Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 10-04-2023

This Marvin Cole Kite Shop at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, is keeping the tradition of kite-making alive

(Delano Williams photo)

Four Points Marriott Hotel on track for 2024 completion

WITH works on the foundation 80 per cent complete, the 172-room Four Points by Sheraton–Marriott Hotel is scheduled to open its doors in the third quarter of 2024.

The Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that following the completion of preliminary works at the Houston, East Bank Demerara site just off the new fourlane highway, steel beams will soon be erected, paving the way for further construction.

The company undertaking this project, Caribbean Green Building Inc., envisages increased economic activities and opportunities with the new four-lane road.

“The site is strategically located in downtown Georgetown, 15 minutes from the Ogle International Airport on the eastside lane of a new road bypass between Eccles and Mandela Avenue.

“Once completed the hotel will feature, a restaurant, two bars, an outdoor pool, as well as 16,000-square

feet of meeting space and 25,000-square feet of retail area,” the company added in its project scope.

The project is led by Tama Investments LLC and has an estimated cost of US$33.3 million which will be financed by 50 per cent Debt/ Equity, including an approximate US$12 million senior loan with a 12-year tenor from IDB Invest.

The hotel’s operator will be EuroBuilding Hotel Group, an established hotel operator with several properties around the region.

Four Points represents an

upper-midscale brand within the Marriott International umbrella and will seek EDGE Certification highlighting many sustainability features.

Additionally, there will be integrated walk-in showers, 55-inch flat-panel televisions and in-room refrigerators.

When outside of their rooms, guests will be able to relax in the lobby, which would be focused on an elevated evening experience with special seating options to work or relax.

An extension of the lobby, the Bistro Terrace, will feature a community fire pit

and upgraded outdoor seating area.

Apart from those features, there are also plans to establish spacious meeting spaces and a convention centre, to meet market demands. There are also plans to have 1,000 square feet of space for cardio, stretching and strength activities; this would be supplemented by an outdoor pool and tennis court.

Within a month of the government being in office, expressions of interest were sent out for internationally branded hotels to be built in the country.

Since then, there have already been sod-turning exercises and ongoing construction for a number of new hotels, with two having taken place close to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The aim, according to local authorities, is to have at least 2,000 hotel rooms available for visitors and to accompany the anticipated growth in the local economy.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, had said that moving forward and embracing this potential growth and development would require transition, not just physically, but also in the

way people act, think, celebrate Guyana and conduct business.

“We have to transition to create the transformation we want. It is not only physical, it is the human transformation, the way of thinking, acting, celebration of country, the way we do business and organisational culture.

It has to be incorporated into every aspect of our lives and every level of service has to be transformed. It should be something to take us to optimisation,”

President Ali said in a previous report.

Ongoing works at the site for the Four Points by Sheraton – Marriott Hotel in the Houston area (Shaniece Bamfield photos)

–– VP Jagdeo reiterates rapid pace of development critical to ensuring return on investments by local businesses

No brakes on oil-and-gas advancement

BANKING on Guyana’s projected growth, and capitalising on the development of local content in Guyana’s oil and gas sector, over the past few years numerous local businesses have made massive multimillion dollar investments to establish infrastructure and develop capacity.

As such, without sustained high levels of activity in Guyana’s oil and gas sector for the medium to long term, local businesses stand to suffer vast losses.

Cognizant of this reality,

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has defended the government’s policy to sustain high levels of activity in Guyana’s oil and gas sector for at least the next 15 years.

“I gave a detailed explanation as to why we need to keep economic activities high and momentum going in the industry for the next 15 years at a minimum,” Dr. Jagdeo explained at a press conference on Thursday last.

He added, “We’re encouraging a lot of Guyanese to invest in this sector. We are doing a lot of carving. The Guyanese, who we’re encouraging to invest, we

don’t want their investments or their skills to be stranded. If the momentum dies, all of those people can’t amortise their investments and they would be stranded and they may be owing the bank and stuff like that. So, we want more business to come to our people and we also want them to do well in the future. We explained that 100 times.”

The remarks follow statements that the Vice Presi -

dent made on Monday last while delivering the keynote address at Guyana’s inaugural Local Content Summit. Addressing the debate in sections of society about the need for development of local content, and overcoming hurdles and challenges, Dr. Jagdeo identified the pace of the industry as a factor in ensuring continued local content is build out.

As such, he reasoned that it mandates a certain posture

on the government’s part.

“We have said it carefully that all that we are doing is to sustain the level and we do so aggressively and unashamedly to sustain high levels of activity for a minimum of15 years.

“For example, many of them [local persons] are putting up buildings to rent. They have to have business for the next 15 years to pay back for those buildings and make money. Keeping that in mind, it mandates the government to act in a certain manner. You don’t want international investors to have investment stranded; but they can handle that, they are big companies and do their own risk calculation, most importantly we don’t want the Guyanese investors to have their investments stranded,” the Vice President explained.

Since the passage of the Local Content Act in December 2021, Guyanese businesses have been reaping massive benefits from the oil and gas sector, raking in some US $700 million in payments in 2022.

The Local Content Act outlines 40 sub-sectors that would legally require oil

The Liza Destiny is Guyana’s first FPSO operating offshore

companies to procure goods and services from Guyanese businesses, as well as employ specific percentages of Guyanese in their day-to-day operations.

However, the private sector is already in discus-

sion with the government to add as many as 35 more areas to the First Schedule of the Act, in addition to appealing for increases to the percentage of minimum local content required for respective sub-sectors.

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan

Ali, on Sunday noted that the community of Aranaputa Valley, North Rupununi, Region Nine will see major improvements this year as he announced that some

$45 million will be spent to develop farm roads in the area.

During a community meeting, he told a large gathering that a number of initiatives will be implemented to

improve the community and the lives of the residents.

Along with the roads, the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, will provide a large number of peanut plants and cassava sticks to increase the village’s food production.

Additionally, the President said that scores of the

village’s livestock will be artificially inseminated to improve their breed.

“We are pursuing an agenda through which every community must become food secure, and every community must play a part in national food security, and every community must contribute to Guyana becoming the number

one food production zone for CARICOM by 2030.”

Major developments coming for Aranaputa Valley –– President Ali announces

The President also said that the government will work towards improving the village’s sport facility.

“These are the things that will bring meaningful change, these are the things that will bring meaningful transformation.”

The Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken; National Security Adviser, Captain Gerry Gouveia; CEO of GO-Invest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop and officials from the region were also at the meeting.

Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

Norton leaves without addressing Bartica Regatta opening ceremony

REPORTEDLY dissatisfied with the response from the crowd and the order of the programme for the opening ceremony of the Bartica Regatta on Sunday, Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), Aubrey Norton left abruptly.

Unlike Norton, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond; Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy and other officials received a resounding welcome from residents of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The Guyana Chronicle

understands that Norton attempted to have the programme adjusted so he could address the audience after the Prime Minister, but his efforts proved futile.

When contacted, Chairman of Region Seven, Kenneth Williams, said the PNC/R leader informed the organisers that he had to “leave early.”

There are already increasing reports that the PNC/R is losing support in its traditional stronghold areas, including Region Seven, and persons are gravitating towards the governing People’s Progressive Par -

ty/Civic (PPP/C), which is implementing policies and programmes that target all Guyanese regardless of their race, age, and political affiliation.

Region Seven, including Bartica, has seen tremendous

improvements in community infrastructure, the welfare of residents and other crucial sectors.

Testimony of the PPP/C’s commitment to development, in 2023 alone, the region’s capital budget was increased by over $500 million.

The PNC/R, on the other hand, is facing criticisms for not having its “house in order,” with growing tension and conflicts among members. Noteworthy was

the absence of PNC/R’s General Secretary, Dawn Hastings-Williams at the Bartica Regatta in her region of birth. Recently, Hastings-Williams and her driver were prevented from entering the party’s Congress Place Headquarters in Sophia.

Norton was accompanied to Region Seven by Mervyn Williams who has been speaking out on behalf of Norton and the party.

Leader of the PNC/R, Aubrey Norton, accompanied by party officials in Bartica (Photo: Office of the Leader of the Opposition)

‘Kids Fest’ a huge success

THE Promenade Gardens, in Georgetown was, on Sunday, jampacked with parents and their children, all eager to experience the Dinosaur Adventure themed ‘Kids Fest 592’.

