Guyana chronicle 28 05 14

GUYANA No. 103841

WEDNESDAY MAY 28, 2014

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

Tuschen gets $98.8M nursery school Page

PRICE: $60

INCLUDING VAT

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- through Gov’t and CDB funding

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh delivering remarks at the commissioning of the school

Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds and President of the Caribbean Development Bank, Dr. William Warren Smith unveiling the plaque at the commissioning of the Tuschen Nursery School

Violence was never a policy of the WPA 2 Page

Page 2 COI hears State arranged a ‘hospitable scene’ where Rodney was assassinated

… Edward Rodney tells COI into Walter Rodney’s death

…so that when he was killed they would say he had planned to bomb the prison

New queen, Rafieya Husain

Rafieya Husain storms stage to win Miss Guyana World 2014 Centre Crown

Rohee declares Marriott criticisms politically 8 manufactured Page

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Violence was never a policy of the WPA

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

… Edward Rodney tells COI into Walter Rodney’s death

THE Commission of Inquiry into the death of Walter Rodney was yesterday able to complete the evidence of Lawrence Edward Rodney, the eldest sibling of the late politician. He was further cross- examined by lawyer Basil Williams and others.

His evidence reiterated his personal experiences when he was a part of the Working People’s Vanguard Party and how he was under surveillance at the time. He said he knew for a fact that his assassinated brother and other members of the WPA were also under surveillance by state agencies.

Rodney also told the commission yesterday that his brother being killed by PNC agents is a speculation based

on hard facts.

He stressed that violence was never a policy of the WPA, and neither Walter or any member of the Rodney family knew that a bomb was in the walkie talkie that Walter was carrying when he was assassinated.

During cross-examination, Williams repeatedly complained that Rodney was providing more than a “yes” and “no” answer, but Commissioner Cheltenham reminded him that he was in control of the questions and not Rodney’s responses.

The hearings are continuing this morning.

The testimony of Lawrence Edward Rodney was completed yesterday.

COI hears State arranged a ‘hospitable scene’ where Rodney was assassinated …so that when he was killed they would say he had planned to bomb the prison

By Telesha Ramnarine UPON resumption yesterday, the Commission of Inquiry into the death of former historian/politician

Dr. Walter Rodney, heard how the state had arranged for a more “hospitable scene” by removing armed guards and a mobile police outpost around the prison area where Rodney was

Eusi Kwayana giving testimony. assassinated.

This was done so that when Rodney was assassinated, it would say that he was planning to bomb the prison Eighty-nine-year-old Eusi Kwayana, one of the founders of the Working See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Tuschen gets $98.8M nursery school - through Gov’t and CDB funding

RESIDENTS of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and surrounding communities yesterday welcomed the commissioning of a spanking new, state-of-the-art nursery school built at a cost of $98.8M. Architecturally, the building is the first of its kind in the country, built specifically with all the necessary amenities to accommodate nursery-age children.

Funding for the school was made possible through the Caribbean Development Bank’s Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). Prior to the construction of the school, nursery-age children were housed at the Tuschen Primary school. The school currently has an enrolment of 180 students.

Also present at the commissioning were Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Denzil Douglas, Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, President of the CDB, William Warren Smith, and members of the bank’s board of governors.

Delivering the feature address, Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds said that education and training is the way to greater production and productivity, and will no doubt result in people becoming better citizens.

He said that from very early on, the PPP/C Administration recognised this and has committed to ensuring that education and training remain the most important goal that could be pursued.

“Today, the quality of our school buildings is altogether much better than when we started off; there has been a steady increase in expenditure…we have made great progress in this area,” the Prime Minister said.

He noted that while the Government recognises the need to grant assistance to other vulnerable groups, such as old-age pensions and other social payments, the way to overcome poverty is to make people more productive. This, he said, can only be done through education and training.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh who said that there is no more important an investment to be made than that in young people.

As such, despite pressing fiscal challenges, the Government has persevered with mission-like zeal in increasing investment every year in the social sector, particularly education, which receives the largest single allocation in the National Budget.

This level of investment has enabled the country to achieve the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of universal primary education, and is well on its way to achieving

universal secondary education.

Moreover, the Government, with the support of partners like the CDB, has constructed technical institutes across the country to bring technical and vocational training to more young people than ever before. The Leonora Technical Institute in Region 3 is one such facility that has benefited from CDB funding.

The Minister also said that very shortly, as a result of a special budgetary allocation made available last year, the University of Guyana will be launching online degree programmes.

“These are not investments whose returns we will see immediately, but they are investments that are absolutely critical and unavoidable if the long-term future of Guyana is to be protected and preserved…our Government’s commitment to the people of Guyana is to continue to invest in the education of the young people of our country, so that they individually can be assured of brighter prospects,” Minister Singh posited.

Guyana is currently hosting the 44th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the CDB, an opportunity Caribbean countries are afforded once every 10 years.

Minister Singh described the CDB President, Dr. Wil-

liam Warren-Smith, as a staunch friend of Guyana and lauded the tremendous work that the Bank has been doing throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

“This school is only one example of the partnership between Guyana and the CDB of which we are immensely proud…Guyana looks forward to an even more rapidly growing partnership with the CDB…we see the bank playing an even greater role in human, social and economic development in Guyana,” the Finance Minister said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Smith said, “We at the CDB have made the education of our people a priority for our institution; all of the evidence suggest that in the Caribbean there is no other investment that provides enduring benefits for our people like education. It is the principal vehicle through which the cycle of generational poverty is most effectively broken.”

The facility represents a major improvement over the previous school arrangements where children of nursery school-age shared facilities with older children. It is completed with nine classrooms fully furnished with indoor and outdoor assets; including a staff room, food preparation area, parents’ waiting room, water storage facilities, open multi-purpose space with carpet for playing, administration area, sanitary blocks, and storage space.

“CDB is a firm supporter of projects that uplift our

The $98.8M Tuschen Nursery School

See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

GWI explains its involvement with Paramakatoi supply interruptions

GUYANA Water Inc. (GWI) explained, yesterday, that the supply system which serves Paramakatoi is under the purview of the local administration.

A press release pointed out that GWI does not have a presence in that region and the responsibility for operation and management of the water infrastructure lies with the local authorities.

The release said, after being contacted about the supplies disruptions affecting the community, approximately one month ago, the company dispatched a team, lead by Capital Investment and Planning (CIP) Director Ramchand Jailal, to assess the situation and provide any technical assistance to the local administration.

The release said it was observed that the original system which had been constructed was modified by the residents of Paramakatoi because of the dry season being experienced.

FOLLOWING OBSERVATIONS During the GWI visit, the following observations were made: * that the system consisting of a storage reservoir

which receives water from a spring was operable at the time. The reservoir was 75 percent filled and supplying water to the community via a photovoltaic pumping system. However, the tank was leaking a small amount and a sealant was required to repair the leak; * it was noted that, despite the leak on the storage reservoir, the system was fully operational and water was being supplied to the dormitory and other nearby locations. The company is in possession of images which depict water being accessible at the dormitory and other locations within the community; * according to the CIP Director, it was observed that the spring, which is one of the sources of water supply for the community, had a significantly reduced flow and this was attributed to the dry season that was being experienced in the Region.

The GWI team shared those observations with the local administration and offered to provide any further assistance. Before departure, GWI representatives urged the local administration to contact the utility with any further issues which may require the company’s assistance.

COI hears State arranged a ‘hospitable scene’... from page 2 People’s Alliance (WPA) who now resides in San Diego, California, United States, was called to the witness stand yesterday.

The COI resumed in the Supreme Court Law Library following the first four-day session which was concluded earlier this month. The second session of public hearings, according to Chairman of the COI Richard Cheltenham, is expected to run from May 27 to June 6.

According to Kwayana, he was at his Buxton, East Coast Demerara home when he got the “terrible news” of Rodney’s death in the middle of the night by another party member, Dr. Rupert Roopnarine.

Following this, he said he, along with a team of other party members, went to the Camp Street prison block in Georgetown and interviewed residents and businesses about police presence in the area during the days leading up to Rodney’s death.

He explained that the team found out that four armed guards were stationed at this location, one at each corner of the prison. According to the residents, Kwayana said, there was also a mobile police outpost that was usually in Bent Street.

In the days leading up to Rodney’s death, however, Kwayana said all of the

guards as well as the police outpost had been removed.

Elements of the State and the security force therefore were in expectation that something was about to happen, Kwayana said.

“If this was true, then this tied the State in to the crime because the State had been instructed to arrange a more hospitable scene, to make it more inviting for the bombing,” Kwayana remarked.

According to Kwayana, the entire country was looking forward to Rodney’s presence even before he arrived in Guyana.

But there was spite, fear and hostility towards Rodney even before he returned to Guyana. In fact, he said the PNC was setting the scene to paint Rodney as a troublemaker even before he landed

in Guyana.

Behind this was a spirit of ethnic insecurity, political bankruptcy and no real respect for the right to life, Kwayana testified.

Speaking about the atmosphere that pervaded around the time of Rodney’s return, Kwayana said the population was under severe restraint.

No printer would print any other newspaper because of fear of the government. The public media was government-controlled.

“Freedom was closing down,” he said, and whoever held public meetings and protests in favour of Rodney suffered resentment from the government.

The House of Israel, for instance, became a “street force” for the regime at that time.

WAS ADVISED Subsequently, a meeting was held, in Georgetown, with the Toshao of the community and he was advised that a sealant to assist with the repair of the tank is being imported and repair works will be undertaken shortly, GWI related.

GWI has since commenced acquisition of the sealant required to repair the reservoir, which could not be sourced locally and will be in a position to dispatch a team to execute the repair works within two weeks.

The release said GWI received no further information from the local administration, after the initial visit, about the system being non-functional or that residents were being affected. In addition, it must be noted that the system involves the use of standpipes placed throughout the community and it is customary that some residents have to walk short distances from their homes to access water.

The company said it will continue to provide all assistance necessary to the local administration in an effort to provide improvement to residents of Paramakatoi.

Tuschen gets $98.8M nursery ... from page 3 people; we like to associate our brand with projects like this one, which promises recurring benefits to the community for years to come… we are extremely pleased to be part of the regional thrust to set both our boys

and our girls on the path to realising their full potential by exposing them to early childhood education,” he said.

In addition to the school, several other projects were realised through the BNTF. These include: the Diamond Housing Scheme, Beterverwagting and

Ithaca nursery schools (all designed to CARICOM’s early childhood education standards), and works at the Port Mourant Market, the Diamond Housing Scheme water supply and the Lethem Hospital.

Construction of the Tuschen Nursery School commenced in September 2012.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Rohee declares Marriott criticisms politically manufactured

By Vanessa Narine

GENERAL Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party, Mr. Clement Rohee, yesterday rejected criticisms that the Marriott Hotel Project is mired in controversy.

Commenting on the release of information about the investors involved, at the party’s weekly news conference, at Freedom House, in Robb Street, Georgetown, he declared: “The controversy is political and is politically manufactured, precisely because, like all projects started under the Jagdeo (former President Bharrat Jagdeo) Administration it is deemed as deeply suspicious.”

Rohee emphasised that the disclosure is reflective of the Government’s commitment to being transparent.

“What is the direction from which the hullaballoo is coming?” he asked.

Rohee declared that the project has only been deemed controversial due to the few parties opposed to it, including the owner of the Pegasus Hotel, who is known to be a key supporter of the Alliance For Change (AFC); certain leaders of the Guyana Trade Unions Congress (GTUC), who are strong supporters of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU); the AFC and APNU themselves; and certain media outfits aligned to the Opposition.

He maintained that: “Comments by these Opposition groups have ranged from incitement to xenophobia.

References in various media outfits to this controversial project are referring to the controversy created by their own publication of positions of those few interests opposed to the project. “…it is phases like this (that there is a real problem

with the project) that is fueling controversy…as far as I am concerned the major players in this project, the Government, the Private Sector and the Tourism Association, have welcomed the project. These are the key stakeholders, who have not raised one iota of talk that indicates controversy.”

