Guyana chronicle 13 01 14

GUYANA

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Several homeless after early morning fire No. 103707

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Remnants of the Charlestown house destroyed by fire (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

Investigations into Ogle aircraft crash -injured pregnant woman still hospitalised ongoing Investors chased Cabinet grants $56M away, young to improve city’s professionals targeted, sanitation, aesthetics Page 2

Cecilia ‘Tanti’ King 102 not out

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development XCITE launches style and undermined-all bacchanal Mash band thanks to APNU/AFC -to feature at least 100 revellers 13 Page

Cecilia ‘Tanti’ King

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Investigations into Ogle aircraft crash ongoing

By Leroy Smith

THE Guyana Civil Aviation and Ogle International Airport are continuing their investigations to ascertain the real cause of a Fenix 206 Cessna crash shortly after takeoff on Saturday.

The accident occurred at the Ogle International Airport on the East Coast of Demerara, and resulted in four persons suffering injuries.

The Guyana Chronicle has been informed that checks are being made to determine if the standard operating procedures were followed and if the pilot had carried out a detailed check of the aircraft before takeoff.

Yesterday, efforts to contact Transport Minister Robeson Benn were futile. However, this publication has been informed that the Ministry of Public Works is also looking to have a report sent to it with respect to the incident even as the GCAA does its bit to find out the cause of the crash.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Chronicle was also unable to have an interview with 23-year old Shenika Munroe, a pregnant woman who was onboard the aircraft when it crashed. Her relatives were not willing to accommodate any media operative or at least those from this newspaper when she arrived at the hospital.

It is unclear what the condition of the woman was up to yesterday and whether there has been any complications with her pregnancy following the accident.

The aircraft which carries registration number 8R-MML, crashed after failing to complete its take-off at the Ogle International Airport.

On Saturday, Public Relations Consultant for the Ogle Airport, Christopher ‘Kit’ Nascimento, told reporters that the passengers were on board the aircraft, destined for Kato in Region 8 (Potaro/Siparuni)which crashed at approximately 09:30 hrs.

Nascimento stated that the aircraft travelled some 200 yards along the left side of the runway before flipping over on its side.

According to him, the Airport’s emergency response team rushed immediately to the scene of the crash and was able to assist

-injured pregnant woman still hospitalised

the passengers out of the aircraft.

Meanwhile, Administrative and Finance Manager of Fenix Airline, Eddie Doolal, on Saturday, confirmed that the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority has launched an investigation into the incident.

“Because of the safety requirements in the aviation industry,

until we know the extent of damage I cannot say if it will be returned to service,” Dolall was quoted as saying.

He added the company’s sympathy for those affected and expressed the airline’s gratitude to the personnel at the Ogle International Airport Inc. for their assistance.

Cecilia ‘Tanti’ King 102 not out

By Jeune Bailey Van-Keric

Village to Stanleytown Stelling and from there we walked to the New Amsterdam Market where the produce would be sold. If we did CECELIA Ethleen Ramsay King called ‘Tanti’ of Mayor and not get money to pay the boat we would form ourselves in groups Town Council Scheme, New Amsterdam remains at the wicket and walk the 12-mile trek to the town, where after selling the prohaving scored 102 not out. vision we would buy groceries, before returning home.”

The centenarian from Berbice related that “the journey was Describing her life, Tanti said: “It was hard, but I surnot easy, sometimes up, sometimes down, but God always came vived. I did not have an easy life from my mother’s home to through for me.” my husband’s house, as he was a ladies’ man. My father had Born on January 9, 1912, ‘Tanti’ as she is fondly called, says ‘I disapproved of the relationship, but my husband pursued me wash, I cook and I clean, and I enjoy it.’ anyhow. My father held out that he was not in favour, nevertheThe petite woman, who is in less, we married in 1937, without good health apart from a slight his presence and blessing. My ‘In those days, there was no electricity, the only hearing impairment, said she is husband, Albert King, a boat the fourth of nine children, born transportation available was the boats which would builder, a joiner and a farmto her father William Ramsay, a transport us from Lightown Village to Stanleytown er, died leaving me with nothing balata bleeder and though she Stelling and from there we walked to the New Amjust as my father had predicted.” received her formal education sterdam Market where the produce would be sold. If Following his death, the widat the Roman Catholic School in we did not get money to pay the boat we would form ow, being childless, singlehandNew Amsterdam, and later the ourselves in groups and walk the twelve-mile trek to edly cared for several nieces and Lightown Primary on the East the town, where after selling the provision we would nephews taking the position as Bank of Berbice, she was forced buy groceries, before returning home.’-‘Tanti’ a single parent, scrubbing floors to terminate her schooling, in and washing clothes for a shilling an effort to assist her younga month. er siblings , who were left on “I worked for seven persons, their own after the parents would have left for the farmlands. but when the money was counted at the end of the month it was Her mother Eliza David, who lived to age 87 years, worked on not plenty, but I could have had the necessary essential items. the breadfruit and cocoa cultivation plots, as she more often had to Thank God I did not have to pay a rent or electricity bill. The singlehandedly care for her children as “my father focused on his money now is many times more, but you are limited in your older children from a previous marriage, whose mother was dead. buying.”

“My mother had sent me to live with a friend in New AmsterWith a smile and a tilted head, she recalled attending the annual dam so that I could attend school, but a few months later, my father school sports, as a student of Lightown Primary, particularly,the demanded that I returned home. parade from her hometown to Friends Village a few miles away.

“In those days, there was no electricity, the only transportation “Being a nation under British rule, we would sing “Rule available were the boats which would transport us from Lightown Britannia, Rule Britannia rule...........Britain would never, never fail... as we marched ahead, with the Union Jack [British National Flag] being proudly hoisted by available hands. There would be egg and spoon race, thread the needle race among others.

Those were my favourites. After the sports we would have ginger beer and buns, before going home.”

Currently, Tanti was taken in by her Seventh Day Adventist

Cecilia ‘Tanti’ King, 102 not out sister after she suffered an accident at her home, and subsequently sustained fractures to her left and right ribs. Nevertheless, when left alone she washes her clothing and cooks for her adopted family.

“I like to do work. I don’t like to sit doing nothing. When they gone out, I does do my own washing. I can manage,” she mused.

Several homeless after early morning fire 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

By Leroy Smith

S

EVERAL persons were rendered homeless early yesterday morning after fire completely destroyed a two-flat house and severely damaged a three-storey property in which several persons lived. Up to late last evening the Guyana Fire Service could not give a confirmed report about the cause of the fire since the investigations are still in progress.

According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, the fire started at approximately 02:30 hrs at Lot 9, Charles Street Charlestown, Georgetown. No one could say what really caused the fire although there was speculation that the fire might have been electrical in origin.

One occupant of the house reported to this newspaper yesterday morning, that he was at home when he heard someone raising an alarm that there was a fire and immediately everyone began to scatter as they scrambled what they could have.

While no one was injured as a result of the fire, four children are among the homeless even as residents of the area claimed that they heard sparks minutes before the fire.

When the Guyana Chronicle visited the area at dayclean, yesterday morning, persons were still effecting clearing of debris and other unwanted materials left lying around after the fire. The response of the Guyana Fire Service was praised while others accused them of engaging in looting. One occupant of one of the houses related too that by the time the fire service arrived the other building had already begun catching.

Meanwhile, yesterday, the Guyana Fire Service came in for some really harsh words after persons alleged that firemen entered the room to battle the blaze and carted off items which were not supposed to be removed from the home.

The property was one that housed several rooms for which persons paid individual rental. They said that their rent monies were removed, passports missing, and several other items.

Efforts to get a response from Guyana Fire Chief Marlon Gentle proved futile.

Remnants of the Charlestown house destroyed by fire (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

Cabinet grants $56M to improve city’s sanitation, aesthetics

IN an effort to aid sanitation in Georgetown, Cabinet granted a sum of $56M to improve various communities in the city.

Minister in the Local Government Ministry, Mr. Norman Whittaker made this disclosure at a press conference Friday at the ministry’s headquarters at Kingston.

Whittaker said that from this $56M, $41M was given to the Ministry of Public Works, leaving the Ministry of Local Government with 15M to carry out their part of the exercise.

He pointed out that this money was used to assist in improving the aesthetics of Georgetown as well as the sanitation.

He added that contrary to the views expressed by some members of the City Council, this exercise was never intended to be and was never a part of the Restoration of Georgetown Project.

Minister Whittaker pointed out that this is a part of a continual clean-up exercise.

He explained that the City Council took responsibility for the sanitation of commercial areas of Georgetown, while some of the other wards were delegated to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

He noted that he was very pleased when he inspected some of the areas, for example, Agricola and McDoom communities.

Whittaker said he observed that a majority of the workers were females and they were very happy to be involved in providing a cleaner environment and to be working for government.

He said that he also visited the Riverview area and was pleased to see a woman taking the lead role in the activity as she was the supervisor. Whittaker added that this exercise was given a lot of help by the Community Development Councils (CDCs) in the various areas.

He said further, that in addition to controlling vegetation, focus was placed extensively on drainage. And in the areas of Lodge and Mc Doom, the residents agreed on having members of the City Council spearhead the actual work - one such person was Head of the Works Committee, Mr Ranwell Jordan.

He explained that what was done was simply an exercise to work with the City Council and not to seek aggrandisement, but

From left are Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Collin Croal, Minister of Local Government Ganga Persaud and Minister in the Local Government Ministry Norman Whittaker (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo) to improve the conditions under which people lived.

He concluded that the ministry will continue to support the work of the council in the broader interest of the general public as well as for sanitation and tourism.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Exclusive: More Deal on curbing Iran’s well-known U.S. nuclear activity to take retailers victims effect January 20 of cyber attacks - sources

(Reuters) - Target Corp and Neiman Marcus are not the only U.S. retailers whose networks were breached over the holiday shopping season last year, according to sources familiar with attacks on other merchants that have yet to be publicly disclosed.

Smaller breaches on at least three other well-known U.S. retailers took place and were conducted using similar techniques as the one on Target, according to the people familiar with the attacks.

Those breaches have yet to come to light. Also, similar breaches may have occurred earlier last year.

The sources said that they involved retailers with outlets in malls, but declined to elaborate. They also said that while they suspect the perpetrators may be the same as those who launched the Target attack, they cannot be sure because they are still trying to find the culprits behind all of the security breaches.

Law enforcement sources have said they suspect the ring leaders are from Eastern Europe, which is where most big cyber crime cases have been hatched over the past decade.

Only one well-known retailer, Neiman Marcus, has said that they too have been victim of a cyber attack since Target’s December 19 disclosure that some 40 million payment card numbers had been stolen in a cyber attack. On Friday, Target said the data breach was worse than initially thought.

(Reuters) - A deal for Iran to freeze parts of its nuclear program in return for sanctions relief will take effect on January 20, giving world powers and Tehran six months to agree a complete end to a standoff that has raised the risk of a wider Middle East war.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry cautioned that the next stage in negotiations would be “very difficult” after Iran, Washington and the European Union announced the launch date for the interim deal struck in Geneva in November.

Iran will receive some easing of economic sanctions from January 20, including the suspension of restrictions on Iranian exports of petrochemicals, a

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senior U.S. official said.

