Guyana Times Sunday October 27, 2019

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4089 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

Sunday, October 27, 2019

PRICE

Statutory provisions

GECOM’s attempt to breach can invalidate elections – former AG

See story on page 3

…PPP executive demands withdrawal of decision to publish H2H registrants

Diwali celebrations

Page 9

Opposition, President urge Guyanese to build stronger bonds of friendship

Ushering in the Festival of Lights

$120 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Fire destroys P13 Essequibo Coast home

Lack of support, P17 facilities challenging local manufacturers …farmers faced with strong competitors

Thousands support GTT’s fight against P17 cancer

Shallow grave murder

This well-illuminated float created by the Better Hope Mandir was part of the 2019 Diwali motorcade hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha. The motorcade left the Shri Krishna Mandir at Campbellville, Georgetown and 'cascaded' down the road heading to the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Ground where a cultural programme – an explosion of music, dance, clothes and songs – culminated the evening

2 die in car, ambulance smash-up

“We trusted him” – dead teen's mom says about suspect P8

Page 14

Dead: Tristan Clarke

Dead: Eon Reddock

Venezuelan gang kills woman, shoots boyfriend in Region 7 border robbery

Page 15

Police warn vendors about selling explosives

...charges imminent

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

news

Statutory provisions

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

Sunday, October 27 – 14:30h – 16:00h and Monday, October 28 – 04:30h –06:00h and 14:30h – 16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, October 27 – 15:50h – 17:20h and Monday, October 28 – 16:35h-18:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny conditions and sunny intervals are expected during the day. Clear skies are expected during the night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 15:58h reaching a maximum height of 2.89 metres.

Low Tide: 08:33h and 21:56h reaching minimum heights of 0.41 metre and 0.30 metre.

saturday, october 26, 2019

LOTTERY NUMBERS B

01 04 05

08 07 19

FREE TICKET

12 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

01 02 05 08 12 LUCKY 3

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5

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7

Afternoon Draw

9

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Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

04

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07

08

PAY DAY

14 15 19 SUPER PAY DAY

friday, october 4, 2019

03 05 06 09 12

01 08 09 10 11

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

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

GECOM’s attempt to breach can invalidate elections – former AG …PPP executive demands withdrawal of decision to publish H2H registrants

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he publication of the list of voters recorded during the discontinued House-to-House Registration is not only outside of statutory law, it can lead to the General and Regional Elections’ results being invalidated. This is according to former Attorney General Anil Nandlall.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Nandlall noted that the Guyana Elections Commission’s determination to publish this list separate from the Preliminary List of Electors (PLE) had very serious repercussions, as it can be used in an elections petition to overturn the election results.

“Now I understand that GECOM is bent on publishing a list of names generated by the truncated House- to-House exercise.

As you are aware, there is already a Preliminary List of Electors (PLE), which has been public, which is subject to a Claims and Objections (C&O) process.

“Any attempt to use a list not provided for by the law, to form part of the official list of electors, will render the entire list of electors as perverted and unlawful and if we go to an election with such a list, it exposes those elections to be set aside in an election petition, because important statutory procedures would have been violated,” Nandlall explained.

The former AG noted that there was no legal way the PLE could be updated, except by Claims and Objections, an exercise currently ongoing. He also explained that data collected from another source could not be merged into this preliminary list.

“There is no provision in the law for another list to be circulated. Elections is a statutory process. That means every step in the process is governed by a statutory provision. The law is that these statutory steps must be strictly complied with. Any violation of any of these statutory procedures can result in the elections being set aside. That is the nature of election law.

“The publication of this list generated by the Houseto-House exercise is not catered for at all in the law.

No one knows what use is going to be made of this list.

If the intention is to use this list to merge it to the OLE, then it will be a merger that is not sanctioned or provided for by the law and it will be a contamination of the OLE by data not provided for in the law.”

Nandlall cited Sections 11 and 21 of the National Registration Act. Section 11 (1) states that “No person shall be registered in more than one divisional register or more than once in any register established under

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall

GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh

CEO Keith Lowenfield

Section 9”.

Section 21, on the other hand, speaks to persons who procure or induce another to procure, voter’s registration in more than one register or more than once in a single register. This offence carries a fine and imprisonment of six months.

“It would appear as though this list is coming out separately. Now if you look at Section 11 and Section 33 of the National Registration Act, you will see that duplicate registration constitutes a criminal offence,” he said.

“This list is replete with duplicate registration. This list is a dossier of criminal offences. And those who participated in those offences are liable to be prosecuted under the National Registration Act.”

neer, Zulfikar Mustapha, has written GECOM Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, demanding that the list be withdrawn.

In his letter, Mustapha reminded Lowenfield of the statutory process to acquire the OLE that will be used in next year’s elections scheduled for March 2. He noted that nothing in the law allowed for the publication of

another list.

“The PPP has been informed that the GECOM Secretariat, upon your directions, has published the list of persons registered during the recently-truncated House-to-House Registration exercise. The reason for the publication of this list is unknown.”

Demands

But with the list of names already making the rounds, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Executive Secretary and chief scruti-

turn to page 11

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019

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

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Diwali 2019

oday, Diwali has become almost as widespread a Guyanese festival as Christmas used to be during colonial days. For the past five years, one group has erected a “National Diya” at Rahaman Park - at the confluence of roads leading to all the regions of Guyana.

This year, they lit six diyas, symbolising the vaunted “six peoples” of Guyana. Most schools now routinely have their students create intricate displays of “Rangolis”, which are associated with Diwali. Most corporate businesses have followed suit. Various “motorcades”, with spectacularly decorated and illuminated vehicles and tableaux, would have culminated last night on the East Coast of Demerara, after the regional variants during the last week.

Today, Hindu families would have meticulously cleaned their homes; befitting the welcoming of the Goddess Lakshmi this evening. Sumptuous vegetarian dishes would have been prepared with the emphasis of traditional sweets. “Diwali night” in Guyana, is actually the third and darkest night of the observation of a five-day festival, but has come to symbolise the entire observance for many. Lakshmi represents that aspect of God who bestows wealth on humanity and it is not a coincidence that this is a female aspect, also associated with Earth and is the consort of Lord Vishnu, the aspect that preserves all creation.

But as with all Hindu commemorations, Diwali is intended to remind humanity of one or another of the fundamental lessons for mankind living successfully together in society. It would be a rarity for Guyanese not to know that the festival symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. But it also signifies the victory of knowledge over ignorance. Today in Guyana, each of these facets of the same truth need to be brought to the fore more than ever. Much of Hindu teachings are in the form of narratives and there are several that have become associated with Diwali and which may be useful to the nation.

The major story is of Prince Ram and his wife Mother Sita, returning to their Kingdom of Ayodhya on Diwali night after a 14-year banishment. They are also the incarnations of Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi whose sojurn on earth are meant as guides for humanity.

The story emphasises that there are challenges in all societies, but a ruler must be guided by the welfare of his people in his actions and if necessary, make the ultimate sacrifice for their benefit. One other lesson is that evil must be actively confronted as Lord Ram did against Ravan, and that each citizen can and must play a part in this battle.

The victory of knowledge against ignorance is key for all mankind in every aspect of their lives since it precedes any other victories that are necessary to live the “good life”. It is because of ignorance, for instance, that most of us follow leaders who act in the most reprehensible manner, both in their private and public lives. Lord Ram’s life, as with all of God’s incarnations, can give us the knowledge of how a person should only act as a leader of the people or nation, but also as a brother, a husband, a son, a teacher and a friend. Lord Ram himself had to taught not just the art of warfare, but about values by his teacher who exemplified those values in his own life.

And perchance this might be the message of Diwali 2019: since we are in the midst of the process of selecting a leader of Guyana we need to go beyond the rhetoric that will be spouted on platforms until March 2, 2010 and look at the actions of those presenting themselves for leadership. A small majority of Guyanese had to have believed the rhetoric of the APNU/AFC coalition in 2015 to have elected them into government at the last elections. They made all sorts of promises – to each other in the Cummingsburg Accord and to the people of Guyana in their Manifesto. How much did their words match their deeds? Happy Diwali Guyana!

Thousands of persons turned up on Saturday morning for GTT’s Pinktober Awareness Walk through the streets of Georgetown.

In this capture, the participants made their way through the Kitty Roundabout as they returned to D’Urban Park, all supporting the fight against cancer (Photo by Caliper Drone Services)

Claims and Objections doing well with the PLE! Dear Editor, A careful look at the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) current Claims and Objections work confirms a swift and potent movement towards achieving the production of a very good List of Electors.

On October 24, 2019, the Public Relations Department of GECOM reported over 13,000 completed transactions including new registrations, transfers and corrections using a smooth approach acceptable and embraced by most citizens. The results have realised reactions that emphasise the ‘irk’ of PNCR spin dancers at the Elections Commission, others in the Secretariat and leading orchestrators of the Government.

There must be no deviation from the rule of law as it relates to necessary steps GECOM has to follow in establishing an acceptable Preliminary List of Electors (PLE). Chair of GECOM, Justice Retired Claudette Singh must be decisive and assertive in preserving the credibility of the process and integrity of the final list towards necessary free and fair elections.

There have been persistent moves by PNC Commissioners at the Commission to contaminate or invalidate the results of the updates to the PLE, which GECOM can legitimately do following the end of this activity on November 4, 2019.

Mr Vincent Alexander’s proposal to the illegal removal of 20,000 names of persons who have not uplifted identification cards is indecent, absolute rubbish, and tantamount to contempt of court given that the Chief Justice recently ruled to the contrary on this matter. The attempt by the Secretariat to use highly suspicious data from the controversial and unver-

ified House-to-House is troubling and a serious matter of concern.

Although the Chief Justice also ruled that it is not illegal for GECOM to utilise a House-to-House approach to address matters regarding the Register of Registrants, it is a known fact that whenever this approach is considered; the basis is a decision to scrap the existing list and to create a new base of registrants. There was absolutely no need to scrap the existing list, which the APNU/AFC and their cohorts deliberately ensured expired on April 30, 2019, using surreptitious manoeuvres. Further, the Claims and Objections approach has proven to be most speedy and effective towards a legal update of the Register of Registrants.

It is now public knowledge that without a Chairman of GECOM being in place, Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield took it upon himself to impose a “$4 billion” House-toHouse campaign on the citizens of Guyana. In so doing, he biasedly moved to counter and reject the Caribbean Court of Justice’s ruling consequent to the carried NoConfidence Motion, that the President remains in place with the primary function of ensuring that elections are held in three months or within such extended period approved by 75 per cent of members of the National Assembly. Mr Lowenfield's run-off of the highly controversial House-to-House exercise has achieved nothing but extending the assault of the illegal APNU/AFC Government on the people of Guyana.

Chair of GECOM, Justice Retired Claudette Singh deserves compliments for stopping the controversial House-to-House Registration and commencing the Claims

and Objections using the Preliminary List of Voters extracted from the Register of Registrants. The Register of Registrants is fully acceptable since its life only ended in on April 30, 2019. Hence, the scrutineers from the APNU/AFC and the PPP/C are busy doing the field visits and verifying all the transactions. However, it is of note that in the Claims and Objections, GECOM’s staff are authorised to use solely the PLE to determine transfers and other transactions.

It is therefore only this PLE, which the Secretariat can amend, by addressing the necessary verified changes for the update of the Register.

It follows that the suggestion of a merger of information from the illegally conducted and unverified House-to-House is out of the question and must be set aside. While it is clear that the Chief Elections Officer has 7 days after the end of the Claims and Objections period to consider petitions for changes, logical concerns emerge that places any merger in breach of the legal framework. First is the fact that given the timeline taken by the contracted international firm to complete the first batch of the necessary cross-matching of fingerprints, the organisation would not complete the second half within 7 days of November 4, 2019, which signals the end of Claims and Objections. Second, the question as to whether the Secretariat, in areas of dispute, intends to give priority to the international cross-matching over the completed verification by all scrutineers at the ongoing Claims and Objections.

I am aware that some GECOM staff were refusing to do transfers and registrations for persons who they claimed registered

during the infamous Houseto-House. It took representations from the PPP/C Chief Scrutineer Mr Mustapha before several GECOM Offices corrected these issues.

Hence, the GECOM offices are no longer turning back residents, after telling them that the controversial Houseto-House Registration will put their names on the final voters’ list. Some GECOM staff were deliberately confusing residents.

Guyanese must be cognisant of the confusion mongers at GECOM. The PNC Commissioners are peddling false news that by Thursday, October 24, the public will be given an opportunity to view the entire list of persons that were registered during the House-to-House Registration exercise that was abruptly halted by the Chair of GECOM. This exercise would be an activity in futility because despite the encoding being completed, the cross-matching is yet to be completed.

What would the publication of partial information reveal other than more confusion?

Thus, it would be appropriate to conclude that the tactic of the PNC Commissioners is hell-bent on creating situations of confusion to frustrate the electorates and manipulate the process to pave the way for the possibility of an election petition at the conclusion of the already delayed elections in 2020.

This Claims and Objections process is good enough to produce the final voters’ list for the March 2, 2020, National and Regional Elections and we must reject the PNC’s procrastination.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

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

Parliament must be dissolved Is confusion of the electorate a goal? to pave way for elections Dear Editor, When the dust is settled from the partisan storm created and perpetuated

by GECOM in preparation for General Elections and the Official List of Electors (OLE) is generated and accepted as ‘credible’ for such purpose of holding National and Regional Elections and at the end of those elections it would be viewed as free and fair, and even if PNC – APNU loses by 4506 votes (the same amount of votes GECOM awarded to APNU in 2015 general elections to secure the presidency) they will accept the results without reservation, not to highlight the destruction that will be unleashed upon Georgetown proper by way of political vandalism and race-hate attacks on innocent citizens should they refuse to accept the results. At this time, the matter of primary importance is to en-

sure that General Elections are held on the date which was set by (a so-called promissory note) a proclamation for March 2, 2020. On account of the legal challenges and evidences which stemmed from the valid NoConfidence Motion and the vote of December 21, 2018, and now on to the Houseto-House Registration appeal case filed against the High Court decision by the Attorney General where hearings are scheduled to start early December 2019, and this is expected to last until the mid of 2020 should the matter end up all the way to the CCJ. Such undertakings can very well push back General Elections beyond March 2, 2020. Of course, should this happen, the prime beneficiary will always be the PNC-APNU caretaker Government as they will continue gallivanting and enjoying their

good life at the expense of taxpayers’ dollars in high team spirits in violation of the Burnham 1980 Constitution, having no legitimacy and legal grounds to govern the nation whilst undermining democracy and the rule of law in Guyana.

