Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Where your views make the news
Letters... Where your views make the news
The shame and disgrace of a citizen of Guyana DEAR EDITOR, My visit to Georgetown, the capital city of this country, on Tuesday, December 23, 2014, was absolutely horrible. The scene, upon entering the city proper, was chaotic to say the least. I spent nearly one hour in a vehicle caught up in what seemed to be a never-ending traffic jam. Rains pounded the city, which forced many persons (from across Guyana) engaged in Christmas shopping, to walk in the nasty, stinking, disease-filled waters, since the roads were becoming flooded. Garbage was seen all over as a result. Nobody seemed to be paying attention to traffic lights, which resulted in more chaos on the streets, since everyone seemed to be in a hurry. Horns were blaring from frustrated drivers who just wanted clearance to drive, but could not since minibus operators were holding up traffic due to them stopping frequently to put off and let
in passengers; the greed of the season. Persons walking with umbrellas had the water from their means of shelter dripping on other road users, and were constantly being abused by certain persons sitting along the pavements. The police were not out since the rain kept pouring, but should this have prevented them? I must ask. You would not see Georgetown like this on any post card or Facebook page promoting this dear ‘Garden City.’ What I witnessed (and what is the norm I am sure all through the year) is the shame and disgrace of a corrupt, lawless, dirty, filthy, decrepit, mismanaged city where surprisingly the Government of Guyana is seated; where the Parliament of Guyana is seated. How can we attract tourists in this situation where Mayor and City Council, police and government seem not to be
coordinating with each other on pertinent issues to move the city forward? How can Georgetown get any better when the Hydromet office does not warn citizens to stay in their homes rather than endure this suffering, before these incredible downpours? I watched in disbelief at the suffering of persons who were forced to navigate through the flooded city streets, with water filling their footwear, but having no other choice, since suffering has become a daily norm for many of us living in Guyana. The city lacks vision for a plan that would improve the old flooding situation. But that’s the least of its problems. Before my eyes was the shame and disgrace of a citizen of Guyana who is constantly told that he is living in a developing country, but shares in a horrible experience, nothing short of what exists in a poor, needy, stinking, lawless city or nation. Leon Suseran
DEAR EDITOR, The resumption of diplomatic relations between the USA and Cuba, which was long overdue, is a most welcome development. For one thing it marks the termination of the isolation of Cuba in the Americas. Since hitherto all the other countries had diplomatic relations with Cuba, the recent development also ended the isolation of the USA on this issue. The origin of Cuba’s isolation was the decision of the OAS in 1962 to exclude Cuba from the Inter-American system. It was 10 years later in 1972 that the first breach in the ramparts of isolation occurred. During that year Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago announced simultaneously the establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba. Guyana played the leading role in this outcome. The process was initiated by a policy decision by Guyana to seek to establish diplomatic relations with
Cuba. As a result of the instructions of Prime Minister Burnham, Guyana’s High Commissioner to Canada began talks with the Cuba Ambassador there. The Foreign Ministers of the two countries held and concluded negotiations during the Non Aligned Conference in Georgetown in 1972. Thereafter Guyana secured the agreement of Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago on joint action. The path-breaking nature of the step taken by the four Englishspeaking Caribbean countries was widely acknowledged in diplomatic circles and elsewhere. Addressing a mass rally in Cienfuegos, Cuba, Fidel Castro said the following “It was precisely at a top-level meeting among the leaders of these countries held in Trinidad in October of 1972, that the Prime Minister of the Republic of Guyana proposed a joint establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba. In this way, our English-speaking Caribbean
friends took the lead over the Spanish-speaking continental neighbours in the movement to break the isolation and the blockade against Cuba.” I congratulate President Obama for his courage and hope that he can secure the support of the US Congress to get rid of the unjust economic embargo. But will those in Congress who have so consistently opposed him act in a manner which would place them and their country on the right side of history and ensure that the USA is in the same company with the overwhelming majority of the international community? Rashleigh E. Jackson
A most welcome development
Remember the true reason for the season DEAR EDITOR, The festive season of Christmas and New Year is once again with us. I take this opportunity to convey Season Greetings to all Guyanese, in particular to relatives, friends and colleagues. As is customary, there will be lots of merriment,
celebrations and exchange of gifts. Let us not, however, lose sight of the true reason for the season, namely to celebrate the birth of Jesus C h r i s t whose life and teachings exemplified the virtues of humility and simplicity. Hydar Ally
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Cherished memories of Christmas in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Celebrating the Christmas season years ago is etched in the minds of Guyanese nationals settled in North America. So many fun happenings and events were associated with the season prior to the 1990s, although life was difficult. And during the season, people of different ethnicity put aside differences and got together for celebrations - going for a trip to the town from the rural areas or visiting relatives and friends, worshiping, and children playing with toys. The season growing up as a child prior to the 1990s was a unique experience that people looked forward to with great expectation. In New York, they often reminisce about the basket of memories left behind celebrating the end of year season — there was not much around the country, but people had a joyous time with the little available to them. It used to be peaceful (except for the period of the kickdown-the-door banditry that was stamped out by Desmond Hoyte) and the races largely lived together. They had to, because life was tough with starvation conditions and lack of freedom. The Christmas season in years gone by (and still does today) offered the opportunity for renewal within the home (unless already done for Diwali or Eid). Old curtains were replaced with those reflecting the season. The house was completely redecorated. The walls were repainted. New furniture and carpet may be acquired. In some homes, polishing and varnishing of old furniture and the floor were done. New cushions
would be in place along with new spreads on the beds and new pillows to welcome the new season – similar to what is done in North America among many Caribbean people. The lawns were immaculately kept and tree trunks whitewashed. The yard was clean. The Christmas tree in the home, if affordable, and/or a tree in the front yard was lit up with moderate amounts of colourful lights. There were some decorative lights in or around the home; but blackout was always a problem in the 1970s and 1980s, while electricity was almost non-existent prior to that period. There existed none of the lavish decorations and trimmings that brighten up entire neighbourhoods as compared with the earlier period. There was a special sound in the air (music – bells, both religious and secular, western and Indian songs, church bells, special radio programs). There was much joy illustrated by laughter, blowing of horns,
whistles, popping toy guns, crying dolls, engines of toy vehicles, etc. There was (still is) a certain smell (curry and massala dishes, the fruit cake, ginger beer, sorrel, mauby, redone furniture and new curtains, bed spreads, etc.). There was a special aromatic scent wafting in the air that was very appetizing. People sent Christmas cards overseas to relatives and friends. The cards were imported, reflecting the temperate conditions in these countries – white snow, leafless trees, etc. But today, the pictures are more reflective of Guyanese realities of warm sunshine reflecting our environment. Christmas time was associated with phone contacts and radio messages with loved ones across the seas. People looked forward for radio programs that carried telephone greetings recorded and packaged as a program aired on Christmas Day or Boxing Day or New Year’s Day. Everyone gathered Continued on page 55
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AG Nandlall threat against KN Days after a controversial decision that she could find no grounds to charge Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, for a shocking phone-call with a senior reporter of Kaieteur News, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, is coming under more fire. According to Attorneyat-Law, Christopher Ram, the DPP, despite evidence of “illegalities” carried out by senior public functionaries, has established a pattern of behavior which saw none being charged. “It is appalling that any professional would be so reckless about their reputation. Her appointment owes as much to that other violator, (President) Bharrat Jagdeo, as to the manner in which it was carried out.” Ram is the lawyer for Kaieteur News. He said the matter will continue to be pursued at another level. “My clients Glenn Lall, Adam Harris and Leonard Gildarie are naturally dismayed at the decision but will not let this matter rest. They are considering their options in the face of this barely disguised political block placed by Ms. Hack.” He said that the police should not accept the
Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
DPP action demoralizes staff – lawyer says decision by the DPP but rather should consult with its Legal Adviser, Justice Claudette Singh. “The police have an experienced former judge as its Legal Advisor who the Commissioner of Police should now consult. The public will be looking to see if she would accept this irrational and baseless decision by Ms. Hack.” The phone call had shocked Guyana after Nandlall, who admitted to the tape, insisted that he was a “Chatree”- a high class Indian. According to Ram, the AG also admitted “to raiding the public purse, pimping on behalf of a male law-breaking relative, claimed knowledge of a plot to cause harm, and disclosed knowledge of governmental interference into a criminal tax case. “Yet the DPP, Ms. Shalimar Ali-Hack could find nothing wrong.” Lall had filed a complaint with police two days after that call, but there was a perception that the matter was being deliberately delayed, first at the level of the police and then at the DPP Chambers. The lawyer said that by her “abominable” decision, the DPP has shown herself to be “no better than Nandlall”.
AG, Anil Nandlall
DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack
Publisher, Glenn Lall
Leonard Gildarie
“She is known to have allowed religion to affect her work, dragging the CIOG (Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana) into the scandalous, trumped up charges against the NBS (New Building Society) three and interfering in the police investigation into serial sexual offences committed by a Muslim cleric.” He said that with Ali-Hack at the helm of the Office of the DPP, it is no surprise that crime is spiraling out of control. “For all the illegalities carried out by members of the PPP, Ms. Hack has never once
recommended bringing any charge. “Her irrational discharge of her functions brings her office into disrepute and demoralizes her subordinates, something she seems unwilling to appreciate or unable to recognize.” The DPP said in a statement earlier this week that the file on the matter has been returned to the police, advising that no charges be laid against Nandlall. The advice came a few days after several persons protested outside her office accusing her of compromising the integrity of her office. The DPP in her statement, described the recorded conversation between “personal friends” Gildarie and Nandlall as private. Based on the evidence contained in the police file, the conversation was “not between the Attorney General…and Mr. Glenn Lall.” She explained that the offence created in Section 141(a) Chapter 8:02 is in relation to the speaker using threatening language with intent to provoke anyone else to commit a breach of the peace, that is, provoking another person to do so. According to the DPP, the threatening language must be such as is likely to provoke a
breach of the peace by anyone else that is the person to whom the threat is directed. She said that for the threatening language to result in provocation, the threat must be directly communicated to the person to whom it concerns, that is, in his presence and hearing. “There is no evidence of this contained in the police file,” the DPP stated. She further stated that the offence created in Section 141 (b) Chapter 8:02 is in relation to the pe r s o n u s i n g abusive, insulting, obscene or profane language to the annoyance of another, that is, such language is used directly to the other person in his presence and annoys him. “There is no evidence of this (also),” she pointed out. “The alleged recording of a telephone conversation between the AttorneyGeneral and the Minister of Legal Affairs and Mr. Gildarie, does not fall under Section 1a1 (a) or (b) Chapter 8:02,” Ali-Hack stated. “In these circumstances the communication to Mr. Gildarie does not provide an evidential basis which can support the institution of criminal proceedings,” she added. Kaieteur News Publisher,
Glenn Lall, had filed a complaint with the police, alleging that the Attorney General threatened the safety of his employees when during the conversation, he spoke of an imminent attack on the newspaper’s main office on Saffon Street, if the entity continued with its exposure of government corruption. The recording had been the most downloadable piece of news in Guyana with the AG coming under heavy pressure to resign. Several local and international organizations, including human rights bodies, have called for his resignation. But Government has stood by the embattled minister. The phone call followed investigations by this newspaper into the importation of Mercedes Benz SUV by an uncle of Nandlall under the remigrant duty free concession scheme. The local bar association and the Opposition have also called for Nandlall’s sacking. The social media websites, like FaceBook, and the comments section of the newspapers, have been inundated with comments condemning the Government over its stance to protect Nandlall from the backlash of that conversation.
Decomposed bandit’s body identified as D’Urban Street man The decomposed body of a man, who was discovered at the Good Hope Backdam on Wednesday, has been identified as 20-year-old Lassell Lambert of D’Urban Street, Lodge. The body was positively identified by his girlfriend, who recognized the tattoo “God bless” on his upper right arm, when she examined the body yesterday. She told police that she last saw Lambert on Friday, hours before the robbery. Police believe that Lambert whose body was discovered around 08: 30
hours, was part of a gang that robbed Ruby Backdam, East Bank Essequibo residents, Farina Omar and Harricharran Muneshwar on Friday last. A cellular phone that was stolen during the robbery was found next to Lambert’s body. The police did not say if the body bore any marks of violence but detectives are probing whether the man was killed by his accomplices or if he was injured during the robbery. A police source told this newspaper that they have arrested another man whom
they believe was Lambert’s accomplice in the robbery. They are also working on the theory that he might have been responsible for Lambert’s death. The source said that they got on to the accomplice after a relative of Lambert’s informed them that the two men were very close friends who “moved” together. However, the man has denied that he was with Lambert on Friday when the robbery was committed. Investigations are continuing.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
Russia says NATO turning Ukraine into ‘frontline of confrontation’ (Reuters) - Russia said on Wednesday NATO was turning Ukraine into a “frontline of confrontation” and threatened to sever remaining ties with the Atlantic military alliance if Ukraine’s hopes of joining it were realized. The Kiev parliament’s renunciation of Ukraine’s neutral status on Tuesday in pursuit of NATO membership has outraged Moscow and deepened the worst confrontation between Russia and the West since the end of the Cold War. “NATO countries pushed Kiev to this counterproductive decision, trying to turn Ukraine into a front line of confrontation with Russia,” Deputy Defence Minister Anatoly Antonov told the Russian news agency Interfax. “If this decision in the future takes on a military character (accession to NATO), then we will respond appropriately. Then there will be a complete severing of ties with NATO, which will be practically impossible to repair,” Antonov said. It is likely to take years for Ukraine to meet the technical criteria for accession to NATO and, even then, there is no certainty that the alliance is ready to take on such a political hot potato. Yet Russia has made clear it would see the NATO membership of such a strategic former Soviet republic with a
A Ukrainian serviceman guards at a checkpoint near the town of Debaltseve in Donetsk region, December 24, 2014. (CREDIT: REUTERS/ VALENTYN OGIRENKO) long common border as a direct military threat. ANATO official, who asked not to be named, said it was solely up to Kiev to decide on its foreign policy. “Should Ukraine decide to apply for NATO membership, NATO will assess its readiness to join the alliance in the same way as with any candidate. This is an issue between NATO and the individual countries aspiring to membership,” the official said.NATO has already boosted its military presence in Eastern Europe this year, saying it has evidence that Russia orchestrated and armed a pro-Russian rebellion in eastern Ukraine that followed the overthrow of a Kremlin-backed president in
Kiev. Moscow denies supporting the rebellion, and is currently trying, along with Kiev and the rebels, to renew efforts to find a political solution to the crisis in eastern Ukraine. A so-called “contact group” is expected to meet in Minsk on Wednesday to try to reinforce a shaky ceasefire and de-escalate the conflict, in which more than 4,700 people have been killed. A truce agreed in September has been regularly flouted by both sides, but violence has lessened significantly in December. The rebellion began shortly after Russia annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea from Ukraine in March.
Tense scenes in Missouri after police shoot another black teen (Reuters) - A white policeman shot dead a black man brandishing a pistol at a suburban St. Louis gasoline station overnight, igniting violence reminiscent of riots over the police killing of an unarmed black teenager in nearby Ferguson, police said on Wednesday. Black officials in Missouri were at pains to distinguish the death of a suspect with a gun from cases where unarmed black men were killed by police officers, incidents that led to nationwide protests and bitter debate about how American police forces treat non-white citizens. The Berkeley, Missouri, shooting happened late on Tuesday at a Mobil On The Run gasoline station, within walking distance of the Ferguson street on which a white police officer shot dead 18-year-old Michael Brown in August. “This is not a policeman in the city of Berkeley going
out half-cocked,” Berkeley Mayor Theodore Hoskins said at a news conference. “You could not even compare this with Ferguson.” A crowd of 200 to 300 people gathered at the gasoline station after the shooting, and bricks and three fireworks were thrown, two of them at the roughly 50 officers at the scene, St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said. Two officers were injured. Four people were arrested and charged with assault, Belmar said. Calm had returned to the area by Wednesday morning.The shooting occurred after the officer, a six-year veteran of the Berkeley Police Department who was responding to a report of a theft, got out of his car to talk to two men at the gasoline station.One of them pointed a loaded 9mm handgun at the officer, Belmar said. Pulling out his own gun, the officer stepped backward,
stumbled, and fired three shots. One of them struck the man with the gun, a second hit a police car tire, and the third cannot be accounted for, he said.Paramedics declared the man dead at the scene. SECOND MAN SOUGHT Hoskins, Berkeley’s mayor, said his city and St. Louis County would conduct separate investigations. Hoskins said he did not want to jump to conclusions, but also emphasized what he said were clear differences with the Brown case. “We have a majority of black officers in our city,” Hoskins said, drawing contrasts with Ferguson. “The mayor is black. The city manager is black. The finance director is black. The police chief is black. Our police officers are more sensitive.” Maria Chappelle-Nadal, a black Missouri state senator who has been tear-gassed while protesting Brown’s death, said she believed the Berkeley police officer was justified.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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“Whom, the Gods would destroy, they first make mad” Merry Christmas to all the readers of this column! A Merry Christmas is also extended to the Editor and Staff of the Kaieteur News, including the unsung persons who actually print the newspaper each night. I also want to say, “Merry Christmas!” to the vendors who sell these newspapers. Thank you all for keeping this newspaper alive in 2014. This past year saw fearful hands trying to strangle Kaieteur News and its publisher, Glenn Lall. Brave men and women have kept us consistent and going amidst the threats to destroy us. But the bravest of all has been our publisher, Glenn Lall. Today, I want to dedicate this column to him and to use this opportunity to let him know how much
I appreciate what he has done for the people of this country. Merry Christmas to you and your entire family, Glenn! Your courage and remarkable principles make Christmas worthwhile. It is said that “Whom, the Gods would destroy, they first make mad”. The government’s acts of madness against the publisher of this newspaper would have broken a lesser man. But not Glenn Lall. He has stood firm like the Rock of Gibraltar, unshaken, unwounded, unmoved. He has been given his fair share of advice from wellintentioned persons. They have urged him to back off. That is a language he does not understand. Some have urged him to
give up the struggle because they feel sufficient p e r s o n s are not coming forward to support him. They say to him, “The people you are fighting for are not fighting for themselves so why are you holding yourself out as a sacrificial lamb.” In fact, I was one of those who made this point to him just recently. His response was typical of the man and what he stands for. He looked at me and asked, “So if I do not fight, what will happen to Guyana?”I understand now what he meant. He is prepared to die for his country. He is prepared to give his life in order to stand for what he believes in because Glenn has always believed that each one of
A 27-year-old mother of two was killed on the spot at around 14.30 hrs yesterday, after she was struck by a speeding driver on the Vriesland, West Bank Demerara public road. According to reports, Khemwattie Mohabir, of Lot 70 Vriesland, had just finished her Christmas Eve shopping, and was heading home with
her sons, aged seven and six, when a speeding driver struck her from behind. Police said that she was flung several feet from the point of impact. Kaieteur News understands that the driver who struck the young mother took her to the West Bank Demerara Regional Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival. There are
suggestions that the driver may have been intoxicated. A police official said that traffic ranks are to have him undergo a breathalyzer test. Police officials have expressed concern about the number of individuals who have been driving under the influence and have begun to release information of the culprits.
us is put here on Earth for a purpose and if we do not live up to that purpose then we are not being faithful to the author of life. He intends to be faithful. He intends to fulfill what he was born to fulfill. I raised with him again the power of the State. If the State could have got to Dr. Walter Rodney, if it could have destroyed an international scholar of his repute, then why would it hesitate to destroy him? This is what I threw out to Glenn. His answer silenced me. He said that even if they jailed him, the Kaieteur News would not stop exposing the skullduggery and evil of those who are raping the country and handing out the spoils to their friends. He said that even from
behind jail, the Kaieteur News will go on. He will not stop. Even if they kill him, Glenn swears that the newspaper will go on doing what it is doing, exposing the indecent, the immoral and corrupt. It was his turn to ask the questions. He asked me, “If I stop today, what will happen to Guyana? What will happen to this country? What will ‘they’ do to Guyana? I cannot allow this to happen. The more I thought about it, the more I am convinced that this man Glenn Lall needs to be protected. He is a special treasure to Guyana and we need to ensure that no harm comes to him and that he is protected against his formidable enemies. That latter answer
confirmed what I have been saying for a long time. This country has a super hero. That super hero is Super Glenn. On this Christmas morning, I once again tip my hat to an o u t s t a n d i n g Guyanese who is fighting the glorious fight so that your children and my children can have something to live for. He is fighting so that each of us can have a chance of living out our purpose. Merry Christmas Glenn Lall!
Mother of two killed by Another worker dies driver after shopping tragically at Bosai
Dem boys seh...
De DPP got a new idea of what is threat Some things does only happen in Guyana. Only in Guyana people can seh wha dem like and threaten to do wha dem want wid people once dem ain’t tell de person to dem face. That mean that a man can talk loud and clear how he gun bun down he neighbor house and kick up he neighbor wife. He can’t get charge fuh threatening because he ain’t tell de neighbor to he face. That is wha de DPP seh. Only in Guyana. But if people deh in de States and dem mek mistake and threaten anything and anybody, is trouble. Four people barely talk how dem gun blow up some pipeline at de JFK airport and Uncle Sam didn’t even got to hear. It jail dem fuh de rest of dem life. De only time that gun happen in Guyana is if dem boys stand up at Big Market and tell a vendor that dem gun bun down State House. Donald de Duck ain’t got fuh hear, but de same DPP gun recommend that dem get charge fuh threatening de president. Another thing is that some of dem would like to do is charge dem boys fuh chasing people. Brassington tell Uncle Adam that de Waterfalls paper does chase investors. Dem boys got a message fuh he and he ex-boss, Jagdeo. If dem boys ketch dem pun a dark night, God be wid dem. Dem betta mek up dem mind fuh tek chase and not out of Guyana. De truth is dem can’t get a dog fuh come and invest in Guyana. A matter of fact, dem boys seh dem want to give dem a lesson, or teach de, who or what is an investor in a country. Bai Shan is not an investor. That company is a fraudster. Se government seh that dem come fuh build housing scheme. Any idiot in
Guyana can do that. Ask Lumumba. Bai Shan bring in more than 200 excavator, trucks and other machinery, duty free, fuh rape Guyana forest. Dem digging out de gold and diamond, too. That is investor fuh Brassington, Donald and Jagdeo. De same Brassington tun away a local man who did want tek de sweetheart deal fuh Marriott. Instead he tek two man, dress them up like Chinee, and call them Hong Kong businessman...tell this nation that dem is de US$8 million equity investor in Marriott. Now de same Brassington can’t find de Hong Kong or de Chinee men. De name wha he give de nation exist but when dem boys check de photo gainst de name, it doesn’t match the face. When them boys call de number wha Brassington give dem, dem get through to a strip club. After de Marriott run into controversy de same Brassington who seh de Waterfalls paper is anti-investment find two Indian man dress in African outfit. He seh that dem come fuh build another hotel. All this was to justify Marriott. When Donald Duck, Jagdeo, Ashni and that same Brassington tun up de sand fuh some Sun and Sand hotel de people promise fuh start build de next week. One year done and it look like dem change de hotel name to Sun and Dance. Dem boys now know that dem and all get duty free machinery and instead of digging fuh put down de hotel dem digging out Guyana gold and diamond. Talk half and that is wha some of dem scamp call foreign investors.
