New guyana times october 29,2017

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President under fire from civil society, Opposition guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3376

Sunday, October 29, 2017

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WHAT'S INSIDE: Fighting a global malady

Page 3

…continues to be roasted for rushed appointment of GECOM chair

CIOG hosts fun day for orphans, vulnerable children

Filaria P15 and the communitybased drive to mass distribute drugs

Pedestrian killed while crossing road at Victoria P10

Page 5

$10,000 in counterfeit P9 currency found during Police raid

Children enjoyed themselves during a fun day hosted by the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana on Saturday

Trinidadian allegedly fakes his kidnapping in Guyana – Police Page 2

Man remanded for assaulting “social mediaobsessed” wife

Page 8

Guyana, Venezuela reps meet over border controversy Page 11

– as UN arranges face-to-face sit-down to reach settlement

…Essequibo businessman, 2 others in custody

West Dem residents P7 protest Ramjattan’s visit

German’s P16 Restaurant to open branch in Brooklyn, New York

2

news

SUnDAY, october 29, 2017 guyanatimesGY.com

Trinidadian allegedly fakes his kidnapping in Guyana – Police

L

ocal investigators probing the alleged kidnapping of a Trinidadian national have reasons to believe that the man had staged the crime to demand a ransom of US$700,000 from his family back home.

Acting Crime Chief, Assistant Police Commissioner Paul Williams, told Guyana Times that after interview-

ing 33-year-old Mechancial Engineer Sawak Maraj, investigators became suspicious about the kidnapping allegation.

“So far in our investigations, it appear as if this whole act was staged as it relates to the kidnapping and demand of ransom from his parents,” Williams disclosed.

He revealed that the Trinidadian national was found

by police alone in a room at the Madewini Resort on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway on Friday evening. Maraj had arrived in Guyana earlier that day and, hours later, his parents received a call from an unknown person, demanding money for his release.

A report was then made to the Guyana Police Force, and investigations led detectives to

the resort.

According to the acting Crime Chief, this is Maraj’s first time in Guyana, and he claimed he was in receipt of a letter via email to attend a job interview with US oil giant ExxonMobil.

“He said (that) during telephone conversations, the person talking to him had a Trinidadian accent. So when he came to Guyana, he expect-

ed to meet that person, but then he didn’t meet that person, he was picked up by two other persons,” Williams related.

He went on to say that during the interview with Maraj, the police were told that those two persons who had picked him up from the airport were also Trinidadians.

Further investigations by local authorities have revealed that the two Trinidadians arrived in Guyana on Wednesday, and Maraj was reportedly in contact with them prior to his arrival here.

The police are now on the hunt for the two Trinidadian suspects, who reportedly escaped from the resort moments before the police arrived.

“When we got there, he alone was in the room. He said they didn’t too long flee, as the police arrived,” the acting Crime Chief said.

Nevertheless, this newspaper was made to understand that investigators went up to the airport on Saturday to get information on the two suspects, since Maraj was tightlipped.

Asked whether the 33-yearold engineer had confessed to faking his own kidnapping, Willians said, “We’re still talking to him. We took him apart and (are in the process of) putting him back together.”

Initial reports from the Police revealed that Maraj arrived to Guyana on a Caribbean Airlines flight at about 07:00h on Friday, and was scheduled to be accommodated at the Princess Ramada Hotel at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

However, at some time

Alleged kidnapping victim Sawak Maraj

around 10:50h, his parents in Trinidad received the call informing of his alleged kidnapping. Enquiries made subsequently revealed that the man never arrived at the hotel.

Detectives went down to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), where they obtained CCTV footage of Maraj entering a taxi. The driver of the car was tracked down, and took investigators to the resort where he had dropped the men off.

This publication understands that the driver told detectives that he was hired by the two Trinidadians at the airport on Wednesday, and took them to the resort, where they indicated to him that they had another person to pick up two days later, which he did.

Nevertheless, Guyana Times was told that Maraj was involved in a similar incident back home in 2001, where his family had to pay alleged kidnappers $200,000 (Trinidadian dollars) for his release.

3 President under fire from civil society, Opposition news

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Sunday, October 29 – no retraction and closure to vehicular traffic and Monday, October 30 – 13:30h-15:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, October 29 – 11:40h-13:10h and Monday, October 30 – 12:45h-14:15h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Heavy to thundery rain showers can be expected throughout the day, with light cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging from Easterly to East North-easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 11:48h reaching a maximum height of 2.13 metres.

Low Tide: 05:06h and 17:44h reaching minimum heights of 1.05 metres and 1.12 metres respectively.

SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

…continues to be roasted for rushed appointment of GECOM chair

T

he appointment of a Chairperson for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had dragged on for 10 months, with President David Granger taking weeks to examine the CVs of the nominees named by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

Now Granger is under fire from the political Opposition, given the rushed appointment of 84-year-old James Patterson as the new GECOM Chairman.

As the fallout continues from the shocking appointment, the political Opposition – with strong backing from a wide cross-section of a number of civil society organisations – has wasted no time in rejecting and soundly criticizing the President over his ‘unconstitutional’ appointment.

Pulling no punches, the Opposition PPP/C has condemned the decision as a dangerous threat to democracy.

RUSHED APPOINTMENT

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At his last news conference, Jagdeo referred to an October 19, 2017 online news report which quoted Granger as saying: “Over the last four, five weeks we have been searching…we had searched. We tried very hard to find somebody who is acceptable to the Guyanese public as a whole, and who conforms to the constitutional requirement.”

However, Jagdeo pointed out that a different approach was taken in the time taken to consider Patterson for the appointment as GECOM Chairman.

On October 19, 2017, the online news site ‘Demerara Waves’ also quoted the President as saying: “I have never approached Justice Patterson prior to the reception of the third list, and I have not dragged on the process.” In the same article, Patterson was quoted as saying: “I was never approached prior to tonight (Thursday).”

Considering the rushed appointment and the comments made by both Granger and Patterson, Jagdeo said, “So when he took weeks to consider the others, in a couple of hours he decided Patterson was suitable.”

As such, the Opposition Leader noted that the timeline “smacks of a plot” by the APNU+AFC government.

He said: “Either it was a plot long before…either Patterson is not being truthful when he said he was only asked that very night, or he was asked long before.”

Jagdeo contended that if Patterson is being truthful and was indeed asked to be GECOM Chairman the very night of his appointment, then Granger’s decision was therefore callously made.

Granger and his government ministers have since defended Patterson’s rushed appointment by saying it was done in the best interest of Guyana.

President David Granger

JAGDEO’S LETTER TO HARMON

GECOM has been without a Chairman since its past Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally, resigned in November 2016, indicating that he would be retiring from public service. He was asked by President Granger to remain in the position until February 2017.

In a letter dated November 15th, 2016, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira, on behalf of Jagdeo, wrote to Harmon, making queries about the move forward.

The letter said: “In the light of this development (Surujbally’s retirement) and the fast approaching deadline, l am writing you on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, seeking to be advised on the approach His Excellency President David Granger’s Government intends to take in filling the vacancy, as provided for in Article 161 of the Guyana Constitution.

“Specifically, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Bharrat Jagdeo, M.P., wishes to be informed whether the President will formally write to him inviting him to submit his six (6) nominees as required by Article 161, or whether the President will initiate a preliminary formal meeting with him to discuss the appointment of a new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in accordance with the letter and spirit of Article 161 of the Constitution of Guyana.”

WIDE CONSULTATIONS

Afterwards, in early December, the Opposition Leader, although not constitutionally required to do so, began consultations with several groups from civil society to compile the first list of six nominees to be sent to President Granger.

On December 21, 2016, the first list was submitted.

Granger rejected this list on January 9, 2017. The nominees included: Governance and Conflict Resolution Specialist Lawrence Latchmansingh; Attorneyat-Law and Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram; Retired Major General Norman Mc Lean; Business Executive Ramesh Dookhoo; Businesswoman Rhyaan Shah; and History Professor James Rose.

On May 2, 2017, a second set of nominees was submitted, and included: Retired Justice of Appeal BS Roy; Retired Justice William Ramlall; former Magistrate Oneidge Walrond-Allicock; Attorney Kashir Khan; Attorney Nadia Sagar; and Captain Gerald Gouveia.

This list was rejected a month later, on June 2, 2017.

The third set of nominees was sent to Granger on August 25, 2017. It was rejected almost two months later, on October 19, 2017. The nominees included: Major General Joseph Singh; Mr. Teni Housty; Mr. Sanjeev Datadin; Mrs. Annette

Retired Justice James Patterson

Arjune-Martins; Mr. Onesi La Fleur; and Mr. Krishnadatt Persaud.

Addressing the rejection of all three lists, Jagdeo said, “Those names came from civil society. It (Granger’s rejection of the 18 names) is a rejection of a list from civil society, a rejection of impartial and professional people.”

The Opposition Leader pointed out that consultations with over 50 representatives from 33 civil society groups were held before each of the three lists were sent to Granger.

Representatives of the private sector, human rights, Toshaos council, women, youth, medical association, among other non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as trade unions and religious organisations were a part of the consultations. The groups made recommendations from which the names were chosen and submitted as nominees to Granger.

GRANGER’S CRITERIA

After the first list was rejected, Jagdeo wrote to Granger on January 10, 2017. The letter said: “Your Excellency has expressed the view that the six (6) persons whose names I submit-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

ted to fill the position of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission “do not seem to conform to the requirements of … Article 161(2) …” of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

“I have also noted certain comments attributed to Your Excellency by the media made at a function held at State House on the 8th January, 2017, which tend to suggest that you apprehend Article 161(2) to require only persons who are Judges, qualified to be Judges, or former Judges of either a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matter, or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court. If those media reports accurately conveyed your views, then I am obliged to inform Your Excellency that my interpretation of Article 161(2) is different, insofar as it also provides for, in addition to the category of persons to whom you have referred, “or any other fit and proper person”.

“In the circumstances, I hereby request that Your Excellency clarify what you interpret the qualifications are of the persons to whom Article 161(2) of the Constitution refers. I am of the considered view that an urgent meeting will immeasurably assist in reconciling any differences of opinion which may exist on this issue.”

In response, Granger stressed that the nominees for the post of Chairperson of GECOM should: have wide electoral knowledge; be a judge, former judge, or qualified to be appointed as a judge in the Commonwealth; be impartial; not be an activist in any form (gender, race, theological, etc); and that the person should have a general character of honesty, integrity, etc. turn to page 17

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sunDAY, october 29, 2017

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Editorial

A posttruth era?

I

n the last two weeks, there have been two instances when the word “bullshit” was used in reference to political pronouncements. Firstly, there was Former Minister of Education Dr Henry Jeffrey, using the term while referring to a pronouncement of President Granger that the nominees by the Leader of the Opposition for the vacant position of Chairman of GECOM “must be a judge or qualified to be a judge”.

The meaning Dr. Jeffrey gave to the word “bullshit” was made clear when he asserted that the President’s statement “is patently false, and it must be deliberately so”. In reaction to the President’s latest unilateral appointment of Justice James Patterson to the position, Dr. Jeffrey concluded: “Dangerous self-interest camouflaged by bullshit cannot perennially baffle brains!”

While readers may wince at the use of the word, it is now a “term of art” with its specific meaning, that we should all be familiar with. On February 2nd last, its usage was analysed in this newspaper by one of our columnists: “About a decade or so ago, the Philosopher Harry Frankfurt’s book, with the seemingly most nonphilosophically sounding title, “On Bullshit”, became a NY Times bestseller. With the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, it seems he was presciently offering Americans a vocabulary to analyse the utterances of their new President, Donald Trump. If we are to follow the definitions of Professor Frankfurt – of Princeton no less, we will understand not only the American President, but some of our local leaders.

The blurb to Frankfurt’s slim book – which was originally just an article – summarises the concept of “bullshit”. “He argues that bullshitters misrepresent themselves to their audience not as liars do; that is, by deliberately making false claims about what is true. In fact, bullshit need not be untrue at all. Rather, bullshitters seek to convey a certain impression of themselves without being concerned about whether anything at all is true. They quietly change the rules governing their end of the conversation so that claims about truth and falsity are irrelevant.

Frankfurt concludes that although bullshit can take many innocent forms (like in our rum-shop gyaafs), excessive indulgence in it can eventually undermine the practitioner’s capacity to tell the truth in a way that lying does not.

“Liars at least acknowledge that it matters what is true”. By virtue of this, Frankfurt writes, “bullshit is a greater enemy of the truth than lies are.” This last feature of bullshit is what makes bullshit so dangerous: very soon truth becomes irrelevant. It doesn’t matter when bullshitters are later shown to be “wrong”; what matters, as Trump boasted, is that people believed them when they spoke. Bullshitters are basically speaking to those with similar mindsets, who then are predisposed to accepting their claims.

What we in Guyana have to be aware of is that we are in the midst of a seminal change in the nature of what are “facts”, in that the Enlightenment’s insistence that there be a correspondence between what is asserted and what exists is breaking down.

In this “post-truth” era, leaders here are discovering that followers will accept practically whatever they say, once it furthers what they consider to be “their interests” against the interests of “the other”, and it fits their stereotypes of the latter. Research shows that, unfortunately, they are not motivated to consider alternative formulations, and even when confronted with these, dismiss them.

Dozens of residents from Wales, West Bank Demerara, and surrounding communities benefited from a medical outreach hosted by the Public Health Ministry in collaboration with the Region Three administration. The outreach had booths of various medical departments including the National Blood Transfusion Service (Blood Bank). NEW GPC Inc participated in the event by handing over hampers to Minister Volda Lawrence for distribution to senior citizens and single mothers. Some recipients of hampers posed for a photo with officials at the medical outreach

Inflammatory statements on GECOM stalemate must be rejected Dear Editor, The Indian Action Committee (IAC) rejects any attempt to instigate a racially charged atmosphere regarding the current stalemate over the selection of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

We urge groups and per-

sons to refrain from engaging in race hate and polarising campaigns to support their respective positions.

This will not help the cause of national unity, nor will it allow an environment for meaningful dialogue.

Our ethnic relations situation is too fragile for any extreme, irresponsible

and reckless behaviour and statements. We call on civil society, political leaders, the media and the international community to reject and rebuff any effort at instigation and making inflammatory statements.

This type of behaviour once again necessitates the urgent establishment

of the Ethnic Relations Commission.

The IAC urges responsible statements and conduct, and absolute respect for the Constitution and due process in our land.

Yours sincerely, Indian Action Committee

What has ACDA done for Afro-Guyanese?

Dear Editor, I applaud the courage of Mr Albert Allen, who boldly supported the Constitutional rights of the Leader of the Opposition in his letter “Linden is in Guyana and Jagdeo is a Guyanese”, published (in another newspaper) on Wednesday, October 18.

I am particularly pleased with the way Mr Allen articulated his condemnation of the Mayor of Linden in his objection to the recent visit to the mining town by Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, as it ushers in a new era of independent-minded Guyanese who are now determined to hold politicians accountable for the promises they make and the public offices they hold. I will not dwell on this letter, except to say it is required reading.

But while more and more Guyanese are turning away from racial politics, President Granger’s unilateral appointment of Justice James Patterson to head GECOM, and the few die-

hard PNC apologists who would go to great lengths to stir up racial tension among our people, have made a mockery of any attempt to unite our people, and confirm my suspicion that the Ministry of Social Cohesion is nothing more than a slush fund for the APNU+AFC re-election campaign.

This Administration is not interested in social cohesion, and the IndoGuyanese ministers in Government would all tolerate the ethnic discrimination and divisiveness practised by the APNU+AFC coalition because they are the ones enjoying the “good life”. Amna Ally can be excused, for she is a life-long PNC loyalist and activist.

But Moses Nagamootoo and Khemraj Ramjattan have sold their consciences for power, and have betrayed those that once believed they were men of honour and good moral principles.

In a recent letter in the press by Wonetta Jones,

who signed as Secretary of a few Black Organisations: The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA); Pan African Group (Guyana) Branch; The All African Guyanese Association; and the Concerned Citizens in the Diaspora, Ms Jones exposed her racist motive in supporting the President’s selection of the GECOM Chairman. In her jaundiced views, she blasted every civil organisation that denounced Granger’s unconstitutional action, calling them a “second opposition force”.

She accused the Private Sector Commission of being “a culpable partner of the PPP in the economic rape and pillage of Guyana.” Her rambling continued, “The Guyana Human Rights Association (GRHA) which has never championed land rights or equal rights for African Guyanese; lawyers and accountants and so called businessmen and businesswomen who have benefited in the past in a

developed “criminal state” of money laundering, theft and embezzlement etc. and all others groups who are now claiming “an end to democracy,” all know and have supported by their silence the murderous and racist behaviour of Bharrat Jagdeo, who ruled Guyana unconstitutionally for 12 years.”

Space would not permit me to respond to all the lies and innuendos spewed by this despicable race-baiter, but in another letter, I intend to fully address the unfounded allegations she made: that “Jagdeo conspired with a convicted Indian drug lord, Roger Khan, to kill over 400 Africans.” This is absolutely preposterous!

I wonder: Do the African groups that Wonetta Jones represent really reflect the concerns of the majority of Afro-Guyanese, or are they influenced by a few, like Eric Phillips who has an ‘axe to grind’ with Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP? continued on page 5

5 CIOG hosts fun day for orphans, vulnerable children NEWS

SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

A section of the attendees at the Orphans and Vulnerable Children Fun Day

A

fun day for orphans and vulnerable children was hosted by the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) on Saturday. At that event, the Government of Guyana signalled its commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of the country’s children, especially orphans and the less fortunate.

Social Protection Minister Amna Ally said she is especially happy when “organisations like the CIOG step forward and assist in taking care of the country’s vulnerable children.

“And our Government,

through the Ministry of Social Protection, pledges its continued support for activities of this nature,” she declared.

Meanwhile, in brief remarks, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Perry Holloway, committed to working with the CIOG and similar organisations across the ten regions of Guyana. “We recognise that Guyana is a relatively young nation, and anything we can do to help Guyana will help the youth.”

Holloway said.

In his brief remarks, the acting President, Prime Minister Moses

Nagamootoo, congratulated the youths for excelling at the recent Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) examinations despite the varying challenges they faced in being away from their relatives and family members. According to the Department of Public Information, First Lady Sandra Granger was especially mentioned for playing a meaningful role in ensuring training for the caregivers of the institution, even

First Lady Sandra Granger conferring an award

Scenes from the CIOG-hosted Orphans and Vulnerable Children Fun Day

What has ACDA done for...

What has ACDA done for the average Guyanese of African descent?

When this Government took away farm land from black farmers in Region 5, Wonetta Jones was not there to defend them, neither were ACDA and the other African groups. Eric Phillips and David Hinds, who give the impression that they speak on behalf of all Guyanese of African descent, were not there either.

Where were Wonetta Jones, Eric Phillips and these African groups when Government was pulverizing Afro-Guyanese communities like they did in Sophia? Hurricane Granger demolished the homes of poor families, leaving mothers and young children exposed to the rain and scorching sun with nowhere else to go. This Government remains heartless and insensitive to the needs of even its own supporters. Just look at how they are denying our teachers the “good life” they promised, and I don’t hear ACDA condemning the Government for not giving our hard-working teachers a decent livable income. Who gave these hypocrites and Jezebels the right to speak on behalf of my black brothers and sisters?

The 18 names that were submitted by the Opposition Leader contained some highly qualified and competent Afro-Guyanese professionals. If President Granger wanted a black person to head GECOM, he could have chosen one from the list submitted for his consideration. But the President did not just want any black professional, he

wanted a black professional with strong ties to the PNC. That is why James Patterson was selected, for no other reason.

Ras Leon Saul is another hypocrite, who got 11 of his Rasta friends to sign off on a letter giving praise to the President for trampling on the Guyana Constitution.

I am confident that the thousands of Afro-Guyanese who support the PPP would not agree with the racist views of Ras Leon Saul, who is employed by the Granger Administration.

Like Nagamootoo and Ramjattan, he’s just singing for his supper, that’s all.