The official said such immediate relief - which will hinge on U.N. inspectors confirming

that Iran is curbing enrichment of uranium - would include imports for its auto manufacturing sector and trade in gold and

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif speaks during a joint news conference with his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu (not pictured) in Istanbul January 4, 2014.

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other precious metals.

Shortly after the interim accord goes into force, an Iranian official said, the two sides will start negotiating a final settlement of their differences about activity the West suspects is aimed at obtaining a nuclear weapons capability.

Iran says its atomic energy program is aimed purely at electricity generation and medical isotope production, although past Iranian attempts to hide sensitive nuclear activity from the U.N. nuclear watchdog raised international concerns.

The November 24 agreement appeared to halt a slide towards a major Middle East conflagration over Iran’s nuclear aspirations. But diplomats warn it will not be easy to carry out given deep mistrust characterizing a decade-long dispute.

The Iranian official, Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, said the deal would allow Iran to stop complying if it saw its partners not living up to their own commitments.

“We don’t trust them,” he told state television, reflecting ingrained suspicions between Iran and the West that underlie what have been protracted negotiations.

President Barack Obama said he would veto any new sanctions passed by the U.S. Congress during talks on a longterm deal with Iran, but said Washington would be prepared to increase its sanctions if Iran fails to abide by the agreement.

“Capitals have confirmed the result of the talks in Geneva ... The Geneva deal will be implemented from January 20,” Marzieh Afkham of the Iranian Foreign Ministry told reporters in Tehran, the semi-official Mehr news agency said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Address relocation, compensation for residents Roget calls on PM, Petrotrin (Sunday Express) IF Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar does not address the concerns of La Brea residents affected by the oil spills in the country immediately, she can expect a visit to her office in Port of Spain soon.

President of the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) Ancel Roget yesterday called on the Prime Minister and Petrotrin

to address concerns of health relocation and compensation for the residents.

Roget and other trade union leaders visited residents yesterday at Coffee Beach, one of the most affected areas in the community.

He listened to their concerns and said residents should be treated as first class citizens because they too were stake-

holders in the oil industry.

He said the residents deserved more than relocation to the La Brea Community Centre which was initially offered by Petrotrin, higher wages, proper health care and some form of compensation as soon as possible. Proper personal protection equipment (PPE) and training should also be given to all residents involved in the clean-up

operations.

Roget said residents could die from short term and long term effects of the oil spill if measures were not taken to treat ill people properly.

Sherry-Ann Francis and Denecia Gilbert told Roget they cannot work at their normal jobs because of the spill and their lives have been messed up.

Francis, 46, who suffers

Jamaica for us! Majority of Jamaicans would turn down the chance to migrate Corey Robinson, Staff Reporter (Sunday Gleaner) It appears that most Jamaicans would turn down the chance to migrate despite the many problems facing the country, with a little more than 30 per cent saying they would pack up and leave today if given the chance.

A recently concluded national survey has revealed that despite the tough economic conditions, the high levels of crime and corruption, and sev-

eral other problems, just over six in every 10 Jamaicans would not leave if they had the chance to migrate today.

For those who would leave, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Cayman Islands are the countries of choice.

ISLANDWIDE POLL That’s according to an islandwide poll commissioned by the Jamaica National Building Society and conducted by Bill Johnson Survey Limited between December 7 and 15,

2013. The poll used a sample size of 1,008 Jamaicans age 18 years and older.

According to the findings, 62 per cent of respondents would not leave the ‘Land of Wood and Water’ to take up residence abroad, while 36 per cent of respondents said they would leave today if possible. Only two per cent were flat-footed, vacillating between the two options.

“That’s fantastic. If I were there and I were a part of that survey, I would be in that 62 per cent,” declared Irwin Claire,

managing director of the Caribbean Immigrant Services, based in Jamaica, Queens, New York, after it was pointed out that 43 per cent of those who said they would leave Jamaica chose the United States (US) as their preferred country of relocation.

“The harsh economic conditions in the US make it difficult for even those who were born here, and then there are also social and other challenges that have an impact on people,” noted Claire.

from severe venous failure and operates a centre for homeless people, as well as baby sits, claims he cannot take care of others because of the polluted environment.

Gilbert, 24, a hairdresser, said all her clients were now going to other people for the service and her two children were ill.

The residents complained that Petrotrin was being insensitive to the medical needs of people.

Although they have provided medical care, she said Petrotrin officials were not meeting directly with the residents to at least “show some concern”. —SW

Venezuelan minister targets corrupt police (BBC News) Venezuela’s interior minister has given out his personal mobile phone number on live television, and urged police officers to call him directly to report cases of corruption within the force.

Miguel Rodriguez said rooting out corruption was the only way for the police to regain public trust.

Police corruption is seen as one reason why Venezuela has one of the highest murder rates in the world.

His comments come amid public anger after the murder of Monica Spear.

The popular former beauty queen and her ex-husband, Thomas Berry, were gunned down in their car in front of their five-year-old daughter, who was wounded.

Seven people have been arrested in connection with the crime.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

GUYANA

Elated at nabbing of drug trafficker at CJIA EDITORIAL

WHEN I heard the news of a Canadian man arrested by the Police Narcotics Branch at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) with a large quantity of cocaine in his possession on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 I was elated.

What was more outstanding was that this man was not Guyanese in transit from Trinidad, on his way to Toronto, Canada.

The fact that the airport security team was able to nab this man after he had already passed through screening at the Piarco

International Airport, Trinidad, is quite remarkable. Congratulations on a job well done.

This most recent incident will help to elevate the confidence of passengers passing through the airport, letting them know that a stringent security team is on duty.

Over the years, I have read about CJIA heightening security checks, enhancing their profiling techniques and improving their intelligence gathering and this most recent drug bust is testimony to that.

As the drug traffickers get wiser, the security team of the airport and all other ports of entry in Guyana are challenged to become even better at what they do. It is most assuring to see that they are stepping up to that challenge.

I have read stories in the newspapers of persons trafficking drugs in eggplants and ochroes, pumpkins, cabbage, star apples, fried rice, rum, cosmetics among others. This is very worrying to me. It leaves me asking what next?

As these incidents increase, security teams at the airport should begin to look into more innovative ways to better their procedures and detection system.

The security team of CJIA must continue to be shrewd and firm in the execution of their duties in a professional and efficient manner as the country strives to combat this international problem of drug trafficking.

A champion of democracy Terry Holder-a man passes on with a heart of gold WHEN the return to democracy in Guyana looked extremely bleak and hopeless, there was finally light at the end of the tunnel in October 1992 and Dr Cheddi Jagan’s optimism and determination were vindicated. And on this note many have forgotten that he worked tirelessly on both the local and international fronts in the long and epic struggle to have the return of democracy.

It is because of his persistent efforts at the international level that we were able to have the intervention of the influential and internationally respected Carter Centre, founded and headed by former US President Jimmy Carter, which played a pivotal role in our country having a free and fair election on October 5, 1992, which paved the way for the return of democracy here and Dr Jagan becoming Head of State which was painfully denied for nearly three decades because of rigged elections and dictatorial rule.

But what many do not realise is that the Carter Centre came as a result of persistent lobbying by Dr Jagan via the Paul Reichler law firm of a major US Congressman, including the late Edward Kennedy.

One of the major accomplishments by the Carter Centre was ensuring that there was counting of the ballots at the place of poll, which was a key element in ensuring the integrity of the balloting process, which was vehemently opposed by the then President Hoyte who described it as “logistical nightmare.”

But while President Carter understandably so, was in the limelight most of the time with respect to the work of the Carter Centre, there was a “turbine” working steadfastly and selflessly behind the scenes in his quiet, reserved and efficient manner to ensure his organisation achieved its goals and objectives. That “turbine” was Dr Robert Pastor-a true champion of democracy and democratic values.

He was an extraordinary man combining a career of scholarship, teaching, and public policy in government and in non-governmental organisations. He was National Security Advisor for Latin America (1977-81) and has been a consultant to the Departments of State and Defense. Before coming to America, Dr. Pastor was Goodrich C. White Professor of Political Science at Emory University, and from 1985-98, he was a Fellow and Founding Director of the Carter Center’s Latin American and Caribbean Programme and the Democracy and China Election Projects. At The Carter Center, he founded and served as the Executive Secretary of the Council of Freely-Elected Heads of Government, a group of 32 leaders of the Americas, chaired by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter.

This Council had mediated elections in more than 30 countries around the world.

“Mr. DEPENDABLE”, “Cool cat”, “raconteur”, “humanitarian”, “motivating leader”, “sheer class” , “a number one in a number two” . These descriptions are but a small sampling of how the late Terry Holder was viewed by many persons of all walks of life.

With admiration, I watched this virtuoso do “his thing”, his accomplished way, while I closely interacted with him at the Guyana Manufacturers’ Association (GMA) now GMSA, and later, the USAID/ GHARP project via the Private Sector Advisory Board on HIV/ AIDS- which birthed the Guyana Business Coalition on HIV/ AIDS (GBCHA); long acclaimed as a leading example in the Caribbean, of how donor-funded project outcomes could be sustained after closeout.

At both the GMA and GBCHA, Terry served as Vice-President and Vice-Chairman respectively; very content to walk a step behind, while simultaneously functioning as the wind beneath the wings of elected or appointed leaders. He was unquestionably an acknowledged hero in the arena of organisation dynamics, mainly because of the finesse with which this distinguished Guyanese embraced, and naturally executed the concept of servant leadership. And yet, he was comfortable in displaying a proclivity for the emotional frailties which demonstrate manly strengths including those that perpetuate unadulterated, lasting loyalty and affection. I shall refer to two examples.

In mid-June, 2007, Chris Fernandes, Terry Holder and I travelled to New York to attend among other activities, the Global Business Coalition on AIDS, Awards Presentation Dinner. We were joined

by Kwame Asiedu GHARP’s chief of party and Sylvia Delafield, GHARP’s private sector advisor who was instrumental in the GBCHA having access to the prestigious event at a very concessionary Following the historic October 5, 1992 election, Dr Pastor remained here for some time to ensure the consolidation of democracy and during this time, worked extremely hard and dedicatedly.

He will certainly remain in the annals of our history as one who made a significant and pivotal contribution to the return of democracy.

But he did not only help the democratic cause: he also worked assiduously towards improving relations between the US and Latin America which has been acknowledged by former US president Bill Clinton: “As my adviser for Latin American affairs on the National Security Council in the White House, he helped to reshape our country’s relations with our Latin American neighbours and secure democracy and human rights throughout the Region. After he left the White House, he continued this work at The Carter Center, leading for more than a decade critical peace and election observation missions and advancing the idea of a united North American community.

Because of his vision, boundless energy, and political skill, the Western Hemisphere is more democratic and developed today.

We extend our condolences to his family.”

MARVIN BLACKMAN

price- far, far below the 10,000 dollars per plate paid by some guests.

During the day, the three of us took a walk in downtown Manhattan.

Terry did not turn up at our pre-arranged assembly point outside Macy’s for the trek back. So after waiting for some time Chris and I went back to the hotel. About three hours later, in comes a beaming Terry, full of excitement. “Guess who I just ran into and had a long conversation with?” he asked. Chris and I remained silent.

