October 27th, 2024

*the following articles are summarized by AI

Fact of the Day

Did you know that each Google search you perform involves around 1,000 computers working together to deliver answers in just 0.2 seconds? Google’s powerful network of data centers worldwide uses a process called parallel computing, which splits the search task among multiple computers. These computers search, rank, and retrieve the most relevant information from billions of pages almost instantly. This system, powered by advanced algorithms and optimized data centers, allows Google to handle billions of daily queries while delivering quick, accurate results right to your screen.

Jokes of the day

• I told my doctor that I broke my arm in two places – he told me to stop going to those places.

• Before you criticize someone, walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you do criticize them, you're a mile away, and you have their shoes.

• I was at the park wondering why this frisbee kept getting bigger… and then it hit me.

• The evening news is where they begin with “Good evening,” and then proceed to tell you why it isn’t.

 News Highlights

• Government Supports Nationwide Diwali Motorcade by Dharmic Sabha

• Zoo and Botanical Gardens Renovation to Focus on Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Education

• New $95M Play Area Unveiled at National Park in Georgetown

This is Politics and Development

Government Supports Nationwide Diwali Motorcade by Dharmic Sabha

The Government of Guyana has backed over thirty-five mandirs and youth groups nationwide in the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Diwali Motorcade on October 30. This motorcade, central to Guyana’s Diwali celebrations, draws tens of thousands of locals and tourists annually. The 2024 event, marking the Sabha’s fiftieth anniversary, includes motorcades across all Praants: Essequibo, East and West Coast Demerara, and Berbice. The grand finale, assembling at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbelville, will feature a parade along Vlissengen Road to the LBI Community Centre Ground for a cultural show and award presentation. Performers include Indian Idol star Nachiket Lele and local artists like Bunty Singh and Suraj Singh. Millions in prizes will reward participating floats.

Zoo and Botanical Gardens Renovation to Focus on Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Education

The National Zoological Park and Botanical Gardens in Guyana are set for an extensive upgrade, emphasizing wildlife conservation and biodiversity education. During a public consultation led by Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Advisor to the Protected Areas Commission, Damian Fernandes, presented preliminary plans for the transformation. Key features include green parking, new entrances, educational plazas with indigenous themes, and a wildlife conservation center. The zoo will prioritize shelter for animals unable to survive in the wild, while the Botanical Gardens will reflect Guyana’s diverse landscapes, incorporating nature-inspired infrastructure like canopy walkways and a tram.

As part of the government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030), the project aims to create a family-friendly space to experience Guyana’s natural beauty. Attendees proposed ideas such as surveillance systems, disability-friendly access, aquatic zones, and interactive learning for children. Dr. Jagdeo affirmed these suggestions will be considered, with an online forum planned to gather further public input.

New $95M Play Area Unveiled at National Park in Georgetown

A new children’s playpark valued at GYD $95 million was officially opened at the National Park in Georgetown, created under the National Beautification Project by the Office of the First Lady in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works. The facility, inaugurated by First Lady Arya Ali and Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, includes swings, slides, game boards, sanitary facilities, free WiFi, and a splash park—the first of its kind in the country.

First Lady Ali emphasized that parks foster community unity and are essential for children’s social and psychological development. A management committee will maintain the play area to ensure it remains a safe, family-friendly environment. Minister Edghill highlighted that the project not only enhances community spaces but also provided jobs for local contractors, boosting the economy. Future developments across urban areas aim to create additional recreational spaces for families and promote health and well-being.

Caribbean Support Fuels Botchwey’s Successful Commonwealth Bid

In a historic moment, Ghana’s Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey was appointed Secretary-General of the Commonwealth during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa on October 25, 2024. Her journey to this position began in Guyana, where she engaged with Caribbean leaders at a CARICOM Summit in May 2024, rallying support for her candidacy. Advocating for reparations for colonialism and transatlantic slavery, Botchwey's message resonated across the Caribbean, securing vital regional backing. Her agenda includes a focus on reparatory justice, climate resilience, and equity, strengthening Commonwealth collaboration. Botchwey thanked Caribbean leaders, emphasizing the transformative potential of her tenure.

This is Crime and Security

Bandit Dies During Attempted Robbery at Port Mourant Market

A robbery attempt at the Port Mourant Market in Region Six ended in the death of one bandit on Saturday morning. Armed with guns, two men attempted to rob a jewelry stall, firing shots that injured a passerby. In response, several market-goers confronted and inflicted injuries on the perpetrators, resulting in one bandit's death while the other escaped. Regional Commander Shivpersaud Bacchus confirmed that police are actively searching for the second suspect. The injured bystander is currently hospitalized, with further updates expected soon.

This is Business and Economy

SATWA: A Versatile Seven-Grain Blend for Nutritious Meals

Since launching in 2020, SATWA—a nutritious grain mix from B&R Products—has gained popularity among health-conscious consumers. Now available at the Guyana Shop, SATWA includes a blend of seven grains like barley, corn, rice, red beans, and black-eyed peas, offering flexibility and nutrition at an affordable GYD $1,000. Meena Ramnarine from Berbice shared that preparing SATWA is as simple as adding milk and sugar. In addition to SATWA, B&R Products offers complementary items like mango achar and pickles, celebrating traditional flavors. The brand’s presence at events like NAREI’s open day is creating excitement for SATWA’s supermarket debut.

Over Six Hundred Berbicians Receive House Lots at Bath and Experiment

In a recent housing drive, over 600 Berbicians were allocated house lots at Plantation Block ‘A’ Bath and Plantation ‘B’ Experiment, as part of the Ministry of Housing and Water’s “Dream Realised” initiative. Minister Collin Croal and Minister Susan Rodrigues led the event, highlighting the government’s investments in infrastructure, totaling over $8 billion for Region Five’s housing developments. The government has committed $1.2 billion to infrastructure, aiming for better amenities for new residents. Recipients, like nurse Tricshana Charles, expressed joy over the opportunity to create a legacy for their families.

This is Health and Education

Rotary Club Empowers Girls at Campbellville Secondary School

The Rotary Club of Garden City (Georgetown) hosted 32 girls from Campbellville Government Secondary School for a "Girls’ Empowerment Wellness Weekend," focusing on mental health, anti-bullying, and career mentorship. The event, held at the Guyana Olympic Association, aims to address issues faced by the girls, including bullying. Rotary president Melissa De Santos noted their choice to support Campbellville Secondary due to recent reports of bullying. Minister of Human Services Dr. Vindhya Persaud, instrumental in organizing the event, praised the holistic approach to supporting young women. She hopes it matures into a sustainable mentorship initiative benefiting both the students and their families.

This is Sports

Santner’s 13 Wickets End India’s 12-Year Home Test Streak

New Zealand achieved a historic first Test series victory in India, defeating the hosts by 113 runs in the second Test in Pune. This win ends India’s 12-year unbeaten streak in home Test series, giving New Zealand an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Mitchell Santner starred, claiming 13 wickets across both innings, including 6-104 in India’s second innings, which ended at 245 as they chased a target of 359. India captain Rohit Sharma called it a “collective failure.” Santner expressed satisfaction, noting his increasing confidence with each wicket.

Pakistan Clinches Series 2-1 Against England with Spin Duo’s Help

Pakistan secured a 2-1 series win over England in Rawalpindi after spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan dismantled the visitors, bowling them out for their lowest total in Pakistan—112. England, beginning the day at 24-3, saw their lineup collapse to the combined efforts of Noman (6-42) and Sajid (4-69), who took all 10 wickets. Chasing just 36, Pakistan won by nine wickets, marking their first home series victory in four years.