Sunday Times October 20, 2019

Nationwide coverage coverage from from the the best best news news team team in in Guyana Guyana Nationwide Issue No. 4082 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON BEACON OF OF TRUTH TRUTH THE

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Toothless oil spill plan mandates operators to clean up spills See story on page 3

…but Govt to cover cleanup costs if operators duck responsibilities

Granger tells Berbicians to get into manufacturing

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Knife-wielding bandit on P17 motorcycle pinned by car during attempted escape

Giftland Mall slapped with $30M lawsuit P17

Page 16

...sommersaults on plantain chips recommendation

Rupununi Council calls for Headwaters Protection Plan

…following diesel spill in Ikaazupu Wao creek P8

Insufficient ambulance drivers worry Region 2 residents P15 Starting the Festival of Lights 2019, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha hosted its Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) motorcade from Affiance to the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground. The floats, which showed extravagance this year, treat for the eyes of persons, who went out in their numbers to admire the floats

Major AFC financier cites Govt distances self from NAREI’s citrus fruits Guyana’s economic woes importation ban …Agri Minister suggests higher tariffs in split from party Page 12

Page 16

Oil & gas sector

GIPEX 2019 fees too high for many locals – Opposition Leader Page 7

…says foreigners are going to set pace for Guyana’s progress …PPP/C to protest event

Iwokrama warns about illegal activities in protected P11 forest

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SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

3 Toothless oil spill plan mandates operators to clean up spills news

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesGY.com

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

Sunday, October 20 – 09:30h – 11:00h and Monday, October 21 – 11:00h – 12:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, October 20 – 08:30h – 10:00h and Monday, October 21 – 10:00h – 11:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

…but Govt to cover cleanup costs if operators duck responsibilities

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

WEATHER TODAY Late morning showers are expected. Sunshine will prevail for the rest of the day. There will be light rain showers at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Northerly to South South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 08:35h and 20:53h reaching maximum heights of 2.28 metres and 2.33 metres.

Low Tide: 02:01h and 14:22h reaching minimum heights of 0.75 metre and 1.00 metre.

saturday, october 19, 2019

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

Head of CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig

President David Granger

T

he draft National Oil Spill Contingency Plan shows that while operators are obligated to clean up spills caused by their operations, Government has to handle the costs of clean up and seek reimbursement after, if operators do not hold up their end of the bargain.

This is according to section 4/4.2 of the plan, which gives insight about what will happen if an operator shirks their responsibility.

It says that the Competent National Authority, in this case, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), may provide written instructions to the operators to clean up the spill.

If the operator still does not carry out his duties, then the CDC has to transfer the responsibility for cleanup. The plan also says that in such a case, the CDC will seek reimbursement from the operator, suggesting that the cleanup costs will be borne by the Government.

“The course of action immediately following a spill of any magnitude is for the responsible party/polluter to undertake all necessary actions and expenditures

and in any event be held liable for all costs and damages arising from or connected with the spill.”

The plan also stated that the party responsible for causing the spill has the following specific responsibilities: reporting the spill immediately to the National Focal Point/lead agency, taking immediate action to control or stem the source of the spill, taking immediate action to contain the spill and prevent it from spreading and cooperating fully with the (CDC) in the response to the spill.

At a workshop held earlier last week to assist in finalising the plan, Director of the CDC Lieutenant Colonel

Kester Craig noted that Guyana has the upper hand, compared to other countries.

According to Craig, when it comes to response time to an oil spill, Guyana requires operators to immediately respond.

“A key feature we included in the plan has to do with reporting procedures. In many other plans, they are given within 24 hours to report on any incident. But as [it] relates to our plan, operators are required to respond immediately to any spill across their area of operation,” Craig said.

“The reason why, we don’t want to wait until there is an escalation several hours after before we can

The oil spill plan is expected to be finalised by next month

start the response mechanism. We prefer to respond with more resources immediately and have to withdraw after, rather than responding with little resources and the[n] we cannot effectively contain the spill.”

The Stabroek, Kanuku and Orinduik blocks are just some of the oil blocks that have operators from all over the world drilling for oil.

Oil in commercial quantities has so far been found in the Stabroek and Orinduik blocks. Together, the blocks are believed to hold billions of barrels of oil.

Guyana’s state of readiness is a sore issue, considering the fact that first oil is next year and only a single piece of legislation related to the sector has been passed. This legislation is the Natural Resources Fund bill, which was signed into law by President David Granger earlier this year.

The bill to create a Petroleum Commission is yet to pass in the House and a Draft Local Content Policy was recently released. The Oil Spill Plan is, however, expected to be finalised by the first week in next month.

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guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019

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

Constitutional change nixed

by PNC

F

acing severe domestic and international censure over its failure to deliver on its Manifesto promise to initiate constitutional change to address our political logjam, PNCR Executive member Gary Best sought to shift the blame to the Opposition PPP. He claimed, “We had to get at least two-thirds of the members [of the National Assembly] to vote for the many clauses and articles that are now in the Constitution. So constitutional reform is not an activity for the party in power, it’s an activity for all the parties in power, and parties that seek to have power… It can’t be done without the cooperation of the other Members of Parliament which are from the PPP [People’s Progressive Party]”.

This has to be one of the most blatant attempts at a coverup since the Watergate Tapes. The APNU/AFC Manifesto had declared “The Constitution, in its current form, does not serve the best interest of Guyana or its people”. It then detailed seventeen far-reaching changes that included the President being elected directly and separately from the Members of Parliament and Executive power shared between the President, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, with the PM being the person who received the second highest number of votes in the Presidential poll.

A six-member Steering Committee on Constitutional Reform (SCCR) was duly established by PM Nagamootoo in August 2015, took extensive submissions and its final report was handed over to him on April 30, 2016. He promised to submit it to Cabinet but a cryptic comment by President David Granger in June 2016 showed that he opposed the changes. He claimed Constitutional Reform should not come from individuals “sitting in a room” and pontificated sedulously, “We need to go to the people, find out what the people think; we need to have consultation and we need to listen to them”.

Never mind that the SSCR had actually recommended a detailed, wide-ranging process to effectuate constitutional change. To wit, that after the report being read in the National Assembly, it would be passed on to the Parliamentary Standing Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC), which would have worked with legal experts to prepare a draft of the proposed changes. After circulating this document to the political parties and the widest possible array of civil society organisations, the CRC would have been expanded by representatives of these groups, and they would, in turn, repeat the earlier process. Their report would then be submitted to the National Assembly for debate and ultimate ratification by one of the methods included in the present Constitution, most likely a referendum.

But even Granger’s red herring proposal for “hearings” was not followed up even though Nagamootoo requested and received $80M for “consultations”. Instead, the report was read in Parliament a year later in June 2017; submitted to the CRC and from there never saw the light of day. While the CRC is bi-partisan, it is chaired by the AG and has a majority of Government MPs, including Khemraj Ramjattan.

A year later in May 2018, following UNDP and Carter Center missions in 2017 to place constitutional change on the Government’s agenda, pressed for an explanation, Ramjattan claimed: “There are good reasons why there are other matters before Parliament and we haven’t been meeting regularly for good reasons and that has stalled the process somewhat.

But as we had indicated prior, we are going to, fast as possible, ensure the passage of that (constitutional reform) Consultation Bill so that the process of constitutional reform could start by the Commission going to the various areas across the country. I think that it will be done before the next election and we have to fast-track it”.

Nothing changed in the following year and a half since the PNC-led Government’s frantic efforts to subvert the present Constitution to remain in office.

The PNC’s spokesperson, Best, was simply being mendacious, since the Bill never reached the floor of the National Assembly for the PPP’s vote.

A man holds balloons as he crosses the Buriganga River on a boat in Dhaka, Bangladesh (AFP photo)

US considers extension of Chevron's Venezuela waiver with more limitations –Bloomberg

The logo of Chevron is seen at the company's office in Caracas, Venezuela

T

he United States is considering extending Chevron Corp's waiver to operate in Venezuela with more limitations by granting the company a 90-day sanctions reprieve, Bloomberg reported bloom.bg/2J4e4pL late on Friday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company’s future in Venezuela now depends on US President Donald Trump, who must decide

by October 25 whether to renew a waiver allowing Chevron to keep operating in Venezuela despite US sanctions on the country and its state oil company PDVSA, part of Washington’s campaign to oust socialist President Nicolas Maduro.

The US Treasury

Department aims to further limit Venezuela’s crude production and is concerned that Chevron’s joint venture projects in Venezuela are providing financing to help Maduro’s Government pay back its debt to Russian oil company Rosneft PJSC, Bloomberg reported. This could encourage more loans in the future.

The report added, however, that the United States also has a desire to maintain a presence in Venezuela’s oil industry in case of a political transition.

Chevron has been present in Venezuela for nearly 100 years. It opened its Caracas office in 1923, and first struck oil at the Boscan field in 1946.

The Trump administration has several times

imposed sanctions on Venezuela and sought to limit PDVSA’s transactions to largely cut off Maduro’s access to oil revenues, which account for most of the South American country’s hard currency income.

Chevron says hopeful about maintaining Venezuela presence US oil major Chevron Corp said late on Friday it is optimistic about maintaining a presence in Venezuela even amid US sanctions on the country and state oil company PDVSA as part of Washington’s effort to oust President Nicolas Maduro.

The company’s remarks follow an earlier report by Bloomberg that said the United States is considering extending Chevron’s

waiver to operate in Venezuela with more limitations by granting the company a 90-day sanctions reprieve.

“We are a positive presence in Venezuela, and we are hopeful that General License 8C is renewed so that we can continue operations in the country for the long-term,” Ray Fohr, a Chevron spokesman, told Reuters in an emailed statement.

“We have dedicated investments and a large workforce who are dependent on our presence”.

“General License No 8C” is the license that authorises transactions in Venezuela involving PDVSA and entities it owns, according to the website of the US Department of Treasury. (Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019

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

WPA’s unsubstantiated figure PPP’s fears of PNC planning to rig the 2020 elections are not far-fetched of US$5000 is totally bogus Dear Editor, I refer to a letter in a section of the media on October 18, 2019, captioned “The poor are invisible to the critics of cash transfers” written by David Hinds. While this idea from the WPA is something to reflect upon, the substance of the cash transfer models lies in the details.

ery Guyanese has to register at the GRA from birth. So by 2030, this child will have five years’ supply of cash available to pay for his education. At the retirement age of 65, whatever balance is left in your account, you will have the power to withdrawals any parts of it from the scheme for any purpose whatsoever (no condi-

2033. Of course, this projection from Rystad is subject to change as more wells are discovered. But my elders always thought me, do not count your chickens before they hatch, so I shall stay grounded in the current data until more discoveries are made.

Using the Rystad data, the computation illustrates that

Mind you, I am not saying the idea is not a good one. I am on record recommending conditional cash transfers, albeit on a more economically feasible scale. At that time, my brand of conditionality placed a fixed cap of US$90 million on cash transfers being made to every tax registered resident of Guyana. I also advocated at that time for these expenditures to be only payable for long term investments in oneself like housing, education, transportation assets, etc rather than on rum and other consumables. Plus I applied an additional conditionality that you must register with the GRA for a TIN Certificate to ensure that the GRA and NIS have you on their radar.

The way this model works is that if you repair your house (as an example), you can apply to a new Cash Transfer Unit in the Ministry of Finance for reimbursement up to your cash limit. Once the investigators confirm that these were bonafide purchases, the funds are transferred to a bank account of your choice. This does four things – puts everyone into the banking system, on GRA’s radar, in the NIS database and finally allows for cash to be transferred directly to the population.

These cash balances are accumulative and can be withdrawn anytime. A child born in 2025 will automatically receive his cash transfer in his account because ev-

tions for the retirees).

Since my interview with a section of the media, much has changed on the discovery front and the computations have evolved to a new distribution level of about US$400 million a year, which computes now to about US$600 per year per person starting in 2025. But this number is at great variance from the WPA’s proposal of US$5000 per year per household.

If one is to read the Demerara Waves of September 29, 2019, it reported: “Thomas proposes to transfer 10 per cent oil revenues to households”. Using his statistics, he declared that there are approximately 210,000 households in Guyana. Is he saying each household will get one oil check per year? How fair is that if one household has 2 persons whilst the other has 8 persons? Which one is needier than the other?

I have used the only credible data that I have seen on Guyana’s revenue stream from the oil sector (a comprehensive study done by Rystad). They had three estimates and in my world when you are doing financial planning, you pay attention to the most conservative option (in this case, an oil price of US$50 per bbl). Based at that level, Rystad found in August 2019, that Guyana will get closer to US$58 billion in profit oil over the next 20 years commencing in 2020 and peaking around

at the conservative level of US$50 per bbl, if 10 per cent of the oil wealth is distributed to 210,000 households starting in 2025, only US$1904 per year is available for distribution. Yet Clive Thomas spouts a figure of UDS$5000 per year. (see table below) Of course, the WPA argues that their estimated price for oil will be US$70 per bbl. But when I review the just-released EIA projections, the conservative oil price by 2030 will be below US$50 per bbl and this makes sense considering the rapid increase in available renewable energy options. So even this computed number of US$1905 using the WPA model seems high.

What this entire exercise has revealed is that this WPA’s unsubstantiated figure of US$5000 is nothing but a “voodoo” number; totally bogus. This US$5000 number was designed as a cheap political trick to game the system as the silly season commences whereby the WPA seeks relevance as the PNC continues to assert itself in that group called the APNU. At least the more mature political parties (PPP and PNC) have rejected this insanity and have put out a more reasoned position on conditional distribution.

I look forward to the reasoned positions on this debate.

Regards, Sasenarine Singh

Blazing fast outriders Dear Editor, The terrible road accident at Friendship, East Bank Demerara, that claimed the precious lives of those five people on October 15, 2019, is indeed very sad. After viewing the surveillance camera footage, it is clear that the driver of the private car was not at fault. I was looking at the accident and thinking with a shudder that it could have easily been myself and family in that private car on that fateful day.

This was something that was waiting to happen. I have heard countless experiences by drivers who encounter these blazing fast outriders. Here in Berbice, a close friend of mine and a popular businessman, was telling me some time back when Mr David Granger vis-

ited Region Six, Corentyne, how he was almost forced off of the road in his attempt to avoid a collision with one of the outriders that was travelling at a dangerously high rate of speed with absolutely no concern for other road users. What is the reason for these officers and convoys to be driving at this high rate of speed? What is the urgency? Is someone usually on life support in the presidential convoys and needs to get quickly to the hospital? It makes absolutely no sense at all. We the good citizens of Guyana have summed up that it is just for publicity, to give us all a sense that “he” is around. Take your time please, drive carefully and try not to kill more innocent people.

I now wish to draw your

attention to another horrific incident in Berbice in which two bodies were found, two others are missing and presumed dead. This was a few days before the road accident that sadly claimed those five precious lives. However, neither the President nor any of his Ministers visited to extend condolences to the grieving relatives of the boat incident, nor, to a lesser extent, offered monetary help.

The police are here for the protection of the citizens of this country at all times and they are doing a great job in spite of bad conditions. They are not employed to guard a single person (who is in no risk of being hurt) in all conceivable directions.

Sincerely, Shane Lindie

Dear Editor, The PNC invented rigging and stayed in power through rigging for 28 years when Guyana became pauperised and our people were scattered everywhere in search of a better life. Riggeritis is in the PNC’s DNA. You cannot get it out. As Granger said, they were “born to rule” which they think means stomp on the Constitution, bully your way through, stay in power, and don’t give up even if defeated.

The PNC has the means to rig. They control the Secretariat and staff at GECOM who seem to be actors in the PNC Playbook.

They even seem to have some influence on the new GECOM Chair.

The Ethnic Relations Commission said GECOM discriminated against former Deputy Elections Officer Vishnu Persaud, who was more qualified than the person selected for the vacancy.

Patterson refused to provide details on diversity of employees at GECOM. No action has been taken on the fraud investigation at GECOM. Additionally, the field

staff across the country are all mostly of one ethnicity, controlling the regional and local offices, and Election Day apparatus and process. The polling places will be guarded largely by people of the same ethnicity as the polling staff.

So things can happen.

In previous elections, at some polling stations, the PPP did not field any scrutineers. They must not make that mistake again and should plan well to have those stations covered. In the event that any of the new paper parties mushrooming up can find scrutineers, the Opposition parties should have a working agreement to make sure all polling places are covered by scrutineers and observers.

Usually, logistical problems crop up on Election Day, such as a party’s representative being prevented from observing the poll, and it requires a GECOM top official to resolve the problem. If that official does not answer the phone and is not available, the problem cannot be solved, and things can happen during that wait time.

The PPP needs to have a plan if the GECOM top man de-

cides to check himself into the hospital for heart problems on Election Day. PPP must ask for several Secretariat people to be available to deal with Election Day problems.

At this point, it seems as if the tail is wagging the dog.

Why is the GECOM Chair so silent? Why is it that the Commissioners are the ones talking to the press and the people do not know if they are speaking for GECOM or they are giving their own opinions? Is Alexander the de-facto Chair as he runs his mouth all the time pronouncing on things? To date, I feel Justice Singh has let down the nation. We cannot afford to have another rigged election. And we know, when the PNC loses in 2020, they will not leave peacefully and decently. Granger, under great delusion, still goes around saying their defeated Government is still a constitutional Government. That must be part of his “born to rule” philosophy.

Sincerely, Jerry Singh

Dissolving Parliament would render the Cabinet ineffective

Dear Editor, According to the Guyana Constitution, under Section 50, the Supreme organs of democratic power in Guyana shall be: (1) the Parliament (2) the President and, (3) the Cabinet Further, Article 106 (2) states that “The Cabinet shall aid and advise the

President in the general direction and control of the Government and shall be collectively responsible therefor to Parliament”.

In my view, dissolving Parliament would more or less indirectly trigger compliance to Article 106 (6) of the Constitution (the Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is

defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence) by rendering the Cabinet (Council of Ministers) ineffective and devoid of such parliamentary responsibility forthwith.

Sincerely yours, Paul Ramrattan

What then was the purpose of Mr Mair’s exercise?

Dear Editor, I note that Mr John Mair chose to ignore the question posed in my letter. (Too much hyphen-Guyanese, SN Letters, October 19, 2019).

Now I believe that Mr Mair was born here in then British Guiana to British parents but grew up and spent most of his life in Britain.

Britain has serious racial issues and the British wear their hyphenated identities – Asian British, Black British, etc – very proudly, as do Americans, Canadians, and other nationalities that boast of a diversity that includes ethnic, racial, religious, and other groups.

This issue of identity is a contentious one in Britain as in Guyana where our politics is divided along racial/ethnic lines. Here, it is an open struggle for political power.

Any step taken to deny an identity to any one group is the first step to erasing that group and to making them voiceless and invisible. This is the crux of the Guyanese malaise.

It is befuddling that Mr Mair gathered together his group of participants to have them tell their particular eth-

nic stories only to have them “pushed” (his word) into then rejecting and denying their respective identities to favour their citizenship ID only.

What then was the purpose of Mr Mair’s exercise?

