Guyana Chronicle E-paper 07-27-2018

FRIDAY 27th July, 2018

Be self-sufficient No.105348

... President challenges local government organs to chart own course 03 PAGE

Representatives of the various local government organs at the conference held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (Samuel Maughn photo)

‘Natural Drug hair’ hassle

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ERC receives complaint about students being prevented from sporting natural hair

Guyana receives recruiter gets $140M 10

4 years

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for resilience-building in agri sector

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

‘Natural hair’ hassle ERC receives complaint about students being prevented from sporting natural hair

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) will soon write the Ministry of Education after receiving complaints that students are being hassled for sporting ‘Natural Hair’ in some schools.

The complaint was heard when the ERC continued its public stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday at the Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown. The body met with youths on Thursday to hear complaints and issues con-

fronting them. A youth who attended the forum told the Guyana Chronicle that a number of issues were raised including the issue of students being frowned upon in some schools for their ‘natural’ hair’. This was a big issue and the ERC has undertaken to write the Ministry of Education about it,” the young participant who asked not to be named said. Afro-Guyanese women sporting natural hair has taken on a life of its own in recent ERC Commissioners meeting with representatives of the Indigenous Peoples community years here. There have been several shows being hosted here annually to promote the natural hair culture.

The most popular show is ‘Curl Fete’. Tamika Henry Co-Founder of the event had told the Guyana Chronicle last year that the hosting of `Curl Fete’ goes beyond just another means of entertainment but as a means of positive reinforcement of beauty standards for women. “Women for a long time, they have to reach a certain standard to be considered beautiful.

Women of every skin colour and hair texture- have all had some kind of pressure on us to be acceptable by beauty standards. Women of colour in particular, and women with natural hair, have had to work a bit harder and the damage that those types of stereotypes and pressure [caused] couldn’t possibly be fixed in one year,” she said. “ We have younger girls coming up that are looking for constant reminders that they are beautiful, and you need to have a consistent source of positive reinforcement … we are hoping to have `Curl Fete’ do that.”

Wednesday met with representatives of the Indigenous, East Indian and African Guyanese constituents at Herdmanston Lodge to get a firsthand account of issues confronting members of the various groups.

In a release the ERC said during the “productive engagements”, important concerns were raised and suggestions offered with commitments to work together in promoting harmony and good relations across the country.

The ERC said it is in the process of spreading and

fostering awareness of its 24 functions listed in Article 212D of the Constitution and to seek possible inputs from stakeholders in support of the execution of its mandate. The body said the meetings on Wednesday were all chaired

by Deputy Chairman Major General (ret’d) Norman Mc Lean and six ERC Commissioners were present. To date, the ERC has met with H.E. President David Granger, Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the Private Sector Commission the Ambassador and team from the

European Union (EU), Ambassador and representatives of the ABC Diplomatic Community and representatives of the three major Religions.

Other meetings scheduled for this month include the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) and representatives of Women and Youth Constituents.

During their meeting President Granger said that the ERC is perhaps the single most important commission in existence in Guyana at this time; noting that elsewhere in the world, there is a resurgence of xenophobia and disorder based on ethnic differences. He said that the resuscitation and work of the ERC therefore, is preventative action to ensure that ethnic harmony is maintained.

“Without a greater sense of social cohesion, this country will remain unequal and anything we try to achieve, politically or economically, will be difficult…Society has the potential for social cohesion, but we must not allow divisive elements to separate us…there is more that unites us than separate us,” he said.

The President also See page 3

ETHNIC GROUPS ERC Commissioners pose with representatives of the Indo-Guyanese ComMeanwhile, the new- munity ly re-constituted ERC on

Be self-sufficient

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

... President challenges local government organs to chart own course

LOCAL government organs must become autonomous so as to allow them to serve the interests of their residents, said President David Granger on Thursday as he addressed the National Conference of Local Democratic Organs (NCLDO).

The head-of-state, at the opening of the event themed, “catalysing local government leadership for community and national develop” made it clear that local organs must not be dominated by or become dependent on central government.

“Some local democratic organs, particularly at the neighbourhood and village levels, have been weakened. This is not due to any fault of the residents but because of the lack of resources – financial, human and technical – to guarantee the efficient delivery of quality public services to residents,” the President said before local government representatives at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

He said the NCLDO could become an annual forum aimed at being a vehicle for delivering improved services to all local communities. “It is about planning and implementation. It must erect institutions to ensure accessible, affordable and appropriate services in all villages.” The NCLDO he said is intended to support local government organs by fostering collaboration, and improving coordination to support the renewal and

revitalisation of our villages and communities.

As such, President David Granger who was supported by several of his ministers noted that the NCLDO is aimed at “empowering, not emasculating, local democratic organs.” “It respects their autonomy. It charges local democratic organs with ushering in a new era in local government, one that will help to improve citizens’ quality of life, build local democracy and promote economic development,” President Granger declared.

The President emphasised that the conference is a deliberate intervention intended to become a platform for promoting the work of NDCs, municipalities and RDCs. He said it can provide a practical basis for them to work together with Central Government to strengthen community development and improve citizens’ quality of life.

Moreover, the President pointed to Article 71 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana which notes that Local Government is a vital aspect of democracy and shall be organised as to involve as many people as possible in the task of managing and developing the communities in which they live.

LGE The APNU+AFC coalition government consistent with the constitution on March 18, 2016 restored local democracy after a two decade hiatius. Only

President David Granger makes a point at the NCLDO Thursday (Samuel Maughn photo)

Participants at the NCLDO conference take a photo with President David Granger (seated Center) as well as other Minister of his government and Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Barton Scotland (seated fifth left). (Samuel Maughn photo)

‘Natural hair’...

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emphasised that while the work of the Commission will never be completed, the commissioners can do enough to hand over to those who will come after them to ensure that future generations live in a society that is harmonious and where groups respect each other.

He reminded the Commissioners that a lot will depend on the advice of the ERC

and told them that they will be expected to conduct outreaches and work to promote the message and practice of social cohesion. He also urged the Commissioners to ensure that their service is tailored to meet the needs of the indigenous population.

“You cannot ignore the peculiar reality in Guyana, whereby a large part of the population communicates in languages that people in other parts of the country cannot comprehend,” President Granger said.

recently, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan announced that November 12 is the date set for the hosting of the second LGE since the coalition government took office.

“The conduct of regular elections reflects government’s sincere commitment to promoting democratic renewal and community development where they count first and most – from the bottom-up. It is manifestation of government’s resolve to empower citizens to take control of their own communities,” the head of state declared.

He noted too that local democracy gives common citizens the means of holding their high officials accountable through their removal, or through reward; rejecting or re-electing them based on their performance.

“Local democracy allows citizens a greater say in their local democratic organs.

It creates the catalyst for transforming their See page 5

Afro-Guyanese representatives at the meeting with the ERC

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Heavy rains flood Corentyne villages – residents appeal for clearing of blocked canals

Bora plants under water

A HEAVY downpour on Wednesday night has left areas between numbers 64, 65, 67 and 68 villages on the Corentyne under water and residents are calling on the

relevant authorities to clear the clogged canals to speed up drainage of the excess water.

At Number 68 Village, residents were busy cleaning

and moving appliances and furniture to higher grounds.

“Around one ‘O’clock this morning (Thursday), me been asleep when me next door neighbour call me phone and ask me if me house flood and me say no, but when me come off the bed, me jump because the water reach me knee. Me holler call me son in the front room and when he come out he start holler too because the water high and we had to leff everything and sleep by me friend house, cause the bed all wet up afterwards”, Renika Hardial of

Richard Pedro points to the blocked canal impeding the smooth flow of water

Lot 3, Section A #68 village, East Berbice, Corentyne, related.

She said before leaving, she moved some appliances and other valuables to higher ground in her one-storey house and returned early in the morning to assess the damage.

Residents are blaming the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) for not putting measures in place to clean the main drainage canal which is “silted up” and filled with overgrown vegetation.

They are contending that the canal has not been cleared for the last 10 years and this is affecting the smooth flow of water.

“This canal that run at the back of the village takes the

water from here (68 Village) all the way to 66 outfall and then out to the sea. It nah clean for over 10 years now.

A couple of months or weeks now them clean the internal trenches, but what sense that make if the place for it to go block up. Where it gon pass?” asked Richard Pedro.

Pedro, now, 74, and a former sluice operator, recalled having seen floods in the past but nothing of this magnitude.

The elderly citizen lamented that since the sea defense commission built the ‘sea dam’ and handed it over to local authorities, nothing has been done since.

Pedro is now wondering who will compensate him for the loss of his stocks, includ-

ing some 85 duck eggs, soon to be hatched.

Another resident Hardat Rowana feels that the situation would have been worse had he and other villagers not taken measures to remove a blocked tubing, allowing for the smooth flow of water.

“After the place flood, we realise the tubing block up and if it move, the water could drain off a lot faster, so we went to the NDC early in the morning and inform them and them say they gon try to get a machine to come. A couple hours pass and nothing na happen, so when we go back them say them nah get through with the machine so we cooperate and move it out; so come the water drop a little bit,” he said.

Overflowing pit latrines and drains pose a serious health problem and residents are calling on the authorities to urgently look into the situation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

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neighbourhoods, villages and communities into centres of human interaction,” President Granger said while adding that local democracy is not an academic abstraction but one which requires institutions, structures, and systems of governance which can positively transform regions, towns, neighbourhoods, villages and communities and eventually the lives of all who live therein.

There are three tiers which constitute local democratic organs, municipalities, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Village Councils and according to the President are not ornamental pyramid.

PROTECT PUBLIC PROPERTY He reminded that local democratic organs must function in accordance with the constitution which notes that they are to maintain and protect public property, improve working and living conditions, promote the social and cultural life of the people, raise civil consciousness, preserve law and order, consolidate the rule of law and safeguard the rights of citizens.

Noting that the responsibilities are vast, President Granger said the functions require collaboration, cooperation and coordination between the various local government organs and Central Government. “They require commitment by all and at all levels of government and society,” he added while stressing that the provision of public services is vital to improving the living and working conditions within neighbourhoods and villages.

Local government organs he said are required to provide quality and reliable services such as preserving cultural values and propagating customs and mores; providing and maintaining bridges, drainage and irrigation

structures, roads, security, street-lighting, sanitation, sporting and recreational facilities; and promoting education, employment and economic enterprises, including cottage industries and health.

Meanwhile, the President reminded of the importance of villages.

He said the majority of Guyanese still live in villages and villages have incubated the nation. “Villages are the cradle of the nation,” he declared.

The Ministry of Communities has been mandated to work with the elected local authorities and other stakeholders to revitalise village economies. “ Villages need not feel that they have been neglected. They are not sleepy hamlets… the economic bases of villages need to be rebuilt in order to stimulate local employment and enterprise,” said the head-ofstate. November 7 has been declared National Day of Villages in recognition of the centrality of villages to the country’s future.

EMPOWERMENT Minister Bulkan, like President David Granger reminded local representatives of their constitutional mandate.

He described the holding of the NCLDO as historic while noting that “We are now in the era of people’s empowerment… gone are the days of the micro-manager, gone are the days of control, domination and intolerable interference by Central Government.”

“Local Government in Guyana has been catapulted to its rightful position, as the strategic partner in national development and given the attention it deserves…We in this Administration, stand with you as an ally in development,” the Minister stated as he assured that the dominance of control is being reversed.

Additionally Bulkan said that the fruits of

Thursday’s deliberations will be fed into the planning of the 2019 budget which is to be presented to the National Assembly later this year. Similarly, Chairman of the Local Government Commission Mortimer Mingo noted that forums such as the NCLDO represents an “element of cohesion” which he said is the best way to achieve a win-winoutcome.

Such a metamorphosis he said is critical to the enhancement of local governance, he stated.

The regional officials were part of interactive sessions which spoke to

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan (Samuel Maughn photo) the leadership of administration, leadership of councils and constituencies.

There was also a pre-

sentation on the modernising of the property valuation system for financial sustainability of local democratic organs.

Participants at the NCLDO conference Thursday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (Samuel Maughn photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

A most appropriate and timely message THERE was never a doubt as to the vision that President David Granger and his coalition administration--the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance for Change-- envisaged for the Indigenous communities.

For not only did his intensive campaign as parliamentary opposition leader took him through the length and breadth of hinterland communities; it also brought him face to face with the harsh realities of daily life which were the lot of Indigenous peoples.

In reality, and despite the political rhetoric of past People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) governments, of spending billions for hinterland development, those communities and their citizens were still at a level of traditional existence, with not much opportunities for sustained growth and development that would elevate them from a position of primitive subsistence to an acceptable platform of self-sufficiency and so-

cio-economic viability.

Any examination of the Coalition’s Ten-Point Hinterland Development Programme will clearly appreciate that it is one strategically designed for empowerment of hinterland communities – such as the dried tomato and turmeric dye projects, that have offered both direct employment and self-employment opportunities, among other initiatives; and the important aspect of building human capacity, as evidenced through the Hinterland Education Youth Services (HEYS) component of the Ten Point Plan.

