Kaieteur News
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Tuesday February 21, 2017
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
CORDIALITY NEEDED Guyanese at home and abroad are known to be among the friendliest people in the world. Everywhere they go, they boast of the country’s warmth and hospitality. But while their national identity is tied to the country’s distinctive culture, heritage, symbols and happiness, there is at least one area where the nation has not live up to its image—the carnage on the roads. With regard to using the roadways, many drivers and pedestrians tend to throw all their cordiality out of the window, thus making the roads the nation’s death chamber. In 2016, there were 127 traffic fatalities and countless accidents committed by mostly reckless and drunk drivers, not to mention careless pedestrians. A look further back into the records revealed that in the past decade, nearly 1500 people have perished in traffic accidents compared to two decades earlier when the death toll was less than half. Sadly, it seems that traffic fatalities have become an all too common reality in the country. There seems to be no end in sight. Is it because there is no proper strategy in place? Driving has become a very risky activity. High levels of speeding, drunk driving and the inappropriate use of mobile devices have all made the roads more dangerous. To this must be added the downright boorish behaviour that unfolds on the roads on a daily basis. Drivers no longer use courtesy, many dart in and out of lanes without regard for the traffic rules, lights are not properly dimmed, and a general sense of irrationality prevails. The year is still relatively new, and this might be a good time for the government and by extension the Traffic Department to implore drivers to not only exercise caution on the road, but to be courteous to their fellow drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. The implementation of speed guns, which last year arguably resulted in reduced levels of road fatalities and accidents and increased ticket revenue, is not enough. The authorities have to go one step further and install cameras on the highways to catch speeding drivers and motorcyclists. The prompt implementation of this new technology will definitely help in a significant way. Guyana’s population is too small to have so many people being killed on the roads. Something has to be done to put an end to this. We reiterate that the government must be proactive to reduce the disorder on the roads. It seems as though the present punishment for errant drivers is not a deterrent. More far-reaching measures are needed. If we are serious about reducing the carnage on the roads, there needs to be tougher penalties than what exist. Today, the majority of deaths in the country no longer involve the use of guns or knives or by suicide. It involves the use of cars, which has been a longstanding concern in society. And although drivers are being urged to be more vigilant and to desist from drinking or taking risks while driving, only a few are practicing safe driving. Human life is sacred and all in society must act to prevent more loss of life on the roads . In his book, the “The Sacredness of Human Life”, David Gushee, a preeminent Christian ethicist contends that the sacredness of human life is one of the most precious legacies of biblical faith—albeit one that society has too often failed to uphold and protect. It is without a doubt that better driving practices are definitely needed in order to end the madness on our roads. Drivers must relate to each other in a more cordial way. Is that too much to ask?
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Government is running out of money; crisis coming Dear Editor, I write this letter with a heavy heart. I chose not to publish my name because some of my friends in the PPP would be annoyed and would say I should not have done so. I am a supporter of the PPP. I once had authority in one of our public sector organizations. The PPP Government has done masterfully with the small economy of Guyana. I am not going to deny we made mistakes. I think Mr. Jagdeo got it wrong badly many times. I believe we would have won in 2011 and still be in power if we had let Ralph Ramkarran lead us in the 2011 elections There is a flurry of letters in the press calling for a third party to contest the elections. The names that crop up all the time are that of Freddie Kissoon as numero uno and Nigel Hughes. I suspect the people behind the third party formation want an Indian/African combination. Let them go ahead. A third party getting into government will mean the destruction of both Freddie and Nigel Hughes. It is one thing to be a Don Quixote as people refer to Freddie; it is another thing to be in power ruling over a troublesome country like Guyana. People approve of Freddie because he appears to be the perfect multi-racial
man with the perfect zeal for empowering the Guyanese poor. I am a PPP supporter and won’t change from that but I will never deny the nationalism of Freddie Kissoon. I will give him credit for being one of the most admired citizens. He has gone through a lot. I will never leave the PPP and vote for another party but Freddie Kissoon is not a bad choice for government but not in Guyana at this time. He is in fact a national hero. I know there are many in the PPP that disagreed with how he was treated while we were in power. He knows me. He knows I like him. I talked to him several times. I do not and did not support violence against our critics. Most PPP leaders didn’t. People like Nigel Hughes because they believe he is the brightest lawyer in Guyana and he could steer the ship of governance. Those who want to see a third party with Freddie and Nigel Hughes should note that the very problems the PPP encountered and was criticized for, Freddie and Hughes will face and they will end up being vilified. All that brilliant philosophical musings of Freddie Kissoon will melt like butter against the hot sun once he enters the halls of power. I doubt Freddie is made out for political office but those who are
encouraging him will see his destruction once he steps into that office. What can a new party bring to Guyana that the PPP couldn’t bring? What is the Coalition bringing? To see the state of our balance of payment would be shocking. It is bare. This government is running out of money. A financial crisis is on our hands. What the PPP never ever thought of - and I know this because I was part of such discussions – was foreign exchange control. We have information that this would be official policy shortly. I would ask the Guyanese people to recall this letter when that happens. We also know that price controls are coming. I wish a third party well. But if those who are clamouring for it think it will make a difference then, they are in for the shock of their lives. You may hate the PPP for mistakes made but sit down with a fine teeth comb and go through the PPP’s stewardship. The economy did well and was doing well up to the point when we lost the elections. Let me end with some advice for the great Freddie Kissoon. What makes you think your middle class backers have the same dream as you? Former Public Sector Manager
Minister David Patterson says Wärtsilä has been a good companion Dear Editor, Having a discussion with the Honourable Juan Edghill is like trying to stand on shifting sand. It was the Honourable gentleman that mentioned the gross annual revenue of the Wärtsilä contract, something which I never previously publicly stated. However, as soon as he was proven incorrect in his claims, he made an about face and said that he only mentioned same for reference purposes. He then went on to claim that his figure was just "an average". Mr. Edghill’s game is obvious: he made his claim to give the impression that large sums of money are involvedin a bid to link this to corrupt activities. However, having been proven incorrect, this was quickly cast aside as "an average". Mr. Edghill should be aware that there are varying types of maintenance carried out on engines; there is routine maintenance – which can be as basic as changing oils and filters – then there are major overhauls to engines after a prescribed length of time. In the case of the company's generating sets, both activities were conducted by our local engineers. However, in the latter case, an external engineer was sent to certify that the works were
completed to specifications. All costs for this external engineer were borne by the local branch, hence the reference to paying for someone to “check off” the works. It should be noted that our local engineers are highly trained and qualified to certify these works themselves. Interestingly, when other neighbouring countries perform major overhauls, our local engineers are dispatched as the certifying engineers.This dispatch is, of course, at a cost to the neighbouring company. It should be noted that currently in the Power Producer and Distribution Inc. (PPDI), all the Plant and Workshop Managers possess degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering. Additionally, among the field service engineers and plant technicians are over 20 persons with degrees or diplomas in engineering. If the Honourable Juan Edghill is suggesting that empowerment of our local engineers is a scam, then the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is pleased to be associated with this scam. On the matter of spare parts, once again I am certain that the Honourable gentleman is aware that not all the parts in these generators
are manufactured by Wärtsilä; the engine block, crankshaft, and cylinder heads are primarily the parts manufactured by the company while other parts provided are manufactured by other reputable companies and assembled to complete the generator. Hence, parts such as the pistons, fuel pumps, turbo chargers, injection equipment, alternators, and so on are outsourced. Under the previous arrangement, these outsourced parts were ordered by the company and then resold to GPL. PPDI will now be procuring these parts directly from the manufacturers, which results in cost saving. I assume this is the “scam” being referred to by the Honourable gentleman. I must emphasise that the costs saved which will be transferred to the consumer. Finally, the Honourable gentleman is correct; the full board for PPDI has not yet been constituted and it is my intention to shortly seek Cabinet's endorsement on nominees. The shareholders of PPDI will be the Government of Guyana via a local state entity. Note that, in keeping with our stated policy, a board position will be reserved for the Opposition. It is my hope that
this offer will be taken up so that the opposition can have a representative present to prevent any potential scams. This hope might be a futile one, based on previous experience with the Opposition not taking up similar offers in at least eight other boards under the ministry. However, one can hope that this petty behaviour is put aside for the greater good of our nation. These back and forth communications in the media could be avoided if the Opposition upheld its responsibility by allowing itself to be privy, firsthand, to information. Furthermore, the performance clauses are all included with similar bonuses and penalties as per Wärtsilä's contract and all needed labour, both local and overseas specialists, will be paid for by PPDI. In closing, it must be stated that Wärtsilä has been an excellent companion to Guyana through the years; their generating engines have performed above standard and I have no doubt that we will be seeking to engage the company in the supply of equipment in the near future. The change in our otherwise excellent relationship is limited to the operations of the O&M contract. Minister David Patterson
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Region 5 to provide expanded health care services DEAR EDITOR, Supporting good health and ensuring quality health care extends far beyond hospital and doctor care. The Regional Democratic Council Region No.5 2017 budget will provide a new health facility for residents of Cotton Tree Village, West Coast Berbice. The present structure is in a deplorable condition. The building is located on private land which is preventing expansion for new health services to the community. The Regional Administration has identified a plot of state land which will be used to house the new health facility for the Cotton Tree health catchment areas. The health
center is expected to provide a full range of health-related services. This means in addition to providing comprehensive primary health care services, they also offer specialty care, as well as “supportive services” that can include nutrition and suicide education, care coordination and case management, and outreach activities to help find eligible patients. This also means the care delivered is culturally appropriate and in languages that many in these communities speak. Govind Singh Deputy Regional Executive Officer Region No. 5
Red Thread wants REO of Region 9 interdicted from duty DEAR EDITOR, We wish to draw attention to developments in the matter engaging the courts involving Region 9, Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Carl Parker who is charged with sexual assault. Based on reports from members of the community and the Regional Chairman Mr. Allicock, via MTV nightly news, Mr. Parker is still on the job. As far as we understand, when a public servant is charged and placed before the courts he or she is inter-
dicted from duty. If Mr. Parker is still on duty as reported, who is the person that has to issue the interdiction notice and why is that not done as yet? We call on the Minister of Social Protection, the Minister of Communities and all authorities responsible for Mr. Parker being in office to take immediate action to remove him from public office. Joy Marcus Halima Khan Wintress White Red Thread
Mr. Jagdeo’s business cronies are bawling DEAR EDITOR, I noticed that opposition leader, Bharat Jagdeo has responded violently to the tabling of the state asset recovery bill, and some of his frightened cronies are screaming that the work of the chief investigator/ prosecutor would violate the rights of citizens. This law is needed just as the fresh air we breathe for the survival of our people. For too long, many persons who held state posts and positions of influence ripped off this country massively. They stole state monies, state lands, state contracts, and state assets. I read with horror the revelation by Professor Clive Thomas, the head of the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU), that Guyana was losing every year up to 35 billion dollars to friends and cronies via contracts and other procurement
fraud; 90 billion dollars from folks buying our foreign currency and taking gold out of the country; and 188 billion dollars through smuggling contraband goods, constituting what is referred to as "the underground economy". For years, Guyana has been bleeding over 300 billion dollars every year, while our working people were given a shameful 5 percent increase. It is time we find out who owns what and where with the stolen wealth. Sweet Lord my head is spinning over the thought that for a ten year period Guyana lost three trillion dollars! How do you say that? - 3,000,000,000,000 three thousand billion? I urge this government to pass the SARA bill in spite of how much Mr. Jagdeo and his "business" cronies bawl! Kumar J Persaud
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VAT on private education will cost Granger electorally DEAR EDITOR, In my previous letter, I made the observation that many private schools offer adult level CXC classes. In my research for authoring this letter, I found no such government operated program where anyone desirous of finally writing CXC can do so. Many of those enrolled in the diploma level programs such as ABE are also low-income women and not the millionaire If the government wants to quiet the private institutions, it should take several steps. First, it should do away with CXC which deprives many of earning a high school diploma and institute a national high school certification program in keeping with twenty-first-century developments. Second, educational reform should include smaller class sizes and more teachers; computer classes from nursery to university because if we are not equipping our children for the competitive technology driven environment, we are robbing them. Third, our schools need redesigning and doing away with the one room or auditorium style design and have classrooms with doors and soundproof. Each school should have home economics, music, sci-
ence labs, computer labs, woodworks, and agriculture, history (not social studies) and business as core subject areas of their curriculum. These should be a national curriculum, and the government should invest in making sure each school has its complement of competent educators. Also, part of education reform should be a school feeding program. Students cannot study on empty stomachs. Nutrition and education go hand-in-hand; for hungry bellies are a greater distraction than the crime. Studies prove well-fed children perform better in school. These are the areas of concentration the government should focus on, not imposing further taxation on citizens already struggling to eke out a living with the meager wages they earn. Editor, one commentator had this to say “I didn't send my children to private schools because I could afford it but because under the prevailing circumstances, I couldn't afford to!” This sentiment adequately sums up the collective feeling of those who have to sacrifice to send their children to private schools. This same commentator also stated
“putting quality education out of financial reach is antidevelopment.” As I stated in my first letter, this instituted taxation goes against the campaign promise of an “a good life” you cannot deliver a good life if you’re overtaxing one of the most heavily taxed population in the Western Hemisphere. During the 1980s the late American President Ronald W. Reagan called such policies “voodoo economics,” or as the adage goes “what rain cannot fill the dew will not full.” Trying to boost the public coffers by taxing private education is wrong, how about we change the tax exempt laws that allow the top tier of our government to earn ridiculous salaries on the back of the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere and not pay income taxes. Minister Jordan has negatively equated paying tuition fees with that of parking fees at the airport; this exposes to us that this gentleman is keenly unaware on what services attract VAT. He also said that parents and students have a choice, the choice they have is to send their children to attend public schools that are both overcrowded and poorly staffed. So far this
government seems bent on a path which is antithetical to their promise of change. We cannot and should not burden the public when we fail to provide the critical services that the very public funds, by paying both value added tax and income tax. I am sure that these private institutions pay both corporate and income taxes to the government so taxing students’ tuition is double taxation, and this policy should be repealed with immediate effect so that people can continue to exercise the choice of sending their children to private schools and keeping Guyana somewhat competitive. Finally, I would like to remind the Granger administration the, 5,245 votes which put you in office, you’ve already lost their support, and your new taxation scheme will ensure you will double this. The only way I see this administration getting re-elected is if there is no true organized opposition to them and their current opposition. What Guyanese got on May 11, 2015, was status quo dressed in new clothes, colours and touting a new name and this policy epitomized such. Tyrone Talbot.