Rohee insisted that the release of the investor details follows on numerous prior releases made by the Government including that by the Minister of Finance, since 2012, that included the construction contract, tax agreements and lease agreements.

“This was followed last year with AHI releasing additional information including major sections of the feasibility study produced by internationally recognised HVS International that detailed the total investment and the sources along with the financial returns. Indeed, the Government has responded to various parliamentary questions and fully participated in various debates (both in Parliament and publicly) on the project,” the General Secretary said.

Last Saturday, Atlantic Hotel Inc. (AHI) and Republic Bank Ltd. announced the completion of the financial arrangements by the latter for a syndicated borrowing of US$27M in debt financing for the former.

This is for the construction of the Marriott operated hotel and the shell of an entertainment complex in Kingston, Georgetown.

JOINT STATEMENT A joint statement from AHI and Republic Bank, on behalf of its consortium of lenders, said the two parties received approvals and the transaction is expected to

be concluded shortly.

The principal investors in AHI (Marriott Hotel Guyana Project and Entertainment Complex) are National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) and British Virgin Islands (BVI) registered ACE Square Investments Ltd. ACE Square Investments Ltd, which will acquire 67 percent of the equity of AHI for US$8M. As required under the Hotel Management Agreement between Marriott and AHI, Marriott has consented to the transfer of the controlling interest of AHI from NICIL to ACE Square Investments Ltd. Ace Square Management Ltd, affiliated company of ACE Square Investments Ltd., has been selected to operate the entertainment complex and secure the outfitting cost, estimated at a minimum of US$4M. Additionally, Ace Square Management Ltd will guarantee a minimum financial performance of the entertainment complex, consistent with the feasibility study conducted by HVS International (dated October 31, 2012). Ace Square Management Ltd’s beneficial shareholders are the same as ACE Square Investments Ltd. The beneficial owners of the shares in ACE Square Investments Ltd., and the owners of the shares in ACE Square Investments Ltd., through a BVI registered holding company, Big Splendor Limited, are Hong Kong businessmen, Mr. Victor How Chung Chan, LLB (Hon.) and Mr. Xu Han, BSc, MBA, DBA. The PPP General Secretary stated that the party recognises that the investors have been approved by Marriott and Republic Bank following completion of their due diligence.

Rohee said the Marriot Hotel is one of Guyana’s transformational projects.

CARICOM bracing for crucial test at UK/Caribbean Forum in London

By Rickey Singh CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY Foreign Ministers are bracing for a crucial test of their “no-businessas-usual” stand against The Dominican Republic (DR) when they meet next month for the Eighth UK-Caribbean Forum in London.

The core problem relates to controversial amendments to the DR’s immigration laws that have effectively denationalised an estimated quarter million immigrants, the great majority being of Haitian descent.

At their two-day meeting in Guyana last week (May 20-21), the CARICOM Foreign Ministers revisited the controversial ‘denationalisation’ law in preparation for the coming Eighth UK-Caribbean Forum, which will be hosted by the British Government on June 16-17.

The so-called “elephant in the room,” as euphemistically expressed by members of CARICOM’s Council of Foreign Ministers, is awareness of the DR as a member of the CARIFORUM group of countries. This is the mechanism by which CARICOM and the DR do business together - trade, investments etc - with the European Union (EU) of which the UK is a vital player.

Aware of strong criticisms against the discriminatory immigration law, condemned by, for instance, the Inter-American Human Rights Commission, CARICOM has vowed against “doing business as usual” with the DR unless changes are made to the “race-based” law.

The big challenge for CARICOM’s Foreign Ministers and the British Government would be the

modalities in implementing their work agenda at next month’s UK-Caribbean Forum.

This is the first time such a major challenge has emerged in UK-Caribbean relations and, ironically, Britain’s Foreign Secretary William Hague is scheduled to address the first plenary session on June 16 on the topic “Partners in Prosperity - Security.” The session is scheduled to be chaired by Home Office Minister Karen Bradley.

Meanwhile, in a further related development that’s viewed in favour of CARICOM’s firm stand against the DR’s controversial constitutional amendments, the Washington-based Robert F. Kennedy Centre has announced its decision to “deepen collaboration with human rights defenders in The Dominican Republic” as well as “expand its international tribunals…”

In a statement released by the Centre, named after the assassinated former Attorney General, Robert Kennedy, the constitutional changes made to what’s officially referenced as the DR’s ‘Naturalization Law,’ the amended law, as noted by the Kennedy Centre, is a direct response by the DR Constitutional Court’s decision in September last year against a petition by an immigrant (Juliana Deguis Pierre), born of foreign parents. The ruling retroactively altered the criteria for obtaining Dominican nationality between 1929 and 2010, affecting thousands of immigrants born in the DR and now deemed stateless.

ON CUBA AND USA In discussions pertaining to CARICOM-USA relations in general as well as relating to Cuba in particular, the Foreign Ministers stressed the im-

portance of recognising respect for political sovereignty and reaffirmed their solidarity with the Cuban government and people.

In this context, Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, A. J. Nicholson, indicated interest in the need for CARICOM’s Council on Legal Affairs, consider offering a response to the implications of the contentious issue of foreign nationals, in this case Cuban citizens, including diplomatic personnel, being denied doing businesss with shopping centres of the US warehouse conglomerate, ‘PriceSmart.’

This political irritant is one of the issues to be considered in the broader context of deepening CARICOM/Cuba ties as well as further improved relations with the USA, consistent with new initiatives to cope with “the changing global environment.”

Specifically, new emphases are being placed by CARICOM in expanding relations with western hemispheric bloc of states such as CELAC, UNASUR, SICA, and ALBA in addition to traditional involvement with the OAS. Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, who hosted the meeting at the Guyana International Conference Centre and assumed the chair of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), noted that diplomacy today had become “far more complex and rapid in the digital era.”

She also emphasised commitment to observance “of non-interference as well as unhindered right of development within a country’s boundaries…”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana…

The Opposition in Guyana has emerged as a greater threat to our nation than external forces OLD Kai is back after a brief hiatus of which I will discuss in detail in a later column, save to say that I am in possession of a lot more damning evidence against the individuals from the Opposition camp who are trying to stop the publication of this column.

This will come out in due time but for the moment let us shift focus to our 48th independence anniversary.

It was a grand event and from what I gather, the traditional flag raising ceremony at the National Park was a marvelous event. I have always wanted the organisers of the performances to try something different, less monotony and they have apparently delivered in 2014. Hats off to everyone!

President Donald Ramotar’s address to the nation highlighted the fact that he and his Government are moving in one direction with our nation but the Opposition is using their majority in the National Assembly to create all manner of diversionary episodes to sabotage the plans of the Executive.

There is a long trail of evidence which leads straight to the Opposition camp. At a time when we are celebrating our sovereignty, the Opposition has emerged as a greater threat to our nation than external forces. One simply has to look at the fact that they have ran out of excuses as to why they have not supported the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill, which seeks to ensure the integrity of our local and international financial sources and transactions. Yet, the Opposition continues to harp about corruption and lack of transparency in Guyana, when they are directly hindering continuing efforts to tackle these issues by the PPP/C Government. In the meantime, our people are already beginning to feel the effects of being blacklisted by the international community for not having in place this necessary amendment in our legislation.

It was the Opposition which voted against subsidies for GPL in 2013 and in so doing, invited the cash strapped Power Company to apply for a 22% increase in tariffs from consumers. President Ramotar had to intervene and prevent this steep increase being felt by our citizens. It is the Opposition which voted against the construction of a Specialty Hospital, which will provide treatment for a number of ailments our citizens currently have to go abroad to receive.

The idea was that by providing these treatments such as open heart surgery, cancer and reconstructive surgery, kidney transplant, etc, at a more competitive cost in this part of the world, we will reverse the trend and patients from other counties will now be coming here and in turn we will use those finances to significantly subsidise the treatment for Guyanese patients. We all know that one of their main reasons for their opposition to the project came about because

Fisherman killed in hit-and-run accident at Bel Air

a company employed by the AFC leader did not win the contract for construction. It seems such a petty and personal issue to deny Guyanese such a critical project but we are dealing with the AFC and APNU here. Logic and optimism are not exactly their strong points, having gotten carried away with the role of an Opposition they have managed to imprison themselves with bars of pessimism.

They have cried about the inability of the power company to deal with an increasing demand for electricity as the economy expands, yet they have denied our people the stability and savings that the Amaila hydro

power would have afforded citizens. Hundreds of University of Guyana students now face the prospect of going into the new semester without the traditional support of loans from Government to finance their studies as this was cut from the 2014 budget by the APNU and AFC. Recently we were made aware of the plight of staffers from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) who also had their budget slashed by the AFC/APNU. These are people who are fighting against the illegal importation and distribution of fuel among other issues. These are staff member that have resisted the temptation of falling to the financial temptation of those involved in this illegal trade which has in the past deprived the nation’s coffers of a significant amount of revenue. How can the Opposition now claim it is fighting against corruption when it is denying these hard working staff their salaries and security of employ which could very well force some into the arms of these traffickers because these people have bills to pay, they have to put food on the table for their families among other responsibilities. But this action of the Opposition might not seem so strange after all because it was they who opposed the use of integrity tests for GEA employees.

It is the Opposition which attacked President Ramotar’s suggestion that integrity testing could increasingly be used to tackle corruption in public agencies, including the Guyana Police Force. Opposition Leader David Granger had shockingly remarked,“You are bound to get people who are good at test and bad at performance.”

We can also recall that it was the Opposition which attacked the Guyana Government for moving to conduct a geological survey to map all of our resources in the Deep South which includes the New River Triangle area. As we are all aware, Suriname had laid claim to the NRT which is part of our territory but amazingly, the political Opposition rather than supporting Guyana’s position, they articulated the concerns of Suriname against the geological survey.

Then there is the U.S. LEAD project which the Guyana Government had argued that certain aspects infringed on our nation’s sovereignty. The AFC and APNU came out in full force to attack the PPP/C Government’s stance, only for the U.S. to acknowledge the concerns of Guyana and enter into negotiations with the Government to iron out the contentious issues. This left the Opposition out in the cold as it underlined the extent they would go in undermining the integrity of our nation.

These are just but a few recent instances which confirm that the AFC and APNU are working against the interest of our country and people.

During the last 48 years, we have seen the PNC Dictatorship running this nation’s economy into the ground, and then we have witnessed the PPP/C trying to repair the destruction and advance our interests.

Of recent we have seen the PPP/C fight to preserve and advance our gains against an onslaught from the Opposition who have publicly stated that they have no qualms in having our people become ‘collateral damage’.

When we assess how far we have come as a nation, we must take into consideration the consistent role the Opposition has played in destabilising progress in our land. We must take into consideration the impact of their ‘slow fiya, mo fiya’ and making Guyana ‘ungovernable’ campaigns. Recently we were informed of their latest campaign ‘jook fuh jook’ by no less a person than David Granger who, when campaigning promotes national unity and reconciliation but when it is time to deliver, by supporting initiatives which will advance the interest of all our people, he becomes an entirely different individual.

This is not me harking back to a past era as the critics love to point out whenever the Opposition is reminded of their history; these instances have all occurred post 1992. They have come at a period when Guyana’s economy is experiencing its most rapid transformation to the point where it is recording growth rates which are among the highest in this part of the world. Despite the challenges, we have much to celebrate on the occasion of our 48th independence anniversary. One can only imagine how further down the road we would have been had the Opposition adopted a more pro-Guyana approach.

THE POLICE are investigating a hit-and-run fatality that occurred at about 05:50hrs on Monday, May 26, on the Railway Embankment in the vicinity of Bel Air, Georgetown. Fizul Hussain, 31, of Success, ECD perished in that accident.