Another Linden family was yesterday plunged into mourning, after a Bosai worker was killed on the job, this time in a horrific accident. The victim, Bertrand Pollard, 20, of Block 22 Wismar, Linden was an apprentice attached to the Company. His mother Wilhemina Robertson was too distraught to speak with the media. But a relative blurted out, “They killed me nephew!” According to unconfirmed reports Pollard had been servicing a piece of heavy duty machinery in Montgomery mines when the tragedy occurred. “The man de servicing de machine, when it slipped and fall on he, because de didn’t prop it up properly--Was negligence”, one source claimed. Another source claimed that after Pollard had finished working on the machine, he decided to take a break and was sheltering under it, when the operator not knowing that he was still underneath drove off, smashing him in the process. A relative noted, “He get damaged bad, bad. All he neck come off, because the truck ran over him. He was almost split in half. According to the relative, they were told that the driver of the truck had moved off without giving any signal or notice that he was going to move. She also noted that the last time the family saw Pollard was when he left for work yesterday morning. “Everybody saw him off to work (yesterday) morning, and then the next thing we
The distraught family of Bertrand Pollard. know is he is dead. We received a call about seven-thirty saying that he was dead, but then we were hearing that it wasn’t him, that it was somebody else. Then we got the confirmation that it was him. This is a terrible blow to us, because the family was preparing for Christmas, and now we have to shelve all those plans and prepare for a funeral. It is not easy”. The family said that Bosai has committed to taking care of all funeral expenses. “But Bosai has to compensate his family even though no amount of money can bring Randy (Pollard) back, they have to pay some kind of compensation.” Meanwhile Region Ten Member of Parliament, Rennis Morian, said, “There has to be a safety audit of this company; there are too many tragedies happening. Look at the last tragedy where the guy was murdered- he was in a desolate area with no proper security. This is unsatisfactory.
And the youngster that died today should not have been working on his own as an apprentice. Further there should have been ongoing mobile communication between him and the driver of that truck. Such a thing could not have happened if there had been proper communication.” Persons out in the streets are also contending that the accident could have been avoided if proper safety precautions had been observed. Recently another Bosai worker met his death tragically at the hands of killers at another mining site managed by Bosai. Reports indicate that robbery was the motive for his murder, as a computer box used to operate the excavator he was working on was missing. For the Pollard and Robertson families, the death of young Bertrand Pollard, could not have come at a worst time. He was the second of five children.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
On Christmas Day, 2014 the law is still an ass I don’t care which law the brightest lawyer in the world cites to justify the Chief Justice’s decision that Carol Sooba can remain in office that law is an ass. That law cannot be legal, moral and commonsensical in the face of the decision by the CJ himself that the Minister of Local Government did not have the legal authority to appoint Sooba in the first place. Once Sooba’s appointment was legally improper, Sooba’s existence as Town Clerk becomes untenable. Sooba continues in office because the law is an ass. I don’t care which lawyer pushes out his chest, says he is the brightest person since Archimedes discovered the principle of flotation and refers to me as an ignorant layman, my point is, if there is a law in Guyana that legally justifies Sooba’s continuation in office, that law is a jackass. That law should be removed from the statute books. From Sooba we come to the Nandlall tape. Nothing surprises me in the judicial system in this country. Before I come to the DPP’s position on the Nandlall tape, read what happened last Monday in the libel trial. After being given leave
by the judge in March 2014 to appeal a decision in the ongoing trial, Bharrat Jagdeo’s lawyers came on December 9 and told the judge that they didn’t file the appeal. Here is the reason why. Jagdeo’s junior lawyer explained that since March he was unable to consort with his senior partner on the points of the appeal. This man told a judge that from March to December he was unable to sit down and talk with his senior partner on one of the most important court cases in Guyana’s legal history. On December 9 the judge gave them up to December 22 to submit statements which were to be tendered since March. They appeared on December 22 and still did not do that. There and then I thought the libel trial would resume with the defence witnesses resuming their testimony. Now here what they did. They informed the judge that they are now going to the Full Court headed by the Chief Justice to get permission to file the appeal OUT OF TIME. Don’t get confused. This is not the filing of the appeal itself. This is a plea to the
court to grant them permission to file an appeal OUT OF TIME. That will be a court case by itself and will take up time. If permission is granted to appeal OUT OF TIME, then they file the appeal and the libel trial is suspended until the appeal is heard. This is the judicial system in Guyana. We come now to Mrs. Shalimar Hack, the DPP. She has given the nation a rude Christmas gift just three days before Christmas. She ruled that there is no basis in law to charge Mr. Nandlall. The fulcrum of that ruling is that Mr. Nandlall did not directly threaten Mr. Glenn Lall. Pardon me madam! Your slip is showing!
John tells Mary that he hates Basil and is planning to kill him and burn his house and he will do so with weapons he has accumulated. In law, nothing could be done to John because he told Mary what he will do to Basil and not Basil himself. Okay, here is my contention and it is identical with the CJ’s ruling in the Sooba case. If there is a law under which Mr. Nandlall cannot be charged for what he said on that tape then that law is an ass. The DPP’s ruling on the Nandlall tape raises some hellraising questions. On what basis was Mr. and Mrs. Munroe and Mr. Wharton charged for treason when
their conversation was taped. If based on the taped conversation they were taken before the courts, then why not Nandlall? On what basis was Glenn Lall charged for threatening Khurshid Sattaur? In Guyana under the PPP, the ass in the law is running wild. But also the political engine that propels the law is in overdrive. In my opinion, politics was the pivotal reason Mr. Nandlall was not charged. Politics is the reason why Lall was charged. Politics is the reason why the Munroes and Mr. Wharton were charged. Politics is the reason why Mr. Arjoon of the New Building Society was charged
In Guyana politics Frederick Kissoon decides if the law of the jungle rules or the rule of law is supreme. Since the rule of law is not supreme then we live with the law of the jungle in this country. If anything is a mockery, a circus, a school of clowns performing in Guyana, it is the rule of law.
Christmas Message...Indian Arrival Committee The Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) wishes to send Merry Christmas and Happy Boxing Day Greetings to all Guyanese, especially those who are adherents of Christianity. The IAC recognizes that hundreds of millions of persons across the globe venerate Jesus Christ, a Jewish carpenter and member of the local working class and
preacher who was one of many teachers throughout history who brought the message of peace, unity and brotherhood among all peoples regardless of their ethnicity, nationality, class and whose birthday is traditionally celebrated on Christmas Day. The IAC also recognizes the historical tradition of Jesus Christ being venerated
as the prophet Isa by adherents of Islam and as ShriYesu Bhagwan by adherents of Sanatan Dharm. The IAC recognizes that Christmas in Guyana has been celebrated since the advent of colonization of this land by the Dutch in the early 1600s. The IAC also recognizes that these holidays are marked by excessive consumption of
alcohol and therefore is calling upon all Guyanese who imbibe to do so with caution, and to maintain appropriate and acceptable behaviour while obeying the laws of Guyana, especially while driving on the roadways. The IAC wishes all Guyanese a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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An acting CJ, Chancellor leaves nation on a precipice - Greenidge O p p o s i t i o n parliamentarian, Carl Greenidge, is of the opinion that Ian Chang and Carl Singh acting in the posts of Chief Justice (CJ)and Chancellor respectively, may have them knowingly or unwittingly making decisions which would suggest that they feel beholden to the executive, as it relates to constitutional matters before the constitutional court. He noted too that such an arrangement leaves the nation on a dangerous precipice. Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram also holds a similar view. The Constitutional/ Administrative Division of the High Court which was officially gazetted on October 1, 2011, was set up to handle certain matters which include those regarding the application or interpretation of the Constitution, alleged violations of the fundamental rights, the constitutionality of any legislative enactment etc. It was established by way of a Practice Direction issued by the Chancellor (ag.) which may suggest that it is regarded as a mere administrative arrangement rather than a substantive change in how constitutional issues are addressed judicially. Unlike the Commercial Court or the Family Court, no specific Rules of Court were prescribed for the ”Constitutional Court”. The old rules of the Supreme Court apply. The Practice Direction did not specify how many judges ought to constitute
- “they may feel beholden to the Executive” the Court or who should preside over it. But since its inception, the Chief Justice (ag.) has headed the Constitutional/ Administrative Division as the sole judge, and has heard and delivered dozens of decisions on the Constitution, some of them fundamental and a few quite controversial. These are in addition to the scores of other cases he handles during the course of any week, including bail applications. Asked to comment on the Division, Ram said that Guyana is fortunate to have someone like the acting incumbent Justice Ian Chang as the Judge of the Constitutional Division. He said that case reports of decisions emanating from the totality of the Supreme Court of Judicature which includes the Court of Appeal and the High Courts of Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo suggest that Justice Chang is by far the most productive of judges in the system. On a cautionary note, however, Ram, who is also an attorney-at-law, said that there are concerns that the system depends so heavily on a single judge, and that while there have been commendable attempts at increasing the number of judges it will take many years for the wide gap in quality to be bridged. Regarding the acting appointments of both the Chancellor and the Chief Justice,
Ram said that it is unthinkable that the framers of the Constitution intended that such high offices could be filled by acting appointees for any extended period, let alone about nine years. The Chartered Accountant said that the Constitution allows two political persons - the President and the Leader of the Opposition - as the sole authorities on the appointments to these offices. Confirmed appointments require agreement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition, while acting appointments require meaningful consultation, a nebulous concept at best, according to Ram. He said, however, that the whole framework for the functioning and appointments to these high judicial offices needs to be reviewed, and at a minimum the Constitution should have had some tie-breaker to untangle the “Gordian knot” which faces the country over these offices. Ram concluded, “Pretending that there is no problem is to take the mythical ostrich approach and we all know how that ended.” Some seasoned lawyers commented that there is need for suitable persons to be appointed to the positions of Chief Justice and Chancellor permanently, since having persons acting for extended periods runs the risk of compromising their decisions
in order to secure appointment. APNU’s Shadow Minister of Finance, Carl Greenidge, agrees implicitly. He said that the current arrangement in which the CJ and Chancellor have been acting for nearly a decade is not only unacceptable but dangerous because clearly, they both would like to be confirmed and may be “knowingly or unwittingly biased.” “In order to secure confirmation they may be tempted to facilitate the Executive and the President in particular who have such a powerful influence on their confirmation. That situation may assist the President but not the country,” Greenidge asserted. He emphasized that these posts are so critical that the persons appointed to them should command the confidence of the key stakeholders. The political parties he said, represents those stakeholders. Also on a televised
Alliance For Change (AFC) programme, the party leader, Khemraj Ramjattan said that as it relates to the Judiciary, indeed the Constitution gives the President a very heavy hand in the selection of the Chancellor and the Chief Justice. He said that these positions in the hierarchy of the judiciary depend on the agreement of both Opposition leader and the President, and because they cannot agree, both have been acting in the two positions; chancellor and CJ. “My point is, we have to look at who the President can really appoint. To that extent, it gives a lot of powers to the President and one can say indeed that it is beneficial to have the opposition leader serve a role in agreeing. “However, for a number of years we have not gotten agreement. It has left a really undesirable kind of scenario whereby, we are not getting what the constitution contemplated—consensual appointments,” Ramjattan asserted. He said, too, that there is
Carl Greenidge need for some amount of reconfiguration whether it should have the opposition part of that process, or have a change in the president having this kind of executive power. “These provisions, to alter them are another big thing. You have to get a referendum and a two-thirds majority. The President might not want to do that and we won’t get to change that,” he concluded.
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Kaieteur News
100 stranded as Dynamic Airways overbooks flight Several passengers who will miss Christmas in Guyana because of continuous delays by Dynamic Airways, initiated protest action at the John F. Kennedy Airport in New York yesterday morning when they found out that they will not be making the trip back home. It is estimated that some 100 passengers were left stranded at the US port after the company allegedly overbooked passengers. According to USA online news, the protest erupted Christmas Eve morning immediately after passengers were told they wouldn’t be making it to Guyana. It was pointed out that consumers were set to board the jet to Guyana at Terminal One about 07:00hours with Dynamic Airways, when they were told the bad news. “Their flight was apparently overbooked and a Port Authority Police Department source said that the agency wouldn’t have a plane offered until at least December 27.” By 09:00hours about half of the fuming customers booked hotels or produced other plans, the post said. There were at least 45 protestors remaining at the terminal
La Parfaite Harmonie fire Three months after she was severely burnt in a fire at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, 16-year-old Shantel Callender succumbed to her injuries. The teenager died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, (GPHC) yesterday. Callender sustained second and third degree burns to her back, abdomen, hands and legs when her jilted lover, set her mother’s house on fire, after killing her sister’s partner on September
holding up signs, it was related. Dynamic Airways had promised that their return to Guyana would have sparked a fresh beginning after their initial problem-filled arrival had caused the charter service to cease about two months after they started. The company commenced operation the day after receiving clearance from Guyana to operate, but when it arrived at JFK in New York the company apparently had no permission to operate there. Every flight after that saw the company taking passengers to alternate airports and then transporting them to JFK. The same thing happened when passengers were travelling to Guyana. However Dynamic’s return has been filled with delays. As recent as Sunday last, Dynamic experienced a more than 24-hour delay when “maintenance issues” prevented the operation of the flight. Prior to that, the company had experienced an extremely bad weekend when delays started from Thursday going through to Monday. Many passengers complained extensively about the poor service, with
Shadow Public Works Minister Joseph Harmon telling the airline, to get their act together before collecting people’s money. Harmon was insistent that the company is taking advantage of passengers given the limited airlift within the sector. He said the poor performance of the company is also a reflection on Guyana which seeks to promote itself in the international tourism industry and as the hub between the Caribbean and the East. Tourism Minister, Irfaan Ali, had also expressed his concern with Dynamic’s service, saying that the Ministry had cause to call the company and find out about its performance and measures being put in place to cater for the passengers. Tuesday, Ali said that Dynamic told him that additional flights were being added to the route in a bid to better the service, but no word was given about maintenance which has been the typical excuse for delays. Kaieteur News was unable to make contact with Dynamic’s local representative, Captain Gerry Gouveia for a comment.
Teenage victim succumbs 22, last. The teen’s sister, Zulina Callender, 20, and her threeyear-old daughter, Princess Babb, also sustained burns about their bodies. The latter were treated at the institution and sent home but Callender remained a patient. The teen’s mother, May Daniels said that her daughter’s condition had been unpredictable in the past three months. “One day she eating and talking and another day she
gone down… She was in Burns Care Unit, then she get transferred to Intensive Care and that was it,” the woman noted. She also said that hospital officials told her that the teenager succumbed because of the severity of her injuries. “She was in pain. She had third degree burns on most of her body,” Daniels added Callender was a former student of Ascension Secondary School. She leaves to mourn her mother and four siblings
Thursday December 25, 2014
GTU paying close attention to teachers’ attitudes
There is no question that the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) has been delivering on its mandate to train quality teachers suitable to educate the nation’s children. However, an evident shortcoming that has been realised overtime, according to President of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Mark Lyte, is the less than desirable attitudes of some teachers when they return to the classrooms. He said that some teachers’ attitude could in fact be the result of the challenges they face, such as deviant behaviour of students that could very well cause them to not be as productive as they should be. “CPCE has generally been doing a good job in terms of producing teachers for our classrooms,” said Lyte as he pointed to a move towards improved entry qualification. Although it was permitted in the past, teachers are no longer allowed to enter the College without Mathematics and English. This simple move, according to Lyte, is one that can easily allow for the production of an improved quality of teachers. He however noted, “We at GTU have no qualms about the teachers that are being produced, but our concern is that when the teachers get into the working environment their attitude towards the work sometimes is not what is needed.” This is in light of the fact the GTU President noted, that, “we as teachers stand at a very critical point in taking our nation forward so we are always advocating for teachers to give of their best.” Lyte who has been tasked with lecturing on a part-time basis at CPCE said too, that oftentimes it is observed that many persons are not in the
GTU President, Mark Lyte teaching profession because of a passion for the field but rather, it is sometimes a very secondary option. This is perhaps due to the fact, Lyte theorised, that when some students graduate from secondary level schools they do not immediately decide on their career paths. This might be particularly prevalent among students who hail from remote areas of the country who are forced to “go and try a thing in teaching.” “Some of them might try a thing for a year or two and then realise that they can go to College; but teaching was not their desire...some might learn to love the job while on the job rather than having a desire before they enter the profession. “This might be the situation for many teachers,” speculated Lyte as he noted that “if you don’t have that burning drive within, that urge, that desire, then it is not likely that you may want to go the extra mile for your students.” A truly committed teacher, according to Lyte, is one that would do whatever is necessary to ensure that the children within their charge learn. “So if you don’t have the right attitude then you are
in the profession just to say you have a job...” said Lyte as he pointed out that the GTU is fervently working with teachers to change that culture with a view to ensuring that teachers know that once they are in the profession, they are required to produce quality students. The GTU currently has a membership of more than 7,000 and, according to Lyte who assumed the position of President earlier this year, meetings are held at the 39 branches across the country every other week. “We are not only depending on the Ministry of Education, we are working along with the Ministry to ensure teachers have the right attitude to teaching their students, this is because education is an important aspect of what we do to develop our nation,” asserted the GTU President. Just last week CPCE which has a campus at Turkeyen and satellite centres at Mabaruma, Moruca and Port Kaituma, Anna Regina, Vreed-en-Hoop, Georgetown, New Amsterdam and Rose Hall, Mahdia, Annai, Aishalton and Lethem and at Linden, graduated a batch of 359 students. The graduates together pursued programmes in three categories: the Associate Degree in Education, the Trained Teachers Certificate and the Teacher Upgrading programmes. And according to CPCE Principal, Viola Rowe, as she presented the Principal’s Report, the teacher training institution is poised to contribute quality graduates to the education system. Of the total graduates, 50 are trained to cater to the Early Childhood Education level, 120 are trained to offer Primary level Education, and 189 are trained to deliver Secondary Education.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
The little girl with unwavering faith in Old St Nick By Sharmain Grainger
Eight year old Angela, like many other children, has been told on too many occasions that Santa Claus is just an age-old myth. But deep down in her heart of hearts she is very convinced that there is a Santa Claus. After all, it had to have been the jolly old fellow who left the exact doll set she’d so wanted under the Christmas tree last year when her parents told her in no uncertain terms they weren’t going to buy any gifts for Christmas. They just simply couldn’t afford Christmas gifts last year. But Santa Claus wouldn’t have that, thought Angela as she spoke of how she specifically described the pink doll set complete with accessories that she wanted in a letter she wrote to Santa Claus. It was dad who had mailed that letter for her as he left for the gold mining area of Port Kaituma, Region One, a few weeks before Christmas. He was hoping that a new job there could better support the family as things weren’t financially sound for them. Moreover, Angela in her little mind theorised that
since she wasn’t naughty and had tried especially hard to be nice throughout the year, she would seek the assistance of Santa Claus to make things right for her family. And so her request to Santa Claus was certainly not limited to her desire for the doll set, but rather she asked Santa Claus to throw in a thing or two for her mother and siblings too. So when Christmas morning came on December 25, 2013, Angela had no doubt in her mind that Santa Claus had faithfully responded to her letter. In fact she recalled seeing her mother’s agape mouth when they all approached the small Christmas tree mounted in their sitting room to see gifts strewn around in a methodical way. It certainly wasn’t dad’s doing because he was away on business and just couldn’t make it home in time for Christmas. Although mom kept insisting there was no Santa Claus she didn’t even try to explain where the gifts could have come from. “There were gifts for me, my sister, brother and mom,” Angela whispered as she with a grin on her face said “I know mom believes in Santa Claus too, she just won’t
admit it.” Mother allowed Angela and her siblings to open their respective gifts and even went ahead and opened one with her name too. Hers contained a necklace with an angel which for some reason brought tears to her eyes. Angela had asked Santa to send a guardian angel for her mother, a request she remembers repeating on several occasions as part of her bedtime prayer. So believing in Santa Claus is definitely something that Angela intends to sustain even if she must quietly caress these thoughts for fear of being ridiculed. “Santa Claus is real,” is therefore the theme she is embracing again this
Christmas day as well as she has expectations for some quite interesting gifts this year. While the thought of Santa Claus might be accepted or rejected by some, there’s no denying that many children for years have been avid believers of this jolly old man attired in a red and white suit said to be residing somewhere in the very cold North Pole. It is really a fascinating phenomenon to think of him receiving letters from thousands of children around the world and travelling by sleigh flown by reindeers to honour the various requests. Angela might be convinced of his existence because of her experience
but there are others who have embraced other gift giving avenues when Christmas comes around. For instance, there is the very local Radio Needy Children’s Fund (RNCF) programme which has since 1954 been ensuring that many children in need are made happy for Christmas. The organization recently celebrated 60 years of existence. It all came into being when its founder Mrs. Olga Lopes-Seal decided to offer a Christmas treat to young children of the Hadfield Street, Georgetown area. Lopes-Seal, who is said to be the country’s first female broadcaster, took advantage of her position to solicit support for the noble venture. And reports are that the forthcoming response from the public was very overwhelming. As the years went by, full-fledged Christmas parties were held annually for needy children where they were able to receive gifts and have a festive time. Lopes-Seal eventually migrated, leaving the thriving programme in the capable hands of Mrs. Bernice Mansell. The latter would retain headship for the organization for over 30 years with a small committee. She however resigned in 1998 and formed her own organization – the Bernice Mansell Foundation. Nevertheless, the Radio Needy Children’s Fund continues to be one of the primary ventures that many vulnerable children continue to look forward to each year end. The programme is sustained by an annual raffle and dinner, and food sale in
addition to donations that are received from the business community, institutions and individuals. In fact a few years ago Publisher of this publication, Mr. Glenn Lall, collaborated with the entity to host a ‘Letter to Santa Claus’ initiative. This saw children from across the country writing letters to Santa Claus that were emailed to Kaieteur News. The Santa Claus on this occasion was Mr. Lall himself who catered to the provision of the gifts requested by the many children. In addition to hosting its annual Christmas parties, the Radio Needy Children’s Fund also hosts just for the needy, sport activities, offers educational scholarships, care packages and special care upon urgent requests. All these services are offered throughout most of the administrative regions of Guyana with toys, food, cakes, cookies, sweets, drinks, ice cream and a barrage of other goodies for over 5,000 children at planned parties. So even if there are some children who do not believe in Santa Claus, they are guaranteed to still have a happy and memorable Christmas experience because of the work of the Radio Needy Children’s Fund. Currently, the Committee responsible for the organization include: Mrs. Molly Hassan – Chairman; Mrs. Holly Greaves – Secretary; Mrs. Doris Lewis – Treasurer; Executive Members Mrs. Leila Ramson and Mrs. Selena Das; Members: Ms Jenny Branford, Mrs. Patricia Thomas, and Mrs. Esther Seebarran.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
A Grove Christmas tradition
Officials of the Guyana Pride Foundation preparing for a recent feeding program for children of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara. Residents of Grove, Kaneville and Samatta Point during a recent distribution exercise.
