Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Contents Publisher’s Message 5 The Jaguar - A Guyana Giant put on the spot
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Commemorative Coins Launched by Bank of Guyana 12 The Elusive Destination Rewa
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A Changing Culture? Who’s Complaining
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The National Library 104 Years of Service to the Nation
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FIFA Trophy Reaches Guyana
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Amazon and Tropical Birding
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St Andrews Kirk - One of Guyana’s Oldest Churches
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A review of Jam Zone 2013
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Amazon Warriors
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Overview of Archaeological Research in North Rupununi
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Rupununi Beckons You
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Mash 2014 - Cultural Folklore, celebrating
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Benjamin Mekdeci A Sports and Tourism Ambassador
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Dennis Charran - A Guyanese Philanthropist
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Guyana then and now - from Jingee to Junk Food
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Female Pioneer Aviators honored
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Guyanese and their love for the Caribbean Carnival in Toronto
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Moraikobai Beauty in Ms. Amerindian Heritage Queen 2013
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Viva Media & Marketing wishes to thank the following persons for their kind cooperation and support in making “Incredible Guyana” a phenomenal success!
Special Thanks
Mark Ramotar Panthera Internaltional Amanda Richards
Writers
Neaz Subhan Dimitri Allicock Panthera International Sopheia Edghill Mosa Mathifa Telford Chevon Singh Calvin Roberts Waldyke “Wally” Prince Andy Narine Louisa Daggers Nicole Abraham Vanie Beepat
GINA WWF
Shanta Gobardhan Tivia Collins Evi Paemelaere Mark Plu Petamber Persaud Krystyne James Ayana McCalman Luke King Guyana Feather Friends Bank of Guyana Gabriella Patram
Photography
Carifesta XI an Explosion of Caribbean Cultures
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The Amazing Harpy Eagle - A Feathered Giant
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The 1823 Monument
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Guyana, Mysterious Land of Giants
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The Opulence of Art and Craft in Guyana
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Duck Curry goes International
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Must Do’s when in Guyana
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Did you know
100
$5000 note introduced
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Recipe - Black Pudding and Mango Sour
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Stranded Turtles on Wellington Park Foreshore
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Panthera International Steve Winter Amanda Richards WWF GINA GTA New World Photography John Greene Hits and Jam Entertainment Comfort Sleep Krystyne James Chevon Singh Luke King Louisa Daggers Mark Plu Susie Weller Carnegie School of Home Economics Bank of Guyana Guyana Times Guyana Chronicle Stabroek News
Front Cover :
The Jaguar of the Amazons © Panthera/ Steve Winter 3 / I.G
From the Publisher
Avid Readers, Allow me this opportunity to “Thank You” for indulging in this premier issue of “Incredible Guyana.” Being familiar with your cravings and thirst for information about Guyana, I can assure you I mirror the same enthusiasm with providing you with that – hence the birth of this publication. Guyana is an affluent country throughout its length and breadth. Its diversity and uniqueness is quite awe-inspiring and perhaps enviable. For those of you who remember Guyana as Home Away From Home I can imagine the feelings of nostalgia and yearning which continues to overwhelm you. Now, I only wish is to add to your already vast knowledge about the glories of this blessed and beautiful land. This publication captures the essence of what’s popular in contemporary Guyana yet provides a subtle reminder of yesteryear. Guyana is now synonymous with adventure because its lush rain forests and Eco-Resorts provide you with nothing short of a daring venture. A trip to any of the falls or interior regions evokes an instant adrenaline rush that stimulates your endorphins. (Hormones which emit pleasure) Carving your footprints on this beautiful land should definitely be on your agenda soon. You certainly don’t want to miss a taste of the exciting and exceptional activities available for fun. Visit Guyana for the ultimate wildlife experience…the land of the five giants, the majestic Kaieteur Fall, the endless variety of birds and warm hospitality of the people. Warm and special thanks to all the sponsors, writers, photographers and consultants who have contributed to the phenomenal success of this publication. Welcome home to “Incredible Guyana!”
Vickram Singh.
© Amanda Richards
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Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Incredible Guyana January – April 2014 Viva Media & Marketing Suite #6 230 Aubrey Barker Road South Ruimveldt Gardens Georgetown Publisher Vickram. P. Singh Editor Shanta Gobardhan Assistant Editor Vanie Beepat Sales Executives Vickram Singh Vanie Beepat Creative Director Vanie Beepat Incredible Guyana would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our advertisers and contributors who have supported us. You continue to inspire us in so many ways. We are immensely grateful! Copyright reserved 2014. None of the contents in this publication can be reproduced or copied in any form without permission in writing from the Publisher. Email: vicasong@gmail.com , classimag@gmail.com Cell: (592) 646 -4469, (592) 650 -7911
Š Amanda Richards
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Š Amanda Richards
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Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
THE JAGUAR - A Guyana Giant put on the spot
The Jaguar A Guyana Giant put on the Spot. By Panthera
“An understanding of the natural world and what’s in it is a source of not only a great curiosity but great fulfillment.”, Sir David Attenborough. © Steve Winter
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Y
ou may know the jaguar as turtle tiger, kaikusi, kaigouch, baudikoro or kinyaridi din – the large spotted cat leaving hand-sized foot prints in the mud, or ‘coughing’ in the dark of the night. Seen by few, feared by many, the jaguar has inspired stories and legends since the ancient times. They are symbols of strength and beauty.
Meet the Jaguar
The jaguar is one of six cat species in Guyana, and it is the largest one. In fact, these elusive beasts are the largest cat in all of the Americas. Weighing typically between 110 – 220 pounds they stand over two feet tall and measure about five feet from nose to tail base. They tend to roam alone, but you may encounter a male and female travelling together during mating or a mother with her cubs that, by the time they leave her, look fully grown. The typical rosette pattern on a jaguar’s coat is sometimes covered in black, because of a genetic variation called melanism. But black or patterned like a turtle, their bulky bodies are easily distinguished from any other animal in Guyana. Big bodies, of course,need plenty of food. With the most powerful jaws of all big cats, jaguars can eat anything. More than 80 species of animals are part of their meat diet. Depending on availability, jaguars may dine on capybara (watrush), peccary (bush hog), or caiman (alligator), but also on fish and armadillos. The bigger prey animals receive a crushing bite at the back of the skull. Unlike the puma (deer tiger), jaguars will not cover up the dead animal with leaves or branches.
Jaguars & People
The sheer size and power of this big predator makes people feel small and vulnerable. Naturally, many fear jaguars. But while curious in nature, jaguars prefer to hide from people and will not attack unless they feel threatened. That is why even people that regularly walk through jaguar territory rarely spot them, although surely the jaguars spotted the people. As much as jaguars tend to avoid people, they do share the same environment, and now and then this leads to conflict, especially when jaguars attack livestock or pets. Why jaguars kill cows and other domestic animals is not always clear. The presence of these domestic animals in the jaguar’s natural habitat and their resemblance to natural prey is an important factor. But sometimes domestic animals are also easier than other prey, for example when the jaguar is old, injured or has to care for cubs. And where natural prey is scarce, jaguars are left with no alternative. Conflict with people over domestic animals is one of the main threats to jaguars. Understandably, people try to protect their livelihoods and they often know no better way than to kill the jaguar, even though this is usually just a temporary solution. Temporary, because other jaguars will then move to occupy that territory and sooner or later might attack unattended livestock. Another major threat to jaguars is the disappearance of their habitat. Together 9 / I.G
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
© Steve Winter
with the habitat their food disappears, driving jaguars closer to people and their livestock, and causing even more conflict.
The jaguar’s future
Once we believed that putting large predators inside protected areas away from people would be the happy ending for all: the animals thrive, and people would no longer have to fear them. But animals do not understand our borders, and large animals need large spaces. Thus, most protected areas are too small to maintain healthy populations. A new, innovative approach to conservation aims to connect jaguar populations in protected areas through human landscapes by studying how jaguars use these landscapes and by assisting in reducing conflict. This approach not only protects the jaguars, but also other species living in the same environments. Since January 2013, Guyana is an official partner in this international effort, led by Panthera, to ensure that the jaguar will live in the wild forever. Why would we want jaguars around at all if they cause harm to our livelihoods? Because jaguars help protect our crops from the animals that damage them. Because jaguars attract tourists. Because jaguars help keep disease away from the animals we hunt. Because jaguars help keep our forests healthy, so we can harvest timber. Because jaguars are part of our history and culture, and we want to share this with our children. Because I.G / 10
© Steve Winter
jaguars are part of the web of life that we depend upon for our well-being. Because we can solve conflicts with jaguars, but we cannot reverse extinction or the consequences this has for our health and economy. Because Guyana is one of the last places on Earth where the jaguar still thrives… To read more about jaguars and their conservation, visit: http://www.panthera.org/programs/ jaguar/jaguar-corridor-initiative
Did you know the jaguar…. • •
is the third largest cat in the world, after the lion and the tiger? is the largest cat of the Americas?cares for its cub(s) for
• • •
•
•
nearly two years before the young can venture out and survive on their own? By then the cub is nearly the size of its mother! is a strong swimmer? lives not only in forest, but also in savannah and swamp is only one of the cat species with an all-black or melanistic form that is often called ‘panther’. The leopard is another example. Look closely and you can still see their spots! has a spot pattern unique to every individual, much like our own fingerprints, allowing scientists to count how many jaguars there are? does not roar like other big cats, but utters a coughing sound to communicate.
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
COMMEMORATIVE COINS - Launched by the Bank of Guyana 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDIAN IMMIGRATION BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED $2000 COIN
175th Anniversary
INDIAN IMMIGRATION
2013
1763 BERBICE SLAVE REBILLION BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED $2000 COIN
250th Anniversary
1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion
2013
Commemorative Coins Launched by the Bank of Guyana
B
OG has launched two commemorative coins to mark the 250th Anniversary of the Berbice Slave Rebellion and the 175th Anniversary of the Arrival of Indian Immigrants to Guyana. The Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport requested the Bank to consider issuing these commemorative coins given the national importance of these two events. The bank favourably considered the request and asked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to provide the design for the reverse sides of the coins which were acquired from a national competition. The Obverse of all coins as usual bears the symbol of the state i.e. Coat of Arms. The Bank invited several Mints to supply quotations for these coins and selected the Mint of Norway. The mint, which has been producing coins for over 325 years, quoted the most attractive price with timely delivery. The coins are legal tender and in limited circulation. They are made of cupro-nickel and priced at G$2500.00 each. The coins come in an attractive blister pack with photographs and information about the events. The coins are available for sale at the Bank of Guyana. They can also be purchased through an order from Commercial Banks in Berbice, Lethem, Mabaruma and Anna Regina.
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The Elusive ‘DESTINATION REWA’
The Elusive
‘Destination Rewa’ 5
2 KILOMETERS of emerald green water stretch from the Kwatamang Landing in Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo) to the remotely located Makushi village of Rewa. A journey of just two-and-a-half hours will take the excited explorer from the rugged landscape of the Rupununi Savannahs, down the meandering Rupununi River bordered by the pristine beauty of the rainforest to the Rewa Eco Lodge, neatly nestled where the Rewa River runs into the Rupununi. The shimmering stretch of water is a haven for those in search of wildlife and adventure, and for one team of avid adventurers who ventured along the waterway, the river held nothing back. The group embarked on a two-day journey to discover the potential of Rewa as a sport-fishing destination, and were treated to a flagrant display along the way as spectacled caimans careened past, and brazen monkeys mocked from their cracks in the canopy. Past winding oxbow lakes, sand dunes and rocks that jutted out from the river to disturb its placid surface, the expedition continued on, even as the river changed and became narrower with rocky bars interspersed with sandy beaches.
By Chevon Singh
With each mile meandered, the intrepid team was mesmerized by the majestic forest which seemed at times to envelope the intruders into its foliage-filled depths, beckoning with its intertwining hues of greens and browns. Despite the gentle hum of the outboard engines which propelled the team onward, the forest echoed with the calls of resident Scarlet Macaws, Red billed Toucans, Cotingas, Parrots, and the king of them all, the magnificent Harpy Eagle. Quote: ‘The group embarked on a twoday journey on February 8 to discover the potential of Rewa as a sport-fishing destination, and were treated to a flagrant display along the way as spectacled caimans careened past, and brazen monkeys mocked from their cracks in the canopy’ Occasionally, as the captain cut the engine for the wanderers to delight in some seemingly new discovery, a black hawk would swoop down from its perch and spread its broad expanse of wings to temporarily block out the sun, leaving the visitors in awe. The journey continued, and the contingent settled in for the lengthy ride, as the bordering overhang teemed with the cries of the howler monkeys, and even
as they fell silent, the forest still rustled as the wind cascaded between each branch. Onward to ‘Destination Rewa’, the river transported the team onward to the promise of Lukanani (Peacock Bass), Arawana, Swordfish, Payara, large Catfish, and Pacu, species that thrive in the waters. One would assume that after an hour of stretch after stretch on the Rupununi waterway, monotony would eventually set in. Quite the contrary: Every bend and bow brought new sights and sounds to enrapture the senses and enlighten each eager soul en route. Even the scent of damp earth and decaying leaves emanating from the forest floor permeated the air and inveigled the visitors to prod on in their quest. Just as the Rupununi met the Rewa, the searching eyes on their ministerial mission beheld their destination situated on the riverbank overlooking the Rewa River. Quote:‘To think that Rewa is resplendent only during the day is to never have spent a night in the bowels of the forest, being serenaded by the suspicious sounds of faceless creatures calling out to the thick darkness’ Land at last! What a welcome sight indeed, as the 15 / I.G
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warm and friendly faces of the Makushi villagers greeted the team as they gingerly stepped out to meet their hosts. The genteel hosts, keepers of the Rewa Eco-Lodge to be the exploration team’s respite for the night ahead, staged a heartwarming welcome and escorted the weary travelers to their lodgings. The Eco-Lodge has seen fewer than 200 tourists since it opened in 2006, and is a community-tourism project of the Amerindian village of Rewa, home to a Makushi tribe of 300. A remote location and sparse tourism volume has left the natural environment there virtually untouched and marvellously pristine, an ideal place to explore and discover! The facility consists of two circular benab buildings split into two guest rooms, each with a central large benab housing the kitchen and dining area, and three new single-room buildings with attached bathrooms. Three sides of the compound are surrounded by rainforest, and the fourth faces the Rewa River with tall stands of thick rainforest foliage on the opposite bank. I.G / 16
As soon as the explorers had settled in and partaken of the sumptuous feast prepared by the local villagers, they set off, fishing poles in hand, to accost the alluring fish that lurked in the mysterious depths of the Rewa River. Two boats transported the fishing team on their intended quest further along the Rewa River to the shady alcoves where the famous Lukanani lay in wait, and with lines and hopes cast, they too lay in wait. Within less than twenty minutes after throwing their bait, behold! The river
revealed its first prized possession; an eight-pound Lukanani was hurled out of the water and into the waiting belly of the boat. The first catch set the precedent for the day, as with each few minutes that elapsed, the collection increased to include many other species of fish, convincing each one on board that fishing in the Rewa River is as good as it gets! As dusk approached, the weary wanderers, satisfied and proud of their first day’s exploits, waded their way back
to the lodge, to rest, recuperate, and to feast on the fruits or rather fish, of their labours.
tracks reminding the visitors that around every corner and down every stream, the verdant forest remained capricious.
