Guyana Chronicle New York Edition 07 10 2016

New York Edition

GUYANA

"AT/OMAL NEWSPAP®1"5

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WEEK ENDING

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OCTOBER 7, 2016

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President David Granger confers the Order of Roraima on Senior Counsel Rex McKay

'Dangerous'

Old Age

overflight

Pension

Page 6

Page 12

likely

... Guyana probes reports of Venezuelan aircraft in mapping exercise

to reach $20,000

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Government aMressino overseas applicants for oil sector with his ministry to "keep files" while trying to reach out to the applicants as fast as possible.

The Ministry of Citizenship in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources is reaching out to persons who have applied for jobs in various positions within the upcoming oil sector. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman told media personnel days ago, that the Ministry is constantly receiving applications and letters from overseas Guyanese for positions in the oil sector.

He said that they were receiving correspondence from interested Guyanese who want to return to Guyana and this has been happening on a daily basis. Those persons sending in their Curriculum Vitae and other expressions make up a large number of "both semi-skilled and skilled" workers with experience in the oil sector, Trotman related.

He said some of the applicants are currently working in oil and gas sectors in developed countries while

others have been the victims of financial crisis that saw them losing their jobs. The international oil industry has been slowing down with low oil prices for a prolonged period. Some economies have been severely hit.

Minister Trotman said that seamen, geophysicists and others for top positions have expressed interest.

"We are still in the early stages, but we will need skills at different levels," Trotman disclosed. He said that the Ministry of Citizenship is working

The Guyana oil industry is being prepared by American company Exxon Mobil. They expect to start commercial production of the commodity by 2021. It is projected that Guyana will earn about GY$42 billion per year if ExxonMobil begins producing oil at the current price of US$46.22 per barrel and based upon the revenue sharing formula agreed to between the two sides.

Projections are that the price of oil could increase to US$79 per barrel by 2021. It was noted during an Exxon Mobil press conference last month that at that rate, Guyana can gain as much as US$355,500,000 (GY$73.233 billion) per year from the Liza well.

Minister of Natural Resources RAPHAEL TROTMAN Exxon has noted that the large job provision touted from the company may not exactly be the case, but spin off industries, and increased activity in the country can create jobs outside of the few hundred the company will themselves employ.

Guyanese-populated Schenectady ranked most dangerous, poorest city in USA A U.S City where hundreds of Guyanese from across New York were lured into securing cheap

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2000s is being dubbed the worst city in the nation.

New reports are coming out, showing Schenectady to be the worst city in the United States.

The area which has a large Guyanese population is said to be full of crack cocaine, heroin, and a cor-

rupt police department that was threatened to be shut down a year ago by the FBI. "The Schenectady Police Depart ment does not serve and protect, it has a long history of racketeering, prostitution encouragement, and sells drugs," a U.S media report stated.

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With a population of 66,041, violent crime in the area is ranked 7th highest in New York while property crime ranks 14th worst in New York.

In Schenectady, you have a 33% daily chance of being a victim of crime.

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Rape is especially serious in Schenectady, where heroin usage is rampant.

Union College, a semi-IVY league college, has students secured in a fenced-in campus, because the they are afraid to leave their dorms. They call the people Schenectoids.

This goes to show how poor Schenectady's reputation is, but worse yet are the home values.

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"The median home value in Schenectady is $87,600. Schenectady home values have declined -3.5% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will fall -0.1% within the next year."

The income levels in Schenectady are atrocious as well. The average person who works (35% of the population) does little better than minimum wage; in fact, the average hourly rate is minimum wage.

Many people in Schenectady are on welfare, [www.inewsguyana.com]

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

3 F

The Peter Haynes \

Column

The General-Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, has publicly stated that the Critchlow Labour College (CLC) will not be accepting the $15M subvention that the Government of Guyana has recently granted it, unless the conditions under which the money can be collected are withdrawn.

Lewis is also quoted as saying that the utterances on this matter by the Minister of Finance, demonstrate he is neither fully acquainted with, nor apprised of the situation facing the CLC. Inasmuch as the Minister has slashed the subvention to the CLC by half and told the media that the government will only provide the organization what it can afford, additionally noting that the government is not mandated to fund the college at all.

The Minister has pointed out that the government is examining the nature of the entire local labour movement, with a view to granting subventions to all unions which will total $30 million, and that if the CLC refuses to accept the currently proffered gift, there is nothing that the government can do about that, for the CLC is not a government entity and that the government must operate within its means.

For his part. General Secretary Lewis is rejecting the government's gift because it is requesting seven years of audited financial statements and accompanying documents. While it is true that CLC did not receive any government subvention for more than seven years and this new request for financial records may not be required of a nonstate entity, it seems that the government appeal's to be ultra-concerned with the ways in which the institution's funds were spent. Arguments may be made for the government's interest in the financial health and conduct of the CLC's affairs.

Indeed, there is the possibility that if the government were to see what money was collected and how it was spent, the CLC would get more than the $15M that has now been gifted, especially if a determination could be made concerning the funds that CLC normally requires to fulfill its mandate.

Quite apart from the issue of the legality of the government's request, there are also reports that the money was refused because of the dynamics involved in retrieving the desired information. Exactly what this means is not immediately clear: does it involve more than Mi'. Lewis is prepared to divulge, or are those records no longer in existence. "I have no problem having the government's money accounted for and audited, but not all of Critchlow's money," the General-Secretary has said.

We can also then ask, without casting aspersions, but in order to prevent suspicions: What are the amounts being kept under cover? From whom were they received? On what were they spent, and by whom?

ORGANISE UNORGANISED WORKERS To be frank, the primary source of funding for unions is the dues paid by its members. Given the international situation, I would like to ask Mr. Lewis, not if the GTUC membership has dropped, but how badly the numbers have dropped and based on his response — will decide whether there is need for an audit: • What is being done to organize workers?

• Does the GTUC/CLC have training programmes to familiarize union leaders how to organize unorganized workers?

• Compare the GTUC's per capita receipts for the last 25 years - i.e. there is an assumption that the GTUC does not receive much from its affiliates.

•

In defending his position con-

cerning the requested audit, Mr. Lewis also made an attempt to castigate the Government's Education programme, commenting that 80% of CLC's student population was not composed of members of the GTUC. • Mr. Lewis must be reminded that the purpose of the GTUC's establishing the CLC was the provision of training for trade unionists.

• Of course, meeting the government's request for audited statements would shine the bright light of probity on all of these developments. Moreover, such data would be helpful to us all, given the facts that between 2007 and 2014, the CLC received ZERO dollars from the state and that in 2015, the CLC received $5M from the state, so that we would all be able to see whether GTUC/CLC presented any audited statements for the manner in which this latter sum was spent.

One would hope that the GTUC/ CLC might rise above a sense of entitlement at this stage of Guyana's development.

For example, the GTUC recently called for a meeting with President Granger: I do not recall that the GTUC ever called on former Presidents Jagdeo or Ramotar to meet with them; indeed, the GTUC could not even get a seat at the administration's table, but now they are hying to dictate who should be at the table!

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Yes, there WAS a Minister of Labour in the previous administration, and they DID meet with him: in fact, the Minister of Labour in the previous administration who met with the unions was the person who stopped the deduction of dues from public servants' paychecks.

And so I am going to read between the lines and say, Mr. Lewis: You are saying that this is your government and it must be friendlier to you, than the PPP. However, you are forgetting that the GTUC/CLC is being offered six times what the PPP gave.

If the CLC wants to be considered a full-time school that needs government subventions, it also must understand that when the CLC asks for other people's money, it cannot also demand independence and unaccountability.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

workers necessary.

Many Caribbean countries in Guyana by both locals and Guyanese Ihing overseas. have also benefited immensely Whether this has resulted from an under reform econ- from an influx of teachers over the omy; the possibility of new opportunities; a change in govern- years. They too are being attracted ment or the expectation of oil wealth, citizens seem revitalized back to Guyana's shores to offer their expertise. Wage increase for in their vigor toward the country. teachers is being discussed.

There has been an influx in overseas- implementation processes, The most prominent increase based Guyanese who have not only come They announced that there was a for government workers' wages has to visit after years abroad, but many are parallel drug economy that fueled that coming to seek employment and invest- which is legitimate. Some have con- been rejected by their union, but the engagements continue between ment opportunities. The government has cluded that currently, this among other the two sides, an opportunity that also issued calls for Guyanese to return factors are among the issues toward what the union now has, since the last home and help to rebuild the country, es- seems to be a slow economy. The notion pecially since it is no secret that a large is that government is trying to be pru- administration for years administered arbitrary increases. number of Guyana's best and brightest dent, while the systems are under review The government has waged a would have left the country in search of and repair. massive assault on drug and money higher professional pay and a better qualIn education, particularly at the terThe Guyana Independence Arch in Brickdam ity of living. tiary level, there seems to be a real push laundering activities in the country.

This factor was fueling the country im- address this and at the same time honour President David Granger has made it toward significant improvements within commitments with global partners. clear that systems must be fixed before the the existing system. A large contingent mensely, they said. It has been pointed Progress is also being made toward to the cause for the slow economy and country can actually see sustainable from the University of Guyana was readdressing corruption and its facilitating growth on a firm foundation. He believes cently in the United States seeking part- now some are justifying this claim with factors.

The long defunct public procurethe closing of some businesses, since it that a lot of the systems have broken down nerships and other opportunities with ment system is now being revitalized to is the view of many that'get-rich-quick" and they must be repaired before the universities there. The hope is to inbusinesses had sprung up and thrived ensure scrutiny in the issuing of huge measures put in place can effectively func- crease scholarships, exchange students, during the intense drug movement pe- government contracts, while several key tion. The Finance Minister told the public and various forms of assistance. The uniriod and are now closing down under boards and commissions that were nonthat the public sector investment programs versity's new Vice Chancellor has told what some describe as a "purging" econ- functional have been returned or in the are been implemented slowly owing to the public that the engagement was sucprocess of revival. omy. failed systems within government's oper- cessful. The VC has also made promises There have been varying views Alongside the drugs which the ations, inherited from the last administra- to upgrade the conditions at the instituPresident recently declared the key fac- however, about the direction and pertion. These have to be fixed to safeguard tion and expand the courses offered. The tor toward crime in the country, is money formance of the government, given the against corruption and other illegal activ- institution is even gearing for oil and gas laundering. New legislation is seeking to functioning of the country and some unities, and also to ensure the most effective studies in a bid to create the quality of favourable events that have placed them in a not so favourable position. i \ Many are however confident about the economy, that it is rising from the Âť \ Boston Shipping ashes and have predicted an upgrade in ' ' the quality of life to come. Systems, they say, are necessary for the functioning of /Enterprises, Inc. the country and that is what is needed at this lime.

We Make Shipping Overseas as Easy as Shipping Next Door They also say that many of those TO living abroad should definitely come WE SHIP home to help and secure what is being GUYANA, JAMAICA BARRELS built. The only way to ensure that TRINIDAD & TOBAGO BOXES Guyana sprouts into that which many have talked about, is to see all are workGRENADA, BARBADOS DOCUMENTS ing toward the same goal. This would inST. VINCENT LUGGAGE volve the intellectuals, the skilled and ST. LUCIA, HAITI the experienced. There are many areas APPLIANCES where the country need the type of skills & Other World Wide Destinations FURNITURE and training that is not necessarily availCONTAINERS able within the country, but possessed by FAST RELIABLE SERVICE citizens abroad.

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There is no doubt that there has been a renewed interest

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

Both

Things

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/

/

must begin with a disclaimer. This week my writing reI lates to something that pleases and not bothers me.

Judaism is one of the three largest Abrahamic religions, the 2 others being Christianity and Islam. Although one can speak of the Jewish religion, Judaism does not characterise itself as a religion.

The majority of Jews live in the State of Israel. Wikipedia (2016) quotes Israel Central Bureau of Statistics estimate in 2014 to be 8,146,300 people living in the State of Israel. This article will discuss the beliefs and practices of this great religion and is restricted to Orthodox Judaism.

ORIGIN The religion traces its origin to the Prophet Abraham, who, according to Jewish tradition, was the first person to reject idolatry. He was bom around 1800 BCE in Ur of the Chaldees, a province in Southern Mesopotamia. The Jewish Bible states that, at age 3, he questioned his nation's practice of worshipping many gods (Polytheism). His father Terah was a

manufacturer of idols. Abraham destroyed his idols and proclaimed Yahweh the one true God (Yahweh). Consequently, Yahweh told him to leave his country and go to a land (Canaan), which HE would show him and promised him a legacy of ancestors (Genesis 12:1-4). According to Jewish tradition, the Israelites (Abraham's descendants) dwelled in the Sinai desert for 40 years after leaving Egypt. While there, they received the Torah at Mount Sinai from YHWH, by the hand of Moses. Most Jewish scholars regard this as the beginning of normative Judaism.

BELIEFS There are no dogmas or formal set of beliefs that must be followed to make one a Jew. The subject of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible) is the history of the Children of Israel (also called Hebrews), especially in terms of their relationship with God. Thus, Judaism has also been character-

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ized as a culture or as a civilisation. There are accepted truths in Judaism; but actions are far more important. Most of these truths are articulated in Rabbi Moshes ben Maimon's (Maimonides) thirteen principles of faith, which are here summarised: 1. Belief in the existence of the Creator, who is perfect in every manner of existence and is the Primary Cause of all that exists. The most important of God's Names is YHVH Yod-Hei-Vav-Hei), which is referred to as the Ineffable, Unutterable or Distinctive Name. Although nothing in the Torah prohibits a person from writing the name of G-d, observant Jews substitute letters or syllables, such as G-d for God. 2. The belief in G-d's absolute and unparalleled unity. This is to say, God is One and Indivisible. The idea is found in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." Known as the Shema (Shema Y'israel or Sh'ma Yisrael), this verse is recited at Jewish morning and evening services.

3. The belief in G-d's non-corporeality, nor that He will be affected by any physical occurrences, such as movement, or rest, or dwelling.

4. The belief in G-d's eternity.

5. The imperative to worship G-d exclusively and no other gods.

6. The belief that G-d communicates with man through prophecy.

7. The belief in the primacy of the prophecy of Moses.

8. The belief in the divine origin of the Torah, the first 5 books of the Christian Bible.

9. The belief in the immutability of the Torah.

10. The belief in G-d's omniscience and Providence.

11. The belief in divine reward and retribution.

12. The belief in the arrival of the Messiah and the messianic era. Jews do not believe that Jesus was the Messiah.

"The word "mashiach" does not mean "saviour." The notion of an innocent, divine or semi-divine being who will sacrifice himself to save us from the consequences of our own sins is a purely Christian concept that has no basis in Jewish thought."

