is that we have taken a stand, along with the OAS, APC, ABC&E, Commonwealth, Caricom, plus other international and local organisations and individuals, in calling for a transparent and free elections and proper counting of the votes, that my friends is the only thing that has changed!!
The facts are that Giftland has made every effort to be compliant with its taxes and has been actively pursuing City Hall for the last five years, in an effort to have this amicably settled, several letters have been sent with no response on the discussions held, we have been led down the garden path by Royston King, who had negotiated a settlement but in 3 years, despite our many attempts to have this drawn into a binding written contract, this was never done by the city side, the Mayor has conveniently neglected to point this out. We sat with the Mayor this year in our offices and made agreements to have this resolved, after weeks of prompting, to our surprise, we eventually received a written correspondence, not in line with our discussions. Against the agreement made to keep this year current taxes paid were applied against the illegally imposed interest figures.
The Mayor was intent on receiving interest at 21 per cent, which is unlawful, and a penalty in the figure of approximately $43 million, despite being told that the Mall had paid close to $500 million on public works, which included the public access road to the Mall and Demerara estate, street lighting, bus shed and public transportation, walkways and irrigation. This Mayor was also told that up to the time of writing, the Mall had not received the benefit of one day of service from the City services. We have installed our own sewerage treatment plant, we clean the roads and public areas, we have laid in our own piping for water supplies, and many other duties which taxes are paid for, but which has been borne by us. I repeat, the city has not provided not one day of service whatsoever and has no consideration for the hundreds of millions which has been spent on their behalf, they have refused to provide even basic garbage collection for taxes which they are demanding. Additionally, they want to charge interest at 21 per cent for bills which were sent retrospectively before any agreement was in place, and for the years that we were trying to achieve a settlement and figure to pay, they want to apply interest, although the delay was due to their lack of commitment to negotiate a settlement.
In concluding, the Mayor has taken a position of attack that is not in keeping with the groundworks which has been set and for which payments have already started to be made in good faith to keep negotiations going, and unless there is reasonableness, then this will be settled in our law courts. We the people should speak out against this victimisation of myself and the Giftland Mall which provides income to thousands and their families, a safe haven for visitors and residents alike.
We need to point out the obvious, the Mayor is supposed to be a principled, religious, decent, and honest person – he is a Pandit. I am kindly requesting that he remembers these principles and behaves within these moral responsibilities for which he is bound. historic elections, the mother of all elections because… the countdown has started,” he said.
In January 2020, Caribbean Life reported Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo at an APNU/AFC fundraising rally at the Grace Christian Church in Brooklyn, as saying, “In five [campaign] events, you can see the coalition energising… So, we have to mobilise. Those of you who register [to vote], go back [to vote]…You have an opportunity now; and, do not let it slip from you”.
Rickford Burke, the organiser of the event is reported in the same article as saying “we cannot afford to have the PPP in power. We have to make sure every one of us in the diaspora go out and vote.”
At another fundraising event, Demerara Waves, on January 27, 2020, reported that Regional Executive Officer of Region Three, Jennifer Ferreira-Dougall, Director General, Office of the President, Joseph Harmon, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, and Director General, Civil Aviation Authority, Egbert Field, Trevor Benn Commissioner of Lands and Surveys, were in attendance at Woodbine Ballroom in Brooklyn. Addressing the meeting, Chairman of the PNCR’s New York Group, Errol Lewis said “Some of us, who are registered, are encouraged to go and vote. You would have to pay your own money but you need to be there because we are not going back,” he said.
So, Mr Norton, maybe the “600 not in Georgetown but voted” are your party’s supporters from the diaspora?
This article once again illustrates how dangerous and desperate the APNU/AFC rulers are to deny the will of the Guyanese people to have their votes counted and a declaration made of the PPP/C victory. The fact that we are now in the Guinness Book of Records for the country with the longest undeclared elections results is disgraceful and the APNU/AFC coalition is the only one to blame for bringing this shame on our nation.
I now retract my previous description of the Guyana Chronicle as the APNU/AFC “rag sheet” as too decent a phrase, the Chronicle has hit new levels of depravity and the phrase “gutter journalism” is more appropriate.
Sincerely, Gail Teixeira
GAWU’s approach to resolving workers’ issues could threaten livelihood of 8000
Dear Editor,
The Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) is appalled that even during a global crisis with the COVID-19 pandemic, at a time when the survival of many businesses and the livelihoods of millions of employees around the world are threatened, that the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU), would condone its sugar workers to engage in unnecessary industrial action without following the established industrial procedure. The factory employees at the Uitvlugt Estate have left their jobs, to take strike action, without adhering to the terms of the ‘Collective Labour Agreement’ between the GAWU and GuySuCo.
As of to date, the Corporation has made 34,624 tonnes of sugar from its estimated 46,476 tonnes. Uitvlugt Estate has completed grinding and is into the critical maintenance period process that GuySuCo’s management has the responsibility to organise efficiently. The management and staff at Albion and Blairmont Estates are still in operation, to harvest as much of the crop as is possible, based on the weather conditions.