I suppose like me, Chris had the dilemma of narrowing down the guessing game to groupings of personalities connected to either Rotary International, Sports- mainly cricket and athletics, the world of communication, Caribbean integration, private sector organisation, media and the list goes on.

So eventually Terry proudly announced with glee, “I had a good gaff with my dear friend Wordsworth Mc Andrew”; still bubbling, he added “I am going to ensure I keep in regular contact and also formulate a programme to guarantee he gets the requisite support he needs.” I stared at Terry in admirable awe as reality sunk in: This man with a heart of gold was displaying more excitement over reconnecting with a friend than the euphoria which consumed us in anticipation of having dinner and breathing the same air later that evening with international “superstars”, led by former US President Bill Clinton, along with Sir Richard Branson, Jamie Foxx, Charles Barclay and other NBA greats. I surmised by his prolonged elation that, for Terry at that moment, his trip to New York acquired more significance in “finding Wordsworth” than the prospect of “Dinner with Bill”.

In late 2004, I resigned my position with the GMA to contribute directly to the national response to HIV and AIDS. Terry sought me out to discuss in detail the rationale for my move. Toward the end of our conversation he suggested arranging a farewell ceremony.

I firmly disagreed and he backed off. However, he emphasised I could call on him at any time for support in my future endeavours; a promise he so consistently upheld, that it would take a book to adequately capture many of the instances. Suffice to say, Terry’s word was without a doubt, his devoted bond.

My departed friend and mentor was persistent in the pursuit of positions he adopted which overwhelmingly, bode no ill will against his fellow man. The GMA Annual Presentation and Awards Dinner (APAD) 2004 was held a few days after my resignation was accepted. While standing in the foyer outside the grand Savannah Suite at The Pegasus during the event, Terry approached me in a polite but no-nonsense manner, saying: “I cannot in good conscience allow you to leave without publicly saying something, you are the first executive director . You presided over a successful institutional strengthening project of the Association,.....”. He continued to reel off a set of accomplishments in quick succession. Thereafter, he immediately made an about face in military ramrod fashion and started for the door to rejoin the proceedings. After taking about three quick steps, he half turned, with that trademark smile, looked me straight in the eye, and, displaying his penchant for etiquette and decorum, quipped: “And by the way, don’t forget to button your jacket when the MC calls you to the front.”

I extend a heartfelt sympathy to the family and sorrowing relatives of the late Terrence Ormonde Holder.

May His soul rest in peace!

DERRICK CUMMINGS

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

A better system of payment to Drama Festival participants is needed WE, the participants of the National Drama Festival whose names are provided below - would like to address the recently concluded matter of late payments of prize monies due cast and crews of the winning productions of the 2013 festival. In addressing this matter our aims are to: i) Express our deep concerns for the future of the festival ii) Highlight as yet unresolved matters arising out of the 2013 National Drama Festival iii) Propose some possible solutions But first a little context is in order. On November 30, 2013 the National Drama Festival Awards Ceremony was held and some seven days after the conclusion of the festival Minister of Culture, Youth & Sport(MCYS), Dr Frank Anthony, in the presence of all those in attendance in the National Culture Centre’s auditorium, made a promise that prize monies would be paid within two weeks of the same evening. This was a pleasant turn of events as the previous two years the festival had been marred by lengthy delays in the judging process, holding of the award ceremony and in the payment of prize monies - among other things, some of which could be put down to teething problems of a new and ambitious initiative, some of which probably should not. (In one instance prize winners were left waiting for two months to collect their modest, but hard-earned winnings.) When the two-week deadline approached a number of directors, playwrights and actors took it upon themselves - by themselves - to contact the

Festival Director, Mr. Godfrey Naughton.

The two-week deadline passed without prize monies being paid. Assurances were made by Mr. Naughton that he would try to get the monies released in time for Christmas.

Christmas passed without prize monies being paid. Some hoped to receive their prize monies before the end of the year. 2014 was ushered in without prize monies being paid. All the while, prize winners and drama mentors had been taking it upon themselves to investigate, either through Mr. Naughton or with personal contacts at MCYS as to when monies would be released.

However, it was not until the evening of January 5 that the pot boiled over. This is when Festival Director Mr. Godfrey Naughton - now, by his own decision, the former festival director - proclaimed on his Facebook page that where the monies were concerned, the ministry “had it but spent it.” By the morning of January 6, word had spread and we very quickly began organising ourselves. Numerous calls and visits were made to the ministry to seek an official explanation.

We requested an audience with the minister, PS and/or Director of Culture for January 8 to clear up the conflicting bits and pieces of information that we were receiving up and down the chain. Our request was denied, apparently because of meetings, but we showed up anyway, in our numbers at the ministry to indicate our seriousness. We were insistent but always polite, else we be accused of being a mob. Whether it was the inquiries and presence of the media, the call we put in to Digicel - who wholly and solely sponsored the prize money, the

intervention of parties outside of our immediate group or some combination of these and other factors, we received official word from both the Accounts Department and the Director of Culture that our monies would be available the following day. Just in time to put on hold the press conference and media blitz and other actions that were to be put in motion the very next day. Fortunately for all concerned, the ministry kept its promise and monies were released. From the beginning though, we had always planned to issue this very statement. It should have never had to come down to this.

The matter is not over. At the time of writing, closer inspection has revealed that it appears that as much as $600,000 of prize money is missing from our collective winnings. Coming out of the festival members of Lichas Hall - Linden’s version of the Theatre Guild - discovered that an annual subvention for the hall has been in the ministry’s budget since 2008. This would be great news if it weren’t for the fact that Lichas Hall up until very recently knew nothing of the subvention and has no record of ever being in receipt of the funds allocated to them. There are also fees due to Lichas Hall for use of the facility during the Linden leg of the festival. These are just the latest in a long series of incidents that have caused artistes great worry and stress. At best, the ministry is inconsistent and lacking in transparency. In this particular incident they have failed to communicate in a clear and convincing manner just what was the reason for the delay in paying prize money. The ministry claims that discrepancies in Mr. Naughton’s

Granger must explain PNCR’s reduced number of votes FIRST of all, someone must remind Granger it’s not APNU but in fact PNC. Your reporters at every opportunity they get must ask the PNC’s Granger if he is still in denial about the PNC’s rigged elections with the blessing of the said United States of America.

Once Granger denies it again, then ask him to tell the Guyanese nation why the PNC does not get the amount of votes it used to amass prior to the 1992 election.

Then when he cannot explain something as simple as that, then you tell the entire nation that the PNC and Granger are nothing but liars.

Of course,the PNC knows they once again have the backing of the “Brits” and Americans, but they have to thread very carefully since they know the PPP’s support base could very well shut the country down.

The “Brits” and Yankees are not that dense and downright stupid to hand over power to the PNC again as they did before, since they both know the PNC’s ferocious appetite for money.

This is why the PPP must kick the Americans out of Guyana.

TED KING

financial submissions were the root of the problem. This is baffling. Digicel has supposedly sponsored the full sum of the prize money (which was handed over to the ministry before the awards ceremony). A determination had been made as to how much money was to go to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. The judges decisions have been final ever since. Why the hold up?

We see this year beginning with the deficit of trust that local “creatives” hold for the ministry, deepening. The ministry has tried to put the problems of the festival squarely on the shoulders of Mr. Naughton, and while he bears some responsibility he should not bear all. The seemingly ad hoc manner in which many initiatives are executed, deterioration of facilities like the National Cultural Centre and poor communication by the ministry all serve to undermine its very own efforts and to frustrate the creative community.

Finally, we would like to

propose a solution for how prize monies and monies for drama mentors can be handled; it is a solution that, we are told, the ministry already employs for Mashramani and, from all accounts, works well. Within one week of the end of the festival the awards ceremony can be held, the judges having submitted the names of the winners for the different categories. All monies would be packaged and distributed at the awards ceremony or perhaps immediately after. For accounting and auditing purposes, the relevant accounting officer would be in place at the National Cultural Centre to sign off on all vouchers and issue all receipts.

We look forward to the ministry putting measures in place to prevent these incidents from repeating themselves. Only then will the ministry have begun the long road of rebuilding the trust that has been so severely eroded, so that it can truly partner

with and serve the creative community and the arts.

CANDACY BAVEGHEMS VIVIAN BOYD ERROL CHAN ADOLPH CHRISTIAN TIVIA COLLINS KWASI EDMONSON LEON FRANCE LESLYN FRASER SHANA FRASER NURIYYAH GERARD TAHIRIH GERARD DEREK GOMES MICHAEL JAMES KEON HEYWOOD TASHANDRA INNISS NICKOSE LAYNE KIJANA LEWIS WALTER LEWIS KOJO MCPHERSON NICOLA MOONSAMMY LLOYDA NICHOLAS LISA PUNCH DEVIN SEARS SHERON TAYLOR MOSA TELFORD AYANNA WADDELL SONIA YARDE

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Gov’t studying six proposals for recycling plants – Ganga Persaud

By Savitri Laikram

THE Ministry of Local Government has received six expressions of interest from various firms that are keen to come on board with the Government of Guyana to establish the country’s first solid waste recycling plant.

Minister of Local Government Ganga Persaud made this disclosure at a press conference last Friday at the ministry at Kingston, Georgetown.

He pointed out that the firms interested are at present at the stage of evaluation, and the public will soon be

Minister Ganga Persaud

informed on what decision has been taken.

Minister Persaud explained that the recycling investment is seeking to address the issue of solid waste management as well as construction of five transfer stations in Region 4 (Demerara/ Mahaica)on the East Coast of Demerara and East Bank of Demerara and in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara).

Last November, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Ministry of Local Gov-

ernment and Natural Globe Incorporated, for the establishment of a recycling plant in Region 4.

However, in light of certain issues, the MOU was withdrawn by the Government and the contract was later re-advertised.

This project was also supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministries of Finance, Housing, Agriculture and Public Works, among others.

BCCI gives financial support to Region 5 youth camp

THE Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI), which continues to fulfil its corporate responsibilities, recently assisted a Youth Camp held last month at Moraikobai Mission, in Region 5(Mahaica/Berbice).

According to a press release from the BBCI, a letter was received on November 8, 2013 from Mr. Anson Barrington, the Youth and Sports Officer

youth camp, and a cheque for $82,200 was handed over on December 10, 2013 to the Culture, Youth and Sport Officer of that region.

“The Company was privileged to have the opportunity to make a donation towards the youths of Moroikobai. The Company decided to come on board mainly due to the fact that the Ministry of Cul-

funds at that time and is looking at a wider cross section of sports and other charitable, non-charitable, government, non–government organisations.

“BBCI not only plays the role of collecting tolls and facilitating vehicles crossing the Berbice River Bridge and vessels transiting through the retractor opening and under the high span, but

In the past, the Company has sponsored many events that benefited the communities both on the eastern and western sides of the Berbice River Bridge,” BCCI stated.

“For the year 2013, the Company has, so far, received 101 Public Relation requests and managed to approve 94 of these requests comprising of

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Project department established in Local Government Ministry

By Savitri Laikram

THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development has established a project department to better deal with the initiatives which are being implemented by the government through the ministry.