What a mouth watering meal it was indeed! And the party gathered around the table in the main benab to enjoy the deliciously prepared Lukanani, which was baked to perfection and devoured with delight.
After the last escapade, it soon came time to return to the waiting world beyond the lost world of the jaguars and once again, the intrepid explorers embarked on their journey along the Rupununi waterway.
To think that Rewa is resplendent only during the day is to never have spent a night in the bowels of the forest, being serenaded by the suspicious sounds of faceless creatures calling out to the thick darkness. Fed and nestled safely in the accommodating yet rustic quarters, the cacophony of calls did not frighten but rather soothed the somnolent travelers into a slumber interrupted occasionally by the roar of the lurking jaguars. The second day of the expedition was just as invigorating as the first, with the exploration of turtles nesting grounds, and the surprising discovery of jaguar
They proceeded, basking in the knowledge that they had accomplished their mission, and had proven to the world that indeed, not only was Rewa renowned for its healthy populations of the protected Arapaima, the largest scaled freshwater fish in the world, but also as one of the ideal spots for sport fishing in Guyana.
A CHANGING CULTURE? - Who’s Complaining
A Changing Culture?
Who’s Complaining! By Neaz Subhan - Director – GINA
T
he pressing of a button on various electronic devices to communicate globally, is now ubiquitous. What is even more striking is the automatic acquisition of new devices to keep abreast with the frequent technological advances. The rapid metamorphosis of the devices whether smart phones, Ipads or MP3 players, just to name a few has created an almost irresistible proclivity to immediately have the latest versions. Note that no mention was made of the desktop computer or even the laptop, since for many, they are no longer devices of choice as pocket-size alternatives quickly disappear from store shelves. Years ago, such a scenario could have only been envisaged in what is considered to be the developed world. Even today, some in the Diaspora are still in awe that such a situation is now prevalent in Guyana! Even many, who live here and would have witnessed the technological advances unfold, are pleasantly in disbelief. Some sections of the mature populace, while proud of, and bask in the aura of such advances, have resigned themselves to what is a proven false notion that such development is only for the young people. This, in some way, has helped to foster the belief that this era of technological advances is the new culture that defines the younger generation and which will inculcate even more stringent adherence for their future descendants. Surely, many can relate to some family members now using these devices to communicate in their homes with regards to mundane chores. Many can also relate to the challenges of having a focused, uninterrupted conversation with someone else, whether at work or at home. In such cases, the reactions demonstrated by someone in a conversation, may not necessarily be indigenous to that particular discussion. More than often, an apology would be forthcoming with the general follow-up, “…sorry, I didn’t hear you. What did you say?” I dare say that this could have been the genesis for those who have resigned themselves from such technological endeavours, to pronounce that such devices are synonymous with the word nuisance. Also, a disinterest and a genuine lack of capacity to use such devices can be an influential factor for such a pronouncement. While there is a seeming disparity in opinions regarding technology and how it is being used among the older and new generations, one thing seems agreeable; things are no longer the same. I believe few can dispute this and hence there can be an agreement on holistic acceptance. Given that, then it cannot be challenging to see the impact such advancements have on culture and how it has gradually helped to engineer changes. What may be challenging for some, is the acceptance of the changes. Many have had the foresight to successfully incorporate the use of technology to aid in the development of the culture. In keeping with Charles Darwin’s theory of adaptability, then such endeavours will have to become the new culture.
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The influence of the western culture on some Indian traditions cannot be discarded. Of course, this is not confined to Indian culture alone. Cultural anthropologists will be better able to articulate this influence. If one example can be cited, it has to be in the realms of dress. This impact is very visible through Bollywood movies, which in turn have lasting impressions on viewers. While the intention is not in any way to disparage western culture, its commercial impact cannot be ignored. Fashion has woven its way as part of the new culture. So has food. Today, one cannot help in noting that many of the descendants of Indian indentured immigrants who reached these shores in 1838, no longer see the need to adhere to a certain code of dress. For some, no longer are Indian-related clothing seen as being in fashion and hence a non-adherence to related cultural practices. On a heartening note, others have endeavoured to outfit themselves, even if it’s occasionally for special events, in a manner reflective of Indian sentiments. Some believe that this positive reflection may be influenced by the Indian soap dramas which are extremely popular here. This exemplifies a positive manner of how fans can be influenced. Of course, some will argue as to the interpretation of what constitutes a proper code of dress. But in the contexts of identity, relevance and preservation, I respectfully posit that such an argument may not suffice. Those who are concerned about the way in which some, especially within the younger generation (not an attempt to single them out) have demonstrated their proclivity to not identify with the Indian culture, must be deeply disturbed at what is visible. Under the guise of fashion, some young Indian boys can be seen parading with their pants at their knees providing unhindered visual access to their brand-name undergarments. This can only be interpreted as an attempt to relate and stay steadfast to such trends depicted through movies, television and other forms from within the western world. In the same way, some young Indian girls seem to despise the notion of what is considered to be appropriate dressing. Apparently for them, the greater the exposure of the epidermis, the chances of attracting males, increase; vis-à -vis, for the boys whose pants are belted at the knee! What is even more worrying is, given the influence of Bollywood movies here, there is little consolation for positive impact in the areas mentioned from most of what is produced! Clearly, even Bollywood has been influenced and smitten by commercialism. This in no way negates the fact that there are positive influences through some television programming and through the efforts of the various organisations to promote and develop the culture. It therefore begs the question, why are the positive influences not more impacting? Presumably, the answer lies in what can only be described as a paradigm shift in the interpretation of what is the culture and what constitutes adherence. The young people who demonstrate this shift will vehemently defend their position as adherence to the culture; a new culture. If peer pressure is a factor for such a shift, and one may not doubt that, then again it begs the question, why isn’t this pressure forceful enough for more positive adherence to I.G / 20
be derived? It would not be far-fetched to hear if the young people who have shown a lack of propensity to adhere to acceptable cultural correctness, ask, what culture? This begs the obvious question, what examples are being set? This can result in a plethora of social analyses to either cast blame for, or corroborate the belief of a paradigm shift. Whatever the analysis, especially in the context of freedom of expression being in abundance and the entitlement of opinions, the gradual erosion of the aspects of the Indian culture cannot be denied. As noted earlier, the acceptance of such is very challenging for some. Both generations have fairly good reasons to complain about each other. More than likely, the young people would not complain about what they are involved in and similarly, the older folk who may be accused of not setting an example, would not complain about their actions. Maybe therein lays the problem and the possible solution. 175 years after, our fore parents might be the ones complaining. Imagine them using the technology today to do so!
Blue Lake, Linden Š John Greene
THE NATIONAL LIBRARY - 104 Years in Service to the Nation
The National Library 104 Years of Service to the Nation By Petamber Persaud
I
n its 104th year of service to the nation, the National Library continues to unearth and implement innovative ways of staying relevant in a changing society. For this year 2013, the high point of activity was its annual Champion Readers Competition which included inmates of four correctional institutions in Guyana namely Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Lusignan and Timehri prisons. The National Library is marking its 104th year in service to the nation, fulfilling its mandate to the hilt which is ‘to satisfy both nationally and internationally the information and recreational needs of the library’s users through the collection, organisation, dissemination and preservation of information in printed and other formats’. In fact, the library was built upon such a premise, captured in the life and words of
Andrew Carnegie (1835-1918) ‘I choose free libraries as the best agencies for improving the masses of the people, because …they only help those who help themselves. They never pauperize…A taste for reading drives out lower tastes’. Andrew Carnegie was ‘a ScottishAmerican industrialist who led the enormous expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century. He was also one of the highest profile philanthropists of his era; his 1889 article proclaiming “The Gospel of Wealth” called on the rich to use their wealth to improve society, and stimulated wave after wave of philanthropy’. [Wikipedia] The National Library, Georgetown, Guyana, was opened to the public in September 1909. Although funding provided by Andrew Carnegie, was available, it took about two years of preparatory works to qualify for that
funding. A site for erection of building had to be located, design for erection approved and ordinances for the purchase of books and other requisites had to be passed. A Provisional Committee appointed in 1907 effectively dealt with those issues resulting in enactment of the Georgetown Public Free Library Ordinance and the laying of the foundation stone one year later in 1908. The National Library is situated at the juncture of Main and Church Streets, Georgetown. The original building was in the form of an inverted cross. Down the ages there were numerous modifications to the original structure. In 1935, the original erection was extended to house the Economic Science, Anthropological and Historical Sections of the Museum. That was a blessing in disguise for when in 1951, the museum exhibits were moved to the new museum building, the library 23 / I.G
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was able to utilise the whole structure for its operation. One of the more important target groups to make use of this additional space was the juveniles – children having a separate space. At the turn of the new millennium, there was need for more space at the headquarters of the library and so a new wing was added. Completed in 2001, the extension housed the Administrative Department, Technical Services and Rural Departments thereby creating more space for the Reference and Juvenile Departments. Even with the extension, the central library could not meet the literacy needs of the whole country. Branches of the library were established after the 1950 legislation was passed to extend the library services outside of Georgetown; first in New Amsterdam (1953) then Mackenzie (1955). Now the library has a presence in all ten administrative regions of the country with the establishment of five Branches in New Amsterdam, Linden, Ruimveldt, Bagotville and Corriverton, twenty library Centres in rural areas, Deposit Collections, and service to four prisons. What needs the central library and its branches could not satisfy had to be met by the operation of a bookmobile. The first bookmobile service was established in 1970, catering for areas like Tucville, Peter’s Hall, Houston, Agricola, Providence and Soesdyke. A second bookmobile was put into service in 1976. Apart from the physical improvements to the building, there were numerous developments in services offered by the library. Two of the more significant developments were, one, the ‘open access’ system in 1940 and two, the publication of a Guyanese National Bibliography in 1973. That invaluable recording of our literary heritage became possible as a National Library came into being when in 1972 the Public Free Library Ordinance became the National Library Act. The compilation of a Guyanese National Bibliography was made more favourable when the Newspaper Ordinance was amended in 1972 to make the National Library one of the legal depositories for all materials printed and published in Guyana. That meant that one copy of every material that is printed or I.G / 24
published in Guyana must be deposited at the National Library. Other services offered by the National Library include a photocopying operation which came on stream in 1966, a gramophone record library opened in 1969, a reading room, a toy library established in 1981 in the juvenile department to cater for the needs of preschoolers, and an internet service. The operation of the library is managed
by the Committee of the National Library which should consist of a chairman and not more than twelve or less than nine other persons. The National Library has become so entrenched in the psyche of Guyanese people that more and greater demands are being made of its services as an educational, social, cultural and recreational institution.
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FIFA Trophy Reaches Guyana
FIFA trophy Reaches Guyana T
By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
he 18 karat gold trophy, coveted by many football nations, arrived in Guyana on October 29, and the Guyanese President Donald Ramotar made history as his country’s first Head of State to hold theFederation of International Football Association (FIFA) World Cup trophy that will be taken by the World Cup tournament champions in 2014. As he welcomed the trophy, the Head of State said he was encouraged by the unifying spirit which football and other popular sports, particularly cricket in the Caribbean engender the world over.
Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) is unprecedented. The Trophy Tour began its journey in Rio de Janeiro on September 12, 2013. Departing from the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, the FIFA World Cup Trophy is scheduled to travel around the world for nine months before returning to Brazil. The Tour was developed through an exclusive partnership between FIFA and Coca-Cola, one of FIFA’s longest-standing corporate partners. During the Tour, fans will be given the chance to enjoy a rare close-up view of the authentic FIFA World Cup Trophy.
“It is a very important game because it helps to teach us teamwork and success coming from working as a team… in a world that is facing so many problems and wars in some areas; there is definite need to find activities to bring people together,” President Ramotar said. The FIFA world cup trophy is on a nine-month tour ahead of the World Cup tournament in Brazil next year. Travelling in the Coco Cola branded airplane, the trophy has toured Costa Rica, Fiji, Vanuatu and Tahiti in the South Pacific before commencing the Caribbean leg of the journey. Its 89 - country tour, including 34 member associations from the 27 / I.G
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AMAZON & TROPICAL BIRDING
Amazon and Tropical Birding By Gajendra Nauth Narine (Andy) and Rhonda Cornelius-Narine Guyana Amazon Tropical Bird Society 77c-1 Light Street, Alberttown, Georgetown, Guyana. South American Email:gatbs@yahoo.com FB: Guyana Amazon Tropical Bird Society Tel:(592)-225-2190 www.guyanabirdssociety.com Photos © New Word Photography and Amanda Richards
Avifauna History The first known recording of birdlife in Guyana was made by the Schaumburg brothers who traveled to Guyana’s’ interior in 1835 to 1839 and who also mapped Guyana’s boundaries during 1841 to 1844. In 1956, the ‘Zoo Quest to Guiana’ was done by David Attenborough and others. Dorothy E. Snyder released I.G / 28
‘The Birds of Guyana’ in 1966 which contained 720 species. In 1994, Robert Fernandes and Balram Singh produced ‘An Introduction to birds of Guyana’ which gave a brief pictorial guide to some main birds in Guyana. An updated edition was released in 2004, containing 84 plates of birds in Guyana. In the 1980s, Guy and Ken conducted aerial surveys for shorebird along the entire South
American coast. They also conducted Aerial surveys last year in Suriname and French Guiana. The Tropenbos Foundation in 1996 listed 302 species recorded in Mabura Hill and surroundings. Iwokrama Rainforest reserve has also established a list of 450 species of birds within the reserve. The Smithsonian researchers Davis W. Finch,
Michael J. Braun, Mark B. Robbins and Brian K. Schmidt released a new checklist in 2000 listing 786 species. Conservation International (Guyana) listed 264 species of birds in the Kanuku Mountains. In 2000 GATBS started its foster birds care programme. And in 2003, the Guyana Amazon Tropical Birds Society conducted and introduced the Annual Neotropic and Austral Migrants Survey – this has been ongoing and its one of the main projects of the society. In 2004, the Guyana Amazon Tropical Birds Society (GATBS) released. ‘A field checklist of Birds in Georgetown’ listing 263 species by Gajendra Nauth Narine (Andy) called the City of Birds. In 2004, Guyana for the first time had official representation at the Ruthland Birdfair in London. Mr. Narine from GATBS and other personnel from the Ministry of Tourism and Guyana Tourism Authority were in fortunate to represent Guyana. In 2006, GATBS also did the first waterbird census in Guyana this project was in collaboration with Wetlands International. In 2007, Smithsonian researchers Davis W. Finch, Michael J. Braun, Mark B. Robbins and Brian K. Schmidt released a 2nd Edition of “A field Checklist of Birds of Guyana’ with a total of 814 species. The Guyana Amazon Tropical Birds Society in 2007 did a survey and initial identification on Important Bird Areas in Guyana and has been able to identify 14 proposed protected areas for future conservation. With the Support from Birdlife International and Other involved organizations we were able to identify Members from the Guyana Amazon Tropical Birds Society (GATBS) is continuously updating information on bird data in Guyana to date; we have a total of 877 species recorded and more update bird information for many locations in the country. The Guyana Amazon Tropical Birds Society in 2006 produced the first regional checklist on birds in Region # 4 containing 307 species by Andy Narine . In 2009, Narine along with Dr. Guy Morrison - Research Scientist, Shorebirds. Environment, Canada Science & Technology, National Wildlife Research Centre – Canada and Ken Ross – Canadian Wildlife Service conducted an aerial survey and recordings of Shorebirds along the coast. In 2011, Members of GATBS produced and released a ‘checklist for Birds in the Botanical Gardens’ with a
recording of 197 species. The Society is now supporting Region # 3, 9, and 10 to prepare their regional lists. The Essequibo River and surroundings has a total of 597 species of birds recorded and our Mangroves forest along the coastline inhabits over 320 species of Birds.