Production at these estates was interrupted by three weeks of industrial action during the peak harvesting period when the weather was much more conducive. Management has made a business decision to continue grinding at the abovementioned two factories, beyond the previously set date for the end of the first crop, for as long as the weather permits, in an attempt to satisfy customers’ demands and to reduce the still extensive areas of cane that have unfortunately remained unharvested on these estates, at a cost of much-needed revenue to the industry.
It is absolutely necessary, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic that GuySuCo operates its business with much prudence and that stability is maintained. The management of GuySuCo is cognisant of the fact that it has 7000 to 8000 employees and their families, 6000 pensioners, over 200 businesses, and Unions with their own employees; all of whom are dependent either directly or indirectly on the viability of its business.
Additionally, the Corporation maintains the drainage and irrigation system between Skeldon in Berbice to the Boerasirie Canal on the West Bank of Demerara. Farmers and residents in communities are dependent on the efficient functioning of GuySuCo, in order to prevent agricultural crops and communities in Regions Three, Four, Five and Six from flooding.
Having established the above, the Corporation is concerned that the current action of GAWU to condone the employees at Uitvlugt Estate to maintain unwarranted strike action, could threaten its ability to fulfil all of the responsibilities above and jeopardise the readiness of the factory for resuming operations in the 2020 second crop.
Specifically, with reference to the claims by GAWU relative to employees in the factory at the Uitvlugt Estate; the point that employees are not being provided with transportation after the 18:00h curfew time is inaccurate, since the factory employees are currently working on a shift from 07:00h – 16:00h which ends before the 18:00h curfew. However, one of the reasons for the strike action is that the employees are demanding to work for two five-hour shifts, from 07:00h to 12:00h and 12:00h to 17:00h, and still be paid for eight hours. It is disturbing that the Union would condone this unreasonable and unproductive position.
This, the management cannot agree to, on two points: One the employees cannot work five hours and be paid for eight hours; and two, during this out of crop period, the Uitvlugt Estate has an enormous amount of maintenance to complete. During the first crop, the factory encountered 356 stoppages which resulted in a loss of 415.68 hours of downtime, during the 10.13 weeks of grinding. The Corporation finds it disturbing that the Union as a partner, does not place the same level of importance that its management has placed on conducting thorough maintenance on the factory so that the second crop will be more productive.
Relative to preventative measures on COVID-19 in the factory at Uitvlugt Estate, as well the other two estates, Albion and Blairmont, GuySuCo has developed a ‘COVID-19 Policy’, which addresses training, quarantine and working from home. A COVID-19 Task Force was established to design, implement and monitor the policy.
The Corporation has also ordered 14,000 face masks for its employees. Temperature Guns are being used at the main entrances and other areas on all locations. Several washbasins were constructed on all locations and soap, handwashing liquid, as well as hand sanitisers are provided. Daily education and awareness sessions are also held, with various categories of staff.
On the point of proper social distancing in the Uitvlugt Estate factory, employees in the factory are rarely required to work less than 5 feet apart under the current circumstances.
GuySuCo is considered an essential service, under manufacturing, hence the Corporation has communicated to the Guyana Police Force that several categories of its employees are required to work beyond the 18:00h curfew period, and relevant employees have been issued with forms of identification, to this effect.
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF RECOUNT
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF POLL RELEASED BY PPP/C
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF RECOUNT
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF POLL RELEASED BY PPP/C
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF RECOUNT
DISTRICT 4 STATEMENTS OF POLL RELEASED BY PPP/C
23 GUYANATIMESGY.COM SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2020 CWI announces temporary reduction in salaries, funding from July
...to protect jobs and future of the organisation
Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Friday announced a temporary 50 percent reduction in salaries and funding of cricket across the entire regional system.
This decision, which becomes effective from the start of July, has been made necessary in the face of debilitating economic challenges which have resulted from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With no international cricket currently being played anywhere in the world, and with great uncertainty in regard to when regular cricket activity would resume, CWI – like many other international sporting organisations worldwide – is facing a significant loss of income whilst also being uncertain of the long-term impact of the crisis on its operations.
It is in that context that the CWI Board of Directors has agreed, with deep regret, to a plan that expectedly would safeguard CWI’s future while delivering at least a minimum level of job protection for all of the people employed or contracted throughout the region’s cricket community.
In a teleconference on Thursday, the CWI Board of Directors received recommendations from the Financial Strategy Advisory Committee (FSAC) which was formed in April by CWI President Ricky Skerritt to make recommendations on how CWI could best manage its resources in order to continue its core business over the next few months, in view of the changing and uncertain economic environment created by the global pandemic of COVID-19.
The measures recommended followed close consultation with all stakeholders.
CWI President Ricky Skerritt has said: “Cricket is the beating heart of our region for many individuals, communities and economies. This pandemic is hurting every West Indian, and this decision to cut staff and player incomes has been a very difficult one to make; one that will impact so many members of the cricketing family around the Caribbean.
“This business continuity plan unfortunately requires all stakeholders to make a huge sacrifice, but I am confident that it won’t be long before CWI will be in a position to ensure that the sport we love can restart and be enjoyed once again by the thousands of cricket fans across the region and diaspora.