UG economist sounds warning about the oil scenario DEAR EDITOR, In November 2016 I wrote an essay titled "First Oil in Guyana: Headlong into the Paradox of Plenty?" that was circulated privately and also sent to your newspaper. Many of the points made in that essay are either more relevant now or are being confirmed by recent market developments. For example, I had pointed out that the Hotelling rule for optimal extraction of a non-renewable resource would suggest that oil companies, had they owned or controlled a resource such as the Liza and Payara Wells, would in fact choose not to produce if they expected the net price (i.e., its price less extraction costs) of oil to rise in the future, and in particular to rise faster than the interest rate. It was further pointed out that ExxonMobil was expecting oil prices to remain stable at its current low level until about 2040, when an expected increase in global demand would finally put an end to the glut on the market. I now wish to bring to your attention to the article "Energy Companies Face Crude Reality: Better to Leave it in the Ground," which appeared in the Wall Street Journal of February 17, 2017. On the same date WSJ carried a related article titled "Worst Gasoline Glut in 27 Years
Could be Oil Rally's Nemesis," while Bloomberg carried an article titled "Oil Closes Near $53 as Record U.S. Supply Counters OPEC Cuts." [Readers who do not have a WSJ subscription might access the first article at: http:// www.foxbusiness.com/f eatures/2017/02/17/energycomp anies-face-crude-reality-bette r-to-leave-it-inground.html]. The decision, reported in the first-mentioned article, not to extract the planned 3.6 billion barrels of oil from Canada's oil sands comes after Exxon would have made a $20B investment there. In other words, the size of an investment today is no indication of the particular production decision that would eventually be made. A general point ought to be made, and it is that if the authorities believe that oil production in Guyana would surely start in 2020 because ExxonMobil is saying so 'in word and in deed,' then they would be guilty of ignoring both logic and the news about recent developments. As would any other company, ExxonMobil would make its production decision on the basis of the net price in 2020 and beyond, and not on the basis of net price today. There is every reason for ExxonMobil to develop the oil resources in Guyana to re-
plenish its reserves, to reassure investors, and to satisfy regulatory requirements. Whether Guyana can infer a production decision from this is however, is another matter altogether. But it would appear that such an inference has already been made, as the Government of Guyana has decided to build a US$500M onshore oil and gas facility at Crab Island! The theory of 'mechanism design' in economics recognises that private agents often have important information that they withhold for strategic, "selfinterested," reasons and makes the design of 'truth revelation' mechanisms central to the task of making optimal plans and decisions. In this regard, it is instructive to note that ExxonMobil did not say that it will have to consider the feasibility of investing in the Crab Island facility. Rather, it was quite a simple matter: ExxonMobil will not
be investing in the facility. Editor, before the Skeldon Sugar Factory investment was undertaken, I was one of the few people, if not the only one, to have pointed out the risks and the uncertainties that made it an imprudent one. I even calculated the expected return to the investment under different risk scenarios at a public seminar hosted by UG's Dept. of Economics. It was only with great self-restraint that I refrained from suggesting that some of the proponents of the project might have invested their pensions in the project to show their willingness to underwrite the very risks that the Guyanese taxpayer was being made to underwrite. Is Guyana hurtling headlong into a resource curse phenomenon? Only time will tell. Thomas B. Singh Senior Lecturer Dept. of Economics University of Guyana
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Guyanese working-class gradually awaking out of catapult him as a politi- days of President Burnham, Airport, the Skeldon Sugar its slumber ther cal force to be reckoned with. all through the PPP years to Factory, the Petro Caribe DEAR EDITOR, The United Republican Party (URP) wishes to congratulate the Alliance For Change (AFC) for their decisive and unmovable stance in relation to the parking meter fiasco and more particularly their forthright objection to the treatment of Mr. Sherod Duncan. The URP also wishes that the AFC would get back to representing the people and be more unhinged from the PNC. This parking meter deal was a PPP-styled, crookish, and secretive undertaking. The beneficiaries are no doubt the PNCites in the Coalition and members of their cabal. It is therefore noteworthy that the AFC top brass in the parliament and cabinet took over a year to put a stop to this illicit venture. Maybe it is that they were finding their footing. Maybe it is because they were busy with other stuff. Nonetheless, the voters took note of their attitude and they have lost considerable ground on this front. They did not regain any credibility for their late objection to this parking meter failure. However, what their input did was validate Mr. Duncan and fur-
The Coalition should see the sizable objection to this unhealthy parking meter deal as a warning sign that the Guyanese populace is onto to them. This clarion cry for the overturn of the parking meter covenant and the oft-repeated protests should show the current administration that the sleeping giant of the Guyanese working-class is gradually awaking out of its slumber. As the saying goes; “You can trick some of the people some of the time: You can trick most of the people some of the time: You can trick most of the people most of the time: But you can’t trick all of the people all of the time.” Technology, access to current global information and a humanistic desire for a good life (the kind the politicians now live), are making it to where acceptable change is becoming a prerequisite for civil obedience. The masses have seen and are seeing the protests around the world as humans stand up and demand what is rightfully theirs. The Guyanese citizenry in quick fashion understands that in Guyana nothing comes easy and without a fight. From the
now, Guyanese have never gotten what is theirs. The politicians live like gods but the ordinary man has never gotten his due. From reasonable land ownership, to earning a living wage, everything in Guyana has got to be obtained by blood, sweat, tears and protest. And the Guyana residents are slowly realizing this fact. The teachers had to march and protest to have the Smart City Solutions agree not to charge them for parking. The city businesses have had to protest to have the contract of the parking meter reviewed. The drivers have had to come out and picket the Mayor and City Council to get the rates reduced. All this happened but never without a battle. Now the URP joins with those who are calling for the complete revocation of the parking meter contract. We are now convinced that this matter was illegal from its conception and therefore should not be allowed to remain. During the days of Jagdeo we had several secretive, crooked and scampish deals, which included the Marriott, the Berbice Bridge, the Amaila Falls, the Sanata Textile Mill, the Cheddi Jagan
agreement and dozens of others undertakings that the audits have since revealed. We will not stand by and allow the Coalition to mount their own, crookish deals. Already they are several questionable transactions attracting the attention of the country that even Jadgeo wants to bring criminal charges against the government. When Jagdeo can say that someone is a scamp; when Jagdeo says he smells a rat, it speaks volumes! So the URP is going on the record in asking the M&CC to scrap this pending parking meter deal. We agree with all the stake holders that Georgetown can do with some kind of traffic regulation, however, a contract which is illegal, oppressive and otherwise detrimental to the City of Georgetown, is not the way to go. We also would like to ask the AFC cabinet members and parliamentarians to use their Cummingsberg bargaining powers to bring a halt to this travesty. If one AFC man can bring the job this far, the host of the other ACF leaders can complete the task. Dr. Vishnu Bandhu Leader, URP
Guyana is the only Commonwealth country with judges are appointed ods of tenure should be of- lor and Chief Justice and a Chancellor Court by the Governor General act- fered to appointees over the therefore they might have to DEAR EDITOR, The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is vigilant as regards the method of the appointment of judges and the independence of the judiciary in the region. Last Tuesday the regional court criticized the system how appellate court judges are appointed in Belize. The CCJ judges did not entertain the appeal filed by the Bar Association against the Attorney General of Belize, but expressed displeasure with the present arrangement for the appointment of Justice of Appeal. At present under section 94 of the Constitution of Belize Chapter 4 Appellant
ing on advice of the Prime Minister given after consultation with the leader of the opposition is for such period as may be specified in the instrument of appointment. I should state that since there is no fixed time in the appointment, the judges’ tenure is at the whim and fancy of the Executive. This does not find favour with the CCJ which stated in its judgment that justices of appeal should be appointed in a similar position as Supreme Court Judges (first instant judges) with an independent appointing body and tenure until retirement age. The CCJ also recommended that shorter peri-
age of 75. In Belize, Judges, Magistrates and legal officers are appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) The composition of the JLSC is as follows: Chief Justice (Chairman), Solicitor General, President of the Public Service Commission and a representative from the Bar Association. Perhaps I should add that Belize is the only jurisdiction in the region in which lawyers have a say in the appointment of judges and legal officers. The Guyana Government is expected to appoint a new Chancellor who will replace Carl Singh who has been acting as Chancellor for the past 13 years, but his appointment was not confirmed since the leader of the opposition did not agree to his confirmation. Ian Chang who acted as Chief Justice for more than 11 years was not confirmed either because there was also no agreement. In fact Chang went into retirement a year ago without being confirmed and Justice Cummings-Edwards has been appointed as acting Chief Justice. In the light of the political climate in Guyana it is not likely that there will be an agreement between the President and Leader of the Opposition to the appointment (confirmation) of the Chancel-
act until an agreement is reached, if it will ever be reached. So sad and unfortunate! Guyana is the only country in the region where there must be an agreement between the President and Leader of the Opposition. This was only changed in 2002. Previously it was merely consultation like other jurisdictions in the region. It seems as if the Co-operative Republic has to be different from other countries. Guyana is the only country in the Commonwealth where the judiciary is headed by a Chancellor and not the Chief Justice. In July 1966 when the Court of Appeal of Guyana was established, Forbes Burnham who was Prime Minister and Head of Government was not happy for the then Chief Justice Sir Joseph "Bonnie" Luckhoo to continue to head the judiciary. He then appointed Guyanese Sir Kenneth Stoby who was Chief Justice of Barbados to the top job and renamed the position as Chancellor of the Judiciary and President of the Court of Appeal. However judges (except Chancellor and Chief Justice) in Guyana are appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission which is headed by the Chancellor. Oscar Ramjeet
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Unbecoming conduct of Bheri Ramsarran DEAR EDITOR, This is my first letter to you. Best wishes to all for the New Year. The reason for writing is that whilst viewing the TV during our family time (about 4.50pm), I tuned in to Channel 14, and the programme, “Getting It Right” was on, hosted by Bheri Ramsarran (MP). Mr. Editor, Hell broke loose listening to this gentleman. First he seems to be heading mentally in another direction. His language and stares are not easy to describe. I will never forgive and forget what he said to a caller. He called the Senior Counsel, Honorable Basil William, a senior (deleted) and a stupid (deleted); he told the caller these terms are what Senior Counsel means. My God! Help our country! How can a MP do such a thing? This MP had insulted women in