As March 2, 2020 approaches, I urge civil society, the international community, other international organisations and donor agencies to call on caretaker President Granger to dissolve Parliament on or before December 4, 2019, covering 90 days up to March 2, 2020. This will ensure that General Elections are held on March 2, 2020, as per proclamation and are not pushed back to accommodate further court cases.

Sincerely, Paul Ramrattan

Dear Editor, The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is set to release the list of persons who registered during its truncated House-to-House (H2H) 2019 exercise.

Why would the Secretariat release a list of over 370,000 names during the ongoing Claims and Objections exercise? There has been a discussion by the Commissioners of GECOM about a merger of the H2H list with the current Register of Registrants but no details of how this can/ will be accomplished within a legal framework. Any merger must not compromise the rights of voters, the existing Preliminary List of Electors and any laws of Guyana.

This list has no legal basis; it has not been extracted from the National Register of Registrants (NRR). This is not a Preliminary List of Electors (PLE). The H2H exercise was done without unanimous consent of the Commissioners and its validity is questionable. The ques-

Congratulations to Dr Irfaan Ali on earning doctorate Dear Editor, Our congratulations to Irfaan Ali, now Dr Ali, on his accomplishment in attaining an earned doctorate from a very reputable University of the West Indies (UWI). I was one of those who was not pleased with explanations about his qualifications, but Dr Ali’s accomplishment has erased all such doubts.

The UWI has very high standards, probably higher than most American universities. So the award of a PhD to Dr Ali has removed all questions about his qualifications. This now puts to rest the spurious criticisms of Dr Ali’s detractors questioning his credentials.

A friend who has a high position in the Government service said to me that Dr Ali was quite an effective and efficient Minister who eschewed backward gov-

ernmental rules. He spoke highly of Minister Ali’s stewardship as a Minister.

Truth be told, the PPP’s housing programme was the most progressive and the single most important accomplishment of the PPP regime. It was a model within Caricom and the Third World. No one can deny that he PPP’s years in power saw the most house lots awarded to a wide cross-section of the Guyanese community all over the country regardless of race or party affiliation. And much of that progress in housing and water was under Minister Ali. The PNC now having control of all the Government, legal, law enforcement, and coercive apparatus of the State, is using these State entities such as SOCU to demonise the Opposition with

spurious charges, all of which have failed so far.

While the PNC excuses itself saying “it’s a Cabinet decision,” it has brought trumped-up charges against Ali for actions taken on decisions by the PPP’s Cabinet. Granger pardoned and absolved Minister Jordan against a court order saying he is not liable for something he did as a Minister, but they have laid charges against Ali for acts approved by

Cabinet. The PNC knows that Ali will not be convicted of wrongdoing, but that the damage to him is the demonisation process to sully him as a presidential candidate. Same thing with Mr Nandlall being accused of a silly charge of stealing law books. Watch how karma will catch up with the PNC after they lose the election in 2020.

Sincerely, Jerry Singh

tion of what purpose is served by the release of this list remains unanswered. Is confusion of the electorate a goal?

The preposterous suggestion by GECOM Commissioner Charles Corbin that persons whose names do not appear on the H2H list be flagged for extra scrutiny on Election Day 2020, must be placed alongside the sewing of yellow stars on clothing in the annals of infamy. It is especially odious in its attempt to discriminate and intimidate law-abiding citizens.

The question of why release the complete list of 370,000 names has engaged my attention, the logical course of action is to extract the names of new registrants, those not previously on the NRR, and publish that list; it would be a much smaller amount of names. The H2H exercise was a contentious one and was done without the participation of PPP scrutineers being part of the process as required by law. The data gathered was entered on a non-statutory form, ie not the form approved by all parties and laid in Parliament. A small list of new registrants could easily be sampled and verified by local and/or international organisations inter-

ested in free and fair elections to restore parliamentary democracy in Guyana.

Editor, I have a suspicion we will find many irregularities in the list of new registrants such as 16-year-olds registered as 18 and therefore made eligible to vote. If the new registrants are the only names published, verification, as outlined above, could easily be executed.

By publishing the entire 370,000 names, the GECOM Secretariat will make it a much harder task to find any acts of fraud, but not impossible and therein lies the rub.

What the Secretariat and any complicit Commissioners have not factored into their dastardly plan is the sheer will of the electorate to work as hard as required to return our nation to legal, constitutional and democratic rule.

We will work assiduously to unearth any acts of fraud and bring the perpetrators to justice. Actions have consequences, and any person who signed forms with fraudulent data will face the full force of the law, both locally and internationally. There is no statute of limitation for the crime of sedition.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

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Messages

Diwali has become a pillar of Guyanese should respect the our cultural landscape – ERC sanctity of Diwali – IAC

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n this auspicious occasion of the festival of Deepavali, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) would like to extend greetings and best wishes to all Guyanese, especially our Hindu brothers and sisters.

Deepavali signifies, among other things, that light will eventually triumph over darkness which is a profound source of inspiration so that all mankind can remain hopeful. It also emboldens humanity with hope-giving surety that even in the face of insurmountable challenges, strength will be imbued for them to be overcome.

These and the other important lessons of Deepavali provide guidance for us all as we continue to work assiduously towards the national goal of strengthening the bonds of friendship among our Guyanese brothers and sisters. It is through this that national harmony can be achieved so that we can confront challenges together and remove the dark veil of division.

This, therefore, becomes essential for the furtherance of peace and goodwill and we can be comforted knowing that our combined efforts can realise that seeming-

ly elusive light which can allow national harmony to shine through and for which we all yearn.

Deepavali, like our other national festivals, is a much-anticipated event. It has not only transcended religious boundaries but has become a pillar of our cultural landscape. The traditional motorcades and their inherent beauty along with that of the thousands of flickering diyas are important conduits through splendour which brings our people from across the country together.

The ERC, therefore, urges that we endeavour so that particular influence can be built upon for the promotion of harmony, unity and good relations among us all in this multifaceted society.

As we gravitate towards that light of enlightenment, let us be reminded that Deepavali, through its significance, is replete with messages for togetherness.

These, if heeded and inculcated, bode well for the advancement of our nation, its people and humanity at large.

Shubh Deepavali to all!

Let the lights of Diwali light up our pathway to harmony, economic well-being – GAWU

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he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is once again pleased to join with all Guyanese and especially our Hindu community, to celebrate Diwali, widely regarded as the Festival of Lights. The Diwali observances give us an appropriate occasion to urge that peace, tolerance, understanding and compromise, especially in today’s conditions, brighten our pathways and guide us in our daily lives. Like the thousands of Diwali diyas in many regions which will light up the darkness of the night, let our existence be unobstructed by the darkness that forestalls our development and well-being.

The Diwali celebration is one that today transcends one community and is supported nationally. The symbol of the lighted diyas is not only lovely to behold

in the evening but it imparts the message of the value of spiritual enlightenment in our collective efforts to bring about conditions for our peace of mind and a satisfying life.

With such sentiments in mind, GAWU is always pleased to be associated with the usual wide interest shown in the expectedly dazzling celebrations that are traditionally associated with Diwali.

We wish all the practitioners of the Hindu faith, and indeed all Guyanese, a happy and enjoyable Diwali, the festival of lights.

Let the lights, at this time, light up our pathway to harmony, economic well-being and our general upliftment.

Happy Diwali!

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he Indian Action Committee (IAC) extends Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, especially persons who are adherents of Sanatana Dharma on the occasion of the now globally-recognised festival of Deepavali or Diwali, which is derived from the Sanskrit language and means “a row of lights”. Diwali falls on the new moon night of the month of Kartika and is celebrated over a period of five days in India.

Diwali is associated with several mythological stories, one of them dealing with the belief of Hindus that, on the day of Diwali, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, King of Lanka, and that the people of Ayodhya celebrated his return by lighting thousands of diyas.

The IAC recognises that in Guyana, the Goddess Lakshmi Maataa, or Maha Lakshmi, is venerated on the day of

Diwali, her devotees ardently believe that their veneration of her will result in wealth and prosperity being bestowed upon them in the future.

The bright lights of Diwali are believed, by Hindus, to guide and welcome Lakshmi Maataa into their homes where she can bestow her blessings on them and their families, and also guide and welcome Lord Rama back to Ayodhya.

The bright lights of Diwali are also considered to signify the illuminatory power of knowledge which destroys the darkness of ignorance and also represents the triumph of good over evil.

The IAC calls upon all Guyanese to respect the sanctity of Diwali and engage in appropriate and fitting observances and activities.

Shubh Diwali.

Guyanese diversity is an asset, not a liability – PNCR T

he People’s National Congress religious diversity and believes that our Reform takes this opportunity diversity has worked and will continto extend greetings to the Hindu ue to work to the country’s advantage. community in Guyana and indeed, to all Guyana is a multi-religious, multi-ethGuyanese, on the occasion of Deepavali nic and multi-cultural country. Our diversity is an asset, not a liability. Our or Diwali.

Diwali occurs on the night of party is proud to belong to a society of Amavasya (New Moon) in the month of many faiths.

As we celebrate Diwali, the PNCR Kartik, which is considered to be the darkest night on the Hindu calendar remains committed to ensuring unity and marks the return of Lord Rama af- in diversity so that our beloved country ter 14 years in exile. To welcome his re- can experience real development and turn and to light his path, diyas were progress.

lit.

Shubh Diwali to all Diwali is a joyous celebration of inner light over spiritual darkness, knowledge Guyanese! over ignorance and right over wrong.

It is a festive restatement of the Hindu belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil.

The PNCR has always been and will always remain respectful of Guyana’s cultural and he Alliance For much more than a reliChange extends gious festival, and it imour best wishes to pacts Guyanese from all the Hindu community of walks of life. The rows Guyana on this the larg- and creative designs of est and brightest festival lights, diyas and colouron your annual calendar. ful rangolis bring out our In this celebration of life collective joy and brotherand goodness, the AFC liness.

The AFC urges sincerely hopes that the auspiciousness, strength Guyanese of all faiths to and wisdom that Diwali transfer the teachings of represents will contin- Diwali into family and soue to guide the paths you cial relationships. This take in the near and dis- festival is a true lesson in togetherness, and a celtant future.

Diwali, or Deepavali, ebration of joy in accomadds greater signifi- plishment. We must all cance from the vanquish- remember that Diwali is ing of evil by Lord Rama. a celebration of life itself Guyana is on a similar and that the lights and dipath, with rows of lights yas, the cleanliness and laid down to guide our brilliant colours, represent hope and love for all way forward.

The AFC fully embrac- humankind. es the brilliance of Diwali H a p p y and the effect that this Festival of Lights has on Diwali to all all of us. It has become Guyanese!

Diwali is a true lesson in

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Shallow grave murder

“We trusted him” – dead teen’s mom says about suspect

By Kristen Macklingham

“W

e never had that thought that he [the suspect] would do something like this, we trusted him.”

Those were the sentiments shared by the mother of 14-year-old Christopher Basdeo, who was murdered and buried in a shallow grave by a relative.

Standing in her Parfaite Harmonie Housing Scheme yard as they prepared for the wake, Debbie Basdeo said that her youngest child left home at about 16:30h on October 17 to visit a friend.

Not realising that it was the last time she would see her child alive, she said she casually said goodbye when he said, “mommy I coming back” as he left the home.

The next time Debbie saw her son was on Friday when his lifeless body was dug out of a shallow grave at a construction site on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD) on Friday.

She said that her son left to go visit a friend, who lives abroad and is vacationing in Guyana. She said that he later left to visit his sister and left her house with a relative but was never seen alive again.

“Friday we were coming over the [Demerara] Harbour Bridge and the Region Three Police Commander called to say that they found a body and when we went by the back at the Koker area. It is a foundation of a house sand filled, they dug up the spot and there was my son buried there. He [the relative]

confessed to the police that he lash my son to his head with a wood and he left him there to bleed and he went back to his home. When he got to his home he take a sheet from his sister and he went back around 8 o’clock and he wrapped him in the sheet and buried him down in the sand,” the woman said as she steadied herself.

The grieving woman told Guyana Times on Saturday

that after the teen disappeared, they searched the same area with no idea that his lifeless body was hidden in close vicinity.

“He normally goes to the pine farm and he picks pine right there and we went there the day before his body was found. We walked through and were searching all over we were searching for my son not knowing my son buried right there. We

husband to notify them that he was behaving in a suspicious manner.

It was after receiving this information that the teen’s family reported to the police, who immediately went in search of the rice farmer and took him into custody for questioning.

“His [the suspect’s brother] called to say he looked suspicious and that he has poison. The police asked

The grieving mother of teenager Christopher Basdeo, holding a photo of her dead son

that she firmly believes that her son might have still been alive after he was struck and had the suspect sought help, he could have been alive today.

Fighting back tears as she spoke, Debbie said that the location where her son’s body was found was in close proximity to a farm that he would frequent. She said

walked right through that place to go and I didn’t know my son was right by the second post. It is real hurtful to know, he should not have killed my child…my 14-year-old didn’t do anything to deserve this,” the grieving woman related.

According to her, it was the suspect’s brother who had contacted her and her

him what he was doing with it and he said if the police questioned him then he would drink it.”

The family was also told that the man was seen with mud on his skin on the night of her son’s disappearance.

It was on Friday, after intense grilling by investigators, that the rice farmer admitted that he and Basdeo were consuming alcohol in their village when an argument over money ensued.

He told the police that he and the teen ended up in a physical altercation. He admitted that he picked up a piece of wood and used it to deal a blow to Basdeo’s head.

In his confession statement, the rice farmer stated that the impact from the hit resulted in the teenager falling to the ground. He said he left him on the ground and returned to his home.

However, the man said that later on that night, he returned to the location, picked up Basdeo’s body, and dug a 7ft 2” shallow grave where he buried the body.

In the company of several policemen, the rice farmer returned to the crime scene and, after digging the spot which the man claimed he had buried the boy, the decomposed body of Basdeo was found. His skull also appeared to have been fractured.

Basdeo’s family was subsequently contacted and the body was positively identified by his father, Chitranauth Basdeo.

Playing politics...

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…with blinders on s we can see, the field appears to be getting rather crowded in the political sweepstakes! “Appears”!!

By the time nomination day rolls around, 80% of the newbies will fall by the wayside on account of their inability to garner even the minimum number of signatures (150) in six of our 10 regions to endorse them!!