About GATBS
The GATBS was founded in 2000 by Naturalist/Field Specialist and Bird Enthusiast Gajendra Nauth Narine (Andy). This is a non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit entity. Its main objectives are to protect the avifauna of Guyana, to prevent the extinction of any bird species, to maintain and improve where possible the conservation status of all bird species, and to undertake educational exercises and research projects throughout Guyana. We assist students, as well as interested persons, societies and environmental clubs with bird information and data that they might need. We also collect and provide bird data from around Guyana. This is analyzed by the Society and used to determine way to manage the local bird trade and the monitoring of migratory species during the migratory season. The Society also provides counseling on bird preservation. We are registered as a Specially Authorized Society under the Friendly Societies Act, to protect Guyana’s flora and avifauna. GATBS has ongoing monitoring surveys which are done throughout the country. Surveys are done for conservation and monitoring is ongoing. Conservation works are also done in Georgetown. GATBS continue to conduct bird surveys throughout the country and our monitoring and educational awareness programmes are ongoing. Presently, proposing to have a field station to continue our programs and promoting bird conservation.
Why Birding in Guyana?
Guyana is truly birders and nature lover’s paradise and its fast becoming recognized as one of South America’s top birding and Wildlife tour destinations. The country is a natural museum for the eco-tourist, containing 275 waterfalls, four mountain ranges, eighteen lakes (some more easily accessible than others) and vast areas of untouched tropical rainforest. The Guianan Shield and the adjacent Amazon Basin form one of the largest equatorial
forests in the world having a wide range of ecosystems. With this rich and unique flora and fauna, abundant wildlife and spectacular vegetation, and is one of the richest biodiversity locations in South America. Guyana occupies a significant percentage of the Guiana shield, which accounts not only for its rich bio-diversity and captivating sceneries, but also the abundance and diversity in its beautiful bird species. To date Guyana has a total of 877 species recorded for the entire country these includes 27 Tepui Endemics, 48 Guianan Shield Endemics, 116 Wetland Birds, 26 Austral Migrants, 121 Neotropical Migrants, 1 Introduced Specie and 14 Proposed protected Important Bird Areas site for conservation. Due to the remoteness of many locations, there are many species yet to be identified and recorded!!!
Habitats
Mangrove and Coastal Habitat Birding Our coastline is a 284 miles stretch and inhabits three (3) main species of Mangroves namely Black, Red and White Mangrove. The coast inhabits 121 Neotropical Migrant as well as a few species of Austral Migrants. There are over 320 species of birds recorded here including mangrove endemics. Some of the most popular birding sites on the coast are: Shell Beach, Pomeroon River mouth, Essequibo River Mouth, Demerara River, Hope Beach, Mahaica River, Abary River, Garden of Eden and Botanical Gardens. Rupununi Savannahs (including gallery forest, rivers and bush Island) and the Berbice Savannahs Habitat Birding The Rupununi Savannahs inhabits over 350 species of birds likewise the Berbice Savannahs. Most of these species fluctuates according to season and at some points mini pantanal are created. Some birding sites are: Surama EcoLodge, Rockview Lodge, Karasabai Village, Karanambu Ranch, Yupukari Village, Ireng and Takutu Gallery Forest, Moco Moco Settlement, Kanuku Mountains, Shulinab Village and the Dadanauwa Ranch.
Inland Dacama Forest, Rivers, Mountains, Mixed Forest and Mixed-flooded forests habitat Birding
There are over 560 species inhabiting 29 / I.G
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theses habitats. These include Tepui endemics, Guianan Shield endemics, highland and lowland species and fresh water species. Some Birding Sites are: The Kaieteur National Park, Hurukabra River Resort, Sloth Island Resort, Baganara Resort, Marshall Falls, North West, Gluck Island, Atta Lodge, Iwokrama Reserve, Surama, Wowetta, Rewa Eco-Lodge and Kanuku Mountains, Mapaima Eco-Lodge and the Wai-Wai Land Reserve. The capital city, Georgetown, is a small area of approximately 6 sq. miles and has a total of 284 species recorded. The habitat is structured by public places, parks, cultivated lands and coast lands. 263 species are recorded that inhabit I.G / 30
Georgetown, and in one session over 50 species can be spotted from one location. The Botanical Gardens is the first official Birding Sanctuary in Guyana and it inhabits over 199 species which fluctuates according to season. It is 174 hectares’ in size and is located almost in the heart of the capital. In 2011, The Botanical Gardens was officially declared the first Birding Sanctuary in Guyana. Carribbean Manatees, Two-toed Sloth, Brown Capuchin, Squirrel monkeys, Spectacled Caiman, Iguanas and Tegu Lizards are some of the wildlife known to inhabit the gardens. There are lots of specialties of birds that can be easily seen and its one of the areas that can accommodate differently abled persons.
A sneak peak … Blood-coloured Woodpecker This is one out of seventeen species of woodpeckers recorded for Guyana and it is the smallest specie. It is can only be found along the North Eastern shoulder of South America known as the Guianan Shield. There are sightings of large number of individuals spotted in Guyana and be found along the Coast between the mouth of the Essequibo
River to the Corentyne River , over 140 miles stretch or half of the entire coastline here. Their habitats are mostly of Mangroves and cultivated lands and can be commonly seen in some areas. The Blood-coloured Woodpecker shares habitat with other woodpeckers, Woodcreepers and Piculets. The features of the handsome woodpecker obviously stands out from all the other species of woodpeckers since it’s blood red colour
is always stunning. This woodpecker is somewhat a very shy bird since most times when in search for sightings it is first heard than seen and if you are not careful to look you can pass by without even noticing since it is only 13cm in body length like the size of a regular lighter. It is also recorded as a Mangrove Endemic or known as restricted range specie. One of the areas which provides great chances of sightings and a suitable area 31 / I.G
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for differently abled birders or nature lovers is the well-known Guyana’s Birding Sanctuary – the Botanical Gardens. This is almost in the Heart of the Capital City - Georgetown. Tours to the Botanical Gardens for Blood-coloured woodpecker sightings are done by professional guides from Guyana Feather Friends. Visit www. birdingguyana.gy for more information. This specie of Woodpecker inhabits the coast also known to inhabit one of the most rare species of Woodpecker-the White Woodpecker which was only been seen for 5 times in one decade. Fortunately, four of the five times the White-woodpecker were seen and recorded by yours truly Andy Narine and Julia a nature lover from Canada was fortunate to have the only photos of this specie while visiting to Guyana. We invite you to visit our beautiful country to witness and explore into our many habitats including pristine forests which entertain large number of birds and wildlife. Witness Mother Nature in her full glory and chances are great for seeing wildlife and birds in their natural habitat including Globally, Near-threatened and vulnerable species of the World. Welcome to the North Amazon Rainforest - Guyana!
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
St. Andrews Kirk - One of Guyana’s Oldest Churches
St. Andrews Kirk One of Guyana’s Oldest Churches By Mosa Mathifa Telford Photos © Amanda Richards
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ocated at 1 Avenue of the Republic Stabroek Georgetown, St. Andrews Kirk is today 195 years old. Many credit it as the oldest church in Guyana involved in continuous worship from the time of its inception, but not only that, St. Andrews Kirk was given the status of a Heritage Site by the Heritage Foundation and is listed as one of Guyana’s historic buildings. The church was established in 1818 – a time in Guyana’s history when slavery was still in existence and the first immigrant workers had not landed yet. The Church of Scotland established St. Andrews Kirk. The site on which the church now stands was originally allocated for the Dutch Reformed Kerk. When Stabroek was established, the Dutch had acquired the land through a free gift from the then Government and the foundation for the Dutch Reformed Kerk was laid on the 12th of August 1811. The Dutch however were unable to complete what they had started. Despite the fact that the land was free and they had received monies from the Combined Court, funds ran low. A lot of promises for financial aid were not kept and so the unfinished building was levied and thensold under the Marshall’s hammer in an Execution sale on May 4,1813 to two or three members of the Dutch Vestry. For two years nothing was done with the site, but then Scotsmen met on September 23, 1815 and resolved that it would be good to establish a Presbyterian Church in the colony. It was then that they decided to erect a building to serve this purpose. After going through the courts the transport was passed in June 1816 and the land originally intended for the Dutch Reformed Kerk now belonged to the Scottish. Construction began and upon completion it was decided that the church would be called St. Andrews Kirk. The very first Minister, Reverend Archibald Browne, came from Scotland on September 18, 1818 and a week later on
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and there was one American before a Guyanese finally took office in the early 1970s. That Minister was Reverend Oswald Bess who served the church until 2009 when he passed away. Succeeding him was Reverend Maureen Massiah, former headmistress of the Bishops High school, who still sits in office today. To celebrate 195 years the church held a number of activities. The launch took place on August 7. There was a prayer breakfast at Eve Leary. On August 31, there was a Health Awareness outreach on the grounds of the church, a Youth Forum was held on September 14, a musical evening on September 15 which not only featured singers from St. Andrews but from a number of other churches and the anniversary service was held on September 22. This service saw Presbyterians from throughout Guyana in attendance. Bishop Jerome Mass did the main address and the President of Guyana was also in attendance and spoke. The last event, which was originally to be held on August 10, took place on October 5. It was a Fun Day at the GDF ground. Today St. Andrews main outreach project is a Kitchen Project for elderly persons. Meals are taken to these persons five days a week and most of the recipients are not members of the St. Andrews church. There is also an Evangelism Community. They pay visits to shut in members of the church and give them communion. This takes place on Friday afternoons. The church does not have a large youth population. However, teachers of the Sunday school are young people in their 20s and 30s who would have grown up in the church. The youth also have a steel pan and usually play in church and participate in the Mash Steel Pan competition.
September 27 the first service was held. Although the church was a Scottish establishment, membership was not reserved for Scotsmen only. Between 1819 and 1821 some fifty-five then enslaved Africans were admitted to the membership. The church also played a role in helping to educate freed Africans. I.G / 36
The Church of Scotland Primary School was set up in 1841 Through St. Andrews two other churches were set up. These churches were St. Stephens and St. Thomas. From the time of its commencement up until the 1960s, ministers for the St. Andrews Kirk came from Scotland
St. Andrews is indeed an establishment that all Guyanese can be proud of. It has stood strong for 195 years and will continue to make its mark as a religious institution as well as serve the community’s social and educational needs. If one is interested in worshipping with St. Andrews Kirk, services take place on Sundays at 9:00hrs and 16:30hrs. There is also service at 12:00hrs on Wednesdays.
