Guyana chronicle 17 10 14

guyana No. 103983 friday october 17, 2014

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

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President urges parents to play greater role in children’s education Page

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––as ‘Because We Care’ initiative goes to Mabaruma

INCLUDING VAT

Health Ministry puts Page 5 stringent restrictions on entry to Guyana ––in light of Ebola threat

AML/CFT Bill standoff ...

Guyana to know Page 8 fate on October 30 GuySuCo to move to Page 9 arbitration Diwali Page 20 Motorcades start this weekend

President Donald Ramotar and Education Minister Priya Manickchand being given a rousing welcome on arrival at Mabaruma for the disbursement exercise

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

President urges parents to play greater role in children’s education ––as ‘Because We Care’ initiative goes to Mabaruma

PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar told a huge gathering of Region One residents yesterday that the ‘Because We Care’ initiative is yet another intervention by the Administration to take some pressure off parents with school age children.

He, however, called on parents to play their part in see page 3

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

President urges parents to play greater role ...

From page 2

ensuring that their children receive an education, adding that while the government continues to consistently make resources available, it is the duty of a parent to ensure that their child attends school regularly.

Noting the huge sums of money the government has been expending on education and the social sector over the years, the President said, “We believe education is important; if we develop more educated people, they will attract investment and employment, and we can have a better country, and it also ends poverty. If you generate employment, then it helps to fight poverty.”

On the subject of education being a critical tool in the fight against poverty, the President said, “I know the temptation is among males to go to the ‘gold bush’ to make a quick dollar; that is penny wise and pound foolish; life has shown us that poverty is oppressive.”

To press the point, he drew reference to several developed countries, which, though they have little or no natural resources, have some of the richest economies, because of the emphasis they placed on ensuring that the populace was well educated.

He contrasted this with those developing countries, which, though they have an abundance of natural resources, have done precious little to develop the requisite human resources.

“That is why,” he said, “we have been investing in education and the social sector, and ensuring equal opportunity, because this country belongs to all of us, and we all must have an

equal share and education is one of the best ways to provide and give you the tools that you need.”

The President also took time out to assist in presenting the cash grant to some of the eager parents.

Over the next few days, parents with school-age children in the Mabaruma Sub-Region will receive their $10,000 education grant. The initiative that will cost the Government $2Billion, will benefit over 188,400 families At yesterday’s exercise, which was done at the Mabaruma Primary School, pupils from Barabina Primary, Mabaruma Primary and Nursery, Sheba Nursery, and students from North West Secondary were presented with the cash grants.

As Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr Norman Whittaker observed during the course of the exercise, “Our government determined many decades ago that education is critical and important to the development of people, of families, and communities.”

And while other things are equally as important, the Government has always given due recognition to the fact that education is vital, hence efforts have been made over the years to come up with innovative ways to bring quality education to citizens.

Education Minister, Ms Priya Manickchand, spoke of the government’s consistency in investing in the population. “We have been, as a government, very consistent in our investment in education; and that starts from our belief that the only way we can improve your lives, communities, and make our country better and your chil-

dren’s lives better is if we educate them. We are sure that education is that one sure way.”

She further reasoned that if children are given a sound education in addition to the other resources that are being made available to them, then, in time, the results will pay off.

Pointing to the recent National Grade Six Assessment and Caribbean Examination Council results, the Minister noted that already the previous investments are bearing fruit across the country. She expressed the hope that with this new investment, more would be achieved.

Minister Manickchand told the gathering that the distribution of the grants shows that the government has confidence in citizens that they will do their part in ensuring that their children receive a sound education.

She noted that she is also hopeful that citizens will play their part in assisting Guyana to achieve universal secondary education as it has already achieved universal nursery and primary education.

The Mabaruma sub-region is the fourth location across the country that has received the cash grant since it was launched on October 11 in Bartica.

President Donald Ramotar and Education Minister, Ms Priya Manickchand handing over a cash grant to a parent during the disbursement exercise at the Mabaruma Primary School Residents of Leguan and Wakenaam, Region 3 and communities in Moruca, Region 1 have also benefitted from the initiative thus far. (GINA)

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Guyana looking to foster closer ties with Islamic Development Bank

GUYANA is currently exploring the option of fostering closer ties with the Islamic Development Bank, including giving active consideration to the possibility of joining that Bank.

So said Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, after meeting with the leadership of the Bank during a visit to Washington DC last weekend.

“The Islamic Development Bank aims to foster economic and social progress, and is an internationally respected development institution,” Minister Singh said.

“Furthermore, Islamic finance is currently attracting more international attention than ever before. In addition, Guyana is already a member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and is home to a large and vibrant Muslim population.

It is therefore appropriate that we explore further this

President of the Islamic Development Bank, Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Ali Al Madani (second left) with, from left, Chief Planning Officer in the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Clyde Roopchand; Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh; Acting Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr. Gobin Ganga; and Guyana’s Ambassador to the United States, Mr. Bayney Karran option of financial support,” he said.

At the meeting in DC, Minister Singh and the B a n k ’s P r e s i d e n t , D r.

Ahmed Mohammed Ali Al Madani, discussed opportunities for closer cooperation between Guyana and the Islamic Development Bank,

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and the process by which Guyana could eventually become a member.

Minister Singh reaffirmed Guyana’s interest

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in being able to access concessional financing from the Bank to help fund local projects aimed at further improving Guyana’s

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physical and social infrastructure, and to raise the standard of living for all Guyanese.

The Islamic Development Bank is an international financial institution established in October 1975 with 56 member countries.

It participates in equity capital and grant loans to support projects and enterprises in member countries, and also establishes and operates special funds for specific purposes, including a fund for assistance to Muslim communities in non-member countries.

The Bank is charged with the responsibility of assisting in the promotion of foreign trade, especially in capital goods, among member countries; providing technical assistance to member countries; and extending training facilities for personnel engaged in development activities in member countries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Health Ministry puts stringent restrictions on entry to Guyana ––in light of Ebola threat

By Navendra Seoraj

AS THE cases of Ebola are on the rise in some parts of the world, the Ministry of Health is assuring Guyanese here that there are stringent restrictions on entry to Guyana.

In a release yesterday, Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran noted that there are stringent restrictions on entry to Guyana by persons, who may pose a threat to the health of the nation by the importation of the Ebola virus.

INTERNATIONAL CONCERN The entry restrictions would apply particularly with regard to citizens and visitors from West African countries where the disease is currently raging and represents a public health threat of international concern.

Dr. Ramsaran noted that the MOH has maintained vigilance since and will continue to protect Guyana from this deadly virus.

Lately Guyana has upped the ante on various measures to ensure that the Ebola virus remains out of the country.

There have so far been improvements at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), training of staff members of the GPHC on how to handle cases of Ebola, etc…

Since the deadly virus resurrected earlier this year in West Africa, it has so far spread to other countries, including one of the most dominant countries in the world when it comes to travelling, the USA. This has since made countries worldwide enhance their health sectors and also implement stricter measures at the various airports and hospitals in their countries.

A recent report from the WHO showed that there have so far been 8,997 cases, whereby 5,006 have been laboratory-confirmed cases and the total number of deaths thus far adding up to approximately 4,493.

As the rampant virus continues to cause chaos in some parts of the world, persons are urged not to panic, but just to be careful and also practice good hygiene.

ABOUT THE EBOLA VIRUS According to the Health Minister, WHO, it is thought that Dr. Bheri Ramsaran fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are natural Ebola virus hosts. Ebola is introduced into the

human population through close contact with the blood, Secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected animals such as chimpanzees, gorillas, fruit bats, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines were found ill or dead in the rainforest.

Some symptoms of the Ebola virus include high fever, headache, vomiting, sore throat, weakness, stomach pains and lack of appetite.

WHO also stated that supportive care-rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids and treatment of specific symptoms, improves survival.

They also note that there is as yet no proven treatment available for the Ebola virus. However, a range of potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies and drug therapies are currently being evaluated.

No licensed vaccines are available yet, but two potential vaccines are undergoing human safety testing.

AFC calls for information on plans to address Ebola THE Alliance For Change (AFC) is calling on the Government to publicly outline details of its plans and exactly what is being done to prevent the Ebola virus from reaching Guyana.

The AFC stated that while the Government claims that ports of entry are being monitored, one privately-owned newspaper revealed that no monitoring was being done at the Ogle Airport.

The AFC added that Guyana’s unmanned borders also pose a challenge, because the back-track route to Suriname for example, is as popular and widely used as an entry point as the authorised port at Moleson Creek.

They also want to know how persons using the backtrack routes are being monitored.

The AFC says they would like to observe how healthcare workers are being trained to protect themselves; handle suspected cases; handle confirmed cases; the disposal

of clothing and other contaminants.

The Opposition also noted that they wanted to know how port officials are being trained to deal with suspected cases.

The AFC would also like to know what measures are being put in place to educate the public on how to respond in the event of an outbreak With no indication of when a sitting of the National Assembly will be convened, The AFC is calling on the Government to make full disclosure on how Guyana is preparing to prevent the entry of Ebola to our society.

Also, they noted that they would like to be updated on if such measures fail, how they are preparing relevant personnel and the public to deal with an outbreak.

The Opposition noted that they are standing ready to support the Government in efforts to protect our people against this deadly virus.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Justice on the auction block, sold to the highest bidder SHE was merely 21, on the cusp of her life, with the expectations of life’s promises yet unfulfilled. She was the apple of her parents’ eyes and the idol of her little sister. She was all things good to many people, including her employers, who described her as a model employee.

But to the general society her life has no value, because she was poor, powerless, and therefore voiceless.

Deokie Pooran was killed on 17 September, 2010 by a ruthless truck driver who had no qualms about simultaneously speeding, overtaking and using his cellphone, all while driving his heavy-duty truck on the railway embankment; despite the latent threat his actions posed to other more vulnerable road-users.

And this threat was realised when, in trying to overtake a car without reducing his speed, while still on his cellphone, he slammed into Malinia Zameer and her four-year-old son, Kisan, badly injuring them before crushing the life out of Deokie, who was patiently waiting at the corner to cross

the road on her way to work at Budget Supermarket. She was approximately halfway between her home and her place of employment – mere yards away from both locations; but she never again reached her worksite; and she only once more went home to her family – in a coffin in transit to the cemetery.

Only substantial contributor to her impoverished family of four, Deokie was responsible for most of the family’s expenses, because her father was ailing and could only work as an illpaid watchman and her mother, Carmen Itwaru, is a housewife who cannot circumnavigate the corridors of the wider society, to which she had never faced exposure and of which she seems very afraid, especially during this period of intense depression, as she mourns her decent and dependable daughter. Deokie’s baby sister depended on her for most of her educational accessories.

The truck driver’s wife was a policewoman at the Vigilance Police Station where the report was made. And the family got the royal runaround to get justice for the loss of their

beloved daughter from the system. The police traditionally and blatantly closed ranks to protect their own, as was witnessed when an eleven-year-old juvenile was raped and brutalised by a policeman, as in many other instances. The Police Force is a microcosm of the wider society – the Guyanese society has become very lawless.

The case was originally scheduled for November of 2010, but the truck driver never turned up; and this begs the question of why he was out of prison in the first place after having deprived a human being of her life with his callous and deliberate actions.

It was his choice to speed on the road with a heavy truck. It was his choice to overtake a car without due care or consideration for pedestrians and other road-users while speeding, and it was his choice to use a cellphone while driving, all criminal actions that led to the death of a worthier human being.

Due to his absence the case was postponed to 10th February of the following year, or so Deokie’s poor and grieving parents were told. However, when the

case was not called up Deokies’ parents were advised to take their grievance to the Police Complaints Authority, presided over by Justice Cecil Kennard, by whom they were informed that the case had instead been called on the 6th January 2011 and, due to the case jacket not having been found, was further postponed to May of that year.

Deokie was no super-achiever, but she stood out in these times of rude, selfish and disrespectful young people. She was an exemplary daughter to her poor parents, a “humble and good worker” to her employers, and a superb role model to her little sister.

There were many similarities between Deokie and Sheema Manger, also 21, the latter who was deliberately run down and murdered by a beast who stole her cellphone. Both worked to help themselves and their families, especially younger siblings, whom they were helping to educate and to whom they were exceptional role models. Both girls were disciplined and hard-working, continuing to pursue further studies while earning an income; and both

girls were taken from their loved ones in brutal ways by beasts, and both were servants of the Lord who regularly attended church, even serving as Sunday School teachers.

Sheema Mangar’s only and younger sibling, little brother Jason, also was mugged by a hoodlum and nearly lost his life for his cellphone, which was his beloved sister’s last gift to him, along with a desk for his studies. However, Radica Thakoor and her husband were saved the unimaginable horror of losing both their children to cellphone thieves and murderers because, although Jason was injured, he is still alive to provide some solace for his grieving parents.