But what’s troubling is that, while promising alternatives to the two big boys on the block, the newbies just insist that whatever the latter do, they can do better! Fight corruption better; create jobs better; be more gender-andyouth-sensitive, and so on, and so forth. But, from where your Eyewitness is standing, they’re missing the point. Did they ever think they may need to present a completely new paradigm from that wherein the PPP and PNC have been operating??

When Jagan appeared on the scene in the 1940s, there were all sorts of politicians already entrenched. But he looked around and realised that the new circumstance of universal franchise would shake up the old premises of politics, and he offered a new vision to incorporate the folks who’d been ignored up to then: the poor and the powerless, who now had something of value – their votes. What is the new vision of these new political wannabees to deal with the new political reality??

And what is that reality, you ask, dear reader?? Well, duh!! Just look at the news from across the world on your TV screens. See all those protests? They may have different local proximate causes, but they all boil down to the fact that the neo-liberal paradigm which had swept the globe from the 1980s has collapsed, and confusion and disorder now reign. As Gramsci noted apropos an earlier world crisis, “The crisis consists precisely in the fact that the old is dying and the new cannot be born; in this interregnum a great variety of morbid symptoms appear.”

The “new” will be born only when a new vision is articulated to deal with the specific challenges roiling so many countries. Look at the protests in Chile, where the neoliberal prescriptions of “liberalisation, privatisation and stabilisation” were first unleashed. They first produced the dictator Pinochet, who killed thousands before the Holy Grail of “growth” at any cost was achieved. But, as in the other countries where the medicine was tried, there WAS growth – but at a price – severe inequalities!

So while the middle class has increased, 1% of the population in Chile owns 25 percent of the wealth generated in the country!! And imagine, it’s even worse in the US!!

With oil coming, where’s the new vision to prevent that happening here? …or hardball?

The PNC don’t mind taking candy from a baby, nor do they mind kicking folks who’re already on the ground.

As your Eyewitness showed yesterday, they practise the hardball politics of Machiavelli! Imagine, with the full panoply of AFC execs -- including two sitting ministers of the Government and one former minister -- declaring that the negotiations between their party and the PNC had stalled over the PM candidate, the chief negotiator for the PNC -Volda Lawrence -- flatly told them she didn’t know what the hell they were talking about.

Using Machiavelli’s advice to find plausible excuses for lying, Volda “only-PNC-friends” Lawrence explained that, constitutionally, Granger’s the President, and HE gets to choose his PM. Never mind the agreements. She reiterated Granger’s earlier statement: that he was “open to suggestions from all partners”!! So now a new list of six names will be suggested, and we know who Granger will choose, don’t we? The PNC person he always had in mind!!

Lawrence assured the AFC that, “We’ll come out stronger than ever”. “We”, of course, is the PNC!! …with sugar GuySuCo’s falling so far behind its projected target that there’s got to be more in the mortar than the pestle can pound. Unmet targets mean no Annual Production Incentive (API) payouts for sugar workers, and that means they’ll have a very bleak Christmas. Take that, PPP supporters!!

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

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Diwali celebrations 2019

Opposition, President urge Guyanese to build stronger bonds of friendship gether, across geographical, racial and religious boundaries, to forge a stronger a more united nation.”

Meanwhile, Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha President, Dr Vindhya Persaud in her message pointed out the philosophical, economic and social dimensions of the celebration. She noted that even as Diwali is celebrated, efforts must continue to reduce social ills and improve

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Hindu Dharmic Sabha President, Dr Vindhya Persaud

President David Granger

n the eve of Diwali, considered the darkest night in the Hindu calendar and an occasion of deep religious meaning, greetings have come pouring in from around the country including political parties, the State and the Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

In its greetings, the People’s Progressive Party urged Guyanese to impart the lessons from Diwali in their daily lives, urging Guyanese to be inspired to work in the interests of all and to forge stronger bonds of togetherness.

“Our party urges that the pertinent messages that Deepavali teaches, be reflected upon and heeded.

Let’s be comforted knowing that knowledge will defeat ignorance and that in the end, compassion will triumph over despair,” the

party said in its Diwali message.

“Let us also use this occasion to be inspired to work in the best interest of all Guyanese and to build stronger bonds of togetherness as we participate in the various events that have come to be associated with this truly national festival.”

The party also noted the special significance of the occasion and the fact that Diwali has transcended religious borders, to also become a cultural affair upheld by Guyanese of all walks of life.

Meanwhile, President David Granger in his greetings on the occasion said that the underlying message that Diwali carries is a universal one. He also noted that the occasion reminds all of the values that

unite Guyanese as a nation.

These values, he pointed out, are compassion, kindness and righteousness.

“Diwali is a significant celebration. It is a cultural retention of the Hindu community and is observed by all as a national holiday.

This ancient Hindu festival was brought to our shores one hundred and eightyone years ago. The festival recalls how the people of Ayodhya lit small earthen lamps (diya) to illuminate the way for the return of Ram and Sita.”

“Diwali’s moral message is universal. Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, prosperity over poverty and hope over despair and the joy of homecoming. Guyana is becoming a more cohesive society as our people continue to work to-

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the economic progress and abundance of all Guyanese.

“Festivals are an integral part of Hinduism.

Deepavali, a national holiday, stands as one of the loveliest festivals on our calendar. It is observed annually on Amavasya (New Moon) in the lunar, Hindu month of Kartik,” she said.

“As we celebrate, let us continue our drive and advocacy for the empowerment and protection of children,

women and the vulnerable against violence and abuse; equal opportunity for all; a safer and secure country; protection of citizens’ rights and welfare; and economic progress and abundance for all Guyanese. These must remain prominent on our agenda.”

Diwali will be celebrated today, October 27, 2019. The event will see a motorcade travelling from Georgetown along the East Coast.

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

NEWS

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

GECOM’s attempt to breach can invalidate elections...

from page 3

Strategy for small parties and change

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n January 2005, with elections a year away, I proposed a “Centre Force” strategy for the plethora of smaller parties then around: ROAR, GAP, WPA -- the three with single seats in Parliament -- together with the JFAP, Unity Party and Vision Guyana, plus individuals who would soon form the AFC. We are at a similar juncture, and I again proffer the advice against the background that it was rejected then, but the “Third Force” that emerged died in stillbirth. This is being done for several reasons, but primarily because most believe they could work with “either” the PNC or PPP, but insist on not “together”.

“ROAR entered the political realm to place on the national agenda two home truths: that our present politics are dominated by ethnic insecurities, and that we have to create a political system that would accommodate all the chosen representatives of the various groups in Ravi Dev Guyana to deal with those insecurities. The first truth is now generally accepted by all and sundry, including most of the political representatives.

The second is also generally accepted, so what’s the problem?

The problem is one of credible representation of ethnic groups through the presence of their chosen representatives in the PPP and PNC. They believe they can address ethnic insecurities by co-option of ethnic individuals under “Civic” and “Big Tent” labels respectively.

ROAR believes that the abovementioned proposals fall short. Smaller parties working with either one of the two dominant parties would inevitably leave the other out. It is unlikely that Guyana would have social peace if either of the two major parties is out of the picture. It is also improbable that any other party would be able to displace either of them at the next election. So how do we avert our tsunami of conflict?

ROAR believes it is time for a “Centre Force” to be created and nurtured. What is this Centre Force? For one, it’s not a “Third Force” that feels it can wish away the PPP and PNC. It’s a Force that should seek to occupy the political, social, and cultural ground between the PPP and PNC, hence “Centre”.

Today, in Guyana, there are a number of political parties outside the ambit of the PPP and the PNC -- ROAR, GAP, WPA, JFAP, etc. -- that can begin the process of creating this Centre Force. These could be joined by the parties now in formation by other committed Guyanese.

What would be some incentives for these parties to work together?

Firstly, the ineffectuality of the opposition (including the PNC) to influence the formation of policy should be an object lesson to those who believe “Westminster” politics can work in Guyana. Secondly, the experience of The United Force, both with the PNC (1964-1968) and PPP (2001-present) demonstrates the inadvisability of the smaller parties seeking a coalition arrangement with either the PPP or the PNC. There’s the matter of “the disequilibrium of size” when it comes to coalition between parties of vastly different strengths, it matters not the good intentions of the parties seeking to coalesce. If a mosquito joins forces with an elephant, it should not be surprised when it is taken for granted, or even ignored during crucial decisions.

There’s the iron law of oligarchy: In all organisations, power will accrete in the hands of a few, and we can be sure the few won’t come from the ranks of the mosquitoes.

What would be the ground rules for a Centre Force?

Firstly, they should not get together simply to deny the PPP or the PNC the government. That would result in a “coalition of convenience”, which would quickly and acrimoniously fall asunder. They would have to be committed to a common programme to form a “coalition of commitment”. This does not mean that they have to agree on each and every point.

That they are different parties means that they do not agree on each and every point. There’s nothing wrong with that; and in fact there’s everything right with it.

The way forward is a confederation of parties, wherein they keep their identities as they work together to craft a common and truly national programme (because of their diversity) for Guyana. In the crafting of such a programme, it is possible (and in our estimation quite likely) that much common ground can be found. And it would also demonstrate to the Guyanese people that there are compromises each of the small parties are willing to make to work together for Guyana, and not just preaching it to the PPP and PNC individually.

The letter added that there was no provision in the law for two separate lists or for a merger of data from these two sources. “In this instance, the PLE was derived from the NRR. The only method provided for in the law for this list to be updated is by C&O. In the circumstances, we respectfully demand that you withdraw from public circulation the list,” the letter stated.

Mustapha also informed Lowenfield that the letter would be copied to GECOM Chairperson, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, “with the expectation of her urgent intervention, should our demand be ignored”.

On Tuesday last, GECOM Commissioner Charles Corbin had announced that GECOM had completed the encoding process for data gathered from the recent House-to-House Registration exercise. He had also announced that fingerprints would be sent overseas to be cross-matched and that information would be published from Thursday.

Soon afterwards, the three GECOM Commissioners nominated by the PPP made it clear that no decision on the issue was taken by the full commission and that Tuesday’s meeting had ended with more questions than answers on publishing the names.

To date, Chairperson Singh has been silent on the issue, leading Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to urge her to be more assertive in bringing clarity to disputes at the Commission. Since her appointment, Justice Singh has had no interview engagements with the media corps on the work GECOM is doing.

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com20

WORLD FOOD DAY “Those who think they have no time for healthy eating will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”

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n October 16, World Food Day w a s observed under the theme “Our Actions Are Our Future. Healthy Diets for A Zero Hunger World”. Focus was placed on tackling global hunger.

Due to globalisation, urbanisation and income growth, our diets and eating habits are changed. Instead of seasonal, fibrerich and plant-based food, we are shifting to refined starches, sugar, fats, salt, processed food, meat, etc. It has been seen that, in urban areas, time spent on preparing food or meals is very less, because people these days rely on ready-made food, supermarkets, fast food, street food, etc.

WHAT IS AN UNHEALTHY DIET? A diet is called unhealthy if it is high in refined starches, sugar, fats, salts, processed foods, meats, and other animalsourced products. The major reason behind these unhealthy diets can be attributed to less time spent at home due to changing family dynamics, leading to a high dependence on fast food.

The major disadvantages of unhealthy diets are: * The unhealthy diet causes obesity, which affects approximately one in three people; * The unhealthy diet is one of the leading risk factors of death due to non-communicable diseases, like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other factors; and * Unhealthy eating habits also take a heavy toll on national health budgets.

WHAT IS A HEALTHY DIET, AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT? A diet can be a healthy diet if it meets the nutritional needs of individuals by providing required nutrition to lead an active life. A healthy diet also reduces the risk of disease. A healthy diet contains fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains, and foods that are low in fats (especially saturated fats), sugar and salt.

WHAT ARE THE REASONS BEHIND HUNGER AND POVERTY? The major reasons behind hunger are poverty, food shortages, war & conflict, climate change, unstable markets, poor infrastructure, poor nutrition, poor public policy, economy, food shortage/waste, job instability, poverty, gender inequality, forced migration, discrimination, nutritional quality Why zero hunger changes the world 1. Zero hunger could save the lives of 3.1 million children a year; 2. Well-nourished mothers have healthier babies, who have stronger immune systems; 3. Ending child undernutrition could increase a developing country’s GDP by 16.5 percent; 4. A dollar invested in hunger prevention could return between $15 and $139 in benefits; 5. Proper nutrition early in life could mean 46 percent more in lifetime earnings; 6. Eliminating iron deficiency in a population could boost workplace productivity by 20 percent; 7. Ending nutrition-related child mortality could increase a workforce by 9.4 percent; and 8. Zero hunger can help build a safer, more prosperous world for everyone.

Achieving zero hunger is not only about addressing hunger, but is also about nourishing people while nurturing the planet.

This year, World Food Day calls for action across sectors to make healthy and sustainable diets affordable and accessible to everyone. At the same time, it calls on everyone to start thinking about what we eat.

What we can do: 1. Don’t waste food, and put on your plate only that much food which you can eat; 2. If you have extra food, instead of throwing it away, give it to needy persons; 3. Use local and in-season fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet; 4. Remember: A healthy diet is one part of a healthy lifestyle.

Sources https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/worldfood-day-1571143457-1 http://www.fao.org/world-food-day/wfd-ceremony/en/ https://versionweekly.com/news/world-food-day-2019theme-history-and-objectives/ 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.

Fire destroys Essequibo Coast home A n Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) family is now counting their losses after a fire of unknown origin completely destroyed their home.

Reports are the fire started at about 18:45h in the upper flat of the home owned by 55-yearold Seelochnie Sonia of Morris Street, Good Hope, Essequibo Coast.

Speaking with this publication, Sonia said that she was at a Diwali event in Georgetown when she received the shocking news that her home was on fire.

The distraught woman said that no one was at home at the time of the fire and neighbours said that when they noticed the fire, it had already engulfed the upper flat of the building.

Her neighbour, Deputy Chairman of the Neighbourhood Democratic

The burning building at Morris Street, Good Hope, Essequibo Coast

Council (NDC), Arnold Adams told this publication that he too was not at home when the fire started.

He said that his son called and informed him and they rushed over to the house.

He related that little could

have been done to save the building since the upper flat was completely on fire.

Adams said that the Fire Service was informed but they arrived one hour later, by which time the building was completed destroyed.

He, however, complimented the quick response by the Guyana Power and Light team, which arrived in the area promptly.