“CWI has kept staff, players, umpires and coaches on full pay since the outbreak of COVID-19, and has tried (its) best to
CEO of CWI, Johnny Grave
Bayern were 3-0 up by half-time, with Benjamin Pavard and Robert Lewandowski scoring after Mathias Jorgensen’s own goal opened the scoring.
Lewandowski’s 43rd goal in all competitions this campaign made it 4-0 in a crushing win.
Teenager Alphonso Davies added the fifth with a superb individual effort.
It will require an exceptional set of circumstances to deny Bayern an eighth successive Bundesliga title at the end of June.
Second-placed Borussia Dortmund will cut Bayern’s lead to seven points with five games remaining if they win at bottom club Paderborn on Sunday (17:00 BST), but Bayern look as ruthless as ever. This was their fourth straight victory since the Bundesliga season restarted earlier this month, and they have scored 13 goals and conceded just two since the resumption of the campaign.
There was a touch of fortune about their first goal. Pavard’s attempt was going wide when ex-Huddersfield defender Jorgensen diverted it over the line while attempting to clear. Pavard doubled the lead with a header from a corner, while Lewandowski started the move which ended with him making it 3-0.
Fortuna Dusseldorf were unbeaten in their previous six games, yet Uwe Rosler’s side were blown away, Lewandowski tapping home the fourth before the goal of the game.
The 19-year-old Davies showed what an exciting talent he is as he won possession on the edge of Fortuna Dusseldorf’s penalty area before going past a couple of players to score. (BBC Sport)
Lewandowski equals record as Bayern hits 5
Poland’s forward Robert Lewandowski scored twice against Fortuna Dusseldorf to equal his most prolific season, as Bayern Munich moved 10 points clear at the top.
avoid any cuts for as long as possible. CWI hopes that these temporary measures will only be in place for not more than three to six months.
“These measures will also include a 50 percent reduction in funding for Territorial Boards,
Territorial Board Franchises and WIPA; (and there will) as well (be) a 50 percent cut in all retainers and allowances for Directors and Executive
Management”.
CEO of Cricket West Indies, Johnny Grave, has said: “The effects of this pandemic have been distressing for everyone. (It is) the worst crisis of our lifetime, and at present, we cannot be certain when the situation will be rectified.
“We recognise that this will cause financial pain for all our staff, players, coaches and umpires across the Caribbean; but, having kept everyone on full pay since the outbreak in March, we have no choice but to take decisive action from next month onwards. CWI’s greatest asset is our people and players, and everyone sharing equally in the temporary reduction (is), we believe, the best way for us to ensure we get through this crisis and protect our organisation and all the jobs in the system.
“We will be reviewing the situation regularly, with the hope that we can return to normal operations at the earliest opportunity.” (CWI)
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guyanatimesgy.com
West Indies Test Team
CWI Board gives approval in principle
CWI President, Ricky Skerritt
for Test Tour of England
Members of the Board of Directors of Cricket West Indies (CWI) met in a lengthy meeting via teleconference on Thursday, May 28, and the majority of their deliberations focused on discussing the initial short-term recommendations from the Financial Strategy Advisory Committee (FSAC), a special- purpose committee that was put in place by CWI President Ricky Skerritt on April 2, 2020.
That committee, comprised of a joint membership of Directors and Executive Management, all with significant financial management expertise, is chaired by JCA President Wilford “Billy” Heaven.
The Board agreed to the committee’s business continuity plan of action for how CWI would have to operate in order to survive its cash flow crisis. This in the context of the debilitating economic uncertainties of the global pandemic of COVID-19.
The Board also gave approval in principle for the proposed upcoming West Indies Test tour of England. The decision comes only after CWI medical and cricket-related representatives and advisors had been involved in detailed discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and their own medical and public health advisers. Those discussions involved the local and international logistics and protocols which are already being put in place to minimize the risk and optimise the health and safety of all concerned.
CWI has also received and reviewed detailed plans for players and staff to be kept in a bio-secure environment for the duration of the tour, with all matches being played “behind closed doors”.
The CWI management is now in the process of putting all of the approvals and logistics in place within the Caribbean, including seeking permission from the various national governments to facilitate the movement of players and support staff; using private charter planes, and conducting medical screenings and individual COVID-19 testing for all members of the touring party.
CWI President Ricky Skerritt has said: “I would like to thank the CWI Management, the Medical Advisory Committee, and the FSAC for their detailed and timely presentations given to the Board meeting. In addition to our approval in principle of the proposed Test Tour of England, we made some significant financial management decisions that will be announced and implemented in due course. The great detail to which the Board engaged in these matters is testimony to their urgency and importance, but it meant that we had to defer a few agenda items until next Wednesday (June 3), when we have scheduled to reconvene”.
CWI will continue to fine-tune the various arrangements with the ECB, whilst they await final UK Government approval of their plans for a bio-secure tour with all three Test matches being played behind closed doors.
(CWI)
Lewandowski equals record as Bayern hits 5
Pg 23 Pg 23
...to protect jobs and future of the organisation
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WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY 5 JUNE, 2020
World Environment Day is one of the biggest days of recognition for encouraging people worldwide to save and protect our environment from different environmental challenges the world is facing today. The World Environment is also “People’s Day” which is a day to do something to take care of our environment. It is an important platform for promoting the dimensions of environmental Sustainable Development Goals.