Kids Fest was first launched in 2017 by Natalya Thomas-Small, and has since grown bigger and better with each passing year. But this year, the event was the biggest yet.

The most exciting activities at the biggest kids’ event are the life-size dinosaurs between 20 and 30 feet tall within the Dinosaur Museum and a ‘Miss Kids Fest Dino’ Princess 2023 pageant; there

‘Don King’ arrested with unlicensed pistol, ammo

POLICE in Region Seven have arrested a 32-yearold Bartica resident for the alleged illegal possession of an unlicensed 9mm pistol and six live matching rounds of ammunition.

Police Headquarters reported that, at about 10:48 hours on Friday, acting on information received, three ranks intercepted motor vehicle #PAB 8976 at First Street Bartica, driven at the time by Whitney Welcome, called ‘Don King’, of First Avenue Bartica.

According to the Police, Welcome drove away and headed to Mongrippa Hill, Bartica, where he sought refuge in the office of a 30-year-old businessman, with the ranks in pursuit. The ranks caught up with him inside the businessman’s office.

“When questioned, the businessman related to the ranks that Whitney Welcome ran into his office and put a firearm under his counter,” the Police report noted. According to the report, one of the ranks searched and found a black 9MM Pistol containing six live matching rounds of ammunition.

“The serial number on the firearm was filed off and the maker’s name was not visible. Whitney Welcome was told of the offence he committed, cautioned and admitted ownership of the firearm. He was arrested and escorted with the firearm to Bartica Police Station.

The firearm was marked, sealed and lodged in his presence.

Welcome is presently in custody pending charges,” the Police said.

is also an archery board for those brave enough to try it.

Thomas-Small explained that the theme for each year is selected from the box ideas in an effort to offer families, specifically children, to have new experiences.

Dino-themed activities were provided for children of all ages and their parents to participate, creating worthy bonding experiences.

Additionally, Kids Fest 2023 not only brought out the well-known local companies, but also small business owners who mostly create kid-friendly products for children.

The event concludes on Monday; the gates will be opened from 12 noon.

The illegal gun and ‘ammo’ found by the Police

A section of the people at the event (Adrian Narine photo)

A Dinosaur Museum is part of the attraction at Kids Fest (Adrian Narine photo)

Celebrating our multi-culturalism, religious diversity

EASTER in Guyana, as in several other countries, is observed by a period of fasting, going to church and the flying of kites.

It is also about the Easter Bunny, colourfully decorated eggs, the baking of hot cross buns on Holy Thursday and church service on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Easter Monday is reserved for kite-flying and other forms of revelry. In Guyana, both Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays which add to the mood of joy and festivity.

Easter is indeed one of the most important celebrations in the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. After his crucifixion, death and burial, he rose three days later from the grave which, according to the Holy Books, redeemed mankind from sin.

The festive season is highlighted kite-flying activities and the thousands of people who take to the seawalls, beaches and other public spaces to fly kites and participate in the festivities.

For many Guyanese, Easter is more than the religious significance associated with the festival. Kite-flying is fun for adults and children and a wonderful way for families and friends to get together, picnic-style. To a large extent, it is a display of our multi-culturalism and religious diversity which has now become a defining characteristic of our ethno-cultural landscape.

Guyana is today a model of religious and cultural diversity. There is a high degree of religious tolerance, something that cannot be said for several other countries where there are religious and other forms of persecution.

Easter in Guyana has found the country on the cusp of major transformation and modernisation.

The Guyana economy is soaring to new heights due in large measure to our oil-and-gas resources, which has undoubtedly given the economy a big lift. For this, we have to be thankful even as we remain humble and optimistic that our better days are still ahead of us.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali had said: “Amidst all the happiness that Easter brings, let us remain careful and responsible in all that we do. Let us also be mindful of our brothers and sisters, especially those who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Let us be the shoulder upon which they can rest their cares, the arms that embrace them in love; the hands that reach out to support them; and the smile that

reminds all that life’s joys and gifts are always meant to be shared.”

These are deeply profound words that connect with all Guyanese, especially those who subscribe to the teachings of Jesus Christ whose life and teachings exemplify the principles of humility, caring, sharing and human sacrifice.

Guyana, indeed the world at large, is a better place because of the embrace of the teachings of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who has demonstrated that faith in a nobler cause can literally move mountains.

As we seek to advance our own society, let us draw inspiration from the universal teachings and lessons of Easter and rise above the challenges that confront us as we seek to create a new Guyana based on the ‘One Guyana’ concept.

Two weeks were enough to review a draft PSA

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to a letter by the Economic Adviser to the Leader of the Opposition that appeared in sections of the media on April 9, 2023. The adviser contended that only a corrupt group will rush through these reviews by limiting the timeline for consultation to two weeks.

The argument on the length of time for the review put forward by the opposition’s economic spokesperson, however, is subjective. To the contrary, the undersigned’s contention is that sixty days as has been proposed by the opposition is absolutely ridiculous and is indicative of

laziness and incompetence on the part of the Parliamentary Opposition.

For the simple reason that the hard work has already been done by the Ministry of Natural Resources’ technical team in drafting the new PSA.

Moreover, as far as the undersigned is aware, the opposition has a diversity of appropriate skillsets that they could have tapped into to aid in a timely review by simply putting together a team and delegate the various sections of the PSA for review to each person or subteam.

For example, at minimum, the different skillsets needed are: (1) an environmental professional with an engineering background (Dr. Vincent

Adams comes to mind); (2) a team of accountants and/or economists (the economic adviser supported by his other accounting and finance colleagues within the opposition); and (3) a team of lawyers which they do have at their disposal.

Editor, the Parliamentary Opposition has a constitutional duty to treat these matters with the utmost importance and urgency required of them. In so doing, the opposition needs to put in the hours of work necessary and stop complaining if they are truly serious about the country’s development.

Moreover, the opposition should be embarrassed for complaining about the timeline. Due credit must be given to

Kaieteur News despite their perceived political or mischievous agenda?wherein they have managed to conduct their own review of the PSA within the prescribed timeline.

The undersigned has also submitted comments on the draft PSA which focused exclusively on those articles in the PSA that relate to the fiscal framework and Annex C which relates to the accounting procedures. And, of note, less than 24 hours was expended in conducting this exercise.

Yours sincerely, Joel

Bhagwandin Financial and Public Policy Analyst

Editor Navendra Seoraj

All set for major conference by Seventh-day Adventists

THE Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is set to hold its sixth Quadrennial Session from April 12-14, 2023, at the Central Seventh-day Adventist Church, followed by convention and installation of officers at the National Cultural Centre on April 15, 2023.

The theme of the session is “Anchored in His Promises, Advancing His Purpose,” and it will bring together delegates from across the country to discuss mission goals, receive reports from administrators

and directors, make suggestions for future effectiveness and elect officers to serve for the new quadrennium.

The 65,000 strong Adventist population in Guyana will be represented by approximately 400 local delegates and will be joined by delegates from the mother organisation, the Caribbean Union Conference, the next higher organisation, the Inter-American Division and administrators from sister fields across the Caribbean Union.

Also joining the large

delegation will be international speaker of the Breath of Life Ministries and Pastor of the Oakwood University Church, Pastor Deblearie Snell.

“Beyond the important task of managing the business of the church, the session will also be a reflection of the mosaic of diversity within the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Guyana. A true sampling of the cultural variety of our composition, a flavouring of authentic Guyanese diversity,” Pastor Osley Edwards, Communications Director

of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, was quoted as saying in a press release.

He added, “through this diverse representation, we are able to make transformational deposits to our society in almost every community across this country in the areas of health, family life, youth development, community enrichment and spiritual development. These daily outstanding contributions to our society are also a point of acknowledgement at this session.”

A colourful and solemn opening ceremony is planned for April 12 to kick start the three-day session, a major decision-making forum of the church. Also in attendance at the opening ceremony will be the President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali; Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton and Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine.