Was it simply to be suitably enthralled by the “exotica” of the ethnic tales? Has Mr Mair, in order to soothe the racial tensions in his British homeland, ever carried out a similar exercise there? Or does he save these for his jaunts into what he must see as the Third World where he is free to organise such gatherings even though he is not an expert in ethnic or racial matters?

In a country where Mr Mair’s viewpoint of what ails Guyana continues to find public platforms, the participants at his gathering could have been easily seduced into denying their respective ethnic identity when it was evident that to wear it - even after just honouring it with their particular stories would have earned them the label of being a racist.

There is so much confusion, and simplistic and fraudulent statements and ideas being peddled on this

issue of identity and not only in Guyana. The racist, however, is not the one who wears their hyphenated identity – Asian British, African American, etc – and wears it proudly but the one who insists on denying them that identity either because of their own lack of tolerance and respect or the fear of some existential threat that particular group or groups pose for them.

I want to believe that Mr Mair’s reductionist approach to identity is born out of well-meaning intentions.

Perhaps he should first try to apply his approach to British race problems in his homeland. Being a more sophisticated, literate and educated society, simplistic ideas and arguments would, however, not gain a ready foothold there.

An elderly Indian Guyanese man once declared in defiant terms in response to ideas such as Mr Mair’s: nobody can define me but myself. The pity is that he was not at Mr Mair’s gathering.

Sincerely, Ryhaan Shah

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Foundation

How to respond to disrespectful children and teens

By Kim Abraham and Marney Studaker-Cordner

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we often feel it’s a reflection of our parenting. If you’re sitting around the table with Uncle Bob and Grandma Jean and your son blurts out something rude or inconsiderate to you, it can trigger feelings of anger and embarrassment. “What kind of parent will other people think I am if my child is acting this way?” As hard as it is, remember: your child’s behaviour is a reflection of him – not you.

child’s disrespectful behaviour can be a parent’s greatest “button-pusher”. A dad recently shared his frustration about his 14-year-old daughter’s disrespect: “I told her she couldn’t go to a party until her room was picked up – it’s an absolute mess – and she just exploded. She yelled, told me she hated me and slammed her door. I was so angry and shocked; I told her she was never going to another party until she turned 18!”

This dad isn’t alone. Ask any parent and they’re likely to have at least a few instances in which their child was disrespectful, rude, or inconsiderate – even outright defiant.

Sometimes disrespect comes along with adolescence; other times a child may show disrespectful behaviour from an early age. Either way, it’s a behaviour that can push any parent’s emotional buttons!

“As hard as it is, remember: your child’s behaviour is a reflection of him – not you.”

Define for your child what disrespect is

The nature of disrespect As adults, we expect our children will respect us: our feelings, our home, our authority. And society expects children to be respectful. The phrase, “Children are to be seen, not heard,” comes from a long-held belief that children should be compliant, quiet, and do as their parents say. Yet anyone who’s been around a child for more than an hour knows this often isn’t the case. So how can we reconcile our expectation of respect with our child’s need to test limits as they assert their independence? Just how far is too far?

There are several reasons a child may behave in a way that is “disrespectful”. First, he may not realise the behaviour is disrespectful. For example, questioning a parent’s decision may strike adults as rude, but to a child, it may simply be a way of getting his needs met: I want to go to my friend’s house. My mom said ‘No.’ I want to figure out if there’s any possible way I can change her mind, because I really want to go. So I question, I argue, I do anything I can think of as a way of getting her to say ‘Yes.’ That child is acting in the moment, focusing on getting what he wants, not really paying attention to the fact that his behaviour is actually backfiring and digging him a bigger hole. Kids also have difficulty asserting or expressing themselves appropriately when feeling angry or frustrated.

Adrenaline kicks in and eyes start rolling, voices raise, feet get stomped and doors get slammed. Ever find yourself saying, “Stop it right now, before you make things even worse for yourself!”?

Some kids have difficulty managing the stress and emotions they experience when faced with a limit or being told “no,” and just can’t keep themselves from crossing the line.

Add in adolescence and hormones and you’ve got the poten-

tial for emotions and irritability to escalate quickly.

Responding to disrespect Most parents face mild to moderate disrespectful behaviour from their kids from time to time. But what’s an effective way to respond?

Talk to your child about which behaviour is respectful and which isn’t. We often expect our kids to know things without spelling them out. Kids who are younger tend to think in terms that are “concrete”. You have to actually tell them “When you yell at me, it’s disrespectful.” Don’t assume that just because your child has reached adolescence, he has insight into how his behaviour comes off to other people. Sometimes it’s even hard for us – as parents – to pin down. There are times it may be a tone of voice or just the way something was said that sounded like it had “attitude”. Again, decide if those are things that can be let go from time to time or if it’s frequent enough that it’s a pattern that needs to be addressed. Also, let your child know which behaviours will result in potential consequences: “The next time you yell at me, there will be no friends over for the weekend”, or whatever your consequence may be. Remember to keep consequences realistic and short term when the issue is only mild to moderate disrespect. You want the “punishment to fit the crime,” so to speak. And what you’re really doing is showing your child that when she treats others disrespectfully, she’s

Decide which behaviours need to be addressed Most kids have engaged in mildly disrespectful behaviours, such as rolling their eyes at a parent, at least a few times in life. Sometimes it’s as they’re walking away; sometimes they do it before they realise, “Oops, mom’s still standing in front of me!” This is an example of a behaviour that you may choose to “let go”, and instead focus on larger issues of disrespect (such as yelling, swearing, slamming doors, screaming “I hate you,” depending on your child’s age.) Who hasn’t heard Mom say, “If you keep making that face, it’ll freeze that way!” Sometimes it’s hard for a teen to hide their discontent – and honestly, isn’t it that way for all of us? On the other hand, if your daughter rolls her eyes at you every time you turn around, you may decide that enough is enough and this behaviour warrants a conversation. As a parent, it’s a judgment call, but most parents agree there are times when you’ll want to “pick your battles”.

Don’t take responsibility for your child’s disrespect One of the reasons a rude child is so upsetting to us is that

not likely to get many nice things done for her in return.

Give your child alternative problem-solving skills If your child is handling her frustration or anger in a way that is disrespectful or unacceptable, talk with her about different ways she can express herself appropriately. You can actually role-play different situations with your child. Have her play the parent and you play her. Give her the words she can use to let you know she’s disappointed or unhappy.

Because in life, she’s going to have to express being unhappy or frustrated – not just to you, but to others such as friends, teachers and eventually a boss or spouse. It can be valuable to ask yourself, “How am I teaching my child to treat others?

Am I modelling for her how to treat others respectfully?” But ultimately, it’s your child’s responsibility to manage her own emotions and behaviour by using the tools you provide her.

Provide positive reinforcement Recognise times your child does behave in a respectful way toward you or others and make sure he knows you’re aware of it: “You know, I really enjoyed talking to you this way today.

I hope we can have more conversations like this.” Even if he was only respectful for a moment, notice and acknowledge it.

You want to reinforce the behaviour you want to see more often. Focusing only on behaviour you don’t want to see won’t accomplish your parenting goal: to teach your child to behave in a respectful manner toward you and others.

A final note The tips in this article are intended to help parents deal with mild to moderate disrespect. Sometimes, particularly with children who are oppositional or defiant, disrespect can escalate into a pattern of verbal abuse or more serious rule-breaking. Yes, breaking things in your home or destroying property, staying out past curfew or not following the house rules is disrespectful. But those things are also part of a more serious pattern of conduct and behavioural issues.

Even though a child’s disrespect can be a frustrating problem, often what we see as problems are also opportunities to teach our children about values and life skills. (empoweringparents.com)

news

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SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Oil & gas sector

GIPEX 2019 fees too high for many locals— Jagdeo …says foreigners are going to set pace for Guyana’s progress

…PPP/C to protest event

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lthough Guyanese can benefit from the experience and skills which foreigners in the oil and gas industry and the energy sector bring to the table, too many initiatives are being led by the international experts, while locals are being overshadowed in this regard.

This is according to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who recently told the media that the APNU/ AFC caretaker government will be facilitating the Guyana International Petroleum Exhibition (GIPEX 2019) where foreigners are going to be setting the pace of the country’s progress and other opportunities that would stem from Guyana having a budding oil and gas industry.

“From in the Department of Energy to everywhere else…the foreigners, we have to capitalise on their experience, both in terms of the provision of services and advice but it must all be advisory to a unit in government that is indigenously, nationally determined, this advice must come in and be processed along the lines of what is good for our people. That must be the primary concern and of course ensuring that those who invest in Guyana get a decent return too for their investment,” Jagdeo told a news conference.

High cost

According to the Opposition Leader, the cost to be a participant in the GIPEX 2019 event is ex-

“So this is part of their marketing tool to get people to pay the fees for the conference and then the highlight of it, they may want to come and listen to the US Secretary of Energy, he is not coming. Well nobody will come for the opening address for his Excellency Mr Granger but he (Granger) will be there…” Jagdeo said.

Spending State’s money

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

tremely high and that while foreigners are willing and can pay the sum stipulated, locals most likely cannot afford this and the result is that that locals will be unable to participate.

This, he said, is another example of the caretaker government abusing State resources to fit its agenda.

He also signalled the intention of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to stage a protest against the GIPEX 2019 activity, which is slated for

November 20 to November 22.

“So this group from abroad will come and try to define the oil and gas sector for us too. That is what is happening now. The Government has farmed us out to foreigners so you are going to have Granger make a nice great speech and let me make it clear, maybe we will protest this event, protest the waste of money, the waste of money that is taking place now, this one. So I am putting the sponsors on notice too, you could very well see a protest against the abuse of State resources,” the Opposition Leader said.

He further stated that although the programme for GIPEX states that the US Secretary on Energy will be in attendance and delivering an address at GIPEX 2019, the PPP/C has already confirmed that he will not be coming to Guyana for that event.

The Opposition Leader reiterated that the APNU/ AFC Government is illegal and, therefore, should not be spending State money, especially to host such an event at this time. He added that situations like these have to be brought to light to stakeholders and the international community as part of the process in ensuring free and fair elections in Guyana come 2020.

Meanwhile, GIPEX, in a press statement, said that the event allows for “maximisation of local participation” and claims that taxpayers do not fund it.

Additionally, the daughter of one senior Government minister is also sitting in one of the top seats of the entity that is organising this event.

The release also confirmed that an influx of foreigners specialised in the oil and gas industry are expected this year.

“The event is being organised by UK-based Valiant Business Media

in collaboration with the Department of Energy, Ministry of the Presidency, with support from Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest)… with the participation of more than 600 delegates and well over 175

companies in 2018, GIPEX 2019 is poised to attract and engage the biggest players in the oil and gas industry as the country moves closer to first oil,” the statement from the company revealed.

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SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Rupununi Council calls for Headwaters Protection Plan …following diesel spill in Ikaazupu Wao creek

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he South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) expressed its concerns over the recent spill of over 30 drums of diesel fuel into the Ikaazupu Wao creek in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). The spill has caused the Indigenous communities representative body to call on the Natural Resources Ministry to develop and implement the Headwaters Protection Plan as agreed upon.

The now polluted

The toppled truck

Ikaazupu Wao creek falls within the titled lands of Aishalton village, South Rupununi. Last Wednesday, the SRDC reported that a truck owned by V Dalip Enterprise was transporting over 100 drums of fuel and as it was crossing the Ikaazupu Wao Bridge, it broke.

The truck then toppled over and spilt approximately 30 drums of diesel into the creek.

This creek flows into Tooto Wao, which in turn flows into Kwitaro River.

The people, not only in Aishalton, but also in the villages of Awarewaunau, Maruranau and Shea depend upon this river’s ecosystem. The SRDC said this fuel spill and pollution of such critical waterways will harm the fish, wildlife, and livelihoods of the beneficiaries.

“Our people fish and hunt in these rivers and creeks.

This fuel spill provides just one example of the concerns raised last week at the just concluded National Toshaos

Conference. Kid James, project coordinator for the SRDC, had expressed concerns about the damage that mining trucks and excavators have caused to transport infrastructure in the South Rupununi.

“He recommended that the Government of Guyana review and improve its policies and laws on mining, including on the way mining concessions are issued and on the environmental, social, human rights, economic, and infrastructural impacts of mining. Importantly,

New parties…

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the Government of Guyana must also improve the enforcement of laws and regulations,” the representative body said in a statement.

The review and improvement of these laws, policies, and enforcement measures must be done in conjunction with Indigenous peoples, who are the ones most impacted by mining activities, James had recommended. James’ statements were echoed by representatives and Toshaos of other communities and regions in TURN TO PAGE 14

…old rhetoric he French have a saying that well describes what’s going on during this iteration of our “silly season”: “‘plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose’…the more things change, the more they remain the same”. One of the constants is the sprouting of new parties like “jumbie umbrellas”. You should not be surprised at this, dear reader, since you know they both flourish on dung heaps!!

But what is most pathetic about this periodic eruption is the rationale they offer the people of Guyana for their decision. None of them ever say they’re getting into politics for the money, or the perks, or the prestige, or the power.

Naah! They’re all doing it for the PEOPLE of Guyana. More specifically, because the PPP and the PNC, which have consistently been getting almost 90% of the votes of those same people since 1957, have been fooling the people.

Yes, that’s right. Even though all these parties below said exactly the same thing: the National Labour Front, United Democratic Party, Guiana National Party and a host of “Independents” (1957) UF (1961), Justice Party, Guiana United Muslim Party, Peace, Equality and Prosperity Party; National Labour Front (1964) – forget between 1968-1985!

– WPA, Democratic Labour Movement, United Republican Party, People’s Democratic Movement, Union of Guyanese International, National Republican Party, United Workers Party, National Democratic Front (1992), Working People’s Alliance–Guyana Labour Party, Guyana Democratic Party, Good and Green Guyana, Justice for All Party, God Bless Guyana, National Independent Party, National Democratic Front (1997) Rise Organise and Rebuild Guyana, National Front Alliance (2001), AFC (2006).

The question, of course, is why weren’t all these parties able to convince the Guyanese people that they were being “fooled”? Some may say the AFC had an impact in 2006 and 2011…but that’s just because of the PNC’s leadership weakness and the PPP’s long incumbency. And after the AFC’s decision in 2015…the people would now ask who the fool is!!

But seriously, dear reader, do these new fledgling parties take time to ask exactly why our people vote as they do?

Are the PPP and PNC such Pied Pipers that they can lead our people on any old road they choose? Your Eyewitness says, they’re not and it’s more likely that our people divide themselves as they do for reasons that make sense to them.

The politicians, operating in a milieu where they have to agglomerate numbers, like all rational actors, will send out the appropriate signals that address those reasons.

In other words, the PPP and PNC may be an effect of ethnic sentiments rather than its cause. And it’s for this reason the fledglings can’t ignore it and will inevitably disappear.

Or be absorbed in either of the two behemoths. Which is the same thing!! …and old questions Quite a number of the new parties, like the AFC and EVERY new party before them, are proposing “constitutional change” as their silver bullet to solve all our political problems. But they’re putting the cart before the horse.

First of all, most changes in the Constitution demand 2/3 votes in the National Assembly or even a referendum to approve it. This means almost certainly they will need the support of BOTH the PPP and the PNC – even if they deny both of them a majority. But how will they achieve this if they’ve vowed “a pox on both houses”?? And if the two majors are as “power hungry” as the fledglings insist they are, why should they commit political hara kiri??

Wasn’t this what the AFC attempted when they insisted on including “constitutional change” in the Cummingsburg Accord with the PNC? And split Executive power among the President, PM and Cabinet??

Well, look what happened to THAT ‘agreement’!! ...and regionalism It seems most of the fledgling parties are “regionalists”.

They pretend Caricom isn’t moribund because most Caribbean folks don’t give a hoot about regionalism.

Excepting when it suits their economic interest.

Like now we have oil, T&T’s gonna allow in our peppers and pineapples!

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

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NEWS

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Iwokrama warns about illegal activities in protected forest

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Constitutions, anyone?

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ith elections in the air, talk of Constitutions and constitutional change are flying fast and furious, especially after the PNC’s flouting of the present Constitution in the NCM fiasco. It should help, then, if citizens are more aware about what Constitutions are all about. Essentially, Constitutions describe the allocation of State powers amongst its various branches as defined by the Constitution itself; prescribe the rules by which those powers would be conferred and also include procedures by which the Constitution may be altered.

In a fundamental sense, therefore, a Constitution should be the embodiment of the social contract crafted by the people of a country for their governance. In a divided society such as Guyana, it is most important that the institutions created by the social contract – Government, Police, civil service etc are seen as just: “justice is the first virtue of social institutions as truth is of systems of thoughts”.

It is ironic that the British, who have done so Ravi Dev much to entrench the idea modern of Constitutions as written rules that all citizens of a state have to be governed by – the rule of law – themselves do not have a written Constitution. The anomaly, however, should remind us that rules, in and of themselves, may be necessary but are not sufficient, to ensure the consent of the governed and the governors. We need to foster the wider network of informal traditions, accommodations, informal pro quid quos that makes the British unwritten constitutional rules function.

And this is where we have sorely lapsed in Guyana. Some people, especially those in the new parties, seem to believe that just by crafting a new Constitution, all our problems will be solved. That is not even the beginning: it is a truism that changes in cultural and moral behaviour must precede changes in political behaviour. But very few are willing to work in the trenches to achieve those changes.

Western constitutionalism arose out of the struggle for personal freedom, and escape from arbitrary political will by the emerging European bourgeoisie. Guyanese, descended from slaves and indentured servants, should certainly resonate to this struggle. Constitutionalism is a foundation stone of Liberalism and defines a political scheme in which law, rather than men, is supreme. Political authority is exercised according to law, which is to be obeyed by all including the governors, who cannot depart from it by whim as President Granger did regularly. By definition then, a constitutional government is a limited government.

James Madison (1751-1836), one of the framers of the American Constitution, sums up the essence of constitutionalism, in his Federalist 51: "But what is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? If men were angels no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed: and in the next place oblige it to control itself”.

Madison thus recognised, as we Guyanese should after our recent history, that the fundamental problem of organised society is of the use and abuse of power – how men may best prevent its abuse and direct it to good ends. This notion is rooted in the fallibility of man… the belief that no man, or group of men, is good enough to be entrusted with absolute power over other men. This tendency is exacerbated when a country has groups that are racially or ethnically different, as Guyana, since it becomes so much easier to demonise the “other” and resort to extreme measures to assert one’s position.

The Constitution, as asserted earlier, is a social contract, agreed to by the government and which defines its legitimate political actions as for instance, the PNC presently using state assets to campaign. This implies that all state power emanates from the people, and that sovereignty and all reserved powers remain with the people. Constitutionalism, then, views men as inalienably free and right-bearing individuals who need and establish governments that they can, may, and should control.

Through protests or ultimately the ballot box.

In Guyana, where we cannot pretend that our values were shaped by some commonality looming out of a hoary past, as in Britain, we need to imbibe common values and only then craft a new social contract. That is, a new Constitution.

he Iwokrama International Centre said it has noted with serious concern the propagation of illegal activities in the Iwokrama Forest and is warning persons from conducting those activities without the requisite permission.

