2015 1 23

GUYANA

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

No. 104078 FRIDAY JANUARY 23, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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President to sign Elections Proclamation today Page

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Berbice teen bride attempts suicide

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires...

Guyana seen dramatic transformation ‘since days of the dictatorship’ Page

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– after marriage to ‘too old’ husband

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– from no democracy prior to 1992, to free and fair elections

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Man on restraining order stabs couple, student Page

Mr. Bryan Hunt

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Prisoner found hanging in lockups Page

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

President to sign Elections Proclamation today THREE days after announcing May 11 as the day Guyanese return to the polls to determine the future of the nation, President Donald Ramotar is expected to sign the Elections Proclamation today.

This newspaper was reliably informed, yesterday, of the Head of State’s intended move today. Once the Proc-

lamation is signed it will be gazetted.

Consequently, the dissolution of Parliament and other statutory and administrative requirements for the hosting of General and Regional Elections will follow.

The return to the polls is expected to bring an end to the current political impasse that has gripped Guyana, for the

last three years.

On Tuesday, during his announcement of a date for elections, President Ramotar appealed for stability, both during and after elections – all in the interest of protecting and consolidating the democratic gains Guyana has made to date.

He said, “As usual, and I will expect the political parties, the security services and the people of Guyana to conduct themselves in a manner that would ensure continued peace and stability before, during and after the elections.”

“We have a collective obligation to ensure the protection of the democratic gains we have made and for which we have endured so much as a nation to secure,” the President also urged.

And in spite of the criticisms levelled against his Government, the President made it clear that the current Administration paid strict adherence to the Constitution in administering the welfare of the nation.

“At all times I have acted in accordance with the Constitution of Guyana,” he declared.

GECOM READY Additionally, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is ready to move forward “full throttle”, according to its Chairman Dr. Steve Surujbally.

In a prior interview via telephone, he said, “Now that we have a date we can go full throttle. Our action plan will kick into operation.”

The GECOM Chairman was emphatic in stressing that the current focus of the Commission is to “get it right” as was done in the last few

President Donald Ramotar

elections.

The last General and Regional Elections were held in November 2011. (Vanessa Narine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires...

Guyana seen dramatic transformation ‘since days of the dictatorship’ – from no democracy prior to 1992, to free and fair elections

By Gary Eleazar “ G U YA N A h a s m a d e what I would call a dramatic transformation since 1992…Guyana has gone from having effectively no democracy prior to the 1992 free and fair elections, to a system where you’ve had several electoral cycles that have been deemed free and fair by international and domestic observers.”

This is the conviction held by the United State (U.S.) Chargé d’ Affaires to Guyana, Bryan Hunt, who, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, said he welcomed President Donald Ramotar’s May 11 announcement as the day for holding General and Regional Elections.

Hunt was at the time weighing in on the current state of affairs in Guyana, taking into account the imminence of elections as announced by the Guyanese Head of State.

PNC DICTATORSHIP He said that while

there is yet work to be done, the Guyanese political leadership and public at large “must be congratulated for the tremendous transformation that I believe has happened from the days of the dictatorship to what is a democratic system.”

The foregoing comment was in obvious reference to the Peoples National Congress (PNC) administration, which was at the helm of political power in Guyana for 28 consecutive years prior to 1992.

According to the U.S. diplomat, Guyana has, since 1992, managed to move “from a state of effectively what was single-Party rule to a system in which you have a vigorous multi-Party debate.”

He also touched on the remarkable transition the nation has undergone over the years, “from a time where the system left the Parliament with very little say over policy, to one since 1992 to which there is vigorous Parliamentary debate.”

And while on the sub-

against it.

Mr. Bryan Hunt, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown

ject of transition, Hunt was asked to weigh in on recent criticisms levelled against the President since the prorogation of Parliament, to the effect that Guyana has been under the rule of a dictator since November last.

His reaction was to dismiss the notion in its entirety, saying rather than a return to dictatorship, the political climate here since post-elections 1992 has always been regarded as a multi-party

democracy.

“The view from the U.S. government would be that Guyana has had, since 1992, a multi-party democracy,” Hunt said.

As he went on to exp l a i n , u n d e r G u y a n a ’s legislative construct, there are constitutional parameters under which the country and its leadership operate; and this is bolstered, he said, by the judicial system which has, in the past, ruled in favour of government and

CAUTION Hunt did caution, however, that while there has been a dramatic turnaround for Guyana, in terms of its state of democracy, that transition was not complete; and that there are areas that the next administration will need to deal with, such as the holding of Local Government Elections.

Commenting on the 10th Parliament, Hunt lamented what he termed the ‘gridlock’ between the major political parties on important national issues.

This state of affairs, he said, has to move to a position where, while differences are made known, “ when Guyana is confronted with significant challenges, whether that is the need to pass anti-money laundering legislation; the need to move forward with hydroelectric development; parties can set aside those political differences and act in the national interest to move things forward.”

VISA REVOCATIONS Asked to weigh in on recent protests outside the U.S. Embassy here in Georgetown, whereby Alliance For Change (AFC) members have been demanding the revocation of the visas of Government Ministers, Hunt responded as follows: “The reality is [that] we are not considering, within the U.S. government, doing what the AFC has requested, which is the revocation of visas for senior Guyanese officials.”

He went on to say that every political party has the right to make their views known; but the request is not under consideration.

Noting that there are protocols dictating the issuance and revocations of visas, Hunt said: “ T h a t ’s s i m p l y n o t how we conduct our visa policy; we have very clear immigration laws.”

He said it is based on the set legislation that a determination is made on whether one is eligible for a visa or not.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Barack Obama will not meet Benjamin Netanyahu in March Spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan cited a “long-standing practice” of not meeting heads of state close to elections, which Israel will hold in mid-March.

Mr Netanyahu was invited

( BBC News) BARACK OBAMA will not meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he visits in March to speak to Congress, the White House says.

German court upholds man’s right to pee standing up BERLIN, Germany (AP) — AGERMAN court has ruled that a tenant who liked to pee standing up doesn’t owe his landlord money for damages apparently caused by splashing, or missing his target altogether.

The Duesseldorf administrative court rejected the landlord’s claim of 1,900 euros (US$2,200) for alleged

damage to the bathroom’s marble floor, the dpa news agency reported Thursday.

While accepting expert testimony that urine had damaged the marble, Judge Stefan Hank ruled the man’s method was within cultural norms, saying that “despite the increasing domestication of men in this context, urinating standing up is still common practice.”

Hank said further that the tenant could have expected “regular conflicts” with those he lived with — but not that the bathroom’s marble floor would be damaged.

by House Speaker John Boehner in what is seen as a rebuke to Mr Obama’s Iran policy.

The US president has said he will veto attempts to add new sanctions on Iran.

Mr Obama believes new measures will be harmful to negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, talks Mr Netanyahu has opposed.

The Israeli prime minister has warned a deal between Iran and the US will pose a threat to Israel.

On Thursday, Mr Netanyahu formally accepted the invitation from senior Republican Mr Boehner, saying it will give him the chance to “thank President Barack Obama, Congress and the American people for their support of Israel”

Prince Andrew publicly denies sexual misconduct claims (BBC News) THE Duke of York has denied claims by a US ‘DESPERATE TO MOVE ON’ woman that she was forced to have sex with him when she was Prince Andrew said: “Firstly I think I must, and want, 17 and says he wants to focus on his work. for the record, to refer to events that have taken place in the In his first public appearance since the claims were made, last few weeks.

Prince Andrew said he wanted “I just wish to reiterate and to to “reiterate” the denials issued reaffirm the statements that have

by Buckingham Palace. already been made on my behalf He was speaking at a World

by Buckingham Palace.

Economic Forum reception in “My focus is on my work Davos, Switzerland. and this evening’s reception Virginia Roberts’s lawyers allows me to tell you about just have repeated the claims in new a couple of the initiatives that I documents given to a court in have founded and am passionate Florida. about.”

Ms Roberts, who is referred BBC royal correspondent Peto in the case as Jane Doe #3, ter Hunt said: “We have had two alleges she was forced by finanunprecedented statements from cier Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted Prince Andrew is seen here with Virginia Roberts Buckingham Palace and now this, sex offender, to have sex with when she was 17 Prince Andrew on camera.

Prince Andrew when she was “It’s a sign of how damaging 17. these allegations are and the price he is paying for his past friendBuckingham Palace has previously said the claims against ship with a convicted sex offender.

Prince Andrew are “categorically untrue” and lack “any foun“Prince Andrew is desperate to move on - it may not be that easy.” dation.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Drone carrying drugs crashes near US-Mexico border (BBC News) A DRONE carrying more than six pounds (2.7kg) of methamphetamine has crashed near Mexico’s border with the US. Mexican police in Tijuana say they were alerted to an unidentified object in a car park of a shopping centre.

“The drone had packages taped to it and was covered with plastic bags containing the drug known as crystal”, the local police chief said.

Authorities are investigating where the flight originated, who controlled it and where it was bound for.

Police say it is not the first time a drone has been used for smuggling drugs across the border.

In April, US authorities

The six-propeller drone crashed in a car park in South Carolina found a drone outside a prison fence which had been carrying

mobile phones, marijuana and tobacco.

Other attempts to

smuggle drugs have included catapults and ultralight aircraft.

US and Cuba meet for high-level talks as part of thaw (BBC News) THE US and Cuba are holding their highest-level talks in decades in the Cuban capital, Havana.

The two days of talks are part of a thaw in relations between the two rivals announced last month by US President Barack Obama and his

Cuban counterpart, Raul Castro.

A US official described the first day as “productive and collaborative” The talks are focusing on migration and restoring full diplomatic ties.

The US delegation is led by Roberta Jacob-

son, assistant secretary of state and the top US diplomat for Latin America.

The last time someone of her level of seniority visited Cuba was 35 years ago.

Her deputy, Alex Lee, said: “The productive and collaborative nature of the discussion proves

Cubans in Havana have broadly welcomed the thaw in relations with the US

that despite the clear differences that remain between our countries, the United States and Cuba can find opportunities to advance our mutually shared interests.”

Cuban foreign ministry official Josefina Vidal criticised US migration policies but said Cuba aspired to have a normal relationship with the United States “in the broader sense but also in the area of migration.”

‘NEW ERA’ The talks came only hours after Mr Obama urged Congress to seize the chance to end the US trade embargo against Cuba.

BBC correspondent Barbara Plett Usher says the meetings feel like the beginning of a new era in relations between the two nations.

The US will be asking for an end to current restrictions on its diplomats so it can upgrade its interest section in Havana to a full embassy, she adds

Major victory for city cops (TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) AFTER a 15-year legal battle, municipal police officers scored a major victory Wednesday after the Privy Council ordered the State to pay them equally as regular police officers. The 15year backpay and compensation for violating their constitutional rights could run into millions of dollars, said their attorney Ramesh Maharaj, SC, at a press conference at his San Fernando office. He suggested that the State seek an outof-court settlement, instead of returning to court to compute the compensation.

In the ruling, in favour of the 153 officers, the Privy Council criticised the Government for failing to obey the Court of Appeal’s order to make regulations to treat municipal police officers equally, saying it amounted to a denial of the rule of law and brought the system of justice itself into disrepute. After the hearing in the Privy Council, Maharaj said the Attorney General had drafted regulations and sent it to the Privy Council but the Law Lords found them to be deficient.

Saying that the judgment raises an important issue, Maharaj said: “The judgment must now cause the

government and the Police Service to consider whether all police officers within the employ of the State ought to be regulated and ought to be treated equally. “We cannot have police officers experiencing ad hoc promotions, unfairness, inequality of treatment and arbitrariness.

There is urgent action to have an overhaul of policing in T&T and to consider how best to have this service regulated.”

The municipal police’s court action was triggered in 2000 when government stopped paying them the basic salary and 60 per cent of allowances which were being paid to regular police officers. Commenting on the ruling, Inspector Octave Lewis of the Municipal Police Unit says they have finally received justice.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Maintaining peace for progress ELECTIONS are a period when the people evaluate their social contract with the government as they make known their expectations of whom they want to lead them.

Of course, given our electoral system, the party with the most votes will obtain the presidency but will need a majority to also wield control in the Parliament, which is vital to advance its developmental and legislative agenda.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) would be hoping for better fortunes this time around now that the date for elections has been set for May 11.

While there have been some reservations on the date given that it clashes with the date for the Carib-

bean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations and the Caribbean Advance Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), these are issues that can be fixed through planning and adjustment of activities.

An equally important or probably more salient matter is the need to maintain the peace and ensure that the upward trajectory of development continues.

Elections in Guyana, as in some democracies the world over, have been marked by protests and other forms of social unrest, but quite strikingly, the past two elections have been peaceful compared to those going back to the year 1992.

No single political party, but rather all that contested to govern the Republic of

Guyana, are deserving of high praise for maintaining the peace, and most naturally, the vast majority of the citizenry will be hoping that this trend is maintained.

From the point of view of the business community, peace and political stability are vital to attracting and building investors’ confidence in the economy, and undoubtedly, all the parties which would be contesting the Regional and General Elections, namely the PPP, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) would want to see Guyana in a positive light.

For this reason, it is imperative that in their bid to rally their supporters to gain the highest offices in the land that they also articulate the need for maintaining unity in

diversity.

This is important because Guyana is dominated by two major ethnic groups: East Indians and Africans, and elections have been known to be a period where old wounds are aggravated and new injuries are sustained.

Politicians of the different political establishments have to be mindful of these sensitive matters and focus more on the merits of their policies and the demerits of the plans of those whom they oppose.

The early elections can be conducted in a healthy political atmosphere but it would require both their political leaders and supporters to demonstrate patriotism over zeal.

With four months away

from ‘E’ Day, it cannot be overstated that the leaders of the various political parties must pay heed to ethnic sensitivities, the unity of the people and to ensure that their actions do not conflict with the continuation of development of Guyana.

Business must continue and businesspersons should be less in the wait-and-see mode, major infrastructure projects should not come to a halt and political differences should not translate into protests and violence as had happened in the past.

After all, the electorate wants to see an environment conducive for the creation and expansion of business, which is vital for job creation and sustained growth of the economy.

Guyana had enjoyed consecutive years of economic growth, a highly sustainable balance of payment, a debt that is manageable, low interest rates, declining inflation and single digit increase in prices.

Its economic performance has been recognised by several leading institutions monitoring development in the Region including the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In the evaluation of their social contract with the government, the electorate should take into consideration these achievements as they look forward for a peaceful and progressive development of Guyana.

Rose Hall Town groundsman continues to neglect his duties THE Management of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation hereby seeks the assistance of the relevant authorities to solve a major problem concerning the attitude and work of the Groundsman/Caretaker of the Area ‘H’ Ground in Rose Hall Town. This individual has been employed at the ground for several years now and over that period of time has failed to fulfill any of

his duties.

Numerous letters, complaints to the officials of the Mayor & Town Council has all been in vain. I have personally attended over six monthly meetings of the Council and despite countless assurances that the situation would improve, it has simply gotten worse. The pitch is hardly prepared for the cricket teams to practise; the ground is full of garbage and bush. The Caretaker is hardly around his workplace and even when he

is in the ground, can be found in the pavilion doing nothing.

Our members are forced to prepare the pitch themselves while the club has to pay members of the public to clean up the venue.

On Monday 19th January, 2015, the club had to pay $2 000.00 to a labourer to clean up around the main pavilion while the Caretaker slept in his “office”.

On Tuesday 20th January, 2015, six members of the club were forced to prepare the cricket pitch while the

Town Council’s Caretaker was seen sitting in the pavilion, chatting on his cell phone. Later on he left the ground on his bicycle, never to return.

Mr. Editor, the IMC Chairman, all the Councillors, Town Clerk, Supt of Works and the Township Treasurer are all aware of the situation and yet nothing is being done to correct the problem. We had also brought the situation to the attention of the Minister of Sports and the Regional Chairman.