13. The belief in the resurrection of the dead.

vances: 1. The first Jewish life-cycle celebration for the male baby is Brit Milah. circumcision. By this symbolic act, which began with Abraham and Isaac, male Jews enter the community of Israel, marked for life as Jews and given a Hebrew name.

2. BAR AND BAT MITZVAH: At their 13th birthday Jewish boys and girls are initiated into adulthood in the Jewish community.

3. Mourning: Mourning is extensive in Judaism. To Jews, it serves 2 purposes - showing respect to the deceased (kavod ha-met) and comforting the living (nihum avelim).

4. Burial; Jewish law requires that a body be buried 24 hours after death, wherever possible. Funerals are prohibited on the Sabbath (Saturday), Rosh Hashannah, Yom Kippur, or on the first and last days of the festivals (Pesach, Sukkot, Shavuot).

OBSERVANCES Because of the primacy of actions in Judaism, religious observance, which turns belief into actions, is extremely important. Here are some Jewish obser-

PASSOVER Passover is a commemoration of Jewish freedom from Egyptian bondage. According to Jewish tradition, after many years of slavery in Egypt, the Hebrews were emancipated through G-d's inter-

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HOLY DAYS The most important Jewish holy days are the Sabbath, the three pilgrimage festivals of Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot and the two High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Observant Jews do not work on these days.

JEWISH SABBATH The Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat in Hebrew) begins on sundown Friday night and ends on sundown Saturday night. The word "Shabbat" derives from a root word in Hebrew which means "to cease", "to end", to rest." It is the only holy day mentioned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). On the Sabbath, observant Jews light 2 candles for the two references to the day in the Bible (Deuteronomy 5:12 and Exodus 20:8).

6

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016 New York Edition tTbronlcle S THE MATIOM'S MEWSEAEER ^ Editor-in-Chief

T fe.

Y

Nigel Williams Editor Godfrey Wf ay Editorial; 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicIe.com wnigel 1 O@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com For All Publishing and Advertising in New York consult our New York Representative: Dennis A. Nelson dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com Tel: 917-379-6590 (E tutorial

Haiti

humanitarian

crisis ON Tuesday, Category 4 Hurricane Matthew hit Haiti. With winds travelling at 145 mph, the storm killed 24 persons, destroyed farmlands, towns and resorts, in what the United Nations (UN) has said is the worst humanitarian crisis since the devastating earthquake of 2010.

With Haiti still recovering from that earthquake and a cholera outbreak which followed as a result of infected water, the country will once again have to rely on the compassion of fellow human beings, governments, and organisations around the world to come to its assistance.

Two years prior (2008) to the earthquake four storms (Fay. Gustav. Hanna and Ike) have lashed the island and reportedly destroyed 70 percent of the crops. Two years (2012) after the earthquake the country was rocked

by Hurricane Sandy. The 2010 earthquake resulted in 230.000 deaths and approximately one million having to live in tents after buildings collapsed. Haiti, given its recent spate of incidents, is presently a defenceless country.

Considered the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. understanding Haiti's poverty requires nuanced approaches given its complexities that date back to the 1789 slave revolution and the Haitians having to pay France for their freedom achieved in 1804. wanton excesses and abuses of Francois "Papa Doc" Duvalier and Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier governments, poor management and environmental practices, the absence of sustainable development, among others. That having been said, the intent of this editorial is not to stimulate ad nauseam argument on the poverty in that society, but more so what can be done to aid a sister Caribbean country to wade through, no pun intended, the present crisis that is bound to besiege the people and add to their burden.

Haiti faces a deforestation crisis and reportedly is one of the most deforested countries in the world, with less than tw o percent of the land that has trees. In the presence of this, more than 60 percent of the population's energy comes from charcoal. Additionally, to what have evidently been poor environmental practices, a land known for its steep terrain has implications of suffering from landslides and mudslides. Further, where the foundation of infrastmctures is poor, such could see buildings, bridges. roads, etc. crumbling or collapsing.

What the Caribbean region has on its hand is another natural disaster, with the impact being made worse by some bad man-made decisions. It further suggests that this will result in loss of material pos-

'Dangerous'

overflight

... Guyana probes reports of Venezuelan aircraft in mapping exercise

By Ariana Gordon THE Government of Guyana views with much concern reports emanating from the Venezuelan press that suggest that country's Government is conducting overflights of Guyana with the aim of updating its atlas.

Foreign Affairs Minister and acting Prime Minister Carl Greenidge told reporters on Wednesday night that the APNU+AFC Government is extremely concerned about Venezuela's escalating claims to Guyana.

"We have as recently as last week left with the secretary-general a document which sets out our concerns of the escalating behaviour of Venezuela towards us. escalating claims and about the consequences of some of the steps they are taking."

Minister Greenidge said while Guyana has not been able to confirm the information published in the Venezuelan press, strong concerns linger.

"The published information suggesting that they are carrying out overflights over the Essequibo with a view to completing an atlas of Venezuela which would include twothirds of Guyana. They are doing a digital mapping of the area with the purpose of getting the details. But the overflights themselves are illegal in international law." he said.

According to the minister, if the reports from the Venezuelan press are proven true, "then these are serious matters".

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has been informed of Guyana's concerns said the Foreign Affairs Minister, who noted that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has been provided with the reports out of Venezuela with the view of them following it up.

"This has to be substantiated." he said. Government's increased concern follows the 117th anniversary

of the 1899 Arbitral Award observed on October 3.

Guyana has held steadfast that it has upheld and respected the 1899 Award and will defend its validity at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). the highest International Court.

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge Guyana in a statement on Tuesday said Venezuela's utterance on the anniversary of the 1899 Arbitral Award is "vituperative." while noting that its Spanish-speaking neighbour has sought to spew falsehoods about the award.

Guyana has also said that Venezuela's statement has proven the country "unworthy of a law-biding member of the international community".

On Tuesday, a Venezuelan newspaper El Universal reported that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela said that the award represented fraud perpetuated on the Venezuelan Government by Guyana.

"In a communique. Venezuela claimed that Guyana has referred to 'false protections based on lies and

sessions, incomes, internal dislocation, Haitians leaving their country if and when possible, and in some instances will be added to the Refugee and Migrant crises the world is presently facing. In 2010, there was galvanising of support and resources from around the world, including that of countries, businesses, institutions, input from celebrities, medical and construction teams, powerful leaders, and politicians in a commendable humanitarian drive. Such support not only brought temporary assistance, but also helped in rebuilding and addressing socio-economic challenges, including, to some extent, managing a refugee and migration crisis.

Haiti is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). People will be looking to see the Caribbean's response to not only providing aid via supplies, but also technical and humanitarian support. This new crisis will also raise the question, if we as a region can continue to treat Haiti as an estranged member, even moreso in light of the recent UN General Assembly, where a special summit was held to

subterfuge' to bring about an aggression situation against the country." El Universal reported.

According to the report. Venezuela's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has ratified its commitment to peace in order to find a solution to the border dispute for the Essequibo region, while stressing the country's appeal to UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon to resume the Good Officers process.

The statement by Venezuela which referred to the Essequibo as part of Venezuela, also stated that the current administration has been motivated by "dark transnational interests and imperial favour for corporate centres, has taken an arbitrary, illegal and unilateral action by attempting to rebut the Geneva Accord and try to wriggle out of the Good Officer's process".

Meanwhile, when asked about Guyana's capacity to monitor its landmass given the reports emanating from Venezuela. Minister Greenidge acknowledged that the GDF's ability to monitor the entire land and maritime space is limited. "... but we have other ways of getting this information." he said, making reference to international cooperation.

He described the reported overflights by Venezuela as "irresponsible and dangerous." while noting that this position has been put to the UN Secretary- General who is set to demit office in December.

"It is something we view with the greatest concern." said Minister Greenidge.

Guyana has maintained its position that the Good Officer's process has not proven successful, and as such, the only road to recourse is the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Venezuela has continued to mount its claim to the Essequibo region following the discovery of significant oil offshore by US Oil Giant ExxonMobil last year.

address the world's unprecedented refugee and migrant crises. More so. will Caribbean governments rise to the entreaty of United States President Barack Obama that crisis of such nature "is a test of our common humanity ~ whether we give in to suspicion and fear and build walls, or whether we see ourselves in another."

Member states may want to examine the wisdom of a special inter-CARICOM migration programme for Haiti.

Hopefully, the spirit of Caribbean brotherliness would not prevent us from looking at ways of helping outside of the usual aid sent when there is a disaster. There is already a thought in the public domain that Guyana can examine resettling Haitians in areas where agriculture and food production can be advanced within the Green Economy.

Not to be ignored is that given the defenceless nature of Haiti, continuous deportation of a people who are evidently fleeing dire consequences in their country may not be seen as upholding the law, but shelving the needed humanitarian support.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

7

A view from New York % WITH MICHAEL DEREK ROBERTS robertsconsulting@gmx.com * (347) 279-6668 This time I am not going down the moralistic rabbit hole when it comes to American politics. But I am still always amazed by the fact that members of the United States Congress - a combination and mixture of elected Democrats and Republicans, a supposedly informed and bright cabal of men and women doing "the people's business" in the Senate and the House of Rep-

:v

resentatives - have routinely displayed extraordinary and breathtaking stupidity.

But perhaps the dumbest and incomprehensible response and law-making decision made in recent times by A MAJORITY of BOTH houses was the recent presidential veto override of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, better known as JASTA. The bill, which enjoyed broad bipartisan support in both houses of Congress, would, among other things, allow aggrieved American citizens to sue countries "known or suspected" to have sponsored terrorist acts for compensatory damages.

It was called the "sue Saudi Arabia" law and was pushed by the families, victims and survivors of the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001. The legislation was and is predicated on the allegation that Saudi Arabia was behind these attacks. The fact is nobody knows if this is true. But Congress, jittery about angering American voters by behaving like sane adults, and do the due diligence by actually reading the bill, just simply overrode President Barack Obama's veto without regard for the unintended consequences.

Talk about intellectual laziness! By the next day, a scant 24-hours after their historic override, Congress suddenly woke up to its action like a promiscuous floozy who imbibed to much free liquor last night at the karaoke pub. One after the other, they sheepishly blamed President Obama for causing them not to read the bill. Immediately, the word "stupidity" reared its ugly head in my vocabulary. So, my dear readers, I decided to start by explaining the exact meaning of the word "stupidity."

Stupidity is a lack of intelligence, understanding, reason and sense.

Stupidity may be innate, assumed or reactive. Stupidity is a quality or state of being stupid, or an act or idea that exhibits properties of being stupid. In a character study of "The Stupid Man" attributed to the Greek philosopher Theophrastus (c.

371 - c. 287 BC), stupidity was defined as "mental slowness in speech or action". The modem English word "stupid" has a broad range of applications, from being slow of mind (indicating a lack of intelligence, care or reason), dullness of feeling or sensation (torpidity, senseless, insensitivity), or lacking interest or point (vexing, exasperating). It can either imply a congenital lack of capacity for reasoning, or a temporary state of daze, or slow-mindedness.

Now for the United States Congress and its override of President Obama's veto to the bill called the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. Here's a sequence of events that are dumb and mindboggling to say the least.

"A day after the House and Senate overwhelmingly voted to override President Obama's veto, GOP leaders are expressing reservations about legislation that would allow lawsuits related to 9/11 to go forward against Saudi Arabia.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch and House Speaker Paul Ryan both said they were open to discussions about changing the bill, which Congress approved unanimously - THE DAY BEFORE. LMAO! Say what! Was it not you guys who pretended to unconditionally love 9/11 families and supporters (especially during a presidential election) by slapping down poor Obama and asserting yourselves as the real, rip roaring law makers? Yeah, you are the representatives of the American people even though they think all of you are just akin to crap-eaters and bottom feeders, right?

"We want to make sure the 9/11 victims and their families have their day in court," Ryan told reporters. "At the same time, I would like to think that there may be some work to be done to protect our service members overseas from any kind of legal ensnarements (his word) that occur, any kind of retribution."

Well, that sure as hell meets the definition of stupid, Aunty Molly. The smart and reasoned members of the US Congress wrote a bill that would now allow sovereign immunity protections to be waived so that people in the United States could sue other nations for sponsoring terrorist acts. But it turns out that when they do that, it will now cause these other consequences — like establishing the legal precedent through which the United States may be similarly sued. What the hell were you guys thinking!

Please, please can an adult in the room explain what just happened here?

Maybe, just maybe, you bright and smart creators of this bill would tell us why you made sure to make this a law that now would allow Joe Blow in Indonesia to sue a U.S. citizen, soldier or company for any act committed in that country and deemed an act of terror? And did you not see that this new law will be reciprocated by other nations that will allow their citizens to sue

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA U.S. servicemen, citizens etc.?

Stupid is as stupid gets.

"Though the Senate voted overwhelmingly to nix the president's veto in a 97-1 vote, some lawmakers said they had misgivings about the bill. They stressed, however, that any push to find an alternative was largely ignored by the

Obama administration. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell echoed that sentiment calling the legislation "an example of an issue that we should have talked about much earlier."

"You know, that was a good example of — it seems to be a failure to communi(continued on page 25)

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

EMPHASIS ON TRAVEL AND TOURISM

TRAVEL LEADER CALLS FOR

CHIEF

URGENT INVESTMENT IN

CARIBBEAN HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY EXCHANGE FORUM

CARIBBEAN HUMAN RESOURCES PUERTO RICO (October 1,2016) - Gerard "Jerry" Inzerillo, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, known for his innovations and relationships in the tourism, hospitality, and entertainment communities, called for an urgent investment in the next generation of Caribbean travel and tourism leaders to elevate service standards within the region.

"We have the soul to do it - this region more difficult to run a tourism entity, citing has soul and that is a bankable commodity, low margins, increased competition, the demore than the beautiful turquoise waters," velopment of human resources, and a diverInzerillo told a packed audience at the open- sity of other challenges. ing of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism AsInzerillo, who was instrumental in the sociation's (CHTA) Caribbean Hospitality success of some of the world's most famous Industry Exchange Fomm (CHIEF) in hospitality brands such as Atlantis, One&Only Resorts and Ian Schrager Hotels, Puerto Rico last night.