I
t is a foregone conclusion. The role of independent, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), is critical to ensuring the wheels of development keep turning. No government can do it all. That is where the churches, the Lions and Rotary Clubs and even the small organisations come into play. With government limited in areas it can cover, because of limited finance and human resources Food For The Poor and Salvation Army, among others have been filling the gaps. In Grove, East Bank Demerara, the situation remains dire for many families who barely manage to scrape by each month. It is a story that is not too unfamiliar across the country. Grove is bordered by Kaneville, a former squatter settlement that has now been regularized. Populated by a significant number of single-parent families, the help from the Guyana Pride Foundation has been improving lives dramatically. That is because the organization has been insistently knocking on the doors of Food For The Poor and calling on friends overseas to donate. Clothing, foodstuff, school supplies, and even washing detergent, the contributions have been pouring in. Once again, Christmas time is expected to be much better because of the Guyana Pride Foundation. The smiles on the face of the little ones and senior citizens have been well worth it.
Led by long-time volunteer, Nafeeza Rodrigues, journalist Leonard Gildarie and his wife, Subrena, and a number of other citizens of Grove, the foundation have literally become an integral part of the community. Two Saturdays ago, over 200 families benefitted from a distribution exercise made possible by overseas donors and Food For The Poor. Especially targeted are children and students. The most popular donations have indeed been clothing and food. On Saturday, in a continuation of what is now a tradition that has become hugely popular, another Christmas party targeting the under-privileged was held. Almost 300 persons, including children and seniors, attended. Some 30 seniors also received hampers. “More and more we have been getting help, thanks to the contribution of Food For The Poor and our friends,” says an upbeat Rodrigues. She has been opening her garage at Third Street, Grove for the longest while for the distribution. This year alone, over 10 such exercises were conducted. “We have been receiving much more donations because of the growing confidence from the donors.” Gildarie, from his office at Kaieteur News, have played a major part in raising donations, calling on businesses and others to sponsor. The story of Guyana Pride Foundation has been a well-
documented one that had its origins in Christmas. It was started by Nafeeza after a 2005 horrific Christmas day crash at Herstelling that left her husband, Adrian dead. Her children Avian was just 12, and his sister, Anissa one year y o u n g e r. W i t h C h r i s t m a s signifying a time of family togetherness, the mother was left to explain to her children what the tragedy meant. The next year, Nafeeza decided that Christmas will not be forgotten. Rather, she was determined to celebrate it by giving back. Several boxes of stuff were bought and she insisted that the two children be part of the arrangements. That Christmas, 75 children from the village were selected and the two children were busy helping to prepare gifts. “It was the joy that I saw on their faces that made me decide it was something we had to continue.” 2006 was the beginning of something that has grown and taken on a life of its own. The next year, 2007, children from Kaneville and the nearby Samatta Point were asking for more. Nafeeza started asking around, most times pestering family, neighbours, businesses and even overseas acquaintances for help. In 2009, together with Leonard and his wife, Subrena, Nafeeza established the Guyana Pride Foundation.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
Left on a stranger’s doorstep…
A five-year-old celebrates Christmas with foster mom
‘Danny’ at the Childcare Protection Agency
By Michael Jordan Early last July, an elderly couple from an impoverished neighborhood awoke to find a frightened little boy on their doorstep. The couple took the boy to the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA). They told officials there that he was no relative of theirs and that they could not take care of him. But four-year-old ‘Danny’, (not his real name) was no stranger to officials from the Agency, and neither was his mother. The woman spent most of her time in the interior. She had previously visited the CPA and had asked officials there to keep her son, since she was allegedly unable to take care of him and could not locate his father or other relatives. Officials from the Agency tried in vain to locate relatives to provide assistance to the mother, and meanwhile, the mother did the unthinkable. “She located a house where her child’s father and the paternal grandparents were supposed to be living. She made a hole in a fence, left the child on the front steps and bolted,” a CPA official said. The child was subsequently brought to the Childcare & Protection Agency. A case worker said that little ‘Danny’ was healthy, but was somehow withdrawn, when he first came to the Agency. “He was quiet at first. He did not know who he had been left with; he was a bit scared.” Two days after his arrival, Childcare officials placed him in an orphanage, with the hope that he would one day find a home; either as a foster child or that someone would adopt him.
Luckily, a woman with love for children was looking for a child like Danny to foster. ‘Carol’ (not her real name) had been a foster parent of two nieces, but just when she had begun to grow attached to them, the girls returned to their parents. In November, 2013, ‘Carol’ applied to the CPA to be a foster parent. This is a process that the Childcare and Protection Agency takes seriously. Officials ensure that the applicant has no criminal record and is financially capable of caring for the child. If the potential foster parent appears to be satisfactory, the Director of the CPA would approve the foster parent. An official described the Foster Care Programme as a temporary ‘support base’. This means that the child is placed with a ‘nonbiological’ family for about six months, while the biological parents; hopefully, acquire the means to take care of the child with assistance from the Agency. “Instead of having the child in a private orphanage or in a state home, he was placed with a foster family. The ultimate goal is to work with the (biological) mother, to reintegrate her (with the child). “Some foster families would ask for a special gender or age, but they don’t always get what they ask for,” an official said. That was the case with ‘Carol,’ who said she wanted a girl, and even specified what age the child should be. It would take a year before her wish was answered, though not exactly in the way she had anticipated. Last August, shortly after putting ‘Danny’ in the
o r p h a n a g e , t h e C PA contacted her. “We called and said: we have a possible child for you; we have a boy who is four years old, and she said she’s coming to pick him up, not (just) to see him.” “She’d asked for a fiveyear-old girl, but she got a four-year-old boy and she’s crazy about him.” ‘Danny’ turned five recently, and that birthday was celebrated on the very day that he was given a new home. When she got the call from the Child Protection Officials, ‘Carol’ recalls being excited about the thought of taking care of ‘Danny,’ “even though I did not get the girl.” She said that it took him about two weeks to adjust to his new home, but foster mother and child now appear to be inseparable. “The bond is there. He’s a loving child and wherever he goes people gravitates to him. I had to foster my two nieces, but they (eventually) left and I felt lonely. Now I am fostering another child
because of my love for children.” Danny’ has been enrolled in nursery school. He’s attending school and he’s doing well; he’s smart,” one official said. T h e C PA c l o s e l y monitors the progress of foster parents and their charges. Case workers visit the home regularly to ensure that the child is in “a childfriendly and safe environment. Among other things, he must have his own bed. Corporal punishment is prohibited. The foster parent, who must undergo a medical examination before being approved, is informed of any possible medical problems the child may have. ‘ It was hard to believe that the hyperactive boy I met at the CPA’s Charles Street location last week was the same ‘withdrawn’ child, who was taken there just a few months ago. This will be the family’s first Christmas together, and ‘Danny’ says he wants ‘a big car’ from Santa. But because foster
care, unlike adoption, is a temporary process, it’s quite possible that ‘Danny’ could return to his biological mother, if her financial situation and home environment improves. The child’s case is up for a review at the end of six months, dating from the time of his placement. The review will be used to discuss the observations of the biological families (improvements to past situation). The findings of the case worker will determine whether the child is ready to be re-integrated with his mother or whether
an additional period of time will be granted. ‘Carol’ is quite aware of this situation. Asked what she would do if this occurs, she smiled and said that she would then foster another child. If, however, ‘Danny’s’ biological mother is unable to adequately take care of him or have him in a childfriendly environment, his foster mother could apply for adoption. If that happens, and her application passes the CPA’s rigid scrutiny, ‘Carol’ and ‘Danny could end up spending many more Christmases together.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Waking up to Christmas behind bars …Inmates By Rehanna Ramsay While many Guyanese would have woken up this morning to the tantalizing aroma of pepperpot, homemade bread and the warmth of their families in the comfort of their own homes, others woke up to four enclosed walls and the knowledge that spending time with their loved ones is nothing short of a dream. This is the fate of many persons who were caught on the wrong side of the law and are now serving time in State penitentiaries across Guyana. So what does Christmas mean to them? What is it really like? While the season is truly festive for most; in the lock ups this is a period of great sadness, loneliness and strife. I was able to have a
tell their stories
conversation with a few inmates whose only wish at Christmas is to be given a chance to spend quality time with their loved ones. Steven James (not his real name) was convicted for the murder of his spouse almost two years ago but he has been in prison for much longer. The father of three has had a history of trouble with the law. In his younger days, the man who grew up in Kitty was influenced into leading a life of crime. “Meh mother and father leff when I de small and I use to follow nuff bad company. Maybe I didn’t getting enough guidance or something, but I end up in jail and jail is not a nice place to be especially during Christmas time,” James said as he expressed that for him
and his fellow inmates Christmas Day is “just another day in the system” locked away from the rest of society. “Most we get here is some free sweetie and cigarettes that the staff
would share out…nothing fancy; or sometimes dem boys in the kitchen will do a lil thing,” James added as he noted that prison food “does taste lil special on Christmas day.” He explained that the only form of freedom offered to inmates is time enough to bathe and wash up. Asked what he missed most at this time of year, the man quickly responded spending with his family, especially his children whom he seldom communicates with. “Nothing doesn’t bother me more than that because I really wouldn’t get to see them grow and fuh see what they gun turn out to be,” James said his voice cracking. “If I could see them now I would tell them I love them and don’t follow bad company because they could end in here or worse, the man expressed. But not all prisoners are from broken homes or are brought up to a life of crime – as it is quite often publicized or believed. Anola and Patricia (real names withheld ) are long time friends. They grew up together in a small village on the East Bank of Demerara and share wonderful childhood memories. Their parents’ houses stood a few blocks away from each other and so it is safe to say that the two were neighbours growing up.
As fate would have it, both girls blossomed into productive women and went on to lead quite interesting lives. They became entrepreneurs involved in the business of trading commodities. The duo would travel to various parts of the Caribbean and South America plying their trade. However, a few years ago the two women were arraigned on drug related charges. Both pleaded guilty to the offences and were each sentenced to serve five years in jail. The two women are currently serving time at the prison facility at New Amsterdam, Berbice. The women related that the prison is not all bad as they have scheduled sessions for recreation and rehabilitation, but coping with the isolation and bullying at this time of year is a matter of survival. “We are sort of lucky because we will come out soon but some of the other women don’t even know when they coming out and like us many of them have small children,” Patricia said as she added that at Christmas their period of incarceration seems much longer. She said that being locked up, isolated and separated from family and friends at this ‘special time’ create extra tensions. “This time of year can be very depressing. To spend
Christmas locked away especially when you think about your children… everybody seems to be working on your nerves,” she said. The woman noted that while not receiving a gift at Christmas would be a big deal to many, not getting a Christmas card can be a huge issue for an inmate. She said that there is great loneliness in the prisons at Christmassome persons are disowned or lose contact with their relatives. She expressed that “People who are locked up look forward to these small gestures at Christmas; a visit during the season if possible would greatly ease their nostalgia.” However for some prisoners, Christmas is still the best time of the year, something different and something to look forward to as is the case with Anita, an inmate for more than a decade. She is serving time for murder but noted that the lessons of survival which she leant behind bars could take her anywhere in life. “Me from Essequibo… Me nah had no body really so when me come in hay me learn how fuh cook and do craft wuk …so when me come out I can fend fuh meh self. Me doesn’t really study Christmas because it is an ordinary day for me be thankful fuh see” the woman said.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
ORPHANED siblings celebrate each other By Enid Joaquin
Michael, Aliesha and Melissa Jones are three siblings for whom spending Christmas without their parents have now become the norm. But they’ve got each other, and for that they are extremely grateful. They’ve also got their grandparents Maurice and Vera Jones, aunts and uncles, brother Kevon, and sister Natasha, who all reside in the United States. Kevon and Natasha migrated with their grandparents after their father Lester Jones died suddenly in 2003. The siblings were orphaned in 2006 with the passing of their mother Yvonne. But fortunately for them, being orphaned afforded the opportunity of experiencing the real love and devotion of their extended family. Melissa, the youngest of the three in a candid i n t e r v i e w r e c e n t l y, remarked, “It’s been hard these couple of years without our parents, but I’m really grateful for my big sister Alisha, who has been like a mother to me. She would advise me on anything and I would usually listen because I know that she is older and wiser. But right now I’m really happy because my brother Michael is here to spend Christmas with us this year. We would have been really sad, if for some reason he couldn’t make it home, because then it would just have been me and Alisha.” Michael of course asserts that he would never allow his sisters to be alone for the holidays. “You know I work at sea, and I would be going all over the place from port to port and so on, but I requested my vacation early so that I could be at home in time for Christmas, because I always want to be there for my sisters. I wanted to come home and see that everything is okay with them, give them that financial support and everything.’’ Michael stressed that he would always see to it that his late dad’s wish is fulfilled. That wish was that no matter what, they should stick together as family. For these three, Christmas is the time that they miss their parents most. ‘I always miss my dad
most around this time, because he would be getting everything in order for the holidays. He always wanted to see that we had everything and were happy. He would assist in cleaning and decorating the house, and he would even
“Grandfather has always been good to us, we could never complain- also our aunties Rhonda and Merlene Auntie Rhonda would always be calling us up just to ensure that we were okay, and she would also help out in any way she could.
day everything would be perfect. She would also make our pepperpot, bake the black cake and make garlic pork. She was very strict, but also very loving and we loved her very much.” Alisha whom her
our relationships or anything that might be bothering us. As the eldest I would also advise them how to conduct themselves and I would talk to Michael about girls, how to treat them and to exercise caution-to take care of himself.”
From left: Melissa Michael and Aliesha Jones
help to make the pepperpot.” Michael does not talk much about his mother, except to say that, had she not separated from his father, he might still be alive today. “I think if my mom hadn’t left my father, he might still be alive today, because he had this heart problem, and I think he really took on the separation. So I can’t help but blame her a little for everything. But I’m thankful for our grandparents, who have been like our second parents. They’ve always been there for us. Especially our grandfather, he always supported us… he would send money and ensure that all our needs were taken care of, because he always said he never wanted us to ask anyone for anything.” Big sister Alisha was also high in praise of their grandfather, Maurice Jones.
Auntie Merlene was like our mother- she came to live with us when our dad died. She really took good care of us. All like this holiday season she would be busy cleaning and getting things in order so that on Christmas
siblings have called their ‘tower of strength’ spoke of the close bond that she shares with both Michael and Melissa. “We talk a lot –and we talk about anything.” Sometimes we talk about
For the Jones’s children, losing both parents in three years was bad enoughincomprehensible; but the loss of their beloved aunt Merlene a few years later seemed like the most cruel trick fate could play.
Even after all these years “baby’ Melissa still gets emotional, at the mention of her aunt’s passing. “’It was really hard, because we had already lost both our parents, and then our aunt who had taken the place of our mother also died; all I can say is that it was God that has kept us, and continues to keep us. We also have to be thankful to everyone that has been there supporting us, especially our grandparents and our aunts. I’m also grateful to my sister and brother, for all their support. I mean we have our relationships and so on. I have a fiancé and my sister is seeing someone, but at the end of the day, blood is thicker than water. You might suffer broken relationships and broken marriages, but family is forever. Big brother Michael, although he has started his own little family with his beautiful baby girl in Honduras, has vowed always to be there for his sisters and little brother Kevon. For these siblings, their greatest Christmas wish is that they will always be there to support each other in the rough times and to rejoice as one in the good times. And though they miss their younger siblings Kevon and Natasha, and wished they were here, they know that them being in New York will afford them so many more opportunities than if they had remained here “They will have better access to education, health care and so much more, so we are happy for that,” Michael declared. His sisters shared the same sentiment.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Youths’ celebration of Christmas: an ever changing experience By Sharmain Grainger To some, Christmas is viewed as a festive celebration that essentially helps to wind-down a year that might have been filled with achievements, disappointments or both; and can represent a time that efforts are made to let go of segregation and embrace unity. However, the concept of the Christmas celebration is known to differ from community to community, from family to family or even from individual to individual, often resulting in persons applying their own unique twist. Moreover, it is accepted that Christmas is a tradition that is learnt and personalized overtime. This is particularly evident when the views of young persons are taken into consideration. While young people of yesteryear would wholeheartedly adopt what their parents did in terms of the Christmas celebration, young people today are known to adopt their own concept of the holiday. They are therefore not merely reliant on traditional practices. For example, it has long been evident that a Christmas with a Santa Claus influence is lost by a
Some much needed rest will be sufficient for Brittany Eversley this Christmas certain age, some other traditional Christmas pastimes such as the mounting and decorating of a Christmas tree in the home are no longer widely embraced as a family affair. Nevertheless, there is no doubt that Christmas has
over the years remained a highly anticipated time of year, particularly for youths with their ever changing views of Christmas. In order to ascertain the variation of views, I recently caught up with the two Central High School, Fourth Form students a few days before school closed. Although they might be as close as two friends could possibly be, 15-year-old Brittany Eversley and Kezyah Bhola have completely different viewpoints when it comes to the celebration of Christmas. I was able to find out that while one was anticipating
Kezyah Bhola was long anticipating the closure of school to get her hands on some exciting Christmas gifts. specific Christmas gifts the other was merely looking forward to getting some alone time and much needed rest. Nevertheless, both young ladies were keen on pointing out to me that there has been an evolution in their general celebration of the festive time of year. Brittany for instance qualified her stance by pointing out that when she was a young child, Christmas was the most awesome of holidays as she would be endowed with many gifts, some of which she cannot even relate to today. She recalled too that as she grew older the gifts became fewer which prompted her to start adopting a tactic whereby she asked only for the gifts she thought were a “must have” at the time. After a period of yearning for “meaningless” toys and then gifts of convenience such as cellular phones, she recalled that her focus of the year-end holiday then shifted to the many edible delicacies she was able to indulge in. She spoke of her mom being an overabundant cook pointing out that, “mommy cooks a lot and when I say cooks a lot I m e a n c o o k s big...everything you can
think of she cooks it,” said a blushing Brittany. But according to her, “as you get older you realise that the meaning of Christmas is really about Christ...When I was younger it was about the gifts and then the foods; it was about getting whatever you wanted but it’s really not about that,” intimated the thoughtful, soft spoken young lady. For her, Christmas Day will start off with her heading to Church to give thanks for the Christ child who, according to her, is “really the reason for the s e a s o n a n y w a y. ” S h e disclosed that she has no particular interest in a major celebration of the holiday but went on to note that “I’ve lost that Christmassy vibe...I think it happens as you get older.” As such Brittany noted that being able to curl up with a good book will definitely be all that she intends to ask for this Christmas. She sees the entire holidays as one where she can release herself from the hard work at school and casually laze around for a few weeks. “It’s a time for rest and relaxation for me; I’m not looking forward for any gifts; we already got the
gift...Christ’s birth was the gift,” she stated with conviction. But Brittany’s views were certainly not mirrored by her close friend Kezyah. In fact Kezyah disclosed that she was anxiously awaiting the closure of school so that she could redirect all her focus on all things Christmas. She spoke of the holiday always being an exciting time for her but noted that there were some years that more could have been done to enhance the festivities. However, this year is expected to be an “off the chart” one for Kezyah as plans were long in the making for her to enjoy every minute of it. In fact, her celebration was all set to begin even before school closed on Friday, December, 12. With excitement she rambled on about her parents making preparations to take her travelling for the holidays; a tradition they have embraced for quite a few Christmases. Christmas this year will find her experiencing the festivities in both Miami and Texas in the United States. But traveling alone will not be the pinnacle of her Christmas enjoyment as she believes she was good enough all year long to qualify for gifts ranging from a camcorder to a Harry Potter Book Collection. She too noted that while in the past she asked for gifts for which she had no use after Christmas, she now makes request for gifts that have the potential of lasting a lifetime. “I’m a huge Harry Potter fan and I am a collector of books so the collection will fit right in,” informed Kezyah as she revealed plans to document her holidays with her highly anticipated camcorder. “In the past I would ask for pointless stuff, like a doll or something but now you really focus on things that you need, things that are of substance,” asserted Kezyah. The views shared by the two young ladies serves to emphasize that while Christmas still represents an highly anticipated time of y e a r, i t h a s d i ff e r e n t meanings for different people, particularly those of younger generation.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
Santa goes to the hinterlands
Santa in the Hinterlands
By Nicholas Peters
Santa Claus with Rockstone resident
On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus is said to travel the entire globe delivering gifts to those children who made it on his “Nice” list. Across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Americas and even Antarctica, citizens wake up to the joy of Christmas Day with a treat in their stocking or under the tree. Children especially have a special connection to this day as that toy they’ve wanted all year round may end up within in their grasp. Christmas is also a season for charity. Not every child is fortunate to be rewarded for their exceptional behaviour. As a result, many citizens have taken it upon themselves to be the personal Santa Claus for these less fortunate children. This year, throughout towns like Georgetown, and New Amsterdam, many local self proclaimed Santa Clauses put in their appearances at many of the orphanages and children’s homes, sharing gifts with the assistance of
Santa arriving in the community of Rockstone
their helpers from the North. While they appear in a number of areas in coastal Guyana, there are some other regions where it is difficult for these Christmas patrons to reach. Due to travel constraints and rough terrain, places like Rockstone don’t see Saint Nicholas as frequently as some other parts of the country. These places reside in the parts of Guyana known as the hinterland. However ,one man has made it his duty to bring the joys of Christmas to children in these areas. He goes by the name of Neville Peters, and for the past seven years has been providing the thrill of Santa Claus for the kids from these remote communities. For this 63-year-old, Christmas exists for one simple reason: to spread goodwill and cheer to others, especially children. Speaking to Peters, this publication was able to garner his perspective on what the Christmas season is all about. Growing up, Peters related that Christmas has always been his most favourite of holidays. He related that when he was a child, he would go around to the nearby villages posing as the Little Drummer Boy. “Christmas has always had a special place in my heart,” Peters said, “from when I was knee high to this day. I suppose that is how I got into the business of being Santa Claus” As he got older Peters said that he spent less and less time partaking in Christmas activities. His passions always lay in engineering, thus he committed himself wholeheartedly to his studies. However, he did manage to make time for his favourite holiday. Peters was raised in the East Bank Demerara Village of Grove, and whenever possible he and his mother would go to the neighbourhood community center around the festive season to help in Christmas parties for the less fortunate. According to the Christmas enthusiast, he thinks that those moments helping others cemented in him the passion to
spread cheer to those who needed it. As the years went by, Peters remained devoted to the spirit of Christmas. Throughout his life he participated in countless caroling sessions around Georgetown, raised funds for toy drives to several children’s homes and helped host Christmas parties for kids in underdeveloped communities. “My family knows how much I love Christmas,” elaborated Peters, “sometimes to their annoyance, but throughout the years they still helped me in my missions to bring a smile to others.” However, it wasn’t until later in life that Peters got the idea that he can actually be Santa Claus himself. He explained that it all started at a Christmas function, where families were gathered. “At the time I was part of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central,” we had a gift exchange/dinner for the club’s families, but we didn’t have a Santa to share the gifts.” He said that he was asked to be Santa for the evening, a role he happily accepted. The experience, to him, was one that he would never forget. Being the iconic character, and seeing the joy it brought to others gave him an even deeper appreciation for what the holiday meant to others. Furthermore, the idea to be the Santa Claus in the hinterlands came after a service project he and the Rotary Club were part of. The project involved a surgical procedure which involved two brothers from the community of Rockstone. “The project had me spending a lot of time in the community,” said Peters, “because of that I got to know many of the villagers.” The Club had been involved in other projects within the community, but it had yet to have a Santa Claus for the community Christmas party. Peters then decided to take it upon himself to be Rockstone’s resident Santa. He recounts the first time he (Continued on page 43)
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Stranded at the altar on Christmas Day By: Romila Boodram Faking your own death to get out of marrying someone is pretty heartbreaking and generally a really terrible thing to do. But that didn’t stop Dillon Cooper (not his real name) also called ‘Cuddly Bear ’ from ending his relationship with his fiancée, Katherine Hoult ( real name withheld), by faking his own death. Unfortunately, I am not joking. She still lives in Georgetown while Dillon resides in Linden. Two years ago, Cooper reportedly called Hoult, a 23-year-old accountant at one of the country’s leading financial institutions, and pretended to be his father. He called to inform her of his untimely death, just
hours before the couple’s big day. The young woman remembers that day as though it occurred yesterday. “Kathy, this is Cooper’s dad, There’s no easy way to say this…I am sorry to say that Cooper is dead,” a still distraught Hoult told Kaieteur News while recounting the phone conversation. Kathy related that she received the telephone call less than an hour after she had talked to her boyfriend of two years. “I was at the hall and my cousin was putting on the finishing touches to my makeup when he (Dillon) first called me. He called to tell me he loved me. During the conversation, he seemed a little uneasy but I never expected him to ditch me on our big day. I thought he was just nervous,” Kathy said.