This platform points to the larger concept and vision of hinterland communities being removed from the primitive backwaters which it has experienced for all of its historical experience, bringing it into the mainstream of modern socio-economic life.

It is against this background that President Granger ’s address to the 12th National Toshaos Con-

ference (NTC) must be seen as groundbreaking, for what it has underlined as the fundamental requirements which hinterland communities must engage if they are to improve their current way of life, for both communities and citizens, especially.

The President’s speech, in effect, reminded Indigenous leaders that they must begin to use the authority that are derived from the NTC and Amerindian Act, empowering them “to take the lead in developing Village Improvement Plans (VIPs) aimed at ensuring more sustainable and secure livelihoods, boosting human wellbeing, creating increased opportunities and reducing the inequalities between the coastland and hinterland communities”.

Importantly, was his reference to an enduring theme of his vision for the creation of Capital Towns, “Plans for the delivery of public services, particularly those related to education, economic services, energy, water, human health and the en-

vironment”. The president emphasized the “creation of employment opportunities, building of environmental resilience” among other essentials for the development of hinterland communities.

For those critics and naysayers who may interpret the President’s address as abandoning his and government’s obligation to a section of our nation that has had its share of neglect, such views/opinions would be misguided, blinkered, and unfortunate, as well as missing the larger picture of the message to Indigenous leaders.

This has to do with an understanding of Indigenous leaders being invited, at last, to play their role in the socio-economic growth and development of their respective regions and communities, and by extension, the nation.

The clear and unambiguous message is for them to accept the inalienable right and responsibility of collective participation for the betterment of their com-

munities and lives of their citizens; and the opportunity to remove their locales from political manipulation for selfish ends. It is also about the right to determine what is good for their regions and communities, in conjunction with their fellow citizens.

We have always contended that it was inconceivable that so vast a geographic space as the hinterland to continuously be treated in a manner that perceived its inhabitants and communities as not worthy of being able to make proper and informed decisions for themselves and communities, in creative and imaginative ways, as has been the experience during the former PPP/C’s period of governance. For if, as is so evident, that there are Indigenous peoples serving in professional capacities in many spheres of daily endeavours, then why such an ability cannot be transferred to the task of the transformation of their particular regions and communities, and thus reducing

the inequalities that do exist between the coastal and hinterland halves.

Great is the potential for hinterland development; should this challenge from President Granger be accepted, it would see an astonishingly new level of socio-economic development taking root and rising from a section of Guyana’s land space that is awash with enormous possibilities for modern development.

The transformative gains for communities and residents would be enormous.

Therefore, the President’s message is most timely, since it is made at what is definitely the most exciting and anticipatory periods of the nation’s economic development history – the coming of first oil.

Surely, the Indigenous regions and their communities must also be ready and prepared to be part of, and benefit from, the expected windfall of development gains, as other regions of Guyana. But they must ready their regions.

Kissoon behaves like a ‘school bully’ Dear Editor, I PEN this letter in response to Frederick Kissoon’s column that was published in Kaieteur News on Friday, July 13, 2018, captioned, “One of the deadly sins of this country”.

Subsequent to its publication, I spent some time contemplating whether I should ignore Kissoon or to reply, given his unrepentant attitude on the false and malicious accusations he made against me, which resulted in me having to sue him some years ago.

In his column, Kissoon decried what he sees as civil society officials and politicians objecting to and being subjected to public criticisms, and the many

times he was sued for libel.

He named me and other persons as being guilty of what he described as “One of the deadly sins of this country”; while I don’t intend to challenge Kissoon on his thesis of what constitutes, “deadly sins” in Guyana. However, I will not allow him to get away with his self-serving, self-righteous position when he claimed to be a victim of unwarranted lawsuit for libel.

In my case I took him to court, not in pursuit of money or to silence his public criticism. Instead, I did so to give Kissoon the opportunity to produce, for the benefit of the nation, the evidence/information which he claimed to have obtained, which he said linked me to a secret meeting with gunmen

in Buxton. Equally important is that what transpired at the time must be seen in the context of the deadly killing spree in the country and the fact that Kissoon’s false accusation against me was contained in one of a series of articles which he was commissioned to do for the PPP for a price. Those articles were published in the state-owned Guyana Chronicle. This forced me to conclude that Kissoon had become a willing agent of the state, and was involved in a conspiracy to do me harm, politically and otherwise. It is only in Kissoon’s warped mind that his hostile and nasty attacks on me were not matters to be tested in a court of law.

Kissoon has the habit when it suits his purpose

to pretend that he doesn’t know right from wrong and, as usual, seeks to hide under deception and opportunistically, invokes generalization in order to cover his nakedness. In this instance, he sought to give the impression that all libel suits against him were in the category of unwarranted acts and were the actions of persons who disliked being criticised. As far as Kisson is concerned, none of those cases was justified outside his self-serving construct. It is public knowledge that he and I, over the years, have had numerous exchanges in the letter columns of the newspapers; many of those polemics were not friendly.

On every occasion that I was forced to engage Kissoon, it was as a result of

his vile attacks on me for something I had written or he claimed I had done. None of these matters, except for the one mentioned above ever reached the courts. I submit here that Kissoon at times behaves like the proverbial “school bully” who picks a fight but doesn’t want to feel the pain from the encounter.

My position has been and continues to be that political activists, including me, must be subjected to public criticisms. I have on many occasions in the past publicly defended citizens’ right to freedom of expression, whether or not I agreed with their position.

I have also defended my detractors’ right to criticise me; my only concern is that after they have done so, my

right to respond to them is upheld. The record will show that I stand firmly by this conviction. I, however, believe that in public polemics there must be limits.

Very often, Freddie Kissoon, more than any other writer/commentator in Guyana, crosses the “line” and deliberately commits libel.

It is my strongly held belief and I, therefore, submit that in my case, he has been and continues to be politically nasty and in the process has set out to have me jailed or killed. In Kissoon’s crooked politics that is fair game once he is the offender, but when he becomes the victim, he shouts and screams.

Regards Tacuma Ogunseye

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Seafarers’ union launched AS the maritime sector continues to expand with the advent of the local oil and gas industry, the Guyana Seafarers and General Workers Union (GS&GWU) would have a vital role to play in protecting the rights of the workers employed in that sector.

The union which was officially launched in March is intent on ensuring that seafarers are not exploited by their employers or ill-treated in any way. “The union was formed to provide representation to Guyanese seafarers and bridge the existing gap between them and their employers,” said General Secretary of the GS&GWU, Simone Fortune during an introduction ceremony at

Umana Yana on Wednesday.

President of the GS&GWU, Oswald Prince echoed her sentiments, noting that the union will play an important role in protecting the rights of seafarers who have not had representation for years. “From today, the GS&GWU will do its part in sensitising our seamen and the public of seafarer’s rights, so in the future, they can be will be properly represented,” he said.

He encouraged seafarers to take advantage of the union through membership and to work with the union to further improve their livelihoods. “We need to step up our standards so that the fishermen can enjoy a better working environment like

President of the GS&GWU, Oswald Prince (DPI photo)

any other workers,” said the president, adding that the fledgling oil-and-gas industry should also be considered because there will be a lot of

offshore workers.

“Guyana’s maritime laws need to be strengthened, because for instance fishermen go to sea with insufficient

Corruption vs Inequalities Dear Editor CORRUPTION is both a major cause and a result of poverty around the world.

It occurs at all levels of society, from local and national governments, civil society, judiciary functions, large and small businesses, military and other services

and so on.

Corruption affects the poorest the most, in rich or poor nations, though all elements of society are affected in some way as corruption undermines political development, democracy, economic development, the environment, people’s health and more. But it isn’t just in

governments that corruption is found; it can permeate through society.

The issue of corruption is very much inter-related with other issues. At a global level, the “international” economic system that has shaped the current form of globalization in the past decades requires fur-

ther scrutiny, for it has also created conditions whereby corruption can flourish and exacerbate the conditions of people around the world who already have little say about their own destiny. At a national level, people’s effective participation and representation in society can be undermined by corrup-

…to position self to play vital role in growing maritime sector food supplies and according to international law and standards that is wrong” he explained.

Prince said they will ensure that everything is sorted out, adding that fishermen often face injustice and noted that the union will represent them well. The general secretary in an earlier presentation said over 400 members has already been registered.

She added that they have also successfully negotiated with the Fishermen Organisation in Berbice to become a registered organisation with the union and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). The benefits of being a part of the union include having representation to get improved compensa-

tion, wages and other benefits, living accommodation onboard, meals and safety equipment.

A representative of the Maritime Department said it is important for the union to follow and adhere to the regulations of the department while carrying out their mandate. Some time back after being launched, the legitimacy of the union was questioned after the then General-Secretary, Micah Williams was found guilty of raping an eightyear-old girl. Williams, who was represented by Attorney-at-law Asa Stuart Shepherd, was indicted on two counts of Sexual Activity with a Child Family Member.

tion, while at local levels, corruption can make day to day living more painful for all affected.

A difficult thing to measure or compare, however, is the impact of corruption on poverty versus the effects of inequalities that are structured into law, such as unequal trade agreements, structural adjustment policies, so called “free” trade agreements and so on. It is easier to see corruption. It is harder to see these oth-

er more formal, even legal forms of “corruption.” It is easy to assume that these are not even issues because they are part of the laws and institutions that govern national and international communities and many of us will be accustomed to it—it is how it works, so to speak. That is not to belittle the issue of corruption, however, for its impacts are enormous too.

Regards Rooplall Dudhnath

Reducing food loss and waste is essential

By Jose Graziano da Silva, FAO Director General

WE all do it. Most of us throw away perfectly good food almost every day of our lives. A banana gets slightly bruised in the fridge, we simply chuck it; yesterday’s leftovers? Many times they go straight to the rubbish bin.

In a world of plenty, these acts can be undertaken unconsciously and seem trivial, innocent even. And yet, the scale of global food loss and waste is breathtaking: one third of all food produced is either lost at some point of the food chain, discarded by sellers or wasted by consumers, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

One third!

With hunger on the rise after steadily declining for over a decade and 815 million people undernourished worldwide, food losses and waste are a monumental failure in the functioning of our

food systems, with direct consequences on food security and nutrition, climate change and the wellbeing of our environment. The numbers are astounding: globally, food loss and waste uses up 30% of land dedicated to food production and 25% of the water used in agriculture.

They generate annual costs estimated at US 2.6 trillion dollars; 700 billion related to environmental costs and 900 billion to social costs. Better use of the plentiful food we already produce could also prevent deforestation and the destruction of ecosystems and biodiversity. But this is a challenge that goes well beyond sustainable agriculture, requiring adjustments to the broader food system.

We need to create largescale global multi-donor funds to tackle this issue, as we have done to fight climate change via initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund. Why? Because if we compared the global carbon footprint of food waste to that

of countries, it would be the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, only exceeded by the United States and China, accounting for close to 8 % of global emissions.

To make headway on this issue everyone must come on board: governments, the private sector and consumers.

Retailers and supermarkets must be key allies in this fight, and make important headways with changes in their policies regarding the way they procure and manage food. France, for example, has been the first country to pass a law that bans supermarkets from discarding or destroying usable food, creating alliances with charities and food banks to provide millions of meals with food that used to end in the trash. Supermarkets with a surface area of at least 400m² are obliged to manage their unsold food either via donations, processing into feedstock, recovery into compost for agriculture or for energy production, including biogas.

But it’s not just govern-

ments and big businesses than can make a change. Individuals can make a real difference, tackling food waste at home and at work, teaching habits to our children and being conscientious about the way we buy, store and use food.

Since cities are a key source of food waste, citizen action will be of utmost importance if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of halving per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer level.

In recent years, [the] FAO has been stepping up its efforts to significantly reduce food loss and waste in the world. Since 2011, [the] FAO and the Messe Düsseldorf institution promote the SAVE FOOD initiative, which brings together industry, research institutions and civil society. Its objective is to stimulate the exchange of ideas, develop solutions and create global awareness about the importance of reducing losses and waste along food supply chains.

In addition, [the] FAO, in partnership with the International Food Policy Research Institute, has been implementing the G20 Platform against food loss and waste since 2015. The platform provides new knowledge to improve measurements in all countries of the world and disseminate good practices. This week’s

G20 Agriculture Ministerial Meeting in Argentina is a major opportunity for the world’s largest economies to step up their efforts and kick off this profound and necessary transformation.

Because we either rescue food from the trash, starting today or, risk drowning in a sea of waste.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

$66M invested to push indigenous entrepreneurship

THE sum of $66,038,967 has been recorded from successful businesses implemented under the Community Development Plans (CDP) project as part of the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF).

This was disclosed by Mildred Akpan, Team Leader, Amerindian Development Fund (ADF). Akpan explained that while this income is nowhere close to the $1.2 billion invested in the project, the amount is a reflection of a portion of the 159 communities who received full disbursement of $730, 351,945 million.

The ADF was established to provide support for the socio-economic development and environmental enhancement of Indigenous communities via the implementation of CDPs. Each of the 186 communities, which qualified for the project were eligible for micro-capital grants of

$5 million each under the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIFF).

During her presentation at the recently concluded National Toshaos Council conference (NTC) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Akpan stated that the value of grants accounted for thus far, is $475,844, 385 million.