Granger’s appointment of Justice Patterson is a 25-year departure from the practice employed and respected by previous administrations, including former PNC President Desmond Hoyte. It was Cheddi Jagan who submitted the name of Rudy Collins, the first GECOM Chairman after the Carter Formula was agreed upon.

Then, as Leader of the Opposition, Desmond Hoyte of the PNC submitted the names of Major-General (Ret’d) Joseph Singh and Doodnauth Singh.

Dr. Steve Surujbally’s name was submitted by Opposition Leader Robert Corbin (PNC). At no time was the Chairman of GECOM selected by a President from those names not on the list given to him by the Leader of the Opposition.

Now Ras Leon Saul is urging all Guyanese to “embrace the appointment of Justice James Patterson, a Guyanese of African descent.”

And these people have the cojones to call Bharrat Jagdeo a “racist.”

In his address to the PPP’s 31st Delegates and Observers Congress last December, the Leader of the Opposition, and now General Secretary of the PPP, Bharrat Jagdeo, reiterated that since its inception in the 1950s, the PPP has always been the party of every race, religion and class of people, and this is the image it will continue to have.

“We are a unifying force,

as she pledged to continue working with the CIOG. The Orphans and Vulnerable Children Sponsorship programme was started by the CIOG with approximately thirty children in 1993. It presently caters to more than four hundred and fifty such individuals, who all benefit from a monthly stipend and the provision of supplies necessary to their continued individual growth and development. According to the CIOG, the monthly

cost of maintaining the programme is more than G$2 million. This expense is met through the collaborative efforts of local communities, overseas-based Guyanese, and foreign Islamic organisations. The Orphans and Vulnerable Children Sponsorship programme is open to all children, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Attendees also included Minister of State Joseph Harmon and British High Commissioner Gregory Quinn.

Government. And even after the split, the PPP has always been much more inclusive than the People’s National Congress (PNC) ever was.

This message is now resonating among many of our more educated and progressive black youths, who are now witnessing first-hand the divisive and racist pol-

icies of a Government they were duped into supporting. Now they are getting a taste of what it feels like to live under the PNC, and they don’t like what they see.

HARRY GILL PPP/C Member of Parliament

from page 4

we do not exclude people because of how they look or because of their gender or which God they pray to.

We need to carry a message across the villages and the wards of the city in our country that we are open to people, even if they did not support us in the past.”

Indeed, from its inception in 1953, many Afro-Guyanese such as Forbes Burnham, Ashton Chase, Brindley Benn, Sydney King and others were members of the People’s Progressive Party

6

SunDAY, october 29, 2017

Page

Foundation

Diabetic Feet I

Anu Dev

’m rotating through general surgery again, and I'm seeing a lot of the same types of patients I saw last year, especially patients coming in with “diabetic feet”.

“Diabetic feet” refers to the characteristic changes seen in the feet of people with diabetes. Diabetes affects the blood vessels and nerves of the feet (and everywhere else in the body) and inhibits your body’s innate capacity to heal; which to a large extent depends on blood being supplied to the wound.

Because of the nerve damage, diabetics don’t really detect pain as readily as non-diabetics. So if, for example, they stepped on something sharp and injured their foot, they mightn’t even notice the injury. And because of the re-

guyanatimesgy.com

“Diabetes taught me discipline.” – Sonia Sotomayor duced blood flow and the consequent reduced ability to heal, there’s a greater risk of the wound staying open and becoming infected.

Diabetes also affects your ability to fight off infections, so the infection might spread to the entire leg, and to the bone. The infection could also spread to the blood, leading to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.

Since diabetes affects the blood vessels of the feet, the blood supply to the feet is compromised. And if the tissues aren't getting enough blood, they’ll eventually die.

Some people end up having to have an amputation of a toe, a foot, or even an entire leg.

People with wounds to "diabetic feet" need specialist care from doctors and nurses who are experienced with this condition. When I was in Guyana, I was happy to learn that there is a specialised unit in Guyana to deal with "diabetic feet", since there has been an upsurge in diabetes worldwide, which I am sure has increased our already historically high rate.

So if you know that you’re diabetic, you should t a k e

care of your feet, to prevent injury and infection. You should inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or if your nails are getting brittle and thicker. Keep your feet clean. Use a moisturizer to keep dry skin from itching or cracking. Try to avoid walking barefooted, even indoors, to avoid stepping on anything that could cause a cut or a bruise.

And one of the most important things is to keep your diabetes under control.

Prevention is always better than cure, so it's important to take care of your feet, to prevent injury and infection. And if your foot does get injured, or if you notice an ulcer forming, you should see your doctor.

I've seen so many patients who come in so late with the infection spread so far that the only solution was amputation.

W

hen their child is first diagnosed with diabetes, parents might spend a lot of time thinking about the disease's physical effects. But emotional issues also come with a diabetes diagnosis, and these can affect how children cope with the physical aspects.

So it's important for parents to recognise the feelings that children with diabetes might experience and learn strategies to help them.

Your child's feelings Children often experience these emotions when confronted with diabetes: Isolation. Diabetes can make children feel different from peers, friends, and family members. Children who don't know other people with diabetes or are the only student who needs to visit the nurse for injections or blood tests during school might feel isolated or alone.

Denial. Because children want to blend in or be like other children, they may sometimes pretend that they don't have diabetes, which can be dangerous if they avoid blood sugar testing and medication.

Depression. Feelings of depression, sadness, and hopelessness are common among children with diabetes. A child may cry a lot, feel exhausted, have changes in eating or sleeping habits, or have a hard time sticking to the diabetes management plan because he or she is depressed.

Guilt. Some children may feel like diabetes is their fault or like they're causing problems for parents, siblings, and teachers because of their diabetes.

Anger, frustration, and resentment. Your child might be angry at you because you oversee testing and treatment, in addition to being frustrated by the diagnosis. Many children resent the restrictions that diabetes can place on their everyday activities.

Fear and anxiety. Blood sugar control problems, needles, and the potential for long-term health problems can be scary for children. And in some cases, fearfulness can be the result of incorrect information they receive about diabetes.

Embarrassment. Children with diabetes might be embarrassed about the extra attention they get, like when they're testing blood sugar and injecting insulin at school, at friends' homes, and in front of other children.

Dependence. When children find out they have diabetes, they might begin acting younger than their age and depending on parents more than their peers. The progress that they'd typically be making toward self-reliance can stop or reverse course.

Your feelings Parents often go through a grieving process when they find out that their child has a disease like diabetes. It can be difficult to come to terms with the idea that a child has a chronic condition that will need to be managed for the rest of his or her life. It's normal to feel grief and sadness.

Many parents also feel guilty about their child's diabetes and wonder if they could have prevented it somehow. Some parents also might feel unsure about taking on the tasks of caring for a child with diabetes, such as administering medications and helping their child follow a meal plan. It's also common to worry about recognising symptoms of a diabetes problem and getting the right medical help.

What can you do to cope with your own feelings? First, don't hesitate to get the answers to your questions from the health care professionals caring for your child. Educating yourself about diabetes and the best ways to manage it can help put your mind at ease. Also ask your child's doctor for information and tips on coping with your child's emotional issues.

It's important to attend to your own needs as well as your child's. When you can, let others – like relatives and friends – share the responsibilities of caring for your family. Remember that you can't do it all. (Kids Health) TO BE CONTINUED

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sunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

West Dem residents protest Ramjattan’s visit – who is Chairman of the Alliance For Change party – remains a mute spectator, despite our nation's school children were deprived of the $10,000 school voucher by this A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change Administration to which he is perceived to have a ma-

Villagers displayed placards voicing their displeasures with the ruling Administration. They also protested Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan’s visit to the community

A

ngry residents of Zeeburg/De Willem on the West Coast of Demerara welcomed senior Government Minister Khemraj Ramjattan with slogans, protesting his presence in the community.

The Minister with responsibility for national security was scheduled to speak at the Saraswat Primary School’s graduation at 09:30h last Friday ( October 27, 2017).

Among the issues residents were protesting via placards were: President

David Granger’s unilateral appointment of an 84-year-old retired Judge, Justice James Patterson as the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman; the ongoing issues regarding salary increases for teachers; the removal of the $10,000 school vouchers, and heightened crimes in the area.

In an invited comment to this publication, the Regional Chairman for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Julius Oliver Faerber, noted that, “The

country is plagued by serious problems inflicted by the Granger-led Administration.

The most recent is the illegal appointment of the GECOM chairperson, who in our estimation is not ‘fit and proper.’ The RDC (Regional Democratic Council) at its last statutory meeting unanimously passed a motion, asking the President to withdraw the unilateral appointment of Justice Patterson.”

Faerber further stated, “We are watching in great amusement that Ramjattan

jor role. It is our perspective that he therefore has no moral authority to address children, parents and even teachers at any forum whatsoever.

Teachers are in the process of organising protests in demand for the promised ‘good life’.”

Moreover, it was pointed out that recently in the

communities of Zeeburg/De Willem, there have been a series of robberies targeting the local businesses. Residents there are claiming that Police have made no major breakthroughs in locating the criminal elements and as such, they are left without justice and in continuous fear.

8 news

SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Man remanded for assaulting “social media-obsessed” wife

W

hen 32-year-old Alberttown, Georgetown resident Joel Ceasar stood before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Wednesday to answer a charge of assault, he explained that his wife had driven him to such exasperation that he had lost all control and battered her. He, however, was remanded until October 31.

The charge against the accused read that on October 21, 2017, at his Alberttown residence, he unlawfully assaulted his reputed spouse, a mother of one.

The defendant told the court that his wife is obsessed with Facebook, and nags whenever a female likes his photo, “especially if is a black girl”. He continued that the complainant, of East Indian descent, would spew racist comments whenever

he spends time with his “black friends”.

The court heard that the accused had to endure these utterly embarrassing and painful insults whenever she hurled

them at him.

On the day in question, the situation had escalated to an extent that the couple was involved in an argument, during which the complainant scratched and slapped him, and he responded by hitting her.

“It’s getting overbearing…all I want is to see my child grow up”, he said while entering a not guilty plea.

Prosecutor Simone Payne indicated that the accused was previously convicted of an offence (of undisclosed nature) for which he had served two years in prison. Moreover, she said the accused poses a flight risk. The case continues on October 31, 2017.

“Burn in hell! He does nothing for the child!” the wife was overheard saying.

Return of…

C

…the criminal state

live Thomas, the so disant 60s and 70s radical, made quite a turn after the PPP voted out the PNC in 1992. Before, the fella was one of the most extreme Marxist dependistas in the Third World - who scorned the talk of “race” in favour of “class”, and demanded cutting all links with the West!! Then suddenly he because one of the most extreme members of race-conscious ACDA, and makes common cause with his supposed “enemy”, the PNC. And about cutting links with the West? He’s now facilitating Exxon’s extraction of our oil to refine it in the US! And imagine this was precisely what the dependista school was formed to fight!! Some say his U-turn was because his WPA (he being the presidential candidate) predicted they’d win in 1992 and ended up with a measly 2% of the vote!! Hell hath no fury like a rejected academic!! Anyhow, as the PPP slowly rebuilt the Guyana economy out of the PNC ruins, rather than rejoicing, Thomas created another loony theory - the “criminalized state”.

But, as Thomas knows fully well, a theory is only as good as its premises, and those premises must be tested. Well, after the PNC-led APNU/AFC government slid into office, their first act was to make Thomas a Presidential Advisor and Chairman of the capitalist GUYSUCO (where he has just fired 1700 workers and is poised to axe another 5000 in a year!! But not to worry - they’re mostly Indians!). And most important of all, Director of SARA - with more power than the President, to go after - in partnership with SOCU - the loot the PPP supposedly acquired from their “criminalized state”!

Testing the theory!!

But here we are - two and a half years later, one dead after a high-speed chase for “documentary proof”, dozens of audits, several high-profile “arrests”, a few charges - one of which has just been dismissed Thomas’s theory has been blown, but the “throw shade” at the PPP continues unabated - the latest in a fevered (DIY) editorial in the Chronic!

But rather that look at a “criminalized” state, Thomas should look at political crimes. Like the one that murdered his erstwhile “friend” Walter Rodney, whose memory he and the rest of the WPA have desecrated by hopping into bed with the PNC.

…the Christmas blow-blow

Christmas isn’t even around the corner, but two of the larger unions in Guyana -- the Teachers Union and the Public Service Union -- have already hauled out their Christmas whistle - or as we call them in Guyana -- Christmas blow-blow”!! That’s closer to what the leaders of these unions are - blowhards. Fellas that talk so forcefully - wind comes out of their nether regions!

Well, after threatening the PPP with mayhem over the last decade for not bargaining collectively with them, Patrick Yarde threw the support of his union behind APNU/AFC, since they promised a “substantial” raise for them. Well, after getting larwah while Ministers got 50%, Yarde promised, “Wait till wages negotiation!”

Well that has come and gone, with nothing more than what the PPP had done - and Yarde now promises to “get tough”!! Really? He’ll resign from his governmentappointed post?

And ditto for the Teachers Union which, getting the same treatment as the public servants, threatened a strike.

Taken for granted ‘cause they’re ‘family’??

…the original Larwah Man

PM Nagamootoo complains Jagdeo “shaped” his “GECOM lists” to force Prezzie into making particular choices. Like Prezzie did when he demanded “wide knowledge of electoral matters”, yet picked Patterson, who’d be challenged to distinguish between “CR” and “PR”?!

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

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$10,000 in counterfeit currency found during Police raid …Essequibo businessman, two others in custody

T

hree men from the Essequibo Coast are currently in custody of ‘G’ Division Police, assisting with investigations concerning the discovery of $50,000 in forged currency notes, $10,000 of which have been recovered by the Police.

According to information

reaching Guyana Times, between 14:30 hrs and 21:00 hrs on October 27, a search was carried out at a business places in Supenaam, Essequibo Coast and at another business place on the Essequibo Coast, during which the sum of $10,000 in forged currency notes was re-

covered.

While it is reported that the Supenaam businessman consented to the police request to search his place, it is not known if the other businessman had so consented.

Both businessmen remain in police custody pending charges.

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

President under fire from...

from page 3

GRANGER’S ADMISSION

However, last week, October 24, Granger was confronted by the media on the fact that Patterson does not meet the criteria he himself set out – in that: Patterson’s integrity is currently under question, since there has been no official confirmation that he served as Chief Justice of Grenada in 1987, as stated on his CV; Patterson is a religious activist, being a Reverend, also stated on his CV; and Patterson’s impartiality is being questioned, since he was included in the private funeral ceremony for former PNC leader and president, Desmond Hoyte.

Granger has since admitted that his criteria were not constitutional requirements.

“I was asked by the Leader of the Opposition to suggest certain criteria which were not necessarily incorporated in the Constitution, and I proposed certain criteria,” Granger said.

Commenting on Granger’s admission, Jagdeo said Granger has seemingly only now “discovered” that his criteria were not in the Constitution. rubbished He also Granger’s statements that the political Opposition did not object to the criteria he provided. Jagdeo referred to a March 22, 2017 letter to the President which made clear the PPP/C objections and the implications of such a requirement. He also referred to a March 21, 2017 press statement which did the same.

He quoted from the press release, which said: “In the meeting, the Leader of the Opposition stated that he had grave reservations on the legality and constitutionality of these criteria and intended (to have) these concerns brought to the attention of the President.”

COURT CHALLENGE

Prior to the rejection of the third set of nominees, acting Chief Justice Roxanne George gave a ruling in the case of Marcel Gaskin, businessman and brother of Granger’s sonin-law Dominic Gaskin, vs. the Attorney General of Guyana.

The President had expressed three contentions in the past: 1. That the nominees must be judges, former judges, or persons eligible to be judges in Guyana or in the Commonwealth; 2. That every member on the list of nominees must be acceptable to him before he proceeds to choose a Chairman; and 3. That he is not required to give a reason for rejecting the list of nominees.

Gaskin asked the court for responses to specific substantive questions, and Jagdeo made clear that Granger’s three contentions were essentially debunked by the Chief Justice’s ruling.

The answers to the questions posed, according to the Chief Justice’s ruling, are as follows: •QUESTION: Whether the list of persons for appointment as Chairman of the Elections Commission, required to be submitted by the Leader of the Opposition under the said Article 161 (2), must include a judge, former judge or a person qualified to be a judge. The answer to this question is hereby declared in the negative – NO. • QUESTION: Whether the President is required under the Constitution to state reasons for deeming each of

The Opposition PPP on Monday last filed an injunction in the High Court to rescind President Granger’s unilateral appointment of Patterson as GECOM Chairman on the grounds of unconstitutionality. Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall is seen holding the injunction in his hand in the presence of PPP Member of Parliament Zulfikar Mustapha at the High Court Registry

the six names on the list submitted by (sic) the Leader of the Opposition unacceptable. The answer is hereby declared to be in the positive – YES. • QUESTION: Whether a fact-finding by the President that any one or more person is not a fit and proper person renders the entire list as unacceptable. It is hereby declared that the answer is in the negative – NO.

PROVISO ISSUE

In moving to a unilateral appointment, Granger and his government ministers, including Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Attorney General Basil Williams, have said that the President relied on the proviso to Article 161 (2). Article 161 (2) states: “… the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge, or any other fit and proper person.”

The proviso in the Constitution states that if the Leader of the Opposition fails to submit a list, as provided for, then the President can appoint a judge or former judge or qualified to be a judge in Guyana or the Commonwealth.

In her ruling, in the case of Gaskin vs. the Attorney General, the acting Chief Justice ruled that: “While the applicant (Gaskin) has not applied for a determination of this issue, it was raised by the Bar Association in its brief which was filed and served on all parties.…it does appear to me that failure to submit a list as provided for speaks to the provision of an acceptable list, as discussed earlier.

If by not choosing any of the persons listed the President thereby find the list unacceptable, the proviso to Article 161 (2) would apply and the President should then go on to appoint a judge or former judge or person who would qualify for appointment as a judge in Guyana or the Commonwealth to the post of Chairman of GECOM. But all of this in in effect academic, because more than one list has been sought and provided.”

The Acting Chief Justice made clear that the President cannot rely on the proviso in the Constitution, because a list was provided.

BAD FAITH

The Opposition Leader, all considered, charged that

Granger acted in bad faith in appointing Patterson as the new GECOM Chairman.

Jagdeo disclosed that, after the first list was rejected, in the latter part of March 2017, the President, via a letter, promised to work collaboratively moving forward.

He added that after the second list was rejected, the President made a public comment about working collaboratively. A statement from the Ministry of the Presidency, in early June 2017, stated that the Opposition Leader will be asked to submit a third set of nominees.

Granger said, “I’m prepared to work with the Leader of the Opposition for as long as it takes to have somebody selected who fits the criteria, satisfies the Constitution, and is one that the people of Guyana could be happy with.

I’m prepared to work with the Leader of the Opposition for as long as it takes, but I’m not going to give the people of Guyana the appointment of a person who is not fit and proper in accordance with the Constitution or criteria which have been laid out.”

The promise of collaboration was repeated on June 12, 2017 in a joint statement between Government and Opposition on the selection of the GECOM Chairperson, which stated that: “It was also agreed that a high-level team would be assembled representing the President and the Leader of the Opposition which will begin to work immediately on exploring modalities to bring a resolution to this matter in the event that the list is rejected.”

Jagdeo said, “His promise of collaboration in March and in June came after I had stated that he was probably moving in the direction of a unilateral appointment. What his promise did was put the country at ease….this is why I accused him of acting in bad faith at the meeting last Thursday (October 19, 2017). “…as a corollary to the bad faith, the actual swearing in of Patterson was a sinister and surreptitious move on his part….they knew they were acting unconstitutionally, so it was done hurriedly…. it was an illegal appointment, so it was carefully orchestrated.”

Patterson’s appointment is now being challenged in court. The matter, filed in the name of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha, is scheduled to be heard on November 15, 2017.

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sunDAY, october 29, 2017| guyanatimesgy.com

Pedestrian killed while crossing road at Victoria A

n East Coast Demerara (ECD) man was killed on Friday as he was attempting to cross the Victoria, ECD Public Road.

Dead is 62-year-old Derick Freeman, of Lot 4 Cove and John, ECD. The accident occurred sometime around 18:45h.