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JAM ZONE 2013 - A Review
uyana may be better known for its unique culture, wildlife and untouched rainforests but come August when overseas residents and young travelers from around the world descend here, this slice of paradise is the prime party destination for non-stop fun and staying up until dawn. Of course, there is no question what time of the year this is but for those who are still wondering, it’s Jamzone Summer Break and boy was this year a blast. It was ten days (August 16-25) of parties, grand activities and very little sleep! The year of 2013 saw many new events that were well received, ranging from extreme stunts and excitement in the air and then to the waters of the Splashmin’s Fun Park and Resort. That’s right! Fans witnessed a Bikers Fest which was nothing less than extraordinary with performances that kept viewers on the edges of their seats and many jumping to their toes in amazement as the bikers somersaulted through the night’s sky. As though this was not enough, local BMX bicycle stuntmen and go-cart operators created quite a buzz and certainly added an extra entertainment glitz to the exceptional show. With each rev, each burn out session and each catapult through the air- scorching hot performances were delivered by the riders, performances that are etched in the memories of all who were present to witness. Similarly, the Stars of Florida, a renowned Ski group, created quite a stir with thrilling performances that did not fail to delight spectators. The first ski show was hosted on Friday, August 23, the perfect day for stressed-out city dwellers to escape for a more quiet and relaxing day of entertainment. The sandy, palm-fringed Splashmin’s location was perfect for a spot of sunbathing and some basic family time chilling. The second set of performances, however, served as a main attraction on the final day of Jamzone Summer Break at the much anticipated Beach Jam! Water sports and lakeside drinking dominated the day while dancing dominated the night on August 25 when thousands headed out to the Soesdyke Linden Highway to celebrate the end of Guyana’s biggest summer event! I.G / 38
A Review of
By Frances Nicole Abraham Photos © Hits and Jam Entertainment
Trinidadian Ms. Breige Wilson is Ms. Jamzone International 2013
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Sizzling scents of meat on the grill, aroma of spices filled the air, drinks chilling on mountains of ice, bikini bodies palance along the length of the beach as you enjoy the feel of the warm sand between your toes. Picture all of this coupled with what can only be considered as one of the most exciting and unique show to have been brought to Guyana. The group of professional entertainers, who specialize in a broad spectrum of water sports and who have performed in worldwide water ski shows, wowed spectators when they showcased their incredible talent. I.G / 40
The Stars of Florida are trained in practically all aspects of the sport including barefooting, jumping, swivel, adagio doubles, pyramids, wake boarding, air chair/ski sky and even delta wing hang gliders. The group, after choreographing all of these incredible features into one grand performance, was highly praised for what was dubbed one of the best attractions for this year’s Jamzone affairs. But what would Jamzone be without the little things Jamzone started out with? Yes, I am talking about the burger eating competitions, the disgusting drink mixes that are gulped down and the hysterical ‘laugh-offs’ among other crazy beach games that people compete and challenge
each other all in the name of Jamzone! With every victory, a cash prize was awarded and winners showed off their prize proudly, buying drinks and passing it around to friends. When the sun dipped and the afternoon breeze got cooler, partygoers moved over to the stage area and got themselves ready for the showdown with the very best of Guyana’s DJs and artistes setting a trail of blaze for patrons to revel in. Now, we cannot talk about Jamzone without mentioning that ‘Star’ factor that Guyanese here and abroad have grown to love and appreciate. A summertime home from home for some of the world’s most famous people is what Guyana becomes once this celebration kicks off. R&B sensations Neyo and Trey Songz, Rappers Eve and Rick Ross, and the Caribbean’s biggest names such as Jah Cure, Mavado, Sean Paul, Konshen, Busy Signal, Machel Montano, Mr. Vegas, Lady Saw, Macka Diamond, Lil Rick and Peter Ram among many more have graced the Jamzone stage. This year, patrons not only enjoyed the likes of Jamaican superstars Busy Signal and Konshens, Trinidadian band Karma and soca artiste Shal Marshall and Antiguan Band Burning Flames but Jamzone supporters were exposed to something completely new; a Brazilian
affair! With this came ‘Brazil’s Michael Jackson’, Pepe Moreno! The Brazilian Megastar created shockwaves through the National Park when he appeared armed with five incredibly skilled dancers. Pepe belted out his most popular forro hits sending the crowd into a frenzy. Of course, this is no strange reaction as all concerts that fall on the Jamzone annual calendar never disappoint but rather excite. If by chance, you are not big on the party scenes, there were many other terrific
activities for you to indulge in such as the Jazz, Food and Fashion event, Kids Zone and of course the Miss Jamzone International Pageant. Many had not had their eyes on the twin island beauty Miss Breige Wilson, however, this somewhat reserved young woman proved to be small in size but large in talent, intelligence, beauty, poise and charisma when she walked away with the crown and coveted title of Miss Jamzone International 2013! It was up until the final segment when 41 / I.G
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Trinidad and Tobago’s representative, 23-year-old Breige Wilson, stole the hearts of the entire audience when she astutely responded to the final question “If you were a doctor and the Caribbean was your patient, what would your prescription be to cure the region of crime and violence”. Cleverly stating that proper values must be instilled in youths from a tender age and this must begin at home and on a wider platform, countries from around the Caribbean need to unite and work together towards unraveling social ills before the region is cured of crime and violence, Wilson successfully secured the crown and prize money of $10,000 USD! First runner-up Guyana’s Alicia Bess and second runner-up Curacao’s Marvia Laurence had been tremendously favoured by the National Cultural Centre’s audience throughout the duration of the pageant but collapsed during the ‘do or die’ segment. Coming in at third and fourth runner-up were St. Kitts & Nevis Zinga Imo and St. Lucia Consuelo Dupal whose answers were considered reasonable but delivered poorly. I.G / 42
Nevertheless, the selection of the top five could not be disputed as these ladies all shined throughout with their cultural presentation, fantasy swimwear, creative/ country costume and their evening gowns selling their country as a tourist destination in fine style. The other participants included Miss Antigua & Barbuda Netisha Alie, Miss Jamaica Christol Wilson, Miss United States Virgin Islands Keya Canaii and Miss
British Virgin Islands Kimberly Herbert. So with a queen of eloquence, beauty and intelligence, events that kept us enthused, parties that kept us jumping and even events that kept the smiles on the faces of our children, Jamzone Summer Break has definitely been a memorable one. But of course, there is always next year and the countdown has already begun! Jamzone Summer Break 2014, it’s on guys, and will surely be bigger and better as it always is year after year. See you there!
Crowd support- Part of the crowd who came out in their thousands to show support to the Guyana Amazon Warriors, during one of their matches at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.
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Played their Hearts out for Pride and Country
f ever, cricket, the game we all have grown to love so dearly needed a boost in the Caribbean and moreso Guyana, it got one following the West Indies triumph on the international scene in 2012, when they won International Cricket Council’s T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. The Caribbean cricketers, who are known for their unique fast-paced calypso beat and cavalier style of play, exhibited the new Gangnam dance at the cricketing
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By Calvin Roberts
venues around the Asian country, on their way to lifting the title, culminating an excellent performance under their shrewdly led skipper, Darren Sammy. This year, the game got an added boost following the arrival of a ship called Limacol Caribbean Premier League (LCPL) T20 Championships, one which saw six franchise teams from the six nations that comprised the West Indies team, battling for supremacy.
Those six teams were Barbados Tridents, Jamaica Tallawahs, Antigua Hawksbills, Trinidad Red Steels, St. Lucia Zouks and our very own Guyana Amazon Warriors, with Kieron Pollard, Christopher Gayle, Marlon Samuels, Sammy and Ramnaresh Sarwan being entrusted with the respective captaincy roles in that order. Each team comprised a West Indies franchise player and an international franchise player, while they all had to
have two Under-23 players, as part of the developmental process, hence spin wizard Sunil Narine and Pakistan’s International T20 skipper Mohammed Hafeez were the Amazon Warriors’ West Indies and international franchise player, respectively.
Of the six franchise teams which battled for supremacy, only the Barbados Tridents, for whom Guyana’s leg spinner Devendra Bishoo was selected, did not ply their trade at the Guyana National Stadium, the home ground of the Amazon Warriors.
Trevon Griffith and Ronsford Beaton - who was later replaced by Keon Joseph, were the Under-23 players, while the New Zealand pair of Martin Guptil and James Franklyn; Trinidad and Tobago’s Denesh Ramdin and Williams Perkins; Jamaica’s Krishmar Santokie, along with Christopher Barnwell, Steven Jacobs, Narsingh Deonarine and Veerasammy Permaul completed the team.
Nevertheless, the fans turned out and filled the venue to its capacity and beyond for all three days of cricket, waving flags and cheering on their favourite player, even as they got a chance to see the likes of Herschelle Gibbs, Ricky Ponting, Ross Taylor, Muttiah Muralitharan and Kumar Sangakkara, rub shoulders with their Regional heroes.
“I think the first LCPL was wonderful, wherein I represented the Guyana Amazon Warriors. That presented a wonderful opportunity for me to go out there and showcase my talent for the world who was watching both live and via television. “I did not get the kind of series I was looking forward to, especially after having a wonderful CT20 series earlier in the year, but I still give thanks for the little I have achieved in the tournament, learning a lot from the overseas guys who were a part of the set up,” stated Barnwell.
Barnwell summed it up when he said, 45 / I.G
cricket. Their response to the whole tournament has been exceptional. We saw that, and I personally believe the tournament will get more and more success.” “I am definitely sad to be leaving and I am going to miss it but international duties always come first. I was happy to join and in the same way I am happy that I am leaving on a happy note. The (Guyana Amazon Warriors) team is a very good one, the franchise is good and the teammates are happy and supporting each other. Warriors huddle- The Guyana Amazon Warriors meets in a huddle, following the demise of a Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel wicket, during their first match in this year’s LCPL.
“Martin Guptill, James Franklin, Sunil Narine, Ramnaresh Sarwan, these players are all top players and it has been great to get together and play for each other, and coach Curtly Ambrose is a great cricketer who gives us lots of confidence before and after each game, always encouraging us.” The fans had their say too, even after the Amazon Warriors suffered the loss to St. Lucia Zouks in their third and final game at home. “The Zouks beat we because they were the better team on the day, but we will rebound and go onto the final and win this thing. The Zouks will not even reach the sem-ifinals, so let Sammy and he boys enjoy this win, ‘cause the last laugh is we own,” said one fan who chose to remain anonymous. Another fan, who spoke under anonymity, blared out” Amazon Warriors all the way! Let’s Go Warriors!”
Barnwell shouts-Guyana Amazon Warriors’ Christopher Barnwell shouts as he takes a wicket, during one of his team’s victories at the Guyana National Satdium, Providence.
He added, “When we played against St. Lucia Zouks in the LCPL, they needed 10 runs to win in the final over that was bowled by Mohammed Hafeez, and we lost that game and in our game against the Jamaica Tallawahs, they needed the same 10 runs when I was given the ball for the final over. It was a win or lose situation to many, but I backed myself and made it a win / win result for the team who were behind me 100%; and, we came out on top by two runs and for me that was the best
moment of my T20 career to date.” Who would have thought that such a tournament could bring out the best moment for a player who had previously represented the West Indies in this format of the game, while earlier this year (2013), he blasted 88 against Jamaica that took Guyana to the finals of the West Indies Cricket Board Caribbean T20 competition. Then there are the comments made by Hafeez at the conclusion of the LCPL, “To be honest, I was very sure the LCPL tournament would be a success because the crowd here is very passionate about
Yes, the team did make it to the final; and, they were the first team to inflict a defeat on the Tridents, who was the first team to make it to the semi-finals, having won all four of their home matches. In fact, after the Tridents suffered their first loss to the Amazon Warriors, it was the end of their winning streak as they never won another game, even onto their semi-final match-up with the Tallawahs, who went on to win the inaugural championship by defeating the Amazon Warriors. The latter team will definitely be looking to bounce back in the second edition of the tournament next year. 47 / I.G
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Overview of Archaeological Research in Northern Rupununi, Guyana
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By Lousia Daggers Dip PM, B.A (Hon), M.A.A, Applied Anthropologist / Archaeologist
he Rupununi savannah accounts for nearly half of the national territory of Guyana, yet, the archaeology of the area remains relatively unexplored. Previously identified is a range of chipped stone tools including projectile points, and features which include rock alignments, rock circles and rock piles. The region is also characterised by the presence of Polissoirs and Petroglyphs. Works conducted by Evans and Meggers (1960), remain the most extensive research conducted in the savannah, and identified several site types and pottery forms which serve as the basis for definition of the Rupununi Phase,
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characterised by two pottery types, Rupununi Plain and Kanuku Plain. The seriation of these types suggests an inverse distribution over time. Habitation sites including open settlements, cave sites and rock shelters were noted in the Rupununi. Cemetery sites are quite common in this region, too, and consisted of caves and rock shelters used for burials, and the use of ledges and walls of granite boulders upon which or adjacent to which burial urns were deposited. The former pattern is well represented by Moco Moco, Bei-Tau and Tamrio-Wau shelters whereas the latter pattern is a characteristic of Upper Kara Kara.
The material culture of the Rupununi includes a range of chipped and ground stone artifacts. Made predominately from syenite, quartzite, sandstone and felsite, these include anvils, grooved axes, choppers, hammer stones, hoes, manos, metates, cores and flakes and two stone bowl fragments. More prominently represented are pottery vessels and sherds of the types Kanuku and Rupununi Plain. In addition to a few sherds of unclassified cariape-tempered, a number of unclassified decorated sherds were noted with techniques that include incision, applique, punctate, white paint, white slip and red film. The almost complete absence of decoration
in the Rupununi Phase makes these finds particularly notable according to Plew, Pereira and Daggers, 2013. In the Rupununi, alignments have been recorded by Brown (1876), Farabee (1918), Henderson (1952), Roth (1929) and Williams (1979a), and include a range of types. Meggers and Evans (1957) noted the similarity of structures occurring in the AruĂŁ Phase of the Territory of AmapĂĄ in Brazil with those of Guyana, suggesting movement into the mouth of the Amazon. However, they presumed that stone alignments were not of Rupununi Phase origin. The function of the alignments remains speculative though the locations and the material associations would seem to support the ceremonial/ritual function ascribed to them by Evans and Meggers (1960).
reflects ongoing preparation of wooden implements, as well as their sharpening. Habitation sites in these areas yield evidence of structures and a diverse range of material, unlike workshop areas located near Shiriri, and Moco Moco creek. The general site areas of the ranch are very dense concentrations of debris that in some cases cover several square meters. Two sites exhibit considerable evidence of lithic reduction, pottery, and other artifacts were noted. The Karanambu sites identified are diverse and in some instances much larger than those previously reported in the area - a pattern noted by Plew and Pereira (2009) in the
vicinity of Toka. There are relative signs of task specificity of some sites while others contain evidence of temporary residence associated with lithic reduction. Nowhere in the Rupununi have such large and dense reduction stations been recorded. Much is left to be said about the archaeology of the Rupununi; however, with continued research and analysis through the region archaeologists involved in the research will move one step closer to answering questions and unravelling the prehistory of Guyana (By Louisa Daggers and Mark Plew).
