November 7th, 2024

*The following articles were summarized by AI

Fact of the day

Did you know? Animals can experience time very differently from humans, and this perception often varies with the size and metabolic rate of the animal. Smaller animals, like salamanders and lizards, tend to experience time more slowly than larger animals, such as cats and dogs. This phenomenon is largely due to differences in how quickly their brains process incoming sensory information.

In smaller animals with fast metabolisms, neural processing speeds are often higher, allowing them to perceive more frames or "moments" per second. This heightened perception means that events around them appear to move in slow motion compared to what humans see. For example, a salamander might see every detail of a human hand reaching to grab it, giving it more time to react or escape.

This temporal perception is advantageous in the wild, where smaller animals often need to respond quickly to avoid predators. By experiencing time more slowly, they can react with lightning speed, giving them a crucial survival edge. So, while we may experience one smooth reality, these animals are effectively living in a high-speed world of micro-moments.

Jokes of the day

1. What do rich people say when they tickle babies? “Gucci, Gucci, goo.”

2. Who was the roundest knight in King Arthur’s court? Sir Cumference.

3. Why did the man bring his watch to the bank? He wanted to save time.

Highlights

1. Donald Trump Wins U.S. Presidency in Historic Comeback

2. Guyana’s Leaders Congratulate Trump on U.S. Presidential Election Win

3. Attorney General Rejects Opposition's Call for Cash Grant Legislation

4. Nandlall Concerned Over High Rate of CCJ Reversals of Local Court Decisions

5. US$1.5B Oko West Gold Project to Boost Guyana’s Mining Sector

6. Election Fraud Trial Faces Delays as New Magistrate Reviews Case

7. Amazon Warriors Confirm Core Squad for Inaugural Global Super League

Politics & Government

Donald Trump Wins U.S. Presidency in Historic Comeback

Donald Trump has been re-elected as U.S. president, securing 279 Electoral College votes against Vice President Kamala Harris’ 223 in a tight race marked by heightened polarization. This stunning victory, four years after leaving office, makes Trump only the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland in the 19th century. Trump’s win, fueled by voter concerns over economic issues and immigration, included strong support from rural and non-college-educated voters.

During his campaign, Trump promised to overhaul government institutions, suggesting he would prioritize loyalty and restructure federal agencies to target political adversaries. Notably, he has already extended roles to high-profile allies like Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. His re-election could deeply impact U.S. policy on trade, climate, and immigration, with anticipated tensions on international fronts.

Harris, who replaced President Biden on the ticket after he stepped down mid-campaign, failed to rally enough support despite highlighting potential threats posed by Trump’s rhetoric and policies. Trump and his vice president, Senator JD Vance, are set to take office on January 20, 2025.

Guyana’s Leaders Congratulate Trump on U.S. Presidential Election Win

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo extended congratulations to Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. President Ali expressed optimism for continued collaboration, noting the strong ties between Guyana and the U.S. in areas such as energy, climate, and regional security. Vice President Jagdeo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Guyana's commitment to maintaining a strategic partnership as it grows as an energy hub in the Caribbean. The Trump administration, set to assume office in January 2025, is anticipated to impact bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment.

Attorney General Rejects Opposition's Call for Cash Grant Legislation

Attorney General Anil Nandlall has dismissed opposition calls to legislate the government’s cash grant distribution, labeling the proposal as "nonsensical." The opposition suggested codifying the cash grant program, which provides financial assistance to citizens aged 18 and over. Nandlall argued that making such grants a legal obligation would limit the government’s flexibility in adjusting to economic changes. He noted that other forms of financial assistance, like school uniform subsidies and pensioner benefits, have operated successfully without legislation. Nandlall accused the opposition of hypocrisy, referencing their pre-election promises on education funding, which he says were not honored.

Government Addresses Complaints of Theft and Poor Conditions on MV MA Lisha

In response to complaints about theft, unsanitary conditions, and delayed service on the MV MA Lisha, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill has pledged to improve the vessel's operations. Passengers reported issues with theft, foul odors, and malfunctioning air conditioning on the route between Georgetown and North West District. Minister Edghill, who met with passengers and Transport and Harbours Department management, promised swift action, including penalties for crew negligence and enhanced operational standards. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that investments in the fleet benefit the people, with further discussions scheduled to address these service issues.