She explained that a little after she ended the conversation with the man she thought would have been her husband, she received the terrifying call. “I never talked to his dad. I met his mother a number of times and his siblings… his dad was the stern one so I always tried to avoid meeting him and now I realize that that was the biggest mistake I ever made because if I had met him, Dillon couldn’t have fooled me like that,” the accountant said with a little smile. Going back to what transpired on December 25, 2012, the day the 23-yearold beauty thought she would have been married to the man of her dreams, she said that after the “fake death” call, she panicked. “Do you have any idea how much it hurts to find out the man you are about to marry is dead? Especially when you are dressed in your wedding gown,” Kathy recalled. She further revealed that after locking herself in the restroom for some two hours, she informed her family who then informed the guests, some of whom were already seated and
waiting patiently to get a glimpse of the bride and the groom. “When everyone left the hall, it was just me and my relatives alone. We were sitting there thinking about what to do next. At that point I couldn’t think straight, my mom was rubbing my back and trying her best to calm me down while my other family members were trying to find out Dillon’s address in Linden because I had never visited him,” Kathy recalled. She added that later that day one of her friends managed to get Cooper’s address and after changing into a pair of jeans and blouse, she and her family members traveled to the mining town to investigate what had happened. “My father drove me, my mom and sisters while other family members followed behind. The ride was not more than one hour and 15 minutes. During the journey, no one uttered a word, I guess they were all too afraid of my reaction “ the 23-yearold said. A c c o r d i n g t o h e r, approximately 20 minutes before she reached Dillon’s home, she received a telephone call from one of his friends, Peter. “Peter called to congratulate us. He had no idea what had happened and at that point, I didn’t even know what had happened so I handed my mom the phone and she informed him that we never got married because we heard that Dillon died. I had Peter on speaker and when mommy informed
him that Dillon died, he couldn’t believe. “What nonsense! Dillon is dead? When? How?” “Peter was shooting so many questions at my mom that she didn’t have the answer to. She informed him that we were on our way to Linden and he promised to meet us there.” According to Kathy, when they reached in front of Dillon’s home, all her relatives disembarked their vehicles. Some of them had boxes of biscuits in their hands while others had bottles of coffee. They were all prepared for the wake. “The biggest shock was when we rang the door bell,” Kathy said with a giggle. She said that after about two rings, a young woman opened the door and asked, “How may I help you?” “My mom asked to meet Dillon’s mom and she came out and closed the door behind her. I asked what happened to Dillon and before she could have answered, we saw Dillon walking up the road with a baby in his hand.” Kathy related that her relatives were all staring at Dillon “I guess that’s when everyone realized something was wrong.” “He didn’t notice us at first but when he turned into his yard, he almost dropped to the ground.” Kathy related that Dillon’s front yard was packed with people but no one said anything for about 15 minutes. “There was silence until the baby started to cry. The young lady came out the
house and collected the child. After she walked inside, my mom asked what was going on and then Dillon’s mom invited us in.” After about 10 minutes, Dillon came out of one of the bedrooms and asked to talk to me alone but my mom objected and said whatever he had to say should be said to everyone. Two minutes later, the young lady came out with the baby and sat next to Dillon. “With tears dripping down his cheeks, Dillon confessed that he had cheated on me while in Linden and the girl had gotten pregnant.” He said, “There was nothing I could have done. It was just a one night thing. After that I didn’t see her back until two months ago when she came here with the baby. At that time I didn’t know what to do and then the wedding was right around the corner. I didn’t want to leave you but at the same time I couldn’t leave my child.” “So you planned to cancel the wedding at the last moment and embarrassed us!” my mother interrupted. Dillon and his family did not answer. We left the biscuits and coffee and walked out. Recalling their first meeting, Kathy said that she had met Dillon at a reception h e l d f o r y o u n g entrepreneurs. He was the owner of a jewelry store in Linden. To d a y, K a t h y h a s invested into the jewelry business while Dillon is raising his son on his own.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
Remembering the reason for the season…
A resident of Uncle Eddie’s Home reminisces on his visit to Bethlehem By Sharmain Grainger
If his recollection is to be accepted as gospel truth, Lloyd DeFreitas may be one of the few people around these parts who have actually visited the birth place of the Christ Child. The Christ Child (Jesus Christ) was born in Bethlehem and Christians embrace the belief that he was born to die for the sins of the world. In fact the story of this very birth is the basis for the celebration of Christmas. And according to DeFreitas, a resident of the Uncle Eddie’s home for the past eight and a half years, he feels especially privileged to have actually seen the birth place of the child who is the reason for the season. In fact when I asked him if he was looking forward to celebrating Christmas, his startled response was “how you mean if I looking forward for Christmas?! Christmas is a special day, a very, very special day!” The man who claims to be a world war veteran insisted that he was a soldier in the British Army and was therefore required to spend some time in Bethlehem. He recounted that the war started in 1939 and by the end of his tour of duty he was in Egypt. But according to the 90-year-old, it was his time in Bethlehem that was the most memorable. The aged gentleman however warned, as he sat down for an interview with me, that “it would take me hours to tell you the whole story.” He recalled visiting the King David Hotel which was a
short distance from the Church Army Hotel where he stayed as he spoke of trekking up a hill to the area of Bethlehem where Jesus was born. According to him, on the way he had to pass Rachel’s tomb who according to biblical scriptures was the wife of Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, who conned away his b r o t h e r ’s ( E s a u ) , birthright. “I was there, I was there in 1945,” insisted DeFreitas who from all indications has all his faculties well intact. He disclosed that the birth place of the Christ Child, during his visit, was preserved in a church called ‘The Church of the Nativity’. In the lower section of that church he related that the crib believed to have been Jesus’ was still there. He recalled too having to go through one little door to enter the church in order to view the crib but however recalled that it”was a tremendous church...They had the little door because I was told they wanted to ensure that people bow down when they entered the church...” He remembered that outside of the church was a representation of shepherds who according to the scriptures visited the baby Jesus to bring him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. DeFreitas who is a dedicated Christian today, said that it was during that very visit that he decided to embrace Christianity.
Like DeFreitas, Ms Arabella Goodman, spoke of her eager anticipation of Christmas Day. But instead of just reflecting and indulging in food and drinks, she disclosed that she will be giving thanks for life. “I’m a sick woman but they take good care of me here,” said Goodman as she related how happy she would be to spend another Christmas at the Home. The woman who is World War Veteran, Lloyd DeFreitas currently in her 80s has been residing there for over four years. “If Jesus wasn’t born we And Christmas for a feisty Ms couldn’t be saved, but Jesus came and then he died for our sins...some Thora still means a time for people don’t believe it but I know receiving a lot of gifts. The woman he came and if he hadn’t come I who would only give her age as think I would’ve gone straight to over 60 said that she would usually hell because I was a tremendous have a grand time during the sinner in those days,” added Christmas celebration at the Home DeFreitas who recalled being able which sometimes feature musical to visit several other places detailed renditions from the Guyana Police Band. Although she herself is not a in the bible. Ever since taking up residency dancer, she noted that watching the at the Uncle Eddie’s Home, others dance is just as much fun. According to Patricia Abrams, DeFreitas each Christmas would share stories of his visit to supervisor at the Uncle Eddie’s Bethlehem with his fellow Home for the past three years, residents. This year, according to throughout the year and especially at Christmas the staff at the him, will be no exception. H e h o w e v e r n o t e d t h a t Tucville, Georgetown institution Christmas Day will also see him focus keenly on their role as “eating and drinking only the best caregivers. And giving that level of care she of it.” He also anticipates a visit from his niece but noted that explained is not one that can be nothing could take away from the taught but rather “you have got to celebration with the other residents love this job to do it. It is an aspect and staffers of the home. “We are of nursing that is very different not friends here, we are family,” from basic nursing.” And it could at times be a said DeFreitas of folks at the Home.
Uncle Eddie’s Home
particularly tedious task to care for some of the elderly residents who might be suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer as, according to Abrams, they require an extra amount of patience, kindness and love in order for their care to be effective. “It is not easy to care for the elderly (especially the sick ones) and sometimes it is not easy to make them happy but we certainly try...and we try even harder during the Christmas holidays to make them feel special so that they get to truly enjoy the festivities,” informed the supervisor. And the efforts to make Christmas special for the elderly residents are certainly not done in isolation. Abrams revealed that support is often forthcoming from o rg a n i s a t i o n s s u c h a s t h e Ruimveldt Lions Club whose members often kick off the season by decorating the home much to the excitement of the aged residents who currently amount to about 25. This is usually done a few weeks before Christmas Day, Abrams said. “This is one of the activities that bring a lot of joy to the residents...they are usually all excited when the decorating starts,” she intimated. To help make the Christmas celebration an even more memorable one the administration of the Home would solicit financial support from various business establishments. This is done, Abrams said, by the distribution of donation boxes to these business places by the first week of December. In addition to the (Continued on page 44)
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
The ghetto that Santa forgot
This structure is where Susan and her children will be spending Christmas this year. It is facing demolition to make way for a Chinese developer.
By Dale Andrews Magnola Frank forced her way through the crowd to get closer to the truck that was distributing stuff to those needy folks in the ghetto. Magnola is one of the residents of the D’Urban Backlands ghetto; a strip of land behind the Chinese Embassy that was once used by the late First Lady Viola Burnham as a farm. Magnola stretched out her hand to grab the little toy for the baby she was holding in her hand. One could sense that she was desperately trying to ensure that the eight of her 11 children which are living with her enjoy this Christmas. Like most mothers in the ghetto, Magnola has been fighting to make ends meet throughout the year, and now that it’s Christmas time, the task is doubly harder. “I trying fuh scramble up everything,” she said. At the time she was among dozens of residents who were collecting much needed Christmas trappings from a Santa Claus who came in the form of a Canadian based Guyanese volunteer worker. Magnola has been living in this part of Greater Georgetown for the past 16 years and like most of her neighbours, she dwells in a makeshift structure that keeps the elements out. It’s a miracle that no major disaster has befallen the little D’Urban Backlands community. Most of the residents here cannot afford to pay for a governmentallocated house lot and although they are fully aware that they can be uprooted at any given time, they are prepared to make the best of their meagre existence. Presently most of them have been pushed further back into thick vegetation to allow for a Chinese business expansion. The cramped environment does
not allow for any recreation for the scores of little residents who were also happily collecting toys and other goodies that including soccer balls and gear. With the father of the older children in prison, serving six years, Magnola who is unemployed, is now relying on the “small piece” she receives from the father of her younger offsprings. “He does come and bring lil money and so on and it does help out he stepchildren,” she said. Two years ago she had to, as she put it, “start over life”, when fire destroyed her little dwelling. Against all the odds stacked against her, she plans to still try to make the season and unforgettable one for her family. “Well, I plan fuh decorate yeah, but I really don’t have nothing, but ah just tryin. I ain’t know how ah cookin pepperpot, I ain’t know wha I baking but I just tryin, I just giving God thanks and praise that I does get through, because I does go to church, I praise God and he gone answer my prayers,” she said. For her, Christmas 2014 is shaping up to be the worst Christmas she has ever experienced and she said that her children despite their ages, understand the situation. “When we don’t have, we got to do without; when we get, we enjoy it…I want to make my children happy, give dem every little ting in Jesus’ name,” Magnola declared. Meanwhile, Yvonne Nicholas has been living in the D’Urban Backlands ghetto for the past six years and can be described as one of the community’s leaders. She was quick to point out that Santa Claus usually forgets such places, adding however that she will not let that deter her from enjoying the festive season. “I prepare for Christmas at all times,” she said. For sure her (Continued on page 43)
Dozens of residents of the D’Urban Backlands ghetto await the distribution of Christmas goodies from a truck.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
A Surinamese Christmas Just like Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport, you find that Suriname’s Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport is filled with persons eager to reunite with family members from abroad. Reunions play a significant part in Surinamese culture. Whether from overseas or locally, special attention is given to those known as “the forgotten ones” – persons who have strayed from our minds and daily routine. If reunions cannot be facilitated in person, then you’re bound to see people going the extra mile in making phone calls or preparing special (and sometimes elaborate) gifts to send to distant family members. Just before the official start of the Christmas Season, the Independence Square in Paramaribo becomes the scene of melodious Christmas caroling. The Surinamese Government in collaboration with the various religious groups, organise what is known as the Public Christmas Choir. It is here where people from all over the city, including individual and group vocalists, come to take part in large caroling sessions. By the end of it persons are wishing each other “Season’s Greetings” marking the start of the Christmas atmosphere. In more recent years, Suriname has been erecting an ornately decorated 35 meters high Christmas tree in the same Paramaribo Independence Square. This event sees
roughly 5 0 0 0 observers, delighted to join in the light up of one of Christmas’ most iconic symbols. By this time, many of the government offices like the Presidential Palace, the Ministry of Finance and the Parliament Building are abundantly decorated exhibiting Surinamese’s flare for decorating. As more and more areas of Paramaribo is decked out for the season, you find that many people take to the habit of night driving around the city just to view the best and the most attractive illuminated gardens in the city. Some of the media outlets, especially newspapers and TV Stations, even host competitions which deem certain gardens the best decorated for that year. The decorations become so marvelous to watch that citizens drive out to the Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge to get a better view of the city. The structure gets as high as 52 meters above the Suriname River, and is the perfect spot to witness the “sea of lights”. You can see on either side of the bridge the creativity and brilliant incandescence to which locals commit to Christmas. One feature of the season which would be (Continued on page 40)
32 meters Christmas tree in Independence Square
Christmas lighting of house in Paramaribo, Suriname
By Nicholas Peters In many ways, Christmas in Suriname is similar to Christmas here. Many citizens start to clean their homes, families fly in for the holiday and all around, the atmosphere just becomes livelier. For Surinamese citizens, Christmas is a particularly special time to remember those far from their minds. It is a time for competitive decorating. And it is a time to illuminate the night and in some respects brighten up the day. In Suriname, preparations for Christmas can begin as early as six weeks before December 25. This is the time when most of
the churches, family homes, shops, public and private companies in Suriname gear up for the festive season. Firstly, people tend to clean their homes and gardens in a thorough manner. It is a common belief that one should start the New Year with clean surroundings. And this belief doesn’t only go for the environment, as physical, mental and spiritual cleansing also takes priority. Leading up to Christmas, you find that more citizens take time to go to church, along with participating in charitable activities. You even find a lot of people visiting various Spas, to rid themselves of the stress incurred from the year.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
A Surinamese Christmas
Paramaribo citizens gathered for Public Christmas Choir From page 39 new to Guyanese is the celebrations of the “Pagara Estafettte”. Imagine the Pagara Estafettte to be like a New Year celebration in the
daytime. The event starts around noon on December 31, every year and all along downtown Paramaribo is littered with vast fields of firecrackers, which we in
Guyana call squibs. However, instead of a few small squibs scattered in pockets of the city, imagine giant multi-kilometer stretches of firecrackers
winding all around city blocks like a snake. Surinamese call it the “crackersfield”, which transforms downtown into a cacophony of cracklings. The highlight of the street festival, is the lighting of one of these squib-snakes;
Decorated garden in Paramaribo
transforming the area into a battlefield of smoke, crackles, colour and festive spirits. And just so participants don’t “go deaf”, earplugs are distributed, unless you’re brave enough to go without them. Christmas in Suriname is
definitely a cultural experience for any Guyanese looking to broaden their views on how diverse the holiday can be celebrated. So when next you visit this neighboring country during festive season, just remember to carry along some earplugs.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
Christmas:
More spending, less goodwill and pure commercialization By Rabindra Rooplall
Do you pine for the days of yesteryear when Christmas wasn’t about buying things in stores, but was instead about family and goodwill? Do you lament the commercial nature that Christmas has become? Well if you don’t it means you’re not buying anything. Our modern Christmas tradition have evolved and with it comes the marketing and Christmas bonanza that inveigles our attention at every medium, whether television, radio, newspapers, online news or just mere word of mouth. Buying, selling and spending have always been part of Christmas, and so has been lamenting about the loss of the glorious days when it wasn’t. This notion that Christmas used to be pure is part of the sentiment built into the very fabric of the holiday. We need to feel like it was better once; we need those warm fuzzy memories of a past that never
actually was. It gives us something to strive for today, as futile as it may seem. Most of the families that celebrate Christmas indulge in the glittering ornaments, festive garlands, colorful lights adorning the house and the aroma of mouth watering delicacies that are churned out of the kitchen. Wow, that thought just made me hungry! Not forgetting the alcoholic beverages and eggnog that coincides with the atmosphere which the season permeates. Although the Christmas holiday is deeply woven into the fabric of Christianity, Guyanese countrywide celebrate the holiday with much fanfare. Being that Christmas is a once-a-year celebration like no other, many are tempted to spoil themselves with the many commercial deals that are advertised daily. This results in an enormous amount of joy to adults and children alike. Christmas is
also a time for gathering with family and friends while spending quality time together, whether decorating the tree, baking cookies or huddling together in the living room to watch one of the most beloved Christmas classics, or indulging in video games. Yes there are those! Ask yourself, has Christmas become too commercialized? Yes, from where I stand and what I have seen, it has. From the latest electronic gadgets, to the desperation of lastminute shopping, we can lose the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ. Is it possible that Christmas in the decades ahead might lose its true meaning or evolve into something that strays from its true core or worst yet, become extinct? Although the latter might b e i l l o g i c a l , commercialization is just an aspect of the evolution of the holiday. Just because some people enjoy the festivities,
The little boy and girl... From page 29 buy a bottle of Banko wine and items to cook. Nazalena returned and made porridge which Richard tried forcing her to eat. The woman said she refused after which he declared that he would kill them all. Nazalena said she was at a table throwing out porridge for her son, when she suddenly felt an intense burning on her right hand: blood was gushing everywhere and looking down , she noticed her hand was no longer there. Kimberly tried running outside but she was chopped several times leaving blood pouring everywhere. Richard kicked the body to the floor and pounced on his son whom his wife had warned to run. As Nazalena battled to open the door, Richard swung his cutlass and chopped three of her fingers off. He dragged her by her hair, and raised the cutlass .Perhaps it was by the grace of God but the lamp went out at that moment. He swung the cutlass but only managed to chop off the woman's hair and Nazalena assumes to this day that the clearly deranged man felt he had chopped her head off as he had done with his daughter. He advanced toward his son and chopped him several times too. Nazalena's mother who was living in the same yard at the time, heard the screams and had been trying all the while to get in. She finally succeeded, forcing Richard to out scaling the fence. Richard hung himself a few days later. “Every day I cry. I still hold onto their
clothes,” the mother said. “Without my children, my life has been a living hell. I remember them and the love they always showed me.” “Christmas last year wasn't Christmas. I couldn't stay in the place. I would have wanted my children to have a fun time like everybody else but they never got the chance. We never had Christmas, never had a chance to celebrate; never a happy occasion.” It was the hugs and kisses from her children that she remembers even as she recalled that they could not go nowhere due to her husband's insecurities.
fun and family time offered by the holiday more than the religious aspect, does not mean that the moral and righteous facet of the holiday is forgotten. It just means everyone has their own way of observing the one holiday that is the most popular globally. It must be acknowledged that the commercial value of Christmas involves much more than advertisements and last chance sales at the stores. Holiday decorations and publicity also generates
an electrifying buzz that energizes the community and brings people together in the true spirit of friendship and giving. And remember, no one is forced to put up a tree, sing holiday songs or buy presents. If you want to spend the holiday season giving in other ways, volunteer your time to help the needy, assist a nonprofit organization and donate some personal time doing something that can be uplifting in someone’s life;
another option of a way to enjoy the season. Loneliness is devastating enough to deal with on a daily basis. During the Christmas season it can become the catalyst that drives those who are in this state into deep depression. What better way for Christian families to show the love of Christ on the celebration of his birth than to provide comfort and fellowship to those who most likely will be alone this Christmas?