Section 2 of the clause titled “Control of the Programme Site” of the Iwokrama Act states: Subject to Section 6 (1) and notwithstanding anything in any other written law:(a) No mining, forestry or other resources utilisation activity shall be carried out on the Programme Site by any person other than the Centre except with the prior written permission of the Centre; and (b) No lease of land or permission to use land in the Programme Site shall be issued by any person other than the Centre and all activities on the Programme Site shall be in accordance with regulations prescribed therefor under this Act. Section 3 goes on to pre-

scribe the penalties.

“Any person who contravenes the provisions of Subsection (2) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of one hundred

Iwokrama said that it has discovered a plethora of illegal activities in its forest.

Those activities include, but are not limited to, fishing, hunting, logging and min-

A section of the Iwokrama canopy which sits at the top of part of the protected forest in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo)

thousand dollars or imprisonment for a period of one year and where the offence is of a continuing nature, to a further fine not exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars for each day during which the offence continues after conviction.”

With that in mind,

ing.

“The Centre would like to remind the public and other stakeholders that these activities are not allowed in the Iwokrama Forest unless the Centre gives express written permission for any of these activities to be undertaken. The Centre has

already imposed penalties on one errant tourism operator who was caught illegally logging in the Iwokrama Forest and a gold miner who was arrested and is now being placed before the courts,” the Centre said in an advertisement.

Iwokrama said it has spent enough time and resources on education and awareness with regard to these illegal activities in the Iwokrama Forest and has now adopted a zero-tolerance approach to these activities, especially the gold mining and logging operations. The Centre’s monitoring team together with the regulatory institutions in Guyana, including but not limited to, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Forestry Commission, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency will continue to undertake regular monitoring and enforcement activities within the environs of the Iwokrama Forest.

TURN TO PAGE 15

12 news

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt distances self from NAREI citrus fruits importation ban

…Agri Minister suggests higher tariffs

By Lakhram Bhagirat

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ne day after the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) Chief Executive Officer announced that it is completely restricting the importation of citrus fruits into Guyana, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder told Guyana Times that there is no Governmentimposed ban on citrus fruit importation.

According to Holder, this would not be possible since Guyana is a signatory to the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) and World Trade Organisation.

“The WTO states that you have to bring in things from outside but you can put a tariff. The CSME has a common external tariff which all of Caricom imposes on foreign goods and that can be used on these things. We are not banning anything,” Holder explained to this newspaper.

The news that there was a ban on the importation of citrus fruits did not go down well with the business community, which on Saturday criticised the decision.

But Holder quickly quelled those criticisms saying that the Ministry does

not have the authority to impose a ban.

“The Ministry of Agriculture doesn’t ban anything. We do not have that authority. Nowhere in the law permits the Ministry of Agriculture to get involved with these things.

You have to get licenses to bring in these things and the Ministry of Business offers licenses. NAREI is part of the Ministry of Agriculture, we don’t give licenses for anything. NAREI NPPO (National Plant Protection

entirely different from banning,” he added.

In order for agricultural products to be imported into Guyana, one has to have the requisite documentation which includes a pest risk assessment to determine that the produce is free of all pests and diseases. Besides that, importers have to be licensed.

Further, the Minister explained that Caricom produces citrus as well and with the CSME agreement in place, Guyana has certain obliga-

Organisation) has the authority to refuse stuff coming in that has not met the sanitary and phytosanitary requirements and that is

tions. He further related that higher tariffs on citrus would be a possibility rather than a complete ban.

NAREI’s announcement

N A R E I ’ s CEO, Dr Oudho Homenauth told Guyana Times in an interview on Friday that the organisation is restricting the import of all citrus fruits. This move, he noted, was in keeping with the policies of the Government of the day. He further related that Agriculture Minister Noel Holder NAREI CEO, Dr Oudho Homenauth the ban on citrus has always been sary duties are paid but there Guyana Times reported the in place. is no ban. If the necessary ban, many persons took to soHowever, the Minister certificates are not presented cial media expressing mixed said that as far as he is then it would not be allowed reactions. Some were all for aware, there has been no ban entry because we have to pro- the ban explaining that the and one was never in place. tect our agriculture, can’t be local market has the abili“I would have to clarify it bringing foreign diseases in ty to cater to the demands with Dr Homenauth because this country,” Holder said. while others were expressif there is some phytosaniHowever, importers are ing disappointment over the tary reason why it can’t come contending that the ban, lack of variety. The comin then it [the ban] will be which seemingly came into mon concern was that the lothere. I won’t know that un- effect recently, poses a threat cal citruses are inconsistent til I speak with him….A per- to their business since con- in taste and size as well as son could be bringing lemons sumers require a variety. price. from the US and bringing it While they are cognisant of Moreover, many suggestinto Trinidad and then to the fact that the local citrus ed that the Government imGuyana and it comes as a industry can adequately sup- plement consistency mechTrinidad product so it has to ply the local market, they are anisms so that it could be very carefully monitored to of the opinion that variety alleviate the concerns of ensure the origin is Caricom creates an even playing field. those on the fence over the and if it is not then the necesOn Saturday when ban.

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"A" student, aspiring doctor honoured by Enmore businesses “I just want to be able to help persons to feel better”

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hat’s the life mantra young Gangadai Harrichand plans to uphold as she embarks on her secondary school journey with the ultimate aim to one day serve in the medical field.

“My long-term aspiration is to be a doctor,” the 11-yearold Enmore lass related.

At the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) earlier this year, Gangadai, attending the Valkimi Vidyalaya Primary School at Lusignan, chalked up 523 marks out of a possible 536, thereby gaining a place at the prestigious Queen’s College.

Her achievement matched that of her brother, Balram Harrichand, who, in 2017, managed 516 marks out of a possible 529 and also secured a spot at the Camp Street institution.

Gangadai said her biggest challenge during the examinations was time management, as she had to tussle with extra lessons, but the sacrifice and hard work, along with unflinching sup-

port from her teachers, parents Tularam (Pandit Hero) and Urmila and brother Balram, paid off in the end.

Ironically, it was Science that gave her the most trouble, but Gangadai was determined to conquer whatever was thrown at her during the examinations.

She gained 130 marks in Science, 129 in English Language, 133 in Mathematics Gangadai Harrichand with her parents, brother and the numerous trophies she and 131 in Social received Studies. was presented with trophies in society in the future. and given words of encourThe businesses that came Academic excellence agement and advice as she forward to show their appreRecently, Gangadai was pursues more success in the ciation to the young student recognised for her academclassroom. were R Kissoon Contracting ic excellence by several busiGangadai said being hon- Services, Trans Pacific Motor nessmen/women of her East oured by her community is Spares, Loaknauth Lumber Coast Demerara community. just the motivation she needs Yard, Motor Trend Service The ambitious young lady to make a positive difference Centre, Gajadar’s Service Centre, Star Sports Trophies and Awards, Kuldip Lumber Yard and General Hardware, Rajin’s Auto Paint and Accessories Shop and SE Auto Sale and Spare Parts.

They all encouraged Gangadai to continue to strive in the field of academics, as the future progress of the community is dependent on the foundation that is laid now.

Rupununi Council calls...

FROM PAGE 8

Guyana, and the final resolution of the NTC Conference reflected these concerns and included associated recommendations.

“This latest environmental catastrophe only serves to reinforce the need for the effective development and implementation of the Headwaters Protection Plan already agreed upon between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the SRDC. The plan for the protection of the headwaters of the Kwitaro and Kuyuwini Rivers is currently under discussion between the Ministry and the SRDC and would ban mining in and near those rivers and aim to preserve the health of those waterways. We look forward to working with the Ministry to jointly develop and implement this important measure for the protection of our waterways, our environment, and our land, and we hope it will serve as a useful model for other communities in Guyana as they struggle with their own mining-related issues,” the statement noted.

Mining has destroyed a number of waterways around the country and disrupted the eco-systems of those affected waterways.

O

n October 2, citizens in the US and the UK celebrated Energy Efficiency Day under the theme “Save Money.

Cut Carbon. Breathe Easier”. While celebrated in these two countries, energy efficiency should be the goal of all nations. It is important to use less energy, especially given its connection to global climate change.

What is energy?

Energy efficiency is using less energy to provide the same service/output.

Why is energy efficiency important?

Energy efficiency is important because it plays a vital role in the reduction of greenhouse emissions as production of electricity is done by burning fossil fuels. Not forgetting it also helps in saving money used in production of electricity, reduces air pollution and saves water.

Benefits of energy efficiency: Better thermal comfort — An energy-efficient home often has a lower indoor temperature compared with a conventional one. This is because it is constructed with materials that make it more difficult for heat to get in. Autoclave aerated concrete bricks, roof and wall insulation materials, and reflective paint, among others, can protect your home from the heat and keep the indoor temperature more comfortable.

Protect your vision – Energy-efficient homes equipped with efficient lighting systems not only help reduce your energy bills but are also better for your eyes/vision and health.

Efficient lighting systems do not contain mercury, and are hence safer for the household. They also produce less heat than conventional lights.

Save energy cost —According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), by using less energy for cooling and lighting and choosing 5-star energy-efficient appliances, a home can deliver 20% savings on annual utility bills. Over the seven to eight years that a typical family lives in an energy-efficient home, you can save thousands of dollars in maintenance cost.

Good for investment — An energy-efficient home is future proof. Never cringe at the thought of higher electricity tariffs.

If you are buying houses for investment, this is the kind of house that you want to look for as it will probably have a higher resale value. Apart from that, you may find it easier to rent or sell your house by focusing on all the energy-efficient selling points above.

Environmentally friendly – The more energy we consume, the more emissions that harm our environment are produced.

Obviously, if you live in an energy-efficient home you will consume less energy/electricity. This benefits the environment as your house indirectly releases less carbon emissions that contribute towards pollution and climate change.

Energy efficiency tips (home appliances) * Turn your refrigerator down. Refrigerators account for about 20% of household electricity use. Use a thermometer to set your refrigerator temperature as close to 37o and your freezer as close to 3o as possible. Make sure that its energy saver switch is turned on. Also, check the gaskets around your refrigerator/freezer doors to make sure they are clean and sealed tightly. * Set your clothes washer to the warm or cold water setting, not hot. Switching from hot to warm for two loads per week can save nearly 500 pounds of CO2 per year if you have an electric water heater, or 150 pounds for a gas heater. * Select the most energy-efficient models when you replace your old appliances. Look for the Energy Star Label – your assurance that the product saves energy and prevents pollution. Buy the product that is sized to your typical needs – not the biggest one available. Front loading washing machines will usually cut hot water use by 60 to 70% compared to typical machines. Replacing a typical 1973 refrigerator with a new energy-efficient model, saves 1.4 tons of CO2 per year. Investing in a solar water heater can save 4.9 tons of CO2 annually.

Sources http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/ftpdocs/29xx/ doc2962/hr2587.pdf https://eteurope.eu/news-article/technology-focus-ep-1-energyefficiency/ http://www.usgaselectric.net/page10.php https://www.iea.org/newsroom/news/2014/september/energyefficiency-a-key-tool-for-boosting-economic-and-social-development. html You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O ECEA Programme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit. epaguyana@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

15 Insufficient ambulance drivers worry Region 2 residents C news

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Will there be need for capital controls?

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n previous writings, this author presented several articles focused on the balance-of-payments’ position over a period of time, central bank net foreign assets, and the relationship with exchange rate stability. To these ends, it was posited that, with weaker exports, rising imports and in turn a widening balance-of-payments’ deficit, coupled with a depleting position of the net foreign assets of the central bank, pressure will be placed on exchange rates; and that would have implications for the strength and stability of the domestic currency being pegged against the United States dollar.

Today’s article therefore explores the theoretical and empirical construct of capital controls as a mechanism to foster macroeconomic stability.

Capital controls are regulations that restrict or prohibit the movement of capital across national borders. The regulatory measures are designed to govern the capital account of a country’s balance-of-payments, and therefore include restrictions on the movement of capital into or out of a country. Capital controls can regulate a wide range of cross-border transactions carried out by non-residents and residents in a country. These transactions may include money transfers, direct investment, portfolio investment, bank loans, and other financial assets.

For example, a tax applicable only on non-residents’ investments in domestic bonds or equities is a capital control.

Similarly, caps on foreign equity investments in specific sectors (such as banking and defence), or limits on overseas investments by residents, are classified as capital controls because these measures regulate the inflow and outflow of capital in a country.

The findings of recent research suggest that foreign exchange (FX) policy management has been a central motive for policy-makers to use capital controls. Countries with high levels of capital controls and countries actively raising existing controls are those that tend to have undervalued exchange rates and high degrees of exchange rate volatility.

Moreover, the choice of capital flow restrictions is closely linked to countries’ choices about the exchange rate regime and the monetary policy regime. To this end, empirical evidence has shown that countries with a high level of capital flow restrictions tend to be those with fixed exchange rates and those with regimes other than inflation targeting (IT).

Moreover, countries with fixed exchange rates and non-IT regimes have been much more likely to raise capital controls over the past decade.

Further, research has found no systematic evidence of a link between capital controls and a high volume or volatility of capital flows per se. There is also no compelling evidence that policy decisions about capital controls are related to a high degree of financial market stress or volatility.

It would appear that choices about capital flow restrictions, particularly over the past decade, have been rather motivated by concerns about an overheating of the domestic economy in the form of high credit growth, inflation, and output volatility.

Altogether, evidence suggests that both an FX policy objective and concerns about domestic overheating have been the key motives for capital flow management policies over the past decade. Thus capital controls have not merely been associated with preventing an overvaluation or appreciation of the domestic currency, but rather with a significant undervaluation of the exchange rate.

Moreover, the evidence indicates that capital controls may frequently be used to compensate for the absence of autonomous and independent monetary policy.

Countries that have shallow financial markets, like Guyana, have little ability to use monetary policy to deal with domestic overheating pressures. Hence even relatively modest capital inflows or volatility inflows pose serious challenges to domestic policy-makers, and may induce them to use capital flow restrictions.

The caveat of this article puts forward a provocative proposition of such risks to the Guyanese economy against the backdrop of the oil wealth to come. That is, the risk of overheating. Overheating simply means an economy that is growing at a rate that is unsustainable, wherein there is excessive spending. This can fuel hyperinflation, especially since contesting politicians are strongly considering initiatives such as cash transfers.

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

oncerned residents of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have voiced their dissatisfaction over the lengthy period it has taken for the regional administration to fill the vacancies of ambulance drivers at Oscar Joseph Hospital, Charity.

This issue was raised when bothered residents reached out to this publication expressing worry over the situation.

There is only one ambulance driver attached to the hospital. Previously, there were four drivers. The most recent driver who left had to do so since he was deemed medically unfit to hold the post. Another’s contract was not renewed. That left one driver covering three shifts.

On October 10, a speeding minibus with school children and teachers hit a utility pole and turned turtle on the Dunkeld Public Road, Essequibo Coast. The injured persons were rushed to the Oscar Joseph Hospital.

However, this newspaper

The ambulance from Suddie Public Hospital making its way to Charity to transport injured persons during a recent accident on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two

was told that some parents had to take private transportation to rush their children to the Suddie Hospital to seek further treatment since there was no driver at the Charity Hospital. This newspaper was told that the lone ambulance at Suddie Public Hospital had to make two trips to assist those injured.

Speaking with Guyana Times, one Regional Democratic Councillor called out the administra-

Iwokrama warns about...

The Centre will also be rigidly enforcing the prescribed penalties under the Iwokrama Act and other laws of Guyana to any person found illegally operating in the Iwokrama Forest.

“Iwokrama believes in the development of the hinterland region of Guyana which provides livelihoods for many Guyanese but at the same time, all activities must be done within the confined of the laws of Guyana,” the ad related.

The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development (Iwokrama) was created in the “runup” to the Rio Summit in 1992. It is a key environmental programme dedicated by the Government of Guyana, through President Desmond Hoyte, to the Commonwealth in 1989 at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Malaysia.

Since its foundation, through an Act of Parliament in 1996, signed off by then President Dr Cheddi Jagan, Iwokrama has sought to advance best practices in the sustainable management of the world’s remaining rain forests.

Iwokrama manages the 371,000 hectares (nearly one million acres) Iwokrama Forest in central Guyana to show how tropical forests can be conserved and sustainably used for ecological, social and economic benefits to local, national and international communities.

Iwokrama is a mountain range in the forest, and the word Iwokrama is of the Macushi tribal nation which means “place of refuge”. The legend is that there was

from page 11

historical inter-tribal warfare and the Makushi people fled into the Iwokrama Mountains to seek refuge.

tion for allowing the region’s health sector to fall apart.

He noted that these are some of the issues which the RDC can assist in fixing but statutory meetings are now being consumed by petty politics. The Councillor added that since January, the regional governance is not working and the system will eventually fail and residents of the region will be the ones to suffer. He added, that, to a greater extent, is already happening.

16 news

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Granger tells Berbicians to get into manufacturing ...sommersaults on plantain chips recommendation

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n what is considered a complete backpedalling of his previous advice to young Guyanese, President David Granger is now calling on Berbicians to stop selling plantain chips at the Berbice River Bridge and get into manufacturing instead.

The Head of State made this statement on Friday in the country’s oldest town as he declared the 2019 New Amsterdam Town Week open.

In October of last year at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, the President, responding to a question from a young lady about the availability of job opportunities as promised on the 2015 campaign trail said “The possibilities of employment with the Government are limited but the possibilities of self-employment are unlimited.

When you ask what are the job opportunities and about the brain drain, I tell you that you don’t have to run and leave because this is the land of promise and opportunities. Young people must learn to go out and create jobs and there are so many possibilities here in East

Berbice, anytime you go by the Bridge [Berbice River Bridge] you see people with these big laundry baskets selling plantain chips. That is business, don’t laugh at them”.

The Guyanese leader has been saying that there is scope for Guyana’s growth by selling plantain chips and cook-up rice.

However, former President and economist Bharrat Jagdeo, who is the current Opposition Leader, has slammed the President’s idea of job creation, saying that an economy cannot be run on planPersons selling plaintain chips at the Berbice River Bridge tain chips.

The President had de- see something happening in have the expertise [and] you fended his “plantain chip Guyana”. have the resources. This reeconomy” proposal in the But now, the Head of gion has all of the most impast, saying that “It may State is suggesting that per- portant ecological geographstart with plantain chips… sons stop selling plantain ical zones. It has coastland, small things could end up chips at the Berbice Bridge it has grassland called the big… Some people call it and get into manufactur- intermediate savannahs, it the plantain chip economy. ing. He said Region Six (East has high land in the south; I would like those same peo- Corentyne-Berbice) should the New River area, it has ple to go to the regional ex- get more into agro-process- hilly sand and clay zone,” the hibitions which we have been ing.

President stated. holding around the country “Region Six can produce Region Six, he went on and see women coming out enough processed food for to say, has become the ecoof Yupukari and Hiawa, see the entire Caribbean. My nomic engine of the east of housewives getting into the friends, you have the poten- Guyana – a region which is microeconomy; and you can tial, you have the land, you rich in resources and agricul-

tural produce.