According to reports reaching Guyana Times, Freeman was on the southern side of the road, crossing over to the northern end when he was struck by a vehicle, bearing registration number GTT 8040, which was heading in a western direction.

This newspaper understands that the driver of the pick-up told Police the man suddenly crossed the road and was hit by the front centre of the vehicle. He was flung into the

air before landing on the roadway, hitting his head.

The injured man was subsequently picked

up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The driver was taken into custody and is assisting with investigations.

Only Thursday, a

61-year-old pedal cyclist, Latchman Khemraj, of Lot 72 Second Street, Zeeburg, West Coast Demerara, was killed after he was

struck by a drunk driver while attempting to cross the road.

It was reported that around 19:15h, motor car PVV 6310 driven by a 35-year-old resident of Claybrick, Road, Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara, was proceeding East along the northern lane of the Zeeburg Public Road when Khemraj allegedly rode from South to North, into the path of the motor car.

The injured man was taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The driver, who was found to be exceedingly above the legal alcohol limit, was taken into Police custody to assist with the investigation.

The missing criteria S atiricus was in a dilemma. It was the weekend, and the Back Street Bar would be hopping.

But with what was going down with this GECON business, and his leaders’ -- Nagga Man and Rum Jhaat -- defence of that business, he knew he was going to get it from all angles. In the end, he girded up his loins and sidled into the watering hole: he had a plan.

“Hey, fellas!” he started off, deciding offence was the best defence. “You do know Prezzie had given Jaggo six criteria for a ‘fit and proper” chair, don’t you?”

“Me hear ‘bout da,” nodded Cappo, as he guzzled his beer. “But which part a de Can-sti-tooshan Prezzie fin’ dem?”

“What?” asked the astounded Satiricus.

“Well, na Prezzie aks de judge whe’ in de Can-sti-too-shan she fin’ he mus’ gi’e reason fuh tchrow-way Jaggo lis’?” asked Bungi.

“Well, Prezzie was just trying to help Jaggo,” protested Satiricus.

“Sato, you know the first criteria, right?” asked Hari. “That the nominee must have a wide knowledge of electoral matters!”

“Really?” said Cappo, perking up. “Suh wha experience dis Chief Patto chap gat wid electshan?”

“Well, when Judges collect the jury’s decision, they have to count up the numbers,” Satiricus mumbled.

“Yuh play yuh raas wid abee, na?” growled Cappo, who was still buying.

“You fellas don’t want to go though the other criteria?” asked Satiricus plaintively.

“Like the one where the nominee must not belong to a political party, even in an “apparent or hidden way”? asked Hari who had obviously kept abreast of the matter.

“Yeah, an’ Chief Patto a wan memba pan de Pee an’ See Facebook page!” chortled Bungi, as Satiricus remained silent.

“But Prezzie forgot to mention the number ONE criteria,” said Hari.

“Wha’ da?” asked Cappo.

“Race!” smiled Hari.

Satiricus also smiled. The fellas hadn’t mentioned the betrayal of Nagga Man and Rum Jhaat!!

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyana, Venezuela reps meet over border spat

– as UN arranges face-to-face sit-down to reach settlement

By Jarryl Bryan

What lies ahead

By Ryhaan Shah

T

he intent of the PNC was always clear, even before President David Granger made the unconstitutional move to install retired Justice James Patterson as the GECOM Chair. And it was clear even before he unceremoniously shoved aside the Cummingsburg Accord. The intent was there in the elections campaign slogan that called on the electorate to forget the past. I and several others, all surviving witnesses of the PNC past, warned of the impending dangers if the unrepentant PNC were elected into government again.

There is no satisfaction in any of us now saying, “I told you so.” The promised change would have taken Guyana forward, and many took the chance and ignored the warnings; and the PNC, in a con job that did not require much trickery beyond the pretence of agreeing to a Coalition Government, regained power.

So, too, did Burnham in 1964 gain power through a coalition with the United Force. That coalition lasted no more than four years, but expect from the AFC leadership no principled behaviour as was displayed by UF Leader Peter D’Aguiar, who resigned rather than work with a corrupt PNC Government.

Guyana voted in 2015 to give presidential power to a man whom the US assessed to be an “anti-East Indian racist”. The cable bearing that description of then Major David Granger was sent from the US Embassy here to the US State Department on Thursday, June 27, 1974 at 7.30pm. It’s all on Wikileaks.

The Americans knew who they were dealing with then and who they are dealing with now. Now, as then, American interests are always paramount. Now, as then, democracy and those values of fairness and the rule of law are only to be upheld when they align with American interests. It was not a Freudian slip when US President Donald Trump remarked in answer to a question about Russia’s human rights violations: “Why? You think we’re so innocent?”

We in Guyana know they are not innocent. We suffered for it, but if it is fundamental to politics to work to further your agenda, then both the PNC and US are in lockstep with the accepted canons of political strategy. And given the PNC’s history of electoral rigging to hold power, there should have been no expectation of fair play.

For the PNC, political power provides the chance to right perceived wrongs and to grant social and economic advantages to its supporters, African Guyanese. Just as their violence against Indian Guyanese at the turn of the century was justified on the basis of their alleged marginalisation, constitutional violations are also justifiable if they are politically expedient to the party’s agenda.

In defence of his choice of the octogenarian Patterson, Granger misled the nation, stating that Patterson had been a Chief Justice in Grenada, and that he was neither a PNC party member nor a Christian activist, two characteristics that should have disqualified him by Granger’s own announced measures of what he deems “fit and proper”.

He has stated publicly that he intends to follow in Burnham’s footsteps. He has made a good start. As a soldier, he obeys orders. As a Burnhamite, he obeys the orders of a jumbie, and if the court rules in his favour, he will return our country to a Burnhamist style dictatorship.

The PNC’s paramountcy will favour its African Guyanese supporters, as before, even though the institutionalised racist policy of granting them jobs, scholarships, loans, etc., from state resources ultimately failed because it is nigh impossible to make one group secure and superior while marginalising another.

Social and economic linkages cannot be so easily disconnected. Either the whole prospers or the whole fails; and Burnhamism, despite Burnham’s best efforts, failed. In the end, it was nihilism writ large.

Already, Indian Guyanese are facing discrimination reminiscent of that era. But many survived the hardships then, and even started up businesses by becoming traders of banned commodities and of items that were in short supply.

Being independent is nothing new for the Indian Guyanese community. From the very first, after serving their indentureship, our foreparents worked on the land to make a living. Being unqualified for clerical or professional positions, they reared cattle, planted rice and vegetables, and started agri-businesses. Their entrepreneurship eventually led them into every area of commercial activity.

They got no loans or training in business management, but inherited a culture that valued family and hard work, and respected wealth creation as a foundation for the security and stability of home and community.

Whatever lies ahead, our spirit of independence will carry us through again.

G

uyana has taken developments one step closer to a timely resolution of its border spat with neighbouring Venezuela: a high level meeting has been fixed between Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge and a Venezuelan delegation.

Organised by Norway’s Dag Halvor Nylander, the Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General who has responsibility for the border controversy, this meeting was scheduled for this weekend (Saturday and today) in New York, and is aimed at providing a chance for the two governments to arrive at a solution.

News of the meeting was communicated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Appointed in February of 2017, Nylander had visited Guyana a number of times to hold talks with President David Granger and Foreign Minister Greenidge, among others.

The Guyana delegation to the General Debate of the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly had also

UNSG Representative Dag Halvor Nylander (fourth from left) discussing the border spat with President David Granger back in April

met with Secretary-General António Guterres as well as Mr. Nylander in September.

Informal discussions were also held with Venezuelan counterparts.

Relations between Guyana and Venezuela have worsened ever since oil giant ExxonMobil announced in 2015 that it had found oil in Guyana. Venezuela has staunchly been against oil exploration in Guyana’s Stabroek Block, where multiple oil deposits were found by ExxonMobil.

In fact, Venezuela’s National Assembly had approved an agreement to reject the oil exploration activities

in March 2017.

Venezuela, with almost 40 times the population of Guyana and a territory that is several times bigger, claimed in 1968 the entire territorial sea of Guyana by means of the Leoni Decree, which has never been withdrawn.

In 2015, the Government of Guyana requested then UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, to take steps toward resolving the controversy. In 2016, as a consequence of a stalemate on the matter, the outgoing Ban Ki-moon agreed with his successor, Guterres, to continue to use the Good Offices Process until the end of 2017 as a means of arriving

at a settlement.

It is with this intention that Guterres appointed Nylander as an envoy to resolve the border spat.

According to the mandate of the Personal Representative, “If, by the end of 2017, the Secretary-General concludes that no significant progress has been made towards arriving at a full agreement for the solution of the controversy, he will choose the International Court of Justice as the next means of settlement, unless the Governments of Guyana and Venezuela jointly request that he refrain from doing so.” turn to page 12

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Social Protection Ministry assists Black Bush Polder fire victims

By Andrew Carmichael

R

ice farmer Marvin Duncan, 78, and his wife Claudette, 65, operators of a grocery store and liquor parlour at Lot 35 'A' Mibicuri South, Black Bush Polder Corentyne that was a week ago destroyed by fire, have been given much needed assistance towards getting

back on their feet when the Ministry of Social Protection, on Friday last, donated to them building materials and household items.

The Guyana Fire Service has confirmed that the fire resulted from arson, and the Police have since arrested one man.

The Social Protection Ministry’s Difficult

Circumstances Unit donated to the elderly couple supplies such as beds, bed-spreads and pillows, stove, food items and cleaning detergents and clothing. These items were handed over to the couple by Technical Officer Mabiola Howard on behalf of Social Protection Minister Amna Ally.

Meanwhile, the Region

Six Regional Administration has already assisted by providing materials to commence reconstruction of the house, and the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) group has committed to providing labour and additional supplies.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Duncan said the fire burnt cash (savings) he had at home at the time, so he is very happy for the assistance.

“This donation means a lot to us because we are left penniless. We had some money and it burn up in the fire, so I must be thankful for what the Ministry of Social Protection has given us, and I am happy because they have promised that they will continue to support us until the construction is finished,” he expressed.

PNCR According to Regional Chairperson Kurt Fraser, the party would ensure that Duncan has a new house in time for Christmas.

Despite the donation, the Duncan family still has some needs which the patriarch says are a matter of desperation. “We need pots, plates and a stove,” he said, while his wife added that the list

The items were handed over to the homeless couple by Technical Officer Mabiola Howard on behalf of Social Protection Minister Amna Ally

included clothing and utensils to wash in. She explained that, over the past week, it has been very difficult to cope with the new conditions which have been forced upon them.

“Sometimes I am sad, and it is the grandchildren who does tell me ‘don’t cry’. But when I think of what happen, ah can’t help (crying),” she revealed as she broke down in tears.

Duncan had said he believes that someone entered the lower flat of the building and started the fire. He had in mind a suspect whom he previously asked to desist from selling to the youths an illegal drug in the community. On the morning of the fire, Duncan said, that same man was at a bus shed when he

and his wife were leaving for the market, at about 7:30h.

“The Fire Service came and investigate and they took away samples. I told the fireman that the fire started at the back, and he said, ‘Yes’, and he took me and show me and he told me that the door was opened about six to eight inches, and he show me where he cut the padlock.

He said the fire start right in front of the door and catch on the wall right there.”

According to Duncan, evidence revealed that someone entered the yard by climbing over the back fence. He also explained that the perpetrator left other evidence.

Police have since arrested one person, who is currently on station bail as the investigation continues.

Guyana, Venezuela...

Assistance Venezuela, once an economic powerhouse in the region because of its oil revenues, has been dealing with issues such as a spiralling economy and civil unrest. And despite the border spat, there have been several instances when Guyana has either been called on to render assistance or has offered such assistance to Venezuela.

Back in May of this year, Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Reina Diaz, had called on Guyana to support her government’s efforts to end civil unrest. While there have been varying reports, most have put the death toll at over 100.

The ambassador declared that this unrest has been caused by “radical sectors of the political opposition” who have a clear objective to “overthrow the legitimate and constitutional” Government of Venezuela and reverse the social achievements of the Venezuelan people.

She noted that, at the international level, Guyana can support the actions taken by the Venezuelan Government to resolve the situation in that country; and in this regard, Venezuela has already seen support from the region, including from CARICOM governments and CILAC. There have been persistent reports of a shortage of basic services in Venezuela, including health services, due to the spiralling economy and unrest that have gripped the nation. And in September, Government had announced it would be providing medical assistance to Venezuelan nationals following an outbreak of measles in that Spanish speaking country.

from page 11

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, had disclosed that the matter came up during a cabinet meeting, and Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence informed the cabinet of the outbreak.

It is understood that the measles’ outbreak occurred in the eastern Venezuelan state of Bolivar, which borders Guyana along Region One (Barima/Waini) and Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni).

The information the minister provided to cabinet, Harmon related, came from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). “(They) have alerted member states of the risk of the outbreak occurring from imported measles cases, and have advised that Guyana ensure a high level of surveillance and adopt adequate vaccination measures to prevent the spread of the virus,” he related.

“It was also reported that Venezuelan nationals were crossing the border into Guyana, especially at Region One, to seek medical treatment for malaria. Our last report was that there were at least 368 cases of malaria (reported) by our national health authorities in Region One, and the Venezuelan citizens who sought treatment were treated,” Harmon had informed the media.

Considering this to be part of Guyana’s international humanitarian contributions, Harmon related that instructions were given for the Public Health Ministry to assist any Venezuelan citizen seeking treatment. This assistance, he had said, would encompass both Venezuelans and Guyanese who are living in the Spanish-speaking country.

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Sherryanna Balkaran – a young Indigenous ambassador

By Paula Gomes

Group comparison politics

B

ack in 1998, after hundreds of Indians were, on January 12, beaten in Georgetown by PNC supporters protesting the results of the December 1997 elections, I wrote about the nature of the politics playing out. It was summarized in a simple equation by the noted scholar of ethnic politics, Donald Horowitz: “Group Comparison + Group legitimacy = the Politics of Entitlement.”

What this essentially predicted was that in a society like ours, groups would inevitably compare themselves to each other, and if the one that claims greater “legitimacy” - through prior arrival, greater suffering, earlier education etc -- suffers by comparison, they would pursue the “politics of entitlement” to claim a greater share of the national patrimony.

What follows is excerpts from the section on “group comparison”.

“The colonial experience also left a more pervasive basis of comparison between the Ravi Dev Africans and the Indians.

The Christian missionaries, who always followed the Colonial flag, fuelled the scorn of the ex-slaves for the indentureds by defining the latter as “heathens” in addition to the general “uncivilised” tag. As Christians and “cultured”, the African was persuaded that his status, beneath the Whites, Coloureds, Portuguese and Chinese, was acceptable, since he could now look down on the “Coolie”. In a pattern that continues to the present, the colonised were using the categories of the coloniser to form their judgments. The rest of Guyanese society defined the Indian as “backward” and deserving of nothing but contempt: his culture, non-western and mocked by the coloureds and ex-slaves, was derided as being primitive and outlandish. This view is still prevalent is those communities.

In addition to being willing to perform “slave” labour, the Indian was lambasted for being docile. Ironically, the other attributed stereotypical characteristics – money-hungry, shrewd, stingy, cunning, energetic, resourceful, miserly, ambitious, avaricious, crafty, clannish, etc. -- indicated that, in reality, the Africans were labelling Indians as a group with progressive attributes, given a negative cast.

From the beginning of his indentureship, however, the Indian, in defence, rejected the denigration of his group, and postponed his entry into the dominant Creole culture.

For instance, because the schools were all controlled by the various Christian denominations (even though the salaries were paid for by the state), the Indians held back on enrolling their children for fear of the children being converted by the Christian proselytization efforts which were rampant in the schools. The educational rates lagged, but so did the conversion rates. He engaged in his own evaluations of the African with some of the European’s evaluation thrown in for good measure. The African, he asserted, was lazy, hedonistic, violent, and bereft of his own culture.

Part of the present problem between the Africans and Indians stems from the recognition by Africans that the very traits they had derided and denigrated as backward in Indians only so recently are actually the traits that confer success in the modern world. This came out very clearly at the “Conference on the Plight of the African Guyanese” organised by ACDA on March 16, 1997. African leaders from across the social, economic and political spectrum recommended to fellow Africans the old disparaged “Indian” qualities in their positive incarnation, and compared the African position with that of the Indians’. Dr. C.Y. Thomas, a leader of the WPA and ACDA, in his presentation, compared the economic picture of the African very unfavourably with that of the Indian in present day Guyana.

I wrote, “What Dr. Thomas is doing in the 90s is to widen the arena of possible conflicts between Africans and Indians by introducing new criteria whereby Africans should measure their position – employment and sectoral dominance and this vis-a-vis Indians. However, by selecting the previously despised group (Indians) as the standard for comparison (and by implication emulation), Dr. Thomas, while providing Africans with a scapegoat, is further damaging the African psyche and creating a mindset for extreme behaviour.”

Reflecting demographic insecurity, such groups are paranoid about being “swamped, subordinated and actually made extinct” by the previously despised group. While the reactions may be out of proportion as opposed to the actual threats, they could very well be projections of “solutions” they themselves may be harbouring in an effort to resolve the cognitive dissonances created by the new dispensation.

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herryanna Balkaran, a 20-year-old beauty who belongs to the Indigenous nation of the Patamonas in the peaks of North Pakaraimas, in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), hails from the small community of Paramakatoi, nestled on the plateau of one of the most ancient geological formations in the South American continent, and sits at an altitude of 970 metres above sea level.

Guyana Times caught up with Balkaran, who is also the reigning Indigenous Heritage Queen 2017, who shared her invaluable experience growing up in a traditional Indigenous community.

“I did my schooling in Georgetown but I would always go home to Paramakatoi when the school break commenced…,” said the former student of the Mae’s Schools.

Balkaran explained that her parents sought to afford her and her siblings an education of the best quality, in light of the quality offered at the community level. Upon graduating high school, after having realised constraints and limitations in the education system, the headstrong young woman returned to render assistance to her fellow people by enrolling as an English volunteer teacher at the Paramakatoi Secondary School.

Within her very first year of teaching, with her consistent and dedicated attitude, Balkaran was able to send off a well prepared class into the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC) in 2016, which saw a significant rise in passes as compared to the previous years.

Speaking on her recent achievement at the biannually hosted Amerindian Pageant, the beauty queen enthusiastically talked about realising her childhood dream – copping the heritage

crown and title.

“Entering the pageant has always been a lifelong dream of mine. My mom would always tell me of the times growing up when I would mimic the delegates of the Indigenous pageant and repeat that I would one day become the queen… and here I am. I greatly desired to represent my people – my family ...and to make them proud.

And through hard work, dedication and discipline, along with God’s favour of course, I was able to achieve one of my dreams,” the beaming queen said.

According to Balkaran, she was confident but not over-confident – as “it is quite perilous to be”. Each contestant, like her, had high hopes of copping the title and brought something unique to the pageant, escalating the level of competition and inspiring her to be a better ambassador.

“I’ve gained so many things from participating in the Miss Indigenous Heritage Pageant. I’ve gained the friendships of nine intelligent, industrious, unique women from whom I learnt so many things; the title of Miss Indigenous Heritage Queen – a position that allows me to make a difference in the lives of my people and oh, yes a few pageantry paraphernalia such as two pairs of gorgeous heels and amazing outfits designed by Miss Vanda Allicock!.”

The Patamona native could not have selected a more befitting platform, targeting deforestation as a means of countering climate change, having recognised that not only is it a main driver of the aforementioned, but it is a plight subjecting the Indigenous, those who depend on the forest for their very survival and existence, to vulnerability and susceptibility.

“The forests are our homes – that which we have spiritual, physical and economic

Sherryanna Balkaran

ties with – and currently, our homes are being destroyed; annihilated universally. I keep reiterating that climate change is not only a plight that affects a specific race or class of people, but one which affects us all, so we need to stop thinking that it’s the Governments’ problem; we

need to stop relying on specific organisations to remedy same. Instead, we, the common man, need to work together; we need to work towards becoming a socially cohesive world so that we can mitigate this plague of climate change!” Balkaran posited.