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Bamboo bursting: one of St. Lucia’s fun Christmas traditions By: Zena Henry Christmas might mean different things to different people, and might even mean nothing to some people. One thing is for sure is that in the Caribbean we enjoy ourselves, whether it is observing the day based on its religious genesis or just enjoying the holiday with friends and family. Activities of course also vary, and people, especially children, enjoy themselves in different ways. Growing up in St. Lucia was awesome, and bursting bamboo is one of the ways that locals there usher in the Christmas season. It can be safely said that Christmas is a major event in St. Lucia. In late October and early November, some stores would already commence preparations, and the promotions are endless. By December the entire town is decorated and lit up. Those were nice events, but we kids looked forward to the Christmas parties when we got to wear our ‘going out clothes’ and ‘floss.’ However, bamboo bursting took the cake. Bursting bamboo is the
Bamboo-bursting is one of the most look-forward to events of the year tradition of shaping and carving regular bamboos and causing them to sound off like cannons. Whenever the bamboos started bursting we kids got excited because we knew it meant Christmas is near. The explosions could be heard in the distance and then the sounds would draw closer as communities joined in. Bamboo bursting usually involved boys, but I was a bit rugged back then, and didn’t always stick to the script. The boys were a challenge because they would get upset if a girl was bursting bamboos, especially if ours were louder. The boys didn’t often want to give a girl a try, but it was nonetheless one of the most exhilarating things. It was like speaking another language with a fierce and loud roar. What also made
bamboo bursting exciting is the distance one could have the blast sound off from. This however required height. St. Lucia is a hilly island and high points are easy to find. The bamboo cannons would be taken to hill tops and high places and operate from there. Rock Hall is one of the highest spots just outside the city centre. It overlooks the whole of the Marchand community and its environs. From there, one could hear the loud cannons ringing in the valley below. And with every blast came several others; from different high places. Those listening to the blasts (mostly kids) would cheer and support their favorite cannon. We were also awed over the blasts and how loud it could get. Of course the grownups were in hell. They would often wonder when it would stop and cursed when it got overbearing. They just had to handle it however because most times it never ended until midnight or after. Bursting bamboo is a major contrast to the regular carol singing and tranquil activities that speak of peace and goodwill at this time of year. Instead, the bamboocannons will shatter whatever hope of quietness one would be looking for. Not surprisingly, I never questioned the purpose or meaning of bamboobursting in my young days, but I managed to source some information of the event from the Tropical Traveller, a St. Lucian magazine that promotes the i s l a n d . T h e Tr a v e l l e r explains that traditionally Bamboo-bursting begins by
November 2 all through December, (but we kids sometimes went into the New Year.) It was made clear that participants in this traditional folk method of welcoming Christmas are primarily young boys. With next-to-harmless, nonballistic cannons, each team tries to outdo each other in achieving the loudest ‘booms’. To craft cannons, mature bamboo stalks about six inches in diameter are cut to varying lengths – the longer, the more resonant the bang. The ends are then trimmed and all nodes inside are broken except for the last one – serving as a receptacle for the fuel. Above the receptacle, a small one-inch hole is made away from the end of the bamboo. The bamboo’s open end is then elevated slightly by placing stones beneath it, and the closed end rests on the ground. Lastly, kerosene is poured through the hole and a bottle lamp (A ‘Shal’ in Kweyol) is kept nearby as
the ignition source. To fire, a thin stick is dipped into the kerosene and set alight by the flame from the ‘Shal’. The flaming tip of the stick is thrust into the hole above the receptacle and the expert firer then extinguishes the flame by clamping his hand over the small square hole. This process must be repeated several times to warm the kerosene until a few modest pops are heard. As the kerosene vaporizes, explosions of the fuel and oxygen mixture grow into thunderous roars. Ferocious blasts of hot air and blinding flashes of light are propelled through the elevated end of the cannon. Sometimes small objects are placed in the bamboo cannon to be hurtled away by the force. While it’s exciting, bamboo bursting is not easy. It requires precision and expertise to avoid a disappointing or dangerous experience. A cannon crew usually consists of three or four persons. One controls
the ‘shal’ and refuels the cannon, one handles the lanyard and another blows to clear the smoke – which is important to do between firings. It’s crucial for the crew to also notice if cracks develop in the bamboo as they continue bursting, as the wood eventually dehydrates and may shatter under the force of explosion. Despite the hazards however, bamboo bursting is one of St. Lucia’s fun Christmas traditions. Until the kerosene is exhausted, boys island-wide will carry on throughout the night in celebration of the season to come. As kids, we never saw the danger in bamboobursting; we just had fun with it. It was the most awesome thing ever. The blast would be so loud sometimes you could imagine what a battlefield sounds like. I have been out of St. Lucia for sometimes now but you better believe I’d still involve in burstingbamboo if I were there.
Enjoying traditional Christmas... From page 30 explained. He added that resistance training should be done for no longer than 45 minutes in the gym during the evening, if you have the time. However, if you don't have easy access to a gym, Ross recommends that you do at least 100 jumping jacks in five sets of 20 in the morning. “If you have a skipping rope, just use it for a quick ten minutes and then head for an abdominal workout,” the popular bodybuilder added. This he said can be done by doing 50 crunches followed 50 lying leg raises. (This might be difficult for persons who are not seasoned athletes so feel free to operate within your limitations.)
If time permits, he said that those can be followed by squats in five sets of 15 repetitions. He added that you can then spike things up a bit by taking a mop stick and placing it behind your neck to do what is popularly known as the “broomstick twist”. This he advised is more effective in getting rid of stubborn back fat as opposed to the regular side bends. “Feel free to just do a 10 minute HIT routine followed by concentrated exercises for just about five to eight minutes, either on your arms, tummy, back, sides or gluteus.” Time does not permit for us to go indepth with other exercises, but I do hope that this article proves helpful in assisting you in having a healthy Christmas.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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Kaieteur News
The ghetto that Santa...
From page 38 modest ghetto-like home will be decorated, after all, she is still expecting visitors. Yvonne is one of the more fortunate residents of the ghetto. She has her menu for the holidays already planned out. Her house will not be short of pepperpot and there will be a special dish of baked chicken on Christmas day. “That will always be there… Christmas won’t be
spoilt for me,” Yvonne said. All the residents are united in their belief that the community has been forgotten by the Administration. They fear though that whe never the authorities choose to remember them, it will be time for them to vacate the land to make way for some private businessman who has close links to the government. “Only three people ever come in here and give us
things. Mark Benschop was the first, them Mister Vieira and now Sister H,” Yvonne said. Dawn Small, a former security guard is on the unemployed list for Christmas 2014. The D’Urban Backlands ghetto has been her home for the past four years. She lives alone in her little shack. “Well, I don’t know how I gon mek out for dis holiday because I ain’t wukkin…I
Santa goes to the hinterlands From page 27 posed as Father Christmas for the children, “At first many of the younger children were afraid of me. Of course they knew who Santa Claus was, but like any toddler, they were afraid. But as the party went on, and I began to hand out gifts, the children got more cheerful.” Some of the children even pulled his beard to see if it was real, which Peters found to be funny. For the next seven years, Peters would be Santa Claus to communities like Rockstone, expanding his work to areas like Anarika . He even managed to visit some outlying families in order to bring them joy in time for Christmas. He would arrive in his off-road minibus, with bags filled with presents which he gathered from donations made by
various Georgetown businesses. He said that some of the kids would ask him where his reindeer was, and he would respond that the red-earth trail was too dangerous for them. This local Santa Claus soon became a staple to these hinterland communities, and throughout the years a lot of the children looked forward to his visit. However, Peters noted that as the years went by his age began catching up with him. He related that this year he was unable to continue his Santa parade, due to a terrible ailment. Despite this he is persistent in continue his legacy as Santa Claus to those in the outlying regions. “Hopefully next year I will be able to fill the shoes of Santa Claus again,” said Peters, “who knows maybe Santa will even surprise me with a visit.”
come off because I’m tired,” she said matter of factly. For Christmas day she will stay at home and “bun me own pot because I don’t walk about. Whatever the father provide I will accept,” she said. As we spoke, the children had just collected their toys from the Good Samaritan, and were happily running around showing them off among themselves. It was a different atmosphere from when this newspaper first went into the community. Then there were gloomy faces all around but the anxiety of what was in store for them could not be hidden. An hour earlier as the truck laden with boxes of toys, clothing and other much needed supplies rolled into the community and finally came to a stop, word spread quickly throughout the community and scores of children, some of them barely clad, came running out from every possible crease, navigating the many hindrances that stood in their way. While we waited for them to assemble, I made my way across to the humble
abo de of Susan, who can be described as the voice of the community. For years she has stood firm against efforts to remove her from the place she called home for a number of years. The structure she lives in stands alone, surrounded by a clearing that is being undertaken by a Chinese developer. “Right now I really don’t know how I’m preparing for Christmas. The place I’m living in is partly broken…I don’t know. I have kids and I would like to be comfortable,” she said. Susan’s main wish for this Christmas is to get a proper home so that she can decorate like ‘normal people’ and be comfortable. While she definitely cannot decorate her present dwelling, she certainly will pull out all the stops to ensure that she prepares some special meals for her children. “I’m not certain that I’ll get everything but I’ll try my best,” she said. Given her current state of affairs, she is not anticipating visitors for the holidays.
But if anyone visits, she will try her best to entertain them. Meanwhile another resident Gloria Caesar is not looking forward to Christmas because “is a time when you gat to have plenty money to spend and right now I don’t have it and things not nice.” She is one of the many vendors who are plying their trade on the streets of Georgetown and she claimed that things are not too bright this year. “Things getting rougher and rougher every year and you got to get family from outside fuh help you,” Caesar explained. The elderly resident of the ghetto has a full shack; she is caring for several grandchildren whose mother has passed away and life is a bit hard for her. But she is a contented person and despite her small income, she will try to stretch it to make ends meet this Christmas. “I believe that one day God will do some good for me,” she stated.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
A resident of Uncle Eddie’s Home reminisces on his visit...
Some of the residents of the Home awaiting the start of a Christmas Party From page 37 Home’s annual Christmas party for staffers and the residents, there are others that are streamlined by various organizations, especially for the elders, some of which are venued at the Home or at various locations. For instance, Christmas Party for the residents started as early as December 3, compliments of a nearby church. Republic Bank and Scotia Bank have also played a major role over the years in ensuring that “Christmas is a big thing for the residents here,” said Abrams. “Since I have been here it has always been a joyous time for them with lots of love and excitement.” Today, like most other Christmas Days, the residents will have a relaxing day punctuated by visits from representatives of various organizations that would have made bookings to serve breakfast, lunch and/or dinner. And just like any normal home, Abrams said that the cooks attached to the institution usually spare no effort in ensuring that only the most sumptuous of meals
are prepared for Christmas Day. “It’s just like home here, there is black cake, sponge cake, pepperpot, turkey, ham; all the fancy foods, you just name it and it’s here for the
residents...it’s a home away from home,” asserted Abrams. Meals are however served with caution as, according to Abrams, the residents’ health is always in
the forefront the staffers mind. Some residents of the Home are fit and well and there are others who are bed ridden, however Abrams noted that on Christmas Day all of them are brought
together to share in the festivities. She however pointed out that while they are encouraged to indulge as much as possible, the residents are not forced to do
so. The Uncle Eddie’s Home is managed by two Committees and has been in existence since 1974. It is arguably the largest privately operated Geriatric Home in Guyana.
Bachelor's Christmas From page 31 decorating, walls, inside and out had to be washed before Christmas. I disliked the tedious work that entailed, washing and drying and putting away again. But waking up to an almost brand new redo to the house, the smell of new curtains and table cloth, of the new mats and carpets all made it worth the while. Now I have to do it alone, the only thing I'm adding from last year is new curtains and fresh decorations for the Christmas tree. Generally at this time I work hard, give myself a raise and honor every invitation since it doesn't come often.” Murray plans to cook up a storm today; he will not be cooking the regular dishes. His menu will be a mixture of flavours involving Italian, Chinese and Jamaican cuisine. Being a bachelor, Murray emphasized, has magnified the
reality that caring for yourself is a personal responsibility, especially health wise. “It cements the need for a healthier life style since you have no one else sharing the home, or watching out for your diet in this era of healthy eating.” “Contrary to popular belief that life as a bachelor is carefree; my experience has thought me otherwise. Having to look to one's self to bear the worries or disappointments, a hard day at work or successful times alone can be overwhelming. However, on the other hand the resilience that comes when a challenge is overcome and goals reached are most fulfilling. What I've learnt over time as a bachelor and come to cherish is the invaluable importance of peace of mind; the personal peace required to discover self and others in a personal way. I do not miss the conflicts of relationship but whenever the time
comes for a relationship again it means I've had enough of me and desire to share life with a woman that I am worthy of.” Murray acknowledged. As far as Murray can remember, he has never looked or found a perfect woman. He intends on the other hand to be perfect for his future companion. “The woman that would have me next would just need to accept that most mornings I'll make her breakfast, that just maybe I'll wash her cloths and I mean 'all of it', that sometimes I'll day dream but it's not that I'm not thinking of her, she'll be my priority. The things I would change if I could relive my relationships again are not to sweat the small stuff and listen more.” Murray continued “the easiness of a bachelor or relationship is relative to one's value system and desired destiny. For me my current relationship status isn't permanent
…family life for me is way better than a bachelor's type of life. Not that self pampering isn't a necessity but a deliberate life of singleness limits the experience and growth that can only be gained in the family setting. Don't get me wrong, the life of a bachelor is filled with excitement, thrills and of unlimited spontaneous self indulgence but they do not provide they lasting satisfaction that spiral a perfect soul.” Despite these momentous privileges, he said nothing is more rewarding than to spend time with his four-year-old daughter Mya. “Seeing my daughter turn four was a silent celebration, the joy of her growth and inquisitiveness thus far is priceless. Her smile is like therapy to an aching soul every time we meet. As I share this moment with her today I salute all daughters and extend best wishes to you on behalf of myself and Mya.”
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
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People’s Progressive Party People’s National Congress Reform The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends Christmas Greetings to all Guyanese in particular, our Christian brothers and sisters on the festive season of Christmas which is a festival to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Christmas has evolved over the centuries into a national institution which has transcended the boundaries of race and nationalities. It is a time when peoples across
the globe look out for each other and extend a hand of friendship to families and friends and those in need. The PPP takes this opportunity to remind Guyanese not to loose sight of the core values of peace, humility and compassion even as we celebrate this auspicious occasion of Christmas. This Christmas is being observed at a time when the country is confronted with severe challenges to our democracy by opposition
forces who seem determined to turn back the wheels of progress and prosperity. The PPP is however, confident that this spirit of peace and goodwill which characterize this season of the year will serve to further propel this country of ours to a brighter future where all Guyanese will be able to realize their potential and contribute fully to the task of nation building. Once again a Happy Christmas to one and all.
Christmas is a time to rejoice in Jesus Christ’s miraculous birth and marvelous message to all mankind. It is also a time to rekindle the Guyanese spirit of good will. The message of the Gospel of St. Luke in the Holy Bible: “… on earth, peace, goodwill to all men” is as valid today as it was two millennia ago. Jesus Christ’s earthly mission changed the course of human history. His ministry of mercy and compassion continues to change our lives every day. Jesus Christ’s advent makes Christmas a special,
sacred season. The annual celebration of His birth is a reminder of the fulfillment of the prophecy of the prophet, Isaiah, in the Holy Bible of His advent and incarnation as the “Prince of peace.” Guyanese of all religions have also been inspired by prospect, promises and prophecies of peace, and have been encouraged by the season’s sense of social responsibility. Ordinary people, social organisations and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have been reaching out with compassion to cheer and care for their brothers, sisters and children
in difficult circumstances. Our Partnership recognises the service of our nurses, pilots, public servants, seamen, soldiers and other workers who maintain our public services so that others could be safe and comfortable at this time. We remember the aged, our children, the poor and other vulnerable citizens. We are grateful for their service and sacrifice. We join all Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora in making Christmas 2014 a day of “peace and good will.” Happy Christmas to all Guyanese!
A Partnership For National Unity
AFC CHRISTMAS MESSAGE Christmas is a time that holds great meaning. For Guyanese it is that time of the year when we come together to share gifts and well-wishes, re-kindle relationships and form new friendships, all in the spirit of goodwill. As we celebrate and relish the joys of this season, let us spare a thought for those whose season is overshadowed by grief and despair; those who lost a parent, sibling or other loved one due to domestic
violence, a speeding or drunk motorist, or whose grief was brought about by the suicide of a loved one. Let us spare a thought for those who lost personal belongings, or whose livelihood was affected by the recent floods. Let us remember in our hearts and prayers the many persons who are battling cancer. Say a prayer for the less fortunate, especially the children who did not get a toy or new clothes this Season; things
that many take for granted. This Christmas Season let us reflect on the enduring message of Christmas; that of hope. It is with hope of a brighter future that we find the strength and courage to face the many challenges that confront us each day. May the hope for a brighter future fill our hearts this Christmas Season and may we share that joy with all. Season’s Greetings from the Alliance For Change.
Guyana Public Service Union Traditionally, Christmas arouses that spirit of goodwill in people regardless of race, ethnicity religion or culture. It is that season of love, sharing and festivities that are intended to contribute to an environment of joy and happiness reducing tension and conflict and encouraging more pleasant and harmonious relationship which manifests itself in a spirit of generosity, caring, compromises, giving and sincerity in expressions for best wishes. Unfortunately, in Guyana for some time now citizens generally, and more especially workers in the public service, have been repeatedly maneuvered to act in conflict with the previous wonderful experiences that they have enjoyed during this time. This undesirable situation
has been the deliberate and mischievous product of an uncaring government and employer with contempt for publicserviceworkers, regardless of the fact that they have faithfully and efficiently carried out their duties. 2014 has witnessed the degeneration to baseless levels of conduct of an administration which promised to remedy previous abuses and respect the sacred tenets of collective bargaining, but instead honoured these commitments in the breach. These tests and trials of our strength, fortitude and determination rather than weaken us, had made us more resolved to struggle for better conditions of work and values which are
important to us. We must endeavor to rise above all provocation and display that quality of character which had made us the beacon of public service struggles in the region. Despite the large sums of money spent by government on parties which give the facade of a caring employer while the workers have very little to put on their tables, let us remember the reason for the season and share goodwill among each other. Even as we enjoy the little that we have I urge you to spare a thought for the persons in our society who are less fortunate and endeavor to continue the struggle for a united prosperous Guyana. Peace, Goodwill, Happiness and a Merry Christmas to all.
The miraculous birth of Jesus Christ – celebrated by most Christians on December 25– is recorded in the Gospel according to St Luke as heralding an era of “peace on earth and good will toward men.” Jesus’s humble birth took place in a common manger in a tiny town in an obscure country. He was able, nevertheless, with a small band of disciples, to preach a gospel that transformed the world in a most fundamental way and created a remarkable Christian civilization of which we are all heirs. The Christian spirit of charity continues to inspire Guyanese of all religions.
Ordinary people everywhere reach out with compassion and generosity to help their brothers and sisters in distress. We call to mind the plight of the aged, the poor and other vulnerable citizens. We remember our servicemen and soldiers who will spend this joyous festival separated from their families at sea and on our far-flung frontiers. We r e c o g n i z e t h e s e r v i c e o f o u r nurses, servicemen, technicians and working people who maintain our utilities, sanitary facilities and security services to ensure that citizens could be safe and that the nation could be
secure. Christmas has become more than a religious festival when we rejoice in Jesus’s miraculous birth and his marvelous message to mankind. It has become an occasion to rekindle the Guyanese spirit of goodwill and to be grateful for the service and sacrifice of others. The biblical promise of peace on earth and good will toward men, however, remains unfulfilled. Guyanese are urged on the occasion of this sacred festival – through thought, word and work – to make Jesus’s message of mercy and his ministry to the poor and needy the main motifs of their celebration.