"Importing (talent) is not an excuse," and held leadership roles with Four Seasons he contended, underscoring the importance and Hilton Hotels & Resorts, underscored of training local workers. "It is (our) obliga- the importance of guest satisfaction. He ention to develop our own people...and talent," couraged attendees to wow them with grasaid the chief executive who started his ca- cious and anticipatory hospitality service; reer as a busboy.

"Sophisticated travelers will reward you for Inzerillo, who celebrates 50 years in that, (others) will feel it." the industry next year, asserted tourism, now Inzerillo was president of Kerzner En10 percent of global GDP, is "the single, tertainment Group, where he raised the visigreat ambassador of humanity in the world bility of the company and the profile of its because it celebrates all the stuff that's in our properties in the Bahamas, Dubai, the Indian soul."

Ocean, Mexico, "It is not growing incrementally, it is Morocco, Africa, Mauritius and Maldives. exploding...we are in the right place at the Inzerillo oversaw the production and launch right time. What is going to happen in travel of several legendary properties, including the in the next five years is breathtaking," he re- opening of the billion-dollar Phase 111 of Atmarked, highlighting trends such as multi- lantis in the Bahamas in May 2007 and the generational family travel, women traveling $1.5 billion Atlantis-Dubai on Palm Island in in groups and millennial travel.

2008, which received worldwide media covHowever, he lamented it has never been (continued on page 9)

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BAHAMIAN NAMED CARIBBEAN HOTEUER OF THE YEAR BAHAMIAN hotelier Stuart Bowe a focus on leadership and organizational Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. was named the 2016 Caribbean Ho- change.

Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie, Also in winners' row on SunHIEF telier of the Year by the Carib-bean in a taped congratulatory message, described day, Barbadian Heather Hinds, CHIEF J Hotel and Tourism Association Bowe as "an exemplar" to be followed by gen- General Cook at The Club Barba(CHTA). erations of Bahamians. "He is a manager cum dos Resort & Spa, was named Bowe, the Senior Vice President and Gen- laude, one who has brought the pursuit of ex- Caribbean Employee of the Year, eral Manager, Resort Operations of Atlantis cellence to his work ...(and) on behalf of the while Jamaica's Derrick Wright, an Paradise Island, received the coveted honor at people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, income auditor at The Tyrall Club CAilW INDUSTr the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange it is entirely on their behalf that I salute you for in Jamaica was named Caribbean Forum (CHIEF), hosted by CHTA, in Fajardo, all that you have been able to do."

Supervisor of the Year. James HepPuerto Rico on Sunday.

"Stuart Bowe personifies Caribbean excel- pie, President and CEO of the Accepting the region's premier hospitality lence. He is disciplined and innovative and a Aruba Hotel and Tourism Associaaward, Bowe credited his grandmother with leader who inspires generations of Bahamians tion, captured the Caribbean AssoUl teaching him service and attention to detail and Caribbean people through his accomplish- ciation Executive of the Year from "cleaning up the kitchen." ments and his humanity," said Frank Comito, Award.

Bowe's contribution to the hospitality and Director General and CEO of the CHTA who CHIEF also presented awards tourism industry spans more than 27 years, hav- previously served as Executive Vice President in the areas of Operations, Sales and ing "cut his teeth" in customer service and man- of the Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Association.

Marketing, Environmental SustainIEF OSPITAIIT Y agement working at McDonald's in his teenage Bowe was posted to Dubai from 2008 to ability and Technology, the four years and entering the industry as a manage- 2010 to oversee the grand opening of the At- themes of the conference. ment trainee. lantis, Palm Jumeirah, serving as Vice President In Operations, Ocean Two He subsequently worked his way up the of Resort Operations in the Middle East.

Resort & Residences of Barbados ladder, storing and absorbing every experience Returning to The Bahamas, he became ac- was the winner with special men- Stuart Bowe receives the coveted award to hone his leadership skills. Over the years he tive in the Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Associa- tion going to Baoase Luxury Resort has worked in every department and in nearly tion, establishing numerous school programs to in Cura9ao and Puerto Rico's El from Karolin Troubetzkoy, President of the all job categories, from dishwasher to busboy, help children understand the importance of Conquistador Resort.

Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. from bartender to laundry attendant, from tourism and career opportunities in the sector.

Photo credit; Suzanne Ludwig - Ludwiy & Co. For the best practice in Sales| housekeeping to maintenance, and from front The junior hotelier program he was instrumen- and Marketing, the winner was Barin Jamaica with special honors going to Aruba's desk to landscaping. tal in setting up in primary and secondary bados' Elegant Hotels Group with The Somer- Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort and Trae Blue Bay Stuart earned a BAin accounting in 1986 schools has impacted more than 4,000 students. set on Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, and Boutique Resort of Grenada. from Florida State University, an MBA in marNow in his third consecutive term, Stuart Synapse, LLC, a digital marketing agency in The recipient of the CHIEF Award for keting summa cum laude from Walden Univer- Bowe is the longest serving President of the Ba- Puerto Rico, getting special honors.

Technology was the Aruba Tourism Authority sity in 2009 and is currently pursuing a PhD in hamas Hotel & Tourism Association, and he The recipient of the CHIEF Award for En- and its advertising agency Concept Farm. applied management and decision sciences with currently serves as First Vice President of the vironmental Sustainability was The Tryall Club

TRAVEL LEADER CALLS FOR URGENT INVESTMENT IN CARIBBEAN HUMAN RESOURCES www.chtachief.com or call +1 305 443(from page 8) 3040. erage and was featured on the cover of ABOUT THE CARIBBEAN HOTEL Newsweek. He also served as chief operatAND TOURISM ing officer of Sun City, the unique South ASSOCIATION (CHTA) African resort complex built by Sol The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Kerzner.

Association (CHTA) is the Caribbean's leading association representing tourism ABOUT CHIEF CHIEF incorporates a variety of ed- interests for national hotel and tourism ucational tracks led by experts from many associations. For more than 50 years, the travel, tourism and hospitality industry seg- Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association ments, and features round table panels has been the backbone of the Caribbean with one-on-one discussions on Environ- hospitality industry. Working together mental Sustainability, Operations, Sales with 1,000 hotel and allied members and and Marketing, and Technology. CHIEF is 32 National Hotel Associations, CHTA is staged by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism shaping the Caribbean's future and helpAssociation (CHTA) in conjunction with ing members to grow their business. host sponsors El Conquistador, A Waldorf Whether navigating new worlds like social Astoria Resort, Interval International and media, sustainability, legislative issues, JetBlue Getaways; strategic partners Mas- emerging technologies, data and intelliterCard and Tambourine; platinum spon- gence or looking for avenues and ideas to sors Cable and Wireless and Travelzoo; and better market and manage businesses, gold sponsors Airbnb, Bonnier Corpora- CHTA is helping members on issues that tion, CaribbeanJobs.com, Choice Hotels matter most. further information, visit International, Clear Channel Airports Di- For vision, Delta Air Lines, Johnson Controls, mnv.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, KMPG, Source; Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Landmark Vineyards, Lutron Electronics, Association OBM International, Oracle Hospitality, Contact: Greta Andzenge, Marketplace Rainmaker, Site Minder, Sobel Westex, SoExcellence + 1 201 861-2056 jern, STR, TravAlliance Media, TravelClick, Tropical Shipping, TSA Solutions, greta@ marketplaceexcellence .com and Univar Environmental Sciences. For Bevan Springer, Marketplace Excellence, additional information about CHIEF, visit 1812 Front Street, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

NATURE ADAPTS ITS FORM TO ITS FUNCTION

Dr. Basil Springer's "The Lord will guide you continually ... and you shall be like a watered garden, like a Column spring of water, whose waters never fail."

— Isaiah 58:11 keting, a form of Internet rw Thether it be the sweeping eagle in his flight, or the marketing that utilizes 1 &*sf0**r0 open apple-blossom, the toiling work-horse, the social networking web9 ▼ T blithe swan, the branching oak, the winding stream sites as a marketing tool, & * at its base, the drifting clouds and over all the coursing sun form which helps increase O <0 brand exposure and ever follows function, and this is the law . . . Sullivan, Louis H. 9r O broaden customer reach.

3 (1896). "The Tall Office Building Artistically Considered". LippinUnder the operations cott's Magazine (March 1896): 403-409. business system, the function is to apply sciImplied in the above examples, all WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE entific and other knowlfrom Nature, is the fact that nature adapts WORLD OF BUSINESS? its form to its function. The eagle's large Under the corporate governance busi- edge to produce prowings, large beak, sensitive eyes and ness system, the organizational chart helps fitable products for the strong talons enable it to function effec- to organize the workplace. The trend is now betterment of mankind. tively as a bird of prey. An open apple- towards a virtual organization whose mem- The form is introducing blossom facilitates fertilization towards a bers are geographically apart yet they lever- innovative ideas through original and creative bountiful harvest. The muscular build of a age technology to stay connected. *-« Under the investment finance busi- thinking. toiling work horse makes it ideal for the Vfl IIM it 111 Under the human hauling of heavy loads, plowing fields and ness system, there is a need for capital and other tasks that require pulling ability. The working capital finance and there is an resource development blithe swan exemplifies a happy and care- emerging innovative movement to widen business system we need ors and glorious scents and let us observe free existence where the focus is on the the base from which this financing may to encourage a mind-set of abundance her secrets, governed by His guidance, and beauty, elegance, grace, divinity and come in the form of crowdfunding — among our human resources and then inmap them appropriately into the way we splendour of their reflection in the water. www.crowdfundinghacks.com/differ- troduce the practice of positive affirmations of passion, persistence and patience conduct our day-to-day business lives.

A mature branch-ing oak tree provides ent-types-of-crowdfunding.

Under the marketing business sys- to attract abundance in their holistic health (Dr. Basil Springer GCM is shelter for hundreds of moths, birds, and (spiritual energy, physical, emotional re- Change-Engine Consultant, Carib-bean tem, a vital role of any company is to idenbugs. tify and source or produce potentially lationships, mental, financial and busi- Business Enterprise Trust Inc. - CBET. The history of the evolution of the successful and innovative products for a ness), leading to happiness.

His email address is basilgfsy® species on earth may reveal a consistency given marketplace and then promote them Let us value the time spent with na- gmail.com and his columns may be with the postulate that form ever follows by differentiating them from similar prod- ture and on our spiritual blanket in quiet found at www.cbetmodel.org and ucts. The new trend is social media mar- with God. Let us observe her vibrant col- www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com.) function.

ST. JOHN'S, ANTIGUa - Antigua and Barbuda is the perfect place to escape to for an exciting weekend this October.

From October 28 - October 30, join us in this beautiful twin-island and experience the biggest gospel music festival in the region. Enjoy the beauty of 365 beaches and be blessed with the ministry of some of the world's greatest worship leaders and musicians.

Scheduled the same week of Antigua and Barbuda's 35th Independence Celebrations, Antigua Gospelfest 2016 presents for the first time in Antigua, the six-time Grammy Award Winner Worship Leader, Israel Hough ton & New Breed.

The organisers Emerge Antigua, along with the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Antigua and Barbuda Toimsm Authority and other main sponsors are pleased to offer this level of event to the people of Antigua & Barbuda, surrounding islands and expected international patrons.

Israel Houghton will attract a wide range of people from all church backgrounds.

"Israel Houghton is undoubtedly one of the most prominent church music influences within the Caribbean, with songs broadcast and sung weekly island-wide," said the Organisers.

Also announced for Antigua Gospelfest are international favourites Jonathan Nelson (USA), DJ Nicholas (Jamaica), and multiaward winning Gospel Artist Sherwin Gardner; regional Caribbean favourites Blessed Messenger (Trinidad and Tobago), Joshua Ali (Trinidad and Tobago) and Neesha Woodz

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(Barbados). Gospel lovers can also catch performances by hometown artistes such as Emerge Gospel Challenge winners Peetron Thomas, Domell Simon, Young Phenom and many more, who will perform at the event alongside Antigua's Gospel Sensations Romancia Kingston and Naycha K.I.D. For GospelFest Antigua ticketing information visit; www.gospelfestantigua.com, facebook.com/GFAntigua or twitter.com/ GFAntigua.

For United Kingdom and European patrons visit www.festival2k.com for special travel offers and booking.

ABOUT ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Antigua (pronounced An-tee'ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew' da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Voted the World Travel Awards 2015 and 2016 Caribbean's

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a, m Most Romantic Destination, the twin-island paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating exclusions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches — one for every day of the year.

The largest of the British Leeward Islands, Antigua comprises 108-square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson's Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort as listed UNESCO World Heritage site, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Antigua's tourism events calendar includes the prestigious Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, and the annual Antigua Carnival; known as the Caribbean's Greatest

Summer Festival. Barbuda, Antigua's smaller sister island, is the ultimate celebrity hideaway. The island lies 27 miles north-east ot Antigua and is just a 15-minute plane ride away. Barbuda is known for its untouched 17 mile stretch of pink sand beach and as the home of the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere. Find information on Antigua & Barbuda at; www. visitantiguabarbuda.com Maria Blackman Marketing Communicationsl Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority - HEAD OFFICE I 3rd Floor I ACB Building I Corner ol High and Temple Sts.l St. John's Antigua (Office +1 268 562 7600 (Direct Line): +1 268 464 7601 Website: visitantiguabarbuda.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

Glorious (from page 4) vention by the prophet Moses. In 2017, Passover begins Monday 10 April and ends Tuesday 18 April.

SHAVUOT On this holiday, Jews renew their acceptance of G-d's gift of the Torah, which most observant Jews study throughout the first night of the holiday. Men, women and children should go to the synagogue on the first day of Shavuot to hear the reading of the Ten Commandments. In the USA, Shavuot is a two-day holiday, whereas in Israel it is one day.

SUKKOT Sukkot, Feast of Booths, Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of the Ingathering is the last of the pilgrimage festivals. It commemorates the 40-year period when the Israelites wandered in the desert.

Since they lived in temporary dwellings, Jews construct a Sukkah (temporary hut) at the beginning of the festival. In ancient times people would live in it and eat every meal there. These days, persons build it in their backyards or help their synagogue constract one for the community. This year, Sukkot will be observed Sunday 16 October and ends Sunday 23 October.

ROSH HASHANAH In Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah means

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Judaism "head of the year" or "first of the year", literally the beginning of the year. Thus, it is known as the Jewish New Year. The Bible refers to the holiday as Yom HaZikkaron, the day of remembrance (Leviticus 23:24-25). Observant Jews spend most of the day in the synagogue.