Recent discoveries at Karanambu Using intuitive and systematic transect surveys, a total of 13 new sites were recorded within a six-mile radius of the Karanambu compound during 2013. These represent site types previously noted, though in some instances on a scale not previously seen. The sites include six village/habitation areas, two ceramic scatters and four lithic reduction areas and one reduction and shelter site. Survey results indicate that the settlement pattern generally conforms to what is known of settlement locations elsewhere in the north Rupununi-primarily areas on hill tops and ridges near bush islands and above swamps or lakes. The sites documented are assumed to date to be the Rupununi Phase which Evans and Meggers (1960) associate with the historic Macushi and Wapishana as their geographic distribution overlaps with historic maps by Horstman (1748), Olmedilla (1771-1775) and Surville (1778) and by the reports of Schomburgh (1835) and Im Thurn (1883). Twenty-eight percent of the sites recorded by Evans and Meggers (1960) contained historic trade beads, metal items and glassware dating between 1780 and 1900. Nine or 69% of the sites identified, contained Rupununi Plain pottery. Only a site at Mobai Hill contained Kanuku ceramics. Notably, the types Rupununi Plain and Kanuku Plain are primarily distinguished by core colour. The sites within this indicate a number of task specific activities including production and use of pottery, and the manufacture of stone tools. The presence of abraders and shaft straighteners recovered 49 / I.G
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Rupununi Beckons You By Ian Craddock - Bushmasters Photos Š Colin Edwards
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t an area the size of Britain with 80% Rainforest and much of the rest open Savannahs; Guyana is an adventure enthusiasts dream. Within Guyana there are many awesome locations to visit, from Shell Beach on the North coast to the amazing Kaieteur Falls in the centre of the country, but by far, the biggest draw is a huge area in the south of the country known as the Rupununi. The Rupununi encompasses the jungle clad mountains of the Pakaraima and Kanuku, the savannahs north and south of the Kanuku Range and is home to three of the nine Amerindian tribes of Guyana; Makushi, Wapisiana and Wai Wai. The Amerindian villages are scattered throughout the Rupununi and offer a visitors a unique experience and insight into the way the people of this area have lived in harmony with the rainforest for centuries. Sand Creek, Nappi, Surama and Rewa are just a few of the many communities worth visiting, all of which bring new adventures for the visitor. From hiking in the jungle, paddling dug-out canoes, fishing for piranha, spotting giant black caiman and of course tracking the elusive king of the jungle, the jaguar, adventures await! The savannah is equally awesome and home to many cattle ranches, which are still managed today the way they have always been, by vacqueros (cowboys) covering the ranch on horseback, rounding up the cattle, driving them to market and living the rancher’s life much as it has been for hundreds of years. For the tourist, especially those in search of true adventure, the Rupununi is the place to go! You can drive 4x4 vehicles across the savannahs, trek through the rainforest and mountains, lasso cows from a horse on the ranches of the Rupununi, paddle dug out canoes through winding jungle rivers, abseil off rocky outcrops or pit your own skills and wit against the jungle, and all that live in it on a survival course. After this training you get to live with next to nothing, on your own for several days – deep in the rainforest. At the end of this, there is always a creek to cool down in and a shot of rum or cold beer to sip as the sun goes down on another day, and stars like you have never seen before come out to light up the night. 51 / I.G
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
On a Vaquero adventure in dry season, you can ride the horses (no experience is needed), round up the cows, crack the bullwhips to get them moving to the corral, lasso those to be branded or castrated, brand them (even try a hand at castrating if the desire grabs you!) and help out with the action in the corral. While someone is sourcing the dry cow dung to burn, you can heat up the branding irons, register each branding detail and then lasso and brand the next cow in line. Often the ranch would slaughter a cow for their own use. Nothing is wasted. All the meat is cooked or tasso’d (sliced thin, salted and left to sun dry), the hide is stretched and left out to dry, the horns put up for a lasso practice target . Even the bones are used to make tools for the vaquero. Then of course there is the savannah of the ranch itself, often criss-crossed by clear water creeks, lined with tall Ite palms. (Taking a break in the creeks to let the horses drink and to bathe are common). A SMALL ranch here is about 50 sq miles! Of course you’ll often come across animals of the savannah. Giant anteaters are a regular sight, and you’re likely see them most days and from aback a horse it’s easy to get within feet of them. Then there are the savannah deer, and if you’re close to the creeks there will be caiman, capybara and otters. In the jungle and mountains you will find howler monkeys, jaguars and much more. Another example of an awesome adventure in the Savannah is driving 4x4 off road vehicles. There are no paved roads in the Rupununi and driving across the savannah on old and very rough trails takes skill, patience and a fair amount of luck. It is indeed a challenge on a grand scale. Simple, robust and old vehicles are the best. Series III landrovers or old Toyotas predominate. Anything electrical or with a fancy computer on board is going to break down quickly and stay broken. You need a tough old vehicle that keeps going and even if broken, you can fix it on the trail. Obviously if you don’t break the vehicle, just driving the Rupununi trails is a serious challenge. The vehicles are modified with snorkels, lifted suspension, mud terrain tyres and much more, but even they get stuck, often! You’ll have to put mud chains on for extra grip, or winch yourself out of a hole or even use the hi-lift jacks to get you up and out of a deep rut. It might take I.G / 52
you all day to travel 30 miles, you might be knackered and covered in mud, head to toe – but you would have had a real adventure! For those who crave the ultimate challenge, Guyana is home to the best jungle in the World for you to find adventure in, year round. On a jungle survival course the local Amerindian hunters can show you how to make a fire, build shelters, catch fish and clean and cook them, which plants you can use, how to find water from vines, set traps and how to shoot a bow and arrow and go hunting for small mammals. You’ll live the entire time in the forest, sleeping in hammocks and training all through the day and often at night, where we’ll set night traps and try spotting for snakes and Caiman. You’ll get to see other jungle creatures up close too, as spending days and days in the forest and travelling deep into it, is the best to spy some of these elusive creatures. Poison arrow frogs, tarantulas, macaws, eagles, monkeys, anacondas, capybara, caiman, piranhas, jaguars, tapirs, peccary, giant otters – they are all here. Soon enough a week of training would pass and you’ll be taken another 20 miles into the forest, where there is no sign of human beings, where you can put your skills to the test. No boats, planes overhead, roads, lights or even satellites blinking in the sky that you can see. As far as you know you’re the only human on the planet, on your own, with little more than a survival kit, machete and bow to live on. You have to survive for several days……..Can you cope? Of course if you want to see the beauty of The Rupununi you don’t have to plan a great and tough expedition. For those who want it a little easier, there are great places to base yourself, all of which have amazing people who can really show you the best of their area. Dadanawa, Saddle Mountain, Nappi, Karanambu, Yupukari, Rockview, Rewa, Surama and more , all have facilities for people to stay in, ranging from a basic home stay on a ranch to a lodge with the best rum cocktails on the planet and even a pool to relax in. Whether you want that true adventure experience, or just the chance to soak up the culture and the natural world around you, The RUPUNUNI is THE place to visit in Guyana! 53 / I.G
Mash 2014 Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44!
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ith just enough to tantalise their senses, Guyanese and visitors from a neighbouring country savoured a sliver of Guyana’s largest and most colourful festival, Mashramani, as models and singers teased the gathering with what lies ahead for the massive cultural explosion in 2014.
By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
celebrations. It is truly a time when Guyanese bond together.
And when it comes to revelry, you can’t beat the Guyanese!
At the launch on October 25, in front of the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport’s Office on Main Street, officials from the Ministry along with local Parliamentarians and members of a delegation of visiting Surinamese Parliamentarians, witnessed some of the colourful and resplendent costumes that will be worn at the festival to be celebrated under the theme “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44”. Mashramani is an Amerindian word which means “celebration after hard work”, and is usually observed on February 23 in observance of Guyana’s Republic Anniversary which was achieved on that date in 1970. Commonly referred to as “Mash”, it is the most dynamic, all inclusive, cultural and energetic of all Guyanese festivals.
Members of the Surinamese Parliament cheer as the Mash 2014 logo is unveiled
Mashramani includes a month of activities throughout the country with every Administrative Region taking part to ensure that people living outside the Capital share in the national festivities. Events usually feature chutney, soca and the calypso (junior and senior) competitions, followed by children’s Mash activities, masquerade and steel band, media jump up, concert for the elderly, and the bright up Guyana competition, among others. Mash Day depicts a hive of activity, transforming the entire landscape into a sea of explosive colours, along Church Street, from Vlissingen Road and lrving streets all the way to the National Park. Thousands upon thousands of people, of all ethnicities, all age groups, throng the streets to participate in the annual
Two of the costumes for Mash 2014
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Š Amanda Richards
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Squash player Benjamin Mekdeci receives a decorative map of Guyana from Ho. Irfaan Ali, in keeping with his status of a tourism Brand ambassador
Benjamin Mekdeci
A Sports and Tourism Ambassador for Guyana
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By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
uyana will be prominently represented by Benjamin Mekdeci in the Squash tournament at the upcoming US Open on November 18, and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has fully endorsed the Americanborn player as a sports and tourism ambassador.
“We are happy to say that Ben, whose mother is an American and whose dad is Guyanese, chose to represent Guyana at the US Open Squash tournament, as a Guyanese. We are endorsing him as a sports ambassador,” Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali said. According to Dr. Kelly Mekdeci, both of her children are American by birth and Benjamin objected and protested that he wanted to register as a Guyanese, as he feels very strongly about that. As to the significance of this move by the young squash champion, Ali said that all Guyana should be proud of Benjamin representing the Golden Arrowhead. The Tourism Minister announced too that a ‘Sports Ambassador Programme’ will soon be launched; this will see local sports men and women being tasked with the role of representing Guyana as tourism brand ambassadors. “I am very pleased to have the opportunity of representing Guyana, this is a great honour,” Benjamin Mekdeci declared. 59 / I.G
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Dennis Charran A Guyanese Philanthropist
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umble, kind, sincere are all synonymous with the Managing Director of Guyana’s largest manufacturer of mattresses – Comfort Sleep. I have never been more comfortable communicating with any business owner as I have been with him as he communicates effectively, is quite impartial and always accommodating. The last time I had the opportunity of meeting with him, I was immediately overwhelmed with awe and inspiration
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By Vanie Beepat
when he revealed one of the benevolent gestures in which he is involved. My heart softened. About 15 years ago, Mr. Dennis Charran began his humanitarian work at P.R. Rehab Centre, but as his passion for helping the less fortunate intensified, so did his efforts, especially helping underprivileged children. Subsequently about five years ago, he learnt that the Malgre Tout R.C. Church’s soup kitchen was closing due to
inadequate finances. At that point in time, he had no clue how he would have done it, but made the bold decision to take it over completely. It first started with two schools that fed approximately 100 children and now it has grown to four schools, feeling more than 300 children on the West Bank of Demerara, Region Three. It did not stop there however, Mr. Charran subsequently learnt that another Church in Berbice was in an economically
depressing position and he opted to help. This time, he took over Church of Ascension at New Amsterdam and began supporting their soup kitchen whose main beneficiaries were children. The four schools in Region Three that currently benefit from this programme are: Malgre Tout, La Grange, ParfaiteHarmonie and Bagotville Primary Schools, and in Berbice, the Friends and Edingburg Primary Schools. Today, approximately 500 Grades One to Four children from New Amsterdam and West Bank receive a meal thrice a week, graciously prepared by the respective church members and other volunteers. It certainly doesn’t stop there for this man who has a heart made of gold as every year during Christmas season; hundreds of children are invited to parties. What is even more special is that the children are encouraged to write letters to Santa Claus and ask for what they want. Mr. Charran and his staff then sort through hundreds of letters and try their utmost to full fill the wishes of these children. At these extravagant parties, the children are treated to delicious food, candies, ice cream, gifts and even the presence of Santa himself at three venues; Malgre Tout Roman Catholic Church compound, Church of Ascension and P.R. Rehab Centre.
It is heartwarming to note that during one of these parties, Mr. Charran observed that some of the children ate half of their meals and took home the other half. When he inquired the reason for doing so, they revealed to him that they were taking it for their other siblings at home. This immediately melted his heart and ever since then he invites the children, as well as their siblings, and are all treated in the same respect and given presents as well. Naturally using his personal finances and staff to coordinate all of this is no walk in the park, but Mr. Charran is committed to helping these children in need. When questioned about the challenges he faces, he responded that they were not significant, but he would love to offer five meals instead of three, and could use more volunteers to prepare and distribute them.
donates mattresses, groceries, and appliances among other items to other organisations such as Joshua House, Ruimveldt Children’s Home, and the Plaisance Boys’ orphanage and the St. Ann’s orphanage. He also supports and sponsors other events. Despite he was tentative to share this heartening story, I persuaded him as I was so inspired by his benevolent nature, and hope this will evoke the same in others as well.
He also indicated that he is heavily reliant on the loyal support of his customers to sustain this humanitarian effort. Without their continued support, he would not be able to execute feeding programmes of this magnitude. He is urging his current customers to continue to support him, and would like to encourage others to lend their support as well so he can so generously give back to his country. Undeniably, Mr. Dennis Charran is by no means a frugal man as he wholeheartedly 61 / I.G
Berbice Bridge © John Greene
Guyana Then and Now From Jingee to Junk Food By Neaz Subhan - Director - GINA
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he images seem fresh as if been revealed in real time from a LED screen. The clarity unquestionable and the realism cast indelibly in the cerebral sanctuary; preserved and fossilized despite just being a flicker of time. Never ending lines for fuel, food, water and a whiff of an opportunity to earn. Long hours waiting for a mode of transportation; any! Backs breaking in the blistering Guyanese sun, planting seeds to stave off hunger. The much anticipated reaping of the precious roots subsequently forced smiles and straightened backs; cassava, yam, eddoe, dasheen, sweet potato. The vines could not have been outdone; pumpkin which crossed boundaries, squash, seime, checherah, jingee and nenwah. The latter was crucial for many who were concerned about personal hygiene. It was pleasing, the nenwah that is, to the armpits, groins and other areas
including those devoid of natural light. Its effectiveness was dependent on the availability of precious soap that foamed easily, unlike the more ubiquitous “salted” ones. Water was a non-issue since it wasn’t available for such “luxuries”. A saucepan or two from the trench in proximity or a butter-bowl dipped repeatedly into a battered forty-five gallon metal drum supplied from a rusty zinc roof, or a broken galvanised gutter, were routine. Exercise obviously came naturally! Fed from metal and stored in metal ensured a cool encouraging temperature of the water in a bathroom opened for all to see. For many others, wading in the dark waters of the trench, served the same purpose with an added impetus of adventure. The black-sage could be deemed the “Oral-B” of the time, given its use in
keeping the vocal cavity hygienic. It was a fixture and with the aid of good old cooking salt, white foam was becoming; barely. Arguably, an indirect benefit of its extensive usage was clearer parapets. On another aspect of hygiene, many took pride to delicately apply the sturdy sheets of paper which contained the news, livestock feed or cement when available, to unsoiled areas affected by natural bodily functions. Most, if not all, routinely, armed with a “flambeau” (jug-lamp), trekked in dark bush-filled passage-ways during the nights to answer a call totally unrelated to a cell phone. These “call booths” were some of the places many dreamt day and night, even though awake. If it wasn’t a dream, it was a longing; a longing that an Edison’s filament lamp would retire the flambeau; tender tissues would replace the sturdy sheets; a shower head would replace the dipping butter-bowl; an available 63 / I.G
variety would expand choices from the cassava and the other roots; the “big ben” bicycle would not be the only luxurious mode of family transportation; the blacksage would be replaced by an actually scientifically tested Oral-B; toothpaste would be accessible to replace the precious cooking salt and what was being heard on radio could be “seen” on TV. These were just some of the vocal dreams. There were many silent ones too. The donning of decent clothing and footwear; to savour “chicken-in-the ruff”, or for a young girl just to splash make-up to rival Sophia Lauren were yearned for in the dark corners of a shack where a fibrefilled hole-riddled mattress reminded that it was now a bedroom. Boys imagined themselves as doctors and pilots probably catalysed from movies viewed from pit by those who were able to solicit the generosity of a benefactor. The sudden jerk of the shoulder by someone else’s hand not only dissipated the sleep, but reinstalled realism. The slumber was easily induced by the tranquil sixty-five mile journey from the capital city to D’Edward village to cross the bridge onwards to Corentyne. It was now a routine drive uninhibited by time constraints once forced by a faithful but now archaic ferry and potholes. Such, now unchallenged voyages facilitated by a smooth flow in a variety of modern land transport vehicles which seem ubiquitously countless and which have overwhelmed the roadways, can easily evoke memories of what was as in the case of riding a “big-ben” on no road for those who endured black-sage and butterbowl baths. Fully conscious and slumber free, the veracity of the now real time crossing was instantaneous in its revelation that the memories of dreaming in a certain “call booth” illuminated by a “jug lamp”, despite being fossilised, are now banished to the past. Retrieving an energy booster from the exquisite brand-name hand-piece, indirectly reassured that personal amenities including toothbrush with rotating bristles, plaque-bursting toothpaste and electric shaver were packed. Craving fast food, the next stop was inevitable. The Ipad provided the directions. As the lower mandible extends up and down to facilitate mastication, the incoming thought was unavoidable; when last did “jingee” met the taste buds? Thus begins the journey into the decades-old cerebral files. I.G / 64
Wiri-Wiri peppers © Amanda Richrads
White Pudding Amanda Richards
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Female Pioneer Aviators Honoured
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By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
ight illustrious pioneering women in the local aviation sector were honoured for their sterling contributions, and for paving the way for other Guyanese women to be a part of this reputable field.