There were many witnesses to the wanton slaying of both girls; but noone is willing to come forward. This is a terrible indictment on the Guyanese society.

Sheema Mangar’s parents, especially mom Radika Thakoor, are running around like headless chickens, trying to get answers and action so that justice will finally be served and

some value be placed by society and the justice system on their daughter’s life. Deokie Pooran’s parents are simple persons who cannot face up to the bullies in society and who will not know the first step to take to pursue justice for their daughter; but maybe that is the wiser option, because whether by choice or not, they are too poor to receive justice for their silenced daughters; and they are voiceless in their helplessness in a society and a justice (sic!) system that continues to fail the poor and powerless.

Today another poor and powerless victim is seeking recourse to justice; but the court itself has silenced his voice, while the rich and powerful perpetrator is allowed every latitude – in the media, in the National Assembly, in the public fora; and yes, in the justice system. The poor and powerless indeed have no voice, because even the so-called advocates for justice support the rich and powerful – and justice is on the auction block, sold to the highest bidder.

Guyanese have every reason to celebrate THE People’s Progressive Party has every reason to celebrate. It has, as a political party, won regional and general elections for five consecutive terms since the restoration of democracy on October 5, 1992.

Before 1992, the PPP won elections in April 1953 and following the suspension of the Constitution and the party’s removal from office, again in 1957 when the life of the interim Government came to an end and fresh

elections were held.

The PPP went on to win the elections of 1961 but a studied and calculated attempt to change the electoral system from ‘first past the post’ to ‘proportional representation’ saw the PPP manipulated out of office even though it won the plurality.

But it is not so much the fact of winning elections that really mattered in the end; rather, it is in the exercise of political power that sets the PPP aside and apart from

previous administrations including that of the colonial Government.

The interim Government which was appointed by the British Government after the ejection of the PPP from office in 1953 turned out to be nothing but a huge failure.

The country for all practical purposes was only marking time. This was hardly surprising as the majority of those who were catapulted into political office had either failed to win a seat

or were “loyalists” to the Crown and had little or no interest in the affairs of state.

It was only after the PPP was re-elected to office in 1957 that any real attempt was made to meaningfully address the concerns of the people, in particular, the working people. A number of policy measures were taken to boost agricultural production in rice, milk and dairy production so much so that the United Force in its election manifesto promised

to provide the people with “free milk and cassava” in its election manifesto.

In the area of social sector development, much emphasis was placed in education and health which saw among other stellar projects the establishment of the University of Guyana and the Bank of Guyana both of which were the brainchild of the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

Political power for the PPP is not the end but the means to a much bigger end,

namely to enhance the quality of life of the Guyanese people. This is why the PPP can take pride of the fact that it has played the key role in all major aspects of our development both in terms of constitutional and democratic reforms as well as infrastructural development.

Indeed, Guyana’s changing landscape both from an infrastructural and a political perspective is inextricably

See Page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Interesting to watch how some high profile lawyers defend suspected money launderers, drug dealers

I AM following the recent drama of the Court matter involving the publisher of Kaieteur News, which I noted has caused a lot of attention and media publicity. I noticed that even persons in the public domain were following the newspaper owner and wife, the defendants. I decided to put pen to paper as it appears that the Guyanese people love drama and some even follow and defend the rich and ‘wanna-be’ celebrities, lending support to growing lawlessness in the country.

I was curious too (after reading about the barrage of high-profile lawyers hired by the newspaper owner) as to why someone would need so many lawyers to defend what was described as a simple case that would not see the light-of-day.

It is interesting as to how these high profile lawyers will defend the perpetrators because, so far as I have seen, the angle the newspaper owner has publicly adopted as his defence is a joke and laughable at best.

The newspaper owner and his letter writers, fake ones I assume, have chosen to use the newspaper to publish letters, with these petty defence positions.

One writer says that because the newspaper owner and wife have been charged for tax evasion then children of Officials in Guyana, including the GRA Head, should also be charged for the same thing.

There is no way that the two situations can be equated. Any level-minded Guyanese would be aware that if someone benefits from a duty-free concession on a vehicle and he is a public official with children, that at some point the children may drive the vehicle, especially, if they all reside at the same premises and the vehicle is usually parked there.

This cannot be compared to a man and his wife with ‘seemingly’ lots of money (shoe store, newspaper company, etc) driving two very expensive vehicles belonging to two elderly strangers who are poor persons and who live as far away as ‘Timbuktu’ from the everyday ‘borrowers’. One would want to ask the obvious - why would someone do that? In fact, why would the elderly folks go to such lengths to apply for duty-free concessions for expensive vehicles if they wanted to relax as old folks at home and have no intention of driving them?

Were they employing the newspaper owner and his wife as their drivers? Come on Guyana!

There has to be more to this case.

When I first read the details of this case, the first thing that came to mind was a clear case of money laundering. This process involves persons with lots of money at their disposal and who cannot account publicly for it, especially if the funds were acquired by not so honest means. They would give other persons who had nothing, some money to put things in their names when they (the money launderers) were the true beneficiaries. In the end, the persons who accept and utilise these funds are always indebted to the money launderers, in many cases drug dealers.

RAMRATTAN SINGH

Guyanese have every ...

From Page 6 linked to visionary leadership and good governance employed by the PPP/C Government, by which the country successfully mobilised resources for development under very trying conditions and a hostile political Opposition.

Guyana today is no longer part of any IMF programme as in the past and therefore enjoys much greater latitude and leverage to pursue policies and programmes that accord with national imperatives.

True independence has always been a dream of the Guyanese people who for over 150 years were subjected to British colonial rule and for close to a quarter of a century after political independence still remained in the clutches of neo-colonial

and undemocratic rule.

In a real sense the true liberation of Guyana only began with the restoration of democracy on October 5, 1992 when for the first time the country experienced democratic rule in an independent Guyana. It is common knowledge that all elections in post-independence Guyana were blatantly and massively rigged by the PNC, which made a mockery of our independence and the democratic aspirations of the Guyanese people. The PPP/C became the first democratically elected Government in post-independence Guyana and Dr. Cheddi Jagan became the first democratically elected President of Guyana.

The people of Guyana are today the true masters of their destiny, thanks to the restoration of democratic rule.

They enjoy a fundamental

freedom which was denied them for close to three decades by the PNC, that is the freedom to elect a Government of their choice. This is a fact that cannot and should not be downplayed. Indeed, it is the single most important distinguishing characteristic between the current PPP/C administration and the former PNC administration.

The PPP/C administration is a democratically elected administration in contrast to the PNC administration which was foisted on the Guyanese people through a combination of force and fraud.

A fresh wind of democracy is now blowing across the country. Guyanese have every reason to be proud of the achievements we have collectively made over the years.

HYDAR ALLY

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Crime Chief ...

Case file on Glenn Lall’s alleged threat against Sattaur with DPP

THE Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has completed its investigations into the alleged threat made by publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall to the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur.

And Crime Chief, M r. L e s l i e J a m e s yesterday disclosed that the matter is now with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The investigations followed a complaint made by the GRA Commissioner-General. He lodged a formal complaint at the Brickdam Police Publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall Station, regarding an alleged threat from publisher of Kaieteur News, Mr. Glenn Lall.

Standard Operating Procedures in similar matters require the lodging of one’s firearm,

if the person making the alleged threat is a licensed firearm holder. However, it is unclear whether or not Lall has lodged his licensed firearm.

MADE IN AUGUST The alleged threats to the GRA Head were made in late August when two vehicles used

by Lall and his wife and alleged to be part of a remigrant duty-free scam were impounded by the Authority.

At the time Sattaur disclosed that he received a telephone call from a person “whose voice I recognised as Mr. Glenn Lall” and was threatened.

He said, “Lall called me from an overseas number and threatened to expose me; he threatened to deal with me in a matter, as if I’m a thief and he’s going to do this thing, because I am using my office to deal with the matters I normally deal with.

“He threatened to use his newspaper to expose me; I don’t know what wrong I am doing. If I am trying to do the Government’s work…I don’t know why people should be upset, if they are doing wrong things, they should be subject to the laws as well.”

According to Sattaur such actions, the making of threats, are unconscionable.

“I am not acting vindictively. I am doing my work. Mr. Lall is not excluded from paying tax-

AMLC/FT Bill standoff ...

Guyana to know fate on October 30 ––via FATF Website

FOLLOWING the discouraging outcome of the October 15 meeting of the Select Committee, the Government is hoping for favourable pronouncements by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The international body’s plenary meeting is scheduled for October 18-24 in Paris, France.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon at his weekly post-Cabinet meeting at the Office of the President yesterday said that Guyana’s fate will be made known on FATF’s website on Thursday, October 30.

FATF’s decision will be based on their consideration of the recommendations from the targeted review which Guyana underwent. That targeted review concluded with an engagement in Miami, Florida with the Americas Regional Review Group (ARRG) in late September.

Guyana’s delegation to FATF’s plenary next week will be headed by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr Anil Nandlall. At that forum, the recommendations that came out of the targeted review will be

presented and discussed; at the end of the meet, the International Co-operation Review Group (ICRG) is expected to make a decision for adoption by FATF. Dr. Luncheon explained that once adopted, this decision will be binding, as it would outline FATF’s views and instructions regarding the way Guyana is to be treated by the other FATF member-countries worldwide.

“Guyana remains hopeful that those decisions and the conclusions of FATF would not see a worsening of the level of blacklisting that is currently visited on Guyana, by the other countries that subscribe to FATF,” the HPS said.

Meanwhile, efforts continue locally to achieve the 2010 objective of Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) compliant Anti-Money Laundering legislation. In this regard, Government Ministries have collaborated in the preparation of documentation for the targeted review.

At the level of Parliament, Dr. Luncheon

es,” the GRA Commissioner-General said.

The two vehicles in question, PRR 8398 and PRR 8399, which were handed over to GRA and impounded at the Authority’s warehouse, followed an hour’s-long standoff between GRA officials and Navin Sankar, a high-ranking GRA employee.

Six criminal charges altogether have since been filed against Lall, his wife Bhena, and Sankar’s parents, Narootandeo and Gharbassi Brijnanan, who have all been implicated in the scam.

An investigation Commissioner-General of the was then launched (GRA), Mr. Khurshid Sattaur to ensure that procedures and policy, as well as the provisions of the law were adhered to. The criminal charges, this newspaper understands, stem from that investigation.

said the first select committee meeting since June earlier this year saw no changes in the Opposition’s earlier positions.

“They brought nothing new; and their

aspirations of the Administration in having CFATF-compliant legislation were not furthered at that meeting,” Dr Luncheon said.

(GINA)

HPS says ...

Date for next House Sitting hinges on several factors ––three new Bills to be tabled

HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon said yesterday that the Government’s interest in getting the date for the next sitting of Parliament is dependent on a number of factors, other than just the Alliance For Change’s (AFC) No-Confidence Motion.

There are outstanding Financial Papers, Bills and committee reports that remain to be addressed. Some of these include: The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, the Education Bill, the Wildlife Import and Export Bill and the Telecommunications Bill.

Several other pieces of legislation are also on the agenda for the new parliamentary session, such as the Agriculture

Ministry’s Food Safety Bill, and the Legal Affairs Ministry’s Motor Vehicle Third-Party Insurance Bill to facilitate the presence of Brazilian motor vehicular traffic in Guyana.

The Government will also be tabling the Anti-Terrorism Bill, which has combined features of the commitment to the international anti-money laundering agenda, as well as features of the local anti terrorism commitments.

“The date for the sitting, were it to be exclusively decided by Central Government, would depend on all of these factors, other than the No Confidence Motion and its hearings,” Dr Luncheon told reporters yesterday during his weekly post-Cabinet meeting at the Office of the President. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

GuySuCo signals it’s intention to move to arbitration –following recommendation to reinstate suspended worker

By Vanessa Narine THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the recommendation of the Ministry of Labour to reinstate Mr. Daniels Steven, who was suspended after an alternation with an estate manager.

The suspension last month resulted in a massive strike in the sugar belt and subsequent agreement between GuySuCo and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU).

Six conditions were agreed to by the Union and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) yesterday which state that: 1. The strike by field and factory workers will end; 2. The Union will ensure full resumption of duties by field and factory workers from the day the strike ended; 3. There will be no victimisation on either side because of strike actions; 4. All workers who were on strike will not have their ‘strike day’ counted as absent, but as days not available for work; 5. That the dismissal of the Skeldon factory employee, Mr. Steven Daniels, will be now treated as a suspension, without pay, until the end of the reconciliation talks; and 6. Within 24-hours, after resumption of duties, the aggrieved parties – including GAWU – will meet with the Chief Labour Officer, who will make a final decision on the matter.