It is a common practice during this holiday to dip apples in honey as a symbol of wishing for happy and prosperous (sweet) New Year. This year, the holiday was observed October 2,2016 — nightfall October 4, 2016 YOM KTPPTIR This is arguably the most important Jewish holiday. The word means "Day of Atonement." It is a time to make amends for the sins of the past year. Yom Kippur is a complete Sabbath (Sabbath of Sabbaths) dominated by praying and fasting.

One is supposed to refrain from eating and drinking (even water) on Yom Kippur. Sex is also prohibited. It is a complete, 25-hour fast beginning before sunset on the evening before Yom Kippur and ending after nightfall on the day of Yom Kippur. Women in childbirth (from the beginning of labour until 3 days after birth) and children under 9 are not permitted to fast. Most of the day is spent in the synagogue in prayer.

I bid you, Shalom aleichem (Unto you peace).

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K be 97 next month and I am now old enough, that I don't even need a driver's license anymore."

He asked "How do you know that?"

"The last time I went to my doctor, he examined me and asked if I had a driver's license.

I told him, yes and I handed it to him. He took the scissors out of the drawer, cut the license into pieces, and threw them in the waste basket, saying, 'You won't need that anymore.' So I thanked him and left!"

Fall out As a group of soldiers stood in formation at an Army Base, the Drill Sergeant said, "All right! All you idiots fall out."

As the rest of the squad wandered away, one soldier remained at attention. The Drill Instructor walked over until he was eye to eye with him, and then raised a single eyebrow.

The soldier smiled and said, "Sure was a lot of'em, huh, sir?"

Blind Man is Here ANun was taking a shower one day and she heard the door bell ring, she yelled "Who is it?"

And the person ringing the door bell yelled, "I'm the blind man."

So the Nun got out of the shower and wrapped her hair in a towel, she didn't bother putting a towel around herself because the person behind the door was blind.

She opened the door and said, "What do you want?", and the man said, "I'm here to check your blinds."

Too Old To Drive My neighbor was working in his yard when he was startled by a late model car that came crashing through his hedge and ended up in his front lawn.

He rushed to help an elderly lady driver out of the car and sat her down on a lawn chair.He said with excitement, "You appear quite elderly to be driving."

"Well, yes, I am," she replied proudly. "I'll

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

i

9

I

will

not

resign

-says fraud accused Duncan

By Ariana Gordon FRAUD accused, trade unionist and Commissioner on the Public Service Commission, Police Service Commission and the Judicial Service Commission, Carvil Duncan, has made it clear that he will not be stepping down from his posts.

"I will not resign! Because I hold a constitutional office and my term in office is set out in my mandate, the instrument given to me."

Duncan told reporters on Wednesday morning.

Duncan's statement comes almost two weeks after the David Granger-led administration swore in a three-member tribunal to inquire, investigate and recommend whether Duncan.

the Chairman and other appointed member of the Public Service Commission should be removed from office.

Duncan described the tribunal set up by President David Granger in September as "double jeopardy." noting that he is before the courts based on the allegations of fraud levelled against him.

"The commission is double jeopardyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; you can't try a person for a matter that is tried in court... and the Constitution speaks of a presumption of innocence until proven guilty." said a beaming Duncan.

Duncan was charged with fraud following alleged financial irregularities at the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated where he served as a board member.

That aside, he reportedly

has not been functioning effectively as commissioner.

Earlier this year. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo wrote Duncan asking him to show cause why a tribunal should not be established to address the question of his removal from constitutional office.

Duncan never responded to the Prime Minister.

The APNU+AFC coalition government had attempted to remove Duncan from the commission, but was unsuccessful as Duncan refused to cooperate.

President Ganger had said that the criminal charges laid against Duncan as a commissioner on three Constitutional bodies did not augur well.

As such. Prime Minister Nagamootoo advised that

Fraud accused Carvil Duncan Duncan ought to be given the right to defend the charges levelled against him.

Due to his failure to answer to the commission, the Prime Minister then recommended to President Granger that a tribunal be established to investigate whether Duncan should be removed from the constitutional bodies.

In accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution

of Guyana. Justice Roxanne George . Chairperson of the tribunal. Justice (ret'd) Winston Patterson and Attomey-at-Law Robert Ramcharranwere sworn in before President David Granger.

The tribunal has begun its work and is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the President by the end of October.

"It represents the commitment of this Administration for due process. We are obliged that when matters are brought to our attention that the response should not be hasty, arbitrary or whimsical and that, we follow the Constitution both in spirit and in letter." President Granger said at the swearing-in of the three-member tribunal.

Duncan, who is also President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) and General Secretary of the Guyana

Labour Union, was charged jointly with former Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) Aershwar Deonarine over the unapproved transfer of approximately $29M to their personal bank accounts from the PetroCaribe fund.

Duncan, when he was first charged, was placed on $1M bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. It was alleged that Duncan stole $984,900 from GPL on March 31, 2015 at Georgetown, after conspiring with Deonarine to commit the act of simple larceny. It is also alleged that Duncan conspired with Deonarine to commit a felony between May 7 and 8 in Georgetown, where he conspired to steal G$27,75 7,500, property of GPL. He has denied these charges.

Old Age Pension likely

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Innocent

CN Sharma relieved after rape charge dismissed

By Crystal Stoll THE rape charge against leader of the Justice for All Party (JFAP), Chandra Narine Sharma has been dismissed after the victim refused to testify against him in the High Court on Tuesday.

Sharma was committed to stand trial in the High Court three years ago and the case was dismissed

by Justice James BovellDrakes when the October session of the Demerara Assizes began Tuesday.

He was charged with two counts of carnal knowledge of a girl under 15 years, three counts of carnal knowledge of a girl under 12 years, and one count of indecent assault. He was represented by Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Sharma maintained his innocence and expressed relief, noting that the matter has been ongoing for some six years now. "I feel good because

the matter has been dismissed; I am innocent," he said.

He said he was unaware that the case would have engaged the court's attention this week.

"Is the DPP put forward for the case to be dismissed.

I was informed through Jaipaul from someone at the court system. We were very surprised. Usually they would send a notice a week before the hearing, but this year no notice didn't come," the politician said.

The rape allegations In a sworn affidavit, the victim alleged that Sharma sexually molested her and her sisters (who were at the time nine and five years old respectively), with the consent of their mother. The girl said the abuse stopped only when she refused to return to her mother's home.

The girl claimed that she would receive $2000 weekly from Sharma.

The JFAP leader was remanded to prison by then Chief Magistrate Melissa

Ogle-Robertson in 2010, when he made his first appearance. The case was said to be very dramatic, since Sharma had collapsed in front of media cameras as he made his way out of the prisoners" chute. As a result, he was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he regained consciousness. Sharma was later granted bail in the sum of $2 million.

Consequently, after a Preliminary Inquiry (PI), Sharma was committed to stand trial back in May 2013, after the presiding Magistrate Sueanna Lovell found that a prima facie case had been made out against the popular television owner.

Medical complications Sharma, who became popular through his television programmes which gave a voice to the poor, said he has been unable to host the programme for quite some time due to his medical issues.

He said he has suffered

L

Chandra Narine Sharma three strokes and as a result he cannot deliver as before. "I have a speech problem, I had three strokes, two head strokes, my memory completely gone," said Sharma. He hopes to appear on this Saturday's 'Voice of the People' programme.

to reach $20,000

By Ravin Singh DESPITE no firm commitment from the Government, persons who benefit from Old Age Pension could possibly receive S20,000 from 2017 as Government strives to fulfil one of its pre-elections promises - a significant increase in Old Age Pension.

On Wednesday, at an event to mark the beginning of the Month of the Elderly held at the Umana Yana, Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence hinted at a possible increase in Old Age Pension, which would take it to $20,000.

"We have begun to fulfil our promise of providing you with a pension of $20,000. We are just shy of meeting that mandate by $1,800. And as you and I and so many of us continue to pray and ask God to shower his blessing, we will see what the Lord will provide for us when the Minister of Finance lays the budget in Parliament," Minister Lawrence said.

The APNU+AFC coalition, during the May 2015 elections campaign had committed in a ' 100 Days Plan' to provide a "significant increase in Old Age Pension."

Upon assumption of office last year, the coalition Government increased pensions from $13,125 to 17,000. In 2016, it was again increased from 17,000 to 18,200.

And with an expected target of $20,000, the Government is just short of this amount by $1,800, which pensioners could possibly receive from next year.

However, confirmation of this will be announced in December of this year when Finance Minister Winston Jordan presents the 2017 Budget in the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, confirmation of a programme to support children and grandchildren of the elderly was given.

"In 2017, we will be looking at a programme where we can give assistance to your children and grandchildren by providing caregivers for those boys and girls who really need it, so they can remain in the home and give that support."

Following this statement, the minister went on to suggest that the senior citizens of Guyana are "celebrated" as is evident through efforts to recognise their contributions to Guyana and to protect their rights.

"I want to assure you that the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Social Protection will hold true to our commitment to honour you. We want to do more. We will ensure that as we go forward with our policy that we seek to meet our mandate," the minister said.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

13

Will City Hall and the Vendors ever Cooperate for Guyana The popular Guyanese patriotic song, "Let Us Cooperate for Guyana", which was composed by Billy Pilgrim, is still as popular as when it was first composed some 50 years ago. At that time in Guyana's history, there was unprecedented nationalistic fever with Guyanese all across the newly independent nation of Guyana. It was a period when Guyanese composers worked feverishly in producing creative works such as songs, poems, plays, dances, paintings, pottery, jewellery; all with special Guyanese imagery.

Almost everyone seemed to have gone the extra mile in with buntings of the national colours, and the Golden Airowcreating something which was uniquely Guyanese. There head — the National Hag of Guyana - was displayed as never was, for example. The Guyana BOOM; a musical sound, if happened in over four decades. The Jubilee Year Logo was you will, developed by Thomas Charles of Victoria Village also displayed almost everywhere, including on vehicles.

Since January of this Jubilee Year, there is a group of about 50 volunteers — both Guyanese and Non-Guyanese

by FRANCIS QUAMINA FARRIER —who give one hour a week of their time to cleanup the Georgetown seawalls. They are there every on the East Coast of Demerara. That Guyanese musical icon Tuesday from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. and all are welcome was the Leader of the very popular band of that era, "Tom to join them is such a patriotic exercise.

Charles and the Syncopators," which dominated the musical On the afternoon of Saturday May 16, 2015, just scene during the 1960s and 1970s. after his swearing-in as Guyana's eight President, That early Guyanese patriotic fervor seemed to have Brigadier David Arthur Granger, stood on the balwaned as the years went by, and Guyanese seemed much cony of the Public Buildings in Georgetown, and inmore interested in migrating to other countries, which for vited the massive crowd in the fore court and on them, seemed to have greener pastures. With the change of Brickdam, to join hands and sing that popular Billy government at the May 2015 General Elections, and the ar- Pilgrim patriotic song, "Let Us Cooperate for rival of Guyana's 50th Independence Anniversary in 2016, Guyana." It was a moment in time which everyone there came like a tsunami, another surge of National Patriot- who was there, will always remember. ism.

During the following months, the new Coalition The Guyanese People were once again displaying their Government commenced a massive clean-up camLove of Country. Many private buildings were embellished paign of the city of Georgetown. Many of the principal canals in the city which were silted-up W and over-run with tall weeds and other vegetation, were cleaned.

The massive mounds of garbage vm all across the city, were also carted away, and there was a ■i breath of fresh air blowing across Guyana's Capital City; an fill llll umm the first in decades.

IIII llll llll At this time, many of the - i nmiii III(: II. streets in Georgetown which were in a horrible state of disrepair for many years, have already being resurfaced, and the TT citizens of the city of Georgetown are pleased. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure is continuing the all-round up-grading, and even as 1 am writing this feature, the works are on-going.

3 However, there is one street

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which is proving to be a bit of a challenge for the Ministry of Public Infrastructure to resurface; and that has nothing to do with the actual resurfacing. It has to do with the cooperation between City Hall and a group of Vendors who ply their trade there.

The two short blocks of Bottrda Street from North Road to Regent Street, has been in a horrible condition for many years. It is mainly used by pedestrians who do shopping from the Vendors there. Those two blocks of Bourda Street are just horrible, with many large and deep pot holes. Most of the traffic on that street is pedestrian — just about two percent is vehicular. Over the more recent years, there have been many injuries to pedestrians who use those two blocks of Bourda Street. Recently an elderly lady sprained her ankle while

r

o walking on that street, fell, and seriously injured her head.

She had to be hospitalized.

In order to facilitate the resurfacing of that street, the vendors will have to be relocated for a few days; probably for over a week. And that's where the virtue of COOPERATION will be badly needed. The City Hall will have to relocate the Vendors in a professional way, and the Vendors will have to accept that temporary relocation.

Will such cooperation be forthcoming? Will the Ministry of Public Infrastructure be given the opportunity to resurface those two blocks of Bourda Street before the Christmas holidays? Will the citizens of Georgetown who use that section of Bourda Street, have another thing to cheer the Ministry of Public Infrastructure for?

The two stakeholders — City Hall and the Vendors — can all start by probably holding hands, and together sing that Billy Pilgrim patriotic song, "Let Us Cooperate for Guyana." as they happily relocate and let the Heavy Duty equipment of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure roll in and get the job done.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

Lewis

...

sworn

By Svetlana Marshall GEORGE Allan Lewis was sworn in as the 9th Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) by Commander-in-Chief and President, David Granger on Monday shortly after being promoted to the rank of Brigadier.

He took the oath of office before the Prime Minister (ag) and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; Minister of State Joseph Harmon and the outgoing Chiefof-Staff, Mark Phillips, during a simple ceremony

in

takes

as

at the Officers Mess at Base Camp Ayanganna.

Senior functionaries within the GDF were also present, along with relatives of the new Chief-ofStaff. President Granger, in offering congratulatory remarks, said Brigadier Lewis" appointment was in accordance with the Defence Act, noting too that he was the most appropriate person for the position. '"The board deliberated, the board discussed and the board decided on the retirement of Brigadier Mark Phillips,"' the President said while adding that the "fittest person to be appointed

new

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President David Granger and the outgoing Chief of Staff Brigadier Mark Phillips decorating the new Chief of Staff, Brigadier George Allan Lewis with his new badge of rank at Base Camp Ayanganna (Samuel Maughn photo)

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the Chief-of-Staff was Colonel George Allan Lewis."