World Environment Day is celebrated every 5th of June. It is one of the main prime action to protect our environment.
World Environment Day 2020 will focus on Biodiversity and will be hosted in Colombia in partnership with Germany. This year the theme of World Environment Day 2020 is “Celebrate Biodiversity”.
“With 1 million species facing extinction, there has never been a more important time to focus on biodiversity.”
Colombia is one of the largest “Megadiverse” nations in the world to hold 10 per cent of the planet’s biodiversity. Since it is part of the Amazon rainforest, Colombia ranks first in bird and orchid species diversity and second in plants, butterflies, freshwater fish, and amphibians.
Ricardo Lozano, Colombia’s Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, Jochen Flasbarth, Germany’s Secretary of State for the Climate, and Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, said that with one million species of plants and animals facing extinction, there has never been a more critical time to focus on the problem of biodiversity. The year 2020 is a critical year for nations’ commitments to preserving and restoring biodiversity.
Biodiversity is the variation of Earth’s terrestrial, freshwater, and marine species, as well as their habitats. Biodiversity is vital to the survival of all life on earth and is also the cornerstone for the goods and services of the environment that allow human societies to thrive. Biodiversity provides us with food, water and resources as well as services such as climate control, pollination, flood mitigation and cycling of nutrients.
Ecosystems are relying on all parts from the smallest bacteria to the largest vertebrate. It’s all interconnected. Some are pro
ducing oxygen that others are breathing. Some provide food for larger species, which in turn become prey to even larger species. Every living organism has a role to play in the maintenance of balance.
You can ultimately lose much more than one species by removing one element. More than 98% of the species in nature are extinct.
Above all, World Environment Day offers a global platform for inspiring positive change. It recognizes that global change requires a global community. It pushes for individuals to think about the way they consume; for businesses to develop greener models; for farmers and manufacturers to produce more sustainably; for governments to safeguard wild spaces; for educators to inspire students to live in harmony with the Earth; and for youth to become fierce gatekeepers of a green future. It requires all of us.
Since 1974, it has been celebrated every year on 5 June; engaging governments, businesses, celebrities and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue.
In 2020, the theme is biodiversity–a concern that is both urgent and existential. Recent events, from bushfires in Brazil, the United States and Australia to locust infestations across East Africa–and now, a global disease pandemic–demonstrate the interdependence of humans and the webs of life in which they exist. Nature is sending us a message.
Since its beginning in 1974, World Environment Day has developed into a global platform for raising awareness and taking action on urgent issues from marine pollution and global warming to sustainable consumption and wildlife crime. Millions of people have taken part over the years, helping drive change in our consumption habits as well as in national and international environmental policy. Below are some of the landmarks of World Environment Day through
the years.
World Environment Day embraces smaller and less-developed nations while tackling even bigger topics: from sustainable consumption to the illegal trade in wildlife.
The 2019 theme was air pollution, a global emergency that causes around 7 million premature deaths every year. Hosted by China, President Xi Jinping stressed China’s willingness to share its experience with other countries in a letter to the 2019 World Environment Day event. The country also launched its Air Quality Improvement Report (2013-2018) to showcase successful policies and reflect on lessons learned.
Together We Can Act #ForNature
Biodiversity describes the variety of life on Earth. It encompasses the 8 million species on the planet–from plants and animals to fungi and bacteria; the ecosystems that house them; and the genetic diversity among them.
Biodiversity may be seen as an intricate web, in which each part is interdependent. When one component is changed–or removed–the entire system is affected, and this can produce positive–or negative–consequences.
Nature responds to some of the most pressing challenges faced by humans today.
It provides us with oxygen, purifies the water we drink, ensures fertile soil, and produces the variety of foods we require to stay healthy and resist disease. It enables medical researchers to understand human physiology; and offers substance for developing medicines. It is the foundation of most industries and livelihoods. It even helps mitigate the impact of climate change by storing carbon and regulating local rainfall. Life on earth would not be possible without nature’s services. It is our greatest common good.
With our increasing demands, humans have pushed nature beyond its limit. In the last 50 years, the human population has doubled; the global economy has almost quadrupled and global trade has increased by about ten times. It would take 1.6 Earths to meet the demands that humans make of nature each year.
The emergence of COVID-19 has underscored the fact that, when we destroy biodiversity, we destroy the system that supports human life. By upsetting the delicate balance of nature, we have created ideal conditions for pathogens–including coronaviruses–to spread.
We are intimately interconnected with nature. If we don’t take care of nature, we can’t take care of ourselves.
Following the decisions taken by UN Member States in the Convention on Biological Biodiversity, UNEP and its partners are launching the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), a global initiative to restore the relationship between humans and nature. UNEP is also working with world leaders to develop a new and ambitious Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework to realize a 2050 Vision of Living in Harmony with Nature.
Living in harmony with nature can only be achieved if we reverse negative impact of biodiversity loss and pursue full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. World Environment Day celebrations will help build momentum and unite the global community in actions for positive change.
MAY 31, 2020 3 Sunday Times Magazine Feature Mangroves...
The wonder trees that nurture Marine Biodiversity
It’s an often-quoted fact that forests are home to 80 per cent of terrestrial biodiversity, but did you know that one type of tree also supports marine biodiversity—the mangrove tree?