Those talks were held with the Chief Labour Officer, acting as a mediator, who can make recommendations on the matter, but not a binding decision.

GuySuCo, in a statement yesterday, said, “GuySuCo has rejected the Chief Labour Officer’s (CLO) recommendation to reinstate the dismissed worker, Mr. Daniels Steven, who was summarily dismissed on September 20, 2014 for physically assaulting the Estate Manager of Skeldon Estate.

The CLO’s recommendation was made in his capacity as

conciliator after two meetings with the Corporation and the Union, the last being October 1, 2014.”

EVIDENCE AGAINST STEVEN According to the Corporation, its rejection of the CLO’s recommendation is premised on the fact that it has evidence that favours the estate manager.

“The CLO’s recommendation is premised on the availability of statements by workers and staff who gave evidence that the Estate Manager was neither under the influence of alcohol nor was aggressive towards Stevens, and that on the contrary, it was Stevens who was aggressive towards the Manager, which resulted in him physically assaulting the Manager,” GuySuCo said.

As such the Corporation has requested the Ministry of Labour to move the matter forward to the next stage of the procedure, which is arbitration.

GuySuCo said, “The Corporation wishes to restate, as it did in previous statements, that the Estate Manager in his usual night visits to the factory and mill dock met a group of workers that included Daniels Steven who were malingering in the vicinity of the mill dock and cautioned them to report to their respective work stations.

“On being cautioned by the Manager, Steven became abusive and was calmly advised by the Manager to heed his advice and report to his work station. Steven subsequently retaliated and approached the Manager in a hostile manner, and in the process struck the Manager in his face.

“The incident was witnessed by several staff and workers, all of whom have testified in written statements that the Estate Manager was neither intoxicated nor aggressive and abusive to Steven.”

GAWU’S TAKE Meanwhile, GAWU President, Mr. Komal Chand, told the Guyana Chronicle that GuySuCo’s move was in line with the terms agreed.

“It is agreed by the Union and GuySuCo that should the matter remain unresolved, there will be a move to arbitration,” he said.

However, he noted that it is interesting that after two weeks since the last meeting, GuySuCo made the decision to go to arbitration.

“It was unexpected,” Chand said, but contends that GAWU will adhere to the terms of the initial agreement and work to have the matter resolved.

The GAWU President, in a prior comment, had explained that the strike stemmed from an alleged altercation between Estate Manager, Mr. Dave Kumar and Daniels, a worker at the Skeldon sugar estate.

He said the report he received is that on the day of the altercation, at around 11:30pm, the estate manager, who had allegedly been consuming alcohol, was on his way to the Dock Mill, where a cane harvest had been offloading. Before he reached there, he met several workers and reportedly asked them to move. The allegation is that all the workers did not remove immediately and the estate manger became incensed.

“The report we have is that the worker was verbally abused, he was cursed at, and there was a scuffle where the estate manger allegedly attempted to hit him,” Chand had said.

He added that the worker continued working, but was later informed that he was fired and escorted off the premises by the estate’s security personnel.

Consequently, workers moved to strike action.

A meeting between the Ministry of Labour, GuySuCo and GAWU is scheduled for Monday.

Specialty Hospital debacle…

Gov’t sues Surendra Engineering for over US$4M

By Vanessa Narine GOVERNMENT is suing Surendra Engineering Company Limited (SECL) for specific damages of US$4.3M and over G$100M in other damages, which includes monies through its contract with the company for the design and construction of the proposed Specialty Hospital, and other costs.

A Writ of Summons and Statement of Claim were filed

by Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall on Wednesday.

The matter is scheduled for a hearing in the Commercial Division of the High Court on December 3, 2014.

The embattled contractor had its contract terminated in September. In the latter part of last month, confirmation of the termination of the contract for design and construction of the proposed Specialty Hospital was forwarded to the principals of SECL. Alleged breaches forced the termination of the SECL engagement on the Specialty Hospital. SECL has had its contract terminated by the Government of Guyana in early September.

If SECL’s representatives fail to appear in court, judgment may be made in favour of the Government, according to the summons.

GOV’T’S CLAIMS The Statement of Claims stated that the breach of contract includes the contractor’s: * Failure to design and complete the architectural drawings and building plans, for which payments were made; * Failure to complete the works contracted for, that is, mobilisation, site establishment, supply civil engineering materials, and other works; * Failure to properly account for the advance payment of US$4.3M, in that they failed inter alia to submit payment receipts; and * Failure to renew/provide the Advance Payment

Guarantee and the Performance Bond for the period March 12, 2014 to present, in accordance with Clause 13 of the General Conditions of Contract.

“In the circumstance, the contractor is guilty of breach of the terms, conditions and warranties of the Contract, by failure to provide services for which they received payment and to renew/provide the Advance Payment Guarantee and the Performance Bond,” the Statement of Claims said.

Additionally, the Government charges that SECL engaged in fraudulent practices that caused the Government to suffer losses.

The acts of fraud cited, include that: SECL attempted to obtain an Advance Payment Guarantee and Performance Bond with a company not registered as an insurance company under the Insurance Act, Cap 84:01 of Trinidad and Tobago, named ‘Worldwide Bankers Limited’ purportedly located in Trinidad and Tobago; SECL submitted a document dated January 13, 2012 purportedly emanating from the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago; SECL submitted fabricated, unsigned and sometimes inflated invoices with no evidence of actual payments made or to support the expenditure claimed.

According to the Statement of Claims, Government lost US$3.6M, which represented a 20 per cent advance; US$505,440 for additional design services; and U$144,000, which was a sum for site mobilisation – a total of $4.3M. CONTRACT AWARDED SECL’s contract for the design and construction of the proposed Specialty Hospital began in September 2012, after a bid of US$18.1M. VIKAB Engineering Consultants Limited, held a 12-month contract as a consultant on the project.

VIKAB Engineering, according to Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, was working with a local evaluation team when irregularities and contract violations were uncovered.

The administration announced its intention to move against SECL after citing what it termed “deep concerns” over the execution of the contract, both as it relates to technical shortcomings and suspicion of fraud.

The Government of Guyana, since June this year, had been engaging SECL on a number of issues regarding allegations of fraud and financial irregularities. Initially, the Government’s concerns were related to delayed milestones, and inadequate accountability by SECL for public funds the company had received on signing the contract with the Ministry of Health.

Subsequently, the Government of Guyana discovered that SECL’s representative in Guyana had submitted a fraudulent document, purporting to emanate from the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago. The fraudulent act by SECL has since been confirmed by the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago.

The start of the investigation came after a dossier of documents was submitted to the police by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Anil Nandlall, with a letter requesting such a procedure.

When the contract was terminated, Nandlall noted that the course of action to be taken will include: termination of the contract and engaging the police; and requesting an investigation into the alleged fraud, both of which actions have already been taken.

He had stated too that there was the likelihood of pursuing civil litigation against the company for compensation, damages and breach of contract.

Reports indicate that to date, the structural designs for the project have been completed, while the architectural designs are currently being reviewed. Physical progress has been seen on the essential site preparation which is some 75 per cent completed.

On the building foundations 361 piles have been supplied and 235 piles have been driven.

The current administration has made clear that it has lost confidence in the capability of Surendra Engineering Company Limited.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Works on collapsed koker proceeding apace

By Asif Hakim

WORKS on the koker at Providence, East Bank Demerara are proceeding apace and construction of a new door is near completion.

The main door on the koker collapsed last Wednesday, causing the entire West Providence and Peter’s Hall to be flooded to a height of three feet.

Speaking Wednesday with the Chronicle on the worksite at

Providence, Head of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, said that the construction of the new koker door is progressing satisfactorily.

He said that the new fabricated door is al-

Head of the NDIA, Mr. Lionel Wordsworth inspecting the ongoing works on the koker

most complete and that the damaged section of the koker will be replaced with steel.

“The timeline we are working with is to get everything completed

by Sunday; the workers are working very hard and we also have six persons employed on the worksite for a 24-hour shift; no items could be damaged or missing,” Wordsworth said.

Also on Thursday last, the NDIA used temporary logs along with tarpaulin and a mobile pump to stop the constant flow of water when the high tides are in; these are still present pending completion of the door.

On the day of the flood, hundreds of residents residing in West Peter’s Hall and West Providence lost millions of dollars in damaged property after the main koker that separates the two villages collapsed, causing the entire western part of the villages to be flooded; water had reached 3.5 feet in most homes.

Among the damaged items were fridges, television sets, couches, poultry, glass wares, carpets, etc. Many students and workers had to stay at home to help clean up after the flood; and most elderly persons in the villages were seen in tears.

Wordsworth explains what really happened to the koker, and how the works are being carried out One resident Ms. Bibi Haniff , who was frustrated said that she was at work when the koker collapsed; she said that when she came home all her belongings were damaged and she could not have done anything since she was left in a state of shock.

“My fridge, my bed, my clothes, my wares, everything is damaged.

I live in a flat house, who will help me now?

I’m a single parent and it’s going to be hard for me,” Haniff said.

An elderly resident, who lives very

close to the koker, recalled her experience at the time of the breach. She said, “All of a sudden I heard something making noise; when I do realise I started to see water started to rush in my house with its power, right away I remember the movie Titanic and I was wondering if Jack would have been here to save me, because everything started to fall to the ground and broke, I could not have helped myself.”

Defendant confesses to using ganja from age five

By Jeune Vankeric TWENTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD, Damion Southwell, formerly of Lot 55 Stanleytown, New Amsterdam and of D’Veldt, Berbice River, confessed to using narcotics since he was aged five years, following his appearance at the New Amsterdam Court on Monday on a possession of narcotics charge.

His confession was made before Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs Marcus, after he was questioned about his reason for using the illegal plant, cannabis sativa.

According to the defendant, “I use it to relieve stress. I have had a lot of stress and I was using it since five years old,” he stated in the sparsely occupied courtroom.

The magistrate then asked the Probation and Wel-

fare Officer Ms. Vankennie, for suggestions to assist the self-confessed drug user and was informed of an ongoing substance abuse counselling session which is being held at the National Psychiatric Hospital. As a result of the advice, Southwell was ordered to attend the counselling sessions until November 7, when he is to return to court for sentencing.

Earlier, Police Sergeant Godfrey Playter, prosecuting, said that on October 12, the defendant was walking along a street in the Mount Sinai community. As a police mobile patrol approached, the defendant began to act in a suspicious manner. He was observed throwing away something which he had in his hands, which, when retrieved, was discovered to be a transparent plastic bag containing, leaves, seeds and stems of the cannabis plant.

Further, Playter noted that the defendant had spent a greater part of his life in another jurisdiction, and may have

developed the habit there.

However, even though Southwell confessed to having one gram of cannabis sativa in his possession, he denied some of the facts as presented by the prosecution.

According to him, he had earlier placed his luggage onto a boat scheduled to travel up the Berbice River, but the tide was unfavourable, so he trekked to the Mount Sinai community to smoke a joint.

“Madam, I was sitting at a corner when the police came and asked me what I was doing. I said I just finish smoking a joint. They asked me for the stub, and I showed them where I had thrown it. The officer picked it up, then arrested me. I asked for a chance as my bags were in the boat at the New Amsterdam market wharf. But they did not give me a chance.”

Southwell was also ordered to post $10,000 bail.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Revision of nursery school age draws additional 300 children ––says Region 4 REdO at regional awards ceremony

THE Department of Education in Region 4 held its annual Regional Awards Ceremony for outstanding achievements and performances Wednesday at the Theatre Guild Playhouse,Parade Street,Kingston.

During her remarks Regional Education Officer (REdO) Region#4, Jennifer Bourne, related that education is regarded as a basic requirement and need by all, and hence aids in the overall development of the nation. She emphasised that all persons of school age should seek an education and the Ministry of Education is aiding in many ways.

“With the school uniform voucher programme, school- feeding programme and the ‘Because we Care’ campaign, they are doing their part,” Bourne said.

The REdO noted also that since the ministry made the change to have the nursery school age revised, the system has seen an increase in enrolment at this level. “For 2014, we have realised an additional 300 students into the nursery level of the public school system” and this shows that the system is prepared to accommodate and is capable of educating our nation’s children.” Bourne asserted that under the ministry’s theme: “Literate by Grade 4 through consistent home, school and community involvement,” her office is in full support of this venture as it will give our students the courage and knowledge to start adulthood.