At a press conference last Friday, Permanent Secretary Collin Croal noted that it is vital for the project Collin Croal department to work in sync with the ministry and its policies which are being implemented by the government. It also has to ensure that the projects are done in a timely and manageable manner.

YEIRP The Youth Employment and Reconciliation Project (YEIRP) is expected to conclude in the second quarter of this year, he said.

Croal added that the ministry is looking to have continuity in this regard and to also have its project department look at proposals to make recommendations for a better focus on youth.

CARILED Permanent Secretary Croal said that the Caribbean Local Economic Development (CARILED) Project started off in a big way in 2013. The public will hear more about this project as the year progresses, he added.

Croal also said that it is vital to place focus on economic projects being targeted for various regions and to ensure that there is a regional as well as a ministry focus.

He noted that the ministry will also assist the project department in the areas of writing proposals, and so on, in order to access additional funding for the projects.

GMSA mourns Terry Holder’s passing THE Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA)

Youth Camp at Moraikobai Mission which was held between December 14, 2013 and December 19, 2013. for Region 5 requesting sponsorship for a Youth Camp at Moraikobai Mission, which was held between December 14 and 19, 2013.

After verifying the information submitted and further communications between BBCI and the Culture Youth and Sports Officer of Region 5, BBCI said they then decided to come on board and agreed to sponsor meals for 137 youths of Moraikobai who participated in the

ture, Youth and Sport and the Peace Corp Volunteers have created a great opportunity for youths, thereby, keeping them off the streets and away from drugs, crime, and other illicit activities; and little or no recreational activities are available to the youths of Moroikobai since it is located 94 miles up the Mahaicony Creek,” it stated.

The Company said it will continue to sponsor other events subjected to the availability of

also discharges its corporate responsibilities, and more importantly, played an integral part in the development of education, sports, supported national events and made donations to charitable and non–charitable organisations in close proximity of the Bridge or in Regions 5 and 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne).

The Company had also sponsored events in other counties and as far as the hinterland,” it noted.

sponsorships of Mashramani 2013 Events, sponsorship of horse racing events, donations of trophies to various non–profit and educational institutions, facilitated tours of various schools and waivered toll charges for tour buses, sponsored cricket tournaments, made donations towards Region’s 5 cricket tournament and religious organisations together with others too numerous to mention,” it outlined.

has joined in mourning the loss of 73-year-old Terrence Holder, a former Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and Deputy General Manager of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T), who passed away last Wednesday.

In a press release, the association said, “The passing of Terrence (Terry) Holder, though not sudden, has cast a pall over the entire Board of Directors of the GMSA and our membership”.

“He had become a fixture on the Board since the mid 1990s as Terry Holder the representative of the GT&T. Terry served as Vice President responsible for Public Communications for more than six years before he demitted office due to his ill health,” it stated.

The GMSA described Holder, who is also a veteran broadcaster, as an “outstanding member, dependable and always articulate”.

“The GMSA has benefitted tremendously from the polite and appealing approach he brought to internal, national, and international situations and programmes, and from his broad expertise in verbal and written communication and programme planning,” it added.

“Terry represented extremely high standards in every aspect of his work for the GMSA, and the association has not missed an opportunity to express its gratitude to him, tangibly and intangibly, for more than a decade of dedication,” the association said.

It added further, “Our appreciation is even greater considering that he was able to offer the same level of service to the GCB, the Rotary Club, and a number of other local and regional non-governmental organisations”.

“He was a kind man who never passed on a chance to help. Terry loved life and embraced all of it, the good and the challenging, with quiet industriousness, and when kudos were being given out, he stepped aside and allowed others to receive,” the release went on.

“Terry Holder will not be easily forgotten; he has touched too many lives; given a hands-up to too many people; and unselfishly shared his life’s passion for communications in all its diversity with correctness and steady determination. He has, certainly, secured a place in the annals of the GMSA,” the association stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana

King Liar: You hear lie? That is lie!

Old Kai’s favourite kaiso is ‘King Liar’! Lord Nelson sang about a ‘big lying competition’ and recently I heard that the AFC staged one. This is apparently the criterion they use to eventually elect their Presidential Candidate and these guys were just exercising, to ensure they stay fit for any eventuality.

The characters and incidents have changed but Lord Nelson’s focus remains the same, ‘crowning the lying champion’.

I know some of you wouldn’t believe me, But if I lie, ask meh good friend Marky It was a big lying competition To see who they would crown as lying champion Liars from all parts of the AFC Big shot liars including Stockfeeds From a field about a thousand or so entry In two days it boil down and leave just 3 I had meh eye on de “Liar Prak-a-lak” Cause I know he does come with some good ones But they had a younger fella named Badal Come from some village there in Guyana He seh he is Guyana’s best businessman Pay 80 million with a wave of his magic wand [chorus]

Teacher Percy say if yuh tell ah lie You going to hell as soon as yuh die De Liar Prak-a-lak, laugh till he sweat He say Mr Badal yu ain’t see nothin yet If you really want to hear bout business Let me blow you mind, now listen to something When you talking bout payment, yuh just hit de spot I was hoping you did believe it or not The payment yuh made, to you it was great, But dat is small thing compared to what I does take, Remember de couple that was handicapped or the hospital dat I stopped?

Prak-a-lak went ahead on points in de show Completely eliminated Mr Badal De next man to beat was “Nigel, The Outrageous” He ask de judges if he could lie first The judges asked Prak, and Prak-a-lak agreed He say any topic Nigel pick is alright with me He outrageous, I strong, let we meet head on And when we done see who head fit to wear de crown [chorus] Yuh hear lie, Dat is lie Lie , yuh hear lie Teacher Percy say if yuh tell ah lie You going to hell as soon as yuh die

Yuh hear lie, Dat is lie Lie, yuh hear lie

Nigel De Outrageous say he knew Amalia, even before it was conceived, Dat is how he know he is a mind reader.

He say he once went to space to prospect for gold and went to Mars to collect an award.

You know de crowd went wild, they couldn’t cool down Ah say Prak-a-lak losing he crown, Because when de judges brought de crowd back to order, A remember Nigel and his friend the juror, But Prak regained his composure just like a master, Dust off his suit and began to preach but not like a pastor, He say Outrageous is a mind reader and that is good, But I have the ability to go back in time to change the future, Just look how I took BM’s Soats 1970’s transport and converted land for de road, Then I went straight to de court. Stall de wuk, because I was bold, Then like an Angel I appear in Kaieteur. [chorus] Yuh hear lie, King liar Teacher Percy say if yuh tell ah lie You going to hell as soon as yuh die Teacher Percy say if yuh tell ah lie You going to hell as soon as yuh die

PPP extends New Year cheer to senior citizens in Berbice IN keeping with its mandate to serve the nation for the betterment of the Guyanese people, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has once again touched the hearts of elderly Berbicians by extending cheer to them, yesterday.

The ruling party provided a sumptuous lunch for 50 senior citizens in the East Canje area.

Speaking to the gathering before the meals were served at Canefield Settlement, Member of Parliament (MP) Faizal Jaffarally said that the PPP/C acknowledges the contributions of the senior folks and the New Year gesture is just a small token of appreciation.

“The success story of Guyana is a success story of your contribution; you have worked hard in various fields. Our success and freedom that we enjoy, is as a result of you,” he acknowledged.

CARING GOVERNMENT Jaffarally reminded that annually in the national budget, provisions are being made to better the lives of senior citizens, who have moulded the minds of young people who are in leadership positions.

“The PPP/Civic government is a caring government because we are not only addressing the increase of old age pension; we have ensured that you have a free supply of water and we are working to ensure that you have subsidy in terms of electricity bills,” he assured.

The Member of Parliament also took the opportunity to highlight several developmental projects that the government has embarked on and pointed out that much more will be done to address the needs of the elderly.

The Sunday treat which was made possible through a collaborative effort of local party activists, saw several recipients expressing gratitude to the PPP/C. BE PATIENT Regional Vice- chairman of East Berbice/Corentyne (Region 6) Bhupaul Jhagroo, also engaged the elderly folks in a discourse and reiterated the sentiments of Jaffarally.

“We are pleased to be among you to offer you this treat as

Member of Parliament Faizal Jaffarally & PPP/C activists distributing meals in Canefield, East Canje, Berbice timely manner, but now we are asking you to be patient with part of our recognition of your contribution in Guyana. us due to circumstances beyond our control,” he appealed.

In the past, we could have given you more things in a (Michael Khan)

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GCCI expresses condolence on Terry Holder’s passing THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has conveyed its deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr. Terrence Holder.

The 73-year-old veteran broadcaster and former Deputy General Manager of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T), died last Wednesday after battling with cancer.

“Mr. Holder spent many years as a private sector leader and advocate, serving on many Boards and Committees of several private sector associations in Guyana. He held many executive level positions at the GCCI, including that of Senior Vice-President, and will also be remembered for his intellect, insightfulness and sagacity on issues that attracted the attention of the Chamber and which affected the country’s social and economic climate,” a press release from GCCI said.

During his tenure at the GCCI, it said, Mr. Holder was a staunch advocate for corporate social responsibility being a fundamental part of the operations of the GCCI and its constituent private sector members, and he formulated and led many initiatives, in this regard, for the Chamber.

“He also played the role of mentor to new and young members of the GCCI’s executive, offering valuable counsel and advice as they transitioned into the arena of private sector advocacy,” the release noted.

GCCI President Clinton Urling recalled being a beneficiary of Mr. Holder’s wisdom and understanding on many occasions when he became a member of the Chamber’s executive council.

“As his family mourns, may we all take solace in the fact that the contributions he made to Guyana continue to inspire present and future generations, and may his dear departed soul rest in peace,” GCCI stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Investors chased away, young professionals targeted, development undermined-all thanks to APNU/AFC BETWEEN the A People’s Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), there is a collective effort to rid Guyana of all its human and financial resources. This has become even clearer with recent events that are unfolding before the public.

So far we have seen the Joint Opposition’s consorted effort to chase away investors from Guyana. In less than six months two major international investors, Muri Brasil Ventures and Blackstone Group which pulled out of the Amaila Project, were forced to walk away from doing business in Guyana as a direct result of Opposition hostility.

As if chasing away investors is not enough to satisfy their lust for power afforded by their one seat majority, they now move to attack and ultimately chase our human resources: our young qualified profession-

als working in Government.

Just months ago the AFC waged a campaign to discredit the head of the Guyana Energy Agency, Mahender Sharma, son of CN Sharma. Now APNU’s Joe Harmon is copying from his AFC’s friend playbook, by doing the same thing to Alexei Ramotar and the project he leads. It is not by coincidence that Harmon and his party chose to publicly question the merit of Mr. Ramotar. This was strategically done because Alexei Ramotar is the son of President Donald Ramotar.

Alexei Ramotar was hired in 2010, prior to his father’s run for Presidential Office and was deemed the most qualified for the job at that time. Today he remains one of Guyana’s most qualified in his field, with a Masters in Computer Science from the University of Waterloo, over a decade of work experience where he led numerous proj-

ects in his field, and several academic awards and publications.

APNU has called on government to provide jobs for young people and to utilize Guyana’s local human resources. But when young professionals return to work for government in a field of expertise that is sought after internationally and are not paid at a competitive rate they otherwise would receive in developed countries, they are attacked and demoralised by the opposition.