The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) in joining the world to celebrate the birth of the Christian Messiah calls on all to put His philosophy into practice. GTUC particularly calls on the Government to give up the condemned and rejected practices of Caesars of old and live up to the good and peaceful expectations represented in this Season of Hope and Love for all Mankind. For the time is now to respect the laws and institutions of State which are founded on teachings of equality and justice, amplified in the life of Christ. In recognition of the life of Christ this is an opportune moment to recall the values He detailed during his time on earth, which
continue to impact the world over. His was a sojourn among humankind marked by revolutionary thinking and actions. His was the teaching and practice to create a New World Order where Justice and Fair Play would reign supreme. And to this end He set about the task of calling attention to societal injustices and inequalities, challenging the status quo and entrenched thinking. He taught and led by example, as the Holy Book recounts His teachings on humility, equality, economic fair play and universal approach of attending to and dispensing justice. His philosophy that good relations/administration/ governance be underpinned with compassion and respect
for the voice of the ordinary man and dispossessed remains relevant. His was a teaching that toppled the notion and practice that might is right as He advocated the value for all to be held to the standards, and play by the same rules, be they titled or commoner. The GTUC therefore calls on the believers in Christ doctrine to reassert themselves and spread these fundamental tenets of good life and governance in a new and progressive wave of liberation theology. As He admonishes, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching” (John 14:23 NIV). The GTUC is prepared to stand with all Guyanese to embrace these fine qualities to make Guyana a better place for all.
Guyana Trades Union Congress Christmas Message
Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) It is repeated every December: the Christian Festival and Season of Christmas now tends to envelope all of Guyana’s peoples in its celebrations, in some form or the other. This does not happen in other societies where Christians might be in a minority, where there is intolerance or where there is continuous conflict. In Guyana, however, the universal messages of hope, sharing, charity and the joy humans need are easy to embrace. Additionally, Christmas precedes and includes the dawning of a new calendar y e a r, according to the western counting of time. And a
new year always signals hope and new beginnings. The Guyana Agricultural a n d G e n e r a l Wo r k e r s Union (GAWU) joins the Christian community and all Guyana in the celebration of Christmas 2014. The union’s thousands of members comprise a significant proportion of Guyana’s workforce. They all use this Season to be familyoriented, to be generous and, in the case of devout Christians, to relive the story of the birth of their Messiah, Jesus. The Guyanese people always yearn for those behaviours to inform their leaders’ actions. Recent evidence emanating from
the political leaders does not persuade us that positive co-operation, putting Guyana first, is imminent. What a pity for a people who collectively join Christians in one aspect of positive harmony. It is GAWU’s hope that impending elections some time in 2015 will not sully the national fabric any further. Campaigning can be civil, dealing with issues and programmes, rather than personalities and assassination of character. GAWU looks on the brighter side of the new year 2015 as we all, as one people, enjoy Christmas 2014.
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Kaieteur News
SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 ACCOMODATION SIGNATURE INN: Luxury Suites & Apartments. Free Wi-Fi & Breakfast; AC & Self Contained Rooms @ 83 Laluni Street Queenstown. Tel: 592-226-2145
VACANCY Live in housekeeper; to care for infant 40-50yrs – Call: 6978797 IT Technician to install outdoor antenna, must have drivers license. Send application to jobs@awngy.com Exist for one accounts clerk; apply in person at Alabama Trading Georgetown Ferry Stelling. Pump attendant; must have Tin #, NIS, ID, police clearance & proof of address @ N&A Service Station Prospect, E.B.D CANTER DRIVER/ SALESMAN and Factory Assistant living on E.B.D, free accommodation also available. 266 4427 Experienced salesman/ driver 3 CXC Subjects including Mathematics, apply with 2 references, valid police clearance & driver license – Call: 233-3512
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call: 225-9032, 6472943 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS- CALL: 6294946 OR 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer Call Omar: 2310655,683-8734 Services & repairs to gas stoves, washing machines, electric stoves, deep fryers Call: 688-0183 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 CATERING Monica’s Finger Licking BarB-Que, any amount to orderCall: 661-6793; 677-2482
Pump attendant at Shell Providence E.B.D (shift work) 5AM-3PM & 3PM12PM Cashier able to work flexible hours and have CXC Maths, send application to jobs@awngy.com HEALTH
LAND FOR SALE
Money Back guarantee; cleaner, clearer younger looking skin in two weeks, also flatter stomach – Call: 684-9409; 699-4211
Blankenburg, Public Road W.C.D (38ftX150ft), (39ftX150ft) - $16M each; Back Street, Unity Street La Grange W.B.D 85X750- $16M Call: 666-3619
LEARN TO DRIVE
PEN PAL Indian Male is seeking female – Call: 665-3246 (no texting)
Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table – Call: 277- 0578
Thursday December 25, 2014
FOR SALE
CAR RENTAL
LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL-$4,000&UPPERDAYCALL: 643-5122, 219-3900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
Complete Snapper Boats for sale – Excellent Condition – Contact: 648-6815; 641-4506
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, (SALE) & MORE, JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW - CALL: 675-0767, 667-2535 1 Modern warehouse facility in central industrial area 8000sqft ware house facility 5000 per month – Contact Annie: 695-0333 Three bedrooms; 1 self contained house with A/C, parking, full furnished, young professional Scheme Eccles - $1700US neg. Call Sonia: 666-4882 Business space @ Middleton St. C/Ville – Call: 650-0716; 667-7836 Two bedroom Furnished house @ Crane Housing Scheme W.C.D -$40,000 – Call:671-6855 LARGE 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT, LARGE VERANDAH, PARKING @ LAMAHA GARDENS $80,000 MONTHLY – CALL: 609-8132/ 6728569 (MAX)
PROPERTY FOR SALE Six acres prime roadside land and metal workshop in Corriverton, can be sold with or without workshop. Call: 626-6245 One house & land in hope low land, E.C.D, one house & land in Bloomfield Berbice Call: 689-5254; 256-0504 Unfinished house at Parfaite Harmony, West Minister, W.B.D - $4.5M – Tel:6610618; 601-3469 2 STORIED 3 BEDROOMS CONCRETE & WOODEN PROPERTY ON LARGE LAND 300FTX40FT, IN BERBICE, NEAR CANJE BRIDGE. CALL MAX: 6098132, 672-8569
Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 PICK YOUR PIG! CHOOSE YOUR SIZEAND WE WILL HAVE IT READY! CALL: 266-2711 OR 609-4594 20ft fibre glass boat and Toyota Spacio- Tel: 617-3001 Portable sawmill fully hydraulic Th30-25 Timber Harvester – Call: 261-2553 Stalls at Robb Street & Bourda –Contact: 695-1359 between 9am -11am Tibetan Terriers pups (FLUFFY) – Call: 222-7891; 609-9202. Christmas Sale: Dell/HP Computer with 19" LCDs, laptops - $55,000 @ Futuretech – Call: 231-2206 XBOX 360 4GB - $40,000, XBOX 360 20GB- $45,000, XBOX360 250GB - $55,000 with original games/ controller – Call: 683-8386
WANTED
VEHICLE FOR SALE Pitbull bus ($3.2M) Verossa - $3.7M, Noah- $2M (All new) – Call: 603-9700 SALE! SALE! SALE! New model Spacio (2005) TV, Front & back camera; fully loaded - $2M- Call: 6427295 Spacio 2004, Body Kit, rims, camera, spoiler, dark interior, crystal light, new shape (unregistered) – Tel: 6175536
One night shift supervisor at shell Providence E.B.D, Submit application to shellramsburg@gmail.com
1 - L-Touring Wagon; HB 9912, price $1,050,000 Neg. Call: 680-4990
One security Guard - Tel: 218-5105
Toyota Prado, Price$5.5M Neg. Call: 643-2403
One manager to work at an out of town hotel – Call: 225-2535; 626-6909 from 9am to 4pm A house lot/ 2 bedroom property to buy on the East Coast/East Bank Georgetown area - Contact Anthony Bowen: 609-6505 One live in experienced waitress must be honest & courteous 18-25yrs; salary $50,000-$60,000 monthly – Tel: 610-5043
One ford IVECO sand truck with Cummings Engine, GNN Series, excellent condition, owner leaving country - Call: 604-6860, 643-2911
Contract vehicles also mini bus and hire car drivers – Call: 645-0025 Porters, apply at Wieting & Richter Ltd
One cane juice mill, glass case, one RZ minibus GHH, series – Call: 604-9400, 6674178
Cooks, pastry maker, counter clerk; apply to Kiskar Veggie Hut: Camp & Durban Street. Call: 231-4971
Promix BX with microrize $10,500 per bag; ask for Rayman – Call: 615-2346; 6280200, 263-5300
1 Female cleaner to work in snackette & bar , must know to cook, age 20-35yrs – Tel:647-7432, 223-5798
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms - Call: 680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 Nissan Titan 4X4; fully loaded; good condition; price $2.5M neg. Call: 6201026 One Yamaha Rava125 Motorcycle and Kinlow KL110 motorcycle – Contact: 682-3942; 615-6474 or 6788236
1 Toshiba Laptop (17.3inches) 1 5000 Watts Briggs & Stratton generator - Call: 622-0503; 689-9932
2003 Toyota IST; fully loaded with bodykit -$2M, never registered – Call: 628-0909; 260-2327
1 Numark DM 1295 4 Channel mixer, 1 Teac CD burner uses any blank CD – Call: 6220503; 689-9932 2 Gemini GXA 4000 Watts power amp, 1 Technical Pro 3250 watts pro 3250 watts power amp – Tel: 622-0503; 689-9932 2 SL I serato boxes, 2 Denon 3500 CD Juggler, 2 Gemini GXA 3000 Watts power Amp – Call: 622-0503; 689-9932 Diving Suit – Call: 265-3449; 613-5158
Blowout Sale! – Unregistered 2007 Mazda Axela - $2,350,000 – Crystal Lights, Alarm, Steering Wheel Audio Control . Call: 643-6565, 226-9931
TO LET 1-Two bedroom apartment, grilled, tiled@ Middleton St . C / Vi l l e - $ 6 0 , 0 0 0 Call:650-0716; 667-7836.
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Untouchable car rental: low rates, low deposits – Call: 677-4613; 226-9668
Blow Out Sale!!! Unregistered Toyota IST $2,200,000- Bodykit, TV, Spoiler, Fogs, Alloy Wheels, Crystal Lights & Alarm – Call: 643-6565, 226-9931
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Vigilante murder accused want new Prosecutor Four prisoners languishing in jail facing murder charges are appealing to the Director of Public Prosecutions to appoint a new Special Prosecutor. They contend that the present one appears to have limited time on his hand to ensure that they get a speedy trial. Vishnu Babu, Mohamed Razack, Chetram Diaram and Shawn Caesar were remanded to prison since April 10, 2013, having been charged with the murder of John Derwin McPherson.The men were all workers on a dredge in the interior. They are accused of beating McPherson to death after he was reportedly caught stealing from their operation. The Special Prosecutor in the matter is Nigel Hughes and according to reports, he has been requesting several adjournments, citing other
…as PI incomplete after almost two years pressing matters that he has to attend to. It’s going on to two years since the preliminary inquiry into the matter started at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, and the defendants believe that the delay is resulting in them being denied justice. Three of the accused were initially arrested by the police immediately after McPherson’s death. They were subsequently released on $100,000 station bail, only to be rearrested and charged one month later. Their preliminary inquiry was started without the fourth accused being arrested. When the police finally arrested the fourth man, another preliminary inquiry got underway. Since then there have been several adjournments to the Preliminary Inquiry which is
being conducted by Magistrate Delon Bess. “The Special Prosecutor hardly turns up whenever the matter is called. He keeps asking for new dates. If he’s not in the High Court, it is something else,” one of the accused complained. The men made their last appearance in court on December 11 and are scheduled to re-appear on January 7. Hughes is the vice chairman of Alliance for Change. The defendants believe that with General Elections on the horizon, the matter will be further delayed as the attorney at law will definitely be engaged in political activities. They are therefore urging the authorities to appoint a new Prosecutor, one with a lighter workload, so that justice can be done.
Letters... Where your views make the news
Cherished memories of...
From page 5 around the radio hoping for a shout out. A phone call or telecommunication prior to the 1990s was almost impossible. Most of the international calls were from America, Canada, and United Kingdom, because most Guyanese could not afford the cost. Today, people call one another at Christmas time regardless of location, with many calls originating from Guyana thanks to cheap internet phone rates and magic jack. We gathered around the radios (no TV then) listening to recorded messages from loved ones overseas. Christmas goods and services used to start early (end of November) and as such radio started Christmas programming much sooner than say in North America — around mid-November, right after Diwali and Eid celebrations. What a joy it was to hear an overseas greeting. The season was (is) associated with the masquerade band performing and playing its unique brand of music on special instruments, accompanied by colourful costumed
characters dancing. The masquerade band would move along the streets and roadways entertaining – (men in women clothing dancing) for a donation. The performers would stop in front of a house, playing and dancing, and even entered into yards dancing for the entertainment of the household that responded with donations. The Churches had nativity plays. Schools held concerts and parties and students sang carols. Some of these are still practiced in Guyana. The season was (is) associated with giving gifts even among the very poor. Toys, games and clothes were some of the favourite children’s gifts; today it is electronics. Children were told that their gifts were brought by Father Christmas and that they should hang socks and swear not to be bad or use curse words. Gifts were opened on Christmas morning with squeals of delight from the children. Christmas was a time for family get-togethers. Families prepared an assortment of curried meats, and other dishes, cakes and other goodies served with traditional home made drinks.
Relatives, friends and coworkers were invited for a hearty meal. But one did not need an invitation for a meal; it was traditional for families to expect uninvited visitors, some of whom may be complete strangers. Everyone looked forward to a delicious meal on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. One was lucky to get a piece of imported apple, grapes, walnuts, dates, etc. even before they were banned. Some were still smuggled in the country during the ban; even cherries, raisins, prunes, citrons, etc., were smuggled into the country to make cake in spite of the crackdown by authorities to discourage their consumption. The men took to drinking for several days as factories were not grinding cane or milling rice. The season was also a time for new clothes and new movies and a visit to the horse race or to town to enjoy ice cream and other delights. Many people would go to the cinemas to view hit movies from India or Hollywood. Oh what memories they were yesteryear growing up as a child from what it is today! Vishnu Bisram
From page 4 many of them who are becoming poorer by the day. Our fervent wish in this season of goodwill is that all will put their shoulders to the wheel to help develop and build Guyana so that all, not only a selected few, can share in the bounties of its prosperity. We love politics but more importantly, we love Guyana
and the people who are fighting for change. God bless our beautiful Guyana and its resilient, loving and caring people. We remain proud of the people of Guyana and wish them a bright, successful and happy future and sincerely hope that they live to see and enjoy many more Christmases. We also would like to wish the Publisher Glenn Lall, Edi-
tor in Chief, Adam Harris and the entire staff of Kaieteur News a safe, happy and enjoyable Christmas. Merry Christmas dear countrymen and women; we hope you enjoy the festive season in peace, love and happiness. May God bless our sisters and brothers and keep them safe. Asquith Rose and Harish Singh
Merry Christmas, dear ...
Page 55
Son held on to victim for father to finish him off
Tuschen triple murder…
Police are likely to charge the son of Jerome Franklyn, the man who hacked three persons to death early last Friday morning, after learning that he assisted his father to commit the heinous crime. Kaieteur News understands that the police learnt from other relatives that Franklyn’s son held on to one of the victims, Floyd Drakes, who tried to flee the mayhem, allowing his father “to finish him off.” Last Sunday, a caller claiming to be Franklyn had expressed anger that the police detained his son as an accomplice in the three murders. This newspaper understands that initially the young man had denied being involved in the murders, but when confronted by a young family member, he had no other choice but to admit that he did aid his father. According to a police source, investigators learnt that after Drakes was chopped, he tried to run to safety but was held by Franklyn’s son until the killer caught up with him. Franklyn inflicted several more chops to Drakes’ body until he was certain that Drakes was dead. Drakes sustained 25 chops. Meanwhile police intensified the hunt for Franklin after a man claiming to be the alleged killer contacted Kaieteur News to disclose events that led to the slaughter of his mother-inlaw, his nine-year-old stepdaughter, his rival, and the maiming of his spouse. The caller also made it clear that, for him, the killing would not stop until he had “dealt with” his wounded reputed wife and lone survivor, Geeta Boodhoo, and
her sister. “I don’t intend to surrender. I want my wife’s sister; she is the key to my problems,” the caller said. Indicating that he also planned to kill his wife, “if they don’t ketch me first,” the caller said: “Me waiting for she to come out (of hospital).” In the approximately 20minute conversation, ‘Franklin’ confessed to slaughtering his reputed wife’s mother, Bibi Zalima Khan and his spouse’s alleged lover, Floyd Drakes. Expressing not a shred of remorse, he also admitted to chopping his reputed wife and lone survivor, Geeta Boodhoo. But he vehemently denied killing his nine-year-old stepdaughter, Ashley Boodhoo. He claimed that it was his mother-in-law, Bibi Khan, who accidentally hacked the child to death while attempting to chop him. During the conversation, the man claiming to be Jerome Franklin portrayed himself as a hard-working cane-cutter who provided for his family, while his spouse frittered away his earnings. He also indicated that he eventually snapped last Thursday over his reputed wife’s blatant infidelity. He alleged that his spouse and another female relative would habitually bring women and men into the house, while his mother-inlaw “played music.” He said that things escalated last September when the court granted his wife a restraining order after she claimed that he had threatened her life. This meant that he could not enter the family’s Tuschen home. ‘Franklin’ alleged that on Thursday night, a taxi driver,
who is his close friend, tipped him off that he had dropped Franklin’s spouse and a man into Tuschen Housing Scheme. The taxi driver, ‘Franklin’ claimed, indicated that he suspected that the two were heading for the house that Franklin and his estranged wife had once shared. ‘Franklin’ said that he immediately contacted his mother-in-law, Bibi Khan, by phone. “I call and the mother answer, and I tell she to tell she daughter to get that man out of the house because I got my children inside, and the mother-in-law suck she teeth and hang up,” the caller claimed. “I go to the home and my mother-in-law, my wife and the man inside drinking and smoking weed and playing music. I rip down the window and go in the house, and I deal with the wife.” He claimed that Bibi Khan, his mother-in law, picked up a cutlass and tried to chop him, but accidentally chopped and killed nine-year-old Ashley Boodhoo. “I mind that child from one year, and when I see that, I deal with (killed) the motherin law.” “I want the public to know that I didn’t kill that child.” He said that he then turned on his rival, Floyd Drakes, who began to plead for his life. “The man say ‘soldier man, I ain’t know what going on,’ and I say, ‘this is my house. A man and woman got an affair; don’t take it into the house.’ The caller said that he then killed Drakes. However, although badly chopped, his spouse, 30year-old Geeta Boodhoo, managed to flee to a neighbour’s house.
A woman climbed onto the rails of the Demerara Harbour Bridge and jumped into the deep waters just after noon yesterday. The woman remained unidentified up to press time. ‘Jane Doe’ was clad in a blue jeans and red tank top; and has a tattoo on her left arm. Her shoes and umbrella were found on the bridge. Just about 45 minutes after she was seen throwing herself off of the bridge, the woman’s lifeless body was recovered by officials from the Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration. The body was taken to a nearby wharf but later returned to the bridge before being taken to
the Lyken Funeral Parlour. Traffic Manager of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Brion Singh, confirmed the incident. He told Kaieteur News that an investigation was underway. He said the identity of the woman is not known but also confirmed that her body has been recovered. The incident drew the attention of many who crossed the bridge. Some
were even taken aback by the occurrence. The Demerara Harbour Bridge links the East and West banks of the Demerara River. It stretches for just over a mile long and is a floating bridge that would routinely retract to allow vessels to pass. The bridge features a walkway for pedestrians and cyclists. It was from this walkway that the woman is believed to have jumped.
Woman plunges to death off Harbour Bridge
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Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
Phillips calls for more support for Caribbean KINGSTON Jamaica Finance and Planning Minister, Dr Peter Phillips, has cited the need for a “new agenda” of support for Jamaica and other Caribbean states by key international stakeholders. This, he says, to effectively address vulnerabilities related to climate change and significant debt, which regional territories currently experience. He underscored these points while addressing a private sector luncheon held at Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston for InterAmerican Development (IDB) President, Luis Alberto Moreno, who was on a twoday visit to Jamaica. Phillips said that not only should the international community acknowledge the challenges faced but “it is time that they and (ourselves) move into the operational phase with a new agenda of support for the Caribbean.” He noted that in the Caribbean, “where most of the region’s countries are deemed to be middle income –a definition which inadequately describes the reality, given the poverty and structural rigidities that the region is grappling with – there have been promises of a global
response, since the 2008 (global financial) crisis. However, that response has not yet come forth.” Against this background, Phillips said Jamaica and the region will continue the dialogue initiated with the international community to ensure that, “together, we can energize the search for solutions.” “We stand ready, with our international partners, including the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), to discuss the nature and quantum of support required to ensure that Jamaica and, indeed, the rest of the Caribbean, once and for all, escapes the trap of low growth and economic underperformance,” he stated. Phillips also underscored the need for Jamaica’s international partners to maintain their commitments to the country, consequent on the programme of economic transformation currently being implemented by the Government. This, he explained, as the scale of the transformation needed, “requires proportionate commitment on their part.” Phillips also stressed the need for the private sector to explore existing opportunities for investments in Jamaica.