Meanwhile, Sonia said that her losses are well over $12 million as her home was fully furnished. She said that she still cannot believe that all her life savings and hard work went up in flames. She is appealing for assistance from the public to pick up the pieces now that she has lost everything. Persons interested in assisting her can call her on telephone (592) 643- 4515 or the Good Hope-Pomona NDC Vice Chairman, Arnold Adams on (592) 6467915.

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Venezuelan gang kills woman, shoots boyfriend in Region 7 border attack

An outlook on the impact of renewable energy on the global energy market

– considerations for Guyana’s economic transformation, and oil is just a bonus, nothing else.

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n the next 20 years, Guyana is poised to earn approximately US$33 billion, or Gy$7.1trillion, (twice/2.1 times) the earnings of the last 20 years. Thus the proposed allocation of US$14 billion, or Gy$3.1 trillion, in cash transfers can certainly fuel inflation: by driving up the import bill on consumption goods and weaken the value of the domestic currency, which has adverse economic consequences.

As such, since Guyana could have almost 2 times’ worth of what it earned in 20 years, it means Guyana would be placed in a position to fast track national development to arrive on par with a country like Singapore today; which is 15 times richer than Guyana on a per capita income basis, and which has accomplished same in 50 years (Singapore US60k vs. Guyana’s US4.5K).

Having said that, today’s article merely presents some considerations for Guyana’s economic transformation; and, more importantly, highlights that oil is just a bonus, and therefore ought to be treated as such.

The global roadmap prepared by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) suggests that renewable energy can make up 60% or more of many countries’ total final energy consumption.

To that end, this report posits that India and China are the largest contributors to the world’s energy demand: • Renewables are expected to make up 50% of electricity generation by 2050. Oil demand growth slows down substantially and plateaus around 2030-2035; • Renewable energy needs to be scaled up at least 6 times faster for the world to begin meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement; • By 2050, all countries can substantially increase the proportion of renewable energy in their total energy use; • for example, China could increase the share of renewable energy in its energy use from 7% in 2015 to 67% in 2050; • The EU share could grow from 17% to over 70%, India and United States could see shares increase to 2/3 or more.

After the first two decades, the world’s oil market price could become more volatile. With further increases in renewable energies globally, demand could fall by 38% in the first two decades while still remaining stable at US$40-50. OPEC can cut supply to stabilise the price in the first 2 decades -- which it does all the time -- but after this period, cutting the supply would become more difficult as a mechanism to stabilise the market.

In Guyana’s context, the US$1 billion cash transfer proposal poses the following risks to the economy: • Cash transfer of US$1 billion could induce hyperinflation if used to fuel consumption spending (private consumption is $454 billion/56% of nominal GDP (2018); US$1 billion could drive this up to 82% of nominal GDP).

• Create a culture of dependency, which would very likely not be sustainable in the long run. We have seen the consequences of a similar situation with the Linden electricity subsidy years ago, which stimulated violence.

• As a result, Guyana could remain largely underdeveloped despite the development of the oil industry, if put to use in this way; that is: half of the oil revenues into cash transfers, rather than productive use aimed at national development.

Proposed alternative use of oil revenues: • Free education comes at a cost.

• Invest in state-of-the-art health care and educational institutions; • Expand road networks with a focus on development further south; • Consider creating a new capital city, in Region One perhaps, by the end of 20 years, with a view to making it become the new capital city in the next 50 years. We have seen the consequence of climate change recently with the high tides that caused residents and farmers to suffer huge losses, to the tune of millions; • Consider a Natural Disaster or Climate Fund to cater for floods and other natural disasters in the coming years. This would serve as a relief for affected persons (I recall a rice farmer having become bankrupt since the 2005 floods, and that farmer is still recovering to this day, 14 years later).

• Climate change risks necessitate the need for such a fund • There is need to develop ports and road networks linking our neighbouring countries, since these can serve to transform Guyana into a regional hub for the transportation of goods through South America; • There is need to build railways to move goods internally, as those would help to reduce overall costs in hinterland regions and across the country if we are going to build more cities/towns and shift our development more inland, on higher ground; • Create financial market development – Venture Capital Firms/ Fund to support the growth of new businesses.

In the first decade, Guyana can earn about US$8.6 billion/ Gy$1.8 trillion. In the second decade, earnings could be US$24.6 billion/Gy$5.2 trillion. In the last four years, Gy$1trillion was spent, compared to Gy$1trillion having been spent in 22 years (19922014), and there has been no solid economic transformational project that has improved the economic status of the country to substantiate this massive amount of public expenditure.

By: J.C. Bhagwandin, MSc Email: jbbankingadvice@gmail.com (The author is an experienced Macro-finance and Research Analyst, and a Senior Lecturer of BBA/MBA programmes at Texila American University, University of Bedfordshire, and the Association of Business Executives’ (ABE) programmes in Guyana. The discussions and analyses presented are exclusively his own, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper or the institutions with which he is affiliated)

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Venezuelan woman, who was residing in Guyana with her boyfriend, is now dead while he is nursing a gunshot wound to his foot after the duo came under gunfire by five armed men at Wenamu Riverfront, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Dead is 28-year-old Valentina Marelis Pacheco.

Her Guyanese boyfriend was identified as 28-year-old Mark Anthony Gonsalves, a miner of Mabaruma, North West District, Region One (Barima-Waini). <<<Guyana Times>>> understands that the shooting incident occurred between 00:35h and 01:00h on Saturday.

Reports are the couple was at Rock Landing, Kaikan, at the Wenamu River at a shop near the riverfront when Gonsalves noticed a light shining from the opposite direction which is the Venezuelan side of the order.

According to information,

it is customary for persons from Guyana to cross the border and transport persons from Venezuela to purchase items at the shop where the couple was at the time.

According to Police, Gonsalves, thinking that it was passengers who needed to cross, decided to cross the border with a paddleboat to transport the persons.

However, when he arrived at the other side of the border he noticed a Venezuelan male, who told him that he wished to purchase a pack of cigarettes and alcohol.

Police said that the Venezuelan man then told the Guyanese miner that he needed to “wait for about a minute” so that a few other men could arrive to “pay with the gold”.

However, as Gonsalves waited, he observed five more Venezuelan men emerging from the bushes armed with high-powered rifles. Police said that the men immediately opened fire at the Guyanese man, prompt-

ing him to plunge into the water and swim to Guyana’s shores.

After climbing out of the water and standing on Guyana’s side of the border, Gonsalves said he felt a “burning sensation” on his right foot, and then became aware that he was bleeding from a suspected gunshot wound.

He said mere seconds after he exited the water, the men continued shooting in his direction from across the Venezuelan territory.

Gonsalves’ girlfriend then rushed to his aid to help him

get to safety but in the process, she was shot to her nasal region. The bullet exited the back of her head, killing her instantly.

Gonsalves then managed to make his way to the Kaikan Police Station, some miles away from the area, and made a report about the incident. He was immediately taken to the Kaikan Health Centre for medical treatment where he was admitted. Gonsalves is in a stable condition.

Police in Guyana have since launched an investigation into the shooting.

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Police warn vendors about selling explosives …say charges imminent

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he Guyana Police Force (GPC) in a statement to the media on Saturday directed a stern warning to vendors, particularly those selling explosives during Diwali and the upcoming Christmas festivities.

The Force in its statement acknowledged the increase in explosives sale around these seasons, and as such reminded that same pose serious harm to the buyers and even spectators, since numerous persons especially children have been injured in the past.

“The Guyana Police Force

Persons selling firecrackers and explosives at Stabroek Market

This child was seen purchasing firecrackers on Saturday at Stabroek Market

recognises that in the celebration of Diwali and thereafter leading into the festive season of Christmas, there usually be an increase in the sale of firecrackers and other similar kinds of explosives that are being used to culminate or recognise the season…The Force is hereby issuing a stern warning

to those who sell these explosives which contribute a lot to serious bodily harm and injury to both users and innocent bystanders. There were instances in the past when both children and adults experienced grievous bodily harm” the Force stated.

Nevertheless, the Force urged all persons engaging in the use of firecrackers/ex-

plosives to exercise caution.

“During the use of these firecrackers and we urge all concerned to exercise the necessary care and caution when deciding to allow themselves to engage in the purchase of firecrackers.”

However, it was further noted that persons found selling or in possession of explosives will face the full wrath of law as regional Commanders are also reminded to maintain the country’s laws which are aimed at preventing the importation of these firecrackers, seizing in instances where evidence purports sales and conducting raids and searches, based on information.

“Persons who are caught selling or found in possession thereof will be prosecuted and face the consequences of the law. Regional Commanders have been reminded to maintain and sustain law enforcement effort,” the Police Force noted.

However, even as the warning was issued on Saturday, it was observed that persons were openly selling explosives around Georgetown.

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Thousands support GTT’s Applications open for public school fight against cancer entrance exam T he fight against cancer was amplified on Saturday morning, as thousands of persons participated in the annual Pinktober Awareness Walk, aimed at spreading awareness and support.

Organised by the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), this activity is one of the flagship events during the month of October. It complements a host of events and draws the curtains on Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This year, participants turned out in their brightly coloured pink t-shirts in support of persons who were diagnosed, survivors and those who would have lost the fight. The walk commenced

this year was overwhelmingly significant. He deemed the event a success, after over 10,000 persons showed up for the 5k and 10k walk.

“I’m very moved that we see more and more people each year coming out. The more people that come out really enables us as a country to stay alive…I could tell you we sold more than 10,000 packages. Unbelievable,” he emphasised.

Nedd noted that the main objective is to raise money for cancer treatment and other services. It is the third year this walk has been organised through donors and sponsors.

Additionally, the money raised from purchased t-shirts is also donated.

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Enthusiastic supporters proudly wave a banner

why we set out to do it is so that we can help raise money to save lives for persons that are afflicted with cancer, through early detections, raising awareness…

Supporters flocking the streets during the annual walk

at D’Urban Park, through the streets of Georgetown and then culminated at the starting point with a number of interactive sessions.

According to Chief Executive Officer of GTT, Justin Nedd, the turnout

This year’s sale would have amounted to some $20 million. The proceeds are distributed to a number of non-governmental organisations that assists with screening and treatment for patients.

“What we set out to and

The proceeds, we give to NGOs. Ultimately, what we want to do is work with the health sector to create oncology units that people can get tested and treatment,” he said.

The utility company is known for its work in pro-

moting awareness, ever since the massive introduction of this worthy campaign three years ago.

In Guyana, data shows that cervical cancer accounts for 22.1 per cent of the population, breast cancer at 21.9 per cent, followed by ovarian cancer.

The National Cancer Institute revealed that the number of new cases of cancer is 439.2 per 100,000 men and women per year. The number of cancer deaths is 163.5 per 100,000 men and women per year. Australia has the highest cancer rate in the world, with 468 cases per 100,000 people. “The most common cancers in descending order are breast cancer, lung and bronchus cancer, prostate cancer, colon and rectum cancer, melanoma of the skin, bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, kidney and renal pelvis cancer, endometrial cancer, leukaemia, pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer, and liver cancer,” the Institute stated.

he Education Ministry has announced that the entrance/placement examination for re-migrants or public and private school candidates is scheduled for November 28, 2019.

According to the Ministry, the examination will be invigilated at the Queen’s College auditorium, Camp Road, Georgetown. Persons who wish to write the examination are required to submit an application form, which is currently available.

Re-migrant candidates are required to submit a copy of their travel documents, birth certificate, and report booklet along with the application form.

Meanwhile, private school candidates are required to submit a copy of their report booklet, birth certificate and application form also.

After the examination, the papers of these students will be graded after which they will be placed in a public school as per their performance.

In Guyana’s performance at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations this year, mathematics remained constant at 43 per cent while there was some improvement in

English Language, with a 77 per cent overall success as opposed to 67 per cent in 2018.

For the science subjects, there were improvements in biology, chemistry, physics and both Double and Single Award agricultural science. This followed for the business subjects, being evident in Office Administration, Principles of Business and Principles of Accounts.

Meanwhile, at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), Only mathematics saw an increase from last year’s statistics with an upward trajectory from 38.3 per cent to 42 per cent.

This was contradicted by the overall performance of English dropping from 60.6 per cent to 57.4 per cent. The same followed for science with figures decreasing from 46.8 per cent to 46.4 per cent and social studies with 46.1 per cent to 39 per cent.

Education Minister, Nicolette Henry had responded to questions raised about these figures, saying that the current figure is not that worrying.

Nevertheless, she positioned that the education sector is a long way from all students attaining 50 per cent or more.

18 news

SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

Lack of support, facilities challenging local manufacturers …farmers faced with strong competitors

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he Guyana Marketing Corporation on Saturday facilitated a Farmers’ Market Day at D’Urban Park, Georgetown,

showed up with their reaped produce, ranging from fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and even sorrel flowers. Many boasted that their healthy

Cosmetic items sold by manufacturers

which saw a large turnout of local manufacturers and producers, all aspiring to extend the reach of their services and products.

A number of farmers

vegetables were grown without any chemical stimulant or fertiliser. Those who wished to grow their own could have started with readily available seedlings for

sale.

On the other hand, small manufacturers displayed their locally produced sauces, honey, wines, dehydrated meals, and cosmetic items.

According to Packaging Facilities Manager at the GMC, Celestine Butters, the event was overwhelmingly successfully, owing to the immense support from the public.

“The event was really good. Persons would have sold out like three times and come back again. There are persons who came from Berbice and already sold out.

It was good for our agro-processors this year. We had approximately 76 participants and we’re growing all the time,” Butters ascertained.

She said that the GMC is examining products, which must be of good quality before it is approved for the marketplace.

“We’re looking at the quality and standards.

Once they would have gone

Farmers selling their produce at the farmers’ market

through the Food and Drug [Department], we accept them.”

While many were happy with this type of exposure, some farmers said that the market is highly competitive, with many individuals planting the same crops within their communities. Increased

production with a stagnant demand results in some losses.

Many do not transport their produce because of the high transportation cost attached.

A farmer, Kendrick

one of the problems. If it get a Suriname label, it would sell nationwide,” the manufacturer explained.

On the other hand, Sherl Daniels of Sherl’s Cosmetics said the lack of equipment and facilities make it difficult

Locally-produced sweet potato flavoured cake mix

Estwic, who plants herbs and vegetables told this newscast: “The market is good here but on the road, there is too much competition. I make do with whatever. I have been asking [the GMC] to come more often with this.”