Bauxite, rice and sugar, he noted, are some of the commodities coming out of the region thus making it the agricultural heartland of the country.

Half of the sugar and a quarter of the rice produced in Guyana come from Region Six alone. The region also produces a substantial portion of fish, cattle and livestock along with more than twenty-five per cent of the vegetables grown in Guyana.

As it relates to fruits, Region Six produces more than twenty per cent of what the country produces.

Despite this, however, the President said the region is not doing enough. To this end, he pointed out that agro-processing is the way forward.

“Stop celling plantain chips at the Berbice River Bridge...,” the Head of State stressed.

Zeroing in on New Amsterdam and Town Week activities, President Granger said as the town celebrates its 128th anniversary as a municipality, it is a time to

celebrate the town’s rich history and heritage.

Meanwhile, the Town’s Mayor, Winifred Haywood, boasted that over the past year, New Amsterdam has made great strides with the rehabilitation of the Bermine Ground and the synthetic track, which is currently being constructed at the Burnham Park. The restoration of the Esplanade Park and the street lighting project were also heightened by Her Worship.

Among the activities planned for the one-week programme are the Mayors Ball, birding competition, inter-school debating competition, senior citizens breakfast, high school basketball competition, all-white cocktail party, male empowerment pageant, domino competitions, softball cricket competitions, poetry competition, big people party one-man band, medical outreaches, renaming of streets in Stanleytown, a street fair and exhibition. The week of activities will conclude on November 3, with a duck curry competition and cooler fete.

Major AFC financier cites Guyana’s economic woes in split from party

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major Alliance For Change (AFC) financier, who has backed the party for years, has parted ways with the party to found a party of his own, citing Guyana’s economic woes and the business acumen he can contribute.

Pegasus Hotel owner Robert Badal has been behind the AFC since 2011 and actively campaigned with them during General and Regional Elections. He has, in turn, been appointed to head State boards, such as the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), when A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the AFC came to power.

But after reports abounded that he had split with the AFC and formed a new party alongside former AFC member and auditor Nigel

Hinds, Badal confirmed on Saturday that he had indeed parted ways with the party.

He noted the current economic woes caused by the inability of Government to lay out a comprehensive strategy.

“In the midst of abundant natural resources, our country remains among the poorest in the region in terms of per capita income.

We remain stuck in time while other neighbouring countries continue to accelerate,” Badal said.

According to Badal, the State has “failed to address the challenges of the day and provide the opportunities for growth and economic upliftment of Guyanese, which has triggered spiralling crime, domestic violence, mass migration and utter hopelessness among

Khemraj Ramjattan

Moses Nagamootoo

Pegasus owner Robert Badal

Raphael Trotman

our youths”.

He noted the business experience he and Hinds have, which, he said, would be put to work in the various sectors. He also promised accountability and transpar-

The defection of two of its prominent civil society members will not be welcome by the AFC, which is at a sensitive juncture as it is in negotiation with APNU on a revision of the Cummingsburg

AFC leader Khemraj Ramjattan was elected as his party’s preferred Prime Ministerial candidate earlier this year, but members of APNU have shown a preference for the incumbent PM, Moses Nagamootoo. There have even been reports that APNU might ditch the formula altogether and choose a candidate from within its own ranks.

While Ramjattan has publicly expressed confidence that he will be picked, President David Granger himself earlier this month noted that he has not decided on his Public Security Minister as his running mate and had noted that it will have to be discussed.

The fact that AFC’s electoral returns have diminished over the years has also been repeatedly cited by analysts in arguing that the party’s standing in the coalition has weakened. At last year’s Local Government Elections (LGE), the AFC failed to win a single Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

Prior to the General and Regional Elections of 2015,

APNU and the AFC signed the Cummingsburg Accord that stipulated conditions for the two parties to contest the elections as one.

But throughout this marriage, the AFC was criticised, especially by the parliamentary Opposition, for what many describe as the submissive role it has been playing since joining forces with APNU. Decisions such as the closure of sugar estates, putting thousands of sugar workers out of jobs have gone unchallenged and even been supported by the AFC. This is despite the fact that the Ministry of Agriculture is held by a party member, Noel Holder.

In addition, there has been the strategic re-allocation of responsibilities away from Ministries headed by AFC officials, to other Ministries. There is also the fact that despite the Cummingsburg Accord stipulating the Prime Minister, in this case Moses Nagamootoo, have responsibility for chairing Cabinet and domestic issues, this was not followed through.

“The State has failed to address the challenges of the day and provide the opportunities for growth and economic upliftment of Guyanese, which has triggered spiralling crime, domestic violence, mass migration and utter hopelessness among our youths,”— Robert Badal ency and noted that the party’s official launch is scheduled for October 29, 2019.

Accord and the selection of a Prime Ministerial candidate for the coalition.

news

17

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

arrested in Diamond, Giftland Mall slapped 119 Grove, Craig Police operation with $30M lawsuit A

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lawsuit for $30 million has been filed against MCG Investment Inc - Giftland Mall - by the proprietor of Nesha’s Flowerland, Yasmin Deonauth, for breach of contract and other expenses related to the woman’s business, which had a location inside the mall at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

According to the legal proceedings filed by Deonauth through her attorney, Anil Nandlall, the businesswoman has been a les-

Chairman of MCG Investment Inc (Giftland Mall), Roy Beepat

Proprietor of Nesha’s Flowerland, Yasmin Deonauth

see of a section (shop) inside of the well-known mall by virtue of a contract signed in 2018. The legal proceedings stated that the contract was renewed earlier this year to expire in 2020. However, the premises has now been prematurely demised at the hands of the owner(s) of the mall and its contents, belonging to Deonauth, valued at over $4 million, were also seized.

The court document stated that since the commencement of tenancy, Giftland Mall has failed and/or refused to provide Deonauth with air conditioning despite repeated requests and although the businesswoman had been paying a service charge for which such facility is to be provided; yet other tenants of the Mall enjoy this facility.

In addition, the company is said to have attempted to unilaterally increase rent

for the demised premises and the company threated to evict the woman because she refused to agree to an increase in rent.

When contacted on Saturday, Deonauth told Guyana Times that her employee at that location was verbally abused by an owner of the Mall. According to the businesswoman, when her employee informed her of the incident, she spoke with the owner, notifying him that if he has any problem relating to her business, he should contact her (Deonauth) via email and not harass her staff.

She claimed that it was during this discussion that the businessman threatened to evict her, a threat which she said has been issued to her repeatedly in the past whenever she questioned or complained about anything.

“Within this year there has been an increase of my

rent and service charge twice. The second time I objected, and after I objected to it, I had a lawyer letter sent to him requesting a meeting so that we can move this forward but Giftland never respond to any of that to say we can move this forward.

Last week Sunday I went to the store to open because my employee said when she went to the store she was prevented, Giftland had all my stuff outside under a shed, all my sales for that weekend, computers, phones everything was thrown outside.”

The businesswoman told this publication that she attempted to retrieve the items stored under the shed outside of the mall but she was prevented from doing so. According to Deonauth, she feels as if she has been victimised for defending her rights as a tenant leasing space at Giftland Mall.

Deonauth explained to Guyana Times that she was formally notified of an eviction which would have taken effect on November 11, 2019. She said that she does not owe the proprietor of the facility any rent.

Meanwhile, efforts by this newspaper to contact Chairman of MCG Investment Inc, Roy Beepat proved futile. However, the businessman is quoted in another section of the local media saying that Deonauth has months of outstanding rent which led to her eviction.

Knife-wielding bandit on motorcycle pinned by car during attempted escape

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knife-wielding bandit on a motorcycle, who was trying to escape with his accomplice after attempting to rob a young female in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, is now in Police custody after a public-spirited person saw what had occurred and hit the duo down with his car.

The public-spirited man slammed his car into the duo and persons in the area held onto one of the bandits while his accomplice fled.

Reports are at about

17:00h on Friday, a young female was walking along the Melsha Furniture road in Mon Repos, when the two suspects rode up alongside her and attempted to snatch her handbag while pointing a knife to her neck.

The young lady raised an alarm and persons in the area rushed to her aid.

As the duo attempted to ride away, the man, who witnessed the failed robbery, pursued the perpetrators and struck them down.

The other suspect man-

aged to make good his escape, leaving his partner behind to face an angry crowd of persons that were running towards them.

According to a police source, the pinned bandit was apprehended by public-spirited persons and Police were summoned to the scene.

The suspect was arrested and taken into Police custody along with a Honda CG motorcycle (CH 2863).

Investigations are ongoing.

lmost 19 persons were arrested on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) on Saturday morning during a four-hour Police operation.

Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) EBD Sub-Division Commander, Kurleigh Simon when contacted said that several ranks from various police stations along the EBD corridor raided a number of homes in the Diamond, Grove, and Craig villages, which commenced at 04:30h and concluded at 08:30h.

He explained that this was done after receiving numerous reports from residents in those villages about criminal activities occurring in those areas and persons of interest were also pointed out to the police.

“This was done with the aim of ensuring people feel safe in their communities.

The police is upping the ante to take preventative action to root out persons with criminal intents…we will be expanding this exercise to other villages spo-

Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) EBD Sub-Division Commander, Kurleigh Simon

radically, that is our intention, and it is not going to be limited to the areas we searched on Saturday,” the Commander said.

Over the past few months, residents, particularly those in Grove, have been complaining about the presence of unknown males loitering in their streets late at night and during early morning hours. Some of

those individuals are said to be indulging in the use of illicit substances and are feared to be criminals from Kaneville area, Grove, EBD. For several years, Kaneville has been deemed a “hotspot” for persons who conduct criminal activities; they reside in that area or they commit their crimes and then seek refuge there.

Commander Simon noted that he recently took up the mantle of running the police stations along the EBD and that more patrolling by Police officers, especially during the night, can be expected.

He stated that persons need to feel safe where they live and that families should be able to sleep peacefully at nights without having to worry whether their homes will be broken into or worse.

The Commander added that as the Christmas season approaches, their will be more Police presence in villages on the EBD, especially around the main business areas and public roads.

UG students to benefit from additional bus service

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tudents of the University of Guyana (UG) are expected to now benefit significantly from a new initiative that will enhance their travel arrangements.

The newly elected President of the University of Guyana’s Student Society (UGSS), Jafar Gibbons, along with two executive members of the student body, met with members of the UG bus service.

Out of that discussion sprang concerns which included the danger of walking out of the campus at specified times, the difficulty of acquiring transportation at particular times, and persons living on the East Coast of Demerara having to travel to the city to get

transportation to get home.

Instances of persons being attacked and robbed around the University’s vicinity was also on the panel for discussion.

Meanwhile, it was agreed that as of Monday, October 21, students living on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) will no longer have to travel to the city before travelling home. With the new arrangement, students living on the ECD will assemble at the bus shed and the buses will transport these students along the East Coast route, all the way to Victoria. This service will be provided from 16:30h to 21:30h.

Gibbons said he is exhilarated because of this advancement. He expressed

confidence that the students will embrace this enhancement with the same excitement as the executives.

Meanwhile, according to the bus service, there is a 10-bus shuttle system that is currently in place, which has been there from the inception. This simply means that 10 buses are being used strictly for transporting students off the campus.

“While we accept that that number might be insufficient at peak hours, we are asking students to not walk out to the road, but instead, wait for the buses at the bus shed,” Gibbons said.

He promised to lend his assistance to the administration in any way that will deliver the services that are provided at the University.

18

SUnDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2019

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

China says will work with the US to Brexit: PM sends letter to Brussels address each other's core concerns seeking further delay

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hinese Vice Premier Liu He said on Saturday that China will work with the United States to address each other’s core concerns on the basis of equality and mutual respect, and that stopping the trade war would be good for both sides and the world.

China and the United States reached a limited deal last week toward ending the trade war that has roiled global markets and hammered world growth. Both sides are working toward a written agreement.

China’s third-quarter economic growth slowed to an annual 6.0 per cent, its weakest pace in almost three decades as the bruising trade war hit factory production and investment sentiment.

Liu said on Saturday that China will step up investment in core technologies to accelerate economic restructuring, adding economic prospects remain “very bright”.

China's Vice Premier Liu He hands a letter from China's President Xi Jinping to US President Donald Trump during their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, USA, October 11, 2019

Liu said improved relations between China and the United States benefited the world.

“China and the US can meet each other halfway, based on equality and mutual respect, addressing each other’s core concerns, striving to create a good environment and achieving both sides’ common goals.”

The International Monetary Fund estimated that a tentative trade deal

reached by Washington and Beijing last week could reduce the harm done by titfor-tat tariffs imposed by both countries over the past 15 months.

Instead of dragging global growth down by 0.8 per cent, the impact might be limited to 0.6 per cent, Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said on Thursday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Pakistan avoids terror financing blacklist

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akistan has until February to improve its counterterror financing operations in line with an internationally-agreed action plan, or risk being blacklisted, a global watchdog said.

The Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which tackles money laundering, said on Friday it was concerned that Pakistan had failed to complete the action plan first by a January deadline, then a May deadline and now October.

However, it offered a reprieve to Prime Minister Imran Khan as he works to shore up his country's faltering economy and attract foreign investments and loans.

"The FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan by February 2020," it said in a

statement.

The FATF already has Pakistan on its "grey list" of countries with inadequate controls over curbing money laundering and terrorism financing. But India wants Pakistan to be blacklisted, which would likely result in sanctions.

In the statement, the FATF said Pakistan has addressed only five of 27 measures required to avoid being blacklisted.

"Pakistan needs to do more and it needs to do it faster," FATF President Xiangmin Liu told reporters in Paris.

Pakistan had been on the FATF blacklist for years before it was removed in 2015 following "significant progress" in fighting terror financing.Only Iran and North Korea are currently on the blacklist.

Khan has been struggling to stamp out threats from armed groups while coming under pressure over painful austerity measures [File: Aly Song/ Reuters]

Khan, elected last year, has been struggling to stamp out threats from armed groups while coming under pressure over painful austerity measures taken to rectify a shaky economy and conform to the terms of its latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

US slaps new sanctions on Cuba over human rights, Venezuela

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he United States on Friday imposed new sanctions on Cuba over its support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and its human rights record at home.

The Department of Commerce said in a statement that it is revoking existing licenses for aircraft leases to Cuban state-owned airlines and will deny future applications for aircraft leases.

The US will also expand sanctions to include more foreign goods containing US content and impose additional restrictions on exports to the Cuban government, the statement said.

“This action by the Commerce Department sends another clear message to the

Cuban regime - that they must immediately cease their destructive behaviour at home and abroad,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.

Last month the US imposed sanctions on Cuba’s Raul Castro, along with his children for his support of Maduro.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel rejected the decision, calling it “inhumane, cruel, unfair and genocidal” in a post on Twitter.

In a separate statement, the US State Department criticised Cuba for its detention of dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, calling on Havana to disclose his whereabouts, treat him humanely and release him without condition.

Ferrer, a prominent figure

who leads the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU), was arrested in Santiago de Cuba on October 1 after a Police raid on his home, which is also the group’s headquarters.

Cuba’s Government does not typically discuss Police activity, including the detention of dissidents, who Havana dismisses as provocateurs funded by the US. Relations between Cuba and the US have deteriorated under President Donald Trump.

Trump has stopped short of breaking off diplomatic relations with Cuba restored by then-President Barack Obama in 2015 after more than 50 years of hostility.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

oris Johnson has sent a request to the EU for a delay to Brexit - but without his signature.

The request was accompanied by a second letter, signed

by Johnson, which says he believes that a delay would be a mistake.

The PM was required by law to ask the EU for an extension to the October 31 deadline after losing a Commons vote.EU Council President Donald Tusk tweeted that he had received the extension request.

He did not provide details

of its content, but added that he will now consult EU leaders "on how to react".

Hours after losing a crunch vote in a historic Saturday session in the House of Commons, the Prime Minister ordered a senior diplomat to send an unsigned photocopy of the call

by MPs set out in the socalled Benn Act, passed last month.

The second letter from Mr Johnson - signed off this time - makes clear that he personally believes that a delay would be a mistake.

The Prime Minister has previously said he would "rather be dead in a ditch" than ask the EU to delay Brexit beyond October 31.

At the first Saturday sitting in the Commons for 37 years, MPs voted in favour of an amendment withholding approval of Johnson's Brexit deal until legislation to implement it is in place.Johnson has vowed to bring in legislation on Monday to implement the deal he struck with Brussels this week. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Chile President Pinera declares emergency as capital rocked by riots

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hile President Pinera declares emergency as capital rocked by riots Chile’s President Sebastian Pinera declared a state of emergency in the capital Santiago early on Saturday, as the city of 6 million descended into chaos amid riots that left a downtown building engulfed in flames and its metro system shuttered.

Black-hooded protesters enraged by recent fare hikes on public transportation lit fires at several metro stations, looted shops, burned a public bus and swung metal pipes at train station turnstiles during Friday’s afternoon commute, according to witnesses, social media and television footage. Pinera spoke to the nation in the early hours of Saturday, declaring an emergency lockdown as sirens filled the night air downtown, and Police and firefighters rushed to contain the damage. The centre-right Pinera said he would invoke a special state security law to prosecute the “criminals” responsible for the city-wide damage, while at the same

time saying he sympathised with those impacted by the rate hikes.

“In the coming days, our Government will call for a dialogue ... to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the increase in fares,” Pinera said

said vandals had set fire to the company’s high-rise corporate headquarters downtown. Local television footage showed flames climbing up the side of the building as fire crews struggled to break through growing crowds of

A subway ticket office is seen on fire during a protest against the increase in the subway ticket prices in Santiago, Chile

in the broadcast address.

Chile is one of Latin America’s wealthiest nations, but also, among its most unequal. Frustrations over the high cost of living in Santiago have become a political flashpoint, prompting calls for reforms on everything from the country’s tax and labour codes to its pension system.

Enel Chile, a subsidiary of Italian utility Enel,

protesters.

The company said in a statement posted on Twitter that workers had been evacuated safely from the site.

High school and university students began the protests after the Government hiked fares on October 6 to as much as $1.17 for a peak metro ride, blaming higher energy costs and a weaker peso. (Excerpt from Reuters)

T&T PM: Assassins hired to kill me, Al-Rawi

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rinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has claimed that assassins were hired to kill him just before the 2015 general election and that an emergency meeting was held recently to organise protection for Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi after another assassination plot was uncovered.

Rowley made the startling revelation as he addressed People’s National Movement (PNM) supporters at a post-Budget public meeting at Piggott’s Corner in Belmont, Trinidad on Friday.

He said the threats on his life came after a smear campaign to stop him from becoming Prime Minister failed.

“They were so desperate to remove me from the line up in 2015 that on two occasions they hired a killer to kill me,” Rowley said.

He continued: “The first killer refused and determined that somebody has to know this and went and told a Government official. The Government official came and told us. We told the Police”.

His revelation drew shock from his audience, many reacting with sounds of disbelief as the Prime Minister continued to unveil the plot.

“While we (were) dealing with that, they went and found another one. He too refused and by this time (Police) Special Branch was involved and Special Branch knew about it”.

