[Goanet] Dr. Neela Vas, a life well lived...
Dr. Neela Vas, a life well lived... By Valmiki Faleiro I was in the idyllic island village of Chorao last but one Monday ago. To celebrate a life. Isles and islands fascinate me, be they hamlets or villages, cities or city- states. Chorao or Divar, Ibiza or Singapore. My 'dekko' of Old Goa to visiting friends must include an evening ferry ride to Chorao or Divar, to catch the setting sun. I confess to a partiality to Divar. I am a grandson of Piedade, one of Divar's revenue villages. My father's family, one of the two original 'Faleiros' of Margao, imported a daughter of the "Sa's" of Piedade one generation and exported one of their own to them the next -- in the last three successive generations. Aunts on both parent's sides were married in Divar, where I spent some splendid holidays. Divar spawned most of original Goan businessmen, a few great men of letters, and greater men in cassocks, even a revolutionary Bishop. Divar provided the unforgettable "Luizinha mojea Luizinha" and, in my younger days, the most lissome of damsels. All a heady mix, a surefire ticket to hell or heaven, depending on one's perception. And this, of course, without meaning the slightest affront to 'Chonnekars.' I was in Chorao to bid farewell to Dr. Neela, Consultant Paediatrician at Goa's Manipal hospital and wife of GMC's Neuro consultant, Dr. Chicot Vas -- as well as sister to Dr. Anil Pinto, my Mumbai friend. Driving from the ferry point, the stately Piedade church came into view, to the right. I spotted a garish-red domed structure I had never seen before, marring the church façade. I had spent many a night on the lower reaches of the hillock, which that church majestically straddles, during holidays at an aunt's mansion at Goltim. The colour of the domes was a shock. Not as much, to be sure, as when I heard that a perfectly hale Dr. Neela had suffered a cardiac arrest. Her first, and, alas, fatal. Ironic for a person who all her professional life manifested a big, magnanimous heart. Neela hailed from a family with such propensity for a particular profession -- medicine and surgery -- that its crowd of doctors made it difficult to spot the ones who were not. A Pinto from Candolim, but born and bred in Mumbai. Her parents, both doctors, Charlie and Denise, built Dadar's "Dr. Pinto Hospital," now run by her brother Anil, his wife Marieanne and sister, Sunita. Arun, a younger brother in the U.S. is, but what else, a doctor. Neela treated two generations of patients, kids who themselves grew into mothers, and their kids. She spent some 40 years in practice, largely at Mumbai's celebrated Wadia Women & Children's hospital. If the father, Dr. Charlie Pinto was a living legend in the metro, his eldest daughter had scripted her own chapter there. She relocated to Goa, perhaps with some regret, when her husband took an assignment at GMC a few years ago. Dr. Chicot, originally from Chorao, is also a Mumbai product. He achieved such eminence in Neurology in Mumbai that Parrikar, when Chief Minister, requested him to return to kick-start that branch of medicine at Goa Medical College. Fr. Valerian Vaz, Director of Caritas-Goa and former Professor at Rachol Seminary (no relation to her), succinctly recalled Neela -- the doctor, the person -- in his homily. "She was strong, for others," Rev. Vaz said. "She had an unwavering commitment to her profession. She was equal to all, transcending man-made differences. She died with her boots on." On the fateful morning, Neela crossed the Chorao ferry and drove towards work at Dona Paula. She stopped at Panjim to pick the day's newspapers, when she suddenly felt pain in her chest. She was rushed to GMC's ICCU but, in four hours, "slipped into the shadows, like how a ship sails into the night," as her brother Anil put it at the church service. "A beautiful way to go," Isabel de Santa Rita Vas, our theatre persona remarked, stealing words from my mouth. But as I said, in the context of litterateur Dr. Manoharrai Sardesai, great people don't die. Neela lives in the hearts of multitudes, whose lives she healed and touched. Saint Bartolomeu's in Chorao is as beautiful as any of Goa's quintessential churches. The ambience inspires the soul, even if the precincts could do with better maintenance. Just before the service, I met Walli Lima Fernandes, scion of one of Chorao's biggest bhatkars. I told him that unlike Divar, Chorao had many "modern" constructions. He said I would be surprised at the number of foreigners now domiciled in Chorao. I was not. There were quite a number at church and cemetery, to bid farewell to a daughter-in-law of the island, returning home. (ENDS) The Valmiki Faleiro weekly column at: http://www.goanet.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=330 == The above article appeared in the August 6, 2006 edition of the Herald, Goa
[Goanet] Goa rises: Don't sell our motherland (IBN live)
Hi Found the video clipping Goa rises: Don't sell our motherland (IBN live) very interesting, I am from Morjim myself and have a home very close to where the demonstration took place. rgds td ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Goa... the simple life
Dear Fred, Riza has a fine eye for detail, and I am glad you are encouraging her to express herself. May I suggest, however, that you also encourage her to sit at the computer on her own? That way she will learn some of the computer skills that are so necessary today, and will not be tempted to rely on you as a crutch. Best regards, Victor On 03/08/06, Frederick FN Noronha wrote: > Riza, studying in the third standard at Lourdes Convent in Saligao, > doesn't have much patience (yet) to read, leave alone write or type. > But she does like to 'dictate' to me some of her blog entries. > > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] St. Xaviers Shuts Carnac Road Chapel.
It was not a Parish, but the School's chapel filled in for generations of Marine Line - Crawford folk, specially the 8 am Choir Mass. I have learnt that the Jesuit fathers have shut it's doors, a response to falling attendance: most Crawford Market catholics have now moved on. It had been magnificently renovated in the early 60's: at the helm of inspiration/design/architecture was Basque native, Rev. Molinet - he had taught us french. It would never have happened, however, without the Barcelona duo, Bro. Munoz and Bro. Hernandez, master craftsmen who never appeared to put their chisells down. I really meant to remember the Choir, doing this today. My eyes well at the memory of the guys swinging out ' we pray to God and for his mercy, --- - to thee we bring our joys and sorrow ', Ignatius Day's 'Noble Night', and always, the National Jana Gana Mana ! Thank you so much, the late Conductors Paul Frank, Victor Coelho, solists Trevor Taylor/Stanley Pinto, not to omit the Director, the Rev. Bonet.eric. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Goanet News Bytes * August 5, 2006 * Goa promises to life the four-week max stay limit forcharter tourists (Goan and foreign) entering Goa
Hi Thanks for Goanet news. Hv been reading it with interest for a long time now. Keep up the good work. I am lookiin for some info & was hopiing you could help. We are looking for an apartment in Goa & was wondering if you would have some real agents contacts in Goa. If you do, please mail them to me. Much appreciated. thanks & rgds td ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Kuwait Goans Association (KGA) are all set for Konkani tiatr "GHOR BHANDLEM GHORABO MODDLO"
Kuwait Goans Association (KGA) are all set for Konkani tiatr "GHOR BHANDLEM GHORABO MODDLO" KONKANI TIATR "GHOR BHANDLEM GHORABO MODDLO" Kuwait Goans Association (KGA) are all set to present the Konkani tiatr "GHOR BHANDLEM GHORABO MODDLO" featuring Konkani stage artistes: Ophelia,&nb sp;Babli, Antonette de Calangute, Comedian John D'Silva, Osvi Viegas, William de Curtorim, Comedian Philip, Querobina, Sanny de Quepem, Marcus Vaz, Clara, Bab Agnel, Magaret D'Cruz, Manuel de Santa Cruz, Simon Gonsalves, Alex de Consua, Xavier Furtado, Zoro, Sylvester Vaz, Pal Soares and Laurente Pereira together with writer-director Rosary Ferns. The Konkani tiatr will be held on Friday, 11th August 2006 at the Hawalli Auditorium at 3:30 p.m. sharp. For gate passes, pls contact Raja Stores (Kuwait City) 2412970, 9758819, 9745291, 7874570 & 6224021 M&M Confectionery (Salmiya) 5619946, or KGA committee members. The organizers have expressed their wish to commence the tiatr at the specified time, and requests all to be seated in the auditorium in time. The show is sponsored by Siemens, Air India, Canon, Caeser's Travels, and Bader Al- Mulla Rental & Leasing Co. A colourful souvenir will be released to mark the occasion by Kuwait Goans Association (KGA). (Info source: SDC) Forwarded by www.goa-world.com THE FIRST & ONLY KONKANI MUSIC STATION ON THE NET, now in its sixth year. www.goa-world.com/goa/music/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Katty de Navelim's second Konkani Album
Katty De Navelim's New Konkani Album Renowned Producer and Famed Singer Katty de Navelim after a stupendous success of his maiden Konkani Album titled 'DENNEM" all over Europe, Middle East and India, now storms back to with his second album titled "UGDASS TUMCHO". This album contains 12 powerful hits including Solos, Duo's and Trio. Famous singers from Goa and Kuwait lending their voices to this power packed album are Xavier Gomes, Osvi Viegas, Jujo Baretto, Roma, Simon Gonsalves, Cajetan de Sanvordem and Katty de Navelim. All songs are composed by Katty de Navelim and the musical score by the legendary Maestro Josinho. So, Folks await with bated breath for the release of this most anticipated Konkani musical album of the year. The countdown now begins. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] 12 more days to World Goa Day 2006 and TGF's 6 birthday
BTW: Just finished reading Ben Antao's novel PENANCE. In short, it was truly un-put-down-able! Dear Renebab, It is 12 more days to World Goa Day 2006. Trust that all is going well with the plans. >From our (TGF's) point of view, we'd like to commend you and all WGD Alliance Associates for the tremendous commitment towards the WGD cause. I will take this liberty to suggest that WGD stay clear of Language, Religion and alter-Agenda politics. As we discussed (1999), we are Goans, we are who we are, and we need to come together to help each other out. This weekend, The Abbe Faria webpage will come back on as FrontPage at The Goan Forum at http://www.colaco.net. It is my understanding that we Goans would this year honour Abbe Faria the father of Hypnotism. Please let us know how we can assist. ps: here is our editorial for World Goa Day of last year Happy Birthday TGF and Happy World Goa Day 2005 http://www.colaco.net/1/WGD2005.htm sincerely jose colaco Goans International The Goan Forum please visit "NEW" on The Goan Forum at http://www.colaco.net Recommended Goa related sites 1. http://www.goa-world.com 2. http://www.SuperGoa.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Exposure of misconceptions with examples
--- velho <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Hi Mario, > > As the main proponent of the theory that "God > fearing people cannot be evil". Can you please > explain the following paradoxes. > Mario responds: > Sadly for your case, you start off with a false premise. When exactly did I say what you say I said? Actually I said just the opposite, that atheists and religious types can be evil from time to time. > I further said that people who openly reject across the board the moral code they ostensibly subscribe to, like Stalin, Hitler, the Mafioso, Osama and his Islamo-fascists, etc. cannot be logically or honestly described as "God-fearing". > Velho writes: > > 1. Why is the "Bible Belt" in the USA known for > religious god fearing people as well as for the > most racist ones ?? > Mario responds: > Known by whom? I don't know this as a generality. The most racist Americans are the ones who patronize and want minorities to be dependent on the government. That's the worst thing one can do to a person in a free market economy. > Velho writes: > > 2. Why are Brahmins (the most god fearing and > religious of castes) synonymous with oppression of > lower castes ?? > Mario responds: > Again the facile assumption about who is "God-fearing". I am not familiar with the Hindu pantheon, and which god exactly are the Brahmins supposed to fear, and what exactly are they fearful of? I suggest you ask one of them. > Velho writes: > > 3. Why are Fidayeen extensively brainwashed with > rock solid codes(quotes) from the Koran before they > blow themselves up ?? > Mario observes: > Sunith, You seem to have a lot of preconceived notions and straw men. Several Islamic Imams I have talked to confirm, referencing the Qu'ran, that what these guys are being taught and brainwashed violates every one of the Islamic moral codes. Suicide is specifically prohibited in the Qu'ran. > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Goa news for August 9, 2006
Goa News from Yahoo! News and Goanet.org Visit http://www.goanet.org/newslinks.php for the full stories. *** Parsvnath wins Goa land bid (NDTV Profit) Parsvnath Developers Limited has been awarded prime land in Panjim, Goa by the state government owned Economic Development Corporate Ltd. Parsvnath bid Rs 45,100 per sq mt for the entire 12,290 sq mt piece of land. The total amount to be paid is estimated to be over Rs 55.4 crore. http://www.ndtvprofit.com/homepage/storybusinessnew.asp?template=&whichstory=n&id=32625 *** Goa opposes excise exemption for hilly States (The Hindu) Pharma units' investment plans take a hit http://www.thehindu.com/2006/08/09/stories/2006080906891500.htm *** Goa recommends Austrian's `mercy petition' to Governor (New Kerala) Panaji, Aug 8: Goa cabinet today recommended to the Governor the `mercy petition' of an Austrian national, undergoing 12 years' sentence at Central Jail, Aguada for possessing drugs. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=4020 *** Incessant rains to continue in Goa for next 24 hrs: Met Dept (New Kerala) Panaji, Aug 8: As incessant rains continued to lash coastal Goa, Indian Meteorogical Observatory today predicted heavy rains in the state for the next 24 hours. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=3867 *** Goa's Fisheries Minister has instructed to execute joint action (New Kerala) Panaji, Aug 6: Goa's Fisheries Minister Joaquim Alemao has instructed the senior officers to execute joint action against the motorised canoes (boats) fishing with the banned perse seine nets in the sea. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=3185 *** Mahindra United mulling shifting base to Goa (New Kerala) Mumbai, Aug 7: Last year's Federation Cup and National Football League winners Mahindra United have issued a veiled threat to the Western India Football Association that unless the latter spruces up the Cooperage ground to international standards the club would shift base to Goa. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=3651 *** Goa police ask Parish to employ volunteers (New Kerala) Panaji, Aug 7: Following a series of burglaries in churches and chapels in Goa, police have asked the Parish to maintain their own security by employing volunteers to protect church properties. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=3272 *** Incessant rains in Goa; alert sounded (New Kerala) Panaji, Aug 8: Incessant rains lashed Goa for the second consecutive day today, raising the water levels in Anjunem dam in north Goa, prompting the state government to sound an alert for those residing in low-lying areas around the dam. http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=4031 *** Incessant rains in Goa, flood alert sounded (The Times of India) Incessant rains lashed Goa for the second consecutive day, raising the water levels in Anjunem dam in north Goa. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1873945.cms *** Incessant rains in Goa; alert sounded (Outlook India) Incessant rains lashed Goa for the second consecutive day today, raising the water levels in Anjunem dam in north Goa, prompting the state government to sound an alert for those residing in low-lying areas around the dam. http://www.outlookindia.com/pti_news.asp?id=405118 Compiled by Goanet News Service http://www.goanet.org/newslinks.php ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] AICHEA DISAK CHINTOP - Agostachi 9vi, 2006!