this country; I refer to the charge for his conduct against Ms. Sherlina Najeer. The PPP should have dismissed him but they held on to him to do their dirty programme. After he was finished with the AG, he turned to the Red House issue and he said the Honorable Volda Lawrence was there attacking the supporters of the PPP and you know what he called the Minister? He changed Volda into another word that was terrible. If there is any doubt to this letter, let the relevant authority get the recording of the programme. I am calling on the Opposition Leader and General Secretary to get this man fired; he must be dismissed immediately. They must do so to save further embarrassment. I prefer not to use my name. I am from Enterprise Enterprise Resident
A body of leadership material is born DEAR EDITOR, If there is one good that has come out of the parking meter fiasco, it is the emergence of a significant body of leadership material drawn from civil society and which from all appearances cuts across the political and ethnic divide. I will refrain from identifying who these individuals are in order to prevent them being labeled one way or the other. Suffice it to say that they represent varying shades of opinion and interests and are united in a common desire to fight for what they perceive to be just and in the best interest of the city and for that matter the country as a whole. Many of those involved in the protest actions are young professionals, entrepreneurs and con-
cerned citizens which is good for the body politic and the economic and social well-being of this nation. I applaud these individuals. Life, after all, is much more that satisfying one's physical and material needs. It is about standing up for principles and for what one considers to be morally and ethically correct. It is about confronting injustice whenever it raises its ugly head. It is about protecting and safeguarding the rule of law and the tenets of good governance. I encourage those involved not to lose hope in the future of this country. As one leading politician in Guyana famously remarked during the difficult period of dictatorial rule, 'the struggle may be long and hard, but victory is inevitable.' Hydar Ally
Has he been given the instrument to act as Commissioner? DEAR EDITOR, For some time now, Assistant Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine has been quietly and effectively performing the duties of Commissioner of Police. Commissioner Seelall Persaud is on vacation leave . I wonder if David Ramnarine was given what Seelall Persaud called the Instrument to act as Commissioner. The last time David Ramnarine performed the similar task the Commissioner on his return to duty at-
tempted to rescind many major decisions taken by Ramnarine including the promotion of several junior ranks on the grounds that the number two man in the force was not given the Instrument to act as Commissioner. Will history repeats itself? Will the movers and shakers of the number one law enforcement agency in Guyana reminisce and react, if that was not already done? Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner of Police (Retired)
Tuesday February 21, 2017
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‘Pay to kill’ murders…
‘Some ‘hit men’ willing to testify against those who hired them - but want protection for families, assurance plea bargain arrangements will stand Some of the individuals accused of being hired killers have indicated that they are willing to testify against those who paid them to do the job. But first they want reassurance that the police and legal officials stick to their side of the bargain and grant them reduced sentences. The individuals include some who are serving lengthy sentences and others on remand. An individual who is close to the accused men contacted Kaieteur News yesterday in response to comments made by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum that indicated that the Force, with guidance from its legal advisors, has been encouraging the accused in ‘pay to kill’ murders to testify against their bosses. In a story in Monday’s edition, Blanhum had stated that “The GPF, together with the legal advisors, have from time to time explored the legislative provision that allows these paid killers or hit-men to enter into a plea bargain arrangements, where in exchange for their testimony
against the intellectual authors, they are offered a reduced sentence.” Responding to the comments, one source said: “Some are willing to talk, but before they do that, they want to know what the reduced sentences will be. Everybody wants to know what the reduced sentences would be.” Kaieteur News was told that the alleged ‘hit men’ also want reassurance that they, as well as their families, will be protected, once they testify. One source explained that some ‘hit men’ opted to serve their sentences without identifying their paymasters, because the individuals who hired them ensured that the convicts and their families were financially secure. But the men are reportedly also requesting that police re-open some cases in which individuals were wrongly charged or convicted in execution-style killings. In the aforementioned article, Blanhum had stated that in investigating the ‘pay to kill’ murders, “investigators
do not only focus on the actual perpetrators, but also on the intellectual authors and the financiers. “The detectives are cognizant that the whole objective of those ‘pay to kill murders’, commonly referred to as contract killings is for the intellectual authors to go undetected.” A number of ‘hit men’ are at present serving lengthy prison sentences, while their alleged paymasters remain unidentified. One such case involved the June 30, 2011 gunning down of 72-year-old Clementine Fiedtkou-Parris in her Lot 42 Robb Street home. It was suggested that the elderly woman was slain over a property dispute she had with a wealthy individual. During the trial, a caution statement provided by one of the accused outlined there was a plot by someone influential to murder the elderly woman. In November 2015, four men were given a combined sentence of 324 years for Mrs. Parris’ murder.
Orwin Hinds, called “Red Man,” Kevin October called, “Troy,” Cleon Hinds and Roy Jacobs called “Chippie” or “Black Boy,” were each sentenced to serve 81 years in prison. The alleged ‘intellectual author’ was never charged. In another case, two men, Lennox Wayne, called ‘Two Colours’ and Elroy Doris ,were charged with the July 19, 2014 killing of Lusignan cosmetologist Ashmini Harriram, who was gunned down while heading to her home. However, the individual who allegedly hired the men has not been charged. A third case, which police had suspected was a ‘pay to kill’ murder collapsed. The victim, Bibi Rafeena Saymar, a 23-year-old hairdresser, died from multiple stabs she sustained in her two-bed-
room flat at Hague, West Coast Demerara on May 29, 2010. Police had charged her husband and another individual for her murder, while alleging that the latter was paid to kill Saymar. However, the case against the husband was quashed in the Magistrates’ Court, while the alleged perpetrator was freed after a High Court trial. Some of the recent alleged hired killings that police have solved include the slaying of Babita Sarjou, whose remains
were dug up from an area behind her estranged husband’s home; the murder of 46-yearold businesswoman Sirmattie Ramnaress, found dead in her Diamond Housing Scheme residence in August 31, 2013; the murders by fire in December 21, 2014, of Theresa Rozario, 15, Feresa Rozario, 12, and Hilrod Thomas, 63; the February 2008 slaying of businessman Habiboodeen, 76, who was brutally beaten in his Ruby, East Bank Essequibo home, and the April 17, 2012, shooting death of 31-year-old truck driver Jadesh Dass on the Mahaica New Road.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Tuesday February 21, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Mash is no splash I was with some friends when this man came up and joined the conversation. He had a deep Jamaican accent, very deep. After he had left I was told that he was working in Guyana as a disc jockey. I remarked that it was nice that the CARICOM Skills’ Certificate was working. I exclaimed how pleased I was that Jamaican nationals can find employment Guyana. My friends looked at me as if I were a madman. “Jamaican!” they exclaimed. “That man is a Guyanese. He has never left these shores. He is just imitating being a Jamaican.” I was told that there are many imitators and pretenders out there. Some of them are more Jamaican than Jamai-
cans. You cannot blame them. Guyana has for almost fifty years been trying to mimic Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival. Guyana’s Mashramani is only original in name, not in content. Guyana has always been trying to outdo Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival. We have never quite made the grade, but each year we try our own feeble imitation of the Greatest Show on Earth. Guyana’s Mash Day Float Parade is an embarrassment when compared to Port of Spain’s Carnival. Guyanese simply do not have the resources to put into that aspect of the revelries to come anywhere near to what exists in Trinidad. Guyana has never produced a world class
calypsonian. Trinidad has produced the best in the field. Trinidad owns pan music and chutney in the Caribbean. Guyana’s soca renditions pale in comparison to the soca tunes of Barbados and Trinidad. These two countries have world class performers. Our artistes are playing catch-up. Mashramani is an embarrassment when compared also with Rio’s Carnival and Barbados’s Crop Over. The persons who know about tourism have long been arguing that the timing of Mashramani falls around the same time of Trinidad and Brazil’s carnivals. No one is going to go to those carnivals and then come to see our pitiful imitation. The tourism
Dem boys seh
Two Donald more than enough People does do some stupidness when dem really don’t have nutten to do. De other day somebody start a rumour bout Donald. This is a man who was so popular that dem even mek a calypso about him. This time somebody seh he dead. De thing that mek dem boys get vex was when Donald own cousin confirm de death. People start to talk how Donald didn’t deserve to die. Some seh that he deeds ketch up wid him. But all this time de man was alive and well. People start to call de man house. In de end de man shut down he cell phone and he landline. He refuse to talk to anybody. And while that happen Luncheon crawl out in de open. He disappear fuh a long time. Dem boys seh that he was resting and when he hear bout Donald he come out, because he wanted to show people that he alive. Monday de man actually warn Soulja Bai about shutting down de sugar industry. Luncheon promise protest more
than anything because that gun be a direct attack pun he party. Sugar is de party and de party is sugar. When Jagdeo shut down LBI and Diamond nobody didn’t seh nutten because de sugar people tell demself that he know what he was doing. But when Soulja Bai shut down Wales is a different story because he don’t belong to de Pee Pee Pee and therefore don’t know nutten bout sugar. Anyhow, dem boys seh Luncheon mek sure that people see him suh dem
couldn’t do wha dem do Donald. De only person who didn’t mek a fuss was Jagdeo. He tell dem boys that there is never a dull day wid dem Donald. While Donald Trump causing some of dem world leaders to get belly wuk, Donald Ramotar causing de people of Guyana to get confused. And dem two Donald always talking about fake news. Talk half and know that two Donald more than enough.
people have been calling for Mashramani to be moved to later in the year so as to attract more tourists. But it is not so much the timing as it is the product we have. Mashramani is no show-stopper. It is a “big lime”. It is a time when Guyanese come out and try to make the best out of something which has always been mediocre. We should not try to play catch-up with the rest of the Caribbean. We do not have the money to bring our Mashramani up to the standards of our regional counterparts. A few companies tend to be the big sponsors for mash events in Guyana. There is only so much money which these companies can fork out. Apart from the big companies, very little support comes from the local private sector.