Cheryl Moore, who became the country’s first female military pilot in 1977, Beverley Drake, the first female commercial pilot in that same year, Barbara Adams, the first female helicopter pilot, Feriel Ally, the first female grand caravan pilot, Williette Gardner, the first female captain of a turbo prop aircraft twin otter, Debbie Gouveia, the first female to captain an islander in 1982, Paula Mc Adam, the first female air traffic controller in 1979, and Sandra Persaud, who in 1986, was the first female to in airport administration at the Timehri International Airport were honoured on October 9, 2013. Both Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Public Works Minister Robeson Benn saluted the eight pioneers for being bold and daring enough to venture into a field that was, at that time, considered to be a man’s world. Two of the honourees, Cheryl Moore and Beverley Drake were also presented with their own commemorative stamps, which were launched as part of the activities by Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) in observance of World Post Day. There were no female pilots locally until 1976 when three groups of people (including women) were sent to be trained as pilots in places like Cuba, Florida and the United Kingdom.
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Guyanese and their love for the Caribbean Carnival in Toronto
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By Krystyne James
very year, the Caribbean Carnival, previously known as Caribana, has been, and continues to be, one of the largest Caribbean diasporic events that takes place in the city of Toronto. More specifically, it’s an event of which many Guyanese people are in attendance. The question you may ask is why is there such a high turnout of Guyanese during the Caribbean Carnival festival? Well the answer is quite simple. Guyanese love to have a good time and that’s what the Caribbean Carnival festival is all about. The festival officially began on July 9th, however, most visitors and locals normally attend the main events that take place during the Caribbean Carnival festival weekend, which takes place from Thursday, August 4th to Monday, August 5th. This year in particular, there have been more events that have been catered to the entire family, where families can mingle and enjoy the nice atmosphere that is presented at the Caribbean Carnival festival events. It’s important to mention that these events are not only hosted by the city of Toronto, but hosted
by a few Guyanese Associations as well. As mentioned above, the festival officially began on Tuesday July 9th, 2013 with the Carnival Official Launch. This year the Launch took place at the Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall, however, each year the launch is hosted at a different venue. This event was catered to people of all ages and often has a high turnout, as it is a free event to attend and there is a vast amount of performances by popular Caribbean Music Artists. It is here where a showcase of the Band Leaders taking part of the parade will be presented. Attendees are able to taste some of the traditional and flavourful foods that come from the Caribbean. All in all, it’s a great event to attend if you want a daytime lime with your family. As we all know, it’s important to maintain our Caribbean Culture by teaching our children about it; hence why the Caribbean Carnival hosts an annual event for our children. The Junior Carnival was held on July 20th of this year and it’s the event where our children had the opportunity to celebrate 69 / I.G
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Caribbean Culture and share it amongst the community. At this event, youths danced through the streets in beautifully designed costumes that were brightly coloured. This parade is very similar to the main event of the Carnival as it is made up of many band leaders displaying costumes as part of a competition. Various countries of the Caribbean were represented in this parade; countries from Jamaica to Guyana. The Caribana weekend kicked off with the introduction of the King and Queen at the King and Queen Competition and show at the Lampart Stadium that took place on Thursday August 1st. This is one of the main events of the weekend and it attracts a vast amount of Guyanese people. At this event, one should be prepared to see beautiful costumes and colours, as this is the event where the leaders of the Caribana Mas bands will be placed on showcase. The male and female competitors are judged on the details of costumes, how that costume represents the theme that the Mas bands will perform during the Caribbean Carnival Parade and the performance of the leader. It is at this event where the King and Queen are crowned. This year, there was a tremendous turnout. There were plenty of Caribbean people in attendance, which includes Guyanese people. All of whom were excited about the crowning of the King and Queen. The performance of a Steel Pan band can be quite exhilarating to watch, as it is full of energy and high tempo music. During this year’s Caribbean Carnival festival, the Caribbean Carnival festival committee and The Ontario Steel Band Association presented Pan Alive 2013. The competition took place on Friday Aug 2nd and welcomed a huge crowd of various Caribbean backgrounds. Throughout the night the audience was treated with some of the best live Caribbean percussion and steel drumming. Regardless of the fact that Steel Pan music derives from Trinidad, people of Guyanese decent were still amongst the audience as Guyanese love to dance to the sweet sounds of Steel Pan music. It was a night full of energy and excitement… One that was not to be missed. Regardless of how many parties and events there are, the Grand Parade is where you will find all of the Caribbean people come together as one and jump up for Mas. The Parade took place on Saturday, August 3rd and over 1 million people attended this year, with a fantastic Guyanese presence. Not only will you find the Guyanese diaspora attending this event, you will find people travelling from Guyana itself to attend this event, as well. The parade started off inside the Exhibition Place continued on Lakeshore Road and ended at Lakeshore and Parkside Drive. Streets were filled with the sexy sounds of Soca, Calypso and Steelpan music. This is North America’s largest Caribbean Parade that comes to life with the gorgeous costumes, props and lively dancers. This festival first debuted in 1967 and has been going strong ever since. Guyanese, Jamaicans, Bajans, Trinidadians and many other Caribbean Nations come together at this Parade to show the world the unique ways of the Caribbean Culture. For those who didn’t have enough fun at the Parade and wished to have more, was able to attend the Annual Caribana Dance hosted by the Guyana Berbice Association (Toronto) Inc. This event took place on the evening of the Parade and was held at the Thornhill Community Centre. It was a great event to attend for those who wished to party all night. Exhilarating vibes of Soca, Chutney, Calypso and more was presented by I.G / 70
DJ ‘Rockin’ Roxy and was played until the party ended at around 2 AM in the morning. It was attended by quite a few Guyanese people who had the stamina to Jam all night. As we all know, Guyanese love to dance. As Guyana is a diverse country, Guyanese people love music of any type; hence why Chutney In De Park was the place to be on Sunday August 4th, 2013. This was the 4th year that the event was held and was a family oriented event that was mainly catered to a Guyanese and Trinidadian crowd. In fact it was a mixture of Trinidadian and Guyanese culture which helped to inspire Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival festival. This event featured a cooking contest, speed eating competition, softball tournaments, car show, free rides for the kids, and over 30 live performances in the music genres of soca, chutney, calypso, steel pan and rhythm tassa bands.
fun day of music and games for Guyanese and the Guyanese diaspora to enjoy, and secondly, to fundraise for the betterment of schools in Guyana. According to the last lap lime website, the mission of the event is to “… to encourage and support students of Bishops’, Queen’s, St. Joseph’s, St. Rose’s and St. Stanislaus in Guyana in their pursuit of academic excellence.” As such, as stated on the website, “A portion of the proceeds from the Last Lap Lime is used to ensure that these students have the facilities and resources that would contribute to a learning environment.” This event was a successful event, as it often is. It had a high turnout and all who attended had a fantastic time. For all those Guyanese who wish to help the Guyana nation, this was the event to attend.
The Caribbean Carnival festival has been one that allows Guyanese people to enjoy the roots and rhythm of the Guyanese culture. It’s a festival which allows Guyanese to come together and enjoy one another’s company. The Caribbean Carnival is all about reclaiming the Caribbean Culture and spreading it so that the Caribbean legacy can continue on to many generations to come. Trinidad is the place where the idea of Carnival came to be and this along with the Guyanese culture has come to inspire the Caribbean Carnival and make it a huge success up to this date. It is one of the most revenue generating events in Toronto and it brings in a lot of tourists. With all of this in mind, it is no wonder why Guyanese love the Caribbean Carnival festival.
Last but not least, the Caribbean Carnival festival ended off with the Last Lap Lime. This event is hosted by a combination of Schools of Guyana’s Alumni of who has come together to put on an entertaining event for all Guyanese to attend. This event is held annually and serves two purposes; one of which is to provide a 71 / I.G
Moraikobai Beauty is Ms. Amerindian Heritage Queen 2013
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By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
nalisa Andrews, 21, of Moraikobai, Region Five was crowned Miss Amerindian Heritage 2013 after having mesmerized the judges and the packed National Cultural Centre on September 28.
The queen, who aims to become an accountant, chose ‘Youth leadership in Amerindian communities’ as her platform, for which she advocated well during the pageant. She very competently answered the final question that gave her the nod over the nine other contestants. To the question, “The theme for Amerindian Heritage Month is ‘Honouring our culture, advancing our future’; what does this mean to you?” Andrews’ answer was: “Honouring our culture means to me that I should be proud of my tradition, my culture, my history, my ancestors and even though changes are occurring everyday in our lives, for example, technology, I shouldn’t forget where I came from by always preserving my culture, but at the same time advancing the future - meaning to take my education seriously, and move on.” The Region Five beauty enjoys her native food of cassava bread and casiri, and a good game of cricket during her spare time.
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Š GuyanaTimes
Ms. Katherina Roshana Khan Miss Guyana Universe and Miss India Guyana 2013 I.G / 74
Elegant and Charming 23 year old, Ms. Katherina Roshana Khan is the reigning Miss Guyana Universe and Miss India Guyana 2013. She represented Guyana in the Miss India Worldwide pageant in Malaysia earlier this year and subsequently at the Miss Universe pageant in Moscow, Russia in November.
An Explosion of Caribbean Cultures! I
By Shanta Gobardhan, GINA
nitiated by the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community in 1972 to celebrate the arts, foster a vision of Caribbean unity and to positively advance Caribbean culture regionally and internationally, the Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta) has been doing just that. Guyana hosted the first Carifesta in 1972 and the tenth, in 2009. Carifesta is a multi-disciplinary event and the eleventh leg was staged from August 16 to 26, 2013 in Suriname. It was a showcase of the cultural expressions of peoples of more than 30 countries in the Caribbean under the theme “Culture for Development: Celebrating our diversity and promoting the central role of culture in economic, social and human development�. The mega event allowed contingents to showcase their skills and various cultural pieces in arts and craft, music, fashion, and visual, performing, literary and culinary arts. The traditional opening ceremony was a spectacle, with each country sporting a flag backdrop and a three - minute set piece or display reflecting what they are best known for. 75 / I.G
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A Grand Cultural Market and Trade Fair; performing arts in theatre, dance, music and storytelling, youth focus, community festivals, super concerts, film festival, capacity building workshops, and meetings and networking events were the mains aspects of Carifesta XI. The Guyanese local fashion delegation fielded an alluring display of glamour, sophistication and elegance provided by designers Carol Fraser, Pat Coates, Sonia Noel and Marcia De Santos. Guyana, Cuba and the host country participated in a dance recital where each shared aspects of their culture, in keeping with the festival’s theme. The Guyanese dancers, drawn from the National Dance Company, Classique and Nitrageet, performed items depicting their country’s cultural heritage. Guyana is well-known for many things – its food, its diverse culture, heritage, many rivers and waterfalls, and for having one of the world’s last standing mostly intact rainforest. For those who did not know much about the country, they were given that opportunity during the ‘Guyana Night’ where performers used the stage at Independence Square, Paramaribo to showcase a presentation titled “Rhythms of our people” where dancers, singers and musicians, through their skills, unveiled the story of Guyana’s six peoples. Apart from the dancing and singing, the audience that comprised many foreign diplomats and Surinamese officials, was treated to musical renditions from the National Steel Orchestra which performed the Guyana National Anthem, Guyanese Babu and Johanna by Eddie Grant. Rajesh Dubraj, Young Bill Rogers and the Whaul Sisters sang Guyanese folk songs and chutney and calypso tunes. Guyana entered 11 films in the festivals; ‘To the Night’ and ‘Beached’ by Kojo McPherson, ‘You are Not Alone’ by Stanley Bennett Clay and Antoine B. Craigwell, ‘Luck Beat Handsome’ by Errol Chan, ‘Hope’ by Shaundel Philips, ‘Three Cards’ by Michael James, ‘Tradition’ by Margaret Lawrence, ‘The Encounter’ by Bonny Alves, ‘The Bottle’ by SmolanaVarswyk, ‘The Back Yard’ by Denise Harris and ‘Look in a different Way’ and ‘Flambeau’ by Errol Brewster. At the Grand Cultural Market where the participating countries set up booths in the literary, visual and culinary arts, and fashion displays, Guyana sported the largest number. I.G / 76
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The Amazing Harpy Eagle A Feathered Giant
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By Waldyke “Wally” Prince – Wildlife Biologist, Naturalist Guide Photos © New World Photography
he largest eagle in the Americas and one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world, the Harpy Eagle is often called the “Flying Wolf”. The bird of prey is so unique and an awe-inspiring sight, that the moment you lay your eyes on it, you will recognize it immediately. Its majestic crest of double band of grey crest feathers above a black chest band and pure white underbelly, truly gives it the formidable appearance.
they are very important in regulating and stabilizing the populations of their preys. This raptor is a mainly a canopy predator and seems to hunt mainly from the edges of the forest, such as along the edges of ox-bow lakes and rivers, and aritficial man-made opening such as the edges of old mining sites. The bird uses the tall trees on the edges as a look-out point for observing preys before going into attack mode.
our various ancestors and cultural upbringing. Thus, for many kids growing up in the country-side of semi-rural areas, we were told that ‘the Harpy Eagle will come and fly away with you, if you misbehave and be disobedient or hard ears’, or the ‘wata-mumma will come and take you away’. I’m sure for many of us ‘countryside’ Guyanese, looking back in hindsight; these warning by our grandparents have truly enriched our lives.
One of the characteristics of birds of prey is the sexual dimorphism between the males and females, whereby the females are much larger than the males, and for Harpy Eagle, the female can be nearly twice as large as the male, with a wingspan of around 8 feet. For its superb speed and maneuverability through the thick foliage of the rainforest, the Harpy Eagle possesses a shorter wingspan compared to other eagles. The most formidable feature on the eagle is it’s nearly half a foot long talons which protrudes from a foot that is as thick around as a man’s wrist. As such the Harpy Eagle is considered as the largest, strongest and most powerful raptor in the world, killing and eating close to 2 dozen species of birds, mammals and reptiles, which includes; macaws, sloths, monkeys, armadillos, rodents, iguanas and even snakes. The male Harpies being of much smaller stature, hunts the smaller size preys, while the female normally hunts the bigger preys.