While the business sessions will remain closed to delegates in attendance, the devotional sessions in the mornings and evenings will be streamed live on the Facebook and

Pastor Osley Edwards, Communications Director of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

YouTube platforms at Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

‘Floor It Guyana’ wins BIZX America award for Best Import/Export Company

FLOOR IT Guyana has been named the winner of the 2023 BIZX America award for Best Import/ Export Company. The award ceremony was held in Nashville, Tennessee, and was attended by some of the top business leaders from around the world.

Accepting the award on behalf of Floor It Guyana was the Chief Executive Officer, Andre Cummings, who, in his acceptance speech, thanked the judges for recognising the company’s hard work and dedication to providing top-quality import/export services to its clients.

“We are thrilled to receive this award,” said Cummings. “It is a testament to the tireless efforts of our team and our commitment to excellence. We strive to

provide our clients with the best possible service, and this award is a validation of our efforts.”

Floor It Guyana’s success can be attributed in part to its partnership with business coach, Dr. Vishnu Doerga. Doerga has been working with the company for several years and has helped them to streamline their operations, improve customer service, and increase profits.

“Working with Dr. Doerga has been instrumental in our success,” said Cummings.

“He has provided us with invaluable insights and guidance, and we are grateful for his ongoing support.”

Floor It Guyana has also been a client of ActionCOACH Guyana for seven years. ActionCOACH has

been providing the company with business coaching, training, and support, helping it to achieve its goals and grow its business.

“We are thrilled to see Floor It Guyana recognised for their achievements,” said the team at ActionCOACH Guyana. “They are a true example of what can be accomplished when you have a strong vision, a dedicated team, and the right support.”

The BIZX America Awards are one of the most prestigious business awards in the world, recognising companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective industries.

Floor It Guyana is honoured to have been selected as the winner in the Best Import/Export Company category.

Accepting the award on behalf of Floor It Guyana was the Chief Executive Officer, Andre Cummings

Nearly 100 Anna Regina residents benefit from Chinese medical brigade

NEARLY 100 residents of Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast received free specialist healthcare last weekend when the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade conducted an outreach exercise.

The medical brigade included medical officials from general internal medicine departments, general surgery, orthopaedics, gynaecology, ophthalmology, plastic surgery, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), paediatrics, radiology, and anesthesiology.

The Chinese doctors gave each participating resident a complete physical examination and conducted various tests.

The medical brigade provided medication and treatment to the patients and free health leaflets on diabetes, hypertension and diabetic retinopathy prevention to all the participants.

The Chinese medical team treated nearly 100 patients from 11:30 hours to 13:30 hours and were warmly welcomed and praised by locals.

The captain of the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade, Dr. Chu Xuehui, said, “2023 is an important year, which marks the 30th anniversary of the Chinese Medical Brigade’s service to the Guyanese.

The 18th Medical Brigade has carried out outreaches in Regions Two, Four, Five, Six, Nine and 10. In the coming months, the 18th Medical Brigade will provide more free health services in remote areas on weekends and holidays.”

Some 100 residents were treated by the 18th Chinese Medical Brigade

Technology being leveraged, training programmes being improved to create resilient health sector –– says Dr. Anthony

WITH Guyana’s healthcare sector currently undergoing rapid transformation, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony has said that authorities here are leveraging technology and improving training methods to deal with the current challenges.

Dr. Anthony made these

remarks during a virtual dialogue hosted by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) on strengthening primary healthcare to build resilient systems.

Regarding the current state of primary healthcare in Guyana, Dr. Anthony told the virtual meeting that when persons are diagnosed with

conditions that cannot be dealt with at that level, they are moved to district hospitals or regional facilities for the required care.

He added that there are also referral hospitals which are currently being enhanced even as plans are progressing to build 12 new hospitals, which will help to make the

referral process seamless.

Similarly, with laboratory services, the Health Minister said that services that cannot be conducted at the primary healthcare level are done at the regional level and the results are sent back to those facilities.

As such, he noted that authorities are leveraging the use of technology to ensure that other services like X-ray or CT scans can be interpreted at the regional level and then sent back to the respective communities.

“So these are ways in which we are trying to leverage technology… the system is quite integrated,” Dr. Anthony said.

Meanwhile, he noted that one of the biggest challenges

that the ministry is working to tackle and which has also been challenging in the Caribbean/Latin American region, is the loss of healthcare workers.

He said: “If we are going to be able to adequately provide personnel at the primary healthcare level, we have to come up with strategies [for] not only training but how do we retain people and be able to disperse them in different parts of our country.”

According to Dr. Anthony, they have noticed that in the region, there has been active recruitment of healthcare personnel and this continues to pose a challenge to the level of care being provided.

Just last week, he disclosed that very soon, a reg-

istered nursing programme will be rolled out to train some 3,000 persons in three years to fight this challenge.

At the time, he had said that they will open this programme to the general public and qualified persons who are interested.

The ministry is hoping to train 1,000 persons this year.

Bids open to rebuild Brickdam Police Station

THE Ministry of Home Affairs has officially opened bids for contractors to rebuild the Brickdam Police Station which was ravaged by a fire in 2021.

According to the Invitation For Bids (IFB) issued by the ministry and published by several print and online media platforms, reputable contractors are being sought for the reconstruction of the facility.

Bids for the project are to be submitted no later than June 15, 2023 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office.

Bidding will be conducted through the National Committee Bidding (NCB) procedures, specified in the Procurement Act 2003, and Regulations 2004.

Bidders will be required to submit technical and financial proposals, sealed

in separate envelopes and labelled accordingly.

The Brickdam Police Station, which housed the Guyana Police Force’s Regional Division 4 ‘A’ Headquarters, went up in flames on October 2, 2021. More than 80 per cent of the structures in the compound was destroyed.

The Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn had provided a detailed breakdown including the unit cost, total cost and quantities of all 79 items that were listed as destroyed as a result of the fire.

The total damages amounted to $104,391,200 with the highest cost being $10.75 million for 43 complete computer sets.

Among the other items destroyed were Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems valued $2.4 million, handcuffs valued $1.56 million, laptop computers amounting to $5 million,

body cameras valued $2.5 million and some $7.2 million for copy machines. Also listed as destroyed are 30 air conditioning units valued at $9.6 million, 228 office chairs valued $6.48 million, $2.1 million in video surveillance systems and a $4.5 million minibus.

It was later revealed that the fire, which began in the fraud department which was located on the second floor of the administrative building, was the result of arson. Subsequently, Clarence Greene, 26, who was a prisoner in the lockups at the time of the blaze, was charged for the crime.

Minister Benn had announced in December 2021 that a modern 11-storey police station will be constructed at the location. A $400 million allocation for this project was included in the 2022 National Budget.

Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony

A section of the Brickdam Police Station engulfed in flames (Delano Williams photo)

PPP/C: Easter provides pertinent lessons about tolerance, humility, love, respect

THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend Easter Greetings to all Guyanese, especially our brothers and sisters from the Christian community.

Easter is a very sacred time for Christians across the world. It marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ and provides many pertinent lessons for all humanity, teaching

tolerance, humility, love, and respect for others with an abundance of hope that one can rise to a brighter future despite being confronted with insurmountable challenges.

It is this hope that gives meaningful purpose to all mankind for both personal and societal advancement.

Let us be motivated by what Jesus

PNC/R: Let us share love, spread joy, offer forgiveness for the greater national good

THE People’s National Congress Reform wishes all Guyanese a happy Easter.

Let us all make a greater effort to engage in self-reflection, to share love, to spread joy, and to offer forgiveness for the greater national good and our shared destiny. May this glorious season remind us of God’s love for us and our responsibility to show compassion and support for one another.

Easter is one of the most important seasons of the Christian faith - starting from Palm Sunday, then Good Friday, and finally Easter Sunday.

Palm Sunday reminds us of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Good Friday reminds us of His brutal treatment, culminating in crucifixion. Easter Sunday reminds us of Jesus rising from the dead. Each of the Christian gospels explains the purpose for which Jesus came into the world. In John 3:16, Jesus himself tells of God’s love and concern for mankind. Not only does God say He loves us but He has demonstrated that love by sending Jesus with the express purpose of sacrificing His life so that mankind might be redeemed.