The Officer in Charge of the Township in the Local Government Ministry last year visited the Ground on a surprise visit and had issued a stern warning to the caretaker in the presence of the Town Clerk. The situation improved for a week but returned to the same problems after that. I would like to personally congratulate this Officer for being very professional in performing her duties but the problem lies at the Town Council with the officers doing nothing.

This letter is been writ-

ten out of total frustration and we hope that the necessary action would be taken to make sure that tax payers funds are used in the proper way. The Rose Hall Town Council cannot continue to pay a worker who does absolute nothing and is absent from his workplace ninety five percent of the time.

HILBERT FOSTER CEO/Secretary Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Even Houdini could not convince electorate that coalition politics will work this time around NOW that a date for national and regional elections has been announced

by President Donald Ramotar, an important opposition political plank has been demolished, namely that the PPP/C is afraid of the electorate and wanted to prolong its political life by unconstitutional means.

The announcement of May 11 as election date now paves the way for all interested political parties to try and convince the electorate why they should be given the mandate to govern.

In our post-colonial history, only three political parties had the opportunity to govern. These were the People’s Progressive Party, the People’s National Congress and the United Force, the latter as a junior coalition

partner following the elections of 1964. That coalition lasted for a mere three years until the UF was unceremoniously booted out from the coalition government, but not before the PNC had taken full control of the state machinery which included the Elections Commission.

Guyana does not have a good history when it comes to coalition politics. As mentioned earlier, the first coalition government involving the PNC and the UF ended in an abysmal failure even though the coalition succeeded in the removal of the PPP from office in 1964, in what a former British Prime Minister dubbed ‘a fiddled constitutional arrangement.’

Earlier attempts to form a coalition government between the PPP and the PNC

during the early 1960s failed after Burnham refused to agree on parity terms in Cabinet offered by the PPP, and opted instead to align himself with foreign vested interests and local reactionary elements to destabilize the PPP Government.

After the PNC rigged itself to power in successive national and regional elections, there were attempts to form a broad national front Government with an agreed programme initiated by the PPP. This attempt once again failed after the PNC dismissed the PPP as a ‘minority’ party even though the whole of Guyana knew differently.

The obsession with power by the PNC knew no bounds.

Apart from the blatant disregard for the fundamental

rights of the Guyanese people to elect a government of their choice, the regime embarked on a reign of terror in which several Guyanese were harassed, victimized, jailed, and in some cases, murdered, as the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry so painfully revealed.

Indeed, some of the very players who once held key and strategic positions during that repressive period are once again in the political spotlight.

Interestingly, the PNC/ APNU, under the leadership of former military strongman David Granger, is currently in ‘secret talks’ with the Alliance For Change aimed at a pre-election alliance. It is interesting to see how these secret talks will play out, especially given

the possible nomination of Moses Nagamootoo as the AFC presidential candidate.

Would the APNU play second fiddle to the AFC, which apart from being the new kid on the block, is lacking in seniority and mass appeal.

If past political experience is anything to go by, any coalition with the PNC is doomed to failure. It is the AFC that runs the risk of being the biggest loser since it has no real political constituency on which it can fall back in a highly likely situation of political misfortune.

This leaves the PPP/C as the only political party that has political stability and a configuration with a strong Civic component that has endured time. The PPP/C formula has remained unchanged since the resto-

ration of democracy on October 5, 1992. The PNC, by contrast, has experimented with several combinations and permutation, changing from PNC to PNCR then to PNCR1G, which eventually morphed into APNU. The Guyanese electorate is on the look-out to see how the current engagement between the APNU and the AFC will play out. It would take more than the magical powers of Houdini to convince the Guyanese electorate that coalition politics would fare any better this time around, especially in an environment characterized by lack of trust and hegemonic tendencies on the part of the PNC. HYDAR ALLY

Forestry Commission is the only official source for forest statistics relevant to Guyana THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) is once again compelled to respond to another article riddled with false accusations and misinformation, published in the Wednesday 21-12015 edition of Kaieteur News and captioned: “Bai Shan Lin and its operational control of Guyana’s forests” by Janette Bulkan.

Firstly, GFC asserts that it is the only official source for forest statistics relevant to Guyana; this includes leases issued, production and export data amongst others.

Information not sourced from GFC’s approved documents is simply misinformation and/or a futile attempt at calculated distortion of facts.

It is also important for the public, inclusive of Janette Bulkan to note that Guyana’s forestry sector has been subjected to many thorough recent comprehensive audits over the last 3 years by professional independent auditors who were contracted by the Kingdom of Norway; not Guyana. These audits focused on GFC’s management, administrative, operational and other systems and procedures amongst other areas.

The public reports of these audits show clearly

that the GFC has transparent, appropriate, robust and functioning systems in place.

Specifically, these highly qualified and professional independent auditors did not find any evidence to support the farfetched and inaccurate claims being made repeatedly by Janette Bulkan about Bai Shan Lin having control over 1.45 million hectares of state forest.

For clarity, the GFC restates the undisputed and well publicised fact that BSL has legal access to 627,072 ha as shown below: 344,849 ha as State Forest Exploratory Permits (SFEP’s) :(Sherwood Forests Inc., Bai Shan Lin International Forest Industry Development Co. Ltd.) - an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA); a Forest Inventory (FI), and a Business Plan have to be submitted to the satisfaction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and GFC before a Timber Sales Agreement (TSA) is granted which allows for full scale harvesting in accordance with GFC guidelines is approved.

274,053 ha as Timber Sales Agreement - Joint Venture Agreements- WAICO; Puruni Wood Products Inc; Kwebanna Wood Products; and Haimorakabra Logging

Company Inc. 8,170 ha as State Forest Permissions GFC has made copies of this documentation publicly available. Janette Bulkan is also invited to visit the GFC to peruse same.

Janette Bulkan’s assertion that these JV’s are probably illegal is also baseless.

For clarity again, GFC repeats what has been publicised numerous times: GFC Board of Directors as part of its work plan holds regular meetings with stakeholder groups across the country.

At these meetings, one of the major stakeholder concerns was the inadequate capacity of concessionaires (mainly locals) to beneficially occupy areas and produce sufficient quantities of logs/lumber for the local construction industry, as well as for the local added value manufacturers, and for export.

The main constraints documented by these logging companies were a lack of appropriate machinery/ equipment, and adequate financing.

The Concessionaires themselves proposed two short term measures to address this, namely:

- GFC to allow joint venture arrangements after the requisite due diligence was done, and GFC was satisfied that the JV had merit - GFC to allow companies that lacked adequate and/or appropriate machinery to rent same from third parties in a structured and properly monitored/regulated manner.

Based on these requests by the sector; the need to improve log/lumber/added value production, and generate additional employment opportunities, and being assured by the GFC that its monitoring systems would ensure that the allowable harvest levels would not be exceeded, the GFC Board approved both requests.

GFC has since facilitated both requests in accordance with the legislation and a very transparent and organised procedure.

- For example, it was collaboratively agreed (stakeholders/GFC/GFC Board) that the procedure for the review of joint venture requests would be as follows: - A request to enter into a joint venture arrangement needs to be made by the company/individual that

has legal access to state forest - A thorough background assessment would be done on the company that is seeking to joint venture with the one that has the legal access to the forested land - This assessment would be used to guide the GFC in making its recommendations to the GFC Board Technical Sub-Committee - The GFC Technical Sub-Committee after their review would submit a recommendation to the GFC Board of Directors.

- The GFC Board then makes its recommendation as to whether to approve/disapprove the joint venture.

This is in keeping with Section 16 of the Forests Act 2009.

BSL has entered into approved JV’s following this process, contrary to the unmerited claims by Janette Bulkan.

With respect to in country processing and added value manufacture of forest products, it is true that Bai Shan Lin has been very tardy in meeting their obligations and GFC/GoG is urging them to accelerate this phase of operations.

But the same applies to most local and foreign companies, many of whom have been in existence for decades before the advent of Bai Shan Lin. Nevertheless, as stated, the GFC has impressed upon Bai Shan Lin and all other foreign and local companies, the need to accelerate meeting their stated commitments regarding the manufacture of added value forest products.

GFC would again appeal to stakeholders, especially those who choose to discuss issues in the public media, to verify the facts before publicising erroneous information.

GFC once again invites Janette Bulkan and any other interested person(s) to visit the GFC, and the forest/logging operations to verify that GFC and Guyana are practicing sustainable forest management on the ground, in a very transparent and collaborative manner with our direct and indirect stakeholders.

There would be no constructive output if persons continue to misuse the public media to rehash misconceptions in pursuit of agendas not helpful to the sector.

JAMES SINGH Commissioner of Forests

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Heeding Finance Minster’s call ...

Lower fuel prices now in effect ––at gas stations other than GuyOil

GUYANESE, as of yesterday, now benefit from lowered fuel prices at gas stations other than the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) stations.

And Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh has commended the move by the privately-owned Sol-branded Shell Service stations in heeding his call for fuel prices to be lowered.

“The Company today implemented a 30 per cent cut in gasoline prices, and a 28 per cent cut in diesel prices,” Dr Singh said.

Earlier this week, the Finance Minister announced that the State-owned oil company, GuyOil, would be reducing its prices on fuel.

As a result, the price of gas was reduced from $995 per gallon to $695, representing a 30 per cent reduction; the price of diesel was reduced by Finance Minister 30 per cent, from $985 Dr. Ashni Singh to $694; and kerosene saw a reduction of 42 per cent, from $850 to $496.

The Minister stated that the Government is pleased that the Company saw merit in passing on the benefit of lower oil prices to consumers.

He also repeated his call for other companies that are yet to cut their prices to do so immediately.

The new prices mean that prices have dropped to where they were in 2009.

Mango Tree Bridge closed to traffic THE Ministry of Public Works announced yesterday that the Mango Tree Bridge on the Kurupukari-Lethem roadway is closed to vehicular traffic, so as to facilitate repairs, which are currently underway.

In the interim, a bypass has been constructed to accommodate light vehicular traffic until further notice.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Minister Edghill dismisses claims of state resources misuse - says more Opposition truth-twisting expected

PARLIAMENTARIANS from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) are already ‘twisting the truth’, accusing the Donald Ramotar administration of misusing state resources for elections campaigning, a charge that has been dismissed by Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill.

Minister Edghill challenged Opposition Leader David Granger to come up with “hard evidence that funds are being squandered.” He instead opined that the APNU Leader’s “rants” are based on fear.

In a National Communications Network Inc. interview, following the announcement that May 11 is polling day, the Minister intimated that more attacks and ‘truth twisting’ can be expected. He explained the scenario that there is a huge disparity between reality and the Opposition’s response interpretation.

Minister Edghill explained that “… every government minister and ministry must continue to carry out their function…(since) all the roads Minister Juan Edghill that are being built have to continue, the schools that are being built have to continue, they have to be managed, the project execution unit must be able to manage them, people must get paid their salaries, hospitals must function, school must go on, and children must be able to write their exams.”

This, according to the Minister, is not electioneering but simply fulfilling of designated duties, and a carrying out of functions.

He went on to state that Guyana must remain normal, and that “an election was never meant to collapse a country”.

According to him, “an election is an event that allows the people of the country to give a review on the performance of the government and determine if they would like to have a change and it must be done in a particular environment.”

He made it pellucidity clear that the still legitimate PPP/C government must continue to develop and deliver goods and services for all the people of Guyana; not just to a select grouping. This, according to the minister, is nothing even closely resembling ‘campaigning.’

“It is what the PPP/C has been doing for years, since its incipient days after winning the 1992 elections.”

Minister Edghill further explained that one must grasp that there is a difference between a government function and a political party campaigning for support for a cause.

He expressed the view that the Opposition would cry foul if, for instance, a hospital is scheduled to be opened, and possibly the President shows up at the event, then the Opposition will deliberate attempt to misconstrue this, and foist on the masses that “President Ramotar is on the campaign trail.”

He explained that obligations, whether elections or not, must be honoured by the government and its officers.

“The schools feeding programme has to continue, children have to get their uniforms, textbooks must continue to be procured, we have to continue to engage doctors, and foreign consultants to come and look after patients, buy drugs (medicines). So in the next four months we will continue to assure the people of Guyana that the goods and services that they demand and deserve, your government will continue to deliver those goods and services to you and also wearing another hat at the appropriate time to come to your community to unashamedly request your votes of the PPP/C, because we are the ones who would have brought development, dignity and prosperity to the people of Guyana.” (GINA)

Ramjattan: AFC/APNU coalition ––but only under AFC possible AS the secret talks continue between the two opposition parties represented in Parliament about a possible pre-election coalition, leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), the smallest party represented in the National Assembly, Khemraj Ramjattan, has disclosed that for there to be any coalition, it must be led by his party.

He told representatives of the media at a press conference yesterday that that was the condition that was put to the other party, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He further said that his party had given itself until the end of this month to complete talks on the coalition with the APNU; and if an agreement is not achieved by then, they will have to decide on a way forward.

He opined that the most beneficial combination for a change of Government is an alliance led by the AFC. Ramjattan said that in addition to the main opposition party, they had also invited other organisations including religious organisations, trade unions and civil society to join hisproposed Pro-Democracy Alliance. He said that Guyanese should learn from the experience of Sri Lanka as the broader the alliance the greater the chance for victory.

Ramjattan had proposed a Pro-Democracy Alliance to be led by his party at the AFC’s National Conference in December last year. They have since sent a proposal to the APNU, after insisting that the APNU sign a non-disclosure agreement.On Wednesday, APNU General Secretary Joseph Harmon said that his party had selected representatives to negotiate the alliance.

Addressing the issues being raised about the date announced

by President Donald Ramotar for the holding of General and Regional Elections, Ramjattan opined that there is no constitutional challenge as a result of the announced date. He pointed out that the President has only to work within a given timeframe to make it possible to hold elections on that date. Responding to concerns

being raised that the date clashes with the CSEC and CXC exams, executive member of the party, Moses Nagamootoo, said that they are willing to work with that date as they were prepared for elections last year. Party General Secretary David Patterson said that the date should not pose a problem, as there are primary schools that could be used and that they are willing to support the use of private residences as polling places.

Touching on the issue of the abuse of state resources by the ruling party, Dominic Gaskin,Treasurer of the AFC, said that in the absence of legislation to control the behaviour of parties while contesting elections, there is no abuse, but he acknowledged that the party in power has the advantage as they control the resources of the KHEMRAJ state. Questioned on the party’s RAMJATTAN failure to introduce legislation to deal with some of the issues complained about in 2011, given that the opposition had a majority in the house, the general secretary said that the party had been overtaken by circumstances.

Party Leader Khemraj Ramjattan said that the party will have to hold a national conference to elect its presidential and prime ministerial candidates. Regarding the dates by which this will happen, he explained that the party is awaiting the dissolution of Parliament and the official proclamation of the date for elections before finalising those issues.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

START OF THE ELECTIONS RACE - this particular election is exceptionally critical for this country and its future

WITH the announcement to the nation that national and regional elections will be held on May 11, the election campaign is now officially on. In fact, campaigning preparations had already been in progress. Now the race has begun. This constitutional exercise is being held two years earlier, and has come about because of circumstances already known, and which ought not to detain us.

But, OBSERVER should emphasise that the remaining period should have continued to advance the nation’s development, as genuinely intended by President Donald Ramotar. But the combined Opposition, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), so much believed in the ‘invincibility’ of their one seat majority, that they acted in the belief that they were the government.

For the three years that they together would have occupied seats in the Assembly, they played ‘God’, hindering the

development process of the nation. How best will they be able to defend such an anti-national agenda to the people of this nation during their campaign remains to be seen. For during that period of wasting the parliamentary process, they did not

bed hard, yuh mus lie down on it.’ So much for some lil boys who got a little power in their hands, and start playing God! One of the important aspects of any national poll are the grave responsibil-

This particular election is exceptionally critical for this country and its future, since the direction of this country is pivotal to its eventual outcome. The choice for voters has to be either a continuation of the great socio-economic achievements since 1992, or a regression back to the Dark Age of prior 1992. offer the nation any possible alternative, except to display how hungry for power they are.