Bourne also addressed the teachers, noting that presently in Region #4 “there are 1705 teachers where 896 of them are trained and 450 are trained graduates.” She noted also that while the region

commends the teachers for their hard work and today is testimony to that,the schools are still experiencing problems with teachers. She noted “unpunctuality of teachers saw many school hours being lost” and the REdO called for these unproductive behaviours to cease immediately.

rolled out by the ministry. It was explained that at the National Grade 2 Assessment 62% of the students that wrote the examination passed with 50% and more which is an increase from 2013. The National Grade 4 Assessment saw only 14% of the students that wrote the examination pass with 50%; and Grade 6 showed no improvement with only 27.6% of students gaining entry into top secondary

CSEC Awardees for Region 4 Region #4 as was explained by the REDO failed to reach an acceptable standard in literacy, especially reading and hence supports the programme

National Grade 6 Assessment Awardees, Region 4

Part of the audience at the awards ceremony (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

schools, Bourne alluded.

However, she noted that results from the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) have improved in 2014 and commended the teachers “on a job well done.” She mentioned specifically tremendous improvements by President’s College, Hope, Covent Garden, Diamond and Annandale Secondary Schools. She also stated that persons were given partial scholarships because of their achievements in sports and emphasised the need for parents’ involvement in the school system.

The top performing school for the National Grade 2 Assessment was awarded to La Bonne Intention Primary, while Grade 4 was awarded to Lusignan Primary. Success Elementary was voted the most outstanding private school in Region #4.

Bourne concluded by thanking the Ministry of Education for their continued guidance and support.

Leslyn Edwards Charles, Assistant Chief Education Office (ACEO) Secondary – Ministry of Education, during her brief feature address congratulated all the awardees on behalf of Minister of Education, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Chief Education Officer. She noted that while work needs to be done in the system, Region #4 has been “doing well.”

Charles congratulated specifically the teachers and educators in Region #4 for their contributions and noted that teachers have a pivotal role to play in moulding the nation’s children. She echoed the REdO’s words, noting that more monitoring of teachers are needed to curb unpunctuality, absenteeism and extended sick leave. On that note she also encouraged teachers who have been “putting their all out” to continue doing so.

“To you the students use this award as an encouragement to do better in every step of your life” the ACEO charged and once again congratulated the students and the region for all their achievements.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Regional Chairman Region #4, Clement Corlette, congratulated all the awardees for their outstanding achievements. (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

Curtain goes up on National Drama Festival, 2014

By Raveena Mangal THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, in collaboration with Digicel Guyana launched the fourth National Drama Festival 2014, with a sense of pride, on Tuesday, at the National Cultural Centre (NCC), Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony delivered the feature address and opened the ceremony. He noted that the festival began through the need to provide creative space to showcase dramatic talent of Guyana. It was an opportunity for writers to produce their plays and actors to illustrate their skills.

While there were challenges, particularly in terms of sponsorship, Digicel came on board from the inception, he indicated, and has, commendably, been a part of the festival since.

Minister Anthony noted the considerable improvement the festival has made over the years.

The quality of plays has improved immensely, the quality of acting and writing as well, due to guidance and tips that the participants have received over the years.

Digicel’s Sponsorship and Events Manager, Gavin Hope disclosed the efforts and achievements and growth of the drama festival over the years, justify sponsorship from Digicel. He pledged their continued support of the festival, so long as its progress continues to showcase Guyana’s talent, with the hope that the project goes beyond the borders of the country.

Speaking of the largest drama festival in the country, Festival Director Mrs. Collette Jones-Chin cited its necessity, “Theatre brings people together to see the truth about life and their social situations; festivals are imperative if we are to understand our history, from social to economic trends.

They record the patterns of cultural change and broaden our cultural horizons.

“For audience members, the drama festival expands their knowledge, it allows them to see a collection of work, from the old favourites to the rising stars, for the performers it is a chance to be a part of something that is bigger than their individual production and for businesses it provides an opportunity to expand their markets.”

The mentorship programme is now in its second year and even though there is colossal room for improvement, significant progress has been made. Coming out of the visits to Berbice, Mahaica, Mahaicony, Linden, West Demerara, the Essequibo Islands and Essequibo Coast, and Georgetown 19 new groups were registered.

The festival has also given encouragement to many to become more involved in drama, highlighted by the positive growth in applications to the National Theatre School to participate in plays, he said. Additionally, plays provide forums for making certain social issues more palatable among the public, creating awareness on issues such as HIV/AIDS and domestic violence. While the festival has moved forward qualitatively, there is need to create a more supportive audience.

Director of Studies of the National School of Theatre, Art and Drama, Al Creighton, spoke of the differences between the Guyana National Drama Festival and those found in the Caribbean. Guyana holds a position of leadership, in the forefront of theatre in the Caribbean. As festivals of dramatic plays are rare to begin with, the Guyana National Drama Festival is unique in its structure with its aims and goals.

The ceremony also featured renditions by Charmaine Blackman, Charisma Lisa, “The Circle of Love” and dance recitals by the Shelita Dance Group. The group Surmounting Thespians, delivered the first play entitled “Double Take.”

In the coming weeks, Guyanese will be treated to a menu of dramatic plays. In total, there are 28 plays to be seen and there are 19 new registered groups; this year there are 28 listed finalists, three in the open full-length category; four in the open,short or one act; four in the junior category; six in the debutante and 11 schools participating in the secondary schools category. Admission to the plays is free and all will be held at the National Cultural Centre.

Members of the diplomatic corps, members of the Allied Arts Divisions, the Ministry of Education and various schools, members of the National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, among others, were present at the ceremony.

A dramatic piece of Director Collette Jones-Chins’s poem (Photos by Adrian Narine)

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony delivering his address at the opening

Surmounting Thespians in “Double Take”

Members of the audience enjoying the first play

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

‘M. Delight Restaurant’ brings Mediterranean cuisine to local shores

Some of the dishes on display at the opening Wednesday for”, and the Garlic Sauce, Chef Sauce and other extras were absolutely divine.

You too readers can get your own “M.

Little Sarah Amin cuts the ribbon to officially open the restaurant, as CEO Mustafa Kanakir (left) and Shaheed Mohamed (Imam) look on

By Alex Wayne GUYANESE who are already au fait with Mediterranean cuisine can now appease “eating fetishes” and others can be royally introduced now that the new, ‘M. Delight Restaurant officially opened its doors to the public Wednesday.

During a brief address, Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mustafa Kanakir thanked guests attending the function.

In a brief interview, he noted that he was encouraged to open the restaurant by several of his Guyanese associates and expressed hopes that he would receive the support that could grow the business. He said that the restaurant is the first 100% Mediterranean eatery on the local scene, offering Syrian and Lebanese dishes. It is located at 271, Thomas Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown.

All dishes are prepared by two certified Syrian chefs, according to Mr. Kanakir.

After prayers and best wishes by (Imam) Shaheed Mohammed who officiated at the ceremony, the ribbon was cut by the delightful little Sarah Amin amidst cheers and applause from the attendees.

Thereafter, the guests entered the spacious

and well decorated restaurant to sample some of the delicacies arranged in an almost mystical setting, accentuated by fruit arrangements and delightful salads and desserts that brought pleasurable exclamations from guests as they mingled.

All around, persons could be heard exclaiming in delight at the affordable prices and vowed to return for hearty meals at the earliest opportunity.

Amongst the meals on display were main dishes inclusive of Arabic Shawarma, Shawarma with Mandy Rice, and Biryani Rice.

There was also Escalope, Shish Tawoog, Homos with Minced Meat, Falafel, Lamb Mandy (also Beef and Chicken Mandy), Lamb Biryani and much more.

There were murmurs of approval when the Shawarma and Falafel sandwiches were sampled and much smacking of lips when guests were introduced to the French Fries, Shish Tcawoog and other items.

The females especially almost swooned in delight after munching on the Arabic salad, Faltoush, Yogurt with Cucumber, Mixed Vegetables, and other appetizers.

The Mamoul, Ghriebeh, Barazek, Tamreya and Warbat desserts were items “to die

Delight Experience” by visiting the location, or by calling them on phone numbers 226 8635 or 694 5030.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Schools showcase dishes for combating non-communicable diseases

By Shirley Thomas STUDENTS of secondary schools around Guyana on Tuesday admirably demonstrated their ingenuity in coming up with innovative dishes for combating non-communicable diseases.

The occasion was the Fourth Annual Secondary Schools Home Economics Competition hosted by the Ministries of Education and Agriculture, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

Held at the St. Stanislaus Auditorium, Brickdam, the competition was part of World Food Day observances and attracted participation from 30 schools. Schools were drawn from Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 10.

Assistant FAO representative, Ms. Angela Alleyne noted that the focus this year was on preparing meals that can either prevent non-communicable diseases or help combat these in persons with such diseases as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

They were required to prepare meals using fruits, vegetables and foods that are low in salt, sugar, fat and carbs, but with adequate amounts of protein.

The three judges were Stacia Skinner, Marcel Thomas and Abigail Caleb. And likewise, there were three school trophies for the three winning schools drawn from among the 30 competitors. Along with the trophy, each of those three schools was presented with a food processer.

And since each school was represented by two students, the six students accompanying

Tutorial High receiving their prize; sharing the moment with them is Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. George Jarvis (Photos by Sonell Nelson) those schools were each given incentives prize of a small personal trophy. Meanwhile, the three winning trophies will be kept by the schools until the next competition.

WINNERS Emerging winners at this year’s competition were: * Agricola Practical Instruction Centre - First Prize * North West Secondary School – 2nd Prize and * Tutorial Secondary School The first prize entry was Baked Fish Calaloo Roll; Second Prize – Snapper Kebabs with Orange Sauce and Third – Breadfruit Bolax.

In addition to the Food Competition a new element was introduced this year and that is craft production, using agricultural and forestry products which would otherwise be discarded, to come up with interesting and novel creations.

Six schools submitted items but there was eventually no judging in this category.

However the six each received Certificates of Par-

ticipation.

Those schools were President’s College; St. Roses high; Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre; New Amsterdam Secondary School; Queen’s College and Vreed-En-Hoop Secondary School.

Also delivering brief remarks to the gathering were acting FAO Representative to Guyana, Ms Khadija Musa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. George Jarvis (who attended on behalf of Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy); and Assistant Chief Education Officer (Secondary), Ms. Angela Charles.

Ms. Meusa congratulated the participants on the excellent dishes produced; adding that even though the competition provided for only three prize winners, every one in fact was a winner.

FAST FOODS Noting that what was seen in terms of food preparation represents a general shift away from traditional food consumption, Ms. Meusa

highlighted the dangers associated with the food products of western societies and which have become so widely used today. One of the dangers she highlighted was the increased consumption of salt, fat and sugars and this is evident in jerk foods and fast foods.

She urged the students to stay clear of such foods, as they do more harm to the body than good. What is needed at this time, the FAO Representative said, is for Guyanese to work towards sustaining the gains realised in the past through the use of more local foods such as rice, ground provision, fruits and vegetables. One of the net results of consumption of the foods now so wildly craved, she said, is obesity which is which is becoming increasingly prevalent in Guyana.

The FAO, Ms. Musa said, works nationally, regionally and globally to reduce non-communicable diseases.

Noting that there’s much work to be done, she said FAO cannot do it alone, and is committed to continued collaboration with other stakeholders she identified. She thanked the Board of Directors of St. Stanislaus College for making the auditorium available for the holding of the competition – the first event for World Food Day this year and part of the activities of Agriculture Month.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Jarvis, in congratulating the students for their excellent contributions, said he’s convinced there is a wealth of knowledge among the students

North West Secondary receiving their prize and the understanding of what constitutes foods that can combat non-communicable diseases, and more importantly the teachers who worked dedicatedly in bringing off the competition.

And concurring with the FAO Representative that there are dangers associated with the use of ‘fast foods’ today, Jervis urged the students to get back into the habit of eating local foods which have all the nutritional requirements and medicinal properties. In wrapping up, he threw out a challenge to every child present to plant a tree in his or her yard, be it

sour-sop, cherry or carambola – which are all vitamin rich, in addition to having a range of other nutritional benefits.

Judge, Ms. Caleb who gave an evaluation of the competition recalled that the winning entry from last year’s competition - from a hinterland school - highlighted the cassava and a wide variety of dishes that could made using that product. All those, apart from being tasty and appetizing cuisine, bring about a sense of belonging, as against processed foods which invariably do harm to the human body.

Students of the first-placed Agricola Practical Instruction Centre and their headmistress reciving their trophy from FAO’s Ms. Khadija Musa (second right)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

‘Fit-as-a-fiddle’ Kathleen Headley turns 100 of 100. And for this, she is eternally grateful, and gives thanks and praises to her Creator.