It is the Christian’s belief that the blood of Christ shed on a cross at a place called Calvary is the full price for man’s redemption. Christians also believe that beyond the suffer-

ing and the horrors of crucifixion they can still rejoice in the glory of His resurrection and His triumph over the grave. Let us be reminded, therefore, that when circumstances seem at their worst, there is still reason for hope.

During this Easter, let us reflect on the full meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s love for us. Let us recommit our responsibilities to our fellow humankind.

Happy Easter and God bless our nation.

AFC: Love for humanity can transcend differences, overcome prejudice

THE Alliance For Change (AFC) extends Easter greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Christian brothers and sisters.

The message of Easter that of hope, sacrifice and love, are as relevant today as they were over 2,000 years ago.

Easter is an important time in the Christian calendar and as we reflect on the life of Jesus Christ and celebrate his resurrection, we are reminded that love for each other, for humanity, can transcend differences and overcome prejudice.

In Christian theology, God’s love for humanity is repeated and reinforced throughout the scriptures. This message of divine love and admonishment to man to show love is a common thread throughout religions.

Easter is also a time when Christians remember Christ’s sacrifice and are inspired by the belief in his resurrection. It is this

message of hope for a better life that we all must cling to. The belief in that our tomorrow can be better that our today.

The Alliance For Change remains committed to working with all Guyanese across political, ethnic, social, economic and any other divide to ensure that our collective tomorrow is better than our yesterday.

Happy Easter!

Christ’s resurrection signifies and be encouraged by the knowledge that through resoluteness in the face of adversity, we can all persevere.

Like many of our national holidays, Easter transcends religious boundaries. Guyanese from all walks of life participate as families and communities gather nationwide for the traditional kite-flying.

Our Party also takes this occasion to remind of the need for safety while flying kites. Once again Happy Easter to all!

Easter Messages

THE observance of Easter is one of the most prominent events on the calendar of Christianity.

Today, Christians in Guyana and around the world will celebrate Easter and commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Easter is a time to reflect on the values of sacrifice, hope, and forgiveness at the heart of Christ’s message.

Traditionally, Christians will attend church, spend time with family, and organise Easter egg hunts for children. As the holiest day of the Christian calendar, Easter is also an opportunity to recognise the strength of one’s faith in helping overcome life’s obstacles.

As we consider our present-day situation, the enduring message of Easter remains relevant. It reminds us, to some extent, of the challenges Christ and his disciplines faced in their times and the adversities they would have eventually overcome.

It is a story of perseverance and the will of people to confront those who seek to thwart what they stood for despite the tall obstacles put in their way.

It is also a reminder that even the darkest of periods are only but a period and eventually that will soon pass.

Indeed, we are confident, like in times before, as peoples have been gripped by one crisis or the other, we again will overcome and persevere, and we will become stronger and better for it all.

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), at this time, extends Easter Greetings to all Guyanese and more especially to members of our Christian Community, both here and around the world, on this most [significant] event of the Christian Calendar.

For the members of the Christian Community, the Easter story represents the fulfilment of God’s Prophecy that mankind would be offered the hope of eternal life through the sacrificial death of His son, Jesus Christ and His subsequent resurrection.

It is this faith which has kept the worldwide Christian Church alive and enabled its followers to significantly contribute towards making the earth a better place for all mankind.

THE Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), extends Easter greetings to all Christians and fellow Guyanese at home and the diaspora.

Easter is traditionally known as a time when Guyanese truly come together, especially in kite-flying and at social gatherings. Easter befits the true spirit of our national observances which continue to foster togetherness of our peoples from many cultures.

The significance of the resurrection is an inspirational turning point, and offers mankind the universal message that there is always hope for a new beginning in the face of adversity. It brings comfort and motivation for the path to continuity even in what may be seen as the end.

As the kites of different colours and sizes soar and buzz high in the skies once more, let it symbolize our collective and sustained efforts in rising to the challenges to remove barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice.

Let the significance of the occasion of Easter guide us to renew our commitment to individually and collectively endeavour to build on the strides made in the fostering of tolerance and respect.

The Commission urges Guyanese to ensure that the true significance and message of Easter remain alive and its religious teachings inspire us to promote harmony and good relations across our dear land.

Peace and fellowship for the Easter holidays!

ERC: There is always hope for a new beginning in the face of adversity

GAWU: We will become stronger and better

Residents get improved access to healthcare with Paramakatoi Smart Hospital

RESIDENTS of Paramakatoi, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and the surrounding communities will benefit from improved access to healthcare with the commissioning of a smart hospital in the village.

The Paramakatoi Smart Hospital, previously the Paramakatoi Health Centre, was retrofitted to meet mod-

ern standards as part of the Smart Health Care Facilities in the Caribbean Project.

The project saw Guyana collaborating with the United Kingdom (UK) to retrofit five selected hospitals with environmentally-friendly systems, and heightened resistance to natural disasters.

The hospitals also utilise colour therapy to lift the spirits of patients, and

induce a sense of wellness and calm.

Paramakatoi is the fifth hospital to be retrofitted under this project.

At the commissioning ceremony on Saturday morning, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, expressed that the completion of the smart facility serves as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the

modernisation of Guyana’s health sector.

“We have embarked on a project to transform the health sector in Guyana. And you would have noticed that over the last two years or so, despite COVID, we have placed a lot of emphasis on developing, strengthening and expanding the range of services that we can offer at any one of our health facilities. And [Paramakatoi] is no different, because we need to expand the range of services that we can offer here,” he said.

The minister noted that one of the most convenient things about the hospital is its simple layout, a key feature many health facilities lack.

“One of the challenges we’ve had with existing facilities is that, over time, we keep adding pieces to it, and after a while it becomes very cumbersome. And when people come, they’re not sure where to go, which room to go in, and sometimes it can be challenging, especially for older patients. So, part of this project is to simplify the layout of the building, so that when people come in, they can have easy and ready access to the building,” he explained.

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, noted that the overall investment for Smart Hospital initiative in Guyana totals $1.6 billion. She further ex-

pressed her satisfaction with its success.

“One of the priorities for the UK government is tackling climate change, preventing ecological and biodiversity loss, and also building resilience to disasters that might come along. And that’s why this project started…. The idea was to make these facilities stronger and more resilient to whatever the climate is, or whatever might befall them. And this is the last of the five to be handed over to the Government [of Guyana],” she said.

She added that the initiative has seen success in Belize and St Vincent and the Grenadines, where smart hospitals withstood severe natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and hurricanes.

Meanwhile, Pan-American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Advisor on Disease Surveillance, Dr Rainier Escalada, expressed:

“This effort adds a very important layer or dimension to our collaborative work on health here in Guyana. Through this project, we have been retrofitting health facilities to become safe and resilient against various hazards such as hurricanes, floods, droughts and earthquakes, to become more environmentally sustainable in terms of water, electricity and power consumption, and very importantly, to improve the operational capacity towards rendering good quality and relevant health services to the people of Guyana.”

Last year, the government commissioned additional smart hospitals at Mabaruma, Region One, and Leonora, Region Three. These facilities complement the smart hospitals at Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara, and Lethem, in Region Nine, which were commissioned in 2021. (DPI)

The new Paramakatoi Smart Hospital

Upgraded facilities within the Paramakatoi Smart Hospital

Sophia residents welcome kite-making workshop

THE Office of the Prime Minister, the Department of Public Affairs, and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, in collaboration with community leaders, held a threeday kite-making workshop on April 4-6 in North and South Sophia, Georgetown.

The workshop, which targeted children from ages eight to 14, was well received by the adults and children. The Sunday Chronicle spoke with a few persons from the area who expressed their gratitude to the government, Minister McCoy, and the oth-

Florence Dazell, a resident and a Police Officer of Sophia, explained how the workshop benefited the children and brought them together.

“This was a very good initiative from the government for our community and all the communities across Guyana that have this type of activity. We have so many children in Sophia, and they are just running around and idling at times, with nothing to do, but this workshop brought the children together.

“When I looked at the children and saw how inter-

somewhere and I can take my niece and nephew, I will go. I am also encouraging other parents and guardians of children to do the same. It takes a community to raise a child, and we have to show an interest in them.”

