Guyanatime 25 march 2018

LOOK INSIDE !

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

Issue No. 3514

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Sunday, March 25, 2018

PRICE

AG vs Richardson

$120 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Constitutional challenge case gains widespread interest

GTT’s Innov8 Summit focuses P13 on youth development

Page 3

…as Ramjattan contemptuous of CCJ

Father drowns while trying to save children

Page 9

Govt insincere about fostering Local Govt – Jagdeo Page 7

WCB farmers call for REO's firing

Berbice P15 security guards sent home emptyhanded again

Wedding destinations

Marriage P11 certificate delay hinders Guyana

Page 16

India-funded water pumps to aid flood prevention P14

...after farmlands bulldozed

Motorcyclist dies after colliding with truck Page 2

Separate energy dept: A dangerous development – Opposition Advisor Page 9

…tied to PNC takeover of O&G revenues

Miner killed by fallen tree in Region 7 P9 WCD sea P18 defence structure will feature new design – River Defence Officer

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SUnDAY, March 25, 2018 guyanatimesGY.com

Motorcyclist dies after colliding with truck A

motorcyclist took his last breath on Friday evening while receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital following an accident at Water and Holmes Street, Georgetown.

Dead is 23-year-old Kemo Stewart of Lot 58 Vigilance/ Bladen Hall, East Coast Demerara (ECD). Based on reports received, at about

06:30h on Friday, a truck driven by Mahendra Mahase was proceeding along Water Street when the motorcyclist reportedly failed to stop, and as such, collided with the left rear wheel of the trailer.

Stewart was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted and treated for a fractured leg and lacerations to the body.

However, the ECD resident succumbed to his injuries at about 22:45h.

The driver of the motor lorry owned by Hack and Sons of Mahaica, ECD was subsequently tested for alcohol but there was no trace of alcohol in his system.

Nevertheless, he was arrested and is assisting with the investigations.

Speaking with Guyana

Times on Saturday, the dead man’s grandmother, Lynda Griffith, explained that on Friday, her grandson accompanied a friend to the GPHC to seek medical attention but as the friend was being examined by the doctor, he left and was heading to River View, Ruimveldt, Georgetown to hand over some money to the mother of his child.

Dead: Security officer, Kemo Stewart

She stated that it was while on his way to her, he met in the accident. She said after relatives received the news, they rushed to the hospital where he was in a semi-conscious state, but he seemed to be coming around despite receiving severe injuries to his body.

The weeping grandmother noted that after some time, relatives left the hospital and returned home.

At about 23:00h, she noted that the family received news of his passing. The fa-

ther of one was working with the OPSET International Security Firm up to the time of his demise.

While the family is still to get a clear understanding of what led to the young man’s demise, they were initially told that Stewart collided with a truck transporting rice.

They are awaiting a Police report, the aggrieved grandmother stated. She described her now dead grandson as a joyous and caring individual. He leaves to mourn his five siblings and other relatives.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted on Monday after which the body will be handed over to the family to make preparations for interment.

Only on Friday, the Police revealed an 18.1 per cent decrease in both fatal accidents and road deaths, with nine cases this year against 11 in 2017 for both categories.

The Police also recorded decreases in minor and damage accidents, with a six per cent and 11.1 per cent respectively. Serious accidents remained the same as the corresponding figure last year with 18 cases.

Pedestrian critical after being struck down by car

A

pedestrian is in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital after she was struck by a motorcar while attempting to cross the Houston Public Road, Greater Georgetown on Friday.

Lona France, 48, of Lot 4 Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, Georgetown sustained a fractured left leg, fractured left hand, fractured left hip and a punctured lung.

Based on information received, the motorcar driven

by Oswald Michael was proceeding along the Houston Public Road and as she approached Meadow Bank, France reportedly ended up in the path of the vehicle causing her to fall to the roadway where she received injuries.

She was picked up in an unconscious state and tak-

en to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was examined and admitted a patient. The driver was taken into custody and is assisting with investigations since Police believe speeding was involved.

On that note, the Police on Friday stated that speeding, inattentiveness and pedestrian crossing in the path of approaching vehicles were the main causes of fatal accidents. In fact, for the year thus far, 2935 cases were made out by the traffic department for speeding and 155 for careless driving.

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BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, March 25 – 11:00h-12:30h and Monday, March 26 – a night retraction at 01:00h and a day retraction from 12:30h-14:00h.

AG vs Richardson

Constitutional challenge case gains widespread interest …as Ramjattan contemptuous of CCJ

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, March 25 – 10:15h-11:45h and Monday, March 26 – 11:45h-13:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Weather: Early morning sunny intervals are expected to give way to light cloudy skies that are expected to last throughout the remainder of the day. Partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from East North-easterly to Northeasterly between 1.78 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 10:47h and 23:48h reaching maximum heights of 2.26 metres and 2.17 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 04:13h and 17:05h reaching minimum heights of 1.06 metre and 0.93 metres respectively.

SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2018

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

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hile the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is adjudicating the appeal of the Attorney General in the case of the Attorney General of Guyana, Raphael Trotman v Cedric Richardson, a very spirited discussion of the proceedings has erupted in the letters pages of the local newspapers.

While the case has somewhat sensationally been dubbed “the third term case”, the restriction of Richardson’s choice of selecting a presidential candidate by excluding individuals that have already served two terms of office

by Art 17 of 2001 was only one restraint of the respondent’s exercise of the sovereignty of the Guyanese people. There were three other restraints: (A) that only a citizen by birth or of parentage can qualify to be the President; (B) that a person must be residing in Guyana on the date of nomination for election; and (C) must have been a resident for seven years immediately before that date.

The High Court of Guyana ruled that this restraint violated the sovereignty of the people, held inviolate by the basic structure of the Constitution, and could only be legally valid if confirmed by a referendum of the people. This decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal. The AG appealed to the CCJ on his own, and the then Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman, joined him.

Guyana Times had consistently argued that the issue was whether the people of Guyana could delegate their sovereignty to their representatives via Art

9: “Sovereignty belongs to the people, who exercise it through their representatives and the democratic organs established by or under this constitution”, only to have those representatives constrain that sovereignty.

University Professor and long-time PNCR member Sherwood Lowe was moved to change his earlier disagreement with the decision of the High Court, and has now moved to change his opinion after hearing this argument put forward by one of the Attorneys for Richardson, Douglas Mendez. In his phrasing of his change of mind, he then followed the popular categorisation of the case, and concluded that, in his opinion, the CCJ would accept Mendez’s argument and Bharrat Jagdeo would be able to run for a third term in 2020.

This opinion appears to have disturbed a legal hornet’s nest, impelling former member of the CCJ, Justice Pollard, to disagree vehemently with Lowe and restate his original view from a year ago: that the “sover-

eignty of the people” could only be discerned by a mechanical textual exegesis of Article 1 - “Guyana is an indivisible, secular, democratic sovereign state.”

Joining Justice Pollard on Friday was former magistrate Maxwell. E. Edwards, who, in his usual prolix and more polemical style, took almost 1800 words to basically agree with the former. However, in one rather alarming development, it was reported that Minister of Public Security, Khemraj

Ramjattan, the Chairman of the AFC, a party in the Coalition Government, claimed to know that the CCJ will rule against Richardson. While such a declaration may be acceptable as a hope, observers say that such an unequivocal declarative statement does not bode well for the vaunted independence of our Caribbean Judicial System.

This newspaper has been attempting unsuccessfully to contact Ramjattan for a clarification.

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guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, march 25, 2018

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

Editorial

The poverty trap

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he invitation by President David Granger to the eminent English economist Sir Paul Collier and others, to brief his Cabinet on utilising the revenues from the Exxon oil find, could be seen as putting the oil tanker before the drilling rig. Coming in the midst of a firestorm of protests – which has now reached the courts -- at the one-sided terms negotiated on behalf of Guyana by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, with the oil giant Exxon, many felt the President was attempting to calm the waters with the imprimatur of his knighted guests.

That suspicion was not assuaged when Collier advised “the contract not be torn up” when the Government insisted the terms of the contract were not raised in the briefing.

It would appear, then, that the eminent establishment economist was misinformed by someone as to what was at stake here. This is rather unfortunate, because in his popular book, “Democracy in Difficult Places” as one reviewer summarised, Collier pointed out: “Nigeria is a case in point. Its immense oil wealth, which should be used to help the country develop, makes politicians particularly anxious to hold onto office. They employ ever fouler means to do so, and elections thus become little more than organised gangsterism. The violent methods the politicians use become the modus operandi of their period in office, and the whole political system is corrupted.”

Collier talks about “the survival of the fattest”. Guyanese are concerned that the very opaque process in which the Government handled the contract negotiation with Exxon portends a return to the authoritarian form of governance that marked the PNC’s first period of governance, between the rigged elections of 1968 and 1985, in which the army was brought out to violently quell protests.

According to the Government’s release, Collier “also spoke of the importance of transforming oil revenues into assets; noting that oil resource presents numerous opportunities, but the Government must develop a sound strategy to transform those opportunities into tangible benefits for the Guyanese population,” But it is in his earlier (2007) book, “The Bottom Billion: Why the Poorest Countries Are Failing and What Can Be Done About It” Collier should have been more expansive, since we are in “the bottom billion” and desperately need to know what can be done about it.

Collier proposed four structural “traps” in which the bottom billion may be stuck. First, there is the “conflict trap,” such as those that emanate from deep divisions in some countries along lines of race or ethnicity, and where some groups feel alienated from the national patrimony. In such countries, governments have to be very sensitive to violent, fissiparous tendencies and distribute revenues as fairly as possible so as not to exacerbate the sources of comparison and conflict. Perhaps if Collier had been briefed about the Government’s precipitate closure of four sugar estates and the firings of 5700 mainly Indian-Guyanese workers outside on their “traditional” base, maybe he would have sounded warning bells.

The second is the “natural resource trap”, now staring us in the face with oil, and which Collier did address as adumbrated above. But if he had been thoroughly briefed, Collier surely would have been more sympathetic to the need for directed investments in agriculture, to retain workers who were acclimatised to that regimen, and who, after oil revenues started to flow, could then be redeployed into a more diversified agricultural base.

The third trap identified by Collier is the “governance trap”: of poor policies, cronyism and favouritism etc. that fuel the massive corruption characterising the PNC-led coalition from its inception. If Collier knew about the Jubilee Park, the Pharma Warehouse and Contracts etc. he might have offered additional advice.

While the last “trap” of being “landlocked” may not appear to be applicable to Guyana, with our lack of a deep-water harbour, we might as well be the Belgian Congo as far as getting our exports out to the world.

In light of our history, however, Collier, may have had good reason not to mention one of his chief recommendations for the “bottom billion” countries like us: that G8 countries should intervene – militarily, if necessary -- to maintain “stability”.

A young artist does a live painting at the GTT Innov8 Summit Technology Expo on Saturday at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel (Carl Croker photo)

I am a jumbie

Dear Editor, For Freddie Kissoon, (whose vote at the 2015 elections must seemingly be counted among those allegedly garnered by the APNU/AFC coalition) “one of the positive outcomes of politics in the current era in Guyana is the assignment of the PPP to long years in the wilderness.”

What an asinine comment from Kissoon! Made in the face of a huge groundswell of support for the PPP led by Bharrat Jagdeo. Make no mistake, even Guyanese who would not ordinarily be perceived to be PPP supporters are clamouring for the return of the PPP. A frequent comment in the streets and market place is: “Life was better under the PPP.” Kissoon is a man about town, with nothing to do and a lot of time to do it. He knows the PPP is the most popular party in Guyana.

He knows that the ordinary people of Guyana are suffering at the hands of brutish, vindictive, insensitive, and uncaring APNU/PNC/ AFC political neophytes, but Kissoon, who does not particularly see himself as Indian, cannot bear the evidence of the rising tide of support for the PPP. Writing in the Kaieteur News of March 9, 2018, Kissoon, while predicting that oil income will bring economic transformation, and while referring to the expected oil income as a gold mine, very significantly asserted that: 1) “the incumbent party (APNU/PNC/AFC) will not give up that gold mine”.

This statement should be interpreted to mean

that APNU/PNC/AFC will not give up political power. After all, to make sense of Kissoon’s prediction, it must be understood that control of the gold mine goes hand in hand with political control and power. What must therefore be understood from Kissoon’s statement is that even if the PPP/C were to defeat the APNU/PNC/AFC (as the current mood of the people suggests it undoubtedly would), the APNU/PNC/ AFC would shed its mask of constitutional conformity and the PNC’s known propensity for elections fraud, thuggery and violence would be unleashed, in fulfillment of Kissoon’s prediction that “the incumbent party will not give up that gold mine.”

In this scenario, there should be little wonder about the likely role GECOM may play. It’s role in the 2015 elections has not been forgotten, and a legal challenge to those elections has been affected by an unnatural and discomforting sloth in the judicial system, which, given the nature of the challenges to those results, facilitates the continued exercise of power by APNU/ PNC/AFC with an extremely thin majority of votes.

The second significant point that Kissoon made in his article is that: 2) “certain powerful governments in the world, with formidable influence in Guyana, WILL NOT ALLOW the PPP back in power with Jagdeo in the driving seat.”

On reading this, my mind immediately went to the governments of the

USA, Britain and Canada.

In 2015, the US and Canada had two very active diplomats in Guyana, Bryan Hunt and Nicky Giles. They will long be remembered by the present suffering people of Guyana.

Kissoon makes an extremely serious contention.

He has described himself as an investigative journalist. Was this prediction the result of his penetrative investigative journalism? This is not a statement Kissoon would make lightly. Every right thinking Guyanese would interpret Kissoon’s statement to mean that “those powerful governments with formidable influence in Guyana” will, or may, be planning to take either overt or covert action to prevent Jagdeo and the PPP from winning and taking power in the 2020 elections.

Kissoon has laid a serious indictment principally against the British, American and Canadian governments.

Guyanese are well aware of the role of the American and British governments in the destabilization of the PPP government of the sixties, under the leadership of the greatest nationalist of our country, Cheddi Jagan, and of the direct involvement of the US in efforts to install Forbes Burnham and the PNC in government here.

History has recorded the untold suffering, the thuggery, the racially directed violence instigated by the PNC against Indians in Guyana; the near-starvation conditions and the gross human rights violations inflicted upon the people of Guyana by the il-

legal PNC regime, and to which the USA for many years turned a blind eye.

Does Kissoon have information that the United States is to behave similarly in 2020, so that we are likely to see a return of the infamous role played by the US in the sixties with devastating consequences for our people?

It is now more than two weeks since Kissoon made this very assertive prediction. To date none of the powerful governments represented here in Guyana has said anything by way of disclaimer or disavowal of Kissoon’s foretelling of their intention not to allow a return of Jagdeo and the PPP to the seat of Government. What should the people of Guyana understand by their silence?

Kissoon also contended that only jumbies from the cemetery are flocking to Jagdeo and the PPP. By now, Kissoon would have seen the photographs of Jagdeo’s audience recently at Babu Jaan, Corentyne.

There were nearly 5000 jumbies in attendance. I would like Kissoon to know that I, too, am a jumbie. In 2015, GECOM told us that 202, 694 jumbies flocked to the PPP, and the overwhelming evidence is that, come 2020, the number of jumbies flocking to the PPP would significantly surpass the 2015 numbers.

I never met Kissoon. I do not know him, but when I first saw his photograph, I thought he looked like a person who could flock to Jagdeo and the PPP. Sincerely, Selwyn Persaud

guyanatimesgy.com

SunDAY, march 25, 2018

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News

Preventative steps to guard against measles outbreak taken – MoPH …as Venezuela records measles outbreak

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he Public Health Ministry said although there is currently a measles outbreak in neighbouring Venezuela, the highly contagious virus is yet to reach Guyana and particularly the bordering communities in Region One (Barima Waini).

However, in an interview with the Department of Public Information, Director of Maternal and Child Health Services, Dr Ertensia Hamilton said there is no such outbreak at this time adding that they are prepared for the eventuality.

Hamilton clarified that reports forwarded to senior regional officials may have been misinterpreted, thereby giving the incorrect impression that there may be an outbreak in the region. She explained that there is a measles outbreak in the neighbouring country of Venezuela, however, health officials in Region One have been monitoring the situation and preparing for any eventuality.

Meanwhile, Junior Public Health Minister, Dr Karen Cummings commenting on the issue said that, “in stopping this

(Measles), efforts must be preventative, so we ensure everyone is vaccinated, do mop-up exercises and be vigilant of our borders. We are working with our part-

ners at PAHO who are on top of things…” Minister Cummings further explained.

She also noted that there may be an increase

in the number of Brazilians and Venezuelans seeking health care in the bordering communities’ health facilities. She, however, assured that these persons are treated, since healthcare services in Guyana are free.

The Region One vaccination records will indicate persons requiring the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella – MMR vaccine. This vaccine is usually issued to babies but can also be given to adults to prevent the contraction of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. The first sign

of the ailment is usually a high fever, which begins about 10 to 12 days after exposure to the virus and lasts 4 to 7 days. A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash erupts, usually on the face and upper neck.

Over about three days, the rash spreads, eventually reaching the hands and feet. The rash lasts for 5 to 6 days and then fades.

Measles can eventually cause severe health problems, including pneumonia, brain swelling and, in some cases, death.

Guyana can expect a fair decision Dear Editor, I was fortunate to have observed the CCJ proceedings on the case State of Guyana vs Cedric Richardson, popularly known as the “Third Term Case”. Fascinating stuff, and I am so proud to have had the opportunity to listen to the wisdom of the learned judges. I found them to be razor sharp with their questions, so much so that I felt sorry for the Head of the Guyana Bar on several occasions, Mr Basil Williams, SC, Esq.