Investigations have so far revealed that Fizul

Hussain was fishing along the Embankment when he was struck down by a motor vehicle whose driver drove away from the scene. Fizul was rushed to the GPHC but was pronounced dead on arrival.

The police are hunting the suspect as investigations continue.

When we assess how far we have come as a nation, we must take into consideration the consistent role the Opposition has played in destabilising progress in our land.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Prisoners at Leonora Magistrate’s Court protest as case put off

By Leroy Smith QUICK response and nimble thinking by ranks at the Leonora Police Station and the Leonora Magistrate’s Court, yesterday, averted what could have been devastation for contiguous West Coast Demerara communities and embarrassment for the Guyana Police Force.

Several high profile prisoners who had their matters called in the Leonora Magistrate’s Court began protesting after the magistrate informed them that their matter had been

put down for another date.

This publication was informed that the matter was put down because of the time of the day and the amount of matters the magistrate had to preside over.

The Leonora Magistrate’s Court does not have a sitting magistrate, but sittings would usually be conducted from Mondays through Fridays at 13:00hrs with either Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty or Magistrate Clive Nurse.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed that after the prisoners had been told that their matter was not going to be heard, they began rant-

ing and raging, causing the security in and around the court to be beefed up and the police to clear the court premises of other persons.

Those who were present at court at time of the incident related that the police, assessing the developing situation and its implications for public safety, imposed a heavy police presence encircling the court house, which remained until the prisoners had been dispatched back to Camp Street, where they are presently on remand.

While the number of prisoners involved in the protest has not been con-

firmed, the Guyana Chronicle was informed that it was in all probability close to seven.

Police D Division Commander Ian Amsterdam, whose station shares a compound with the Leonora Magistrate’s Court, related that the prisoners were all accounted for, as he quelled rumours that the security cordon imposed around the court had been breached and prisoners had escaped.

He said that none of the prisoners had made any attempt to break out of the holding area at the court.

Persons who were pres-

ent as the drama unfolded confirmed that the police acted very swiftly and professionally in bringing the situation under control.

A mere two weeks ago, four high profile prisoners breached the security at the Georgetown Magistrates Courts’ holding area and escaped during a heavy downpour of rain. One of those prisoners was recaptured seconds after freeing himself, while another was shot dead in Berbice even as the third prisoner was found hiding under a bed.

The fourth escapee is still at large.

It is not clear if the latest development will see adjustment in the procedure governing timely appearance of high-profile prisoners in court.

Already, there has been adjustment at the Georgetown Public Hospital in the treatment of prisoners who go to the facility to seek medical attention.

This was brought into effect after a fleeing prisoner shot and killed a police officer earlier this year, after sprinting from the Accident and Emergency facility.

More power for Mahdia

...new generator to be operational soon THE tight power supply schedule to Mahdia and other surrounding communities in Region 8 is expected to improve as the new generator purchased by Government to address the problem is now installed and will become operational very soon.

Regional Executive Officer, Ronald Harsawack informed residents over the weekend that the new generating set that was procured at a cost $85M has been installed, and will be tested over the next few days , before com ing into full operation.

Residents have been

Region 8 REO Ronald Harsawack with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker at the meeting in Campbelltown

affected by serious rationing o f e l e c t r i c i t y i n M a hdia from 24 to 12 hours.

Harsawack explained that this is due to the Mahdia Power and Light’s shortfall as a result of limited

resources.

He explained that the operational cost of the Mahdia Power and Light has far long exceeded the revenue accrued. The company does not have enough consumers on the power grid to get enough revenue so as to generate 24 hours

of electricity. Harsawack explained that there are just about 500 consumers on the grid and about 85 do not pay for their power generation, for the reason that the first 15 kw of power is free.

Harsawack said that there is also the issue of many of the big businesses

Region 8 REO Ronald Harsawack addresses residents at a meeting in Princeville

in Mahdia and Campbelltown not paying their light bills on time, which causes constraints when the power company has to buy fuel and there is not enough money to do so.

The issue of fuel is

also brought to the fore by the fact that the power company has a 750kva generating set, when it is using about 250 kva. In essence, the set is too big for the small customer base and this is why government would have invested in a smaller generating set that would allow for the consumption of less fuel and at the same time, the provision of more hours of electricity generation to the residents, Harsawack said.

Harsawack met with residents of Campbelltown and Princeville over the weekend in the company of Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, where they heard residents’ concerns as part of government’s focus on reaching out to residents on issues of community and national development.(GINA)

Police Traffic Dept says…

New three-lane system from DHB to Houston comes into effect IN AN EFFORT to ease the traffic build-up during peak hours along the East Bank Demerara carriageway, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has put into

effect a three-lane system between the Demerara Harbour Bridge and the Houston Access Road with effect from May 27.

This system obtains be-

tween 07:00h and 09:00h in the mornings, and from 16:00h to 18:00h in the afternoons of Monday to Friday in any week.

During the morning period, the two lanes on the western car-

riageway and the western lane on the eastern carriageway will be used to accommodate motor vehicles travelling north into Georgetown.

During the afternoons, the two lanes on the eastern carriageway and the eastern lane of the western carriageway will be used to accommodate motor vehicles travelling south into East Bank Demerara communities.

The Guyana Police Force is requesting the cooperation of motorists with its ranks who would be directing traffic during the abovementioned peak periods.(Asif Hakim)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Through 8.6M euros grant ...

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Guyana to benefit from EU boost for agriculture

By Clifford Stanley THE European Union (EU) Intra-African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) Agricultural Policy Programme (APP), for boosting agriculture in Guyana and other CARIFORUM countries, was officially launched last week.

The venue was the boardroom of the Chinese Restaurant at Valpark Shopping Plaza in St. Augustine, Trinidad.

The Intra-ACP APP, which aims at promoting the develop-

Mr. George Jervis, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and a member of the Steering Committee of the Intra-ACP APP CARIFORUM countries project chats with a colleague during the project launch in Trinidad on Monday last ment of small producers and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector of the 15 CARIFORUM countries, is being funded by the EU with a grant of 8.6 million euros.

The benefitting countries are Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint

Lucia, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.

The end beneficiaries are, among others, small farmers, fisher folk, small scale processors and traders, including organised associations and networks and women and youths.

The launch followed the first formal meeting of the members of the Project Steering Committee (PSC) and the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and the signing of partnership agreements between the executing agency the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture (IICA) and its partners, the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) and the CARICOM Secretariat.

Those present on the occasion included Ms. Kathrin Renner, member of the Delegation of the EU to Trinidad and Tobago; Dr. Arlington Chesney, Executive Director of CARDI; Ms. Desiree Field-Ridley, Officer-in-Charge, Trade and Economic Integration, CARICOM Secretariat; Mr. Gregg Rawlins, IICA representative in Trinidad and Tobago and Coordinator Regional Integration, Caribbean Region; Ms. Kimberley Gay, Coordinating Assistant, Agriculture Professional Development Programme (APDP) in the Trinidad Ministry of Food Production and Permanent Secretary in the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. George Jervis.

Also there were staff of the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation ACP-EU (CTA) Mr. Lamon Rutten, official of the CARIFORUM Secretariat, Mr. Eugene Petty, other key stakeholders and officials of IICA and more CARIFORUM agencies.

PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS Chair of the Proceedings and Project Manager of the Intra-ACP APP Project, Mr. Robert Best, disclosed that the signing of the partnership agreements would allow the transfer of the funds provided by the EU to the CARICOM Secretariat and CARDI, so that they can begin their technical activities for the APP project.

The projects are expected to begin in earnest next month and the EU grant is to contribute towards improved policies and incentive regimes and strengthened institutional and development capacity to support productivity and profitability

Rohee lauds PPP achievements in sports sector

By Vanessa Narine GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr. Clement Rohee, yesterday, congratulated the Government on another landmark achievement, the completion of the state-of-the-art Synthetic Athletic Track at Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

Speaking at the weekly press conference, in Freedom House on Robb Street, Georgetown, he emphasised that the accomplishment is one more indication of the current Administration’s commitment to the sports sector.

He said: “The PPP has always stated its firm commitment to the development and expansion of sports and the requisite facilities to help our sportsmen and women reach their full potential and continue to represent Guyana well, internationally…this is a fulfillment of a promise by the PPP/Civic in its manifesto.”

According to him, the state of the art facility will see Guyana hosting more international athletic competitions, which fits into the PPP/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s ongoing efforts to promote another tourism product, sports tourism.

Rohee said: “We are also heartened at the ongoing support of the Government to other sporting organisations to establish more facilities for Guyana’s athletes, including the Guyana Karate College’s Dojo, the Athletics Association of Guyana Headquarters, hockey field and the Guyana Football Federation’s Goal project, just to list a few.

“We wish to state, as a matter of public record, that the successive PPP Administrations have never shirked their responsibilities when it comes to the promotion of sports and support for our athletes. The evidence is in the public’s domain to show.”

THE SUCCESSES The General Secretary pointed out, too, that, under the PPP/C Administration, the successes in the sports sector include the construction of the Guyana National Stadium at Providence; the refurbishment of the Albion Sports Complex, which was fitted with floodlights making it ideal for night cricket, football and other sporting events.

“It is under the PPP/Civic Government that hundreds of millions of dollars are invested in sports and sporting facilities,” he said.

Rohee added: “One would recall that, prior to 1992, See page 12

of the Region’s small agri-based producers/entrepreneurs.

This, in turn, is aimed at contributing to the wider development goal of household food security in the Region and the eradication of poverty.

It has been disclosed that the programme to be rolled out over the next four years, comprises of three components

Mr. Robert Best, Project Manager of the Intra-ACP APP project, addressing the gathering during the launch of the project in Trinidad on Monday last namely development of an enabling policy environment; applied technology, research and innovation and entrepreneurship development and local national regional global market linkages.

The CARICOM Secretariat will address enabling policy, CARDI technology development and transfer and IICA enterprise development and linkages to markets.

Actions in these components will be tailored directly and specifically towards addressing the development needs of small producers/entrepreneurs.

A number of strategic partners and allies, including public officials in Ministries of Agriculture, Health and Tourism, other key Regional Institutions and Universities will also be engaged, as appropriate and necessary, in actions under the APP. Guyana’s representative on the PSC, Mr. Jervis told the Guyana Chronicle that there have been lots of plans in the past for the development of agriculture regionally but the problem has been in implementation, largely because of the lack of financial resources.

“What this Intra–ACP APP project managed by IICA seeks to do is to put 8.6M euros for agricultural development in the Caribbean. The three implementing agencies will not give money to individual countries.

“Instead they will go into the various countries and do various things that are needed to take agriculture forward,” he explained.

Jervis said Guyana, like the other States, is going to benefit from the various projects that Government has identified which are still being prioritised with CARDI and IICA and those priority programmes will get tangible assistance from the project.

“There is going to be help with policies, research, planting materials, strengthening organisations and with linking farmers to markets. So there is money in this programme that will help us do quite a few things that we have, in the past, merely been talking about,” he assured.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

President decries ‘blackmail methods’ in local politics -says it will gain us nothing

By Vanessa Narine THE PRIMARY CRITERIA that should be considered in the move to advance Guyana’s development should be what is in the interest of the people and country, President Donald Ramotar has said, as he decried the “blackmail methods” contaminating local politics.

“I call for a renewed (sense of) patriotism and nationalism from our political parties,” he said during his address at the 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations on Sunday night at the National Park.

He stressed that opposing for opposition’s sake and introducing blackmail methods in our politics will gain the Guyanese people and country nothing.

“Even if it gives results in the short term, it will damage the moral fabric of our society in the medium and long terms,” he posited.

The President pointed out that Guyana has had real consecutive economic growth every year since 2006; and this, he said, represented the longest period of uninterrupted real economic growth since Independence in 1966.

“It is no mean achievement. It is one that all Guyanese must be proud of. We must recall that this was being accomplished at a time when the international economy was rocked by a series of international financial and economic crises from 2007.