Koslo faido ami vhodda dhobajean goddnnieo/festam somorpun zorui amkam tancho orth nam? (Whats the use of celebrating events/feasts pompously if we dont know their meaning?) Moi-mogan, Domnic Fernandes Anjuna/Dhahran, KSA _ Express yourself instantly with MSN Messenger! Download today it's FREE! http://messenger.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200471ave/direct/01/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Exposure of ...... God fearing & evil/response Gilbert
No Gilbert, You said my thoughts on the subject were not plausible, ergo this means you have alternative ideas on the subject. I'd like to hear them, so that I can learn from them. Don't scurry off now. I'm also waiting for that list of agnostics/atheists who preach one thing and practice another. Elisabeth - --- Gilbert Lawrence <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Mogal Elisabeth, > > Perhaps you do not read all my posts. > I donât blame you! But you do break my heart in > that regard. :=)) > In one recent post, I confessed, "I was not a > scholar on religion." > And the religion questions should be answered by > theologians and not by supurlem Goenkars like me. > > Now donât you think, you would like to hear that > answer more often on Goanet? > Kind Regards, GL > > -- Elisabeth Carvalho wrote: > > Rather than me belabouring my point, I'd be curious > to know what your views on "evil" are. > ___ > Goanet mailing list > Goanet@lists.goanet.org > http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org > __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women (2)
< Mario responded: > a) Radha, by pretending to know the difference between a neo-con and a conservative you are embarrassing yourself once again. You don't know the difference based on your comment above.>> My response: Perfectly understandable, Mario! With the mess they've created all over, no self-respecting neocon now wants to be known as one. They're all plain old conservatives now! Cheers, RKN ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] PIOs appointment as per RTI Act soon: Goa Chief Secy
- Do GOACAN a favour, circulate this email to your family members, relatives, neighbours and friends. Help others be BETTER INFORMED, The time is come for the people of Goa to ORGANISE not AGONISE !! -- PIOs appointment as per RTI Act soon: Chief Secy The state government will soon appoint public information officers (PIO's) in various government departments as per the requirements of the Right to Information Act and make known their names and other details by way of advertisements in local newspapers. This announcement came from the Chief Secretary, Mr J P Singh who was replying to a related question during an interaction on RTI organised by the Goa Branch of the Indian Institute of Public Administration in the city, this evening. Mr Singh said that the government "would look at the Maharashtra model and adopt it suitably". He agreed that it was important to identify the PIO's and make the details available to the common man. When it was brought to his notice that a copy of the Goa RTI was being sold at Rs 44 a copy as against Rs 2 per copy of the Maharashtra RTI Act, the Chief Secretary who confirmed of having been unaware of the cost promised that the state RTI Act would be soon made available within the Rs 5 price range. "We will also bring out the Act in Konkani and Marathi along with English so that it benefits the people at large," Mr Singh announced. "The government," Mr Singh remarked, "would print leaflets in various languages, as a step to make the people aware." With reference to the proposal for notings to be withheld, the Chief Secretary observed that matters pertaining to development, economic issues and social matters would have to be made known to the people under all circumstances. In a lighter vein, the Chief Secretary said that transparency was quite large in Goa. "When a file leaves my office it is known to all in a matter of five minutes. Photocopies of the letters with my notings too are taken," Mr Singh quipped further adding, "I also get calls minutes before a file reaches my table. Everything is being tracked, it is a good thing I guess." The commissioner, Public Grievances Commission, government of India, and former state chief secretary, Mr Baleshwar Rai delivered a talk on 'Right to Information and Related Matters' on the occasion. He highlighted the various points that make the RTI Act a powerful tool in seeking information concerning the public. The chief information commissioner, Goa, Mr Venkataratnam in his bid to highlight problems faced in implementing RTI in the state informed that the commission was yet to receive any funds, while at the same time no STD phone connection was provided to him to discharge his duties either at home or office. Mr Venkataratnam maintained that these were essential requirements for the due discharge of the commission's duties. Responding to this, the Chief Secretary mentioned that things were now moving for sure and what Mr Venkataratnam was talking of were procedural delays. Mr Singh also agreed to a suggestion from an audience member that PIO's should be appointed by designation and not by name. GOACAN member, Mr Roland Martins, speaking on the occasion told the gathering that one had to access the Internet to have details of the RTI Act. "Look at Maharashtra, where things are simpler," he said. Referring to the reduction in the cost of obtaining information under RTI (from the earlier fee of Rs 100 to Rs 10), Mr Martins charged that a Sanguem resident was recently made to cough up Rs 100 by applying the old Act. The Navhind Times 08/8/06 page 1 - GOA CIVIC AND CONSUMER ACTION NETWORK --- promoting civic and consumer rights in Goa --- GOACAN Post Box 187 Margao, Goa 403 601 GOACAN Post Box 78 Mapusa, Goa 403 507 mailto: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] London Goenkars, please note!!
--- velho <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > To give you an example of this, a friend of mine > bought a flat in Mumbai for about Rs. 1.5 crores, > he rents it out for about Rs. 1.5 lakh a month. For > a penthouse close to your residence in Miramar that > costs almost Rs. 1.5 crores, you will not find > anyone to rent it even for Rs. 30,000. > Mario asks: > Nothing along Miramar is selling for Rs 1.5 crore so your numbers are bogus. Besides most of the people along Miramar are not buying to rent. They are looking at waterfront real estate prices in Goa relative to comparable properties around the world. > Velho writes: > > Hence you will be proved an IDIOT in any one of the > following ways: > 1. When the BUBBLE bursts. > 2. When Rane and Co. take over your properties. > 3. Now at the height of the real estate boom it is > very difficult to sell > your property because, all the registrations of sale > deeds(of foreign > nationals) have been put on hold. > 4. When Mopa comes up and the rest of the Konkan > coast starts > developing(This is a smart investment right now!) > > Mario, as a man who is interested in economics you > should know that residential real estate is a good > investment when local DEMAND drives the prices up > (since that type of demand always shows > predictable behavior). > Mario responds: > "When", "when", "If", "when". > Your analysis is peppered with "when's" and "IF's" that are just as likely to be false as true. > All you have regurgitated is rank speculation with no regard to the fundamentals of overall supply and demand. In the meantime the prices continue to rise. > Local demand means nothing in the growing global economy, where I can look at alternate uses of my funds anywhere in the world. > Your worm's eye view doesn't seem to grasp that. > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] QUOTE FOR TODAY
--- borg costa <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > A life spent making mistakes is not only more > honorable, but more useful than a life spent > doing nothing. > > ---George Bernard Shaw > Mario observes: > Borg, With all due respect, the quote for today makes no sense to me. How can a life spent making mistakes be "more honorable" and "more useful" than one spent doing nothing? However, I know people who THINK they are being HONORABLE while making a mess wherever they go. We call them political liberals:-)) > Surely, one must have at least ONE more success than the number of one's failures to even mathematically equate to a life spent doing NOTHING! > I have one for your consideration that an old Boss used on me. It seems far more encouraging than the non sequitur by Bernard Shaw. It went, "The only ones that make no mistakes are those who do nothing." > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Goanet Reader: To Vengurla, via Karwar... with a 'xendri' in hand (Tino Nazare)
TO VENGURLA, VIA KARWAR... WITH A 'XENDRI' IN HAND What it meant to be a schoolboy at transition-time in Goa, a generation ago By Constantino 'Tino' de Nazare [EMAIL PROTECTED] [This is one of the contributions from an alumni of St Britto's, the prominent Mapusa-based school that completed 60 years this month, which is slated to appear in a book of old boys' memories and tributes. Tino Nazare is a long-time Goanetter.] I first did segundo grau (basic education in Portuguese) and then joined the school, which at that time was in the Duler locality of Mapusa. Two years later, we moved to the new premises, the site where the school is still located atop the Altinho locality of that North Goa town. I was nine years old when I first joined the old school, near the Duler ground. Ours was the last batch during the Portuguese regime which could not answer our exams in Goa, so we had to go to 'Uniao Indiana' (India). Some of my friends went to Mumbai, others went to Pune and I opted for Vengurla. That was the closest and most economical. I still remember buying Indian rupees with the Neugi in the Mapusa Market. I got Rs. 170 for the Portuguese 100 ruppee worth of "escudos". Our journey was long. Since there was no border crossing in North Goa, we travelled on a circuitous route that went south to go to Vengurla which lies to the north of Goa, via Karwar, armed with the 'Documento da Viagem' (travel document). This journey involved crossing the Sabarmati river, thence to Hubli and Belgaum in those old 'ST' (state transport) buses. Once in Belgaum, a commercial town to the east of Goa, we went to Vengurla. The no man's land crossing was something hard to forget. There were literally no men, ladies or gentlemen except our 'pursao'. That is, our procession of BOBs (Britto old-boys), who of course were at that time still just Britto boys. Each of us carried our own 'xendri', an imported straw mat that was the first thing I sold later on, over the border when I returned. We were all accommodated in a moderate-sized hall in Vengurla where we put down our 'xindris' (straw mats). Our host was a tile-merchant known as Bento who gave us lovely meals: fish and hot curry with a lot of good 'achars' (pickles, Indian style) unknown in the Goa of those days. Of course, we enjoyed our freedom of being independent (from the school interiors, that is). There were lot of firsts in my life then. Like, I watched my first Indian film 'Pardeshi'. We stayed there for about three weeks, and then returned the same circuitous way we arrived. Some of my class mates were Anthony da Silva from Moira, nicknamed "Xillo Padtio" (I believe he is a priest now), Baptist Dias from Moira nicknamed The Philosopher, Xavier from Salvador do Mundo nicknamed "Deuchar" or Devil (no offense, Xavier). we had Valeriano Azavedo and his brother “bangdo”, or Mackeral, Ramiro Cabral from Porvorim (now he is in Mumbai). Almost everyone had a nickname at Britto's. Others included the late Mariano, the late Jeremi (Benaum), Stephen from British Africa (known to the boys as 'Elvis Presley'), and Mervin (also from Africa) and his brother Jimmy. There was Joseph (Capri). Bernard D'Souza from Anjuna was called "Gandhi" by us. I contacted him in 1984 in Germany from Lisbon, where I happened to meet another ex-Brittos alumni, Antonio da Costa, when my ship had docked in Lisnave, Lisbon. There were others like Rodney de Souza from Assagao, and John Nazareth (also from Assagao). Orlando Fausto Fernandes, Dominick and Ramchandra Godekar (Colvale). The latter has a bar in the Mapusa market. Remo Pinto's is someone I often see at Mapusa. Then there were the D'Souza brothers Anthony and Baptist (I see Baptist sometimes, he used to be in Kuwait and was there during the Sadam Hussein's invasion). Alex Lobo died in an accident, and is the brother of Floriano Lobo. Alex and me met often in Mumbai where we studied in St. Xavier's Technical Institute. We took up the same profession as commercial ships' Radio Officers. And we also had Mario Carvalho (now in Assagao), who had directly joined the SSC class after his Liceu. Our principal was Fr. Edward D'Souza, and his brother Fr. Vincent D'Souza also taught us. Others were Fr. Condilac, and Fr. Vaz. Our best times were those retreats, in Baga, where we used to steal tender coconuts, and enjoy climbing the coconut trees. My best memories were of the teachers, like the late Teacher Nina Soares, who taught me in the first standard, and was very tender with me. She was a kind and gentle soul. As I could not speak English, she would help me to translate from Portuguese until I could speak fluently once I passed the first standard. Alas, she is no more. Then, there was Guruji, our Hindi teacher, whom I used to appreci
Re: [Goanet] Can a Christian be a Communist?