Awareness is growing among governments and coastal communities in tropical countries of the incredible value of mangroves to nature and humans.
Mangrove trees store more carbon in their rich soils than most other trees, which makes them valuable assets in the fight against global heating. They also buffer storm surges, provide breeding grounds for fish and a host of other marine animals, and serve as effective filtration systems that prevent the influx of saline water which renders soil unfit for agriculture.
Biodiversity is an important ecosystem benefit that mangrove forests provide. Community and biodiversity-based ecotourism in mangroves can help generate incentives for conservation and sustainable management. Tourists have a wide range of options to experience the wonderful biodiversity of mangrove forests, including through boat tours, kayaking, snorkeling, bird watching and nighttime crab fishing.
In Madagascar, mangroves are home to lemurs which are among the most threatened group of mammals on Earth. These “swamp lemurs” were documented for the first time just a few years ago.
“Mangrove forests are highly productive ecosystems and their conservation should be the first priority, but where mangroves have disappeared restoration has also proved possible,” says United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) coastal and marine ecosystems expert Gabriel Grimsditch.
In 2019, the United Nations issued a massive global call to action to mobilize the political and financial support necessary to restore the world’s deforested and degraded ecosystems. The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration will run from 2021 to 2030 and emphasize scaling-up of restoration work to address the severe degradation of landscapes and forests, including mangroves, our marine blue forests.
Blue forests restoration initiatives
“The restoration of mangrove forests is a nice thing to do but who’s going to pay for it?” says Steven Lutz, Blue Carbon Lead at GRID-Arendal and Coordinator of the Global Environment Facility Blue Forests Project. “One option we are exploring is how payments for mangrove carbon could support healthy forests and coastal livelihoods.”
UNEP and partners have recently been involved in successful “mangrove carbon” finance projects in Kenya, and Madagascar under the Blue Forests Project.
These projects link mangrove forests to the global carbon market, with payments for mangrove carbon supporting the planting and conservation of mangrove trees and other benefits to the local communities. UNEP is currently supporting an exploration of how to similarly link seagrass ecosystems to the carbon market in Kenya.
As the world’s only examples of successful community-based mangrove carbon finance projects, the Kenya and Madagascar experiences were profiled in February at the Indian Ocean Blue Carbon Hub Inaugural Think Tank workshop in Mauritius. Results of the workshop included recognition that biodiversity and other ecosystem benefits, including carbon sequestration, are vital for advancing a nature-based healthy blue economy.
In Ecuador, the Blue Forests Project has supported Conservation International’s engagement with the government and local communities in setting up mangrove conservation agreements. Under the “socio manglar” programme, indigenous communities are given economic incentives—based on the rich biodiversity that mangrove’s support—to commit to the conservation and protection of mangrove forests. In this case, the communities gain exclusive use of the red mangrove crab and black cockle, both lucrative national fisheries.
“Restoration is not a quick win. Considerable financial resources and sustained buy-in from local communities over many years are needed for successful restoration projects,” says Isabelle Vanderbeck, a UNEP marine ecosystems expert working closely with the Global Environment Facility on mangrove restoration projects.
A Resolution adopted by the United Nations Environment Assembly on 15 March 2019 “encourages Member States to improve research, education and public awareness, build capacity for the sustainable management and restoration of mangroves and related ecosystems, and, to that end, consider ways in which to mobilize the necessary resources for developing countries.”
In Guyana, mangroves cover about 290 km of its 430 km coast, and line many of our rivers. They are unique plant species as they can survive under harsh conditions, such as water poor in oxygen, salt water, and brackish water (a mixture of salt and fresh water).
Mangroves are fast growers and reach up to 25m. Worldwide, mangroves cover approximately 172,000 km2 of the earth’s surface. However, about 35 per cent of this was lost during the last several decades. The quantity of mangrove forests in Guyana has also been declining. Many mangrove forests can be recognized by their dense tangle of prop roots that make the trees appear to be standing on stilts above the water.
This tangle of roots allows the trees to handle the daily rise and fall of tides, which means that most mangroves get flooded at least twice per day. Mangrove forests stabilize the coastline, reducing erosion from storm surges, currents, waves, and tides. The intricate root system of mangroves also makes these
forests attractive to fish and other organisms seeking food and shelter from predators.
Mangroves have been declared a protected species in Guyana and there is a fine for illegal cutting of mangroves
The Global Environment Facility International Waters focal area is enabling the Blue Forests Project to provide the first global-scale assessment of how the values of carbon sequestration and other coastal ecosystem services can be harnessed to achieve improved ecosystem management and sustainable communities while mitigating climate change. The project also improves knowledge for informed decision-making, raises awareness, fosters cooperation among all stakeholders, and provides experiences and tools for greater global application.
The United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030, led by the United Nations Environment Programme, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and partners such as the Africa Restoration 100 initiative, the Global Landscapes Forum and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, covers terrestrial as well as coastal and marine ecosystems. A global call to action, it will draw together political support, scientific research and financial muscle to massively scale up restoration. Help us shape the Decade. (United Nations)
4 Feature Sunday Times Magazine Reducing
Pollution with Electric Vehicles
By GCCI’s Green E onomy Comm ttee
The Green Economy Committee of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry as part of its mandate for 2020 intends to present features on businesses, developments, concepts and issues that are green related. This move is designed so that we can impact positively on reducing our carbon emissions while maintaining sustainable businesses and protecting Guyana’s natural capital.