“In spite of these negative global developments, which impacted on the prices for our main exports and imports, our country pushed ahead. Last year the economy grew by more than five per cent,” the President said as he surmised that economic growth could have been greater had the current Administration had the cooperation of the combined Opposition -- the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) -- in the National Assembly during the 10th Parliament.

POISED FOR BETTER He added that Guyana is poised for greater advances. “Clearly, we have laid, and are continuing to lay, a solid foundation for greater and faster progress in the future. To do so, we need to have improved infrastructure,” the President said.

The acceleration of this process, however, is dependent on the cooperation of the combined Opposition; since one of the main impediments to Guyana’s faster economic growth is the lack of cheap energy – the advance of which has been challenged in the National Assembly.

The President said, “We need this (cheap energy) to provide for a strong industrial and processing sector. We need it to add value to much of what we produce today. We need it, too, to ensure that our domestic consumers have cheap and reliable power in their homes.

“We need it so that we can reduce the importation of fossil fuel and to be able to save the nine billion dollars we use every year to subsidise electricity charges to our people.”

He stressed his confidence that the move towards hydropower will stimulate rapid economic growth and facilitate job creation in every sector.

“It took us four years of negotiations to have reached that stage in 2013, and all of that has been lost; but we are determined to get this project. Already, we have recommenced the See page 13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

President decries ‘blackmail methods’ ...

From page 12 search (for) opportunities to bring hydropower to our country. We will also pursue other forms of cheap, reliable and renewable (green) energy in the future. These will include wind, solar, and co-generation,” the Head of State said.

Slated to be the nation’s most ambitious undertaking, the Amaila Falls Hydro Project (AFHP) is touted to be able to provide Guyanese with a cheaper, reliable and sustainable power supply. It involves the construction of a hydropower plant in the area of West-Central Guyana, where the Amaila and Kuribrong rivers meet.

Electricity produced there would be delivered to Georgetown and Guyana’s second largest town, Linden. The Amaila Falls Hydro Project is anticipated to result in substantial savings to the nation’s coffers, particularly in terms of foreign exchange and the purchase of heavy fuel oil.

The potential benefits of a more stable and reliable source of energy through the advance of hydroelectricity was also targeted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last December as an area for continued focus.

On July 18 last, the combined Opposition defeated the Hydroelectric Power (Amendment) Bill, and in August the Government took the legislation back to the National Assembly and received the backing of the AFC, but APNU voted the bill and motion down.

The current administration has since made public its commitment to ensuring that hydropower is a realisation for Guyana.

Rohee lauds PPP achievements ...

From page 11 there were no proper sporting facilities in Guyana. The few cricket and football grounds stayed alive because of private associations’ investments.”

He stated that consecutive PPP/C Governments have continuously increased the budgetary allocations every single year for the sports sector.

“The PPP recommits itself to continuously improving the landscape to help our athletes reach their full potential,” he said.

An aerial view of the new synthetic track at Leonora.

(Photo by Adrian Narine)

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Rohee recalled that, in the 2014 Budget, some $960M was allocated for sports development, monies that are expected to see focus placed on improving the quality of facilities available throughout the country, as well as offering quality programmes in the area of sports for both athletes and officials.

Of the $960M, $344M is expected to be spent on continuing works at the Leonora Athletic Track and the warm-up pool at the National Aquatic Centre and another $300M on the grounds enhancement initiative which aims at upgrading selected sports grounds countrywide.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Guyanese must make greater contribution to cleaner environment - President Ramotar

By Vanessa Narine PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar, on Sunday, called on Guyanese to make a greater contribution to the improvements in the country.

Addressing the crowd gathered at the National Park,

in Georgetown that night for the 48th Independence Anniversary celebrations, he said: “Too often we hear about the litter and untidiness of our surroundings. Here each of us can play a part in leading by example, to make a personal contribution to the

appearance of our living and working environment.”

According to the Head of State, there is much to do to further enhance the quality of life in Guyana and each citizen of the nation must seek to work in greater cooperation and unity towards this goal.

“We still have a lot to do,” he remarked.

The state of the environment was the focus of a $1B allocation in this year’s National Budget, earmarked for a countrywide clean-up campaign, with $500M to address the needs of Georgetown.

Government, through the $1B initiative, is expected to spearhead an effort that will result in the capital city, all other towns and rural villages implementing a ‘Clean Up My Community’ action plan that will address the collection and removal of garbage as well as the reporting of residents who, irresponsibly, dispose of their garbage.

PROPERLY DISCARDED Citizens, businesses and

institutions will be tasked with ensuring that their waste is properly discarded in appropriate receptacles.

Efforts will be made to enlist the support of the private sector and other institutions to assume greater involvement in helping to maintain the environment in which they operate.

Frontbencher of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Mr. Ronald Bulkan, in April, decried the allocation of $500M to undertake a clean-up of the capital city and charged that the campaign is an elections drive.

However, he was flayed

by Government Members of Parliament (MPs), as the initial motion to restore Georgetown to its former

beauty was Opposition-sponsored in its passage through the National Assembly last year.

During that debate, APNU MP, Ms. Volda Lawrence, who had initiated it, noted that, despite the many interventions to keep the city clean, it is not in the condition it ought to be, as she made reference to the piles of garbage on the pavements outside the Public Buildings.

Local Government Minister, Mr. Norman Whittaker has, since, noted that, while the provision is welcomed, the measure did not take into account the lack of responsibility on the part of the agency overlooking the management of the capital, the Mayor and City Council.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Minister Edghill joins Kwakwani residents at flag raising ceremony … urges togetherness to build Guyana

A section of the gathering at the event

MINISTER within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, joined with the residents of Kwakwani, Region 10, in observance of Guyana’s 48th Independence Anniversary on Sunday evening.

The minister used the opportunity to urge the residents to continue to work together to build a better Guyana.

The ceremony saw hundreds of residents turning out to view the cultural programme which comprised poems, songs, dances and skit, among other items, as well as to listen to the Minister’s remarks and witness the traditional hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead at the stroke of midnight.

The minister noted that the country has come a far way over the years, and “you will agree with me, we are not where we want to be, but we are certainly not where we were.”

The minister also urged residents to be proud of their country’s success despite the challenges or short falls.

“As a Guyanese nation, we must not only broadcast our failures, but we must be proud to talk about the successes we have made as a people,” he said.

Noting that despite 48 years of challenges and disagreements among po-

litical leaders and citizens, as a whole the country has moved on and is still doing so. The minister also acknowledged a greater need for cooperation and acknowledged that every

Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill speaking to the gathering at the event citizen has a role to play in nation building, despite his or her political, ethnic or religious background.

He also added, “Independence means we have taken our destiny in our hands, Guyana is in the hands of Guyanese, the things we do now will decide our years to come.”

The minister pledged Government’s commitment to the betterment of the

country’s citizens. He noted that Government is aware of the role that the citizens play, “that is why the Government continues to work in the social sector,” while acknowledging the fact that almost 30% of the national budget goes towards this sector.

Touching on the fact that the Government invests in the development of its people and is not always responsible for the unacceptable work given, for example in the construction of roads, the minister pointed out that Government invests in the projects, but the functions are carried out by paid personnel. He acknowledged the fact that Government wants the best for its people, but it’s sometimes those very people who rip each other off. He however added, “We want to ensure you get value for money and you get the best value because you deserve the best and that is the commitment of this Government to the people of Guyana.”

He then saluted the residents of the region who have been giving back to their country in one way or other, and encouraged them to praise their heroes in their communities as they all contribute to the nation’s development, making Guyana what it is today.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

CDB promoting regional food security through new initiatives- Bank’s President AS the Caribbean moves towards increasing its food security, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is promoting “Protected agriculture.”

According to CDB President, Dr. William Warren Smith, speaking during an interview on the National Communications Network (NCN) Monday, the regional bank views agriculture as vital to the prosperity of the Region. Dr. Smith was joined by Guyana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh who is also Chairman of the bank’s board of governors.

“In the CDB, we like to talk about agriculture in the context of rural development, in other words, we feel especially in countries like Guyana, the larger countries of the Caribbean, large segments of our populations

live in the rural area; so apart from ensuring that you don’t spend a chunk of your foreign exchange importing food, the fact that you can develop a modern agriculture sector in the rural areas, what you are also doing is contributing to the wealth and development of people who live in those rural areas so that it is part and parcel of the development puzzle.”

The CDB president noted that over the years, as the focus on agriculture has reduced in many countries, with some segueing into tourism and importing food to fill their needs, their local agricultural sectors have been declining.

The CDB, he said, has recognised that many youths who comprise the bulk of the Region’s populations, are no longer interested in

back breaking labour which characterised the industry previously. “They want to utilise that skill that they’re learning in school with their science courses and what have you, to do a more modern agriculture.”

The move towards what Dr. Smith described as “Protected Agriculture”, is now being focused on by the CDB. This entails the use of green houses to grow specific crops which have a good domestic market and the possibility of being linked to the tourist industry with its emphasis on quality.

The CDB is also focusing on irrigation, and in countries such as Jamaica, the bank’s president said that this move has helped to increase productivity in agriculture.

Guyana is also push-

ing to enhance the regional capacity for food security through agriculture; and according to Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, large scale investments such as the Santa Fe mega farm in Region 9 will result in these

goals being achieved through economies of scale.

Guyana, Minister Singh added, is seeking to ensure regional standards for food quality and easier transportation and accessibility to Caribbean markets. All of these efforts will go to reducing the Region’s dependability on food imports from beyond

the Region.

The Caribbean Region currently imports billions of US dollars in food, and Guyana, via the Jagdeo Initiative, is seeking to have regional states become more food secure through increased and sustained agricultural productivity. (GINA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Copa Airlines names Guyanese as local Sales Manager

THE Panamanian flag carrier, Copa Airlines has announced the appointment of Nadine Oudkerk

as the local sales manager in Guyana, retroactive to May 19, 2014.

“Oudkerk is a Guyanese

national who brings a wealth of marketing experience to the job. She has been in the marketing and tourism field

for more than 10 years and has made significant strides in producing results.

“Prior to joining Copa Airlines, she was the Senior Marketing Officer with Guyana Tourism Authority,” the announcement said.

Operations on the Guyana route will begin on July 11 with twice weekly flights, Tuesdays and Fridays, to Panama and passengers would have the leisure of booking connections to a number of other destinations, such as Montreal , Canada; Fort Lauderdale, Florida and New York in the United States (U.S.) to name a few.

Oudkerk said: “Copa offers an incredible opportunity for the people of Guyana to experience

a higher and distinctive level of travel and service.

I am looking forward to working with this dynamic airline and the passionate team to ensure the success of Copa Airlines in Guyana.”

68 DESTINATIONS The carrier presently serves 68 destinations in 30 countries, with more than 300 scheduled daily flights in the North, South and Central America as well as the Caribbean and is recognised for its leadership in international connectivity, punctuality, quality of service and having one of the most modern fleets in the industry, it boasted.

Copa Airlines was founded in 1947 as the national airline of Panama and is a subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A. as well as a member of the Star Alliance. The airline is also the

NADINE OUDKERK main operator and owner of the Colombian Airline, Aero Republica, currently known as Copa Airlines Colombia.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

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Rafieya Husain storms st

World 2014 Crown

By Alex wayne

SOME argued that she was not the most stunning girl on stage, and all the other petty disagreements that come with pageantry in Guyana. But none could match the fluency and intelligence of the fiery Rafieya Husain that eventually won her the coveted Miss Guyana World 2014 title.

This very prestigious pageant was hosted on Monday night at the National Cultural Centre, Georgetown.

Husain, much to the disappointment of sections of the audience, took the queen’s title, with the vivacious Atisha Gaskill taking the first runner-up title. Second runner-up was the electrifying Denicia Williams. In the fourth position was crowd favourite Iana Whitehead and of course this announcement caused real chaos and Whitehead’s supporters stormed out of the venue, some shouting obscenities as they left.