Meanwhile, Rajesh Terebeni of Ambrosa Foods told <<<Guyana Times>>> that he entered the market just over one year ago and has already created 23 different sauces and concentrates.

However, one of the key challenges facing his business is the absence of a significant local market. It was explained that many outlets prefer to purchase foreign brands instead of buying local.

“We manufacture sauces – garlic sauce, onion sauce, pepper sauce, chilli, mustard, green seasoning, mauby concentrate, Chinese sauce…We distribute from Berbice to Essequibo. We need to see more wholesalers come out and support the local manufacturers. That’s

to manufacture on a larger scale. Presently, she has introduced a line of natural soaps, shampoos, hair oils, conditioners and moisturisers.

“In making the products, our biggest challenge is facility and machinery because we don’t have space to make these products and the machines are very expensive, getting the machines as well,” she related.

This year, Williams Foods introduced something new to the Guyanese populace – dehydrated eggs and other meals. She insisted that it is an easy way of making a recipe, by reconstituting the packaged product with water.

The representative detailed, “We dehydrate foods.

We have dehydrated eggs, veggie cook-up and rice. We cook the item and then use a dehydrator to extract all of the liquid. It’s really something new to a lot of people so they’re surprised and ask

sunday, october 27, 2019

Griffith storms to victory in 8th annual Payless race

Outstanding cyclists who participated in the Payless race

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solid performance from Team Evolutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christopher Griffith led him to victory in the eighth annual Payless Variety Store 35-lap race. He clocked the win in one hour 14 minutes and 45 seconds.

In the race, which pedalled off at the National Park yesterday, Griffith and his National team mates who will represent Guyana in Cuba shortly: Michael Anthony (second), Jamual John (third), Paul De Nobrega (fourth) and Curtis Dey (fifth), rode as one team to frustrate the other starters.

Marcus Kelier finished in sixth position, while a frustrated Briton John, who was the 2018 defending champion, abandoned the race.

The top three wheelsmen in this race: Griffith, Anthony and John, lapped the entire field twice at the National Park.

John bagged four sprint

prizes while Anthony and Griffith each took two sprint prizes. Earlier, in the veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s category, Junior Niles copped first position in this 5-lap affair in a time of 29 minutes and 28 seconds.

Lear Nunes and Kwamie Ridley were the other top veteran finishers in the under-50 categor y.

Meanwhile, in the Over50 category, Andrew Spencer rode in first position while Ian Jackson (second) and Kennard Lovell (third) were the other top finishers in the senior contenders category.

In the Juvenile category, Sherwin Sampson topped the field while Shamaul Young and Emanuel Nedd were the other top finishers. Sampson also won a consolation sprint prize.

Nigel London won the Novices 5-lap race in 13 minutes 47 seconds, while Lennox Jackman and William Green were the top cyclists in the BMX 6-9 years old 2-lap affair.

guyanatimesgy.com

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SUnDAY, october 27, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, october 27, 2019

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BCB/Let’s Bet Sports 100 balls Cricket Tournament…

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D’Edward, Cotton Tree to clash in West Berbice final T

he tranquil West Berbice village of Cotton Tree in Region 5 is expected to come alive today (Sunday October 27) when it hosts the first of five finals of the Let’s Bet Sports 100 balls Cricket Tournament being staged by the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB).

This particular final is to determine a winner of the Let’s Bet Sports West Berbice League, and it involves cricketing powerhouses D’ Edward Cricket Club coming up against Cotton Tree Cricket Club.

Others finals in the Let’s Bet Sports’ 100 balls tournament

would be held to determine the respective winners of the following leagues: Upper Corentyne, Lower Corentyne, New Amsterdam/Canje, and overall Berbice Champion.

The powerful D’ Edward Cricket Club, like the Cotton Tree Cricket Club and the Blairmont Cricket Club, has dominated second division cricket on the West Coast of Berbice; and this final is expected to be closely contested, as both teams are strong on paper. D’ Edward would be led by veteran cricketer Jaipaul Heeralall, who would be supported by batting aces

Keith Fraser, Altaf Khan, Heralall Bridgelall and Devindra Lalsa.

The D’ E d w a r d bowling attack would be spearheaded by pacers Christian France, Ricky Moore and Keith Fraser, with able support coming from spinners Hoolsram Lalsa and Heralall Bridgelall.

Cotton Tree would depend heavily on its able players Roshan

and

Narshad Gafoor, Waqar Hassan, Nick Ramsaroop, Pooran Persaud and Daniel Harrinarine.

B C B President Hilbert Foster, Let’s Bet Sports Brand Manager Ian De Barose and Brand Ambassador Rawle Toney would hand over the prizes after this match. The respective teams are comprised as follows:

D’ Edward Village: Heralall Bridgelall, Altaf Khan, Devindra and Hoolsram Lalsa, Ricky Moore, Keith Fraser, Navin Rampersaud, Devindra Singh, Mahadeo and Dinnauth Persaud, Chaitram France, Christian France.

Cotton Tree: Roshan and Naushad Gafoor, Waqar Hassan, Nick Ramsaroop, Pooran and Jadeo Persaud, Daniel Harrinarine, Adim Shewtahal, Marlon Deputron, Lenardo Seetayah, Saif Ramah, Saif Latif, and Ishwar Singh.

GCB/CWI Progression One Kiddy Cricket…

4 schools record wins

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ednesday October 23 belonged to Jamal Fraser of St. Pius Primary School, who slammed a century -- a rare feat in this type of competition -- for his team playing against Smith Memorial in the GCB/CWI Progression One Kiddy Cricket competition.

St Pius Primary having won the toss and elected to bat, opener Brian Brown went for 17, but Fraser smashed an unbeaten 140 that included 13 fours and 11 sixes to steer them to a massive 253 for 3 off just 14 overs.

He featured in a 189-run 4th wicket partnership with Donovan Welcome, the pair coming together with the score on 64 for 3 and propelling St. Pius to the huge total. Donovan Welcome stroked 51 not out.

Bowling for Smith Memorial, Romel Singh claimed 2 for 16.

Never appearing capable of challenging the huge target set by St. Pius, Smith Memorial scraped together a paltry 56 off their allotted 14 overs, with Azarin Wilson taking two wickets for a single run as he bowled St. Pius to a massive win by 197 runs.In another afternoon match, New Guyana School got the better of St. Sidwell’s mainly through to a superb 4th wicket stand of 139 between Alex Burnette and Adain Dharry.

Batting first, New Guyana School posted a competitive 152-4 off their allotted 14 overs.

Alex Burnette slammed 43 not out, inclusive of two fours and four sixes. Adain Dharry, who appeared to be trying to match Burnette with shots, stroked an unbeaten 39 that included four fours and three sixes.

The pair came together after St. Sidwell’s had reduced The New Guyana School to 13-3.

In response, St. Sidwell’s could post only 80 for 9 when their allotted 50 overs had expired. Bowling for the New Guyana School, Tamala Thomas claimed a hat-trick to end with 3 for 2. Jose Rodrigues supported well with 2 for 4, as the New Guyana School won by 72 runs.

In the other match, Tucville Primary defeated South Ruimveldt Primary by eight runs.

Tucville Primary took first strike and posted a total of 117 for 5. Openers Joshua Augustine

Jamal Fraser and Donavan Welcome

and Raushad Joseph put on 17 before Augustine was dismissed for 17 after a knock which included one four and two sixes.

Trayon Davis then came to the crease and stroked a top score of 20, inclusive of two fours and two sixes. Joseph and Orlando Joe each made 15 not out. Bowling for South Ruimveldt, Shaquille Parris and Malakai Joseph took two wickets each.

In reply, Tucville applied immediate pressure on the South Ruimveldt batsmen to have them reeling at 17 for 3, with top order batsmen Frederick Jack (8), Jonathan Fowler (1), and Kenny Artherly (1) all returning to the pavilion cheaply.

Parris and Akeem Bernard then featured in a 4th wicket partnership of 33, Bernard contributing 4 valuable runs before being dismissed.

However, when the 14 overs had expired, South Ruimveldt were 9 runs short of their victory target, ending on 109 for 7. Parris remained unbeaten on 16, while Mickel Marshall made eight not out. Bowling for Tucville, Shasteeq Laundry took two wickets as Tucville Primary won by 8 runs.

On Friday 24 October, Rama Krishna beat Bel Air in a match in which Bel Air took first strike but could manage only 82 off their allotted 14 overs. Rickel De Jesus made 26 that included three fours and two sixes.

Bowling for Rama Krishna, Jahiem December grabbed 3 for 8, while one wicket each came from Eugueane Atoms, David Da Silva and Akilah Verwyle.

Rama Krishna made light work of the meagre victory target, compliments of Dhanesh Persaud who blazed an unbeaten 74 that included three fours and ten sixes.

Rama Krishna posted 88 for 1, with the lone batsman to be out going by the run-out route.

Rama Krishna won by 12 wickets.

Later that said day, Rama Krishna defeated J E Burnham after batting first and posting 103 for 2 off their allotted 14 overs.

Neeraj Persaud top scored with 29, which included five fours and one six. He got valuable support from Jayshawn Leitch and Kyle Persaud. Leitch made 28, all scored by boundaries: four sixes and one four, while Kyle Persaud made 17, which included two sixes and one four.

Bowling for JE Burnham, Immanuel Mitchell took 1 for 1, and Shania Favourite took 1 for 9.In reply, JE Burnham were restricted to 45 for 8 off their allotted 14 overs. Immanuel Mitchell top scored with 8, but none of the JE Burnham batsmen reached double figures.

Bowling for Rama Krishna, Neeraj Persaud and Jahiem December respectively took 2 for 3 and 2 for 6, while one wicket each came from Ezikiel Hector (1 for 6), Anya Veerasammy (1 for 5), and Shanqiea Trotman (1 for 0). Rama Krishna won by 58 runs.In the final match on Friday 25 October 2019, The New Guyana School defeated Ketley Primary. The New Guyana School batted first and posted 110 for 7 off their allotted overs.

Kishawn Silas top-scored with 24, which included three

fours and two sixes. Worrel Oudkerk was unbeaten on 15, while Alex Burnett made 14 and Adam Faruk 12.

Bowling for Ketley, Gavin Towler grabbed 3 for 10, inclusive of a hat-trick; Dudley Cooke took 1 for 2, Mario Dickson took 1 for 3, and Maria Luke-King 1 for 12.

In reply, Ketley Primary could manage only 90 for 5 when their allotted overs expired. Dudley Cooke top-score with 16 and Joshua Brutus contributed 10.

Bowling for The New Guyana School, Andwele Smith took 1 for 6, Angel Akeelah 1 for 10, Tamala Thomas 1 for 14, and

Annalisa Dharry 1 for 15. The New Guyana School won by 20 runs.

The GCB/CWI Kiddy Progression One Cricket continues on Tuesday 29 October 2019 with morning matches involving Georgetown District teams. The New Guyana School will oppose St. Pius, and North Georgetown Zone Final will be played between Winfer Gardens and North Georgetown.

The afternoon matches will witness the commencement of the East Bank Demerara District, with Agricola competing against Eccles and Mocha Arcadia opposing Peter’s Hall. (GCB)

Hamilton Green Birthday Football

12 encounters to highlight 1st night

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welve exciting matches will kick start the opening day of competition to commemorate the 85th Birth Anniversary 9-a-side Knockout Inter-Ward Football Tournament.

The competition which is being organized and co-ordinated by former national coach Lennox Arthur will be played over three days at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground, West Coast Demerara.

According to Arthur, over $400,000 in prize monies and trophies are up for grabs with the winning team set to receive $200,000 and trophy, while second, third and fourth place finishers will take home $100, 000, $60,000 and $40,000 respectively along with trophies.

Twenty-eight teams have been invited to participate in the tournament with teams representing neighbouring Venezuela expected to vie for top honours along with those from West and East Coast Demerara, Georgetown, East Bank Demerara and Berbice.

All matches will be

Fixtures for Sunday, November 10: Bourda Blues versus Durban Backland Charlestown vs. Bagotsville Soesdyke vs. Wales Ann’s Grove vs.

Newtown Kitty Pouderoyen vs.

Kuru Kururu Goed Fortuin vs. Agricola Crane vs. GT Canimas Sara Lodge vs.

Casa Corina FC Uitvlugt vs. Hurry Ate Den Amstel Kings vs. De Kinderen Den Amstel vs. Farm FC Meanwhile, Mahaica, Mahaicony, Plaisance and Sophia have all drawn byes to the next round. played at the same venue and according to Arthur, the former Mayor is anticipated to make a guess appearance on opening day which is set for November 10 with the 17th and 24th, being the other playing days.

Games will be played for a duration of thirty minutes divided into two halves of 15 minutes each.

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, october 27, 2019

Coach Moore lauds Lower Corentyne’s Terrence Alli National Open “The Menace” makes efforts after copping CGI title his return to boxing

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The winning Team Lower Corentyne (Brandon Corlette photos)

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fter clinching the recently concluded SBF Petroleum Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) One-day 50-overs Franchise League, Head Coach of the championship Lower Corentyne team, Julian Moore expressed some positive sentiments on the collective effort showed by the team. In his interview with Guyana Times Sport he revealed that the Lower Corentyne team played some good cricket but they had some bad patches throughout.

“We’ve played some really good cricket but had some ups and downs, we had moments where we were found wanting; in the penultimate round going down to West Demerara I think it hit us hard and we were in a position to seal the title but to comeback on the next day to win the title was a joyous occasion for everyone”, Moore

disclosed.

He further added that he was impressed with some of the senior players in the team; “I think we know what we get from Veerasammy Permaul, he was good with the ball and as a leader, leading from the front and providing that senior presence in the team”.

Moore further expressed positive sentiments on Lower Corentyne’s star batsman, Jonathan Foo who has earned a recall after a consistent season with the bat.

“It was good to see Foo, really working hard to break into the Guyana set-up, I was also impressed with Anderson, who was consistent with the bat”, Moore highlighted. He further lauded the efforts of Kelvin Umroa, Trevon Stanislaus but Nial Smith was biggest find for the team. “He was there knocking on the door, every fran-

chise league but to have a season as this it was the biggest find”, Moore echoed.

The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Level three Coach, Moore added that he always fives 110%. He stated that on paper Lower Corentyne was not the strongest team but he challenged himself to motivate the guys and kept them going together as a team.