With the two killers refusing to carry out the alleged hits, Rowley remarked, “There is honour among thieves in this country? It appears as though there is honour among killers too”.

The general election of 2015 took place on December 7 and Rowley revealed they had to beef up security around him, and his family to ensure their safety.

“This was on the edge of the election you know. In the hands of Special Branch and private security, I used to be shuttled from my home to your meetings and shuttled back out,” he said.

“I couldn’t come and mix with you because we never knew... in fact, they were

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley arrives at the PNM’s postBudget meeting at Piggott’s Corner in Belmont on Friday

telling me that there were places that I could not go because it was too dangerous.

Understand? That happened in Trinidad and Tobago in 2015”.

“They know what they did and what they are facing,” he said.He reiterated some of what Minister of National Security Stuart Young mentioned about high-ranking Opposition officials being in cahoots with locked-up criminals and known gang leaders. (Excerpt from T&T Guardian)

sunDAY, october 20, 2019

19

Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane run South Africa ragged I

t started so promisingly, even though South Africa had recorded their tenth straight toss in the subcontinent: New coin tosser Temba Bavuma called wrong, and South Africa, with five changes, had to bowl first again; but, for a while, the lost spark was back under cloudy skies.

Kagiso Rabada’s new-ball spell brought two wickets. Lungi Ngidi kept the pressure on, and Anrich Nortje claimed a dream maiden scalp in Virat Kohli. Then South Africa ran in to Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane; and by the time bad light had brought play to an early end in Ranchi, it was advantage India again.

Rohit broke records, including that for the most sixes hit by a batsman in a Test series ( 1 7 ) ,

and that for the most sixes struck this year.

It is a remarkable achievement, considering he has played only four Test innings, 12 fewer than nearest rival Ben Stokes.

He also shared in the highest fourth-wicket stand for India against South Africa -- with Ajinkya Rahane, who scored his fastest half-century at home. Their partnerships stand at 185, with the promise of much more on the second day.

Their dominance was built on Rohit’s patient start, as he weathered the early Rabada storm and then cashed in against spin, Dane Piedt in particular. He scored 29 off the 21 balls he faced from the off-spinner, including a big hit for six over long-off, to bring up his third century of the series and sixth overall. In total, Rohit has so far hit 11 sixes off Piedt in this series, the most for any batsman against a single bowler in a series.

Piedt was not used until after the lunch break, with captain Faf du Plessis relying on long first spells from his quicks to try and make early inroads.

The plan worked. Rabada, who adjusted his length from mostly short of a good length to good length, asked the

toughest questions. With some swing on offer and a hungry slip cordon waiting, Rabada forced India’s openers to play, and toyed with them by beating the bat several times.

Mayank Agarwal prodded at a few, and was then drawn forward by a delivery that swung away as he nicked to Dean Elgar, who took a low catch at third slip. Two overs later, Rabada had Cheteshwar Pujara playing outside the line of an in-ducker that hit him on the back pad. South Africa reviewed, and Pujara was out lbw for a duck.

Rabada’s opening spell of seven overs brought him returns of 2 for 15.

At the other end, Nortje tricked Virat Kohli with two deliveries that nipped away, the second one in particular inducing a loose drive outside off. Then he brought one back in, and hit Kohli’s front pad as he played for the one that holds its line, only to be given out immediately.

Kohli reviewed, but it came back as umpire’s call. South Africa were all over India, who were 39 for 3.

The only sight of spin in the morning session came when debutant George Linde was given the penultimate over, and things could’ve panned out so differently if the chance he created with his third ball had stuck.

Rohit, on 28, worked one to short leg, where Zubayr Hamza, crouching low, put it down on the move.

The rest, as they say….

Rohit took his time, but opened up after lunch.

He latched on to the first hint of a short ball from Linde, but continued to give Rabada the respect he deserved, as he tested him with his variations, including the leg-cutter.

While this played out, Rahane took on Rabada, and flicked him disdainfully every time he erred in line; and there were plenty of occasions. His secRohit Sharma celebrating a landmark

ond spell of four overs went for 30, and the while, is now the first Indian opener since momentum shifted India’s way.

Sunil Gavaskar in 1978 to score more than Rohit’s fifty came off 86 balls, 55 of which two centuries in a series. (Cricinfo) he used to get his first 23 runs; but the tempo of the innings changed dramatically when he took just 31 balls to score his next 29 runs.

With Piedt leaking runs, South Africa had a poor second session, conceding 134 runs at India 1st Innings Yadav, Mohammed Shami a rate of 4.62 an over between MA Agarwal c Elgar b Rabada 10 Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Mayank lunch and tea, and could not RG Sharma not out 117 Agarwal, 4.6 ov), 2-16 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 8.3 ov), implement any plans to con- CA Pujara lbw b Rabada 0 tain either Rohit or Rahane. V Kohli (c) lbw b Nortje 12 3-39 (Virat Kohli, 15.3 ov) BOWLING O M R W Only six overs were bowled in AM Rahane not out 83 K Rabada 14 5 54 2 the third session before bad Extras 2 (b 1, nb 1) L Ngidi 11 4 36 0 light brought an early end to TOTAL 224/3 (58 Overs, RR: 3.86) A Nortje 16 3 50 1 play, leaving Rahane 17 runs Yet to bat: WP Saha †, R Ashwin, GF Linde 11 1 40 0 away from his first century at RA Jadeja, S Nadeem, UT DL Piedt 6 0 43 0 home since 2016. Rohit, mean-

SCOREBOARD

20

guyanatimesGY.com

sunDAY, october 20, 2019

Yadram in Windwards Volcanoes 14-man Super 50 squad

By Brandon Corlette

F

ormer Guyana Jaguars first class player and West Indies Under-19 player, Bhaskar Yadram, is on the verge of new beginnings.

On November 6, 2019, the Regional Super 50 Tournament is set to bowl off, and this 20-year-old has been named in the 14-member Windward Islands Volcanoes squad.

Earlier, Yadram had good outings in the practice matches. This publication caught up with the Volcanoes new recruit, who said he is thankful for this opportunity. He said he has been working hard with the team, and has been enjoying every moment. With the Regional arena being used as the yardstick for West Indies selection and even Caribbean Premier League selection, Yadram has set himself some goals when he gets his opportunity with the Volcanoes in the Super 50 tournament.

“I’m setting myself small targets in batting, then look to build on them, also to help the team to progress further in the tournament. In my bowling, I am just looking to be consistent most times and build pressure,” the emerging all-rounder said.

This Guyanese, who played two first class matches for Guyana Jaguars, has been adapting well in the new environment with the Volcanoes players. “The training facility is very good here.

They have good artificial surfaces that you can use during rainy days, also they lately bring in

Yadram represented West Indies Under-19 after successfully captaining Guyana U-19

the bowling machine”, Yadram explained.

Yadram had captained Guyana Under-19, and has been a name that has dominated cricket in Guyana. He had also played some of his junior cricket in Berbice with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC). He is in a good state of mind with the Volcanoes setup. Sharing some sentiments on the playing conditions in the Windward Islands, Yadram had this to say: “The pitches are better and the ball is coming on nicely to the bat and getting nice bounce, so I have to adapt to it and move on”.

The Volcanoes are equipped with some

Top horses gear up for Nand Persaud Classic

T

he horse-racing season is in full force, and fan will be able to witness “The All Races Are Classic” as Sky Plus Inc presents its ninth horse racing event on November 3, 2019 at the company’s racing facility at Macedonia Estate, Number 36 Village Corentyne, Berbice.

Thus far some of Guyana’s top horses have registered for the event. Confirmed for the races are: * G3 and Lower: T N T, Golden Dancer, Not this time * 2-year-old Guyana-bred Open: Flash the Cash, Dazzling Girl, Awesome Bandit * J and Lower: Uprising king, Awesome banner, Plane land * L open- Pikachu, The rock.

This event will feature racing in seven categories as Guyana’s top horses respectively battle for supremacy over 880 and 660 yards, with more than $1 million in cash, trophies, and other incentives up for grabs.

The feature event will be for horses classified G3 and Lower, and will be run over 880 yards, or four furlongs, for a winning purse of $225,000 and a trophy.

There is an event for the H3 Maiden & Guyana-Bred Open, which will race over 660

yards, or three furlongs, for a winning take of $200,000 and a trophy.

The event for animals 2 Years Guyana Bred Maiden will be run over three furlongs for a take=home prize of $150,000 and a trophy.

There is an event for animals classified J and Lower, which will be run over four furlongs for a winning take of $150,000 and a trophy.

There are two L Class races to be run over three furlongs, one is strictly for stallions and the other is strictly for mares, and each carries a winning prize of $100,000 and a trophy.

The other event, labelled as the 4th & Below races 5 and 6 will see the animals competing over three furlongs for a winner’s prize of $100,000 and a trophy.

The champion jockey, trainer and stable will all be rewarded with trophies and other incentives, compliments of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall.

Persons interested in entering animals in these races are invited to contact Mohini on 600-4728, or Amanda on 618-5966. This event is being promoted through Sky Plus Inc promotion group.

experienced players with the likes of Regional bully Devon Smith and Captain Kirk Edwards.

Yadram disclosed that these players have been sharing their wealth of experience. “It’s a good thing, for the past weeks I’ve been working with Krik and Devon in my batting. As senior players, they have been working on my skills and telling me about the difference from Under-19 level and senior cricket. It’s a harder game, epically the 4-day format”, Yadram highlighted.

When the time comes, Yadram will be eager to perform well for the Volcanoes team.

The following players have been selected to represent the Windwards Volcanoes in the Colonial Medical Insurance Super 50 Cup scheduled for Trinidad & Tobago November – December 2019.

1. Kirk Edwards (Captain) 2. Kavem Hodge (Vice-Captain) 3. Devon Smith 4. Desron Maloney 5. Alick Athanaze 6. Emmanuel Stewart 7. Keron Cottoy 8. Bhaskar Yadram 9. Ryan John 10. Shane Shillingford 11. Larry Edward 12. Ray Jordan 13.

Shermon Lewis

Windward Islands all-rounder Bhaskar Yadram

14. Dillon Douglas Team Management Unit • Andrew Richardson (Head Coach) • Junior Murray (Assistant Coach) • Mario Christopher (Physiotherapist) Notes • Sunil Ambris was not considered for selection as he will be on assignment with the West Indies Senior Team.

• Obed McCoy is recovering from injury and was therefore not considered for selection.

Mayor Green Inter-Ward kicks off Nov 3

Clear Waters Managing Director Ricky Looknauth (fourth left) hands over the balls to Co-ordinator Lennox Arthur in the presence of staffers recently

F

ormer National Coach Lennox Arthur, who has been the spearhead of the Mayor Cup which was organised to commemorate the birth anniversary of former mayor Hamilton Green has planned a tournament to celebrate the 85th birthday of the past Chief Citizen.

The three-day event is set to kick off on Sunday, November 3, at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground with the other playing days being November 9-10 .

According to Arthur, twenty-eight teams from all across the country have been invited to participate in the tournament with teams expected from East Coast Demerara, West Demerara, Georgetown, East Bank Demerara and Berbice.

Arthur added that the winning team will receive $200,000 and trophy, while second, third and fourth place finishers will take home $100,000, $60,000 and $40,000 along with trophies.

Meanwhile, the tournament received a significant boost when Managing Director of Essential Supplies Inc. Ricky Looknauth handed over a large quantity of footballs to Arthur as part of the entity support for the tournament.

The presentation was done at Company’s location on Camp Street under its Clear Waters brand.

Fixtures for Sunday, November 3 Soesdyke versus Wales Timehri vs. Bagotsville Durban Backlands vs. Bourda Blues Lima Dam vs. Charlestown Kuru Kururu vs. Newtown Kitty GT Kanaimas vs. Crane Den Amstel Kings vs. Stanleytown Sara Lodge vs. Agricola Goed Fortuin vs. Ann’s Grove Pouderoyen vs. De Kindren Uitvlugt vs. Hurry Are Den Amstel vs. Farm FC

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Hercules optimistic of Essequibo’s performance…

21

Hails CPL coaching stint as beneficial

By Timothy Jaikarran

A

s franchise cricket continues, head coach of the Professional Cricket league (PCL) defending champions (Essequibo) Ryan Hercules is optimistic about his team’s performance. Under the coaching of the experienced Hercules the Essequibo side have improved drastically, adding the title of 2018 PCL Champs under their belt.

Hercules made his debut for Guyana in the 2003 Regional Under-15 tournament. He later represented Guyana in the 2005 TCL Group West Indies Regional Under-19 tournament, played in the Windwards, and then in the 2006 TCL Group West Indies Regional Under-19 tournament, played in Guyana.

So impressive was he in the field during the 2006 regional Under-19 competition that he was named Best Fielder and Most Valuable Player (MVP) of that series. Hercules played first division cricket in Trinidad from 2007-2009 before securing a contract as the overseas player for Shadwell Cricket Club, in Yorkshire. At Shadwell, he did

Ryan Hercules

not disappoint. In 2009 he played 41 matches, scored 1,190 runs (at an average of 38.39) and took 65 wickets at 13.50 apiece, and bowled with blistering pace. Shadwell retained Hercules for another season and in 2010 he scored 1,090 runs at an average of 41, and took 75 wickets at 11.10. From there he has had many o t h e r successes t h a t

landed him the role of head coach for the Essequibo side.

In a sit down with this publication, when asked the feeling of coaching a successful side, Hercules said, “Well it’s a good feeling to know I’m coaching a successful side, the guys put in a lot of work and it’s paying off for them. My motivation comes from seeing and wanting the guys to do well and excel them self on and off the field. We have the experienced Ronsford Beaton in our side which is a huge boost, in terms of my expectation from him, it’s great to have him in the team, he is a very great player and a match winner. He knows his role in the team and what he wants to achieve in the tournament, we talked about it before the tournament started what is expected of him and with his level of experience he knows what is expected of him, so we can defend our title.”

H e a l s o n o ted that during off season when

Kennard Memorial Turf Club Boxing Day Horse Race Meet slated for December 26

Hercules shares his experience with GAW opening batsman Chandrapaul Hemraj

them isn’t franchise cricket, the players and himself are still active, in preparation for the coming season. “Most of the players play cricket for my club police sports club so we get to work out /train together even when there is no franchise cricket. We have the outdoor cricket facility at Parika ground that was donated by the Guyana cricket board, so we also use that to do practice as well.” He relayed that fitness plays a key role in his unit as the game of cricket has change rapidly over

the years and thus requires a faster paced approached, therefore stressing that fitness is key.

Hercules also added that while he has gained experience over his years in cricket, his time apart of the Guyana Amazon Warriors coaching set up has been beneficial to him. “It was a good experience being around Johan Botha and learning a few things from him it’s a plus for me because I can help my guys (Essequibo team) to improve their game.”

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Campbell vows to return “bigger and better” in 2020

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he much-anticipated Kennard Memorial Turf Club Boxing Day Horse Race Meet will be held on December 26 at the Club’s facility at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice.

The event will have as its feature a one-mile race under the name Metro Million Mile which is open to all horses.

It carries a first prize of $1000,000, while the second to fourth place finishers will earn $500,000, $250,000 and $125,000 respectively. There will also be a race for the H & Lower horses. Each will be over 7 furlongs, with horses seeking to claim the $250,000 first prize money. The second to fourth place finishers will receive $125,000, $63,000 and $32,000 in that order.

The other 2-year-old maidens will compete in their 6-furlong journey as they aim to take away a first prize of $200,000, while the second to fourth place finishers will receive $100,000, $50,000 and $25,000 respectively.

The other 7-furlong race, classified as the J&K Lower, will earn a first prize of $200,000. The second place horse will earn $100,000, while the third and fourth place finishers will receive $50,000 and

T $25,000 respectively.

Animals classified `L Open’ will battle over five furlongs for a first prize worth $170,000. The second to fourth place finishers will pocket $85,000, $43,000 and $22,000 respectively.

The other five-furlong race is for horses classified `L Non-Winners,’ and the winning stable will receive $150,000, while the second place finisher will receive $75,000. The third and fourth place finishers will take home $38,000 and $19,000 respectively. The race for L-Non Earner horses will carry a first prize worth $130,000. The second place finisher will win $65,000, while the third and fourth place finishers will earn $33,000 and $17,000 respectively.

These races will be conducted under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority, and interested owners/trainers and handlers can call the following persons for more information: Ivan Dipnarine (331-0316), Justice Kennard (623-7609 or 235-4818), Fazal Habibulla (657-7010), Dennis DeRoop (640-6396) or Compton Sancho (602-1567).

Entries close on December 16, 2019.

No late entries will be accepted

he CAC Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships held recently in the Dominican Republic have concluded with Guyana’s doyen Emmerson Campbell shockingly failing to place within the top six contenders in his category.

A ‘minor technicality’ has been identified as the reason, and Campbell has vowed to return “bigger and better”, come 2020.

Having secured bronze and silver at the last two championships, Emmerson Campbell surprisingly failed to place in the top six in the Under-174cm Physique Class, and will have to return to the drawing board to work on his strategy.

In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport he was asked about his performance at the CAC, and Campbell responded, “To be quite honest, when I heard that I did not make the first call-out (placing in the top six), I was more surprised than disappointed.

That was based on the fact that I lost the gold medal (medal) by one point last year; made improvements worthy of a champion, but fell way off the podium.

“There was absolutely nothing wrong with my training, mental or physical. I showed up with my best package to date, so that was a big headscratcher. When I enquired about my placement, I received conflicting reports

from the judges, but one stated that I had committed an infringement which caused me to be marked down and essentially disqualified from the first call-out, hence a seventh-place finish.”

Campbell explained that while he was disappointed with the results, the experience was one to remember, and he vows not to make the same mistake next year.

“Rules and regulations get changed and updated regularly; and I feel I was placed at a disadvantage, since none of those rules was disclosed at any time to me.” Campbell declared.

He disclosed that the experience gained has actually rekindled his fire, and he is now hungrier more than ever to succeed, and is confident that he actually will. He says he is constantly motivated by the saying, “You always learn more from a loss/lesson than a victory”, and he is confident that, come 2020, he would dismantle any competition placed before him.

Campbell also had this to say: “To my sponsors, (who) enabled me to once again represent Guyana, I want to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ and I (predict I) will do Guyana proud once again. They include Jamie McDonald of Fitness Express, National Sports Commission, Guyana Olympic Association, Bounty Farm Ltd, Abdool and Abdool Insurance Company, and Space Gym.”

22

guyanatimesgy.com

SUnDAY, october 20, 2019

West Berbice end Lower Corentyne unbeaten run ꟷ consistent Sinclair stars again; Kandasammy, Griffith slam tons

Story by brandon corlette

W

atched yesterday by a fairly large crowd at the “home” of Shimron Hetmyer at Cumberland East Canje Berbice, West Berbice defeated Lower Corentyne by 67 runs, although the West Indies and Guyana Amazon Warriors batting maestro again failed to stamp his authority on the proceedings.

Kevin Sinclair and young Seon Glasgow registered brilliant performances to overcome Lower Corentyne, despite Veerasammy Permaul’s 6-18.