Guyana, with its vast stretches of undisturbed rainforest, has one of the healthiest populations of Harpy Eagles. The Kanuku Mountains, a name given to this beautiful mountain range by the local Macushi and Wapishana language, which means ‘rich forest’, is a true testament to the spectacular biodiversity that inhabits the mountain range and its diverse foothills. The Kanuku Mountains, which is located in the Rupununi region, separates the savannas into the north and south savannas, is reputed to be the best stronghold for Harpy Eagles in Guyana and subsequently the whole Guianan Shield. Over the past few months they were frequently seen in several primary forested areas in the country including the Rupununi region, Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve, and in the highland forested sections of Region #1. Active nests also are reported in the North, Central and South Rupununi regions.
The vast richness of its wildlife and remoteness of Guyana’s many natural resources have drawn the attention over the years of many film makers to this beautiful land of ours, in the quest of finding and documenting our wildlife, our peoples and our culture. These documentaries have brought Guyana closer to the world through the eyes of filmmakers, in such films as; “ Flight of the Harpy Eagle” (1991), “A Dream for Guyana’s Natural Heritage” (1999), “White Diamond” (2004), “Kanauku, Mountain of Life” (2005), and “Lost Land of the Jaguar” (2008).
Harpy Eagles are found in tropical lowland forests from southeastern Mexico through Central and South America to Paraguay and northern Argentina. It is listed as “Near Threatened” by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and appears on the “Red List” of threatened species maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). This status was assigned to it due to extensive deforestation and habitat fragmentation throughout its range. In Guyana, the bird is hardly hunted or poached and when this does occur, the act is mainly committed by farmers who considered the birds as a threat to their poultry. Harpies are apex-predators and as such
Flight of the Harpy Eagle, a National Geographic documentary filmed in the Kanuku Mountains and produced in 1991, is truly a masterpiece, featuring the struggles of a Harpy Eagle in growing up, achieving awareness and ultimately independence.
Traditionally, the Harpy Eagles are exhibited in the ceremonial headdresses of the indigenous chiefs and spiritual healers, which is mainly composed of the feathers from these majestic birds. This tradition is still practiced within the Wai-Wais traditional lifestyles in remote southern Guyana. The average Guyanese will only get to view Harpies in the Guyana Zoo, which houses some of these majestic birds. I have seen Harpies feeding on sloth, agouti and iguanas within the Rupununi areas, and many skull and bone fragments of cebid monkeys at the base of the tree under their nest. Guyanese are very superstitious in many ways, and this can be attributed to our rich cultural diversity that is embedded within us from 79 / I.G
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Emancipation in Guyana 2013 Š Amanda Richards
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The 1823 Monument T
he unveiling of the 1823 Monument in August 2013 adds to the list of sacred and prized heritage sites in Guyana. The ceremonial unveiling came as the world observed the 175th anniversary of the abolition of slavery and emancipation of enslaved Africans. Overlooking the Kitty seawall facing east, the monument depicts a robust male figure adorned in bronze carrying a machete/cutlass in one hand and a cross and chain in the other.
A male and female who appear ready for battle are also visible on the lower platform of the masterpiece designed by well known and respected Guyanese sculptor Ivor Thom. In the lead up to its construction, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport had invited suggestions from the public and was examining several potential sites along the East Coast of Demerara. In the end a section of land in close proximity to the Kitty Seawall, along
Carifesta Avenue, was approved as the most fitting location. The monument commemorates the historic August 1823 slave revolt led by Quamina and other freedom fighters that erupted on Plantation Success, East Coast of Demerara and quickly spread to other estates, striking a blow against the system of plantation slavery. The rebellion is regarded as one of only two major slave revolts in Guyana’s history, occurring 60 years after the 1763 Berbice slave uprising led by Cuffy.
Š New World Photography
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Guyana Mysterious Land of Giants By Dimitri Allicock
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O
Anaconda
f all the animals on the planet, the largest seems to intrigue us the most. How do giraffes’ long legs and necks help them find food? Can butterflies grow bigger than some bird? Is it true that some snakes grow as long as 40 feet? The last days of the colossal land mammals were millions of years ago and no land animals today reach such a size. The largest mammal on Earth is also the largest animal to ever live on land or in the ocean, dwarfing even the largest Dinosaur, and is the living fossil called the Blue Whale. Measuring more than 110 feet and weighing 200,000 lbs this magnificent animal is still mostly a mystery to science. It has a heart the size of a car, its tongue weighs as much as an elephant and a Blue Whale fluke or tail fins equals the wingspan of a small aircraft. The mysterious deep uncharted mist- shrouded rainforest of Guyana is home to the lost world of many fascinating giants and secrets of our timesome yet to be discovered.
play host to a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, including healthy populations of many species that are listed as threatened or endangered. Many giants call this pristine land their home and enjoy to the fullest, the rhythm of life in their natural undisturbed world.
Located next to the equator and nestled in the northeastern shoulder of South America, Guyana enjoys a privilege location where nature can be appreciated at its purest. This only English speaking county of South America is home to one of the largest unspoiled rainforests on earth, with plants and animals unknown to science and untouched by humans. Guyana 83.000 square miles lies where the Guiana Shield, one of the world’s four remaining large tracts of relatively undisturbed tropical rainforest, and oldest land surface in South America meets the Amazon Basin in a breathtaking collision of nature.
The ‘black jaguar’ is one such specific color variation and its rosettes are visible at certain angles; black jaguars occur rarely in all populations. Jaguars vary in size, with adults generally weighing between 200-250 pounds and measuring approximately 8 feet from nose to tail. They are top predators in the forest and savannahs and are excellent swimmers. They are stocky and strong, and stalk their prey rather than chase it. They will hunt at any time of the day or night, using their powerful jaws and teeth to pierce the skull of their prey, a technique unique to jaguars and very useful for cracking the shells of turtles, one of their favorite prey. Other prey includes capybara, deer, monkeys, and fish. In areas where humans live, jaguars will also prey on domestic animals such as dogs and cattle.
Framed by Venezuela, Brazil, Suriname and the Atlantic Ocean, Guyana is a paradise for nature lovers. With verdant rainforest carpeting 80 percent of the country, and other habitats varying from exotic mangroves to wild coastal swamps, rugged Atlantic beaches, lofty mountain ranges and sprawling savannahs that conjure comparisons to eastern Africa’s Serengeti or Masai Mara, Guyana offers the chance to view remarkable wildlife against the backdrop of one of the world’s most unspoiled natural wilderness areas. This natural paradise has attracted many world famous animal and nature conservationists including the latest Jeff Corwin, best known as host and executive producer of the Animal Planet cable channel television programs, the Jeff Corwin Experience and Corwin’s quest. This sparsely populated lost world holds fascinating secrets and ecosystems which
The Jaguar {Panthera onca} of Guyana is the king of the Amazonian jungle and is the emblematic animal of South America. Of all the big cats, the jaguar remains the least studied. While some information comes from the wild, most of what is known about jaguars has been learned from captive animals. The Jaguar is the largest cat in the Americas and ranges from the southwestern US to Argentina. It is the handsomest of all the great cats, taller and stouter than a leopard with a shorter tail. There is much color variation in jaguars, but in general, they are a tawny golden color on the back and sides with a white underbelly, and are spotted with black rosettes all over.
Jaguars are secretive, but like many wild cats, they take advantage of manmade trails and roads in the forest, so, sometimes, lucky travelers can see jaguars when driving though some of the bush trails of the rainforest. The jaguar is Guyana’s national animal and two can be found proudly sitting within Guyana’s coat of arms. Jaguars are common but are only killed when they become a nuisance by destroying cattle. They are very bold and will come quite near into town in search of prey. Guyana famous for its numerous waterways is home of the great snake. The huge anacondas reach their greatest bulk in the moist forest of the interior 83 / I.G
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Jaguar © Steve Winter
but large ones are also found frequently on the coast. It has been reported that anacondas have been seen and killed in Guyana that were more than thirty feet in length. In Spanish, the name Anaconda, means “bull killer.” It is the largest mammalian predator in the world and is on the top of the food chain in many South American countries. They can eat an adult cow, a small crocodile and even a human. They are the only predator that can attack and kill a jaguar. Often confused with the python, anacondas and pythons belong to two different families of snake. Anacondas belong to the boa family and are found in South America and the Amazon basin. A python belongs to the family Pythonidae. It prowls the thick and dense forest of South Asia, South East Asia, and SubSaharan Africa. Anaconda is the heaviest and the biggest snake in the world. On the other hand, the python is no doubt the longest snake in the world. There are two kinds of anaconda, yellow and green anacondas, with the yellow being the smaller. I.G / 84
The yellow anaconda lives primarily in southern South America, reaching lengths of about only 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4m). An anaconda can weigh as much as 550 pounds or more and can grow up to 25 feet. Yet, many tales have survived in Guyana of much larger snakes killed, some measuring up to 40 feet. In contrast, the python can grow as long as 33 feet or more. However, a 20-foot anaconda will outweigh a much longer python. Called camoudie in Guyana this non- venomous snake prefers to be undisturbed. It comes in contact with humans when hunting prey such as domesticated chickens and ducks when it is usually killed. Most myths and legends of great snakes have its genesis in the unwarranted fear of this creature. Reports of attack of humans are rare and some varieties of the species are even kept as pets. Needless to say, they should only be kept by very experienced large snakehandlers since this snake is a wild, meat- eating animal. Anacondas live near rivers, lakes and swamps and like to live alone. Water is their main escape method when
confronted with danger. Rather than attacking they will choose to slide into the water unnoticed if possible. Anacondas eat amphibious animals like frogs, toads as well as fish, caimans, birds, ducks and turtles. Anacondas are very difficult for scientists to study or even find. They are really quiet and leave no trail. They spend a lot of their time in the dark waters of their habitat. What is known as the common anaconda inhabits the rivers of northern and Amazonian South America, east of the Andes. Anacondas don’t lay eggs as many other snakes do, instead give birth to live young, around 24 to 35 at a time. While the anaconda is also known as the “water boa,” it spends a great deal of its time basking in the sun. Here, outside of the water, it is considered less dangerous, with its weight not being as well supported (for larger specimens). Still, inside or outside of water, they will hunt, though not necessarily in the sense of pursuing their prey. Anacondas are opportunistic hunters, like the crocodile, and typically will wait for their prey to come to them. That’s not to say one won’t
Giant River Otter © Steve Winter
slowly advance towards you if interested, but they rather prefer the surprise attack, being content to wait patiently close by. Simply put, anacondas are ambush experts. This Guyana and South American Otter or “Water Dog “ is the world’s largest, at some 6 feet (1.8 meters) long. It lives in the remote rivers and creeks of the Jungle. These huge members of the weasel family swim by propelling themselves with their powerful tails and flexing their long bodies. They also have webbed feet, water-repellent fur to keep them dry and warm, and nostrils and ears that close in the water. Fish make up most of the giant river otter’s diet. They hunt alone or in groups, sometimes using coordinated efforts, and must be successful often to meet their daily intake quota. Each animal may eat six to nine pounds (three to four kilograms) of food per day. Fish are supplemented by crustaceans, snakes, and other river creatures.
Giant river otters live in family groups that include monogamous parents and offspring from several breeding seasons. They den by burrowing into banks or under fallen logs, and establish a home territory that they will aggressively defend. Like most other otter species, giant river otters come ashore to give birth. Females retreat to their underground dens and deliver litters of one to six young. Young otters remain in the den for a month but grow up quickly. After nine or ten months, it is difficult to tell mother from child. Giant river otters have been hunted extensively and are now among the rarest otters in the world—only a few thousand are believed to survive in the wild. Famous animal and nature conservationist Diane McTurk has devoted her life to saving Guyana’s and the Amazon’s endangered giant river otters. For the past 40 years her Karanambu Ranch, wilderness preserve and eco-lodge located north of Guyana’s Rupununi Savannas, has been devoted in the care, rehabilitation of orphans and protection
of these playful giants. Getting there requires either flying or driving overnight from Georgetown then a few hours by boat. With a name that derives from the ferocious half -woman, half -vulture creatures of Greek mythology, the Harpy Eagle is Guyana’s and South America’s largest and one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world. The prehistoric sharp, shrill alarming screech of the Harpy Eagle triggers the imagination of the natural world and lost Jurassic wonders. The Harpy Eagle is often called the “Flying Wolf”. It has slate-black feathers above and a white/light grey underside, with a black band across the chest. An unusual double crest of grey head feathers - raised when the bird is alerted or angry - adds to its formidable appearance. A facial disk of feathers, similar to that of an owl, helps focus sound waves and provides for enhanced hearing capabilities. As with many birds of prey, the female Harpy can be nearly twice as large as the 85 / I.G
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endangered species. It is listed as “Near Threatened” by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and appears on the “Red List” of threatened species maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Guyana, with its vast stretches of undisturbed rainforest, has one of the healthiest populations of Harpy Eagles and one of the few places left where a sustainable population can be found. They can most often be seen in the Rupununi region. In recent months they have been spotted by birders in far ranging parts of Guyana: in the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation deep in the interior and Development and near Shank lands Rainforest Resort near the coast. Active nests also are reported in the Central and South Rupununi regions. Harpy Eagles are monogamous, mating for life. Their nests, built loosely of sticks and fresh leaves, are usually located in the fork of trees that tower above the main canopy, often as high as 30 to 40 meters (100 to 130 feet). In Guyana, Harpy Eagles favor ceiba and kapok trees. The birds generally produce two eggs but raise only one chick, neglecting the second egg after the first hatches. Both parents care for the chick, providing food for up to ten months but raising only one bird every two to three years. Harpy Eagles are formidable hunters with a similarly menacing reputation. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, possums and smaller birds, as well as other medium- and largesized animals that inhabit the surrounding trees, are all counted among the bird’s prey. Harpies are daytime hunters, able to reach speeds of up to 80 kph (50 mph) and carry prey weighing up to half their own body weight. Guyana is home to over 50 species of birds of preys or raptors including hawks, falcons, eagles, kites, caracaras and ospreys. Harpy Eagle
male: up to one meter (3.3 feet) in height and nine kilos (20 pounds) in weight, with a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet). Compared to other eagles its wings are relatively short, a design which allows for superior speed and maneuverability while navigating the thick foliage of the rainforest. Harpy talons can grow as long as five inches, and are longer than the claws of I.G / 86
a brown bear. They protrude from yellow feet as large as a human hand. Harpy Eagles are found in tropical lowland forests from southeastern Mexico through Central and South America to Paraguay and northern Argentina. However, due to extensive deforestation, severe habitat fragmentation throughout its range, and human predation (usually to defend domestic animals), the bird is now an
The Arapaima also called pirarucu or paiche is a living fossil and one of the largest freshwater fish in the world which rivals the beluga sturgeon of Russia, growing up to 15 feet and weighing 440 pounds. It can be found in the Essequibo region and Rupununi Rivers as well as the Amazon River Basin. An aggressive hunter, the arapaima is a predatory fish which prowls floodplain lakes, gulping fishes, insects. It is known to leap out of the water like the ballet
The Arapaima
grand allegro, grabbing small birds from the overhanging trees. For the arapaima, low-water or the dry season is a time of gorging and building fat reserves that will nourish it during the floods of the rainy seasons, when prey are dispersed through the forest and difficult to find. Many fishes have trouble surviving as lakes’ temperatures rise and dissolvedoxygen levels fall, but the arapaima thrives because it breathes atmospheric oxygen through its mouth. The Arapaima is grey and decorated with an orange speckling at the posterior end. The scales can grow up to six centimeters long on the largest Arapaima specimens. You will find two symmetrical fins on the body, located at the posterior end. The Amazon’s seasonal floods have become part of the arapaima’s reproductive cycle. During low-water months (February to April) arapaimas construct bottom nests and females lay eggs. Young begin to hatch as rising water levels provide them with flood conditions in which to flourish. Adult males play an
unusual reproductive role by incubating tens of thousands of eggs in their mouths, guarding them aggressively and moving them when necessary. Historically, the arapaima has been hunted throughout its Amazon basin range for its scales and tongue, which are used for tools, and for its tasty flesh. More than 50 percent of the total body weight of this fish is made up of boneless meat, a fact which makes it even more popular as food. The bony tongue is used to prepare cylinders of dried guarana, while the scales are sold as nail files. (Guarana is an ingredient used in a South American beverage.) A majority of the caught Arapaima fishes are sold and consumed in Brazil. Arapaima harvesting is today forbidden in many regions including Guyana, but the illegal fishing still continues. Due to heavy commercial fishing, arapaimas, especially large ones, have become rare. The exuberance of the tropical rain forest, associated with hot and humid climate of the Amazon Basin is responsible for the largest biodiversity of plants and animals
on Earth and Guyana remains one of the last largely unexplored frontiers of adventure tourism. Many more unique giants are found in sustainable populations in this green inferno , including the giant ant eater, largest fresh water toad, largest bat in South America, the world largest rodentcapybara, the giant South America River Turtle, the world largest sub family alligatorinae- the black caiman, The goliath bird-eating spider, giant armadillo and many more. These natural wonders have survived harmonically in their world from the time the first mammals appeared in the Cenozoic Era, and plate tectonic history. Italian explorer, Amerigo Vespucci after whom the Americas were named, would have been amazed by this evolutionary treasure house that has withstood the test of time. Showcasing these giants may hopefully serve to encourage the cause of conservation of these species and their habitat, understanding their true value and meaning to our changing world. 87 / I.G
The Opulence of
Arts & Crafts Guyana in
The Hibiscus Craft Plaza Photos By Luke King
The Hibiscus Craft Plaza was born out of the Guyana Craft and Arts Association.