An aspiring environmental lawyer, the Indigenous queen is also a first-year student at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus.

She believes Guyana is a country rich in natural resources and is often times, “raped by power-hungry business tycoons” who are indifferent to the fact that their business ventures erode the environment , polluting waterways and even threatening the livelihood of the natives.

With the advent of oil soon to hit Guyana, the Indigenous ambassador realises that there would be a need for more local, qualified and genuine lawyers to ensure that the environment remains a toxic-free zone, while ensuring Guyana’s first peoples are able to carry out their traditional ways of life.

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GPSU criticises Govt for Younge’s Take unnecessary spending POLITRICKS behind Granger’s appointment

… while neglecting public servants

By Shemuel Fanfair

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resident of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), Patrick Yarde, in his criticism of Government’s across-theboard public service increases, has said that while the Administration maintains it cannot afford the union’s proposal, it can still find money for benefits to senior state workers and for other projects.

At his press conference held late last week, the GPSU President berated what he feels are marginal increases which are way less than the 50 percent increases which some ministers were awarded in 2015.

“I am saying categorically that the Government could do better in paying public servants. Look around and see how money could be found to do a variety of things – right in this location

(Bourda, Georgetown) you could see. Why money cannot be found right now to pay the people who slaving in the public service? It is a deliberate attempt to keep them in poverty,” Yarde said as he referred to the concrete wall being erected outside the Ministry of the Presidency to replace a chain-link fence.

He later highlighted that Government is finding funds to prop up the benefits and allowances of senior state

A

GPSU President, Patrick Yarde

officials, as opposed to what is received by lower ranked public servants.

He questioned why allowances that were last increased over 20 years ago are still paid to public servants, while at higher levels within public service, workers are the recipient of “the going rate”.

He berated the rates for travel allowance, motor car allowances, gasoline allowance and meal allowances, adding that medical doctors are still receiving a $500 allowance for being on call for several hours.

He added that while Government may not have enough funds to meet their overall proposals at this point, the multi-year agreement proposals were designed to spread out the payments. Yarde noted that the Government has no interest in collective bargaining because of a ‘standoffish approach’ to the negotiating process.

Unions such as The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) have all condemned Government’s proposals. The GPSU have indicated that they would continue to monitor the situation and proceed with the consultations to determine their next step.

Earlier in October, Minister of State Joseph Harmon had announced that Government had made its final offer of an eight per cent increase for public service employees earning between $55,000 and $99,999, considerably less than the union’s proposals. Government further proposed that public service employees earning between $100,000 and $299,999 would receive an increase of six per cent while workers earning between $300,000 and $500,000 have been offered a five per cent increase. Those earning between $500,000 and $699,999 have been offered a four per cent increase, while those earning $700,000 to $799,999 are proposed a two per cent increase. Employees earning between $800,000 and $1million have been proposed a 0.5 percent increase, while those earning above $1million would not benefit from increases.

s every day passes, Guyanese at home and abroad are shocked by the manner in which the APNU/AFC (A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change) coalition is running the affairs of this country.

They know that this is not the change or new dispensation that they voted for back in 2015 when they divorced the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) with the hope of securing better governance, higher levels of accountability and transparency, and a better socioeconomic future.

Also, the coalition, since taking over the reins of Government, has removed its mask while abandoning all of the core principles that it promoted pre-May 11, 2015. It has become arrogant, deceptive, indifferent, and disillusioned after it drank from the fountain of power.

What is more worrisome, too, is that President David Granger, who leads that coalition, is also not the man he professes to be. Over the past two and a half years, he has grown into a politically dishonest being who hides behind ceremony and officialdom in order to avoid being directly held responsible for the bad policy Michael Younge decisions made by his administration, which continues to frustrate the dreams and aspirations of hard working poor and middle class families in Guyana.

But unlike other Presidents, Mr Granger cannot run and hide behind his immunity from suit, as this is 2017 and people are much bolder now because they are willing to stand up and fight against dictatorships and politicians who only want to talk the talk but not walk the walk. All of that aside, he made the biggest mistake so far in his political career when he unilaterally appointed retired Judge James Patterson to the post of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission. That move has no doubt divided this country and thrown it into a political crisis. A majority of the populace feel hurt and betrayed by his decision, and this has led to questions about the politricks behind Mr Patterson’s appointment and suitability for the job. That is the core issue, and nothing else. If one were to assess the qualities and qualifications set by Mr Granger for the job, one would see that Justice Patterson is neither fit nor proper. In fact, several of the candidates nominated by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo are more qualified as well as fit and proper for the post than the retired Judge, who apparently falsified aspects of his CV when he claimed to have served as Chief Justice of Grenada.

No one needs to attack Patterson's character personally, because everybody has the right to make money, as against integrity in declining an offer because of the implications on one’s reputation before arriving at a decision. Mr Patterson chose the first. He chose loyalty to the People’s National Congress and Mr Granger's agenda when he decided to accept the offer, knowing fully well that a unilateral and unconstitutional decision was being made. He toed the line, and any PNCite would have done so.

Secondly, those who are peddling the notion that the nominees’ race was important are also part of the wider problem that has stalked this land for years. They are indeed racists themselves. It does not matter if Mr Jagdeo had only nominated yellow people for the job. He consulted with civil society, and those on the three lists emerged as the best. The fact remains that Jagdeo did nominate outstanding African and Mixed Guyanese who were fit and proper. The candidates’ ethnic makeup should not even be an issue, because that is a form of discrimination. Maybe President Granger should have been more open about his ethnic preferences to Jagdeo when they met, if he or his coalition had any. Also, those so called African lobbyist groups that sought to speak on behalf of all Afro-Guyanese here on the issue of Patterson’s appointment and its constitutionality should return to the dark hole from whence they came.

All Africans do not hate the PPP. All of them do not support Mr Granger or his decision to unilaterally appoint his 84-year-party comrade, because all Africans have not had bad experiences under the 23 years of PPP rule.

The sporadic and sometimes politically driven talk about race discrimination aside, Africans led happier lives under PPP when compared to the PNC regime and the coalition's stint so far. They must disabuse themselves of the notion that East Indians do not want to be ruled by Africans, because Governments should not ‘rule' but govern impartially and justly. The fact that after slavery and indentureship they still fail to comprehend this is appalling.

They should promote building trust, compromise, shared governance and national unity, and healing as well as reconciliation as answers to this country’s woes. They must be condemned for fanning the flames of racism.

Guyanese will never again allow the racist demigods within those lobbyist groups who feature on the payrolls of the coalition and Government to divide them. Race has nothing to do with ethics in politics, and what is wrong or right constitutionally. They have done the President and his party a massive disservice by issuing that statement, because it appears that they have a certain agenda aimed at locking a particular face of people out of Government, so they can get revenge.

Thirdly, it is not surprising that the PPP has gone into non-cooperation mode. It is doing the right thing. At least it is not on the streets encouraging people to burn businesses and attack each other. It is behaving like a mature party in a functioning democracy. President Granger should know now that he killed every chance of achieving inclusivity and higher levels of political cooperation when he acted unilaterally in appointing a GECOM Chair. He knows the PPPs biggest fear stems from concerns about rigged elections, and he still showed callousness in his decision. Even if he wins the next election, the creditability of the process will be questioned by all and sundry. This is the time for ABC countries to speak up like they did when the PPP was in office, as opposed to sitting on the fence like they are doing now.

They must, like civil society, pressure the President to rethink his decision and return to the table to negotiate with Mr Jagdeo so that a mutually suitable candidate could be had. This is no time for hard ball politics, because Guyanese people will be the ultimate losers in the end. It is time for a compromise. The truth is Mr Granger's tenure has been disastrous so far. And the rubber stamp Prime Minister without a serious portfolio has aided and abetted the situation by not being independent and fighting for the people. It’s very unfortunate that most of the senior functionaries in the coalition are joining the campaign of hate and revenge against the PPP, and Bharrat Jagdeo in particular. Their efforts would be better suited fighting to reduce poverty and increase workers’ wages while boosting the economy. Guyanese will not be kind to this coalition in 2020 if this particular appointment is not rescinded.

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Fighting a global malady

Filaria and the community-based drive to mass distribute drugs Lessons from the 2007/2009 Global Financial Crisis - the paramountcy of financial system stability in a global context

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ast week I did a thorough analysis of three major commercial banks and some of the implications on the domestic financial sector. Extending on that, today’s piece seeks to present financial stability in a broader spectrum, so as to gain an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of the global financial system and financial markets.

The 2007-2009 financial crisis seemingly emanated from the U.S economy; it was highly complex in nature and caused severe financial and economic damage to the global economy. The causes of the global financial crisis constitute a great degree of complexity, and it is by far the most debatable topic on global agendas relating to global financial sector management. It appears that such crisis evolved into a cycle of the global financial system.

The aftermath of the crisis saw the global economy exhausting its efforts to recover from the shocks caused and to avert another crisis.

The resultant effect thus far is there has been a plethora of financial and economic reforms with emphasis on improving and strengthening the regulatory framework. Emerging from this is the escalated debate on the need for global financial governance.

Against this backdrop, the creation of a world financial authority with the principal aim of regulating the global financial system has been strongly advocated for by many economists (Weber & Staiger, 2014). To achieve this, Weber posited countries need to give up some amount of sovereignty so that the organisation can effectively design international regulation (Weber & Staiger, 2014).

In this regard, such an institution was created by the Group of Twenty countries in response to the Global Financial Crisis, the Financial Stability Board (FSB). Evidentiary of the effectiveness of the Financial Stability Board with regards to its primary mandate of coordinating relevant international institutions and policy makers of key member countries: The FSB has made significant improvements with regards the execution of its functionalities from the onset of its creation in 2009 up until 2013.

From 2015 onwards, it was faced with greater challenges with regards to its objectives, and therefore was deemed weak and inconsistent or insufficiently effective.

Substantiating this, citing Jones et al (2010), the FSB at that time was widely critiqued in his paper on Authority and Governance. In this report, the workings of the FSB were described as cosmetic and based on the same rule that led to the debacle of the financial system. It was also argued that emerging economies should seek to gain greater participation in the governance of IFIs. Such an approach would seek to bring about change in the paradigm to regain the original spirit of the Bretton Woods. In this spirit, reference is made to the building of an international financial system supporting a balanced development of trade, production and employment.

Comparing the workings of the FSB from then to this day, it was seen that tremendous work has been undertaken and improvements have been made in which most of the challenges and weaknesses were addressed. It can be safely said that the FSB has evolved into a much stronger institution encompassing a broader membership agenda, deeper and broader scope of analysis, and peer review. A broader spectrum of work in these regards is being developed and pursued by the FSB, albeit there remains challenges and weaknesses to overcome. These of course are expected, as the global economy and financial system is rapidly growing with complexities.

Recommendations

Emerging economies are becoming more financially integrated globally.

This development allows for greater access to capital, but also exposure to the risk of financial shocks. With this in mind, emerging economies’ policy makers need to consider improving the legal and institutional frameworks accordingly, and thus ensuring resiliency of these economies amidst a more volatile external environment (IMF, 2016). In the light of this, the following recommendations are made: * Emerging market economies should continue to bolster the rights of outside investors, particularly minority shareholders; * Bringing disclosure requirements fully in line with international best practices and promoting greater board independence are likely to yield benefits; * Emerging market economies should continue to reform their regulatory, legal and institutional frameworks to foster effectiveness and enforceability of corporate governance regimes.

Finally, the following recommendations arose out of the findings of the most recent Global Financial Stability Report: IMF (2016). * In the assessment of macro-financial conditions, policymakers may need to progressively consider economic and policy developments on emerging market economies. This suggests also the need to pay attention to financial spillbacks from emerging economies stemming from the policy actions of advanced economies. Underscoring this development is also the criticality of enhanced international macroeconomic and macroprudential policy cooperation. *The need for more comprehensive and granular data on capital flows and their intermediation by banks, large institutional investors and investment funds to better assess risks and vulnerabilities, and identify potential shock triggers and spillover channels. *Governments should promote specific forms of financial deepening; for example, developing a local investor base (GFSR April 2014, Chapter 2) cited by IMF (2016. This is suggested against the fact that evidence have shown that financial deepening can attenuate financial spillovers of external shocks. *As China’s role in the global financial system grows, transparency of its policy goals, clear and timely communication of its policies, and strategies consistent with achieving them will be increasingly important to avoid volatile market reactions with wider reverberations. *Enhancing financial surveillance of cross border financial flows intermediated by asset managers should be a priority. *Lastly, it will be important for authorities to deploy appropriate macroprudential measures targeted at bank and market based financing to limit excessive increases in corporate leverages that could threaten financial stability (GFSR October 2015, Chapter 3) cited by IMF (2016).

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

By Jarryl Bryan

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t the age of 76, Brenda Fox lives with a chronic case of Lymphatic filariasis. She still moves about, but aided by a walker. And on occasions when the pain becomes unbearable, Mrs Fox is sometimes left bed ridden in hospital.

Fox, who resides in Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, does not remember the exact circumstances under which she first contracted the disease. But it only takes one fateful bite from a mosquito carrying any one of three varieties of nematode worms in order to transmit it; and as such, she knows the importance of prevention.

“Every day I gotta take tablets. It’s General Medical Officer, just something that happened. I had a Dr Whitney Munroe lot of pain, went in hospital, come out, “big foot”. But essentially, Mrs Fox was all of that. But I use to work (until) I get diagnosed with Lymphatic filariasis. fever and I fell sick. Then afterwards I She credits her husband, as well as start getting (swollen lymph nodes) and her son and primary caregiver Brian the foot (started) paining,” she related.

Fox, for her life being as undisrupted Mrs Fox noted that her persistent as possible. Brian noted that while his illness raised a number of questions in mother’s filariasis has been exacerbated her mind and tests later confirmed ex- by a stroke, her infection is not the end actly what she had. It goes by forbid- of the road, as she still maintains a cerding names such as Elephantiasis or tain level of mobility. turn to page 18

Swollen feet which characterise filariasis, as exhibited by Brenda Fox

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

German’s Restaurant to open branch in Brooklyn, New York Guyanese cuisine and culture to others around the world. This is intended to be the first of two stores planned to open by the end of 2018," he noted.

The second US branch is being planned for the Richmond Hill, Queens area

Clinton Urling

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erman’s Restaurant has secured a lease at 793 Utica Avenue, Brooklyn, United States of America to establish the first North American branch of the well-known Guyanese eatery. That restaurant is expected to become operational in February 2018.

The expansion is being funded by Republic Bank Guyana Limited, long standing banker of German’s Restaurant. According to owner and General Manager, Mr. Clinton Urling, the expansion represents a culmination of the company's desire to open a branch in New York to reach the significant Guyanese and Caribbean American communities residing there.

"We are happy to reach and serve our diaspora customers, and to contribute to the export and exposure of

of New York.

German’s is a second-generation family-owned Guyanese restaurant that has been in establishment for 57 years. It is wellknown for its Guyanese cuisine, and in particular its famous line of soups.

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SunDAY, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Anna's

“Greening” GECOM with ACDA’s help

Create right environment for agriculture, agro-processing development – GMSA

– as inaugural “Uncapped” opens to public

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he public outrage which rocked Guyana recently when the nation discovered that President Granger had unilaterally appointed a GECOM Chairman in the person of Retired High Court Judge James Patterson, is quite comprehensible considering that he neither served the people prior notice nor consulted with stakeholders, particularly the Opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC).

Interestingly, the Department of Public Information (DPI) justified the appointment by invoking both the Constitution as well as the ruling previously delivered by Justice GeorgeWiltshire. However, one would recall that Granger had publicly shrugged off Justice GeorgeWiltshire’s ruling when she had pronounced on the matter, defending that he would rely on his own interpretation of the Law in moving forward with the controversial GECOM impasse he instigated.

So, if we are to believe the Government’s propaganda, Granger would have been guided by Article 161 (2) of the Constitution, in particular an Anna Correia excerpt which reads: “If the Leader of the Opposition fails to provide a list as provided for, the President shall appoint a person who holds or has held office as a Judge (…)”.

Incidentally, one does not necessarily have to be a trained legal practitioner to understand that the Constitution has been violated on the basis that not less than three (3) lists of eighteen (18) candidates were already submitted by the Opposition Leader since the resignation of Dr Steve Surujbally earlier this year. The Opposition Leader subsequently did not fail to submit a list but instead actively engaged in the selection process, despite each list being consecutively rejected by the President without justification and unreasonably so when one considers that the candidates represented diversity on all levels.

Evidently, Granger knew he was infringing on our constitutional rights (again!) which is most likely the reason why he appointed Patterson and then immediately had him sworn-in before breaking the news to the nation on October 19th.

This is the same man who campaigned in 2015 for a united Guyana. Yet, by his unabashed refusal to abide by the Constitution he has deliberately shattered all expectations and hopes for a system of inclusive governance through which the Guyanese electorate can be equally represented. He has demonstrated immense lack of political will for cooperation and continues to stymie the development of democratically sound institutions.

Moreover, by appointing a chairman who in 2020 will be eighty-seven (87) years old, President Granger has gone against his very own definition of what “fit and proper” should be. One would recall that in February 2017, Justice Kennard at the time eighty (80) years old, was removed from his position of Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) because of his age.

President Granger had at the time justified this decision by stating to the media that “the Government is focused on creating an atmosphere in which other persons, who are younger, are able to take the lead”. Patterson is almost a decade older than Kennard. But perhaps this is Granger’s definition of “greening” GECOM. The President’s behaviour befits one of a bully who will settle for nothing less than what he wants irrespective of the law, the obligations and duties of his office, and professional ethics.

This is a man whose military background, taste for historical revisionism and idolatry for a dead dictator, seem to cement his resolve to maintain a firm grip on power. His decision to install Patterson has rendered palpable the fear that the PNC might revert to old methods of electoral fraud and rigging embedded in the burnhamite DNA. One would hope that civil society might be able to unite in the face of such a gross violation of our constitutional rights. But when organisations such as ACDA take the podium to defend the unconstitutional appointment of Patterson by accusing the Opposition of not wanting an Afro-Guyanese to head GECOM, instead of admitting that it does not support the appointment of a non-PNC or apolitical person irrespective of ethnicity, one can venture that the Government’s chief xenophobe advisor Eric Phillips was summoned to whip up a diversion from the assault on democracy.

Unfortunately, one cannot expect ACDA to actually exert its mandate without heinous ethnic bias when under the leadership of Eric Phillips and by extent, the influence of the Government itself. By taking such an irrational stance, ACDA and the other organisations that joined the racist bandwagon, have chosen to contribute to the decay of democracy in Guyana, instead of barricading against it.

A sad day for Guyana and civil society indeed.

Contact sundayarrow@gmail.com

President of the GMSA, Shyam Nokta, addressing the opening of ‘Uncapped’ on Friday last

T

he Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has said it is committed to putting in the work and effort that would see the local agriculture sector, and more particularly its agro-processing component, reaching new heights.

The Association has, however, noted that agro-processing would reach new heights only if the right and enabling environment is created.

This statement was made by President of the GMSA, Shyam Nokta, at the opening of the first ever agro-processing fair, dubbed Guyanese Flavour “Uncapped”.

The three day event was opened to the public on Friday and ends today. It served as a venue for an exhibition, market opportunity and food festival.

The exhibition has been geared to target local markets -- to help the agro-processors sell their products to more retailers in Guyana, and to help stimulate greater demand for the products countrywide.

According to Nokta, Guyana’s untapped agriculture, and by extension agro-processing potential, has been talked about, the country’s ability to expand and diversify agriculture having been recognised.

However, agro-processors are often unable to compete, both at the domestic

level and in external markets, as a result of varying issues, particularly the lack of knowledge of locally produced products both here and abroad – something which the event has been aimed at addressing.