She reminded that the CDP project is a community venture and not an individual or family business, and as such “community leaders must give account for the $5 million invested and the profits generated out of the business”.

Addressing the issue of communities with income-generating businesses who have refused to provide reports to the ministry, Akpan made it clear that “the ministry neither the UNDP want your profits! The objective is to see whether you were able

to recover the $5 million invested in your communities.”

One of the major challenges incurred during the implementation process is the failure on the part of toshaos and senior councillors to present documents to the new council. This has significant implications on the sustainability of the CDPs and will impede the actions of the new village councils in moving forward with the community businesses.

Akpan also touched on misappropriation of CDP funds, where communities would have converted or cannot account for up to $1.3 million. She, therefore, urged that the residents begin to hold their leaders accountable.

The ADF provides access to funding for community ventures aimed at strengthening the entrepreneurial capacity of Indigenous villages, diversify their economy,

The Aranaputa Cattle Ranch under the Community Development Plan Project, Region Nine create job opportunities and to reduce poverty.

These community business ventures cover agricultural production, agro-processing village infrastructure, tourism, manufacturing, village business enterprise and

transportation.

Women made up 55 per cent of the persons who participated in the CDP’s preparation of implementation plans.

Six hundred and fifty-two women out of 1,244

persons were trained in terminologies and concepts, financial accountability and management, marketing and work plan preparation and are assisting in the management of their community business. (DPI)

The Keezee Eco-Lodge, Karasabai, South Pakaraima, Region Nine

ACP James to now head ‘C’ Division WITH Marlon Chapman’s resumption of duty from accumulative leave he took earlier this year, Assistant Commissioner of Police Leslie James who commanded the police ‘A’ Division in Chapman’s absence has been reassigned.

According to sources within the police force, the Assistant Commissioner will now head to ‘C’ Division, where he will serve as the commander, taking over from Senior Superintendent Edmond Cooper who has now been asked to serve as Force Training Officer. Cooper will be taking over from Fizal Karimbaksh.

Since Assistant Commissioner James took over the police ‘A’ Division this year, several notable changes have taken place in the division, including the effective monitoring of crime hotspots, frequent engagements between the commander’s

office and members of the public, as well as stakeholders meeting.

There was also the strategic placing of a number of officers in supervisory positions which has been yielding success in the division’s operational posture, and as well as the re-engagement between the Guyana Police Force ‘A’ Division and the members of the public.

At the moment there are still a number of senior officers who proceeded on either accumulated or annualised vacation leave earlier this year and continue to be away from the job.

Many of them are expected back before November month-end when the force is usually expected to have its full strength and all hands of deck in preparation for its Christmas Security policing posture.(Leroy Smith)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

NTC executives meet Natural Resources Ministry, GGMC

MINING related issues ranging from illegal mining to cease work orders and joint partnerships were among areas covered when the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) Executives and the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) met with the Natural Resources Ministry and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, NTC Chairman Nicholas Fredericks, GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison and APA Executive Director, Jean LaRose were among the key officials that sat down on Wednesday to discuss issues of mutual interest.

The 2017 ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice

(CCJ) in the Wayne Vieira vs GGMC case that involved land situated in the Tassawini area of the Northwest Mining District was among issues raised by the NTC. The CCJ had ruled that GGMC had no authority to order Vieira in November 2010 to cease all work at his Chinese Landing operation in spite of having a mining permit to do so.

While providing the NTC delegation with copies of the CCJ ruling, Minister Trotman noted that while the decision of the CCJ must be respected, it does not negate the enforceability of the Amerindian Act. The NTC delegation also questioned the issuance of Cease Work Orders by the GGMC and promised to provide Minister Trotman with

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman meeting with officials from the NTC, APA and GGMC

a list of questions pertaining to Cease Work Orders, the involvement of foreign part-

ners in mining companies and other matters for which they would like documented

responses. They also raised the issue of Human Trafficking.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to the finalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the NTC that would address good governance, protection, conservation and sustainable management of indigenous community lands and natural resources and communications between the Ministry and the NTC. Minister Trotman also used the opportunity to congratulate the new executive members of the NTC and renewed his commitment for a closer working relationship between the Ministry and the NTC. He underscored the importance of having open and frank discussions.

The next meeting is set for August 15, 2018.

Fire guts Minister Patterson pledges support to Ituni residents Pouderoyen house MINISTER of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson on Thursday met with residents of Ituni to listen to their concerns and share his 2019 plans for the community.

Following the concerns raised, Minister Patterson pledged his support. “Their concerns were two-fold; the main road and the lack of drainage. Since the road is already being addressed I

have undertaken to look into the drainage and I made a commitment to include it in my 2019 budget,” Minister Patterson said.

An area for concern was the condition of internal roads and in this regard, Minister Patterson offered to provide the resident with necessary resources to upgrade the roadway, despite maintenance of it does not fall under the Public Infra-

structure Ministry’s responsibility.

The residents were assured by Minister Patterson that budget 2019 will cater for supplies of cement, blocks and other materials to address the drainage situation. In addition, he pledged to provide tires for the ambulance and to aid in addressing the garbage situation. “I tasked them with sourcing

an old tractor which I will help fix to get it in operation and the Community Development Council (CDC) can use that tractor for garbage collection and proper disposal.” Further assurance was given to the residents by Minster Patterson that issues raised, which pertained to other ministries, will be relayed to the relevant subject ministers. (DPI)

More Guyanese to be employed with Edison Chouest Offshore Company to open local corporation soon

The house on fire

A FIRE of unknown origin destroyed a house at Coghlan Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD) in the wee hours of the morning on Thursday.

Reports are that the occupant--43-year-old Mahesh Parwat--who lived alone and is a known alcoholic, has claimed that he was awakened out of a deep sleep by someone shouting, “fire!

Fire!”

Parwat reportedly said that by the time he came to himself and ran out of the house, it was already engulfed in flames.

But despite the best efforts of the fire brigade and neighbours who formed a bucket brigade, they were unable to contain the fire, and everything was reduced to rubble.

MORE Guyanese are expected to be employed by Edison Chouest Offshore as the company aims to soon open its local company ‘G (Guyanese) Boats’ in Georgetown.

This was disclosed by the company’s Business Development Manager, Daniel LaFont, who was at the time speaking on the sidelines of the El Dorado Offshore training session for Guyanese mariners on Wednesday.

The 40 seamen were being

instructed in occupational safety for jobs in the offshore oil and gas industry.

“We are going to have Guyanese that will be working and manning our office, including one that is responsible for health and safety.

The persons we will hire here will not only be trained here, but we will go back to the facilities in Louisiana to get hands-on training of what we do here,” LaFont said.

Some 53 Guyanese are currently working on the

Edison Chouest vessels.

LaFont noted the company currently has nine vessels supplying ExxonMobil operations. With the rise and development of the oil and gas sector, local companies have been working towards improving and raising the standards within their operations. On July 25, the Guyana Seafarers and General Workers Union (GS&GWU) officially announced formation. The body was established to

provide representation to Guyanese seafarers and bridge the existing gap between them and their employers. General Secretary of the GS&GWU, Simone Fortune said the maritime sector is vital to the country’s economy, therefore emphasis must be placed on workers compensation, wages and other benefits, living accommodation onboard vessels, meals, safety equipment, resting hours.

(DPI)

Intelligence-led operations net two suspects POLICE on the East Coast and Georgetown have arrested two suspects and recovered a quantity of stolen items, including a car, during separate operations.

Police said acting on information via a 911 call, ranks visited a house at

Kaneville, East Bank Demerara, where a Toyota Premio was seized and a man was arrested for an alleged hit and run accident recently.

The vehicle was taken to the Sparendam Police Station for inspection.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, ranks found a man hid-

ing under his bed in James Street, Albouystown, after he was wanted in connection with selling stolen property to persons in the area and in South Ruimveldt. He was arrested and some of the stolen items were recovered and are in police custody.

Also on Thursday, act-

ing on information, police recovered a stolen Toyota motorcar at Durban Backlands after the owner claimed he was robbed on July 23 by four men in Sophia, Georgetown. The owner was contacted and the vehicle was positively identified as the one stolen.

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Sol Guyana goes the extra mile

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

–– with new techno-oriented ‘promo’ SOL Guyana, in a bid to keep youths abreast of technological advancements, has embarked on a promotion called, “Let Shell upgrade you with the latest technology!”

According to the rules of the competition, all that is required to enter is for Shell customers to spend G$3000 on Shell V-Power or Shell FuelSave products to receive

a coupon, which must be completed and dropped into the boxes provided at participating stations.

The promotion, which runs from July 25 to September 5, has on offer a Grand Prize bundle of a laptop, study desk, chair, printer, tablet, cellular phone and Shell fuel.

For the second-place winner, the company is offfering

to pay that person’s tuition fees for a year and throw in a tablet for good measure, while the third-prize winner will be outfitted with school uniform, back-pack, shoes, books and a tablet.

There will also be weekly draws for laptops and tablets, while customers spending $5,000 and more on Shell fuel will have a chance to ‘spin to win’ backpacks

and back-to-school supplies during weekly happy hours.

According to Retail Sales Executive Renée Armstrong-Joseph, Sol Guyana, the licensed operator of Shell Service Stations, has so succeeded in delivering on cutting-edge advances in high-performance fuel and lubricant technology, that it was moved to also support access to technology for

Guyana receives $140M for resilience-building in agri sector

THE Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved some $140Million (US$697, 183) for Guyana’s second Readiness Support for the agriculture sector.

Head of the Office of Climate Change (OCC), Janelle Christian made the disclosure on Thursday. She said approval was received by the country’s National Designated Authority (NDA), Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, in June.

According to Christian, approval of this funding is a testimony to Guyana’s continued engagement with the GCF, which started two years ago.

She explained that the idea for funding for the Agriculture sector was first advanced during a regional workshop hosted by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (UN/FAO) in May 2017 in

Port of Spain, Trinidad. A proposal was then put forward for the Adaptation and Resilience Building in Guyana’s Agriculture sector.

At that time, the OCC head said, Guyana was ahead of its sister countries in terms of capacity building and accessing support but took the opportunity to fast-track the process of mobilising resources for this important sector. Following the meeting in May 2017, the FAO fielded a mission to Guyana in June 2017 to assist the Ministry of Agriculture, its sub-agencies and the OCC to work on crafting the Readiness Proposal, which will be focused on generating resilience agriculture in the coastal area of Guyana.

In October 2017, FAO Guyana, as a first step to formulate the Full Funding proposal, two letters of agreement were signed with

the University of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences and the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), which currently have a coordinated work plan for the delivery of baseline information, climate change vulnerability and other assessments.

These will serve as inputs for the design of the final proposal to be submitted to the GCF. The first workshop is part of FAO’s support to prepare the project Concept Note for the Full Proposal to address climate change adaptation and resilience building within the Agriculture sector will be held from August 2-3 at the Regency Suites.

The FAO has committed an additional $40Million (US$200,000) to ensure the necessary baseline data and vulnerability as-

Sol’s Ayanna Watson hands over a prize to sevenyear-old Christian Munroe of Marian Academy

Head of the Office of Climate Change (OCC), Janelle Christian sessment for the agriculture sector is completed, and which is required for the preparation of the full proposal. (DPI)

Guyanese students.

“From our company’s inception,” she said, “we pledged to deliver the most technologically advanced petroleum products available.

“Our company is committed to ensuring that we continue to see the benefits of technology in every area of our lives, and our students here in Guyana must therefore be afforded the opportunity to be up-to-date with all forms of technology.”

Joseph said Shell V-Power stands out as a premium fuel with the benefit of over 100 years of Shell scientific experience, and featuring a

unique double action formulation designed to actively clean engines, reducing friction and deliver more power.

Customers can also choose Shell’s advanced FuelSave formula for fuel economy using Shell’s active efficiency ingredients.

She said Sol Guyana Inc is pleased to be associated with a promotion which aims at rewarding loyal customers and at the same time assisting students whether at school, university, or undertaking adult studies with the opportunity to access modern educational technology.

‘No show’ Sudesh remanded … sister-in-law refuses to take responsibility

JUSTICE Brassington Reynolds on Thursday, July 26, 2018, was forced to remand Sudesh Rambhajue of Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo, to ensure that he shows up for trial.

On Tuesday, July 17, 2018, Sudesh stood before Justice Reynolds to face charges for alternative counts. First count: attempt to commit murder; second count: felonious wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He proclaimed his innocence on both charges.

The accused showed up unrepresented and stated that he could not afford a lawyer and requested the assistance of the State in assigning a lawyer to him. Justice Reynolds informed him that the State do not assign lawyers to such matters.

He then postponed the trial to give the accused more time to get legal representation .

He then gave the accused a deadline of Monday, July 23rd, 2018 to source representation and return to court for trial.

The trial was again postponed since Rambhajue showed up without representation.

He and his family pleaded with Justice Reynolds, saying that they did not have the financial resources to secure a lawyer for Sudesh. Showing mercy, Justice Reynolds made a few recommendations

to the accused and postponed the trial for Wednesday, July 25th 2018.