Dr Peter Phillips “This is particularly important, given the government’s inability to do as much as we would like on our capital accounts, given the financial constraints, which we face. It will require, in some cases, a new way of doing things, being innovative, exploring new markets, focusing on products that are higher up the value chain, and products that are particularly directed to export markets,” he said, while citing tourism and information and communication technology (ICT) as potential areas. The luncheon formed part of the itinerary for Moreno’s two-day visit, on December 18 and 19, which coincided with commemoration of the IDB’s 45 years of partnership with Jamaica.
Barbados regulators to examine merger between CWC and Columbus International BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – The Fair Trading Commission (FTC) says it is inviting submissions from service providers, businesses as well as representatives of consumer groups on the merits and demerits of the proposed multi-billion dollar merger between the British telecommunications company, Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) and Columbus International. In a statement, FTC said that it was also urging other parties to submit their positions after announcing that it had recently received an application from the telecommunication companies seeking permission to merge the two entities in Barbados. “In keeping with Section 20 (7) of the Fair Competition Act, the Commission is assessing the proposed merger transaction,” the FTC said, adding that interested parties are also invited to participate in a survey on the telecommunications industry. It said the identities of
Phil Bentley respondents will not be disclosed. Earlier this month, the St Lucia-based Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) said it would ensure that any new licence granted to CWC, to operate in the subregion will take into account the need for fair competition. A statement issued following a special meeting of the ECTEL Council of Ministers, noted that in addition, the regulatory body will also suspend the announcement of a new “Price Cap Plan” until after the completion of the review of the applications by
the parties involved, and amend the Price Cap accordingly. CWC chief executive, Phil Bentley, has given a commitment to Caribbean governments and regulators that if the company’s three billion US dollar acquisition of Columbus International is approved, the enlarged CWC will not negatively impact competition in the cable and broadband markets. “In the Caribbean countries in which CWC and Columbus overlap—Jamaica, Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenada—we know that we have to work closely with governments and regulators to ensure that our customers benefit and competition is not compromised.”And that’s a commitment we happily make to all our stakeholders. I know that we have got a member of the Caribbean media here today, so I will repeat my commitment for your benefit: this is a transaction that will benefit all our customers and will not compromise competition.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Phillips calls for more support for Caribbean KINGSTON Jamaica Finance and Planning Minister, Dr Peter Phillips, has cited the need for a “new agenda” of support for Jamaica and other Caribbean states by key international stakeholders. This, he says, to effectively address vulnerabilities related to climate change and significant debt, which regional territories currently experience. He underscored these points while addressing a private sector luncheon held at Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston for InterAmerican Development (IDB) President, Luis Alberto Moreno, who was on a twoday visit to Jamaica. Phillips said that not only should the international community acknowledge the challenges faced but “it is time that they and (ourselves) move into the operational phase with a new agenda of support for the Caribbean.” He noted that in the Caribbean, “where most of the region’s countries are deemed to be middle income –a definition which inadequately describes the reality, given the poverty and structural rigidities that the region is grappling with – there have been promises of a global
response, since the 2008 (global financial) crisis. However, that response has not yet come forth.” Against this background, Phillips said Jamaica and the region will continue the dialogue initiated with the international community to ensure that, “together, we can energize the search for solutions.” “We stand ready, with our international partners, including the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), to discuss the nature and quantum of support required to ensure that Jamaica and, indeed, the rest of the Caribbean, once and for all, escapes the trap of low growth and economic underperformance,” he stated. Phillips also underscored the need for Jamaica’s international partners to maintain their commitments to the country, consequent on the programme of economic transformation currently being implemented by the Government. This, he explained, as the scale of the transformation needed, “requires proportionate commitment on their part.” Phillips also stressed the need for the private sector to explore existing opportunities for investments in Jamaica.
Dr Peter Phillips “This is particularly important, given the government’s inability to do as much as we would like on our capital accounts, given the financial constraints, which we face. It will require, in some cases, a new way of doing things, being innovative, exploring new markets, focusing on products that are higher up the value chain, and products that are particularly directed to export markets,” he said, while citing tourism and information and communication technology (ICT) as potential areas. The luncheon formed part of the itinerary for Moreno’s two-day visit, on December 18 and 19, which coincided with commemoration of the IDB’s 45 years of partnership with Jamaica.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Griffith confirms figures…
12 Trinis fighting with Isis
Page 59
CCECCC wins government’s bid to redevelop St John’s port and harbor
…as German writer meets them during week with terrorists Trinidad Guardian - After an account by a German author, now back from examining the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis) in Iraq and who encountered recruits from T&T in Mosul, National Security Minister Gary Griffith has confirmed there are 12 T&T nationals who are with Isis, mainly persons who were involved in crime and gang-related activities in T&T. Griffith was contacted Tuesday following breaking reports from former German politician Juergen Todenhoefer, who spent just over a week in the Isiscontrolled city of Mosul, Iraq, and two other similar areas in Syria and Iraq. Granted unprecedented access, he spoke to Isis fighters and child soldiers. Todenhoefer, 74, who had objected to the
Juergen Todenhoefer wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, had negotiated for the visit with the radical Islamic group for seven months but at the end he said he returned home pessimistic. He filed a report detailing issues he noted during his visit, including sex-slavery trauma, how extremist groups raised money and other matters. He said Isis was stronger, more brutal and harder to confront than he
had expected and found Isis followers highly motivated and supportive of the group’s brutality. He said he “met child fighters bearing arms” and encountered recruits from around the world, including US, UK, Sweden and T&T.” The numbers included 14 Americans. Todenhoefer said he was struck by their brutal zeal and the scale of their ambition to carry out “religious cleansing” and to expand their territory. He is quoted as saying: “They are the most brutal and most dangerous enemy I have ever seen in my life... (it’s) terrible to feel people can be enthusiastic about killing hundreds of millions of people. “There’s an enthusiasm I have never seen before in war zones. They are so confident, so sure of themselves.”
Tense scenes in Missouri after police shoot another black teen (Reuters) - A white policeman shot dead a black man brandishing a pistol at a suburban St. Louis gasoline station overnight, igniting violence reminiscent of riots over the police killing of an unarmed black teenager in nearby Ferguson, police said on Wednesday. Black officials in Missouri were at pains to distinguish the death of a suspect with a gun from cases where unarmed black men were killed by police officers, incidents that led to nationwide protests and bitter debate about how American police forces treat non-white citizens. The Berkeley, Missouri, shooting happened late on Tuesday at a Mobil On The Run gasoline station, within walking distance of the Ferguson street on which a white police officer shot dead 18-year-old Michael Brown in August. “This is not a policeman
in the city of Berkeley going out half-cocked,” Berkeley Mayor Theodore Hoskins said at a news conference. “You could not even compare this with Ferguson.” A crowd of 200 to 300 people gathered at the gasoline station after the shooting, and bricks and three fireworks were thrown, two of them at the roughly 50 officers at the scene, St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar said. Two officers were injured. Four people were arrested and charged with assault, Belmar said. Calm had returned to the area by Wednesday morning. The shooting occurred after the officer, a six-year veteran of the Berkeley Police Department who was responding to a report of a theft, got out of his car to talk to two men at the gasoline station. One of them pointed a
loaded 9mm handgun at the officer, Belmar said. Pulling out his own gun, the officer stepped backward, stumbled, and fired three shots. One of them struck the man with the gun, a second hit a police car tire, and the third cannot be accounted for, he said. Paramedics declared the man dead at the scene. SECOND MAN SOUGHT Hoskins, Berkeley’s mayor, said his city and St. Louis County would conduct separate investigations. Hoskins said he did not want to jump to conclusions, but also emphasized what he said were clear differences with the Brown case. “We have a majority of black officers in our city,” Hoskins said, drawing contrasts with Ferguson. “The mayor is black. The city manager is black. The finance director is black. The police chief is black. Our police officers are more sensitive.”
18 days a world record Trinidad Express - The longest recorded case of survival without food and water is 18 days, according to the Guinness World Records. This record is held by an 18-year-old Austrian named Andreas Mihavecz in 1979. The fact was revealed Tuesday by senior public
relations manager of Guinness World Records North America Inc, Jamie Panas Antoniou, in an emailed response to queries by the Express about the official record for a human surviving without both food and water. Local environmentalist D r Wa y n e K u b l a l s i n g h
claims to be currently engaged in a hunger strike, surviving without food and water. Tuesday marks day 99 of Kublalsingh’s second hunger strike which started on September 17. Kublalsingh’s first hunger strike ended on December 4, 2012 after 21 days.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne, right, and Vice President of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) Zhongning Zhao sign the contract to complete part of the port modernisation project. (OBSERVER media) ST JOHN’S, Antigua – China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has been selected by government to redevelop the St John’s coastline, including the cargo port and the cruise ship harbour. Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Chairperson of the Port Authority Mary-Clare Hurst signed the US $255 million design and construction agreement Tuesday. On the recommendation of the Embassy of China, CCECC beat out several other competitors – including Kylin International and China Harbour Engineering
Company – to win the project bid. CCECC constructed the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, the new airport terminal and the Five Islands Secondary School. The prime minister explained that government has not yet gained final approval for a loan from the China Exim bank to pay for the project. Browne said the details of the loan have not yet been finalised. “This loan request, obviously, is a process and will take a few more months for us to get approval, but from all indication, we will get
approval,” he said. “They (China) are prepared to support this loan to help us build capacity, they will give us a period of moratorium of five years, even though we asked for 10; I hope we get 10.” Browne said the Port Authority will take advantage of the moratorium, where no repayments have to be made, to build capacity and a steady revenue stream from which repayment will be made. The prime minister also asked Ambassador to China Brian Stuart Young to “push” for a loan repayment period of 40 years.
Golding defends merger of anti-corruption bodies Jamaica Gleaner Justice Minister Senator Mark Golding has defended the Government’s decision to merge the nation’s three anti-corruption bodies, even as government senator K.D. Knight pushed for support among legislators to keep the Integrity Commission in place with additional resources. Discussing legislation to establish a single anticorruption agency in Jamaica, Golding said this policy move by the Government would not only result in the efficient allocation of resources but facilitate the sharing of
knowledge among the commissions set up to tackle corruption. During a meeting of the joint select committee examining the Integrity Commission Act, Golding argued that the single anticorruption agency would have the benefit of investigative resources and other audit and forensic capabilities supported by the Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Agency (MOCA). However, Knight, who had previously shot down the amalgamation of the Corruption Prevention Commission, the Integrity Commission and the Office
of the Contractor General, queried whether it was within the remit of the joint select committee to question government policy. He also wanted to know if the committee felt that the policy was wrong, whether it could influence the Cabinet to reconsider its decision. Golding said anyone who disagrees with the policy has the latitude to express that view. According to Golding, at the end of its deliberations, the committee would produce a report which should reflect the collective views of its membership.
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Nations Cup 2015: Alex Song Navas, Wambach named 2014... misses out on Cameroon squad BBC Sport - Cameroon coach Volke Finke has named a preliminary 24-man squad for January’s Africa Cup of Nations finals in Equatorial Guinea. The German has stuck mainly to the players he used in the qualifiers, but there is no place for Alex Song. The midfielder has not played for Cameroon since being sent off in the 4-0 World Cup loss to Croatia. His impressive form this season at West Ham on loan from Barcelona had lead to speculation he would earn a recall. After losing all their matches at the World Cup in Brazil, Cameroon will be hoping to build on an unbeaten qualifying campaign at the Cup of Nations finals. Strikers Vincent Aboubakar and Clinton N’Jie scored seven of the nine goals the Indomitable Lions netted in a qualifying campaign that included a 4-1 win over Ivory Coast. The two will meet again in Group D at the finals. Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting is also enjoying a good season with German side Schalke 04, with nine Bundesliga goals to his name so far. Cameroon will begin their preparation at home and will host Congo-Brazzaville for a friendly on 7 January before travelling to Gabon the next day for a training camp. While in Gabon, the Indomitable Lions will play a friendly against South Africa on 11 January and another one against an opponent
to be decided three days later. They will fly to Malabo for the Nations Cup finals on 16 January, a day before the tournament is due to kick-off. Provisional Cameroon squad: Goalkeepers: Joseph Ondoua (Barcelona, Spain), Guy Ndy Assembe (Nancy, France), Pierre Sylvain Abogo (Tonnerre Yaoundé) Defenders: Cédric Djeugoue (Coton Sport), Jérôme Guihi Ata (Valenciennes, France), Nicolas Nkoulou (Marseille, France), Ambroise Oyongo Bitolo (New York Red Bulls, USA), Brice Nlate Ekongolo (Marseille, France), Franck Bagnack (Barcelona, Spain), Henri Bedimo (Lyon, France), Midfielders: Stéphane Mbia (Seville, Spain), Enoh Eyong (Standard Liège, Belgium), Raoul Cedric Loe (CA Osasuna, Spain), Edgard Salli (Academica de Coimbra. Portugal), Georges Mandjeck (Kayseri Erciyesspor, Turkey), Franck Kom (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Patrick Ekeng (FC Cordoba, Spain) Forwards: Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting (Schalke 04, Germany), Benjamin Moukandjo (Reims, France), Jacques Zoua (Kayseri Erciyesspor, Turkey), Vincent Aboubakar (Porto, Portugal), Léonard Kwekeu (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey), Clinton N’Jie (Lyon, France), Franck Etoundi (Zurich, Switzerland) Cameroon’s Group D fixtures 20 Jan: v Mali in Malabo 24 Jan: v Guinea in Malabo 28 Jan: v Ivory Coast in Malabo
Thursday December 25, 2014 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) You'll regret every word for some time to come. Leave your checkbook and credit cards at home. TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Don't be shy; if you want to spend more time with a special person, make a commitment. Don't gamble unless you can afford to lose. GEMINI (MAY 22JUNE 21) Make changes regarding your status in society. Travel in pursuit of pleasure and knowledge. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Unexpected bills will leave you a little short. Love and romance are evident. Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Heart to heart talks will clear up vague issues. The great outdoors will allow you to teach youngsters some of the things you learned when growing up. VIRGO (AUG. 23 SEPT. 23) Don't overextend your self in order to add luxury items to your entertainment center.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) You can utilize your versatile mind and dazzle others with your speed and accuracy. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Sooner or later your partner will have had enough. You may be overreacting to personal problems. Romance may be likely if you travel. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Secret activity is evident. You can expect changes in your living arrangements. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Expect to have problems with the ones you love. Be precise in your communications to avoid any misunderstandings and arguments. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) You can make sound financial investments if you act fast. Unexpected bills may set you back. Your creative ability will surface, giving you good ideas for ways of making money. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) You should sign up for creative courses. Concentrate on your work.
From page 62 captains (women’s and men’s), accredited media and fans each accounted for one third of the final vote. A semifinal list of 10 nominees in each category was determined by a vote of Technical Directors from each of CONCACAF’s 41 Member Associations and the CONCACAF Technical Study Group, which analyzes tactics and rates performances at all official CONCACAF tournaments. Last year’s award winners can be found here. Here’s a closer look at the vote in each of this year’s categories: PLAYER OFTHE YEAR Winner: Keylor Navas, Goalkeeper (Real Madrid/ESP & Costa Rica) Second: Bryan Ruiz, Forward (Fulham FC/ENG & Costa Rica) Third: Tim Howard, Goalkeeper (Everton/ENG & United States) Navas was the standout goalkeeper at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, and followed up that outstanding performance with a high profile transfer to La Liga heavyweight Real Madrid. FEMALE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Winner: Abby Wambach, Forward (Western New York Flash/USA & United States) Second: Shirley Cruz, Midfielder (Paris Saint Germain/FRA & Costa Rica) Third: Veronica Charlyn Corral (Merilappi United/FIN & Mexico) Wambach enjoyed an outstanding season for both club and country, highlighted by a four-goal performance in the championship match of the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, during which she led her nation to victory over second place finisher Shirley Cruz and Costa Rica. GOALKEEPER OF THE YEAR Winner: Tim Howard (Everton/ENG & United States) Second: Guillermo Ochoa (Malaga/ESP & Mexico) Third: Keylor Navas (Real Madrid/ESP & Costa Rica) While these three CONCACAF goalkeepers all shone in Brazil, Howard’s sensational play proved to be pivotal for the United States at the 2014 World Cup. In a 2-1 extra time knockout round loss to Belgium, the Everton goalkeeper set a World Cup individual game record for saves. COACH OF THE YEAR Winner: Jorge Luis Pinto (Costa Rica) Second: Luis Fernando Suarez (Honduras) Third: Oscar Ramirez (LD Alajuelense/CRC) Costa Rica’s exceptional quarterfinal run at the World
Cup – coming up just short of the semis after a shootout loss to Holland – was more than enough to comfortably assure Pinto the CONCACAF Coach of the Year award. REFEREEOFTHEYEAR Winner: Mark Geiger (USA) Second: Marco Antonio Rodriguez (Mexico) Third: Walter Quesada (Costa Rica) Mark Geiger refereed three matches at the 2014 World Cup, including the Round of 16 match between France and Nigeria. He was also selected as the man in the middle for the 2014 MLS Cup earlier this month in Los Angeles. Geiger was additionally named 2014 Major League Soccer Referee of the Year.
GOAL OF THE YEAR Winner: Bryan Ruiz, Costa Rica v Italy, 44th minute (June 20, 2014) Second: Esteban Ramirez, Herediano v Saprissa, 20th minute (November 2, 2014) Third: Joel Campbell, Costa Rica v Uruguay, 54th minute (June 14, 2014) After an opening match defeat of traditional South American power Uruguay, Bryan Ruiz’s 44th minute strike against Italy set Costa Rica on the road to another scalping of one of world football’s giants, and proved a pivotal moment in the CONCACAF side’s enthralling World Cup quarterfinal run.
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Quarter Finals set for today @ Buxton Gr.
Buxton United face Grove Hi Tech; Monedderlust oppose NA United The battle for the $1.5 Million first place prize in the inaugural Stag Super XV1 three-association knock-out tournament is now down to the final eight teams and will get cracking this afternoon at the Buxton Community Centre ground, East Coast Demerara. In the feature showdown from 20:00hrs it will be an East Coast/East Bank battle between Buxton United and Grove Hi Tech. Buxton were pushed to the hilt in turning back the challenge of another East Bank side, Kuru Kururu Warriors in the final round-of16 game on Tuesday evening last at the Victoria Ground. The Linden Soesdyke Highway based Warriors drew first blood through a Cordel Johnson 19th minute goal but Buxton responded in like manner in the 38th minute when Eson Hamer blasted the nets. The remaining minutes in the first and second halves did not break the deadlock. Extra time was required to separate the teams and it was Buxton who would take the lead for the first time in the game and they never relinquished same. Michael Phyll scored in the 102nd minute to seal the Warriors’ fate and secure their quarter final date with Grove, this evening. The first game from 18:00hrs is an all Berbice affair
Aubrey Gibson between Monedderlust and New Amsterdam United. The latter team has scored the most goals to date in any single game, a 10-1 hammering of Timehri Panthers. Monedderlust on the other hand had to dig deep to secure their win against Golden Stars in extra time by a 2-1 margin coming from behind. These two teams will have a score to settle and while they are not playing at home the battle is expected to be fierce. In the other round-of-16 game on Tuesday, Victoria Kings were large and in charge against Corriverton Links as they ran away 3-0 winners. The game started at
a feverish pace with Corriverton matching their more accomplished rivals play for play. The Berbice side held their own for quite some time as Victoria tried their utmost to break them down. The separating goal finally came in the first minute of added on time (45+1), veteran Aubrey Gibson scoring with a well placed left foot volley that had goal written all over it from the time it left his feet. Corriverton’s goalkeeper, George Burgess stood up firm for the entire half but just was not up to the task of keep Gibson’s shot from rocking the nets. The second half was dominated by the home team which scored two more goals compliments of Orin Elias in the 63rd and 75th minute to seal a comfortable win and a quarter final show-down with fellow East Coast side Ann’s Grove tomorrow at the Victoria ground in the feature match up from 20:00hrs. Mahaica Determinators and Cougars will face off in the opening game tomorrow from 18:00hrs. The respective winners from today and tomorrow will earn semi final spots on December 28 at the Buxton ground where the finalists will be decided. The grand finale is set for Thursday January 1st, 2015 at the #5 ground, West Coast Berbice.
Nathan Persaud XI triumph as Daniels coaching clinic concludes Nathan Persaud XI defeated Sachin Persaud XI by 70 runs in a 15-over match played recently at Imam Bacchus ground, Affiance on the Essequibo Coast. The game was organized
to culminate a one week coaching clinic conducted by Forbes Daniels for junior cricketers. Batting first Nathan Persaud XI scored 138-9 in 15 overs. Persaud stroked 66 and
GCB wishes Guyana... From page 60 The cricket Administrator and Businessman, who in June of this year was called on to resign by General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Clement Rohee following the decision of the WICB to relocate the test match between New Zealand and West Indies from Guyana to Barbados, said the GCB would like to thank all those who believe in the GCB and stuck with them through the year despite the many struggles. “I want to thank especially our sponsors,
cricketers and Executive Bodies of various clubs, Associations and Counties across the country. We must also thank cricket fans for continuing to follow and support our cricket, and we urge you to continue doing so in 2015 as cricket keeps heading in the right direction in Guyana. Make the most of the remaining days of 2014 and see you next year as we continue to aspire for betterment and success. Season Greetings.” Sanasie concluded.