Nokta outlined the GMSA’s vision for advancing the local agro-progressing sector, but noted that it can be achieved only through a clear Government policy; by addressing critical barriers; and by creating an enabling environment for investments. “We need to hear from Government!” he declared. “What is the policy on agriculture and agro-processing…? To sustain, grow and expand to commercial viability, there needs to be a clear policy framework for agriculture development and agro-processing,” he stated. Nokta went on to say that among the critical barriers to agro-progressing that need to be addressed are: the availability of affordable financing in a timely manner; the high cost of energy; and the high trans-

US Ambassador Perry Hollaway examining a product at the exhibition “Uncapped”

Canals Polder know there is a place where they can take their produce and receive a fair price. This will certainly help to strengthen the economic position of farmers, and encourage stable supply,” he posited.

Prime Minister Moses

Government that we don’t have a monopoly on ideas, views and approaches that could be taken at any time to change the direction in which we are going, or to improve the context of the approach,” Nagamootoo noted.

Minister of Business,

A section of the crowd at the opening of “Uncapped”

port cost associated with moving produce to markets, coupled with untapped technology.

On the latter note, the GMSA President touted the establishment of a centralised agro-processing facility. “This could be built modularly and through a public/private partnership. It has been tried in Guatemala, Belize and other countries with much success. Why can’t we do it here?

Just imagine the difference it would make if the farmers from Black Bush Polder or

Nagamootoo, addressing the gathering at the opening ceremony, applauded the initiative and urged the private sector to build a stronger international partnership in order to be successful.

Nagamootoo noted that Guyana is one of the few countries that can boast about a free and independent judiciary, which is also guaranteed independence financially.

“I believe that we need much more of these ideas that could tell politicians in

Dominic Gaskin, said Government and the private sector need to work together in order to build the agriculture sector, and must be able to support cheap financing.

“There is still a lot more that needs to be done. I like to see more together to exploit Guyana trade agreements. We are party to a number of trade agreements that give us nearly 1 billion people around the world for a wide range of products,” Gaskin noted.

Man admits killing gold trader …at Stabroek Market

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oshua Payne who was recently declared mentally fit was cleared to be arraigned on the State’s indictment which alleged that on December 19, 2012, he murdered Kelvin Caines, called “Reds”, a 42-year-old gold trader who was fatally stabbed at the crowded Stabroek Market Square. At last Thursday’s hearing, Payne pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

The court heard that Payne was evaluated by a doctor and found to be quiet and cooperative. Lead Prosecutor Shawnette Austin accepted the defendant’s manslaughter plea which

was guided by defence counsel Keoma Griffith. Presiding Judge, Brassington Reynolds ordered a probation report for the confessed killer who will make his next appearance at the High Court in Georgetown on November 23, when he will be sentenced.

The incident occurred during the wee hours on Wednesday, December 19, 2012, at the market. Former Lodge Housing Scheme, Georgetown resident Caines was stabbed under his left arm

by Payne. The deceased father of two was said to be carrying out his normal business operations at the time he was stabbed. He died while receiving medi-

cal treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Reports back then stated that the killing could have been motivated by robbery, as allegations surfaced that after the attack, the deceased was robbed.

Payne reportedly had hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and a gold chain in his possession at the time of the attack. The gold chain was stolen, along with some of the cash and the remainder of the money was reportedly handed over to the family. It was said that Payne, a known person who suffered with mental health issues, was well known to the family of Caines.

18 news

sunday, october 29, 2017 | guyanatimesGY.com

Guyana set to host CFATF conference in November

M

ore than 150 participants from 26 member countries are expected in Guyana for the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) conference, to be held at the Marriott Hotel from November 12th to 16th, 2017.

According to the Department of Public Information, hosting the CFATF symposium in Guyana is a prestigious honour for President David Granger and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams.

Having made significant progress in improv-

ing its AML/CFT regime and adequately addressing the key AML/CFT deficiencies identified, the CFATF Plenary of November 2016 agreed to have Guyana removed from the CFATF/ ICRG process.

Guyana is therefore no longer subject to mon-

itoring by CFATF/ICRG, which means the country has been removed from the backlisted CFATF/ICRG status.

Guyana was “blacklisted” by the CFATF in 2013 after it failed to make significant progress in implementing required legisla-

tive reforms which would have aided in the international combat against money laundering and financing of terrorism.

Filaria and the community...

Global phenomenon

According to information from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the disease is caused by three species of thread-like nematode worms, known as filariae – Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi and Brugia timori. Male worms range from three to four centimetres in length, and female worms eight to10 centimetres.

The worms target the lymphatic system, which is an essential component of the body’s immune system as they are essentially a network of nodes and vessels that maintain the delicate fluid balance between blood and body tissues. But when someone is infected, the male and female worms form “nests” together in this vital system.

Filarial infection can cause a variety of clinical manifestations, including lymphoedema of the limbs, genital disease (hydrocele, chylocele, and swelling of the scrotum and genitals) and recurrent acute attacks, which are extremely painful and are accompanied by fever – a symptom mentioned

by Mrs Fox. The majority of infected people are asymptomatic (no symptoms), but virtually all of them have some kind of damage to the Lymphatic system and as many as 40 per cent can register kidney damage, with proteinuria (excess protein in the urine) and haematuria (blood in the urine).

Back in 2000, the WHO launched the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic filariasis (GPELF). According to the WHO, mass treatment for Lymphatic filariasis is ongoing in 45 countries. Ten countries have not started treatment or have submitted evidence indicating treatment is not required.

But data from the Organisation also indicates

that of 73 countries listed by the WHO as having endemic lymphatic filariasis, 18 countries have completed interventions and are conducting surveillance to validate elimination. China and the Republic of Korea were declared to have eliminated lymphatic filariasis as a public health problem in 2007 and 2008, respectively.

An additional 22 countries have conducted Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in all endemic areas and are described by the WHO as being on track to achieve elimination. The remaining 33 countries have not been able to achieve 100 per cent geographical coverage; 10 of these have yet to initiate preventive chemotherapy or submit evidence that MDA is not required.

In Guyana

But how exactly can one ensure they are protected? In the years gone by, the then Health Ministry laid out an aggressive drive to distribute and raise awareness about the use of diethylcarbamazine (Dec) salt.

Recently, National Coordinator of Guyana’s Elimination of Lymphatic filariasis Campaign, Dr Fabu Moses had said that there were hiccups with administering the ‘Dec salt’ programme. According to her, mapping showed that 90 per cent of the populace was at risk but keeping track of the amount of persons using ‘Dec salt’ was difficult.

The current Government has been focused on the distribution of tablets intended to insulate persons from contracting the disease. The workers attached to the campaign can be seen braving the scorching sun and sometimes the soaking rain. But they have a mandate to deliver and for the most part, they fulfil this mandate. <<<Guyana Times>>> sat down for an interview with General Medical Officer, Dr

from page 15

Whitney Munroe, who oversees distribution activities in the district extending from Durban Street to Carifesta Avenue and is based at the South Road Clinic.

“The distribution process has been for two weeks, starting the 16th October and it ends the 29th of October.

Before that, we had training sessions which extended a little while. Presently we have 42 distributors,” she related.

Dr Munroe noted that the distribution efforts have been largely successful thus far, with residents usually willing to receive their pills.

The doctor attributed this to the increased awareness of the dangers of ‘big foot’, buoyed by the Government sponsored advertisements.

She also went into details about exactly what medication residents are receiving.

“The campaign is about filariasis. Presently in Guyana, we are using two tablets; albendazole and diethylcarbamazine. Depending on the age range, different amounts (are distributed). So what we are basically doing, we are attacking the worm that causes filaria,” She stated.

“Wuchereria bancrofti (worm) is the main one that affects the Guyanese populace. And that is the worm we are attacking. This year, the distributors will be moving in different locations for approximately two weeks.”

Dr Munroe noted that while the campaign of roving pill distributors will end today, distributors will be at fixed locations such as health centres to ensure that everyone is given a chance.

This extension will last until November 9.

“Our target for this location is approximately 38,800.

And thus far, we have captured 75 per cent of that. So we are doing well thus far (and) despite some shortcomings, we are pressing on,” Dr Munroe said.

sunDAY, october 29, 2017

19

GSCL Inc/ PM T20 Softball Cup

Regal Masters, All-Stars on course for double C

linical performances from Regal All-Stars and Regal Masters ensured that they booked their places in the inaugural edition of the Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup. In the finals of the Masters category, Regal will have to face a stiff challenge from New York Hustlers while Speedboat will be looking to power away from Regal All-Stars when the finals take place today at Everest Cricket Club ground from 10:30h.

In semi-final action on Saturday, Regal All-Stars dumped Boots All-Stars out of championships contention with a nine-wicket trashing at Everest. Boots All-Stars batted first and labored to 135-8 with Delroy Williams scoring 25, Yoodhanlall Sukhlall 20 and D. Narine 17. Safraz Esau was on target with 4-25.

The well-oiled Regal AllStars then raced to 136-1 in 10.2 overs with the dangerous Sachin Singh striking an unbeaten 73, Richard Latif supported with 26 while Esau chipped in with 15 not out to see his team to

yet another major softball final.

At Malteenoes SC, Speedboat defeated SVC All-Stars by 13 runs.

Speedboat took first strike and posted 207-9 with Lennox Marks making 49, Vickash Dhaniram 38, Anand Bharat 34 and Wazir Hussein 20. Travis Drakes, Ramesh Baron and Balieram Beharry picked up two wickets each for SVC All-Stars who made a brave attempt to gun down the target but eventually ended on 194-9. Raghunauth Prahalad got 24, Beharry 22 and Safraz Karim 20. Greg Singh claimed 3-26, Kishore Smith 2-33 and I. Ivan 2-52.

In the Masters category, Regal Masters ruled over Tropical Spring with a nine-wicket drubbing at GNIC SC. Tropical Spring managed 165 all out in 20 overs, batting first. Debo Sankar led with 78, Shahdeo Budhu supported with 22; extras contributed 30.

Laurie Singh, Parsram Persaud, Raj Ramnauth and Raymond Harper snared two wickets apiece for Regal Masters who then knocked

– NY Hustlers, Speedboat could spoil the fun

Mahase Chunilall scored back-to-back centuries on Saturday to put his team in today’s final

off the target in 13.2 overs, ending on 167-1. Mahase Chunilall registered his second century of the day scoring an unbeaten 113 while Mahendra Hardyal made 21 and David Harper 20 not out.

At DCC, New York Hustlers beat HS Masters by seven wickets. Batting first, HS Masters got to 1966. Jagdish Persaud blasted 48, Mohamed Rafeek 46 and D. Mohabir 32. E. Dodson took 2-33. NY Hustlers responded with 197-3 in 19.3 overs. Troy Gobin stroked 65 and Dodson supported with 45.

After the Masters final, the All-Star team will take to the centre pitch for their dual at 14:00h with $600,000 first prize at stake. The runner-up will bag $100,000.

In the Masters category, the champions will become $500,000 richer while the losing finalist will get $100,000.

All finalists will get trophies and medals while the Most Valuable All-Star Player will win a Hero Motor Cycle while a 55-inch television set will go to the Most Valuable Masters player.

The tournament is made

Minister Norton declares support for Athletics Coaches A

t the Athletics Association of Guyana’s (AAG) Coaches Conference Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for sport, Dr George Norton declared his ministry’s support for the coaches.

Minister Norton told the coaches that the Ministry will provide support in any way it can so that they will be in an even more advantageous position to ensure quality performances by athletes.

The honourable minister was at the time delivering the feature address at the Coaches Conference which was held on Saturday at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) headquarters in Liliendaal.

The conference was organized by the AAG and was attended by several coaches from across Guyana. Norton also stated that coaches must have the best understanding of their role as primary individuals who are responsible not only for being effective teachers but also ensuring the well-being of athletes.

“Athletes perform exceptionally when they are not only

physically but mentally prepared and coaches serve as some of the greatest motivators of athletes” the minister stated.

He then pointed out that the accomplishments of athletes are not limited solely to athletic performances but academic performances as well.

“You are partly responsible for ensuring that athletes are encouraged to excel in their studies as well since the two go hand in hand”.

He also noted that the theme for the conference ‘Coaches: pivotal in the development of athletes’ could not be more fitting since “Coaches play an important role in ensuring that the country produces athletes who perform exceedingly well at the international level.”

Also discussed during the coaching seminar were qualifying standards for the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Birmingham 2018. The dates for trials for international events were also discussed and agreed upon. The AAG is expected to roll out its calendar of activities for the 2018 season in the not too distant future.

possible through the generosity of Fly Jamaica, Banks DIH, Hero Motorcycles, Regal Stationery and Computer, Regal Sports, C. Mohan General Contracting Inc., Crown Mining Supplies, Elegance Jewellery and Pawn Shop, Ink Plus, Industrial Sullpies and Services, P and P Insurance Brokers and Consultants Ltd., Starr Party Rentals, Pyeo General Store, Clear Waters, Chung’s Global Enterprise, Gafson’s Industries Ltd., WJ Enterprise, Lucky Star, Ryan and Reuben General Store (Bartica), Massy indus-

tries, Guysons Engineering, Dino Enterprise (Bartica), Scott Service Station (Bartica), Swiss Machinery Establishment, Express International, Office of the Prime Minister and Jap Restoration Inc (New York).

Admission for today’s finals is free and will see the lighted stumps and zing bails being used while there will be lots of giveaways for the spectators. The Caribbean Hot Shots band and Raju Tassa Troupe will have the musical entertainment for all including the dancing girls CPL style.

Ministers Joseph Harmon and David Paterson along with officials of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club at the launching of the CMRC November meet on Friday evening

M

inister of State Joseph Harmon received a resounding applause on Friday evening when he announced that the government will give motor racing more support in their endeavours.

The minister’s comments came on Friday evening at the launching of the final leg of the Caribbean Motor racing Championships held at the GT Motorsport facility on Albert street. The championships are set for November 11 and 12 at the South Dakota Circuit.

Harmon stated, “A few weeks ago executives from the GMR&SC came to my office and we had a conversation in the way in which the sport was going and what they want to see. They produced to me a plan for the development of the circuit, it is very futuristic and that is something we can commit to working with the GMR&SC to achieve that goal.”

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson also echoed similar words regarding the support and more so, he stressed on the importance of safety.

Vice-President of the GMR&SC Richie Singh contended that this meet will be like no other and fans should be geared for thrilling action.

A twenty-seven race programme was unveiled for the final leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships.

Qualification will also be held on Saturday morning from 10:00h with races beginning from 14:00h. Scrutinising will take place on Thursday and Friday and before qualification on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the club is organising weekend passes for those patrons desirous of viewing both days of action as well as VIP passes.

20

guyanatimesGY.com

sunDAY, october 29, 2017

Williams wins again …beats spirited pack in record time

Overall winners of the sixth Annual Payless Variety Store Cycling Meet

By Michelangelo Jacobus

F

or the second consecutive weekend Geron Williams finished top of the podium; this time at the inner circuit of the National Park in the sixth annual Payless Variety Store 11-race cycling meet on Saturday.

Williams out sprinted youthful rival Jamaul John in the final stretch of the 35lap feature race to cross the finish line in record breaking fashion; Williams obliterated Kemuel Moses’ five week old record clocking one hour 12 minutes and 35.42s.

The Foundation rider along with Team Coco’s John stuck with the main pack of riders and together they set out at a frantic pace.

In the final lap John jumped

the pack with at least 400 yards to go and broke away briefly only for Williams to overpower him at the finish to take the race in dominant fashion.

Third to sixth place went to Silvio Innis, Paul De Nobrega, Christopher Griffith and Curtis Dey. The Prime prizes were shared among De Nobrega, Williams Griffith, John and Paul Cho Wee Nam. In the BMX Boys and Girls category (12-14 years) Marvin Knights took first while Zab Jamese was second; meanwhile Jaheme Henry was first in the 9-12 years category while Mark Lewis and John Niles were second and third respectively.

Earlier, in the Juveniles

race Curtis Dey copped first place while second and third went to Nigel Dugid and Briton John, Dey won the event in 26 minutes and 37.59 seconds.

Meanwhile, Nigel Jacobs and Akram Singh were first and second in that order for the mountain bike race.

In the Veterans U-50 event Ian “Dumb Boy” Jackson snared top honours while Warren McKay and Lennox Jackman were second and third respectively.

Jonathan Ramsuchit was the top Junior rider.

The Cyclists will today head to West Demerara for the Powerade 50-mile road race; the race begins at Wales Police Station, heads to Bushy Park and returns to Schoonord for the finish.

Silica Sandport inaugural tourney tees off today

S

Today is local golfers’ last shot at quality Guyana Open preparation

ilica Sandport Inc. of 73 Lusignan East Coast Demerara are proud sponsors of what promises to be an exciting golf tournament and pre-Guyana Open preparation session today at Lusignan.

Haresh Tewari, Executive of Silica Sandport, had indicated to acting Club President Brian Hackett, that they were delighted to sponsor this very important tournament as it prepares golfers for the 36-hole experience of the Guyana open next weekend. Eighteen holes are being sponsored by one group and will be played on Saturday while the other 18 holes will be played on Sunday.

Reigning Guyana Open male Champion Avinash Persaud as well as his younger brother Arvinda ‘Gangully’ Kishore who was the first 19-year old to win the Guyana Open a few years back, are both expected to be honing their skills this weekend. Avinash

has already served notice to would be contenders that he scored 3 under par on the par 72 course on Saturday October 21.

The game will be played on the open Medal Play system. Prizes will be given for first to third Best Net, overall Best Gross and Nearest to The Pin positions.

Tee-off is 10:30h. As always, the public is invited and welcome to view this tournament free of charge.

Silica Sandport Inc. of 73 Lusignan East Coast Demerara, is a state-of-the-art sand washing facility that produces white sand, screening and washing of Silica obtained from part of an extensive silica sand vein that has verifiable reserves in excess of 500 million tons thus enabling Silica Sandport Incorporated to confidently supply washed and graded sand in quantities that fulfill particular needs.

sports

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T

he Rising Sun Rodeo Committee will once again stage the thrilling West Berbice Rodeo at the Rising Sun Turf Club from 12:00h today at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Arima Park, West Coast Berbice.

The event which has become a house hold name on the sporting calendar is expected to be bigger this year with a number of feature events on the day’s card.

Among the 12 events that are listed for today are steer roping, bare back bronco, male and female barrel race, wild cow milking, calf roping, wild bull riding, saddle bronco, the Rodeo King competition and the popular Tug-O-War. They naughty clowns will be back again for added entertainment for the crowd with their acts.

Once again Vaqueros (cow boys) are expected from overseas including Brazil, Suriname and Venezuela to match skills with their Guyanese counterparts. Locals are expected from the Interior locations of Guyana including Lethem and other parts of the Rupununi Savannahs. While closer to home, Cowboys from the West Coast Berbice, the Corentyne and Berbice River will also be in action.

Banks Classic is ideal preparation for Guyana Open – Shields

By Clifton Ross

L

usignan Golf Club (LGC) President Hilbert Shields said the Banks DIH/ Citizens Bank Golf tourney is the ideal platform for local golfers to get themselves fully ready for the upcoming Guyana Open Tournament.

During an exclusive interview with Shields on Saturday at the Lusignan Golf Course where a number of top golfers were in action for the one-day event, the veteran golfer told Guyana Times Sport that the competition was a great way for players to get themselves match-ready for the Cup which tees off from November 3 to 5.

“Like in every sport you can practice, but there’s nothing like match practice, you really test your mental by getting into a tournament format. It allows players to fine-tune their skills under match playing conditions, because you know how ready your game is when you play in a tournament” said the veteran golfer.

Regarding the turnout and support shown by not only the local golfers but those who flew in from other parts of the world, Shields commended the players for embracing the event and for making most of the groomed up fairways which he said will be further prepared up ahead of the cup.

GFSCA/ Guyana Softball Cup VII

Survival Travel to pamper lucky fans

Veteran Golfer and Citizens Bank/Banks DIH Chairman Clifford Reis sinks one during Saturday’s tournament at the Lusignan Golf Club

“This is a phenomenal warm up for the Guyana Cup, the courses are in excellent shape and the course will be made more challenging as we progress into next week.

The local golfers are trying to make sure the overseas guys don’t take their trophies, so were excited to be here and things have been progressing well”, He said.