He added: "The Board is confident that Brigadier Lewis is the most senior and best qualified officer to perform the functions of the high office of Chief-ofStaff."

Now in office. Brigadier Lewis has the responsibility to give guidance to the force under the watch of the Defence Board.

"The Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force therefore has an unambiguous mandate within the law to apply his military education, his military expertise and his military experience to protect the citizens and defend the territorial integrity of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in accordance with the Defence Act, under the Authority of the Defence Board and in accordance with the directives of the Minister."

President Granger also used the opportunity to offer the Board's appreciation to the outgoing Chief-ofStaff for his service to the

people of Guyana. Brigadier Phillips, who entered office in August 2013, was applauded for his conduct of exercises Greenheart and HomeGUARD. According to the President, the outgoing Chief-of- Staff displayed high levels of administrative preparedness and operational readiness.

In a brief interview with media operatives.

Brigadier Lewis said he had long aspired to be the Chief-of-Staff of the GDF. "As I grew in rank...the thought started crossing my mind and today it has been achieved," he told reporters shortly after the ceremony ended.

In moving the force forward, Brigadier Lewis said he intends to tackle many challenges facing the GDF. "Our mandate is to provide border defense, (however), we have some challenges there which we definitely have to work on and it may involve some amount of recapitalisation, acquisition of new equipment and so on," he stated.

However, he noted

that these challenges are being discussed and will be solved in conjunction with the Defense Board.

"We have identified the issues and we are working to resolve them," the Chief-of-Staff emphasised.

In addition, to his wealth of experience in the army, the Chief-of- Staff in 2003, acquired his Bachelor's Degree in Public Management from the University of Guyana; Three years later, in 2006 he achieved his Master's Degree in Human Resources Management from the Central Michigan University.

Additionally, he has received more than six awards, which included the Military Efficiency Medal (Guyana 1993), the 25th Anniversary Medal (Guyana 1990), the United Nations Peace Keeping Medal (United Nations Mission in Haiti 1996), the Military Service Medal (Guyana 2011) and Colaborador Emerito do Exercito Medalla do Pacificador from Brazil in 2011.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

Army

—says

By Alva Solomon AT APPROXIMATELY 17:20 hrs on Monday, at Camp Ayanganna outgoing Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips officially handed over command of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to his successor, newly-promoted Brigadier George Lewis.

Brigadier Phillips, who proceeds on retirement leave today, has put on notice that the military remains in good hands as he called on the nation to view the military as a call to service, rather than an avenue of employment.

The change of command was witnessed by dozens of persons, including President David Granger, acting Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Carl Greenidge. among other senior Government officials and members of the Disciplined Services.

Former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds was also in attendance.

In his farewell speech.

Brigadier Phillips, who served the GDF for almost 36 years, expressed appreciation to the former Donald Ramotar Government for selecting him to lead the GDF as its 8th Chief of Staff.

Equally, he expressed appreciation to the APNU+AFC Government for expressing confidence in him as he continued serving as leader of the military, post -May 2015.

in

outgoing "This vote of confidence by both major political grouping in Guyana I consider a fitting testimony to my earlier commitment and promise to the people of Guyana to let professionalism be my guide on assuming the office of Chiefof-Staff on the 17th of September 2013." he added.

He said prior to assuming command of the Force, he considered himself well prepared for any leadership position within the GDF. including his last post.

Brigadier Phillips noted that he was "fully aware" of the principle purpose of the Army, which he said is to provide the potential for securing the nation, the freedom of the populace and the promotion of national interests.

He said that this captured clearly what is required of the senior leadership of the Army.

Under his tenure, he said that the Army was vigilant and ready to defend defined aggression on the country's borders, as well as to support the civilian authorities in protecting national interests.

He said his term was also one characterised by increased training activities and a high operational tempo.

He also highlighted the GDF's role and state of readiness for the May 2015 general elections, as well as Local Government Elections earlier this year.

15

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Chief-of-Staff Mark Phillips

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is

1

Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, George Lewis shares a word with President David Granger during the change of command parade Brigadier Phillips added that the Army was "busy" with contingency planning and reinforcement exercises to better define aggression on the nation's borders, a point he reiterated as he spoke.

To this end, he called for the immediate acquisition of air and maritime assets to safeguard the country. He said this will assist in greater "domain awareness" over the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as well as ensure a faster operational reach into the hinterland and border areas.

As he noted the substan-

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tial numbers of recruits in recent years, he said that "attracting. employing, training and retaining good people remain a critical function of the Guyana Defence Force".

As the sun set in the distance. Brigadier Phillips expressed appreciation to all officers and ranks who

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participated in the parade on Monday, as well as his staff who supported him during his time as leader of the military.

He said he always wanted to end his career with energy and flare, and it happened.

He quoted author Robert Greene to this effect and ap-

plauded the supporting role of his family members, including his wife and children.

Earlier on Monday, President Granger promoted Colonel George Allan Lewis to the rank of Brigadier, before swearing him in as the ninth Chiefof-Staff of the Force.

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The parade commander leads his team during the event on Monday afternoon

Brigadier Mark Phillips during his final address to the GDF

16

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

President

Guyanese

to

urges

share

Canadian-based

in

plans

and

dreams

Spectacular awards ceremony climaxes Jubilee celebrations TORONTO, Canada - President David Granger Is urging Guyanese living in Canada to share in the plans and dreams to make Guyana the most beautiful and bountiful country in the entire Caribbean.

Addressing a packed audience on Saturday night last at the Brighton Convention and Events Centre in Scarborough,Toronto via a video link from Iwokrama on the bank of the Essequibo -■> river, President Granger disclosed that those plans and dreams include developing the country into a green state and "trying to preserve Guyana in as much the same way our parents handed it over to us."

Saturday night's spectacular awards and gala ceremony, which was attended by Guyana's High Commissioner to Canada Mrs Clarissa Riehl, acting Consular General Mrs Mishelle Butters, members of the diplomatic corps Federal and Provincial representatives, saw several outstanding Guyanese men and women who have made significant contribution to the Guyanese diaspora in Canada being honoured and also culminated activities for the 50th Independence activities here.

The president reminded those present that Guyana possesses the most amazing biodiversity and by becoming a green state, "we celebrate that biodiversity and I wish you were here to see the powerful animals — the largest eagle in the world, the largest anaconda, the most powerful predator in the continent, the largest river otters, all of these animals, over 20 of them, be- sistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and a long to the country of your birth." globally renowned cardiologist involved in teaching, research According to President Granger, "as you celebrate the 50th and practice.

Arts and Culture - Kwame Damon Mason has been workBy FREDERICK HALLEY ing in the Canadian entertainment industry since 1996 and got > < his name out there thanks to popular radio stations like KISS anniversary in Canada, I want you to think of your homeland 92.5 in Toronto. and in thinking of your homeland, I want you to know where we Business Excellence: Ms Violet Smith hails from are going. We are not standing still, we are developing a green Bartica/Mazamni and is a geologist with over 30 years experistate. We do believe that the green path we have selected is the ence in mineral exploration and a person dedicated to the develcorrect path and we want you to understand our policies..." opment of the mining sector in Guyana.

Ontario's Premier Kathleen Wynne, who also delivered a Business Excellence: Ken Singh's visionary and entrepretelevised message, commended the committee responsible for neurial ambitions led to the start of his own freight and cargo business, Atlas cargo in September 1986 and he is now a substantial key player in global logistics business.

■rV Professionalism: Bishop Joseph Fisher is the founder and senior pastor of The Family Worship Centre located in Pickering,

1

A Vjs Pere DeRoy displays her award for the Individual Under-30 category. Co-chairs Edith Bynoe and Winston Kassim are in attendance. (Pictures, courtesy of Bobby Ramlagan). the gala and those who devoted their time and energy to its success. "Take pride in knowing that by bringing people together to celebrate the anniversary of Guyana's Independence, you are making our province a stronger, more connected place."

In congratulating the awards recipients, the premier declared that she is grateful for the vital contributions that they continue to make to Guyana, to the Guyanese diaspora in Canada and to the province's social, economic and cultural fabric.

In her greetings, High Commissioner Riehl reminded the audience not to forget "that we have a lot of work ahead of us to continue and build upon the progress we have made thus far as a nation.

"We have to promote Guyana as a place to do business, to generate industries and to those who love nature, as a place to relax among the flora and fauna of our beautiful country."

According to Riehl, "Guyana needs all of us, those who have remained at home and those who are in the diaspora here in Canada, so that our nation will continue to grow and prosper."

The list of awardees follow: Academic Excellence; Dr Vivian Rambihar an Adjunct As-

i

Kwame Damon Mason being congratulated by Edith Bynoe before receiving his award in the Arts and Culture category. who identified the need for their parents and other seniors to socialize and enjoy the camaraderie and togetherness they experienced while living in Guyana.

Education: Patricia Moore is a retired teacher from the Toronto and District School Board who continues to do occasional work in high risk areas of the city.

Community Service: Dhaman Kissoon has been an active community leader and philanthropist and in 1990 was elected co-chair of the South Asian Consultative Committee with the Toronto Police Service, a position he held for 10 years.

Community Service: Dr Budhendranauth Doobay (Order of Ontario) is known and recognized worldwide for his hard work and dedication to the teachings of Hindusm.

Community Service: Janet Ferouz has over 20 years of voluntary service. She started a service during the 1990s which catered for the collection of funds, books, clothing, medical and school supplies which are packaged and sent to the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana for distribution to the poor and needy.

Science and Technology: Professor Suresh Narine was named in 2011 as one of Canada's Top 40 Under 40 Leaders. He is Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Chemistry at Trent University.

Sports: Cyclist Eon D'Ornellas attended four Olympic games, both as a Guyana and Canadian representative but for varying reasons didn't get the chance to compete in any. He is still bitter over these developments. Towards the end of his cycling career, he became a two-time Canadian national road race champion.

Individual Under 30; Pere DeRoy is a 29-year-old rs Guyanese graduate student at York University, currently pursuing a Master's in Development Studies. She moved from Guyana in 2014 in pursuit of this educational quest.

■i Posthumous awards wre also handed out to relah tives of the late Dr Rudy Grant (Education); Dr Percy mt j a Anderson (Education); Peter Pitamber (Business Excellence); Joan DeBarros (Community Service and Norman Augustus Sue-Kam-Ling (Business Excellence).

L. The co-chairs of the Guyana-Canada 50th IndeThe Ladies Ensemble rendering several of Guyana's folk songs, pendence Anniversary Awards Gala were former Guyana government minister and parliamentarian Mrs Canada, His passion for the gospel led him to leave his secular Edith Bynoe (CCH) and Winston Kassim while Mrs Butters job as an accountant and to attend Seminary.

Professionalism: Vibert Lampkin has been involved in served as patron. community service for many years, both in Guyana and Canada. He was the founding member of the Guyana Chapter of Frontiersmen of America and a founding member and president of the Guyana Theatre Players of Canada.

Professionalism: Dr Narendra Singh is Chief of Staff, Humber River Hospital, Associn ate Professor of Peditrics, McMaster University and president and founder of Guyana Help The - >* Kids (GHTK).

Community Service Organizations: c / Guyana Christian Charities is a volunteer nonprofit charitable organization, registered in Canada, dedicated to providing assistance and aid to Guyanese organizations.

Community Service Organizations: Senior Guyanese Friendship Association was formed in 1973 by a group of eight young Guyanese

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

17

Emphasis on Real Estate, TAT

Taxes and Business

S TAXES The Edgar Henry Column ■ Believe it or not, the last thing a bank wants to do is to hang on to a foreclosed property and pay the maintenance, insurance and taxes to maintain its vr'

upkeep. Remember, a bank is in the business of banking and is not a real estate broker or agent.

TRENDS With the current interest rates and the stock market looking too perilous for small investors, many people are putting money in an asset they understand which is real estate.

Although real estate is considered the better form of investment, the foreclosure process starts when a property owner falls behind on mortgage payments. The current market conditions make it a perfect time for a small investor to purchase one or more foreclosure properties for their private residence, rental, investment or resale.

During economic downturns, more upscale homes go into foreclosure, so the notion that foreclosure homes are only available in crimeridden areas is inaccurate. Beachfront and homes in affluent areas are part of the mix of available foreclosed properties. But anyone considering buying a foreclosed home should take a hard look at the scenarios.

Some experts argue the best deals can be found in pre-foreclosure, before the bank actually takes possession of the property, but this requires finding and negotiating with the owner. This could be a tough proposition at the moment as the United States is preparing for General Elections next month, where everyone seem to be unsure which direction to pursue.

So far, the U.S. housing market hasn't produced a bonanza for investors, but lenders who are stuck with foreclosed properties are becoming more inclined to slash prices or sell properties through auctions, but the current situation still exists where mortgages are not easy to come by these days. It is no secret; people with weak credit records who have taken out loans over the past year are constantly falling behind on payments at a rapid rate. The housing boom of recent years reduced foreclosure rates because most people who fell behind on their loans could refinance or quickly sell their

r-

homes for at least enough to pay off the loans.

(

TIME INVESTMENT

An inexperienced purchaser must learn to navigate the foreclosure process. The time and effort can translate to savings. For most consumers, however, the foreclosure process can prove daunting. Good buys are available, but they require research, coupled with the three P's — preparation, patience and persistence. Many owners of homes that go into foreclosure have been struggling financially for almost a year before they give up, which usually means that the house has not received needed repairs or general maintenance for a while. From missing light bulbs to roof leaks, broken appliances and windows, dirty carpets, mildew on floors and walls etc., and this could be found in even very affluent of areas.

Houses in poor condition might

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fetch bargain prices, but repairs can

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boost the cost. The first rule of real estate, "location, location, location,"

READING MATERIAL

applies in these situations. If there is trash in every room of the house, but the foreclosure is in a good area with high property resale values, hold your nose, walk through the entire house and consider making a low offer. There's nothing like a facelift

When a lender decides to foreclose on a property, a notice of default or a Us pendens (Latin for "lawsuit pending") is filed, depending on the state. This document is a public record, and for buyers, it's the first step in locating a property in foreclosure. A buyer looking for

to boost foreclosure sales

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

ICT

not

a

luxury

â&#x2013; says President at the launch of 'One Laptop Per Teacher Initiative

By Ariana Gordon GIVEN their essential role in the field of education, teachers are now mandated to use information technology in the transfer of knowledge to their pupils.