My bigger concern, however, after looking at those proceedings, is to remind those in the executive how very wrong they are when they think that this Burnham Constitution vests them with absolute power; it does not.

The Guyana Constitution vests in the Judiciary the power to adjudicate upon the constitutional validity of all of the laws, without exception. If a law made

by Parliament violates the provisions and spir-

it of the Constitution, the CCJ does have the power to declare such a law ultra vires, and not even a President of Guyana can overturn such a decision; only the people by way of a referendum can do so.

And we all know who cannot face the people in 2018 in a plebiscite, because their popularity ratings is around 38%.

Judicial review of the process of implementing of the Constitution is a powerful check of any attempt at absolute power. It is

now clear to me that the CCJ does have the power to pull the brakes on the legislative eagerness of the Parliament, especially when they failed to change the Constitution by following due process. But I do not want to pre-suppose anything, but await the verdict.

Collectively, the honorable judges have taken a very principled position, which is that it is their job to protect the basic features of the Constitution, and thus their commit-

ment to the Theory of Basic Structure. Under no circumstance can Parliament alter the basic structure or framework of the Constitution if this act can be seen to damage, emasculate, or destroy that framework.

I am so grateful that Guyana has the CCJ as its highest court, so that our affairs can be adjudicated upon without any political pressure or posturing from the Executive. And there is no shortage of that in 2018, as we observed

the determined attempt

by President Granger to get rid of Chancellor (ag) Cummings and Chief Justice (ag) George. From what I have seen from these honorable judges at the CCJ, Guyana can expect a fair decision.

The days of the political decisions passed down by the likes of Justice Crane and Bollers in service to their political master are over.

Sincerely, Sasenarine Singh

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018

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guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

Tufts Syndrome Ashley Anthony

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avigating the weird world of college admissions; inbox inundated with no reply emails, glossy pamphlets and nerve wracking release dates, for the good half of a year now, I have stopped being surprised

when I learn something new about the process. Although I have already submitted all of my applications, it seems as though, at this point, I could get accepted to a university and still not know everything about the process.

I have so many questions.

Which college is better?

Which rankings are biased?

How does Swarthmore

compare to Tufts or Amherst, and how do they decide which students to admit?

How do the Ivy leagues make their selections? What’s the likelihood I’ll get into a given school with my current GPA and SAT scores? What are the pros and cons of re-sitting the SAT? Honestly, it seems to be that the answers to these questions depend on whom

you ask. I have spent (wasted?) many an hour scouring the boards of College Confidential; reading about the community of each of my schools, reading about who got accepted (and who didn’t), and why they thought they’d been accepted or not. Everyone has their own idea of what schools are looking for, and every time you think you’ve got it down, some

outlier posts something that completely contradicts your current understanding of the system.

It’s sort of like trying your very best to win a dance competition but not knowing what style of dance the judges are looking for. Maybe the selection process is specifically ambiguous, so that students can’t change themselves to suit a particular school, and instead are accepted into schools that they “fit”.

Something curious though that I have come across is yield protection, nicknamed “Tufts Syndrome”.

Yield protection refers to the practice of schools rejecting highly qualified students on the grounds that they will most likely get accepted into a better school, and therefore enrol there instead.

It is termed “yield protection” since yield is defined as the percentage of students who accept the offer of admission.

The idea is essentially that highly qualified students are unlikely to accept the admission offer, and it is better to waitlist or reject them than have a lower yield.

There is too, an argument of “demonstrated interest”, where the school may reject a well-qualified student claiming that they simply do not seem interested enough in the university. They suggest that the student should make an effort to visit the campus, do an interview with alumni,

and mention specifics about the school in their college essays. This, I suppose, is to deter students from using the school as a “safety school” – somewhere they know they’re guaranteed to get into (in case all else fails). My issue with this however, is that again, it seems like you’re expected to do certain things but no one ever informs you, and then you’re penalised for not completing the task. The name “Tufts” in the nickname comes from Tufts University, a school that in the past many have accused of committing the act. However, in some ways it is understandable why schools would want to admit students who genuinely want to go to the school. In addition to just yield, there are other factors that contribute to a school’s ranking and reputation, for example how happy the students are there.

Why would the school accept someone that sees them as a last resort, over someone who views them as a top choice?

Who do you think is more likely to rank themselves as happier if admitted? There are some who argue that “Tufts Syndrome” is not real, and is perhaps invented by bitter students having been rejected from schools. Either way, it is still interesting to think about.

There are so many factors that contribute to whether or not you will get into a school, some of which may very well be out of your control.

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt insincere about fostering Local Govt – Jagdeo …says promotion of “return to local democracy” just rhetoric Democratic Councils and other local authorities. In addition, it would have to approve budgets for the NDCs. By law, the commis-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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ith the Local Government Commission complaining about continued control being exerted over its operations by Central Government, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is of the view that Government has shown it is not serious about local government.

This assertion was made during a recent press conference, when the Opposition Leader cited recent complaints from Commission Chair Mortimer Mingo.

According to Jagdeo, Mingo’s difficulties are reminiscent of the fight it took to even get the Government to set up the commission.

“How disappointing!

Well, I shouldn’t say disappointing, knowing all along that it was just a rhetoric about the return to local government democracy,” Jagdeo said. “They took great credit for returning local government democracy, for ten years stymieing it in that body that we had, the Joint Committee.”

The former President pointed to the conduct of Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan. Following another Mayoral elections for the Region One municipality of Mabaruma ending in a tie, Bulkan wrote to the Town Clerk, Barrington Ward, citing the incumbent Mayor Henry Smith as the winner.

Mortimer Mingo, who is the Chairman of the Local Government Commission, was quoted in sections of the media as stating that since the commission has not received the $110 million allocated in the 2018 budget, it has not been able to hire permanent staff.

“This is what Mortimer Mingo said: ‘$110 million budgeted in 2018, we have not received any money as yet. We don’t have a permanent office and we cannot hire any permanent staff’.

So Bulkan continues to exercise the functions of this body, which is a constitutional body,”Jagdeo said.

“They didn’t want to

put the Local Government Commission in place. We had to fight for that to happen, (and) eventually it got appointed,” Jagdeo recalled.

Difficulties

On Friday last, the PPP members on the Local Government Commission had much to say about the workings of the commission.

Commissioners Norman Whittaker, Clinton Collymore and Carol Sooba were sworn in since October of last year, but, according to them, the body is being propped up as just a front, while Central Government essentially runs the show.

The commissioners complained that at every level they are being stymied by the Government, when Government is actually supposed to ensure the commission’s autonomy.

The Commission was sworn in last year October, after a lengthy delay. The parliamentary Opposition had named its nominees to the Local Government Commission since 2016.

However, since the Government did not submit its nominations, deadlock had resulted.

One of the first public deadlines that Minister Bulkan gave for the body to become functional was at a press conference during the time of the March 2016 Local Government Elections. Asked during the latter part of the month for an explanation, the Minister had moved the deadline to the end of June 2016.

In the Budget estimates for 2016, some $30 million was allocated by the Government to the non-functioning Commission. When asked, Bulkan had stated that this was to allow the Commission to operate independently of Central Government.

The commission is charged with, among other things, control over who gets appointed as officials in the Neighbourhood

sion is to be made up of eight members. The members of the commission include four nominated by the Government, one from the unions, and three nomi-

nees from the Leader of the Opposition.

The Commission’s members are Mortimer Mingo, Clement Corlette, Marlon Williams, Jo Ann

Romascindo, Andrew Garnett, former Local Government Ministers Whittaker and Collymore, and former Georgetown Town Clerk Carol Sooba.

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

IN THE COURTS

Woman further remanded for attempting to kill cousin

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26-year-old woman, who is no stranger to the court, was on Friday further remanded to prison by Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus on an attempted murder charge.

Lisa Bobb of Royal Drive, Campbellville, Georgetown, is expected to return to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on April 4.

Bobb was charged for wounding Christel Bobb with intent to commit murder.

The court heard that the Virtual Complainant, Christel Bobb, and Lisa Bobb are cousins who reportedly have

Lisa Bobb poses for her photo to be taken by reporters at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts

had several misunderstandings in the past.

On February 14, 2018, at Royal Drive, Campbellville, Christel had just returned home when she was allegedly pounced upon by Lisa, who dealt her stab to her upper left arm. This attack reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding the cousins had the previous night.

Christel was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she was admitted a patient.

On her last appearance at court, Lisa Bobb had been sent to be mentally evaluated.

Trio charged for Teen charged for robbery stealing $1.7M in boat parts

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hree men appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to three counts of simple larceny charges.

Carlos Scott, 23; Glendel Gonsalves, 23; and Fitzroy Calvan, 22; all denied the charges read to them.

The court heard that on March 19, 2018, at Friendship, Pomeroon River, the three men stole a 75

A

horsepower Yamaha engine worth $1.3 million, a gas pump valued $400,000, a remote worth $100,000 and other items; which totalled $1.7 million.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield objected to bail, based on the seriousness of the offence and he further added that the defendants gave caution statements.

Bail was refused by Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus and the matter was adjourned to March 28.

n 18-year-old plumber was on Friday released on bail after he appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Leron Daly to answer a robbery charge.

Kevin Roberts of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge that was read to him.

The prosecution is contending that on March 18, 2018, while at Brickdam Georgetown, he robbed Karen Basdeo of one gold chain valued $56,000 while at the time of, or immediately after, he used personal vi-

olence towards the Virtual Complainant.

The court heard in a bail application that no identification parade was conducted neither was a caution statement given by the defendant.

However, Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh objected to bail citing the serious nature of the offence.

Roberts was represented by Attorney Paul Fung-AFat, who in a submission for bail asked that bail be granted in a small sum since his client is a first-time offender.

Roberts was released on $50,000 and is expected to return to court on April 13.

Miner slapped with larceny charges

A

miner was released on bail after he denied two simple larceny charges when he appeared before Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Leon Archer, 24, of Kamaka Water Front, Region One (Barima-Waini), is accused of stealing a television set valued $45,000; the property of Lolita Wong on March 20, 2018 while at Kamaka.

The court also heard that on March 8, 2018, while at a shop at Kamaka Water Front, Archer stoke one silver chain valued $4000 and a pack of tablets valued $500; the property of Natilda Abraham.

Additionally, he was charged for using threatening language towards Nobert Persaud.

In court on Thursday, the prosecution did not object to bail and same was granted in the sum of $40,000 for the simple larceny charge and self-bail for the threatening language charge.

Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus also placed Archer on a bond to keep the peace until the conclusion of the matter, which if breached would result in Archer being remanded to prison.

The matter was transferred to the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court. The case will continue on May 21.

Meanspirited…

M

…to Father of the Nation

arch 22, 2018 marks the centenary of the birth of Dr Cheddi Jagan. As part of the month-long series of activities commemorating the event, the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC) had arranged with the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) to issue a commemorative stamp in the great man’s honour.

Now, commemorative stamps are routinely issued by all countries to mark special events.

In fact, right here in Guyana, the Post Office had issued the first one with a Guyanese face in 1970, when they featured PM Forbes Burnham. In 1976, it struck one for the St John’s Ambulance Brigade. Under the PPP, in 1993 it issued one to honour Adrian Thompson, the Guyanese mountaineer. The GPOC – now an autonomous agency – issued a stamp in 2003 to commemorate GuyanaBrazil relations. And in 2010, four stamps were issued to recognise the gold and diamond industry. The new PNCled government saw the GPOC initiating a flurry of stampissuing: in 2015 on the Jubilee Independence, and in 2016 on villages etc.

No one said anything when, in Feb., the Minister of Telecommunications, Ms Cathy Hughes, announced the stamp on Jagan would be issued in March. So it came as a shock to the CJRC when, with no stamp forthcoming on the day before Jagan’s birthday, they were told by Minister Hughes to check with the Ministry of the Presidency (MotP)!! But it didn’t surprise your Eyewitness.

This PNC-led government has made clear by every one of its actions that it’s determined to rewrite the history of Guyana to erase all other contributions than those of the PNC. Especially those of the PPP, which refused to disappear between 1964 and 1992, and remains as a standing indictment of its pretentions. The MotP, in the voice of the President, issued a pathetic excuse that while it recognises Cheddi Jagan as one of the “founders of the Guyanese nation”, they’ll issue the stamp along with one for President Arthur Chung!! The stamp is a “national symbol”, and there must be “equity” in its issuance!!

Now, we all know this is a piece of crock!! If the GPOC’s autonomous, how can the President unilaterally rescind its decision? His claim about the stamp being a “national symbol” is just insulting the intelligence of the Guyanese people. What’s different about the other commemorative stamps? Then President Chung wasn’t an EXECUTIVE President, like Jagan (and Burnham), but was merely a titular figure, acting on advice of the Prime Minister (Burnham). The offices were substantively DIFFERENT! The bottom line is: if and when a stamp is issued, the commemorative events on Jagan’s centenary would have passed, along with his birthday.

This is just being petty and mean!

…to Justice Kennard

In another of its studied petty and mean-spirited actions, the President had also removed former Chancellor Kennard as head of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), saying he was “too old”. Even as he traduced the Constitution to appoint a just-as-old (Chief?) Justice Patterson as GECOM’s Chair!! So the headless PCA’s been unable to investigate the tsunami of transgressions committed by the GPF, bemoaned even by the President and his Security Minister!

The latest Police action drawing demands for an investigation was their killing of three men at the Georgetown seawall, after being accused of trailing a bank “withdrawer” to rob him. The silence of President Granger and his Security Minister is in stark contrast to a similar killing of a trio in 2013 at South Road.

Then, with the PPP in office, Granger had reminded them that the DFC had recommended that PCA be given its own investigators to look into the Police killing persons from “depressed communities”. He said ultimately, the killings emanated from the “incompetence” of the Ministry!

What says he now about Ramjattan?

…to medical personnel

The new GHPC CEO complains that medical personnel at the GHPC don’t get any respect from patients and their relatives.

Don’t the latter realise that, especially here, payback can be a b*tch??!!

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

news

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Miner killed Father drowns while trying to save children by fallen tree in Region 7 A E

father died on Friday while attempting to save his two children from a watery grave, as the boat in which they were travelling capsized in the Kamarang River in Region Seven.

This dead father has been identified as 43-year-old Larchman Benjie, a farmer of Waramadong Village in Region Seven.

Based on reports reaching Guyana Times, the farmer and his two children, aged two and three, were returning from the family’s farm when their small canoe capsized midway across the river.

The father of five managed to push his two daughters to safety, but fell victim to the rough waters of the Kamarang. His body was recovered on Saturday morning.

The Benjie family had reportedly relocated to Waramadong from Jawalla so that the children could have access to education.

When contacted, Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis, confirmed occurrence of the tragic accident, while noting that a team of Police ranks had travelled up to the area to investigate the attending circumstances. The com-

mander noted that getting to the area will take some time because of the terrain.

Guyana Times understands that after Benjie’s body had been retrieved on Saturday morning, the farmer was thereafter laid to rest.

milo Rodney La Rose, a gold miner of the NorthWest District in Region One (Barima-Waini), was killed at about 15:15h on Wednesday when a tree fell on him in the Kuribroung Backdam in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The incident reportedly occurred while La Rose and a group of other miners were working on a pit.

Police investigations reveal that La Rose was clearing the land above the pit while his colleagues were working in the pit. The men reported hearing La Rose “hollering in pain”, and immediately went to inves-

tigate. They found him lying on his stomach with a fallen tree lying across his back.

They immediately rushed to his assistance, removing him from under the tree and rushing him to the Bartica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The body of the 46-yearold miner is currently at the New Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post mortem examination, which has been scheduled for Monday.

The pit where the incident occurred belongs to dredge owner Stephen Edwards of Bartica.

Separate energy dept: A dangerous development – Opposition Advisor …tied to PNC takeover of O&G revenues

T

he creation of a Department of Energy in the Ministry of the Presidency (MotP) with sole control over the purse strings of all oil revenues coming into Government is a dangerous development that must be vehemently opposed on all fronts.

This is according to Economic Advisor to the Political Opposition, Peter Ramsaroop, who said the Department, and not the Ministry “with its control over the deposit account – called Wealth or Natural Resources Fund – is the creation of a slush fund with no parliamentary oversight over the spending of the money receives from our oil fields.”

According to the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) advisor, the Department is no different from outfits created by the People’s National Congress (PNC) and how they were run under that regime during the 1970s and 1980s autocratic rule.

Ramsaroop in fact believes that the recently announced Energy Department to be annexed under MotP, “is part of a much bigger ma-

Opposition Economic Advisor, Peter Ramsaroop

trix of machinations by the party leader for an autocratic party takeover of Guyana’s oil and gas revenue.”

“What the President has done, has in effect taken control over the revenues to be earned with the oil companies with no oversight, not Parliament to fund the PNC as the Government in Office, always,” Ramsaroop posited.

This atrocity, he said, cannot be allowed to prevail.

According to the Economic Advisor, the Private Sector Commission has already laid its cards on

the table and as such, “it is incumbent on the business community more than any other group to arrest the current developments, so together as a multi-stakeholder grouping – Government, Opposition and civil society – chart and govern Guyana’s oil and gas destiny. Let us not leave it in the hands of a few.” Ramsaroop maintains, “for all intent and purposes, Raphael Trotman is still the Minister of Petroleum – a portfolio he holds in conjunction with Natural Resources (no longer Environment).”

“Minister Trotman is the person with whom Petroleum Laws dictate and divulge every power – not the President,” he said.