Nandlall Concerned Over High Rate of CCJ Reversals of Local Court Decisions

Attorney General Anil Nandlall has voiced concerns over the Caribbean Court of Justice's (CCJ) increasing frequency of overturning decisions from Guyana’s local courts, particularly the Court of Appeal. Citing last week’s CCJ ruling that upheld Vikash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne’s appointments as Parliamentary Secretaries, Nandlall highlighted what he called an “alarming rate” of reversals in certain case types, some showing a “100% reversal rate.” This trend, he argues, raises questions about judicial consistency in the country. Additionally, Nandlall pointed out the growing backlog at the Court of Appeal due to vacancies, despite successful backlog reduction at the High Court level. He hopes that ongoing efforts by the Judicial Service Commission to address staffing issues will alleviate pressure on the appellate court.

Single Mother Receives New Home Through Men on Mission Initiative

Anisa Deoraj, a 28-year-old single mother of three, has received a new home through the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative, designed to support vulnerable families. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, handed over the keys to Deoraj at her new residence in Meten-Meer-Zorg, East Bank Essequibo. Previously living in Tuschen's North Squatting Area after leaving an abusive relationship, Deoraj struggled with unsafe and uncomfortable conditions for her children, aged eleven, eight, and four.

Grateful to President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the driving force behind MoM, Deoraj expressed excitement for her family’s fresh start. Minister Indar encouraged her to embrace government opportunities for self-sufficiency. Since its inception, MoM has transformed living conditions for seven families in Region Three.

Economy and Development

US$1.5B Oko West Gold Project to Boost Guyana’s Mining Sector

The US$1.5 billion Oko West gold project in Region Seven, developed by G Mining Ventures Corp., is poised to revitalize Guyana’s mining sector. Scheduled to begin operations by 2027, the project spans 44 square kilometers and aims to produce over 35,000 ounces of gold annually. At a recent forum, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn highlighted the project’s role in expanding job opportunities and fulfilling government commitments to the sector.

The Oko West project will create around 1,700 construction jobs and at least 1,500 ongoing roles, with an emphasis on local employment. G Mining Ventures has partnered with the Board of Industrial Training for workforce training and the University of Guyana for geology scholarships, supporting education and skill development in Guyana.

Crime & Security

Mother Calls for Stricter Security Checks After Daughter’s Severe Bullying Incident

Following a violent bullying incident at Linden Foundation Secondary School, Shonette Deamil, a mother of six who returned from Venezuela, is calling for heightened school security measures. Her 13-year-old daughter was brutally attacked by two students while others cheered, filmed, and shouted encouragement. The attack, captured on video, left the girl with severe bruises, difficulty walking, and head injuries.

Deamil believes her daughters face harassment due to their Venezuelan heritage and is advocating for mandatory bag checks at school entrances to prevent dangerous items from entering the premises. She suggests restricting school access to parents and guardians only. The students responsible have been suspended, and Deamil has filed reports with police and welfare authorities. She hopes this incident will prompt improved safety measures for her children and other Venezuelan students in Guyana.

Former Manslaughter Accused Found Dead in Linden

Months after being acquitted of manslaughter charges, 25-year-old Brian Hermanstyne was found dead in his home in Wismar Hill, Linden. His body was discovered around 5 p.m. on Tuesday, with an autopsy pending to determine the cause of death. In May 2024, Brian and his brother, Elden Hermanstyne, were found not guilty in a case where they were accused of pushing boat captain Elick Alexander overboard in November 2022. Alexander's body was discovered the following day. Investigations are ongoing.

Election Fraud Trial Faces Delays as New Magistrate Reviews Case

The restart of Guyana’s high-profile election fraud trial remains delayed as Chief Magistrate (ag) Faith McGusty addresses preliminary arguments from both sides. Defense attorney Nigel Hughes has argued for a complete restart, while prosecutors suggest continuing from prior witness testimonies. McGusty set deadlines for written submissions by November 27 and scheduled a December 9 hearing to rule on these preliminary issues. The case, involving former government officials accused of manipulating election results, has been marked by delays and procedural debates, further prolonging the highly anticipated trial.