After two postponements, the accused did not show up for trial on July 25th, 2018 and did not communicate with the court. On Thursday July 26, 2018, the trial finally commenced with Rambhajue stating that he was working on an island and had no transportation to get over in time for his trial, neither did he had a phone to make a call to communicate same to the court.

His bailer, who is his sister-in-law, was asked by the judge if she could assure the court that she will ensure that Rambhajue shows up for court. “No sir, I will not take that responsibility, cause sometimes he’s home and sometimes I don’t know where to find him, so I’m not going to take responsibility for him,” Rambhajue’s sister-in-law said. On that note the judge remanded the accused, since no assurance was given that he would show up for trial.

When the trial started, Rambhajue led his own defence. State prosecutor Seeta Bishundial stated that on September 15th, 2015, Sudesh Rambhajue wounded Latchman Narine Persaud of School Street, Vergenoegen.

The State brought before the court three witnesses to testify.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Lethem preparing to host second ‘Town Week’

DOWN in the southernmost reaches of Guyana in the vast Rupununi Savannah, the town of Lethem is preparing for its second annual Town Week celebration with a host of activities unique to the location.

Set for October 14-20, Lethem Town Week 2018 will present activities in the areas of culture, the environment, education, sports and entertainment.

The theme this year is ‘Celebrating Transformation, Diversity and Uniqueness in 2018’ while all planning is being coordinated by the Lethem Town Week Committee with the support of the Lethem Town Council.

All are invited to participate in the official launching of the Town Week at the Declaration Park in Lethem on August 4 where visitors will be provided with

a glimpse of the activities expected for the week long celebration.

Beginning on Sunday, October 14 will be the hosting of an inter-faith religious service at the official opening ceremony which will be attended by several Government and regional officials.

There will be special performances from an entourage parade, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Military Band

Massy continues push for clean power solutions MASSY Technologies continues to explore ways of maintaining and improving its efficiency, particularly in the area of clean power solutions.

AS part of that effort, the company’s partner, Eaton Electrical Power Quality division presented the latest innovations in Power Quality Solutions to its clients in Guyana during a training seminar on Wednesday.

“To help you maintain business continuity and prevent downtime, Eaton offers a comprehensive portfolio of backup power and distribution equipment, protecting you from a host of threats, including power outages, surges and lightning strikes,” said General Manager of Massy Technologies Guyana, Jason Sahai.

Eaton also provides a suite of power management products to enable clients to monitor and control their power infrastructure.

“We are delighted to partner with Eaton. We have been partnering with them for over 20 years to offer clean power solution in Guyana… this is part of Massy Technologies’ mandate and by extension our conglomerate of companies,” he said.

Sahai said the company was eager to

receive the latest insights on how they could maintain and improve business continuity and efficiency.

Massy Technologies is in the business of information technology and as such provide the products, solutions and technical services that empower their customers to be a dynamic force in any environment.

The company prides itself with a diverse range of products and services from its five divisions which cater to every sector of the economy and every type of customer, be it enterprise or retail customers.

“We have certified factory trained engineers that support Eaton Power Quality products. Helping you realise your IT potential is our passion. You provide the vision and we make it happen,” said the general manager.

Eaton’s power quality portfolio encompasses a comprehensive offering of power management solutions formal single-source provider.

Those include uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs), DC power solutions, surge protective devices, switchgear, power distribution unites (PDUs), remote monitoring, meters, software, connectivity, enclosures and services.

Man wanted by Police THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Thursday issued a warrant for the arrest of Stanley Paul who is wanted in relation to the unlawful distribution of fuel marker committed on the Guyana Energy Authority in April, 2018.

Anyone with information that may lead to his arrest can contact the police on telephone numbers: 226-2870, 229-2655, 229-2289, 227-1149, 2267065, 911 or any police station.

All information will be treated with the strictest

confidence.

The fuel marker is valued in excess of $1.5M. It is a special chemical used

by GEA staffers to tag fuel entering Guyana and for which taxes have been paid. The GEA has been fighting corruption with some staffers accused of selling the marker.

In one case, the container where the marker was stored was broken into and a quantity stolen.

In April, 2018, a man was detained after being found in possession of the fuel marker and had reportedly implicated at

WANTED: Stanley Paul least three staffers from the GEA of supplying him with the instrument.

(MS) and other physical displays followed by a day of cycling and horseback racing.

Then on Monday, October 15 efforts will be made towards ensuring Lethem becomes a greener town with the Plant-a-Tree Campaign which will be executed with the support of several regional organisations and residents.

Ten thousand trees is the given target which participants will plant around the municipality and its environs.

On Monday, too, visitors will be able to have a taste of the Rupununi through the Roast Master and Boily Boily Competition.

Then, the next day, residents will showcase their special gifts at the ‘Rupununi Got Talent’ competition on Tuesday, October 16.

For that day there will also be High School De-

bate competitions, Best Kept Yard competition and a Spelling Bee competition.

Physical activity will take the forefront on Wednesday, October 17 featuring fitness walks and senior and junior football competitions which will all be cooled off with the much anticipated Ms. Lethem Pageant.

The pageant will form a key part of this year’s event as the search has commenced for the next brand ambassador of the town.

On Thursday, October 18 flashback of fashion, music and art forms will be showcased through the ‘Back in Time Concert’ and during the day, too, football, chess, dominoes and board games competitions.

Meanwhile, the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition will be held on October 19-20 at the Lethem Market and is coordinated by the Regional Democratic

Council (RDC).

It seeks to showcase the productivity and innovative products of the region and on Friday, October 19 there will also be a Lethem Fitness competition and a Boxing Exhibition. Visitors get ready as the Finals of the Senior Football competition will take place on Saturday, October 20 while, on the same day, there will be a grand Road Race.

Other daily attractions include business and service booths, Overland Tours and the Brazil Fun Park, all which will be available before the closing ceremony set for Saturday evening.

The overall aim of the Lethem Town Week is to bridge the diversity of the Rupununi, its people and culture in one event, an initiative the savannah town has been working towards since its declaration as a town in October 2017.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Misconduct charges against Singh, Brassington now Sept. 3

THE magisterial proceeding against former Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and former head of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), Winston Brassington on charges of

misconduct in public office has been put on hold until September 3, 2018.

This decision was made on Thursday by the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court due to an interim stay

of proceedings granted in the High Court preventing the hearing of four matters.

The move prevents the Magistrates’ Court from proceeding with the criminal charges levied against them by the Special Organised

Former Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh (left), and former CEO of NICIL, Winston Brassington Crime Unit (SOCU).

High Court Judge Franklin Holder had granted a stay of the charges of misconduct in public office pending the outcome of the fix date application before Chief Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire.

The first charge alleged that on Monday, December 28, 2009, by way of an agreement of sale and purchase, they “acted recklessly” when they sold to National Hardware Guyana Limited, lands amounting to 103.88 acres, property of the state for the sum of $598, 659, 398 (Vat exclusive) without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer.

The s econd charge alleges that the duo on Tuesday, December 30, 2008, by way of agreement of sale and purchase “without due diligence” sold to Scady Business Corporation, land located at Liliendaal, ECD, amounting to 4,700 acres, also the property of the State for the sum of $150,000,000, knowing that the said property was valued at $340,000,000

by Rodrigues Architects Associate.

Another charge alleges

that the former finance minister and the former NICIL CEO on Saturday, May 14, 2011, by way of agreement of sale and purchase “acted recklessly” when they sold to Multi-Cinemas Guyana Inc. 10, 002 acres of land located at Turkeyen, ECD, property of the State for the sum of $185, 037,000 without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer.

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire had granted an interim stay of proceedings in the misconduct in public office charge for the sale of Sanata Textiles to Queens Atlantic Investment Inc. Dr. Singh and Brassington were both charged with recklessly selling to Queens Atlantic Investment Inc., Sanata Textiles Complex totaling 18.871 acres for $697, 864, 800 between October and December 2010 when the property was valued at $1, 042, 403, 500. However the charge was never read to the duo by the Chief Magistrate due to the defendants being out of the jurisdiction.

On, Thursday the Chief Magistrate noted that the interim stay of proceedings in the matter prevented her

from hearing the matter until the completion and direction of the High Court.

In court, the men’s attorney, Ronald Birch-Smith told the court that the ruling into the matter at the High Court was expected to be done by the end of August. The matter was adjourned until September 3.

Brassington in December of 2015 had said he was willing to undergo public scrutiny in the courts of law, maintaining that he was a man of integrity.

One of the forensic audit reports on the operations of NICIL suggests that under the PPP administration, NICIL engaged in malpractices, and had made poor decisions on behalf of the people of Guyana.

The audit which was conducted by former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran had recommended criminal and/or disciplinary action against all those responsible for the interception of State revenues totaling $26.858B, in violation of the constitution. Goolsarran had said that several laws were broken.

Brassington, who left Guyana in December 2015, was said to be living in Florida, where he reportedly operates a business.

Minister’s son to go before court HECTOR Broomes, the son of Junior Minister of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes is expected to be placed before the Magistrates’ Court and charged for assaulting his girlfriend.

A release from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) noted that Broomes is expected to be charged soon for assault causing actual bodily harm while his girlfriend, Gilibeth Rodriguez is to be charged for assaulting Broomes and for throwing missiles.

The release said that an investiga-

tion had been launched into the matter following an online article published

by Citizens’ Report on July 23, 2018 under the caption: “Minister threatens Commander with dismissal after son assaults girlfriend.”

However, the Commander, Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis has vehemently denied the claims.

The police had sought legal advice for Broomes and his girlfriend to be charged under the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act Chapter 8:02.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Mayor chides Constabulary Department…

13

Calls for more market security

GEORGETOWN Mayor Patricia Chase-Green has called for the City Constabulary Department to get its act together and for more security to be placed inside of the municipal markets so that shoppers can feel some amount of safety.

Following the daring robbery committed on L. Seepersaud Maraj and Sons jewellery store earlier this month, Chase-Green said she paid a visit to the market and spent approximately one hour there without seeing a single constabulary officer.

She said she spent quite some time talking with the ‘Seepersaud brothers’ and walking around the market and couldn’t see any officer patrolling the market. Until she was about to leave, she saw one officer about to go to lunch.

Following such a huge robbery in the Stabroek Market, Chase-Green said she would have thought that the Constabulary would have dispatched more security there so that shoppers can feel a bit safer.

The mayor made the call for more security to be provided when city councillors met for their statutory meet-

Monday’s statutory meeting in full swing. Mayor Patricia Chase-Green made a call for more security to be provided the municipal markets. ing on Monday. Chief Con- show.’ I don’t know they got officers regularity and punc- ersaud robbery.

“I have not seen the restable Andrew Foo was not a show. It must be a comedy tuality at work. “Most departments are delinquent and port from the Chief Constapresent at the meeting. show. They need to be more there is lack of penalty to ble as yet and until that is Chase-Green had a few professional, from top to botbring those people in line.

I submitted to me, only then days earlier criticised state- tom,” Chase-Green reported don’t think the department I can say what the regrettaments made by Foo that there to councillors. heads are being held responble issues were,” she said, has been a spike in robberies She appealed to the Consible,” he said. adding, “On face value it’s in the Georgetown, partic- stabulary Department not to Meanwhile, Chase-Green regrettable that it did occur. ularly in the business areas. unnecessarily harass vendors said to date, she is awaiting a And I need to see the report. I She had subsequently called on the streets. for him to put in place a Councillor Welton Clarke report from Foo on the Seep- can only assume in my mind plan to deal with the crime increase.

“I’m tired of complaints of the manner in which members of the Constabulary approach people. And when people say they will complain, the officers often respond ‘Me ain’t got time with the Mayor and the Town Clerk; they don’t run me

told Chase-Green frankly that she was responsible for some of the departmental dysfunctions. “The Mayor and Town Clerk are very firm on what needs to be done but fall short in the actual execution,” the councillor said.

Clarke recalled that he had often brought up the matter of the constabulary

what I heard but that is my own personal opinion.”

Following the incident, police from the Major Crimes Unit probing the robbery visited the Section 4 Stall, 42-43 in the Stabroek Market.

The owners of the store had expressed disappointment at the manner in which the matter was handled by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC).

“We have spoken directly to two city Constables who claimed that checks were done earlier in the market but nothing was discovered. As stall owners operating under market rules, we have no choice but to depend on the City Constabulary for security whenever the market is closed,” the owners of the jewellery store had said.

They have been vending in the market in excess of 80 years.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

La Bennett to chair Trade Union Recognition Board

RETIRED Judge, Claudette La Bennett has been nominated chairperson of the Trade Union Recognition Board, the Ministry of Social Protection said on Thursday.

In a release, the ministry said subject Minister Amna Ally had met with representatives from the Tripartite Constituency on the matter.

The TUR&CB is responsible for, among other things, certifying various trade unions so that workers’ rights can be legally and correctly represented. The Board endorses the recognition of unions as bargaining agents for workers.