“The Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader, Mr Trotman, has now been left as a rubberstamp – much like had happened with his colleague rubberstamp Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo,” he said.

Ramsaroop also believes the Department flies in the face of international best practices, to have such wealth funds placed under a-political control – so that no one President

or ruling party can abuse or laying waste to such a fund. Ramsaroop expanded that “Minister Trotman would have us believe, like he believes, to have the sole powers to pull the purse strings under MotP and the President is a good thing.

Would Minister Trotman still would have said this is a good arrangement if it was the PPP who was doing this,” he questioned and suggests, “Mr Trotman’s plat-

itudes do not veil the shenanigans at work as David Granger emboldens his and the PNC’s autocratic rule over Guyana’s oil destiny, more so its oil revenue.”

While the Petroleum Commission Bill has come to a grind with a promise at more amendments, he said, this represents another delay in the establishment of the regulatory commission and by extension a delay in the putting in of the staff,

their training and familiarisation with the Department in addition to its teething woes.

“By no stretch of the imagination a task that will be accomplished in less than two years… of interest too, and tied into the bigger matrix of tomfooleries, is the delay without explanation of the approval for the members of anti-money laundering committee,” he said.

10

SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Breaking good S

atiricus was happy as a lark, even though he’d never seen a lark to know how it expressed “happiness”.

But he’d been educated in the British educational system, and ‘happy as a lark’ – not Kiskadee! - it was!! For the past year, he’d been given so much stick from the fellas over Trot Man’s negotiation of the oil contract! It didn’t matter he insisted his KFC leaders were Nagga Man and Rum Jhaat. But now, as he entered the Back Street Bar, he would “shut their mouths!!”

“So you fellas hear what Sir Paul Collier said?” Satiricus demanded in a challenging tone.

“Who da?” asked Bungi.

“Hold it right there Sato!” said Hari. “I just remember a story Cheddi used to tell.”

“Really? Cheddi??” asked Satiricus curiously, as everyone at the table put down their bottles. It wasn’t every day that Hari told a story.

“Well, back in the day, Cheddi and his brother Sirpaul, who was his assistant dentist, were staying at a hotel in New York,” said Hari.

“Da mussee w’en he bin a de UN fuh aks fuh independence,” said Cappo, who had been to Accrebe.

“Maybe,” agreed Hari. “And Cheddi noticed they were treating him and Sirpaul like royalty…sending fruits up to their room and all that!”

“Dem mussee hear about Cheddi?” suggested Bungi.

“Naah,” answered Hari. “When Cheddi got the bill for the room, he understood.”

“Big money?” asked Satiricus.

“Naah!!” said Hari. “The bill was made out to Dr Cheddi Jagan and Sir Paul Jagan!!”

They all cracked up as Cappo asked Satiricus, “Suh wha’ dis Sir Paul seh?”

“Well, he said we mustn’t tear up the contract Trot Man signed!” exclaimed Satiricus. “No country will respect us!!”

“Sato, tell me whe’ Sir Paul come fram,” asked Cappo suddenly.

“England,” said Satiricus with a surprised look.

“Suh wha’ mek dem bruk dem contrak wid de EU?” Cappo asked slyly.

“They didn’t break the contract,” said Satiricus impatiently. “They’re renegotiating it!”

“An’ na da abee want de guvment fuh do?” asked Cappo.

news

Wedding destinations

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SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

Marriage certificate delay hinders Guyana as a wedding destination

Hawking & Harris

By Ryhaan Shah

T

he world recently lost two men whose ideas of space and time have advanced the sum of our knowledge and understanding of the known universe. One was a scientist, British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, and the other was Guyana-born poet Wilson Harris.

Coming from such opposite ends of the spectrum of knowledge and experience, you would think that a scientist and poet looking out at our universe would come up with theories and ideas that were vastly different. You would be wrong.

“The laws of science do not distinguish between the past and the future,” Hawking wrote in his seminal work, A Brief History of Time; and in his best-known collection of poems, Eternity to Season, Harris stated in the poem ‘Home’: “For time is no fixed boat or inevitable doom/but is the motion of men and matter in space …. ” And when, in the same poem, he wrote: “… time is the harbour that men must build in each moment” there is a distinct echo in Hawking noting that “Each observer has his own measure of time”, referring to the theory of relativity, which proposes that there is no absolute time.

Where Hawking advanced the possibility of the spacetime continuum being finite and without boundary, which meant it had no beginning, Harris mused, in the poem ‘Rice’: “And space is an indifferent/humour, glimpses of cloud, blueness and remoteness.”

Both men received many prizes and accolades during their lifetime, and Harris was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010. However, neither was awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize in his respective field. From Harris’s starting point of human experience and observations, he wrote prose and poetry that sought to illuminate our understanding of the universe and our place in it. But his creative output had little commercial success.

In contrast, Hawking’s landmark book, which made scientific inquiry into time and space accessible to the layman, sold millions of copies. He was 76 when he died.

Because of a motor neuron disease, he moved about in a wheelchair, and spoke through a voice synthesiser, which made his speech robotic. He was an iconic figure, and had a life-long career as a professor at Cambridge University. His life story was made into the much-acclaimed movie “The Theory of Everything”.

He died just weeks after completing a book which predicts that the world will end when the energy of the stars runs out.

He once stated that science is not only the disciple of reason, but of romance and passion; a sentiment shared

by Harris, though he started from the poet’s position of romance and passion, and sought answers in scientific reasoning in what was as he wrote in ‘Rice’: “An extension of longing like the heart of man/spread and searched the world ….”

Harris died at age 96. He was born in New Amsterdam, and left British Guiana for Britain in 1959, where he continued his writing and became known as an author, poet and essayist. Literary critics have commented on the breadth of his vision, which came out of his interest in physics, anthropology, mythology, alchemy and philosophy.

Yet, for all that, Harris’s work remained grounded in the Guyana he knew and remembered, as evidenced in these lines from the ‘The Golden Age’: “At the far end of the jetty between suburban Kitty and port Georgetown/where the mountains are a cloud/and the flats are sometimes drowned/stand history like a sluice of plantations/a ghost of rain over the wide waters and the sun. The Atlantic comes ….”

Hawking’s work also, for all its explanations of black holes and quarks, was always motivated by the fundamental questions: “What do we know about the universe, and how do we know it? Where did the universe come from, and where is it going? Did the universe have a beginning; and if so, what happened before then?”

A Brief History of Time ends with his statement: “Up to now, most scientists have been too occupied with the development of new theories that describe what the universe is to ask the question why…. if we find the answer to that, it would be the ultimate triumph of human reason – for then we would know the mind of God.” That the ultimate answers to their questions would likely be found in an understanding of things that lie beyond the finite world and outside the framework of human experience was a probability for both; and Harris, with a poet’s sensibility about the inevitability that awaited no matter the human quest, wrote in ‘Troy’: “So eternity to season/the barbaric conflict of man.So he must die first to be free.”

O

verseas couples wanting to get married in Guyana may be thwarted by the delay in acquiring their marriage certificate.

This was according to the Director General of the Tourism Department, Donald Sinclair during the launching of the 10th annual Wedding Expo on Friday evening at Roraima Duke Lodge, Duke Street, Kingston.

He stated that the process of acquiring a marriage licence could be a setback for couples coming to Guyana to get married and may be the reason why Guyana is not listed as a tourist destination for weddings.

The Director General however noted that the Tourism Ministry is working closely with the Citizenship Ministry to resolve this issue and more so, to reduce the amount of time a couple

has to wait before receiving their certificates.

Sinclair said the law requires a newly wedded couple to spend 14 days in Guyana before the marriage certificate is acquired.

“We need to pay attention to the legislation which will make it more attractive for persons to get married here, that in itself has been a setback for many years so now we need to look at it from a tourism standpoint,” Sinclair said.

Nevertheless, he noted that if the destination idea is taken much more seriously, Guyana can grow as a wedding destination.

Brainchild of the event, Captain Gerald Gouveia, while delivering his address urged Government to change the legislation highlighted by Sinclair.

“People leave to go to Jamaica to get married, people leave to go The

Director General of the Tourism Department, Donald Sinclair

Dominican Republic to get married; those countries are beautiful but Guyana is amazing, imagine getting married at the Kaieteur Falls or at Orinduk Falls or in the Rupununi or at Baganara.

Young people would love to come to Guyana to get marries but can’t so we are using this

Wedding Expo as a platform to urge the Government to look into the legislation,” Gouveia noted.

Gouveia further stated that Guyana has the potential to become one of the most sought after destinations in the Caribbean, while noting that certain framework has to be set.

The Wedding Expo, he noted, has been one of such events that can showcase Guyana as one of those destinations over Jamaica – a country where couples flock to get married due to the fact they do not have to wait a long time to acquire their certificates.

The three-day affair was launched with great pomp and high expectations with over 40 exhibitors on show.

The expo is being used as a vehicle to provide yet another opportunity for a couple to get married under the spotlight.

12 news

SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Specifications of India-funded ferry being finalised

T

he Government of Guyana is currently in discussion with two India-based companies to finalise the details for the construction of an ocean-going vessel that would be used to ply the route between Georgetown and the North-West District (NWD) in Region One (BarimaWaini).

The Indian Government has made available US$18 million for the ferry. Of this amount, US$8 million will be a grant, while the remaining US$10 million will be a line of credit (LoC) to be repaid within 20 years, with a five-year grace period.

Speaking at a press conference late last week, Indian High Commissioner to Guyana,

Venkatachalam Mahalingam, told reporters that two Indian companies – Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) and SHOFT Shipyard Pvt Ltd – have already contacted the Guyana Government to iron out the design, construction and supply details.

“They (Guyana Government) are in discussions with these two companies to finalise the specifications of the ferry. Because, first, they have to finalise the specifications of the ferry, and then one of the companies will be given the bid to manufacture the ocean-going vessel,” the Indian diplomat explained.

Back in January 2015, former President Donald Ramotar had secured the funding while

Indian High Commissioner V Mahalingam

attending the 13th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Gujrat, India. He had a meeting on the sidelines with India’s Prime

Minister Narendra Modi, during which the commitment was made.

The Guyana Government had previously written to India, requesting funding for a ferry “to help Guyana overcome transportation problems in the northern region.”

Back in November 2016, Finance Minister Winston Jordan had signed an agreement with representatives of the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of India at his Main Street, Georgetown, office.

Minister Jordan had said the acquisition of the vessel would bring much-needed relief to residents in the area.

“These resources will be used to facilitate the construction of the passenger and cargo ves-

sels to provide river transportation to residents plying the route,” he had said, and added that the other two vessels – MV Barima, which was refurbished last year to the tune of $150 million, and Lady Northe Cote – are very aged and in dire need of repairs.

Over the years, residents have been complaining about the negative impact of the service on their lives and livelihood. “The construction of this new cargo ferry is expected to provide improved services to those residents who commute regularly between Regions One and Four. This mode of transportation is also expected to provide a number of social and economic benefits to the two regions, and the country as

a whole,” the Finance Minister had stated.

He added that the new vessel would also allow for passengers and goods to be moved at affordable prices in a safe, secure and reliable environment.

“This new ferry vessel will increase efficiency in operation by allowing passengers and freight to be conveyed more swiftly, with fewer delays as a reduction in traffic time. It will allow for greater market access, where the economy of scale will improve through production, distribution and consumption, contributing to the economic growth of Guyana,” the Minister said.

Guyana’s other ferry vessel, MV Kimbia, was also docked for repairs last year.

news

13

SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

GTT’s Innov8 Summit focuses on youth development

I Cheddi Jagan: through official American eyes

T

he following excerpts are taken from interviews of US diplomatic personnel done by the State Department to familiarise new personnel posted to Guyana on their experience in Guyana. ALLEN C HANSEN (1957-1959) Branch Public Affairs Officer, USIS (Interviewed 1988) At the time of my assignment to Georgetown, President Kennedy was in the White House.

There was great concern that British Guiana, which would soon get its independence, would very possibly become a second Cuba (as mentioned earlier) inasmuch as the Prime Minister at the time was Cheddi Jagan. Jagan, usually described as a Marxist, was very friendly with the Cubans and the Soviets. His leanings were certainly in the Communist direction.

So the feeling in Washington was that it was time to have a USIS office there.

Theodore J. C. Heavner 1969-1971 Deputy Chief of Ravi Dev Mission, (Interviewed 1997) In 1968, just a year before I got there, Burnham was still fresh in the job and Jagan was still waiting in the wings, expecting to be elected at the next election; and not unreasonably so, since he was the undoubted leader of the Indian population in that country….

He was a very charismatic figure in the Indian community.

Burnham, however, in power was repeatedly able to arrange that the elections didn’t come out that way. They were rigged, and we knew they were rigged, and that was fine with us. In those days, we thought we could not risk having a second communist country in our own hemisphere.

We were concerned about Jagan essentially taking over by violence. He had been trained and was patronized by the Soviets. He went regularly to Moscow, where he was lionized.

He was clearly, at all times, following the Soviet line on all questions of any international importance. He seemed to be almost a rubber stamp for the Soviets. His wife was probably the more astute politician there, Janet Jagan, who was an American and lost her citizenship as a result of being a Guyana cabinet officer, and then was subsequently given it back.

David C. McGaffey 1986-1990 Chargé d’Affaires, (Interviewed 1995) Cheddi was personally very personable. He was polite, courteous, an interesting conversationalist, but his mentality seemed to be frozen in a time warp. He would just not acknowledge any of the changes in the world that had taken place, not acknowledge what was happening in the Soviet Union, not acknowledge what was happening to socialism worldwide.

He was waiting to restore things to the way they had been when he was young. His wife Janet seemed to be, in my judgment, his intellectual superior. She also, in her ordinary comments, reminded me of listening to radical SDS students in my youth. The two of them had been politically prominent and yet out of politics for 28 years, and they were in a holding pattern.

Dennis Hays 1988-1992 Deputy Chief of Mission, (Interviewed 2001) Cheddi’s fault was that he was a Marxist without a sharp edge. If he had been a Castro, a Rawlings or any of these guys, he never would have lost power in the first place. He had it, but he let it go. So he was still out there. A quick story on Cheddi, which is indicative of how things worked. He used to go to these communist party gatherings that they would have, and he would sit kind of in the back because he wasn’t a head of state at this point (in 1968.) He was eight or nine rows back in the audience. This was the time of the Czechoslovakian invasion. Apparently, a couple of speakers had gotten up from the communist party from Australia and they had criticized the Soviet Union for its actions. So when Cheddi got up and launched into this attack on them -- that how dare they question the judgment, the commitment, the dedication of our fraternal brothers in the Soviet Union, who protect us? -he went on and on and on. So he gave this little speech and they broke for lunch, and when they came back, he was sitting next to Brezhnev. From that point on, he was always a front row guy for the next twenty years. He moved up. He also got a Dacha on the Black Sea. (Jagan returned to Guyana and transformed the PPP the following year, 1969, into an official “Marxist-Leninist party.)

t was a tech lover’s dream on Saturday when GTT opened its inaugural technology exposition at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel, with focus on providing an opportunity – particularly for youths – to display their skills as innovators using modern digital technology to propel Guyana into the realm of the 21st century.

At the opening ceremony, GTT’s Chief Executive Officer Justin Nedd said the event is focused around youths and providing them with the opportunity to be creative and showcase their talent. He noted that very often several “experts” would emerge but questioned their

These youngsters seem quite intrigued with the candy robot at the GTT expo

authenticity, adding that because they have that outlet, they use it to fool the masses.

He further related that GTT’s Innov8 is about displaying the people that actually know about technology and inspiring youths to join the field.

“We could say we believe that children are the future but unless we do something about it then it’s just empty talk and we are not about empty talk. Over the next three to four days, I want you to look, learn, ask many questions and be a part of innovation. Guyana is a beautiful place and we are on the verge of something big,” Nedd said.

“This is really about getting the children involved, opening their minds and giving them a place that they can form thoughts on their own rather than have thoughts of others imposed upon them. This is for our youths, learn ask questions and simply don’t take no for an answer,” he urged.

Meanwhile, Business Minister Dominica Gaskin commended the telephone giant for embarking on the initiative, while pledging his Ministry’s commitment for the event. He noted that the Private Sector is not just a driver of economic growth but also the leader of innovation and the advancement of technology.

Innov8 Expo

First Lady Sandra Granger joined a number of fervent parents, youths and tech enthusiast at the Innov8 Expo highlighting

Virtual First Lady! First Lady Sandra Granger experiencing virtual technology

the talent of Guyanese in the technology and creative fields.

The Innov8 summit is a three-day even free to the

On Monday, the Innov8 Summit ends with the business forum, which will see business leaders, tech entrepreneurs, innovators,

public with the Innov8 expo running from today until Sunday. The expo starts at 10:00h and closes at 23:00h.

creativity experts, Public Sector personnel, and industry trailblazers engaging in discussions on ways tech-

nology can drive businesses and the economy forward for Guyana.

There are over 40 exhibitors highlighting a wide range of products and innovations utilising the power of modern digital technology.

Among them is STEM Guyana. The STEM team is displaying their robots and a wide range of programmes offered to youths to get them interested in creating.

In order to encourage creativity, GTT at the expo’s opening ceremony, surprised a number of children with Lego sets. The two-day expo will feature a number of workshops, a cosplay competition and gaming tournament. Throughout the expo, patron will have the opportunity to win a number of prizes from various exhibitors. (Lakhram Bhagirat)

14 news India-funded water pumps to aid with flood prevention M sunDAY, march 25, 2018| guyanatimesgy.com

ore than one year after signing an agreement with the Indian Government for the supply of both mobile and fixed water pumps under a US$4 million line of credit (LOC), Guyana will soon be getting the 14 pieces of drainage and irrigation equipment that will be used to boost flood prevention efforts.