When the special awards were handed out half way into the pageant, it was Atisha Gaskill

who took home the Beach Beauty and Fitness and Sport Awards, with Tiffany Megnaught taking home the award for Best Interview. Ayana Whitehead won the prize for Best Talent, while the Multi Media Award was won by Gericia Francis.

The eventual queen Rafieya Husain won herself the Beauty with a Purpose and People’s Choice Awards.

A large crowd congregated in front of the National Culture Centre, loudly protesting the decision of the judges and threatening to throttle them if they ventured outside. Some individuals, obviously in favour of Whitehead as queen, stormed backstage intent on inflicting harm to the organisers, some of whom were forced to scatter to safety.

The organisers should receive accolades for the creativity they associated with the opening of the pageant but none can possibly refrain from groaning and lamenting on the lengthy periods the poor audience had to wait for each item to get on stage.

Opening the curtain

to brilliant decor and the strikingly colourful theme ‘Masquerade Lives’, no one was prepared for the sudden arrival of costumed dancers who pranced through the audience and thereafter put on quite an impressive show on stage. And the surprises were just beginning, because soon after they retreated, outgoing queen Raquayyah Boyer exploded on stage executing masquerade moves that really stirred up the audience.

Then in came the eight pretty delegates performing some dance routines of their own that were quite fulfilling. At this point, clad in colourful costumes, they introduced themselves to the audience and the audience went really wild when Ayana Whitehead made her delivery.

THE TALENT SEGMENT This segment showcased much creativity on the part of most contestants and much of it was dance presentations.

First up was Cherese James and her dance piece was lukewarm, but she

New queen, Rafieya Husain (center) first runner-up, Atisha Gaskill (left), and second runner-up, Deneica Williams were all smiles after they received their respective pageant placing was applauded for her efforts. She was followed

by Rafieya Husain who offered quite a stirring Indian dance that earned her loud applause. She made way for Atisha Gaskill

The top five finalists, Cherese James, Denicia Williams, Ayana Whitehead, Atisha Gaskill, and Rafieya Husain during the Intelligence Segment

who filled the arena with sensual undertones as she presented a very captivating dance that reflected our colourful Guyanese culture.

Next to come was Ayana Whitehead and as expected she unleashed electric moves as she presented an interpretive dance that ended on a certain resounding note. She was very dramatic and stirring and her supporters echoed their pleasure. Tiffany Megnauth presented a mind-boggling Indian dance with graceful moves, saucy prancing as she creatively infused talent that truly showcased our Guyanese heritage.

SWIMSUIT FANTASIA The ladies were all on fire during the swimsuit segment and each did an impressive job. But there were a few that had the audience gripping their seats as they exploded with sizzling pivots, sensual sashays, seductive teasing and

dashing smiles.

Cherese James opened this segment in fine fashion. She seemed to be making up for her lack lustre presentation in the talent segment and just unfurled like a sensual siren.

Rebekah London seemed to be the prettiest girl on stage, but she was just cold and though she has a runway body, she just seemed to walk through her routine, hoping desperately for it to come to an end. Then in flew the very sexy Ayana Whitehead and the NCC erupted. She was hot and sexy, provocative and dreamy.

Sadly Tiffany Megnaught never seemed to master her composure in this segment and was just tumbling all over the place.

Gericia Francis, Atisha Gaskill, and Rafieya Husain all did a good job, showcasing their assets with great confidence and poise.

Denicia Williams was a sizzling temptress fusing See page 22

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

tage to win Miss Guyana

Miss Guyana World 2014, as she is being sashed and crowned by outgoing queen, Raquayyah Boyer. Assisting with the process (to the left) is Miss Guyana Earth 2014, Stacy Ramcharran and reigning Miss Guyana Universe, Katherina Roshana

The elated Rafieya Husain waves to the audience after capturing the Miss World Guyana crown from seven other contestants

Highlights from the swimsuit showdown

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Rafieya Husain storms stage to win Miss Guyana from centre page

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a superb figure, dazzling beauty and sophistication to leave a lasting impression on the judges. The audience took ages to quiet down after this segment concluded, and it appeared like the girls had really turned up the heat at this year’s pageant.

THE FINAL SHOWDOWN The lights dimmed and soothing, mesmerizing music flowed all around as the damsels appeared in their evening wear.

Floating in like a seductive lass, James paraded in a (mermaid looking) gold figure hugging gown with a modest slit to the front. The ruffles were all enticing and the off shoulder creation certainly did her justice.

Husain looked well in a simple white gown with silver highlights and she certainly worked the piece to the best of her ability. It was her brilliant smile and surprisingly stunning moves that captured the attention of the audience.

London’s gown was a ‘show stopper selection’ that bared her entire midriff and large portions of her back.

The bouncy skirting was fitted with frothy ruffles that added a somewhat girlish allure to the green creation that was accentuated with silver highlights that caused firelight to dance in her eyes.

Gaskill’s glittering peach and gold off shoulder gold ensemble was very eye-catching and she certainly wore the piece well.

Williams was quite dreamy in a figure clinging, gold fish tail gown with an off shoulder effect that bared her sapodilla brown skin. The plunging neckline that revealed ample amount of cleavage was a See page 23

Outgoing Queen Raquayyah Boyer takes her final walk before handing over the crown to her successor, Rafieya Husain

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Rafieya Husain storms stage to win Miss Guyana from page 22 stealer and it allowed almost complete exposure of the back. This piece was quite a topic amongst women in the audience.

Designer Randy Madray did it again and showcased his talent when Whitehead appeared wearing a dark green creation that showcased billowing yester-year skirts and an almost ‘see through skin clinging bodice’ that left little to be imagined.

This gown was a fusion of fairyland tales as reflected in the wide skirting, yet it was infused with creative sexiness with a daring left

slit that travelled all the way to the hips.

The clinging bodice sported long sleeves, and the designer somehow worked it all the way to the top of the right thigh so as to prevent an unpleasant or vulgar display of any kind.

Francis was very impressive in black and gold provocative attire that carried a daring left slit that revealed sultry legs.

The top of this dress carried an almost transparent arrangement that left most of her back exposed.

Megnauth’s gown was a simple green and black piece that carried a loose, flowing bodice. Again this

contestant rushed through her showcase, emitting sounds of disapproval from the audience.

After the Evening Gown Segment the top five contestants were shortlisted and the audience whopped their approval. Cherese James, Denicia Williams, Ayana Whitehead, Atisha Gaskill, and Rafieya Husain were called out and they braced themselves for battle in the Intelligence Segment that decided the eventual winners.

Each girl tried her best to answer creditably whatever was thrown at her, and most of the answers were appropriate, but they

were no match for the queen who provided answers that found favour with the judges.

The pageant came to an end with mixed emotions from the audience, but the new queen was

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all smiles and happiness as she waved and took her victory walk for the benefit of her supporters.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Aries

Wednesday, May 28, 2014 - 14:30 Thurday, May 29, 2014 - 05:00

You’re quite fiery, especially when it’s time to speak your mind -- or ask for answers you know you deserve. You’ve never been shy about asking those questions, either, even if they’re not polite. Now that you’ve got a hot topic on your mind and you know there’s no other way to solve it than to ask around, you’re more than willing to risk tarnishing your reputation a little to get the answers you’re after.

Taurus Two of your most famous qualities are needed right now, and while many don’t have what it takes to answer, you most certainly do. You need to listen quietly while others are chatting about absolutely nothing. Then, when you speak, tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

That all comes easily to you, but try not to be too smug as you watch others struggle to keep quiet with what they know -- or don’t know.

Gemini You’re in a restless mood, and no matter where you are, there’s someplace else you’d rather be. While you might ordinarily be able to distract yourself until you can find a practical way to get out, you’re unwilling to waste a moment now. Cut to the chase -- announce to one and all that you’ve got someplace to be, and get yourself there. It’s time for the next step on your journey.

Cancer If you just can’t bear the thought of heading out and being with other people in the big, loud world, why force yourself? You don’t have to go out -- and everyone who knows and loves you should understand. If they want to see you badly enough, they should also be smart enough to call and ask for an audience. If you do somehow get lonely, let them visit, but if not, schedule something for later. Absence really does make the heart grow fonder!

Leo You’ve been a bit worried about someone close lately, and they should say or do something that subtly lets you know you were right. You’ve been wondering if they might be getting a bit too possessive, though they’ve done a great job of hiding it. Once you have your proof -- and it should come soon, if you pay attention -- you need to decide what to do next.

Virgo You don’t usually make decisions without thinking them through all the way, especially when it comes to career matters. Still, something has been offered recently that sounds far too good to pass up. If you’re interested and ready to jump -- and you most likely are, at least on the inside -- you need to investigate the possibilities. You might not have to do anything uncomfortable with right now -- but soon, maybe.

Libra You are involved with someone you met as if through magic. Just about everything that’s happened since seems to have carried that same lovely, magical tone. Today, when jealousy is almost sure to strike, don’t let anything endanger what you’ve got. A little bit of jealousy can be a compliment, which means you love someone enough to value them. Too much implies insecurity, so know where to draw the line.

Scorpio You’re not exactly famous for your love of light-hearted, frivolous conversation -- in fact, you often use just one word for every three that other folks blurt out without even thinking. At the moment, though, you’ve got quite a bit to say, and while your sweetie is amazed, there’s no doubt that they sit still and listen. That is what you’re after, right?

Sagittarius You know that life is a series of extended vacations that we’re fortunate enough to go on with a carefully chosen, well-suited travel companions -- friends, family members and select strangers that don’t stay that way for long. You’re due to meet someone new and wonderful now -- or maybe more than one person -- who wants to tag along for the ride on the next leg of your trek. Are you ready?

Capricorn Your regal, royal bearing and the mantle of authority you wear so easily and so well can sometimes intimidate those around you -- but in a good way! You have the power to decide whom to let into your world and whom to banish from it. If someone has been trying to edge their way in, don’t hesitate to give them a good shove back out. If they’re this pushy now, imagine how they might act a bit further down the road.

Aquarius Whether you believe in reincarnation or not doesn’t matter right now -everyone has had the experience of feeling like we’ve known someone forever, even though it’s only been a few months (or minutes). You have learned to pay careful attention to this weird sort of thing, so when you cross paths now with someone who seems familiar, you don’t hesitate to say so, and even to ask where they’ve been all your life!

Pisces More often than not, emotional situations don’t seem to work out the way they should (or at least as they do in the movies), but now, thanks to some highly unusual circumstances, a magical ending is actually be on the agenda. Your job is to refuse to turn a Hollywood ending into something out of Shakespeare -- you’d rather live a comedy than a tragedy, right? Do your part and make a dream come true.

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From back page

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

‘My worst experience...

“But in my camp, I really felt the pain of being used and I think I realised that a little too late. My coach and trainer Lennox Daniels was there for me, Leon Moore – someone who has been supportive of my career was there for me as well, in my corner but it was little they could do,” Atwell recalled.

Atwell was hesitant in recounting what transpired in Mexico and leading up to his first World title fight, only saying “I will hold a press conference when I get back from Dominica, but I just want to go home to my wife who just gave birth and upon return, the media will know everything from myself, management and everyone.

So I don’t really want to say much.”

“As an amateur, boxing used to be my hobby and even up to my first couple of fights as a pro, but then I changed that and put on the business cap.

It’s hard for any fighter, especially if you’re now coming up, to focus on business and fighting, that’s why you have people in your camp who should be looking out for you and making sure that you have the best possible treatment”.

“I invest a lot into my craft, this is my life on the line every time I enter the ring, so I make sure that I’m well prepared, just like any other top-rated fighter you see or know of.

“I spend a lot of money preparing for my fights, hoping one day I’ll have a shot at a world title and make it big. The thing is I did but it has left me feeling bitter and though I feel I did beat Jhonny Gonzalez, I feel like I fought harder outside of the ring.”

Meanwhile, a source close to the fighter and his team said from day one, the Agricola resident was being set up but

was too caught up in basking in the glory of his success of landing a world title fight to realise that the deal would have benefited everyone else, except him.