But, OBSERVER refers to that well known Guyanese proverb ‘Yuh mek yuh

ities reposed in the national elections authority in ensuring a proper poll is organised, where all registered voters are allowed to exercise their constitutional rights on election day. The nation would

have been told regularly by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) that their machinery will be ready for action, once a date is announced. OBSERVER hopes that the coming poll will be without the hitches that have be-devilled polls in other countries.

Finally, this particular election is exceptionally critical for this country and its future, since the direction of this country is pivotal to its eventual outcome.

The choice for voters has to be either a continuation of the great socio-economic achievements since 1992, or a regression back to the Dark Age of prior 1992.

Given the improved lives, peace and stability that has reigned since, surely no right thinking citizen would endeavour to abandon such positives for a bunch of political marauders whose proclivity for destruction is already proven through their reckless cuts to successive budgets of 2012, 2013, and 2014.

Police motorcycle explodes, sets South Road house ablaze

A POLICE constable from the anti-crime unit luckily escaped with his life yesterday morning after the motorcycle assigned to him exploded seconds after he dismounted the machine on South Road.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the policeman was on duty along South Road when he noticed that the motorcycle was low on oil. He then stopped at a vul-

canizing shop to get some oil but observed that some fuel was leaking from a section of the bike.

Then the bike started to emit smoke and he hurriedly pushed it under a nearby wooden house in panic just before it burst into flames.

The flames from the motorcycle caused the wooden house to catch afire, causing extensive damage to articles inside.

The unpainted wooden house at centre was the one that was damaged by the fire

A close-up of the extent of damage sustained to the house. In the foreground is the motorcycle that the rank was riding (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

The pensioner who lives at the house was not at home at the time and according to persons in the area, the fire quickly spread to a section of the house which had some very old boards.

Many persons who converged on the scene were heard commenting on the quick-witted decision of the policeman, which saved his life, even as they observed the destruction of the pensioner’s home.

The Guyana Fire Service was promptly summoned and managed to save the building from complete destruction and their efforts also saved nearby buildings from being damaged.

Speaking with the media yesterday morning at the scene, Divisional Officer in Charge of Operations Compton

Sparman said that they received a call at approximately 10:54hrs and immediately responded with three fire tenders, two from the Central Fire Station and one from the Alberttown Station.

The senior fire officer explained that when they arrived at the location the entire interior of the building was engulfed but ranks wasted no time getting into firefighting mode.

They were able to save the buildings to the west and east of the burning house and the efforts of the firemen were commended.

Meanwhile, workers from Guyana Power and Light also responded promptly and disconnected the power to the building and the area. (Leroy Smith)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Friendship swine development project commissioned

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker Wednesday cut the ribbon to inaugurate the Friendship Swine Development Project at Garden of Eden, on the East Bank Demerara.

According to CARILED Country Coordinator, Dhanraj Singh, the project has four components, namely the construction of the facility; training; start-up assistance for farmers; and assistance from both local and Canadian experts who will be aiding with the maintenance.

The project, which was established at a cost of US$42,000, saw consultations commencing 13 months ago. Singh noted that after meeting with the farmers, it was realised that the area is well positioned for livestock development, and it could mould swine development.

The country coordinator also pointed out that Guyana once exported pork and beef and still has the potential to do so. It was on this basis the project was conceptualised.

The project is a Public Private, Partnership (PPP), and will see community members

benefiting from 15% of the new born stock for approximately three years.

Also the waste from the pen will be used in a bio-digester to create energy while its nutrients will be used to make duck weed to feed the pigs. This will result in low production cost.

Singh noted that these communities have a lot of potential and the project was completed in a timely manner.

Meanwhile, Minister Whittaker in his remarks pointed out that the country depends a lot on its agriculture sector, not only for putting food on the table, but also to provide job opportunities, creating revenue for the country and income for citizens.

He pointed out that this is the kind of investment that government wants to see, as they have been continuously speaking of diversifying and investing in varying types of agriculture. He also lauded the private partners (farmers) for their confidence in themselves and the government.

He added that development takes place with its people adding that citizens cannot depend on government solely that is why such

Local Government Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary, Abena Moore signing the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) as the beneficiaries look on

Minister of Local Government & Regional Development, Norman Whittaker along with beneficiaries and officials cutting the traditional ribbon to officially open the Friendship swine facility partnerships are important.

He said he was very happy and challenged the farmers to ensure that the project doesn’t fail.

Parsaram Persaud, beneficiary of the project said that he was very happy to be a part of the initiative. He also pointed out the facility has a capacity to house approximately 240 pigs.

Also present at the ceremony was Local Government Ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary Abena Moore, Region 4 Chairman, Clement Corlette; and Chairman of Caledonia/Good Success Neighbourhood Council, Dwarka Nauth.

In May 2012, the Ministry implemented the CARILED programme, which is funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, with in-kind contributions, from Caribbean and Commonwealth countries.

The six-year programme, targets the development of business-friendly environments in which micro-small and medium-sized enterprises can prosper.

Other projects that have been successfully completed under this initiative include the Tapakuma Women’s Project, the Canal Polders Green Initiative and the Mara Agricultural Enhancement Project.

Also under this programme, 29 Local Government personnel were trained in Local Economic Development, while 61 participants benefited from local exchange of knowledge and local economic development practices, as well as two studies, which were completed in identifying improvement on women in business and access to micro financing.

Further, 50 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils across Regions 2, 3, 4 and 6 received training and completed funding packages, with the necessary tools and materials for increased access to finance, while 34 Local Government personnel, from these regions benefited from training in basic internet application, by means of electronic communication, in order to locate and source funding for CARILED. (GINA)

Finance Minister says...

Giftland Mall indicative of Guyana’s ‘steadily improving’ quality of life FINANCE Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh on Wednesday had a first-hand look at the progress being made with construction at the Giftland Shopping Mall at Turkeyen.

Accompanying the Minister were Ian Ramdeo, director of the company developing the Mall, and Robert Carrady, President of Caribbean Cinemas Management, one of the main occupants of the facility.

Carrady is visiting to follow-up on the progress being made on the eight theatres his company is installing in the 265,000 squarefoot Mall. It was noted that three of the theatres will have 3D capacity, and will each be able to seat between 130 to 180 persons.

Commenting briefly on developments at the Mall, Dr Singh said the project is further evidence of the strong investor confidence

in Guyana’s economic performance. “Here we have a multi-million- dollar project that is locally owned. The investors have taken the initiative; conducted the research; assured themselves of the attractiveness of the project; secured financing; and are now at an advanced stage of construction,” he said.

“Additionally, this project is indicative of how quality of life is improving steadily in our country, to a point where we now have Malls with international-branded stores, State-of-the-Art theatres, and extensive parking facilities to accommodate the wave of vehicular traffic that will be generated by patrons of the Mall. This is further evidence of the progress that is taking place in Guyana today,” Dr Singh added. (GINA)

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh consults with Ian Ramdeo, director of the company developing the Giftland Mall, on the facility’s plan

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Presidents says...

CSEC, CAPE exams will not be affected by elections THE concerns over Elections Day, May 11, being on the same day some students will sit the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams were addressed by Pres-

ident Donald Ramotar yesterday.

And he gave all assurances that the students writing those exams will not be affected, as all efforts will be made to ensure adequate systems are in place to ensure that the students are not affected.

“In regard to the concern that the students who are scheduled to sit CXC exams on May 11 will be affected, please note that the Ministry of Education will put adequate systems in place to ensure students are able to sit their exams without disruption by the

day’s election activities,” he told thousands of followers on his Facebook page.

Additionally, the Ministry of Education has assured citizens that it is cognizant of the concerns of parents and students sitting the CAPE and CSEC

examinations.

“The ministry wishes to assure all its stakeholders and all citizens that every consideration is being given to the smooth and effective sitting of the 2015 CSEC and CAPE examinations and as such, is in consultations with the Caribbean Exam-

inations Council and other stakeholders to discuss and derive a suitable plan, one that is in the best interest of the candidates,” it said, in a statement yesterday.

Details of the finalised plans that are being put in place are expected to be released soon.

Elections Day announcement elicits mixed reaction from man-in-the-street AN end to the current political impasse that has gripped Guyana for the last three years is finally in sight, following President Donald Ramotar’s much-anticipated announcement, on Tuesday, of a date for General and Regional Elections: May 11.

Several Guyanese on Wednesday shared their views with the Chronicle on the President’s announcement, and their expectations during the period of the hustings.

ANNESH SHIVSARRAN

that will be confusion too. But it’s nice to know that we got a date; and on that day now, all of us will put our minds to the task... We need a leader who will look out for every-

Kevin

know who couldn’t own a tyre much less a car long ago? And today they driving car. All they saying is Jagdeo thiefin’ and duh one thiefin’.

But when you watch the progress, they ain’t saying we get a nice bridge, or a nice hospital, or we get this school built; they ain’t talking about that. So, the Opposition Party is a waste of time.”

Annesh

said:“I’m happy that we got a date so that we can move forward, and all that is going on can come to an end. It’s just that elections time is a whole different time right now; you have to know what you’re doing, because of a possible increase in the crime rate and so on. I’m hoping that the PPP can pull it off this time again, and that we can move forward for the betterment of the country. I hope that it will be a smooth election, and that everything will go comfortably.”

KEVIN CHATTERGOON, a self-employed auto mechanic said: “You know how many people I

MARK, a part-time taxi driver and University of Guyana student, shared his view: “Well, I have no problem with the date. And when it comes to election, with all the stuff that’s going on with all the pulling and tugging between the government and the opposition, I think we need an election at this time. I hope it goes smoothly, and that we have a fair election... When citizens feel as though the elections weren’t fair, that’s when the problems happen; but if everything goes smoothly, then we shouldn’t have any problems, irrespective of who wins the election.”

GITTENS, a driver on the Route 44 bus park said: “The first thing, they announce is that they will say the date early, and almost throw people off track. And now if CSEC examination gotta write like that, then all

pressed his views: “Well, since Burnham dead, I never vote again...

Remember, we poor! So everybody is for themselves. It doesn’t matter who goes into power, whether PPP, PNC, APNU, WPA, it remains the

Jamal

roads; and it too corrupted at times.”

Gittens

body; whether he comes from the north or the south, east or west, we will be satisfied with a leader who we can trust and not a follower. But I am afraid that we might end up in the same thing again after the elections; with a PPP minority. I getting old in this country, and what I want now is a leader, whether he white or blue, that I know watching my back and the whole country back.”

Another driver, JAMAL, said: “The date is a good date for the elections... but I mean, whoever win, they have to go in and do the right thing, like build the roads and them things, and not look after ‘Prado Scheme’. They have to realise they have work to do on the streets, and that poor people got to live. Because, every time you turn the newspaper, you see they building hotels; but what happen to the roads? I hope the elections will be soft; people seeing the good things happening, but the only thing they ain’t focusing on is building the

A senior citizen, known only as JEFFERY, said: “I think the election is needed, and that only that can solve this problem. Let it be! Because the government is not

Jeffery

functioning properly, and I would like to see the Government and the Opposition working together for the benefit of the country. They need the election now, else the problem is going to get worse and worse. Who knows! The election might very well solve it!”

FRANK, a security guard, ex-

Frank

same. But for this government that is in power now, I see a lot of changes. Yes! Even though I ain’t vote! Is good it [the elections] come at that time... plan at the right time. But it still lil upset for the CXC children.

If this elections didn’t come up, we cyan have progress; and we all know that, because the Opposition is the people who keeping us back. Once the government get the majority, we gon see forward movement again.”

A vendor at the Stabroek Market, AMICA, had this to say: “I think since the year start and the President already prorogued parliament and they said we would get an early elections, we should have had elections earlier; before May. May is too late. This one look like it get a lot of corruption though, because it’s a lot of things going on. I hope it goes smoothly; but that’s how it goes sometimes.”

The last time General and Regional Elections were held was back in November 2011.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Machel quitting Soca Monarchy for ‘higher calling’

By Derwayne Wills in Trinidad FOR 33 years, soca titan Machel Montano has built a reputation for himself with six wins from the international Soca Monarch competition in a genre of music native to Trinidad & Tobago. But Montano told reporters Tuesday at Boisserre House, Port-ofSpain that 2015 will be his last year contesting the Soca Monarchy.

Montano has won four Power Soca titles from 2011 to 2014 for “Advantage”, “Pump yuh flag”, “Float”, and the most recent “Ministry of Road”. He also copped two consecutive titles in 2012 and 2013 for “Mr. Fete”, and “The Fog.” “I’ve been running since I was nine... So Monday will be my big show; Machel Monday will be my focus,” the ‘Ministry of Road’ singer

told reporters, explaining that his decision came from what he said was a dissatisfaction with the current feuds that have gripped the soca industry.

“Machel Monday” is the brainchild of the soca star.

The event is celebrated annually just before the finals of the international Soca Monarch competition and has featured the likes of Grammy Award Winner, Pitbull, a cost which Montano said falls on himself.

Pushing the point of how ‘in control’ he is of his future, Montano said, “I could come here today and tell allyuh a decision; and tomorrow I could change my mind. I am the happiest man alive, only because I wake up every morning and I choose to be happy. That’s the best thing we were granted; free will.”

Montano called for a spirit of progress in the industry and bemoaned the conflicts

that have become the new normal. “I’m not about competition, I’m about cooperation... I want progress, I want us to become First World and I want us to move away from that.”

Montano made a call to those in the industry to hold out on the tensions because he believes “it is time for us to unite, not fight, [adding] I don’t really want to be on the war path with anybody anymore, I believe this is the small window we have to come back around to soca time.”

While explaining the burdening economic cost of participating in Trinidad’s Soca Monarch where he said planning the performance sometimes costs more than the prize money, Montano encouraged youths to nonetheless become part of the industry and make a name for themselves.

Montano is no stranger

Machel Montano

to Guyana, and has headlined many shows without disappointment, but the 2014 Power Soca Monarch said he will not stop releasing music.

“I am releasing a song every two days.” The artiste said he

released two songs on Monday, and will be releasing two more on Wednesday.

“I am using Carnival as a platform to put out music I feel will influence the World and go beyond Carnival. I’m

not putting out music to win Road March. I am not putting out music to win Groovy, I done miss that,” Montano said as he confirmed that he will neither participate in the Groovy nor Power categories of the competition.

“I am exercising my creativity in every living moment and expanding the limits of my mind trying to put us in the forefront of the industry.”

Montano closed by saying that he will be defending his 2014 Soca Monarch title at Fantastic Friday for the last time. “On Fantastic Friday, I Machel Montano will be defending my crown, I am going to dedicate my life after that.”

‘Fantastic Friday’ in the twin island republic is the final Friday before Carnival, this Friday is also shared with the finals of the international Soca Monarch competition.

Linden murder accused says police beat him to obtain oral statement

By George Barclay A MIXED jury at the Demerara Assizes at the trial of Justin Felix, called Justin Percival, for murder

heard Wednesday that the accused had made an oral confession.

But the accused, represented by defence counsel, Mr. Glenn Hanoman is de-

nying the allegation and is claiming through his counsel that he was charged with murder long before police investigations had been completed.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Julius Wright who allegedly took the statement from the accused testified that he was at the Mackenzie Police Station when the accused who was in the lockups there called out to him and said he wanted “to speak to me in private.”

Witness said he caused him to be taken out of the lock-ups to his office. There, he said, the accused told him that “since all a dem want to left me alone in it, I gon tell you the whole story.”

Witness said he repeated the allegations to the accused and cautioned him, telling him that it is alleged that on the 13th July, 2008, at Kara Kara, Linden he murdered Paul Austin, called ‘Coolie’.

Witness said the accused went on to say, “Yesterday,

me, Winger, Coolie, Tuckey, Butcher, Kevin and Nellon went and raid a marijuana farm at Kara Kara, Linden.