Officer Dazell related that she took her niece and nephew to the workshop, where they, along with the other children, interacted and bonded over the making of the kites. According to her, while the children were having fun, they also voiced their excitement about learning the art of kite-making.

that they are doing by giving back to the people, but more so, the children of Guyana.

“We need a lot more of this to be done on a regular basis, and we also need more role models to guide our children in the right direction, especially in Sophia, so that they can do better for themselves.”

Officer Dazell said more youth groups need to be formed.

“I am asking if the government can have youth groups in Sophia and the other communities so that these

children can have meaningful things to do with their time and also learn new skills.”

Another resident of Sophia, King Jarad, said that he was happy to see that the government had this workshop so that the children could have had something to benefit from as well as look forward to.

He also said that he enjoys seeing the development of the play parks and seawalls where families can spend their weekends and “have a nice time.”

er ministers who distributed kites to Sophia and all the children across Guyana.

ested they were in learning, I said that after today, as long as I hear of a workshop

12-year-old hospitalised after struck down by car

A 12-year-old girl is at the Suddie Hospital nursing injuries after she was struck down by a car (PAC 3473) on Sunday afternoon, on the Golden Fleece public road, Essequibo Coast.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the accident occurred around 13:00hours.

The child’s mother, Melisa Mohamed, told this newspaper that she received a telephone call from the hospital around 13:05 hours informing her that her daughter was at the hospital.

“I am worried; my daughter keep saying her head hurting; the impact went to her head,” the distraught mother said.

The child had just left church when the accident occurred.

The car driver is in Police custody.

“I will like to thank the President and his government for the wonderful job

Children from North and South Sophia at the kite-making workshop

Children of Sophia Village enjoy the art of making kites

Florence Dazell

The car involved in the accident

Man dies, others injured after crashing speeding vehicle

ONE man is dead and five others are hospitalised after a driver lost control of a pick-up and crashed on the Mabura trail in the vicinity of Marian Hill, Upper Demerara River, on Friday.

Dead is 28-year-old Abdul Straker of Robb Street, Bourda, Georgetown.

Police headquarters reported that Straker was in the vehicle with Winton Daniels, a 28-year-old of Mocha Housing Scheme,

East Bank Demerara; Keswin Howes, a 23-year-old of Providence, EBD; Robin McKenzie, a 29-year-old of Robb Street, Bourda; Kevin James, a 29-yearold of Robb Street, Bourda while Kenrick Brathwaite, a 28-year-old of Mocha, was the driver of PRR 4027.

According to the Police, Brathwaite was speeding south along the eastern side of the trail and, while negotiating a bend, he reportedly lost control of the

vehicle, which turned ‘turtle’ and came to a halt on the eastern side of the trail.

As a result, the driver and the five occupants received injuries and were picked up in a conscious condition by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where Straker died while receiving medical attention.

The driver and the four other occupants were treated and admitted to the hospital.

Abdul Straker died after the pick-up he was travelling in crashed on the Mabura trail

MoM delivers!

–– Parikwarinau family gets new house following fire

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan

Ali, on Sunday, presented a new house to a Parikwarinau, Region Nine family as part of the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative.

The recipients, 41-yearold Richard Gouveia, 31-yearold Carin Bernard and their five children, were recently rendered homeless after a fire destroyed the house they previously occupied.

The MoM Initiative, in collaboration with the business community and other stakeholders, donated the materials and supplied the workforce for the project.

The couple, who has been living in the community for over a decade, said they were extremely happy and grateful to have a house again.

Meanwhile, the President engaged residents of the community to discuss a number of initiatives to improve their lives, including the expansion of the community’s food production capacity and its potential to earn.

He said that within the next three weeks, the government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, will provide a supply of cassava sticks to expand the village’s production of cassava and farine.

The President also announced that the government will contract the community to produce 5,000 clay bricks with another order guaranteed after the first contract is

honoured.

From the blocks that are produced, a portion will go to help the households within the community improve their homes.

Under the MoM umbrella, several projects, which include the construction of houses for the vulnerable and elderly have been rolled out.

The initiative was launched in October 2022 by the Head of State, who, at the time, noted that men in Guyana must become more conscious of the areas where they are falling behind in society.

The programme initially targetted 1,000 men to sign up as mentors. On its opening day, however, approximately 3,000 men registered to be mentors.

The house which was rebuilt for the family

Parishara to get new well for potable water access

ALL residents of Parishara, Region Nine, will soon have access to potable water when a new well is drilled in the village.

The decision to construct an additional well followed a request from the village Toshao, during the National Toshaos’ Council Conference last September.

The government recognised the importance of the well after the village council placed it as a top priority. Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, on Saturday, visited the community to get a first-hand view of the proposed site for the new underground water system.

The minister also visited the current water supply network. About two dozen residents of Parishara are currently without ready access to water.

Minister Sukhai said the administration is on a mission to ensure every citizen has access to potable water, to ensure the gap between the coast and the hinterland is diminished.

The aim is to achieve 100 per cent access to water services in the hinterland and riverine communities by 2025.

Completing this will mean Guyana has achieved the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number six. Additionally, the government has set

aside $1.4 billion towards upgrading and extending water distribution systems across Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight, and Nine. Access to potable water in the hinterland has increased from 46 per cent to 75 per cent. (DPI)

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, presents the new house to Richard Gouveia, Carin Bernard and their five children (Office of the President photo)

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, got a first-hand view of the proposed site for the new underground water system

Rupununi Livestock Association gets $1M for agriculture support

MINISTER of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, on Saturday presented the Rupununi Livestock Association with a cheque valued at $1 million to support the ongoing development of agriculture.

The minister was at the time witnessing the opening of Rodeo 2023, dubbed ‘Dust till Dawn.’

Recognising the crucial role that agriculture plays in the country’s economy, the Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali-led Administration has put forward plans to expand agriculture countrywide.

To promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the sector, the administration has increased the availability of agriculture inputs and services in the hinterland.

Works are underway to improve infrastructure including roads and bridges to facilitate access to markets, while technical support is being provided to farmers to increase their productivity and efficiency.

Further, the government’s plan will provide viable economic opportunities in the hinterland regions, thus improving the living standards of residents.

Meanwhile, Minister Sukhai said Rodeo adds to the unique tourism brand found only in the Rupununi.

“It is Region Nine that is the fastest growing region in our country. The Rupununi is the pioneer in eco-tourism and sport tourism,” she noted.

The minister urged persons there to continue ad -

vancing the sector, underscoring its sustainability. She also assured them of government’s support in building resilient sectors.

“Tourism is going to be a key and leading sector in the country long after oil and gas. It will rival agriculture.

“More innovation and initiative are being taken to make this activity more exciting for the visitors,” the minister added.

Hundreds of persons were thrilled in the wee hours Sunday, by horseback riders, who were nothing short of entertainers.

Members of the audience were at the edge of their seats, when the cowboys and cowgirls performed some fearsome bull-riding. (DPI)

This year’s rodeo was dubbed a success

17 years of HIV/AIDS advocacy and support to be celebrated at this year’s Yankee All-White Boat Cruise

THIS year’s annual Yankee All-White Boat Cruise will be held on April 16 to celebrate 17 years of HIV/AIDS advocacy and support given to infected persons living in Guyana and their families.

Founder of the popular event, Ruschelle Cameron and her mother Carol Wills, have this year collaborated with several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the business community to ensure that such persons have access to medication, oneon-one counselling, personal care items and support in the event of a burial.

It was explained that the fundraising event is held in honor of a family member, who was neglected and shunned by her relatives after being diagnosed. According to Cameron, their goal was to create a

space for individuals to gather together and lend support to one another, as well as a space for persons living with HIV/AIDS to feel safe and included.

The event has been providing support and hope to those who are affected.

It is an event that reflects the power of the community and the importance of coming together to support those in need.

Additionally, the boat cruise has over the years helped to raise awareness and has given a platform to many to share their stories and experiences.