T h e re f o re , a t a t i m e where there is a high global demand for skilled personnel, politicians and policy makers alike, should support and encourage young professionals to remain and contribute to Guyana’s development and not attack them and render them collateral damage of personal political vendetta .

How can Guyana attract qualified skilled personnel to

stay when they are vilified, much the same like international investors, by the Opposition?

The AFC and the APNU has made every effort to stagnate the development of Guyana for their personal political gains via their one seat Parliamentary majority. In addition to chasing and vilifying investors and qualified young professionals, the Joint Parliamentary Opposition has gone as far as to ensure Guyana is now internationally blacklisted by international financial institutions by their non- support for the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act. These resentful and vindictive acts by the AFC and APNU are clear indicators that they have no intention to foster financial, professional or investor credibility for Guyana, and similarly have no intention of doing what is best for the good of this nation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

French First Lady in hospital after alleged Hollande affair

(BBC News) French First Lady Valerie Trierweiler has been admitted to hospital after media reports of an alleged affair involving President Francois Hollande.

She entered hospital on Friday “for rest and some tests”, her office said, after Closer magazine published images

November 2007: Trierweiler announces in an interview that she is Hollande’s new partner, six months after he leaves Royal, who was defeated as the Socialist presidential candidate against Nicolas Sarkozy May 2012: Trierweiler becomes First Lady of France with

poll published on Sunday, three out of four French people believe the alleged affair is a private matter for the president.

But with this dramatic twist affecting his official partner, it is increasingly hard to argue that these are personal matters which should not be under public scrutiny, says the BBC’s Hugh Schofield in Paris.

PRIVACY DEBATE On Friday, Closer magazine printed a seven-page article about the alleged affair between Mr Hollande and Ms Gayet.

President Hollande (centre) had appeared with Ms Trierweiler in public at an event in the Elysee Palace on Tuesday to cut a giant traditional epiphany cake linking him to actress Julie Gayet.

Mr Hollande did not deny the report but protested at invasion of his privacy.

Conservative opposition leader Jean-Francois Cope has suggested the drama has damaged France’s image abroad.

Ms Trierweiler is expected to leave hospital on Monday, her office told AFP news agency.

A presidential news conference scheduled for Tuesday on plans to boost the flagging economy now looks like being overshadowed by Mr Hollande’s private life, correspondents say.

Continue reading the main story Trierweiler and Hollande 1988: They meet for the first time, she a journalist, he a Socialist Party MP Family years: Trierweiler raises three children with her second husband, Denis Trierweiler, while Hollande raises four with his unmarried partner, Segolene Royal

Hollande’s victory over Sarkozy June 2013: Trierweiler wins damages of 10,000 euros from the authors of a book entitled The Troublemaker, which made allegations about her private life before Hollande’s election January 2014: She is admitted to hospital after news of Hollande’s alleged affair with an actress * The women in Hollande’s life Opinion polls already suggest he is the most unpopular president in a generation - one on Thursday indicated that only 25% of French people trusted him.

The French media face strict privacy laws but the tradition of secrecy over the private lives of public figures has been steadily eroded in recent years.

However, opinion polls suggest the French public appears to be averse to reporting politicians’ private lives.

According to an Ifop-JDD

Copies of Closer magazine sold out on Friday

It was illustrated with photos showing a man said to be the president visiting a flat near the Elysee Palace at the same time as Ms Gayet.

The man said to be the president is wearing a helmet and is ferried to and from the building on a moped.

Mr Hollande threatened to sue over the report, which he called an “attack on the right to privacy”, without denying the allegation.

Allegations of the affair are not new. Ms Gayet lodged a complaint in March last year

after a report of the liaison appeared online.

In December, another actor, Stephane Guillon, teased her over Mr Hollande during a talk show to promote a new film.

The same month, L’Express magazine reported mounting concern among presidential staff over the president’s frequent “escapades”, without giving details.

Ms Trierweiler, who is a divorcee and mother of three children from an earlier marriage, is Mr Hollande’s official

partner and lives in a wing of the Elysee Palace.

Mr Hollande, who has never married, left his previous partner and mother of his own four children - fellow Socialist politician Segolene Royal - to be with her.

Mr Cope, leader of the centre-right UMP, said that while he was “very attached to respect for privacy”, this recent incident was a “lesson in humility” for Mr Hollande.

“All of this is disastrous for the image of the presidential function,” he said on national TV. “You only have to read the international headlines.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Local Gov’t Ministry presents Region 3 riverine areas with solar panels, commissions several projects

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Ganga Persaud, Permanent Secretary Collin Croal, Region 3 Chairman, Julius Faerber, Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO), Adepemo Peters and students of the Great Troolie Nursery and Primary school with their sports gear

O

NE of the initiatives being implemented by the Government has been the provision of equipment to residents that are in need. In this regard, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Ganga Persaud accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Collin Croal and Region 3 (Esssequibo Islands/West Demerara) Chairman, Julius Faerber, on Thursday, visited several riverine communities and made presentations.

Morasi, Lanaballi, Makouria, Caria Caria and Great Troolie were the communities that were visited.

Solar panels, batteries, inverters and other accessories procured at a total cost of $260,000 were delivered to Morasi and Lanaballi.

Morashee received one panel which will be utilised in the health post, while the two for Lanaballi will go to the health centre and the nursery and primary schools.

The team also delivered to Makouria, a brush cutter and a sewing machine, while Great Troolie received sports gear to boost sporting activities among young people.

The items were obtained with resources from the Ministry’s 2013 capital budget.

“This is the way the PPP/C Government operates…we reach out to the people and hear their concerns, and then based on The teacher’s quarters at Morashee that, we try to meet their needs,” Persaud noted.

He also charged the residents to maintain the equipment and urged that they utilise them for the development of the communities.

Meanwhile, the team also commissioned a teacher’s quarter at Morashee built at a cost of $5M, an extension to the health post at Caria Caria, and a sanitary block.

Also commissioned was the Caria Caria Primary School Annex constructed at a cost of more than $5M. In commissioning the buildings, Persaud also implored the residents to safeguard them as they were critical to the delivery of health care and education services to the residents in their respective communities. (GINA)

The Caria Caria Primary Annex

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

XCITE launches style and bacchanal Mash band -to feature at least 100 revellers

XCITE, one of the newest Mashramani bands in Guyana, was officially launched in December with the objective of offering the ultimate Mash experience to masqueraders.

The name speaks for itself and will provide style, vibes and bacchanal next month.

XCITE aims to explore the underlying concept of Mashramani by offering a theme of peace, love and unity.

Designer Surida Nagreadi feels that in Guyana, with its diverse richness in culture, Mashramani is the opportune time to create a costume to unite people, thus displaying a blending of ideas, talents and culture.

The costumes will also showcase Guyana’s rich tourism destinations which play an integral part in this country’s

development, while showcasing skills, talents, art, drama and culture. These will be combined to provide a carnival-like atmosphere.

The group is also looking at the aspect of fashion and designing and XCITE is hoping to draw at least 100 revellers to take to the streets on Mash Day. Those who wish to be a part of the event still have time to do so. The costumes are very affordable and were designed in such a way as to accommodate any budget.

50 PER CENT DOWN PAYMENT To further encourage participation, the group is offering a 50 per cent down payment option where masqueraders will

12 to vie for $1.5M at 2014 Carib Soca Monarch final

DEEJAYS, officials of ANSA McAL and music critics are at present reviewing the entries submitted for this year’s Carib Soca Monarch that will see at least 12 persons competing for $1.5 million if they make it to the final.

More than 30 entries have been accepted but the list of the

The reigning Carib Soca Monarch, Jumo Primo. semi-finalists will be announced today at the ANSA McAL headquarters, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Once these artistes are announced, they will move full steam ahead for the semi-final of the competition which will be held at the Albion Community Centre Ground on Saturday, February 8.

FEBRUARY 15 FINALS The finals are set for the National Park on February 15 and will see 12 finalists stepping up their game.

Last year, the quarter final was held at the MacKenzie Community Centre Ground while the semi-final which was washed out by rain was held at the Albion Community Centre Ground and the grand finale was staged at the National Park arena before a massive crowd.

There, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo retained his title while Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson with his tune “Over and over” took second spot and Adrian Dutchin came in third with his high energy song, “Jook”.

This year’s show is likely to surpass previous performances with exciting music, creative showmanship, and an explosion of fabulous lyrics as every year, the contestants try to out-perform each other.

have a certain time to clear all payments before the big day.

Their displays are located at GT Courtyard on Robb Street, Georgetown.

Nagreadi said she has put together two beautiful pieces, namely Serenity and Fusion.

Serenity is the Front Line section which is the VIP package, while Fusion is the Back Line section.

Both sections are inclusive of drinks, food and security.

There are also optional costumes for those who do not wish to wear the main costumes.

The MASH theme for 2014 is “Love & Colour”.

A sneak preview of the XCITE Mashramani costumes for 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

SASOD/GTU stage march against “slothful” police probes into homosexuals killings SOME 20 persons recently staged a march in the city against what they dubbed as “slow police probing” of cases in which homosexuals were murdered.

The march was held to coincide with the first anniversary of the murder of 19-year-old Wesley Holder on January 11, 2013 and the dumping of his body near St. Phillip’s Anglican Church.

The others were Delon Melville whose body was found aback Mocha in August and 36-year-old Nandkumar Purnwassie, also known as Vishaul, Champa and Darshinie, whose battered body was found on a street at Ankerville, Port Mourant, Corentyne in November.

Bearing placards with slogans that read, “Sex workers rights are human rights”, “Sex work is work”, “LGBT rights are human rights”, “Anti-man rights are human rights” and “We want justice”, members of the transgender and sex workers community marched through sections of Georgetown, demanding justice for homosexuals who were murdered over time.

G u y a n a Tr a n s U n i t e d (GTU) Director Quincy “Gulliver” Mc Ewan said that since Holder’s killing there has been an escalation in the number of homosexuals being killed.

He added that because of the stigma attached to homosexuality in Guyana, police are

reluctant to properly investigate such matters.

Joel Simpson of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) said the police have shown little enthusiasm in solving those crimes, apparently because they have been committed against homosexuals.

The SASOD official said the sex workers and transgender community planned to seek recourse at the level of the Ombudsman and the constitutional Women and Gender Equality Commission.

The estimated 20 persons also carried placards that read “We are citizens, we must be protected”, “Stop the violence”, and “We are not the problem.

We are part of the solution”.

Director of the Guyana Sex Worker Coalition, Miriam Edwards expressed solidarity with the plight facing the sex workers and transgender community, noting that the march was a good initiative.

She added that the ‘trans community’ has been abused for many years and has mustered the courage to stage the march and stand up for their rights.