We take the drugs by Winger house to share. Me tell them I want meh share. They tell me I got to wait until tomorrow. Me an Tuckey start to argue, he walk out the yard. Me pull out me gun from meh bag and it go off.

Me aint know how it dun, it is jumbie.”

Witness said that he further told the accused that immediately after he shot Paul Austin, called ‘Coolie’, it is alleged that he discharged a round from the said gun at Kenton Griffith causing him to run out of the yard.

Attorney-at-law Miss Tanicia Daniels is appearing with Mr. Hanoman for the defence.

State counsel Mrs. Teshana Lake is appearing with Miss Narissa Leander for the prosecution.

The hearing is continuing.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Fireman murder trial stalls as juror hospitalised THE fireman murder trial currently being heard at the Berbice Assizes was adjourned to Thursday, after a juror on the 12- member jury panel was involved in an accident and had to be hospitalised.

The forced postponement which was granted by Justice Brassington Reynolds , resulted in the return of Government Pathologist Dr Vivikenand Brijmohan, who had been slated to testify for the prosecution on Monday.

On trial are Hallman Hunte and Sohan Busjit, who allegedly killed Delon Collins on December 24, 2011 at Alness Village ,Corentyne .

In her evidence in chief, Nadine Crawford recounted that she had known her fiancé, Delon Collins, three months prior to him meeting his demise on Christmas Eve .

Together with her three children, and her mother, the witness, lived with Collins at her home at Lot 21 Alness

Village.

It was at 20:45hrs, moments before Christmas, when the couple along with the children, left the home for Rose Hall Town in motor car PMM 5332, which was driven

by Collins.

Whilst at the Rose Hall township, they went sightseeing and conducted lastminute shopping , before stopping at Spready’s Snackette at Port Mourant, before returning home at 2300hrs.

‘The now deceased stopped the car in the driveway, allowing the children to exit the back seat. I gave Joshua Crawford, my son, the key to open the northern gate and the door to the garage. As the door was opened the now deceased drove into the garage, whilst I remained seated in the front seat.I then turned to pick items from the back seat, when I heard a scream.

It was from one of my girls; I did not know which one. I spoke to the now deceased before exiting the car.”

According to the witness, who incidentally is a Probation and Welfare Officer , she recalled being on the second stairs when she was confronted by a short East Indian male, who was armed with a gun.

‘He held my throat. He was demanding that I lie down. He stripped me of my gold chain valued $32,000, a pair of gold earrings valued $7000, and I gave him a silver ring ,which cost $3000. It was not the first time I saw the man who took off my jewels .I saw him twice. Once when I was working at the Guyana Prison Service. I heard the car door slam and I saw the now deceased. I heard what appeared to be a gunshot. The gunman was demanding more jewellery and money. I shouted for my son to bring my purse, which had $17,000 and my bank card. The short East Indian guy took my purse.”

Further, the witness said, another masked individual was pointing a gun to the right

side of her temple as the East Indian man took her purse.

“Afterwards, the masked man was searching the car and thereafter signalled the East Indian male for them to leave.

“I then turned my attention to the garage, where I saw Delon Collins lying

facing east. I ran to him. I touched him, but he was motionless. Water was thrown on Delon Collins , then I saw what appeared to be blood coming from his left side .He was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital, where he subsequently died.”

Meanwhile, during her cross -examination by Defence Counsel Ramesh Rajkumar, Presiding Judge Brassington Reynolds noted that he was befuddled with respect to the nautical description of the witness, house, ga-

rage, shop and fence.

However, in her response to the other Defence Counsel Horatio Edmonson , the witness said that on the night of the incident she was not wearing her spectacles.

She said two weeks before the incident, she saw Sohan Busjit in the prison yard and at that time she was wearing her eyeglasses.

Nevertheless, Ms Crawford related that she did not know who had shot the deceased, as he was shot outside the garage.

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Several women benefit from cervical cancer testing A 16-man team from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, on Mon-

day visited the Transport and Harbours Department where 58 women were ex-

amined for cervical cancer using the visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA)

method.

This was in keeping with the Hospital’s announcement

earlier in the month that in observance of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, it would collaborate with the Ministry of Health (MoH) to host several outreach programmes in an effort to encourage women to get screened for cervical cancer.

Medex of the VIA Clinic at the GPHC, Lorlene Ramsundar, disclosed that the 58 women represented a 100% turn out at the organisation.

She revealed that upon examination, five women required treatment and as such they were treated using Cryotherapy.

CRYOTHERAPY Cryotherapy destroys abnormal tissues on the cervix by freezing it; during this procedure, liquid carbon dioxide, which is very cold, circulates through a probe placed next to the abnormal tissue.

This freezes the tissue for two to three minutes and

it may be allowed to thaw and then be re-frozen for another two to three minutes; a single-freeze treatment for five minutes may also be used.

On January 27, the team will host another outreach at the prisons and then head to Lifeline Ministries on January 28.

Recently, the medex had emphasised that getting screened can save women’s lives and noted that from 2009 to date, the VIA Clinic has detected numerous cervical cancer cases, most of which were successfully treated.

She highlighted that more and more women are recognising the importance of getting themselves tested, but stated that more education programmes on television and radio would be useful for women who may not know the importance of getting a VIA test done.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

15

Jilted boyfriend charged with teenager’s murder

CHARGED: Shazim Kahli

DEAD: Shazien Mohammed

TWENTY- two-yearold Shazim Kahli has been charged with the unlawful killing of his teenaged girlfriend w h o h a d re p o r t e d l y jilted him.

The youth appeared before Magistrate Rhondel Weaver at the Blairmont Court, where he was not required to plead to the indictable c h a rg e , w h i c h s t a t e d that on January 17, he murdered Shazien Mohamed.

The unrepresented youth who confessed to the police of his involvement in the crime, said he did so as he had withdrawn large sums of money to meet the demands of the lass, who chose someone over him.

On Saturday, January 17, the 19-year-old left her home at Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, to go to Rosignol to uplift a phone which was being repaired.

A friend Mitra Sukdeo of Rosignol was in the teen’s company when the suspect confronted them over a relationship, which the witness denied.

Sukdeo had earlier accompanied the form e r Vr y m a n ’s E r v e n student to uplift her mobile phone, and in doing so he had asked

his younger sister to accompany him.

The witness said he was talking to Mohamed outside of the Ya n g Yi R e s t a u r a n t along the Rosignol Public Road, after purchasing a serving of food for his sibling, who was seated within the eating house.

“My sister called me, saying the food was too much for her. I made a few steps, then I heard a scream. As I turned around I saw her holding her abdomen.

She was screaming as blood flowed… I saw the suspect run away…”

Sukdeo claimed to have known Mohamed for just three months.

Meanwhile, the t e e n ’s f a t h e r S h a z i m Mohamed said after he received a telephone call, he went to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where he saw medical personnel attending to his daughter in the Accident and Emergency Unit.

He was in a total shock when he was informed of his daugh ter’s demise.

“I did not know it was so serious.I never knew my daughter would have died.”

Meanwhile, Shazim Kahli is to return to court on February 17, for report.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Missing teenager in police custody THE teenaged girl who had left her parents home since December 13 last, is currently in pol i c e c u s t o d y, a f ter hurling verbal abuse at an officer of the Probation and Welfare Service and the police, as they attempted to arrest her.

The arrest was made shortly after the teen had arrived at her home at Lot The teenager’s mother, Kulwantie DeSouza, called 374 Number Two “Deena,” being escorted by a Village, East Canje. police rank outside the Central After an anonyPolice Station in New Amsterdam mous person tipped off the relevant authorities, the law officers swooped on the building, but was initially met with the teen’s mother who attempted to obstruct the officers from executing of their duties by preventing them from arresting the delinquent teenager, who is scheduled to write the Caribbean Secondary Examinations Certificate in May. The mother, Kulwantie DeSouza, known as Deena, speaking in a loud tone of voice, said she preferred to die than see the cops arrest her daughter.

However, the officers were not deterred by the woman’s aggression, and instead arrested the teen and her mother. They were taken to the Reliance Police Station before being sent to the Central Police Station where the ruckus continued,resulting in scores of persons being alerted by the loud wails emanating from the mother and daughter.

As a result, additional ranks were summoned to intervene in an effort to bring calm and stability.

The teen’s father,Patrick De Souza, had made emotional pleas at the various media outlets in Berbice for the second of his three children to return home, especially because her absence has resulted in the mother experiencing mental health issues.

According to him, the mother had to seek the intervention of a popular psychiatrist in Berbice.

However, with her return , Mr DeSouza told officials that he was tired of the teen’s waywardness , and left decisions pertaining to her future in the hands of the Probation and Welfare Service.

The 15 year old left her parents’ home without their consent and is alleged to have displayed promiscuous behaviour in various areas in Berbice and Demerara. She had returned home to uplift other clothing, and had indicated that she was again leaving for an unknown destination.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

Berbice teen bride attempts suicide

Granger says...

GECOM has responsibility to ensure election process is ‘clean’ Man on restraining order – after marriage to ‘too old’ husband

EIGHTEEN-year-old Nalisa Singh, also known as Nalisa Abrahim, allegedly consumed a poisonous substance the day after her marriage to Abikraim Rahaim, when she discovered that the man was too old for her.

The couple tied the knot according to Hindu rites on January 18 at Number 68 Village, Upper Corentyne, Berbice. The bride’s mother, Shamiroon Abrahim, related that her 18-year-old

daughter of Albion, Lower Corentyne, married Rahaim following a prearranged agreement.

“I did not know she did not like the boy. Why she did not tell me before?”

Shamiroon questioned. The boy at reference here is a 40-year-old man.

This newspaper was reliably informed that the man told his newly-wedded wife on the night after the wedding that he was not 36 years old as was previously

mentioned, but was instead a 40-year-old father of two adult children.

The revelation scared the teen bride, who thereafter secretly ingested a poisonous substance, but not before informing an older sibling, who took her to the Port Mourant Hospital, from where she was transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital to be treated.

The teenager was discharged from the health institution yesterday.

– pledges to re-engage elections stabs couple, student regulatory body – while travelling on Corentyne minibus ‘The important thing is that inside the system, from GECOM, we want to see an elimination of the skullduggery; moving polling stations the night before elections; and the tampering with lists; miscounting and prompt publication of statement of polls’—-Opposition Leader, Brigadier (Ret’d) David Granger

Opposition Leader, David Granger

WITH President Donald Ramotar declaring May 11, 2015 as the day general and regional elections will be held, Opposition Leader, Brigadier (Ret’d) David Granger has reiterated that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has a responsibility to ensure that the electoral process is one which is ‘clean’.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle Tuesday evening at his residence, Granger sought to underscore the integral role the elections regulatory body plays in the electoral process, taking into consideration their position as a major stakeholder.

Relating to the media that concerns of the party were previously expressed to GECOM, the Opposition Leader further

disclosed that his party will remain committed to reengaging GECOM in their efforts to promote a free and fair election.

HOSTILE PROPAGANDA He also explained that one of the major concerns raised by his party was the peddling of ‘hostile propaganda’ which will injure the political process. As such, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) made a call to GECOM to use their influence to ensure transparency throughout the process.

According to the Opposition Leader, “On the morning after elections, Guyanese must be able to go back to work satisfied with their votes properly counted. And that they will have a government of their choice.”

As it relates to observers for the electoral process, traditional observers from the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Communi-

ty (CARICOM), and the Organisation of American States (OAS) are expected to play an integral role in the process, Granger noted. “Those three I’m sure will be present here,” he said, adding that his party has not made any special demands for more observers.

“The important thing is that inside the system, from GECOM, we want to see an elimination of the skullduggery; moving polling stations the night before elections; and the tampering with lists; miscounting and prompt publication of statement of polls,” Granger stressed.

To t h i s e x t e n t , h e opined that while many polling stations would not even have 400 votes it is expected that by 8-9pm on the day of elections, statement of polls would have been distributed. “We are confident that by midnight we should have the results, it shouldn’t take four or five days,” the Opposition Leader opined.

FORTY-year-old Meena Crawford-Marrison is currently nursing incised injuries to her right arm, which she used defensively to ward off a stabbing attack allegedly launched on her by Leon Thomas, who has since been detained and is assisting police with investigations into the incident.

When the Guyana Chronicle visited her at the New Amsterdam Hospital, she complained of being in pain, even as she was being prepared to return to the Operating Theatre for further surgery. Her right arm was bandaged, while she indicated that she had also sustained injuries to her head and left arm.

The woman and her attacker are known to each other, and relations between them had been characterized by frequent misunderstandings, which resulted in a magistrate placing a restraining order on Thomas.

At about 07:30hrs on Wednesday, Meena and her

INJURED: Meena Crawford Marrison

husband, Glen Martin Marrison, joined a Number 63 minibus in New Amsterdam to travel to Whim Magistrate’s Court on the Corentyne.

As the couple boarded the minibus, they observed the alleged assailant seated behind them; and “the man started to accused me of stealing his jewelry, and then he pulled out a cutlass and start to chop me,” Meena recounted. There were visible injuries to her head, right side arm, right side ears and shoulder.

During that altercation,

‘DETAINED SUSPECT’: Leon Thomas

her husband sustained a chop to his left hand, while sixteenyear-old Yashmanie Totaram, a student living at Number 19 Village, ECB also received similar injuries.

The injured individuals were taken to the Port Mourant Hospital, where they were treated and sent away, while Meena Marrison was transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where she remained a patient.

Voir dire reveals...

‘Slim’ caution statement was voluntary MURDER accused Troy Greene is said to have killed Bibi Raphina Saymar because of US$15,000 that was promised him by a man known as ‘Red Man’, a voir dire (a trial within a trial) at the High Court disclosed Wednesday.

Greene was indicted for the murder of Bibi Raphina Saymar, said to have been committed on May 29th 2010 in the county of Demerara.

The deceased is said to have been living at a house with one Dennis Persaud who is known as ‘Indian’ or ‘Redman’.

The voir dire was conducted by Justice Navindra Singh to determine the admissibility of the caution statement.

The policeman who took the statement from the accused recorded the accused as saying how he pursued the job by entering the home of

the girl and began stabbing her with a knife until she fell to the floor.

The accused said that he wrapped up the knife in a bloody bed sheet with a towel and left the girl bleeding on the floor.

Attorney-at-law Mr.Peter Hugh is defending.

State Counsel Miss Mercedes Thompson in association with Miss Stacy Goodings is prosecuting.

(George Barclay)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

‘Mash’ fever starts to h

– as celebrations kick off w

MASH celebrations in Region Two kicked off in grand style Wednesday with the start of the children's round of competitions at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground.

The event, which is organised by the Department of Education in collaboration with the Region Two Administration, opened with nursery-age children performing Dramatic Poetry under the theme "One People, One Culture, One Celebration".

A pupil of the Mabel Sandy Nursery School in the Pomeroon was the first on stage to perform her dramatic piece, and start the ball rolling.

According to the Department of Education, the competition, which is scheduled to last three days, will focus on Dramatic Poetry and Calypso on the first day; Dance and Masquerade on the second; and Costume and Physical Displays on the third.

The 11 Nursery Schools vying Monday for the top

spots in the Dramatic Poetry segment of the competition were: Mabel Sandy, St Monica, Hackney, Aurora, Huis t’Dieren, Lima Sands, Danielstown, Reliance, Cotton Field, Anna Regina New Nursery, and Anna Regina.

Of the lot, Lima Sands Nursery, which gave a good account of itself with a piece titled ‘Lets clean up our country Guyana’, came in at First Place, and will represent Region Two at the national leg of the competition in Georgetown from February 11 to 14. In Second Place

A pupil performing at the children's competition at Anna Regina

A pupil singing a calypso at the children's competition at Anna Regina

A nursery pupil singing a dramatic poetry at Anna Regina children's competition on Wednesday

A nursery pupil doing a dramatic poetry on technology at the children's competition at Anna Regina

GGMC/GPSU salary incre

By Raymon Cummings THE intervention of Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul has failed so far to bring resolution to the continuing industrial action at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

Representatives of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), the union representing the striking

workers, met with the Labour Minister on Wednesday but that meeting ended in stalemate as the union was asked to have the workers return to work so that negotiations could resume with the management of the Commission. The union on the other hand is insisting that the increases proposed by management, and sent for approval, be paid before the workers return to work.