The Shimron Hetmyerled West Berbice team won the toss and elected to bat first, managing 192 all out in 50 overs, while Lower Corentyne scored 125 all out in 42.3 overs. At the top of the order, Sinclair stroked a sweet 51 from 93 balls, including six fours and one maximum.

Glasgow scored 51 from 63 balls, including two sixes and one four. Stefon Adams also hit an unbeaten 39 as Permaul mesmerised the West Berbice batting order with 6-18 in 10 top-class overs.

The day’s highlight occurred when the bleachedhair Hetmyer strolled out to bat in his dashing red West Berbice kit. He awed the congested house when he effortlessly stroked Permaul out of the ground; but, in

a most unfortunate replay of the same sad story, was outfoxed the very next ball and hit one straight into the leg-side, to find the fielde r as his poor run o f form continued.

A collective West B e r b i c e bowling effort ended Lower Corentyne’s unbeaten run in the tournament.

Kevlon Anderson continued to show his class at number three, top scoring with 40 from 69 Seon Glasgow and “Player of the balls, which Match” Kevin Sinclair each included scored 51 five classy U p p e r in an innings that spanned boundarC o r e n t y n e ’ s 175 minutes. Ashmead ies. His promising Kandasammy Nedd grabbed 4-18 in 9.1 knock ended when Surujnarine brilliant overs, while Chris he ran himself out. caused his Barnwell had 3-30.

Seon Hetmyer team to seGeorgetown, replyheld things together cure a 35- ing, were restricted to 138for a time, but his solid run win over 9 in 31.4 overs. Dimitri knock of 25 ended when G e o r g e t o w n Cameron, Jonathan he was bowled by a delivat Bush Lot, Rampersaud, Eon Hooper ery from the impressive West Coast and Gourav Ramesh had Nigel Deodat.

B e r b i c e . two wickets each in a colAndrew Dutchin U p p e r lective effort; while Joshua had 3-19 with Persaud top-scored with 31 Veerasammy Permaul had his off-spin, and Leon Johnson scored 23 6-18 in a losing cause while Deodat as Winston Forrestor manfor Lower Corentyne had 2-21 and aged 20.

Gudakesh Motie had 2-18.

Corentyne scored 173 all out in 44.1 overs, with the Griffith blasts centuKandasammy slams ton, right-handed Surujnarine, ry, East Coast stumble Georgetown lose again who hit 108 from 121 balls, Prolific East Bank playA brilliant 108 from stroking 13 fours and one six er Trevon Griffith contin-

ued his brilliant season by slamming 122 at Enmore against East Coast. East Bank batting first scored 243-9 in 50 overs, w i t h Sherfane Rutherford returning to local cricket supported with 47. Amir Khan had 4-41 for East Coast.

In reply East Coast were blown away for 43 in 17.3 overs. Trevon France had 5-14 in East Bank’s dominant display.

Kevin Sinclair on the flip after a wicket

Essequibo will meet Lower Corentyne in a virtual final at

Trevon Griffith slammed a century for East Bank

Essequibo remain unbeaten, Jones takes 5

Essequibo defeated West Demerara by 75 runs at GCC Bourda. Batting first, Essequibo scored 213 all out, with Richie Looknauth scoring 3-25. Kemol Savory

Pee Wee Under-11 football

and Kevon Boodie hit 51 each for Essequibo. In reply, former Guyana Under-19 fast bowler Joshua Jones contributed 5-18 in 5.5 overs, to send West Demerara packing at 138 all out in 46.5 overs.

Looknauth topscored with 41 in a losing effort.

Four matches will commence today:

Young Warriors ground; Georgetown will meet East Bank at GCC; East Coast will meet West Demerara at Enmore, and West Berbice will meet Upper Corentyne at Bush Lot.

Former champions St Pius sent packing by Tucville Cycle action set to pedal … North Georgetown, St. Agnes, Genesis advance off in Berbice today T

his year’s Courts Pee Wee 11 and Under football tournament will see a new winner as the defending champions, St. Pius were unceremoniously knocked out of the competition, following an afternoon of exhilarating grassroots football.

Genesis Primary, North Georgetown Primary, Tucville Primary and St. Agnes Primary are the four schools who will now fight to the death in order the lift the highly coveted Pee Wee trophy.

In the first quarterfinal on Saturday afternoon, Genesis primary had a walk in the park as the brushed aside the once dominant Timehri side. Timehri defended well during the game’s regulation time, as it expired without a goal being scored.

However, Genesis were eager to get the job done in extra time.

Ricardo Hazel was the first to find the back of the net in the 44tth to give Genesis the lead. While the lone goal was enough to grant them a spot in the semifinal, Anfernee Cummings ensured that the win was far out of Timehri’s reach with a second goal in the 50th.

Both Soesdyke Primary and North Georgetown had solid performances during the preliminary rounds, not having lost a game. Their strength showed as the encounter finished with the scores at 1-1. Jermaine Mitchel netted one for Soesdyke in the 30th and later, an own goal was given to North Georgetown in the 39th to tie things up.

Extra time bore no fruit for either side, plunging g the encounter into a penalty shootout. There North Georgetown prevailed 3-1.

The most entertaining game if the afternoon was witnessed when Tucville primary and last year’s champions St. Pius went head to head. The first goal came by way of penalty in the 16th; it was connected by Tucville’s goal keeper Joshua Augustin in the 16th. However, Bryan Brown levelled the scores for St. Pius in the 20th.

Jamal Fraser further extended the defending champion’s lead in the 34th with a goal of his own, however, Wayne Solomon

S

It was a hard fought battle between Soesdyke and North Georgetown

was subbed in and immediately had an impact on the encounter, scoring the equalizing goal.

When extra time could not prodice a winner, Tucville had the opportunity to exact revenge on St. Pius after they were defeated by the 2018 champions in last year’s semifinal 1-0.

With the yearlong regret on their minds, Tucville were superb at the penalty mark winning 3-2.

St. Agnes was another team that had a mountain to climb in order to book their semifinal spot as they came up against last year’s runner ups and the ever consistent West Ruimveldt. St, Agnes stunned their opponents with excellent plays and a solid defense. All it took was one goal from Shane Dalrymple in the 4th for St. Agnes to seal a victory. The Pee Wee semifinal will be contested on Saturday October 26 at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue. (Jemima Holmes)

ome of the country’s top cyclists will assemble in the Ancient County today (Sunday October 20) for Cycleton 2019 in New Amsterdam.

This event will see registration for cyclists closing at 8:30h, and action starting in front of Lizy Fish Shop at New Street. The race will circumvent the town for 30 laps before finishing at the point of origin.

The event is organized by Contemporary Events Planning and Décor, in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam and Trojan Cycling Club. All proceeds will be donated to the Guyana Cancer Institute.

This exciting race will feature four categories of competitors: Open, Junior, Veteran and Juvenile. Winner of the Open category will receive $50,000 while second place will receive $25,000, and all

top six finishers in the Open category will receive cash prizes.

In the Junior category, the top cyclist will receive $10,000 while the second place rider will earn $7,000.

The top Juvenile rider will walk away with $8,000 while the top Veteran will pocket $10,000.

In addition to cash prizes, trophies will be up for grabs.

Trojans’ cyclists Curtis Chappy Dey, Jonathan Ramsuchit and Ajay Goopilall will be competing among other top cyclists in the country.

Among sponsors of the event are Amzad Khan, Republic Bank, Full House Furniture, A Ally & Sons, East Dragon Trading, A & R Enterprise, Candy Shop, Automotive Paint Station & General Supplies.

(Brandon Corlette)

guyanatimesgy.com

sunDAY, october 20, 2019

Limacol Football Final…

23

Who will ‘the best of the best’ be? ꟷ Santos, or Fruta Conquerors?

By Jemima Holmes

T

he dictionary defines ‘rivalry’ as “competition for the same objective or for superiority in the same field”; and that, in essence, is exactly what will take place this evening at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue when the Limacol Football final is contested between Fruta Conquerors FC and Santos FC. To have reached the final of the fourth annual Limacol Tournament is already an achievement for these under-20 teams, given that this competition is dominated by seniors, but this final is considered “unfinished business” between the two best junior teams in the nation, and following excellent preliminary round runs from both teams, each squad will now put it all on the line in a figurative noholds-barred dogfight for the Limacol championship trophy and concomitant bragging rights.

Rivalry Rivalry between these two teams was spawned earlier this year when the Guyana Football Federation used an opportunity to collaborate with KFC Guyana to host the Under-20 Championships. It is important to note that many club competitions are not played at that level, but the competition got the nation’s youngsters going.

In June 2019, Fruta Conquerors pulled off a 3-1 victory over Santos to bag the KFC Independence Cup Georgetown final. Nicholas Mc Arthur (16th minute), Nicholai Andrews (56th) and Rayvon Bailey (90+2) netted one each for Fruta, while Ronaldo Rodrigues scored Santos’ consolation goal in the 20th.

However, when the two

met again in the National KFC Semifinal match, Santos exacted revenge with a 2-0 victory over Fruta. Stephan Reynolds removed the possibility of extra time play by netting a brace (80th and 88th minutes) to propel his team to a win.

With scores at 1-1 since June in what can be considered a tribal war, each of these two under-20 teams now has a chance to establish superiority when they go head-to-head in this highly

every aspect of the game and pushed to the limits of their skills set, this Tucville team is now “looking to bring it home”, according to captain Nicholas Mc Arthur.

“This is a different team, and we want to play a different style of football. But we cannot take these guys any easier, we just need to go out and train. All the players know their abilities and what they have to do,” Mc Arthur explained.

Famous for their come-

have to play as a team, and concentrate on what we have to do, and try to come out successful,” Wilson revealed.

While each coach has a different expectation of who the eventual winner of this final match-up will be, one thing that Wayne St. Jules from Fruta Conquerors and Earl Paul from Santos can agree on is that the final will be a great game to witness.

“As a champion, everybody comes at you. You got to train hard. The first three games

Fruta Conquerors will bring their A-game tonight

Santos have promised not to take their opponents lightly

charged football final.

Expectations abound Having had an extra week to prepare for their Armageddon after this final was initially postponed, the time has finally come for these youths to put ‘niceties’ aside as they settle their differences on the football pitch.

Fruta Conquerors have been lethal this year, raking in five consecutive wins by resounding victories, their largest being an 8-1 annihilation of Buxton Stars.

Following a tough semifinal against Riddim Squad, wherein they were tested in

from-behind victories this year, the Santos team, while not registering wins that are as impacting as their opponents’, have consistently been lurking and threatening, especially in the second half of the game.

Perennially clad in all white, the Santos boys must never be taken for granted or be under-rated, especially since Captain Marcus Wilson disclosed that his team will not take any opponent lightly.

“We just want to come focused on the game, and don’t be too over- confident because we won the last battle against Conquerors. We

were easy for us, but the last three we went ‘deep down in the bag’ to show that we are champions.

“Fruta is not an easy team, so we’re not taking them lightly; and this is history: first time two youth team reach a senior team final,” Paul explained.

“To see two young teams meeting in a final, I expect a good final. I won’t say it’s a ‘walk in the park’ for us. We won one final and Santos won the most important one that we wanted to win, but kudos to them. I’m just looking forward to a victory,” St Jules declared.

Tucber Park congratulates Shepherd on maiden ODI call-up E nhancing the already outstanding legacy of the Tucber Park Cricket Club in New Amsterdam, impressive fast-bowler Romario Shepherd has earned a call-up to West Indies ODI Cricket Team duty.

Shepherd is the first player from the Tucber Park Cricket Club to have achieved this honour, and now joins West Indies female players Candacy Atkins and Tremayne Smartt as Berbician cricketers who have been so distinguished of late.

Shepherd started his cricket career at this club in 2008 during his under-15 days, when the club was led by Carl Moore, an outstanding former cricket administrator in Guyana.

The club is now being led by Carl Moore’s son Julian, who has heartily congratulated this proverbial work horse on his selection for West Indies duty.

Guyana Times Sport spoke with Carl Moore, who now resides abroad, and was told the following: “On Shepherd’s selection, I am very overjoyed that Romario has meet the pinnacle of cricket (in) making the West Indies team. I hope his selection will encourage other youngsters to put in the hard work that he has been doing, and it will pay off”.

Carl Moore explained that Shepherd’s journey in cricket began from the school level.

“He played a school match, and we invited him to come out at

Tucber Park; and since then, he has been plying his trade.

Shepherd is a good example of someone who puts in the hard work in his game. from ‘Under-15’ to now, his dedication is admirable”.

Moore highlighted: “Shepherd has been putting in consistent performances for the club; but what I can recall was his performance in a T20 Final at Albion, where he took away the first three wickets in a short time”.

In 22 first class matches representing Guyana Jaguars and West Indies ‘A’ teams, Shepherd has taken 70 wickets at a staggering average of 23.71. He has twice taken five-wicket hauls, with a best of 5-24.

During the 2018/19 Regional 4-Day season, Shepherd took 37 wickets, the most by any fast bowler in the Caribbean in that season.

Shepherd took 13 wickets in CPL 2019, and overall has taken 17 wickets in 13 T20 matches at an average of 19.70. He has a best bowling figure of 4-13, which he took against Barbados Tridents.

In his ‘List A’ career, Shepherd has taken 31 wickets in 22 matches with an economy rate of 5.33 and an average of 24.93.

The 24-year-old Shepherd has also proven himself useful with the bat, having three first class half-centuries to his credit.

(Brandon Corlette)

The X-Factor With young talents such as Ryan Hackett, Nicholas Mc Arthur and Joel Yhap on show for Fruta Conquerors, and big guns such as Stephan Reynolds, Raymond Bandhu and Marcus Wilson coming out for Santos, this final match will definitely be explosive stuff.

When the starting whistle is blown, each team is expected to play to their strengths in order to bring home the cheque.

In Fruta Conquerors’ case, the boys in orange will look to score early in order to put their opponents under pressure. The Santos side favours a comefrom-behind’ tactic with a much stronger second half of play.

One player who should steal the spotlight is young Joel Yhap, who knows both sides

well. Back in June, Yap was the Santos under-20 goal-keeper who fended off a fiery Fruta Conquerors’ strike force to keep his team in the game. Now the tables have turned for Yhap, and he has found himself in the nets for the Tucville team.

This agile youngster is expected to be the variable that has the most significant impact on tonight’s game.

Another thing for certain is that each team will have a few tricks up its sleeves in order to blindside the opposition.

The grand prize is $400,000 and bragging rights; the second place team will have to settle for $200,000.

The third place playoff between Pele FC and Riddim Squad involves a figurative head-to-head collision for $100,000, while fourth place team pockets $50,000. The third place playoff will precede the final, with game time set for 19:00hrs.

The fourth annual Limacol Tournament is sponsored by New GPC and is also supported

by WJ Enterprise.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Limacol Football Final…

Page 23

Who will ‘the best of the best’ be? ꟷ Santos, or Fruta Conquerors?

West Berbice end Lower Corentyne unbeaten run Cycle Page 22

ꟷ consistent Sinclair stars again; Kandasammy, Griffith slam tons The Shimron Hetmyer-led West Berbice team (Brandon Corlette photos)

action set to pedal off in Berbice today

Pg 22

Trojans Cycle Club and Guyana’s top Junior cyclist Ajay Gopilall

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

October 20, 2019

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Feature

T

he Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked in countries across the world every October, helps to increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care of this disease.

There are about 1.38 million new cases and 458 000 deaths from breast cancer each year (IARC Globocan, 2008). Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer in women worldwide, both in the developed and developing countries. In low- and middle-income countries

the incidence has been rising up steadily in the last years due to increase in life expectancy, increase urbanization and adoption of western lifestyles.

Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women and the second most common cancer overall. There were over 2 million new cases in 2018 according to the World Cancer Research Fund.

Currently there is not sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer, therefore, early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. When breast cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured. If detected late, however, curative treatment is often no longer an option. In such cases, palliative care to relief the suffering of patients and their families is needed.

The majority of deaths (269 000) occur in low- and middle-income countries, where most women with breast cancer are diagnosed in late stages due mainly to lack of awareness on early detection and barriers to health services. A situa tion that can be reverted if adequate public health programmes are put in place.

The World Health Organisation promotes comprehensive breast cancer control programmes as part of national cancer control plans. The recommended early detection strategies for low- and middle-income countries are awareness of early signs and symptoms and screening by clinical breast examination in demonstration areas. Mammography screening is very costly and is feasible only in countries with good health infrastructure that can afford a long-term programme.

In Guyana, a lot of headway has been made in the fight to raise awareness to breast cancer as well as other cancers. During the month of October a plethora of activities are held to raise awareness as well as screen for new cases. However, there are no specific statistics as it relates to breast cancer in Guyana.

Breast Cancer Statistics Worldwide: • Nearly 1.7 million new breast cancer cases were diagnosed in 2012.

• Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and men worldwide. In 2012, it represented about 12 percent of all new cancer cases and 25 percent of all cancers in women.

• Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in 140 of 184 countries worldwide.

• Globally, breast cancer now represents one in four of all cancers in women.

• Since 2008, worldwide breast cancer incidence has increased by more than 20 percent. Mortality has increased by 14 percent.

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Feature

Surviving Breast Cancer

By Lakhram Bhagirat

O

ne of the most beautiful and equally scariest things about life is its unpredictability. The unpredictability of life is such that we never know what is coming next so it behoves us to not get too comfortable.

It behoves us to not take things for granted, so we can be ready for every curveball that unpredictability brings.

Despite being told to be prepared always, Zalina Singh never thought that she would have been hearing the word “cancer” associated with her name in her lifetime.

It all started one July morning while Zalina was in the shower. As she was washing, a breast self-examination revealed a lump in her left breast, but as most women do, she took it as not something to be serious about.

“I saw this lump on my left side breast and I didn’t do anything about it until a week after. Mind you, I work with Banks DIH, and I went to talk to our Industrial Nurse and she referred me to the Oncology Department at the Georgetown Public Hospital,” she said.

“They examined me there and sent me to do a fine needle biopsy and that result came back inconclusive and then they sent me to another biopsy and when that results came back, it concluded that I had stage two breast cancer. They told me at that time that the only solution was to remove my breast,” Zalina added.

However, she was not entirely sold on the idea of removing her breast so she asked her doctors to allow her some time before the surgery could have been done.

Zalina went back to work and discussed her diagnosis with some co-workers who advised a second opinion before any drastic steps were taken. So, in November of 2017,

she travelled to the United States of America and restarted all her tests. In the end, it led to the same diagnosis – stage two breast cancer.

However, the only difference this time was that she did not need to have her breast removed. The doctors in the USA advised that since it was just stage two, Zalina could have got her cancer treated with chemotherapy and radiation. She received 18 sessions of chemotherapy and 15 sessions of radiation.

Good news came for her in August of 2018 when she was declared cancerfree. However, for her, the road to recovery was not an easy one.

“The road was not an easy one. Cancer makes you value life more and you don’t take things for granted anymore, because tomorrow is not a promise. I was okay one day and all it was was just a lump. Cancer was nowhere in my mind and to be told that I have cancer was life-changing. I was numb at that moment when the doctor told me that I have cancer and I just started to cry.”