According to the ministry, consultations were conducted with the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana, which was represented by Mr. Dawchan Nagasar-- General Secretary, accompanied by Mr. Seepaul Narine. The Guyana Trade Union Congress was

Senior and Junior Ministers of Social Protection; Amna Ally and Keith Scott, respectively, pose with Karen Vansluytman (left) and Lincoln Lewis of the GTUC ( extreme right)

represented by Lincoln Lewis--General Secretary; and the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry was represented by Mr. Samuel Goolsarran, Consultant/Adviser who all met with Ally separately.

The consultations were done in the presence of Keith Scott, Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection; Karen Vansluytman-- Chief Labour Officer (ag), Ministry of Social Protection; and Sonia Philander, an independent note-taker.

There were two nominees for the position of chairman: Mr. Grantley Culbard, a veteran trade unionist who was recommended by FITUG and La Bennett, who was endorsed by CAGI and GTUC. The ministry said Justice La Bennett has indicated her willingness to serve in the position as Chairperson.

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Essequibians to benefit from mental health training

By Indrawattie Natram

ESSEQUIBIANS are once again benefiting from mental health workshops thanks to the Guyana Foundation and the Williams James College.

Last year, the foundation partnered with the college for training and counselling persons and this year is no exception. The foundation has partnered with the Williams James College in the fight against suicide and other mental illnesses in Guyana.

The William James College of the US

is currently training persons at the Guyana Foundation, Sunrise Centre, Zorg En Vlygt Essequibo Coast.

Clinical psychologist and professor in psychology at the William James College, Natalie Cort said Guyana has a limited mental health structure which cannot respond effectively to suicide.

Cort, who was born in Guyana, said that there is a lack of trained persons in the field of psychology and mental health.

“The lack of sufficient psychologists, psychiatrists and social workers within the country has somewhat contributed to

Persons who were part of the workshop at the Guyana Foundation Centre, Essequibo Coast

Training ongoing to equip persons to deal with mental health issues

the country’s high rate of suicidality,” Cort said, noting that the problem could be eased by training locals through workshops.

“In the suicide research, specifically in countries where there isn’t mental health infrastructure, what they found is that if you identify individuals within the communities, who have some standing trust from community members and you train them to do what a professional mental health provider can do, they can offer the services,” she said.

She said with that in mind, the workshop aims at equipping key stakeholders within the various communities to fight against suicide and social ills.

Attending the training are members of the public health care system, NGOs,

community leaders and key stakeholders from within the community. The three day- training also catered for persons from the Wakenaam Support Group.

The training focusses on the educational aspect against suicide as well as techniques that persons can use to tackle suicide. At the end of the training, persons would be able to become counsellors and mental health professionals.

She said persons would be exposed to “the problem-solving treatment” which is an evidence-based approach to deal with the various challenges.

Professor Cort also explained that the main contributing factors leading to suicide in Guyana are relationship problems, relationship breakups, divorces and communication problems.

Drug recruiter begs for mercy; gets 4 years instead

By Clestine Juan TWO weeks after a 19-year-old girl was jailed for swallowing cocaine pellets, her alleged recruiter was on Thursday sentenced to four years jail with a $3.3M fine after pleading guilty to trafficking over three pounds of cocaine.

Kelvien Sauers known as John appeared before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court after recently turning himself over to the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) following a wanted bulletin for his arrest.

Sauers admitted that on July 6, 2018 at Enterprise, East Coast Demerara he trafficked 1.608 kilograms of cocaine which was in his possession.

The unrepresented 23-year-old mason begged the court for leniency since he had a two-year-old son

19-year-old Anisha Hardy and was the sole breadwinner for his family.

CANU prosecutor Konyo Sandiford noted that officers were able to make the bust at Saurers’ Enterprise home following the arrest of Anisha Hardy, who was arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on July 6 after allegedly consuming

119 cocaine pellets.

The teen was later placed before a city court and sentenced to three years’ jail along with a $1.4M fine.

The teenager had confessed that Sauers had given her the drugs and provided an address where she met with him and was given the drugs.

When CANU officer arrived at the Enterprise home later that day on July 6, Saurers was seen jumping from the window and escaping.

The home was searched and a haversack was found with 279 pellets of cocaine which amounted to 1.608 kilograms of cocaine along with the instrument used to make the pellets.

Subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued for Sauers and his relative Mark Sauers called ‘Marco.’ On July 24, Kelvien Sauers turned himself over to ranks at CANU while the charge

Kelvin Sauers called ‘John’ was dropped against his relative.

Before sentencing, Magistrate Hugh noted that based upon the prosecution’s facts, the crime committed was well organised since it involved a 19-year-old teen ingesting illicit drugs.

Kelvien Sauers was sen-

tenced to four years’ jail with a fine of three times the market value of the drug which was $3.3M. Earlier this month, a 37-year-old drug mule was also sentenced to three years ‘jail after confessing to trafficking cocaine, subsequent to being arrested by CANU at the airport.

Natasha Blair of Grove Housing Scheme was sentenced by the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for trafficking 532 grams of cocaine at CJIA. Blair was also an outgoing passage on a Caribbean Airlines flight destined for JFK International Airport, New York and was travelling with her 11-month-old daughter.

However, while checking in at the CJIA, she was nabbed by a CANU officer and was taken to a city hospital and subjected to an X-ray which showed foreign objects in her stomach and pelvic area. She excreted 32

pellets containing cocaine which weighed 322 grams and 210 grams was extracted from her vagina.

The prosecutor added that Blair told ranks in a caution statement that she did it because she needed the money for herself and her child.

Her attorney Keoma Griffith during his plea for mitigation told the court: “These situations are very prevalent. My client is a single parent and had to make difficult decisions and take an unfortunate risk.”

Earlier this year, CANU had issued a statement following another teen being busted at the CJIA airport and noted that “irrespective of life’s challenges civilians must recognise that the narcotic trade must never be an option.

The narcotic trade is harmful to the traffickers, its users and everyone connected to them.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

Jamaican reggae artistes ‘pay it forward’ -Will perform at three charitable concerts in Guyana

THREE artistes straight out of the streets of Jamaica have come to Guyana to perform at three charitable concerts organised by the Guyana Committee of Services, to render assistance to athletes and persons involved in the cultural field.

Reggae artistes Duane Stephenson and Mackeehan Solomon, alongside Denvo ‘DJ Denvo’ Thombs will be headlining at the shows slated for July 27, at the New Amsterdam Stelling Road, Berbice; July 31 in Linden and August 4 in Bartica.

The artistes have committed to paying it forward, not because Guyanese have supported them over the years but because they believe that it is their duty as humans to serve. Mackeehan said, “I like doing volunteering work, it doesn’t matter if it is in Jamaica or anywhere in the world,” and further explained, “I feel that is what we are here for, as humans we must jump at the opportunity to help someone else that is in need, in any shape or form.”

Adding to these sentiments was Stephenson, who shared that he had previously engaged with youth in Bartica alongside his brethren and fellow reggae artiste, Jah Cure, and he had promised to return to Guyana and continue that work.

Speaking directly to the work being done by the committee, Stephenson said that coming from Jamaica where there is development in sport, particularly athletics, they understand the finances needed in the sector.

He affirmed, “Things are changing and maybe we coming here and doing this concert can sensitise people to the fact that things are changing and they really need to start investing in their athletes, more so the young athletes.”

And though the artistes are currently preparing for extensive travelling to promote their work, they did not think twice about sparing some time to help youth in Guyana.

“We have a short window of time and we managed to put

Reggae artistes Duane Stephenson and Mackeehan Solomon alongside Denvo ‘DJ Denvo’ Thombs [centre] during a visit to the Guyana Chronicle

it together and make it work,” Stephenson said.

During a previous trip to Guyana, Vice Chairman of the Committee Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones highlighted, that the artistes were very impressed with the work the committee was doing for sportspersons and were intrigued as to how they could

Linden to host first ‘Freedom Fest’ for Emancipation THIS emancipation, ‘Lindeners’ no longer have to journey to Georgetown to enjoy African cultural events, as a grand emancipation extravaganza, Freedom Fest 2018, will bring the mining town alive with a packed emancipation programme. This will commence on July 31 and continue on August 1.

The Wisroc Community Centre ground is expected to be an African cultural pyramid with African food, music, drumming and a grand cultural show. The event is being hosted by Right Start Foundation and Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira. Main sponsors include Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Minister within the

Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes and BK International CEO Brian Tiwari who made a whooping contribution of $500, 000.

On July 31 starting from 18:00hrs, the play field will come alive with soiree, campfire, storytelling, folk songs and African games.

On Emancipation Day, there will be a village exhibition which will include Community Development Councils from across Region, a cook up competition and a cultural show.

MP Figueira, who is the brainchild behind this year’s event said that for too long, the people from Linden, a town where the population is majority Afro-Guyanese, have to

travel to Georgetown or other villages to enjoy an Emancipation celebration.

This year, the celebration is right in their backyard and will be fun-packed and exciting. “We have many persons living in Linden whose roots are in villages that were previously owned by Africans, and so the African culture is deeply enshrined in them.

For these ones, especially the older folks, [they] have been longing for something right here that mimics what a real Emancipation celebration should be, and that is why we have put all heads together to give them an event this year right in Linden, which they deserve,” he said.

help out.

“I think this is just the beginning,” Stephenson said and noted, “I think you just need to reach out because there are a lot of artistes aside from us, that are willing to help and certainly able to support the cause and really boost the cause of supporting young athletes.”

He also posited, “It is always a great vibe, when you can spread some information [and] spread some love,” and said that many times artistes look to countries as just another market, but also noted that it is good to leave a legacy behind.

The Guyana Committee of Services was initially

drawn to the task of helping others when the predicament of a local Boxing Champion, Clive Atwell, moved us to solicit funding for his medical treatment overseas in 2016. After successfully rendering assistance, they became committed to lending this aid to others.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

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ART OF WAR 2018 IN WHAT is promised to be a night of musical warfare, Empire Media Inc. is once again set to host the highly anticipated marquee event in Guyana Art of War 2018, tomorrow at the Sports Hall tarmac, Homestretch Avenue.

This event, which is in its third year, has already created a social media craze with fans all hyped and ready for the battle.

Art of War will feature six of Guyana’s elite DJs and Selectors who will do battle for $1,000,000, one trophy and the Mr Art of War 2018 title. Winner takes all!!

Combatants include: Champions for Armageddon Clash 2018 DJ Magnum and Seen Up; Art of War 2016

Champions DJ Platinum and Skinny Hype; DJ Delly Ranks; DJ Nico Hype; Turf Teacha and Spotlight Sound.

It is no secret that the entertainment/dancehall industry has been dying for this sort of event, and we proved that with the large attendance at our previous clashes. Art of War 2018 will serve to further reignite the fire of this art form in Guyana. There will be five rounds in the competition: Round 1: On Enemy Lines (Anything Goes) Round 2: Engage the Enemy (Anything Goes) Round 3: Anything Goes Round 4: Challenge Round– DJs pick 1 artiste and play 7–10 songs by that artiste Round 5: Tune for Tune–

Vocal Artists/Vocal Tune (no exception) The fans will decide who gets eliminated and who stays by a show of hands, while there will be a review panel and also judges to deal with playbacks and difficult decisions respectively.

Early juggling will be provided by Evolution Fraternity, Selector Shaq and Selector Matic. Admission is $1,000 before 22:00hrs. Gates will be opened from 18:00hrs and the clash starts at 22:00hrs. For more information, you can like our Facebook page- ‘Empire Media Inc’ or follow us on Instagram @empiremediainc.

Come to the Caribbean Cookout!

THE PLACE to be in Guyana on Saturday, July 28, 2018, shall be on the lawns of the Castellani House on Vlissengen Road and Homestretch Avenue where there shall be

‘Caribbean Cookout’ the first annual international food, drink and cultural festival, commencing at 16:00 hrs.

This event is guaranteed to ignite the global culinary

passion of all the persons who will be in attendance and is being organised by the Global Friendships Foundation with the kind assistance and collaboration of the Ministry of the Presidency – Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport and the Guyana Tourism Authority.

The festival is set to be a grand one-day celebration in Georgetown, of the customs, lifestyles and cultural identities of peoples from around the world, through their traditional cuisines which will be prepared according to their indigenous preparatory processes, using original ingredients and with the help of nationals of the various countries.

To satisfy the international culinary experience that the Epicurious food fans will want to experience, there will be a myriad of food booths that will make all of our attendees jet-setters without packing their bags—as their taste buds will be taken around the world and back in one delightful evening.

Caribbean Cookout will have beers from all over the Caribbean, the United

States, Europe and further afield, making it an international Beerfest in its own right, wines, rums, cocktails from around the world, whilst for the non-alcoholic drinkers there will be fruit drinks and punches, sparklers, spritzers, lemonades, sodas, and many other hot and cold beverages and ice creams.

But the highlight of this big, all-you-caneat banquet will be the ability of the attendees to visit and enjoy the numerous food booths from memorable Chinese dishes from the Orient, the Mediterranean treats; spicy Indian and other Eastern dishes such as masala chicken; Mexican delights from tortillas and tacos to spicy soups and stews; exotic Nigerian and other African dishes such as pepper soup, vegetarian cuisine; tasty Brazilian barbecue; scrumptious Cuban food; and last but certainly not least our own very appetising Guyanese cuisine.