The union’s Senior Industrial Relations Officer Denis English yesterday told the Guyana Chronicle that the workers will not return to work on promises to address the issues that caused the grievance. English said that the strike in November last year was terminated following the signing of a Terms of Resumption and with the exception of the 8 percent across the board increase that was paid as part of the agreement

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 23, 2015

heat up in Region Two

with children's competitions was Huis t’Dieren Nursery, while Third Place went to Cotton Field Nursery.

In the 5-7 age group, which saw participation from five Primary Schools, namely Siriki, Huis t’Dieren, Mainstay Lake, Hampton Court and Suddie, Mainstay Lake did such an excellent job with a piece titled ‘I am a proud, ingenious woman’, that it not only won over the judges, but had the large crowd screaming for more. In the end, Suddie Primary had to settle for Second Place, and Huis

t’Dieren third.

Meanwhile, in the 8-10 age-group, which had eight contenders, CV Nunes Primary came in first with a piece titled ‘Changing Times’, leaving Tapakuma Primary in second place and Good Hope Primary third.

In the Calypso segment of the event, Mainstay Lake Nursery took the first place with a piece titled, ‘Education for me’. Coming in second was Reliance Primary with ‘Message of togetherness’, while in third place was Anna

Regina Nursery with ‘Ebola’.

In the 5-7 age-group, Charity Primary was the only entrant. But it was Mainstay Lake Primary which dominated the scene in the 8-10 age-group with its brilliant performance of a piece titled, ‘Lets celebrate!’

Children from Secondary Schools in Aurora, Anna Regina, Charity, Abram Zuil, and Johanna Cecelia also participated in the Dramatic Poetry and Calypso competitions. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

A pupil singing a calypso at the children's competition in Essequibo

Students from CV Nunes Primary doing their calypso song at the children's competition at Anna Regina

A pupil in full flow with her dramatic poetry at the children's competition at Anna Regina

A student of Tapakuma performing a dramatic poetry at the children's competition at Anna Regina on Wednesday

ease stalemate continues for them to resume duties, nothing else in the Terms of Resumption was honoured.

STRIKE ILLEGAL The workers have so far ignored the advice of the Chief Labour Officer who last week wrote to the union following an investigation into the actions of both parties after the signing of the Terms of Resumption

last November and advised them that in his opinion the strike was illegal.

The Labour Minister has also urged the workers to resume duty and follow the procedure as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the GPSU and GGMC. The Collective Bargaining Agreement makes provision for unresolved matters to be taken to conciliation

and then arbitration, if still not resolved. The union has not taken any action to move the dispute to conciliation but has remained on strike for the last three weeks.

Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle, who has the legal authority to take action to bring a resolution to the stalemate, has refused to speak to the Chronicle when enquires were made as to what action he plans to take to end the stalemate.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Tel # 616-0301 /699-6156

Guyana’s Mystic unleashes a firestorm in New York City

Miss Guyana Universe, Niketa Barker, creating a stir…

THE 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant Preliminary Competition was just recently streamed online.

Miss Guyana is creating quite a buzz, and seems to be getting good ratings. So far, pageant websites such as missology. com have been putting her at least in the top 25 for the competition, and this has never happened before for Guyana.

Social media has been buzzing with everything she does; and with the much needed publicity and support, Miss Guyana might just find herself in one of the top spots.

She recently won the online Sash People’s Choice Award.

The Miss Universe Pageant is slated to be broadcast live on January 25, 2014.

ROMEO Nermal, popularly known as “Mystic”, created quite a stir with his song “Coolie Bhai” as he performed to a sold out crowd in New York City last Saturday.

Mystic also performed his

song at Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice; and from all reports, the crowd responded well to that song and to the Coolie Bhai dance. The crowd also enjoyed his new song which he hasn’t released as yet, but sang it there.

Niketa Barker

Mystic during his New York performance

Mystic connected with the crowd very well. He engaged them with things Guyanese, sayings backball, playing rap and romey…what we do. He was himself. His stage presence was very good. He sang Coolie Bai more than once, as that was the song that most people knew. He performed his song with Wataflo.

Mystic also related to the crowd stories which they could relate to, like his mom named him Romeo and he loves to sing loves songs; his works in the rice field, etc, so the crowd got a chance to know a lot about him in his performance.

His performance was different, unique, and he owns his identity and is not afraid to share it.

CDs were sold and autographed pics were given as well. Many patrons wanted to take photos with him.

Even the young children among the crowd were truly excited at his entrance.

George ‘Chiney’ Abrams is back!

George ‘Chiney’ Abrams

THE Carib Soca Monarch is imminent, and some eighteen talented individuals have been shortlisted to battle for the whopping cash prizes of over G$2.2 M, which would be up for grabs.

The Semi-finals are scheduled for January 31st, 2015 at New Amsterdam, Berbice, while the Finals are slated for February 14th, 2015 at the National Park in Georgetown.

This week, Bombshell proudly features one of the contestants, George “Chiney” Abrams, who has vowed to demolish the competition in ‘quick time’ This talented dude is a humble, intelligent, articulate and hardworking individual; and those are just some of the words to describe George “Chiney” Abrams.

Originally from the Region 10 community of Silvertown, Wismar, Linden, Abrams has released a brand new song, entitled “Mirror.” He wants Guyana to know that he is back and ready for the challenge of this year’s Carib Soca Monarch Competition.

With the release of his new song, “Mirror”, Chiney appeals to his fans by creating and composing a sound which taps into the five senses of those listening to this new song. The beat and words of the song, he says, gives a fresh new flavour to the soca genre.

The song tells persons that the perspective which they should have on life should be one of happiness, so they should forget about the baggage and negative things in life that bring them down each day.

Apart from Almighty God, Abrams thanked J-Lyrics; his Producer Dorian Poggsly from DP Records; his family; the Guyanese public, and Devin Sears from Devin Entertainment, who played a very important role in this new song.This guy has also recognised Abrams’s talent and has been helping him to perfect his art.

The new song offers a positive message to its listeners. The artiste

says the song sends a positive message but, at the same time, has a soca vibe which is uniquely added to the composition so as to enhance the overall quality and sound of the song.

Chiney says he gets his inspiration for his songs from the environment, from what is happening around him, and from the experiences which life has to offer. He noted that he developed his writing ability at a very young age.

When one listens to any track produced by this young and talented artiste, one is guaranteed an excellent, well-crafted, original piece.

Abrams has emphasised that a lot of hard work goes into the production of music and the finished product.

Abrams says he is glad to be back. “I was away for some time. I was not releasing any tracks, or even getting involved in promoting my music.” However, he wants Guyanese to know that he is back, and is even better and stronger.

Asked what he had in mind as his next project, Abrams responded, “I need to grow some more, music needs to be a part of me. I need to be more serious, learn to love more; I need to do more collaboration.

I think that I have been focusing too much on singles, and I need to sing more songs that will appeal to my fans. In addition, I need to be more diversified. I need to be more aggressive to the music for 2015.”

Abrams advises young aspiring musicians not to do it for the fame, but rather they must have a love for the trade. “You need to be extremely careful when it comes to managing your finances, and (you need to) be ever mindful of the amount of hard work and sacrifice it takes to get the finished product out there.

“Persons may not take you seriously at first, but you need to try to find your sound and what works for you, and eventually you (will) get it right. Ignore the negativity”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Princess Fun City Entertainment Centre opening ‘educative doors’ for students WITH a desire to create an experience in which parents, children, clubs, schools and businesses would share memorable moments, the staff at Princess Fun City Entertainment Centre are holding steadfast to their promise to make the ‘Free School Tour’ an annual event.

Convinced that first impression counts, folks there are working with the Ministry of Education in this their second year to give schools the opportunity to enhance their students’ knowledge of the use of computers. They have placed five (5) computers at the disposal of schools, and have made their billboard available free of cost to be used by the Education Ministry to display educational or informative messages on LED SCREEN. In addition, they are opening the entity’s doors for three months -- February 20th to April 30th 2015 -- to all schools interested in registering to view movies and/or play games.

Princess Fun City Entertainment Centre is the 2013 winner of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s “Busi-

ness of the Year” award, and the location comprises of their ‘Fun City Arcade’ and two modern movie theatres.

The Fun City Arcade is the first of its kind in Guyana, and offers family fun and entertainment with more than eighty games; choosing from 7D Cinema, 3D graphics, dancing, street fighting, gifts, bowling, racing just to name a few. This section caters for those between two and two hundred and two years old.

Their Movie Theatres have the capacity to seat one hundred and eighty-six persons, and each theatre can sit ninety-three persons. The latest 3D releases in Bollywood, Children’s and Hollywood movies are provided.

“Our desire is to create an experience where parents, children, clubs, schools and business will share memorable moments and create an experience that will last a lifetime,” a release from the entity has said.

Those interested in obtaining booking information are invited to contact the entity’s Marketing Manager, Ms. Ali Williams, on phone number 592-673-8698.

Students enjoying festive treats at the Princess Fun City Entertainment Centre

Bombshell’s Profile Personality…

Maestro Paul Cort: A musical man among men in his field FROM my days of studying literature within the walls of the Christ Church Secondary School, I reach for a Shakespearean quote that is applicable to a young, outstanding Guyanese musician: “If music be the food of love, play on…give me excess of it that, surfeiting, the appetite may sicken and so die… oh it came ore my ear like a sweet sound that breathes upon a bank of violets” – Shakespeare in “A Mid Summer Night’s Dream.”

The name Paul Cort may not be as popular in Guyana as it should be for his outstanding exploits in a field that many can but dream about, but Guyanese have every reason to celebrate this youth who dares to live his dreams as an international Maestro.

There is no other youth in any part of Guyana with whom I’ve interfaced as an associate and dare say friend who has disproved the saying that ‘youth is wasted on the young.’ Bear with me for a brief bit as I attempt to summarize and dissect -- hopefully without taking away from this outstanding youth of substance.

For those who don’t know him, be inspired. Paul was born in Guyana, and began his formative musical training with the now late distinguished

PAUL CORT

musician Edith Pieters. We shared some classes as we were both students of the late great woman of substance and stickler for language. Paul was more into the music than I was, and it showed.

He was born to do music, and he also was one to challenge anyone who dared to defile the Queen’s English, yet he was my down-to-earth friend who could easily share a good laugh on trivial matters.

In 1996, he began teaching at The Bishops’ High School, and then went on to Queen’s College until he accepted a scholarship to pursue studies in the USA in 2001.

In 2002, he placed second in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) auditions, while in 2003 he was placed on the Dean’s List “Magna Cum Laude” and won the Genevieve Stalberg Award at Concordia College.

In 2004, he was awarded the Robert L. Mungar scholarship. He has studied with internationally acclaimed opera singer Simon Estes, and acquired the degree of Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Boston University in 2008.

Despite heights achieved, Paul has always been a humble Guyanese who has proudly performed in the Concordia College, Wartburg College and Boston University Choirs at Lincoln Centre,

Orchestra Hall, Benaroya Hall, Kennedy Centre and Symphony Hall in the USA; and he has toured Europe and South Africa with Simon Estes and the Wartburg Choir.

He has performed several recitals at the National Cultural Centre in Guyana and in the Caribbean region.

Paul Cort was employed by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in the public school system, and was the Director of the National Choir of Antigua and Barbuda. He is currently employed at the University of the Southern Caribbean as a Music Instructor, Voice Teacher, and Director of the Fine Arts Chorale. He has recently been made an Assistant Chief Examiner at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) level.

He is also a proud father and husband, who ‘keeps his feet wet’ in things related to Guyana. As he puts it, Guyana will always be my home.

This Georgetown boy Paul is true to his loves -- his wife Malaika Sampson-Cort, children, and Music. The latter he lives and breathes above the regular R n B, Hip Hop wanna B’s; and in true baritone style, he can, at a second’s notice, belt out vocals that make him as outstanding as it gets.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Konshens to perform in Gravity Lounge KONSHENS has selected Guyana as one of his birthday celebration spots, and will be celebrating in grandeur on these lucky shores.

He hosted his original birthday party as a beach edition in Portmore, Jamaica, and many top artistes were in attendance. From feedback received, celebrations were ‘off the hook’.

Come Saturday, January 24, Konshens will be hosting his birthday party – the Georgetown edition – at one of the most spacious night clubs in this country, Gravity Lounge.

In an interview, Konshens said: “Guyana has been like a yaad fi me. Me affi come party with unnuh, me luv unnuh!!”

Konshens completed his birthday celebration in Jamaica, and has scheduled parties for Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Brooklyn, NY; Bronx, NY; and Georgetown, Guyana.

Konshens

He has also encouraged his fans to come out and party with him, take some photographs, pop some bottles, and party the night away.

“Let’s see which one a deze cities got the most love fi me,” the artiste has stated.

In addition, some of his Guyanese friends are slated for the event as well. Guyana dancehall diva Jackie Jaxx and rising hip hop star Remár will be making appearances in support of the Konshens’ birthday celebration.

Music will be provided by DJ Shizzle and DJ Diamond.

Early bird tickets are available exclusively at Electronics City for $2500. General tickets and gate prices will be more.

Other ticket outlets are Exclusive Styles and Gravity Lounge.

Tickets are limited, so it is recommended that you get yours early, before they are sold out.

Aracari Resort making room for families and groups

Sage advice to proprietors…

A POSITIVE FIRST IMPRESSION IS A POWERFUL ALLY IN DOING BUSINESS JUST in case you are wondering why some very promising businesses thrive for awhile and then fail miserably afterwards, a perfect example should suffice to educate you.

I suddenly became famished at the GCC Ground in Bourda, Georgetown, where I had gone on a media assignment recently, and I went desperately in search of something for my grumbling stomach.

I was directed to a nice looking hangout bar just one corner away, and I eagerly approached, since I was aware that the bar was managed by a popular radio personality associate of mine.

When I got there, I was pleasantly taken aback by the appealing décor and arresting ambience of the location, and I realized that the joint was certainly under new management.

Unfortunately, my excitement was shortlived by the fact that the dashing cashier’s counter was bare of an attendant. Three young ladies were at the far corner ‘babbling’ loudly about boyfriend conquests and such girlish

things, their peals of raucous laughter renting the air. One of them was dressed in black and white apparel and appeared to be a waitress, so I respectfully approached her with an enquiry as to who was controlling the cashier’s corner.

A fairly young girl gushed, “Oh geez!!” and sprinted over to the bar to take my order. I ordered fried shark and plantain chips, and sat down to wait the fifteen minutes I was told it would take to be ready. During that time, the waitress and the bartender chose to play very loud dancehall songs with lyrics of explicit obscenity, leaving precious little to the imagination. The decibel level could have awoken the dead, and to compound the inappropriateness, they began shaking their ‘bottoms’ in the most obscene manner.

In came another young female (apparently a friend or associate of the proprietor) wearing a hot pants that exposed an ample portion of her buttocks, and she began to execute a vulgar dance routine as she mouthed, “Y’all come, we gat a name fuh talk!” And all this was done

WITH intention to storm the hospitality market, the Aracari Resort staff have formulated several marvellous packages geared at luring schools, churches, family groups, and corporate entities to their exotic location.

In a brief interview with folks there, Bombshell was informed that mind-boggling packages have been created with smashing price bargains to bring groups to the location like in times gone by.

Interested entities or persons are asked to call the resort on phone numbers 264-2947 for more information.

Meanwhile, the resort is presently readying for its ‘Couples Valentine Dinner and Dance’ as the much anticipated Valentine

festivities approach. For $5000 per couple, the resort is offering a succulent Valentine’s Dinner Special that includes Valentine Rice; Pineapple Chicken; Garden, Macaroni, or Potato Salad; plus cake and custard as dessert.