Brief History: A few craft producers were allowed to sell craft in the main street avenue during Tourism Week and it was with the encouragement of the honorable Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, the producers banded together and formed an association. That was the birth of the Guyana Craft and Arts Association in 1994. It was at that time that honorable Samuel Hinds promised to look into assisting with finding permanent locations where they could display and sell their items. During the first half of 1995 the honorable I.G / 88
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Primer Minister Samuel Hinds advised the group that GPO was willing to allow the construction of structures on the greenery alongside the GPO building once it was designed as movable structures. After several meetings with the management of GPO, an agreement was reached for the rental of the greenery on the north side of the GPO building. I.G / 90
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The design allowed for eight kiosks with two sections each which allowed for sixteen shops in total. A group loan in the of Guyana Craft and Arts Association was secured from “IPED� to build. This loan was fully repaid in 2000/1 and the kiosks holder became the true owners of the structure. The Hibiscus Craft Plaza was officially opened on the 16th of February 1996. Its primary purpose being to
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promote the production and consumption of locally made hand crafted products to people all over the world thereby boosting the Tourism Sector. The most unique handmade arts and craft available in Guyana can be obtained at this location. Visitors to the shop can find a wide variety of handmade leather goods, woven straw baskets, wooden
carvings, bowls, clocks, pottery items, natural jewellery, postcards, shell work, t-shirts and a huge range of other locally produced one of a kind handmade craft items. So the next time you come to Guyana, do make some time to visit the shops at the Hibiscus Craft Plaza, North Road ( Opposite the Guyana National Museum) in downtown Georgetown. A warm welcome awaits you.
Birds of Paradise Š Amanda Richards
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Duck Curry T
Goes International
he Guyana National Stadium on November 18, 2013 was the venue of a memorable and entertaining Annual Duck Curry Competition that I.G / 94
attracted 20 groups from Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago competing for the grand prize of $1.5 million.
At the end of the competition, Team Suriname was announced the winner of the “Clash of Past Champions�.
The competitors were given two hours to perfect their curries before a panel of 10 ‘erudite’ judges from across the region. The teams were judged based on presentation, aroma, texture and taste. In at second place was G&P Jaigobin and Son Supermarket while Jaikarran Duck Curry Crew came in third. Jamal’s Ultimate Curry Crew copped the fourth prize and Mike’s Haslington Crew, fifth. Apart from those prizes, teams were also awarded for the best presentation and the best dressed/largest group. Team Suriname also captured the best presentation prize while G&P Jaigobin and Son Supermarket secured the best dressed/largest group prize. Organized by King’s Jewellery World’s proprietor Looknauth Persaud and his wife, the competition was sponsored by Radio Guyana Inc, Television Guyana, Guyana Times, Guyana Lottery, Sujata Curry Powder, Digicel, Banks DIH and Queen’s Atlantic International Inc.
Team Suriname – Duck curry champions 2013
Incredible GUYANA January - April 2014
Must Do’s When In
Guyana By Gabriella Patram
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Diwali Motorcade 2013 © Amanda Richrads
W
hile visiting this beautiful country of Guyana, you may wonder what is there to see and what is there to do! This magazine took the time to highlight some of the places and things that you can do while you and your family are here so that you can have a lasting impression about Beautiful Guyana.
flying from Georgetown to any of the interior destination, one is amazed at how thinly populated is the country, and how huge the jungle is. One can see the gold mining operations scratched out of the endless forest. Gold mining is one of the country’s sources of export revenue, and it is growing fast.
Falls are impressive, and it is almost as much fun to fly over them as it is to hike around the site. One can get as close to the edge of the fall as one dares, and in low-water season, a visitor can walk right out into the river at the top. On a hot day, that cool water is supremely refreshing!
Lots to see from the air The small planes you’ll take to fly around Guyana give you a very up-close-andpersonal look at the country. For instance,
Kaieteur Falls
This is Guyana’s greatest tourist attraction, and it’s pretty much a given that visitors will go there no matter what else they are doing in the country. The
The Iwokrama Forest is a Wilderness Preserve of nearly one million acres of untamed wilderness as part of the Guiana Shield. The forest sits on one of the oldest exposed rock surfaces in the world, and
Iwokrama
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the area is one of the last four “frontier forests” in the world. Apart from small Amerindian settlements, it is uninhabited and offers unrivalled rainforest adventures for people seeking a truly unique ecotouring experience. The purpose of Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation is to safeguard values pertaining to the relationship among nature and the local people who live there, visitors and the people of Guyana in general. The construction of roads, tourist facilities and mineral extraction is prohibited; timber harvesting is restricted as is the use of motorised vehicles. Fairview is the only settlement within Iwokrama, a Macushi village of about 130 people. In Iwokrama there are estimated to be over 200 different species of mammals, 50 birds, 420 fish and 150 reptiles and amphibians. Turtle Mountain provides one of the trekking possibilities at Iwokrama.
Shell Beach
A remote expanse on the north coast, accessed by speed boat, Shell Beach is home to endangered turtle species such as the leatherback. It provides a relaxing experience for a visitor, watching the sunset whist drinking from coconuts around a camp fire with no one around for miles, and catching a glimpse of some of the rarest sea turtles!
Orinduik Falls
Located in the Pakaraima region, the Orinduik Falls is found on the Ireng River, one of the tributaries that form the Amazon River system. These beautiful falls stretch from one side of the river to the other, tumbling over rocks and terraces, with natural pools forming, big enough to swim in. There’s nothing more enjoyable than relaxing in Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi, showering under one of the gentler cascades, luxuriating at the same time, in an invigorating massage.
St. George’s Cathedral
One of Guyana oldest wooden buildings and purported to be the tallest wooden building in the world, the St George’s Cathedral is located in the heat of Georgetown, Guyana’s capital. While in Guyana one can visit this historical building and enjoy the spectacular art work
Game Fishing
The rivers and the interior abound in game fish, the best known of which is the man-eating piranha (locally called perai). The most sought after by the sportsman I.G / 98
St. Georges Cathedral © Amanda Richards
is the lukanani, or the bass. Some of the coastal rivers within reach of Georgetown are also good for fishing.
Camping
Camping treks, hiking and white-water rafting have become increasingly popular over recent years. Horse riding is available at Manari Ranch in the Rupununi Savannahs. Cricket and hockey are both popular and so too is bird watching which can be done in several parts of the country including the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown, Rockstone, Region Ten, Rupununi and Essequibo.
Georgetown
Georgetown, the capital, has a unique character with lots of wooden buildings; some of the more impressive structures, dating from the colonial past include the City Hall, St George’s Cathedral, the Law Courts and State House. The Botanical Gardens and Zoo, covering 120 acres (49 hectares), have a fine collection of palms, and lotus lilies; nearby is the Cultural Centre where local plays are staged. Also worth visiting are the African Heritage Museum and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology.
Orinduik Falls
Camping © Vanie Beepat
Botanical Gardens © Amanda Richards
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© Guyana Times
Did You Know? Guyana:
Gorgeous and Sophisticated Ms. Alana Seebarran copped the International title of Miss India Worldwide in April 2012. I.G / 100
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The official name is Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
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Guyana gained independence from Britain on May 26, 1966, it became a republic in 1970.
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Is home to six different races namely – Amerindians, Africans, East Indians, Chinese, Portuguese and Europeans. However, the mixed race is becoming quite dominant with interracial marriages and relationships.
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Is the ONLY English speaking country in South America. The other language spoken is a creole dialect
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Is a Commonwealth of the United Kingdom (England) and the only one in South America
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Enjoys two wet and two dry seasons annually
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Is home to five wildlife giants – Jaguar, Anaconda, Otter, Harpy Eagle and Arapaima
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Its famous Kaieteur Falls with its 741 feet is five times the height of Niagara Falls.
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Its diaspora is larger than its actual population with Guyanese living in North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia
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Won its first International Pageant in April 2012 – Alana Sebarran – Miss India Worldwide 2012 and July 2012 - Soyini Fraser – Miss United Nations 2012.
$5000 Note Introduced
G
uyana has introduced a GUY$5,000 (One Guyana dollar = US$0.01 cents) note that begins circulation from December 9th, 2013. Bank of Guyana (BOG) Deputy Governor, Dr Gobin Ganga said that an awareness
campaign would be launched before the note goes into circulation The BOG said the new note would significantly reduce the number of notes that it would be required to process in the fast approaching holiday season.
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who unveiled the new note, said that it represents an important addition to the range of local currency in use and that businesses would be handling a single note for every five $1000 note.
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Black Pudding Š Amanda Richards
From your Stove to your Dining Table Classic Guyanese Recipe
Black Pudding & Mango Sour I.G / 102
Ingredients 4 yards runners Filling 2 pts rice 1 coconut, grated 4 oz salt meat Eschallot Celery Thyme, broad and fine leaf Married Man Pork 1 tsp ground cinnamon Salt Sugar 1 pint blood of cow Limes or lime juice
Preparation
• Clean the runners with lime juice and salt until free from mucus. • Cook the rice with the grated coconut and salted meat. Allow to cool when finished. • Mix the rice with chopped herbs, spice, salt and sugar to taste. • Strain the blood over this mixture and mix together until rice is evenly coated and free of lumps. • Fill the runners using a funnel, making sure that there is no space left after filling. • Tie the ends of the runners and boil gently for about 20 minutes. Prick with a skewer to test for “dampness”. When thoroughly cooked, the blood is congealed around the grains of rice. • When quite finished, allow to cool and darken before brushing with oil. Serve with sour.
Runners
Cleaned pig or cow intestines, used in making black pudding.
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Stranded Turtles on Wellington Park Foreshore The Plight of marine Turtle on Guyana’s Seashore
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By Sophiea Edghill, Marine Turtle Conservationist
ellington Park foreshore, located in Region Six, is well known for the planting of Black mangroves by Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project (GMRP). However, reports received by WWF in early May indicated that mangrove planting was not the only activity occurring at Wellington Park, as there were the remains of a stranded turtle. A photograph of that turtle was sent by GMRP to WWF which showed the remains of a leatherback turtle; a critically endangered species. This was the first to have been observed by members of GMRP.
therefore one could not determine the cause the death of the mammal.
Two months later, the WWF received another report of more stranded turtles of a different species appearing on the beach at Wellington Park foreshore. As a consequence of that call, WWF- Marine Turtle Conservation Officer Sopheia Edghill visited the area on the 23rd of July with the GMRP team to conduct a survey based on the report. Ms. Edghill recalled a bad odour coming from the foreshore upon her arrival. Initial investigation revealed that the odor was from the rotting carcass of a green turtle. The state of decay turtle was well advanced and
Having pondered on the upon reasons for these occurrences, the team realized that in addition to mangrove planting activities there was also subsistence fishing by local fishermen within the community. Probable causes for the dead turtles on the seashore could be drowning from entanglement in the fishermen’s nets. Interviews with the locals revealed that it was not strange to find sea turtles at the location during the months of February to August. One fisherman clearly recalled that in previous years there were the remains of about six leatherbacks on the
Going in an easterly direction along the said foreshore, the team observed the remains of another turtle of a smaller species known as the Olive Ridley. The decomposed state of the carcass with the head missing suggested that the turtle was also dead for quiet sometime. Again no conclusions could have been made as to cause of death. Portions of the leathery skin of a leatherback and scales of a green turtle were also picked up along the beach.
beach, none of which were ever reported. Further discussions pointed to the drift seines that were found further out in the sea, which could have been causing in the death of the turtles that are washed ashore. The fishermen indicated that they were aware of sea turtle being a protected species, and whenever they encountered a turtle in their net, it would be being released. WWF in 2014 will continue to work towards the protection of all four of the world’s seven-sea turtles that frequent Guyana’s shore and will make more information available within the East Berbice area, especially Wellington Park and neighbouring communities, to further sensitize residents on the protection of sea turtles. WWF will also focus on taking tissue samples of dead turtle for genetic studies. The public is encouraged to report any turtle found dead, sick, injured or otherwise by calling its office at 223-78012, or 225-1727 or the Project Co-ordinator of Guyana Marine Turtle Conservation Society (GMTCS) on 686-8951. 104 / I.G