Young patrons will have a fun time with professional

face painters in attendance, and other games to participate in whilst the adults can have personalised custom temporary tattoos applied.

We invite every single person, from everywhere in Guyana to come to ‘Caribbean Cookout’ Admission is absolutely free, there will be secure parking for vehicles, and the venue is centrally and conveniently located equally if you prefer to use public transportation.

The atmosphere will be

great, the food delicious and very diverse, and the cultural entertainment will be top rated.

So bring the entire family, bring your friends, bring those on holidays from school, and experience the widest range of international cooking in Guyana for yourself. You will never forget this international food and drink festival as it will be like none ever seen or experienced here before.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

EMANCIPATION DAY It’s everyone’s national celebration and centre for reflection...

EMANCIPATION 18348 initiated the ‘Genesis of Modern Guyana’. Within the space of this event emerged the struggles to survive, the conspiracies to prevent some from not surviving comfortably and the mechanisms to throw cultures and human variations by pigmentation and invented class against each other in the bitter struggle for the limited opportunities that a colony designed for specific production models offered. Indentureship followed the course of Emancipation bringing peoples from different experiences and cultures, with opposing interactions,for example; indentured Africans from Sierra Leone supported the emancipated Africans when they protested with a strike for better conditions in 1842, but neither did the Portuguese nor the East Indian indentured labourers or the Christian Churches who the Africans supported, support the strike on 1848. The latter strike was driven by the labour costs, benefit allowances for food and medicine

that were denied.

But the impetus of the underlying grievance was the raised taxes levied against the new villages bought by the freed Africans and against the Afro colonial hucksters. The village taxes were intended for drainage works in the villages that were used instead to finance indentureship. Both the Portuguese and Indians had come to Demerara from grim hardships in Madeira with the former and a passion to just work and return to India with the latter, bearing in mind the majority of the immigrants from India who were seduced into indentureship came from the lower castes, and the caste system was primarily an economic creature.

Though the Plantocracy created on the estate a boundary parameter for the East Indians that merited the derogatory term ‘boundcoolie’ to prevent them from having any interactions with the African villages who would contaminate them with ideas of rights, it did not work and interactions would exist that would lead to activism among the East Indians against the

unreasonable impositions of the estate owners. The Portuguese died at an alarming rate on the sugar plantations. They would, in turn, gravitate to the retail business and be seen by the planter controlled Colonial Court of Policy as an effective tool to be thrown against the rise of Afro-businesses. The method of divide and rule would explode as life grew harder in the colony and the machinations of the colonial authorities to cultivate a buffer class and culture a racial divide through the courts.

This led to the 1856 Angel Gabriel riots, instigated by the outright use of high-cost shop and huckster licenses instituted to drive the Afro colonials out of business, to the benefit of the Portuguese. These contentions were articulated by a talented Afro creole orator named James Sayers Orr, who cultivated a crusade against the Catholics culminating in the Angel Gabriel riots. The 1889 riots followed in a very difficult economic period in the colony and were generated by blatant imbalanced court verdicts with incidents involving Afro-colonials and

Portuguese and accusations of shop counter skulduggery. To quote Brian Moore ‘Cultural Power Resistance and Pluralism colonial Guyana 18381900’- “Nineteenth century Guyana was by no means a melting pot. On the contrary, there was a consistently high level of suspicion, tension and violence which characterised inter-group relationships. In addition to the aforementioned anti-Portuguese disturbances, there was also friction between Blacks and Indians, Indians and Chinese, Chinese and Whites, Whites and Blacks, Indians and Whites, and even among different categories of Indians.”

But above all this conflict over limited resources, low incomes and a virtual social caste system the freed Afro-colonial was able to establish schools, persevere into areas as artisans and aspire to education as a means out of poverty. In the 1880s onward to the turn of the century, the Afro colonial/ creole groups established friendly societies and lodges, the grass root Susu-hand, or box-hand, the foremost purpose of these institutions was to establish support in the crisis of sickness or death, and income for trade (after the betrayal by the banks

when the banks refused to honour the cash in of Bank notes for cash to the Afro-Creoles in the financial crisis of 1847 to 1849 resulting in no alternative to selling their Bank notes to the Portuguese).

There were also Worker’s Associations’ and Farmer Associations that came into existence. These were the examples that made the labour organising appeal of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow naturally agreeable. It must be enforced that the examples of the continuous struggle faced in the post-emancipation era by the Afro colonial were shouldered by both male and females across the country. This was a dormant Tribal African propensity - alive, but not consciously aware of. It must be understood that by the 1890s many rural villagers were going into the new industry of Gold Seeking. The rise of the pork knockers had begun as a new and dangerous challenge away from the dependency of the plantation and the betrayal of the villages by the colonial authorities. While, for the citizens of Georgetown and New Amsterdam, unemployment and underemployment persisted. To quote Walter Rodney: “Women from all levels of the working people were involved

in the 1905 riots. Court records do not sustain the slur that even those arrested were all rowdies, viragos, prostitutes and the like. One encounters a reference to a ‘badly clad lady of the centipede class’ and to one ‘Daisy’ the centipede Queen.” Rodney continues, “Dorothy Rice was part of a subsequent delegation from Ruimveldt [cane cutters] that put the case of workers on that estate. Her counterparts in the urban settings of Georgetown would have been washerwomen, seamstresses, street vendors and above all, domestics in private employment”.

Emancipation envelopes the beginnings of Guyana, a colony that is still striving to become a prosperous nation, from its beginnings of mental turmoil in the ‘nigger yards’ and logies of poverty and hopelessness, with its intended cultural and economic regimentations, the lessons of the post-emancipation era applies to all Guyanese who want to honestly learn, understand and cultivate realistic opinions about the collective humanity of Guyana, and their capacity to triumph, through challenge, error and perseverance against tremendous odds from within and without.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

BRAVO ARTS FACE PAINTING COMPETITION A SUCCESS BRAVO Arts hosted MaskedThe Face Painting Competition last Sunday. The first-ofits-kind was part of a series of activities to mark our the company’s ninth anniversary. The event was sponsored

It’s the weekend and you know what they all work and no fun makes Jack a dull boy.

So get out there and have some fun! Don’t be cooped up at home.

TODAY It’s Here Our First Ever Event BBQ & Local Night. Inviting all artists & music lovers alike to come out and enjoy some finger-licking BBQ and a lineup of Guyana’s best and upcoming talent while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere with a well-stocked bar. Upcoming Artist? Have your song played or have a chance to perform live, music by Selector Charlie. First 50 ladies get a shot of tequila. Come and join us at the Barbecue and Local Night at the Girls Guide Pavilion, Brickdam. Hosted by Haze the Official. Admission: $1,000 .

TOMORROW Mocha presents the dance called ‘Naughty Student’. This dance is going to be big and grand, with lots of giveaways for the ladies. This will be going down at First Street, Mocha Mc Doom residents present “ Big People Thing”. This is for the old folks, so head down and enjoy music back in the 80s and prizes for the best dancing couples!

Extra Beer presents “Blue Jeans”. A prize will be given to the female in the best blue jeans.

Music is by DJ David; DJ Hype; and selector Andrea. This will be going down at the ‘C’ Field Sophia ground.

Celebrating another year, Makeda presents the first ever Emancipation Afrobeats event #Cook up. Snacks included ( Cook-up Station, Sweet Table). Door prizes will be available as well as prizes for best African outfit and best Afrobeats dancer.

Welcome drink included and souvenir cup for the first 100 people and much more. This will be going down at the 704 Sports Bar. The Ultimate Pop up Shop, flossy pop-up shop, is a sip and shop event that will be taking place at World of Cock Tails David Street Kitty. This is the grand shopping event for the summer, where the high-end boutiques in Georgetown will be collaborating to bring to shopping fanatics and fashionistas clothing, makeup, accessories, handbags, sun shades and other beauty items to give your outfit the perfect finish.

The boutiques that will be on exposition are Little Black Dress, Couture Closet, Pieces and Things, the Beauty Bar and the Parris Collection.

It is expected to be a shopping party with a live Boom DJ, delicious appetizers and cutters and most of all refreshing cocktails. It’s a ‘sip and shop’ event where shoppers will benefit from new arrivals, discounts and giveaways.

SUNDAY For a thrilling and enjoyable night, you can head down to City Vibes Nightclub After a hang out on the Seawall, you can head down to the Rio Club where entertainment is at its best!

the last day of registration, I was procrastinating whether to be a part. Being the last to enter the competition, I had two days to come up with an idea to suit the theme that would be creative and different from everyone else, which took me a day to put together. I stayed up both nights to finish the costume while making changes in between,” she said.

Evidently, Cameron’s hard work paid off.

“When the announcement was made that I was the first place winner, I was excited and happy, because finally, my arSecond place winner Reshawn Ramlall tistic ability has gained more

by ICEE and Demico Ice Cream, Giftland Mall and Ministry of Social Cohesion In a statement, Bravo Arts said that over the years since the business has been in operation, they have observed a growing number of persons who are interested in taking up the art form of face painting as a career or part-time source of income. “We at Bravo Arts have started to put mechanisms in place, such as beginners and advanced face painting classes, to facilitate their growth and motivated them to become entrepreneurs. It is our hope that this competition will further fuel their passion and inspire other artistic individuals to explore face painting as a viable source of income and eventually start their own face painting businesses,” the release said.

The competition was opened to upcoming face painters, makeup artists and established painters who are not employed with Bravo Arts.

Registered competitors were required to set up individual stations at the Giftland Mall and they were given an hour to complete a face painting design. At the end of that hour, their designs were judged by three judges: Courtney Douglas, Susan Isaacs and local artiste, Big Red. Alyce Cameron was awarded first-place while second-place went to Reshawn Ramlall and third-place went to Stephan Henry.

In response to her win, Cameron said that she was at first unsure about the competition since she does not like competing with others.

“I believe everyone is gifted differently and due to past disappointments, I was nervous about it. Even though it’s a good idea to showcase my talent and I like being challenged artistically, I was still afraid of being disappointed. Even to

recognition and appreciation. It was a wonderful experience. The trophy confirms to never give up on my gifts, dreams and don’t doubt myself.

Thanks to Bravo Arts and Banks DIH for the prize of the professional face painting kit. On opening it I felt like a child receiving a Christmas present I always wanted,” she said.

Second place winner Reshawn Ramlall said that, like Cameron, this was her first competition so, naturally, she was nervous.

“Knowing that I’ve only just started face painting about three months it was all new for me. Nevertheless, I saw it as an opportunity to challenge myself with the skills Bravo Arts taught me.

I mustered the courage to enter and was elated to have been selected second place.

The joy is overwhelming. Further, I wish to thank the spon-

First place winner Alyce Cameron

sors and everyone who birthed such an amazing experience,” she said.

The first place winner received a face painting kit worth $100,000 and $20,000 cash. The second place winner received a $60,0000 kit and third place winner received a $40,0000 kit. Other competitors included: Nadia Salik, Roy Jerrick, Victoria Pereira and Lushana Walters.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 27, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Guyana proud to host ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

By Michelangelo Jacobus MINISTER of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Youth, Culture and Sport, Dr George Nortonm has reaffirmed that the Guyana government remains committed to the development of women and are proud to be one of three host countries of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Women’s T20 World Cup which is scheduled for November 9-24.

Speaking at Guyana’s launch of the tournament at the Stabroek Square, downtown Georgetown, Minister Norton noted; “In 2018 when women are proudly wearing their shine, the ICC has decided to host this standalone women’s tournament and Guyana is proud to be one of the three host countries.”

He maintained that Guyana remains gender-conscious and committed to the development of women stating; “Our participation in this event sends a strong message to the world that this ‘Land of Many Waters’ is gender-conscious. It

shows our commitment to the empowerment and development of women in all aspects of life and it is my genuine hope that these games will inspire more of our young women and girls to take up cricket, not just as a hobby but as a career.”

He also opined that he would like to see more names added to the list of talented female Guyanese cricketers such as Indomatie Goordial, Candacy Atkins, Shemaine Campbelle, Subrina Munroe, June Ogle and Tremayne Smartt just to name a few.

He also echoed Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, who had proposed the creation of a female version of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

“I hope that this suggestion will be taken seriously, and that our cricketing bodies across the region will work towards making this a reality in the near future.”

“In the meantime, we prepare to extend our warmest Guyanese welcome to all of

the teams and patrons of this tournament,” Minister Norton concluded.

Also present at the launch of the tournament here in Guyana was Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Director of Sport Christopher Jones, Mayor of Georgetown Patricia Chase-Green and Deputy Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richards.

The crowd that gathered was treated to colourful performances from Soca artistes Big Red and ‘Lil’ Red. Fans also had an opportunity to answer trivia and win prizes.

The West Indies Women are the reigning T20 Champions and will hope to retain their title at home as the tournament is being staged across three host countries, Guyana, St Lucia and Antigua from November 9 to 24.

The West Indies women had defeated three-time champions Australia in the 2016 final which was hosted in India to claim their first-ever World Cup.

WATCH THIS!

Huge World Cup bat unveiled at Kitty Roundabout FOUR West Indian male cricketers and one from Bangladesh yesterday braved an early morning shower to kick off the public relations campaign for the Guyana leg of the Women’s World T20 event, set for November across the Caribbean.