This, of course, will be washed down nicely with red wine.

The Aracari Resort Salon and Spa has also created some exciting Valentine bargains.

On Sunday it’s all about family as the Poolside Family Lime is staged, which allows for usage of the large pool at a cost.

Those desirous of indulging in sports or games can do so on the spacious Aracari Lawns.

literally right under my nose.

The bartender’s friend soon came out with a bowl of fried ochro and chicken, and she continued her butt-shaking as she gulped down the food.

My goodness gracious me, I waited for a

rolled her eyes heavenward and responded, “Oh, are you waiting on something? I didn’t know that you ordered something. I am sorry, but we ran out of cooking oil and had to send to the market. Please hold on a bit.”

People look, I was so angry I sputtered and almost chocked on my words as I told her what a Jurassic Park she was operating.

At eight minutes after the hour, the fish and chips finally came, and I almost fell into a coma when I opened the box. The fish was well done and so were the plantains, but that horrible cook merely splattered a little pepper and tomato ‘ketch-up’ on the meal, and dumped ten tooth picks inside the box as well.

Dear Lord, have mercy! Suppose in my hunger I had swallowed one or two of those tooth picks, what would have been their response? Indeed, what recourse did I have to some form of satisfaction?

The service had been without a tissue, but I realized the futility of complaining or bringing that aspect to their attention. And when I left the place, the people went back to their business of talking a name whilst gyrating their bottoms as if nothing had occurred.

Well, I mark that place at the junction of Robb and Oronoque Streets, Georgetown.

I would never return there again. Some people just fail to recognize the power of a positive first impression; and I could recall the owner inviting me to karaoke sessions there, saying it was always “awesome”.

Well, if regular service was so horrible, why in heaven’s name should I go to the awesome karaoke session?

My goodness, what horrible service!! full half-hour under a murderous onslaught of voracious mosquitoes, and still the fish and chip could not arrive!! After forty-five minutes had elapsed, I ventured to ask what could the matter be, and the cook had the gall to tell me, “Just now sir, we send fuh something at de shop; it coming just now…”

Well, she received such a fiery tongue-lashing that she retreated to the kitchen as fast as her legs could carry her. At five minutes to the hour, I exploded, and this time in the face of the ‘boss lady’, who seemed more interested in checking her Maybelline in a face mirror. And can you believe this, people: That woman just

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Prisoner found hanging in lockups ––mother learns news when she takes him meals

By Leroy Smith TWENTY-three-year-old Tiffon Osafo Peters of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown was found hanging in a cell at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost lockups last evening by another prisoner inside the cell.

This newspaper has been informed by

She said that when she arrived at the facility, she immediately got the feeling that something was wrong; and when she entered the police station, she was told that her son had hanged himself.

The woman said she was very angry because, when she arrived earlier at the facility, the police rank on duty had refused to hand her son’s belongs over to her. She

Undertakers removing the body of Tiffon Osafo Peterts from the police outpost, under escort of his mother police sources that Peters had ripped his shirt to construct a rope which he used to hang himself from the grillwork of the lockups.

The dead man’s mother, Mrs Helena Harte Peters, confirmed last evening at the Police Outpost that her son had been a patient of Dr. Bhiro Harry’s, and that she had seen her son earlier in the day when she showed up at the outpost to take him medication and meals.

According to the woman, she was not aware of her son’s death until she showed up at the police outpost to bring him dinner.

added that she does not believe her son had met his demise by hanging himself.

The Guyana Chronicle was on hand when the woman arrived with a gift bag in her hands with meals for the young man.

Prior to her arrival, an ambulance was at the facility with personnel from the Georgetown Public Hospital, who had showed up to certify that the young man was indeed dead.

This publication was informed that another prisoner who had been placed in the lockups only fifteen minutes before Peters had been seen hanging made the discovery of the tragedy. The two men had not been

known to each other.

Police sources confirmed that Peters was alive when the second prisoner from Kaneville saw Peters being ushered into the lockups. The prisoner explained to police ranks that he had decided to lie down and take a nap, and in the space of a few seconds he heard the other prisoner, Peters, panting for breath; and when he opened his eyes, he saw him hanging and raised an alarm, alerting police ranks on duty.

A Police press release issued last evening said Peters had been detained for simple larceny, being accused of taking $25,000 from one Dhanwattie Singh of Houston, East Bank Demerara in an incident which reportedly occurred at Vlissengen Road and Mandela Avenue.

Peters had been slated to appear in court this morning to answer to that charge.

The matter will be engaging the Police Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), according to the police release.

Peters’s mother is refuting the claims that her son had stolen money from anyone.

She explained that her son, a mental case, had opened the door of the car the woman was driving and he and the woman had begun hurling remarks at each other. The matter was then reported to the police, and her son had been arrested and charged for the offence. She said her son has been in the lockups since Wednesday afternoon.

The recent development saw several persons gathering outside of the lockups when they heard of the death, since many of them had known Peters by his call name, “Vest boy”.

His mother said she had pleaded with her son to turn to God so that he could be helped with his mental illness.

This is now the third patient of Dr. Harry to have acted in a very strange manner within the last two months. On

Two injured as gunmen snatch GNIC payroll

By Leroy Smith

A SECURITY guard, whose name was given as Oswin Clarke, and an inventory clerk, Darian Brian, both employees of the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) Inc. were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital just before

16.00hrs yesterday following an armed robbery at the GNIC Shipyard on Lombard Street.

Clarke was shot to one of his feet,while Brian was bludgeoned to the head by a man who relieved them of a .32 revolver and seven matching rounds and the wages payroll respectively, before fleeing the

The GNIC Shipyard where the robbery took place, and where the guard was shot

compound.

This newspaper was informed that two men showed up at the facility, one dressed like an employee of the company while the other waited on a motorcycle outside on the road. The gunman was reportedly wearing sunglasses large enough to conceal his facial features along with a motorcycle helmet.

Speaking with this newspaper was Ronald Bourne, the manager of the GNIC Shipyard operations. He explained that he was in the shipyard when he heard a popping sound but took if for a punctured tyre of a vehicle which was at the time entering the compound with fuel for the company.

From all indications, the gunmen were awaiting the arrival of the cash from the administrative building just next door. The cash is usually taken

to the other compound for the payment of staff and one of the men used the opportunity to walk alongside the truck with the fuel to gain access into the compound.

Bourne explained that after hearing the noise he looked around and saw his staff scampering for cover and the security guard lying on the ground. He further explained that another security guard, this one a female, was attempting to close the gate to trap the bandit inside the compound when he pointed the gun in her direction causing her to abort that move.

The man jumped on the waiting motorcycle and they sped off with the canister containing the cash. Bourne said that he was not immediately in a position to state how much cash was taken, but estimated that it might be just about half a million dollars.

Christmas Eve Day, a woman who had also been a patient of the Doctor’s clinic jumped to her death from the Demerara Harbour Bridge, and just last week, another patient took a wood and beat his bedridden father to death. He has since been charged and remanded to prison, while efforts are being made to have his condition evaluated to ascertain if he undergo stand trial for his father’s murder.

The distraught mother with the bag containing the meals she had taken to the lockups when she was confronted with the news of her son’s death (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

Bourn also indicated to the Guyana Chronicle that the company has already reviewed its security in the interim and explained those measures.

The security manager of the company confirmed that a weapon was taken from the security guard. He said that the guard has been working with the company for almost 15 years now.

Meanwhile, over at the hospital,both employees were recommended for X-rays by the doctors at the GPH. The security guard lay on a stretcher trembling as he was being comforted by a relative and other staff members who accompanied them to the hospital.

The inventory clerk, Darian Brian, said that while walking with the money canister being escorted by the armed guard,he felt a hard blow behind his head and when he turned around he noticed that someone was pointing a gun at him and told him to hand over the fu&*%$* money. The man said that he immediately

Shipyard Operations Manager Ronald Bourne (Photos By Leroy Smith) dropped the money and ran to the rear of the compound.

He described the weapon that the bandit had as silver . The young man who appeared to be in a lot of pain said that he was not aware of what happened after and that he did not recognise the gunman. The police were informed and responded to the scene.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Guard jailed for two years, fined $1M --for false number plate on car

SECURITY guard, 36-yearold Leroy Holder of Lot 25 D’Urban Street, Werk-enRust was on Wednesday sentenced to 24 months imprisonment and fined G$1M for removing the original number plates on a vehicle and replacing them with incorrect ones.

Holder, who appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman, was found guilty of the offence, which, according to the particulars, occurred on July 5, 2013 at Camp Street, Georgetown, when the original number plate PNN 8438 was deliberately

and dishonestly removed and replaced with PNN 5637.

According to the prosecution’s case, on the day in question at about 15:30hrs, Holder was arrested by the police as a suspect in a robbery when the ranks made checks on the documents for the car and noticed that the vehicle had a fake number plate.

Prosecutor Joel Ricknauth told the told court that the defendant was driving motor car PNN 5687 behind a red SUV from Kitty public road through several streets and eventually stopped at a gas station where

he was arrested.

Holder was represented

by Attorney-at-Law, Basil Williams.

During trial, the prosecutor had called on four witnesses to prove the case against Holder.

The magistrate, in her ruling, said that the Court needs to send a strong message against such a practice, and noted that police ranks depend on number plates in the fight against crime.

She then sentenced Holder to a minimum of one year imprisonment, along with a fine of G$1M.

Magistrate warns taxi driver...

‘Dare you ever snatch anyone’s chain again!’

--sentences him to 36 months for offence A FORTY-three-year-old taxi driver was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment after he was found guilty of snatching a woman’s chain.

Gregory Howes of Lot 60 Recht Door Zee, Parfait Harmonie, West Bank Demerara appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The allegation read that on November 8, 2014 at Regent Street, Georgetown, he stole one gold chain valued $65,000 from Natasha Sheriff.

The facts read that on the day in question, at around 14:30hrs, Sheriff

was exiting a shoes store when Howes came up and snatched the chain off her neck and started running. He then mounted a bicycle, but a car came along and began to brace his bicycle. The driver of that car was Police Constable Peters who told the court that he saw everything that transpired when he testified as a witness.

Sheriff told the court that nothing was blocking her view from seeing the defendant and there was no one else there.

Police Prosecutor Shellon Daniels told the court that when the defendant reached the Brickdam Police Station and a search was

conducted on his person, the chain was found in his possession. She noted that the defendant did not deny that the chain was found on his person nor that he was the person on the scene.

Before sentencing the defendant, the magistrate noted that there was no need for a confrontation or an identification parade since he was caught red handed. Magistrate Latchman then noted the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, and the need to prohibit others from committing such offences.

In a stern voice, the city magistrate said, “Dare you ever snatch anyone’s chain again!”

Two battling for life at Suddie Hospital --after ingesting poison

A 29-year-old father of three, and a 19-year-old man are battling for their lives at the Suddie Hospital after ingesting poison.

The older of the two is Sookdeo Ramlall of Columbia Village, who reportedly drank a quantity of gramoxone last Sunday in an attempt to end his life. He was rushed to the hospital and admitted.

The other is Kevin Spellen of Anna Regina, who is said to have drunk weedicide Wednesday morning at his home after experiencing problems with his girlfriend. He

too was rushed to the Suddie Hospital and admitted. Reports are that the teenager was vomiting continuously as doctors worked on him.

Since the year started, six persons in Region Two have ended their lives by way of suicide.

At a recent meeting in the Suddie Hospital boardroom where the Regional Health Committee was formed, a representative of the Police who was present at the meeting said when persons ingest poison in an attempt to commit suicide and are rushed to the hospital for treatment, the

Police must be informed.

However, a member of the New Health Committee, Ms Shanta Springer said the Police at Suddie are always informed about suicide cases that are rushed to the hospital.

Several residents on the Essequibo Coast are calling for immediate action to be taken to stop persons from committing suicide.

They are calling for persons from the religious community to come forward and offer spiritual guidance to residents, especially young people.(Rajendra Prabhulall)

Aries If you’ve been thinking about studying astrology, numerology, or other occult sciences, this is the day to start. There may be a school or teacher that you’ve been considering. By doing this, you could open doors to new knowledge, meet new friends who share your interests, and steer your life in a fascinating new direction. Pick up the phone and take the first step.

Taurus A woman you meet at work might point you in a new direction. You should investigate all possible options. This could be a new intellectual interest, a technological skill, or possibly a new and more lucrative source of income. It may involve an unusual field, but don’t worry about that. The world is changing, so what seems unorthodox now could be commonplace tomorrow.

Gemini A friend from far away could contact you by phone, email, or even in person.

This person might bring great news that suddenly turns your life in a new direction. This could involve a new intellectual study or possibly a new circle of friends. At any rate, you will certainly enjoy catching up and hearing what your friend has to say.

Cancer You might try to learn a new computer program today. You could find it a little confusing at first, but as you continue to learn, you will find that it makes things easier for you. You should master it more quickly than you thought. This may sound minor, but it will improve your productivity from now on, leaving you time to explore other possibilities or attend to important matters.

Leo Today you may stumble into an unexpected new friendship. This could come as the result of a social event or an introduction by a close friend. You will discover new rapport the likes of which you haven’t experienced in a long time. You could spend hours trading ideas. Make sure you exchange contact information.

You will definitely want to stay in touch with this person.

Virgo A group meeting of some sort, perhaps job related, could take place in your home today. Whatever business the group has planned should be taken care of quickly and then you will be able to hang out and socialise. You might discover new aspects of your guests you didn’t know existed. This could prove very enlightening for all concerned. Your bond with them will definitely improve.

Libra A phone call from a close friend or love partner could bring a thrilling surprise your way today. An event has occurred that you either gave up on long ago or never dreamed of. This news could necessitate your spending a lot of time on the phone or computer making contacts, but that’s OK. You will be so happy that this happened that you won’t mind the time you spend on it.

Scorpio If you own property, you might discover that its value has increased far beyond anything you dreamed of. This might involve real estate, but it could also involve other resources like stocks, bonds, or family heirlooms. What you choose to do with this information is up to you, but you will probably decide to hang on to what you have. It’s just nice to know it’s valuable.

Sagittarius A surprising phone call or email could come your way today from a friend you haven’t heard from in a long time. This should make you happy, as you’ve probably been wondering what this person was doing. Some business changes may have occurred for your friend, but possible new opportunities might also be in the cards for you. Hear what your friend has to say, think about it, and decide later.

Capricorn Today you may discover that you have a previously untapped talent for the occult sciences. This might involve astrology, numerology, alchemy, or using oracles. A class or workshop could be involved. You tend to be intuitive by nature, and studying these fields may offer an opportunity to train that ability to a higher level of accuracy. Find an expert in one of those areas.

Aquarius There’s someone you’ve wanted to meet for a long time, and today you might have the opportunity to introduce yourself. This could be a potential romantic interest, a teacher you’ve wanted to study with, or someone interesting you might like for a friend. Sparks are apt to fly between you. Don’t hesitate, for this encounter could affect the rest of your life in some profound way.

Pisces Do you feel helpless in the face of problems with technology? If so, you might surprise yourself today. Some software that you use a lot could go haywire, and you won’t want to take the time to wait for a professional. Some study could enable you to come up with the solution on your own. Consulting a professional could demonstrate that you’re on the right track.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

By Brij Parasnath In Trinidad & Tobago WEST Indies Test stalwart

Brilliant Chanderpaul inspires Jaguars to NAGICO Super50 final Shivnarine Chanderpaul, produced a batting masterclass and piloted the Guyana Jaguars into the history record books by becoming the first-ever franchise team to advance to the WICB NAGICO Super50 final which is carded for Sunday at the famous Queen’s Park oval.

In the first ever semi-final of the professional era of Limited Overs cricket, Chanderpaul was the mainstay of the batting and registered a match-winning unbeaten 98 that was studded with six fours off 145 balls.