“I knew everything and at the time, he really was being fed with a pack of rubbish and knowing the type of person he is, this was a dream come true and he was happy. He had no clue when he was travelling, how he was getting to Mexico or anything and he couldn’t question them. They kept him out of the loop,” the source said.

“When he got to Mexico he had to travel for six hours by car to get to where he was actually staying and fighting and the accommodation was a brothel.

“But this young man really went through a lot to do that good, and Guyana should be proud of him,” the source noted.

Ian John, applauded the GFSCA for its support which will now enable the older cricketers to participate in more matches, adding that over 100 vibrant young players are being taught and mentored by the senior players.

John disclosed that the club has other developmental projects in place such as the construction of a pavilion and an indoor facility which augurs well for the continued development of all the cricketers attached to the club.

In his presentation,

GFSCA president Ramchand Ragbeer noted that apart from the DCC, several other clubs were considered but DCC which is known as the ‘Home of the Legends’ was selected because it is considered as one of the leading cricket clubs in Guyana and they are pleased to be associated with the Club.

Ragbeer emphasised that this achievement took tremendous effort on both parties involved and other well-wishers, disclosing that the GFSCA has also expressed interest in assisting other sports clubs.

From back page

Minister Anthony...

Dr Anthony said he particularly appreciated the softball association because it gives those who have retired from hardball cricket a chance to still be in the sport and the GFSCA has also been able to host a yearly softball tournament which included players from Guyana and overseas.

Dr Anthony told the gathering about the ground development project through which sports groups can receive up to $1M for sports development and it is anticipated that the development of community grounds will see more people participating in sports.

Acting president of DCC,

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

James, Heat quiet Pacers, grab 3-1 series lead MIAMI, Florida -- Lance Stephenson said prior to Monday’s game that LeBron James showed a “sign of weakness” by responding to his trashtalking.

On Monday night, those supposed signs were as invisible as Stephenson was for most of the game.

James scored a game-high 32 points to help the Heat beat the Indiana Pacers 102-90 at American Airlines Arena, giving Miami a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference finals.

James produced at least 22 points for the 19th consecutive game, including all 13 playoff games. The superstar forward added 10 rebounds and a game-high five assists.

“You can never get too high or too low in the postseason,” James said, sounding very much like the anti-Stephenson. “But the difference was (Heat

forward) Chris Bosh.

“I don’t need any (extra) motivation (from Stephenson).

I have motivation enough trying to get back to the NBA Finals.”

Asked if he found Stephenson comical, James said he got a smirk out of it.

Bosh, who managed just nine points in each of the previous three games, broke out by scoring 25 points.

“As a scorer, you always want to see the first couple of shots go in,” Bosh said.

“When that happened, I didn’t really have any emotion. I just wanted to keep it going, being greedy.”

Meanwhile, Stephenson had just one point through three quarters and finished with nine points, four assists and two turnovers.

“I have no regrets,” the Indiana shooting guard said when asked about his James comments. “I was trying to play ball. I was trying to get into his head. I guess he

stepped up and got the win. I can take the heat. I can take the fire.”

Although Stephenson took

The series shifts today to Indianapolis, where Miami will try to clinch the series and advance to the

Indiana Pacers centre Ian Mahinmi, left, and forward Paul George (24) attempt to block Miami Heat forward LeBron James during the second half of Game 4 in the NBA basketball Eastern Conference finals playoff series, Monday, in Miami.

the heat from the media, it doesn’t look as if he or his team will be able to take the Heat, who now have a commanding lead.

NBA Finals for the fourth consecutive year.

Miami, who never trailed in the game, are 7-0 at home in this year’s playoffs, 11-2

overall.

Heat guard Dwyane Wade, who scored more than 20 points in each of the previous four playoff games, was held to 15 points.

The Pacers were led by forwards Paul George (23 points) and David West (20 points and a game-high 12 rebounds). However, Indiana centre Roy Hibbert finished scoreless in 22 minutes. “(Hibbert) got some touch fouls that put him on the bench,” Pacers coach Frank Vogel said.

After trailing by at least eight points in the first quarter during each of the first three games of the series, Miami finally reversed the trend.

Miami won the opening quarter 27-19, and the key was Bosh, who had 10 points, all of them within the first six minutes. Bosh went 4-for-4 from the floor during that span, hitting a pair of 3-pointers.

In the previous three games,

Bosh shot a combined 2-for12 on 3-pointers.

The Heat, who committed no turnovers in the first quarter, also got eight points in the period from James.

Despite Miami’s strong start, Indiana rallied to cut their halftime deficit to 4945. Considering the Pacers never led in the first half and trailed by as many as 11, it was a reasonable margin for Indiana.

West had 12 points at the half, and George had 11.

Miami outscored the Pacers 31-20 in the third to pull away, with James contributing 14 points in the quarter.

Indiana outscored Miami 2622 in the fourth quarter but never seriously threatened.

The closest the Pacers got late was 99-90 with 1:30 left.

Looking ahead, Vogel remains confident.

“I believe strongly we will win Game 5 and come back here for Game 6,” he said.

Murray happy to be Mr Reliable as seeds crash at French Open PARIS, France (Reuters) - Andy Murray was just pleased to be Mr Reliable and swerve a first-round banana skin at the French Open tennis yesterday, as he avoided the fate suffered by two other reigning grand slam champions.

The seventh seed, who will attempt to defend his Wimbledon crown next month, was fully tested by some explosive baseline power from Kazakhstan’s Andrey Golubev but survived a minor scare to win 6-1, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

This year’s Australian Open champions Stan Wawrinka and Li Na failed to survive a round in Paris while several other big names such as Grigor Dimitrov and Caroline Wozniacki have already departed.

Murray, who was seeded to meet Wawrinka in the quarter-finals, now looks to have relatively enticing draw before a likely semifinal against eight-time champion Rafael Nadal, although he was looking no

further ahead than a second round against Tour funny man Marinko Matosevic.

“There have been quite a few upsets here the last few days and tricky conditions,” Murray, who missed the tournament last year with a back problem that eventually required surgery, told reporters.

“So the most important thing was to get through.”

“I think I’ve done a good job of that the last few years,” added the Scot, who has not lost in the opening round of a grand slam tournament since a defeat

by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga six years ago at the Australian Open.

“I have not always played my best tennis at the beginning of the tournaments, but I found ways to get through and get myself into the tournament and give myself opportunities to do well in these events.”

Without a career title on clay Murray’s chances at the French Open are probably less than at the other three slams, but

he played impressive tennis against Golubev at times and defended like a

Andy Murray

contortionist when pushed into corners.

With a semi-final and two quarter-final runs at Roland Garros to his name it will take a good player to beat Murray here, although he

knows he will not be able to afford the kind of lapse he suffered in the third set against Golubev.

Despite dropping his serve too often for his liking and being outplayed for a while in the third, Murray rarely looked panicky and finished with something to spare.

Next up is Australian Matosevic who finally won a match at a grand slam at the 13th time of asking yesterday, beating dreadlocked German Dustin Brown.

“He’s an interesting character, that’s for sure,” Murray said. “He’s a good guy and he’s good fun, good fun around the locker room, always makes everyone smile, makes everyone laugh.”

Funny or not Matosevic will probably find the Mr Reliable of the grand slams a far too serious proposition tomorrow although he will feel a good deal lighter on the court.

“I feel like there is a huge gorilla off my shoulders,” he said. “It’s just relief

more than anything else really.

“Hopefully, it can free me up now.”

First IPL qualifier postponed to today due to rain THE Kolkata Knight Riders v Kings XI Punjab IPL qualifier at Eden Gardens has been postponed to today due to torrential rain in Kolkata.

The match will be played at 16:00hrs while the eliminator in Mumbai, between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, will be played at 20:00hrs as scheduled.

If the weather or ground conditions do not permit a full game in Kolkata today as well, overs will be reduced till it is a fiveover-a-side affair. If even that is not possible, as per the playing conditions, the winner will be decided via a Super Over. The latest the Super Over can begin is 21:10hrs.

If that, too, is ruled out, then the side which finished the league stage with more wins - that is, Kings XI will go through to the final.

Thundershowers “in spots” are forecast for Kolkata for today.

The ground had been fully under covers and the outfield was under ankledeep water in places due to torrential rain lashing the city, PTI reported.

At 17:15hrs, umpires Nigel Llong and S. Ravi inspected the ground with curator Prabir Mukherjee and decided that it was impossible for it to be made match-fit in time for even a five-overs-a-side game today, prompting the early postponement.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

McKinnon returns to form to win .22 Precision Pistol competition RYAN McKinnon returned to form to win the .22 Precision Pistol competition, organised by the Smallbore section of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) and held last weekend at

the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) range, Eve Leary.

McKinnon recorded 293 points to win the competition which consisted of three stages shot at the seven metres, 10m and 15 m distances.

Shooters were required to fire 10 rounds at each stage for a combined overall score.

Leading female shooter Vidushi Persaud continued her excellent showing this season with a second-place finish with 256 points.

Third position was captured

by Fabrian Stuart who amassed 240 points at the three stages.

Randy Sarjoo secured fourth position with 225 points while Shawn Smith was fifth with 224 points.

Last weekend’s competition brought the curtain down on three weekends of shooting with Smallbore captain Dale Hing clinching victory in the first leg held at Eve Leary while the second leg at Timehri range was won by Dr Johan DaSilva.

Saturday’s results were as followed: 1st Ryan McKinnon – 293 points

RYAN McKinnon

2nd Vidushi Persaud – 256 points 3rd Fabian Stuart -240 points 4th Randy Sarjoo – 225

points 5th Shawn Smith – 224 points

Stag Beer/EBFA Division One League

Grove Hi-Tech end 1st round in pole position, bangs Mocha Champs 8-1 GROVE Hi-Tech ended the first round of the Stag Beer-sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Division-One League in a blaze of glory, whipping Mocha Champs 8-1 at the Grove Playfield last Monday afternoon.

Already ahead in the standing by virtue of a better goal average after being locked on 15 points with Soesdyke Falcons and Timehri Panthers, the home team emulated the other teams in the tournament who have all defeated Mocha.

It was a no-nonsense approach by Grove who were led with a hat-trick each from Domini Garnett

and Timothy Griffith. It was Dexter Archer who put the home team ahead ten minutes into the game and thereafter it was just a matter of how much goals the final score line would read.

Garnett converted his first in the 12th minute and completed his tally with efforts in the 62nd and 68th minutes. Griffith emulated his captain Garnett with goals of his own in the 27th, 38th and 57th minutes. The icing was put on the cake in the 73rd minute.

Mocha did not leave the game goal-less as Jermaine Liverpool scored their consolation goal on the 73rd minute from the penalty spot.

Grove, like Timehri and Soesdyke displayed admirable consistency during the first round; Agricola started well but fell away during the latter stages of the round.

Kuru Kururu Warriors have held their own while Diamond and Herstelling, the latest team to join the EBFA, have both been showing heartening signs of development which augur well for an explosive second and final round of matches.

All the teams will be reviewing their performances with the intention of coming out stronger as they battle for the first-place prize of $300 000.

Stewart refutes Smith’s quit claims SURREY director of cricket Alec Stewart has refuted claims that Graeme Smith may be about to retire, following a series of tweets that gave the impression Smith would not be returning to The Oval.

Smith is currently in his second year of a three-year contract with Surrey but has once again not been able to complete a full season through injury.

This year it was a fractured knee, diagnosed earlier in the week, which forced him to return home on Monday night.

Smith’s activity on social media seemed to suggest he was packing in entirely; thanking the club and the staff and saying it had been a privilege to be a part of Surrey.

But Stewart, who drove back from Surrey’s game at

Graeme Smith made a century against Gloucestershire to lead Surrey to their first win under his captaincy Chelmsford to take Smith and his family to the airport last night, confirmed that the former South Africa captain has “a lot to consider” regarding his

future.