Hi Mario, Since you have repeated a lot of your logic once again by conveniently avoiding to give an answer to the question "Karl Marx, 19-century Communist Manifesto aside, in todays world of Cafeteria & plural identities, what practically prevents a Christian from being a Communist in political/economic Ideology?", I will discuss this no further. However, I would like to tell you that you have once again misunderstood what I have written, and this being the 3rd instance with me, I will assume that you don't take the time to properly read since you spend most of it typing away your voluminous views. This is what I had written: "It do not think it is written anywhere in the Communist Manifesto (yea, I had to actually download it and go through it since you love to refer to it ever so often) that Communism has to be brutal and repressive. As per the philosophy, Communism IS egalitarian in nature. However, I do not subscribe to the means of obtaining that egalitarianism, ie, the Robin hood method. To me, altruism (which is against human nature) should be voluntary. I'd rather prefer the trickle down effect, and circulation of money to achieve egalitarianism. Plus, ever so often, gems like Warren Buffet and Bill Gates (forget the means by which he got rich) donate sums greater than Germany's annual defense budget and India's annual Health budget put together, and that couldn't happen under communism." Yes the first sentence was in jest to your verbatim bible-like belief in the Communist Manifesto, if you didn't get it. Yet, you don't accept that Communism is theoretically egalitarian in nature, when it is clearly stated in the manifesto. Next, the "However" means "By contrast; on the other hand", which means that whatever followed the word "however", was in contrary to Communism. Of course I was referring to Capitalism. Also, would you be kind enough to humour me and answer the following questions with your Goveian Logic? 1) What is the fundamental difference in the Political & Economic ideology between Communism & Socialism? 2) Can an Athiest be a Capitalist? 3) Can a Christian be a fascist? Mario, one thing that experience has taught me is that when Quantity is the focus, there is a definite compromise on Quality. Your writings are an epitome of that lesson. That doesn't mean that you cannot produce quality. Your answer to Sunith's question on what next for India's economy was a gem that made it the first MG piece that I saved for future reference. I hope you can give us more gems like that. Cheers, Aristo. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] London Goenkars, please note!!
Please read my email once again in its entirety, if you'd like to debate on this issue. Jim F. New York. -- Original message -- From: Mario Goveia <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > --- velho <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > > > Jim Fernandes, > > > > If considered in pure economic terms, your post is > > right on the button. You really would have to be an > > idiot, if you were a foreign national(of non-Goan > > descent) buying property in Goa for purely > > investment purposes in the long term. > > > Mario asks: > > > I know several "foreign nationals of non-Goan descent" > who purchased property in Goa a few years ago, and the > property has more than quadrupled in value and the > value continues to increase. > > > So, can Jim or Sunith please explain how these people > are "idiots"??? > > > And, while you are at it, can you please explain how > property values, which are based on supply and demand, > vary depending on whether the investor is a Goan or > non-Goan? > > > > > ___ > Goanet mailing list > Goanet@lists.goanet.org > http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Conference in Goa on ICT and Development
A Conference on Information Communication Technologies and Development organized by the Division of Mass Communication, Journalism, Television and Film of the College of Professional Studies, St. John's University, New York in collaboration with the Diocesan Centre for Social Communications Media of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, India Venue: Mandovi Hotel, Panjim, Goa Dates: January 4 to 6, 2007. The conference will begin on 4th evening at 5 PM. followed by dinner, and end on 6th evening followed by dinner. Objectives: a.. to generate a robust public discourse about and understanding of development affecting peoples' lives in India a.. to examine how communication technologies and strategies are being used to promote specific development projects a.. to assess the kind of development initiatives taking place and ascertain if they promote sustainable development a.. to determine what role individuals play in shaping the type and process of development in a given community a.. to assess the forms of communication technologies accessible to various communities and what solutions may be appropriate The overriding Issue: a.. What is development in the Indian context? "My second vision for India is DEVELOPMENT. For fifty years we have been a developing nation. It is time we see ourselves as a developed nation. We are among the top 5 nations of the world in terms of GDP. We have 10 percent growth rate in most areas. Our poverty levels are falling. Our achievements are being globally recognized today. Yet we lack the self-confidence to see ourselves as a developed nation, self-reliant and self-assured." Dr. A.P.J. Kalam, President of India. Given the vastness and the complexity of Indian society, its unique multifaceted pluralism, and its regionalism steeped deep in socio-religious traditions, it is important that we first strive to understand what may constitute development in the context of India. Proposed specific issues a.. Communication and Promotion of Human Rights b.. Communication, Development and Environment c.. Communication, Development and Sustainable Development d.. Communication, Development and Women's Issues e.. Communication, Development and Children f.. Communication, Development and Health Speakers: Ms. Therese Gastaut (based in Geneva)- formerly with the UN, Director of WSIS Dr. Jack Phelan, Professor, Fordham University, NY (USA) Dr. Kevin Rioux, Professor, St. John's University, NY (USA) Dr. Basilio Monteiro, Professor, St. John's University, NY (USA) Mr. Joseph C. Donnelley, Representative of Caritas Internationalis, Rome, at the UN Ms. Corinne Woods, UNICEF Regional Communication Officer (India) Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwalla, IIT- Madras Dr. Freddie D'Souza, Director, Social Development, Catholic Bishops Conference of India Dr. K. Subramanian, Deputy Director General at National Informatics Center, Ministry of Communications & Information Technology, New Delhi, Dr. Haridas Varikottil, Caritas-India, New Delhi Mr. Frederick Noronha, Bytesforall.org, Goa, Ms. Akhila Sivadas, Centre for Advocacy and Research, New Delhi Dr. Peter R. D'Souza, Co-Director, Lokniti - Institute for Comparative Democracy, Programme of Centre for the Study of Developing Societies New Delhi Dr. Anibel Ferus-Comelo, Labor researcher and educator, Goa. Limited number of seats. Target-audience: students as well as researchers, educators, social workers, ICT people, NGOs, policy makers, Registration Fee: Rps 200/- payable in cash at the Conference. Contact: J. Loiola Pereira or Raymond Antao P.O Box 216 Panjim, Goa 403 001 India Tel: (0832)2422653, 2223353, 2225291; Fax: 2224139 E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Accommodation: please check the following website http://www.goahotelsguide.com/hotels-in-panaji.html The organizers are unable to make hotel accommodations for the participants. All hotels in Panaji/Panjim are within walking distance of Hotel Mandovi -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/attachments/20060808/6dbe3d50/attachment.html ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] About stories on Invasion of Kuwait
Dear Rosary Fernando, are you a Sri Lankan or Goan? It seems to me your ID is faked. Tell me; are you the enemy of Mr. Veronica and Kuwait like Saddam Hussien of Iraq? Do you were here during the time of Invasion 1990 by the Iraqis and brutal murderer Saddam Hussien? No . I dont think so. Then what harm is there if Mr. Veronica said in his write-up about the rapes, in Kuwait, Goa, Bangladesh, etc. I felt embarrassed especially when Mr. Cornell Dacost of UK goan origin says there is no clue of rapes in Kuwait by the Iraqi soldiers. If you want the clues, then please go to the UN and verify yourself, there you will find lots of clues and answers about the rapes during the 1990 Invasion of Kuwait till the liberation. My question is; do we all earn our daily bread working in Kuwait? Instead of showing your solidarity towards Kuwait, are we making fun of Kuwait by saying nasty things? I still remember, in my village, people used to make fun of Kuwaitkars that they will never go back to Kuwait and Kuwait will never be liberated. Even my own relatives had said it. Those words are still ringing in my ears till-to-day when 2nd August comes. On that day first I thank God, Kuwait and the Kuwaitis, for earning my daily bread today because of Kuwait and the late Amir, Baba Jaber. I feel pity for those who are unlucky, all are not born in the silver plate, but very few are .. There are lots of stories which are not brought to light. What Mr. Veronica wrote is only 1% story of the invasion of Kuwait. He had shown his sentiments towards the Invasion of Kuwait 1990. Please God forbid such fools exist in Kuwait..with fake identity like Rosary Fernando and Nestle Christle Ignatius Santana Afonso From: Rosary Fernando <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: About stories on Invasion of Kuwait Date: Sun, 6 Aug 2006 23:15:25 -0700 (PDT) This letter appeared in the Arab Times of August 2, 2006: Sir, This is in reference to a letter by Mr. Veronica on Aug 1. His fabricated, thriller, rape story of Aug 2, 1990, turned out to be a flop because, 1) there are people still living here who witnessed the 1990 invasion. 2) I ti snew for us, since only Veronica knows, that the Iraqi soldiers started rapign expatriate women on the early morning of Aug 2. He also claims "expatriate women were the target of Iraqi soldiers during the first 4 days of the invasion in Kuwait City and the Filipinas went underground within 48 hours!" Veronica must release the truth to the public on who provided the residential addresses and nationalities of expatriate women to Iraqi soldiers in the early morning. 3) It is very big lie that the Catholic church was surrounded by Iraqi tanks on the early morning of Aug 2. It is meaningless and never happened during the whole invasion period. 