"ICT education is mandatory; citizens of the 21st century must be trained in ICT in whatever area. Every child, every teacher must be schooled in computer science and it must be mandatory at this college." said President David Granger on Wednesday at the Ministries of Public Telecommunications and Education's launch of the 'One Laptop Per Teacher Initiative.

The President said ICT should not be seen as a luxury or option, but a necessity.

"Students, teachers, lecturers. the world, has entered the information age.

Information and information technology and innovation are transforming every passage of human existence.

ICT is revolutionising education. transforming the manner in which information is assembled... changing the

way education is delivered in the classrooms." he told a packed auditorium of trainee teachers, teachers and students at the Cyril Potter College of Education. Turkey en.

The President said "any Government that wants an educated population has to have information technology as an obligation and not an option".

He called on teachers to be adequately prepared for the demands of the information age. The country's future evolution is dependent in one way or another on teachers working with ICT. "Teachers are essential to education and I don't want the students to be ahead of the teachers and you don't want the students to be left behind; teachers must become familiar with technology. [and the] gathering of information... Teachers must have greater access to ICT and its benefits and that's why we have the One Laptop Per teacher Initiative." he added.

The President said his Government is committed to expanding Internet

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A trainee teacher of the Cyril Potter College of Education was presented with a laptop on Wednesday by President David Granger as part of Government's roll-out of its One Laptop Per Teacher Initiative access to all citizens and resolves to work towards every citizen having access to the information super highway.

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President David Granger interacts with students and teachers in Berbice who were observing the launch of the One Laptop Per Teacher Initiative which was streamed live

MOVING FORWARD Guyana, he said cannot afford to be left behind in a world of ICT. "I shall continue to work to ensure that every teacher has a laptop... in the hinterland and coastland." Mr Granger said as he thanked the Chinese Government and Chinese Ambassador.

Zhang Limin for supporting the laptop programme. He also lauded the work done by Minister of Public Telecommunications. Cathy Hughes from January to now.

"Teachers must be geared to fulfil their important role in educating the students so that they can enjoy a good life in this great country."

said President Granger.

Minister Cathy Hughes described Guyana's push to become an ICT efficient country as "exciting times."

Hughes, who was appointed in January this year to captain the new Ministry. said over the past three weeks, more than 100 educational institutions and organisations have been connected to the Government's fibre-optic network.

"In one short year we have been able to provide Internet access to five regional development offices, university campuses. 10 technical vocational institutions in Regions 2. 3. 4. 5 and 6 and they are all connected to the Government network." she said.

The launch of the Government's programme See page 19

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

19

From page 18

was streamed to teachers and students at CPCE, Tain Corentyne. Minister Hughes said the event gives teachers an important tool to work with and is a "vital component of Government's all-encompassing programme to raise the national level of digital literacy and to improve inter-connectivity and most importantly it is a means to introduce Internet access to our un-served hinterland and interior locations".

DIRECT BENEFIT The Public Telecommunications Minister stressed that Guyanese students, teachers, parents, young professionals and entrepreneurs will directly benefit from the roll out of Government's ICT programme.

"There is no doubt that higher levels of Internet penetration have a direct, posi-

tive impact on higher levels of Gross Domestic Product in countries and improves the standard of living of all citizens."

Minister Hughes said teachers having laptops to perform their duties provides improved opportunities for e-education across the country. "...that is. using technology to carry a teacher in a classroom in Georgetown to an Indigenous community via platforms."

There are additional spin offs. she noted, while showing that the E-government unit of her Ministry, known as the execution arm. began a countrywide programme a few months ago to set up ICT hubs in urban and rural community centres across Guyana.

"We started out in Berbice. as far as Liverpool and Baracara up the Canje Creek; we are setting up community hubs on the East Coast and

East Bank of Berbice and Demerara and in the mining town of Linden."

It is Government's responsibility to ensure that physical infrastructure such as the fibre-optic connections and the Long Term Evolution Network (LTE) are provided along with equipment and the appropriate housing to store them.

She disclosed that many of the equipment will be stored in community centres and or post offices.

Training will also be provided to citizens to ensure they can take full advantage of the opportunities when they present themselves.

"We will be training the community managers of these ICT hubs and very shortly, the first three tech support units will be set up in RDC [Regional Democratic Council] compounds in Anna Regina. Linden and New Amsterdam." she added.

With much enthusiasm.

Minister Hughes told the students, teachers and trainee teachers, that new opportunities and possibilities will be opened along the way.

"We are looking forward to the expansion of this programme that will extend the fibre-optic and LTE networks into inland communities - into new towns like Mabaruma and Mahdia, along existing communities such as Kwakwani and Orealla on the Berbice River and Hog Island on the Essequibo River."

KEEP UP She stressed the need for Guyana to "catch up and keep up" so as to reap the benefits of living in the ICT age.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Education Minister. Dr Rupert Roopnaraine. who is currently overseas.

Technical Facilitator to the

Minister. Vincent Alexander said the One laptop Per Teacher initiative is aimed at improving the country's education system.

"What in effect we are doing is tooling teachers for improved delivery of education while preparing our students to better receive that education."

This gesture clearly exemplifies the Government's commitment to provide a quality education through the use of the latest technology." he said.

Chinese Ambassador Zhang Limin who also spoke, but through a translator. said he has been following the One Laptop Initiative closely and has been collaborating with the Government of Guyana to ensure that the project is a success.

He said given China's location to Guyana, he requested of his Government to "increase the amount of spare parts for the comput-

ers" provided.

"Education is a very important aspect of national development... it can play a very critical role in the development of our country."

Ambassador Limin said as he praised Guyana's diplomatic relations with China over the past 44 years.

Also present at the launch was Chief Education Officer (ag) Marcel Hutson.

Several of top performers at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations also received laptops.

The One Laptop Per Teacher initiative is the successor to the One Laptop per Family programme and is based on President Granger's belief that the Government should provide modem tools to ensure citizens, especially young people and children, are competitive on all levels.

Wednesday's launch coincided with World Teachers' Day.

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Some recipients of the laptops on Wednesday at the launch of the One Laptop Per Teacher Initiative stand with President David Granger, Minister of Public Telecommunications Cathy Hughes, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin, education officials and CPCE Principal Viola Rowe

20

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

APARTMENTS will, in 2017, be constructed for low income earners and state employees, Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson, has said.

such as rent-to-own and

Single and double-flat

ters, the minister pointed

you are a state employee ~ a police, soldier, nurse, teacher, etcetera, imme-

partnerships with housing developers.

In a recent interview with GINA, the minister

apartments, condominiums and duplexes are being considered, since

out that the style of buildings will not reduce the

diately you are in a category that fits the whole scenario. Income is also taken into consideration

said Government was discontinuing the 1000

these would allow for more efficient use of available lands, and financing for the condo-

individual's privacy in any way.

"You are not sharing; you have your own

for these (houses)."

homes turnkey housing project at Perseverance

(GINA) yesterday quot-

Diamond, East La Penitence and Cummings

and Providence, given the poor occupancy rate

has been proposed for the 2017 budget, the minister

ed Minister Adams-Patterson as saying: '"We are focusing on low income

Lodge are areas identified for the provision of housing using methods

and the number of people still waiting for a house

noted.

Acknowledging con-

go to the stairs or the elevator," the minister

lot.

cerns raised in some quar-

explained.

The Government Information Agency

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for housing, Valerie Adams-Patterson

and state employees. If

miniums and duplexes

space. It's a complete apartment with everything. The only space you share is when you

$51 ii fn kmses at Ptnevtrante, Ell SOME $59 million will be used to fix government-built houses at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara, and residents are eager for the works to begin and for the area to be cleaned up.

On Saturday, a "National Tree Planting Day" exercise came as a pleasant surprise for residents of the developing community, when a team from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) lead by Minister within the Communities Ministry with responsibility for housing, Valerie Patterson, Saturday delivered a number of fruit trees to their homes.

Several residents had come out to greet the minister and her team and collected their fruit trees, while other residents had the pleasure of having the items delivered to their doors.

The trees came just days after the ministry commenced what could be a massive drive to repair and complete some 200 homes in two

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r Residents who came out to collect fruit trees from the ministry months. Minister Patterson reiterated the authority's intention to have all the problems with the houses in the scheme rectified by Christmas.

The project's new manager, Kennard Dazzle, detailed that the ministry commenced physical work last Wednesday and is now preparing their onsite office, apart from the materials bond that presently exists.

He said that there are about six teams that will conduct remedial works.

This work. Dazzle noted, has been prioritised to assist those most affected by the incomplete and substandard work delivered by the ministry under the previous administration.

He explained that the CH&PA is extremely concerned about getting to those persons who are paying mortgages

on their homes. These persons are first priority since they had purchased homes but could not enter because of the incomplete works.

Aside from that, another team is expected to commence remedial works on the occupied homes and materials are already being stocked. Dazzle said he wants to improve the aesthetics and security of the community,

pointing to huge overgrown bushes, grass and an unfavourable loam road. He is also prepared to work on the water system, since the entire community is not yet covered, improve drainage and increase street lighting.

Perseverance residents were told that their upcoming neighbours may be living in condominiums and duplexes, since this is the forward-

ing idea for the completion of phases three and four of the project.

"We have considered not to continue with the same setting of the current phases," the minister said. She said instead, apartment duplexes, double apartments and three and four-storey condominiums are on the frontline.

The design for these units have already been done, and would also be built at Little Diamond and Great Diamond, and East La Penitence in the first instance.

The new ideas are not definitive, the minister said, and as such financing for the project has not been finalised, nor has the arrangement by which persons would be allocated spaces.

The Perseverance Housing Scheme consists of 200 homes, each costing $4.9m. Of that number, 141 are incomplete and the other 59 require various repairs.

Some $59 million has been released to the ministry to start its work.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

UG

to

VICE Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, has said he would ask his administration to hold off on a five percent hike in tuition following protest actions by students of the institution.

Students picketed the university on Monday. They began their protest action since last Friday, when many took to social media to vent their concerns about the tuition increase.

The Monday morning pro-

hold

test was held in front of the Registrar area, where students proudly held placards, some of which stated "Education is not a privilege, it is a right", "Not a dollar more", "Not another increase, strike the hike".

The protesters later held a meeting with the Vice Chancellor (VC) in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre, during which Griffith announced his decision to hold off on the increase. He told the students that he understands why they

off

21

on

tuition

hike

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Students gather in front of registrar, protesting the 5% increase in tuition fees.

V

Pi J -/ ^\V\ Students protesting around the GWLT area.

are angry, and to make them comfortable he has discussed with the administration that the five percent increase will not be in effect until the new academic year, 2017-2018.

In addition to the tuition hike, students raised other concerns. Student Romel Roopnaraine said he is more worried after the meeting than he was before. He noted that the stu-

dents have been complaining about issues that affect them directly at UG, while the administration has set aside over $250M in a bank account that is not being used, which was gained from students' facilities fees.

This money, he believes, could have been used to rectify the washroom conditions and to add more fans within

buildings; since, only two weeks ago, a female student fainted because of the heat in the place.

Griffith and his team explained how the money collected for facilities fees is being used. The VC promised "that by the end of the academic year students should see some improvements on the campus."

117 YEARS AFTER 1899 ARBITRAL AWARD:

Guyana

for GUYANA has condemned Venezuela again for its continued rejection of the 1899 Arbitral Award which settled the border controversy between the two countries.

And on the occasion of the 117th Anniversary of the award it reiterates its commitment to a peaceful settlement of the matter.

In a statement government through Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Monday October 3, 2016 was the 117th Anniversary of the 1899 Arbitral Award handed down in Paris and Venezuela marked the occasion on Tuesday with a "vituperative statement unworthy of a law abiding member of the internation-

condemns

continued al community." According to the Guyana Government Venezuela's statement is a reaffirmation of its disrespect for the rule of law among nations.

"It is a frenzied display of ill temper from forces with whom history has caught up revealing the tangled web of falsehoods on which their specious claims to Guyana's Essequibo were built."

"Guyana marks the occasion by the issue by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs of a booklet in English and Spanish — The New Conquistadors/Los Nuevos Conquistadores which gives an account of the Tribunal's Award and Venezuela's sixty-year recognition and respect for

L Ll

>-■

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge it." The ministry said the booklet commemorates the Award of one of the most prestigious judicial tribunals ever assembled under its most eminent Russian chairman.

"The Venezuelan state-

Venezuela

aggression

ment of October 4, 2016 perpetuates the falsities that have marked its predatory campaign and have continued in relation to Guyana's maritime space.

Its greed for territory has added a new dimension of Guyana's maritime resources," the government asserted. The New Conquistadors offers to all, the statement said "the true account of these events and illustrates the urgency of the need to bring this egregious Venezuelan misconduct to an end as the international community grapples for the supremacy of law and order worldwide."

"Guyana continues to uphold and respect the Arbitral Award of 1899. It

will defend its validity in the world's highest courts and expose Venezuela's sordid efforts to besmirch Guyana's development agenda."

The New Conquistadors, the ministry said tells the story of "these unworthy actions and the threats they continue to pose to Guyana, the Caribbean and beyond, through their attack on the sanctity of treaties on which human civilization depends."

FRAUD Meanwhile, in its statement, Venezuela expressed its rejection of what it called "the absurd and irrational actions taken by the gov-

ernment of Guyana to ignore its international commitments."

Through its statement, Venezuela said that Guyana has alluded "false protections based on lies and subterfuge" for the purpose of generating a situation of aggression against the country .

Caracas, however reaffirmed its commitment to peace to reach a solution to the controversy over the Essequibo territory, as Venezuela has requested the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, reactivate the process of good offices in force, in accordance with the established 1966 Geneva Agreement.

22

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

Outstanding

Guyanese

By Alva Solomon

represented a two-tiered

Dr Barton Scotland, who

SEVERAL persons who

event, which began when the names of those who

were both conferred with the Order of Roraima.

were recognised for their exceptional service

were recognised by the Head of State earlier in

Inderjeet Beharry of the Edward B Beharry

to the country were bestowed with awards on

accordance of the Constitution of Guyana.

Group of and Companies and Roman Catholic

Thursday afternoon by President David Granger.

Speaking at the 2016

He said at the inception, there were only the

Priest, Father Malcolm Rodrigues, received the

Order of Excellence, the

Cacique Crown of Honour.

Investiture Ceremony at the National Cultural

and the Medal of service.

In 1976, the Order of

the 50th anniversary of

Centre after pinning the awards to the recipients.

Roraima, the second highest national award was

Guyana's independence.