The event also serves as a memorial for those who have lost their battle with HIV/AIDS.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai

Yankee All-White Boat Cruise Founder, Ruschelle Cameron

English Racing Tips

Chepstow

08:25 hrs Mount Tempest

09:00 hrs Lagonda

09:35 hrs Stormy Flight

12:20 hrs What ’ s Up

12:55 hrs Straight Home Fairyhouse 09:05 hrs Figaroc

09:40 hrs Blood Destiny 10:15 hrs Cadatharla

10:50 hrs Fic Dor

11:20 hrs Easy Game

12:00 hrs Stumptown

12:40 hrs Gateau De

Miel

13:10 hrs Firefox

American Racing Tips

Will Rogers Down

Race 1 Goldbridge

Race 2 Majestic Liason

Race 3 Rainbows Are Free

Race 4 Superblea

Tiger withdraws from open after injury

(BBC) - FIVE-time champion Tiger Woods has withdrawn from the Masters because of injury , hours before the resumption of the third round on Sunday.

The 47-year-old was six over par after seven holes of his third round before heavy rain stopped play on Saturday.

That had left him last of the 54 remaining players on nine over overall.

Woods had earlier battled to go beyond the halfway stage - equaling the record set by Gary Player and Fred Couples of 23 consecutive cuts made.

The 15-time major champion said on social media he had reaggravated his plantar fasciitis, which is tissue inflammation that causes pain in the heel.

After starting his delayed third round on the 10th tee, Woods appeared to be troubled by pain in his right leg as he played the 17th hole, moments before the wet weather caused play to be abandoned.

He feared his leg would have to be amputated after suffering serious injuries in a car accident in Los Angeles in

February 2021, though he made a remarkable return 14 months later to once again make the cut at last year’s Masters.

Speaking in the buildup to this year’s championship, Woods said that his comeback was “a small victory in itself” and that he “doesn’t know how many more I have in me”.

American Brooks Koepka leads the field on 13 under six holes into his third round as he chases a first Green Jacket.

The four-time major winner is four clear of Spain’s Jon Rahm, with

American amateur Sam Bennett three shots further back.

The final group must play 29 holes on Sunday if the tournament is to finish on time and avoid a first Monday finish since 1983.

10:42 hrs Thirtyfourstitches

11:17 hrs Senior Citizen

11:52 hrs Firak

12:27 hrs Mistral Milly

Irish Racing Tips Cork 08:50 hrs Sir Argus 09:25 hrs The Big Chap 10:00 hrs Francois

Race 5 Thetruthisthetruth

Race 6 Gospel Buzz

South African

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday April 10, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Rudra Pratap Singh-23 wickets (DC)

(2) Anil Kumble-5/5 (RCB vs RR)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in IPL 2009?

(2) What was the highest partnership recorded in IPL 2009?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

(BBC) - ROBERTO Firmino scored a dramatic late equaliser as Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League was cut to six points in an incident-packed encounter with Liverpool at Anfield.

The Gunners were in cruise control with a two-goal lead inside the first half-hour as they went in search for

their first win at Liverpool since 2012 , but were left bitterly disappointed as they paid the price for losing their discipline at times.

Gabriel Martinelli pounced on sloppy Liverpool defending to put Arsenal ahead after eight minutes then Gabriel Jesus rose unmarked between Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson to

GCB/GOG Under-19

Firmino helps Liverpool hold Arsenal to draw

Constantine Hatzidakis appeared to elbow Liverpool defender Robertson as the teams left the field.

spoils for a stirring fightback.

Liverpool inspired by flashpoint

head home at the Kop End.

Liverpool sparked into life after a flashpoint between Granit Xhaka and Trent Alexander-Arnold late in the first half, Mohamed Salah scoring at the far post just before the break to set up a thriller.

There was a bizarre incident at the end of the first half when referee’s assistant,

Boys Inter-Club Super-50 Tournament……

TSC to clash with GCC in final

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Government of Guyana (GOG) Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), Under-19 Inter-Club Super-50

Tournament 2023, continued on Sunday, April 9, 2023, with a highly competitive match between Bel-Air Rubis U-19 and

Transport SC played at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground.

Bel Air Rubis won the toss and elected to bat, reaching 177 all out in 46.5 overs with Rudranauth Kissoon scoring 48 with 29 extras which added to the total. Transport bowling saw Jeremiah Hohenkirk

bagging (4-28) from 8 overs while Alvin Mohabir (229) and Stephon Sankar (2-43).

In reply, Transport ended on 184- 6 to seal an

In a dramatic second half, Salah missed his second successive penalty when he shot wide after Rob Holding fouled Diogo Jota before Firmino rose at the far post to head home Alexander-Arnold’s cross with three minutes left.

In a frantic climax, Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale - who had already saved crucially from Darwin Nunez - produced two incredible stops from Salah and Ibrahima Konate as Mikel Arteta’s pace-setters had to settle for a point, with Liverpool fully deserving their share of the

Liverpool had produced an insipid performance and were being outplayed until Xhaka unwisely chose to tangle with Alexander-Arnold, the incident injecting Jurgen Klopp’s side with the energy and inspiration they had been lacking - and crucially bringing the Anfield crowd into play

Salah’s goal was the perfect invitation to mount a second-half siege in front of the Kop and it was one Liverpool accepted as they finally showed some of their true form.

Arsenal were penned back and it took an outstanding display of goalkeeping

from Ramsdale to prevent a resurgent Liverpool from completing the perfect comeback.

While Liverpool’s attack looked more potent after the break, once again they looked so vulnerable at the back and both Arsenal goals were cheap.

In the final reckoning it is a result that suits neither side, reducing Liverpool’s chances of a top-four place even further and offering a boost to Arsenal’s title rivals Manchester City, who trailed by eight points at the start of the weekend but have now seen that gap come down by two points and still have a game in hand on the north Londoners.

CMC – Retired West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin struck a half-century and grabbed two wickets in a Player-of- the-Match performance, as she propelled Barmy Army to a 17-run victory over Hayley Matthews’s Warriors in the

Fairbreak Invitational here Sunday.

Sent in at the Kowloon Cricket Club, Barmy Army stormed to 163 for six from their 20 overs, Dottin top-scoring with 69 from 48 deliveries and Rumana Ahmed getting 37 from 28

emphatic win in 44.2 overs. Riyad Latif led with an unbeaten 56, while Hohenkirk (22*), Ryan Latif 30, Shiloh Adams (21), and Alvin Mohabir (29), supported the

half-centurion. Bowling for Bel Air Rubis, young Ajay Gainda was the most successful with 2-16. Transport SC will now clash with the George -

town Cricket Club (GCC), in the Demerara Final on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 1030 at the Georgetown Cricket Club, ground.

Dottin strikes half century as Barmy Army beats Warriors

balls.

In reply, Warriors were dismissed for 146 off 20 overs with Dottin snatching two for nine from three outstanding overs of medium pace and 24-year-old United States left-arm pacer Tara Norris claiming two for 39.

Barmy Army lie second on 10 points while Warriors remained top of the six-team pile on 15 points, after suffering their first defeat.

Barmy Army were struggling on 26 for two at the end of the fifth over before Dottin

pulled them out of trouble, punching three fours and seven sixes to inspire a 99-run, third wicket stand with Rumana who counted half-dozen fours in a 28-ball knock.

The right-handed Dottin was eventually third out in the 16th over, triggering a slide which saw four wickets go down for 37 runs, Scottish seamer Kathryn Bryce finishing with two for 29.

Dottin’s former West Indies teammate, fast bowler Shamilia Connell, produced a superb four-over spell which

yielded only eight runs and a single wicket, while the current West Indies captain Matthews sent down four overs of off-spin which cost 41 runs and served up one wicket.

Chasing a tricky target, Warriors were quickly in a slump at 22 for 2 in the third over before Matthews hit three sixes in an 18-ball 28, as she put on 29 for the third wicket with Yasmeen Khan (21).

Matthews perished in the seventh over, lbw to Dottin, leading to a collapse which

saw Warriors labouring at 79 for six in the 11th over. Bryce intervened, slamming 45 from 26 balls with four fours and two sixes, and inspiring a 38-run, seventh wicket partnership with captain Sindhu Sriharsha (14) and a 22-run eighth wicket stand with Mariana Martinez (seven not out).

However, the last three wickets tumbled for seven runs with Dottin picking up a second scalp, that of her former teammate Connell (0).