Natural capital encapsulates our country’s land, air, water, living organisms, flora, fauna and all aspects of the earth’s biosphere that are critical for our ecosystem and human wellbeing.
The aim of these features is to create greater awareness of issues, developments, methodologies, measures and new concepts which we can consider, discuss or adopt, and engage the relevant stakeholders so as to allow us to benefit economically without injuring our environment so that we leave a resilient, healthy and enduring legacy for our children and our children’s children.
We are therefore pleased to present the first installment titled “Reducing Pollution with Electric Vehicles,” which takes a candid look at Electric vehicles while encouraging the use of alternate forms of energy that reduce our carbon footprint.
This month’s feature on the Battery Charge or Electric Vehicle is viewed as important to meeting the global goals of climate change as they present an alternative to fossil fuels and allow for cleaner air as there are no carbon emissions.
The Nissan LEAF is a compact five-door hatchback battery electric vehicle (BEV), introduced in Japan and the United States in December 2010, and now in its second generation. Its range on a full charge is 243 km (151 miles).
While battery charged vehicles are becoming fairly common in other sister CARICOM States particularly Barbados, its usage in Guyana is still novel.
Our team reached out to the owner of a BCV and here are the candid responses we got from Ms Vanessa Williams on some questions posed. It should be noted that while she encourages others to onboard with this vehicle, she has equally touched on some of the challenges one will encounter.
Vanessa Williams advocates the use of Electric Vehicles
Principal/Owner
My name is Vanessa Williams and I am the proud owner of a Nissan Leaf Electric Vehicle. I purchased this vehicle in October 2019 from a car dealership in Japan, Fiju Automotives.
GCCI: What drove you to buy a green vehicle?
Several factors led to me to purchasing my green car- the Nissan Leaf.
Aesthetics: the vehicle, in my opinion, is a very sleek small car, but don’t be fooled by its size. Its spacious interior makes this car very functional. Additionally, its modern features such as heated seat controls, touchscreen navigation, surround sound speakers and Bluetooth system, reverse mirror and intricate sensor system to detect if there is an object too close to the vehicle while it is in motion helps to make driving safe and comfortable.
No more visits to Gas stations: the thought of never having to stop at the gas station was a definite pull factor.
Reduction in expenses: considering the massive re
duction in petroleum expenditure that I anticipated.
No pollution, Cleaner Air: as an environmentally conscious person the “Zero Emission” tagline made this car the one for me.
Being Different: also I like the idea of simply being different so hence my choice.
GCCI: Was getting it registered with Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) straight forward?
The registration process was very straight forward. The GRA followed the normal procedures – inspecting the engine and recording its chassis number as per requirements for issuing the vehicle certificate of registration. There was nothing intrinsically special about the overall process.
GCCI: What do you like about the features?
Small but spacious making it easy to manoeuvre. Its modern design, is pleasing to the eyes but still has all the primary functionalities a vehicle needs to have acceleration pick -up time is another good feature, it allows the driver to go from 0-80 km in an instant
GCCI: How does it contribute to reducing carbon emissions?
The Nissan Leaf contributes to reducing carbon emission because it does not have a combustion engine like normal conventional petrol or diesel vehicles. This means the car emits no greenhouse gases contributing to a reduction in atmospheric air pollution which is especially good in urban areas. Because of the nature of the engine, it is also very silent when in motion, hence there is also a reduction in noise pollution.
GCCI: State advantages, if any
The vehicle has less moving parts which mean it requires little to no maintenance
It saves you time, not having to visit the gas station
It saves on gas expenditure Isn’t too expensive electricity wise GCCI: State challenges, if any
Due to the range, the vehicle can do on a charge, it calls for advanced journey planning.
Ease of access to charging points, the vehicle charges optimally on a 220v Voltage dis
tribution system, most houses in Guyana operate on a 110v voltage distribution system so having a vehicle like this causes for structural changes to be made to accommodate the car if you are renting this can be a challenge.
Finding the right adapter to connect the car charger to the domestic outlet is also a challenge since inferior chargers often can’t withstand the load.
The lack of trained electric vehicle technicians is also a constraint at this time.
Not aware if there are duty-free waivers for replacement parts or maintenance equipment used by Auto Technicians.
GCCI: Would you encourage others to follow you and if so why?
I would definitely encourage others to buy an electric vehicle. It reeks modernity and sophistication, is environmentally friendly and will save you tons of money in the long run. The car charges an average of four (4) hours on a 220 voltage distribution and eight (8) hours on a 110 voltage distribution system, from observation on average this equates to $800 in electricity cost per day and depending upon your driving pattern one charge can last two to three days. So, you do the math as to how much you can save.
GCCI: Is Guyana ready for these types of vehicles?
Yes and No. The government has made importing these vehicles very accessible since they are 100% duty-free. The average consumer just needs to pen a letter to Guyana Revenue Authority asking for this concession to be granted under the green state development strategy and voila the duty-free concession is granted, so from a policy perspective, I would definitely say, yes.