Some of the big sponsors are pulling out of Mash. They are not obtaining the desired marketing returns. This spells disaster for the future of Mash, even with a more sympathetic and supportive government. This means that Guyanese will have to go into their pockets to make mash the success which they want it to be. But we know that the disposable income of the average man will not allow for any major spending on Mashramani. The second problem is the size of the tourism and entertainment industry. Promoters of shows in Guyana will tell you that the entertainment crowd is too small to sustain it as a major industry. And the number of tourists that we have cannot kick-start our tourism sector. This is the bottom line. We are simply
not ready yet to have a major entertainment industry and this is why we will continue to fail year after year with trying to make Mashramani a hit. It will continue to be a miss. It is time for Guyana to reinvent Mashramani. It is time for the copycatting to end. It is time Guyana aims for something different than those other carnivals which we simply cannot compete with. We need to remake our national festival and to do so quickly.
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Tuesday February 21, 2017
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
The incredibly illogical mind of an ex-President In a response to Minister Bulkan in the newspapers, former President Ramotar observed that Wales estate would not have been closed if the PPP was not cheated out of office in the 2015 elections. This is the same President in 2011 who said that the election was not fair and that PPP supporters were not allowed to vote in Georgetown. If Ramotar’s logic is to be accepted then the reality he paints is an unbeatable PPP. The PPP won in 1992, 1997, 2001, 2006, and according to Ramotar, in 2011 and 2015. Surely, one should not only
question the intelligence of Ramotar but his sanity. If the PPP was cheated in 2011 and 2015 then the PPP is the only party in the world that cannot lose at the polls. All over the world parties win and lose. In India the great Congress Party was defeated. In Barbados Owen Arthur won two terms and did well in government but lost going for a third victory. Prime Minister Portia Simpson narrowly went down to the opposition JLP in Jamaica. PM Manning in Trinidad called a snap poll half way into his term; he was
trounced. Despite his immense popularity in the US and the world, Barack Obama was unable to go over the numbers he got when he sought a second term. In fact his total tally of votes went down and despite his charisma and achievements, could not take his party to victory in the Senate and House of Representatives. Obama’s second term was crucially crippled by the Republican majority in both Houses. What is it about the PPP that it is an electorally invincible party? It is not, it is the foolish mind of people like Donald Ramotar who says so. But let’s follow Ramotar’s logic once more. He, as the presidential candidate for the PPP, won in 2011. He won again as
the incumbent in 2015. Then if you exclude the cheating factor, he won two consecutive national elections yet could not secure the seat of the Opposition Leader in Parliament and the General-Secretary position of his party. To date, Mr. Ramotar has not issued one word as to if he declined those positions. The reality is he is seen as the PPP leader who lost two consecutive elections and that explains his relegation in the PPP’s leadership. Ramotar writes frequent letters to the media but none of them explains the shape and logistics of the 2015 rigging as he claims. But let us return to his 2011 accusations of fraud. Back then I wrote that it had to be complete asininity for the opposition in 2011 to
tamper with the election process and the voting, yet lose the government. Why would you break into the bank and steal only the notes when the diamonds and precious jewels are lying right next to the notes? There is more asininity in 2015 because, if we follow Mr. Ramotar’s mind, the election was rigged to give APNU and the AFC just a single-seat majority. The people who rigged such an election have to be far stupider than mosquitoes and ants. The Coalition won by just over 4000 votes and hangs precariously in Parliament with a one-seat majority. The margin of victory was one percent. Surely it had to be donkeys that would rig a national election and give themselves just one percent and one seat more than the party they cheated. Do political parties that set out to steal an election through fraudulent planning give themselves a razor-thin margin of victory ? If you are rigging, why not go for a two-thirds majority. You will be accused of rigging anyway. Do PPP supporters believe the PPP was cheated out of the power in 2011 and 2015?
Frederick Kissoon If they believe that, then they ought to be afraid, because it means Guyana will never develop, since half of the population will always be in power and the other half will never be in office. They ought to be scared because the other half may wake up one day and say to itself; “We could never rule, so why should we accept to be permanent losers.” The truth of the matter is that Berbice rejected the PPP in 2011 and the cross-over vote from the PPP to the AFC caused the PPP’s defeat in 2015. The shallow minds like Ramotar’s in the PPP can go on fooling their supporters that they were robbed. These supporters, if they accept such convoluted thinking, need to start becoming sane people. Only the insane believe the 2011 and2015 elections were corrupted.
Tuesday February 21, 2017
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Kaieteur News
GPL’s forensic audit report reveals… Stormy relationship between Brassington and Dindyal affected performance A forensic audit report of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) for the period November 2011 to May 2015 has pointed to a stormy relationship between former Chairman, Winston Brassington, and Chief Executive Officer, Bharat Dindyal. The audit, conducted by Nigel Hinds Financial Services, was recently handed over to the police for further investigations. The report sheds light on GPL’s operations during the period when former Deputy CEO, Aeshwar Deonarine, now on the run and living in the US, was being charged locally with allegedly transferring almost $30M to his overseas bank account without authorization. Brassington has left the country and is reportedly living in the US. According to the audit report, there was a constant battle between Brassington, other members of the Board and Dindyal. “Mr. Dindyal expressed his intentions to resign on many occasions but was relieved from his position after the change in Government following the May 2015 National Elections. Mr. Dindyal was cautioned several times by the Chairman and other members of the Board to amend his attitude and even ran into difficulties with the trade union.” The forensic audit report said that while Dindyal was eminently qualified as an engineer, he was described as very confrontational and arrogant by his colleagues and not suitable material for the top position. The members of the board at several meetings also expressed tremendous dissatis-
Power struggle: Former CEO, Bharat Dindyal and Chairman, Winston Brassington faction with the poor performance of Colin Welch, former Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Technical. “Mr. Narvon Persaud shared the view that was expressed by his colleagues that Mr. Colin Welch does not have the technical competence or experience to manage his portfolio efficiently and effectively, and this was evident in his poor performance. It was also suggested that he should be reassigned to a position that is more relevant to his credentials and expertise.” Welch, who made an unsolicited application to GPL for work, was sacked by the administration, months after it entered office. Welch too had clashes
with the former CEO. In fact, a tape made it online to YouTube. Wi t h regards to Brassington and Dindyal’s relationship, the audit reports gave some details. Brassington in a letter dated June 16th, 2014 raised concerns to Dindyal about the existence of a Management Committee. “The Chairman noted in his letter that this Committee is not provided for or documented on any Boardapproved organization or governance structure for GPL. The Board requested the terms of reference, nature, authority and submissions of minutes of all meetings held.” Investigations into this matter confirmed that a
Management Committee existed prior to Dindyal’s tenure as CEO of the stateowned entity. “The Management
Committee comprised executive staffers only and reported to the Chief Executive Officer, and minutes of all meetings were maintained. The Executives reported on the progress of work undertaken by each division and new projects on stream.” The report stressed that it is usual for any CEO to hold meetings with his executive staff and have these formally documented. “ I t a p p e a r s t h a t M r. Winston Brassington was not comfortable with the Executive Committee as it was not part of the formal structure. This might have led to the many confrontations with the Chief Executive Officer as was noted in the minutes.” It appears that the stormy relationship between the two officials, tasked with overseeing a billion-dollar state company, affected their meet-
ings. In 2011 there were only four Board of Directors meetings. This improved to 12 and 11 respectively for the next two years, with 19 meetings in 2014. That year was when GPL ran into problems with a US$30M-plus new Wartsila power plant at Vreed-en-Hoop, causing a delay in the commissioning. Worse yet for GPL, several of its committees were hardly meeting. These included the Audit, Finance and Human Resources. The Tender and Commercial Committees did better - the former met 14 times in 2013 and 12 in 2014. There were no Tender Committee meetings in 2011. GPL has billions of dollars annually at its disposal to spend on fuel, parts, and contracted employees. There have been accusations of collusion with tenders.
Bail for soldiers accused of stealing milk, butter Three members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were each ordered to post $50,000 bail for for allegedly stealing a quantity of milk and butter. They appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts yesterday. Victor Logan, 27, of Hadfield Street, Georgetown; Kevin Fitz,
also 27, of We s t Ruimveldt, and Richard Charles, 26, denied the allegation which stated that between February 13 and 14 at Base Camp Ayanganna, they stole 11 bags of 2 kg milk powder valued $153,890 and several boxes of butter worth $57,400, property of the GDF. Attorney Paul Fung-
a-Fat, who represented Fitz, told the court that his client had no knowledge the stolen items were in the car in which they were travelling, since he was a passenger at the time of the discovery. Magistrate Leron Daly instructed the defendants to return to court on March 6.
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Town Clerk fails in bid to discharge order against Parking meter project
Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan
Town Clerk, Royston King
An ex-parte application made by Town Clerk of the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M&CC), Royston King to discharge an Order Nisi granted against the parking meter project was refused by Justice Brassington Reynolds, when the matter continued in chambers of the Georgetown High Court, yesterday. The order nisi was filed by attorney Pauline Chase on behalf of New Building Society, (NBS). Granted on February 8, the order demanded that City Hall show just cause why the parking meter project should not be quashed. The order would have resulted in a temporary
halt to all activities relating to the project. Failure to observe the order would have resulted in contempt. The M&CC was scheduled to continue implementation of the project which is spearheaded by the overseas-based Smart City Solution (SCS) yesterday. As such, the Town Clerk, through his attorney, Stephen Fraser, applied to the court to have the Order Nisi discharged. Fraser indicated to the court that he is representing SCS and will be filing an application on their behalf to be joined to the proceedings. It was noted that Fraser is a partner in the law firm of at-
torney Roger Yearwood, the lawyer for the M&CC. Additionally, leave has been granted for the respondents to file an affidavit in answer to the court action against the parking meter project of the M&CC. By the end of the proceeding, the court ordered that the Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan and Town Clerk Royston King file an affidavit in response to the action against the Municipality. The respondents were ordered to file the answer by March 6. The matter is set to continue on that date. Earlier this month, the action was brought against City Hall by the New Building Society (NBS) over the installation of parking meters in front of that establishment. A writ of summons was presented on behalf of NBS and was brought against the respondent, the M&CC. According to the writ, NBS is aggrieved that the meters were placed in front of its North Road and Avenue of the Republic location. It is the company’s belief that such a move is disadvantageous and adversely affects and destroys the system and investment it has made in the new location. NBS contends that the placement of the meters was done without consultation or approval. NBS believes that the M&CC was aware that a car park was constructed for NBS customers and for the council to now charge for parking in that location, is egregious and improper. The writ outlined that “NBS feels aggrieved that no one has invited the entity for any discussion or exchange of views in relation to the in-
stallation of parking meters in front of the premises. Furthermore, it is the society’s belief that the huge expense incurred to develop the environs of that building was totally disregarded by the M&CC.” More importantly, the financial institution contends that its housing mortgage business, which is the core of its operation, with in excess of 10,000 mortgagors, will be adversely affected. The company believes that the installation of parking meters will result in monthly loan repayments being delayed and this does not augur well for the profitability of its business. The company says it stands to lose, since built-up arrears will become burdensome for the liquidity of its operations. The company is seeking $250,000 in damages against the M&CC. The M&CC is represented by Attorney-at-law Roger Yearwood. The municipality claims initially that the NBS has unlawfully encroached on a public place within the control of the M&CC. Additionally the city council contends that it has the authority to erect and maintain parking meters and regulate the parking of vehicles on council roads. The M&CC says that NBS argument lacks merit and as a responsible corporate citizen, as it purports to be, it should have looked at the way it constructed its building. M&CC argues that it is not responsible or can be saddled with catering for the parking of NBS’s employees and customers.