Cancer not only took part of her, it also affected her mental health. While receiving chemotherapy treatment, Zalina would go on to have anxiety attacks and for her, they were really bad.

“It is a struggle every day, because your body is never 100 per cent after treatment. It is a continued fight,” the mother of two said.

For Zalina, the journey could have been harder, but the unwavering support of her family and those around her made it much easier. For that, she remains thankful.

“My advice to people out there is to listen to your body. If I had left that lump there, I could have grown more and progressed. You feel something, go to the doctor and get yourself checked out. Don’t wait. Don’t assume anything. When you are diagnosed with cancer, people think it is a stigma. It is not the end of the world; you just have to be prepared to fight. You have to be positive always; support is important.”

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Feature

Surviving Thyroid Cancer

By Lakhram Bhagirat

F

or many people, cancer means a death sentence.

It means that if they don’t fight hard, then they would be conquered by this illness that rips millions of lives apart.

However, for some, they have no other choice than to beat this parasite of an illness because they cannot leave their lives in the balance.

For 48-year-old Nicola Schultz when she was diagnosed with cancer, she was sure about the fact that it meant she would have lost a battle. However, fate had another plan for her and with her willpower, she can now say that the long battle is somehow concluding.

Nicola was diagnosed with cancer of the thyroid. It all started when she discovered a lump in her throat in 2010. However, her doctors informed her that she had an overactive thyroid and it could be dealt with via treatment.

“I was diagnosed with an overactive thyroid in 2010; after a few weeks, I saw swelling in my throat and people were saying that it was goitre and all of that but I really didn’t take it for anything. But I was reading in a newspaper and they were talking about thyroid cancer and realised that I had the similar symptoms they were talking about. I called my doctor the next day and he said I can come in. When I went to him and right away he said I should do some follow-up checks and so and when I took the results, he confirmed it was what I suspected.

“He advised that I should do surgery as early as possible and I agreed. I did the surgery in October 2014. And when they opened up, they saw the cancer had spread so they took out the entire thyroid gland and sent it for a biopsy and it further confirmed it was cancer. I felt like it was a death sentence and I started crying saying that I am only 43 years old and how can this be possible. My daughter was pregnant with my second grand and all of that. But my doctor told me that his mother had the same thing and she had been a survivor for over 19 years,” Nicola related.

Nicola’s doctor then advised her to visit the Cancer Institute of Guyana located in the compound of the Georgetown Public Hospital. She went there and met with Dr Sian Chakraborty, who tested her to confirm the diagnosis. Upon confirming the diagnosis, Dr Chakraborty advised that she would require treatment but the treatment was not available in Guyana.

Nicola was told that she would have to travel to the United States or Trinidad for treatment. She chose the latter because of the cost factor.

“Dr Omar Khan in Trinidad did a full-body scan in June 2015 and they found that they were capable of treating me. I am taking the 131 iodine radiation and it is not available in Guyana. When I first started I went like three times in six months, I would have to go to Trinidad and the radiation is

working so in 2017, I was 80 per cent clear and last year and this year I came back clear, but I have to go back next year (2020) before I can be free of cancer.

“But for the first when I went to Trinidad, it was very hard for me. I was in isolation for three weeks and it was hard and I still need to do another dose of radiation before I am completely cancer-free, but I am a survivor right now.”

For now, every day for the rest of Nicola’s life begins with her taking a pill to induce the creation of thyroxin because the absence of her thyroid gland prevents the production of the hormone.

“Being diagnosed with cancer, everybody thinks the worst.

For me it was early detection, so with the treatment I could have been helped and then I did not really have much support other than my children and grandkids. My boss was also a major support for me, because they facilitated my treatment and ensured that I never missed a clinic date. Support is an important thing,” she notes.

Nicola advises that “everybody should get their checkups. Early detection saves a life because cancer changes everything. Cancer changes your life.

I thought I had gotten a death sentence, but I tell people now to use me as an example, because there is a life after cancer. Go early, get help, and have that support.”

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Feature

Surviving Breast Cancer

By Lakhram Bhagirat

C

ancer is a word no one wants to hear from their doctor. For many, the word itself is strong enough to drive fear in the strongest of people. So when Andrea Tucker’s doctor informed her that she had the dreaded “C-word” all she could have done was look to the heavens and place her faith in God. “I knew something was going to happen before I got my results. I was kinda expecting them to say cancer, but another part of me was doubtful because they would have done all these tests here in Guyana. When they told me that I have cancer, I said okay. I was shocked and I looked towards the sky and saying that God has the final say. I asked what stage, but they told me they have to do more tests. After they tested me and said they felt a lump and it was the first time I heard lumps after so many years of going to doctor and so on. It was then I broke down,” she remembered.

Andrea Tucker is the epitome of a strong woman, but to understand her current cancerfree status you would have to first understand

her journey.

For years, Andrea has been visiting doctor after doctor at various hospitals for them to explain why her breasts were bleeding.

“I had a condition for like four years where the breast was bleeding and I kept going to different doctors and hospitals, and they could not find the cause. I was told that it’s ductal papilloma. They didn’t give me any treatment, because the doctors said it could die away and if it persists, then I could do a minor surgery where they will make an incision to remove the tumour and stop the bleeding ,but treatment won’t carry it away. It would stop and start back ever so often and it eventually started to pain and I had to be taking painkillers, but it was no cancer diagnosis,” she explained.

An intraductal papilloma is a small, benign tumour that forms in a milk duct in the breast. These tumours are made of gland and fibrous tissue as well as blood vessels.

The 51-year-old was subjected to a number of mammograms, biopsies and ultrasounds, but not once was the word cancer mentioned. However, in April of 2017, she visited the United States of America and decided to get herself checked out again.

When she went to the hospital in New York, after numerous tests, she was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer.

“When I got the news, it was me and the two doctors and they asked me if it was me alone, but I told them I had a navigator. They said to call my navigator and I did.

I felt that she knew what the results were, but she did not tell me because she was not the doctor, but she was there when they took my coat, asked me about how the weather was and so on. After they did all of that, then they told me that I had cancer.”

On June 1, 2017, Andrea has a mastectomy which was followed by a rigid five months of chemotherapy, a small

break and then five weeks of intense radiation therapy.

“It was a hard journey, but I was determined to not allow it to get me down. I felt weak, drained, sick, ugly. I pushed myself to ignore the feeling. I cried yes, but I always got up and made the best of what little strength I had in my body. Two occasions I had to reschedule my treatment, because my body was so down. Don’t let the feelings get to you. Don’t allow cancer to get over you. There is hope and a lot of it too.

“I started occupying my time with things and took up crocheting and I am now sharpening my craft. When I felt weak, drained and could not sleep, I would get up and start crocheting until I felt good enough. Sometimes, the treatment would cause you to have mood swings and it is constant. I had to learn to work around it and navigate around it,” she recalled.

When Andrea returned home, she made a vow to ensure that more awareness is centred on the stigma of having cancer.

She is hoping that her story can inspire more people around Guyana so that the conversation can move away from just one month of the year to the entire year. She is urging everyone to take care of their health and ensure they have regular checkups because early detection saves lives.

Someone once wrote, “If you see those little pink ribbons on sale within a store, please take the time to buy one and say ‘breast cancer no more’, in loving memory of women gone and those suffering today. All the women of our future, may a cure be found. We pray.”

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B

gural Guyana Prize for Literature in the fiction category and, in 2002, he was awarded the Guyana Prize Special Award. In 2010, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

He gifted us infinitesimal dots on enormous canvases of the mind by listening to trees – ‘Tell me trees, what are you whispering’ – and writing back to Guyana and communicating with the world, by smashing down ‘Fences upon the earth’ and opening the ‘womb of space’ into which our imagination entered. He takes the reader to the precipice and dangles answers for the discerning; hard work for the reader but not unrewarding.

Harris’s early years were not uncomplicated but certain influences along the way helped to shape the direction of his writing. When he was only two years of age, his father died and when he was six, his step-father seemed to have deserted the family. The family headed by the mother made several house moves. When Wilson was only eight, he starting reading, THE ODYSSEY, with the help of his mother, Millicent. The Ulysses of that book became one of the motifs Harris employed in his writing.

orn in a small town in a far-away country, Wilson Harris would go on to haunt the imagination of people around the world.

His accolades, awards and accomplishments can only address part of his work and worth. The other parts of his work and worth are in the domain of the reader to appreciate. Harris is the recipient of several honorary doctorates, grants and fellowships.

He has held the revered position of Writer-in-Residence at many universities around the world including places like Australia, New York, Texas, Toronto and Cuba. In 1970, he was part of the Convention of Caribbean Writers and Artists held in Guyana planning for what turned out to be the Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta). During that visit to Guyana, he delivered a number of talks in the Edgar Mittelholzer Memorial Lecture Series. (Both Harris and Mittelholzer were born in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Guyana.) In 1987, he won the inau-

Before Harris migrated to England in 1959, he had spent almost equal number of years in Georgetown and in Guyana’s interior for he was 17 when he left school (Queen’s College – one of Guyana’s top schools at the time) to train as a land surveyor and, according to Jan Carew, Harris’ writing came out of ‘someone accustomed to talking to himself in the Guyana bush for seventeen years’.

Along with chalking up his first read book, young Wilson was part of an informal literary circle comprising of Sheila King and Malcolm King, discussing mainly Shakespeare, Milton, and Camus.

During his high school days at Queen’s College, he was a member of another literary group, Club 25. This group, limited to twenty five members only, operated from Progressive High School headed at the time by Leslie C. Davis. It included the likes of Allan Young, W. G. Stoll, E. O. Q. Potter, Maurice Charles and Jan Carew. One of the club’s events was a debate on the moot, ‘Poets and Scoffers’, judged by A. J. Seymour.

Later, when he moved into the world of work, Harris became part of a number of social and literary groups. One such gathering was labelled the ‘Anira Group’ operating out of the home of Martin Carter’s mother. It included Martin and his brother, Keith, Sydney Singh, and others. That group eventually moved to Carter’s home with additional members like Jan Carew, Slade Hopkinson and Milton Vishnu Williams.

Harris was also a part of a group that met at the home of Cheddi Jagan, mainly attracted to his vast library and his political vision for Guyana.

Another formal body of which Harris was a member was the Carnegie Library Discussion Circle. In 1956, when George Lamming visited Guyana to organise public readings, it was Harris who read Carter’s poems because Carter was under house arrest.

So Harris was well grounded in literary matters before his sojourn in the wilderness of Guyana and was conversant in such matters during his years as a surveyor, exploring the ‘womb of space’.

So much emphasis is being placed on the influence of the jungle on his work that his steady growth in literature in the ‘civilised’ Georgetown environs is overlooked. But his Georgetown sojourn is important part of Harris’ journeys of the imagination. *The theme of the 38th Annual West Indian Literature Conference ( Oct 17 – 20) to be staged

by University of Guyana is ‘Hinterlands: Journeys of the Imagination’.

Responses to this author please telephone 226-0065 of email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com

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Feature

Journey from Classroom to Courtroom

By Lakhram Bhagirat

A

ccomplishment is a beautiful thing, but the road to that beautiful thing is one that is not paved and lined with daisies, rather it is one lined with bumps.

However, when one reaches the pinnacle of accomplishment, the feeling is incomparable.

For 28-year-old Candiacia Juliet Lewis, that day came on October 5, 2019 when she crossed the graduation stage at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad. The journey to the mecca of law schools in the Caribbean has been a long one, a very long one for her.

That journey started on the small farming island of Wakenaam in the Essequibo River when little Candiacia started Maria’s Pleasure Nursery School. Education has always been an important part of her life and from a very young age, she knew what she wanted to become – an attorney.

When she sat the Common Entrance Examination, Candiacia gained a place at The Bishops’ High School in Georgetown but because of the distance, her mother, Hyacinth Prince, decided to have her attend the Essequibo Islands Secondary School (EISS).

“Unlike the other schools, we didn’t have Attorney-at-Law Candiacia Lewis with a lot of subjects and Sixth Form. We had a her mother, Hyacinth Prince maximum of nine subjects and the limitation of the subjects made it difficult and I felt disadvantaged. After I finished secondary school, I came to Georgetown and went to University.”

At no point did the idea of becoming a lawyer leave the mind of Candiacia, for it had cemented at an early age.

Newly-admitted lawyer Candiacia Lewis (centre); her mother, Hyacinth Prince to her immediate right; Justice Sandra Kurtzious to her immediate left; Attorneyat-Law Mark Waldron; Attorney-at-Law Keoma Griffith (extreme left); Attorneyat-Law Ronald Burch Smith, Attorney-at-Law Danielle Anthony

“I remember on the island while going to school, we would get electricity from 4 pm (16:00h) in the afternoon until quarter to eight (07:45h) in the morning. But every Friday the electricity would come on at either 10:30h or 11:00h and when I would come home from primary school for lunch, I would find my grandmother watching Matlock. When I get home, I would get the ending part of it and she would tell me the story and so and I would always tell her I want to be just like him. She used to admire this man so much and I was fascinated.”

Candiacia was recently called to the local Bar when Justice Sandra Kurtzious accepted her petition. In her maiden address to the court as a member of the Bar, Candiacia said that she was proud of herself.

“I am everything I am and everything I aspire to be because of Ms Hyacinth Amelia Prince, my mother. I am blessed to have such a strong woman in my life, who has always been my inspiration, my motivation, and my confidante. The selfless sacrifices that she has continuously made over the years – degrees after degrees –have not gone unnoticed nor taken for granted.

She has put plans on hold and set aside her life so as to make my plans and dreams come alive and for this, I will forever be grateful and indebted to her,” she said.

“Having a legal career has always been a childhood dream. Living in the farming community of Wakenaam in the Essequibo River, where we rode our bicycles six miles to and fro to attend the only secondary school, where the pinnacle was to write just nine subjects at CXC, becoming a lawyer was simply a fantasy. I remember watching the legendary TV sitcom Matlock and telling my grandmother I want to be just like him when I grow up and she would always say ‘go for it’. And today, here I stand before you proof that with hard work, dedication and a good support system, dreams are attainable.”

Justice Kurtzious accepted the petition on behalf of Candiacia as brought by Mark Waldron, Attorney-at-Law, Waldron & Burch-Smith Chambers. The Judge then alluded to the fact that the law was a jealous mistress, one that would consume your time. She advised the newlyminted attorney to have a life outside of the law.

Madam Justice Kurtzious further expounded on the expectations that this noble profession requires and that Lewis should never lose sight of the oath taken and the moral duty owed to the court. Always have integrity and apply your best knowledge of the law was resonating ad-

vice coming from the Honourable Justice. She charged the new attorney to always treat clients with respect as they would be your biggest advertisements and to demand respect for yourself and your office. Justice Kurtzious concluded by welcoming Candiacia to the Bar, where she will be permitted to practice in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and all its jurisdictions.

Backtracking to her journey, Candiacia said that throughout her time at law school, she felt somewhat disadvantaged because of the fact that she was not afforded the opportunity to complete prelaw studies as most of her colleagues were.

In fact, before she studied law, she read for her degree in social work.

“Starting UG Law was a terrifying experience. I was intimidated because I was thinking that I was this little island girl and I would be in class with students from top schools and who were exposed to legal courses before, so I was very intimidated. I remembered my first day: I walked in and got so scared, I closed the door and came back out. Professor Ronald Singh came out and he told me to come in and I sat down and it wasn’t bad. Intimidation was still there though and I had no friends there and it made thing worse.”

It was her mother who pushed her back to classes and it was from there she skyrocketed.

She made friends and it began a beautiful journey towards achieving her Legal Education Certificate. The journey many times attempted to break her and she wanted to give up, but she pushed forward.

The dream was so strong that nothing could have obstructed her path. Now that she is part of the legal profession, Candiacia does not plan to remain in one field of law, rather she wants to become an all-rounder so that she could make the biggest impact.

She is ready to take on the world, one case at a time.

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Feature

M

ale breast cancer is a rare cancer that forms in the breast tissue of men. Though breast cancer is most commonly thought of as a disease that affects women, breast cancer does occur in men.

Male breast cancer is most common in older men, though it can occur at any age.

Men diagnosed with male breast cancer at an early stage have a good chance for a cure. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the breast tissue. Other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may be recommended based on your particular situation.

Treatment

To determine your treatment options, your doctor considers your cancer's stage, your overall health and your preferences. Male breast cancer treatment often involves surgery and may also include other treatments.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of male breast cancer can include: • A painless lump or thickening in your breast tissue • Changes to the skin covering your breast, such as dimpling, puckering, redness or scaling • Changes to your nipple, such as redness or scaling, or a nipple that begins to turn inward • Discharge from your nipple

Causes

It's not clear what causes male breast cancer.

Doctors know that male breast cancer occurs when some breast cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do. The accumulating cells form a tumor that may spread (metastasize) to nearby tissue, to the lymph nodes or to other parts of the body.

Where breast cancer begins in men Everyone is born with a small amount of breast tissue. Breast tissue consists of milk-producing glands (lobules), ducts that carry milk to the nipples, and fat.

During puberty, women begin developing more breast tissue, and men do not. But because men are born with a small amount of breast tissue, they can develop breast cancer.

Types of breast cancer diagnosed in men include: Cancer that begins in the milk ducts (ductal carcinoma). Nearly all male breast cancer is ductal carcinoma.

Cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands (lobular carcinoma). This type is rare in men because they have few lobules in their breast tissue.

Other types of cancer. Other, rarer types of breast cancer that can occur in men include Paget's disease of the nipple and inflammatory breast cancer.

Inherited genes that increase breast cancer risk Some men inherit abnormal (mutated) genes from their parents that increase the risk of breast cancer. Mutations in one of several genes, especially a gene called BRCA2, put you at greater risk of developing breast and prostate cancers.

If you have a strong family history of cancer, discuss this with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend that you meet with a genetic counselor in order to consider genetic testing to see if you carry genes that increase your risk of cancer.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of male breast cancer include: • Older age. The risk of breast cancer increases as you age. Male breast cancer is most often diagnosed in men in their 60s.

• Exposure to estrogen. If you take estrogen-related drugs, such as those used for hormone therapy for prostate cancer, your risk of breast cancer is increased.

• Family history of breast cancer. If you have a close family member with

breast cancer, you have a greater chance of developing the disease.

• Klinefelter's syndrome. This genetic syndrome occurs when boys are born with more than one copy of the X chromosome. Klinefelter's syndrome causes

abnormal development of the testicles. As a result, men with this syndrome

produce lower levels of certain male hormones (androgens) and more female

hormones (estrogens).

• Liver disease. Certain conditions, such as cirrhosis of the liver, can reduce male hormones and increase female hormones, increasing your risk of breast cancer.

• Obesity. Obesity is associated with higher levels of estrogen in the body, which in creases the risk of male breast cancer.

• Testicle disease or surgery. Having inflamed testicles (orchitis) or surgery to re move a testicle (orchiectomy) can increase your risk of male breast cancer.