And in recognition of this signal milestone, a mass was celebrated in her honour, followed by a birthday reception at the Smith Memorial Church, Hadfield Street, attended by her relatives, friends and church members Wednesday afternoon.

As she joins the ranks of Guyana’s few centenarians, she is gratefully acknowl-

Kathleen Headley, Guyana’s latest recorded centenarian with her birthday cake

By Shirley Thomas IT was with great pride and joy that Mrs. Kathleen

Headley, also called ‘Nen’ of 34 Norton Street, Worken-Rust, on Wednesday attained the venerable age

For Friday October 17, 2014 -13:00hrs For Saturday October 18, 2014 -14:00hr For Sunday October 19, 2014 -14:30hrs

edging the contributions of everyone who has helped to make this possible through all the love and support she daily receives.

Born October 15, 1914, to Lionel Theophalus Norton, a farmer and religious elder and Rebecca Elizabeth Arthur, a housewife, she grew up in the thriving agricultural community of New Supply on the eastern bank of the Demerara River.

The only centenarian in her clan, she had five siblings – all of whom she’s outlived

except one – her youngest sister, Lynette Francis, now residing in Barbados and England.

RIGHT RECIPE With just about the right recipe for good health and longevity, Nen has been able to apply all the techniques that make for a life of quality and dignity, bereft of the aches and pains associated with old age.

And so Wednesday at 100, she’s just as bright as she was four months ago when,

at 99 plus, she was first interviewed by the Guyana Chronicle.

Spritely and full of life, she places a high premium on exercising and eating right. For breakfast she opts to use a slice of bread with butter, raw oats (no sugar), an orange and a glass of water. For lunch, her favourite dish is chowmein served with chicken or vegetables, along with a serving of fish, carrots

See Page 16

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

‘Fit-as-a-fiddle’ Kathleen Headley ...

From Page 15 and peas.

Boasting “100 Not Out”, our winsome Norton Street ‘Grannie’ is as jolly as ever. She is alert, very vocal and possesses amazing critical thinking skills.

Reverend Justice Oslen Small, right, and Pastor Timothy Norton pray for Kathleen Headley

MANAGES ON HER OWN And incredibly at her age, she tends her own kitchen garden, and insists on eating mainly what she plants. She does most of her own cooking and laundering, even though she has a parttime caregiver. Without a bother, she would trek to and from the National Insurance Scheme on Brickdam to receive her monthly pension.

On Saturdays she walks to Bourda Market to do her shopping. Then on Sundays, she foots it to and from Smith Memorial Church, where she worships. She concedes that all these activities play an integral part in safeguarding her health.

And of course she considers it a boon, being able to go to market and meet with friends of yesteryear. She is grateful too, and holds in high esteem, Mrs. Carmen Padmore, veteran stallholder in Bourda Market who gives her discounts on purchases, and hires a taxi to take her home each week after shopping there.

Nen, who has become well known and equally respected in her community, continues to age gracefully, but she is very modest.

Clean Bill of Health Boasting a clean bill of health, she’s free of such chronic diseases as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis and heart complications. And even the common flu she manages to keep at bay, using self-prepared herbal potions such as carilla bitters, lemon, lots of vegetables, fruits and juices from her garden she tends to this day.

Driven by a love of farming, she tends a blooming kitchen garden, planted with a variety of fruits and vegetables all of which contribute to her health and longevity.

And likewise, she is able to keep her food bills down and fertiliser out of her pot.

Small wonder she is so well physically and men-

tally. Without flinching, she would rattle off the names and dates of birth of her five siblings, all of whom have now passed on.

Nen’s first marriage was to Alvin Headley, a Fourth Fireman, on December 11, 1940 – just two weeks before Christmas. She still has vivid memories of shopping for the festive season; sewing curtains for the home, as well as cooking the traditional Christmas pepperpot; baking black cake, and brewing her favourite mauby, sorrel drink and ginger beer.

Chicken - 4c per lb.

Browsing down memory lane, she’d often marvel at the astronomical cost of food items today, compared to ‘back in the day’. She can recall with pride, just how much her princely pay packet of $30 per month could have bought. “In those days, that money could have bought plenty things, and I still had enough to ‘throw box,” she asserted.

“Oranges were 5 for 8c; condensed milk – 5 tins for 40c; chicken 4c per lb; 5 eggs for 8c and rice was 16c for one gallon,” she recalled with a chuckle, as if to say, “Things couldn’t be better.”

The couple lived happily until her husband’s passing in the mid-1940s. Following his death, she remarried in 1955 to Alban Headley who initially worked at Gun Fernandes Betting House.

Fire During her second marriage, the couple lost their home to fire in 1992 but through it all, Nen remained trusting and demonstrated strong faith in God. And by honest work, within six months they were able to rebuild their home in Norton Street. Thereafter, they continued to share a wonderful marriage together until Alban’s demise in 1995.

HELP OTHERS Meanwhile, Nen offers a word of advice: “Whatever your situation, be trusting and put your faith in God. When we’re blessed with riches or goods, it is given us for a purpose, but certainly not for us to be greedy and store it all up for ourselves. Help others in need.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

PPP kicks off 22nd Anniversary celebrations

--with reflections on “The Restoration of Democracy”

By Derwayne Wills THEY came in their numbers as busloads flocked the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, Kington last Thursday to honour and celebrate the struggle for the “Restoration of Democracy after the dark 28 years of dictatorship under the PNC” in Guyana.

Such were the sentiments of General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Clement Rohee, who gave the feature address to the gathering centred around the message of honouring the struggle of the party and those involved in that struggle.

“We are a continuation of that struggle in a different era, but let us not forget that before us there were others... thousands upon thousands of people who struggled to ensure that the People’s Progressive Party was back in office in 1992.”

He commended the sacrifices made by those in the struggle who were persecuted and imprisoned.

Outlining the achievements of the Government in its consecutive office terms, Rohee said, “The Government has touched the lives of thousands upon thousands of people, providing them with potable drinking water when there was none.”

Recognising the challenges faced by these achievements, the General Secretary said: “We are not yet perfect, we have not reached the stage of perfection where everything is available to everyone.” Rohee stated that there are still expectations coming from the people which are acceptable as human nature.

He added that as the economy expands, the livelihood of the people is expected to improve. This is true, according to him, because “people want to make something called progress in life.”

“Every single action, policy, statement, step this Party makes is a progress, because that is the nature of the party.

We always seek progress.”

On the notion of Maurice Bishop’s “Forever ever, backward never”, Rohee stressed that the Party has never adopted a principle that is counterproductive.

Drawing from the history of the party, Rohee alluded to the struggle of the PPP in 1950 in demanding adult suffrage where “one of the first statements from the party was for human adult suffrage” where every citizen of Guyana must have the right to vote for the government they trust.

He compared the devel-

opment of the “right to vote” in British Guiana which was determined by the ownership of land and property to the current voting rights of Guyanese. “The few that had earned property and had the land were the few that decided where this country would go.”

That barrier was broken

by Dr. Cheddi Jagan, said Rohee, enabling each Guyanese to have the right to vote.

He asserted that this victory was representative of the progressive nature of the PPP. Rohee also highlighted the dark times faced by the party.

“The enemy was knocking at the gates,” he said, “working day and night plotting and planning to make sure that the PPP did not hold office in this country.”

General Secretary Rohee outlined the dramatic history of the People’s Progressive Party from their struggle to gain adult suffrage, to what he described as “28 labouring years in the opposition from 1964” and finally the restoration of democracy in 1992.

He called on those in attendance to observe the 22nd anniversary of PPP leadership with tribute and homage to those who contributed to the fulfilment of the legacy of 22 years that currently stands.

“The people have won” The event similarly saw the life and works of Dr. Cheddi Jagan being honoured as the rise to office of the PPP was placed on display with the words of the late former President Dr. Jagan, “The people have won.”

An overview was provided of the Party’s co-founder, whose work was recognised as a symbol of struggle and how “one man together with the masses took hold of history and guided it in a purposeful manner to become the tool of the masses.”

President of the Women’s Progressive Organisation, Indranie Chanderpaul speaking on behalf of the WPO noted the significance of October 9 in referring to two events, the first being the suspension of the constitution in 1953.

It was a time when the PPP had won 18 out of 24 seats during the first election held under adult suffrage, only to be abruptly removed from office after 133 days. The second event, she noted, was October 5 which marked the swearing in of Dr. Cheddi Jagan.

In concluding remarks she said: “We can all say that we have come a far way as a nation. There is a lot of work that all of us must continue to

PPP General Secretary, Mr Clement Rohee delivers a gripping speech to a packed auditorium

do because development is a work in progress... There’s a lot to do.... but all the sacrifices, the commitments and the struggles that were made were not in vain because our country is on the move and has been on the move for the last 22 years.”

Comments were also given by the General Secretary of the Guyana Rice Producer’s Association, Dharamkumar Seeraj who recognised the fact that former President Dr. Cheddi Jagan at one time

served as President of the Guyana Rice Producers’ Association, serving with the aim of promoting and advancing the interests of rice producers.

“Comrade Cheddi was always a fighter not only for workers but also for farmers and the peasantry and after all the industry went through, we have seen on reflection... that between two Governments of the People’s Progressive Party, the record of the rice sector... will tell you when the PPP was in Government.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Destra Garcia

Telephone Contact # 616 0301 or 227 5216

to perform

LIVE at Gravity

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HOUSANDS would have flocked the Gravity Lounge two weeks ago for what was described as an epic performance by Jamaican Dancehall Queen Spice who undoubtedly spiced up the dance floors. The show saw many of the female patrons getting on ‘real bad’ to the numerous hits dished out by the versatile artiste.

Her tunes created a stir and had the patrons dripping with perspiration; but at the end, they were indeed satisfied. With this in mind, Gravity Lounge will continue with the hyped-up attitude since they have already sealed the deal with Trinidad’s Soca Queen, Destra Garcia, to perform at the venue for the first time.

The show is set for Saturday, October 18.

No stranger to Guyana, Garcia has performed numerous times at the Guyana National Stadium and is well known for

her high energy performances, harmonious vocal skills and eccentric fashion style. This talented artiste did not only win her school’s Calypso Monarch title for five consecutive , but she composed every one of her songs.

Destra won the Road March title in 2003 at the Labour Day Carnival in Brooklyn and placed second in the Trinidad and Tobago Soca Monarch competition in that same year.

She is yet to win either the Carnival Road March or Soca Monarch title in Trinidad, although she has come close in the Road March race, placing second in 2003, 2004 and 2009.

Despite this, she has become successful in the local music industry, specialising in pop-sounding soca compositions, as well as fusion music, encompassing aspects of East Indian culture.

Destra is well known for one of the most popular soca anthems “It’s Carnival” –featuring Machel Montano – which

704 W

was released in the 2003 Carnival season.

Some of her later popular releases are “Las Lap”, “Soca or Die”, “Sign”, “Situation”, “We Luv Carnival” and the most popular song of her 2007 releases, “I Dare You”.

Early bird tickets for the event will cost $3000 for general admission. After the early bird offer, tickets will be sold at $4000 each. They can be uplifted at the Gravity Lounge.

Lounge

hat fitting manner in which to open a lounge than to do so with a smashing entertainment concept like none can foretell.

Noted for their excellent service, glitzy décor and refreshing ambience, the 704 Sports Bar and Restaurant will take things a notch higher when they officially open their Lounge on Friday, October 31, 2014 with

opening October 24

the usual excitement and bustle that surround their initiatives.

And with the ‘Halloween Fever’ in the air folks there are coming ‘big time’ with a scorching concept dubbed ‘Creepy Carnival’.

There is nothing more mind-boggling than mixing your ‘jitters’ with ‘feisty vibes’ and this very fusion will send you to the edge of ‘entertainment insanity’. So folks you still have much time on your hands……

Grab your costumes or best outfits

and be ready to be taken on a ‘rollercoaster ride’.

And what more can you possibly ask for? Since folks there have lots to offer with their spanking, Sports Bar, and Sky Lounge. Talk about comfort and entertainment in a breath-taking setting…

If you want to get more acquainted with the ‘Jillionaire of Major Lazer’ then make sure you make this location a priority on your entertainment calendar.

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Dharmic Sabha’s countrywide Diwali Motorcades start this weekend

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he Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s annual Deepavali Motorcades begin tomorrow on the East Bank Demerara and the West Coast Demerara. This is the 40th year that the Sabha is holding motorcades around the country. There will be eight motorcades. Thousands of Guyanese will line the streets and converge on the various venues to enjoy the dazzling spectacle, which ushers in the Festival of Lights.

There will be gorgeously bedecked representations of Mother Lakshmi and other depictions from the Scriptures, a kaleidoscope of lights, devotional music, spectacular cultural programmes and much more. President of the Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, will be attending all of the motorcades.