Upon returning home, Smith will consult with a specialist, who is expected to recommend surgery on the knee. From there, recovery and rehab will determine whether Smith will be able to return for the back end of the 2014 season, something that Stewart, with his “very limited knowledge” on the injury sustained, feels is unlikely.

“I had a good chat with him last night,” Stewart told ESPNcricinfo. “Where he is, he’s thoroughly enjoyed his time with Surrey, despite it being two very brief periods over the last two years. He’s still under contract for next year - it’s a three-year deal that he has signed. (ESPN Cricinfo)\

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

LeBron James bests Jordan for most 25/5/5 games in playoff history Michael Jordan seen here in his glory days with the Chicago Bulls.

IN Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals, LeBron James scored 32 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out five assists in the Miami’s Heat victory over the Indiana Pacers.

While that line would rank among the career-best games of many players, it’s long been standard for the 10-time All-Star

and four-time MVP. These performances, and the highlights that go along with them, are his normal.

This particular game, however, marked a new milestone for the superstar.

It was LeBron’s 74th game with at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists, breaking a tie with Michael Jordan for the most such games in NBA postseason history.

While topping Jordan is unlikely to change minds in the long-held debate regarding LeBron’s place among the greatest players of all-time, a comparison of

the stats does show just how versatile James has been in the postseason.

MJ achieved his 73 performances in 179 career playoff games, or 40.8 percent. LeBron, however, now has 74 in 151 games, or 49 percent.

He’s been eyeing Jordan’s record for nearly two years - he matched Bird’s 53 on June 1, 2012, against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals. It was a foregone conclusion, though the speed with which James achieved this mark is no less stunning for it.

Historic single-game stats

are not widely available, so it’s as yet unclear exactly where LeBron ranks on the all-time regular-season list of 25/5/5 performances.

However, he is one of four players in history to average that mark for a career (alongside Jordan, Jerry West and Oscar Robertson) and has done so in 378 of his 842 games, or 44.9 percent.

So, LeBron actually does it more often in the postseason, when his play matters most. That stat might not be the best mark of his clutch heroics, but it’s not meaningless.

(Yahoo Sport)

Digicel hosts successful Coaches Workshop in Region 10 … TURNS ITS ATTENTION TO ESSEQUIBO THIS WEEKEND

F O L L O W I N G workshops in West Berbice and Lethem, telecommunications service provider Digicel recently hosted another of its kind in the mining town of Linden, where participants were lectured on various topics of the sport, ahead of this year’s tournament.

Topics, such as Improving Goalkeeping Techniques, Role of the Coach, Environment and Safety, Technical Development, Hydration and Nutrition, Injury Prevention and Treatment, Laws of the Game, Team and Game Management and Practical sessions were all discussed in the workshop which was facilitated by Bryan Joseph, Denzil Thompson and Abdulla Hamid.

Already touted to surpass the record number of

Course Facilitator Denzil Thompson makes a point to the teachers who attended the two-day session while Bryan Joseph (right forefront) pays rapt attention as well.

entries submitted in any of the three previous editions, preparations for the commencement of this year’s Digicel-sponsored nationwide Inter-secondary School Football Competition is hitting high gear thanks to astute planning by the Organising Committee.

Since its inception, sponsor representatives including Digicel’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gregory Dean and Head of Marketing Jacqueline James have

consistently echoed similar sentiments about the whole aim of the Company’s efforts which, according to them, is to lift the general standard of the game locally.

To this end, the Organising Committee has constantly reviewed every tournament and made improvements where necessary, all directly related to enhancing the product at every level.

This year has seen an increase in the number of Coaches Workshops and

the general feedback is that they were well attended and received and while the standard of play on-field has steadily improved, the committee has made a concerted effort to get more teachers and coaches involved.

This is being done, with the aim of helping to increase their own knowledge of the sport so that when they return to their respective schools the information gathered will be efficiently disseminated.

Digicel Sponsorship and Events Manager Gavin Hope related that another workshop will be held in the Cinderella County of Essequibo in the village of Dartmouth tomorrow and Friday, while the launching of this year’s tournament is scheduled to be held in Linden at a venue to be announced later on June 6.

Rain has final say in Media XI/Umpires T20 clash A HEAVY downpour ruined what was potentially a tricky run-chase for the Georgetown Cricket Scorers and Umpires Association (GCS&UA) in their T20 clash against the Media XI last Monday, at the world renowned Georgetown Cricket Club ground, Bourda.

The no-result put a damper on the day, especially since the Media boys and their opponents had exchanged verbal punches via the press and even during their warmup sessions, with the hope of settling the scores once and for all in the ‘middle’.

The day started with GCS&UA skipper Arleigh Rutherford calling correctly

at the toss and immediately deciding to insert the Calvin Roberts-led Media XI side to take first strike on a slow track in slightly overcast conditions.

The right/left hand combination of John Ramsingh and Rajiv Bisnauth started cautiously for the Media XI, picking the singles and occasional twos as the GCS&UA utilised the moisture on the pitch to good effect.

Bisnauth stroked the first boundary in the fourth over, but just as he was starting to gain confidence and momentum, he was trapped leg-before by left-arm spinner Trevor Ritney for nine.

Wi c k e t k e e p e r / b a t s m a n Daniel Singh (2) and Avenash Ramzan (0) did not last long, both falling to Ritney as the Media XI struggled against the spinner, with Singh being spectacularly caught on the square leg boundary by Devin Austin, while Ramzan was bowled the very next delivery hitting across the line.

The hard-hitting Keon Blade (1), Sean Devers (1) and Roberts (6) also found the going tough as the Media XI stumbled to 43-6 by the 14th over.

It took a fighting partnership of 48 between the National Communications Network (NCN) pair of Ramsingh

and the left-hander Ravi Persaud, which ended off the final delivery of the innings, to prop up the Media XI’s innings.

The burly Ramsingh batted through his team’s innings to end with a solid and unbeaten 32 which included a solitary boundary struck off Daniel Richmond, while Persaud hit a breezy 24 (2x4) before he holed out to substitute Colin Stuart at deep midwicket off Shaun Massiah.

Ritney ended with three wickets and got support from Nigel Duguid who picked up two for the GCS&UA who were asked to make their reply on a pitch that was offering much

GCA/HADI’S WORLD INC

Tons for Chanderpaul, Barnwell and Nandan in rain-interrupted encounters

Tagenarine Chanderpaul

THREE batsmen struck tons for their respective clubs, when the latest round of action in the Georgetown Cricket Association/Hadi’s World Inc. first division two-day competition continued but was interrupted by rain last weekend.

Everest Cricket Club, Transport Sports Club (TSC) and Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) were all forced to settle for first-innings points, after seeing Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Devon Nandan and Christopher Barnwell notch up tons.

Heavy overnight and intermittent rain throughout the afternoon condemned all three matches to draws, with not a ball bowled on the second day at DCC in their contest against GNIC. A wet ground denied the home team a possible win, after GNIC were asked to follow-on.

Batting first, DCC made 352-7 declared on the back of a typically pugnacious 165 from their skipper and national all-rounder Christopher Barnwell, backed by Jahron Byron’s 76 and 25 from Antonell Atwell.

Alistair Ifill took 3 for 71 and Jermaine Grovesnor 2 for 74 for GNIC, who were then dismissed for 167 at the close of play, with Collis Butts 46 and 25 each from Ifill and Marc Nicholson.

At Camp Road, Chanderpaul resumed on 131 and added 124 for the fourth wicket with assistance to the bowlers but were denied doing so due to the rain which came during the break and put a halt to proceedings.

After the match was called off, the two teams decided to meet again in another T20 contest, tentatively set for CARICOM Day at a venue to be announced, even as the Media XI prepare to take on an Enmore Over-40 lineup in another T20 clash at Enmore this Sunday from 14:00hrs.

Joseph Perry (59) before Everest eventually fell for 365 an hour after tea, in reply to GCC’s 172 at which time the umpires put a premature end to the fixture, with Chanderpaul going on to make 179.

Joseph Perry offered support to the national opener with his 59 and Troy Gonsalves chipped in with 37 against the bowling of Tariq Dharamlall who took 5 for 112 and Gavin Singh who picked up three wickets for GCC. Earlier, Robin Bacchus topscored with 76 for the Shivnarine Chanderpaul Drive-based Bourda Boys, receiving support from Ellon Fernandes who made an unbeaten 31 and Royston Alkins’ 29, as Christopher Surat took 3 for 15 for Everest.

At Eve Leary, Police batted first and were bowled out for 187, with Royan Fredericks 65 and Rawle Browne 40 showing resistance to Kevin Ross, 6 for 62, and Nandan 3 for 49, before TSC, who resumed the final day on 189 for 6, closed off their first innings on 254 all out.

The 29-year-old Nandan notched up an even ton that was decorated with 11 fours and four sixes and Azim Azeez contributed 51 to the team’s total, as Seon Daniels snared 3 for 27 with Randolph Knights and Kelvin Leitch picking up two wickets each.

In their second innings, PSC, who had won the GCA/Ansa McAl Carib Beer T20 tournament two weeks ago, were 114 for 6, led by an unbeaten 28 from Knights and 19 from Reginald Rodrigues.

The 39-year-old Ross returned to pick up 3 for 36 to end with a matchhaul of 9-98 for TSC, backed by Keon Morris 2 for 22, as PSC fought valiantly to avoid defeat.

The Media fraternity wishes to thank Lifetime Realty, Trophy Stall, P&P Insurance Brokers, Western Union, the Guyana Amazon Warriors Energy Drink, Christopher Matthias, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company and the management of GCC, especially coach Monty Lynch for their tangible support in making the match a reality. (Calvin Roberts)w

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Gibson banking on home advantage to beat Black Caps BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – West Indies are banking on home advantage to give them the edge over New Zealand in the upcoming three-Test series.

The regional side swept the Black Caps in a two-Test series in the Caribbean two years ago but were then handed a thrashing on the road last year, losing the three-match series 2-0.

Head coach Ottis Gibson said he was expecting an improved performance from his side, especially after the whipping last year.

“The time before that (2012) we played them in our own backyards and we beat them quite comfortably and then we

went away (last year) and they won quite comfortably over there so now it is our opportunity to show that what happened in New Zealand was a blip, if you like,” Gibson said.

“It was unexpected but they (New Zealand) played very well. They are a resurgent sort of team so you have to give them the respect they deserve. We just have to make sure we put in the level of performance that we need to beat them.

“It is not going to be easy but playing at home will always give us confidence, especially with the fans behind us, to go out and do well and win the series.”

Gibson was speaking to media during the opening

Powell appeals to CAS for reduction in ban

Asafa Powell

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (CMC) – Jamaican sprint star Asafa Powell has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, asking for his 18-month ban to be reduced to three months.

The 31-year-old tested positive for the banned stimulant oxilofrine at last year’s national championships and was slapped with the suspension by the Jamaica Anti-doping Commission in April.

However, Powell subsequently branded the ruling as “unfair and unjust” and said he would appeal.

Fellow Jamaican sprinter

Sherone Simpson, who was also banned for 18 months following a positive drugs test for the same substance, has also appealed to CAS for a reduction in the JADCO suspension.

“The athletes put forward that the offence committed is minor and request that the suspensions be reduced to (three) months,” CAS said in a statement.

“The CAS has initiated an arbitration procedure in each case and the parties have been invited to file written submissions in accordance with the Code of sports-related arbitration. No hearing date has been fixed yet.”

Following the positive test, Powell blamed Canadian physical trainer Chris Xureb for providing him with the supplements that included the banned substance.

However, a three-member JADCO disciplinary panel said the sprinter had been “negligent” and had been “at fault”, and banned him until December 28 this year. The suspension was dated to the time of the positive test last year.

Powell immediately vowed to fight the ban, pointing out it was the first time in his 12-year career that he had ever tested positive.