“The open is where the best golfers in Guyana play and the best male golfer will win” declared Shields as he backed the fact that Guyana having both the Male and Female titles in their possession heading into the Cup, could see the titles held respectively by Joaan Deo and Avinash Persaud, staying within local grasps.

Apart from the action on the greens, the President thanked the government for works on ensuring the road leading to the course was in excellent shape as it will further encourage more visits to the LGC. He also confessed that with new initiative such as inviting schools to participate in a mini putt-off will also help to widen the spectrum of the sport in Guyana.

Action in this year’s Open Cup will tee off from Friday November 3rd and wil culminate at the Lusignan Course on Sunday November 5. The event is sponsored by Ganesh Parts and is endorsed by the Ministry of Social Cohesion.

GFSCA President Ramchand Ragbeer (right) collects the exciting prizes from Mark DeFreitas in the presence of Wayne Jones at Survival Travel Agency

S

urvival Travel Agency on Thursday handed over three tickets to the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) as part of their continued partnership for the upcoming Guyana Softball Cup VII which is set for November 3 to 5.

During the brief ceremony held at the Survival Travel Agency office on Vlissingen Road, Assistant Manager of the Travel Agency Mark DeFreitas handed over the tickets for two to three local resorts; Aruwai, Arrowpoint and lake Mainstay; to the GFSCA executives.

DeFreitas during his brief remarks said that Survival who has been a part of the Guyana Softball Cup for all seven editions, was happy to lend their continued support to the event which has grown tremendously from strength to strength over the past few years.

GFSCA President Ramchand Ragbeer expressed gratitude to DeFreitas and his company for their continuous support of the tournament over the years. Ragbeer also pointed out that the support from their sponsors has made the event into a premier one which has taken softball cricket to another level both locally and internationally.

With the competition almost a week away, GFSCA Secretary and veteran softball batsman Wayne Jones pointed out that the preparations have been coming along smoothly thus far. Jones also confirmed that overseas team will be coming in the country on a daily basis leading up to the event.

He further added that he expects a massive turnout as fans have been diligently supporting the event over the past 7 years, adding that softball has been an integral part of the culture since the very first edition of the cup.

Action on this year’s Cup will commence on Friday November 3 with a series of matches played across the city with the finals being played under lights at the Demerara Cricket Club Ground (DCC).

22

guyanatimesgy.com

sunDAY, october 29, 2017

CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day Championship 2017-18

Paul’s brisk ton leaves Scorpions battling for survival – need an improbable 422 on final day

In just his fourth First Class match Keemo Paul brought up his maiden century against Jamaica Scorpions at Providence (John Ramsingh photo)

By Akeem Greene

K

eemo Paul was in rampant hitting-form on Saturday as he blazed to his maiden FirstClass century leaving the Jamaica Scorpions against the ropes on the third day of their 2017/2018 Cricket West Indies (CWI) Digicel 4-day Championship at the National Stadium Providence.

Paul smashed 12 fours and four sixes in his pugnacious 107 which aided threetime defending Guyana Jaguars significantly compiling a 483 runs target to which the visitors were 61-2 at stumps, still 422 runs adrift from a highly unlikely victory on today’s final day. At the crease is Assad Fudadin and Brandon King on 11 and 22 respectively.

Earlier, resuming on 106 for 4 with a lead of 273, Leon Johnson continued merrily in his fighting innings while Bhaskar Yadram just added one to the scores as he yet again looked extremely unsettled against the left-arm wrist spin of Dennis Bulli. He fell in identical fashion as he did to the spinner in the first innings, playing forward and beaten between bat and pad.

Anthony Bramble came and smashed one six and two fours in his quick-fire 26 which added 43 for the sixth wicket with Johnson.

His departure meant the innings defining partnership between Paul and Johnson could take effect. It began slowly but yet assertive, with the pair adding 54, taking the total to 201-6 at lunch with the lead stretched to 368.

Johnson, who began the day’s play on 11 ticked along quietly to 41 while Paul was well placed on 32 and the lead at 368.

The post lunch was where the entire complexity of the match changed, as the former

West Indies U19 vice-captain shifted a gear, in fact it was about three gears since he bludgeoned the tourist attack to all parts of the ground giving the handful of spectators some excitement.

He hammered pacer Jason Dawes down to the backward point boundary before smashing Derval Green straight down the ground for his seventh boundary.

Test batsman Johnson at the other end was quite the opposite end, mostly working the gaps. He reached his 31st First-Class half-century with a pull off Green through mid-wicket. He had faced 141 deliveries at that point. His dogged innings soon came to an end after occupying the crease for 204 minutes when Green got his revenge, inducing Johnson into an edge.

The spotlight returned to Paul who reached his fifty from 89 balls but took 34 more to reach the 100-run milestone which was inclusive of 11 fours and four sixes.

Paul’s scintillating innings left Scorpion’s bowlers lacking confidence as all their

ideas only resulted in long jogs to recover the ball.

It took Bulli who has been their most threatening bowler all match to deceive the 20 year-old with his guile and earn his fifth victim of the innings, ending with 5-104, his maiden 5-wicket haul. Paul’s innings lasted for 129 balls, 149 minutes, inclusive of With tea on the horizon, Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd with some feisty hitting took the lead to 482 when the declaration was made.

Gareth Garvey who failed to trouble the score in the first innings was dropped by Chandrapaul Hemraj at second slip off the first ball he faced from Romario Shepherd.

He then rode his luck to play some assured drives but when on 13 and with the introduction of spin from wily Veerasammy Permaul he offered catching practice to Johnson at first slip.

Likewise, Trevon Griffith, who had a single digit score in the first innings, fell in a rather tame manner when he chipped the ball to mid-on as Jaguars began scenting a massive victory, their seventh consecutive win over the visitors.

Fudadin and Brandon King then added 36 to stumps but played mainly for survival, ‘dead-batting’ most deliveries they faced.

King who is known for his flamboyant style of play eventually showed some signs of aggression with a one-handed six over long-off against Gudakesh Motie and then when on 12, offered a difficult chance off the bowling of Permaul. He skied a delivery but Rutherford running from mid-off pulled out a diving effort without success at cover.

With three overs remaining in the day’s play Johnson had an over of off-spin in an effort to sneak a wicket but the duo successfully negotiated the defending champions until the umpires called time.

Play continues today from 09:30h.

SCOREBOARD Jaguars 1st innings 266 Scorpions 1st 99 Jaguars 2nd innings T Chanderpaul lbw b Allen 33 R Chandrika c wk Morrison b Bulli 35 C Hemraj b Sewell 17 L Johnson c wk Morrison b Gre en 50 G Motie c wk Morrison b Bulli 9 B Yadram b Bulli 1 A Bramble lbw b Bulli 26 K Paul b Bulli 107 S Rutherford not out 16 R Shepherd not out 11 Extras: (lb-4, b-2, w-4) 10 Total: (for eight wickets declared; 87 overs) 315 Fall of Wickets: 1-53, 2-85, 3-89, 4-106, 5-114,

6-157, 7-229, 8-298, Bowlers: Dawes 9-4-16-0, Green 16-3-51-1, Garvey 3-06-0, Sewell 29-8-90-1, Bulli 22-1-104-5, Allen 8-0-42-1

Jamaica Scorpions 2nd innings T Griffith c Yadram b Rutherford 10 G Garvey c Johnson b Permaul 13 A Fudadin not out 11 B King not out 22 Extras: (5b)5 Total: (61 for 2;34 overs) To Bat: P Palmer, F Allen, D Bulli, D Sewell, D Green FoW: 1-23, 2-25 Bowling: Shepherd 5-1-16-0, Paul 5-1-5-0, Motie 8-4-10-0, Permaul 11-3-17-1, Rutherford 4-3-6-1, Johnson 1-0-2-0

guyanatimesgy.com

sunDAY, october 29, 2017

Windies begin 2nd Test as strong favourites – Bishoo, the main bowling weapon C

ash isn't the only thing in short supply in Zimbabwe. During the first Test, it also seemed patience was lacking from the hosts' batting. In an effort to get ahead in the game, batsmen perished in a flurry of soft dismissals across both innings and Zimbabwe let slip the golden opportunity created by their bowlers. The batsmen were particularly generous during the afternoon denouement on day four, crumbling from a relatively healthy 219 for 4 to be 316 all out, with the tailenders bettering anything the middle order had to offer. The match was over with a day to spare, but despite the fact that Zimbabwe will be playing a four-day Test in two months' time, it wasn't a great advertisement.

The second Test presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to get things right. Playing as little top-level cricket as they do, Zimbabwe are often a side that only really gets going a couple of games into a tour and the chastening experience of the first Test will likely spur greater resolve in what is a mustwin game if they are to level the series. The first job will be to win the toss. The second will be to bat long into the second day.

That sounds a simple equation, and it is one that West Indies seem to have a greater aptitude for. The first-innings blip aside, their batsmen showed far greater tenacity in the first Test, and it tells that this West Indies squad has played three times as many Tests as Zimbabwe this year. West Indies were far more able to absorb the pressure and more conscious of the amount of time left in the game, waiting as long as necessary for a bad ball from which to score. If they can get the basics once again, they will be very hard to beat.

Zimbabwe's lower middle order crumbled twice in the first Test match, with Nos.

5 to 8 making 36 runs in the first innings and 48 in the second. West Indies' combination of legspin and reverse swing did much of the damage, and with a very quick turnaround between Tests, there is little time to put things right. Zimbabwe would do well to follow the example set by the visitors, whose simplified tactics allowed them to occupy the crease and dictate the game.

Devendra Bishoo seems an unlikely spearhead for a West Indies bowling attack traditionally dominated by pace, but the last 12 months have been reasonably productive for the legspinner. Bishoo is within touching distance of 100 Test wickets, and 39 of his dismissals have come in the last year. He found conditions to his liking in the first Test with a match haul of 9 for 184, and with the second match being played at the same ground he will once again be West Indies' main bowling weapon.

Zimbabwe coach Heath Streak suggested there would be no major tactical changes for Zimbabwe, and with a variety of bowling options and seven Test centurions in their likely playing XI, the hosts are nicely balanced on paper.

While, consistency has been part of West Indies' selection policy this year, and after their victory in the first Test, there seems little reason to tinker with the playing XI aside from injury. Jermaine Blackwood had a quiet first Test, out stumped twice for single figures, but West Indies are unlikely to make any unforced changes.

Teams; Zimbabwe - Graeme Cremer (Captain), Solomon Mire, Hamilton Masakadza, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Regis Chakabva (wk), Tendai Chisoro, Kyle Jarvis, Chris Mpofu, Chamu Chibhabha,

Michael Chinouya, Nyasha Mayavo, Malcolm Waller.

West Indies - Jason Holder (Captain), Kraigg Brathwaite, Devendra Bishoo, Jermaine Blackwood, Roston Chase, Miguel Cummins, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shimron Hetmyer, Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Kieran Powell, Raymon Reifer and Kemar Roach. (ESPN Cricinfo)

23

Shai Hope has been Windies most consistent batsman this year

Dr Norton eager to promote and develop archery

Archery Guyana’s Chairman, Nicholas Hing handing over the National Development Plan to Minister, Dr George Norton. Looking on are Directors Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, Steve Ninvalle and Ryan McKinnon

D

irectors of Archery Guyana paid a courtesy call on Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton at his Main Street office Wednesday last. During the visit, discussions were

centered around Archery Guyana’s plans for the future where a proposal for a Junior Archery Programme, a Schools Programme and ParaArchery Propgramme were mooted. The local body also

have plans for more Outreach Programmes.

The directors also took the opportunity to give the Honourable Minister an update on the progress of Archery Guyana. Early in the new year, Archery Guyana will be hosting an International Olympic Coach for 10 days to conduct a coaching clinic. Persons interested in becoming involved in the sport are urged to do so that they can learn and be able to benefit from the said Coaching.

The Minister expressed his commitment to working with Archery Guyana and stated that he looks forward to promoting and developing the novel sport in Guyana.

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

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Windies begin 2nd Test as strong favourites

Pg 23

– Bishoo, the main bowling weapon

Devendra Bishoo needs two more wickets to reach 100 and will be eager to get going today

CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day Championship 2017-18

Paul’s brisk ton leaves Scorpions battling for survival – need an improbable 422 on final day

Pg 22

Keemo Paul brought out the reverse sweep on his way to his maiden ton against Jamaica Scorpions at Providence (John Ramsingh photo)

Williams wins again Pg 20

…beats spirited pack in record time Back-to-back! Geron Williams outsprints Jamaul John to take the sixth Payless Variety Store Cycle Meet on Saturday in the national park (Michelangelo Jacobus photo)

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Sport: sport@guyanatimesgy.com Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.

October 29, 2017

Star Times Hollywood:

Taylor Swift has dropped her new music video Page 14

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An A rtist’s Universal Instinct Page 3

Attorney-at-Law Brandon Scott De Santos:

Inside

Marshall Falls

‘Be strategic and resourceful’

Page 8

Page 2 Page 4

2 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 29, 2017

Feature

Attorney-at-Law Brandon Scott De Santos:

‘Be strategic and resourceful’ B y A keem G reene

R

ecently admitted to the bar, Attorneyat-Law Brandon Scott De Santos’ passion is being a proficient criminal defence lawyer and providing his insight into ‘correcting some wrongs’ in the local justice system.

Brandon was admitted to the bar on October 13, 2017 by Justice Sandil Kissoon after his petition was read by mentor, Senior Counsel Bernard DeSantos, of whom he is now attached at the Chambers of De Santos and Associates and has no familial relations to.

In an interview with Sunday Times Magazine, Brandon admitted that his desire to become an attorney did not originate from a “fairy-tale inkling”, rather was prompted by family, teachers and other supporters to get on this career path.

“To be honest, I didn’t dream of it. There wasn’t any miraculous story that got me here. I think the best way to explain it was that a lot of people, such as my teachers, parents and even high school friends,

Brandon flanked by his proud parents, Patrick and Suzanne De Santos, after being admitted to the bar

believed that studying law was a good fit for me. It’s through their encouragement that I am now an Attorney-at-Law. But what I’d like them to know is that getting here wasn’t only about arguing and proper speech. While

those are important, I believe that the ability to be strategic and resourceful is even more important,” he pointed out.

The former Bishops’ High School student demonstrated proficiency in criminal law both at the

University of Guyana (UG) and Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS). He said that he “enjoyed the content”, hence excelling.

Brandon stated he is “privileged and extremely lucky” to have received guidance from Bernard De Santos, SC, who is well-known locally for his criminal law practice.

“My choice before admission to the bar was criminal law, and working at the Chambers of De Santos and Associates has solidified my desire,” the 24-year-old declared.

I do, that I was a student that would excel wherever I applied myself. I was most happy to prove him correct when I got an A in the course, which I initially thought was daunting. Mr McDonald taught me the importance of being to the point and being well-structured and not to succumb to the fear of impending examinations (which would now be surrounding circumstances such as timelines compliance, appearing against Practitioners with vast experience and appearing before the sternest of Magistrates and Judges),” he recalled.

Though graduating from UG with a distinction in 2015, Brandon admitted he had thoughts of “giving up” while at HWLS. Though his challenges were few, Brandon said that the “hardest leg” of his academic jour-

in Guyana; however, if it was a perfect system then there would be no need for attorneys. In his opinion, Guyana needs to adapt (within reason) to the needs of an everchanging society.

“An example I can think about off the top of my head is the current marijuana situation. I am still not convinced that it should be legalised.

However, in my respectful opinion, the current sentencing for possession is too stringent, particularly since possession of marijuana is what is sometimes referred to as a victimless crime.

“I find myself in a quandary because on one hand I prefer to stay out of the public domain, but my intention to practice as a criminal lawyer will see me being placed exactly there. Maybe I’ll be berated by the public,

Support system

In the Caribbean, the approximate number of years to qualify as an attorney is five years three to attain a Bachelor of Laws degree and two for the Legal Education Certificate. This means an arduous journey of long hours and sleepless nights. However, with the support of his family and others, Brandon was able to succeed.

“Overwhelming support came from my family: my parents, siblings [four of them], my aunt and uncle and cousins in Trinidad and Tobago, with whom I stayed from 2015-2017 while attending HWLS. Also my colleagues, particularly Kurt Da Silva, who was an immense help to all the recent graduates of HWLS. “At UG, Professor Keith Massiah and the late Professor Sheldon McDonald encouraged me vastly. Prof Massiah encouraged me to push on when I considered dropping a subject I was worried I could not get a good grade in. He refused to accept me in that second course and told me that it matters not what

Counsel Brandon De Santos (right) with mentor, Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos, after his admission to the local bar

ney was living in Trinidad and getting accustom to the culture there.

“The only time I thought of giving up was when I was in Trinidad; however, the consideration of time and money spent to get there and knowing this was the final hurdle always encouraged me. I found motivation by telling myself if others did it in the past, so could I,” Brandon remembered.

A desire to effect change

The attorney said there is a need to further develop the legal system

but I know it is my duty to represent my clients within the limits of the law, which I will do at the risk of public rebuke,” he said adamantly.

Preparation

The “best advice” the newly-appointed attorney can give is to “prepare, prepare and prepare”.

While the young attorney plans to continue furthering his studies, for now he aims to get as much exposure as he can to other areas of law, such as administrative and public law, family law and environmental law.

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 29, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine

Times

3

Focus

Artist Ron Savory

R

"Rupununi Landscape, Caiambe Trees" 1976

"Forest Path, Night Fall" 1996

"Forest Study" 1973

onald Cecil Savory comes from a long line of explorers and pioneers in Guyana. His antecedents and current achievements make him the perennial Guyanese and Caribbean man, exploring and evoking his world through his art.

Savory was born in 1933 in British Guiana. After leaving college he worked at several jobs before becoming a civil servant in the crown solicitor’s office. He then transferred to the Department of the Interior in 1959. After serving a few months at the head office, he was posted to Kamarang in the Upper Mazaruni in October of 1959 where, as a Class 2 clerk to the assistant district commissioner, he was expected to be typist, radio operator, weather reporter, weather station record keeper, trade store supervisor, and run the show when the commissioner was off station.

He later resigned from the service and was appointed administrative officer in the British Council. His work in amateur theatre, and activity as an artist earned him a British Overseas Development training stint in television and radio produc-

"Savannah Wind, Sandpaper and Anthill" 1979

tion with the BBC in 1968.

He worked at the Guyana Broadcasting Service from its inception as a producer/announcer, until becoming selfemployed in 1974.

Savory’s vocation as a painter began shortly before joining the Working People’s Art Class, run by the late E.R. Burrowes, operating in 1957from Smith’s Church School on Hadfield Street.

There were several teaching attachments: Guyana School for the Arts, St Margaret’s School and Cyril Potter College of Education. He was coordinator for the 1972 Carifesta Visual Art exhibitions.

Several factors, including two terms of working in the Guyana interior, influenced his interest in indigenous art and the landscape of the hinterland.

Savory was arguably the first in contemporary Guyanese visual art to offer sustained interpretation of the landscape of the interior, to the point where it was acknowledged as his primary source and subject matter.

The artist’s engagement with the landscape and with a wider subject matter, then, including the literature of outstanding Caribbean writers and poets which forms the theme of the current exhibition, reveals the particular and universal instinct of the artist.

He absorbs, comments on and interprets their vision – whether imaginative storytelling or documentary record - of exploration, adventure, discovery, of the social as much as topographical experience of the Caribbean: the exhibition’s listing here including the most celebrated as well as the less well known of our writers and poets, and including, since his first exhibition on this theme in Portof-Spain in 1982, a wider reference to younger writers such as Augier and Hippolyte of St. Lucia, his adopted home since migration in 1980.

Savory migrated to St Lucia in 1980 with his family and continued to practice creatively. (Photos courtesy of Castellani House)

"Rocks and Water Landscape" (Orinduik) 1977

"Mangrove" 2007

"Kamarang" 1962

4

Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 29, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

Feature

I

n Guyana, Halloween is an occasion where children can enjoy a good scare, organisations hold events for a worthy cause and art companies showcase how talented they are. One such art company is Bravo Arts.

Bravo Arts offers “spooktacular” looks, and, for those who prefer something more frightening, ghastly body art/costumes for all who participate in Halloween festivities in Guyana.