Indian High Commission, Venkatachalam Mahalingam, told the media that, “…two companies have submitted the bids and I’m sure the Government of Guyana is in the process of choosing one of the companies for the supply of pumps worth US$4 million.”

The Indian companies, Apollo International Limited (AIL) and Serele International, submitted bids in the sum of US$3.6 million and US$3.7 million respectively. The bids were opened earlier this month by the National Procurement and Tender

Administration Board (NPTAB).

The project is under the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) and includes the design, supply, installation and commissioning of nine fixed and five mobile high-capacity pumps and associated structures and equipment.

The five mobile pumps will provide drainage services to Georgetown and its environs including La Penitence South, Cummings Canal, Church Street, Sussex Street and South Ruimveldt. These mobile drainage pumps will be assigned to various locations close to existing sluices in the city and its surrounding areas and will also be deployed to other areas to alleviate flooding, whenever necessary.

Meanwhile, residents in Hampton Court and Devonshire Castle in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); Den Amstel in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); Hope and Nooten

Indian EXIM Bank Representative Sailesh Prasad and Finance Minister Winston Jordan signing the loan agreement last year

Zuil in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); Mora Point in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and Rose Hall in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) will benefit from the placement of eight fixed pumps within their communities which will help to restrict flooding there.

This relief to the communities is made possible through a loan agreement signed on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 between the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Export-Import Bank of India in Washington, DC.

In addition to procuring and installing the 14 pumps, the agreement also catered for the provision of associated spares and institutional strengthening related to the use and maintenance of the equipment.

The acquisition of these pumps is expected to reduce the risks of flooding in low-lying areas and will bring relief to residents and farmers whose economic activities are usually disrupted by flooding caused by intensive rainfall and overtopping of the sea defence.

They will provide flood relief to approximately 25,000 acres of agricultural and residential lands.

The LOC agreement was signed back in February 2017 between Finance Minister Winston Jordan and Resident Representative of the ExportImport (EXIM) Bank of India, Sailesh Prasad, in Washington DC, United States.

news

15

SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Berbice security guards sent home empty-handed again

The implications of the US fish ban on Guyana - a revelation of Public Sector inefficiencies, complacency, and lack of professionalism

T

he recent ban imposed upon some of Guyana’s fish products by the US is one that should not have occurred in the first place; and, as such, could have been averted a long time ago. In light of the circumstances leading to the causation of such a consequence for Guyana, it is quite an embarrassment to the Public Sector agencies responsible; and is a reflection of complacency, and a lack of professionalism and a proactive approach in executing their functionalities. While this columnist has cited no empirical evidence in support of this assertion, this is nonetheless the reality of the Public Sector – a very sickening phenomenon, or a chronic disease in Guyana’s Public Sector organisations – which could be deduced by mere observation and general knowledge of the Public Sector organisations in Guyana’s context.

That being said, the author wishes to explicitly state that the Government should not be blamed per se, as would be the natural tendency for the politically-minded persons to do; rather, blame should be apportioned to the persons who are directly responsible for these agencies, together with their employees.

What would this outcome cost the economy?

US$ millions Description

2014

2015

2016 82.80

Fish & Shrimp (exports)

62.20

76.80

Total Exports

1,167.00

1,151.30 1,440.60

Variance (2014-2016)

Change (%)

20.60

33.11

273.60

23.44

NB: 2017 export figures / BOG, 2017 annual report is not published as yet.

The data illustrated in the table above tells a very interesting story as regards the US fish ban in particular, and the potential ‘compound’ adverse economic effect on the Guyanese economy.

One would observe that export earnings from fish and shrimp products increased by 33.11 per cent – or US$20.60 million from US$62.20 million in 2014 – to US$82.80 million in 2016. This means that the fishing industry in Guyana is a relatively rapidly growing industry, which is nothing short of commendable.

Therefore, the US ban on this commodity would further reduce export earnings, which are already dampened with the loss of exports from sugar through the downsizing of the sugar industry, thereby losing US$70 million in export earnings from sugar.

Export earnings from fish and shrimp in 2016 were US$82.80 million, representing 5.6 per cent of total exports; thus losing some amount of fish exports is undoubtedly a serious problem for the economy, especially for the livelihoods of those who are directly dependent upon this industry and are affected by this particular ban.

Additionally, there has been a steady decline in the country’s foreign reserve by a negative 15.2 per cent from 2014 to date – by US$100 million, from US$652 million in 2014 to US$552.8 million in 2018 – and therefore losing export earnings from sugar of US$70 million and now fish, which accounts for another 5.6 per cent of total exports, will further deplete the foreign reserves held with the Bank of Guyana. This outcome could lead to some negative economic consequences; for example, as a rule of thumb, a country needs to maintain a minimum import cover of three months.

In Guyana’s case, this minimum benchmark is adequately maintained, wherein there are just about three months’ import cover. Import cover refers to a country’s ability to import goods and services; and to do so, there needs to be adequate availability of foreign currency to pay for imported goods. As such, the minimum level of foreign reserve a country needs to maintain to accommodate this is three months. Countries like India and China have more than nine and 12 months’ import cover respectively.

A worst case scenario is: if a country is unable to maintain the minimum benchmark of three months, it means that imports would become more expensive, to the extent where the country would be unable to import any goods or services, given that there simply would not be enough foreign currency to pay for imports.

International reserves held at the Bank of Guyana have been declining steadily, which is not a good sign. This, coupled with the fact that critical industries like the sugar industry are literally being destroyed, and there are currently no sound national economic policies to incentivise and create a much more competitive and strong, diverse agriculture sector, is worrying such that it could lead to economic devastation. For example, there is lack of export markets for agricultural produce, there is an inherently uncompetitive framework to promote and enable value-added creation in the manufacturing sector, and to ultimately export value-added goods, thereby bringing in foreign exchange and stabilising and strengthening the domestic currency and so forth.

These are just a few of the potentially negative consequences to mention; there are other far-reaching consequences – more or less a domino effect – including a devaluation of the domestic currency against the US dollar. *The author is the holder of a MSc. Degree in Business Management, with concentration in Global Finance, Financial Markets, Institutions & Banking from a UK university of international standing.

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

S

everal security guards in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) attached to Integrated Security Service were on Friday evening give their transportation fare to go home, after waiting for almost 12 hours for their salaries, to no avail.

The guards had been waiting outside the company’s office situated at Trinity Street, New Amsterdam, for owed salaries. When Guyana Times visited the security guards on Friday afternoon, it was relayed that some persons were waiting close to 12 hours. Some were paid while others were sent away empty-handed. Those who were not paid were told to return on Tuesday for their salary.

Some of the guards have not been paid since January of this year.

One of the guards told this publication that several of them have been very patient with management of the security service but noted that they are being treated very unfairly.

“He tell we that we can go to who we want, no one can’t

Guards flocked Integrated Security Service for hours waiting on their pay on Friday evening

make him pay we. He is very disrespectful; some of these people could be his grandmother,” one guard related in tears on Friday night, saying that she had nothing to cook and was waiting on the money to buy groceries.

“He tell me, is not he send me to make children,” the single parent added, when she related that she has children to feed.

The guards were attached to a private company, which has been contracted to provide security services for schools, hospitals and other Government buildings in the region, as well as the Regional Democratic Council compound. More than 200

guards were not paid.

Meanwhile, for most of those who walked out of the office with an envelope, there were no smiles on their faces, as they said the money they received will all go into paying debts. “Dis money aint right,” many told Guyana Times.

According to the guards, only some of them were paid in full for December but the majority only received a part payment for December and January.

On Friday, some of the workers were paid at the New Amsterdam office. However, the majority were told that they will be paid this week.

Some of the guards were

Guyoil launched new motorcycle oil

T

he Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) in collaboration with the Sonic Hunters Motorcycle Club on Saturday launched its Castrol Actevo motorcycle oil.

Present at the event was Marketing and Sales Manager of Guyoil, Eric Whaul, who stated that this is the first commercially available oil that is specifically formulated for motorcycles.

“Most motorcycles are using engine oil in their motorcycles, but the engine oil is really manufactured for engines. The motorcycle oil caters for your clutches and brakes,” he said.

Whaul also highlighted that the new oil is guaranteed to be of a good quality, since it is produced by Castrol; a world recognised brand which also pioneered motor racing.

Moreover, the introduction of the oil was a timely one, since members of the motorcycle club will be embarking on the Savannah Drive expedition in Lethem, Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) in a few days.

President of the Sonic Hunters Motorcycle Club, Terrence Lieben, also shared his elation in relation to the collaborative efforts between the oil company and the Motorcycle Club, noting that the club “will represent and promote the brand”.

This event marks the official launch of the motorcycle oil which has been on the market for some time now and consumers are encouraged to purchase the product, which is guaranteed to reduce the engine wear of their bikes.

Some of the members of the Sonic Hunters Motorcycle Club promoting the newly launched product

told that their money was deposited at a commercial bank but when Guyana Times visited that bank in New Amsterdam, several guards were there and all claimed that there was no money in their accounts, as was related by management of the security firm.

“What will we do now? He said that he don’t have money to pay everybody,” one frustrated guard related.

Meanwhile, a source close to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) said the security company visited the RDC with documents purporting to indicate that all of the guards were paid for the month of January.

Chief Executive Officer of the company, Ghalee Khan told the guards to take him to the Labour Department if they feel that they were treated unfairly.

Meanwhile, many of the workers are single parents, with school age children. The workers met outside of the company’s Trinity Street, New Amsterdam office and expressed their frustrations.

The workers complained that they have worked inflexible hours and earned nothing.

Meanwhile, guards in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) who are employed by the same company are also being made to wait on their salaries. The situation is the same with monies allegedly being owed for the months of December and January.

(Andrew Carmichael)

16 news WCB farmers call for REO’s firing SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

…after farmlands bulldozed

F

armers who operate in the vicinity of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office at Fort Wellington late last week picketed the Regional Executive Officer (REO) claiming discrimination.

Their contention is that the REO, Ovid Morrison, has allegedly caused the destruction of their crops. The farmers were forced to take to the picket line after some of their crops were destroyed by actions taken by Morrison.

Morrison had ordered those farmers to remove so that the area could be devel-

Some of the farmers on the picket line

Farmers protesting the removal of the REO

oped into model farms. It was on October 27, 2016, that notices were placed at the entrances to the farms situ-

ated at Naarstigheid and Catherine’s Lust, denying them access to the farmlands.

In April last year, the

farmers held a protest demanding that they be able to continue farming. On Wednesday, another protest was held outside the REO’s office at Fort Wellington; this time they upped the pressure, calling for his removal.

According to the farmers, on Tuesday last, an excavator went to their farms at Catherine’s Lust and Naarstigheid, destroying some of their crops. The farmers occupy 50 acres of land on which they cultivate cash

stronghold, while the farmers who live at Hopetown remain untroubled.

From the picket line, they made it clear that they were being discriminated against.

The farmers noted that farming has been providing employment to a lot of young people in the region and this move by the REO will render many of them jobless.

At a press conference held on April 10, 2017, the REO had said he was developing an economic agriculture

A section of the farmland that was destroyed

crop, fruits and rear livestock.

Some of them stated that they have been cultivating the land since the previous Administration was in office.

The farmers are from Bath Settlement, Experiment, Naarstigheid, Fort Wellington and Hopetown.

However, the dissatisfied farmers are from the village of Bath Settlement, which is considered a People’s Progressive Party (PPP)

model farm to which approval was granted by the RDC. However, Region Chairman Vickchand Ramphal told this publication that this was not the case.

“When the Regional Executive Officer would have served notices to farmers back in 2017, I made it very clear that the Regional Democratic Council of Region Number Five did not make any such decision to remove

those farmers from that plot of land at Naarstigheid.

Further I instructed the REO not to remove any of those farmers from the land there because all of them depend heavily on the land to provide for their families.”

Meanwhile, at another press conference held on January 9, 2018, Morrison told reporters that the model farm will look at factors such as land selection, crop cultivation, and principles of crop rotation, as well as waste consolidation but the Chairman holds out that it is a political move to displace the farmers.

On this note, the Regional Chairman in an invited comment said the REO’s way of behaviour could best be described as dictatorial. “Not only in this issue here with farmers but also with the security guards but other issues that would have arisen in this region.”

Recently the REO chased a group of guards out of the RDC Boardroom. The guards had gone to the Regional Chairman to discuss the non-payment of salaries from the company which has been contracted to provide security to Government buildings in the region.

During the protest, the REO chased guards out of the company’s office in the RDC compound. The security firm had been using a section of a building in the RDC compound as its local office.

Ramphal said he has penned a letter to President David Granger as it relates to Morrison’s actions and issues affecting the region.

news

17

SunDAY, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

National Park receives light upgrade

P

atrons of the National Park in Georgetown will now benefit from the facility’s much needed $8 million upgrade in lights.

With the assistance of the British High Commission, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) oversaw the installation of 45 integrated standalone solar powered 80w Light Emitted Diode (LED) street lights at the Guyana National Park.

The particulars of the project involved replacing the incompetent 250-watt mercury vapour lamps with the more efficient 80-watt solar powered lights.

The Integrated solar powered street lights use renewable energy from the sun to charge the batteries, which provide lighting at nights using energy efficient LED lights.

Total cost of the project, which was financed by the British High Commission in Georgetown through the UK’s Prosperity Fund,

One of the 45 energy efficient lights that were installed in the National Park

is Gy$8,158,288. GEA’s Energy Engineer Brian Constantine explained that the supply and installation cost translates into a unit cost of $178,500 per light.

After a thorough evaluation of the project and the target area, the GEA determined that it would be suitable to place the new lights on the poles that had been there before, to avoid additional costing. The GEA expressed that the lights will not only conserve financially, but energy consumption and carbon emission will also be cut down.

49,275kWh of energy and 29,565kg of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually will be avoided/saved through this investment.

This translates to over G$2,800,000 yearly in savings in electricity costs.

Meanwhile, in a statement, British High Commissioner Greg Quinn noted: “It is incumbent on us all to do what we can to mitigate our impact on the environment, and to improve energy efficiency. The High Commission therefore welcomed the opportunity to work with the GEA to install these lights.”

18 news

sunday, march 25, 2018 | guyanatimesGY.com

WCD sea defence structure will feature new design – River Defence Officer

W

ith the completion of temporary repairs along the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) sea defence to fix ruptures caused by a massive high spring tide earlier this month, there are plans make modifications to the design of the structure, for the permanent works, which are yet to commence.

This was announced by the Chief Sea and River Officer, Kevin Samad, who noted that 100 feet of the concrete structure that lined the shoreline, was partially broken in the high tide episode. He stated that the Sea and River Defence Unit is on a mission to have all the concrete replaced with a newly designed rip-rap structure.

“We have adapted the riprap design which is a more robust design for these areas. That will be our primary intervention for the last three decades on Guyana’s coast. We have been progressing with replacing all the concrete areas with riprap structures,” he stated.

While noting that the works completed thus far were temporary, the permanent works will begin in a few months.

“We had completed an exercise where we did tempo-

rary works by placing boulders on the seaward face of the damaged sections. Those works are of temporary nature,” he stated.

Currently, the areas are being assessed after which a suitable design will be selected that is believed to be suitable for protection against waves and tides. These works will be designated to a contractor by public procurement process.

“What we’re doing there now is we’re assessing the area to finalise some designs and after that we’ll go to tender for a more permanent work on the latter part [of this year],” Samad explained.

While the tender will open in about three weeks, an evaluation is the next step. The permanent works will be awarded “around half the year” after which construction will commence.

Earlier last week, visits were made to the area

by Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson along with the Regional Chairman of Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Julius Faeber in which the areas were examined.

Waves from the high spring tide came into contact

with the seawalls along the WCD about a month ago, resulting in the destruction of four sections along the concrete structure, causing major flooding. Immediately, members of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) were deployed to the varying areas, where sandbags were used to temporarily fill the open gaps. When the water retreated, the Public Infrastructure Ministry hired contractors to conduct temporary repairs by placing boulders along the gaps where sandbags were once used. However, these works were halted due to a shortage of the boulders for the completion of the ruptured sections of the seawall, which was later completed upon the attainment of the remaining boulders. Presently, this makeshift model will act as a shield until actions are taken by the River Defence Unit to fix the structures.

In the near future, the main focus of the newly designed permanent structure will be in Leonora and Uitvlugt, which suffered more severe damages.

Presently, indications predict that residents will see the entire concrete wall being replaced with a rip-rap structure.

Linden girls urged to dream big …at launch of Girl Power Movement

A section of the gathering at the ‘Girl Power Movement’ launching in Linden

L

inden women and girls were encouraged to “push” to overcome challenges and “dream big” by Minister within the Natural Resources Ministry, Simona Broomes, at the launch of the ‘Girl Power Movement’ in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) on Friday. The movement, piloted in the mining town, will seek to empower and embrace women and girls under the theme “Girl power, confronting challenges today, ensuring a brighter tomorrow.”

Speaking to hundreds gathered at the Lichas Hall at Mackenzie, Minister Broomes gave the encour-

agement to use ‘girl power’ to make a difference and confront challenges in the community. She further urged girls, which were represented by all the secondary schools across Linden, to stay in school, be courageous and push to confront challenges in making a difference.