Moore who also mentioned that this win was one to reflect his hard work and oversee the development of players expressed gratitude to his Assistant Coach and the Team Manager, Quacy Maltae. Permaul, Smith and Foo are the trio selected for the Guyana Jagaurs team that represented the winning Lower Corentyne team in the league. (Brandon Corlette)

11-member team to represent Guyana at “Cup of the Guyanas”

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team of eleven young lawn tennis players and two coaches will depart Guyana on October 28th, 2019 in a bid to bring home the gold after participating in the 8th annual TRI-Nation tennis tournament. The tournament will be hosted in French Guiana this year.

‘Cup of The Guyanas’ previously known as the “Inter Guiana Games” is a trophy awarded to the winner of a team tennis competition hosted interchangeably by the nations of Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. The competition originally started in Suriname during October 2012 as a collaboration between the three countries, in order to create a developmental platform for tennis which would not stretch the available resources of the national associations and is costeffective.

The competition accommodates U12, U14 and U18 boys and girls. The tournament is scheduled for October 29th, 2019 to November 3rd, 2019.

Team Guyana was the defending champions going into the 2018 competition, however placed third, Suriname secured

The Guyanese team that will be competing at this year’s “Cup of the Guyanas”

second place and French Guiana won the cup.

The Guyanese contingent will consist of three under 12 players, namely: Gerald Scotland, Gabriella Alphonso and Ricky Romascindo. The 4 member Under 14 group is inclusive of Vadeanand Resaul, Sekia Jones, Jeremiah Kalekyezi and Saskia Persaud. The Under 18 group also consists of 4 players, namely: Viraj Sharma, Afruica Gentle, Joshua Kalekyezi and Kalyca Fraser.

Making the trip possible were a number of corporate companies, other organizations

and individuals, to whom the Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA) has wished to express immense gratitude to for contributing towards the team expenses. Those entities are: Guyana Water Inc, Sheltez Tennis Club, Assuria General (GY) Inc., Camex Restaurant Inc., Pumas Tennis Club, Mrs. Annabelle Carter-Sharma, United Tennis Club, Mr. Amar Ally (GUYOIL-Friendship E.B.D), Mr. Derrick Gobin, Hassan Tractor Spares, Mr. Lewis Katerick, Bakewell, PAS Cargo Guyana Inc and Republic Bank.

fter being out of the ring for almost two years, excitement and expectation will be added to the Terrence Alli National Open tournament, as The Menace makes his highly anticipated return.

This weekend’s Terrence Alli National Open boxing tournament will see 2015 Caribbean Development Tournament Middleweight silver medalist Dennis ‘The Menace’ Thomas wiping off ring rust to return to the ring.

Though training continuously Thomas has not fought competitively in over 18 months and will make a comeback sporting some light heavyweight pounds. His return will spell trouble for reigning National and Caribbean light heavyweight champion Markember ‘Violence’ Pieirre of the Guyana Defense Force.

When the two last met Thomas came out ahead on points.

The classy Thomas is being trained by AIBA Three Star coach Sebert Blake of the Forgotten Youth Foundation gym. A Best Boxer at the 2014 Caribbean Goodwill Tournament held

here, the six- footer has represented Guyana at several major international events and remains one of the most experienced local pugilists.

Apart from bantamweight Keevin Allicock Thomas is the only current fighter to have participated at a World Championships.

In 2013 himself and Imran Khan travelled to Kazakhstan to represent Guyana at the Championships.

His return adds spice to National Open as Thomas will have his eyes set on being a part of the National team to the Caribbean Championships.

Thomas’ hiatus from boxing came in March 2016 after he was involved in a motor vehicular accident on Camp Street. Thomas was the pillion rider of a motorcycle when it came into contact with a motorcar. The talented boxer had sustained injuries to his foot which limited his mobility and as such ruled him out of the

Dennis “The Menace” Thomas

sport for some time.

The power packed National Open will be held over the upcoming weekend from November 1-3 at the National Gymnasium and entry fees are $500 for stands and $1000 for ringside.

Campbelle returns; Grimmond, Gajnabi retain spots in Windies Women ODI squad C ricket West Indies (CWI) Women’s and Girls selection panel named a fourteen (14) member squad to take on India in the first two Colonial Medical Insurance One Day Internationals to be played on November 1 and 3 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. The team will be led by Stafanie Taylor and sees some new names selected on the squad. Aaliyah Alleyne and Shawnisha Hector were selected into the main squad for the first time, with Hector having been re-

serve before. Speaking on the selection of the squad, Lead Selector of the Women’s and Girls panel, Ann BrowneJohn said, “The selection panel chose a good balance of youth and experience when assembling this squad. We have the return of the experienced Chedean Nation and Shemaine Campbelle, who missed the last series against Australia due to injury.”

Browne-John added, “Also the selectors were impressed by the young me-

dium pace duo of Aaliyah Alleyne and Shawnisha Hector during the training camp, meriting their inclusion in the final 14-member squad.”

FULL SQUAD: Stafanie Taylor – Captain, Anisa Mohammed - Vice Captain, Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Britney Cooper, Chedean Nation, Chinelle Henry, Stacy-Ann King, Kyshona Knight, Natasha McLean, Shabika Gajnabi, Shawnisha Hector, Shemaine Campbelle and Sheneta Grimmond (CWI)

guyanatimesgy.com

sunDAY, october 27, 2019

23

Pee Wee Football Tournament

North Georgetown, St Agnes to battle for championship Story and Photos by Jemima Holmes

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t was a tale of heartbreak and revenge at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue on Saturday evening as the semifinal of the Courts Pee Wee 11 and Under football tournament was contested.

With the 2018 top two, St Pius and West Ruimveldt Primary being sent packing last week, patrons did not know what to expect from this year’s top four: St. Agnes, Tucville primary, Genesis Primary and North Georgetown primary.

Genesis Primary sized up to North Georgetown in the first semifinal under brilliant sunshine and given the strength of both teams there were enough thrills to speed up one’s heart rate. North Georgetown once again displayed balance with an attacking front line and an impenetrable defense. On the other hand, it was strictly business for Genesis’ defense.

The back and forth between the youngsters intensified after a goalless first half, where North Georgetown dominated ball possession but could not hit their target. To make the

Genesis’ goalkeeper worked overtime, but could not hold on in the final minutes of the game St Agnes’ defence restricted Tucville from getting close to the goal

situation more frustrating, Genesis’ goalkeeper, was present at every advance to scoop up the ball.

In the second segment, Genesis worked harder on their striking with the usual suspects Ricardo Hazel and Anfernee Cummings making advances at the goal. However, try as they may, neither side could break the ice.

It was until Jaheim Gillard got

his chance in front of the goal that North Georgetown saw their first goal being scored in the 28th. While Genesis sought to focus on their hunt of an equalizing goal, Kevin Burton put a win out of their reach when he tucked the ball into the corner of the goal for North G e o r g e t o w n ’s second and winning goal.

Earlier this week, St Agnes Primary’s Coach

Troy Wright had expressed to this publication, his intention to exact revenge on Tucville Primary for knocking them out of the 2018 competition in the quarterfinal.

The Coach’s words manifested in the second semifinal as St. Agnes

mounted a solid defense to keep the agile Tucville team at bay.

When regulation time could not produce a winner, the game was plunged into extra time where St. Agnes made their move on their opponents.

With controversial penalty being awarded to St. Agnes, Shane Dalrymple made the best of the situation putting his team up by one. With two of Tucville’s players being ejected from the crucial encounter, the boys scrambled to find the equalizer but instead, St Agnes were the one to find the back of the net once again, through efforts from Cleon London in the 40+8.

The final of this year’s 11 and Under Pee Wee competition will be contested on Saturday, November 2, with North Georgetown and St. Agnes Primary battling to take home the championship trophy. Tucville and Genesis will contested the third place spot.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Coach Moore lauds Lower Corentyne’s efforts after copping CGI Title Page 22

Campbelle returns; Grimmond, Gajnabi retain spots in Windies Women ODI squad

Page 22

Pee Wee Football Tournament

North Georgetown, St Agnes to battle for championship

See story on page 23 Composite photo of Pee Wee action

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October 27, 2019

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Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 27,2019

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Feature

D

iwali is celebrated throughout the world to ward off the darkness and welcome the light into our lives.

Celebrating the triumph of good over evil and spanning five days each autumn, Diwali is considered by some to be the start of the New Year. In 2017, Diwali will be celebrated on October 27.

In Guyana, this “festival of lights” is believed to have been brought to Guyana in the 1800s by the first indentured people from India. The celebrations hold special significance: wearing new clothes is a symbol of healthy souls in healthy bodies; the distribution of sweets signifies the importance of serving and sharing, and exchanging greeting cards denotes the goodwill of each other. Keeping homes illuminated inside

and out is a practice meant to illuminate the path for Goddess Lakshmi when she visits.

Suriname, like its neighbour Guyana, celebrates Diwali with much gaiety and in a similar way of lighting diyas (lamps) and sharing sweets.

Celebrated under the name Lam Kriyongh during the months of October-November, Diwali in Thailand is celebrated by lighting diyas made of banana leaves in which candles are placed, along with a coin and incense. These a r e then set afloat on a river. Diwali celebrations in Thailand are not extravagant: people simply greet each other and wish them happy returns of the day. Similar to Guyana and Suriname, distribution of sweets is a common practice on this day in Thailand.

Also known as Deepavali, a Sanskrit word generally translated as "necklace of lights", Diwali is celebrated in Malaysia by people of all races, not just the Hindus living there. Though it may not be celebrated on a grand scale, Diwali in Malaysia is a time to invite people over to indulge in all the delicious sweets prepared. It is also a holiday in Malaysia and a time to visit and pay homage to the elders. Crackers are banned in Malaysia, so Diwali celebration is enjoyed quietly.

Indians form just about one 1 per cent of the total population in Kenya and Tanzania. However, the influences of this tiny number have considerable economic influence, and they are a well-respected minority. They also celebrate the major Indian or Hindu

festivals of the Hindu solar calendar. As they have restricted interaction with the locals and do not seek converts, they usually celebrate their festivals the same way India does. The significance, customs and belief related to the festival of light, therefore is almost same like that of India. Illumination, worshipping of god and goddess of wealth and prosperity are some of the common practice. Diwali is declared as a national holiday in Kenya only.

Just as in India, people of Fiji, a country in the South Pacific, celebrate Diwali with elaborate lighting and candle decorations.

Taking advantage of the beautiful festival, people reaffirm the bonds of love shared with loved ones by exchanging greetings, sweets and gifts of love. Diwali also affords the opportunity for people of different faith and communities to come together and live in a spirit of communal harmony.

But Diwali is not just a Hindu festival. It also holds special significance in other religions such as Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism.

For Buddhists, the spiritual insight of Diwali is the triumph of good over evil as their Emperor Ashoka gave up his violent ways and chose the path of peace and non violence on this day only.

Nepal’s Newar Buddhists celebrate Diwali as the returning of light and balance to the world.

For the Sikhs, this is the day when their religious leader Guru Hargobind Ji was able to free himself and other Hindu kings and gurus from the prison of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. After coming out from the Gwalior Fort, the guru and others went to the Golden Temple of Amritsar. So this day is celebrated to commemorate his homecoming.

Even today, the Golden Temple is decorated in the grandest manner possible on the day of Diwali along with performance of breathtaking fireworks that has made Amritsar one of the top Diwali vacation destinations in India.

Just like the Hindus, Buddhists and the Sikhs, Diwali is a special day in the Jain calendar as well. This is the day when Lord Mahavira attained Moksh, Nirvana, or eternal bliss. Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana is seen as a passage from darkness to illumination or the attainment of the ultimate knowledge.

To the Jains, the light of Diwali has another special significance. It signifies the light leaving his body and traveling to heaven, having succeeded in escaping from the trap of rebirth. They will thus illuminate lights to mark this passage, and also to keep the light of his knowledge burning.

Though there may be variations in the celebration of Diwali around the world, one thing remains constant – the coming together to illuminate homes and lives.

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Feature

By Lakhram Bhagirat

O

n what is described as the darkest night in the year, Hindus celebrate the auspicious occasion of Diwali, and the epic that goes with this festival states that it was the night Shree Ram, along with his wife, Sita, and brother Lakshman returned home to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. It goes on to say that as the people in the Kingdom of Ayodhya prepared for the arrival of their beloved Shree Ram, they lit the pathways with little earthen lamps so as to illuminate the dark path to the palace.

That is the story I have been hearing for the past 27 years, every Diwali, and the memories associated with the festival are some of my most cherished. As a child and well into my adolescent years, I would go to the side of the trench and collecting mud (clay) and rolling it in some sand (for what reason I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know) and then sitting beside my grandmother as she demonstrated how to make the perfect diya to light later that night.

Every Diwali morning, my grandmother, Margaret, would sit with her bucket of mud and make her diyas to light. We would sit with her, but rather than being helpful, we would create a ruckus, which often resulted in us being shooed away. But no matter how

much she shooed us away, we would look at how effortlessly she would shape and smooth those little masterpieces.

She was a hero and the best diya maker we had ever known. As we grew up, we would sit with her and make our own versions of diyas and leave them out to bake in the sun for the day while we went ahead helping mommy prepare the sweetmeats and treats for the feast later in the night.

While she was alive, my grandmother would usually make about 10 mud diyas which she would place at the altar

in her house, at the bridge and at the Shiva Mandir in the yard. She would always say that those were the most important places as we pray for our homes to be blessed with the presence of Shree Ram. Not a year would go by without us having at least three such diyas every Diwali.

We relished making them and getting the finest mud as well as vying for grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval. No matter how many cracks we had in our diyas or how deformed they were she always gave us a thumbs up for effort and would reluctantly allow us to light them later in the evenings along with others.

Those are the memories about Diwali I treasure to this day.

Most people, in my area, would use store-bought clay diyas for Diwali and just dispose of them the day after in the trench as they would dissolve over time. That is also practised by my family since the task of making mud diyas is considered tedious. However, in my village, there was one particular household that used only mud diyas when it was Diwali.

It was located a few yards away from where I live and as a child, I used to be mesmerised by the sight of Uncle Bango

sitting under the cashew tree at the front of his yard for hours rolling mud and shaping them into the most perfect diyas.

As times progressed and development became rapid in my community, we lost that tradition. Now when it is Diwali, everyone goes to the supermarket and buys the clay diyas and pre-rolled cotton wicks and just lights away.

Another thing that is becoming popular is the wax diyas which reduce the mess of using the coconut oil or ghee to light diyas.