The local art company is famously known for its pro-

duction of scary and ghoulish costumes and body painting. With depictions of bloody faces, torn flesh and ghostly body paint, Bravo Arts has become the go-to company for Halloween costumes.

The art company comprises of a fun-loving team of young people who enjoy putting smiles on people's faces even if it means painting them on.

By use of body painting, special effects makeup, prosthetics, the Bravo Arts team transforms models into

gods, mythical creatures, or any other characters, as per clients’ request. The company customises its services to meet the unique needs of its clients.

Bravo Arts, which was launched in 2009, is the brainchild of local artist, Steve Douglas. His team of young, talented and dedicated artists and entertainers add to the youthful energy and creativity of the group.

The face and body painting services by Bravo Arts are continuously demanded by many at numerous

events. The team consists of eight talented artists: Paloma Bristol, Courtney Douglas, Cassandra Chu, Sharwan Khan, Carlus Savory, Andre Jacobus, Alicia Smith, Sanoeiza Reevers and Steve Douglas.

“We plan on adding a few new artists in the beginning of 2018. We are currently engaged in preparation for Halloween, which over the years has been celebrated by many Guyanese. It is also a very busy time for us as we make costumes for many clients, and take in many appointments for face painting and body painting,” Steve Douglas explained in an interview with Sunday Times Magazine.

Steve added that this year Bravo Arts continues to provide classes for persons who are desirous of learning face painting. He has also begun special effects makeup classes, which teaches participants to create fake wounds,

build their own prosthetics and much more.

“Additionally we launched a line of body art products which we will be selling throughout the year. This aspect of our business is to help new and established makeup artists and face painters acquire safe and quality products to ply their trade.

We are selling face paints, stencils, liquid latex, fake blood, plaster of Paris and other special effects makeup products,” Steve outlined.

He pointed out that registration for classes are on-going. To find out more, visit Bravo Arts on Facebook or call 651-9120. Also, Bravo Arts will be at Pegasus Hotel’s Halloween Party on October 31.

Featured today are some of Bravo Arts' newest scary creations.

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 29, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 5

Feature

Industrial School.

It became an Orphan Asylum, where children whose parents were dead, too poor to provide for them, in prison for petty crimes or ill in hospital and unable to look after them, were taken in.

According to the Ordinance establishing the institution, such children no older than 14 years who were “not idiots or lunatics” were eligible. The Ordinance also advised however that children whose parents were both dead would be given preference over those who had at least one parent.

The orphan asylum began by accepting children for six months at a time. By 1905, children were being accepted for two years, and by the end of March 1909 there

O

The building during its Queen’s College years (circa 1949-1951)

ver the years the building at the corner of Vlissengen Road and Brickdam Street, once described as “handsome and hospitable”, was at first an orphan asylum; then the site for Queen’s College, one of the country’s premier schools, before it became the current address for Guyana’s health ministry.

The lot 1 Brickdam St. building standing today is a rebuilt edifice, after a July 2009 predawn fire destroyed the original historic timber construction.

The Orphan Asylum, known officially as the Orphan Asylum and School of Industry, was established in March 1852 by the British colonial government, after the government acquired the land from an Edward Carberry in 1838.

It originally housed juvenile offenders, orphans and destitute children. In 1906 it was consid-

SW view of the MOH (2001)

Black and white photo of Ministry of Health, Brickdam (1995) Photo courtesy LJH

ered “undesirable” to mix destitute children with offenders, and offenders were removed to an

were 61 boys and 30 girls in the institution.

Upon attaining the age of 14,

After losing his daughter to cancer, Leslie Black vows to help others fight against this disease

A

man of strength, which transcends beyond the physical and is embedded in his very spirit, Leslie Black feverishly commits his time and his more than two decades of expertise as an athletics coach to push both himself and others to in the fight against cancer.

This “GTT Pink Warrior” has dedicated much of his time to working alongside the Guyana Cancer Foundation (GCF), something he was inspired to get involved in after losing his daughter to cancer.

In the year 2012, tragedy struck Leslie’s family when his daughter died from Stage 4 cancer. His family had first become aware of his now late daughter’s illness when she had begun spitting up blood in 2008. She was taken to various doctors and specialists and began treatment soon after being diagnosed with the illness.

Unfortunately, the cancer continued to spread, leaving the entire family devastated after her untimely death.

Leslie Black

Having had the experience of how cancer changes the lives of not only its victims but their loved ones as well, Leslie wants to encourage both men and women to ensure they are getting their regular check-ups.

Most persons, he stated, would wait until something happens to them before they get a check-up and this can be dangerous as often, there

are no immediate symptoms of the disease.

When his daughter had become ill, Leslie searched for ways he could become involved in the fight against cancer and it was then that he began working with the Guyana Cancer Foundation.

Every year since then, Leslie continues to offer his help and support to the GCF. Doing more this year, Leslie decided that his contribution in helping to spread awareness would be made through offering his experience of being a coach.

This he did at the recently held Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) 5k/10k walk/run.

Leslie met with participants for a half hour every day where he offered training free of cost. Leslie’s aim was to not only help these persons, but to create a lasting impact on the exercise habits of those participating. GTT recognises these efforts made by Leslie and has pledged to continue to support him in his philanthropic visions. (Press release and photo from GTT)

they were apprenticed out at the discretion of the director, for no more than five years.

The Orphan Asylum was maintained from the public treasury; it was also supported by a “two per cent duty on all public sales”. In 1903 it came under the supervision of the Chairman of the Poor Law Commissioners.

According to “The New Local Guide of British Guiana” (1862) both boys and girls were “instructed in reading, writing and arithmetic”. Boys were further taught agriculture and other trades the asylum’s director thought “proper”, while girls learned “plain sewing, cooking, washing, scouring, and all other matters of domestic economy.”

The Orphan Asylum was closed in 1917 and, when a government committee on education in British Guiana recommended that same year that Queen’s

College be relocated to the Orphan Asylum Buildings and Ground in Brickdam, students of Queen's College moved into the building in 1918 and remained there until 1951.

It has been reported that while at Brickdam, a pavilion was erected in 1920 from funds provided by the Combined Court, but begun by the proceeds of school concerts.

Subsequently, when the school moved to its current Thomas Lands site, the building became the headquarters for the Ministry of Health (MOH) up to today.

Joseph Hadfield, a well-known architect of the time, is said to have designed the colonial block of the original building. Then Chief Justice William Arrindell is said to have founded and promoted the Orphan Asylum during his career as colony lawyer and legislator.

6 Sunday Times Magazine

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 29, 2017

Literary Corner

Preserving our literary heritage

By Petamber Persaud

Reference Library has still a lot more to grow, but we try to do our best at all times.

V

ery often, and too often with immense gratification, I get the urge to put aside the reading of current books in preference to delving into those published a while back, especially reprinted rare and outof-print material. This browsing is not too difficult for me for I am accustomed to ‘marking up’ my own books, highlighting words, phrases and extracts of interest. For instance, while flicking through “Beacons of Excellence: The Edgar Mittelholzer Memorial Lectures – Volume 3, 1986 – 2013”, I stumbled on the following passage: One of the most exciting things about literature is the way earlier texts… are rediscovered or re-read in the light of new developments in writing and reading. Writing, in other words, is not a once for all time act that closes with the final full stop, and nor is reading a fixed or stable single act of passive reception. Reading is fluid, adaptive, processual and constantly changing according to the needs of the times.

The above passage was delivered by Dr Jane Bryce in 2013 at the 15th lecture series of the Edgar Mittelholzer Memorial Lectures and published by the Caribbean Press in 2014. The “Beacons of Excellence”, in three volumes, were compiled and edited by Andrew O. Lindsay.

The idea of The Caribbean Press surfaced during Guyana’s hosting of Carifesta X in 2008. The idea was later fleshed out by former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, and Professor David Dabydeen. Within months, the idea was manifested with

The Young People’s Section The other day while looking through a book on sewing … I came across a scrap of material with some stitch-

Emily Murray (1909 – 1940) and Ms Ruby Franker (1942– 1962).

When we think about books and libraries, we seldom spare a thought for the custodians of books and libraries. These custodians play the most vital of roles in maintaining the relevance of

Edgar Mittelholzer

the printing of the first 12 titles of The Guyana Classics Library, which included “The Discovery of Guiana” by Sir Walter Raleigh, first published in 1596; “The Coolie, his right and wrongs” by John Edward Jenkins; “Canoe and Camp Life in British Guiana” by Charles Barrington Brown; “The Chinese in British Guiana” by Sir Cecil Clementi; and “Guianese Poetry: covering the hundred years’ period, 1831-1931” by N. E. Cameron.

Each title carried its own scholarly introduction and a series preface. The series preface, written by Jagdeo, is instructive and informative. This preface declared that “The Guyana Classics Library will republish outof-print poetry, novels and travelogues so as to remind us of our literary heritage, and it will also remind us of our reputation for scholarship in the fields of history, anthropology, sociology and politics, through the reprinting of seminal works in these subjects. The Series builds

upon previous Guyanese endeavours, like the institution of CARIFESTA, and the Guyana Prize. I am delighted that my government has originated the project ….so that all Guyanese can appreciate our monumental achievement in moving from Exploitation to Expression…”

While searching for material of interest concerning the National Library, which is celebrating its 108th anniversary - ‘In Service To The Community’ - I discovered the following pieces in Kykover-al, issue 8, June 1949: The Reference Department The policy of all libraries is that no one should be allowed to leave without having either received the information for which he came or the knowledge where he may find it…the words “No”, “We haven’t it”, “I don’t know”, should never be heard. We try to live up to that rule, but of course, there are limitations imposed by the collection of sources at hand, and our

Public Free Library (British Guiana), now known as the National Library

ing one it. This had been demonstrated in the book and obviously the borrower had been painstakingly practicing what was shown. This set us thinking and gave us an idea.

The word “competition” kept going through our minds.

With the result, we soon hope to have a competition…Any piece of work, which they have done…and which they learnt through a library book, we shall ask to be presented to us for a display at an exhibition at which two prizes…

We aim at encouraging them to be interested in what they read…

In a previous article about

Moral Tales

O

the National Library, I highlighted the contribution of Andrew Carnegie indicating that “his is not the only name of substance nor is his most fundamental gift of establishing the library the only noteworthy contribution carrying the library into its 108th anniversary this September in

ne bright morning as the Fox was following his sharp nose through the wood in search of a bite to eat, he saw a Crow on the limb of a tree overhead. This was by no means the first Crow the Fox had ever seen. What caught his attention this time and made him stop for a second look, was that the lucky Crow held a bit of cheese in her beak.

"No need to search any farther," thought sly Master Fox. "Here is a dainty bite for my breakfast."

Up he trotted to the foot of the tree in which the Crow was sitting, and looking up admiringly, he cried, "Good-morning, beautiful creature!"

The Crow, her head cocked on one side, watched the Fox

suspiciously. But she kept her beak tightly closed on the cheese and did not return his greeting.

"What a charming creature she is!" said the Fox. "How her feathers shine! What a beautiful form and what splendid wings!

Such a wonderful Bird should have a very lovely voice, since everything else about her is so perfect. Could she sing just one song, I know I should hail her Queen of Birds."

Listening to these flattering words, the Crow forgot all her suspicion, and also her breakfast. She wanted very much to be called “Queen of Birds”. So she opened her beak wide to utter her loudest caw, and down fell the cheese straight into the Fox's open mouth.

"Thank you," said Master Fox sweetly, as he walked off. "Though it is cracked, you have a voice sure enough. But where are your wits?"

Moral: The flatterer lives at the expense of those who will listen to him. (An Aesop Tale)

Notice to Readers

If you have a poem and/or short story you would like to publish on our Literary Corner page, please email to guyanatimes@gmail.com.

Kindly include your correct name and a contact number in your email. If you have any questions, please call 223-7230 or 223-7231.

the year 2017”, inferring that there are many other signal and significant contributions.

For instance, the first 50 years in the life of the library, its destiny fell into the hands of the first two librarians: Ms

books and libraries. (To be continued) Responses to this author telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

Landing in Guyana (To Walter Raleigh) You, spread out below, in a green silk dress, No longer needy. Regathered a new shape.

Water. Volumes of it come.

Flowing curls of stained glass.

Silver eels enrolled, Ribbon-like, run naked across your neck.

Breathing hard pressed to pane, I feel the heat Of your green sprouting flames. Far, far below, I Smell flat fertile skin, see paired elbows of hills Laced with islands. Firm mounds, nippled.

Twisting and turning. Mouth moaning.

Metal tube snakes up and onwards. Strains, drops Soars again, racing towards a goal.

Pale clouds peel beneath us, parting like rags.

They will gather too, and form a shape.

Little known jewel who lives your fullest I come heavily laden to hear song in the beat Of your heart, to study old signposts, touch gently Your new milestones. Landing. Plane blows A wide ring all over you.

(From Guyanese poet, Elly Niland’s ‘East of Centre’)

guyanatimesgy.com

OCTOBER 29, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 7

Feature

British Guiana at the Paris Exhibition 1878 T

he Paris international exhibition of 1878, held to celebrate France’s recovery from the Franco-Prussian War, was the largest exhibition the world had yet seen, occupying 66 acres. France’s own exhibits formed half the items on display, while those of the British Empire made up another third.

The exhibition was attended by 13 million visitors from all over the world and was seen by exhibitors as an important means of attracting trade and investment, of showing off new technological or artistic achievements, of celebrating the riches of

their respective cultures and of stimulating both national pride and a spirit of international co-operation.

At the time of the Paris exhibition, British Guiana’s economy was dominated by cane sugar, though some diversification was beginning to emerge, a trend that would sharpen in the 1880s, as sugar prices fell and efforts were made to exploit the mineral resources of the colony, such as bauxite.

In 1876 British Guiana exported a total of 213,951,360 pounds of sugar (as opposed to 66,667,776 pounds 25 years earlier) and the colony as a whole

enjoyed a modest revenue surplus. Public expenditure on managed immigration schemes (principally indentured labour from India) was beginning to fall, but health and social welfare expenditure was on the rise.

This catalogue to British Guiana’s exhibits, while naturally devoting a large amount of space to sugar production, suggests that the colony was anxious to present itself as rich in other natural resources and full of potential for the investor.

Exhibits included not only different types and grades of sugar and rum, but other crops, such as cassava,

Kaieteur Falls from British Guiana at the Paris Exhibition: Catalogue of Exhibits; To which are prefixed some illustrative notices of the colony. London: Edward Stanford, 1878 [FCO Historical Collection T802.G1 BRI]

coffee and cocoa, around 90 different timbers and examples of Carib and Arawak craftwork, such as pottery, baskets and table mats. The introduction uses statistical data to stress the colony’s economic health and potential and takes pains to counter the prevalent perception of its climate as ‘unhealthy, and prejudicial to Europeans.’

The frontispiece shows the Kaieteur Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. In 1870 Charles Barrington Brown, a British government surveyor, became the first European to see the Kaieteur Falls. (www.kingscollections.org)

Illustration of the magnitude of the Paris Exhibition

“T

he Guyana Story” by Odeen Ishmael stated that one of the major problems that Georgetown faced was the availability of water for domestic use.

construction of a canal to bring water from the Lamaha Creek, some distance south of Georgetown.

The author added that the proposal won support from both the central govern-

ed with the use of the labour of hundreds of slaves.

According to Ishmael, in the town itself smaller canals branching off from the Lamaha Canal were dug and these provided

The Lamaha Canal in 1870

Lamaha Canal under construction circa 1800s

Ishmael reported that in 1825 one of the leading citizens, Dr Michael McTurk, proposed the

ment and the town council, and by 1829, a canal from the Camuni Creek to Georgetown was complet-

the supply of water to the residents. It was not until 1885 that the people of Georgetown began to get

their water supply through pipes after mechanical pumps were purchased by the council.

“The Story of Georgetown” by James Rodway mentioned that “it appears there was already a small canal at the back of Cuming’s Lodge known

as Ward’s Trench, dug by Mr. Ward of Industry to connect with No. 3 Canal; this was to be enlarged and continued to the Lamaha Creek at the expense of the estates, and a connection made for the town by a trench 12 ft wide on the level, 6 ft at the bottom,

and 5 ft deep...”

Rodway went on to say that on “October 29, 1829, an Act for the better preservation of the Lamaha Fresh-Water Canal and Reservoir within the precincts of Georgetown recites that a canal and reservoir have been formed”.

8 Sunday Times Magazine

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OCTOBER 29, 2017

Travel & Tourism

L

ocated in the Mazaruni River, a tributary of the Essequibo River, is the cascading beauty Marshall Falls.

The Falls is within reach from Bartica by a boat, about 30 minutes of travel.

The boulders in the middle of the Mazaruni River create the effects of the Marshall Falls rapids.

It is unbelievably scenic and exquisite, especially for nature lovers.

It has an immense amount of water falling to the wide pool below the Falls, creating a natural “Jacuzzi” of clean, cool water for a relaxing dip.

Marshall Falls is described as a “nature lover’s paradise”.

Water flowing from the Falls

Crossing the triptrap bridge at Marshall Falls

Cascading black waters at Marshall Falls (Photo

by Darrell Carpenay)

Tranquil rainforest setting (Photo by Elicia Bolton) Water gushes over the rocks, a natural therapeutic jacuzzi

Paid Advertisement by Ministry of the Presidency

Paid Advertisement by Ministry of the Presidency

10 Sunday Times Magazine

OCTOBER 29, 2017

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Sunday Times Magazine 11

Home & Cooking

Recipe of the week

Ingredients: 2 cups chopped callaloo (spinach can be used as a substitute)

DIY wallpaper projects to dress up your home

W

1tsp oil ½ onion, diced

allpaper isn't just for the walls. Whether you have an entire roll or a sample size, try these clever ways to dress up your home with boldly-patterned paper.

2 cloves garlic, crushed 10 sprigs thyme 1 cup tomatoes, chopped ½tsp salt ½tsp black pepper For the Fish: 4 small whole snapper, cleaned Juice of 1 lime 1tsp salt 3 cloves garlic, crushed

Method:

To prepare fish, slice the sides then place in a bowl with lime juice, salt and crushed garlic and coat well. Set aside.

To make the callaloo: In a frying pan over high heat, add oil. When oil is hot add onion and sauté for 2 minutes, until its softened then add garlic and thyme; cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. Add tomatoes, salt, pepper and callaloo and sauté for about 10 minutes. Add 3 tbsp of water and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until all the liquid has evaporated. Set aside and cool.

To roast the fish, preheat a grill or oven to 400 degrees. Place cooled callaloo stuffing into the cavity of the fish and wrap tightly with foil. If using a grill, place over indirect heat and grill for about 25 minutes. If using the oven, place on a large baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes. Allow to cool before unwrapping. Serve warm.(Photo and recipe from www.jehancancook.com)

Swap patterned wallpaper for traditional drawer liners — it's the perfect use for leftover paper.

Greatest Cooking Tips It happens—you go overboard on one ingredient, and the resulting recipe suffers. Luckily, there are ways to fix that.

If it's too spicy, sugar or butter should help the situation.

Too sweet? Add lemon juice. Dish tasting off? Add a touch of salt.

To make your pasta dish extra flavourful, boil pasta until it's about 90 percent cooked and remove it from the pot, reserving a cup of the water it was cooked in. Then add your pasta to a separate pan with your sauce and pour in a little of the reserved water.

Chopping ingredients and measuring spices ahead of time will result in less-stressful cooking experience and better overall results.

Unless you're making a stir fry, there's no need to keep stirring the pot, unless the recipe specifically calls for it.

Add pattern and colour to a staircase with wallpaper, acrylic sheeting and decorative hardware.

Alternate coordinating patterns for a custom look.

Home Help Notice your favourite silver ring or bracelet looking a bit dull? Wet it, rub with a little toothpaste, rinse, and dry with a clean cloth.

Add a squirt of dish detergent to a bowl of warm water, and use it to wipe down your outdoor tables and chairs.

Then, rinse clean.

Use white vinegar to brighten your windows. Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with a gallon of water, and dispense into a used spray bottle. Squirt on and wipe away with a clean microfiber cloth (not paper towels, which can cause streaking).