For Tuesday January 14, 2014 -14:30hrs For Wednesday January 15, 2014 -05:00hrs

Right around dinnertime, the urge to connect with someone on a very deep level will cross your mind -- and your heart. You already have someone in mind, but the universe may have other plans for you. Stay open to new possibilities and don’t turn down any offers to be introduced to someone new. You never know. This time might just be different.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

You’ve done nothing but work, worry and take care of business for days. So why not give yourself a night off? You’ve certainly had an array of offers, and some of them were quite appealing. Stop trying to resist and pick the one that most strikes your fancy. You know what they say about all work and no play? That applies to all worry and no play, too. Time to chill out.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

It doesn’t take much to talk you into a change of scenery. So if someone suggests a trip to you, you’ll have your planner out and your boss on the phone in record time. Oh, and if there’s a certain someone out there you’d like to spend some time alone with -- the kind of time that doesn’t involve a workplace, a movie theatre or a television set -- this would also be the perfect time to plan it.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Still thinking about travelling? Well, the moment has come to stop thinking and start planning. If you have vacation time coming, there’s no better time to take it, especially since things have loosened up a bit at work. If you have a favourite person you’d like to drag along for the ride, by all means get him or her in on the action sooner rather than later.

Leo July 23 - August 22

You’re very close to your coworkers and neighbours. These people, and your friends, often feel like extended family to you. So when someone calls you and sounds rather plaintive, don’t hesitate to use all your intellectual wiles to get the story out of them.

They obviously need to talk, or they wouldn’t have contacted you. But some people have trouble accepting help, even when they need it. It’s your job to convince them it’s all right.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

You want to socialise, but you probably don’t have the energy to get dressed and go out. Find a happy medium. Order up a pizza, see if there are any games on and have an impromptu party. It’s the perfect evening to have some friends over to your place. And when have you ever had to talk anyone into coming over? There’s no doubt that house is considered the gang’s clubhouse.

Libra September 23 - October 22

These persons turned out for the march against homosexual killings.

For Monday January 13, 2014 -14:30hrs

Aries March 21 - April 19

CHANNEL 11 05:00 Inspiration 05:30 Newtown Gospel 06:00 NCN Late Editions (r/b) 06:30 BBC 08:00 Weekly Digest 08:30 Feature 09:00 Stop the Suffering 09:30 Cartoons 10:00 Food Networks 11:00 History 12:00 CNN 12:30 NCN Newsbreak 12:35 Movie 16:00 Disney XD 17:00 OWN 18:00 NCN News Magazine – Live 18:30 Pulse Beat 19:00 Al Jazeera 19:30 HIV & Aids Knowledge & Stigma in Guyana 20:00 3d/daily millions/ play de dream/lotto draw 20:05 NCN Newsbreak 20:10 Nipping it in the Bud 21:05 Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s 40th Anniversary Satsangh (r/b) 22:05 NCN Late Edition News 22:35 Caribbean Newsline 23:00 Eid Meedaud Un Nabi

GUIDE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

After days of intrigue, secrecy and craving nothing more than total privacy, you’ve suddenly got a serious case of boredom -- and you know just what to do about it. Find your friends and spend some time with them. It’s true what they say about laughter -- it’s the best medicine for whatever ails you. You could invite them all over to your place, but aren’t you tired of staying in? Why not take your party out on the town.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

Everyone’s all about socialising now. What a coincidence! You just so happen to be in the mood to socialise too! The good news is you’ll blend right in, thanks to your current frame of mind and heart. You’ll probably also make some new friends. It’s tough to resist someone with a great personality, especially when they flaunt it with such panache!

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

If you’re attached, you might want to pay some very special attention to your significant other for the next couple of days. In particular, be sure to pay more attention to your sweetie than you do to anyone they’re less than confident around. Yes indeed, it could be time for a bit of jealousy to rear its ugly little head, even if you’re not responsible for it. Does this mean you can avoid the green-eyed monster entirely? Probably not -- but you can definitely stop it in its tracks.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

Just when you thought you’d like nothing better than to gather your friends together and hit the town, you’ve suddenly decided it might be even more fun to lure them all over to your place for the evening. And they’d be crazy to argue. Whether the gang’s all out patrolling the town or just sharing a pizza at home, it’s always great fun -- as long as you’re hosting the party.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

Exactly how long have you been trying to help a dear one curtail their bad habits? Can you remember? Keep in mind you’ve been working so diligently at that project that it’s also been a while since you’ve allowed yourself to have any fun. You’ve been trying as hard -- and, in some cases, harder -- than they have. Your job now, should you choose to accept it -- and you’d better, for your own sake -- is to cut them loose. And don’t worry.

They’ll manage just fine.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

You’re definitely hard working -- that’s for sure. So no matter what you’re asked to do, you’ll find the energy and time to get it done. Don’t let anyone’s jealousy stop you from accomplishing what you’ve set out to do, either. It’s not your fault you know how to prioritise, organise and get things done -- and all the while, grab the attention of the higher-ups.

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Man City face anxious wait over ‘serious’ Nasri injury REUTERS - Manchester City midfielder Samir Nasri suffered a “serious” knee injury after being scythed down by Newcastle United defender Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa late in their 2-0 win at St James’ Park on yesterday.

“It should have been a red card for the tackle by Yanga-Mbiwa on Samir Nasri,” City manager Pellegrini told reporters. “A direct red card we didn’t have any extra help from the referee today.

“Nasri has a serious injury with his knee - it was directly a red card. Maybe it’s medial ligaments. We’ll see tomorrow what happens with him.”

The 26-year-old French international, who should be named in France’s World Cup squad this year, was writhing in pain on the pitch before being carried off on a stretcher after a six-minute stoppage in play as he was treated.

He left the ground on the team coach with his knee in a brace and his immediate future in doubt after the hack which earned Yanga-Mbiwa only a yellow card from referee Mike Jones who endured a torrid afternoon.

Manchester City’s Samir Nasri (bottom) reacts as he is treated for an injury during their English Premier League soccer match against Newcastle United at St James’ Park in Newcastle, northern England yesterday.

Earlier, he incensed Newcastle manager Alan Pardew by overruling his assistant to disallow Cheick Tiote’s 20-metre volley, ruling that Yoan Gouffran had unsighted City keeper Joe Hart.

Pardew said the goal should have stood because Gouffran did not unsight the keeper even if he was in an offside position.

City won with goals from Edin Dzeko after eight min-

utes and Alvaro Negredo five minutes into the stoppage time added for Nasri’s treatment, a result that took them back to the top of the Premier League, at least until Arsenal play Aston Villa on today.

Resilient Nets hold off James’ Heat THE Brooklyn Nets needed double overtime and a heavy dose of resiliency to hold off the Miami Heat for a 104-95 win.

The victory extended the Nets’ season-best winning streak to five games after they almost threw away a 14-point lead in the third quarter.

The Nets used a 11-0 run in the second overtime session to put the Heat away. Forward Paul Pierce made a three-pointer on his way to 23 points after missing possible winning shots in regulation and the first overtime.

Heat guard Norris Cole’s jumper tied the score with 3.3 seconds left in the first overtime after the Heat were scoreless in the first four minutes of the first extra session and Miami forward LeBron James fouled out on a charge.

James led the Heat with 36 points.

--Pistons 114, 76ers 104 The Detroit Pistons rallied from an early 16-point deficit to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers 114-104.

The Pistons improved to 1522 with the win, snapping a maddening six-game losing streak.

Seven players reached double figures, led by forward Josh Smith with 22 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists.

It was the third consecutive loss for the 76ers, dropping them to 12-24.

--Pacers 93, Wizards 66 Forward David West scored

20 points and guard Lance Stephenson added his eighth double-double and the Indiana Pacers took control in the third quarter on the way to a 93-66 rout of the Washington Wizards (16-18).

Point guard C.J. Watson had 16 points on six-of-six shooting, center Roy Hibbert scored 12 and forward Paul George added 14 rebounds for the Pacers, who have won nine of their last 11 to seize the NBA’s best record at 29-7.

--Timberwolves 119, Bobcats 92 The Minnesota Timberwolves claimed a 119-92 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats.

Timberwolves center Nikola Pekovic delivered a dominant 26-point, six-rebound performance before he sat the entire fourth quarter with the outcome no longer in doubt.

--Hawks 83, Rockets 80 The Atlanta Hawks did not start like they were ready to snap a six-game losing streak to the Houston Rockets, falling behind 11-0 and scoring just 10 points in the first quarter.

The Hawks (20-17), though, turned things around with their defense and rallied to defeat the Rockets (23-14) 83-80 as guard Kyle Korver hit four clinching free throws in the closing seconds.

Korver, who extended his NBA record for consecutive games with at least one three-pointer to 106 games by

going four-for-seven from behind the arc, scored 20 points, as did Hawks forward Paul Millsap.

--Mavericks 107, Pelicans 90 Rebounding from one of his shakiest performances of the season, forward Dirk Nowitzki scored 24 points, including four three-pointers, and guard Monta Ellis added 23 points to spark the Dallas Mavericks to a 10790 victory over the short-handed New Orleans Pelicans.

The Mavericks combined to make 14 of 28 shots from long distance, outscoring the Pelicans 42-9 from the perimeter. The Mavericks improved to 21-16 as the Pelicans dropped to 15-20.

--Grizzlies 104, Suns 99 Point guard Mike Conley tied his career high with 31 points and forward Zach Randolph added 20 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 104-99 victory over the Phoenix Suns.

The Grizzlies improved to 3-0 against the Suns this season and have won six of the past eight against Phoenix.

Guard Goran Dragic led the Suns with 21 points and forward Markeiff Morris added 17.

--Bulls 81, Bucks 72 The Chicago Bulls won their fourth straight game behind a 19-point effort from Carlos Boozer in a 81-72 victory over the Bucks.

Bulls (16-18) forward Mike Dunleavy added 18 points and

forward Taj Gibson finished with 12.

Forward Ersan Ilyasova scored 10 of his 14 points in the first half for the Bucks (7-28).

--Warriors 99, Celtics 97 Golden State guard Stephen Curry buried a 22-footer with 2.1 seconds remaining to lift the Warriors to a 99-97 win over Boston and extend the Celtics’ losing streak to seven.

Playing at home for the first time after a 6-1 Eastern swing, the Warriors (25-14) overcame 8-for-26 shooting from three-point range and a late rally by the Celtics, who were playing their fourth consecutive road game.

English Lingfield 08:15 hrs Bold Ring 08:45 hrs Teen Ager 09:15 hrs Cyflymder 09:45 hrs Warbrook 10:20 hrs Admiral Duque 10:50 hrs Bretherton 11:20 hrs Slip Of The Tongue 11:50 hrs Iceblast Plumpton 09:00 hrs Minority Interest 09:30 hrs Further

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

25

City goes top with controversial win at Newcastle

By Michael Da Silva MANCHESTER City went top of the Premier League after a 2-0 win at Newcastle, who were left enraged by the dubious decision to disallow a Cheick Tiote strike.

City started the stronger and took the lead with a slick opener, crafted by the influential David Silva. The Spaniard slid a measured pass to the advancing Aleksander Kolarov, whose perfectly-weighted cross was touched in by Edin Dzeko at the near post.

The game hinged on a huge call by referee Mike Jones ten minutes before the break. Tiote’s sweetly struck half volley from 25 yards flew into the back of the net, triggering celebrations of what appeared to be a richly deserved equaliser. But, after consultation with his assistant, Jones ruled it out for offside, claiming Gouffran was obstructing Joe Hart’s view of the ball.

While Gouffran was clearly one of three offside Newcastle players, there is no way he could be seen to be obstructing Hart - and the goal was wrongly chalked off. Alan Pardew confronted the ref as he left the field at half time as a feeling of injustice consumed St James’s Park.