West Indies captain Jason Holder and Guyanese trio of leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo, batsman Shimron Hetmyer and all-rounder

Keemo Paul, joined Bangladesh spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz at the Kitty roundabout to unveil a huge cricket bat under the theme ‘Watch this!’

The players took turns to pose with the World Cup trophy which the West Indies Women won for the first time in 2016 in India.

Guyana is one of three nations that would host matches in the November 9-24 tournament. The other host nations are Antigua & Barbuda and St Lucia.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for us in the Caribbean (to host the World Cup). Obviously the last T20 the (West Indies) Women were victorious in lifting the trophy. I happened to be there in India on the final’s day and it was a wonderful occasion to see the girls rallying among one another and everybody back in the Caribbean supporting them.

Now, we’ve got an opportunity to come firsthand and see it live in the Caribbean and I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come out and see this spectacle,” Holder told the media.

The all-rounder used the opportunity to call on the Caribbean public to show support for the tournament by coming out to the games.

“It’s an opportuni-

ty for everyone to come out and support. They (West Indies Women) need as much support as they could possibly get.

They’ve been doing well over the past couple of years and we’ve had some outstanding individual performances from the likes of Stafanie Taylor, Deandra Dottin, Hayley Matthews just to name a few, so hopefully the girls can continue in that vein,” Holder said.

And not surprisingly, Holder is backing the Taylor-led female West Indies team to make a successful defence of the title on home soil.

Meanwhile, Mehidy Hasan Miraz believes Bangladesh females will do well in the tournament, after pulling off some memorable performances recently, among them winning the Asia Cup. The 10-team tournament features three-time champions Australia, reigning ICC Women’s World Cup winners England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and defending champions West Indies, plus two qualifiers.

Guyana will host 11 of the 23 matches in the first stand-alone Women’s World T20 tournament.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Tour de France cycling

Demare silences critics, Thomas stays in yellow philosophy. I gave everything; I worked super hard in the mountains ahead of

By Julien Pretot PAU, France (Reuters) Arnaud Demare silenced his critics by claiming a comfortable win in the bunch sprint of the 18th stage of the Tour de France yesterday, the first victory this year for a French team in the race.

The Frenchman, who had been accused by fellow sprint specialist Andre Greipel of holding on to his team car in Wednesday’s mountain stage to avoid missing the time cut, was perfectly set up

by Italian team mate Jacopo Guarnieri.

He beat compatriot Christophe Laporte and Norway’s Alexander Kristoff, who were second and third respectively, as Briton Geraint Thomas retained the overall leader’s yellow jersey after 171km from Trie sur Baize.

“I did not fight for nothing in the mountains, I was thinking of a possible victory when I was suffering,” said Groupama-FDJ rider

Groupama-FDJ rider Arnaud Demare of France celebrates his stage win. (REUTERS/Benoit Tessier)

Demare.

On Wednesday, Greipel hinted on Twitter that Demare held on to his team car in the final climb up to the Col du Portet, which the Frenchman denied.

Reuters understands that Demare sent his power and time data to Greipel, who had quickly deleted his tweet.

“Today I thought of him,” said Demare of Greipel, who abandoned the race last week

along with several other top sprinters, exhausted by extreme heat and gruelling efforts in the mountains.

Demare grinded his teeth through the mountain stages, narrowly avoiding missing the time cut on a couple of occasions.

“I had good legs and today all the hard work I did, paid off,” he said.

“I stayed strong in my head. (Cheating) is not my

Essex frustrate India bowlers on day two INDIA bowlers were made to work hard due to some obdurate Essex batting on day two of the tour match at Chelmsford.

The home side reached 237-5 after half-centuries from former England batsman Tom Westley and Michael Pepper, playing only his second game for the county.

India were earlier bowled out for 395 after resuming on 322-6.

India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has so far played no part in the match after taking a blow to the right hand during practice before the second day.

This is India’s only redball warm-up match before the first Test against England begins at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

It was shortened from four days to three at the request of the visitors because of concerns over the high temperatures and their tight schedule.

Tom Westley

And, in sweltering conditions, their pace bowlers were given a workout by the impressive Pepper in particular.

After Essex were reduced to 45-2, 20-year-old Pepper played elegantly for 68, overshadowing Westley’s scratchy 57.

With all 18 members of the squad available to India, they used five pace bowlers only two overs of spin were sent down by Ravi Jadeja.

And, after Westley and Pepper were dismissed,

two wickets each to Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma looked to have India on the way to rolling the lower order.

But from 186-5, veteran wicketkeeper James Foster shared an unbroken stand of 51 with Paul Walter to see Essex to the close.

Earlier, Dinesh Karthik fell to his first ball for 82, while Hardik Pandya became the fifth India batsman to register a half-century. (BBC Sport)

the Tour de France. Several sprinters are home today and I’m still here. I deserved this victory; the whole team deserved it for their hard work.”

Five men, including former Paris-Roubaix winners Niki Terpstra and Matthew Hayman, formed the day’s breakaway, but they were kept on a tight leash by the peloton and were reined in way before the line.

World champion Peter Sagan did not contest the

final sprint after his crash on Wednesday left him in pain.

“It was hard but I thought it would actually be harder,” said the Slovak.

The only incident in an otherwise dull stage raced in searing hot temperatures came 105km from the finish when Colombian Nairo Quintana, fifth overall after his stage win on Wednesday, hit the asphalt when he and Briton Adam Yates were caught in a pile-up.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Guyana Cup endorsed by THAG THE Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) is pleased to endorse the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee in its hosting of the 12th Annual Guyana Cup in collaboration with the Rising Sun Turf Club on August 19.

Over the past 12 hostings the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee has been expanding to cater to increasing numbers of visitors - new and returning, having received approximately 12 000 at last year’s event.

Noteworthy and most commendable are its attention to detail, security, health, and safety of the teams and visitors alike.

Sport tourism refers to the experience of travelling to engage in or view sport-related activities. It is generally recognised that there are three types of sport tourism - Sport Event Tourism, Active Sport Tourism, and Nostalgia Sport Tourism.

Sports event tourism includes hallmark events such as the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup. Since the early 1990s, international sporting events such as the World Cups and the Olympic Games were actively promoted as tourist attractions, bringing large numbers of people to the destination following their team or in this case favourite horses.

In a release to the media, THAG noted; “Additionally, these major hallmark events, sponsored tournaments such as the IPL Twenty20 Cricket and Tennis have also joined the plethora of this spectator-based sector of sport tourism.

Similarly, tourism associated with professional sport teams and athletics namely the Digicel Meet in Jamaica are part of this type of sports tourism. Who is to say that the Annual Guyana Cup cannot attain these heights?”

The Annual Guyana Cup is a successful tourism event in its own right, having been responsible for bringing new and unique niche of visitors to the destination following

Rashid recalled to England squad for first Test against India

Adil Rashid has played 10 Tests for England.

(REUTERS) - Adil Rashid has been recalled to the England squad for the first Test against India, despite the leg-spinner saying he wanted to focus on limited-overs cricket.

The 30-year-old signed a white-ball only contract with his county Yorkshire in February but said he “was not finished” with the longest format of the game.

Rashid, who has played 10 Tests and picked up 38 wickets, was picked in the 13-man squad ahead of Jack Leach and Dom Bess, the two Somerset spinners who have featured in the last three Tests.

Rashid earns his recall on the back of strong performances in one-day matches against India over the last few weeks. A hot and dry summer means spinners are likely to play an important role in the Test series.

“Following his decision in

February 2018, Adil has a whiteball-only contract to play for Yorkshire this summer,” England selector Ed Smith said in a statement.

“That arrangement is unchanged by his selection for England. However, Adil fully understands that if he wishes to be eligible for Test cricket in the 2019 season, he must have a county contract to play four-day cricket.

“Moving forward, England Test players must be committed to the County Championship.”

All-rounder Moeen Ali has been recalled to the Test squad for the first time since the tour of New Zealand to offer another spin bowling option, while Essex seamer Jamie Porter earned his first call-up.

Chris Woakes, who is still recovering from thigh and knee injuries, was left out of the squad as the selection panel was keen to avoid rushing the all-rounder back too soon.

Joe Root’s England host India at Edgbaston in first of five Test matches from August 1 to 5.

Full squad: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Alastair Cook, Sam Curran, Keaton Jennings, Dawid Malan, Jamie Porter, Adil Rashid, Ben Stokes.

The Guyana Cup is scheduled for August 19 at the Rising Sun Turf Club in Berbice.

the offspring of their internationally bred horses from the USA, Suriname, Trinidad, Canada and other locations.

“It is with delight that THAG endorses this sporting tourism initiative hosted by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred

North Essequibo to host cricket camp THE North Essequibo Cricket Committee will host its annual camp from August 11 to 18 at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground on the Essequibo Coast.

The camp will involve both male and female players, ages 8 to 16, and will cover batting, bowling and fielding techniques including wicket-keeping. There will also be daily presentations by the Essequibo Coast and Pomeroon Umpires and Scorers Association on the subject of Umpiring.

The Committee in its quest to promote cricket development is committed towards creating opportunities for its constituent members, according to president of the NECCC, Prince Holder.

He further acknowledged that for the duration of the camp, players will be provided with the necessary gear and other required resource materials in order to meaningfully participate. He is also urging the corporate community to contribute towards the successful staging of the camp which will have sessions commencing at 09:00hrs and ending at 13:00hrs each day.

Players desirous of participating are required to be appropriately attired and have consent from their parents in writing.

North Essequibo, over the years, has produced some outstanding cricketers who have participated in similar exercises. Former national youth leg-spinner Ray Reid, Dinesh Joseph, Brian Stephney who represented the Leeward Islands in first class cricket, Latchmikhant Narine, Vishwanauth Lall and Fidel Cameron among others have benefited from the expertise of the late former national fast bowler and coach Courtney Gonsalves and Alfred Maycock.

This year’s camp will be spearheaded by WICB Level 11 Accredited coach Elroy Stephney who will be supported by umpires Deva Dass and Wazeer Dhanraj from the Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon Umpires and Scorers Association.

Those desirous of being a part of the camp are asked to make contact with Stephney on 621-8484.

Registration is free as the Committee extends a cordial invitation to all aspiring young cricketers to grasp the opportunity to further enhance their talent.

Racing Committee and proposes that it should be added as a calendar event for fans of horse-racing and families alike who are seeking new experiences while in Guyana.”

“As a family-oriented

and a key tourism event for Berbice, THAG encourages all patrons to have a designated driver, if you drink, drink responsibly and travel safely when departing the event.”

Former Man United manager Ferguson thanks hospital staff after brain surgery (REUTERS) - Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has thanked hospital staff after he underwent emergency surgery in May following a brain haemorrhage.

The 76-year-old Scot had collapsed at his home and was rushed to Macclesfield district hospital. He was then taken to another hospital in Salford where he was operated on.

“Hello. Just a quick message, first of all to thank the medical staff at Macclesfield, Salford Royal and Alexandra hospitals,” Ferguson said in a video yesterday in his first public appearance since recovering.

“Believe me, without those people, who gave me such great care, I would not be sitting here today. So thank you from me and my family, thank you very much.

“It’s made me feel so humble, as have all the messages I’ve received from all over the world, wishing me the best. And the good wishes do resonate very, very strongly with me. So thank you for that support you’ve given me.”

Ferguson had appeared

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson

on the Old Trafford pitch only days before he suffered the brain injury, presenting former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger with a commemorative trophy.

He hopes to return to watch Jose Mourinho’s United play later in the season.

“I’ll be back later in the season to watch the team,” Ferguson said. “In the meantime, all the best to Jose and the players. Thank you very much.”

Ferguson was United manager from 1986 to 2013, winning the Champions League twice, the Premier League 13 times and five FA Cups.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Eight-member Powerlifting team for IPF Regional Championships in Mexico THE 16th Annual IPF/ NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championship is being held in Mexico City, Mexico from August 1 to August 4 and eight athletes will be representing Guyana.

The Guyanese contingent comprises two female and six male athletes. They will leave Guyana on July 28.

In a release to the media, the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation noted; “We are sending athletes who have broken records and have shown the potential to receive medals. The federation is proud of having shortlisted these athletes to represent Guyana at this upcoming com-

petition and will be supporting them through the entire competition.”

The athletes are as follows: Grace Babb (Women’s Classic Open, 72kg) Nadina Taharally (Wom-

en’s Classic Open and Women’s Classic Masters I, 72kg) Paul Adams (Men’s Classic Open, 83kg) Franklyn Brisport (Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters II, 66kg)

Carlos Petterson

Nadina Taharally

Carlos Petterson (Men’s Classic Open and Men’s Equipped Open, 93kg) Nairanjan Singh (Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters IV, 83kg)

Erwyn Smith (Men’s Equipped Open, 93kg) Frank Tucker (Men’s Equipped Open and Men’s Equipped Masters III, 105kg) Host City: Mexico City,

Mexico Dates: August 1 to August 4, 2018 Contest Venue: Murillo Grand Ballroom - Sevilla Palace Hotel

IOC tells U.S. to clean up its own doping house (REUTERS) - The International Olympic Committee told the United States yesterday it should get its own house in order in the fight against doping before putting athletes from other countries under threat of punishment for breaking U.S. law.