Shine copper with ketchup. A little can make copper pots gleam again.

Frame small pieces of wallpaper to create an eye-catching focal point on a blank wall.

12 Sunday Times Magazine

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OCTOBER 29, 2017

Puzzles

Crossword

1

7 12 17

21

22

23

24 25

26

28

29

30

32

33

35

37

38

39

40

42

43

44

45 47 48

49 52

53

54

55 59 61

62

63

64

65 66

67

68

69

70

72

73

74

75 76

77

80

82

83

84

85

87 88

89

90

91

92

94 95

96

97 98

99

100

ACROSS

101 Cut into cubes Admires oneself

102 Leafed through Yellow pigment

104 Dispute settler Guffaw

107 Quick kiss Statistic

108 Wrench target Two trios 109 Charming Fiction, e.g.

113 Not as robust Come afterward 114 Three-seater Declare frankly

115 Cracked buckwheat Materialize

117 Novelist -- Bagnold Tijuana sign-off (2 wds.)

118 List price Flooring piece

119 Brief note Grass skirt go-with

120 Orchard units "Hot Lips" player

122 Former California fort "Get real!" (2 wds.)

123 Redding of blues Ten Roman soldiers

124 Car accessory (2 wds.)

"Quite contrary" lass

127 South Seas paradise Shows fright

129 Foot covering You, formerly

130 Wanted-poster word Worked like a dog

131 Ocean, in Mongolian Hit the sack

132 Street crosser First space lab

133 Farm worker Library slogan

134 -- nous Matisse, for one

135 Feel nostalgic Bay or city

136 Took an apartment Brook

Dingbat DOWN Chewing - 1 Choir selections Negatives 2 Abolish Form glaciers 3 Lapse Went with

4 Cousteau's summer "Bootnose" of hockey

5 Patricia of "Hud" Disquiet

6 Hone a razor Mouth-watering

7 Hamlet's intended Nose stimulus

8 Volcano feature Liverpool chap 9 Throngs Like river bottoms

10 This, in Havana Some kids

11 Power agcy.

Inaugurate 12 Chartered Persuaded gently

13 Writer -- Dillard Fit -- -- tied

14 DOD division Dinosaur preservers

15 Rev the engine Fuel carrier

16 Jet speed reducer -- boom

17 Rich dude (2 wds.)

58 Lennon's wife

18 Emulate Earhart

60 Oktober ending

19 More wintry

61 Quail family

20 Suit material

63 Zenith

27 Taj - 65 Music or dance

31 Boat runways

66 Tech-support callers

34 Counting-out start

67 Seals a package 36 Still

69 Spill the beans

38 Londoner's tube

70 Toddler's perch

39 Not as wacky

71 Bricklayer's supply

41 Bright flower

72 Fixes the fight

43 Wild disorder 74 Swerve

44 Rock climber's aid 75 Equivocator's response 46 "Simpsons" barkeep

76 Deed holder

47 Antarctic explorer

78 Margarita ingredient

48 Consumer advocate

79 Jet set 49 Zest

81 Prove successful (2 wds.)

50 Civil War side

82 Tweet

51 Aussie metropolis

83 Hamelin visitor

53 Coral islets

84 Paddy crop

54 A bit obtuse

85 Except

55 Jai - 86 Ultimate degree

56 Place to herd wild horses (2 wds.)

87 Rubber-tree sap

57 Just scrape by

Conducted

88 Minor weakness

108 Stock car grp.

Corroded, as acid 89 Sorts socks 110 Consecrate Legal wrong

91 Quart, plus

111 Strong point Anvil, to a doctor

92 Susan Lucci vamp

112 Swirled around Game fish

93 Dampen a stamp

113 Academic rookies Bullring shouts

94 Wrinkle-nosed pooch

114 "Night Moves" singer Bob Purse item

96 Femur neighbors

115 -- Lumpur, Malaysia HI or AK, once

98 Go swimming

116 Vows venue Fumbler's word

100 "Hi- --, Hi-Lo" 119 Execs "-- been had!"

101 Clear the windshield

120 Hillside, to Angus Dueler's pride

102 Russian writer

121 Use a coupon Misgivings 103 Fitting

125 Coffee dispenser Hoopster

104 "Lady Soul"

126 Actress -- Williams Toward shelter

105 Allotted amount 128 Biddy Argue back 106 Opinionated Solution on Pg 13 Some canines

107 Hair goo Porch adjunct It "keeps on ticking" -- noire KATHLEEN SAXE Okla. neighbor Swab the deck Run up a tab Less green

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- BRAZENLY

(BRAZENLY: BRAY-zen-lee: In a bold and insolent manner.)

Average mark 40 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 54 or more words in BRAZENLY? bale baler bane bare barely barley barn bean bear belay beryl blare blarney blaze

blazer blear bleary bran bray braze brazen byre rale raze real relay rely renal

able abler ably aery zany zeal zebra earl early earn elan nary near nearby

nearly lane layer laze lazy lean learn lyre yare yarn year yearn

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.

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OCTOBER 29, 2017

Sunday Times Magazine 13

Tech

Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak: 'iPhone X Scanning, Converting is the first iPhone I won't buy on day one' Tech tip

and Editing Text on the Go

Many text-scanning and conversion apps are available for Android, but if your final destination is Microsoft Word, the Office Lens app makes it easy to snap a photo and have the separate Word editing app convert the type in the image into text you can edit. (Credit: The New York Times)

O

ptical character recognition (O.C.R.) apps are designed to convert images of letters in documents or other printed sources into text files you can edit in Microsoft Word or another word-processing program.

O.C.R. apps for Android are available in the Google Play store, just as similar programs for iOS, Windows 10 Mobile and desktop systems can be found in the respective app stores. Some apps can even translate photographed text into different languages.

If you use the Microsoft Office suite for writing and editing documents, however, a combination of Microsoft Word for Android and the separate Office Lens app is one way to snap, scan and edit when you are on the go.

When you have both apps on

your Android device, open Office Lens and take a picture of the page or printed material you want to convert into a Word file; the app can also convert a photograph of notes scrawled on a white board into text files.

When you are asked to save and store the photo, choose Microsoft Word from the list of apps and services. The Android version of Word then takes over to open the file, covert the text into type you can edit — and then open the content in a wordprocessing document on your phone or tablet. You can edit it there, email it to yourself for use elsewhere or park it in a linked online storage site like OneDrive. The process works about the same way with the apps on an iOS or Windows-based device.

Crossword Solution

A

pple co-founder Steve Wozniak said he's not in a hurry to buy the next iPhone — even though he usually rushes out to upgrade on opening day.

"I'd rather wait and watch that one. I'm happy with my iPhone 8 — which is the same as the iPhone 7, which is the same as the iPhone 6, to me," Wozniak said, speaking from the sidelines of the Money 20/20 conference. "For some reason, the iPhone X is going to be the first iPhone I didn't — on day one — upgrade to.

But my wife will, so I'll be close enough to see it."

Wozniak — who is known to carry several new phones at once — made the remarks just ahead of preorder sales, which open on Oct. 27.

For more than a year before it was released, the iPhone X was hailed as a revolutionary new form factor that could spark a "super cycle" of sales. The phone, unveiled in September, features an edge-to-edge 5.8inch bright, sharp display, with a smaller chassis than the iPhone 8 Plus. It also has facial recognition.

But Wozniak also said he

was skeptical that the Face ID feature would work the way it is supposed to.

Wozniak isn't the only onlooker who's uncertain about the new handset.

Because the iPhone 8 and the iPhone X were not released at the same time this year, some analysts have struggled to get a handle on how well the phones will sell.

Surveys show that a high percentage of consumers plan to purchase a new iPhone in the next three months but that the iPhone 8 series is accounting for a smaller share of sales than the new iPhones this time last year, according to UBS analyst Steven Milunovich.

"This softness could be good or bad depending on whether users are waiting on the iPhone X," Milunovich wrote in a Monday note.

Venture capitalist Gene Munster noted that Google searches for "iPhone" seem to have declined 10 percent year over year. But Munster said his firm's surveys show "positive data points for Apple."

"The release of the iPhone 8 was underwhelming compared to past iPhone launches, but this is not bad news for Apple. This year's iPhone cycle will have its units and revenues split between

the iPhone 8 and the iPhone X," Munster wrote.

"Historically about half of the iPhones purchased in a given year are the most recently released model. This bodes well for iPhone revenue growth."(CNBC)

The car put in a series of "slow speed" runway tests Thursday which took the vehicle to a relatively sluggish 200 miles per hour.

The test runs took place at Newquay Airport in Cornwall, southwest England.

The full 1,000 mile per hour attempt is scheduled to take place in the summer of 2018.

The original plan had been to return to the Black Rock desert in Nevada where the current land speed record of 763 miles per hour was set in 1997 by Thrust SSC, the very first land vehicle to officially break the sound barrier.

However, years of poor weather as well as debris kicked up by the Burning Man festival have left the Black Rock surface unsuitable. The Bloodhound car will now attempt its full 1,000 mile per hour run at the Hakskeen Pan desert in South Africa.

The Eurofighter Typhoon jet engine is fed by a pump powered by a Jaguar V8 engine. This will take the car to 300 mph, at which stage a series of rockets will fire.

Fighter pilot Andy Green, who set the current record in 1997, was today's driver and will be at the wheel for the 1,000 mph attempt. (CNBC)

Tech news

A

supersonic car that has been designed to reach a world land speed record of 1,000 miles per hour (mph) has undergone its first public test run in England.

Tech news

A

The Bloodhound SSC car, powered by both a Rolls-Royce Ej200 jet fighter engine and a number of rockets, is designed to cover a mile in just over 3.6 seconds.

High-tech mirror for cancer patients only works if you smile

new mirror won't show a reflection unless you flash it a smile.

The concept may seem playful, but industrial designer Berk Ilhan invented the Smile Mirror to uplift the spirits of cancer patients.

The plug-in device looks like a tablet with a built-in camera and an opaque surface made with a smart material triggered by proprietary software. It includes facial recognition technology that captures the face.

The surface becomes reflective, like an traditional mirror, when it recognizes a smile. Just like a conventional mirror, it can hang on the wall or sit on a table.

Ilhan, originally from Turkey, spent two years designing and developing the product. While attending the School of Visual Arts in New York for a master's degree, he conceptualized a portfolio of products aimed at improving the quality of life of cancer patients on an emotional and social level.

He spent a few weeks at various cancer hospitals in Turkey speaking with patients, oncologists and caregivers.

"I learned morale and social support are two very important factors that can positively change a patient's experience," Ilhan told CNN Tech.

He honed in on laughter, calling it a "powerful tool." Research indicates smiling and laughter can decrease stress and boost the body's immune system. The Smile Mirror was inspired by Ilhan's con-

versation with a cancer survivor.

"She told me in the first days after her diagnosis, it was difficult for her to look in the mirror and acknowledge she had cancer," he said.

"Our facial expressions affect how we feel. If we flex our facial muscles to smile, our brains think that something good happened and as a result, [we feel] happiness."

Ilhan is currently producing the Smile Mirror in limited quantities.

The price, however, is expensive. As of now, it costs between US$2,000 to US$3,000.

But the product will soon launch on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, where Ilhan hopes to raise enough funds to produce it in larger quantities and bring down the price to under US$500.

Ilhan's goal is to donate Smile Mirrors to hospitals. He intends for it to appeal to larger audiences.

"Anyone can buy one," he said. "If you give it to someone, you are gifting them a smile." (CNN)

14 Sunday Times Magazine

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OCTOBER 29, 2017

Bollywood/Hollywood

Megan Fox: ‘Getting fired from Transformers was low point of my career’

T

aylor Swift just dropped the music video for “Ready For It”, and fans are freaking out.

After taking to Instagram to tease the new music video with not one, not two, but six posts - you can tell Taylor was building momentum for something big - the star finally unveiled the full music video on Thursday night.

As the second release from her upcoming album Reputation, “Ready For It” features Taylor strutting through an apocalyptic world. It also features two Taylors fighting - one of which is a naked robot version of her. The video release comes one week after Taylor dropped “Gorgeous”.

While Swift fans were excited about the release, they were also very excited to find the hidden messages in the track. Unlike “Look What You Made Me Do”, Swifties cannot agree on who the lyrics are about. Some people think that “Gorgeous” is clearly about Taylor's new boyfriend, Joe Alwyn - but many seem to disagree, saying it's actually about her ex, Tom Hiddleston. (Glamour)

W

hile the lovebirds are excitingly expecting their second child together, fans accuse the “Miss Independent” crooner of hypocrisy.

Shaffer Jr. will have a little sibling soon. NeYo and wife Crystal Smith shared on Instagram on October 25 that they are expecting their second child together. Ne-Yo posted on Instagram a photo collage of their children alongside a picture of question marks.

Everyone can see that the "Because of You" hitmaker is very excited about the baby as he added a lot of baby emoticons in the caption. He wrote, "Guess who's awaiting a NEW ARRIVAL!?! @itscrystalsmith and yours truly are happy to an-

M

egan Fox is opening up about getting fired from the “Transformers” movie franchise.

“That was absolutely the low point of my career,” Fox, 31, said in an interview with Cosmopolitan UK. “But without — ‘that thing,’ I wouldn’t have learned as quickly as I did. All I had to do was apologize — and I refused. I was so self-righteous at 23, I couldn’t see [that] it was for the greater good. I really thought I was Joan of Arc.” In 2009, Fox was fired from “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” and was replaced by Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

Her exit came shortly after Fox told British magazine Wonderland that director Michael Bay “wants to be like Hitler on his sets” and that he’s “a nightmare to work for.”

In an interview with GQ in 2011, Bay ex-

nounce we are expecting!"

Crystal also shared the news on Instagram.

She posted pictures of the couple cuddling and kissing, captioning it, "We didn't plan for you but you are Gods plan and I thank you for choosing us to be your parents! Impatiently awaiting our newest addition."

While the lovebirds are happy with their newest addition, it seems fans don't feel the same way.

Instead of congratulating the couple, they accused the "Miss Independent" singer of hypocrisy. This is because Ne-Yo previously told his ex-fiancee Monyetta to tie her fallopian tubes, saying that their two children were enough. After Monyetta had a tubal ligation, the singer called their en-

plained that Steven Spielberg — one of the film’s executive producers — was the one who gave the order to fire Fox. “And you know, the Hitler thing. Steven said, ‘Fire her right now.’ ” “It hurt me and a lot of other people,” the mother of three continued. “However, that darkness that descended caused enormous and brisk spiritual growth. Once I realized I [had] brought it on myself, it was an invaluable learning experience, looking back on it.” (People)

gagement off and built a new family with Crystal, who gave him a child.

An angry fan commented, "Don't get why u made ur other baby. Mama burn her tubes just to move on n keep having kids... That's just plain ole mean smh nice music but an a**hole in real life." Another fan gave a warning to Crystal, saying, "@itscrystalsmith he will shut on you eventually like he did baby mother #1. Trust me. You just needed stability with a check."

(AceShowbiz)

‘Housefull’

gets reincarnated

A

A

s interior designer Sussanne Khan turned a year older on October 26, friends and family came together to celebrate her birthday in style.

Sussanne’s former husband Hrithik Roshan, brother Zayed Khan and friends Twinkle Khanna and Karan Johar were all present at a fashionable eatery on Wednesday to celebrate her big day.

Sussanne shared a photo from the party where she can be seen with Hrithik, Zayed and sister-in-law Malaika and wrote, “To all

the beautiful people in my life... thank u for making me feel so special #birthdaygirl #happysmiles #mytribe.”

Despite Hrithik and Sussanne getting divorced a few years ago, they continue to be good friends and co-parent of their two sons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan.

Sussanne is a constant at all special events at Roshan household and was recently seen at the birthday party of Hrithik’s mother, Pinki Roshan. She has also stood

by Hrithik during his spat with Kangana Ranaut.

(Hindustan Times)

ctress-singer Priyanka Chopra, who has worked with international names like Pitbull and DJ Will Sparks, has said she would like to collaborate with singer Rihanna.

Priyanka treated her fans to a question and answer session as she scored a following of 20 million on Twitter. When a fan asked her which female artist she would like to collaborate with, Priyanka replied: “I’d love to collaborate with Rihanna. I think she’s awesome.”

Another fan asked her what would she be if not an actress or a singer. She said: “An engineer. At least that’s what I thought at 17. Now I haven’t done anything else for a while, so maybe writing.”

Priyanka is currently shooting for the third season of the American crime drama series “Quantico”.

She will be seen reprising her role of FBI agent Alex Parrish. “This season brings together an amazing new team and new flavour

to ‘Quantico’! I’m excited to share (it) with you all,” she said.

Asked what she expects from 2018, Priyanka said, “A stronger me!”

Besides “Quantico”, the “Mary Kom” actress has already completed her next film “Isn’t It Romantic”, featuring Adam Devine, Liam Hemsworth and Rebel Wilson. It is slated to release on February 14, 2019.

She will also star as a single mom in “A Kid Like Jake” alongside Jim Parsons, Claire Danes and Octavia Spencer. (IANS)

N

adiadwala Grandson Entertainment announced that “Housefull 4” will land on a screen near you on Diwali 2019. The film will have Sajid Khan – who directed “Housefull” and “Housefull 2” – in the director’s chair.

“Housefull 3”, which released in 2016, was one of the biggest hits of the year.

To add buzz to the subject matter this time, the theme of the film is reincarnation.

Nadiadwala confirmed, “Housefull is franchise of fun and 4th will be the biggest Housefull that we have

made till now. I am happy to be back with Sajid Khan who directed the first two parts of the film. We have a funny thematic twist in the fourth part as the plot is that of reincarnation. We have big production plans for the movie and that’s why we think that we would need all this time to make it the event film of 2019.”

The film has starred Akshay Kumar, Ritiesh Deshmukh, Chunkey Pandey and Boman Irani in almost all the films. The cast of “Housefull 4” is yet to be announced. (Hindustan Times)

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Sunday Times Magazine 15

16 Sunday Times Magazine

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OCTOBER 29, 2017

Fun Times

Archie

Bring about positive change. Dig deep and get the (March 21- facts. Do your best to help April 19) others. Channel your energy wisely and concentrate on personal growth, happiness and romancing the one you love.

ARIES

Last-minute changes will TAURUS catch you off guard. Don’t (April 20make a fuss. Deal with whatMay 20) ever comes your way with kindness, understanding and smarts to protect yourself against loss.

GEMINI (May 28June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

Sensitive issues will rise to the surface. Be fully prepared to give an honest appraisal of whatever situation you encounter. Keep in mind that it takes two to tango.

Taking a day trip or attending a lecture will give you plenty to think about. What you see and learn will be the beginning of a new adventure.

Be willing to explore the unknown.

Taking a brief outing or making special plans with someone you love will bring you closer together. Time spent primping and improving your physical appearance will pay off.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Taking time to rejuvenate and think about your next move will help you come to a decision necessary to reach your personal and professional goals. Someone unusual will offer a unique perspective.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Take care of an emotional issue you have with someone before it turns into a dispute you regret. It’s in your best interest to keep the peace for now.

Listen to any complaints SCORPIO being made, and look for a way (Oct. 24- to appease anyone who may Nov. 22) cause you grief or hinder your personal plans. A creative alternative should be offered.

Visiting a place you’ve nevSAGITTARIUS er been before will result in you (Nov. 23meeting interesting people who Dec. 21) will offer a lot to consider. Look at the possibilities and put your plans in motion.

Your luck will be on shaky

CAPRICORN ground. Don’t get involved in (Dec. 22- something that is risky or imJan. 19) practical. Wait for the right op-

Calvin and Hobbes

portunity to make a change.

Protect against injury.

Draw on your inner AQUARIUS strength and resolve when (Jan. 20dealing with people who are Feb. 19) being pushy or are not seeing things your way. Arguments will not solve issues, but compromise and patience will.

PISCES Don’t let other people’s ex(Feb. 20- pectations weigh you down.

Mar. 20) Be up-front about what you can and are willing to do. If someone is too demanding, be willing to walk away.