That moment ignited the home team and their fans, but City survived a sustained

second half onslaught from Newcastle. The Magpies’ best chance fell to Loic Remy, but the Frenchman’s shot was stopped by a much improved Hart.

With Newcastle pouring forward in growing numbers, City put the game beyond the plucky hosts in injury time when Alvaro Negredo went clean through and scored after a richochet off the unlucky Tim Krul. The result was soured only by a serious looking injury to Samir Nasri, who was carried off clutching his left knee.

Liverpool edge Liverpool marched back into the top four following a frantic 5-3 victory over Stoke at the Britannia Stadium, as a double from Luis Suarez took him to 22 league goals for the season.

Daniel Sturridge also came off the bench and scored on his return from injury as Liverpool took the points despite blowing a 2-0 lead in the first-half.

It took just five minutes for the visitors to take the lead. A cross was cleared as far as Aly Cissokho 25 yards from goal, and the left-back’s strike looked to be heading out for a throwin before colliding with Ryan Shawcross. The deflection left Jack Butland with no chance.

Ten minutes later and the second goal arrived, courtesy of a defensive shambles on Stoke’s part. Marc Wilson tried to head

Liverpool’s Luis Suarez scores back Martin Skrtel’s long ball from 20 yards to leave Simon to his goalkeeper, but Suarez Mignolet clawing at air. nipped in to tuck home his 21st Five minutes into the league goal of the season. second period and Liverpool Within 15 minutes, Stoke regained their lead. Wilson’s were back level. Firstly, on clearance hit Raheem Sterling 39 minutes Marko Arnautovic and sent the winger through on crossed in from the left and goal before Wilson tripped Sterfound Peter Crouch who headed ling in the box and gave away a perfectly into the corner. Then, penalty. It looked soft, but was five minutes later, Charlie Adam an unnecessary challenge and drove forward from centre midSteven Gerrard slotted home the field and lashed home a strike resulting kick with ease.

Pryce and Bolt named Jamaica’s 2013 sports personalities KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce were named Jamaica’s top sporting personalities for 2013 at the RJR Foundation National Sportsman and Sportswoman Awards on Friday last.

Both athletes were also crowned the IAAF World Athletes of the Year last December.

Bolt copped his fifth straight Sportsman of the Year award, fol-

Usain Bolt

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce lowing his outstanding performances at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow where he won three gold medals in the 100 metres, 200 metres and the 4x100 metres relay.

“For me, this year was a wonderful year. It was hard; a lot of ups and downs, but overall it was a great season,” said Bolt. “You guys have showed me so much love, and the energy that I have gotten this year is just continuing to grow in so many ways.”

Fraser-Pryce, who also won three gold medals in Moscow, thanked fans for their support during the year “I would like to say thanks to the RJR Foundation and its selection committee for choosing me again this year, it’s very sweet. It was a hard year. It was a year that met my expectations, seeing that I worked hard. I was fully committed to the task ahead and I completed it.

“It was an effort from me that was collective; my managers, my teammates as well, my coaches and, of course, my family and my friends,” said Fraser-Pryce.

Among the other winners were netball administrator Molly Rhone, who won the prestigious Sagicor Iconic Award; veteran jockey Winston Griffiths was presented with the Chairman’s Award and schoolboy Javon Francis received the People’s Choice Performance of the Year award.

against Stoke City (Reuters) With 25 minutes left, Sturridge came off the bench to return from injury and took just five minutes to set up Suarez who finished with ridiculous class and ease to make it 4-2.

The madness didn’t stop there, however, as with five minutes to go Stoke got themselves back into the match. Arnautovic found Jonathan Walters, whose

shot then dribbled underneath Mignolet, who would have expected to save the shot.

However, Stoke’s hope lasted just 120 seconds as Sturridge marked his return with a goal when he controlled a rebound and slotted home expertly after seeing his initial effort magnificently saved by Butland.

Nadal fumes at changed Australian Open courts

SPAIN’S RAFA Nadal is furious at the new courts installed at the Australian Open.

The world number one, who opens his tournament with a very tough match against local hope Bernard Tomic, is not happy that the resurfaced hardcourts are faster than previous years.

“The conditions of play are very different from the ones I remembered in this tournament. Many things have changed,” he said.

“I think that the court is faster and so is the ball. So it makes it a different tournament for me. I didn’t remember it like that. It’s a little bit a pity for me. In the first round, I will play against a home favourite [Tomic], who is a great tennis player. And what’s more, he is in great shape because he reached the final in Sydney.

“So it’s tricky to think beyond this match. I will try to give my best in this first match and if I get through this opening match, I will try to improve my play day after day.”

Nadal also disagreed that Novak Djokovic is his chief rival for the coming season.

“A very important player like Murray comes back to the circuit. Del Potro finished very well last year and he started very well this one by playing the final in Sydney. [And] Federer found good again tennis last year so he will try to start again with energy.

“Afterwards, we’ll see how players like Tomic, Dimitrov, Raonic, Janowicz are developing themselves. They should go on better this year.

“There are also the players who are always there: Berdych, Tsonga, Wawrinka, Monfils, and David Ferrer. In the end, you never know what could happen with all these players and you have to keep a look on them to get an idea of what rank you will finish the year at.

“At the beginning of the year, I respect everybody; I put all these players on the same level. Then, at mid-season, we will have abetter idea of who could be the most dangerous rivals.”

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

Sri Lanka win in Dubai to go 1-0 up against Pakistan (REUTERS) - Openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Kaushal Silva struck patient half-centuries to help Sri Lanka secure a comprehensive nine-wicket victory against Pakistan in the second test and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series yesterday.

Paceman Suranga Lakmal grabbed the remaining three Pakistan wickets in the morning session to set his team a comfortable 137-run victory target and Karunaratne (62 not out) and Silva (58) added 124 runs

for the opening stand to take them near the mark.

Karunaratne’s unbeaten 125-ball knock included eight hits to the fence, while Silva struck five fours in his sedate knock which ended when he was trapped leg before by Saeed Ajmal.

Resuming on 330-7, Pakistan’s slender hopes of salvaging a draw depended on a combination of their continued rearguard action and rain but none materialised at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Sarfraz Ahmed (74) could add only four runs to his overnight score before Lakmal got some reverse-swing and pushed one through his bat and pad.

The 26-year-old paceman then induced an edge from Rahat Ali and stumper Prasanna Jayawardene claimed his ninth dismissal of the match, equaling Amal Silva’s Sri Lankan record.

Pakistan folded for 359 when Lakmal sent down a yorker that landed on Saeed

Ajmal’s (21) boot before hitting the stumps. Ajmal left the field in pain and missed the early part of the Sri Lankan chase, as both sides head to Sharjah, the host for the third test from Thursday.

Pakistan first innings 165 Sri Lanka first innings 388 Pakistan second innings (Overnight 330-7) Khurram Manzoor c P. Jayawardene b Pradeep 6 Ahmed Shehzad c P. Jayawardene b Herath 9 Mohammad Hafeez c P. Jayawardene b Pradeep 1 Younus Khan c P. Jayawardene b. Lakmal 77 Misbah-ul-Haq b Herath 97 Asad Shafiq b Karunaratne b Eranga 23 Sarfraz Ahmed b Lakmal 74 Bilawal Bhatti b Eranga 32 Saeed Ajmal b Lakmal 21 Rahat Ali C P. Jayawardene b Lakmal 8 Junaid Khan not out 2 Extras (b-1, lb-8) 9

Total (all out; 137.3 overs) 359 Fall of wickets: 1-11 2-12 3-19 4-148 5-200 6-245 7-312 8-334 9-354.

Bowling: Lakmal 28.3-4-78-4, Pradeep 19-3-50-2, Herath 48-10132-2, Eranga 36-9-74-2, Mathews 5-1-9-0, Sangakkara 1-0-7-0.

Sri Lanka second innings D. Karunaratne not out 62 K. Silva lbw b Ajmal 58 K. Sangakkara not out 9 Extras (b-3, lb-4, nb-1) 8 Total (one wicket; 46.2 overs) 137 Did not bat: M Jayawardene, D Chandimal, A Mathews, P Jayawardene, R Herath, S Eranga, S Lakmal, N Pradeep.

Fall of wicket: 1-124 Bowling: Mohammad Hafeez 8-322-0, Junaid Khan 10-2-34-0, Rahat Ali 11-1-29-0, Saeed Ajmal 17.25-45-1.

Melbourne Park set for a grand slam scorcher

By Nick Mulvenney

Lakmal had Rahat caught behind to give wicketkeeper Prasanna Jayawardene his ninth dismissal of the match, equalling Amal Silva’s Sri Lankan record

Coaches should be tested for drug use, says Barbados Minister BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Barbados Sport Minister wants coaches to be tested for drug use to reiterate zero tolerance for the use of illegal substances in sports.

Addressing a recent Sports and Drugs Seminar in Barbados, Minister Stephen Lashley promoted the message of “Lead by example and don’t do drugs”.

“Coaches should also be tested for drug use and those found to be abusing should not be coaching,” Lashley said, adding that this should also include persons found guilty of using marijuana.

“It was important for those of us who have the opportunity to reach people, especially the youth, whether it is through sports, mentorship or other activity, that we set good examples… Reach out to our youth, teach them to adopt good value systems, healthy lifestyles and engage them in meaningful activity.”

Minister Lashley said despite the fact that many countries had decriminalized marijuana, he hoped that Barbados would not jump on that “band wagon”.

“In my view, to do so, would not only be a betrayal of everything that we have been teaching our youth, but it would have devastating consequences as a whole,” he said.

Lashley noted that sports and creative activities such as dance and the arts were positive tools that could be used to divert young people from using illegal drugs.

(Reuters) - MELBOURNE Park gets its first glimpse of title favourites Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams in action on today’s opening day but it is not just the heat of the on-court action that is exercising minds at the year’s first grand slam.

While the world’s best players seem pretty much unanimous in their enjoyment of the trip Down Under to start the season, the prospect of temperatures regularly exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) this week is a less enticing prospect.

Doubles specialist Nenad Zimonjic was blunt when asked in Sydney on Saturday, what was the biggest threat to his bid for a fourth grand slam title with Daniel Nestor over the next two weeks.

“Heat,” he deadpanned.

His fellow Serbian Djokovic opens his campaign for a fifth Australian Open title against Slovakia’s Lukas Lacko in the first evening match on Rod Laver Arena before Williams, seeking her sixth, tackles local hope Ash Barty in her first round tie.

The evening starts means they will escape the worst of the heat, which is forecast to peak at 44 degrees Celsius (111 Fahrenheit) on Friday, and, as Djokovic pointed out, high temperatures are nothing new in Melbourne in January.

“I am expecting to play in a big heat,” said Djokovic. “I remember the 2008, ‘9 and ‘10, there were several days I played in extreme heat. So I know how tough it is. But it’s the same for myself and my opponent so you have to adjust to it.”

A level playing field it might be, but energy-sapping conditions could expose anyone who arrives at the tournament in less than top notch condition or picks up an injury in an early match.