“Girls, you have power and you can use that power in the positive or in the negative... the girls in Linden, you would use your power to stop rape, you would use your power to stop violence, you would use your power to understand who you are... you can use that power to address everything about

yourself... and how you place yourself in society...”, Broomes said. She pointed out that a lot of girls grow up in abusive homes but urged that they use their power to change such situations, as well as to change the cycle of teenage pregnancy and school drop outs.

“Additionally, the Minister pledged to work with girls and offered oneon-one with girls who indicated that they needed help.

The event also saw a motivational piece by Zoe Sills, dances from the Throne Room Expression dance group and Skip to my Lou, as well as motivational songs.

sunDAY, march 25, 2018

19

Afghanistan, Windies A

look to add silverware to celebrations

fter three weeks of thrilling cricket, the 10-team ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018 is down to the last match.

Windies and Afghanistan will both travel to the United Kingdom for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 – that was the primary objective, and that’s been successfully achieved.

The sweetener awaits today, the chance to add some silverware to the celebrations. A couple of weeks ago, Windies would perhaps have been favourites between the two. Now, it is not so straightforward.

Afghanistan’s shoddy form early in the tournament very nearly cost them their seat in the big party next year, but a turnaround in form, and fortunes, has led to a remarkable reversal.

Everything that needed to go right for Afghanistan

did go right – their five-wicket win over Ireland, coupled with Zimbabwe’s failure to beat the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, have ensured Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and the lot will add glitter to the World Cup next year.

Rashid, without the burden of captaincy following Asghar Stanikzai’s return, has returned eight wickets in his last two matches, including a 5/41 against UAE – he had managed all of eight in the five previous matches in the tournament.

Mohammad Shahzad made a timely return to form against Ireland, scoring a 50-ball 54 that set them up well for a tricky chase. As for Stanikzai, he might be a bit ginger after his appendicitis operation, but still found the resolve to play a match-winning 29-ball 39 in a tense situation in the

Jason Holder and Asghar Stanikzai with ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018 trophy

must-win last game.

It’s all come together for Afghanistan nicely in this tournament, and provided they recover from the celebrations in time, this may not be the best time to take them on.

Windies, for their part, went through the tournament winning the moments that matters. They have not set the stage alight, there have been hiccoughs, but they have won six of their seven matches. It’s the sort of get-the-job-done mentality that will serve them well in the final.

That said, their one loss so far came against Afghanistan, a three-wicket reversal in their first Super Sixes clash. A lot has happened since then, though, and that result is unlikely to have any bearing on their upcoming meeting.

In fact, this clash could

be a taste of what lies in store at the World Cup next year. (ICC) Match time is 03:30h.

Squads

Windies: Jason Holder (c), Jason Mohammed, Devendra Bishoo, Carlos Brathwaite, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope (wk), Evin Lewis, Nikita Miller, Ashley Nurse, Keemo Paul, Rovman Powell, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Kesrick Williams Afghanistan: Asghar Stanikzai (c), Mohammad Shahzad (wk), Javed Ahmadi, Ihsanullah Janat, Najibullah Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Samiullah Shenwari, Nasir Jamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Rashid Khan, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Dawlat Zadran, Shapoor Zadran

20

guyanatimesGY.com

sunDAY, march 25, 2018

GTTA heads to polls today

T

he Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) will have its annual General Meeting and election of officer bearers today at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) building, Block XXX Liliendaal from 13:00h with the returning officer bring Dr Collin Roach.

While it is unsure if anyone will challenge current president Godfrey Munroe since nominations can be made on the floor today, it is understood some notable figures in society have expressed a desire to serve on the executive committee.

Each club registered with the Association is entitled to send as many delegates as may desire, however, only one authorized member will be allowed to vote.

Clubs are reminded to ensure that their annual subscriptions have been paid by March 16 so as to be able to exercise their franchise.

The agenda for the day will begin with

Welcome, Minutes/ Matters Arising, President’s Report, Secretary ‘s Report, Treasurer’s Report, Motions, Election of Office Bearers for Period 2018-2020, Installation of Office bearers and Any Other Business.

The current serving executive comes from Godfrey Munroe (President), Dr. Pradeep Balram (Senior Vice President), Jonathan Sankar (Junior Vice President), Deirdre Edghill (Treasurer), Linden Johnson (General Secretary), Lisa Lewis (Assistant Secretary), Joel Wilburg (Assistant Secretary).

Current Guyana Table Tennis Association President Godfrey Munroe

National Race of Champions

Group 2 to bring

the thrills at South Dakota

T

he day motor racing fans have been awaiting has arrived with the National Race of Champions taking centre stage at the South Dakota Circuit today.

The cusp of the action should come in Group 2 with as defending champion Chet Singh looking to keep his crown but he will be challenged the likes of Shan Seejattan, Rameez Mohamed, Nazrudeen Mohamed, Haniff Mohamed and Shairaz Roshandin and others who are going to try to ensure that they have championship shots.

Based on information surfacing, Danny Persaud is ready to seek glory atop the Group Three standings but knows Stefan Jeffery and Vishok Persaud are reputable challengers.

A packed grid is anticipated today at the South Dakota Circuit

Over in the Starlet Cup, The defending champion is Motilall Deodas having swept the competition last year. Deodas’ two main threats are expected to be Anand Ramchand and Rameez Mohamed.

For the two-wheel category it will be a straight fight with Raverio Tucker and Mathew Vieira. Lots will be at stake since

Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club President Ramez Mohammed had stated “the top four” will earn a spot on the country’s Caribbean Motor Racing Championship team.

The 21-race programme of events which is sponsored by Mohamed’s Enterprise, STAG and Tropical Shipping, begins at 10:00 hrs.

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sports

Bancroft, Smith admit to ball-tampering A

ustralia batsman Cameron Bancroft has admitted to trying to change the condition of the ball using a foreign object on the third day of the Cape Town Test against South Africa.

Cameron Bancroft and Australian captain Steve Smith have apologised after footage emerged of the former rubbing “yellow tape” on the ball before hiding the tape inside his trousers during the third day of the third Test between South Africa and Australia.

Bancroft also confirmed he has been charged with an offence by ICC match officials.

"We just had discussions with the match officials,” he said. “I've been charged with attempting to change the condition of the ball. "We had a discussion during the [lunch] break and I saw an opportunity to use some tape, get some granules from the rough patches on the wickets and change the condition, it didn't work, the

umpires didn't change the ball.

"I was sighted on the screen and that resulted in me shoving it down my trousers. Once I was sighted on the big screens I panicked quite a lot.I want to be here because I'm accountable for my actions. I've got to live with the consequences and the damage to my reputation."

His captain accepted a large part of the responsibility, saying it was a decision that the team came to as a collective – but one that did not involve the coaches.

"It was the leadership group's idea," said Smith.

"Poor choice and we deeply regret our actions. The coaches weren't involved. It was purely the leadership group who came up with this.I am not proud of what's happened. It's not within the spirit of the game. My integrity, the team's integrity and the leadership group's integrity has come into question.

It won't happen again.

"This is the first time

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Cameron Bancroft and Steve Smith in conversion with the on-field umpire

it has happened under my leadership. We saw this game as such as an important game. We've seen the ball reversing through this series and this ball didn't seem like it was going to go. It's such poor actions.

Deeply regrettable and wont happen again. I can promise you. I can promise you this

GCA,GDA renew focus on diabetes awareness with U-17 50-over

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21

GCA President Roger Harper; and Glennis Beaton-Alonzo, President of GDA (centre), share a photo with some of the players, sponsors and executives of the GCA

T

he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) teamed up with the Guyana Diabetes Association (GDA) for the third year as they continued to spread health awareness through cricket.

The event which first bowled off back in 2016 targets young cricketers throughout the Georgetown district; spreading awareness of the dangerous disease while targeting the vibrant U17 level.

During Saturday’s press conference held at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) pavilion, where GCA President Roger Harper and Glennis Beaton-Alonzo President of GDA, delivered the feature address to the parents and players in attendance.

Beaton-Alonzo said that she was happy to yet again be a part of the event for an-

other year. She believed that with the tournament already in its third year, more can be achieved going forward as she urged the players to embrace healthy lifestyles.

The GDA head pointed out that they have been into the competition due to the massive benefits of helping the young players get a better understanding of the disease which affects young men worldwide.

With diabetes on the rise in Guyana, Beaton said she wanted to further ensure that those who might have diabetes understand that staying fit and active; especially through cricket is a good way to help treat the disease.

Harper during his remarks said the competition which has been well received over the years, focuses on keeping its players health-conscious, more so while being involved

in cricket.

The former Guyana/West Indies all-rounder said the GCA was driven by its desire to not only facilitate cricket across the county but to ensure that its players are seeking healthy lifestyles as well as strong academic foundations.

He said tournaments such as this will further help to keep the youths on a straight path as it creates an environment where players acknowledge the importance of discipline and responsibility whether in life or as a professional cricketer.

During the period of the tournament, players will be tested for diabetes as to help early identify a way forward should persons require assistance. Meanwhile, GCA Competitions Chairman Shawn Massiah outlined the playing conditions for the tournament which will see Zone A and B having two matches each.

The winners of Zone A will face runners-up in Zone B in semi-final one while Zone B’s winner will play the runner-up of Zone A in the finals.

Also, players born on or before September 1st 1999 are eligible to play in the competition.

Round one which bowls off todays commences from 9:30am with the first match in both zones being played, while match number 2 in will commence at 14:00hs.

is the first time it has happened.

"I am embarrassed. I know the boys in the shed are embarrassed as well.

Being the leader, I am incredibly sorry. If we weren't caught, I would still regret it.

"I wont consider stepping down [from captaincy]. I still

think I am the right person for the job. Today was a big mistake on my part and on the leadership group as well.

I have to take control of the ship. This is something I am not proud of. It's something I hope I can learn from and come back from. I am embarrassed. It is a big error in judgement." (ICC)

Eastman claims Star Party Rentals’ feature showdown H amzah Eastman’s form continues to reap rewards as the Team Coco cyclist out-sprinted Romello Crawford to the finish to win the feature 35-lap event of the fifth Star Party Rental Race Programme at the National Park Circuit on Saturday.

Eastman stopped the clock in a time of one hour, 17 minutes and 20 seconds to recorded his third win on the circuit for the season, Jamal John, also a Team Coco member, completed the podium line up while Paul DeNobrega and Curtis Dey followed closely for fourth and fifth, respectively. Walter GrantStuart held off a challenge from Andrew Hicks to round out the top six rewarding positions.

Other winners included: Other winners yesterday inc l u d ed: Thuran Garbarran (BMX Boys and Girls 1214 years), Gerard Barrington (BMX Boys 6-9 years),

John Niles (BMX9-12), Adelie Hodge (Juveniles), Junior Niles (Veteran U-50 years) and Ian Jackson (Veteran O-50 years).

At the completion of the event, its organizer, Hassan Mohamed congratulated the cyclists for making the day a success and also thanked Star Party Rental for being onboard.

Hamzah Eastman

22

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sunDAY, march 25, 2018

Marian Academy, Team Uzzi defend titles

T

he curtains came down closed on the second annual Smalta/iCool Water U-14 Indoor Hockey League on Friday evening at Marian Academy with the

host team and HHC Team Uzzi once again emerging victorious in the girls’ and boys’ competitions, respectively.

The GCC Warriors gave the defending girls cham-

pions an early scare in the semi-finals when striker Kirsten Gomes, who had been outstanding for the Warriors, scored in the 2nd minute of the game. It wasn’t until the

Marian Academy Girls pose with their awards following their successful title defence

seventh minute that tournament top-scorer, Sarah Klautky, was able to equalize.

Klautky doubled her tally in the 15th minute leaving Marian to defend their 2-0 lead until the end of the match to advance to the final.

In the other half of the draw, SHC Spontaneous edged out St Joseph Divas 2-1, with the Divas putting up a tough fight. The St. Joseph teams are relatively new to the game of hockey, debuting last year in this tournament, and have vastly improved since.

Marian had a much easier go in the finals against SHC Spontaneous with Klautky scoring three times guaranteeing herself the most goals prize and Madison Fernandes scoring once to defeat Spontaneous 4-0.

HHC Team Uzzi dominated in their boys’ semi-final blowing away SHC Slayers 9-2. Baraka Garnett, top

Scorer for two years running, scored five goals while MVP Samuel Garnett scored four goals.

SHC Supreme closed the first half of their semi-final against SHC Scorpions 2-0 and responded to Robert

Marcus’ lone goal to close the game 3-0 and move on to face the defending champs. HHC Team Uzzi had a much more difficult go in the finals, failing to score on multiple occasions despite being awarded 2 penalties during the match.

In the end, it was Baraka’s goal in the 5th minute that secured Uzzi’s victory for a second year.

Girls: Most Promising Player – Selena Ajudia (GCC Warriors) Most Goals – Sarah Klautky (Marian Academy -15 goals) MVP – Charlia Webb (SHC SPONTANEOUS) Boys: Most Promising Player – Vladimir Woodroffe (GCC War Dogs) Most Goals – Baraka Garnett (HHC Team Uzzi -11 goals) MVP – Samuel Garnett (HHC Team Uzzi)

HHC Team Uzzi rallied to consecutive Smalta/iCool U-14 hockey titles

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sunDAY, march 25, 2018

23

Still champions!

P

… Hornets withstand Harvard’s threat to retain crown

epsi Hornets played another blinder to retain their crown as the country’s top Sevens team by winning the Hairoun Beer sponsored Guyana Rugby Football Union tournament on Saturday at the National Park.

Playing unbeaten throughout the day, Hornets withstood arguably their toughest opponent of the day in Trinidad and Tobago’s Harvard Rugby Team and won 10-0.

Do not be mistaken by the score line and assume it was a one-sided obliteration since the Trinidadians looked the most threatening unit on the offensive run. But what Hornets did well was maintain possession for most of the match which gave them the impetus to make the some dashing tries but no conversions.

scored from which converted.

Champs again! Pepsi Hornets Captain Ryan Gonsalves collects the winner’s trophy from a Hairoun Beer representative at the National Park on Saturday

Kevin McKenzie and Jonathon Felicine were to the duo who forced their ways to a try and help secure the $200,000 first place prize and the Trinidadians having to settle for $100,000. Hornets’ Abdulla Singleton won $20,000 for being the Most Valuable

Player.

In third place-play-off, Panthers crushed Guyana Defence Force 24-0 with Damar Angus soring a try which was converted by Godfrey Broomes.

Likewise, Lloyd Anderson made the try mark in which Angus converted. Joshua Griffith also

Milo Schools Football 2018…

Semi-finals take centre stage today – Pure Masters replaced by Lodge P

ure Masters were removed from the sixth annual Milo Schools Football Tournament after successful protest was filed against them by Lodge Secondary School.

According to the organisers, a protest was made against Pure Masters Academy by Lodge Secondary School of which the Pure Master Academy was found guilty of playing a player under the name of another player and as such the protest was upheld. The semi-finals which will be played today will see Buxton Youth Development oppose Annandale Secondary from 15:30h.

Both teams have a sublime run in their first year and

booted some of the favourites.

Annandale reached this stage by ousting 2017 runners-up Morgan’s Learning Centre 2-0 due to a spirited performance led by national player Troni Semple.

Their East Coast Demerara partners Buxton have been sublime especially the stellar performances from Teshawn Gordon and Shamar Scott.

The other pits a former champion in Lodge Secondary against 2017 semi-finalist Sir Leon’s Lesson.

While some may argue the grace of luck brought Lodge to this stage, Sir Leon’s are high on confidence after ousting three-time champions

Chase Academic Foundation in nail-biting quarter-final which makes this clash quite intriguing when it commences at 17:30h.

Played under the theme “there is no excuse for violence” due to the tournament’s partnership with the Ministry of Public Health, the under-18 boys will be hoping to secure the first place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project.

Additionally, $300,000 for first runner up and $200,000 and $100,000 for third and fourth placed teams respectively along with trophies and individual prizes for outstanding performances.

Broomes

The other teams to participate in the competition were

Yamaha Falcons.

Caribs and Police

SUNDAY, MARCH 25, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Hairoun Beer /GRFU 7s…

Pg 23

Still shampions! … Hornets withstand Harvard’s threat to retain crown Jamal Angus about to make a pass during their clash with Trinidad’s Harvard Rugby Team on Saturday at the National Park

National Race of Champions

Pg 20

Group 2 to bring

the thrills at South Dakota Group Two is expected to have the highest number of participants and the biggest thrills today at the South Dakota Circuit

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March 25, 2018

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MARCH 25, 2018

Faith

May Sri Ram's blessings bring you health, happiness and success in your life!

R

am Naumi is the Hindu festival celebrating the incarnation (Avatar) of Bhagwan Vishnu as Sri Ram, the son of King Dasratha of Ayodhya. Vishnu is that aspect of the absolute Brahman that sustains the universe and as explained in the sacred texts like Bhagvad Gita.

“For whenever the law of righteousness (dharma) Withers away, and lawlessness (adharma) raises its head, Then do I generate myself on earth For the protection of the good, For the destruction of evildoers For the setting up of righteousness I come into being, age after age.”

Rama is the seventh Avatar of Vishnu

and was followed by Lord Krishna and Lord Buddha. His exploits are described in the extended 24,000 verse Sanskrit poem “Ramayana” written some 2500 years ago

by Valmiki. It was retold in the vernacular Avadhi in the 16th century by Tulsidas as the “Ramcharitmanas”, which is the most influential text in the lives of the area in North India from which most of the Indians in Guyana originated.

Rama was born at noon on the ninth day (Naumi) of the first month of the Hindu calendar, Chaitra which inaugurates Spring. It therefore falls on the ninth day of the Spring Nauratri, which falls this year today.For those Hindus who want the most authentic celebration they will perform rites in their home or in their temple (Mandir) at noon on this day.