4) Since his house is nearby, instead of going to his house and taking care of his family, why did he go to another family and pave the way for an Iraqi soldier to follow him and enter the house? 5) Veronica told the "British passport holder priest" to rescue the catechist girl from an Iraqi solder by showing his cassock!!! or calling and talking to the pronuncio in Iraq etc etc. Thank God! Veronica didn't tell the priest to call Saddam and ask him to pull back his troops from Kuwati!!! 6) Veronica claims that on the first day there was a big explosion in the city and the telephones went off. (The truth is that the telephones were working here until the land war started on Feb 24, 1991.) Veronica was then sleeping under the cocunut tree in Goa! If anyone says Veronica collected money from Goans in the name of Kuwait by showing Kuwaiti flag, nobody will believe it. 7) Veronica claims he also saw, at a tender age, the Indian army "raping, molesting and harassing Goan females" in 1961! I ask Veronica not to waste the columns of Arab Times with such stories. Christle Ignatius Jeleeb Al-Shyoukh (ARAB TIMES, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2006 - PAGE 18) From: lenny dsouza <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women. To: goanet@goanet.org Hello All, Actually I just wanted to read this article and close it but then i thought of sharing with you a few things. Go back into history you will find that there are not many wars that are fought where brutality of invaders against women has not been there, if it has happen in the 1961 or 1971 or 1990 it should not be a big suprise to any one. Yes if these things have not happened in the 1990 war then its just against nature. First of all, i think that a lot of people who are read this article are living in the gulf and are very well aware of the nature here. If you think that you as a female are unsafe in this country then its better you leave the country now, better live else where. One should not be targetting arabs. Cornel,
[Goanet] IMPACT on TOURISM: Anjuna deserted as Israelis leave for war
-- Documented by Goa Desc Resource Centre (GDRC) Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- - Anjuna deserted as Israelis leave for war - by Sukumar Shastri Though the war between Israel and Lebanon is being fought in the Middle-East, the fall-out is showing along the Anjuna- Vagator-Arambol beach belt and down south in Palolem. The streets of Anjuna and Vagator in particular are now wearing a deserted look and sources attribute it to the Israeli army's decision to recall many of the Israeli youth, who had come to Goa. Anjuna PI, Rajesh Kumar says, "everything in Anjuna now seems dead. At the moment there are not many Israelis, only a few of them are seen on the streets. Most of them have left". While police sources estimate that about 25-30,000 Israelis visit Goa every year, the Israeli Consulate in Mumbai recorded over 60,000 Israelis visiting India some years ago. It's believed that at least 40,000 of these Israelis visited Goa that year, skipping their country and army service. Incidentally, Israeli intelligence kept a watch on activities of those frequently traveling to Goa and gathered information that indications were that the State could be on the terrorist hit list. This information was passed on to the central intelligence and that's how security was tightened along the coast last year. "Yes", says Anjuna Sarpanch, Savio Almeida, "It's too early to predict what the loss will be but there is no doubt that the effect of the war will be seen in the season." Incidentally in May, the Israeli government had sent rabbis (Jewish preachers) to India to get Israelis out of drugs, drug peddling. Israel was aware not only of army personnel who skipped duty but also their involvement in consuming and pushing drugs in India and more visibly in Goa. The mission took shape after the Israeli government claimed it was concerned of increasing drug use by its youth who find solace in places like Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Rajasthan, due to easy access to drugs. According to reports, these rabbis were assigned to bring Israelis who have gone 'astray' back into mainstream. It's also learnt that they opened Chabad houses (kind of religious centers) in hired rooms for group discussions, religious counseling and one-to-one discourses. However, when contacted, DIG Ujjwal Mishra said, "may be, we have heard of this but no one has approached us", on the issue. HERALD 08/8/06 page 1 == GOA DESC RESOURCE CENTRE Documentation + Education + Solidarity 11 Liberty Apts., Feira Alta, Mapusa, Goa 403 507 mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] - Working On Issues Of Development & Democracy == ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Exposure of ....... re Godfearing & evil/response to Mario
Dear Mario, Firstly, is there a difference between "REAL" evil and "FAKE" evil? Secondly, are you now saying that your position on homosexuality, is different from that of the Catholic Church, who firmly condemns the act i.e labels it as "evil". If that is the case, what you are saying is that the Church's rock-solid code of conduct does not apply to you. Ergo, it is not just Atheists and Agnostics, whose code of conduct cannot be substantiated or validated due to lack of formal codification (which has been your persistent mantra against atheists, set to iambic pentameter), but your very own is in question too. Elisabeth - --- Mario Goveia <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Elisabeth writes: > > > At one time homosexuality was considered "evil". >Then psychologists labeled homosexuality as a > sexual aberration. Much money and time was spent in > "cleansing" this evil from oneself. Fortunately, > we know more about homosexuality to be accepting of > it without labeling it. > > > Mario responds: > > > Based on my belief that REAL evil is when you > deliberately set out to harm others, not yourself, I > don't know what homosexuality has to do with "evil". > > At worst there are people who believe it goes > against nature. I don't think anyone believes that the people themselves are "evil", unless they project their private behavior on others in some way. > > __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Patollio or Patoyo
Patollio or Patoyo August month is the month of Patollio see pic. Patollio or patoyo is one of the Goan delicacies. It gives nice flovour when it is done on turmeric leaves Halldi panam or patolle panam. These leave are readily available by end of July and whole of August/Sept. End of Julu and early August, these leaves are even available for sale say Rs.5 a bundle of 12 leaves. Patollio are are made up of flour, coconut and jaggary. Either baked or steamed. Besides, Christian in Goa, Hindus too make patollio on their nagpanchami festival. Patollio are also very popular in Kerala Check patollio here.. http://www.flickr.com/photos/joegoauk4/210225708/ Opening shortly, as from 15th August, the hottest pastry shop in Town- Panaji. All types of Goan Delicacies (not biscuits & cakes) will be available here and will cater to not only Goans in Goa, but all over India and Gulf and UK. Other countries to be added soon. Free home delivery, guaranteed delivery within 3 days to UK and 4 days to Gulf, Goa 1 day and India 2 days. Special offer: Buy any 3 products (of atleast 1kg of each) and get 4th product absolutely free (1kg) Konkani VCD lovers, you get one free VCD of your choice, in your first order (just chose one amongst the 90 VCDs see link below for the the updated list) You just name it, and we have it. Be it Sanas, Bebinca, Neurio, Dodol, Patollio, Bol, bolina etc etc. Pl. note: Only baked patollio avaible to India/UK/Gulf, where as Goa has the choice of backed or steamed. Await further pictorial details soon. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IS OUR MOTTO. WE DONT SELL CHEAP THINGS BUT WE SELL THINGS CHEAP === In the mean time, here is some homework.. Besides, pattolio or Patoyo, what else does the August month reminds you ? [EMAIL PROTECTED] for Goa & NRI related info... http://in.groups.yahoo.com/group/GOAN-NRI/ Konkani Songs, Goan Photos, Tiatr/Film VCDs, Bank interest rates etc etc (for updates etc click below) http://in.groups.yahoo.com/group/GOAN-NRI/files/ ___ Inbox full of spam? Get leading spam protection and 1GB storage with All New Yahoo! Mail. http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Overseas ......
In my opinion, in the short run, no difference. In the longer run, OCI. > As a naturalized US citizen, I have a ten year visa for India, and will switch to the OCI when it expires. The only difference for me is that with the OCI I can stay in India as long as I like per visit, but only 6 months at a time with my visa. > Mario. > --- percy ferrao <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Dear Fred/Goanetters ! > > PIO v/s OCI Card. What's most suitable ? > > Regds > Percy Ferrao > Ealing Road. > ___ > Goanet mailing list > Goanet@lists.goanet.org > http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Christian Goanet. Religion-bashing & Bigotry
Fred, your discourse with Nasci reminds of that Sanskrit saying about reciting poetry to a buffalo! Cheers, RKN <> ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] 9th August LPG Consumers Safety Camp at Caxeta, Velim.
- Do GOACAN a favour, circulate this email to your family members, relatives, neighbours and friends. Help others be BETTER INFORMED, The time is come for the people of Goa to ORGANISE not AGONISE !! - LPG Consumers Safety Camp at Velim on Wesdnesday 9th August. The Velim Civic and Consumer Forum in collaboration with M/s Multi Traders, Cuncolim is organising a Safety Camp for the benefit of the LPG consumers of Hindustan Petroleum on Wednesday 9th August at 4.00pm at Caxeta Club House, Caxeta, Velim The LPG Safety Camp is organised by the Distributor of HP Gas and the Consumer Forum to provide instructions to the consumers on the safe use of LPG cylinders. Demonstration and instructions on fitting the gas regulator, detection of gas leakages, change of rubber tube, insurance cover for consumers, mechanical check by authorized personnel of the Distributor and emergency services by Hindustan Petroleum will be provided at the Safety Camp. The resource person for the program will be Mr. S. Karve Senior Sales Officer, HP Gas. Consumers of Velim are invited to attend the LPG Safety Camp and take benefit of the services provided. GOA CIVIC AND CONSUMER ACTION NETWORK --- promoting civic and consumer rights in Goa --- GOACAN Post Box 187 Margao, Goa 403 601 GOACAN Post Box 78 Mapusa, Goa 403 507 mailto: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] God Fearing and Abraham's attempted sacrifice of his son.