As for my family, after my grandmother died in 2011, no one had the courage to make mud diyas and now we just do not do it anymore. I am also not sure when Uncle Bango stopped making his diyas at the front of his yard, but for the past two Diwalis, I have not seen him doing that.

However, I am told that there are certain parts of Guyana where the Hindu community has not lost the tradition of making the little earthen lamps and for that I am happy. Those little lamps signify so much. They have the ability to instantly shed light and brighten where they are placed.

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OCTOBER 27, 2019

guyanatimesgy.com

Feature

Preserving our literary heritage by Petamber Persaud

(Extract of an interview with Kim Sheldon, Georgetown, Guyana, September, 2019. Sheldon is a novelist and historian.)

P

P History is fascinating. Research is fascinating. Guyana is fascinating – from El Dorado to sugar to oil, yes, Guyana is fascinating. The most fascinating thing of Guyana though is its people especially those who have settled in the Diaspora, those who are writing back to Guyana. This writing back to Guyana is important.

I am addressing you as a writer and historian, why have you come to Guyana?

KS The reason that I have come to Guyana is that I feel I am coming back to Guyana because my family and my ancestors were born here and their stories here are so rich and beautiful.

As a historian, there is so much that is fascinating here that is the past, the present and I hope will be the future.

There are so many rich stories in Guyana for a writer, it is amazing.

PP Let’s get personal – what exactly brought you to Guyana?

KS I came back here because my mother was born here and I am researching her life and getting a feel what it was like for her living in Guyana at the time before moving to England, and the life she lived there as well.

But as a writer getting a feel, more than the feel, the taste as well of the country your grandparents, your mother etc came from. So at the moment I am writing my mother’s life story. As a writer, it is important for the writer to get a feel of the place….

PP Sounds like an anthropologist going further and deeper than the historian.

KS Yes. PP Let’s couple the historian with the writer, why do you write? I think you have a website to that effect.

KS Yes, I do.

I do several things – as well as writing fiction, I write non-fiction. I write …because it is important to get the words out in one form or the other especially the emotions as well. As a writer, it is part and parcel of my soul to bring those stories out, and at the moment, it is my family’s soul that I’m bringing out.

PP So that’s a book in the making.

Let’s talk about your first book – a novel. I like the title ‘A Hidden Legacy’ for fits into our conversation. ‘A Hidden Legacy’ was shortlisted for the London Literary Festival, congratulations.

KS Thank you.

PP Let’s talk about that hidden legacy – the novel.

KS It is about a painting done by Allan Ramsay who was the Court painter in England during the late 1700s and he actually painted Queen Charlotte with her natural features because it is said she was a mixed race woman and it [the novel] is about how the main characters in my book have been painted out which were the two children of colour. They were painted out and covered up because slavery at that time was either popular or unpopular and if you were nouveau riche in that business, you didn’t really want to say you were in that business. The book is about their lives; how one child returns to the Caribbean becoming a revolutionary and the other one, a girl, joins the abolitionist movement.

PP Intriguing….

KS One of the things I wanted to put into to it because this is the real hidden legacy as well for there were black people in London and at the time, there were 15,000 black people which people rarely talked about – some did well in life, some had normal lives, some did not do so well in life. But there were many interesting people there of colour and many of my fictional characters will meet true life characters like the famous violinist George Bridgetower.

In fiction that can come across more openly than academically.

PP So you are reclaiming those lost figures in that painting. This brings to mind the long poem, ‘Turner’ by David Dabydeen. Dabydeen read for a PhD in 18th-century literature and art.

KS That is also a hidden story but it is coming out more and more and it needs to be written in our words and from our hearts instead of been written about. They are our ancestors too and bringing out their stories in our words is really important.

PP Fred D’Aguiar’s ‘Feeding the Ghost’ also comes to mind…and most of this writing is coming from out of Guyana.

As I said earlier, people are writing back to the land, to Guyana.

How far have you gotten with your research in Guyana?

KS I literally just picked up my mother’s birth certificate.

We also have a beautiful mix heritage – Chinese, African, Indian and so on.

What we did not know was my grandmother’s name and I really want to research this because sadly we learn she did go into the leprosy hospital and her story ought to be told and now I’ve gotten her name…

PP Share this certificate with us.

KS My mother’s name is Alicia Lowe. Alicia Gertrude Samuels is her married name…

The other side – my father’s side…well, we went to New Amsterdam [to learn more]. All these stories I will put together in order to write a family saga like the great family sagas we read so often about…A great family saga of Guyana – this is my quest… (to be continued) Responses to this author please telephone 226-0065 of email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

Happy Diwali

It's the "Festival of Lights" today, It's again the day of Diwali, It's time to dress up folks, It's time to adorn the thali.

It's the occasion to throng the temples, Pray to the Gods and give them offerings, It's an opportunity to entreat the deities, To bless us all and rid us of sufferings.

It's the day to light the diyas, Ignite the rockets and burst crackers, But it's also the time to be safe, From the fireworks and all the sparklers.

It's the season to pay a visit, To all our friends and relations, To hand them over sweets and presents, Diwali is our splendid chance.

But while you spend a time of joy, Don't think it's merriment all the way, Out there wait many of those, For whom it's no time to be gay.

Denied of laughter and smiles for days, They know not what it is to enjoy, Can you not share something you have, Can you not bring them a little joy?

When you can make someone else smile When you can be someone's ally That's when you can yourself be glad That's when you'll have a HAPPY DIWALI!

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OCTOBER 27, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 7

O

Feature

ne of the things that make Guyanese, particularly the Hindu community, distinctive when it comes to celebrating the Festival of Lights is not the brightly illuminated yards and houses or the bursting of elaborate fireworks, rather it is something as simple as the annual Diwali Motorcade.

You can travel the entire world and would never witness such a spectacle as that organised by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) as part of its annual Diwali Motorcade.

We can expect to see people of all walks of life as well as different nationalities enjoying the scenes of the brightly lit floats all sending a message that goes hand in hand with the significance of the Diwali festival. Thousands of people would line the streets along the routes the Motorcade would take and also pack the converging sites as they experience the cultural explosion organised by the GHDS. The Motorcade is now entrenched in our traditions since it has been around for almost 45 years now. Like the celebration of Diwali, the Motorcade has evolved over the years with more floats taking part, all trying to outshine the other. The preparation that goes into hosting the countrywide motorcade is nothing short of herculean, since some mandirs and organisations would start making their floats months prior to the date of the Motorcade.

The common theme portrayed is that of the return of Lord Rama along with Ma Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile or that of Maa Lakshmi seated on the lotus flower showering her blessings on the world. She is the representation of wealth and prosperity, and it is believed that when worshipped on Diwali Day, a prosperous life is guaranteed.

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OCTOBER 27, 2019

Feature

R

angoli is an art form, originating in the Indian subcontinent, in which patterns are created on the floor or the ground using materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals. It is usually made during Diwali or Tihar, Onam, Pongal and other Hindu festivals in the India. Designs are

passed from one generation to the next, keeping both the art form and the tradition alive.

Rangoli is derived from the Sanskrit word â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rangavalliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; which means colour. The purpose of rangoli is decoration, and it is thought to bring good luck.

Design depictions may also vary as they reflect traditions, folklore, and practic-

es that are unique to each area. It is traditionally done by girls or women.

Rangoli designs can be simple geometric shapes, deity impressions, or flower and petal shapes (appropriate for the given celebrations), but they can also be very elaborate designs crafted by numerous people. The base material is usually dry or wet pow-

dered rice or dry flour, to which sindoor (vermilion), haldi (turmeric) and other natural colours can be added. Chemical colors are a modern variation. Other materials include colored sand, red brick powder and even flowers and petals, as in the case of flower rangolis. (Photos from Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha)

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OCTOBER 27, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine

9

Health

P

eople with lactose intolerance are unable to fully digest the sugar (lactose) in milk. As a result, they have diarrhea, gas and bloating after eating or drinking dairy products. The condition, which is also called lactose malabsorption, is usually harmless, but its symptoms can be uncomfortable.

A deficiency of lactase — an enzyme produced in your small intestine — is usually responsible for lactose intolerance. Many people have low levels of lactase but are able to digest milk products without problems. If you're actually lactose intolerant, though, your lactase deficiency leads to symptoms after you eat dairy foods.

Most people with lactose intolerance can manage the condition without having to give up all dairy foods.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance usually begin 30 minutes to two hours after eating or drinking foods that contain lactose. Common signs and symptoms include: • Diarrhea • Nausea, and sometimes, vomiting • Abdominal cramps • Bloating • Gas

Causes

Lactose intolerance occurs when your small intestine doesn't produce enough of an enzyme (lactase) to digest milk sugar (lactose).

Normally, lactase turns milk sugar into

two simple sugars — glucose and galactose — which are absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestinal lining.

If you're lactase deficient, lactose in your food moves into the colon instead of being processed and absorbed. In the colon, normal bacteria interact with undigested lactose, causing the signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance.

There are three types of lactose intolerance. Different factors cause the lactase deficiency underlying each type.

Primary lactose intolerance This is the most common type of lactose intolerance. People who develop primary lactose intolerance start life producing plenty of lactase — a necessity for infants, who get all their nutrition from milk. As children replace milk with other foods, their lactase production normally decreases, but remains high enough to digest the amount of dairy in a typical adult diet.

In primary lactose intolerance, lactase production falls off sharply, making milk products difficult to digest by adulthood.

Primary lactose intolerance is genetically determined, occurring in a large proportion

of people with African, Asian or Hispanic ancestry. The condition is also common among those of Mediterranean or Southern European descent.

Secondary lactose intolerance This form of lactose intolerance occurs when your small intestine decreases lactase production after an illness, injury or surgery involving your small intestine. Among the diseases associated with secondary lactose intolerance are celiac disease, bacterial overgrowth and Crohn's disease. Treatment of the underlying disorder may restore lactase levels and improve signs and symptoms, though it can take time.

Congenital or developmental lactose intolerance It's possible, but rare, for babies to be born with lactose intolerance caused by a complete absence of lactase activity. This disorder is passed from generation to generation in a pattern of inheritance called autosomal recessive, meaning that both the mother and the father must pass on the same gene variant for a child to be affected. Premature infants may also have lactose intolerance because of an insufficient lactase level.

Risk factors

Factors that can make you or your child more prone to lactose intolerance include: • Increasing age. Lactose intolerance usually appears in adulthood. The condition

is un common in babies and young children.

• Ethnicity. Lactose intolerance is most common in people of African, Asian, Hispanic a n d American Indian descent.

• Premature birth. Infants born prematurely may have reduced levels of lactase

because the small intestine doesn't develop lactase-producing cells until late in the third trimester.

• Diseases affecting the small intestine. Small intestine problems that can cause

lactose intolerance include bacterial overgrowth, celiac disease and Crohn's disease.

• Certain cancer treatments. If you have received radiation therapy for cancer in your abdomen or have intestinal complications from chemotherapy, you have an increased risk of lactose intolerance.

Treatment

There's currently no way to boost your body's production of lactase, but you can usually avoid the discomfort of lactose intol-

erance by: • Avoiding large servings of milk and other dairy products • Including small servings of dairy products in your regular meals • Eating and drinking lactose-reduced ice cream and milk • Drinking regular milk after you add a liquid or powder to it to break down the lactose

Alternative medicine

Probiotics Probiotics are living organisms present in your intestines that help maintain a healthy digestive system. Probiotics are also available as active or "live" cultures in some yogurts and as supplements in capsule form. They are sometimes used for gastrointestinal conditions, such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.

They may also help your body digest lactose.

Probiotics are generally considered safe and may be worth a try if other methods don't help.

10 Sunday Times Magazine Feature

I

t is a tradition to wear new clothes on Diwali, as Diwali according to Indian calendar indicates beginning of New Year and burying of all the old painful memories of bygone years and wearing new clothes is just a symbolical gesture to commemorate that.

Here are some looks you can rock this Diwali:

OCTOBER 27, 2019

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OCTOBER 27, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Recipes

Jelabi Goja (Gujiya)

Ingredients Report this ad Pastry: • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp white sugar • 1 tbsp shortening • 1 cup ice cold milk

Few drops vegetable oil (for top of

dough ball) Filling: • 3-4 cups desiccated coconut, grated (about 2 coconuts) • 2 heaping tbsp fresh ginger, grated • 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg • 1 tsp almond essence • 2 tsp vanilla or mixed essence • 3/4 cup brown sugar • 1/4 cup water for sealing dough • Flour for fork, when sealing • Oil or ghee for frying INSTRUCTIONS 1. Make the dough. Mix flour, baking powder, and sugar together. Rub in shortening until fine crumbs form. Add cold milk a little at a time until dough comes together. Knead until dough is smooth.

2. Rub a little oil on top of dough ball and cover with damp paper towel. Let rest for minimum one hour.

3. Using a standard box grater- Crack coconut, drain water. Remove coconut meat from shell. Cut into small pieces. Grate coconut on fine side, set aside. Grate ginger, add to bowl with coconut. Add remaining ingredients.

Mix well, set aside until ready to assemble.

4. Pinch off small pieces of dough, golf ball sized. Cover all dough balls with damp paper towel to keep from crusting.

5. Roll dough ball thinly to 1/8inch thickness. Dip finger or pastry brush in water and rub the edges of dough. Place 1 1/2 tbsp coconut mixture in center.

Fold dough over coconut, press with fork to seal edges. Dip fork in flour to keep from sticking to dough. Repeat until all dough has been used up.

6. Heat oil for frying. Deep fry goja until light golden brown.

Kheer (Sweet Rice)

Ingredients • 1/2 cup white rice • 1 tbsp ghee • 2 cans evaporated milk • 1 can condensed milk • 1/2 cup milk powder • Raisins • Maraschino cherries • Pistachio (optional) • Cinnamon spice • Grated nutmeg • Cloves • Cardamom • Vanilla extract, rose water, almond extract DIRECTIONS 1. Wash rice until water runs clear and soak overnight.

2. In a heavy bottom pan heat ghee and add one cinnamon stick and heat for 2 minutes. Drain rice and add to pan. Sauté on medium flame for five minutes.

3. Add water to cover rice to about three inches. Boil rice until it is fully cooked.

Use a heavy spoon and mush rice.

4. Add evaporated milk, a pinch of grated nutmeg, cardamom, vanilla or rose water. Simmer for 10 minutes then add condensed milk. Bring to a boil and taste for sweetness.