David Williams 15, Sachin Persaud claimed 2-3. He then returned with the bat to top score for his team with 24 and got support from Mahendra Persaud 17; Jonathan Fernandes captured 2-8 and Govindra Gobin 1-14. Coach Forbes Daniels stated that he was pleased with the commitment shown by the players during the camp. “The players showed the willingness to learn and they are not short of talent,” he added. Participants were taught about the basics of the game including batting, bowling, fielding and wicketkeeping as well as game scenarios. Daniels indicated that similar sessions will be held for the further development of the players and called on the business community for their support.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Boxing Day Test round-up
Temba Bavuma is poised to become only the sixth black South African to play in a Test match for the country. (Getty Images) Australia v India: Josh Hazlewood says hosts hold Boxing Day edge Josh Hazlewood says India’s failure to intimidate Australia has given his side a psychological advantage ahead of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. India tried to antagonise Mitchell Johnson in the second Test in Brisbane, which Australia won by four wickets. “I guess it backfired on them a little bit with them trying to get stuck into us,” fast bowler Hazlewood said. South Africa also host West Indies in Port Elizabeth, while New Zealand face Sri Lanka in Christchurch. Australia v India, third Test Australia lead the four-match series 2-0 after stand-in captain Steve Smith oversaw the win at the Gabba in the absence of Michael Clarke, who was injured during their 48-run victory in the first Test in Adelaide. Queensland batsman Joe Burns is set to make his Test debut at the MCG in place of the injured Mitchell Marsh, who misses out with a hamstring problem, with pace bowler Ryan Harris fit again. All-rounder Shane Watson will play at the MCG despite being left “shaken” after he was struck on the helmet by a James Pattinson bouncer in training on Tuesday. Australia batsman Phillip Hughes died in November after he was struck on the neck by a ball during a domestic match, but opener David Warner says Watson is fine. “He went out there and practised as well as I’ve seen him hit the ball,” Warner said. “He got back on the horse and trained again which was fantastic.” India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the tour with a shoulder injury and has been replaced by Akshar Patel. South Africa v West Indies, second Test Batsman Temba Bavuma is poised to become only the sixth black South African to play in a Test match for the country. Bavuma, 24, will take the place of wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock, who has been
Batsman Lahiru Thirimanne is expected to take the number four spot in Sri Lanka’s batting line-up following Mahela Jayawardene’s retirement. (Getty Images)
ruled out the rest of the series with an ankle injury. AB de Villiers is set to take the gloves. The Proteas, who thrashed West Indies by an innings and 220 runs in the first Test in Centurion, are likely to include a spinner because of the conditions in Port Elizabeth, with Imran Tahir set to be selected ahead of seamer Kyle Abbott. Experienced batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who played in West Indies’ only Test win in South Africa at Port Elizabeth in December 2007, expects an improvement in their batting. “We’re disappointed after Centurion We just have to put it behind us and take it as a learning experience,” said the 40-year-old. “South Africa are the number one team in the world, but I think we’re a better team than we showed.” New Zealand v Sri Lanka, first Test Sri Lanka will play their first Test match since Mahela Jayawardene retired from the longer format of the game in August and his position at number four against New Zealand is likely to go to Lahiru Thirimanne. The two-match series will also one of the last played by veteran Kumar Sangakkara, 37, who will quit one-day cricket after the World Cup and has yet to finalise how long he will continue playing international cricket. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack will be weakened by the absence of leading spinner Rangana Herath, who has been ruled out for three weeks with a hamstring injury. New Zealand wicketkepeer BJ Watling says Sri Lanka will miss Jayawardene, but the Black Caps will not underestimate their opponents. “Mahela Jayawardene is a big loss for them,” he said. “But they’ve definitely got some good young players coming through.” The game at the Hagley Oval, a venue which will host its first Test, is the first match New Zealand will play in Christchurch since the city was hit by a major earthquake in February 2011.
Thursday December 25, 2014
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MARIO BALOTELLI pleaded Russian doping: Wada takes ‘naivety’ over Super Mario post 3,000 samples from athletes BBC Sport - Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has admitted he was “naive” for his Super Mario post on social media. The Italy international was banned for Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal for reposting an image that appeared to make anti-Semitic and racist references. He admitted the charge and was also fined £25,000. The FA has published written reasons for sanctioning Balotelli, while acknowledging that the striker had not intended to cause offence. Roger Burden, who chaired the FA regulatory commission that punished the striker, wrote: “Mr Balotelli said that he deeply regretted posting the image and that he had removed it as soon as it was brought to his attention by other users that it could cause offence. “He said that he was shocked to find the image was offensive because, out of sheer naivety, he had not understood the implication of
Mario Balotelli (Getty Images)
the comments which appeared on the image.” In evidence submitted to the FA, Balotelli said that he deleted the image quickly, and that it was on his Instagram account for less than 10 minutes. The Palermo-born
striker also told the commission in writing that he had suffered racism on many occasions, adding that he was of Ghanaian descent and his Jewish maternal grandmother had fled Germany when it was under Nazi rule.
BBC Sport - Around 3,000 samples have been taken from Russian athletes by officials investigating claims of widespread doping in the country. The World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) launched its investigation following allegations made in a German television documentary. Russian sports minister Vitaly Mutko confirmed a Wada commission had now visited the country at his request. He said: “They took around 3,000 samples to be checked in laboratories.” Mutko told the sports agency R-Sport: “I wrote a letter to Wada, in which I said very precisely that we were open to receiving any commission and ready to show everything. “A commission from Wada has already been to visit us, which included three people who were led by the director of science. “We will continue to work
along this route and we are completely open.” Programmes aired by the German broadcaster ARD in December contained a number of allegations including one claim that as many as 99% of Russian athletes were doping. There were also allegations of cover-ups from within Russian athletics, while the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) came in for criticism. It was claimed that a list of 150 suspicious
blood samples, including one from a top British athlete, were not properly investigated by the sport’s world governing body. The allegations were denounced as “lies” by Russia’s Athletics Federation, while the IAAF launched its own inquiry. Earlier this month, Wada announced its former chief Dick Pound would head up an investigatory commission looking into the German documentary’s claims but said it would not start work until 1 January.
Top executive blasts appointment MICHAEL CLARKE: Australia captain could return for World Cup of Holder as new One-Day captain Michael Clarke (Getty Images)
BBC Sport - Australia captain Michael Clarke has said he could return from injury in time for the World Cup. Clarke, 33, had surgery on a hamstring injury last week but had feared that his career could be over. In his column for an Australian newspaper, Clarke wrote: “The biggest thing for me at the moment is getting back on the field for the World Cup. “I have been told by medical staff that I am in as good a condition as I can be a week after undergoing the surgery.” Australia will co-host the World Cup with New Zealand. The tournament
begins on 14 February. Clarke was injured during Australia’s 48-run first Test win over India at Adelaide. He had injections to relieve spasms in his back while batting on the first day but returned to the crease a day later to complete a century. Michael Clarke’s injuries in 2014 1 March: Sustains a fractured shoulder after being hit by South Africa bowler Morne Morkel while hitting 161 not out in the third Test in Cape Town 31 August: Suffers a recurrence of a left hamstring injury while batting against Zimbabwe and returns home
from the one-day tri-series. The injury, initially triggered by the long-haul flight to Zimbabwe, rules him out of the one-day series against Pakistan in October, though he returns for the Tests 14 November: Injures the same hamstring in the first one-day international against South Africa in Perth 9 December: Retires hurt on 60 with a back injury before tea on the opening day of the first Test against India in Adelaide. He later returns to complete a century 13 December: Limps off the field on the final day of the first Test against India holding his right hamstring and will miss the rest of the series
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — An executive member of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), Patrick Rampersad, has blasted the appointment of 23-year-old fast bowler Jason Holder as the new captain of the West Indies One-Day side. Rampersad has described the appointment of Holder, who has played one Test and 21 One-Day Internationals since making his international debut in February last year, as the wrong choice at this time. Selectors, headed by legend Clive Lloyd, chose the Barbadian all-rounder to lead the regional team for the upcoming limited-overs series against South Africa, a decision which reportedly had unanimous support from the board. “Changing captains now is not the right thing and even if they had to do it, they should have gone back to Darren Sammy,” said Rampersad. “I always thought that he was the right choice for the 50 overs and T20 versions of the game. I am glad to see that they have kept him as captain of the T20 team.” The Barbadian pacer takes over the reins of the team from seasoned allrounder Dwayne Bravo, who has been sacked after just 19 months in charge and also dropped from the 15-man squad named to face the South Africans. “I don’t think
Jason Holder
that Holder is the right man for the job at this point in time, especially with a tough South Africa tour that leads to the World Cup,” Rampersad pointed out. “In the circumstances I don’t think you would want to appoint a
new captain. Given the fact that he is so young, I don’t know that he will get the support of the players.” Holder is expected to lead the West Indies to the ICC World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next February.
Impressive Den Amstel... From page 63 defensive capability and opposing teams have experienced difficulty in piercing their well equipped fortress as Slingerz FC could attest. They will be depending heavily on Adrian Giddings, Tenie Lopes, Clement Browne, Marvin Frank and the experience Delon Garraway to lead their quest for victory, while the Warriors will no doubt be aiming to gain solace for their disappointing semi final display. Another motivating fac-
tor for them could be to win back the support of their fans following their unceremonious exit in the semi-final against Den Amsel. Whatever the outcome in both matches what is certain is that fans are in for a treat tomorrow at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground. Up for grabs will be $1million for the winner, $500,000 for the runner-up, while the third and fourth place finishers will take home $300,000 and $200,000 respectively.
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Thursday December 25, 2014
Meet the multi-talented Sporting Prodigy, Tyler Orderson Any child who laces up a pair of football shoes or picks up a basketball at a neighbourhood playground has dreams of ultimate glory. A very rare few show elite skill level in their early years and even fewer are able to develop their prodigious talent to the maximum, breaking world records or hitting the Olympic or professional ranks. But for Tyler Enrique Orderson, a 10 year-old who attends the Marian Academy and who has displayed outstanding talent and ability from the sporting arena to the classroom in his academic pursuits it has been more than just a dream, as he has been among those few to realize his dreams of distinction. His exceptional ability with the martial art of Karatedo, was spotted when he was just five years old, one year after he started training. Three and a half years after he began training, he became the youngest Shodan (black belt) not just in Guyana or the Caribbean, but across the world in Shotokan Karate amongst all the countries globally that are governed by the world karate organization the International Karate Daigaku. Two years later at age nine, Orderson again broke another world record,
Karateka Tyler meeting Wrestler ‘Big Zeke’ this time becoming the youngest Shototkan Karateka globally to earn the rank of Nidan or second degree black belt ranking. He now has another two years to do a three-peat by going for the Sandan ranking or the third degree black belt. The talented Orderson who has represented Guyana successfully at several international tournaments
including the World Championships in Canada, the Caribbean Karate Championships and the South American Cup winning many gold, silver and bronze medals, confirmed that to get to the top in the sport of karate it took countless hours of hard work, a fierce desire to be the best, and dedication to achieving one’s goals. He confirmed that there
GCB wishes Guyana a joyful Christmas “Despite the hurdles 2014 has been a productive one for us”- Sanasie By Sean Devers Yesterday, on the Eve of Christmas, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Director Anand Sanasie took time for his tireless and many times thankless job of running Guyana’s Cricket to wish cricket lovers and the entire Guyana a joyful Christmas season and a rewarding 2015 on behalf of GCB President Dru Bahadur, the Executive Committee and staff of the Guyana Cricket Board. “Despite the tall hurdles, the year 2014 has been a productive one for the GCB. We had excellent participation in our local competitions and in the WICB regional tournaments, our under-15 and under-19 teams claimed the titles, our senior women finished second, and our senior men
are comfortably ahead of their rivals after four rounds in the 4-Day Tournament. As such, 2015 promises to be bright. We are extremely optimistic for the remaining of the 4-Day Competition which resumes in February and we are also confident of excelling in the Super50 which gets underway in January 2015.” An upbeat Sanasie said. “On the international stage, the GCB in 2014, continue to see the remarkable and vintage Shivnarine Chanderpaul dominate the test scene being joined by Assad Fudadin, Leon Johnson and Narsingh Deonarine for the West Indies senior team tour in South Africa. In 2014 we moved from having one player in the West Indies test squad to having four selected. We are proud of our players and continue to urge them to do better. It is our aim to produce more
Anand Sanasie
Dru Bahadur players at this level in 2015 for the England and Australia tours,” disclosed Sanasie. (Continued on page 58)
are no shortcuts to greatness while conceding that some people start out with a definite advantage. He was also quick to point out that it was not just about organized training practice, but also about having fun. But as impressive as this young Karateka’s story is, unlike the growing emphasis on performance and specialization that has invaded many youth sports, Orderson is not one to be corralled into one highly focused sports programme, but rather takes every opportunity to sample a wide array of athletic pursuits which he believes provides a better recipe for success. The confident believes that hours spent training is just one aspect of an athlete’s development; and that motivation is just as important. He does not want to become one of those youths, who after completing many hours of concentrated training by age 12 or 13 in his case in Karate-do, to start to lose interest or burning out. Injury is another concern he has as studies have found that injuries occur more commonly among athletes who do specialized training in one sports discipline. Orderson’s exceptional natural athletic ability and love for sports generally has caused him to ignore calls to just focus on Karate-do which he has earned much fame and eminence as he is convinced that early specialization will cut short this period as a young athlete to sample a wide variety of sports and thus robbing him of the opportunity to stumble upon his best fit. His belief that he is more intrinsically motivated in sports in general and in a specific sport has led him to becoming a member of the Park Players Tennis Club, where his Coach Shelly DalyRamdyhan sees significant natural skill and ability in him and who has indicated her confidence that should he dedicate more time to tennis training that he would achieve great things. Orderson has also taken up seriously the sport of soccer at his school the Marian Academy under the watchful eyes of its Head Coach Denis ‘Chow’ Hunte. He loves watching great teams and players and he loves to emulate them, In fact his favorite player is Lionel Messi from Argentina who also plays for Barcelona. Coach Hunte who sees considerable talent and determination in Tyler, lets him stay back after the normal practice time with his peers,
Tyler Orderson
and allows him to train with the seniors that are from the High School. He is said be “so small, so fast and so elegant” and feels quite at home training with the bigger boys. Tyler has also over the last year become involved in the sport discipline of basketball working out with some of friends under the guidance of their sports administrator and B a s k e t b a l l Coach Chris Bowman, is also a part of the ‘Youth Basketball Guyana’ that is being coached by Lugard Mohan who is the Director of Coaching and Officiating of YBG. As Youth Basketball Guyana brought down the curtains on the 2014 school basketball season with the fourth edition of the Titan
Bowl-best of the best school basketball Championships recently, in the exciting Mini Basketball game, Tyler scored the second highest points to help his team to secure victory over their opponents. He credited his ball handling skills, dribbling ability improved free throws and jumpers in this most recent game to the hard work of his coaches who make it all fun whilst teaching them serious stuff. Tyler believes that there is need to change the culture of sports if young sports personalities are to reach their potential and retain a life-long enjoyment of sports, to one that creates an environment that de-emphasizes winning and puts a more of a premium on enjoyment as he does.
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 65
ECCB Executive Sammy added to ODI Samaroo Jailall squad for South Africa dead at 42 WICRICNEWS - The West Indies Cricket Board announced that former captain Darren Sammy has been added to the ODI squad for the 5-match ODI series in South Africa. The squad was previously announced with the 15th member not named after Kemar Roach was ruled out injured. Sammy takes the 15th spot and it comes among controversial public discussions surrounding the axing of Dwayne Bravo. Discussions also speculated the dropping of Bravo, Sammy and Kieron
By Sean Devers At a time when most families are celebrating Christmas day together, Chris, Christine and Kishan Jailall will without their father today, while Samaroo Jailall’s wife, Sharon was heart-broken when she got the shocking news that she had unexpectedly become a widow. The local cricket fraternity was thrown into mourning one day before Christmas with the sad news that first Vice-President of the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) Jailall had died at the Woodlands Hospital yesterday after feeling unwell. ECCB President Bissoon Singh expressed shock at the death of Jailal. Jailall was only 42 It is suspected that Jailal, who was never seriously ill and was one of hardest working members of the East Coast Board, died from a Heart Attack. An emotional Singh said the Executives and the East Coast Cricket Clubs regret the passing of Jailall who was recently re-elected to serve as first Vice-President of the ECCB. He was also the former President and the current Secretary of the Lusignan Sports Club. Jailall, who held a Masters degree in Business Administration, was the Finance Officer of the Guyana Improving Teachers Education Project (GITET), the University of Guyana Structure and Te c h n o l o g y S u p p o r t Programme (UGSPS) and the National Hinterland School Feeding Programme (NSP). He also served as Assistant Secretary of the Demerara Cricket Board and Secretary of the Competitions Committee
Samaroo Jailall 2009-2011. “It is with great shock, sadness and disbelief that our dear Brother Sam has passed away. His untimely passing will greatly affect all of us and has unquestionably created a huge vacuum in the Administration of Cricket on the East Coast, Demerara and by extension Guyana. Samaroo served Guyana’s Cricket diligently and with distinction, in several capacities. He was a self-effacing individual who always put his priorities in order but choose cricket in particular, above everything else. He was an able Cricket administrator who did everything for the betterment of the Sport. He will be deeply missed,” Singh said. “We would like to express our sincere condolences to his relatives and friends especially his wife Sharon and three children Chris, Christine and Kishan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time and may the memories of Samaroo and the love of family surround you and give you strength in the days ahead. Rest in Peace our dear Brother,” the ECCB Head said.
20/20 Dominoes set for Boxing Day
S
ecretary of the Georgetown Dominoes Association Mark Wiltshire will be hosting a 20/20 dominoes competition tomorrow at Turning Point starting from 14:30 hrs. Entrance fee is $10,000. The first place team will take home $120,000, runner up $40,000 and third place $20,000. Teams are advised to bring along a pack of dominoes. Among the teams set to battle are TNT, Turning Point, Scramblers, Rage, Providence, Mix UP and Blue Bird.
Pollard afterthey were not named in the initial 14. The speculations and discussions were primarily around the three players’ involvement in the abandoned tour of India earlier in 2014. FULL SQUAD: Jason Holder (Captain), Sulieman Benn, Carlos Brathwaite, Jonathan Carter, Sheldon Cottrell, Narsingh Deonarine, Leon Johnson, Chris Gayle, Denesh Ramdin, Andre Russell, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith, Jerome Taylor.
Darren Sammy
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Kaieteur News
Thursday December 25, 2014
Abby Wambach
Keylor Navas
Navas, Wambach named 2014 CONCACAF Players of the Year
M
iami – The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) yesterday named Costa Rica’s Keylor Navas and Abby Wambach of the United States the 2014 CONCACAF Male and Female Players of the Year, as the Confederation revealed honorees in six different categories for the second-annual CONCACAF Awards. In an equally-weighted vote among Member Association women’s and men’s national team coaches and captains, media and fans, Real Madrid goalkeeper Navas comfortably outdistanced countryman Bryan Ruiz, the second-place finisher in the Male Player of the Year category. Wambach, who last year finished second to fellow U.S. international Alex Morgan in the Female Player of the Year vote, this year edged out Shirley Cruz of the Costa Rica Women’s National Team and club side Paris St. Germain (FRA) for the top women’s honor. In the other categories, Tim Howard (Everton & United States) was named as Goalkeeper of the Year for a second straight year, Jorge Luis Pinto won Coach of the Year for his exploits at the helm of the Costa Rican National Team, American Mark Geiger was named Referee of the Year and Bryan Ruiz’s historic World Cup strike against Italy in June was adjudged to be CONCACAF’s Goal of the Year. The CONCACAF Awards are designed to honor the year’s outstanding performers and achievements in confederationsanctioned competitions involving national teams at all levels and age categories, including FIFA World Cup matches and qualifying for both genders. Performances also eligible for recognition included those achieved in professional club football leagues within the CONCACAF Member Associations, as well as the CONCACAF Champions League. The votes of three important stake-holding segments within the Confederation were counted in compiling the results. Member Associations’ national team coaches and (Continued on page 61)
Thursday December 25, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 67
Vitamalt/Aqua Mist sponsored WDFA KO Cup...
Impressive Den Amstel should start as slight favourites against Slingerz Despite advancing to the final in controversial circumstances, host Den Amstel should start as slight favourites to beat Slingerz FC in tomorrow’s championship game which will bring the curtains down in the Vitamalt/Aqua Mist sponsored West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) Knockout Cup, at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground. In their respective semifinal matchups, Den Amstel seemed to be coasting to a comfortable win after leading Uitvlugt Warriors 31, before a lighting system malfunction brought the game to a premature end at half time, while Slingerz FC had to wait late before breaching the airtight defence of Pouderoyen who they eventually defeated 1-0 in a less than impressive display. The host has looked far more impressive in this year’s competition than the star-studded Slingerz FC side that is regarded as the strongest team on the West Side with a string of former national standouts in their line-up. However, Den Amstel has looked impressive throughout with their slick passing and deadly finishing and the in-form goal hungry Delon Lanferman, who showed no mercy for a hapless Wales unit will no doubt be aiming to end the tournament on a high with a solid performance against a team that has impressed defensively. Lanferman will have as his supporting cast the likes of Travis Hilliman, Andre Hector, Morris Charles, Marvin Henry and Ryan Hunter, who are all capable
Travis Hilliman
- Warriors looking for redemption against Pouderoyen of tilting a game in their favour in a flash. On the other hand, the only consistent performance for Slingerz FC has come from the lethal feet of Ti c h a r d J o s e p h , w h o displayed his power in their last two fixtures and is definitely a serious threat to any backline even from 30 yards out. Joseph’s goals have all been scored from long range and this bonus should draw close attention from the Den Amstel defenders, while it could also leave them short of markers to contain players the caliber of Devon Millington and the wily Anthony ‘Awo’Abrams. These three players are a handful for any Head Coach locally and when you insert Joshua Brown, Colin Nelson and Les Charles Critchlow into the picture you can see why they are considered the best in the West and one of the most dangerous teams to go up against locally. The two opposing goalkeepers have looked competent and they too played a great part in
Delon Lanferman
Tichard Joseph
stopping opposing strikers which ultimately kept their respective teams in the game. In spite of playing at home, Den Amstel supporters will have to share the noise with Slingerz band
of fans as they both enjoy sizeable support from their respective quarters and this could create the atmosphere for a riveting conclusion to the tournament. In the playoff for third place,
Uitvlugt Warriors go up against Pouderoyen and while both teams may feel disappointed in not having the opportunity to play for the top prize there is still some consolation in the game. Pouderoyen is a team that prides itself on its (Continued on page 63)
Anthony Abrams
t r o Sp
This Victoria Kings player (ball at feet) battles a Corriverton Links player in the latter’s defensive third at the Victoria ground on Tuesday night.
Quarter Finals set for today @ Buxton Ground
Buxton United face Grove Hi Tech; Monedderlust oppose NA United
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