Good Hope beating death…
Female dental technician, sibling and dad charged with murder Murder charges were read yesterday to a female dental technician, her father and a sibling, for the beating death last Tuesday of 22-year-old Shareffudeen Nazamudeen at Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo. Mandy Sookdeo, 28, her 48-year-old father, Surendra Sookdeo, and her brother, 25year-old Rean Ghanie, were remanded yesterday after appearing in the Leonora Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool. The accused, who are all from Ruby, East Bank
Essequibo, are to return to court on April 18. Nazamudeen, who is said to be a fisherman, had allegedly gotten into a confrontation with Mandy Sookdeo last Tuesday. It is alleged that Sookdeo complained to a relative and Nazamudeen was pursued, tied and beaten. He succumbed shortly after. Reports indicate that Nazamadeen had sought refuge in the burnt-out property where elderly rice farmer Mohamed Munir and his wife, Bibi Jamila Munir, were slain in April 2016.
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Haitian authorities clamp down on brothels PORTAU PRINCE, Haiti, CMC – Haitian authorities say they have closed down at least 40 brothels and hotels since the launch of a campaign late last month to clamp down on such establishments. Government Commissioner Danton Léger and Chief of the Port-au-Prince Public Prosecutor’s Office, say the campaign is against those establishments that do not comply with the law and do not respect the conditions and criteria of operation, including possession of a patent and a visible and explicit commercial plaque on the establishment, indicating their activities. The authorities had on January 26 given the establishments a 48-hour ultimatum to correct the situation, but to date 41 of them have failed to do so including 30 who were operating between
February 1 and February 5. Danton said that once the institutions had complied with the law, the Public Prosecutor’s Office could reconsider its decision and lift the seals. On the other hand, he is warning that he is prepared to prosecute all owners who do not comply with the
law or refuse to comply. He has also warned that the establishments where minors are believed to be engaged in prostitution are being investigated and that severe measures would be taken against the owners and customers of these establishments.
Government pleased with opening of largest hotel on St. Lucia
CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The St. Lucia government has welcomed the opening of the 455- room Royalton Saint Lucia Resort and Spa in the north of the island, saying it provides opportunities for employment and improving the economy. “It’s a big opportunity for the business community, the economic spin-offs are going to be tremendous,” said Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee who was on hand for the hotel’s “soft opening” over the weekend after a two-year closure for rehabilitation work. “The inventory here is about 455 and I think that is going to add tremendous value for us and give us tremendous momentum as a destination,” Fedee said, adding that an estimated 900
people are employed with the possibility of the figure increasing in coming months. “The Royalton brand is going to bring tremendous force to the destination – it’s a product that we didn’t have before and it’s a product that is going to lend itself to our marketing initiative,” he said, adding that the facility will provide an opportunity to attract more airlift to the island. “There are so many positives coming out of this investment at a time when the economy badly needs it and at a time when the unemployment rate is of much concern,” Fedee said, noting that the Allen Chastanet government has a number of other projects in the pipeline which will provide an economic stimulus in a bid to turn around the ailing economy.
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Kaieteur News
Meanwhile, the hotel has responded to statements being made here that it is involved in poaching staff members from other facilities. “You can’t stop people from moving from company to company. So poaching would be us calling and trying to bring people over. People applied of their own free will, as I did as well,” said general manager Andre Dhanpaul, noting that several months ago the resort advertised for staff and received 6,000 applications. Dhanpaul, a former Saint Lucia-based Regional Director for Sandals Resorts International said the applicants were shortlisted and some 2,500 were interviewed. “You can’t stop people from moving from company to company – so poaching would be us calling and trying to bring people over. People applied of their own free will, as I did as well,” the Royalton official stated. Dhanpaul said that 98 per cent of hotel staff are Saint Lucians and that the resort’s ultimate objective is to treat its people well and surpass the expectations of its guests. “We want to do community outreach by having our managers go to high schools and colleges one hour per month each of us will go out to inspire St. Lucians to join our business,” Dhanpaul said.
PM Christie to address SIDS conference
NASSAU, Bahamas, CMC – Prime Minister Perry Christie will address a threeday Small Island Developing States (SIDS) symposium focusing on the specific development challenges faced by these countries. The symposium, which will also be addressed by the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Wu Hongbo, will stock of progress towards the 2030 development agenda, the organisers said. “The three-day Symposium will take stock of how SIDS can fast track towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the SAMOA Pathway – a global commitment which
Prime Minister Perry Christie highlights the unique development needs of SIDS due to their particular vulnerabilities, including to the impact of climate change. “ They said that at the symposium, participants, including high-level government
and UN officials, will also discuss partnerships for development, the role of public institutions as well as the need to mobilize information and communication technology, and strengthen monitoring and statistical capacities.
Liefdadigheidsstichting (Bennie Charity 12-12-12) said it would be presenting the men with cheques worth between 1,000 and 5,000 Surinamese dollars (One Suriname dollar =US$0.14 cents) each. Charity chairman, Ben Oliveira, said it was important to honor the men, because “these days we –and especially the youth- need to know
what heroism is and that it is still alive. “The youth seem to think that it’s better to look tough; whereas back in the day young people would help an old lady cross the street, they make fun of those that do those kinds of things today. We want to send out a signal that says that we think it’s important that we help one another,” he said.
Lifesaving delivery men hailed as heroes
PA R A M A R I B O , Suriname, CMC – A charitable organization and a political party last weekend hailed four men as heroes after they saved a mother and three children from drowning after their vehicle plunged into a canal filled with water. The four men – Amrish Mathoera, Giovanni Blankendaal, Lorenzo Dickson and Narin Dawtal – were traveling to Wayamboweg in District Saramacca in their company’s delivery truck, when the passenger vehicle in front of them suddenly swerved and made a nose dive into the canal. The men dived into the canal smashed the back window and pulled out the mother and her three children. Video footage that someone shot of the rescue operation last Wednesday has since gone viral on social media, It shows the three men chest deep in the murky water, smashing the car window and pulling out the children, including a baby, and a seven year-old boy. The unidentified 40-year-old mother said that she had lost control of the vehicle. Chairman of the VHP party, Chandrika Santokhi, said the men were role models for the entire community. “You guys had the bravery to take quick action when it was needed. This is the type of action that show who we are: a community that is there for each other when it is needed,” he said. The Bennie
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Dataram’s wife walks free on Govt. must expedite commission to show it’s serious about local democracy – PPP another charge Anjanie Boodnarine, the reputed wife of drug convict Barry Dataram, had a matter of Attempt to Defeat the Administration of the Law dismissed against her yesterday, when she appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before Magistrate Leroy Daly. The charge read that between September 20 and October 15, 2016, having been charged for the offence of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and having the knowledge that the decision in the said case was pending, Boodnarine wilfully attempted to defeat the administration of law so as to avoid the consequence. Magistrate Daly based her ruling on the fact that the Prosecution failed to prove their case and was not able to give an essential element of the offence, which is that Boodnarine ‘wilfully’ attempted to defeat the administration of law. The Magistrate further stated that the court was not satisfied with the evidence that the Prosecution’s six witnesses gave, and that the Prosecution failed to prove to the court that Boodnarine, wilfully attempted to defeat the administration of law. According to information, Boodnarine allegedly
Anjanie Boodnarine tampered with the bio-data pages on a passport and put in false information and immigration stamps to show that she departed Guyana to neighbouring Suriname. Boodnarine and Dataram departed Guyana illegally and were nabbed in Suriname after they fled Guyana while awaiting a court decision regarding their involvement in cocaine trafficking. Dataram was sentenced to five years by City Magistrate Judy Latchman after he was found guilty of having 129.23kg of cocaine in his possession at his Lot 661 Fourth Avenue, Block ‘X’ Dia-
mond, East Bank Demerara home. Boodnarine recently had a matter of conspiracy to commit a felony charge dismissed against her by Magistrate Renita Singh, after the Magistrate told the court that the Prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence against Boodnarine. The Magistrate before her ruling had told the court that she found it strange that the Police ranks who investigated the matter were unable to institute a charge of uttering a false document to immigration officials, and that was not the charge brought to her by the Prosecution.
Final draft of Land and Life Commission to be completed soon Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, has confirmed that Government is working to complete the final draft document for the Land and Life Commission. This commission will address issues of land extension in indigenous communities and ancestral lands in coastal communities. In November 2016, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon handed over the Lands Commission draft document to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and other stakeholders including the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, and the Guyana Forestry Commission, which are all to play an integral role in this process. During an interview with the Government Information Agency, yesterday, Minister Allicock said that the document is almost complete, and it is anticipated that the final draft
will be ready shortly. Minister Allicock said that the commission will especially address several issues related to lands in indigenous communities. “It is the settlement of the indigenous peoples’ land rights. What we have come across is that a number of communities are overlapping and have conflict with other groups, which have not been properly thought out and it is coming back to haunt some people and we need to get those things cleared,” Minister Allicock explained. Under the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF), approximately $165 million has been allocated in 2017 for the advancing of the remaining identified areas for land titling. Over the past year, almost 1,000 square kilometres of land have been demarcated in Regions One, Seven, and Eight.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is contending that if the David Granger-led Administration is serious about strengthening the Local Government System and is hell-bent on enforcing local democracy, then efforts should be expedited to establish the Local Government Commission (LGC). The source of this assertion was PPP/C Executive Member, Dr. Roger Luncheon, in the presence of other party executives including Members of Parliament (MPs): Irfaan Ali and Dharamkumar Seeraj at a press conference hosted at the party’s headquarters, Freedom House, yesterday. Guyana’s Constitution was revised in 2001, thereby strengthening the role of local democracy. New constitutional provisions came into being guaranteeing the authority and independence of local democratic organs which include the nine municipalities and over 65 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). The Local Government Commission – provided for under article, 78A – stated: “Parliament shall establish a Local Government Commission, the composition and rules of which empower the commission to deal with as it deems fit, all matters related to the regulation and staffing of local government organs and with dispute resolution within and between local government organs. The Commission will comprise eight members: four nominated by Government; one from the unions
PPP/C Executive, Dr. Roger Luncheon operating in the local government sector; and three from the Opposition.” The PPP/C has already submitted its names and is questioning Government’s delay in similarly announcing and appointing its Commissioners. Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan told media operatives earlier this year that the process is being stymied due to the “non-adherence” by the Leader of the Opposition to the requirements stipulated in the Local Government legislation. “Under the legislation, the (names of) persons submitted need (to) be (done) following consultations by the Leader of the Opposition with the other parties in the National Assembly…So I made it clear in the National Assembly and by extension, the public, that in the absence of the clarification from the leader of the opposition, the process could
not go…So it is one of the factors that is contributory to us not being able to go forward,” Bulkan said. Dr. Luncheon said yesterday that despite the importance of Local Government that was being touted by the Government, the administration ‘has not moved an inch’ in putting up its nominees. He said that the operationalisation of the LGC requires a Commencement Order issued by the Minister of Communities which is gazetted before it comes into operation. Until this happens, the powers of the commission continue to be exercised by the Minister. Bulkan had told the National Assembly that the order would be given “in the year 2017”. Dr. Luncheon said that the PPP/C suspects that something “sinister “is going on “Something is yet to be revealed why the ministry, specifically the minister, is not giving effect to the Local Government Commission. And still they speak of local democracy and still they speak of social cohesion and these specific examples are surfacing time and time again and remain unaddressed. This reluctance is almost overbearing to address public opinion to confirm with actions that are in keeping with what they have said; to which they have made commitments. This is a disturbing trend and (should) it to continue, it would lead to inevitably great loss; increasing lost of trust, “Dr. Luncheon stressed.