Surgery

The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding breast tissue. The procedures include: • Removing all of the breast tissue (mastectomy). The surgeon removes all of your

breast tissue, including the nipple and areola.

• Removing a few lymph nodes for testing (sentinel lymph node biopsy). The doctor

identifies the lymph nodes most likely to be the first place your cancer cells would

spread. Those few lymph nodes are removed and analyzed. If no cancer cells

are found, there is a good chance that your breast cancer hasn't spread beyond

your breast tissue. If cancer is found, additional lymph nodes are removed for test ing.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells. In male breast cancer, radiation therapy may be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells in the breast, chest muscles or armpit.

During radiation therapy, radiation comes from a large machine that moves around your body, directing the energy beams to precise points on your chest.

Hormone therapy

Most men with male breast cancer have tumors that rely on hormones to grow (hormone-sensitive). If your cancer is hormone-sensitive, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy.

Hormone therapy for male breast cancer often involves the medication tamoxifen. Other hormone therapy medications that are used in women with breast cancer haven't been shown to be effective for men.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medications to kill cancer cells. These medications may be administered through a vein in your arm (intravenously), in pill form or by both methods.

Your doctor might recommend chemotherapy after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might have spread outside your breast. Chemotherapy may also be an option for men with advanced breast cancer. (Mayo Clinic)

10 Sunday Times Magazine Feature

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Sunday Times Magazine 11

Feature

CHEESY GARLIC BREAD

INGREDIENTS • 14 ounces loaf bread sliced in half horizontally (lengthwise) • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened • 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped (or 1 1/2 table

spoons minced garlic) • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped • 1/4 teaspoon salt, (or to taste) • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese • 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 200°C | 400°F. Line a bak

ing sheet with parchment paper

(baking paper), or foil. Arrange bread on baking sheet, cut-side up.

2. In a small-sized bowl, combine together the butter, garlic, fresh parsley and salt. Mix ingredients together until well blended. Evenly spoon the garlic but ter mixture evenly over both bread halves right to the edges. Top with the cheeses and sprinkle with the dried parsley.

3. Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for about 2 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Slice and serve

DECORATING TIPS TOP DESIGNERS SWEAR BY While the process of decorating your home is thrilling, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Your goal should be to showcase your design aesthetic in a tasteful way, but it’s a given that you'll be faced with everything from an interior that lacks natural light to a layout that’s much smaller than you’d like. So it’s no surprise that these common dilemmas might turn you off from decorating altogether. But instead of viewing them as stumbling blocks, use them as inspiration to design the home of your dreams.

Regardless of the type of space you're decorating, there's nothing more important than paying attention to details—and expressing your creativity. Taking the time to understand the basic principles of decorating, from choosing the right furniture to finding the perfect color palette, will get you one step closer to crafting the home you’ve always wanted.

Here, we share decorating pointers from our archives and useful tips from top interior decorators to help you make sense of what good design really means. If you're ready to master the art of decorating and up for putting your imagination to the test then here are some ideas for you:

EXPERIMENT WITH PATTERNS Layering patterns in a range of styles and scales is an easy way to add visual interest to a room.

LAMB CHOWMEIN

INGREDIENTS • 1 lb ground lamb • ½ onion, diced • 1 tbsp mince garlic • 1 tbsp chopped thyme • 1 hot pepper, finely chopped • 1 tbsp oil • 1 cup shredded carrot • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp black pepper • 1 tsp Chinese five spice powder • 3 tbsp hoisin sauce • 3 scallion, finely chopped • 1 - 12 oz package chowmein noodles • Thinly shredded cabbage (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large pan or wok add oil. When oil is hot, add lamb, then add salt and

cook until brown, about 5 minutes. Be sure break up lamb using a spoon.

2. While the meat browns, place a large pot of salted water on the fire and bring

to a boil and cook chowmein according to directions on the package. Strain

and set aside.

3. Add onion, garlic, thyme, pepper and Chinese five spice powder then stir and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion softens. Add ½ cup of water and

hoisin sauce to the lamb and cook for about 5 minutes until all the liquid

evaporates.

4. Add shredded carrots, onions and stir fry for about 2 minutes, don’t overcook!

5. Add lamb and vegetable mixture to the chowmein and mix to combine using a tong or large fork.

6. Add scallion and black pepper and additional salt if needed.

7. Add a tsp of oil to the large frying pan over high heat and add the chowmein.

Stir fry for about 2 minutes then remove from heat. Serve with thinly shredded

DISPLAY COLLECTIBLES ON A TABLE Every room can benefit from accessories that have a history. Rather than showcasing your collectibles on a shelf, set them out on a table.

MIX YOUR TIME PERIODS “You mix things up with old and new,” suggests textiles and interior designer Kathryn M. Ireland, as she did in the living room of her Santa Monica home; a room where the furnishings include 17thcentury French chairs, an 18th-century Mexican console, and a cocktail table from her furniture line.

Nojito

INGREDIENTS • 12 to 14 small mint leaves or 6-8 big ones • 1 ounce fresh lime juice • 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar • 4 ounces club soda (Sprite works, too) Put the mint leaves, lime juice and brown sugar in a tall cocktail glass and muddle the leaves. Fill the glass with ice cubes and add the rum extract and club soda. Stir to mix up the sugar. Garnish with another mint sprig.

ANCHOR YOUR ROOM WITH A CLASSIC “Bringing a touch of the Old World into the mix creates a home that will never feel dated,” designer Alex Papachristidis explains of the art-studded Manhattan apartment he designed for a family friend.

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Puzzles

ACROSS 1 6 11 16 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 32 34 36 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 54 55 56 60 61 62 64 65 66 67 68 70 71 73 74 75 77 78 79 80 82 83 84 87 88 89 93 94 95 97

Actor -- Reeves Jabs with a tusk Fix up Dusk to dawn Surmise Beyond's partner Pool resources Google rival Edible bulb Princess abandoned by Jason Ventured Fridge maker California's Big -Buffalo hockey pro Waffler's answer Earth's star High sign Chicken style Scouts unit Ralph -- Emerson Earnings Ms. Burstyn of film Light incense to Onetime teen mag Hung-jury result Excalibur End of Caesar's boast Hit a fly Destroys data Dwindled Bumped against Luau music Red Sonja ally Jockey Aladdin's servant Posh hotel lobbies Grill, perhaps Flour or sugar Sorts socks Pops Tijuana coin Heavy hydrogen discoverer Hitters' ploys Sea cow Lou Grant portrayer Needing bleach Gives notice Camera feature DEA agents Abrupt Lean-tos Breathlessly quiet Suspicion Make happy Portuguese king

98 Divert 99 Less than one 100 Asian capital 101 Violin middle 103 Links goal 104 Scribble 106 Jessica of "Tootsie" 107 Ring 108 "Watermark" singer 110 Puts the moves on 111 Archaeology find 112 Jai alai courts 113 African tongue 115 Call, as an elk 116 Limb 117 Contract proviso 120 Steak cut (hyph.)

122 "Eating --" 124 Ivy League member 128 Deighton or Cariou 129 Gridiron stats 131 Beethoven's "Fur --" 133 Secret signs 135 Winter Games grp.

136 Far from indifferent 138 Port in a storm 140 Gave a hand?

142 Wassailers' song 144 Cub Scout leader 145 Thumb-turner Roger 146 Glacial ridge 147 Comic-strip queen 148 Innsbruck locale 149 "The Jungle Book" bear 150 Thick with cattails 151 Center DOWN 1 Newsstand 2 The blahs 3 Really excited 4 Prefix for "recent" 5 Samovars 6 Horse's hock 7 Merle of the silver screen 8 Aaron Copland work 9 Time to celebrate 10 Coal deposit 11 Mr. Kipling 12 Allow to happen 13 Employed 14 Corroded, as acid 15 Motel offerings 16 Striped antelopes 17 "-- -- Woman" 18 Accra's country

KATHLEEN SAXE

WORD GAME TODAY'S WORD -- DISJOINTED (DISJOINTED: dis-JOINT-ed: Lacking order or coherence.)

Average mark 42 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 59 or more words in DISJOINTED? TODAY'S WORD -- DISJOINTED

deist sine ides est tend dent site idiot oddi- tide dido indite snide ties tidied died snit inset odds tidies diet i n - s o d - onset tied dine den side o n - tine dint stein side into toddiode i o - steno nest dies d i s - dine stone nisei toed s e d i - jest tend node tone tion does join noes edit send done joint noise edisent dose joist nose tion side dote o d d - note 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.

19 Accept, as a check 20 Flatterer 31 Mercator's tome 33 In -- -- (briefly) 35 Davis of "Evening Shade" 38 Vice - 40 Plains tribe 42 Horus' father 44 Fleur-de- -- (var.)

46 Mortgages 48 Take-charge type 50 Large lot 51 Put in a nutshell 52 Notched, as a leaf 53 Skimpy pullovers 54 With regret 55 Barn toppers 57 Rathskeller fare 58 Go fly -- --!

59 Pick on 61 Windshield device 62 Pier 63 Unnerve 66 Not as common 67 Crews 69 Landfill contents

72 73 74 76 78 79 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 90 91 92 94 95 96 surname 99 100 102 cockroach 105 106

Adjusted a piano Have chips, say Fishing lures Courtroom rituals Thin-barked tree Painting on a wall Pegasus, e.g.

Formal ball Waiting line Physical condition Man or woman Loan-sharking Cancels Drain problems Spenser portrayor Physicist Nikola -Where things are Laid low (2 wds.)

Letter writer Southfork 1940s suit Iceboat feature Fictional Held title to Sleek sleds

107 Make watertight 109 Oil-rich -- Dhabi 111 Collide (2 wds.)

112 Reba's genre 114 Stellar 115 Ravel classic 116 Purified water 117 Turf grabber 118 Dripping 119 Infuriate 121 Slanting edge 123 Up and about 125 Hung in the sun 126 Plunders 127 Brilliance 130 -- Wooley of 1950s pop 132 Kassel's river 134 Defraud 137 "Xanadu" grp.

139 Lawyers' org.

141 Language suffix 143 "Ropea-dope" boxer See Solution on page 14

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Sunday Times Magazine 13

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OCTOBER 20, 2019

Bollywood/Hollywood

K

aran Johar is celebrating 21 years of his romantic blockbuster Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which starred Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji in lead roles. An effervescent romance that brought a faux Riverdale to India with SRK as Archie Andrews of sorts, the film has achieved iconic status over the years.

It is often referenced, often commented on and it is impossible to take away the effect the film -- or the brand of filmmaking -- had on Indian cinema.

Karan took to Twitter on the occasion to celebrate the film that established him as a director, “Firsts are always special! The cast, crew, music & the heart & soul of this film was all in the right place. Thank you for making this journey a timeless one even after 21yrs! #21YearsOfClassicKKHH.” A lot has happened in these 21 years. Karan -- a multi-hyphenate personality and a power centre in Bollywood -- has even spoken about a possible reboot.

On the 21st anniversary of KKHH, as it is popularly known, here are some interesting facts about the film.

Karan Johar’s wants these actors in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai reboot A few months ago, Karan had expressed his desire to see Alia Bhatt play the role of Anjali in the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai reboot. Speaking at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Karan said, “On my wishlist would be Ranveer Singh as Rahul, he has that mad intensity as Shah Rukh Khan; Alia Bhatt as Anjali -- she has the spunk and Janhvi Kapoor as Tina because she has the poise and balance of the part.”

Aishwarya Rai, Tabu, Urmila Matondkar rejected the film Karan had revealed at the event that he had ap-

proached all from Aishwarya Rai, Urmila Matondkar to Tabu for the film, only to be turned down by them. “Ash was the only one who was polite to call me back.” he had said.

IANS, Rani’s short dress in the song Koi Mil Gaya was created by designer Manish Malhotra and was originally knee-length. However, Karan wanted a hot look for her in the movie and

Aditya Chopra recommended Rani Mukerji’s name Karan Johar had revealed at the event that “it took months to cast for Rani’s part after Aditya Chopra recommended me her name.” Rani played Shah Rukh Khan’s wife in the film, who dies soon after giving birth to their daughter named after his best friend Anjali (Kajol).

Shah Rukh Khan called it a ‘crap story’ Shah Rukh had said during the 20th anniversary celebration of the film, “Karan came and narrated an utterly nonsense crap story to me; which is certainly not the one that finally you people saw in the film. In his strange way Karan, the man with many words, tried to impress me with his crap story. So yes, I really did not understand the story when I signed in and I am glad that I did not get into the story and just went ahead with the conviction of Karan, otherwise the film would have not been the way it came out.”

Rani Mukerji’s short dress was altered to make her look hot According to a report in

got it altered. Both Karan and Manish were shocked when they saw her perform so comfortably in the very short dress.

Archana Puran Singh and Anupam Kher’s romantic scene was cut out In an interview to Hindustan Times, Archana had revealed that there was one scene from the narration which never made it to the film. She said, “where Malhotra (Anupam Kher) and Ms Braganza would meet at the railway station after many years and they have both greyed. The song playing in the background would have been Waqt Ne Kia Kaisa Sitam. That would have been the culmination of their romance. We never shot it because the film had stretched quite long.”

Cast members received welcome notes and flowers on every schedule Farida Jalal once told HT, “Karan had his own way of explaining a scene.

He would emote every scene, which he does even now! It was so much fun.” She added, “At every schedule, we were greeted with flowers and a welcome note. It was a very special film.”

(Hindustan Times)

A

ctors Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff’s War has become the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2019, domestically. The film on Tuesday crossed the previous record holder, Shahid Kapoor’s Kabir Singh.

According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, War has made Rs 280.6 crore in India, breezing past Kabir Singh’s Rs 278 crore total. Vicky Kaushal’s Uri: The Surgical Strike is at the number three spot, with Rs 245 crore in the bank, followed by Salman Khan’s Bharat (Rs 216 crore) and Akshay Kumar’s Mission Mangal (Rs 202 crore).

War crossed the Rs 100 crore mark on day three of release, the Rs 200 crore mark on day seven, and the Rs 250 crore mark on day 11. Worldwide, the film has made Rs 413 crore approximately.

The film has broken over a dozen box office records since its release, including

the biggest opening day figures for a Hindi film (Rs 51 crore), the biggest opening of Hrithik and Tiger’s careers, and the biggest holiday release.

Hrithik said in a statement of gratitude, “It is an incredible response to our hard work and I’m truly grateful to the audience for loving our film. When we decided to make War, we were clear that we were attempting to do something that has never been done in Indian cinema and we went all out to make it happen.

So, it’s hugely validating to see the fantastic response of

the people enjoying our action entertainer in the theatres.”

Tiger said in a statement, “I’m touched by the fantastic response that our film has been getting from audiences across India. I have no words to describe what I’m feeling right now except that I feel blessed to be getting this love and appreciation from people. I have always wanted my films to be out and out entertainers, films that make people happy in theatres and I’m glad that War has become that film.”

(Hindustan Times)

B

eauty is in the eye of the beholder — and apparently, those beholders are still the ancient Greeks.

London facial cosmetic surgeon Dr. Julian De Silva has determined supermodel Bella Hadid, 23, to be the most beautiful woman in the world, based on modern mapping techniques that implement the classic Greek “Golden Ratio of Beauty Phi.”

A

quaman himself, Jason Momoa, doesn’t see himself as a movie star.

“I think of Brad Pitt as a movie star. You know what I mean? Like George Clooney is a movie star.

Those guys are like, boom,” Momoa, 40, told Esquire.

He also spoke highly of his “Dune” co-star Timothée Chalamet, saying, “I would never be able to handle what he does. He’s so f– king talented, man. I don’t know. I’m a little dumber, needed some time. Which is probably the best for me, because it would have been bad if it happened when I was younger. I just would have f–ked it all up.”

Despite Momoa’s roles in heavy hitters such as “Game of Thrones” and “Justice League,” and despite landing his own Apple TV+ show “See,” the actor believes he isn’t known for the craft.

“I’m not known for my acting,” he said. “I’m known for action. I don’t say a lot of things or use big sentences … I’m not ‘very smart,’” he added using air quotes.

If there’s one thing he’s confident about though, it’s marrying his wife, 51-yearold Lisa Bonet.

He said she was his “childhood crush,” add-

“[Hadid] was the clear winner when all elements of the face were measured for physical perfection,” De Silva told the Daily Mail of Hadid, who landed a 94.35% perfection score. “She had the highest overall reading for her chin which, with a score of 99.7 percent, is only 0.3 percent away from being the perfect shape.”

While Bella’s big sister Gigi Hadid didn’t make the list, singer Beyoncé, 38,

came in second (92.44%) while actress Amber Heard, 33, placed third (91.85%).

Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift placed fourth and fifth, respectively.

The “Golden Ratio” was used by artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci to mathematically calculate the beauty of much of their work, including but not limited to assessing the beauty of female subjects.

(Page Six)

ing, “I mean, I didn’t tell her that. I didn’t let her know I was a stalker until after we had the kids.”

And because of his wife’s support, he’ll never stop chasing his dreams.

“I’m like, ‘Listen here, I married Lisa Bonet,” he said.

“Anything is f– king possible.’”

(Page Six)

Crossword Solution

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Fun Times

Archie

ARIES (March 21April 19)

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- You'll be faced with a change, and decisions will have to be made. Be patient and willing to compromise and work with a loved one to reach an agreement.

TAURUS (April 20-May TAURUS 20) -- A getaway will have (April 20- an impact on your attitude May 20) and will influence the choices you make. Romance is in the stars and will encourage you to take a chance.

GEMINI (May 21-June GEMINI 20) -- Don't let the actions of (MAY 28- others cause confusion. Go June 20) about your business and take care of your needs. Choose to tackle your responsibilities before addressing someone else's chores.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) -- Turn your dream into (June 21- a reality. Don't be afraid to July 22) embrace a new adventure.

Romance will improve your day and bring you closer to a loved one.

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Dilbert

Peanuts

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) -Don't be rattled by sudden changes. Follow your instincts and do what resonates with you.

An open mind and the will to take action will pay off.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- If you take part in something you've never done before, you will pick up valuable information. An encounter with someone from your past will be enlightening. Romance is encouraged.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) -- Don't labour over what you cannot change, or get into an argument you cannot win.

Let go of what's not working for you and embrace what is.

Choose peace over chaos.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) SCORPIO (Oct. 24- -- Travelling, visiting friends or Nov. 22) family or taking on a new challenge that will stimulate your mind and result in personal growth should be a priority.

Romance will enhance your life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) -- Simple pleasures will be relaxing and rewarding. Consider what makes you happy and brings you peace of mind, and head in that direction. Avoid people who are a negative influence.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- If you look at your options, you'll come up with a plan that excites you. You are overdue for a personal or professional change, so stop procrastinating and start getting things done.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20AQUARIUS Feb. 19) -- Don't feel that (Jan. 20- you must follow someone Feb. 19) who is heading down a path that isn't right for you. If you follow your heart, you will achieve happiness and gain respect.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March PISCES (Feb. 20- 20) -- Participate in an enMar. 20) tertaining event. Spending money on loved ones is encouraged, as long as you don't take on debt. An idea you have will promote better cash flow.