Tomorrow, on the West Coast Demerara, the beautifully decorated floats will leave from Ruimzeight and Parika Junction and converge on the Oceanview Mandir Compound where there will be a grand cultural presentation featuring top Guyanese singers Mohan Nandu, Sookrane Boodhoo, Mona Gowkarran, Rekha Singh, Ian Hardat and others. The programme will also feature dances, drama and a special presentation for the children and youth depicting gods and goddesses on the floats.

On the East Bank Demerara, also tomorrow, floats will leave from the Providence Parking Lot and Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir at 6pm for the Diamond-Grove New Scheme Market Tarmac. E-Networks Emerging Voices 2014 winners Vishalie Sukram, Artie Sookhai and Gail Ann Singh, along with other outstanding singers who were part of the competition, will be presenting a specially prepared concert for the crowd at the Diamond Market Tarmac. They will be backed by the E-Networks band, which features musicians from India and Guyana.

There will also be performances by members of the Dharmic Sabha’s East Bank Demerara Praant.

On Sunday October 19, four motorcades will be held in Berbice. On the West Coast Berbice, the motorcade will assemble at Bush Lot and converge on the Blairmont Community Centre Ground. In East Berbice, the floats will assemble at Main and Vryheid Street, opposite Church View Gift Shop, and proceed to the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground. In Upper Corentyne, floats will make their way from Crabwood Creek and No. 36 Village to the Tagore High School Ground.

The Central Corentyne Praant’s Motorcade will move from Bush Lot, Corentyne and No. 1 Village, and converge on the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground. All of the motorcades will culminate with cultural programmes and presenta-

Prisoners in Concert for October 26

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ver so often we fail to realize that despite their errors and mistakes, prisoners are still human beings, and can showcase talents and positive skills just like anyone else.

Once again the Guyana Prison Service is poised too justify this statement when they host their 2014 leg of the much anticipated ‘Prisoners in Concert’ event at the National Cultural Centre.

With the event tabled for Sunday, October 26, 2014, from 20:00hrs, organizers have informed that much creativity and excitement will surround this leg of the initiative with, prisoners taking to the stage in songs, dances, poetry and drama.

Auditorium Front tickets will cost $1,500, while tickets for Auditorium Rear have been priced at $1000.

tion of prizes. Emerging Voices winners and the E-Networks Band will be performing at the Port Mourant Community Centre Ground.

The Sabha’s Essequibo Praant motorcade will be held on Tuesday October 21. Floats will assemble at Affiance and Sparta from 6pm, and proceed to the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground where there will be a spectacular cultural programme featuring Essequibian talent, along with Emerging Voices winner Vishalie Sukram, first runner-up Artie Sookhai and the E-Networks Band.

The spectacular Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara Motorcade will be held on Wednesday October 22.

The fabulously decorated floats will assemble at the Shri Krishna Mandir, Campbellville, from 6pm and will move west along Campbell Avenue into Sandy Babb Street, north into J.B Singh Road, and east on to Seawall Road, to the LBI Community Centre Ground. Guyanese are encouraged to line the route of the motorcade to enjoy the fantastic display of Guyanese creativity. Mandirs, youth groups, families and commercial entities have been working tirelessly on their floats and from all indications, floats will be simply magnificent this year.

At the LBI Community Centre Ground, the stage programme starts at 7pm with performances by the Dharmic NrityaSangh, Emerging Voices winners, the E-Networks Band,Sookrane Boodhoo, Rekha Singh and others. New York based Kuchipudi dancer, Khavita Singh, will present a special piece appropriate for the festival. In excess of $3.5M and trophies will be presented to the winning floats in the small, large and commercial categories.Prizes will also be given for the most outstanding mandirs in each category, and for the

best overall designed float.

Admission to all motorcades is free and no alcohol is allowed.There will be a number of food stalls offering a wide variety of vegetarian cuisine, mehendi stalls and lots of Diwali shopping opportunities at all venues. The Sabha wishes to express its special appreciation to its major sponsor, Digicel,

for its support to all of the motorcades and to all the other sponsors who have generously contributed to the various motorcades.

Dharmic Sabha has also organized rangoli competitions in several schools around the country, to encourage student participation in the festival. On October 26 and November 1, the Mahila Mandalee, women’s section of the Sabha, will host children’s Diwali parties and concerts at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra in Georgetown, and at the Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir, East Bank Demerara respectively catering for some 600 children.

Bombshell’s Hottest Dudes….

Alain Scott is Bombshell’s ‘Sugar Daddy’

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y momma was certainly right when she said that ‘good things come in small packages;, and to affirm this quote is the dashing and intelligent Alain Scott, referred to as ‘Sugar Daddy’ by the ladies.

Alain is one of our local dons who have defied the odds at fashion and is quite popular for making grand entrances. This dude has brought a new meaning to ‘male fashion’ which he tops with an air of serene sophistication and a ‘magnetic presence’.

Aside from his dashing good looks, Alain has already made a name for himself on both local and international fashion runways and is still to be netted by that lucky lady.

He enjoys reading, modelling, dancing, travelling, and interacting with persons of high intellect and creative abilities.

“Yes my dear ladies… I know he is any girls’ dream guy, but sad to say, you will have to hunt the length and breadth of Guyana to find him, because this guy loves a mystery and his adventurous streak does not make him an easy conquest”.

Nevertheless, you girls can scratch faces and dig out eyeballs in your maddening stampede. When you find him, let me know Sweet tropical sugar from our local shores how it all went down. I am dying to hear the juicy details.

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

Sammy Baksh and Prince Ali

Prince Alli

to explode at Better Hope Ground

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ll roads will lead to the Better Hope Community Centre Ground on October 25, 2014 when Promoter Dharmin brings to the arena two of Guyana’s phenomenal ‘cross over artistes’ that are holding their own against the international

competition.

On this date the venue ‘sparks would fly’ at the venue as the legends take fans way back in time, before propelling them to a ‘musical pinnacle’ with a rich fusion of musical vibes. That aside the singers will be backed by the fantas-

tic Hard Stone Band.

A packed Sammy Baksh program has also been created with dazzling performances by the Dance Fanatics Dance Company and of course ‘Granny Ivelaw’ will be showcasing his hilarious side with his ‘Granny Fit’ dance

The 3rd Edition of

From Jazz With Love is COMING SOON!!!

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ou Jazz lovers are quite in for a treat when Red Entertainment stages its ‘3rd Edition of From Jazz With Love’ on October 25, , at the Georgetown Club.

This event will feature Barbadian artistes Arturo Tappin and his band alongside ‘Phillip 7’. On the local platter are the talented Y3K Band who are raving about the scorching performance they will unleash at the event. Shimuel Jones will also be there with his live art.

Tickets are priced at $8000, the show will begin promptly at 20:00 hrs.

Promoters are including a package that allows for all night appetizers as well All Night Appetizers!!! That's right… You will be enjoying delicious and unique Appetizers all night long!

TICKETS are available at Oasis Cafe, Georgetown Club, and the Grand Coastal Hotel.

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showcase.

Standup comedian Linden ‘Jumbie’ Jones has been carded as the MC for the event.

Bulletin!!! Bulletin!!! Bulletin!!!

Mr. Guyana Swimsuit Competition slated for Duke’s Lodge

s the countdown to the first ever Mr. Guyana Male Pageant continues, folks have let on that they will be staging the Swimwear Competition and Runway Challenge aspect of the competition on October 25, 2014. at Duke’s Lodge, Kingston, Georgetown.

With the show commencing at 15:00 hrs. promoters have promised that the contestants will for sure create shockwaves with their swimsuit designs. Admission has been set at $2,500 and can be obtained at Duke’s Lodge and from Pageant Committee Members.

You can also call phone numbers 682 8919, 604 7331 or 660 8583 to get yours.

Police ‘D’ Division Gymkhana slated for Uitvlugt Ground

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et again the Guyana Police Force is poised to host another leg of their Annual Gymkhana Festivities, and this time the mega event would be taken to the Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground.

The event has been carded for Sunday, October 26, 2014.

Promoters have indicated that this year the event will be hosted with the customary sizzle and will feature Military Band Displays and showcases that include stunts by horse and dogs. That aside, there will be gymnastics performances from various groups around the country, and of course the much anticipated bike stunts.

To keep things on the family-oriented side, this event has been further accentuated with ring games, tug-o-war, and other features that will see fiery, jovial clashes between groups competing.

According to an organizing committee member, the annual event is being moved from one police division to another, hence the upcoming location.

There will also be trampoline for the kids at intervals between performances and Slingerz Sounds will provide musical accompaniment.

Come on folks…. This is one event you shouldn’t miss since it’s absolutely FREE!!!

Gates will be opened from 11:00 hrs.

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guyana CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

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Bombshell Profile Personality…

atherina Roshana

THE ICONIC PAGENTEER of our time

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S the current Miss Universe her a role model in society for the young and yet the inner power she exudes can be felt and Guyana is about to end her for all humanity; for educating her to respect seen.. as a reporter, sitting and chatting with reign and bless the new and love all religions and all peoples. She says this lovely young lady, I can feel her power and champion, Bombshell de- her mother and father are persons of excellence a positive spiritual elegance in her persona, cided to conduct a special in personalities and speech, and they raise their something I never felt before, despite interdiscussion with this truly majestic queen of children with the same values. Her peers have viewing hundreds of pageanteers. Her words Guyana on her reign, her experiences, and a special place in her heart. are always carefully crafted, and the lips from her plans for the future .

Raised in a home of morality, respect and which they come forth and that mouth, the Miss Universe Guyana 2013, Katherina love for all human beings, she has maintained words become precious and even delicate, if Roshana, famous International Ambassador herself with head high. In pageants where not delicious. of World Peace, has set a standard in Guya- some are known to abuse selves and, even lose Katherina Roshana has been a relentless nese Pageantry. It is widely believed, that for themselves with false pride, Miss Universe Goodwill Ambassador of Guyana in her own decades to come, her name will be mentioned Guyana, 2013 has held her head high, and capacity, as wherever she goes, she would in deep respect, awe, and even envy. caused her country of Guyana to stand proud, market Guyana as a great tourist destination Katherina echoes her deep respect to her as she strutted the international stages of pag- and land ripe for investments; Guyana the land sponsors, New GPC Limacol Corporation, for eantry and modelling in dignity and decorum, of the mighty Kaieteur Falls, the Amazon juntheir support and commitment, to working with with positive behavior and communication gle. Katherina is known to acquire numerous her, and being a friend always, ready to help in skills, that many are shocked at her simplicity, postcards, artifacts of wood, coconut shells, sea any way. She is ever grateful to Mr. shells and local Bobby Ramroop, Chairman/CEO of minted coins the New GPC Group and Limacol to give out as Corporation for always checking in, gifts wherever and for being an absolute gentleman. she visits.

Thank you New GPC Limacol CorIn Maporation. She bows to Mr. Lumumlaysia, 2013, ba, Franchise Holder, for honouring Katherina his promises, and his constant supwas most port, and fulfilling pledges made at pleasant, and the contest in regard to prizes. She shared numerrecognizes His Excellency, President ous gifts with Donald Ramotar for his counsel citizens and on Russia, and how to represent fellow conGuyana as a lady of high esteem, testants. She and to make Guyana proud by wise was awarded words and postures. But precious the title: Miss tears came tumbling like rare pearls India Worldunleashed from their string, glittering wide : Most down her artistic face, like that of a Beautiful Skin KATHERINA ROSHANA AS SHE ENGAGES IN FEEDING Goddess of Beauty, as she thanked . In Moscow, PROGRAMMES DURING THE PHAGWAH FESTIVITIES her parents for their constant love, Russia, Miss guidance, support, and for making

At Step by Step - Autistic School Roshana, our splendid and magnetic Miss Universe Guyana ,made Guyana a household name, while marketing herself and her country as a land of the most hospitable peoples; for major investments for gold and diamonds; agriculture and logging; manganese, uranium and bauxite.

She was so impressive, that she was a special guest, along with her parents, of Banking and Financial Magnate of the Novakov Credit Bank, and the Novakhov Savings Bank, where she received special gifts and prizes that only Miss Trinidad was able to enjoy with her. A special banquet, in a most colourful scene, was held in her favour and hundreds of the top in Moscow society were invited. One traditional harmonium musician serenaded her over and over, and sang love songs to her in Russian, dressed in traditional short pants and headdress.

Katherina says this will live in her heart and mind for her entire life. She understands international pageantry, and knows only certain nations can win and take the crown over and over, and has accepted the fact. Whatever she did was to showcase her country, the splendid Amazon rainforest, Land of Many Waters……

Guyana.