Twice Australian Open finalist and former French Open champion Li Na also opens her campaign on Monday against qualifier Ana Konjuh on Hisense Arena, while Spain’s David Ferrer, seeded third in the men’s draw, takes on Colombian Alejandro Gonzalez.

The relative paucity of big names on court on Monday reflects a disparity in the two halves of both draws but particularly that in the men’s singles.

Second seed Djokovic, aiming for a fourth straight title, is the only member of the “Big Four” in the bottom half of the draw with top seed Rafa Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all in the top half.

Women’s top seed Williams has such a superior record against all of her main rivals that she is probably more concerned about injury, which prevented her playing in Melbourne two years ago and led to a quarter-final departure last year.

Melbourne’s famously changeable weather is another concern and the American was quick to recognise the irony of a Tweet she sent out earlier in the week complaining about the cold.

“I should have kept my mouth quiet and dealt with the cold weather,” she said.

Current Australian Open tennis champions Serbia’s Novak Djokovic (L) and Victoria Azarenka from Belarus walk with the championship trophies to the official draw ceremony at Melbourne Park. (Reuters/David Gray)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday January 13, 2014

27

Finch ton secures Australia win, more misery for England (REUTERS) - Aaron Finch struck his second 50-over hundred as Australia maintained their dominance over England with a six-wicket victory in the first one-day international

Down Under after their test series whitewash.

Australia’s openers enjoyed their share of luck with Finch dropped by Ballance on eight and Warner, when on 22, called back from the boundary line after replays could not establish conclusively Jos Buttler had taken a clean catch behind the stumps.

Warner eventually holed out in the deep off Joe Root to depart after a 72-ball knock that included five boundaries and a six off Chris Jordan.

Jordan dismissed Shane Watson for a two-ball duck in the next over but Clarke and Finch scored freely to kill the contest, before Balance eventually caught Finch in the 40th over off Ben Stokes, ending his 128-ball blitz.

England suffered an early blow when Cook edged the

yesterday.

Finch (121) and fellow opener David Warner (65) dazzled while captain Michael Clarke contributed 43 brisk runs as the hosts eased to a victory

De Villiers’ surgery a success, on track to face Aussies (REUTERS) - South Africa wicketkeeper AB de Villiers had successful surgery on his injured hand on Friday last and should be fit to take on Australia next month, Cricket South Africa said.

“He will start light rehab today and is on track to be ready for the upcoming tour against Australia,” Saturday’s statement said.

De Villiers had a plate in-

serted into his left hand two years ago after breaking it while competing in the Indian Premier League, but it had recently caused discomfort forcing him to undergo more surgery.

South Africa will play three tests and three Twenty20 internationals against Australia, starting with the first five day game at Centurion on February 12.

Australia’s Aaron Finch celebrates his feat at becoming the first Victorian to score a ODI ton at the MCG as Australia cruised to a four-wicket win captain Alastair Cook had opted target of 270 with 4.2 overs to to bat first. spare.

The 163-run stand between Earlier, half-centuries from Finch and Warner in 28 overs Gary Ballance (79) and Eoin laid the foundation for AustraMorgan (50) helped England lia’s comprehensive win which put behind a wobbly start and prolonged England’s misery post 269 for seven wickets after

AB de Villiers

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230)& CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Viv Richards 15 Today’s Quiz: How many West Indians have scored Test double-centuries against India to date?

Put these in order beginning with the man who first captained the West Indies in ODIs: Ritchie Richardson; Gordon Greenidge; Courtney Walsh; Jeff Dujon; Desmond Haynes Answers in tomorrow’s issue

A. Cook c Haddin b McKay 4 I. Bell b Doherty 41 J. Root lbw b McKay 3 G. Balance c Doherty b McKay

79 E. Morgan c Coulter-Nile b Maxwell 50 R. Bopara c Haddin b Coulter-Nile 17 B. Stokes b Faulkner 21 J. Buttler not out 34 T. Bresnan not out 16 Extras (lb-1, w-3) 4 Total (7 wickets; 50 overs) 269 Did not bat: C. Jordan, B. Rankin Fall of wickets: 1-4 2-22 3-62 4-145 5-173 6-206 7-228 Bowling: McKay 10-0-44-3 (w1) Coulter-Nile 10-0-51-1 (w-1), Maxwell 8-0-40-1, Doherty 7-0-29-1, Faulkner 10-0-68-1 (w-1), Watson

fourth ball of the day to perish caught behind for four.

Clint McKay (3-44) claimed his second victim in Root (three) to reduce the tourists to 22 for two before Ian Bell and Ballance steadied the ship.

Bell reverse-swept Xavier Doherty for a boundary and slog-swept Glen Maxwell for a six to reach 41 before attempting a repeat of the same shot only to be clean bowled by Doherty.

Morgan joined Ballance in the middle for England’s most productive partnership, adding 83 runs from 14.1 overs with some cheeky shots and sharp running between the wickets.

Maxwell dismissed Morgan for 50 off 47 balls while Ballance fell in the 46th over, having justified his call-up with his maiden ODI fifty.

5-0-36-0.

Australia A. Finch c Ballance b Stokes 121 D. Warner c Stokes b Root 65 S. Watson b Jordan 0 M. Clarke c Cook b Bresnan 43 G. Bailey not out 17 G. Maxwell not out 8 Extras (lb-6, w-10) 16 Total (4 wickets; 45.4 overs) 270 Did not bat: B. Haddin, J. Faulkner, N. Coulter-Nile, C. McKay, X. Doherty.

Fall of wickets: 1-163 2-165 3-237 4-247.

Bowling: Rankin 8-0-53-0(w-2), Jordan 10-0-50-1(w-5), Bresnan 9.4-0-56-1, Stokes 10-0-65-1(w-1), Bopara 6-0-30-0, Root 2-0-11-1(w-2).

Kanden re-elected as president of Albion for the 13th straight year FOR THE 13th successive year, the members of Albion Community Centre Cricket Club exercised their faith and confidence in Lloyd Kanden, whom they re-elected unopposed to head the club at their Annual General Meeting (AGM) which was held last Thursday in the Club’s Main Hall.

Kanden, a Pastor by profession, will again have Imtiaz Baccus, a former Senior Factory Laboratory Technician at Guysuco Albion Estate and Grievance Officer attached to NAACIE as his Vice President.

Former Berbice and Guyana Youth Manager and current

Lloyd Kanden

Human Resources Manager of Guysuco’s Albion Estate Vemen Walter returned as Secretary while Executive Secretary of the National Cane Farming Committee Muthusammi Permaul will continue to serve as Treasurer and former Guyana Under-19 and Berbice Senior Inter-County off-spinner Orvin Managru as the Assistant Secretary/Treasurer.

Five Committee Members were also elected in that of former West Indies Test opener Sewnarine Chattergoon, former Berbice Under 19 wicket-keeper/batsman and University of Guyana student Andy Mohan,

Totaram Harichand and new faces Dhanraj Singh Budhu and Muniram Lalbeharry.

Budhu, a retired Guysuco Human Resources Manager and Lalbeharry, a former Albion captain and Berbice senior Inter-County fast bowler are the only two changes from the previous year’s executives, replacing Puran Mangal and Threrbhowan Jagdeo.

The new Executive will be meeting shortly to name the Captains, Vice Captains and Managers of the respective teams, together with the Club’s Sub-Committees for 2014.

Sport CHRONICLE

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

Bacchus startled at selection to WICB/NAGICO Super50 Squad

Finch ton secures Australia win, more misery for England See Story on Page 27

-practice game on at GCC today

By Calvin Roberts DESPITE his rich vein of form for his home club Georgetown Cricket Club over the past four months, coupled with his performances for Demerara in the Guyana Cricket Board/ Pepsi/Carib Inter-county 50 over tournament, Robin Bacchus was still surprised at his selection on the national team for this month-end’s WICB/ NAGICO Super50 tournament in Trinidad and Tobago.

In an invited comment with Chronicle Sport, during the National team’s practice match against a Rest XI at the Everest Cricket Club ground last Friday, the soft spoken Bacchus said he plans to grab the opportunity given him with both hands, ensuring Guyana is successful.

“Honestly, I am very excited and at the same time startled at being selected for the national team in an official capacity, after having represented Guyana in two T20 practice matches against Trinidad and Tobago last year.

“I am eager to go out and give a good account of myself and the reason for my surprise is when you look at the players who were invited to the encampment, apart from Shiv Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Leon Johnson and Christopher Barnwell, there have a good bunch of young and eager players who are raring to go,” said Bacchus.

He added, “It is not that I ever doubted that I would

make the team, but it still came as a surprise, for which I am excited. I am feeling in good knick and at the moment I am eagerly looking forward to going out there and perform for my country.

“We have a very balanced and at the same time experienced lineup, with batsmen in the caliber of Shiv, Ronnie (Sarwan), Johnson and Barnwell in the lineup who arte al experienced players at this level. At the same time, I am looking to throw in my lot as the new kid on the block, as it is my aim to not just come and pass through or even be a passenger on the squad, but to come and remain a permanent fixture in the lineup.”

The Guyanese, who last won a tournament at this level eight years ago, is grouped alongside defending champions Windward Islands, former champions Jamaica and Ireland in Group A, and leaves for the Twin Island Republic on January 28.

The squad, along with 13 other players, have been encamped since December 27, 2013, working on a daily basis under the astute guidance of coach Esuan Crandon, Rayon Griffith and Julian Benn, while accredited Physical Fitness Officers within the Guyana Defence Force in Patrick King and Carl Stephenson joined the camp early last week.

Quizzed on their fitness level, a smiling Bacchus repeated the words of Sarwan, who in an earlier interview with this medium said “Quite honestly,

Guyana and West Indies ‘A’ team middle order batsman Assad Fudadin is at slip admiring Robin Bacchus playing to the onside, during last Friday’s practice match at the Everest Cricket Club ground. (Photo by Sonell Nelson) Jamaica at the same venue four expected to make his debut in I think the only time we have days later, will once again be in ergy and with the squad gelling the first fixture. trained so hard as a unit is way action today at the Georgetown together for the practice match The 14-man squad reads: back in youth cricket days….”

Cricket Club ground, when they today, the way we cheered on Robin Bacchus, Trevon Grif“ I was not privileged to oppose a Rest XI in their second each other irrespective of which fith, Leon Johnson, Shivnarine be around to give a testament practice match from 09:30hrs. side you are playing on, speaks Chanderpaul (vice-captain), to what Ronnie (Sarwan) said The 27 year old Barnwell, volumes and also highlights the Narsingh Deonarine, Chrisas it relates to the intensity of who is known for his power camaraderie within the squad,” topher Barnwell (captain), the training, but when we look hitting on the local and Regional said Bacchus.

Ramnaresh Sarwan, Royston back at what we did in the T20 circuit, will lead the GuyThe National XI, who play Crandon, Assad Fudadin, sessions, everyone agrees that anese in the WICB/NAGICO their first game against the Anthony Bramble, Devendra it was intense, but at the same Super50 tournament, with the Irish on January 31 at the Bishoo, Veerasammy Pertime filled with fun. experienced Chanderpaul as Queen’s Park Oval, followed maul, Ronsford Beaton and “We are all feeling the enhis deputy, while Bacchus is by an intense encounter against Paul Wintz.

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MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2014