National Awards were

President Granger said the awards promote a sense of

implemented in accordance with constitutional

national identity.

"We must not neglect

amendments.

Justice Singh said that

announced for 86 persons.

Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stu-

these honours/' he said, adding that Guyana will

a number of awards are provided to persons in the

continue to pay homage to its citizens.

Acting Chancellor of

public and private sectors.

The awardees include Senior Counsel Rex

the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh, said the ceremony

McKay and Speaker of

country's highest award

the National Assembly,

honoured

aai m

On the occasion of A

y >

art was announced as an awardee of the Order of Roraima for his dedication and commitment to the Caribbean Community and his unflinching support for Small Island Developing States.

Businessman Inderjeet Beharry of the Edward B. Beharry Group of Companies Limited receives his award from President David Granger.

/

.

Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Barton Scotland receives the Order of Roramia from President Granger.

Master tailor Leslie Jacobs ('Jakey') receives his award from President David Granger.

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

No

need

23

to

remove

Ambassador

- says Minister Greenidge I FOREIGN Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has said that there is no need to remove Guyana's Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Shamir Ally, for his decision to keep secret his past legal troubles in the United States.

Dr Ally has denied culpability in charges brought by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to a company he was employed with.

The SEC accused former President A Robert Mancuso and former Chief Financial Officer Ronald R Lanchoney

Asst.

Guyana's Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr Shamir Ally of Aerodyne, a Public Manufacturing Compa-

Supt.

ny, along with Controller Shamir Ally, of disseminating false financial information in press releases and commission filings in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

Dr Ally was first employed at Aerodyne in 1999, the AFC noted.

He, along with the co-accused, was required to pay a U.S.$10,000 penalty.

Greenidge told reporters on Wednesday night that while there is concern about the non-disclosure of information by Dr Ally, he will remain on the job.

The Foreign Affairs Minister made it clear

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge that an investigation is ongoing in the matter and noted that Dr Ally has provided an informal explanation for his non-disclosure.

'There is nothing new; we are in the process of dialoging with him. He

suspended

Ally

continues to serve," said Minister Greenidge.

Asked whether there are plans to remove Ambassador Ally, the minister said, "We are looking into the matter and we need from him answers to some things and then we will take a decision."

Minister Greenidge acknowledged that in some cases persons are asked to step down pending investigations, but contended in Dr Ally's case this is not necessary.

"It depends on the nature of the infraction. In this particular case, there is not a danger in him being on the job at the moment."

In addition, the minister said while the process is not yet complete, it is

Former

worrisome that Dr Ally did not disclose all of the information relative to his past legal matters.

"People in the course of applying for jobs, in the course of selling themselves, and [being] recommended... information is usually selective," Minister Greenidge said.

He added that the question to be asked is how important is the information in this particular case. He also noted that his ministry does not have a specific form asking whether a nominee has been prosecuted.

The Foreign Affairs Minister said a lesson has been learned and noted that "there are many things that may need to be done differently."

CANU

prosecutor after ASSISTANT Superintendent Jermaine Grant who was involved Tuesday in a fatal accident on New Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara has been relieved of his duties pending an investigation into the matter.

Sixty-five-year-old Anmanie Deonarine of 144 New Road, Vreeden-Hoop, West Coast Demerara was struck down and killed on the public road by a motor car being driven by the senior police officer.

The officer was stationed at Criminal Investigation Department within 'D' Division (West Demerara and East Bank Essequibo). A

fatal

A

\ Dead: Anmanie Deonarine breathalyzer test revealed that there was no trace of alcohol.

A post mortem conducted Wednesday by Government Patholo-

accident gist, Dr. Nehaul Singh revealed that Deonarine died of multiple injuries.

"She [Deonarine] was pushing a cycle at the extreme corner of the road, the driver hit her and fling her approximately 15 feet into the air and also 20 feet away from the point of impact where she landed on a solid concrete bridge.

For no reason at all he drove off the road, soon after the police came grab her by the feet and hands, placed her in the police car and took off," an eyewitness said.

The incident occurred when the mother of three was 11 houses away from her home. Residents said Deonarine would visit

relatives in the same village, and would usually walk the same path each time on a daily basis.

The Police officer was the driver of PRR 4446 and was reportedly driving in a westerly direction when he lost control of the vehicle and collided with the elderly woman. She was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Relatives described the 65-year-old as an easygoing individual. In a statement, police said that Traffle Chief Dion Moore is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident, which occurred at about ll:30hrs.

found

dead

FORMER Special Prosecutor Oswald Massiah of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) was discovered dead Wednesday morning in his vehicle at the Parika ferry stelling, East Bank Essequibo.

The discovery was made around 5:30hrs and according to reports, Massiah was heading to his Essequibo residence at the time of his demise. Police said Massiah was ill for years and may have succumbed to those illnesses, since his body bore no signs of trauma or violence.

A post-mortem is expected to be conducted in order to determine the cause of death. Massiah was a police prosecutor before taking up the position for the anti-drug agency. He had retired earlier this year.

24

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

New York Chronicle Horoscope AMES (Mar. 21 - April 20) The danger of minor accidents will increase with the turmoil. Remember that no one can walk through your door if there's someone standing in the doorway. Depression may put a damper on your day. You may have a problem with someone you live with if you don't include them in your gathering. Your lucky day next week will be Sunday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21 - May 21) You'll have great insight. Try to make your lover understand that you need to do things with your friends. You need to spend less time daydreaming and more time accomplishing. Don't say something you'll live to regret. Your lucky day next week will be Friday.

C.IMIM (May 22 - June 21) You will be in the mood to socialize. Take care of any dealings with government agencies. Your ability to do detailed work will dazzle those who are less creative. Children may be less than honest with you. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Travel could turn out to be more exciting than you imagined. Someone close to you may need help. Added knowledge will give you the edge when dealing with peers. Patience will be of utmost importance. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

LEO (July 23 -Aug 22) You may not be as well received in group endeavors if you try to force your will on others. Don't blow situations out of proportion.

Emotional disputes will only end in sorrow. If you are in the midst of a financial deal, this is your lucky time. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 23) Romance will develop if you get involved in social events that deal with children. Don't even bother trying to get their- approval on the things you want to do. New romantic partners will evolve through group endeavors; however, the association may not be likely to last.

Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 - Oct. 23) Don't overdo it. You need to enjoy yourself. Advancement can be yours if you are assertive in your approach. Difficulties with your mate may lead to estrangement. A long discussion is in order if you wish to clear- the air. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands. You're in the mood to party. Changes in your home are apparent, and you must be willing to bend if you don't want to find yourself alone. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday.

CROSSWORD 2 3 4 6 7 8 10 11 ■ I 2

CROSSWORD ANSWER C A ■ A [O rs m R ;e A 0 u A L 1 Pa A A IT A " 5 17 c T M A P lLAT E AjF 0 o s E S PA IO ■ ■ ■ 18 19 20 G IE R AT R A 1 D ■ 1 22 23 25 26 27 R A R IE S;P R F L AW E V A 1 H E E O L E 8 29 30 L c 0 P IS D R E E V E S ■ ■ 2 33 35 36 ■w H 1 T E A R U E _ ■ ■ 1 ■ ■ N H Ij M A R L O N 7 38 39 40 H A N K A A R O AT ■ U N E ■" ■ C O D 2 P si A] ■ 1 :C| L N G 44 45 IS A PJ E] M T ■ IX R.A ■ 46 47 5. Wallet and change holders 1 6. Soldier's address (abbr.)

8 49 50 51 53 54 55 !!

7. Wave type ■ b 57 58 8. Obeyed ■ 9. Lamb's bleat 9 60 61 10. Film company letters 11. Itsy-bitsy ACROSS 37. Tennis shot 17. Musical symbols 1. Tel 39. Spigot 19. Teacher's group (abbr.

5. Country lane 41. "Harper Valley " 21. Hotel visitor 9. Munich car co.

42. Difficult 22. Mail _ 12.

44. Seafood item 23. All steamed up (1981 film) 46. First double-digit 25. Dromedary features 13. Ronny Howard role 47. Trevino's gp.

26. Type of angle 14. Census statistic 48. Endive's cousin 27. Lawful 15. Fred and Barney, 52. Some August babies 30. Major engineering school 56. Prefix for fire or e.g. (abbr.)

16. Certain alias understand 33. 1996 Madonna film (2 wds.)

57. Hoover's staff 35. Moistens 18. Bic fluid (hyph.)

38. Vim 20. Much confusion 58. Real 40. Small dog 21. Hep cat's beard 59. Watering spot 43. Garden statue 24. Deadly 60. Assenting votes 45. Like sea water 28. Coffee dispenser 61. Knitting necessity 48. Mummy's three 29. 24-hour teller (abbr.)

DOWN 49. Drink cognac 31. Two, at the poker 1. Part of a Swiss range 50. Civil War gp. table 2. By way of 51. Grazing spot 32. Slight advantage 3. Unwell 53. Victorian 34. Funnyman Caesar 4. " to a Small 54. Of us 36. Self-satisfied Planet" 55. Lawmaker (abbr.) □

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CAPMCORN (Dec 22. - Jan. 20) Investments will cost more than you anticipated. It might be time to make a fresh start. Travel and communication will be lucrative for you. Take time to talk things over. Travel for business or pleasure. Your lucky day next week will be Saturday.

&

AQUAMUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19) You have been stagnating for some time now and you need a change of pace. Take a different approach; make an offer they just can't refuse. You can prosper if you in vest in property or mutual funds. Your mate may not have been honest with you. Your lucky day next week will be Thursday.

PISCES (Feb. 20 - Mar. 20) Go out with friends. Relationships may be hard to handle. You may be looking through rose colored glasses. Don't believe everything you hear. Your lucky day next week will be Wednesday.

G 0

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■4 SAGITTAMUS (Nov. 23 - Dec. 21) You must watch your tendency to spend whatever you make.

Someone may be trying to take advantage of you. Find ways to mellow out. Think before you act. Unforeseen circumstances will disrupt your daily routine. Your lucky day next week will be Monday.

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Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

25

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* Feliz Robertson

By Tamica Garnett ALMOST all of Guyana has come to know the bubbly personality, sassy style, sharp opinions and signature voice of HJTV's Feliz Robertson through her early morning radio show "The Hangout" which airs on 94.1 BOOM FM. Listening how natural Feliz's engaging vibe is in the mornings, anyone could tell that this woman was bom to be on the radio and television, so it comes as no surprise that this was precisely what Feliz has actually always wanted to do.

Growing up in the family-oriented village of Highdam. Mahaicony. young Feliz would often envision herself as a broadcaster. She admired persons like Oprah Winfrey. Margaret Lawrence, and Guyana's own Ron Robinson for their talent, personality and grit.

"T always wanted to be on the radio and to some extent TV. I would always pretend that I was a broadcaster with my sisters and friends. I was groomed for it with speech and diction training from a Call Centre I worked at years ago called Atlantic Tele Centre. That gave me the confidence to pursue my broadcasting passion."

And now we hear her today, almost daily, on the radio entertaining with her quick wit and welcoming personality, which leaves her audience feeling comfortable and involved. Her show includes exciting and amusing segments such as "Reveal" and "Battle of the Sexes" during which listeners would "Tell Fel" about issues in their everyday life, and she engages the public in chatty discussions.

At a very young age Feliz had to deal with the pain of losing a parent.

"My childhood was like any other, mostly care free until my dad died of cancer when I was 9-years-old; that

changed everything for me.

"I found myself praying to grow up fast so I could work and help take care of my family." Feliz recalled.

She attended CarltonHall Primary in her community before graduating and earning a place at St. Joseph's High in 1995.

Feliz came to treasure her education.

"Coming to school in town was difficult because I was living in Mahaicony but now more than ever I realize that it was my saving grace."

And then came the media life! Feliz first got her foot in the door as a media person back in 2007. when she started out in the newsroom of the National Communications Network (NCN).

She later left the country to pursue a family, but her happily-ever-after aspirations ended in tragedy when her husband became abusive.

The silver lining was her son. Zion.

Feliz returned to Guyana. with her son. and was incorporated into the Hits and Jams (HJ) family, right around the time the entertainment company launched its 94.1 BOOM FM radio back in 2013.

It was a decision she does not regret, though she was somewhat apprehensive at first.

"To tell you the truth, when I consider the amount of scratiny my life is under I rethink my decision to be in the public eye. But I am still here so I guess this is God's way of toughening me up." she said.

Feliz describes herself as a woman "for all seasons", who is "a good listener", saying "as much as I can talk I do prefer to listen. I am a warm person with the ability to ran cold if taken for granted. I am a woman of resolve.

If God brought me to it he will take me through it."

For Feliz being a broadcaster is not only a job. it's a tool she uses to help become

a more positive person, a place where she can get away from the world and all that may be going wrong around her. and put her focus into her audience.

"One man rightly described radio as 'theatre of the mind' I couldn't agree more. It's a place where I can block out what is going on in me and project a happy, powerful and positive day for someone else."

Feliz is particularly touched by the encouraging messages she receives from her fans, especially those heartened in one way or another by something she may have said.

"The people who message me to say 'thanks for saying what you did. it helped me'. That's what it's all about. There is no greater reward. One day I was talking about my loving son and I was quite emotional. As I was done talking my phone blew up with messages and someone I was angry with hugged me and that anger just disappeared and made me realize that life is so short and that people are hurting just like me but through a microphone and some wires we can reach each other and find healing."

But of course like any other job. the profession has its bad sides.

"As much as I love people who message me there are also those who message with the negative but as I always say don't let the devil use you. If what you have to say will not edify me, touch me or bless me in some way, keep it to yourself. Please and thanks. I have enough stress with bills."

But being the optimist that she is Feliz continues to rise above the negativity, and on her oh-so-bad days when things start to get more than she can handle, she simply turns to doing what she does best - laughing.

"Oh I have bad days, trust me; you name it, I have it. but I also have the

-

*

Feliz Robertson biggest laugh you have ever heard from a tiny person. When my days get major stressed out sometimes I just burst out laughing.

People think I am crazy when I do it but I just have to say, 'Jesus help me here" as I laugh my way out of the doldrums."

As accomplished as she is. Feliz. who celebrated her 33 rd birthday last Thursday still thinks she has some way to go before she can say she is where she wants to be.

Feliz has hopes of also getting involved in marketing. with aspirations of one day owning her own marketing firm. She currently also works for 360 Marketing out of Trinidad.

She also uses her platform as a radio personality to lend awareness to issues, especially women empow-

erment.