Excluding penalties, no player has scored more Premier League goals against Arsenal than Roberto Firmino (10, level with Robbie Fowler and Wayne Rooney)

Jeremiah Hohenkirk

Riyad Latif Rudranauth Kissoon

Retired West Indies all-rounder Deandra Dottin

Tripathi; Markande help Sunrisers open account at IPL 2023

(ESPNCRICINFO) - SHIKHAR

Dhawan watched nine wickets tumble around him, but he stood out amid the rubble, his unbeaten 99 taking Punjab Kings to a respectable 143 for 9. That total looked even more respectable when Sunrisers lost their openers Harry Brook and Mayank Agarwal early with the slower balls gripping the Hyderabad surface.

But Rahul Tripathi rose above the conditions to score a sprightly half-century and give Sunrisers their first victory of the season. He contributed 63 in an unbroken 100-run stand off 52 balls with his captain Aiden Markram to help ice the chase and hand Kings their first defeat of the season.

Bhuvneshwar, Jansen go bang, bang, bang

On Friday, Sunrisers’ seamers were neutralised on a black-soil turner. Two days later, Bhuvneshwar and co. were on the money from the get-go on a pace-friendly red-soil Hyderabad track. Bhuvneshwar struck first ball to trap Prabhsimran Singh lbw for a duck.

Much like Bhuvneshwar, Jansen, picked ahead of legspinner Adil

Rashid, exploited the early swing on offer. The left-arm seamer struck with his second legal ball to pin IPL debutant Matt Short lbw for 1. He won another lbw appeal from umpire Bruce Oxenford next ball, but Jitesh Sharma overturned the on-field decision on review. Jitesh managed four before Jansen had him chipping a drive to mid-off in his next over T Natarajan also found swing in the powerplay as Sunrisers’ seam attack

thrived at home.

Dhawan or nothing for PBKS

Once the early movement disappeared for the seamers, Dhawan took some trips down the pitch and hit them over the top. However, at the other end, legspinner Mayank Markande, who was playing his first game for Sunrisers, tore through the middle and lower order with his stock ball and the wrong’un. The innings was going so badly pear

shaped that Kings had to Impact Sub a batter for a batter, bringing Sikandar Raza in for the already dismissed Prabhsimran, but it didn’t really help matters. Together the two players contributed 5 runs off 7 balls

Markande, meanwhile, came away with figures of 4 for 15 in his four overs. Dhawan quietly played him out, but laid into Natarajan and Umran Malik, taking 61 off 31 balls from them. He reached his fifty off 42 balls by launching Natarajan over midwicket for six and then went 6,4,6 against Malik in the 18th over. Dhawan was dropped three times along the way, but he carried on until the end of the innings. He contributed 52 in an unbroken 55run partnership for a last wicket with debutant Mohit Rathee - an IPL record.

Dhawan’s 69.2 was the second-highest percentage of runs scored in a completed IPL innings that went 20 overs or ended with a team all out. It was second only to Brendon McCullum in the first match of the IPL, where he shellacked 158 out of KKR’s total of 222 (71.2%).

Tripathi, Markram see SRH home

Sunrisers decided to shake up their batting line-up by pairing up Agarwal with Brook at the top. Brook seemed comfortable with pace on the ball, but when Arshdeep Singh cut it down to 117kph and bowled a knuckle ball, he was bowled through the gate for 13 off 14. Then, when Agarwal dared to sweep Rahul Chahar off the stumps, he spliced a catch to long-on, leaving Sunrisers at 45 for 2 in the ninth over.

Tripathi and Markram then got together to settle the innings. When Chahar darted it quicker and flatter outside off, Tripathi used the pace to glide the ball behind point. When Chahar slowed his pace down and tossed up his legbreaks, Tripathi stretched out to either drive him inside out over extra cover or sweep him over midwicket. He treated Rathee with even more disdain, smashing him for two sixes and two fours in eight balls.

Tripathi’s high intent and execution allowed Markram to sit back and tap the ball into the gaps. Fittingly, it was Tripathi who finished the game for Sunrisers with eight wickets and almost three overs to spare.

KKR pull off 30 off last five balls to beat Titans

(ESPNCRICINFO) - This is what they mean when they say truth is stranger than fiction.

Chasing 205, Kolkata Knight Riders’ Impact Player Venkatesh Iyer and their captain Nitish Rana had kept them in the game by adding 100 runs 9.1 overs. Alzarri Joseph dismissed both, and then Rashid Khan picked up a hat-trick to kill the contest. At least that’s how it appeared.

But, just then, Rinku Singh rose to the occasion. When Knight Riders needed 39 off eight balls, Rinku was on 8 off 14. He hit the last two balls of the 19th over, bowled by Josh Little, for a six and four.

With 29 required from the last over, ESPNcricinfo’s Forecaster gave Knight Riders a 1.29% chance of winning. After all, no team had chased down that many in the 20th over of a T20 game. The previous best was 23, by Sydney Sixers against Sydney Thunder in 2015, and Rising Pune Supergiants against then Kings XI Punjab in 2016.

Umesh Yadav took a single off Yash Dayal’s first ball, and then Rinku went 6, 6, 6, 6, 6 to script a win that will be talked about for a

long, long time.

Knight Riders’ opening woes

In Rahmanullah Gurbaz and N Jagadeesan, Knight Riders had their third opening pair of the season in as many games. In fact, since the start of IPL 2022, they have used nine different opening pairs in 17 matches - Delhi Capitals are second with five, also in 17 games - and have had starts of 30 or better only twice. It was no different on Sunday. Mohammed Shami and Little, who came in as an impact substitute for B Sai Sudharsan, removed Gurbaz and Jagadeesan inside four overs with just 28 on the board.

Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana threaten to take the game away

Knight Riders finished the powerplay on 43 for 2. The field restrictions were lifted, but Iyer and Rana didn’t have a problem in sending the ball to the boundary, or over it. Iyer hit Dayal for a four and six in the seventh over. In the next, Rana smashed Joseph for two sixes.

Rashid’s first two overs went for 23. Sandwiched between them was a 17-run Dayal over. With 77 needed from seven overs, Knight

Riders were well and truly alive, before Joseph’s double-strike to remove both set batters tilted the game towards Titans.

Rinku trumps Rashid’s hat-trick

Rashid had conceded 34 in his first three overs, but he almost won

the game for his side with his final over. Knight Riders needed 50 from four overs with Andre Russell in the middle. It looked like Rashid had kept his one over only for Russell - he had dismissed him four times in 38 balls before this game. And

with his first ball, he had Russell caught behind off an inside edge that bobbed up off the pad. Narine hit the next to deep midwicket, and Shardul Thakur was lbw off the third to give Rashid his record fourth hat-trick in T20 cricket. All three wickets came from googlies.

Rashid seemed to have sealed the game. Except Rinku had other ideas. With 28 needed from five balls, Dayal lost control. The next three balls were full tosses, and Rinku dispatched them over longoff, over deep-backward square leg, and again over long-off.

After a chat with Rashid and David Miller, Dayal bowled a back-of the-hand slower one into the pitch only for Rinku to clear long-on. With four needed from the last ball, another meeting was called, with Shubman Gill too joining in this time. Dayal bowled the last one short and outside off and Rinku hit it over his head. Even before the ball had cleared the boundary, Rinku took off in celebration, running towards his team-mates, who had rushed on to the field to embrace him.

Rahul Tripathi goes inside out•Apr 09, 2023•Associated Press

Rinku Singh rushes into the arms of his team-mates after pulling off a miracle • BCCI

USA Tri State end Guyana tour with a loss the GCA X1

By Sean Devers

DESPITE a top class 98 by Utkarsh Srivastava the GCA X1, on the back of 60 from Navindra Persaud, handed the USA Tri State their first loss in six matches on their Guyana tour when the visitors were beaten by four wickets in their final game at the DCC ground Saturday.

Tri State batted first on the small ground on a pitch on which spinners extracted prodigious bounce and turn and were bowled out for 225 in 46.5 overs with Srivastava stroking a wonderfully compiled 98 from 114 balls with 10 fours and a six while left-handed opener Prannav Chettipalayam hit five fours and two sixes in 41, his lowest score in six innings.

But no other batter apart from Siddant Rai who threw bat around in an ultra-aggressive 29 with three sixes, reached double figures.