Powell has never won a World or Olympic title but holds the world record for the most wind-legal sub-10 clockings, with 81.

Jerome Taylor

day of a practice match at the 3Ws Oval, UWI Cave Hill Campus. The match is part of the ongoing preparation camp which sees a 15-man squad gearing up for the series which bowls off June 8 in Jamaica.

West Indies are welcoming back fast bowler Jerome Taylor who has not played international cricket in four years, along with fellow speedster Kemar Roach, who has been out of competitive cricket for nearly a year.

Roach, who has led the Windies attack in recent years, is coming off surgery in December but Gibson said he had responded well to training.

“He’s gone very well in the last couple of days.

He’s back up to speed, there’s no concern with him,” said Gibson. “He’s bowling, throwing and doing everything you would expect from an international cricketer.”

The camp, which bowled off last Friday and winds up June 4, will see the Windies play another warm-up match before heading to Jamaica.

Gibson said he was buoyed by the response of the squad to the training camp.

“The guys that are here have worked quite hard up to now so we’re all very excited as we build up towards Jamaica,” Gibson said.

Sacked Windies captain to play for Glamorgan CARDIFF, Wales (CMC) – Former West Indies Test captain Darren Sammy will turn out for Glamorgan in the English domestic Twenty20 championship, the Welsh club announced yesterday.

The Windward Islands all-rounder has been cleared by the West Indies Cricket Board and has received work permit approval from English authorities, and could be in action as early as this Friday when Glamorgan take on Sussex at the SWALEC Stadium.

According to the County, Sammy will be available until the Caribbean Premier League bowls off on July 11.

“Darren’s skills with bat and ball have delighted crowds all around the world in Twenty20 competitions in recent years so we’re delighted to welcome him to Glamorgan,” said chief executive and director of cricket, Hugh Morris.

“Darren arrives fresh from the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise in the Indian Premier League, whom he captained and Glamorgan supporters will get an opportunity to see the all-rounder display his skills as he joins us ahead of Friday’s first home game against Sussex Sharks.”

Head coach Toby Radford, who worked closely with Sammy during his time with the West Indies squad, said the St Lucian would be an asset to the Glamorgan side.

“Darren is top quality T20 player and a fine addition to our dressing room as he brings with him experience at the highest level,” Radford said.

“Darren was a leader on and off the field during my days with the West Indies, so it will be great to work with him again at Glamorgan.”

Sammy arrives at Glamorgan following a disappointing stint at Sunrisers where he managed just 108 runs from nine innings, and sent down 14 overs at an economy rate of 11.

The 30-year-old was sacked as Test captain earlier this month and subsequently announced his retirement from the game’s longest form.

He has remained available for selection to the shorter forms, and is still captain of the Twenty20 side.

West Indies host New Zealand in Twenty20 Internationals

Darren Sammy

in early July, following the conclusion of the three-Test tour. It is unclear if Sammy would miss this series.

Sammy has played 38 Tests, 111 one-dayers and 52 T20Is matches for West Indies.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday May 28, 2014) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)

CSK and RR

(2)

Brendon McCullum (KKR vs RCB, 2008)

Today’s Quiz: (1) How many sixes Chris Gayle struck in the last IPL tournament?

(2) Who scored most runs in the first ever IPL tournament?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday May 28, 2014

Brathwaite duo shine to put HPC on top LUCAS STREET, Barbados (CMC) – Captain Kraigg Brathwaite was closing in on his sixth first-class hundred while seamer Carlos Brathwaite nudged the senior selectors with another incisive display, as West Indies High Performance Centre took command of their four-day ‘Test’ against Bangladesh-A here yesterday.

At the close on day two at the Windward Cricket Club, WI HPC were 170 for two in their second innings, an overall lead of 322.

The 21-year-old Kraigg Brathwaite was unbeaten on 96 and was partnered

by Leon Johnson who was unbeaten on 40. The pair have so far added 90 for the third wicket.

Brathwaite has scored unusually quickly, facing 125 deliveries and counted ten fours and a six – a big stroke over long-on off leftarm spinner Taijul Islam that raised his half-century.

Earlier, Bangladesh-A were

undermined by terrific spell from Carlos Brathwaite who finished with four for 45, to send the visitors tumbling for 140 all out.

Resuming at five without loss, the Bangladeshis were having things their own way in a 66-run opening stand between Imrul Kayes (32) and Shamsur Rahman (28).

Brathwaite’s introduction, however, changed the course of the innings dramatically.

He sent back Imrul after the left-hander had faced 51 balls and struck five fours and a six, and should have had Marshall Ayub four overs later but Ashley Nurse floored a difficult catch at slip with the score on 72 for one.

With five runs added to the total, lively part-time seamer Jonathan Carter trapped Ayub lbw for eight, and Brathwaite then found himself on a hat-trick when he struck twice just before lunch.

He had Shamsur caught at the wicket by Chadwick

Carlos Brathwaite grabs his fourth wicket on the second day of the first 4-Day match between the Sagicor West Indies High Performance team and Bangladesh-A, yesterday at the Windward Sports Club.

Walton and off the next delivery, removed Naeem Islam to a fine catch at slip

by Nurse.

Struggling at 78 for four at the interval, Bangladesh found no reprieve afterwards, as WI HPC pressed home their advantage. Left-arm seamer Sheldon Cottrell claimed Mominul Haque, lbw for ten, and captain Nasir Hossain who has already played 14 Tests, then gave Brathwaite his fourth wicket with another catch behind to Walton.

Bangladesh-A then needed a cameo, run-a-ball 31 from Muktar Ali, with five fours and a six, to get up to their eventual total.

Fast bowler Miguel Cummins took the last three wickets to finish with three for 25 while Cottrell picked up two for 29.

Kraigg Brathwaite and Assad Fudadin (22) then put on 79 for the first wicket before WI HPC lost two quick wickets with just one run added to slip to 80 for two.

Johnson, who has hit three fours and a six off 76 balls, joined Brathwaite in a positive stand to ram home the HPC’s advantage.

Seamer Cooper reported for illegal action MUMBAI, India (CMC) – Trinidad and Tobago medium pacer Kevon Cooper has been reported for bowling certain deliveries with an illegal action.

The 25-year-old, who plays for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, was reported by on-field umpires Rod Tucker and K. Srinath along with third umpire S. Ravi, following Sunday’s IPL match against Mumbai Indians.

“Under the IPL Suspected Illegal Bowling Action policy, Mr Cooper may request an Official Assessment from the BCCI Suspect Bowling Action Committee, which comprises S. Venkataraghavan, Javagal Srinath, A.V. Jayaprakash and BCCI Secretary Sanjay Patel,” the Indo-Asia News Service quoted an IPL release as saying.

“However, pending any clearance by the Committee, Mr Cooper would be available to be selected to play and bowl for Rajasthan

Royals in the IPL 2015 season, but should he be reported a second time, he would be suspended from bowling for the remainder of that season.”

Cooper was Royals’ best bowler on Sunday, grabbing two for 38 from his four overs, as they crashed to a five-wicket defeat and missed out on a place in the playoffs.

He picked up four wickets in five matches this season, at an economy rate of 7.44.

It is not the first time Cooper has found himself in trouble over his action.

Three years ago, he was sent to the University of Western Australia in Perth to undergo remedial work after concerns were raised about his action during a domestic tournament in the Caribbean.

He was subsequently cleared to play and turned out for T&T in the 2011 Champions League campaign.

Cooper is yet to be capped

by West Indies in any form of the game.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Brathwaite duo shine to put HPC on top See story on page

39

‘My worst experience as a boxer, I fought harder outside of the ring’ – Atwell

By Rawle Toney On Saturday April 24, Guyana’s Clive Atwell (12-1-1) fought Mexico’s Jhonny Gonzalez (56-8) for the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) Featherweight title at the Convention Centre in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico.

Referee Laurence Cole stopped the fight with just three seconds remaining in the tenth of the 12-round encounter, after a clash of heads opened a gash above the left eye of Gonzalez midway through the fight, but the rigours of the bout worsened it and led to the stoppage.

But for the Guyanese, it was a loss which was felt even before he entered the ring. Atwell, in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, described his first world title shot as his “worst experience in boxing”.

At 25 years old, Atwell who had an illustrious career as an amateur, moved on to not only win the Guyana Featherweight title, but also the CABOFE WBC Light Welterweight and Featherweight belts.

Atwell confirmed that his purse for the fight was US$15000 and when everything was taken care of and all parties involved were paid, he pocketed approximately US$4500 which he pointed out “that can’t do nothing for me, it’s not even chump change”.

Sir Curtly Ambrose, Shannon Gabriel during a training session for the West Indies Team at the 3Ws Oval at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados.

Clive Atwell

Asked how it was divided, Atwell said “well, I gave my coach 15% because honestly, they worked just as hard as I did and really got me ready and I feel it was justified. Management got 33 1/3 % and I’m expected to pay certain expenses and miscellaneous.”

“I must say that the journey to the fight was harder than the fight itself. In the ring, I felt like I normally do and I still feel that I was robbed by the decision given, but that was expected, I knew I had to knock him out because I know he’s fighting at home and it would be hard to beat him any other way,” Atwell said.

Turn to page 34

Minister Anthony commissions floodlights at DCC

Minister Anthony and GFSCA members after the commissioning of the lights on Monday night.

THE MEMBERS and patrons of the Queenstown-based Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), will now be able to host cricket matches and other disciplines in the evenings because of floodlights which are situated at keys points around the ground.

This new addition to

the facility is one that is welcomed by the Club and was made possible by the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) and the DCC. In his remarks at the commissioning ceremony last Monday, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony commended the two

organisations for working together on this venture since some partnerships are challenging because of varying motives.

From the start of the discussions between the GFSCA and DCC, both entities agreed that the project was worthwhile with Dr Anthony noting that in Guyana’s long

cricket history the DCC has contributed quite a lot to the development of cricket.

The Club is celebrating its 102nd anniversary this year and in the short period since the softball association came into being, it has also made a significant contribution to cricket in Guyana.

Turn to page 34

Gibson welcomes legends to Windies camp BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – Head Coach of the West Indies team Ottis Gibson says he is happy to have West Indies cricket legends Sir Garfield Sobers and Sir Curtly Ambrose on board with the team as they continue their preparation camp ahead of the upcoming Test Series against New Zealand.

Sir Garry, the greatest allrounder in the game’s history, will be working with the batsmen during the ongoing three-day warm-up match at the 3Ws Oval as well as some training sessions before the team departs for Jamaica on Wednesday, June 4. The first Test bowls off on Sunday, June 8 at Sabina Park.

Sir Curtly, one of the best fast bowlers of all-time, is the new Bowling Consultant and will work with the team during the upcoming three Tests and two T20 Internationals.

“Sir Curtly is heavily involved in cricket here with the Combined Campuses & Colleges and is making a contribution to West Indies cricket in that way so the feeling is to get him to come in and mentor the good bowlers that we have and try to see if he can inspire them through his experiences to turn themselves into great bowlers,” Gibson said.

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“He’s obviously led the West Indies bowling attack and done it very well over his career, so hopefully he will impart some knowledge and pass on some of his experiences onto the guys.”

Gibson was speaking at the 3Ws Oval as the players went through their paces. He added it was a great experience for the players to have Sir Garry around, especially the young batsmen.

“Sir Garry is the best of the best and it is great to have him join us. He is still an avid watcher of the game, so he sees a lot of things. He is here to pass on his knowledge over so many years of doing it,” Gibson said.

“The guys like Darren Bravo and young Kieran Powell have been very receptive and his wisdom will not be lost on the experienced guys like Shiv Chanderpaul and Marlon Samuels either. All the guys will get the opportunity to speak to Sir Garry about their game, which can only be a good thing for us.

“Hopefully, over the next couple of the days, the guys will really use him as a springboard for where they are in their game and what he thinks they need to do to take their game to the next level,” Gibson added.

WEDNESDAY, May 29, 2014