In response to this from me: < It is my belief that NO God fearing person will EVER commit violence against another ... except in self-defence.> Lawrence Rodrigues asked: < What about the Abraham's attempt to kill his son Isaac? > Dear Lawrence, Good question - even if it is in too strict(narrow) an interpretation. Even IF one accepts the story verbatim, I'd submit to you that Abraham did NOT commit violence against his son. An attempt to commit violence, is NOT equivalent to having commited violence. Three other quick points: 1. God Fearing is an archaic phrase. It does not mean, as in the literal interpretation, FEAR of God. It rather means the Love of God and Human beings. 2. I am worried about folks who attempt to commit violence because (as they put it) God commanded them to do it. Atleast in civilised societies, such folks are offered 'help' and 'accomodation' for life - as you may have noted in the Andrea Yates case. 3. Many primitive societies 'sacrifice' (= murder) their children. These horrendous sacrifices are known to occur especially during the building of bridges in certain parts of Western India. Wonder if this reported Abraham's attempted sacrifice was similar.What you think ? good wishes jc please visit "NEW" on The Goan Forum at http://www.colaco.net Recommended Goa related sites 1. http://www.goa-world.com 2. http://www.SuperGoa.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Statistics on education in Goa... schoolwise, village/town wise
Site related to education in Goa: http://wapurl.co.uk/?W0TRX5D -- --- Frederick Noronha http://fn.goa-india.org 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 http://fredericknoronha.wordpress.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Goanet Reader: When transparency comes to town: officials gear up to face RTI
WHEN TRANSPARENCY COMES TO TOWN: OFFICIALS GEAR UP TO FACE RTI >From Frederick Noronha / GoaRTI Report http://groups.yahoo.com/group/goarti IIPA, the Indian Institute of Public Administration (Goa chapter), held a lively session on the Right to Information Act, which drew a full-hall at the Institute Menezes Braganza, on August 7, 2006 Monday evening. Unfortunately, officials seemed to make up the major part of the audience. This could be taken as an indication that the citizens are yet to realise the potency of this new law in bringing in transparency to a society that faces the burden of corruption and opacity in its functioning. Guest speaker was Balleshwar Rai, IAS, Chairman Public Grievances Commission New Delhi and the former Chief Secretary of Goa. Goa's incumbent Chief Secretary and IIPA Chairman Western Regional Branch JP Singh chaired lecture. It was followed by a long -- sometimes heated -- but interesting discussion. Rai spoke of the efficacy of the Public Grievances Commission, and also specifically outlined some provisions of the RTI Act. He called Goa, a state whose politicians had difficulties in coping with his approach to administration, a "modern and vibrant state". He noted it was among the first Indian states to introduce a Right to Information law of its own. He said the right to seek information from the government is "part of the right to free speech, guaranteed under Article 19 of the Constitution". Some 21 states had so far adopted the RTI central law, and the remaining few -- mostly in the North East -- were expected to take it up shortly. Jammu & Kashmir is excluded from the purview of this law. "Right to information is a basic necessity to good governance. It ensures transparency, accountability, predictability and participation (in governance)," he said. Rai conceded: "Secrecy is the norm (among the bureaucracy). It's part of the mind-set. There's also the reality that the citizen has traditionally been reluctant to seek information." He pointed to the colonial legacy of the Indian bureaucracy, built in times when the citizen was a dangerous person from whom information should be hidden. Said he: "Our machinery of governance was primarily borrowed from the British. Or, in Goa's case, from the Portuguese. In those times, the basic thrust of the administration was built on secrecy. We are hopeful that with a powerful act, the mind-set of officials can now be set right." "Information is a starting point in a citizen's quest for justice. It is not an end in itself. It is a means to fight corruption," said Goa's former chief secretary. "Simply passing the Act is not good enough. We need a mechanism to address grievances. Delhi has done it. It has constituted a Delhi Public Grievances Commission." He said the public grievances commission could also take suo moto cognisance of issues, for instance, based on something reported in the newspapers. Rai called the RTI Act "a good first step". Rai cautioned that officials in some states showed a "not very encouraging tendency" and they were "subverting the requirements of the law". "But the change in the mind-set cannot happen in one day. We all need to join hands to create awareness among the people," he said. He pointed to provisions against officials maliciously withholding information, provisions for punishment, and the responsibility placed on officials to have their records "duly catalogued and indexed". Some issues that came up in the discussion: * There is an attempt to remove notings from this law, which could be a setback to its functioning, since notings are crucial in understanding the rationale for official decisions taken. * Some officials in Goa were hesitant to accept electronic (i.e. email) submissions requesting information. This was problematic, and blocking citizens from getting easy access to information, given Goa's difficult and geographically scattered terrain. * The payment of the Rs 10 fee was being used as a bureaucratic hurdle while implementing the act. This should not become a hurdle to citizens getting information in the true spirit of the act. * Listings of PIOs (principal information officers) and APIOs (assistant principal information officers) were not adequately done, and the full contacts of the officials concerned (including phone, detailed address and email) needs to be listed. * Listing PIOs and APIOs in their personal name made no sense, since officials are subject to transfer. * In Goa, a copy of the Right to Information Act (44 pages) cost a significant Rs 44. The same law, bought from Maharashtra, costs just Rs 2 to Rs 5. "A piece of legislation is meaningless if it is not accessible to the people," said consumer rights' activist Roland Martins. * There have been delays in implementing the law in
[Goanet] Gilbert's Wisdom
Hi Radha, Thanks for reading my post. And then fighting your temptation not to respond. That's really incredible.:-)) That's better than the guy who responds to my post saying "Nobody reads your post". That's whom I call a sucker.:=)) There is humor in small things in life. Kind Regards, GL --- Radhakrishnan Nair Actually, I didn't want to respond to it and make myself a sucker, but it's too tempting a revelation..:--) ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Albert writes
Nasci writes about Hindu belief. Hindus do not have any guiding force behind them. Whatever has been passed from generation to generation has been imbibed by them. But there are many things similar with the Catholics too. When a person is dead they light a lamp after the funeral at the place where he breathed his life. Food is prepared for the beggars and before the food is eaten leaf plates full of food are kept on the food path for the birds to eat that as a sign that the dead has gone to heaven. The list is endless. The statues in the church and homes is also descended to us from Hindu culture of the past as our ancestors were all hindus. Catholics are not supposed to adore or venerate statues as it is clearly mentioned in the bible. Read exodus, or romans and see for your self what we ought to do and are doing and the religion we follow is entirely different from what Jesus has taught us. albert _ Who will win Bollywoods most coveted IIFA awards? You decide! Cast your vote! http://server1.msn.co.in/sp06/IIFA2006/static/weekend.asp ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women.
Hi Cornel, I have been following the subject with interest and the many requests about evidence required about the cases of rape and other regrettable incidents that followed the Indian invasion of Dec. 1961. Firstly, I have to say that from what I read over the years, there is very little written and published about it. Most of the incidents were not reported for fear of reprisals for the families involved and for the reporters. Secondly, certainly you do not expect our 1960's Goan families to make available such sensitive information publicly. Even today, victims of rape are reluctant to go public for obvious reasons, imagine 45 years ago. Publicity on such cases would ruin the reputation of many families and eliminate any chances of marriage for the coming generations. Goa is such a small place that everyone knows everyone else even today, imagine 45 years ago! Thirdly, it should not be difficult to find senior army officers amongst our Goan relatives and friends. In their honesty they will probably tell you that it is no secret that large numbers of uncontrollable Indian army men have resorted to this sort of deplorable actions not only in Goa but in many other states, including in Sri-Lanka by the Indian Peace Keeping Force (1987-1990). Abuses in many states are widely reported on the internet as follows: Check: http://www.tamilnation.org/indictment/indict050.htm http://www.siphro.org/view_content.php?title=Rape+Victims+Speaks+Out http://www.countercurrents.org/hr-sagar240804.htm http://sisyphe.org/article.php3?id_article=1214 http://www.countercurrents.org/hr-tukdeo241004.htm http://www.cs.uccs.edu/~kalita/assam/human-rights/mamoni-koch-rape-july97.ht ml http://www.sacw.net/Wmov/JointStatement20012005.html http://www.geocities.com/tamiltribune/98/1001.html According to Usha Ramanathan(see the above link), "When an enemy army occupies conquered territory it is common to hear of soldiers raping local women with no fear of punishment.". This is a sentiment very much echoed by Leo Lawrence(1963), a Goan from Velim who became the Special Adviser to the Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations in New York. Lawrence published a book in 1963: Nehru seizes Goa, Pageant Press. New York. This is definitely the most complete and detailed account of the events preceding and following the Indian invasion of Goa in Dec 1961. It needs to be read with an open mind. The average brainwashed Goan will simply refuse to believe in the facts described by this account. Things have changed, no doubt, and the truth is too cruel to be accepted today. Many of our senior Goans who can provide witness accounts say, "yes it is true, but what good will it bring to remember those dark days?". I am just too used to that. I am just responding to this thread because of the several requests from you and from FN. Interesting enough, Lawrence explains why the English edition of Heraldo was suspended in April 1962 by the Indian Authorities Surely this can be verified. Lawrence's account can definitely be verified in its majority but it requires resources and academics interested in finding out the truth from a neutral and historic perspective and not to score points or to please X, Y or Z. Nehru seizes Goa was a book forbidden from circulating inside India by Nehru. I am not sure if it is still forbidden. I have acquired a copy though. Very few Goans have it. And very few have read its 226 pages. It exposes the event in detail. It provides dates, names, incidents, institutions, etc. Moreover, it provides links to articles published in that period. The names, incidents, dates, articles, etc should be straightforward to verify for authenticity if anyone wants to do this. It does not provide rape only but all other types of abuse and brutality that happened before and after Dec. 1961. The book is available from several American universities libraries and central libraries. Would you like me to provide you with a link for it? It might be a bit too long to post as email but I am willing to do it if I receive such requests. Best regards Paulo. > -Original Message- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:goanet- > [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of cornel > Sent: 06 August 2006 12:44 > To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! > Subject: Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women. > > Hi Lenny > I was not trying to prove anything for starters when I raised a point with > A. Veronica Fernandes. As he had indicated rape in Goa in 1961 and in > Kuwait > in 1990, it seemed absolutely reasonable to seek some hard evidence in > terms > of figures etc from him (or indeed from anyone else) if he had it as he > was > close to the scenes. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] MESSAGE FROM Councillor Rabi Martins -WORLD GOA DAY 2006
00 MESSAGE FROM Councillor Rabi Martins Chairman (Civic Mayor) Watford Borough Council -UK 000 000 The celebrated author Graham Greene is reputed to have once said "Anthropologically speaking Goans are a Master Race." I am not sure about that. What I am sure of is that we Goans are very proud of our ancestry and heritage and where ever in the world we may live, we never forget our roots. I also know that we Goans are an adaptable lot and have made a home for ourselves in every corner of the world and adapted to the customs and cultures of our chosen new "homeland". But at the same time we have established organisations to bind the community together and protect and promote our very own distinctive attributes. In the context of the Global village you can be assured there is a Goan organisation in every corner of the globe. It therefore makes tremendous sense for all these organisations to link up under one umbrella - The Alliance of World Goan Organisations - I look forward to the launch of this great initiative at the World Goa Day and will be proud to be associated with it. Councillor Rabi Martins Chairman (Civic Mayor) Watford Borough Council Rabi Martins MBA Business Advisor Heathrow City Partnership Ltd 0208 571 8810 www.heathrowcity.co.uk OO ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Exposure of misconceptions with examples