Port Kaituma miner remanded for illegal gun Twenty-four year-old Mark Anthony Chan, of 24 Port Kaituma, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, on Monday, to answer to the charge of illegal possession of a firearm. The court heard that on
February 15 at Four Mile, North West District, he had in his possession a 9mm pistol without being a licenced firearm holder. The unrepresented miner pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was read to him by the Magistrate. The court heard that po-
lice acting on information conducted a search on Chan and the weapon was discovered. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones said that the defendant has no prior conviction and did not object to bail being granted to him. Bail was refused and Chan will make his next court appearance on May 9 at the Matthew’s Ridge Magistrates Court.
Tuesday February 21, 2017
VEHICLE FOR SALE
MASH SPECIAL! 2010 TOYOTA AX10 - $2.6M, 2010 TOYOTA RAUM $2.3M – CALL: 642-7295
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
1 Big music set, owner migrating. Call: 690-5225
1-Leyland DAF GRR Series; excellent condition. Call: 6804101
1 Professional music set (complete), 1 Jacuzzi whirlpool. Call: 253-3070/654-2732
Brains Construction & Rental Service: we rent all types of equipment, excavator, bobcat, trucks, tools. Call: 2190904/601-5024
Nissan Pathfinder Jeep; Toyota Vigo pick-up. Call: 609-7766
1 Marina 40HP outboard engine with 14 Aluminum boat, 1 Yamaha 75HP outboard engine in excellent condition. Call: 643-1622
Allion, Premio, Blue Bird, IST, Honda CRV, Toyota Spacio, Fielder Wagon, 212 Carina, RZ & Pitbull bus – Call: 650-7501
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, C a n a da & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535.
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/6605257 Register Now! Cosmetology, Nails & Wig designs courses, classes commence February 20th 2017. Call: 618-2417
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. VACANCY Customer Service Reps for Express International. Call 267-2992 or email jobs@expresstrucking corp.com.
Landscaping: We design, supply and implement residential and commercial indoor & outdoor Landscaping. Call 648-1821
Cook & baker for Interior location. Call: 618-2020
Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Trade in your old empty printer ink cartridges for a new full one and pay HP $1,500, Canon $2,000- Call: 690-3883
TO LET Room for working couple/ single person. Light, water, bed included $30,000 monthly, $30,000 security @ South Ruimveldt- Tel:6230076 Journey Inn Apartments & Car Rental @ Eccles East Bank . Low Mashramani deals US$15- Call: 658-0927, 2332300 Two- one bedroom selfcontained apartments, situated at Public Road Timehri, E.B.D – 3 minutes from the airport. Call: 664-6000 TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
One Mazda engine gear box, one slush machine, one Tormo King refrigeration unitContact Hanif 646-2293 LAND FOR SALE
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045
Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822
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Kaieteur News
Admin Staff; must be computer literate, Diploma in Business Management; 5 CXC Subjects. Call: 2181156/ email: info@cevons.com 1 Cashier, 1 sales assistant with pleasant personality & police clearance. Apply: written application @ 232 Camp & Middle St. Ice Palace Igloo. Call: 225-3672 One experienced pastry maker; one driver with 3years experienced; one sales clerk. Call: 681-3983 Drivers, Carpenters, Security Guards. Call: 266 4427 Vacancy exists for one cashier to work at an ice-making facility. Must have Grade One to Grade Three in English in Mathematics. Serious applicants only. Excellent salary. Call 619 9180
Land @ Soesdyke, 6 lots measuring 135’X175’. Call: 627-3334/696-8935, email:fcranmore@guyana voice.com Land at Faria’s Dream, East Bank Demerara -$3.8M. Call: 665-8995
Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 Three new sewing machines. Call: 661-6076/ 689-5743
La Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.8M, $1.6M, $1.3M, Uitvlugt -$2M, $4.5M, Herstelling -$5M, Tuschen (front) $2.5M, price negotiable. Call: 614-6802 La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.4M, $1.8M, $3.5M, Farm -$6M, Uitvlugt -$4.5M, Tuschen School Street -$3M, Herstelling -$5M. Call: 6046724 Transported corner lot with approved building plan @ 90 Garnett & Republic Streets, Newtown Kitty. Call: 6016000/227-3305 Uitvlugt New Scheme (100ftX50ft) with Reserve $3M, La Parfaite Harmonie $1.3M-Call: 233-3006/ 6585897/ 651-1969 TOURS Suriname weekend Tours Feb 23-26 & Lethem Rodeo from April 14-17 Bonfim, fallsTel:665-5171, 639-2663, 6583758, 223-7589
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Property at 14 th Avenue, Diamond, New Scheme, E.B.D -$23M negotiable – Call: 668-6940/601-1355 2 Storey building located at 50 Durban & Halley streets, Wortmanville- Call:231-5108, 625-8884 LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).
1 Female cleaner for office in Eccles and home- Call: 2332745 Cook & baker for Interior location. Call: 618-2020
EDUCATIONAL I.A.E Classes for CSEC June 2017: Mathematics, English A, Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & repeaters. Call: 683-5742
CAR RENTAL
CAR RENTAL
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122, EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE SEASON. CALL: 690-6494
AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MIN BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPOTR & FAMILY OUTING, CHEAPESTRATE . Call: 698-7807
Lot 14 Croal & Longden Street: 4 Storey building (infront Demico). Call: 6631876 Prime business place on Sheriff Street to rent only for offices. Call: 627-6740 or 2278644 Property for rent; 3 bedrooms top and bottom flat house on W.C.D, Canal No #2 Polder -$35,000 monthly. Call: 613-1860 One 2 bedrooms apartment in Covenden, East Bank Demerara. Call: 623-1615 Bottom flat house @ 25 North Road & Oronoque Street, fully furnished/ air condition/ residence /business. Preferably with no children. Call: 226-7012 Building for rent (75ftX24ft); convenient parking space (50ft), location- Parika. Contact Ramo: 660-1248 Apartment in Great Diamond, EBD- Contact: Ronique 6439286, Thandeka 603-0067 Upper flat for rent 3 bedrooms in Atlantic Gardens- Call: 2274377/227-0613/624-6013 Space for rent at Ashmin’s ideal for commercial, office and cafeteria use, no deposit. Call: 616-9660/ 671-1846 One bedroom in Eccles (7 minutes drive to town) $30,000 – Call: 610-4081 or 629-1805 Three bedrooms upper flat at ‘BB’ 296 Eccles Housing Scheme. Call: 233-2306 Three bedrooms fully furnished upper flat at Diamond, Housing Scheme, E.B.D- Call: 216-0644/ 6688403
WANTED One driver/porter from Diamond, Grove area. Call: 2161043, 677-6620 2 Labourers, 1 mason/carpenter. Monday- Friday, 8am-4pm- Tel:265-3586 One live in female supervisor for bar & grocery starting salary -$80,000 monthly, age 25-35yrs- Call: 610-3974 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic. Call: 223-7500 Monday-Saturday 8:15-4:15 Waitress to work in bar, experience female office clerk; age 18-25, security guards. Call: 638-5303/ 227-7380 Body work man- Call: 6603004 1 Experienced Diesel Mechanic to work in G/town, apply in person. Call: 2271717 Drivers for water truck to work on W.C.D $50 per bottle/ $26,000 weekly. Call: 662-9341/ 684-8231 1 House to buy in La Parfaite Harmony/ West Coast Demerara $4-6M with legitimate papers. No agents! Tel: 628-4854, 628-4879 Live in waitress to work in a bar- Call: 604-6606;692-4646
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Tuesday February 21, 2017
Kaieteur News
Day Without Immigrants: ‘More Russia’s UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin dies at work than 100 workers’ fired over strike
Vitaly Churkin (BBC) Vitaly Churkin, who would have celebrated his 65th birthday today, died suddenly while at work in New York on Monday, Russia’s foreign ministry said in a statement. The cause of the veteran diplomat’s death is unclear. Mr Churkin had served as ambassador to the UN since 2006, developing a reputation as a steadfast defender of Russian policy. Russian President Vladimir Putin was “grieved” to learn of the death of a man
whose diplomatic talents he “highly esteemed”. The foreign ministry also paid tribute to an “outstanding diplomat”. State television’s Rossiya24 praised him for “putting his opponents into shock” and leaving them with “nothing to say”. Many of those “opponents” from around the world were also paying their respects to a colleague who they may have not always agreed with, but respected enormously.
British ambassador Matthew Rycroft tweeted that he was “absolutely devastated” to hear of the death of “a diplomatic giant and wonderful character”, while Gerard Araud, a former French ambassador to the UN, recalled Mr Churkin as “abrasive, funny and technically impeccable”. US ambassador Nikki Haley said he was a “gracious colleague”, adding: “We did not always see things the same way, but he unquestionably advocated his country’s positions with great skill.” Her predecessor, Samantha Power, wrote on Twitter that she was “devastated” to hear of the death of a “diplomatic maestro and deeply caring man who did all he could to bridge US-RUS differences”. Ms Power’s tribute came despite a clash last year, when the then US ambassador accused Syria, Russia and Iran of bearing responsibility for atrocities in the war-torn country - an accusation Mr Churkin did not take lying down.
Battle for western Mosul will be toughest fight yet
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio was among those to show support for Muslim Americans at a rally in New York on Sunday. More than 100 workers in the US have lost their jobs after taking part in last week’s Day Without Immigrants protest, US media say. Dozens of people, including construction workers and restaurant staff, reported being fired after staying at home on Thursday. The protest aimed to highlight the contribution of immigrants in the US. One employer told CNN his staff would have to “pay the price” of standing up for what they believed in. Jim Serowski, of JVS Masonry in Commerce City, Colorado, said he had no regrets after sacking about 30 bricklayers. “They were warned, ‘if you do this you’re hurting the company, and if you go against the team you’re not a member of the team’,” he was quoted as saying.
The exact number of workers fired is not clear, however US outlets reported a series of sackings. Among those who said they had lost their jobs were 12 restaurant workers in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who spoke to Fox News and 18 employees at a commercial painting company in Nolensville, Tennessee, according to NBC. Businesses and schools across the US faced widespread disruption on Thursday as workers and students took part in a strike over President Donald Trump’s hardline stance on immigration. In a news conference last week, Mr Trump said he would publish a new executive order after the US courts stymied his previous attempt to bar the entry of immigrants from seven mostly Muslim countries. The Associated Press
quoted a senior administration official on Monday as saying the new order would target people from the same countries - Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan and Libya. Rallies took place in various US cities, including New York’s Times Square, over the weekend to support Muslim Americans and to protest against Mr Trump’s policies. In Boston, hundreds of scientists took to the streets on Sunday over the president’s approach to issues such as climate change. Thousands of people are expected to attend further demonstrations on Monday to coincide with the US Presidents’ Day holiday, with Mr Trump expected to return to Washington from his Mar-a-Lago beach retreat in Florida.