In the not-too-distant past, she was special guest at the Miss India Worldwide Contest in French Guiana, where she walked the stage with such serene elegance that it is claimed that none has ever walked with such composure and magnetism. The crowds, many of whom were from Guyana, went wild, and screamed ‘Katherina Roshana’ and ‘Guyana’ over and over. This brought great joy to our queen.

Join us next Friday when we give you a detailed spread of our ‘Diamond Girl’ and her many exploits during her reign as Miss Guyana Universe 2013

‘Granny Ivelaw’ promises ‘bellyfull ah laughs’ at Parika Car and Bike Show

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his year the promoters of the Annual Parika Car and Bike Show have taken a different twist to things in that they are soliciting the theatrics of popular Character Dancer, Ivelaw ‘Granny Fit’ Campbell, to heighten things at the event.

The show is slated for October 18, 2014, at the Parika Centre Ground.

In a brief interview, promoters said that they decided to use ‘Granny Ivelaw’ as a side attraction since his countrywide fame and his riveting performances have made him a ‘must have’ item on the entertainment platter of organizers across Guyana.

When the character dancer was contacted yesterday, he noted that he is more than elated to perform for folks at Parika, since they have always given him resounding support over the years.

He added that fans can be guaranteed a new and exciting ‘Granny Dance Routine’ at the event, and raved that he has formulated a theatrical package that will create more than a ‘bellyful ah laughter’ for those who attend.

Campbell has performed at several mega events hosted by Chutney Sensation, Mahendra Ramkellwan, and events initiated by Hits and Jams Entertainment, and many more.

This year around, an ‘expo aspect’ will be added to the event to showcase art and craft, and goods and services of businesses and individuals from the West Demerara District.

That aside, promoters have raved that there will be sizzling clashes among competitors in the categories of Loudest, Cleanest, Most Creative, and Most Decorative Car, Bike and Suv. Also slated to perform is popular

standup comedian, Leeza Singh (Parika Backdam Gyal) Music will be provided by Slingerz Family, Matrix and High Fire Sound Systems, and admission is said to be cool.

This event is sponsored by Stag Beer, Ruben’s Sawmill, Sunny Sawmill, Chico, Legacy, and Big Shawn Cargo Boast Services. Also on board are Big Kiss Taxi Service, Classic Culture Gas Station, To-To Gas Stations and Sand Depot. Others include Caribbean Heat Creole Restaurant and Bar and Prakash General Store.

Also Playboy Tint Shop, Rockers Taxi Service, Sharmila’s Variety Store, and Steve’s Variety Store.

Big names behind this initiative also are Ramchand Body Works, Trans Pacific, Big Signers, Red Jet, and Auto Stop (Junior Sheriff)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 17, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

Upbeat Windies seek to reclaim opening game brilliance DHARAMSALA, India (CMC) - West Indies will attempt to re-ignite the brilliance which earned them a commanding opening win over India, when the two sides clash in the fourth One-Day International (ODI) today.

A win for either side at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium will ensure a two-one lead in a series, tied up one game apiece, after the third game was called off due to inclement weather.

Jerome Taylor West Indies demolished India in the opening ODI but lost the second when they imploded on the chase after they were on course to victory.

“We’re in good stead and the guys are upbeat about the fourth ODI,” said team manager Richie Richardson.

“We believe that we can do well and the conditions here will favour us and if that is the case, it’ll be a very exciting match.”

West Indies are expected to continue with a makeshift opening combination using Darren Bravo or brother Dwayne Bravo the skipper to partner with Dwayne Smith at the top of the order.

Lendl Simmons has been ruled out of the entire series with a back injury and leftarm orthodox spinner Nikita

Miller has been called up as a replacement and is being flown in from Sri Lanka where he is representing the West Indies-A team.

“We have decided to replace Lendl Simmons with Nikita Miller,” said Richardson.

“Initially, it was assumed that Simmons would recover in time but it was later revealed that the injury was more serious than it seemed. So we had to fly him home.”

The West Indies camp is excited about the pitch at HPCA stadium which is expected to offer some help to their bowlers including Jerome Taylor, a major thorn in the side of the Indians during the second ODI. Taylor has been impressive since returning to international cricket after a 32-month period plagued with injury.

“I haven’t had a chance to look at the wicket yet,” said Richardson. “I however had a view of the outfield as we were coming to the ground and it had me wanting to play cricket again.”

The fourth ODI could hold major significance for skipper Dwayne Bravo who is on the cusp of two milestones.

Bravo is 32 runs and a wicket away from becoming the ninth player to complete the ODI double of 3 000 runs and 200 wickets even as the series thus far has been overshadowed by a pay dispute between the West Indies players and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA).

Racing Tips

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:30 hrs Mulaazem 09:05 hrs Deepo 09:40 hrs Silverano 10:15 hrs Ess El Kay 10:50 hrs My Jelly Bean 11:20 hrs Acastus

French Racing Tips Maisons-Laffitte 08:45 hrs Gaelic Way 00:15 hrs Penny Drops 09:45 hrs Superplex 10:15 hrs Ironside 10:45 hrs Excellent Touch 11:25 hrs Magic Run American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Gabbole Race 2 Brendan Race 3 Night Prowler Race 4 Ivasion Point Race 5 Canal Six Race 6 Street Game Race 7 Double the Energy Race 8 Madaket Millie Race 9 Throckmorton Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 12:30 hrs Sacrificial

13:05 hrs Blue Fragrance 13:40 hrs Beat The Ballot 14:10 hrs Maontri 14:40 hrs Shukhov 15:10 hrs Prince Of All 15:40 hrs Eloge 16:10 hrs Victor’s Beach English Racing Tips Newmarket 08:50 hrs Majestic Manner 09:25 hrs Strath Burn 09:55 hrs Capella Sansevero 10:25 hrs Marsh Hawk 11:00 hrs Estidhkaar 11:35 hrs Thawaany 12:10 hrs Fencing Haydock 09:00 hrs Emirates Skywards 09:35 hrs Kinematic 10:40 hrs Shared Equity 11:15 hrs My Dream Boat 11:50 hrs Rite To Reign 12:25 hrs Our Boy Jack Cheltenham 09:05 hrs Frampton 09:40 hrs Court Ministrel 10:15 hrs On The Bridge 10:50 hrs Highland Retreat 11:25 hrs Commissioned 12;00 hrs Balbriggan 12:35 hrs Poetic Verse

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

New Zealand skipper charged with perjury FORMER New Zealand captain Chris Cairns appeared in court yesterday charged with perjury, linked to a libel action he brought in the UK in 2012.

Cairns won £90 000 in damages after he sued Lalit Modi, founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), over

an accusation of matchfixing made on Twitter in January 2010, but the 44-year-old was accused of perjury and faced London’s Southwark Crown Court yesterday.

Cairns, of Clifton Road, Herne Bay, Auckland, appeared in the glass-fronted dock alongside barrister

Andrew Fitch-Holland, who faces one count of perverting the course of justice.

Fitch-Holland, 49, of Duddenhoe End, Saffron Walden, Essex, is described on his chambers’ website as ‘’lead adviser to former NZ captain Chris Cairns in his libel action against former IPL head Lalit Modi’’.

The pair, both dressed in smart navy blue suits and blue ties, spoke only to confirm their names.

Judge Alistair McCreath gave the pair unconditional bail to appear for a plea and case management hearing at the same court on January 16 next year, with both men indicating they will contest Chris Cairns the allegations.

The trial is expected to last around four weeks and is expected to begin on October 5 next year - during the “cricket desert” when there are few fixtures in the sport’s calendar and will see cricketers from around the world giving evidence in the case.

After learning he would be charged, Cairns said in a statement that he had “nothing to hide’’ and he would do “whatever it takes’’ to prove his innocence.

He said: “I’m obviously extremely disappointed.

However, at least there will now be an opportunity to face my accusers in an open forum, with some rigour and proper process around that, so that I can clear my name once and for all.’’

A statement from the Crown Prosecution Service released on September 25 said: “We can confirm that we have authorised police to charge Chris Cairns with one count of perjury, which arises from a libel trial held in the UK in March 2012. ‘’We have also authorised

police to charge Andrew Fitch-Holland with one count of perverting the course of justice, which arises from actions taken relating to the same trial.”

In 2007 and 2008, Cairns captained the Chandigarh Lions in three competitions in the Indian Cricket League (ICL), which flourished briefly before the ascendancy of the IPL. The allegation made

by Modi related to the second and third of these competitions, between March and April 2008 and October and November that year and Cairns is charged with making a false statement in judicial proceedings.

Specifically, it is alleged that between October 1, 2010 and March 31, 2012, having been sworn as a witness in judicial proceedings, he made a statement which he knew to be false or did not believe to be true, namely that he had never cheated at cricket and nor would he contemplate doing such a thing.

Fitch-Holland is charged with committing an act or series of acts with intent to pervert the course of public justice; namely, asking former New Zealand player Lou Vincent to provide a false witness statement in connection with proceedings relating to the libel action between Cairns and Modi in the High Court, which had a tendency to pervert the course of public justice.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Gordon Greenidge (Edgbaston, 1979) (2) Shiv Chanderpaul (46); Carl Hooper (45); Brian Lara (42); Desmond Haynes (36) Today’s Quiz: (1) What is Clive Lloyd’s highest ODI score against India?

(2) Who has captained India in most ODI games to date? How many?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

MSC/MoH/NAPS 8th`Ride for Life’ Cycle Road Race

Team Coco’s Companioni leads going into today’s third stage … QB’ Davis will withdraw team

By Michael DaSilva MIAMI-BASED Team Coco’s Ruben Campanioni leads the field going into today’s third stage of the National Sports Commission/Ministry of Health/National AIDS Programme Secretariat 8th Annual `Ride for Life’ five-stage road race which commenced yesterday.

However, in a strange twist of things, the team’s owner Ian `QB’ Davis told the event’s organisers he will withdraw his team from further competing in the remaining stages.

Campanioni who placed a close second in the first stage (Corriverton to New Amsterdam) behind Roraima Bikers Club’s Alanzo Greaves, won the second stage (Rosignol to Georgetown) to take the overall lead ahead of his team mates Carlos Ospina and Camillo Ulloa.

However, at the conclusion of the second stage, race commissar Malcolm Sonoram informed Davis that his team would be penalised for a vehicular feeding infraction before the stipulated time frame according to the Union of Cycling International (UCI) rules that govern the sport throughout the world.

Sonaram told Chronicle Sport that the Rules stipulate that team vehicles can only feed their cyclists after they would have established a three-minute lead on the chasing pack, but Davis’ vehicle breached that rule by leaving the chasing pack and feeding his team members 90 seconds after the break had occurred.

This infraction created a 30-second penalty on Davis who objected and strongly denied he did any such thing and at the end of the exchange of words between himself and Sonaram, he said his team would not be completing the last three stages.

Sonaram said even with the 30-second penalty, Team Coco’s would still be leading the five-stage event.

Greaves won the first stage in a time of 1h. 37 minutes 49 seconds, with Campanioni second, Ulloa third, Continental Cycle Club’s Geron Williams fourth, Ospina fifth and Carlton Wheelers Cycle Club’s Robin Persaud sixth.

Ospina was second in stage two, close behind Campanioni in a time of 2h 19min: 12 seconds, while Team Coco’s dominance of the stage was further underlined when Raynauth Jeffrey, Christopher Holder, Ulloa and

Junior Niles finished third to sixth respectively.

From the start of the first stage yesterday morning, the 57 starters stuck together for approximately 30 minutes after which 10 cyclists including Campanioni, Greaves, Ulloa, Persaud, Ospina, and Shaquille Agard broke from the pack and established a lead which they maintained until they

Ian `QB’ Davis turned onto Main Street New Amsterdam.

With about 250 metres remaining, Williams went to the front followed by Campanioni, Greaves and Ulloa. The quartet led by Williams headed for the finish line in a driving finish and Greaves secured a narrow

win.

At the start of the second stage, it was evident that Team Coco’s intention was to win, as their member kept at the head of affairs and it was not until they reached Woodley Park some 10 minutes after the start that a break occurred.

As they passed through Naarstigaad Village on the West Coast of Berbice, the peloton started to string out and by Hopetown Village there were four bunches of riders all strung out as the least experienced cyclists started to come under severe pressure.

Geron Williams started to come under pressure at Bushy Park and dropped back but soon found a second wind and reconnected to the leaders at Brooms Hall, following which he immediately went to the front of the peloton and dictated the pace of the race for quite a few miles, but was being close marked by Team Coco’s members.