On the other hand, infrastructure is lacking. There are no charging ports within the city environs that are accessible to electric vehicle owners.
The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) had mentioned that they would be installing a charging port at their office in Quamina Street for government use (since the Government of Guyana also purchased a Nissan Leaf as part of its government fleet). I am not sure if this charging port has already been constructed or installed, and if it would be made accessible to the general public in the near future. However, the lack of this critical infrastructure places a limit on how far one can go. Additionally, while these vehicles require limited maintenance, the lack of trained electric vehicle technicians is also a constraint at this time.
The Green Economy Committee of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce, sincerely thanks Ms Williams for taking the time out to speak with us.
CARE FOR YOUR PET DURING THE FIRST FEW DAYS
Now, having dealt extensively on Emergencies and Home Treatments over the last few weeks, we shall now engage our discussions on general “Pet Care” for your companion animal(s) which hopefully will be with you for many happy years.
You have chosen your pet and you are taking it home. Of course, pulling a puppy on a leash behind you as you ride a bicycle is not an option. It is best to place the animal in a sturdy carton, box, traveling bag or the commercially available “pet taxi”.
Ventilation must be provided (holes in the box, zipper of bag slightly opened, etc.). Usually, the young animal is nervous, and so intimidated by the motion and surrounding commotion that it will remain fairly quiet in the transport container. The odd kitten might wish to tunnel its way out of a soft cardboard box and take a sudden leap into the traffic. Please guard against this.
If you are using a car, I would suggest taking someone along with you to hold the animal (if you prefer not to use a transport container) and to provide reassuring hugs and soothing petting and words. It is always advisable to have a towel, a roll of paper towel and some newspapers with you. Nervousness creates all sorts of consequences.
Let me tell you that cats do not like cars! Place the kitten in a strong enclosed container (with ventilation of course), if you do not wish to have it roaming and distracting you while driving, or, worse, escaping immediately when you open the door on arriving home.
And now the pet has arrived home. Great excitement greets this six-week old baby. All this generous welcome may be overwhelming and quite disturbing – as the general environment and the family members are strange to the animal. It is advisable to temper your overly demonstrative affections quickly.
Allow the pet to exit the transport container quietly and on its own terms, as it acquaints itself with its new surroundings. Feed it a light first meal. Keep the kids’ enthusiasm level and visits to a minimum. (Yes, its easy for me to say!). Boisterous and strenuous play on the first day is definitely not recommended, if ever. Your children must be repeatedly cautioned about overly zealous physical acts with the new member of the family and be particularly warned that the cute, little fur ball does not bounce and
must not be thrown in the air to see if it lands on its four feet. When you lift the pet, place one hand firmly under its chest and the other under its hind quarters. It this way the pet not only feels secure, but, is secure.
Of course, during the first few days, “Rover”, not having been house-trained will urinate and defecate at the most inopportune time and in the most undesirable places. Discipline and training must begin from day-one (we shall be dealing with the curbing of bad habits in the coming weeks).
As any pet owner will attest, the first night is agonising. The puppy/kitten is lonely. For the first time, neither Mummy or siblings are around to snuggle with and to bring comfort. Anything from whimpering to a full-fledged caterwauling could be expected.
Here are some suggestions that you may consider in preparing for the arrival of your new pet:
“Construct” a comfortable crate. A simple cardboard box lined with newspapers, a cushion or an old towel/rug will suffice. The front of the box should be open so that “Rover” can enter and exit easily. The Pet Shops supply very functional animal crates (see accompanying photo) that are light, collapsible, and easy to maintain, and offered in different sizes and colours. These are ideal for pets, especially if you intend to keep them indoors at night-time, and if you will be taking them with you on vacations out of town. Pets, like humans, are creatures of routine and enjoy their personal space and will happily enter their crates when they need to sleep or relax.
The crate must be large enough for the pet to lie, stand and stretch.
Above all, the crate must be placed in a draft-free location, but not a windowless room that is hot and stuffy and with no air circulation. In the case of kittens/cats, windows must be escape free.
If you have determined to keep the dog (never the cat) outside, you will have to build/buy a kennel with dimensions which will allow the animal comfort and manoeuverability. It must be at least nine inches above the ground. Not too high, though, as entering and ex
iting the kennel may become problematic as the dog gets older. Note, there are many excellent Guyanese carpenters/cabinet makers who can construct customised and beautiful kennels for the comfort of your pets.
There are some suggestions that dog and cat lovers have made over the years that have proven to be effective. You may place a sealed glass jar (or hot water bottle) with warm water into the crate to recreate the warmth of the mother and litter mates which are no longer present. Do not use electric heating pads as pets may bite the wires and receive a nasty shock or die from the electrocution. A ticking clock has also been suggested as the ticking sound simulates the heartbeat of the mother. Well, I am not going to disagree with anything that works! My dear mother (rest her soul) believed in rubbing salted butter on the mouth and nose of kittens and puppies as a distraction to give them solace in their loneliness during the first few nights
Please be informed that from next week, we will present the first of a series of Guest Columnists from the animal welfare organization, “Paws for a Cause - Guyana”.