The mother of one is currently working on a project with Maggi that is looking to empower and change the lives of some 150 women in Guyana's poorest areas such as Sophia and Albouystown.

"In many ways I feel like there is still so much to do and yet I look back and truly thank God because I never expected to be where I am today. Don't get me wrong. I am on no pedestal but rather I am on a path of reaching as many people as I can with a message of hope that if my life could be changed so can yours."

But Feliz is not just all about that radio life, or work life, outside of it she is all about that home life, bringing her own little touch of cheerfulness to even the most mundane of tasks.

"I like shopping, not necessarily for clothes but for things like spoons and curtains and things for the house. I find that relaxing.

I love reading and watching a good comedy series too. I don't have a boo to Netflix and Chill but I got YouTube and snacks, similar combination."

Outside of that Feliz puts the rest of her energy into being a mother.

"Motherhood has changed everything about me - from my stretchy tummy to my resolve. I do not give up as easily now because I know this little person is depending on me for EVERYTHING. That is the biggest responsibility God would ever give a person.

Don't take it lightly, work and give them everything including real love."

26

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

JUWEU NEWfflSONJITBUREV ERSCOUKE

EVENING OF READING AND CONVERSATION OCTOBER 13,2016 BROOKLYN, N.Y. - Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson, whose latest novel "Another Brooklyn''' has been nominated for a 2016 National Book Award, will give a reading on Thursday, October 13, 2016 at Medgar Evers College. Ms. Woodson will also hold a conversation that evening with Glory Edim, founder of the book club "Weil-Read Black Girl." The event, sponsored by the college's renowned Center for Black Literature, is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Edison O. Jackson Auditorium at 1638 Bedford Avenue. The event is free and open to the public.

"Another Brooklyn" set in 1970s breath and feel their lips as they brush Brooklyn, is Ms. Woodson's first adult against your ear. This is both the trinovel in 20 years. It reflects the mem- umph and challenge of this powerfully ories of August, an anthropologist who insightful novel." has returned home for her father's fuBrooklyn is the real hometown of neral. She recalls her circle of girl- Ms. Woodson, the winner of the 2014 friends — Sylvia, Angela and Gigi — National Book Award for her memoir and the beautiful and terrible neigh- "Brown Girl Dreaming" She is the reborhood in which they bloomed into cipient of numerous other awards, inwomanhood. cluding four Newberry Honor awards.

Writing in The New York Times Book Review, author Tayari Jones said: "Woodson brings the reader so close to her young characters that you can smell the bubble gum on their

Ms. Woodson's reading is part of the Center for Black Literature's John Oliver Killens Reading Series. The series is a forum for authors, poets, and scholars — including emerging writ-

Foreclosure

ers — to discuss their work and the craft of writing with the college community and the public.

The Center for Black Literature has a mission to expand, broaden, and enrich the public's knowledge and appreciation of Black literature and the literary works produced by people of the African Diaspora. For more information about the Center for Black Literature and its programs, please call 718-804-8883 or visit www.centerforblackliterature.org.

ABOUT MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE Located in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, Medgar Evers College is a senior college of the City University of New York and a growing institution offering both Associate and Baccalaureate degrees. The student body is primarily comprised of those who are the first in their families to attend college. Medgar Evers College was established in 1970

records. Look for liens on the property, since they can drive up the purchase price. Liens typically are placed on a house for unpaid property taxes. Also check assessed values and sale prices of neighboring properties.

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR Jacqueline

Wood

•i A NOVEL

with a mandate to meet the educational and social needs of the Central Brooklyn community. For more information, visit www.mec.cuny.edu. #

Buying

ADVAJM iAGES — BLliNG FROM THE BANK foreclosures also can buy magazines For novice investors, buying and newsletters that list properties in from the lender is the safest way to default. Several of them could also go. Most foreclosures are taken back be found on the web. Once a home by the bank during auction, while has been located, search public well-located homes in good shape generally don't sell for deep discounts and some rundown properties can Place Your Advertisement in this paper be sold more cheaply.

Often, the banks hire a AND SEE YOUR BUSINESS GROW real estate agent and sell foreclosed homes in the We offer affordable rates traditional manner, but sometimes buyers can succeed by pestering WE ALSO INVITE PROMOTERS TO ADVERTISE bank loan officers with low offers.

THEIR EVENTS WITH US. Bank-owned properties offer the safest deal for inexperienced forecloCall Dennis Nelson @ sure buyers. There's no risk, no taxes, no liens and in most instances no (917) 379-6590 tenants to evict. A lender that's eager to sell might be willing to offer attracor email him @ tive terms. The lender might offer to finance the dennisnelson.nychronicle@yahoo.com property at a below-market rate or with a lowerthan-usual down payTo Secure Your Place In This Paper ment. Since the bank al(from page 17)

•Anotm 8-ooifyn .» a torf of fow droam. confolnm^ botk lU hard Irvlht of and Ot* 0M*U baouty of momory. I lowod »hi« book ' - ANN PATCHETT

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ready has done an appraisal, the buyer might not have to pay an appraisal fee, and lender deals typically include title insurance, which removes much of the risk that accompanies buying homes earlier in the foreclosure process.

Buying foreclosures is mostly the turf of investors looking to purchase properties at below-marketvalue prices, fix them up and then sell for a profit — a practice commonly referred to as "flipping." But with home prices in some parts of the country still prohibitively expensive, many first-time home buyers are looking into foreclosures, as well. For the right buyer, foreclosures are an excellent opportunity to buy a house at a lower than marketvalue price but some purchasers will have to put in a bit of "sweat equity," as these homes may need a facelift.

Buying property in a pre-foreclosure stage — the period between receiving a Notice of Default from the lender and the day the lender puts the property up for an auction — may offer the best bargains, but it's also the most difficult to acquire.

"It is always better to have information and not need it than to need it and not have it."

Guyana Chronicle New York Edition Week-ending October 7, 2016

27

Record-breaking

secures A RECORD-breaking knock from Babar Azam lifted Pakistan to a 136run victory in Abu Dhabi and a whitewash in their three-match oneday international series against West Indies.

Babar notched 120 and 123 in the first and second GDIs respectively, and he racked up another 117 off

Pakistan

ing with 37 as they fell to a second clean sweep of the tour after being skittled out for 172.

The tourists will hope to step up their performances ahead of a gruelling Test series which starts in Dubai next week Thursday.

Azhar and Sharjeel Khan (38) started

Pakistan lost Shoaib Malik for five but Babar was unperturbed, celebrating becoming the third batsman from his country to score hundreds in three successive GDI innings, by dropping to his knees.

Kieron Pollard (1-19) finally brought the curtain down on the youngster's phenomenal knock for his 37

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Babar

whitewash

by Shoaib (1-23), and when Darren Bravo (17) and Marlon Samuels (13) soon followed the Windies were 93-4 in the 23rd over.

Mohammad Nawaz accounted for Pollard (11) before claiming the scalps of Sunil Narine and Benn in the same over, while Wahab Riaz removed Joseph (2) for his 100th GDI wicket.

Pakistan rounded off a brilliant display when Rizwan capitalised on a miscommunication between Ramdin and Shannon Gabriel to run the keeper out as the Windies' meek reply concluded in fitting fashion. (Omisport.com)

SCOREBOARD PAKISTAN innings Az. Ali b Holder 101 Sh. Khan c Joseph b Benn 38 B. Azam b Pollard 117 S. Malik c Ramdin b Narine 5 S. Ahmed not out 24 M. Rizwan Ibw b Joseph 4 I. Waslm c Da. Bravo b Joseph 4 M. Nawaz not out 4 Extras: (lb-7, nb-1, w-3) 11 Total: (for 6 wickets, 50 overs) 308 Fall of wickets: 1-85, 2-232, 3-239, 4-280, 5-285, 6-303.

Bowling: A. Joseph 8-0-62-2 (w-1), S. Gabriel 5-0-37-0 (nb-1), K. Brathwalte 4-0-22-0, J. Holder 10-0-63-1 (w-2), S. Narine 10-0-47-1, S. Benn 10-0-51-1, K. Pollard 3-0-19-1.

WEST INDIES Innings K. Brathwalte Ibw b Malik 32 E. Lewis b So. Khan 22 Da. Bravo c S. Ahmed b Rlaz 17 M. Samuels run-out 13 D. Ramdin run-out 37 K. Pollard c Malik b Nawaz 11 J. Holder b Waslm 26 S. Narine stp. S. Ahmed b Nawaz 0 S. Benn c So. Khan b Nawaz 0 A. Joseph c Malik b Rlaz 2 S. Gabriel not out 1 Extras: (b-1,lb-4,w-6) 11 Total: (all out, 44 overs) 172 Fall of wickets; 1-45, 2-75, 3-87, 4-93, 5-117, 6-159, 7-161, 8-161, 9-170.

Bowling: I. Waslm 8-0-29-1, So. Khan 7-0-34-1 (w-3), H. All 6-1-13-0, S. Malik 6-0-23-1 (w-1), M. Nawaz 9-0-40-3 (w-1), W. Rlaz 8-0-28-2 (w-1).

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For All Your Accounting Sl Income Tax Needs A third century in as many ODIs from Babar Azam played a pivotal role in Pakistan completing a 3-0 victory over West Indies.

106 deliveries yesterday to take his total to 360 - more than any other batsman has managed in a series of three or fewer 50-over matches.

His 147-run partnership for the second wicket with captain Azhar Ali (101), who bounced back from scoring just nine runs in the first two matches, set a formidable target of 309.

And the Windies were unable to save face with Denesh Ramdin top-scor-

strongly, and any relief the Windies had from seeing the latter caught off Sulieman Benn (1-51) at long-on was shortlived, with Babar entering the fray and quickly settling into a steady routine with his captain.

Every gap in the field appeared simple for Babar to spot as he surged through the gears, but his skipper was eventually undone by a slow ball from Jason Holder (1-63).

50th GDI wicket before Alzarri Joseph (2-62) removed Mohammad Rizwan (4) and Imad Wasim (4) in the latter stages.

Sohail Khan (1-34) replaced Mohammed Amir in the Pakistan XI and the move quickly paid off as the paceman made the breakthrough with the removal of Evin Lewis (22) in the 10th over.

Kraigg Brathwaite (32) reached the boundary three times before being trapped leg-before

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1

Larissa

By Daniel Haynes At a time when education is celebrated and highlighted in Guyana, the story of Larissa Wiltshire fits perfectly.

Her exploits are not limited to the walls of the classroom. In fact, she has dominated her sport, squash while churning out excellent grades at the same time. At 18. Larissa Wiltshire stands at the crossroads of excellence.

Bom March 19.1998. her full name is Larissa Sakile Arielle George-Wiltshire.

She has an older sister and a younger brother; her childhood was a lot of fun and from an early age she was involved in many activities that kept her busy.

"I went to dancing at the National School of Dance. I did swimming, played piano and of course squash all from the age of 5. We were kept really busy as children." she recalled during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

Larissa attended Mae's Primary School and despite her hectic schedule, she still achieved passing grades for Queen's College. However, as she transitioned into high school, the list of activities she was doing thinned out.

The first activity to go was swimming, and this hap-

Wiltshire excels on and off the squash court

pened due to the fact that her swimming classes at Tower Hotel were stopped.

She continued with dancing up to third form, when she started lessons in preparation for CSEC exams. However. her love of squash continued and she stuck with the game due to the fact that her dad. Garfield Wiltshire, was her trainer.

This allowed her to train when she did not have lessons. When taking into account the fact that her dad played squash, one might think that she was egged on by him to stick with squash, but not so.

"I love squash, it is really fun. I mean, not many people understand it or know about it but it actually makes you very fit and calms the nerves." she stated.

For Larissa. excelling in squash was a must. After all. her father is a former National Squash champion.

She placed second this year in Guyana's Junior Nationals squash tournament, but went on to secure the title of Caribbean U19 Female Junior Squash Champion, which she won in July. She is also an accomplished doubles bronze medalist, winning the medal at the 2015 Youth Commonwealth Games in Samoa with

\

Larissa Wiltshire serving during a squash match

M

li _ _ Larissa Wiltshire on graduation day

Larissa Wiltshire with some of her trophies teammate. Taylor Femandes. whom she calls her biggest rival.

"Taylor is my biggest rival because since we were young we have always been the best in our category so we have had to play each other a lot." This rivalry however has not stopped the duo from forming a formidable team when they join forces.

In the academic aspect of her life, her excellence in the classroom was demonstrated in the CSEC examination where she attempted 17 subjects. and passed with 17 grade ones. According to Larissa. she wrote 17 subjects

because she liked all of them and could pass them. The journey wasn't an easy one but she did it.

"In fifth form I had to study a lot. I had lessons from 6 a.m.. then I'd have school, then lessons again up to 6 p.m. during the week. And on weekends I had lessons from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m."

She went to lessons for eight of the 17 subjects since some weren't taught in school and it couldn't fit on her timetable.

"I used to study every day for about 3-4 hours coming closer to exams starting with the subject that was last. I

studied the entire text book." she stated.

She took this same formula into CAPE Units 1 & 2 and secured Grade one passes in the 12 units in tw o years. When asked how she found the balance between studying and playing. Larissa said. "For Cape in lower 6. six weeks before the exam I decided to do a subject per week starting with the last; I thought it worked really well so for upper 6 I did it for 12 weeks instead."

She went on to add that she normally played on days she didn't have lessons and she would study when she got home. The hard work paid off and for her. finding out her results was exciting. "Before I got them I was really anxious and it was a relief to see that my hard work paid off."

Another chapter The student athlete is now studying at the University of the West Indies on a full scholarship to become a dentist. which no one would have guessed given that her mother is Justice Roxane George.

At UWI. for the next five

years, she is hoping to attain Bachelor of Medicine. Bachelor of Surgery/Doctors of Dental Surgery degrees.

"It's a lot of work but that is expected of medical school." she said.

The Caribbean Junior Female Squash Champion hopes to represent Guyana at the Senior Caribbean Championships and live up to the expectations she has of herself. It's not all school and squash however, and she spends most of her time reading, since she is an avid reader. She is also a soca lover and could listen to soca music all day. since it helps her unwind and de-stress.

"I don't like to fail and I constantly tell myself to focus so I don't lose sight of my dreams. I am satisfied with all of my accomplishments and where I am right now.

I am extremely happy with my life."

Being either the best on the court or in the classroom is hard enough, but to excel at both at the same time is nothing short of phenomenal.