He was admirable supported by Royston Crandon who was also undefeated on an attractive 45 (51 balls, 3x4s, 1x6) when the Jaguars romped to a heart-warming six-wicket over the Jamaica Franchise at the QP Oval in their day-night fixture that was partially affected by rainy conditions.

The Chanderpaul-Crandon tandem fashioned an unbroken 99-run fifth wicket partnership that carried the Jaguars to189 for 4 off 48.1 overs, with 11 balls remaining. It was sweet victory and a nice way to bounce back after the loss to CCC Marooners in their final Zone A match.

After being set a victory target of 189 in 50 overs; Chanderpaul, who opened the batting alongside Rajendra Chandrika (5); displayed the tenacity, temperament, technique, mental fortitude and stamina to fashion a famous victory for the Guyana Jaguars who will contest the final against the winner of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force versus Combined Campuses an Colleges (CCC) Marooners who are scheduled to contest the second semi-final today at the same venue from 13:30hrs.

Vishaul Singh, one of the two replacement players from the last Zonal match; joined Chanderpaul after Chandrika was LBW for 5 and the score 17 for 1.

Together they redress the early setback and featured in a 59-run second wicket partnership.

However, Singh, who had replaced opener Trevon Griffith and looked good until he got a brain wave and gifted his wicket away, comprehensively bowled by John Campbell who immediately struck another crucial blow by forcing Raymon Reifer to offer a simple return catch off the very first ball received after he had replaced Singh. Clearly, a very casual approach brought about their downfall.

Not too long after, Campbell added another prized scalp to his name when the Jaguars captain Christopher Barnwell played across the line of a well-flighted off-spinning delivery that he missed and was struck on the back

foot. Umpire Brathwaite, in his own slow-motion style; sent Barnwell back to the pavilion for six runs.

But “Mr Stonewall” Chanderpaul continued to upstage all his junior counterparts with a studious and calculated innings that marked his 94 th List A half-century in his 402nd career match. The 40-year-old, who also has twelve List A centuries; brought up his fifty came off 91 balls and included four fours.

He was joined by Royston Crandon and the Jaguars were 107 for 4 when the second batting powerplay started after 35 overs.

At that stage, they required 82 runs from 90 balls and Crandon soon stroked the ball with confidence and power and they carried the Guyana Jaguars home to victory.

Earlier, the Jamaica openers Nkrumah Bonner and John Campbell set a solid foundation with an encouraging 51-run first wicket partnership.

But a terrible mix-up and the run out of Bonner by an alert Shivnarine Chanderpaul allowed the Jaguars to claw their way back into the game.

Campbell was LBW to Steven Jacobs and dismissals were on the same score but in the 15.2 overs and 16.3 overs respectively.

Veerasammy Permaul once again proved his worth as the Jaguars most penetrative bowler and prised out WI Test Jermaine Blackwood, adjudged plumb infront for a solitary run and four balls later removed the dangerous Danza Hyatt for nought, caught by wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble.

The Jaguars were in control when another rainy condition temporarily halt the proceedings with the Jamaicans struggling at 63 for 4 off 24 overs.

However, any notion of a quick demise by the Jamaicans were dispelled by Horace Miller, who enjoyed a bit of good fortune; and he rallied the lower order with useful partnerships. He smashed one six and seven fours off 79 balls and finished as their topscorer with 64 runs.

Jamaica recovered from 79 for 5 off 29.2 overs to add a further 109 runs from 21.4 overs as their innings closed at 188 for 9.

Damion Jacobs (10 no.) and Marquino Mindley (11 no.) pushed the score from 171 for 9 to 188 for the same 9 off the allotted 50 overs.

Albion CCC spin-twins Permaul and Bishoo were once again the Jaguars successful bowlers with 3 for 38 and 3 for 33 respectively.

The Jaguars have restored confidence and will be boosted in their quest for Guyana’s tenth regional 50-overs crown.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Djokovic, Serena rush through at Melbourne Park “Her level, it’s high,” she said. “I think she’s at the level that she left when she stopped playing.”

Men’s champion Stan Wawrinka, who beat Romanian qualifier Marius Copil, the lowest-ranked men’s player in the second round at 194, and eighth seed Milos Raonic, who dispatched American Donald Young, also both advanced after clinical victories.

By Greg Stutchbury MELBOURNE Australia (Reuters) - Top seeds Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams barely moved out of second gear while Victoria Azarenka underlined her Australian Open pedigree as players experienced the hottest conditions of the championship so far yesterday.

Four-time champion Djokovic only needed to up his game after an hour of his 6-0, 6-1, 6-4 victory over Andrey Kuznetsov, while Williams had to be on her mettle a little sooner following some early resistance from former world number two Vera Zvonareva.

Once the 18-time grand slam singles champion got up to speed, however, she cruised away from the Russian with a 7-5, 6-0 victory during the day session.

“Things really clicked. I had no other option but for things to click,” the American told reporters as she moved into the third round and within sight of a po-

Serena Williams of the U.S. casts a shadow as she hits a return to Vera Zvonareva of Russia during their women’s singles secondround match at the Australian Open 2015 tennis tournament in Melbourne, yesterday. tential quarter-final with Azarenka.

Twice champion Azarenka, whose ranking has plummeted to 44 after she was restricted to just nine tournaments last year with foot and knee injuries, proved she would not be kept down for long as she hammered eighth seed Caroline Wozniacki 6-4, 6-2.

“I knew that I’m unseeded so I can play anybody.

I just accept whoever is on the opposite side (and) I’m happy with the way I stayed consistent throughout the whole match,” she said.

“I think there are always things you can improve, but it’s a great progress from one match to another.”

Woziniacki, a former world number one, said while losing “sucks” she felt her good friend was back to her best already.

Brazilian World Cup stadium closed for urgent repairs

By Andrew Downie SAO PAULO, Brazil ,(Reuters) - One of Brazil’s sparkling new World Cup stadiums has been shut down by authorities for urgent repairs less than a year after it opened, government officials told Reuters yesterday.

The Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba will be closed for “emergency repairs to resolve diverse construction problems with the aim of offering safety to users,” the state government that owns the stadium said in a statement.

It said officials had visited the 600 million reals ($233 million) arena and noted that “immediate construction repairs are necessary.”

Officials said some elevators and air conditioning had broken down and that seasonal rains had caused water to leak through the roof.

Initial repairs will start this week but the stadium will be reopened for three months between February and May because state championship games will be held there and heavy rains make repair work

difficult, said the official, who asked not to be named.

The government said it had contacted builders Construtora Mendes Junior. The arena hosted four matches in the 2014 World Cup finals last year.

The closure comes just days before the Joao Havelange Olympic Stadium in Rio is due to re-open after two years of repair work.

That ground was opened in 2007 but closed again in 2012 after engineers said the roof was in danger of collapse.

England captain Morgan victim of attempted blackmail LONDON, England (Reuters) - England’s World Cup captain Eoin Morgan has been victim of an attempted blackmail over a former relationship, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said yesterday.

According to the ECB, an Australian man had demanded a five-figure sum to prevent a story about one-day skipper Morgan and a previous girlfriend appearing in national newspapers in Australia and Britain.

“The allegations related to a brief relationship Eoin had with a woman from Australia five years ago,” a statement said.

“Following liaison with the Metropolitan Police, our support team on the ground in Australia investigated the blackmail.

“This involved approaching the man in question who, when confronted, admitted and apologised for his actions, blaming jealousy.”

The man involved is understood to be in a relationship with the woman Morgan once dated.

The ECB said they would not seek to press charges.

“We will not allow anyone to disrupt our team’s preparation or performance in the tri-series and as we build up to the World Cup. I am pleased that this issue has now been brought to a swift conclusion,” Paul Downton, the ECB’s managing director, said.

HOT CONDITIONS Air temperatures had dropped considerably for the later matches at Melbourne Park, but had exceeded 35 Celsius during the day session, with France’s Adrian Mannarino a notable casualty.

The 26-year-old held two match points in the third set against 12th-seed Feliciano Lopez before he was forced to retire while trailing in the fourth.

Lopez was awarded the

match 4-6, 4-6, 7-6(3), 4-0 and will now face Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz, who beat 17th-seed Gael Monfils in an entertaining five-setter.

Controversy also raged yesterday after a male television interviewer had asked seventh seed Eugenie Bouchard to showcase her dress with a ‘twirl’ after her second round victory on Wednesday.

The Canadian later said it was strange to be asked to do such a thing, while social and mainstream media went into overdrive with accusations of sexism, though Williams said there were more important things to discuss.

“I wouldn’t ask Rafael (Nadal) or Roger (Federer) to twirl. Whether it’s sexist or not, I don’t know,” she said.

“Life is far too short to focus on that. We have so many other problems we want to deal with that we should focus on.”

SHORT WORK Williams’ victory came about 90 minutes after older sister Venus hammered American compatriot Lauren Davis 6-2, 6-3, while sixth seed Radwanska also made short work of Sweden’s Johanna Larsson in a 6-0, 6-1 victory that took just 44 minutes.

Twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova also advanced after a comfortable 6-2, 6-4 victory over Germany’s Mona Barthel.

U.S. Open finalist Kei Nishikori was forced to dig himself out of a small hole when he lost the first set to Ivan Dodig, but once he got warmed up, and the temperatures continued to rise, the Croatian wilted.

“It was ... hot out there,” Nishikori said after winning 4-6, 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(0). “A lot of sun. It wasn’t easy. I was a little bit dizzy and tired.

“But it’s going to be like this in Australia.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Tunisia top but everything up for grabs in group

By Mark Gleeson BIBEYIN, Equatorial Guinea (Reuters) – A 2-1 win over Zambia gave Tunisia top spot in African Nations Cup Group B yesterday but quarter-final places remained undetermined.

Tunisia have four points from two games, two ahead of Cape Verde and the Democratic Republic of Congo who shared a dreary goalless draw in the second game of the night in front of 5 000 enthusiastic supporters at Estadio de Ebibeyin.

Z a m b i a a re b o t t o m with one point and can still dream of progressing to the last eight.

C a p t a i n Ya s s i n e Chikhaoui scored one minute from the end as Tunisia fought back from a goal down to defeat the Zambians, winners in 2012.

Emmanuel Mayuka made up for several misses

the captain ran on to with perfect timing to head home the winner.

“We showed the force of our character,” said Tunisia coach Georges Leekens.

“Despite a poor first half the players assumed responsibility in the second and delivered a good performance even if the referee deprived us of two penalties.”

The Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba thwarts Cape Verde’s Odaïr Fortes. (Photograph: Khaled Desouki/AFP/Getty Images) earlier in the match when he blasted home at the back post for a 60th-minute lead before going off soon after with a groin injury.

Zambia were full value for their advantage but lost concentration and conceded a simple goal from a corner

that was flicked on by Syam Ben Youssef and finished by Ahmed Akaichi in the 70th minute.

Just as a third successive game in Group B looked set for a 1-1 draw, Youssef Msakni set up Chikhaoui with a well-flighted lob that

Guinness Street Football ...

From Backpage

ment, Baptiste said, will truly be a tournament that will unite the various communities in Region #3 since the teams will come from the respective villages.

“We want to let the people of the West Side know that Guinness is with you in 2015!” exclaimed Banks DIH Public Relation Officer Troy Peters.

Peters explained that the tournament should be taken seriously by the participating teams, since it affords the top two finishers a spot in the National Championship and also a shot at representing Guyana in the Guinness Street Football Challenge Caribbean Championship later this year.

Meanwhile, Bess explained that the teams will be placed in four groups and after a round-robin format, the top two teams from each group will go into the knockout stage.

When the tournament opens on Saturday, Golden Star will oppose Brothers United in the first game followed by De Kinderen United versus Vergenoegen AllStars. Patentia Street Ballers will then tackle Raiders, Majee will go head-to-head

with Demerara Speed Boat Service and Young Warriors will face Jetty.

West Side Ballers versus Pouderoyen Show

Stoppers, Admiral United versus Den Amstel FC and Uitvlugt FC versus Showtime are the other games set for the opening day.

American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park Race 1 Flashy Brass Race 2 Fabled Star Race 3 Donegal Hall Race 4 Greasepaint Race 5 Dave Hoeght Race 6 Starship Expresso Race 7 Bagration Race 8 Quiet Kitten Race 9 Pure of Spirit

10:15 hrs Purcell’s Bridge 10:50 hrs Steel Summit 11:20 hrs Big George 11:50 hrs Clondaw Banker

Arab Emirates Racing Tips Jebel Ali 08:15 hrs Firstknight 08:45 hrs Al Razi South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:10 hrs Line Of Fire 08:40 hrs Milynne 09:15 hrs Falling Sky 09:55 hrs Cape Siskin 10:35 hrs Amarillo Starlight 11:10 hrs Shauntrel English Racing Tips Doncaster 08:35 hrs Shantou Magic 09:05 hrs Buckwheat 09:40 hrs Haleo

Huntingdon 08:55 hrs Bouggietopieces 09:25 hrs Dixie Bull 09:55 hrs Arthamint 10:30 hrs Horatio Hornblower 11:05 hrs Knight Of Noir 11:35 hrs Come On Annie 12:05 hrs St Johns Point Ayr 09:15 hrs Milan Flyer 09:45 hrs Quiet Candid 10:20 hrs Mighty Cliché 10:55 hrs One For Harry 10:55 hrs Baby Bach Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 14:05 hrs Sylvan Mist 14:35 hrs Song Of Love 15:05 hrs Stoichkhov 15:35 hrs El Demi 16:05 hrs Togoville 16:35 hrs Pepparpot 17:05 hrs Sharjah

IMPORTANT SAVES Cape Verde were denied a late goal by DR Congo’s 38-year-old goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba who made sev-

eral important saves in the final five minutes.

The oldest player at the tournament stopped a header from defender Fernando Varela before, pouncing like a cat, smothering the rebound from Gege to deny Cape Verde a breakthrough after 85 minutes of turgid exchanges.

Cape Verde substitute Heldon then broke free and cut inside but again Kidiaba belied his age to spring off the line and cover his angles perfectly, blocking the shot with his chest.

“Football is never just

and we have a real feeling of frustration after missing our chances,” said coach Rui Aguas. The only shot on target from the Congolese came from Yannick Bolasie on the stroke of halftime.

They also had captain Youssouf Mulumbu carried off on a stretcher in the first half with a hamstring injury which threatens his continued participation in the finals.

On Monday, Zambia play Cape Verde in Ebibeyin at the same time as the Tunisia-DR Congo game in Bata.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

NBS lends support to Young Warriors Mash Cup fundraiser ONCE again mortgage giant New Building Society (NBS) supports t h e Yo u n g Wa r r i o r s Cricket Club (YWCC) a n n u a l f u n d r a i s e r, Mash Cup 2015, the third edition.

This eagerly anticipated day of action and fun will take place on Monday February 23, a national holiday and will be a five oversa-side. It will involve eleven teams from the No 19/ Canje area.

The defending champions are Young and Restless.

Proceeds from this event will also be donated to

fulfil a small project of a mandir, mosque and church within the area.

At a simple ceremony held recently at the New Amsterdam branch of the Society, Bryan Baker, Supervisor, said that the Society is always charitable and believes strongly in giving back to the community in which it operates to improve the lives of the less fortunate.

He added that the Society always makes significant contributions to the development of sports in the country, referring to

NOTABLE DATES

WHEN the history of Guyana’s boxing is chronicled the name Patrick Ford would be a headliner.

A fearless featherweight Ford has earned many distinctions during a professional career that lasted 11 years, one of them being the first Guyanese to fight for a world title.

Ford made his pro debut in April 1976 and on January 23, 1978 proved that he had power in both hands when he knocked out Trinidadian Clyde Wilson in the fourth round. The following month the hard-hitting featherweight was crowned Guyana’s champion.

The lanky boxer signalled that he was ready for the world stage when dropped a bomb on Panamanian Diego Alcala in September 1978. A worldrated fighter at that time, Alcala was knocked out in the ninth round.