Typically, the families would have fasted all week while worshipping God as the female principle during Nau Raat and on the ninth day honour Sri Ram. A simulation (image or picture) of a Baby Sri Ram would be placed in a cradle and covered.

At noon the covering would be removed and Prasad would be offered while the cradle is rocked.

Ram is said to be the ‘Maryada Purushattam” the exemplar of mankind and Hindu males are supposed to attempt to imitate him. He was the perfect son, brother, husband and king. His reign is called “Ram Raj” and describes the golden age for Hindus. More specifically, he accepts banishment into the forest for 14 years so as to allow his father to keep a promise he had made. As a brother, he places his brother Bharat on the throne, while he is in exile and as a husband he protects his wife Sita.

He allows his brother Lakshman to accompany him along with his wife Sita. In the forest Sita is abducted by the King of Lanka, Ravan and most of the Ramayan tells the story of how he regains her after defeating his nemesis. His great helper is Hanuman, the god in Monkey Form who is always praised when the name of Ram

is mentioned.

As a King, he brought peace and prosperity to his kingdom and people. His devotion to the latter is exemplified in a rather controversial episode in the story when in order to fulfil his duty as a king, he allows that to

Facts about Rama Who wrote the epic?

Some 25 centuries ago, a sage ordered a thief to sit under a tree and chant “ma-ra” until he returned. Years passed, and an anthill covered the man, who had lost himself to the chant.

The sage returned and broke the anthill, naming the thief Valmiki, meaning “from an anthill.” Inspired by his expaned awareness, Valmiki immortalized Rama by composing the Ramayana,a work umatched in poetic excellenceand longevity. Shri Ramcharitmanas by Tulsidas in Hindi and the Kamba Ramayanam by the poet Kambar in Tamil stand alongside Valmiki’s epic in Sanskrit.

take precedent over his role as a husband to banish her away from the palace. In the present age it has become impossible for the moral of the duty of a ruler to his people to trump everything else to be appreciated.

Who was Sita?

Sita was a powerful, gifted, beautiful woman, utterly devoted to her husband. Found in the fi elds as a babe by King Janaka, Sita was raised a princess. She walked alongside Rama in exile. When abducted by Ravana, she was unshakable in her faith that her husband would rescue her. She walked through fi re to prove her purity.

To prevent further slander, Rama sent her away to the forest. She patiently bore separation from her husband a second time and bore twins named Lav and Kush. When they were reunited with their father, she commanded Mother Earth to swallow her. The Earth split open and Sita disappeared.

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MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine

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Faith

T

oday, it is almost universally accepted that God, of course, is beyond gender or even form. But for we humans to acknowledge this Divine Consciousness in which all creation subsists, we create the forms to worship based on our own conceptions. As far as gender is concerned, God is worshipped as “male”, female and even in Ardhanārīśwara) , a composite androgynous form of the Hindu God Shiva and his consort Parvati.

While there are Hindus who predominantly worship the female forms of God and are called “Shaktas”, twice a year all Hindus worship the Goddess in the form of Durga

in the Spring and then in three of her major manifestations as Lakshmi, Saraswati and Durga in the Fall Nau Raat.

The worship is done over a period of nine days – “Nau Raat” Spring on the Hindu Calendar starts the New Year – in the month of Chaitra and this year fell on March 18 on the Gregorian Calendar and will end on March 26. Of note is that the birth of Sri Raam, the 7th Avatar of Lord Vishnu falls on the March 25th.

Story behind Chaitra Navratri

Most Hindu festivals have stories associated with them to illustrate the reasons behind them. For Chaitra Nau Ratri a prince named Sudarshan prayed Maa Shakti and emerged victorious in a war.

To thank Maa Shakti, the Prince performed a huge yagna on Chaitra Navratri. Sri Ram and Lakshman worshipped Maa Shakti during Chaitra Navratri for nine days and also performed the Yajna on the final day. The blessings of Maa Shakti made them win against Ravana and release Mother Sita from his captivity.

The nine forms of Shakti and Durga

During Chaitra Navratri, the nine forms of Maa Shakti known as Durga, Bhadrakali, Jagadamba, Annapurna, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi, Chandika, Lalita, Bhavani and Mookambika are worshipped.

Puja Vidhi

Chaitra NAVRATRI 2018 PUJA VIDHI This year in 2018, in many Hindu homes and in Temples , special poojas will be performed for nine days beginning from 18th March and ending on 26th March.

Navratri pujas will take place during the late evening. The murti/image of Maa Shakti will be decorated and placed on an altar, which will be decorated with flowers and hangings. The puja consists of sixteen types of offerings. Some of the important aspects of rituals include burning incense, offering fragrant substances and flowers to Maa Shakti, offering betel leaves, nuts, coco-

nut, and fruits, waving camphor light and others. Special dishes are made during the puja and then distributed to the invitees after the evening puja.

Fasting Rules

Fasting during Chaitra Navratri is considered highly auspicious. The fasting will start from 18th Morning and will last for the whole day. In the evening, the Puja will be performed and the devotee will break the fast after taking the Prasad offered to Maa Shakti during the puja. This way, the fasting will continue for nine days.

During Chaitra Navratri, fasting, performing Durga Puja, chanting Vedasand songs, visiting Maa Shakti temples, doing Navratri puja at homes is important.

Devotees should not consume alcohol, non-vegetarian foods, and other spicy foods. Those fasting on these days should not consume cereals, grains, wheat, garlic, and onion.

Cheating and indulgence in different pleasures should be avoided to win the blessings of Maa Shakti during Chaitra Navratri.

Benefits

During the change of season, this event prepares the devotee physically, mentally and spiritually for a better time ahead ensuring good health and happiness.

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MARCH 25, 2018

Faith

MAA Chandraghanta

– the third Manifestation of Devi Durga

T

his year, Hindus in Guyana around the globe will be observing the Chaitra Navaratri period from 18th to the 27th March, 2018. It is also known as ‘Vasanta Navratri’ or ‘Rama Navratri’ as the ninth day of the Navratri festivity is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Rama (Ram Navami).

Chaitra Navratri is solely dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine forms. Navratri – literally means ‘nine nights’ in Sanskrit, ‘nava’ meaning nine and ‘ratri’ meaning nights. Chaitra is the first month of the Hindu calendar and hence the name which also starts the New Year and also the new season.

Praying and fasting is pivotal during this period. Before the start of the celebrations, the house is cleaned for welcoming the Goddess into your homes. The first three days of Chaitra Navratri is dedicated to Maa Durga, the Goddess of energy, on the next three days, Maa Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, is worshipped and the last three days are devotes Third Manifestation

to Maa Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge. Today, the Goddess is being worshipped in her form as Chandraghanta.

One story states that after Lord Shiva gave Parvati his word that he would not marry any woman, her sufferings overwhelmed him so much that he gave up, followed by a tearful reunion and then agrees to marry her. Soon, the joyous moment of Parvati's life comes. Shiva brings a procession of gods, mortals, ghosts, ghouls, goblins, sages, ascetics, Aghoris and Shivaganas to the gates of King Himavan's palace to take away his bride Parvati, on the occasion of his remarriage. Shiva arrives at King Himavan's palace in a terrorizing form and Parvati's mother Maina Devi faints in terror. Parvati appears to Shiva and sees his fearsome form, so to save her parents and other family members she transforms herself into beautiful Goddess Chandraghanta.

Maa Chandraghanta persuaded Shiva to re-appear in a charming form. On listening to the Goddess, Shiva appears as a prince decorated with countless jewels. Parvati revived her mother, father and friends then Shiva and Parvati get married and made promises to one another.

Maa Chandraghanta is believed to govern the Shukra (Venus) planet and according to legends, she drives away the negativity affecting her devotees with the sound of the moon-bell present on her forehead. With elegant garb and weapons in her hands she gives appearance of a strong female with composed countenance who establishes justice and gives her devotees the courage and strength to fight challenges.

Even though Chaitra Navratri is a 9-day festival, for some the celebrations come to an end on the day of ‘dashami’ (10th day). This day is known as ‘Navratri Parana’ and devotees bid farewell to the Goddess Durga, and pray for Her return soon, next year.

The HIndu Swyamsevak Sangh of Guyana (Hindus for Selfless Service) calls on all Guyanese especially the Hindu community to take this period to observe, enact positive changes and instill oneself with the courage to fight challenges facing us either individually or collectively.

Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Chandraghanta Rupena Samsthita

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah

I join hands in front of the supreme Goddess and adore the goddess with a bell shaped mark whom I praise over and over.

MAA KUSHMANDA

– the fourth Manifestation of Devi Durga Today, the fourth day of Navaratri the Devi, Durga is honoured and worshipped in the form of Kushmanda Devi.

The word Kushmanda is made of three words that are “Ku + Ushma + Amnda= Kushmanda”. Here “Ku” is “Little”, “Ushma” is “Warmth or Energy” & “Anda” is “Egg”, means the one who create the universe as “Little Cosmic Egg” with the energy of Her divine smile is called “Kushmanda”.

Goddess Durga is very happy in this incarnation and it is believed that when there is no existence of any creation or universe and there was the eternal darkness, which ended when Maa Kushmanda smiled. So that Kushmanda Devi is known as the creator the whole universe. She is also named as “Adi Shakti”. The core of Suraymandala (Sun) is the residence of this form. She is the only one who has the power and strength to live in the core of Suryaloka (Sun). By her the Sun obtains its brilliance and all the directions are pervaded by her light including the Sun God himself. Her luster illuminates and removes darkness from Earth; her boundless blaze gives light in life of human beings.

Devi Kushmanda also known as “Ashtabhuja” (eight armed) as she is often depicted as having eight arms. In her seven hands she holds Kamandalu, Bow, Arrow, Lotus, a Jar of Nectar, Discus, and Mace. In her eighth hand she holds a rosary capable of giving eight Siddhis and nine Niddhis. She rides a lion who represents “Dharma”. On worshiping Her ailments and sorrows are eliminated and life span, name, strength and health improved. She also brings light into darkness and ignorance, gives true knowledge, destroys ego, disease, sorrow, depression and ignorance. Yogis and other dedicated devotees in spiritual practice should focus their energy in the Anahata Chakra / heart chakra which represents Kushmanda Devi.

On this day whether you are attending mandir across Guyana or conducting your worship at home you should meditate on letting go bad habits/activities, asking forgiveness, being in touch with your true inner reality and position in the universe; your relationship with yourself, the universe, others in it and the Divine. Remind yourself that all power of the self comes through her grace. Remember, the Goddess Kushmanda favourite is red coloured flowers, offer some and recite this simple mantra to her.

Ya devi sarvbhuteshu mam kushmanda rupena samsthita

Namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah.

I join hands in front of the supreme Goddess and adore the goddess with a bell shaped mark whom I praise over and over.

Fourth Manifestation

Maa Skandamata

– Fifth Manifestation of Devi Durga The fifth manifesis known as Maa

tation of Devi Durga Skandamata. She is fifth

Fifth Manifestation

among Nava Durgas, that’s why she is worshiped on the fifth Navratri. Devi Maa is the mother of Kumara Skanda or Kumara Kartikeya also called Lord Murugan in south India.

Kumar Skanda was chosen by Gods as their commander in “Deva-Sura Sangram” (the war of gods & demons) against the demons.

According to Hindu Puranas, when all devtas (deities), manushya (mankind) and rishis (sages) were tired by the atrocities of demon Tarkasur, they sought help from Brahma to help end this demon’s tyranny. Brahma, who was earlier pleased by the hard penance of Tarkasur, granted him with the boon of invincibility from all, except Lord Shiva’s son.

Upon being urged by all the devtas, Lord Shiva agreed and got married to Parvati, the daughter of Himalaya and later, their son Skanda destroyed the demon.

Thus being the mother of Skanda she is Skandamata.

Worshipping Skandamata has on the fifth day of Navaratra has very importance for Yogis & Sadhaks. Using a lion as a vehicle, Mother Goddess has four arms & three eyes. She holds Lord Skanda in her right upper arm and a lotus flower in her right lower hand, which is slightly raised upward.

The left upper arm is in a pose to grant boon and in left lower hand, which is raised, she again holds lotus. She is Golden color. She is seated on lotus flower so she is called Padmasana. The planet Budha (Mercury) is governed by this Devi.

The scriptures are very eloquent in glorifying the fifth day of Navaratra period. It is time when the aspirant should be most careful and cautious on the path of his Sadhana.

By worshiping the goddess in the form of Skandamata, the devotee gets all his desires fulfilled. He starts tasting the Supreme joy even in this very mortal world. The gateway for salvation to him is spontaneously opened. Her worship automatically includes the worship of Lord Skanda in his child form. Only she has got this pride of place. So the sadhak should particularly be attentive to her worship. Being the presiding deity of sun god, she bestows an uncommon luster and radiance on her devotee. He is always surrounded by an invisible divine halo, which always maintains his ‘Yoga-Ksema’.

Therefore, we should try very sincerely to take refuge under her. There is no better way to moksha from this world.

Ya devi sarva bhutesu, Skandamata rupena sansthita Namastasyai, namastasyai, namastasyai, namo namaha!

The goddess who is omnipresent as the divine Skandamata.

I bow to her, I bow to her, I bow to her again & again.

MAA KATYAYANI

-the sixth Manifestation of Devi Durga Divine Goddess Katyayini is the sixth manifestation of Durga and one of the prominent deities among Navdurga.

She is grandly worshiped on the sixth day of Navratri pooja.

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Faith

Her appearance is immensely majestic and divine. She is represented with four-arms. Her upper left hand holds sword and lower left hand represents lotus-flower. Her upper right hand and lower right hand are left open for actions and showering blessing on us. The lion is her procession.

Her appearance is imagined with pink sari wearing white rosary on her neck.

Goddess Katyayani also represents divine power for demolishing tyranny and torments of demons and giants.

According to Hindu Mythology, it is believed that long time ago there was a renowned sage called ‘Maharashi Kat’. Rishi Katya was son of Maharshi Kat, and under clan of Katya a prominent rishi was born with name ‘Katyayan’.

Rishi Katyayan was a great devotee of Devi Durga and performed eras of hard penance to delight her. When Goddess Durga was pleased by his devotion, he prayed Goddess to take birth as his daughter. Devi Durga accepted and accomplished his wish. Devi Katyayani (manifestation of Durga) took this horn on her shoulder and destroyed devils. Being the daughter of her great devotee Rishi Katya, she became prominent with name ‘Katyayini’.

Delightful Devi Katyayini bestows copious fruitful results to her devotees.

On the auspi-

Pooja during Navratri.

This auspicious day is vivaciously celebrated with whole of heart and devotion inclined toward Devi Mahagauri. During Ashwin Shukla Ashtami, the Mahagauri Pooja is performed.

Goddess Mahagauri pooja is accomplished with worship of both Goddesses Gauri and Shankar (Lord Shiva).

Adherence toward Mahagauri is truly advantageous. Her worshippers are never returned with empty hands from asylum of Goddess Gauri. Grand worship, donations, customs and rituals are performed during Ashtami of Navratri Pooja to delight this deity.

Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu, Maa Mahagauri Rupena Sansthita,

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namaha

Meaning: The Goddess who is omnipresent as the divine Devi Mahagauri, I now to Her again and again.

Illumination of her grace is infinite. Adhering toward her faith, devotees start believing on honesty, loyalty and lifelong relationship.

Jai Devi Mahagauri

DEVI SIDDHIDATRI

- the Ninth Manifestation of Devi Durga

Seventh Manifestation

Sixth Manifestation

cious sixth day of Navratri Pooja, devotees perform pooja and offer customs, rituals to this divine Goddess.

Worshipping this Goddess on the sixth day of Navratri Puja bestows desired husband and accomplishes other true wishes.

It is also believed that while worshipping Devi Katyayini on the Shashti (sixth day) of Durga Pooja, devotees feel presence of Agya Chakra in their mind and soul. Agya Chakra shows the light to devotees to completely sacrifice everything for Goddess Katyayini. Through this Chakra, devotees get influenced for Sampurna Atmadan (Absolute self-sacrifice) at asylum of Devi Katyayini. The feeling of absolute selfsacrifice wins heart of this divine Devi and she accomplishes true desires of her devotees. Her regular devotees certainly get eminent position on earth. Offer your devotion and dedication to majestic Devi Katyayini on sixth day of Durga Puja and get glorious fruits.

The katyayani durga gayatri mantra: Om Katya Yanaya Vidmahe, Kanya Kumari cha Dhimahi Tanno Durgih Prachodayat Meaning: The Devi who took birth in the abode of Rishi (Sage) Katya, we bow in reverence before You bless us with illumination and inspiration and give us strength. Her grandeur is infinite. She is highly generous toward her worshippers and devotees.

Jai Katyayini Maa!

MAA KALRATRI

- the Seventh Manifestation of Devi Durga The most horrendous appearance of Durga is in form of Kalratri. Devi Kalratri is the seventh aspect of Durga and worshiped among Navdurga. She is also glorified with name ‘Kali Maa’.

She is believed to be the most violent Devi among Navdurga. She has dark krishna (black) complexion and her appearance is extremely fearful. Her large red eyes, open red tongue, and sobre on hand violently demolish devils and monsters. Devi Kalratri has three round eyes, and scattered long black hair. She wears a bead that gleams like fire of

electric power.

Durga manifested herself as completely destroy the dirt and demons from existence. She is revered with name Kalratri, because she represents herself as a death of Kaal appeared like a dark night for demons. Donkey is her procession, as she rides on gadarbh. Goddess Kalratri also has four arms. She holds sobre in her upper left hand and thorn of iron in lower left hand. Her upper right hand is in Var Mudra and lower right hand is in Abhay Mudra.