ACROSS
1 Danke, in Dijon 6 Liquefies 11 Hearts, essentially 16 “The Caine Mutiny” captain 21 Tearjerker? 22 Acid in proteins 23 -- Aimee of films 24 Shadow made by an eclipse 25 Ph.D. exams 26 Entertainer -- Marie 27 Abu -- 28 Raises the lid 29 Compost 30 Making a bow 32 Toxic gas 34 Pair of 501’s 36 Let ‘er --! 37 Steel-mill refuse 39 Chinchilla habitat 41 Unfastened 43 Avers 45 Trellis coverers 47 Solve a case 49 Wind-borne silt 51 Town in oaters 54 Dense, as fog 55 Pitbull sound 56 “El Condor --” 60 Hoffman flop 61 18-wheeler 62 Stabs 64 Kind of story 65 Ancient colonnades 66 -- out of ideas 67 Presses a blouse 68 “Is it a bird? Is it a --?” 70 Oxford omega 71 Craggy abodes 73 First-rate, in slang 74 Dorm companion 75 Rat’s undoing 77 Snatches 78 Rent 79 Take back 80 Castle that danced 82 Taboos 83 “The Body” Ventura 84 Chauffeurs 87 Therefore 88 Heavy gold chain 89 In the vicinity 93 Overly ornate 94 Swell out 95 Kung fu cousin 97 -- Speedwagon 98 Prince Arn’s mother 99 Country cousins 100 Risky 101 Mrs. Gorbachev 103 Russell or Olin 104 Carpenters’ gadgets 106 Price tag 107 Be sure of (2 wds.) 108 Movie theater sign 110 Glimpse from afar 111 Choir member 112 Dozes 113 Came around 115 Has lots of status 116 Winter warmer 117 Pago Pago native 120 Gunslinger’s dare 122 Zeppo’s brother 124 Birds’ beaks 128 “I -- -- Rock” 129 Meadow murmur 131 “Peer Gynt” writer 133 Cliff dwellings, now 135 Very little 136 Vice -- 138 Kind of tooth 140 Magna cum -- 142 Turf grabber 144 Drama prizes 145 Gauguin’s prop 146 Certain wolf 147 Major artery 148 Texas spread 149 -- -craftsy 150 Saloon suds 151 En -- (all together)
DOWN
1 Drops anchor 2 Register for (var.) 3 Lasso 4 Rank above maj. 5 Prof. 6 Afternoon show 7 Revises 8 Feudal lord 9 Spike TV, once 10 Fly high 11 Corral 12 Detach 13 Ghostly noises 14 Dartboard locale 15 Read quickly 16 Game like horseshoes 17 Ballpark fig. 18 Siskel cohort, once
WORD GAME KATHLEEN SAXE
TODAY’S WORD -- PRAGMATIC
(PRAGMATIC: prag-MAT-ik: Concerned with facts or actual occurrences; practical.) Average mark 40 words Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 55 or more words in PRAGMATIC?
TODAY’S WORD -- PRAGMATIC
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. pact pair part pica pita pram prig prim ramp rapt riata agar amir amtrac apart aria armpit gait gimp girt gram grim grip grit maar magi magic marc mart mica taiga tamp tapa tapir tarmac tarp tiara tragic tram tramp trap trig trim trip impact impart camp carat carp cart cigar crag cram cramp crimp 19 Tennessee -- Ford 20 Horrified inhalations 31 Mr. Arafat 33 Partner of alas 35 Grenoble’s river 38 Persona non -- 40 Ski run 42 Bad weather culprit (2 wds.) 44 Cleopatra’s snake 46 Bovine stomachs 48 Wealthy 50 Big galoots 51 Composer Franz -- 52 Late bloomer 53 Ms. Harper sitcom 54 Coat racks 55 Troll’s cousin 57 Japanese volcano 58 Part of SST 59 Red as -- -- 61 Large family 62 -- Kringle 63 Ladybug features 66 Drescher and Lebowitz 67 Steamed 69 The beautiful Sophia 72 January in Jalisco 73 Pennies from London 74 Turn back the clock 76 Swing around 78 Hankers after 79 Return the favor 81 News summary 82 Proofer’s marks 83 Superman’s father (hyph.) 84 Mason’s private eye 85 Omega competitor 86 Boadicea’s people 87 Wifey’s mate 88 Fast-moving snake 90 Slezak of soaps 91 “Sour grapes” coiner 92 Reddish-brown horses 94 Kind of sticker 95 Put the -- on 96 Muse of poetry 99 Zwieback 100 Hamlet or Ophelia 102 U.N.’s Kofi -- 105 Helmsley of hotels
106 Oblivion 107 Rasher of -- 109 Way of Lao-Tzu 111 By implication 112 Office machines 114 “-- Cannonball” 115 Peep shows 116 More uncouth 117 Enjoy the taste 118 One-celled swimmer (var.) 119 Sausalito’s county 121 Discharge 123 As -- -- (usually) 125 Big pitchers 126 Cops’ rounds 127 Bristles 130 Aboard ship 132 Dollop 134 Rip-off 137 NYSE watchdog 139 1914 headline 141 Historical period 143 Mauna --