Teen Pedestrian Survives Serious Accident in Grove; Driver Arrested

A 15-year-old girl is in stable but serious condition after being struck by a motor lorry in Grove, East Bank Demerara. The accident, which occurred around 9:20 a.m. on Wednesday, was captured on video and showed the girl attempting to cross the road in front of the lorry, which was moving in heavy traffic. She was pulled from beneath the vehicle by bystanders and rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Center, then transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery for a hip fracture. The 42-year-old lorry driver was arrested, and his vehicle has been impounded for investigation.

Tourism

GTA and THAG Launch Initiatives to Inspire Future Tourism Ambassadors

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) have unveiled initiatives aimed at inspiring youth to pursue careers in tourism. Announced during Tourism Awareness Month at Lake Mainstay, the programs include hands-on experiences and career education to showcase the sector’s diverse opportunities. GTA Director Kamrul Baksh highlighted the Junior Tourism Cook and Showcase, encouraging school-aged children to explore local culture and culinary arts. THAG President Omadele George introduced the SWIFT program, which partners students with tourism businesses for real-world experience, helping students gain insights into careers from event management to hospitality. Earlier this year, seventeen students completed internships at top tourism establishments, part of a long-term strategy to build a skilled workforce for Guyana’s growing tourism sector.

Sports

Harpy Eagles Secure First Super50 Victory with Imlach, Nandu, and Permaul

The Guyana Harpy Eagles clinched their first win in the 2024 CG United Super50 Cup, defeating the Leeward Islands Hurricanes by eight wickets through the DLS method at Brian Lara Cricket Academy. After restricting the Hurricanes to 139 in 34.2 overs, Veerasammy Permaul shone with 3-24, while Ashmead Nedd and Nial Smith took two wickets each. In response, the Harpy Eagles reached 141-2 in 27.5 overs, led by Captain Tevin Imlach’s unbeaten 69 and Matthew Nandu’s 50. Currently in fourth position, the Harpy Eagles will next face the Jamaica Scorpions on Thursday.

Top Drivers Gear Up for Group Four Showdown at ENET Caribbean Clash of Champions

The Group Four race at the ENET Caribbean Clash of Champions, set for Sunday, November 10, promises an epic battle at the South Dakota Circuit. Championship leader Vishok Persaud holds a slight edge with 133 points, but Mark Vieira, trailing by 11 points, awaits medical clearance to race. Former two-time Caribbean Champion Kristian Jeffrey aims to reclaim the track record, while U.S. driver Quinlan Lall brings international competition. Veteran drivers Andrew King, Kevin Jeffrey, and GMRSC President Mahendra Boodhoo will also be on the grid, among others. Fans can expect high-speed excitement as these skilled drivers compete for glory.

Amazon Warriors Confirm Core Squad for Inaugural Global Super League

The Guyana Amazon Warriors have announced their squad for the first-ever ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), set for November 26 to December 7 at the Guyana National Stadium. Led by Imran Tahir, who captained them to a Caribbean Premier League title in 2023, the team includes key international players Dwaine Pretorius and Moeen Ali, along with USA-based spinner Hassan Khan and Bangladesh bowler Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Guyanese players Romario Shepherd, Shimron Hetmyer, and Keemo Paul add a strong local presence, joined by West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope and all-rounder Roston Chase. Due to scheduling conflicts with Bangladesh’s tour of the Caribbean, Gudakesh Motie and Shamar Joseph will miss the event.

The GSL features five teams—Guyana Amazon Warriors, Hampshire Hawks, Lahore Qalandars, Rangpur Riders, and Victoria—competing in 11 matches for a $1 million prize fund. The tournament aims to bring global T20 talent to Guyana annually.

Alzarri Joseph Leaves Field After Dispute with Captain Shai Hope

During the third ODI between West Indies and England, Alzarri Joseph walked off the field in frustration following a disagreement with captain Shai Hope over field placements. Joseph, who opened the bowling, was visibly upset after discussions with Hope about his field setup, resulting in an exchange of gestures. After completing his over, Joseph stormed off, briefly leaving West Indies with ten players before returning. Coach Daren Sammy attempted to diffuse the situation from the boundary. Despite the incident, West Indies reduced England to 24-4 by the end of the powerplay. Commentator Mark Butcher criticized the public disagreement, noting such issues should be resolved off-field.