During the seventh day of Navaratri, Sadhak or devotee enters in Sahastrar chakra. After immersing oneself in Sahastrar Chakra, devotees are able to see the entrance of getting complete perfection in Universe. However, appearance of Maa Kalratri is so dreadful, but her grace is generous toward devotees.

During Navratri, Saptami Pooja of Devi Kalratri is considered as Maha Pooja or great worship of Goddess Durga.

Delighting this deity, devotees certainly get enormous happiness, power and comforts in life. Maa Kalratri is worshiped to destroy agony of awry influence from life of mankind.

On the seventh day of Navratri Pooja, Saptami fast is observed to please this deity. Tantra-mantra practices are also performed and accomplished under blessings of this Goddess. Seventh day of Navratri pooja is envisaged as one of the great days in Durga Pooja. Worship Maa Kalratri on the seventh day of Navratri Pooja and obtain her enormous grace.

Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu, Kalratri Rupena Sansthita,

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namaha

Meaning: The Goddess who is omnipresent as the divine Maa Kalratri, I now to Her again and again.

Her splendor is limitless. She removes any kind of fear in life and protects all her devotees.

Jai Maa Kalratri!

DEVI MAHAGAURI

- the Eighth Manifestation of Devi Durga Spellbind, mesmerizing whitish look of Durga is Mahagauri. Goddess Mahagauri is eighth form of Devi Durga and one of the graceful Goddesses among Nav Durga. She is majestically worshiped on eighth day of Navratri pooja.

She denotes peace and endurance. She is represented with four arms seated on a Vrishabha (bull). Her upper left hand holds Trishul (trident), lower right hand carries Damru (hand drum) and other two hands are in different Mudras (positions). It is believed that this manifestation is of Parvati when she did hard penance to obtain her Shiva due to which her body color turned dark. When Lord Shiva accepted her great devotion he washed her body with pure Ganga water that made her body completely Gour (white). Worshipping Goddess Mahagauri during eighth day of Navratra is immensely fruitful. Offering invocation to this almighty makes worshipper sacred. Ashtami poojan is considered as Maha

Devi Siddhidatri is the ninth manifestation of Shakti and is greatly worshipped among Nav Durga. On the final day of Navratri pooja, worshippers and devotees of Durga wonderfully pay homage to Goddess Siddhidatri. This Goddess is revered to offer all types of Siddhi (perfection) to her devotees and thus glorified with name ‘Siddhidatri’.

She is represented with four arms sitting on lotus flower.

Her arms hold Gada (bludgeon), Chakra, Shankh (scallop shell) and lotus flower. Her appearance glows in red saree.

Her procession is lion but she is more often seen sitting in a lotus flower. Worshipping goddess Siddhidatri on the ninth and final day of Navratri bestows all Siddhis to worshippers and successfully completes their Navratri Pooja. On the ninth day of Navratri Pooja, Kanya Poojan is also performed with grand touch. Little girls are offered homage and feed with blessed meals. Yagya, Maha Pooja and other grand celebrations are also performed to delight Nav Durga on this day. Each day of Navratri has a significant importance, but ninth day is the most prominent, as this is the final and concluding day of Durga Pooja.

With her grace, all wishes are fulfilled. It is also believed that grace of Devi Siddhidatri satisfies and controls all desires of her worshippers. There is no any type of wish remain in heart after worshipping her solely.

Ya Devi Sarva Bhutesu, Maa Siddhidatri Rupena Sansthita,

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namaha

Meaning: The Goddess who is omnipresent as the divine Goddess Siddhidatri, I now to Her again and again.

She ends greed and unnecessary temptation toward material comfort. Pray Goddess Siddhidatri and get her immense blessings. Jai Maa Siddhidatri!

Ninth Manifestation

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Fasting

: Ash Wednesday observences

J

ust as we set aside time to spiritually prepare for Christmas Day, it makes sense to set aside time to prepare for the two most important days of the Christian year. Like Advent, Lent is a time to open the doors of our hearts a little wider and understand our Lord a little deeper, so that when Good Friday and eventually Easter comes, it is not just another day at church but an opportunity to receive the overflowing of graces God has to offer.

These were the sentiments of Reverend Terry Davis, who is attached to the St. Phillips Church in Smythe Street, and who also holds the office the Diocesan Secretary of the Anglican Churches in Guyana.

“Lent is a period of 40 days during which many Christians are given the opportunity to get involved in some reflection and introspection of their lives and that is done in preparation

for celebration of Easter.

It is a time when we slow down, look at our faith and we will find ourselves wanting,” he explained, during an interview with the Times Sunday Magazine.

According to Rev. Davis, while we deal with day to day issues, it is important that we also ask God for help, and for his grace to help us deal with our sinfulness. He added, “It is hoped that by Easter we would have achieved a certain level of maturity. We hope that by the celebration we would be a little closer to God.”

prayer, confession, fasting,

and almsgiving as we anticipate Holy Week. Lent traditionally lasts forty days, modeled after Christ's forty day fast in the desert, and ends on Good Friday.

“During Lent, we do not count the Sundays, they are not considered days of Lent, but days in Lent. So that’s how we get 40 days. We do not count the Sundays; from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday,” Rev. Davis stated.

In pointing to the significance of fasting, Rev. Davis underscored the importance of understanding the meaning. “We have to be careful with the word ‘fasting’. Fasting really means the denial of oneself of some pleasure. I am making this clear because when we talk about fasting, very many people think about food; but we could fast from music, people and any pleasure.”

More importantly, he also pointed to the importance of helping oth-

ers or charitable organisations during this period.

“Denying oneself to help other persons, that is very important,” he emphasised

Significance

Fasting, he continued, also encompasses abstinence from certain things like meat.

“The idea is to deny oneself these pleasures with the hope of engaging more in prayer. We should use the time to be more prayerful and reach out to God to deal with our sins, our weaknesses. It’s not just fasting there must be something connected with the fasting, like prayer and almsgiving, these three go hand in hand, ” he said.

Easter

Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb on the third day after his crucifixion.

For Christians, remembering the resurrection of Jesus is a way to renew daily hope that mankind will have victory over sin.

Fasting

The Lenten season developed as part of the historical Christian calendar and is typically celebrated by Catholics and some mainline Protestant churches that follow a liturgical calendar. Although its format has varied throughout the centuries and throughout different cultures, the basic concept remains the same: to open our hearts to God's refining grace through

Church Services are held during the period

“It is our hope that we too would one day be resurrected through our faith in him and so through our baptism, we believe that we die with him and that we were raised with him to eternal life . And that is all through faith. It is all about Gods love for us that he sent Jesus Christ to pay the penalty for our sins, which is death, which is in the book of Genesis,” Rev. Davis said.

Kites and Easter

According to the Diocesan Secretary, kite flying has no real connection with Easter; rather, the practice is man-made and believed to have started around the year 350-60.

He added, “Its relationship to Easter in man-made. In societies around the world it is associated with Easter but it has no connection.

There is no harm done, if they enjoy themselves and families get together, no problem.”

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Fasting

on your blood sugar levels you should avoid fasting. In addition to this, some groups of people are at greater risk of the negative effects associated with fasting. Such effects might include, but are not limited to, headaches and dizziness, an inability to concentrate, flare-ups of a long-standinghealthcondition

Is fasting healthy and is it an effective and safe way to lose weight?

If you’ve ever considered following a diet, make sure you have all the facts first. Fasting has been used throughout history and across the world for religious, cultural and spiritual practices. In recent years, the media attention given to diets such as the 5:2 diet have made fasting a popular choice among those wishing to lose weight without having to give up particular foods.

IF focuses around the periods of time that we are not eating – ‘fasting’. The frequency and duration of these fasting periods depends on the specific diet followed and the individual’s schedule. Some popular IF eating patterns include: Choosing a time period in which to eat each day, while refraining from eating outside of this For example, the 16:8 diet involves fasting for 16 hours per day and eating within an 8-hour window.

One of the most common ways to do this is by skipping breakfast and only eating from midday-8pm, so you are fasting for 16 hours per day (between 8pm and midday the next day). Other variations of the diet involve 6-hour eating periods or shorter.

Choosing a regular day

of the week or month during which to fast, for a full 24-hours For example, if you finish dinner at 8pm one evening, you would refrain from eating until 8pm the next day.

Choosing certain days of the week to consume very few calories, while eating a normal number of calories during the rest of the week For example, the 5:2 diet involves eating only 25% of a normal calorie intake (500 kcals for women, 600 kcals for men) on two days per week, then eating a normal and unrestricted amount on the other five.

Benefits

As well as weight loss, various studies have linked IF with a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease, an extended lifespan, some protection against age-related diseases and a protective effect against cognitive decline. This is still an emerging area of research and these links are as yet inconclusive. It is important to note that some of these studies have only been carried out with animals, and it is unclear at the moment whether all the benefits will be replicated in human studies.

Is it safe?

Much of the emphasis of these diets is on the fasting stage, but in order to be

a safe, effective and healthy style of eating, the food consumed during your 'eating windows' needs to be of high nutritional value. Aim to include essential fats from oily fish, nuts and seeds, lean sources of protein, wholegrains and starchy carbs and plenty of fruit and vegetables to supply dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Is it effective for weight loss and is it sustainable?

Studies suggest that when you compare IF with daily calorie restriction it is equally as effective at promoting weight loss in those who are overweight and obese. Results will vary, however, dependent on your individual circumstances and the amount of weight you have to lose. How effective it is in the longer term will depend on your ability to maintain this style of eating going forward. This is because IF is not so much a ‘diet’ but rather a programme of eating, which means sustaining the weight loss is all down to how well you adapt your eating patterns in the long term.

Who should be more careful when considering fasting?

If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, diabetic or have a condition that requires you to keep a close eye

like gout or an alteration in the way certain medications are absorbed and used by the body. Vulnerable groups may include the elderly, the young (under 18 years of age), those who are on medication, those who have a low body mass index (BMI) and those with emotional or psy-

chological issues around food, including any history of eating disorders.

Please note: if you're considering attempting any form of diet, please consult your GP first to ensure you can do so without risk to health. (BBC Good Food)

8 Sunday Times Magazine Festivities

MARCH 25, 2018

Easter 2 18

B

oth visitors and locals are in for an exhilarating Easter weekend; from participating in traditional kite flying, to joining in the adrenaline filled Easter Rodeo in Lethem, there is much to celebrate and enjoy. There are many fun-filled activities during this period, ranging from the traditional Pakaraima Mountain Safari to the relatively new Sand Creek Rodeo.

The Easter weekend celebrations commence with Good Friday observances on March 30th and stretches to Easter Monday, April 2nd. Picnicking, kite flying and general enjoyment are all components of the annual Easter festival in Guyana.

In Georgetown, the Botanical Gardens, the National Park and along the sea wall families gather to celebrate together. These areas are hot spots for Easter activities; here you c a n see thousands of kites of all colours, sizes, and shapes flittering the air a s

guyanatimesgy.com

Bartica Regatta

This exciting period commences with the ever popular Pakaraima Mountain Safari, which commences today, 25th March and which will culminate on April 1st. This journey of over 600 miles winds through 25 Amerindian Villages, between mountain passes and over mountain tops to the amazing Orinduik Water Falls. This frontier is blessed with a wide range of flora and fauna and the rich history of our indigenous peoples. This Mountain Safari is organised by Rainforest Tours.

This event is followed by the Bartica Regatta and its impressive lineup of activities beginning on March 31st and stretching until Easter Sunday.

For those who seek a more adventurous holi-

Bikers participating in the annual Pakaraima Safari

Safari

adults and children alike hoist them high.

For many Guyanese their activity of choice varies during this period; where some prefer to bask in the religious nuances of the occasion, others prefer to relish in the revelry and excitement surrounding all of the fun filled events that are staged across the country .Whatever the choice, this celebratory period will be littered with a multitude of events stretching from Region 6 to the Rupununi; each expected to attract thousands from at home and abroad.

day, t h e L e t h e m Rodeo also commences on March 31st and runs until April 1st as well. This popular national event is staged in vaquero country, and competition runs high among the various ranches

of the region.

Now an Easter tradition, the Rodeo brings thousands thronging to the destination, by planes, cars, or 4x4 trucks. Held in Lethem, the activity will allow visitors the opportunity to see cowboys from the various ranches pit their skills against each another in friendly competitions. With its origins in the 1960's, the event has gained national and international reputation, drawing increasing spectators and participants from around the world. It is a historical tradition and a celebration of the cowboy lifestyle that Guyana’s Rupununi Savannahs are renowned for.

While these are some of the main events during this celebratory period, there are many other activities staged across the country, these include GMRSC Motor racing which will kick off today, the Savannah Drive to the Rupununi and Orinduik Falls slated for March 27th, the annual Lake Mainstay Car and Bike Show for March 31st and the Sand Creek Rodeo slated for April 2nd.

Most of the activities will culminate on Easter Day, Monday April 2nd when the skies over the

city will be adorned with kites of all shapes, colours and themes expertly navigated by the thousands of Guyanese and tourists flocking one of the popular venues to participate in this age old tradition.

For many families, the annual activity is highly anticipated and the Easter Holidays would be incomplete without a trip to the #63 Beach for heaping helpings of relaxation, sun, food and family fun for everyone. The festivities at the beach are an integral part of the promotion of domestic tourism and allows for the showcasing of Guyanese Easter traditions, in addition, families flock every year to participate in the annual Kite Flying Competition there.

With such an impressive itinerary, it is anticipated that next few weeks will see an influx of visitors; whatever the choice, regardless of the preference, one thing is guaranteed; Guyana is the destination of choice for the upcoming period and visitors and locals should be prepared to be swept up in the flurry of activities planned to commemorate the cherished occasion.

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine

9

10 Sunday Times Magazine

MARCH 25, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

Fashion Designer VandaAllicockCalistro

Y

ears of experience in the clothing design business have not tempered Vanda-Allicock- Calistro’s creativity, in fact, the local designer continues to grow from strength to strength.

During an interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Ms. Calistro revealed that by harnessing her creativity, she was able to transform the lives of her family after the tragic passing of her sister. She explained, “After my sister died, her son started at Borrowes [School of Art] and we were financially challenged, so I started designing on shirts.” Her father, she added was her first customer.

Since that time, the 33 year old has participated in several local and regional events. “Apart from fashion Week, I have participated in the Suriname Expo

and a few local shows with Sonia Noel, mainly find raising activities,” she said.

Vanda recalled that she left her home in the Rupununi at the tender age of ten, when as the recipient of a scholarship, she moved to Georgetown. However, despite the transition, the designer never lost touch with her Indigenous roots. “I do fabric painting mostly and I try to capture indigenous aspects like the birds, trees and basket weaving,” she said. For her, inspiration comes from customers’ appreciation of her designs which incorporate the various aspects of her culture. While she continues to build on her successes, Vanda has acknowledged that her journey has not been without its trials. “One of the biggest challenges has been finding a seamstress to get the product I wanted, which I use as a medium. It is a lot better now though,” she added.

Vanda credits her continued success to her persistence and the support she received from family and friends, including the Radziks, her nephew Nigel, Anna Isles , her seamstress and Sonia Noel. “I would tell anyone, do not to give up when you fail. If you embrace failure there is something better on the other side; and remember to be kind to people,” She emphasised.

According to the local designer, she has grown as an artist over the years and she is looking forward to embracing the future. She said, “I had no idea in the beginning what I was going to do, at least now I have a fair idea; I am still learning.”

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe

Want to preserve your Easter eggs for years to come? Blow out the interiors of each egg before decorating, then hand-paint with various shades of acrylic paint. Once dry, use a liner brush to paint polka dots, swirls or other designs with glue onto painted eggs. Then sprinkle the wet glue with glitter. The end result will be a batch of glamorous and glittery eggs to display for spring guests.

Served as a classic Easter treat, the buns can also be enjoyed at any time of year.

Preparation time: over 2 hours Cooking time: 10 to 30 mins Serves: 12 buns

Ingredients: For the buns

625g/1.3lb strong white flour, plus extra for dusting 1 tsp salt 2 tsp ground mixed spice 45g/1.5 oz unsalted butter, cut into cubes, plus extra for greasing 85g/3oz sugar 1 lemon, zest only

1½ tsp fast-action yeast 1 egg 275ml/10fl oz tepid milk 125g/4oz mixed dried fruit For the topping 2 tbsp plain flour vegetable oil, for greasing 1 tbsp golden syrup, gently heated, for glazing

Method

• For the buns, sieve the flour, salt and ground mixed spice into a large mixing bowl, then rub in the butter using your fingertips. Make a well in the centre of the mixture, then add the sugar and lemon zest and yeast.

• Beat the egg and add to the flour with the tepid milk. Mix together to a form a soft, pliable dough.

• Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Carefully work the mixed dried fruit into the dough until well combined. Knead lightly for 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

• Grease a large, warm mixing bowl with butter. Shape the dough into a ball and place it into the prepared bowl, then cover with a clean tea towel and set aside in a warm place for one hour to prove.

• Turn out the proved dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knock back the dough. Shape it into a ball again and return it to the bowl, then cover again with the tea towel and set aside for a further 30 minutes to rise.

• Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into a bun shape using the palms of your hands.

Cover the buns again with the tea towel and set aside to rest for 5-10 minutes.

• Grease a baking tray with butter and transfer the buns to the tray. Wrap the tray with the buns on it loosely in greaseproof paper, then place inside a large polythene bag. Tie the end of the bag tightly so that no air can get in and set aside in a warm place for a further 40 minutes to rise.