<< ... It is my belief that NO God fearing person will NEVER commit violence against another ... except in self-defence. ... >> Jose Colaco What about the Abraham's attempt to kill his son Isaac? Lawrence ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Goa Sudharop: Seniors E-book
A fellow former-Chemburkar (Bombay), my first memory of George Menezes was when he dressed as Santa Claus and came down the chimney at the Club to amuse us as kids - next to OLPS School. A good family friend and my dad's contemporary, he has achieved much and done Goa proud. His submission below is for Goa Sudharop's E-book on Seniors which will be published in due course. If you have not sent in your submission, please do so (details will follow in a separate email). Regards, George May Is the Cruelest Month By George Menezes T. S. Eliot wrote that April is the cruelest month . Obviously he was not a Goan going home. For a Goan going home, it is May that is the cruelest month. And it gets crueler or worser as my friend Leitao Sacrafamilia used to say without bothering about his grammar. Worser because you have to return by Air since all other means of transport is already booked, and you realize that your khatli potli which would have included jackfruits, pineapples, cocum, vinegar, dried fish, brooms, jaggery, cashew nuts and feni would never be allowed on flight. Anyway, finally, after a gap of many years, you arrive in Goa .. like the missionaries in tribal areas, a little breathless and a little late. And like always, you peal off your Bombay shirt, get into a pair of baggy shorts, the hair on your bare chest bristling in the Goan ambience, and lower your carcass into your grandfathers voltaire with arms long enough for you to put your feet up forty five degrees in the air. Ah, this is the life. You get up late, and take a walk through the ancestral property in order to pick up fallen mangoes and return for a soup-plate full of kanji and kalchi koddi. Disappointing news. There are no fallen mangoes. In fact there are no mangoes fallen or otherwise in the entire property. No malcurad the king of mangoes, nomalgese the juice-filled ones that go into the making of mango jam. A blight has ruined the crop. Nasty looking octopus-tentacled creepers have embraced the trunks of every tree. Fruit trees, you discover, have emotions. They require the loving care and the tender concern of none other than the badcar.. the landlord, himself. Head hanging down in shame, your straw hat in hand as if you are at a funeral procession, you walk home bang into a second catastrophe. No kalchi koddi. Or shall we say, it does not come up to the standards of kalchi koddi of yesteryear. Something happened. The coconut was not fresh enough, perhaps. The modern attempt to solidify yesterday's liquid curry on a gas flame in a stainless-steel vessel is not the right and proper way to handle a treasure. You require an earthen pot. You require a gentle fire made of wood and coconut shells lasting the whole night through. Like a beautiful European woman taking a gradual tan under a Goan sun. As if this were not enough, you make other discoveries of the heart-wrenching innovations of modern Goa. At ladahinhas the singing is still in four discordant voices, the gossip still juicy, but the Non-Resident Goan celebrating the Cross-feast is serving Californian salted almonds from a can in place of the gas-inducing boiled gram in a chipped saucer. Worse still, bottles of Scotch are making their shameful appearance on a tray. Can I have some urrak, if you don't mind, you ask meekly. The host looks at you as if you were a toddy tapper. His father comes to your rescue. Bab he says apologetically, I finished the lastcauso a few weeks ago. Can I give you some urrak from a sealed bottled? For a day or two you go into a fit of deep depression. What have they done to this my native land when I was away? Slowly you realise that the more permanent residents of Goa have taken things in their stride. In fact, welcomed the development with all its evils. It is only you who want the best of both worlds the modern amenities of Bombay and the old style charm of Goa. Yet, my beloved Goa is still beautiful. The water in the well of a neighbour who has no tap connection is as fresh as the morning dew. He invites me to partake of its abundant source. The best fish goes to the five-star hotels, yet the family that rents out the sluice-gate (manos) for whose son I found a job, says to me Bab tuca ami nishtem dinant zalear, konank ditele.? That night someone takes you to the tiatr (folk theatre) and for three hours of tears and laughter you are immersed in a Goan sauna . a nostalgic massage of giant proportions. Goa is still there alive and kicking, it is midnight and alls right with the world. As I said before May is the cruelest month. Not for those who manage to make it to Goa but for those of us who cannot. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Christian Goanet. Religion-bashing & Bigotry (attn. G. Pinto-Final)
This is a meaningless thread, Nasci is not making any convincing points, except to use each post to pour scorn on a religion he doesn't belong to and doesn't think twice before insulting and misinterpreting. On 07/08/06, Nasci Caldeira <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > I do respect Hindus as people, but cannot find enough > reasons/gut to support their beliefs re worship of > 'animals'; as also their caste system and prejudices You do not have to "support" other people's beliefs, just as they do not need to "support" yours. You just need to realise that the world is round, it take all types to make this planet. You cannot force your views or (obviously very biased) evaluations on anyone else. Christ said love your neighbours. George Bernard Shaw (if I recall right) said you just need to tolerate your neighbours. You show signs of neither. And arguing that you don't have any Hindu neighbours doesn't cut too much ice. > How come the majority Hindus, who you say are good, > are supporting this Hindutva nonsense; and how come > this 'GOOD? majority does not RISE AGAINST these > hedeous acts? Hmmm? Watch where your logic goes, Nasci. You better be prepared with an answer over how all those good Christians (specially the Catholics of Bavaria) supported a Hitler, and ditto for a Franco, a Mussolini and a Salazar! If the "majority" Hindus had to support Hindutva, India would have bade goodbye to secularism long ago. Fact is the BJP struggles to come to power at Delhi, has to make all kinds of compromises with all kind of strange bed-fellows, never gets more than 20-35 per cent of the votes cast (even less if you take the full electorate). In Goa too, the BJP has to depend on the Wilfred de Souzas, the Francisco Sardinhas, the Babush Monserrates, the FX Mickky Pachecos (and other dissident Congressmen whose ambitions are easily fuelled) to come to power inspite of Goa having a 65% Hindu population. Likewise, Manohar Parrikar knows he cannot win an election in his hometown of Mapusa, and that he can win in Panjim with the support of the so-called Catholic "elite" taken in by promises of good governance and a prettified town! Your facts are just wrong Nasci, and your arguments are bigoted. A deadly combination. FN -- Frederick Noronha http://fn.goa-india.org 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 http://fredericknoronha.wordpress.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Interesting Facts
Interesting Facts: 1. The longest one-syllable word in the English language is "screeched." 2. "Dreamt" is the only English word that ends in the letters "mt" 3. Almonds are members of the peach family. 4. The symbol on the "pound" key (#) is called an octothorpe. 5. The dot over the letter 'i' is called a tittle. 6. Ingrown toenails are hereditary. 7. The word "set" has more definitions than any other word in the English language. 8. "Underground" is the only word in the English language that begins and ends with the letters "und." 9. There are only four words in the English language which end in "-dous": tremendous, horrendous, stupendous, and hazardous. 10. The longest word in the English language, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, is pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis. 11. The only other word with the same amount of letters is its plural: pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosesl. 12. The longest place-name still in use is Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwe-nuakit natahu, a New Zealand hill. 13. Los Angeles's full name is "El Pueblo de Nuestra Senora la Reinade los Angeles de Porciuncula" and can be abbreviated to 3.63% of its size,L.A. 14. An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain. 15. Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur. 16. Alfred Hitchcock didn't have a belly button. It was eliminated when he was sewn up after surgery. 17. Telly Savalas and Louis Armstrong died on their birthdays. 18. Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy. 19. The muzzle of a lion is like a fingerprint - no two lions have the same pattern of whiskers. 21. A pregnant goldfish is called a twit. 23. There is a seven-letter word in the English language that contains ten words without rearranging any of its letters, "therein": the,there, he, in, rein, her, here, ere, therein, herein. 24. Dueling is legal in Paraguay as long as both parties are registered blood donors. 26. A goldfish has a memory span of three seconds. 27. It's impossible to sneeze with your eyes open. 28. Cranberries are sorted for ripeness by bouncing them; a fully ripened cranberry can be dribbled like a basketball. 30. The letters KGB stand for Komitet Gosudarstvennoy Bezopasnosti 31. 'Stewardesses' is the longest English word that is typed with only the left hand. 33. The combination "ough" can be pronounced in nine different ways; the following sentence contains them all: "A rough-coated, dough-faced, thoughtful ploughman strode through the streets of Scarborough; after falling into a slough, he coughed and hiccoughed." 34. The only 15 letter word that can be spelled without repeating a letter is uncopyrightable. 35. Facetious and abstemious contain all the vowels in the correct order, as does arsenious, meaning "containing arsenic." 36. Emus and kangaroos cannot walk backwards, and are on the Australian seal for that reason. 37. Cats have over one hundred vocal sounds, while dogs only have about ten. 38. The word "Checkmate" in chess comes from the Persian phrase "Shah Mat," which means "the king is dead." 39. The reason firehouses have circular stairways is from the days of yore when the engines were pulled by horses. The horses were stabled on the ground floor and figured out how to walk up straight staircases. __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] For A Goanet poster.
Some of us,having been informed that all topics regarding Iraq and Israel were now considered 'Personna non grata', accepted this with no qualms. One Goanet poster who always wants to have the last word posted his piece directly to our inbox, whilst also informing us that we were on his spam list, so it would be futile responding! This is the hallmark of the person, who continually complains and whines!! I respectfully ask this man: Please do not send my any private emails, this is my only means of conveying this to you. -- DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Cell Phone vs. Bible
Could the Bible encourage some form of two-way communication? Can it's message be a bit more contemporary? If so, it could possibly get a greater mindshare (and not have to depend purely on subsidised publication that ends up among the most-widely-circulated-but-unread books). No offense meant, but I think the comparison is not particularly apt. On another plane, the cell phone is suspected to cause brain cancer (no conclusive view on this yet... but I've just reached to take mine out from my pocket and place it on a nearby bookpile). For it's part, the Bible could play a positive role, provided it didn't make us feel so self-righteous, or convince us that we are somehow superior to those who have another set of beliefs. FN PS: Apologies for getting caught up in an off-topic thread! On 08/08/06, borg costa <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > Cell Phone vs. Bible > I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible > like we treat our cell phones? > What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets? > What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it? ... -- Frederick Noronha http://fn.goa-india.org 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 4000+ copylefted photos to share from Goa http://www.flickr.com/photos/fn-goa/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women.
Hi Lenny Many thanks for you kind reply. Like Clinton, I feel your pain about war but definitely need to rely on hard data about allegations of rape in Kuwait or for that matter in Goa in 1961. For now, no such hard data has been forthcoming but only hearsay. I am sure you have seen a newspaper rejection of Veronica's assertion about rape in Kuwait but I admit I know know nothing about this particular publication in the Gulf. There may be many reasons why hard data on rape in Kuwait is not forthcoming but I refuse to demonise any group of people on just hearsay. Kind regards Cornel PS I have been consistent that I do not believe that war resolves very much if anything. On this we seem to be absolutely agreed. - Original Message - From: "lenny dsouza" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: Sent: Tuesday, August 08, 2006 5:32 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Brutality of invaders against women. > Cornel, > Dont get me wrong, Just that you touched a tender part. > I have seen it all its just not worth going thru all the nightmare again, > even today if crackers burst it run chill thru me and may all those who > were there with me, as we we the unlucky who got left out. > Thats why i am against war, it does not bring any peace. > Lenny ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Update... departments putting out information under the Right to Information Act in Goa...