Geron then suffered a puncture to his front wheel at Belfield but got a quick change of wheel and reconnected once more through the assistance of Greaves and Marlon `Fishy’ Williams who waited on him to get the wheel change.

Companioni and Ulloa thought they had enough and made their move to the front of the pack unchallenged,

A resurgent Christopher Holder of Team Coco’s, leads the peloton during the second stage yesterday afternoon.

(Photos by Sonell Nelson) holding at one time a lead of 1m: 30secs and with no cyclists showing any intent on reconnecting, the duo stayed that way to the finish line, crossing same holding hands.

Meanwhile, today’s third stage wheels off from outside the Wales

Police Station, West Bank Demerara at 09:00hrs and finishes at Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo, while the fourth stage will commence at Supenaam, Essequibo Coast tomorrow, proceed to Charity and return to Suddie for the finish.

Players’ Appraisal to influence Selection Criteria for National Representation ... Physical assessment and practice sessions commence

Shivnarine Chanderpaul WITH the aim of ensuring all their players, both contracted and noncontracted are in good physical shape and condition for the upcoming West Indies Cricket Board/Professional Cricket League season, Cricket Guyana Inc. will be commencing its preparations next Monday.

According to a press release, the

preparation exercises for the 2014/2015 senior regional tournaments will commence with training activities at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground from 08:00hrs to 12:00hrs on Monday and Tuesday.

The players are reminded that selectors are authorised to choose players outside of the selected franchise 15 should the need arise, even as the training activities will first focus on the Physical Fitness assessment of players on the first two days.

Following a two-day rest period, the players will be involved in practice activities from October 24 to 26 from 09:00hrs to 13:30hrs at a venue to be named, prior to two four-day practice matches from the October 27 to 30 and November 4 to 7, also at venues to be decided upon by CGI. While as a general rule the selected franchise players will be given selection priority, failure of a member or members of that select group to meet Players’

Appraisal acceptable standards will render them invalid for selection.

As such, all players requested for participation in these activities are expected to attend training with a view for selection during the 2014/2015 regional season as those who did not gain selection to the Select 15, but gained selection during the said season, shall fall into the category of ‘Pay for Play’.

The measures of analysis for Players’ Appraisal which comprise higher levels of objectivity than subjective tools shall include, but are not limited to, Attendance, Activity Punctuality, Uniformity, Self-Analysis (strengths and weaknesses), contribution to Player Analysis (team mates and opponents), Individual and Teamwork Ethics, effective match application, compliance to WICB Code of Conduct for Players’ and Officials and the like.

The training squad would be put through their tests and training by head

coach Esaun Crandon, who will be ably assisted by a technical team consisting of Albert Smith, Rayon Griffith, Michael Hyles, a trainer from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and others.

It must be noted, that Raymond Reifer will go through his physical fitness assessment on November 1 and 2, 2014, when he joins the squad, while several other players such as Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin and Devendra Bishoo are currently on assignment with WICB teams and will be excused from Monday’s sessions.

However, the players listed below are requested for participation in the preparation exercises from Monday: Veerasammy Permaul, Christopher

Barnwell, Anthony Bramble, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Ronsford Beaton, Narsingh Deonarine and Trevon Griffith (all contracted players), along with the drafted players in Keon Joseph, Rajendra Chandrika, Paul Wintz and Vishaul Singh.

WICB contracted player Shivnarine Chanderpaul, and other players eligible for selection under ‘Play for Pay’ such as Zaheer Mohamed, Raun Johnson, Anthony Adams, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Amir Khan, Shimron Hetmyer, Steven Jacobs, Kemo Paul, Kevon Boodie, Gudakesh Motie, Ricardo Adams, Jason Sinclair, Kemol Savory, Jonathan Foo, Royston Crandon, Raj Nannan, Kandasammy Surujnarine and Rajiv Ivan, are invited to the sessions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

INTER-SERVICE ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS …

Army and Police rivalry resumes as action culminates today

I must defend my home base! This must be the resolve of Guyana Defence Force’s Letitia Myles after she won the first heat in the Women’s 200m.

Leeron Brumell IT ALL COMES down to this the final day of competition in the annual Inter-Service Athletics Championships which will culminate at the Guyana Defence Force’s, Camp Ayanganna-based ground from 14:00hrs today, with the march past of all

participating teams.

The Guyana Defence Force hold a one-point advantage (295) over the Guyana Police Force – the defending champions, with the Guyana Fire Service, (38), City Constabulary (37) and Prison Service (26) all out of the reckoning, even as the winners hold bragging rights for one year.

The events to watch are the 100m and 200m sprints, while the 400m male final is an academic race, as no athlete is expected to seriously challenge Olympian and national 400m champion Winston George for the title.

He will, however, be tested in the 200m final, even though he recorded the second fastest time on Wednesday’s penultimate day of action, heading into today’s final.

Army athlete Davin Fraser clocked 20.7 seconds on the way to victory in the second heat, while other athletes who must be keenly watched in this event are former junior champion Keith Roberts and Shawn Semple, all of the GPF, and the GDF duo in Akeem Stewart and Patrick King.

George will have to watch the 100m final from the sideline as he was disqualified on Tuesday for a false start. The ladies 100m and 200m sprints should also be interesting – virtually the same athletes will face the pistol.

Aniqua Powley leads the GDF team of Tiffany Smith and Neisha Allen – a formidable trio - against Onika Eastman, Tiffany Carto and Akeila Alves of GPF, with both Powley and

Eastman stopping the clock at 11.90 seconds, on the way to winning their respective heats.

Carto, however, leads the GPF’s 200m team, winning her heat in 24.6 seconds, two hundredths of a second slower than Myles.

Also to feature today are

the 1500m middle distance events, where Cleveland Forde (5000m) champion would be hoping to exact revenge on Kevin Bayley who ran away with the 800m on Wednesday, while Janella Jonas is expected to come up against Carlissa Atkinson.

Kevin Bayley of the Guyana Police Force takes a breather after winning the men’s 800m.

BCB/CARIB BEER 2014 FIRST DIVISION T20

Gordon, Clements lead Universal Solutions Bermine into playoffs … Young Warriors win zone BOTH YOUNG Warriors and Universal Solution Bermine won their final Zone B preliminary matches to end up as winners and runners-up respectively of that zone, earning the right to advance to the last playoffs of the 2014 Berbice Cricket Board/ Carib Beer first division T20 competition.

Former Guyana and now Canada pacer Jeremy Gordon on a short visit home took 4 for 19 for Universal Solutions Bermine to help keep Police down to a manageable 130 for 6 in 20 overs, after a threatening opening stand of 81 in 13 overs between Brentnol Woolford (49, 3x4) and Albert Sinclair (28).

When Bermine replied, the accurate Police bowling attack had them shakily placed at 61 for 4 in the 10th over but Berbice all-rounder Devon Clements’ unbeaten 55 (3x4, 1x6) and former Demerara all-rounder Damien Vantull’s unbeaten 31 batted resolutely in the face of determined bowling to see Bermine home.

Young Warriors for their part restricted Edinburgh to 110 for 9 in their 20 overs thanks mainly to pacer Vishal Mohabir picking up 3 for 18, before Berbice batsman Seon Hetmyer scored 39 and his brother Shimron Hetmyer supported with 29 to see Warriors to a sixwicket victory with 7.1 overs to spare.

In Zone A, West Berbice made very light work of D’Edward to end up as winners of that zone with D’Edward as runners-up - both of

Jeremy Gordon them already earning the right to advance to the playoff round.

Led by Keith Fraser 57 (5x6, 3x4), West Berbice posted 173 for 7 in their 20 overs despite D’Edward’s Lakeraj Sookra picking up 5 for 23 (the best bowling figure in the competition so far) only to see his side reply with 74 in 16 overs, as Krishendat Ramoo and Steffon Adams snared 4 for 6 and 3 for 12 respectively.

Summarised scores: At Albion, Universal Solutions Bermine

Jonas comfortably defeated Atkinson in the 800m two days ago and holds in addition to size and strength, the psychological advantage. The day’s track action ends with the much anticipated 4x400m and 4x100m relays.

beat Police by 6 wickets. Police, choosing to bat first, scored 130 for 6 in 20 overs with Brentnol Woolford 49 and Albert Sinclair 28. Jeremy Gordon took 4 for 19. Universal Solutions Bermine 132 for 4 in 19.2 overs with Devon Clements 55 not out and Damien Vantull 31 not out; Wayne Richards 2 for 24 and Kurt Griffith 2 for 27.

At Cumberland, Young Warriors beat Edinburgh by 6 wickets. Edinburgh, sent in to take first strike, made 110 for 9 with Joseph Giddings 32 and Shawn Baksh 29.

Vishal Mohabir 3 for 18, Kevin Ramdeen 2 for 11 and Linden Austin 2 for 15 for Young Warriors, who scored 115 for 4 in 12.5 overs with Seon Hetmyer 39, Shimron Hetmyer 27 and Vishal Mohabir 25 not out, leading the batting as Zaheer Hussain took 3 for 26.

At D’Edward, West Berbice beat D’Edward by 99 runs, with West Berbice making 173 for 7 in 20 overs, thanks to Keith Fraser 57, Arthley Bailey 42, Steffon Adams 32. Lakeraj Sookra collected 5 for 24 and Christian France 2 for 19 for D’Edward, who in reply were bowled out for 74 in 16 overs with Lakeraj Sookra 22. Krishendat Ramoo took 3 for 6 and Steffon Adams 3 for 12.

At Blairmont, Bush Lot Rising Star beat Blairmont Community Centre by 3 runs.

Bush Lot Rising Star, sent in, made 87 for 8 in 20 overs with Keyron Fraser 21; Ravindra Somwaru 3 for 17, Adim Shoetahal 3 for 9 and Shabbir Baksh 2 for 12, Blairmont 84 for 7 in 20 overs with Zamin Inshan 21. Akeem Miller 3 for 11 and Ram Sankar 2 for 2.

GTTA schools tourney October 30 THE NATIONAL Schools Table Tennis tournament, which is organised by the Guyana Table Tennis Association and sis ponsored by Digicel, is scheduled to commence on October 30 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall and over 20 schools from across the country are expected to compete.

It is aimed at fostering camaraderie among students, promoting healthy lifestyle through sport, providing opportunities for individuals to participate in recreational activities and promoting the basic objectives of the GTTA by having more players actively participate in table tennis activities both recreational and competitively.

Secretary of GTTA, Linden Johnson, said that the cream of Guyana’s youth players would be on show during the competition which concludes on November 2. Last year St Stanislaus College prevailed in the Under-18 category while Marian Academy collected honours at the Under-15 level.

Mae’s School proved too strong in the Pre and Mini Cadet categories, by sweeping both the Under-13 and Under-11 divisions and this year the GTTA will include an Open Novices category for beginners with the aim of encouraging more participation in the sport.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday OCTOBER 17, 2014

Harris climbs, Atwell drops CLIVE ‘Wonder Kid’ Atwell and `Vicious’ Vivian Harris found themselves at opposite ends when two world bodies in boxing released their latest rankings.

Featherweight Atwell has dropped in the World Boxing Council featherweight ranks while junior welterweight Harris has started his climb back to the top of the mountain, with the 36-year-old Harris now being ranked at number 12 by the World Boxing Organisation and his compatriot Atwell, once a number 12-ranked featherweight, dropping five places to number 17.

Harris, a former WBA champion, is in line for a shot of the WBO title held

by Chris Algieri of the USA, and is the only local rated within the top 15 of any division by the WBO. He is scheduled to battle Mexican Raul Carrillo one week from today for the USNBC title in Colorado, USA, with the winner of the bout being guaranteed a WBC top-ten ranking.

The 25-year-old Atwell lost his top 15 place after being defeated when challenging WBC champion Jhonny Gonzalez for his title earlier this year and he has recently moved to Australia and is expected to take on Kye MacKenzie in Melbourne on November 12.

`Vicious’ Vivian Harris

CLIVE ‘Wonder Kid’ Atwell

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Sport CHRONICLE

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

New Zealand skipper charged with perjury See story on page 28

Five Stage Scenes

See story on page 29

The dominant Team Coco’s cycling team found the time for a photo opportunity, after the second stage yesterday. At right is Hamza Eastman who suffered a mechanical problem during the said stage, while Ian ‘QB’ Davis is 7th from right.

Roraima Bikers Club’s Alanzo Greaves pumps the air in celebration, after edging Team Coco’s Reuben Campanioni (right) in yesterday morning’s first stage.

‘Together we aspire, together we Achieve’. Chronicle Sport photographer Sonell Nelson photo was on hand to catch Team Coco’s Ruben Campanioni (right) and his teammate Camillo Ulloa (right) holding hands as they crossed the finish line for the second stage.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2014