5. Cook on low flame until mixture thickens. Finish off with raisins and maraschino cherries.

6. Serve chilled, topped with chopped pistachios.

Vermicelli cake

Ingredients • 200g (1 pack) vermicelli noodles • 14 maraschino cherries, roughly chopped • desired amount of currants (I used 1/4 cup) • 4 tbsp salted butter (1/2 stick) • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/2 tsp cinnamon • 1/4 tsp nutmeg • 1 tsp vanilla • 1/2 tsp almond essence • 1 12oz can evaporated milk • 3 1/2 cups whole milk • 1/2 cup water INSTRUCTIONS 1. Melt butter in a deep pot on low heat. Add vermicelli noodles and parch it until some of the noodles become brown, this will happen fast so do not walk away from the stove.

2. Once some of the noodles are brown, add all the milk, extracts, and spices, add the water.

3. Keeping the stove on low heat, let the noodles boil in the milk until they start to soften up, add cherries and currants.

4. About 15 minutes in, the mixture should start to clump together (everyone's stove temperature is different so if it has not reached this stage as yet, just wait until it starts to look like a really thick pudding).

5. The mixture will look dried out, the liquid would have absorbed, if the mixture coats the back of a spoon thickly without dripping, then remove from heat and pour i nto a dish that will allow your vermicelli to be about 1 1/2 inches in thickness.

6. Let this sit out for about 2-3 hours to firm up, or you can put it into the refrigerator to firm up faster. Cut and enjoy.

Ingredients • 1 Cup flour • 1/2 Cup yogurt • For frying Oil/ghee • 1 Cup Sugar • 1 Cup Water • 1/2 tsp Saffron • A square piece of cloth with a hole in it, or a strong plastic bag for piping

out the 'jalebis' DIRECTIONS 1. Mix the flour and dahi to form a thick smooth paste (dropping consistency), adding water if necessary and leave to ferment for 6-7 hours (time depending on the weather).

2. When the batter is ready, it should be spongy and you should be able to see bubbles on the surface.

3. Make the sugar syrup by dissolving sugar and saffron in the water over low heat, then cook over high heat till slightly thick and keep warm 4. Heat oil/ghee. Fill the bag with the batter. Twist the opening to seal the bag. Snip one lower corner of the bag to make a small hole, through which you can pipe out the `jalebis'. The smaller the hole, the thinner the jalebis.

5. Hold the bag over the hot oil and pipe out swirls (like whirlpools), of the desired size, straight into it. Make as many such rounds as come in comfortably without touching each other. Lower the heat to medium and turn the 'jalebis' over and fry till a light brown on both sides.

6. Lift out the fried jalebis, drain out the oil and put them into the

Gulab Jamun

Ingredients: • 1 cup Sugar • 3 Green Cardamom pods • 1 1/2 cups Water • 2 cups Milk Powder • 1/2 cup all purpose flour • One pinch baking poweder • 4 tablespoons Ghee • 1/4 cup Milk • Oil or Ghee, for deep frying DIRECTIONS 1. In a pot add water, sugar, cardamom pods and bring to a boil until 1/2 string consistency. (About 8-10 minutes on high heat). Let cool.

2. In a bowl mix milk powder, flour, baking powder and ghee. Use fingers to evenly distribute ghee while gradually adding liquid milk. Mixture should be soft and sticky. Do not over mix or knead mixture.

3. Grease palms with oil/ghee and roll into smooth balls. There should be no cracks.

4. Heat oil/gee and on low heat fry jamun until dark brown. Drain oil/ghee and soak in cooled sugar syrup, preferably overnight. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Milk Barfi Ingredients

• 400 gm condensed milk • 8 cup milk powder • 2 tablespoon ghee • 1 cup water • 1 teaspoon powdered green cardamom • 1 handful pistachios DIRECTIONS 1. Take a large bowl and add milk powder in it along with condensed milk. Make a rigid dough using these ingredients. Once done, keep the dough in freezer and freeze it for at least for 20 minutes.

2. Take the dough and grate it in a bowl. Keep this grated dough aside for further usage. Take a deep bottomed pan, keep it on low flame and heat ghee in it.

3. Add the grated dough to this pan with water. Mix well and stir in cardamom powder in the pan, cook this mixture until the water dries out and the mixture accumulates in the center of the pan.

4. Pour this prepared mixture in a pan and add pistachios to it. Let the mixture cool and cut the barfi into desired shapes. Garnish it with silver vark and almonds and serve!

Soft Mithai

Ingredients *For the Dough • 4 cups flour • 1 tsp white sugar • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1 cup freshly grated coconut • 1 1/2 sticks butter, chopped • 3 tsp anise seed • 1 12oz tin evaporated milk Vegetable or canola oil for frying *For the sugar syrup: • 1 cup white granulated sugar • 3/4 cup water • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional) INSTRUCTIONS Mix the flour, baking powder, anise seed, and chopped butter together. processor. Add coconut to the dough and mix well.

Pour entire can of evaporated milk into the mixture and knead to form a dough ball. Add flour/ water if needed, to bring everything together. Cover with a damp paper towel and set aside and let it sit for about 30-40 minutes. (the damp napkin keeps the dough from forming a crust) Roll out dough and cut into desired size. Heat oil and fry until golden brown.

Combine sugar, water, and vanilla, if using. Boil on low for about 35 minutes, or longer depending on your stove. When sugar is ready, pour over mithai and toss until sugar is no longer clear and has become white.

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Puzzles

ACROSS 1 6 11 16 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 32 34 36 37 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 49 50 51 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 76 77 80 81 82 86 87

Sandy expanse Mystic of India Injured at Pamplona Where Lhasa is Pond scum Coeur d'--, Idaho River in France Early king of India (var.)

Rain forest "A Fish Called --" Cuzco resident Founder of the Russian monarchy U2 producer Tarzan's transport Image, in combos Ditka of football SSW opposite Like the Wild West Controlled-access Edible seaweed Toga-party supply Electrical unit Used a skillet Aims (2 wds.)

Tenet Golden-haired Rushes off Evening gala -- and hearty Billowing garment Look after Wired, so to speak Off -- -- tangent Just washed Twinge -- colada Put a -- on it!

Not knowing about Untold centuries Ding-a- -- (airhead) Kon- -"Indecent Proposal" star Wipe the woodwork Go in reverse Caterpillar hairs Aberdeen pair Bullring VIPs Actress -- Scala Thought about Tex-Mex snack Skywalker's sister Clustered together Business letter abbr.

Coconut juice

88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 106 107 108 111 112 113 117 118 119 120 121 122 124 126 128 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Tablet Persian cat, for one Width of a cir.

Put cargo on board Mental fog Peel, as paint Roman gods Land Contemptible Substantial What Eve raised?

Edge Lap dog Fixes leftovers Author Chaim -Igneous rock Huge blossom -- Paese cheese Passable License plates Sign after Pisces Gallivant That guy, objectively Ice floe Musical about Peron Bedouin Well-chosen Gladiator's place Fingerprint feature Tiber locale Winfrey of TV In judge's garb Movie award Salamanders Likewise Dodge, as taxes Fretful -- horned owl Oui and si Swiss city Ms. Verdugo Softly lit Mav's foe Bum's rush (hyph.)

Spotted animals Wings, in botany Mammoth Cave loc.

Pen fluid (2 wds.)

Showed surprise The daily rat race It can't be! (2 wds.)

FOX sitcom Bewitches "Goodfellas" lead (2 wds.)

Scale button

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- LITERAL (LITERAL: LIT-er-ul: Factual; verbatim.)

Average mark 32 words Time limit 35 minutes Can you find 38 or more words in LITERAL? The list will be published tomorrow.

TODAY'S WORD -- LITERAL

lair late later liar lilt lira lire liter irate tail tale tall taller tare

teal tear tell tier tile till tiller tire trail trial trill earl rail rale

rate real relit retail rile rill rite alert alit alter

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.

17 18 19 20 31 33 35 38 39 40 41 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 52 53 54 56 57 58 60 61

Ames inst.

Carried Making do Box-office totals Suffix for hero U.K. lexicon Smooching Ore deposit Ghostly noise Can't be without Clingy fabric Rest on water Insult wittily Modicum Cantata performers Kitchen appliance Veld grazer Mix together Cacklers Set ablaze again Slezak of soaps Vocalist -- Gorme Nurse -- Barton Entice Quick turn Three, to a couple Raise, as a question

62 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 82 83 84 85 87 88 89 91 92 93 96 97

Snapshots Frequently Franc's successor Tomb Raider Croft Impart knowledge Pier Simmer Burn slightly Story Edit out Sticky Respectful title City on the Mohawk Beatle Ringo -Driftwood bringer Tea clippers Fought with (2 wds.)

MacDonald's refrain Thirst quencher Tycoon Not rosy Pack animal Den Flood preventer Easy houseplants Like souffles Poodle pros

98 99 101 102 103 105 106 107 108 109 110 112 113 114 115 116 118 119

120 123 125 127 129

Rogue tiger (hyph.)

E. -- bacteria Greedy Standing in line Media award Cramped Dernier -Bikini half Chicago's airport Bolshoi rival One-celled swimmer (var.)

Murphy Brown's kid Secret rendezvous Audition rewards Heavy downpour Culture mores Invited Richard of "Love Me

Tender" Utah ski resort Jarrett of NASCAR 601, to Caesar Dazzle Diner staple See Solution on page 14

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 27, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

W

ith a week to go before its TV service launches, Apple has brought the Apple TV app to Amazon’s streaming devices. The Apple TV app is now available on three different models of Fire TV devices — the Fire TV Stick 4K, the Fire TV Stick (2nd Gen), and the Fire TV Basic Edition — with support for more models coming soon.

The app will allow you to watch shows from Apple’s streaming service, Apple TV Plus, which will launch on November 1st. But it also has perks for non-subscribers: it’ll let you stream any movies or TV shows you’ve purchased through iTunes in the past, too. You can also watch new purchases and

J

rentals through the app, but you’ll have to make those purchases through another device with iTunes on it.

You can’t do it straight from the TV. Apple previously announced that the Fire TV would be one of several third-party platforms where its app would launch. It’s already available on Samsung TVs, and Apple said support is coming for LG, Sony, and Vizio TVs, too. Support for Roku devices arrived earlier this month.

While Apple is usually content to only serve customers who are willing to buy the company’s own hardware devices, things have been a little different when it comes to Apple TV

ust shy of two months after announcing the Exynos 980, Samsung has announced a new chipset, the Exynos 990. The new processor is built on

eras with a maximum resolution of 108 megapixels, like the ISOCELL Bright HMX sensor Samsung announced back in August.

The 5G Exynos Modem

Samsung’s 7nm process, and includes a Mali-G77 GPU that increases graphical performance or power efficiency compared to Samsung’s previous chip by up to 20 percent as well as an octa-core CPU that should be 20 percent faster.

While it seems strange to see two processors announced in such quick succession, the Exynos 990 seems to be targeted at a slightly different market.

VentureBeat notes that it lacks the integrated 5G modem found in the 980, meaning it will be better suited to 4G devices. It’s the faster processor of the two, but Samsung would need to pair it with a separate modem — like the 5G Exynos Modem 5123 that it also announced on Thursday — if it wants to use it in a 5G device.

The Exynos 990 also features support for displays with up to a 120 Hz refresh rate, as well as up to six cam-

5123, meanwhile, is a new 5G modem that’s also built using a 7nm process. It supports both kinds of 5G, sub6GHz and mmWave, the latter of which was missing when Samsung announced its previous Exynos 980 chip with an integrated 5G modem. When connected to a 5G network, Samsung says the Exynos Modem 5123 supports a maximum download speed of 5.1 Gbps on sub-6GHz, and 7.35 Gbps on mmWave.

Samsung doesn’t say which phones the new chips will come to first, but with mass production expected to begin later this year there’s speculation that they’ll find their way into some of Samsung’s Galaxy S11 devices early next year. However, based on past trends they’re unlikely to be found in Samsung’s devices in the US or China, which have historically used Qualcomm’s chips.

(The Verge)

Plus. Apple knows it needs to reach a large audience in order to make the $5-permonth subscription service into a worthwhile business, so it’s suddenly ready to extend access to iTunes purchases to wherever people watch TV. If the shows are hard to watch, people will be more inclined to choose other services.

The streaming service will launch next Friday with nine original shows, most of which will premiere with their first three episodes, with new ones arriving weekly. (The Verge)

14 Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 27, 2019

guyanatimesgy.com

Staffers of the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Company during their annual Diwali celebrations(Right) Staffers of the Queens Atlantic Investments Inc poses with their rangoli design(Left)

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 27, 2019

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 27, 2019

Fun Times

Archie

ARIES (March 21April 19)

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Letting go is one of the most challenging things to do. Look at the broader scope of what you are up against.

Trust and believe in your ability to improve your life.

TAURUS (April 20-May TAURUS 20) -- You'll have plenty of (April 20- options to consider. Don't let May 20) your desire for change cause you to act in haste. Take your time and choose wisely.

Attitude and truth matter.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) GEMINI -- Participate in something that (MAY 28- will encourage self-improveJune 20) ment. Physical fitness and a healthy diet, along with weeding out relationships that aren't trustworthy or in your best interest, should be your priorities.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Not all relationships (June 21- are equal. Consider what you July 22) want to achieve in life and who is best suited to fit into your plans. Choose allies based on character, not on charisma.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -You'll be trapped between what you feel drawn to and what's right for you. Take time to discover what's best for you. A change is heading your way.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Do something different.

Putting yourself in a position that is unique or new to you will change the way you do things.

Trust your instincts.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -Keep the peace. Whether dealing with a neighbour or someone you live with, choose not to focus on the negative. Go about your business and offer others the same privilege.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) SCORPIO (Oct. 24- -- You need a diversion. Plan to Nov. 22) do something you've longed for or that piques your interest. A new adventure will be a wakeup call to discover what you've been missing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) -- Think outside the box, but be realistic when it comes to putting your ideas in motion. If you ignore hidden costs, you'll fall short of your goal.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Keep a journal and reflect on the things you have learnt.

Your future successes depend on your ability to learn from the past. Prepare to make a positive change.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. AQUARIUS 19) -- Money, health, and le(Jan. 20- gal matters should be adFeb. 19) dressed. Check every detail methodically and you'll find a way to make the most out of what you have to work with.

Romance is encouraged.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March PISCES (Feb. 20- 20) -- Feeling useful will Mar. 20) bump up your confidence.

Volunteer to pitch in and help. The people you encounter and the information you receive will help you move in a positive direction.