Off-spinner Marlon Boele who had 4-51 from 8.5 overs was the most expensive of the bowlers used while

Rebel Tennis Club Tours T&T & B’dos

Coach Erskine

By Sean Devers

THE Diamond East Bank Demerara based Rebel’s Tennis Club wrapped up their U-18 two-week tour to Trinidad last Tuesday night with the Trinidad & Tobago pair of Zachery Byng and Nathen Martin beating Guyana’s Jayden Mitchell and Gerald Scotland 6/1, 6/2 in the doubles.

The U-18s, coached by Head Coach Andre Erskine and Junior Coach Donnie Anderson, played in back-to-back tournament in Carnival Country. The team were in Trinidad since March 24.

“Scotland qualified for the first time for ITF Main Draw Event, Navindra Arjune was also granted a Wild Card into the main Doubles Event in week one.

Our Club is super excited and very proud of our players’ performances” informed Coach Erskine.

While the U-18s returned home over the weekend, Guyana’s U-14 Tennis players began their tournament on Saturday in Trinidad before they travel to Barbados next week.

On Saturday night, Brian Harricharran (TTO) defeated Jose Rodrigues (GUY) defeated 4/2,4/0 while Nathan Denobrega (GUY) defeated the tournament’s number 1 seed Connor Carrington (TTO) 4/2,4/0 to qualify for the main draw.

Leonardo Winkel (CUW) defeated Jose Rodrigues (GUY) 4/2,4/0 in round robin play and Zahra Shamsi (TTO) defeated Christin Richmond (GUY) 4/0,4/0 in the Round Robin play.

MILO schools Football tournament 2023…

Penalty kicks, nail biting finishes underscore Sunday’s action

Pacer Dillion Ramroop who took the first two wicket and left-arm spinner Daniel Mootoo, who looked the best bowler on show, had two wickets each for the GCA side who reached 226-6 in in 39. overs.

Persaud hit a carefully constructed 60 from 96 balls and along with the inform left handed Usherdev Balgobin who scored a confident 24 from 18 balls with four fours and six, added 29 with Persaud who was the silent partner before Balgobin seemed a bit unlucky to given out LBW as Tanmay Joshi made the break-through in the fifth over.

Persaud and Tuen Hicks, whose 41 lasted 52 and included five boundaries, put together 101 in 18.1 overs before Hicks was run out.

Skipper Jeremiah Scott with 39 from 29 balls with two four and four sixes and cameos from National Table Tennis and Guyana youth cricketer Johnathan Van Lange who made an unbeaten 18 from 8 balls with two fours and six, and Ezekiel Wilson, who blasted a couple of fours and a six in his 10-ball 16, set the GCA side on course for the win.

After leg-spinner Aditya Gupta removed Wilson at 215-6, Boele who faced two balls finished the contest with a six.

Sunday’s action in the MILO Schools Football Tournament had everything from penalty kicks to nail biting finishes as the tournament heads into the business end of things.

At the Ministry of Education ground, fans were treated to an entertaining day of school’s football compliments of the Petra Organisation.

Among the winners on the day were East Ruimvedlt and McKenzie high schools.

The competition is sponsored by Nestle’ (MILO) through MASSY Distribution and is sanctioned by the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Football Federation.

It is being coordinated by the Petra Organisation with support from MVPSports, GenEquip Guyana Ltd. and GINMIN Guyana.

Full details below

East Ruimveldt Secondary 1 vs Cummings Lodge Secondary 1

East Ruimveldt won 3-1 penalty kicks

East Ruimveldt Secondary

Daniel Sutton 56

Cummings Lodge Secondary

Keyshawn Millington 27

Santa Rosa Secondary 6 vs 8th May Secondary 1

Santa Rosa Secondary

Roy Vonsluytinan 3, 86

Dennis Williams 25

Kevin Joseph 79

Travis Jorvis 81

Deon Chappelle 88

8th May Secondary School

Anias Glasgow 50

West Ruimveldt Secondary 1 vs McKenzie High School 2

McKenzie High

Dexter Milo 50

Jevon Dennis 56

West Ruimveldt Secondary

Elijah Sattuar 3

Carmel Secondary 3 vs Westminster Secondary 1

Carmel Secondary

Ian Daniels 21, 50, 54

Westminster Secondary

Antwan Kelly 53

Utkarsh Srivastastava scored 98 at DCC yesterday

‘Our club excited and proud of the players’-

Nathan Denobrega (GUY) defeated the tournament’s #1 send Connor Carrington (TTO) 42,40 to qualify to the main draw

GCB Women’s 50-Over Inter-County cricket

B’ce hammer Demerara by 9 wickets to take the double

By Sean Devers

DEFENDING Cham-

pions Berbice proved to be a well-oiled unit as they romped to an emphatic nine-wicket win against Demerara in the final round of the GCB’ senior Women’s Inter-County tournament at Bourda yesterday.

It took Berbice, who won the T20 Title last week, less than an hour to reach 59-1 in 15.3 overs replying to the host’s paltry 58 all out from 32.3 overs in a one-sided encounter to lift their 10th consecutive 50-over title.

A useful all-round performance from MVP of the match,

Realeana Grimmond who took 2-21 and hit the winning run to remain unbeaten on 29 from 48 balls with four boundaries, fast tracked the Berbice run-chase.

Demerara, was led by cautious 21 with two fours from teenager Tilleya Madramootoo who batted in sweltering heat for an hour and 15 minutes; facing 75 balls.

The elegant Sara Amin (13) was the only other Demerara batter to reach double figures in ideal batting conditions at the venue where 60 Test centuries were scored between 1930 and 2005.

Bowling for Berbice, Omadevi Matadin had 3-34 while

off -spinner and West Indies U-19 captain Ashmini Munisar, the leading wicket taker in this tournament, followed up her four-wicket haul in her previous match with 2-6.

Pacer Realeana Grimmond and her unrelated namesake Sheneta Grimmond had two wickets each.

Demerara won the toss and opted to bat on a lightning fast outfield and quickly lost 18-year-old Malteen -

Demerara’s Tilleya Madramootoo made the most run in 50-over format and top scored for the host yesterday (Sean Devers photo)

Malteenoes Boys U-19 team.

Amin played two classy back foot punches for cover boundaries; off Sheneta Grim-

Skipper Kaysia Schultz (0) and Lynda Sylvan (4) were removed by Sheneta Grimmond to leave the home team on the ropes at 45-5.

oes player Naomi Barkoye for duck at 3-1 in the fourth over.

Realeana Grimmond struck again when she

had Anita Hendricks (0) caught and bowled, at 19-2.

Amin joined Madramootoo , who like Barkoye, plays in the

mond and experienced off-spinner Plaffiana Millington , who had the last laugh when Amin was bowled at 34-3.

When Madramootoo’s carefully constructed innings ended; lbw to Matadin 52-6, Demerara lost their five wickets for just six runs in a dramatic collapse. Berbice, the only team to play unbeaten, lost Marian Samaroo (11) at 31-1 before Realeana Grimmond (the most outstanding player of the tournament) and Katana Mentore (6) saw their team to victory

50th CARIFTA Games

Gibbons goes back to back to back!

Anisha Gibbons continued to fly the Golden Arrowhead high after she became the first Guyanese athlete to win three consecutive Gold medals at the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) games following her winning throw of 47.96m in the Girls’ under-20 Javelin event yesterday in Bahamas.

Gibbons, who won first won the Javelin event in 2019 could’ve potentially had five gold medals if COVID-19 didn’t postpone the 2020 & 2021 event. She won in 2022 and again yesterday.

The 18-year-old, who is on scholarship at New Mexico Ju-

nior College, broke her own national record of 45.37m to finish ahead of French Guiana’s Korann Colet (45.32m) and Vanessa Sawyer (43.37m) of the Bahamas.

She became the latest medalist, bringing Guyana’s total medal haul to four up to press time. The Berbician joins Tianna Springer, who won Gold in the Girls’ under-17 400m, Javon Roberts (Silver in Boys’ under-17 1500m) and Seon Booker, who finished with Bronze in the Boys’ under-20 1500m.

Realeana Grimmond was MVP of the final round and most outstanding player in the tournament (Sean Devers Photo)

Champions again! Berbice team after winning their 10th title in a row (Sean Devers photo)

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