Below is a list of departments which have not done data entry under the Right to Information Act 2005. I obtained this information under the RTI itself, from the Department of Information: 1. National Savings Organisation 2. GSIDC 3. Goa Tourism Development Corporation 4. Environment Department 5. Goa State Coastal Zone Management Authority 6. State Institute of Education (SIE) 7. Goa Board 8. Central Library 9. Law, Judiciary & Parliamentary Affairs Department 10 Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour 11 Goa Diary 12 Sanjivani Sahakari Sakhar Karkahna Ltd 13 Rural Development Department 14 Goa Housing Board 15 Provedoria Department 16 Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission 17 North Goa District Consumer Forum 18 South Goa District Consumer Forum 19 Transport Department 20 River & Navigation Department 23 Bicholim Municipal Council 24 Canacona Municipal Council 25 Cuncolim Municipal Council 26 Curchorem-Cacora Municipal Council 27 Mapusa Municipal Council 28 Margao Municipal Council 29 Ponda Municipal Council 30 Pernem Municipal Council 31 Quepem Municipal Council 32 Sanguem Municipal Council 33 Valpoi Municipal Council 34 City Corporation, Panaji 35 Goa State Urban Development Corporation 36 BFDA 37 Information & Publicity Deparment 38 Directorate of Civil Aviation/Airport 39 Office of Chief Electoral Officer 40 Office of State Election Commission 41 Directorate of Technical Education 42 Government Polytechnic, Panaji 43 Administrator of Communidades - North Goa 44 Administrator of Communidades - South Goa 45 Administrator of Comunidades - Central Zone 46 Town & Country Planning Department 47 Goa Horticultural Development Corporation And here's a list of departments which *have* initiated data entry under RTI Act 2005, dated July 14, 2006: 1. Vigilance Department 2. Directorate of Vigilance 3. Department of Sainik Welfare 4. Home Department (General) 5. Home Department (foreigners and citizens only) 6. Department of Commercial Tax 7. Department of Excise 8. Directorate of Accounts 9. Directorate of State Lotteries 10 Economic Development Corporation 11 Finance Budget Department 12 Finance (Revenue and Control) Department 13 Finance (Expenditure) Department 14 Department of Tourism 15 Science & Technology Department 16 Goa State Council of Sci & Technology 17 Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority 18 Industries Department 19 Dept of Industries, Trade & Commerce 20 Khadi and Village Industries Board 21 Goa Industrial Development Corporation Ltd 22 Goa Handicrafts Rural & Small Ind Dev Corpn 23 Education Department 24 Factories & Boilers Department 25 Power Department 26 Mines Department 27 Art & Culture Department 28 Information Technology Department 29 Law, Judiciary & Parliamentary Affairs Department 30 Law Department (Legal Affairs) 31 Law Department (Estt) 32 Directorate of Prosecution 33 Directorate of Health Services 34 Goa Medical College 35 Goa Dental College 36 Directorate of Food & Drugs Administration 37 Public Works Department 38 Registrar of Cooperative Societies 39 Goa Marketing Federation 40 Archives & Archaeology Department 41 Museum Department 42 Goa Institute of Rural Development & Admn 43 District Rural Development Agency, North Goa 44 District Rural Development Agency, South Goa 45 North Goa Zilla Panchayat 46 South Goa Zilla Panchayat 47 Social Welfare Department 48 Directorate of Women & Child Development 49 Craftsmen Training Department 50 Housing Department 51 IPA (Provedoria) - South Goa 52 Civil Supplies Department 53 Directorate of Transport (Head Office) 54 Mormugao Municipal Council 55 Non-Conventional Energy Department 56 Fisheries Department 57 Labour & Employment Department 58 Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department 59 Goa Meat Complex Ltd 60 Veterinary Hospital, Tonca 61 Agriculture Department 62 General Administration Department 63 Personnel Department 64 Revenue Department 65 Collectorate of North Goa 66 Collectorate of South Goa 67 Directorate of Settlement and Land Records 68 Forest Department 69 North Goa Forest Division 70 Administrative Reforms Department 71 Information & Publicity Department 72 Water Resources Department 73 Official Languages Department 74 Public Grievances Department 75 Directorate of Public grievances 76 Planning, Statistics & Evaluation department 77 State Planning Board 78 Office of Chief Registrar of Births & Deaths 79 Printing & Stationery Department 80 Higher Education Department 81 Protocol & Hospitality Department 82 Raj Bhavan 83 Mines Department, Secretariat 84 Department of Legal Metrology 85 Forest Department (Secretariat) 86 Goa College of Pharmacy 87 Captain of Ports 88 State Registrar-cum-Head of Notary Services Join the Goa RTI network http://groups.yahoo.com/group/goarti -- Frederick Noronha http://fn.goa-india.org 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 4000+ copylefted photos to share from Goa http://www.flickr.com/photos/fn-
[Goanet] We are promoting the WORLD GOA DAY event to a wider audience here in Australia.
0 Just a short note to let you know that the World Goa Day celebrations are progressing very well over here in Sydney. We are promoting the event to a wider audience here in Australia. The Radio interview by Australia's SBS radio presenter Kumud Merani with Alzira Colaco of the GOA NSW Inc. can be heard on our website http://www.our-goa-nsw.org/index.php?id=103 With kind regards Tony Colaco Vice President GOA NSW Inc. ooo ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] New VCD FUGDDI.
New Konkani VCD "FUGDDI". John D'Silva is one of the well known Goan Stage artistes from Sam Jose de Areal. He has written and directed many dramas and staged them not only in Goa but even in other parts of Goan World including Gulf. Recently almost a fortnight back he with his own troupe toured UAE where in Dubai he staged his two well acclaimed dramas namely JINN & VAITT. During this trip he released his new VCD "FUGDDI" which is full of comedy in which he along with Selvy and Joanna make the viewers laugh heartily. The story and sequences are scripted by John D'Silva only. Musical score is provided by Jose Carvalho. In this VCD John D'Silva plays triple roles which is something unique. This VCD in original will be available for sale in the hall during the Tiatro "Ghor Bhandlem Ghorabo Moddlo" by Rosary Ferns on Friday 11th of this month. This is the second VCD of John D'Silva. Earlier he produced his first VCD "Duddvankar" . Besides, he also produced one Audio Cassette "Porzoll" in 1988 and in 1995 he produced one Video Movie "XINN", all were well received by the audience. John D'Silva is a decent man and as I know him a non-vulgar tiatrist having brought up in a disciplined background. He is very cooperative and not a destructive tiatrist. His educational background at College level has helped him a lot to attain much of success in life. Though he looks very aggressive in his roles on the stage but in real life he is very soft and mild. Though he performs different roles yet what I admire in him more is his comedy roles. He resembles on the stage in many aspects like Vincy of the then Young Stars of Goa who used to make the audience laugh and laugh just by standing only but using his sharp tongue. Vincy lasted for a short period and disappeared into oblivion. Those who want to enjoy a good comedy they must make a point to see this VCD. Selvy too plays a good supporting role along with Joanna. I am sure Goan and Konkani community will patronize John D'Silva by purchasing original VCD during Rosary's Tiatro and encourage him to go further. A. Veronica Fernandes, Kuwait. _ Express yourself instantly with MSN Messenger! Download today it's FREE! http://messenger.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200471ave/direct/01/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Right to Information links... in Goa
Just a few updates I came across: * Goa's official gazette (Series II No 17 dated July 28, 2006) lists the officers designated at Principal Information Officers (PIOs) and Assistant PIOs (APIOs) and the first appelate authority by various departments, autonomous bodies, corporations, panchayats and municipalities. There are 180 authorities listed. This gazette coses Rs 22.00. Maybe we could work to get it online and save everyone's money! The Government Printing Press should be doing this themselves! * Government of Goa has published the Right to Information Act 2005 (Central Act 22 of 2005), and made it available through the Government Printing Press. This 44-page booklet costs Rs 44 from the Government Printing Press (near Azad Maidan) during their cash timings. Go before 4 pm and avoid the lunch break. -- Frederick Noronha http://fn.goa-india.org 9822122436 +91-832-240-9490 4000+ copylefted photos to share from Goa http://www.flickr.com/photos/fn-goa/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] Exposure of misconceptions with examples
Hi Mario, As the main proponent of the theory that "God fearing people cannot be evil". Can you please explain the following paradoxes. 1. Why is the "Bible Belt" in the USA known for religious god fearing people as well as for the most racist ones ?? 2. Why are Brahmins( the most god fearing and religious of castes) synonymous with oppression of lower castes ?? 3. Why are Fidayeen extensively brainwashed with rock solid codes(quotes) from the Koran before they blow themselves up ?? Regards Sunith Velho Panjim-Goa ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Banking services
Albert wrote For those people who have friends in the bank it is very easy to get good service. I have an account in the Bank of India and my neighbour who works there was the one who forced me to open the account. Till he was in the Mapuca branch the service was too good as he would do all the work for me and I did not have to visit the bank. Then he was transfered to Saligao and I had to do all the work my self. I was totally fed up of the bank and till today I am fed up. Those officers who sit before the computer do not know which key to press. The update of pass book takes about 30 minutes and sometimes only half printing is done. Long ques at the cash counter. I had at one time literally call the zonal manager to help me.The other day I wanted to update my pass book at the corporation bank. The bank had omitted some entries and so I had to get it straight. The lady at the printer did not even look at me till I had to draw her attention. She said that the entries are too many and I will have to come again the next day. I said no. I told her that she will have to do the work now at this moment. She showed me several cheques which she has to approve. Only when I got hold of my mobile and told her that I would be calling the zonal manager on the phone she took the pass book and it took her 35 seconds to do the work.I know how canara bank works. Albert _ Sexy, sultry, sensuous. - see why Bipasha Basu is all that and more. Try MSN Search http://server1.msn.co.in/Profile/bipashabasu.asp ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] London Goenkars, please note!!
Dear Mario, If you are closely monitoring the real estate situation in Goa and the rest of India, you will find that while property rates have increased manyfold in the last five years the rise in RENTS for residential properties have only increased marginally. Any economist will tell you what this means is that the local DEMAND for residential housing has been satisfied. What is driving prices through the roof is other factors. In Goa's case it is wealthy Indians flocking to Goa for holiday homes. This has all the makings of a BUBBLE. This is being repeatedly pointed out by Swaminathan, Deepak Parekh (chairman HDFC) and others. To give you an example of this, a friend of mine bought a flat in Mumbai for about Rs. 1.5 crores, he rents it out for about Rs. 1.5 lakh a month. For a penthouse close to your residence in Miramar that costs almost Rs. 1.5 crores, you will not find anyone to rent it even for Rs. 30,000. Even the worst performing India specific mutual fund would give you annual returns of 15-25% and much more if you are a smart investor( and invested in S. Korea specific funds). So you are effectively losing upto 37.5 lacs a year in this manner. Secondly, as a foreign national you are losing another significant percentage of your returns because the Rupee is deliberately and continuously weakened against the dollar, pound, euro, etc. The only thing you have going for you as a foreign national who has bought property in Goa is that the property price is increasing very rapidly, however since you are not in touch with the "real" estate situation in India, you are unaware of all the BUBBLE warnings being issued just as you were unaware of regulations when buying your property from touts( they are not worthy of being called real estate companies). Hence you will be proved an IDIOT in any one of the following ways: 1. When the BUBBLE bursts. 2. When Rane and Co. take over your properties. 3. Now at the height of the real estate boom it is very difficult to sell your property because, all the registrations of sale deeds(of foreign nationals) have been put on hold. 4. When Mopa comes up and the rest of the Konkan coast starts developing(This is a smart investment right now!) But mainly you are an IDIOT because you are investing your money in a volatile market of whose fundamentals you have no idea of. However if you have a Goan connection you will have more access to information regarding the situation in Goa and will find it much easier to dispose of the property at the right time. The Property value WILL remain the same regardless of your ethnic background. Mario, as a man who is interested in economics you should know that residential real estate is a good investment when local DEMAND drives the prices up(since that type of demand always shows predictable behavior). Otherwise your investment is like speculation on the stock exchange. For speculation in real estate you cannot be sitting 5000kms away with no connection to the local scene. Regards Sunith Velho Panjim-Goa I know several "foreign nationals of non-Goan descent" who purchased property in Goa a few years ago, and the property has more than quadrupled in value and the value continues to increase. > So, can Jim or Sunith please explain how these people are "idiots"??? > And, while you are at it, can you please explain how property values, which are based on supply and demand, vary depending on whether the investor is a Goan or non-Goan? > ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Exposure of ...... God fearing & evil