• Preheat the oven to 240C/475F/ • Meanwhile, for the topping, mix the plain flour to a smooth paste with 2 tablespoons of cold water.

• When the buns have risen, remove the polythene bag and the greaseproof paper.

Spoon the flour mixture into a piping bag and pipe a cross on each bun.

• Transfer the buns to the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until pale golden-brown.

As soon as you remove the buns from the oven, brush them with the hot golden syrup, then set aside to cool on a wire rack. (BBC)

Marbleized Eggs Add a fun, multicolour twist to plain eggs with a marbleized effect. Simply add olive oil to the dye solution to create an unpredictable, mottled look to your eggs.

Bejeweled Eggs

Add some glitz and glam to your Easter eggs with sparkling rhinestones. First, if you want, paint your eggs with acrylic paint and let dry. Then place stick-on rhinestones in various colours and sizes to create the pattern of your choice.

Easter Egg Animals Let crafty little hands get creative by turning colorfully dyed Easter eggs into adorable bunnies, chicks, sheep and birds. Download and print patterned paper so kids can cut out ears, beaks, feathers, whiskers, etc., to create springtime animals.

Thread-Wrapped Eggs Use baker's twine to add a trendy look to your eggs. First, dab a fast-grab tacky glue to the bottom of a paper mache egg and coil the string around. To change colours, trim the first Glue-Strip Dyed Eggs colour and glue the end of the second color. For Use plain hard-boiled eggs and stick on glue strips where desired. You can create a planned a seamless finish, coil the string around the top, pattern or stick them in unexpected places for a surprising finish. Dye your eggs, then peel off strips trim and dab on some glue. when cool and dry to reveal overlapping white lines.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Puzzles

Crossword

ACROSS

107 Randomness

1 Iffy attempts

108 The "I"

6 Hindu ascetic

110 Aparicio of baseball

11 Safari sighting

111 Swerves

16 Like Mozart's flute

112 Bellyached

21 Native American dwelling 113 Pharaoh's textile

22 Martini garnish

115 Blues street in Memphis

23 -- -- in the bucket

116 Knock for a loop

24 Speedily

117 Alpaca cousin

25 Pablo's girl

120 Hotel patron

26 Filled the hold

122 Exhaust gradually

27 Rockhound's find

124 Highest point

28 Celtic priest

128 Tooth-puller's org.

29 RN assistant

129 The -- Enterprise

30 Clan leader

131 Disordered

32 Bach instrument

133 Sonnet stanza

34 Spanish hero El - 135 -- Dawn Chong

36 "-- whiz!"

136 Tightwad

37 Barrels

138 Correspond

39 Pago Pago locale

140 Moon track

41 Cherbourg shes

142 Adjust the tires

43 Tables or shelves

144 Ease of manner

45 Zingy flavors 145 -- -- costs

47 Gives medicine

146 In a -- (later)

49 Preferred strategy (2 wds.)

147 Bard's teen

51 Cheesecake brand (2 wds.)

148 Lost a lap

54 Buy by mail 149 Chinese canines, briefly

55 Russell Crowe role

150 Solitude enjoyer

56 Plover's dwelling

151 Oak-to-be

60 Quick-witted DOWN

61 Tender sprig

1 Hunt down

62 Fleet

2 Arizona town

64 Utmost degree

3 Mocking

65 Yellow pigment used in 4 Implore cave art

5 Circus animal

66 Walking -- -6 Leaves

67 Marshal's star

7 Waker-uppers

68 "Sesame Street" regular 8 Pal, slangily

70 Burns' "-- -- Mouse" 9 "-- been had!"

71 Rowboat seat 10 Change the decor

73 Mawkish

11 Bargain driver

74 Show off

12 Principles

75 The "Elephant Boy"

13 Liable

77 "Diana" composer

14 Bean hull

78 Gambles badly 15 Fuel cartel

79 Spice-rack item

16 Enrage

80 Landslide debris

17 IRS time

82 Type of headache 18 Estimate

83 Airport problem

19 Less cordial

84 Went biking

20 Yields territory

87 Mountaineer's aid

31 "Roots" Emmy winner

88 Ducklike bird 33 Change the clock

89 Hitchhiker's need 35 Wyoming neighbor

93 Alpha opposites

38 Fend off

94 Alma -40 Deft

95 Irregular, as fog

42 Like foam rubber

97 Dust cloth

44 Geisha's accessory

98 Perk up

46 Police bulletin

99 Assumed identity

48 Hound's trail

100 Texas spread

50 Cleanse

101 Beside

51 Bagpipe players

103 Yalie

52 Bauxite giant

104 Swigged down

53 Fixed-up building

106 Bandmate of Mick

54 Maureen of the screen

Colouring Fun

55 57 58 59 61 62 63 66 67 69 72 73 74 76 78 79 81 82 83 84 85 86

Twig junctures Lethargic feeling Reek

Frat letter

Plumber's tool Soap units

Dog plaints

Bought

Petty officer

Harder to find Furry hoppers Privilege

Fidelity

Common practice Quart, plus

Mutt

Jangle

Positioned

Arrow part Tent supports Novelist -- Zola Tasmanian --

87 88 90 91 92 94 95 96 99 100 102 105 106 107 109 111 112 114

Blacktops

Tips to the side Presses

Move to the beat -- on (incited)

Sulking

Two by two

Coarse person

Private eye's lead Fishing gear

-- Ingalls Wilder Radius companions

"Endymion" poet Old hag

Winter woe

Bowls or ships

Sparkle

Accustomed

115 116 117 118 119 121 123 125 126 127 130 132 134 137 139 141 143

Ladybug Glib Seductive women -- box Name in watches Boat made of skins Worm seeker First-class, in slang Gung-ho Inert gas Make a trade Caterwaul Mitchell mansion That, in Tijuana Country addr.

Letter before sigma -- cit. (footnote abbr.)

See Solution on Pg 13

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- EUPHONIOUS

(EUPHONIOUS: yoo-FO-nee-us: Pleasing or agreeable to the ear.)

Average mark 38 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 57 or more words in EUPHONIOUS?

epos upon peon peso phon phone phonies pine pious pish poise poison pone ponies pooh

pose posh punish push heinous hone hoop hope hose house onus oops open opine opus

noes noise noose nose nosh shin shine ship shoe shone shoo shop shun sine siphon

snip snipe snoop sone soon soup spin spine spoon spun sunup supine

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.

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

Facebook's Zuckerberg speaks out over Cambridge Analytica 'breach’ F

acebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has admitted that the social network "made mistakes" that led to millions of Facebook users having their data exploited by a political consultancy. Cambridge Analytica is accused of improperly using the data on behalf of political clients.

In a statement, Mr Zuckerberg said a "breach of trust" had occurred. In a later interview with CNN he said he was "really sorry", and pledged to take action against "rogue apps".

He added that he was "happy" to testify before Congress "if it's the right thing to do". In his statement posted on Facebook, he promised to make it far harder for apps to "harvest" user information. "We have a responsibility to protect your data, and if we can't then we don't deserve to serve you," Mr Zuckerberg said.

What has Zuckerberg pledged to do?

To address current and past problems, Mr

A

pple says it will fix a bug that caused Siri to read out hidden lock screen notifications to anyone who asks.

Apple said in a statement to MacRumors, “We are aware of the issue and it will be addressed in an upcoming software update.” The update might come in iOS 11.3, currently still in beta, or possibly in iOS 11.2.7 if Apple releases a minor update.

The original bug allowed Siri to read out lock screen notifications for thirdparty apps, even if you turned off message previews while the phone is locked.

Siri didn’t check to make sure the owner of the phone was the person who was asking. iMessages and SMS texts were still kept private from being read aloud, but Facebook Messenger, Slack, email apps like Apple’s own Mail app, and more could all have

further" to prevent other kinds of abuse; remove developers' access to a user's data if the user hadn't activated the developer's app for three months; reduce the data that users give an

Zuckerberg said his company would: investigate all Facebook apps that had access to large amounts of information before the platform was changed "to dramatically reduce data access" in 2014 conduct a "full forensic audit" of any app with suspicious activity ban any developer that did not agree to a thorough audit ban developers that had misused personally identifiable information, and "tell everyone affected by those apps" In future, he said Facebook would: restrict developers' data access "even

messages read by Siri. (And since whisper mode hasn’t yet come to Siri, despite Apple patenting that technology, the voice can still be quite loud.)

Anyone can just hold down the home button on most iPhones or a side button for the iPhone X to activate Siri without voice recognition and ask to read notifications. The problem remains in iOS 11.3 beta and iOS 11.2.6 devices until Apple issues the fix. (The Verge)

Crossword Solution

app when they sign in to just name, profile photo, and email address; require developers to obtain approval and also sign a contract in order to ask anyone for access to their posts or other

private data. Mr Zuckerberg added: "While this specific issue involving Cambridge Analytica should no longer happen with new apps today, that doesn't change what happened in the past.

"We will learn from this experience to secure our platform further and make our community safer for everyone going forward." (BBC

Tech)

14 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Bollywood/Hollywood

A

fter a gruelling shooting schedule for Thugs of Hindostan in Jodhpur, megastar Amitabh Bachchan is back to Mumbai, where he will gear up for the promotions and shooting of his other projects.

Big B, whose shooting experience for the actionheavy film took a toll on his health briefly, wrote about it in an early morning blog from Jodhpur on Thursday.

“The intense schedule gives a cheer from the crew on a schedule wrap for Mr B... only to rejoin them in a few days for another, and hopefully the last schedule for the TOH film. Meanwhile, back in the ranch the preparations for the promotion of 102 Not Out would begin and the shoot for Jhund and

S

alman Khan has been sharing posters of his upcoming film, Race 3 and the latest one featured Bobby Deol. Posting the image on his Instagram account, Stallone sent ‘best wishes’ to the Dabangg star.

A day after Bollywood star Salman Khan shared a video from Sylvester Stallone’s Creed 2, the Hollywood star has returned the favour, promoting the

P

Even at this age, Amitabh Bachchan is more active than younger stars

Brahmastra,” he wrote.

Earlier this month, the 75-year-old actor had revealed his health was not up to the mark, and that’s why doctors were called in from Mumbai to “fiddle around” with his body. Thugs of Hindostan, being directed

latest poster of Khan’s Race 3.

Salman Khan has been sharing posters of his upcoming film, Race 3 and the latest one featured Bobby Deol. Posting the image on his Instagram account, Stallone wrote, “The very best wishes to very talented film hero SALMAN KHAN For his next film RACE 3 !@ beingsalmankhan.”

Salman, on Wednesday,

ictures from Manmarziyan, the new film by director Anurag Kashyap, which is the film comeback of Abhishek Bachchan after a two-year gap, were shared online on Wednesday. The new photos give us our first good look at Abhishek, Taapsee Pannu and Vicky Kaushal’s characters in the film.

Abhishek can be seen wearing a turban. He has a stern expression on his face.

Taapsee and Vicky, meanwhile, look like the perfect young Punjabi couple, with Vicky even sporting a new hairstyle and a Jim Morrison T-shirt. Vicky previously worked with Anurag on Raman Raghav 2.0, in which he played a drug-addled cop.

“Your Daadi, Teji Kaur Suri pre marriage .. your par Nana Khazan Singh Suri .. your par Naani Amar Kaur Sodhi .. & all related must feel great pride and love for you .. as do I,” Amitabh wrote.

by Vijay Krishna Acharya, also features Aamir Khan, Katrina Kaif and Fatima Sana Sheikh. Parts of it have been shot at Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort, which caught Big B’s fancy. (Hindtsuan

Times)

shared a clip of the Rocky star wherein he is promoting his flick Creed II. He wrote alongside, “While I introduce the #race3 family this week, this is something all of you should know.”

Directed by Remo D’Souza, Race 3 is the third film in the hit franchise Race and it also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Saqib Saleem, Daisy Shah and Anil Kapoor, apart from Salman and Bobby. Abbas-Mustan directed the first two iterations of Race and both films had Saif Ali Khan and Anil Kapoor in lead roles.

Likely to be inspired by Stallone's Rocky I, Creed 2 will have the star return as Rocky Balboa. The film will also feature Michael B Jordan. Directed by Steven Caple Jr., the film is slated for a November 2018 release.

B

rad and Jen have been 'secretly getting together for late night hook ups' following her split from Justin Theroux.

Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston may be giving their relationship another chance.

In this week's issue, Star magazine reports that the exes are back together, all thanks to the "Allied" actor's best friend George Clooney.

According to the webloid, the 54-year-old actor and the blonde beauty have been having secret meetups after George encouraged Brad to reach out to her following her split from Justin Theroux. "They've been secretly getting together for late night hook ups, and it's all because of George," a source tells the magazine.

The source adds, "George was the first person to call him when his marriage to

B

ad news, Celine Dion fans. The songstress has canceled fourteen performances at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas starting from March 27 to April 18 as she undergoes surgery for an ear issue. Her team announced the news on Facebook on Wednesday, March 21.

"Celine has been dealing with a condition in her middle ear known as Patulous Eustachian tube, which cause hearing irregularities, and makes it extremely difficult to sing," so the announcement read. "She has been experiencing this condition for the past 12-18 months but it has been successfully treated with various ear drop medications."

Her team went on ex-

Angie imploded. After Jen and Justin Theroux announced their split, he encouraged Brad to reach out and give their relationship another chance."

While Jen was close to George when she was with the "Inglourious Basterds" actor in late 1990s until early 2005, George was shunted out of Brad's life by Angelina Jolie during Brad's relationship with the "Maleficent" actress. And now that Angelina left Brad's life, George reportedly took the opportunity to get Brad back together with Jen. According to Star, Brad and Jen met for the first time post-her split on March 3 at a private pre-Oscars party in Beverly Hills. "The plan was to head over to Jen's place afterward for a nightcap, but, of course, George would just drop Brad

off," a source reveals. "Their evening together was very relaxed and low-key. They reminisced about the past and had a lot of laughs. It seems just like old times, only better."

A rep for George has denied the story, but that doesn't stop the magazine from claiming that Jen "wants to keep the reunion under the radar."

Previously, New Idea reported a similar story about George's role in Brad and Jen's alleged reunion. The "Ocean's Eleven" stars were spotted enjoying dinner with Sean Penn, Bradley Cooper and Laura Dern in L.A. last weekend, with George even using Jen's private bodyguard. During the dinner, the "ER" alum reportedly told their friends about how happy he is that Brad and Jen have reunited. (Ace Showbiz)

plaining that the medications she's been taking for the past couple of weeks "have no longer been working to treat the condition, so she will undergo a minimally invasive surgical procedure to correct the problem."

The "My Heart Will Go On" hitmaker also released a statement regarding the cancellation. "My luck hasn't been very good lately... I've been so looking forward to doing my shows again and this happens...

I just can't believe it!" she wrote. "I apologize to everyone who planned to travel to Las Vegas to see my show.

I know how disappointing this is, and I'm so sorry.

Celine is expected to continue her residency on May 22. A refund will be available for those who pur-

chased tickets to one of the canceled performances.

This wasn't the first time Celine was forced to cancel some of her Las Vegas shows due to health issue. In January, she canceled seven shows after suffering from congestion and irritation of the vocal chords due to a lingering cold. Fortunately, Adele was able to cheer her up during her "rough time."

"I had a pretty rough time during the last couple of weeks... a lot of people have been hit with cold and flu bugs... but I'm doing much better now," Celine wrote on Instagram. "Wasn't able to do all my shows, but was thrilled that Adele came to one of them... I love her so much!" (Ace Showbiz)

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

MARCH 25, 2018

Fun Times

Archie

Your reputation may be in jeopardy if you aren't rea(March 21- sonable. Don't let anger take April 19) the reins and lead you into a situation that could damage your personal or professional future.

ARIES

Listen to the voice of reaTAURUS son and someone who has (April 20- more experience. What you May 20) learn will help you avoid getting involved in something that could put a dent in your wallet.

Getting together with old GEMINI friends will also bring back (MAY 28- matters you left unfinished.

June 20) Expect someone to remind you of something you'd rather not deal with or think about.

Try something new or learn a new skill that will help you (June 21- stay current with the latest July 22) trends. An interesting encounter will turn into an opportunity.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Peanuts

Emotionally fueled spending is apparent. Instead of going shopping, work on clearing a space you can use to study, hone a skill or start a small business that will bring in extra cash.

Look at every facet of a situation and the cost involved before you make a move. Don't feel you must follow in someone else's footsteps. Do what feels right.

An opportunity will not be as good as you've been led to believe. Don't fold under pressure or agree to something without knowing the risk involved. Focus on personal growth, not on changing others.

Expect travel delays or to be SCORPIO (Oct. 24- faced with opposition. Nothing Nov. 22) will run smoothly, but if you are diligent and go about your business strategically, you will make progress.

Problems at home will SAGITTARIUS leave you perplexed if you (Nov. 23have allowed someone else to Dec. 21) take care of domestic matters.

A financial situation should be dealt with swiftly before it causes undue stress.

Calvin and Hobbes

Don't take what others say CAPRICORN to heart. Someone who lacks (Dec. 22- discretion can be silenced withJan. 19) out nastiness. Dealing with friends and relatives will be difficult. Stick close to home.

Weigh the pros and cons AQUARIUS regarding how you earn your (Jan. 20- income. You may want to Feb. 19) consider branching out and taking on something more challenging. Talk to someone with experience.

PISCES Look for a new interest, (Feb. 20- hobby or creative outlet. Being Mar. 20) active will help support your emotional outlook and give you a sense of accomplishment and belonging.