Trump picks Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster as new national security adviser Iraq’s campaign to take back the western section of its second-largest city, Mosul, from so-called Islamic State (IS) will be Baghdad’s last major showdown with the group, which, at its height, had controlled a third of the country’s territory. This will also be the toughest fight yet, as losing its most cherished prize will present IS with an existential challenge incomparable to any other loss it has suffered over the past two years. Four months ago, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider alAbadi announced the official start of comprehensive op-
erations to retake all of Mosul - east and west. The timing of the announcement of the latest phase of the campaign has more to do with rallying the morale of his beleaguered forces than any significant changes in military strategy. The fight for the east proved more difficult and time consuming than the Iraqi government had predicted. The initial hope from the Barack Obama administration had been that Mosul would be liberated before the handover of power in Washington. It is become clear that liberating all of Mosul will take
several more months. In taking the east of Mosul, the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) suffered considerable losses. According to Pentagon insiders, the casualty rates for certain forces on the front line was as high as 50%. While this figure is denied by Iraqi military personnel in Baghdad, the government is concerned with attrition rates. In battle, a winning side could be expected to suffer a much lower casualty rate. Incurring considerably more losses would heighten the risk of combat ineffectiveness.
(CNN) President Donald Trump announced Monday that Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster will serve as his next national security adviser, filling the void left last week by the sudden dismissal of Michael Flynn. McMaster, the head of the Army Capabilities Integration Center, will become one of Trump’s top national security and foreign policy advisers, taking the helm of the White House’s National Security Council, which was left rudderless after Flynn was forced to resign after just 24 days on the job. Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, who had been serving as the acting national security adviser since Flynn’s exit, will return to his role as chief of staff of the National Security Council.
Trump announced his decision yesterday seated alongside McMaster and Kellogg at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, where a day earlier he interviewed McMaster and several other candidates for the national security adviser post. “He is a man of tremendous talent and tremendous experience,” Trump said of McMaster. “I watched and read a lot over the last two days. He is highly respected by everybody in the military, and we’re very honored to have him.” McMaster called the appointment a privilege and said he looks forward to doing “everything I can to advance and protect the interests of the American people.” McMaster was not Trump’s first choice to as-
sume the role of national security adviser. Trump initially offered the position last week to retired Vice Adm. Robert Harward, who turned it down amid concerns about how the White House was being run, sources told CNN last week. The search for a new national security adviser was sparked by a report that revealed Flynn had discussed sanctions with Russia’s ambassador to the US, Sergei Kislyak, before the Trump administration came into office and did not disclose that detail of the conversation to Vice President Mike Pence. Trump said he fired Flynn because of his failure to disclose those details to Pence, but not because of the conversation itself with the Russian ambassador.
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Home team Bahamas down Guyana... (From page 30) Mexico tied the score again two and a half minutes into the second period as they took control of play and asserted themselves by scoring 4 unanswered goals to lead 5-2 at the end of the second period. The Mexicans went on to win comfortably, 9-2. Canada and Barbados had earlier gotten the championship off to a rollicking start with an energetic display. The Caribbean island clawed back from a goal down to equalise and then take the lead but let in a goal towards the end of the first period which ended 2-2. Canada were up 4-3 at the end of the second period but the Barbadians drew level to make it 4-4 early in the third and final period 11’10" on the clock.
But the Canadians used their height whilst displaying a higher level of energy to nudge in two unanswered goals to win 6-4. United States Virgin Islands had a dream start against the powerful United States of America and led 1-0 after the completion of the first third. But a hand ball early in the second period allowed USA a penalty which was scored by Captain Nicolas Perera. Thereafter the USA upped the tempo and peppered the USVI as they took the lead through an Andrew Feld goal and never looked back, eventually sealing an 81 victory. The 2017 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship has a field of sixteen teams: Caribbean Football Union (CFU): Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Guadeloupe,
Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands. North America: Canada, Mexico, United States. Central American Football Union (UNCAF): Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama. Two additional CONCACAF teams will join host Bahamas as the three CONCACAF representatives in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Bahamas 2017. The finalists will earn the tickets, unless host Bahamas – already qualified for the World Cup — o r n o n - F I FA m e m b e r Guadeloupe advances to the final, in which case the next-highest finisher would earn the spot. Six more matches are set for today with Guyana opposing Jamaica in the main supporting game.
Tuesday February 21, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You can pick up additional responsibility that will lead to higher wages and a better position. Stubborn about making changes around your home. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Don't fall into the trap. Your unique approach to life will interest others. Regardless of your first reaction, the outcome will be favorable. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You will be able to catch up on overdue paper work. A romantic infatuation from your past may surface if you frequent places that you both used to go. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You will learn valuable information if you travel today. You can learn from those who have had similar experiences. Be cautious when dealing with foreigners. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your mate could get on your nerves if he or she backs you into an emotional comer or puts restrictions on your time. You can get ahead if you work diligently behind the scenes. A new image can be the result if you change your look. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You can dazzle members of the opposite sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. Show what a dedicated person you can be. Uncertainties regarding relatives will make situations un-
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Kaieteur News
comfortable if you attend a family function. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Be up front if you don't want to be embarrassed. Try not to say the wrong thing at the wrong time. You will drive your emotional partner crazy today. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Deception will play an important factor in relationships. Don't take your frustrations out on the ones you love. You may want to get involved in financial investments presented to you. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You can make a difference if you offer your help at functions that involve children. A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent-up energy. Do a little extra work at home. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Overstatement will be your downfall. Don't promise to deliver the goods if you aren't positive that you can meet the deadline. Be courteous if you wish to avoid major delays. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Talk about your intentions and confirm that you both feel the same way. Emotional deception will cause friction on the home front. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You can buy or sell if you're so inclined. You can help them with difficult projects. Your unique approach to life will interest others.
Guyanese athletes perform at US events It was quite a weekend for Guyanese athletes in the United States. From the Millrose Games to the Colgate Women Games to the PSAL High School City Championship, leading up to the USATF Indoor Championship, the AAU Indoor Championship and prestigious Hershey’s Indoor National Championship. The Hershey’s Championships will be held the weekend after the Armory Championships not to leave out the New Balance Indoor Nationals where we would see athletes from different countries looking to be crown the fastest Male or Female in several categories. While there were some highlights from the Millrose Games we can turn to the just-
concluded Colgate Woman’s Games. Many Guyanese in Guyana may not be fully aware of these Games. It is in its 43rd year and many female Olympians were all competitors at these Games. There are many more. This Games is used to find the next Olympian here in the USA like Deajah Stevens, Aji Wilson, Dalilah Muhammad, Phyllis Francis, and the list goes on. The likes of Guyanese Kcaysha MedasKing, who got second in the 400m in a time of 1:03.97 adds to the growing list. Kiara Birch won the High School shot put with a throw of 11.36m then Chante Moore won the College/Open 400m in a time of 56.28sec. There were also many great performances put in by other
Guyanese as well even though they did not reach the Finals. Then we turn to the PSAL High School City Championship where Yesenia Andrews won the 55m in 7.14 seconds and Bryann Sandy in the 55m hurdles in a time of 8.28 seconds. While there are a few more athletes that I would like to highlight, I would stop there because these three athletes that I have mentioned are all looking to compete for Guyana at the upcoming Junior CARIFTA Games and I am sure we can accommodate them. As the top athletes in New York City, I am sure we will make a note of their names and look out for them in the near future. (Andy Medas-King)
Stokes bought by Pune for... (From page 29) Cummins to Delhi. More Australians - Nathan Coulter-Nile, Billy Stanlake, Dan Christian and Ben Laughlin - were bought in the second round of bidding after lunch. Coulter-Nile was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 3.5 crore (USD 520,00 approx.) while Stanlake,
Narayan Ramdhani... (From page 31) defeated Junpeng (James) Qiu: 21-16, 21-10 in the Quarter Finals and lost to Laurence Kao: 21-16, 13-21, 21-19 in the Semi-Finals. In the Under-23 men’s Doubles: No.2 seededNarayan Ramdhani & Zach Lu-Ming Fan defeated Nester Yang Ning Lin & David Luo: 21-16, 17-21, 21-17 in the Quarter Finals. and lost to Nabil Russell Bennett & Lennart Notni: 2112, 21-9 in the Semi-Finals. In the Under-23 Mixed Doubles: No.1 seededNarayan Ramdhani & Christina Jieun Woo defeated William Poon & Helen Cheung:21-14, 21-16 in the Semi-Finals and defeated Hayden Wai-Hon Shiu & Yaqun (Jessy) Zheng: 2115, 14-21, 21-10 in the Finals. This is Narayan’s second tournament in Canada. He played in the Vancouver Island University Under-23 event in November last year in Nanaimo, BC finishing in 5th place. He is scheduled to participate in the BC Senior Circuit 1 - 2017 VRC Jack Underhill in March 3-5, 2017.
Christian and Laughlin went at base prices. The trend among Indians was for the more experienced players to get no bids - Ishant Sharma, Irfan Pathan, Pragyan Ojha, Cheteshwar Pujara, Parvez Rasool and RP Singh were unsold while several uncapped players were picked up at high prices. Fast bowler Mohammad Siraj was bought by Sunrisers for INR 2.6 crore (USD 390,000 approx), left-arm seamer Aniket Choudhary by RCB for INR 2 crore (USD 300,000 approx.), K Gowtham by Mumbai for INR 2 crore
($300,000), T Natarajan by Kings XI for INR 3 crore (USD 445,000 approx), Basil Thampi by Gujarat for INR 85 lakh (USD 125,000 approx), Karn Sharma by Mumbai for INR 3.2 crore (USD 475 approx), Eklavya Dwivedi by Sunrisers for INR 75 lakh ($110,000), Varun Aaron by Kings XI for INR 2.8 crore (USD 415,000) and M Ashwin by Delhi for INR 1 crore (USD 150,000). India allrounder Pawan Negi, who was bought for INR 8.5 crore last year and then released by Delhi, was bought by RCB for INR 1 crore (USD 150,000 approx).
Kaieteur News
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GCB/MOE/ DMLAS Schools cricket
Dick spurs Chase Academy to GT title
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Herstelling Raiders claim MRMVDC open softball title
Members of the winning Herstelling Raiders with their hardware.
Champions again! Chase Academy are the GT district winners after beating Charlestown Sec at DCC yesterday. By Sean Devers A well crafted maiden half century from 14-yearold Dwayne Dick spurred National defending secondary school champions Chase Academy to a 73-run victory against Charlestown Secondary to top the Georgetown district of GCB/MOE/DMLAS National Secondary Schools cricket tournament. The right-handed Dick, who plays for GNIC in GCA’s cricket, blasted five sixes and five four in entertaining 89 from 82 balls and added 62 for the second wicket with National under17 left-hander Sachin Singh, whose 25 took 51 balls and included a four and a six after pacer Qumar Torrington had removed Garrick Persaud (2) at 7-1 to rally Chase to 144-6 off their allotted 30 overs. To r r i n g t o n b o w l e d impressively to finish with 3-9 from six overs while Dante Ramkarran took 2-35 for Charlestown who were bowled out for 71 with only opener Jamal Michael (18) and Torrington (12) getting into double figures. Tairahis Payne, National U-17 left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd and Orande Chase had two wickets each for Chase who will now battle the winner of Mahaicony/East Coast District in the Demerara zone semi-finals.