Mogal Elisabeth, Perhaps you do not read all my posts. I don’t blame you! But you do break my heart in that regard. :=)) In one recent post, I confessed, "I was not a scholar on religion." And the religion questions should be answered by theologians and not by supurlem Goenkars like me. Now don’t you think, you would like to hear that answer more often on Goanet? Kind Regards, GL -- Elisabeth Carvalho wrote: Rather than me belabouring my point, I'd be curious to know what your views on "evil" are. ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Cell Phone vs. Bible
Cell Phone vs. Bible I wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat our cell phones? What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets? What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it? What if we flipped through it several times a day? What if we used it to receive messages? What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it? What if we gave it to kids as gifts? What if we used it as we traveled? What if we used it in case of an emergency? What if we upgraded it to get the latest version? This is something to make you go...hmmm...where is my Bible? Oh, and one more thing. Unlike our cell phones, we don't ever have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill! Have a blessed day! __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] SPEAK A LITTLE KONKANI ON "WORLD GOA DAY"
SPEAK A LITTLE KONKANI ON "WORLD GOA DAY" [ 20 AUGUST] .and every day after that! Dear Friends/Mogall Ixttano, When two Malayalis meet they speak Malayalam to each other; two Maharashtrians speak Marathi; two Kannadigas speak Kannada, two Bengalies speak Bangla; two Gujaratis speak Gujarati and two Kashmiris speak Kashmiri. But when two Goans meetthey speak English, however poor their English may be. It happens even in Goa! Konkani Uloi, Konkani Boroi, Konkanint Ghorabo choloi...zalear'ruch Konkani Mai Bhas jivi urtoli. Emails and net postings can be easily done in Roman script Konkani. Use this facility to promote Konkani. You can check for some Konkani sentences from the 'Goencho Ulo' www.goacom.com/goa ,'Vavraddeanch IXTT' www.v-ixtt.com , 'Gulab' www.gulabonline.com and other publications from their websites, if needed for a start. There are some sentences for daily usage reproduced herebelow. Like anything else, writing/reading Konkani in Roman script gets easier with practice. Use 'World Goa Day' to promote Konkani. Do not wait for the Government to do everything. Who waits for the Government to organise a picnic or a party? We do it ourselves!! I believe in the maxim, "One should never itch for something that one is not willing to scratch for." I am game to be a part of the core group to incorporate KONKANI into the "World Goa Day" celebrations. I would love for Cecil Pinto, Joel D'Souza, Ben Antao, Rene Barreto, Constantino Xavier, Mr. Ulhas Buyao [Lyricist, singer], Fr. Peter Raposo,sfx, Fr. Ubaldo Fernandes,sfx [Editor IXTT], Jose Salvador Fernandes, Fausto da Costa [Editor of 'Gulab'], Tomazinho Cardoz, Fr.Pratap Naik,sj[Director Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr, Porvorim], Fr.Ave Maria Alphonso [Editor of "Dhor Mhoinneachi Rotti], Mr. Wilson Mazarello [President of Dalgado Konkani Academy], Prince Jacob [President of Tiatrists' Akademi] and others, who are willing, to be a part of this movement. As Rene would say, "Together we can make it happen." Absolutely no doubts about that!!! I must reiterate that 'official recognition' means nothing if the PEOPLE do not use the language. Nineteen years of official recognition of Konkani [Antruzi dialect] in Devanagri script and 14 years of teaching it in 137 primary schools has changed the ground realitities very little. It is only if the people use the language for their day to day lives, that the language lives on. See what happened to Latin, to Sanskrit and so many other languages. The sentences suggested by Domnic Fernandes [copied below] are a good starting point for this August 20. . As we celebrate World Goa Day this year, my earnest request to Goans worldwide is to introduce our Konkani language in your functions in order to make them more Goa-oriented by speaking our mother tongue. I am not forcing everyone to speak the language but at least the announcers/Emcees should make an effort to welcome/greet the crowd in Konkani. Here are a few sentences which could be used at World Goa Day functions abroad: The announcer/Emcee introduces himself and wishes the crowd thus: "Somestank mae-mogacho ievkar " (Welcome everybody). Or "Somestank Dev bori sanz dium" (Good evening everybody). At the end of the program, he/she winds up the function by wishing the folks: "Dev boro dis dium" (Good morning), if the function ends in the morning Or "Dev bori rat dium" (Good night), if the function ends at night. Last but not the least; they should not forget to thank the participants in Konkani by saying "Dev borem korum!" I am confident these few words will not only add color to the function but will also go a long way to establish the roots of our language in the Diaspora! The attendees may also use the following simple phrases to enquire about each other at a function: Tum kosso asa[Masculine]/Tum koxem asa? [Feminine] (How are you?) Hanv boro asa/Hanv borem asa. (I am fine.) Tum Goyeam kednam gelolo/Tum Goyeam kednam gelelem? (When did you last visit Goa?) Hanv Goyeam porum gelolom/Hanv Goyeam porum gelelem. (I had been to Goa last year.) Tuzo ghorkar koso asa/Tuji ghorkarn koxi asa? (How is your husband/wife?) Mozo ghorkar boro asa/Moji ghorkarn bori asa. (My husband/wife is fine). Tumchim bhurgim koxim asat? (How are your children?) Amchim bhurgim borim asat. (Our children are fine). Aichi manddavoll ani jevonn tumkam koxem laglem? (How did you like today's arrangement and food? Aichi manddavoll ani jevonn amkam ekdom borem laglem. (We liked today's arrangement and food very much.) Borem tor, fuddlea vorsa mellche! (OK then, see you next year!) Let us keep in mind that our language is the key to our identity and distinctiveness that identifies us as "Goenkars" (Goans) anywhere in the world! Have a wonderful World Goa Day 2006! Moi-mogan, Domnic Fernandes Anjuna/Dhahran, KSA ..
Re: [Goanet] Banking services
I just want to add my two cents (not worth banking on), here to say that some of the banks in Goa, such as HDFC are actually superb with service on par with any banking institution one would encounter in other parts of the world. Elisabeth -- > > > Friends > > The banking services of the nationalised banks is > very poor. Sometimes one > > has to stand in long ques to withdraw, or deposit > or update their pass > book. > > The careadam attitude of the staff needs to be > probed. The staff have no > > right to go on strike if they cannot give the > customers a good and > deserving > > service until then let private banks rule Goa > > Albert > > > > > _ > > Spice up your IM conversations. New, colorful and > animated emoticons. Get > > chatting! http://server1.msn.co.in/SP05/emoticons/ > > > > ___ > > Goanet mailing list > > Goanet@lists.goanet.org > > > http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org > > > > ___ > Goanet mailing list > Goanet@lists.goanet.org > http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org > __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Tiatro in Kuwait.
WILLIAM DE CURTORIM ARRIVED IN KUWAIT. The stage is all set for Rosary Ferns to stage his new Tiatro on Friday 11th of this month at Hawally A/C Hall, starting at 3.30 p.m. William de Curtorim has already arrived yesterday and all set to render 3 powerful solos in his usual style one of them a hard hitting slap on Rane on Mopa Airport. The other visiting artistes who are in Kuwait now and will participate in this Tiatro are tragedy queen Ophelia, Antonette de Calangute and John D'Silva. John in this Tiatro will perform a very good comedy along with local comedian Philiph. Babli and Osvi are expected anytime from now. The sale of tickets is going very well and to avoid last minute disappointment, Tiatro goers should confirm their seat reservations now only by contacting the organizers or at Raja Stores. Rehearsals are going on in the Hall since last week, everyday. All artistes and musicians are eagerly waiting to give their best on Friday. First time in Kuwait for this drama audience will see youngster Rabindra Pietro - son of famous Konkani novelist and musician Bonaventure D'Pietro from Anjuna playing an Organ. Being a genuine Solfist Rabindra is a very good musician and was a music teacher in Goa before landing in Kuwait a few months back. The other new face first time will be seen in Kuwait Konkani Stage will be that of Pal Soares who in Goa before landing in Kuwait a year back was a well known playwright and director having his own troupe. He is from Utorda. In this Tiatro audience will have a feast of songs comprising Solos, Duets, Trios and beautiful Cantos in the play. One of the beautiful Cantos that will bring nostalgic feelings amongsts Goans will be rendered by Ophelia, it will be a Portuguese Fado. Nobody should miss listening to this Fado which is depicting olden days Goan tradition. This Tiatro is organised by Kuwait Goan Association. A. Veronica Fernandes, Kuwait. _ Express yourself instantly with MSN Messenger! Download today - it's FREE! http://messenger.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200471ave/direct/01/ ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
Re: [Goanet] 'Last Bus to Vasco' goes to Frankfurt
On 08/08/06, brian mark mendonca <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > 'LAST BUS TO VASCO' GOES TO FRANKFURT > > > After being displayed in Toronto for the Viva Goa festival last week, Goan > traveller-poet Brian Mendonca's debut volume of verse - 'Last Bus to Vasco: > Poems from Goa' - now heads to Frankfurt for the Frankfurt Book Fair between > 4- > 8 October 2006. Congratulations, Brian - would your book be available at Confidante in Margao? -- DEV BOREM KORUM. Gabe Menezes. London, England ___ Goanet mailing list Goanet@lists.goanet.org http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
[Goanet] Goanet Reader: Goa's own cyber-balcao ... (VM de Malar)
GOA'S OWN CYBER-BALCAO: LESSONS TO LEARN ON THE INTERNET SUPERHIGHWAY by V. M. de Malar [EMAIL PROTECTED] I had Goa in mind the very first time I logged onto the Internet, more than 11 years ago. The news media was full of reports about this big new thing, this World Wide Web that could potentially link up all the computers in the world to create something called the "information superhighway." But only a fraction of the world's personal computers were hooked up when I first logged on and entered a world of painfully slow dial-up connections, unreliable modems, and an online sub-culture peopled mainly by computer science mavens and university students. It was a parallel universe, a "virtual reality" quite unlike the flesh-and-bones world. And I looked for Goa immediately, not expecting very much but curious about what might lurk in the depths of this new medium. That's when I discovered Goanet, (now at www.goanet.org); it was already active when I joined the mailing list in early 1995. There was great novelty in being connected to other Goans, so many of us were totally isolated in the diaspora without any sense of others in the same predicament. This pioneering list served first of all as a simple networking tool for young Goans, most of whom lived in the UK, Australia and North America. But as we felt out the Internet, and connectivity spread like wildfire, the true potential of the medium started to become clear. Eddie Fernandes came online, the veteran librarian had access to superb search engines and posted news articles from around the world with relevance for Goa. And so Goanet became the best one-stop source for Goa-related international news. Fred Noronha came online at the same time, the Saligao-based journalist fed Goanet with locally generated news and views. And bolstered by these miraculously free services that materialized on your desktop almost instantaneously, the membership of Goanet soared from a couple of score to a couple of thousand. Goa's pre-eminent contemporary historian, Dr. Teotonio de Souza joined the network from his university in Portugal. Writers like Victor Rangel-Ribeiro and Philip Nazareth, distinguished scientists like Santosh Helekar and Helga do Rosario Gomes, technologists like Samir Kelekar all joined the network, and the forum became convulsed with stormy debates about religion, colonialism, 1961, and all the topics that get Goans hot under the collar whether on the Internet or off. In time, the network has grown and expanded further. The messages still fly fast and furious, and we are seeing a long overdue demographic correction as more and more Goans in Goa are finding their way to this venerable discussion list. Goanet needs to be commended for running a strictly transparent, strictly inclusive organization that has consistently maintained very high-minded standards. It is this Open Source motivation that is the key to its success and longevity, and provides an excellent model for newcomers to the Goa niche of cyberspace. As our state prepares to roll out broadband right into the villages, we will be bringing tens of thousands of new subscribers online, and a host of new Internet-based companies and services will be born. They should all take a long look at what has kept Goanet alive; it's an uncomplicated formula that will yield results. This month marks twelve long years since Herman Carneiro launched Goanet, the teenager expected to keep in touch with a few friends and now manages a list encompassing more than 6000 members. Fittingly, this week also marks the fifteenth anniversary of the World Wide Web, the launch of the first browser software written by Tim Berners-Lee at the CERN physics lab in Switzerland. Everything has exploded since then, many like to compare one year of Internet development to seven or even ten years in "meatspace." Certainly, we have gone from one lonely discussion group for Goans to a couple of dozen websites and even more mailing lists. But as we look ahead to the broadband opportunity that has the potential to remake Goa all over again, and to a far more wired future, it's fitting to take a moment to register where we've come from and what it took to get here. Happy Anniversary to the Internet, and especially to Goanet, our very own cyber-balcao. - VM de Malar is one of the early Goanetters, and is currently based in Goa, where he writes for the local and outstation media, mostly contributing think-pieces and well-written features. GOANET-READER WELCOMES contributions from its readers, by way of essays, reviews, features and think-pieces. We share quality Goa-related writing among the thousands-strong readership of the Goanet/Goanet-news network of mailing lists. If you ap