In December 1979 Ford knocked out Cecil Hernandez in the 10th round. Hernandez later died of injuries sustained in the fight that was held in Guyana.

VINCENT `The Kid’ Howard ended Michael `Hitman’ Pittman’s hope of being a winner when the two featherweights met at the National Sports Hall on January 22, 1994. Howard used his superior ring craft to TKO Pittman in the fourth round.

The victory allowed Howard to keep a clean record and was his seventh consecutive win since joining the professional ranks in 1992. The fight was one of three encounters he had with Pittman. In the return bout staged in April of 1994, Howard lost via a points decision at the end of six rounds.

In February 1995 he would again TKO Pittman, this time in the 10th round. Howard had an interesting career that afforded him the chance to match gloves with some of the best in the world at that time. In September 1997 he lost by TKO in the 12th round to Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez.

The Mexican went on to win the WBA featherweight and the WBC super featherweight titles. In his next fight Howard lost by unanimous decision to Kevin `Flushing Flash’ Kelly. The American was crowned WBC featherweight champion later in his career.

Howard then challenged Angel Manfredy in March of 2000 but lost by unanimous decision. `The Kid’ last fought in 2005 and has won 18 fights, lost 14 and drawn two.

Bryan Baker of NBS (New Amsterdam) hands over sponsorship cheque to Hubern Evans in the presence of other staff members.

YWCC thanked NBS for sponsors and a well-orthe Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) and the Berbice Cricket Board NBS-sponsored second di-

vision cricket competitions among others.

In response, Hubern Evans, senior coach of the

such help which will truly make a difference in the lives of many. He promised good publicity for all

ganised tournament. He encouraged other businesses and private entities to follow suit.

Teenager completes Real Madrid move N O RW E G I A N t e e n ager Martin Odegaard has completed his move to Real Madrid. The 16-year-old midfielder signed a contract with the Champions League winners after passing a medical examination.

“It’s a dream come true,” he said. “It is a bit unreal that I’m here at the biggest club in the world.

It’s huge for me, an honour.”

Odegaard will train with both the first team and the reserves but play for the second string, who are coached by France great Zinedine Zidane.

Real have not disclosed details of the financial terms but Spanish media report says they have paid about 3M euros (£2.3M) for the Stromgodset player.

Odegaard told the media that the move to Madrid represented the best opportunity to “develop

Norwegian teenager Martin Odegaard displays his jersey in the presence of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti.

as a footballer” and said there was “no pressure” on him.

He added: “My goal is to become a better footballer. Playing for the first or second team is not so important.”

Odegaard made his debut for Norway as a 15-year-old in August and

had been linked with many of Europe’s top clubs Odegaard came to prominence last year when he became the youngest player to appear and score in the Norwegian Premier League.

He scored five goals and contributed seven assists in 23 appearances for Stroms-

godset.

The teenager is left-footed and has drawn comparisons to Barcelona’s Lionel Messi for his style of play.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has previously described him as “a kid with talent and personality”. (BBC Sport).

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Caribbean teams poised to kick off World Cup qualifying campaign MIAMI BEACH, Florida (CMC) – Caribbean teams took their first steps on the road to the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup when they drew their opponents for the opening rounds of qualification here last week.

The first round, which kicks of March 23, will see the 14 lowest-ranked teams in the region compete in two-leg ties, with the seven winners advancing to the second round to take on the 13 teams ranked ninth to 21st.

Return legs will be played eight days later.

For the first time, all qualifiers will be aligned with FIFA International Windows.

“Based on the last qualifiers where the region and the world saw some of the most exciting games to date, we expect this one to be even better,” said CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb who witnessed the draw attended by World Cup

CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb legend, Brazilian Ronaldo.

Three of the four CONCACAF sides - United States, Mexico and Costa Rica - qualified for the Round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil last year, with Costa Rica advancing to the quarter-finals.

Webb, also a FIFA vice-president, told members he expected the confederation to build on those results in Russia.

“Last year in Brazil we had the most successful World Cup in the history of our confederation,” he said. “ We c e l e b r a t e t h e achievement of those (four) members, as a direct result of their vision, focus and investment in youth and player development, and we have just begun.”

First round matchups will see Barbados clash with the US Virgin

Islands, Dominica do battle against British Virgin Islands and the Bahamas take on arch-rivals Bermuda.

St Kitts and Nevis take on Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla face Nicaragua, Cayman Islands tackle Belize while Montserrat and Curacao lock horns.

T h e s e c o n d ro u n d , scheduled for June 8 with the return leg on June 16, will feature the likes of St Vincent & the Grenadines, Guyana, Antigua & Barbuda, St Lucia, Puerto Rico, Grenada, Canada, Guatemala, Aruba, El Salvador, Cuba, Dominican Republic and Suriname.

Round Three will run from August 31 to September 8 with Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz and Haiti joining the ten winners from round two.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors, along with Mexico, United States, Honduras, Panama, and Trinidad & Tobago, will start their World Cup campaign from round four which will comprise three

groups of four teams, doing battle between November, 2015 and September, 2016, under a round-robin format.

The fifth and final round, scheduled to take place between November, 2016 and October, 2017, will feature six teams competing for three automatic spots at the World Cup. The fourthplaced team will enter a playoff for another World Cup berth.

Overall, 35 teams will contest the qualifying campaign – 25 from the Caribbean, seven from Central American and three from North America.

CONCACAF is the continental governing body for football in North, Central America and the Caribbean.

Following are the draws for the first two rounds of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 World Cup: ROUND ONE: (March 23-31) Match 1: Bahamas vs Bermuda Match 2: British Virgin Islands vs Dominica

Match 3: Barbados vs US Virgin Islands Match 4: Turks and Caicos Islands v St Kitts and Nevis Match 5: Nicaragua vs Anguilla Match 6: Belize vs Cayman Islands Match 7: Curacao vs Montserrat

ROUND TWO: (June 8-16) Match 8: St Vincent & the Grenadines vs Guyana Match 9: Antigua & Barbuda vs St Lucia Match 10: Puerto Rico vs Grenada Match 11: Canada vs Winner Match #2 Match 12: Dominican Republic vs Winner Match #6 Match 13: Guatemala vs Winner Match #1 Match 14: Aruba vs Winner Match #3 Match 15: Winner Match #4 vs El Salvador M a t c h 1 6 : Wi n n e r Match #7 vs Cuba M a t c h 1 7 : Wi n n e r Match #5 vs Suriname

Stop repeating errors, Holder tells Windies team mates EAST LONDON, South Africa (Reuters) - West Indies captain Jason Holder has lashed his teammates for repeating basic errors and urged them to take more

responsibility weeks away from the 50-over World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The side slumped to a dismal nine-wicket defeat in the

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday January 23, 2014) 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: (1) 26 (2) RohanKanhai (WI vs ENG, 1973) Today’s Quiz: (1)Which WI has scored most ODI runs to date without ever making a ‘duck’?

(2) Put these in order beginning with the man who has made the highest individual score in ODIs: Gordon Greenidge; Shiv Chanderpaul; Desmond Haynes; Dinesh Ramdin Answers in tomorrow’s issue

West Indies ODI captain Jason Holder

third one-day international in South Africa on Wednesday as they showed little application, zero fight and in many cases a lack of skill on a Buffalo Park wicket that was far better than the 122 they managed in 33.4 overs suggested.

South Africa chased down that total with more than half their overs remaining to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series and leave the tourists with series questions with both bat and ball ahead of the World Cup that starts on February 14.

“I am worried about the way we are going about our cricket. I think we can be a lot more responsible and put up our hands sometimes when we make errors,” the 23-year-old Holder, captaining in his first series, told reporters.

“I think the quicker we learn from our errors the better we would make improvements. At the moment, it just seems as we are making the same errors over and over

again.

“It’s just about correcting those errors and being man enough to say I’ve committed this error and just moving on from it.”

Holder spoke of restoring pride in the final two ODIs, the next of which is in Port Elizabeth on Sunday, and says there has to be some straight-talking.

“I believe in honesty. One thing I pride myself in is being honest so I’ll be very honest with the fellas,” Holder said.

“I’m one to just speak my mind at times and when it is appropriate to speak my mind, I will speak my mind.

“It’s just about getting the message across and having players understand where I am coming from and I think once that is established, things become a lot easier.”

West Indies open their Wo r l d C u p c a m p a i g n against Ireland on February 16.

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 23, 2015

Golden Jaguars getting ready to roar in Barbados GUYANA’S Senior Nat i o n a l M e n ’s f o o t b a l l team, popularly known as the Golden Jaguars, began preparation for their February 1 International Friendly against Barbados.

The game will be played in the Land of the Flying

Fish, and the Jaguars, behind Head coach Jamaal Shabazz, are aiming to send a strong message to the rest of the Caribbean that they are ready to roar once again.

With the FIFA 2018 Russia World Cup qualifiers set for June where the Jaguars will face St

Vincent and Grenadines, it’s the hope of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) technical staff, to use the Barbados game to assess where they stand and what adjustments will be needed to face their regional rivals.

London-based Chris

Getting warm! Some members of the team during their warm-up sessions aiming to make his debut for Shabazz and his assistant Nurse made a return the na- the Golden Jaguars. WelshWayne ‘Wiggy’ Dover, the tional unit for the first time man, 23, is a midfield playGolden Jaguars had their since captaining the Jaguars er who played for Major first practice session and during their historic run in League Soccer (MLS) outfit, will be encamped until the 2014 Brazil World Cup Toronto FC. their departure to Barbaqualifiers, while his teamYesterday, at the Guydos on January 30. (Rawle mate, Canadian Jamaal Smith ana National Stadium, Toney) also returned to don the ‘gold under the supervision of and green’.

Goalkeeper/coach Andrew Hazel caught in session yesterday at the Another Canadian, EmGuyana National Stadium. ery Welshman, also arrived,

WICB statement re Kieran Powell ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) yesterday clarified a number of issues relating to Mr Kieran Powell who recently issued a statement.

1. At the time he requested a leave of absence in June 2014, Mr Powell was a contracted employee of the WICB with certain contractual obligations.

2. At no time was any officer of the WICB or Team Management furnished with the details of Mr Powell’s personal issues.

3. WICB officers repeatedly attempted to contact Mr Powell via his personal phone and email following his departure from the team. To date Mr Powell has not furnished the WICB with personal contact details.

Attached is a timeline of events with regard to the WICB attempts to contact Mr Powell. · During the West Indies vs New Zealand Test Series, June 2014, Mr Powell communicated with the West Indies Team Management and requested a leave of absence from cricket for personal reasons. · After Mr Powell left the team, neither the then Head Coach nor the Team Manager

could contact him on his direct telephone number for an extended period. · After the conclusion of the Test Series, in late July 2014, when the then Head Coach and Team Manager managed to speak to Mr Powell (via third party phone) they offered support.

This offer was turned down

by Mr Powell. · August 2014: The Director of Cricket, Rich-

Kieran Powell ard Pybus, via email and phone, attempted to contact Mr Powell to offer support with his personal issues. This too failed. Mr Pybus was keen understanding from Mr Powell a valid reason for his prolonged absence from work and had wanted to offer support to him on his path back into cricket. Further the Director of Cricket had

wanted to propose that he draft a plan for his return to cricket that the WICB could support him with. · Mr Powell spoke with the WICB President, Mr Dave Cameron, on August 22 and indicated that he would only return to the game in 2015. · September 2014: Mr Pybus spoke with Mr Powell on 11th September and offered support to Mr Powell to assist him in finding resolution to his personal issues. He was also informed of the ramifications of not providing documentation for his leave of absence from work, for such an extended period of time.

4. The WICB continued to make monthly retainer contract payments to Mr Powell despite the fact that the WICB could not initiate contact with him for almost two months (June/ July 2014).

5. Mr Pybus categorically rejects the assertion that he coerced Mr Powell into divulging the details of his personal matters.

6. Contrary to Mr Powell’s repeated assertion, at no time did the WICB issue any media release or any other communication stating that

Mr Powell was “axed” from the West Indies Team. In all communications with the media and public the WICB consistently respected Mr Powell’s request to treat his matters as private.

7. The Selection Panel, as is the practice, contacted Mr Powell prior to the commencement of the tour of India to understand the state of affairs from his perspective. The selectors, too, attempted to reach out and support Mr Powell.

8. Mr Powell stated: “However, determined to seal my position back in the West Indies squad, I called both selectors back separately and advised them both of my immediate availability”. The WICB restates that selection to the West Indies team is not a right or entitlement of any player and is at the discretion of the independent Selection Panel and based on pre-determined and widely publicised selection criteria.

The WICB extends best wishes to Mr Powell in all his endeavours as he works on regaining a place on the West Indies team and, consistent with previous offers, stands ready to assist as is necessary.

Dover returns from Philadelphia

ALPHA United head coach Wayne `Wiggy’ Dover returned from the USA on Wednesday more equipped to serve his club and Guyana’s football.

Fresh from participating at the famous National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Annual Convention in Philadelphia, Dover revealed that his sojourn was an enlightening experience where he was provided the opportunity to meet with prominent persons in world football.

“It was informative and dealt with all aspects of the game. I am pleased that I was afforded the opportunity to attend such a convention and hope that other local coaches have a chance,” Dover said yesterday.

The Convention ran from January 14 to 18 and is considered as the world’s largest gathering of football coaches. On an annual basis, the NSCAA Convention draws approximately 4 000 coaches from our 30 000-plus members, and more than 10 000 attendees over five days for live field demonstrations and lecture sessions, networking socials and coaching diplomas.

According to Dover, the main focus of the forum was to expose young coaches to the fundamentals of football/soccer in an effort for them to enrich the sport

Alpha United coach Wayne `Wiggy’ Dover when they return to their respective territories. The coach piloted Alpha United from being the whipping boys of local football to one of the top clubs in Caribbean football.

He explained that while in Philadelphia, there were practical demonstrations by the Barcelona Under-20, and German Under-17 coaches and lectures sessions with Landon Donovan, considered the best American soccer player ever, and DaMarcus Beasley.

“I have gained experience and plan to impart my knowledge while I am back in Guyana,” Alpha coach said. Dover would soon get a chance to show off his recently acquired knowledge as Alpha United will commence training for the Mayor’s Cup football competition to start shortly.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Golden Jaguars getting ready See to roar in Story on Barbados Page 35

Brilliant Chanderpaul inspires Jaguars into NAGICO Super50 final

See Story on Page 30

...Guyana beat the Jamaica Franchise by 6 wickets in first “semis”

Shivnarine Chanderpaul drives through the off-side during his unbeaten 98 at the Queen’s Park Oval last night.

Royston Crandon pulls to leg in his unbeaten 45.

Guinness Street Football Challenge ‘West Side’ Edition launched ... 16 teams to compete for $300 000 top prize

By Rawle Toney

SIXTEEN teams, hailing from the ‘West Side’ of Demerara, will be aiming to claim the $300 000 first place prize up for grabs when the Guinness Street Football Challenge competition kicks off on Saturday at Pouderoyen.

It is the first time the competition which has swept the nation by storm will be played on the ‘West Side’ and according to tournament coordinator Travis Bess, teams are more than overwhelmed and excited to showcase their talent in the country’s biggest street football tournament.

The tournament runs Guinness Street Football Challenge ‘West Side’ Edition coordinator Travis Bess receives the through to February 7 and will winners’ trophy from Guinness representative yesterday at the launching of the tournament.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

also be played at the Vergenoegen Rice Mill tarmac. Second-place team will pocket $150 000, third-placers $100 000 and fourth-placers $75 000. There’s also a $50 000 incentive for the team adjudged the ‘Fair Play top performer’.

Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Manager, speaking at the launching yesterday in the boardroom of Banks DIH at Thirst Park, said that his company is happy to deliver as promised and to keep its mandate to ensure that the Guinness Street Football Challenge tournament becomes a national event.

The West Side tourna-

See Page 32 FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2015