The IOC’s sharp rebuke followed a hearing in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, which looks at security, cooperation and hu-

man rights issues in Europe.

The Commission urged the U.S. Congress to move swiftly to pass a bill designed to crack down on the use of performance-enhancing drugs in major international sporting competitions.

The Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act, named after Grigory Rodchenkov, Russia’s former anti-doping chief-turned-whistleblower, would establish stiff penalties for anyone involved in

doping at a competition.

These would include fines of up to $250 000 and up to five years in prison.

During the hearing the IOC repeatedly came under attack, particularly from United States Anti-Doping (USADA) chief Travis Tygart, for not doing enough to protect clean athletes and punish Russia for doping transgressions.

The IOC uncovered evidence of widespread doping

by Russia during the Sochi

Rohan’s Auto Spares contributes to Kennard’s Emancipation horse race

In photo, Justice Kennard receives the sponsorship cheque from employees of Rohan’s Auto Spares.

KENNARD’S Memorial Turf Club yesterday received more support, from Rohan’s Auto Spares of Godd Hope, Mahaica for its upcoming Emancipation horse race meet, which is scheduled for Sunday at the club’s Bush Lot Corentyne facility.

According to Justice Cecil Kennard, the entity has made a substantial contribution to Race 2 which involves horses H2 and Lower.

Winter Olympics in 2014 which led to its bannimg from this year’s Games in Pyeongchang.

The IOC fired back yesterday, telling the United States it should do more to clean up its own doping issues, particularly what it sees as inadequate testing in professional and college sports.

“We very much appreciate and welcome moves in the United States to step up the fight against doping

and we assume that the very worrying existing challenges with some of the professional leagues in the United States will be addressed as a matter of urgency,” the IOC said in a statement.

“Especially since this has become extremely obvious again in the last report of USADA which details the low level of testing currently taking place in these professional leagues.

“However, it is a matter of concern that the intention

of the proposed legislation is to put athletes from all 206 National Olympic Committees from around the world who take part in international competitions under the criminal code of U.S. law.”

The IOC also said that instead of independently trying to impose U.S. laws on athletes, it should join international efforts already in place to combat doping and corruption in sport.

ExxonMobil/Mohamed’s Enterprise New Era Ent. Futsal tournament starts tonight TWENTY teams will begin their quest to claim the $600 000 first-place prize in this year’s ExxonMobil/Mohamed’s Enterprise New Era Futsal tournament, which is set to kick off tonight at the Mackenzie Hard Court in Linden.

Following the opening ceremony, sponsors and organisers will give brief remarks. Fans will then witness eight matches. The first game will be at 18:30hrs between Mines FC and Red Line.

The teams were placed in four groups of five and the top two teams will ad-

vance to the knock-out stage.

Following tonight’s set of matches the tournament will continue on July 28, August 1, 3, 4, 10, 11 and the final on August 18.

Second-place will pocket $250 000 and teams finishing third and fourth will take home $100 000 and $75 000 respectively.

The competing teams

are Mines FC, Red Line, Custom, Swag FC, DC Ballers, Hard Ball, Figgy Green Jaguars, Russians, Silver Bullets, Young Kings, Nutman All-Stars, Royal Warriors, Progressive Ballers, Money Move, Trendsetters, Quiet Storm, Westside Ballers, Presidential Family, Haynes Hitters and Good Fellas.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship starts tonight THE Pouderoyen tarmac will come alive tonight, when the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship, kicks off with eight scheduled fixtures.

The street phenomenon which is expected to last for three days will be contested in an initial group stage. Each team will play two games in the group round, with the resulting group winner advanc-

ing to the semi-final round.

A win during normal time will translate to three points, while a win on penalty kicks equates to two points. If teams are tied on points, goal differential will be utilised as the first tie-breaker.

If that is equal, the headto-head record between the teams will be used once the teams had played each other.

If not, goals scored will be

utilised followed by goals against.

Each match will be of 20 minutes duration, with two periods of 10 minutes.

If a winner is not decided within the aforesaid regulation time, kicks from the penalty mark will be used to decide the victor.

In the opening fixture at 19:00hrs, West Side Ballers oppose Silver Bullets, while ESPN match skills

with Disconnection Crew in the second matchup from 19:30hrs.

The third contest will pit Leopold Street against Dave & Celina’s from 20:00hrs, while Showstoppers engage Swag Entertainment in the fourth affair at 20:30hrs.

In the fifth matchup, ESPN battle West Side Ballers from 21:30hrs, while Silver Bullets tackle Disconnection Crew in the sixth showdown at 22:00hrs.

In the final two matches, Swag Entertainment battle Dave & Celina’s from 22:30hrs, while Showstoppers lock horns with Leopold Street from 23:00hrs.

The first of three nights will set the tone for the tournament, as fans will witness the best teams from the respective zones battle for the most coveted title in street-ball.

The tournament will then move to the Haslington tarmac, East Coast Demerara, for the second night of action on August 1. The fixtures for those matches will be released shortly.

The grand finale of the tournament will be staged at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. According to the tournament coordinator Travis Best, “The tournament is expected to be highly competitive, with an outright favourite difficult to predict, due to the competitive nature of all the competing teams.”

The coordinator further said that highly competitive football will be showcased and the large fan base is expected to descend on the venue to be treated to quality football on the night.

Below features the complete list of fixtures for the opening night:

Complete fixtures

Part of the usual large crowd at the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition

West Side Ballers vs Silver Bullets - 19:00hrs ESPN vs Disconnection Crew - 19:30hrs Leopold Street vs Dave & Celena’s All- Stars - 20:00hrs Showstoppers vs Swag Entertainment - 20:30hrs ESPN vs West Side Ballers - 21:30hrs Silver Bullets vs Disconnection Crew - 22:00hrs Swag Entertainment vs Dave & Celena’s - 22:30hrs Showstoppers vs Leopold Street - 23:00hrs

BCB congratulates Hetmyer THE President and Members of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) have offered congratulations to Berbice cricketing hero Shimron Hetmyer on his brilliant century against Bangladesh, at the Guyana National Stadium on Wednesday in the second one-day international.

Every Berbician is filled with pride, as the 21-yearold continues to uphold the high standard of our cricket that was set by legends like Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher and Alvin Kallicharran.

At this tender age, he has already scored two ODI centuries and joined Roy Fredericks and Clayton Lambert as the other Berbicians to have scored ODI centuries.

The BCB would like to encourage the young Hetmyer to uphold his high standards, since thousands of youths in the Ancient County look up to the Young Warrior player as a positive role model.

This innings would serve as an inspiration to those who hope to follow in his footsteps. Berbice’s crick-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday July 27, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) WI won by 3 runs (2) Shimron Hetmyer Today’s Quiz: (1) How many ODIs have been played at Providence to date?

(2) How many time the WI have been involved in ODIs at Providence to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

et is on the rise again and with players like Hetmyer, Anthony Bramble, Devindra Bishoo, Romario Shepherd, Veersammy Permaul and Keon Joseph, we are confident that they would inspire our upcoming stars to greater heights.

The BCB would like to assure every youth in the county that its members are committed to working hard to make sure that every one of

them has equal opportunities to fulfil his/her full potential on the cricket field.

We would also like to encourage all clubs to continue their outstanding work of producing players for Berbice and Guyana despite efforts by the powers of our country’s cricket to frustrate our efforts.

We would also like to call on Cricket West Indies (CWI) to invest in Hetmyer,

as he is the future of the West Indies by naming him the vice-captain of the Test and ODI teams.

He may be young in age but has the maturity of an outstanding leader and we are confident that he can be the next Graeme Smith.

Best wishes are also extended to the entire West Indies team as they strive for a series victory.

GBA partners with Social Protection Ministry to spread domestic violence awareness THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will be partnering with the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence policy Unit of the Ministry of Social Protection, to highlight and assist in the fight against the social ill of Domestic Violence in Guyana, at the upcoming Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors tournament, from August 17 to 19 at the National Gymnasium.

According to president Steve Ninvalle, the executive of the GBA salutes the effort in the fight to stem the scourge of domestic violence that is plaguing Guyana and boxing stands ready and willing to assist.

In preparation for an international Schoolboys and Juniors tournament in August, the GBA is hosting several preparatory competitions. The next competition is scheduled for Saturday July 28 and will be followed by another on August 4. All events will be held at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis commencing at 13:00hrs.

Ninvalle told Chronicle Sport that there has been a hike in reported domestic violence cases, though many go unreported. He believes that addressing the young men in the sport of boxing can help in a way to curb the problem which affects mostly women.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 27, 2018

Josiah-Tanner wins 5 000m at Masters Outdoor Championships … claims silver in 800m ACE long-distance runner Euleen Josiah-Tanner won the 5 000m, 40-44 age division race yesterday when she competed in the USA Track and Field (USATF) Masters Outdoor Championships in Spokane, Washington.

The Berbice-born showed her versatility by also claiming a silver medal in the 800m less than three hours after her gruelling 3.1 miles.

The U.S.-based athlete

won the 5 000m in a time of 19:38.66 while competing against 21 other participants.

In the 800m (2:35.88) she was pipped by 0.03s.

“I feel it is great to compete at a national championship and win medals in both events that I have competed in. It is a blessing to be competing at such a high level and I give all the praise and thanks to my Heavenly Father,” Josiah-Tanner told Chronicle Sport after the

races.

The 44-year-old, who won the COURTS 10k six consecutive times, has become an established runner in the US. So much so that friends and colleagues convinced her that she could make her mark on the synthetic track.

At the USATF Masters Indoor Championships in March, the mother of three, representing the So Cal (Southern California Track Club), won the 3 000m for her age group.

Last month, the long-distance runner represented

her club at the International Triathlon Union World Duathlon Championships in Denmark, where she was tasked with running a 10k, before biking 20k and finishing with a 5k. At the event Josiah-Tanner finished 21st overall and as the third person from the U.S. Over the next few days, the former Police athlete is scheduled to compete in four more events in Washington - the 10 000m, the 1500m, the 4x400m relay and the 4x800m relay.

Euleen Josiah-Tanner displays her spoils for winning the 5 000m in her first-ever USATF Masters Outdoor Championships.

Hetmyer taking it ‘one step at a time’ DAYS after his captain urged him to “bat deeper” and “to start notching big scores soon”, Shimron Hetmyer delivered.

The 21-year-old Hetmyer’s instrumental knock of 125 helped the West Indies to a thrilling three-run victory over Bangladesh in the second ODI in Guyana on Wednesday.

After top-scoring with 52 in the first ODI which the Windies lost by 48 runs, captain Jason Holder said he’d like to see Hetmyer bat until

at least the 35th over.

Batting at number four, Hetmyer did just that on Wednesday, becoming the last batsman to be dismissed after he was run-out with four balls left in the innings attempting a suicidal second run.

It was his second ODI hundred and he became the youngest West Indies batsman to score one on home soil.

Afterwards, while glad for the win which helped the Windies even the three-

Shimron Hetmyer on the attack, during his 125 against Bangladesh on Wednesday at the Providence stadium. (Adrian Narine photo)

match series at 1-1, Hetmyer said he was looking forward to getting some more big scores on the board.

While it was only his second ODI, he said the fact that he played before his home crowd gave him a huge boost.

“I want to take one step at a time and see how it goes in St Kitts,” Hetmyer said.

“The home crowd helped. It was a push for me to have my family and girlfriend here. “They all support me hand in hand, so thanks to them.” (CMC)

Thrilling encounters expected at today’s GPF Athletics Championships

The Trinidadians (in light blue), along with GPF Commissioner (ag) David Ramnarine (centre) and other officials.

IN the ‘heat’ of the preparation for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Athletics Championship, we have begun to see the arrival of overseas contingents. Top of the bill is the team from the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The team which arrived on Wednesday consists of five Police athletes, accompanied by a manager. The Commissioner acting and other Senior Officers extended a warm welcome to the team in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at Police Headquarters yesterday.

Woman Sergeant 13121 Narda Steele Williams, Police Constables 17048 Clinton Glasgow, 17830 Simon Francois, 9486 Christon Bal-

bosa as well as Woman Police Constables 20158 Nicholette Parotor and 20138 Venice Frederick are all energetic and quite excited to participate in the Athletics Championship Finals scheduled for today at the Eve Leary Ground.

Patrons can look forward to their participation in the javelin, shotput, discus and track and field categories today.

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has maintained a very close relationship with Guyana and has always been supportive by participating in events held by the Force.

Guyana proud to host ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Youth, Culture and Sport, Dr George Norton, at the launch of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Stabroek Square

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- Minister Norton

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. (Delano Williams photos)

WATCH THIS!

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Huge World Cup bat unveiled at Kitty Roundabout

From left: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Keemo Paul, Shimron Hetmyer, Devendra Bishoo and Jason Holder pose with the World Cup trophy and the huge bat at the Kitty Roundabout (Avenash Ramzan/ Newsroom photo) Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018