Chase won the toss and elected to bat on a difficult track and lightening fast outfield and quickly lost Persaud but in brilliant sunshine and with a raucous crowd of predominantly Chase students watching, Dick dumped Anthony Hetburger for six to get his innings going. The 15-year-old Singh, already with two centuries in this tournament was content to play the supporting role but swept Raymond Bandhu over the fence at square-leg to post the 50 in the 17th over before Singh was bowled with one that kept low at 622. Dick kept going but Nedd (6) was bowled by the on-target Torrington and Kadeem Parris had his stumps disturbed by Hetburger before he had scored and Chase had lost two on 81 before Dick pulled the pint sized dreadlocked Negusa Walters over the DCC Pavilion to gallop into the 40s. He flicked Hetburger for four and square drove him for two and his fifty was posted off 52 with two fours and a six. Dick oozed confident and celebrated his highest score in School by hitting a free hit in the same over out of the ground to post the 100 in 23 overs after the first 50 took 17 overs, When Chase, who was trapped LBW to Ramkarran at 116-5, Dick took control
and whipped Walters for four and smashed him for six in the next before he was taken at long-on off Ramkarran from the penultimate ball of innings needing two sixes to reach his century. When Charlestown began their reply Dick had Walters, who batted with a sound technique against the pacers, neatly stumped by Persaud for three at 15-1 and despite the token resistance from Micheal and Torrington. When Micheal was bowled by Payne Charlestown lost their last seven wickets for just 12 runs to fall for their second double digit total in the competition. The sponsors came on board for the District stage of the nation-wide tournament and provided caps and Tshirts to be used in matches. It is understood that if the players use their cricket shirts to play in, they will be sent off the field but the sponsors’ ‘round neck’ TShirts with their logo on it are not used in competitive matches and are of a poor quality. Chase Academy Coach former Guyana off -spinner Gavin Nedd said he was pleased with his team’s performance and is confident that the school will retain their title. He said that the T-shirts were of a poor quality and more suited for training sessions than to play in matches and was surprised that the TDO of the GCB Colin Stuart approved the Tshirts since he played at the highest level and should know that this was not what was accepted at the Regional U-15 and U-17 levels.
Herstelling Raiders defeated Wellman by six wickets to win the final of the Mon Repos Market Vendors Development Committee (MRMVDC) Open softball competition which was contested on Saturday night at Lusignan Community Centre ground, East Coast Demerara. Batting first, Wellman scored 93-3 in 10 overs with Sheldon Adams scoring 36 not out and Naresh Boodhoo 19. Herstelling Raiders responded with 94-4 in 9.2 overs. Sachin Ramsarran struck 19; Adams claimed 220. Ramsarran was named man-of-the-match. We l l m a n o v e r c a m e Regal Success by seven wickets in the eliminator. Regal Success took first strike and made 83-3 in 10 overs. Surujpaul Deosarran scored 33, while extras contributed 21. Charlie
Crawford took 3-15. Wellman replied with 84-3 in eight overs. Sheldon Adams got 23 not out while Rajin Randy made an unbeaten 20. Stephan Felix picked up three wickets. In the Over-40 category, East Coast Masters beat Enterprise Legend by 63 runs. East Coast Masters took first strike and posted 169-2 in 15 overs . Robin Persaud struck five fours and a similar number of sixes in scoring 91, while Ramo Malone made 42. Ravi Ali had 2-36. Enterprise Legend scored 106-8 in 15 overs in reply. Ali made 38; Suresh Ram captured 3-25. In Over-50 segment East Coast got the better of Touch Down by eight wickets. Touch Down took first turn at the crease and made 91-3 in 10 overs. Teeka Narine scored 32 and extras assisted with 21. Suresh Ramdhanie claimed 2-12. East Coast
Demerara responded with 92-2 in 8.3 overs. Ramdhanie stroked 60 not out to take the man-of-thematch, best batsman and bowler prizes. The competition was organised to raise funds to refurbish the Mon Repos market which houses more than 1000 vendors. The competition was sponsored by Dereck Auto Spares, Fitness 53 gym, Why Pay More Trading, Guyana Stationery, Naresh Grocery, Chand’s Printery, Dovie’s Trucking Service, Noble House Seafoods, K&A Indian Fashion, Lambada Sports Bar, L. Mohabir Cambio and Ramo, Kishan Sarwan, Cell Impression (Lakeram) and Lako Jewellery. The MRMVDC has expressed gratitude the sponsors, teams and the management of the Lusignan Community Centre.
Georgetown GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre underway Georgetown:- Promising youth footballers from Georgetown took part in the city’s first GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session on Friday, 17th February with U-17 boys training at Tucville ground. Technical Development Officer of the Guyana Football Federation Inc. (GFF), Sampson Gilbert, who is in charge of scouting and developing the best talent in the Georgetown Football Association region and GFF Youth Development Coach Challous McKinnon put the group through a range of structured drills and mini-games on Friday evening. The nationwide weekly sessions cater for boys and
Players participate in the GFF Scotiabank Academy in the city on Friday last. girls between the ages of 5 and 17, and are designed to promote participation and more effectively prepare young players for elite level
football and the national squads, as part of the national football philosophy and development plans of the GFF.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
RHTY&SC assists Cold Fusion Cricket Club of Essequibo – sponsors Junior Cricket Tournament S p o r t s a n d Yo u t h development in the small rural village of Zeelught, East Bank Essequibo was given a major boost on Friday last when Guyana’s leading youth and sports Club assisted the Cold Fusion Cricket Club with over $100,000 worth of items. The eight cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, M.S – Farfan and Mendes Under15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermiade, Metro Females and Gizmos and Gadgets Under-21 and First Division made the donation under their community and sports development programme for 2017. The presentation also marked the RHTY&SC, M . S 1 0 0 programme/activity for the year as it strives to complete a record 500 for 2017. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the RHTY&SC M.S was delighted to assist the Essequibo based Cricket Club as it wants every Club to reach the same high standard that it has reached and most importantly to assist youths to stay away from a life of drugs and crime. Since 1996, the RHTY&SC, M.S has assisted over 425 youth and sports Clubs, schools, churches and NGO’s with items to assist them to fulfil their mandate to society and would continue to do so in the future. For the first two months of 2017, the Club contributed close to $1M worth of equipment and materials to 18 Clubs and schools. The long serving Secretary/CEO urged the Management and members of the newly formed Club to develop a culture of hard t
h
RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hands over donation to Supt. Boodnarine Persaud of the Cold Fusion C.C. work, honest, discipline and a strong faith in the god they believe in if they and to be as successful as the RHTY&SC, M.S. He also urged the Club to mandate its membership to get involve in social activities as it is very important for youths to assist others. The donation included stumps, wicket keeping gloves, scorebooks, school bags, trophies, cricket medals, special gifts, training t/shirts, small towels and educational books. The trophies and medals would be used by the Cold Fusion C.C to host either an Under 15 or Under 19 cricket tournament for four teams in the East Bank Essequibo district. The tournament which would start next month would be played under the RHTY&SC, M.S S a y N O / S a y Ye s Programme. The RHTY&SC has also committed itself to visiting the Essequibo Village for a fund raising cricket match later in the year, to donate some trophies for its first award ceremony and to donate cricket gears to the first player from the Club
who represent Guyana at the junior level. Foster also committed himself to visiting the Club to share the RHTY&SC vision for success. President of the Cold Fusion C.C, Boodnarine Persaud in accepting the donation expressed gratitude to the RHTY&SC and disclosed that it was the largest the newly formed Club has ever received. He expressed amazement that a Club from Berbice would assist another in Essequibo on such a large scale. He assured Foster that they would use the items for the intended purpose. Persaud, who is the officer in charge Traffic in Division ‘B’ of the Guyana Police Force, stated that the Cold Fusion C.C would seek as much as possible to emulate the RHTY&SC on the cricket field and in making a positive difference in the lives of youths, the elderly and less fortunate. The RHTY&SC, M.S is currently working on a proposal to assist at least 20 cricket Clubs across Berbice with cricket balls for the 2017 cricket season.
New date/venue for WUKO Pan Am Karate Tournament T h e Wo r l d U n i t e d Karate Organization (WUKO) 1st Pan American Cup Karate tournament will take place at the Woodbrook Youth Facility, Trinidad from June 16th to 17th. It was previously carded for Jean Pierre complex but was not available. Many countries have already confirmed attendance to this
prestigious event which is being held for the first time in Trinidad and Tobago. They include teams from U S A , E n g l a n d , I t a l y, Cayman Islands, Guyana, St.Lucia, Panama and Bahamas. Host is the Trinidad and Tobago Karate Federation (TTKF) in collaboration with USA Karate International (USAKI).
Companies that wish to sponsor any part of the event are welcome to do so. They can send email to trinbagokarate001@gmail.c o m , trinbagokarate2@gmail.co m ,or any member of the organizing committee - Sean Joseph -681-4942, Mike Smith -337-6593, Derick Williams -733-0351 and Glenn Forte-355-7909.
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Floodlights to defend Florida Cup Masters Title this weekend The Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) will send two softball teams to the USA to take part in this year Florida Cup in Broward County, Florida. The games are set for Friday February 24th, Saturday 25th, and the finals for both categories, Open and Masters, will be played on Sunday February 26 at the Fort Lauderdale Cricket Stadium. Both finals will also be streaming live on ESPN 3 and YouTube . Last year for the first time Floodlights won the Masters title. This time around they are confident of defending their title despite not having with them
Ramesh Narine Deonarine, their best player and the best Softball Masters cricketer in the country. The two teams, Floodlights and Floodlights Legends are as follows; Floodlights: Ricky Deonarain Capt., Ramo Malone v/capt., Uniss Mohamed Yusuf, Jagdish Persaud, Lloyd Ruplall, Wayne Jones, Mahesh Lutchman, Vishwanauth Lutchman, Tulsi Lutchman, Imtiaz Mohamed Saffie, Clive Canterbury, Kamran Sumair, Pooran Singh, Jaipaul Singh, Narsingh Roy and Hubern Evans is the Coach. Floodlights Legends:
Lalta Gainda - Capt., L a k h r a m S i n g h v/capt.,Dennis Mangru, Nadir Baksh, Surendra Nauth, Arjune Badal, Anil Beharry, Jailall Deodass, Pithamber Maharaj, Rabindra Singh, Steve Naraine, Mohan Sukhu, Ajay Jha and Vivakanand Ramsaywack . This tournament is hosted by the South Florida Softball Cricket League. The following weekend March 3rd, 4th and 5th, Floodlights will travel to Orlando, where they will take part in OPL1, another softball cricket tournament hosted by the Orlando Premier League for the first time.
Furniture giants Courts sponsors Mashramani 20 laps cycle race around New Amsterdam
Courts Berbice Branch Manager Stanley McKenzie presents the courts sponsorship deal to former national cyclists and Third Vice President of the FACC Neil Reece, while former national female champion and Assistant Secretary Marica Dick and Coordinator and Coach Randolph Roberts savours the moment. By Samuel Whyte Courts Furniture Store Berbice branch will once again be showing off its cooperate colours as it sponsored its annual Courts Cycle race. The race, which will be staged in collaboration with the Flying Ace Cycle Club, will be held on Thursday 23 February in observation of the 47th Mashramani celebrations. The event which is dubbed, “the Courts Mashramani 20 laps cycle road race”, will be held around the town of New Amsterdam and is open to cyclists throughout Guyana and all the top cyclists in the country are expected to travel to Berbice to participate in the event.
The race is set to ride off from in front of the Courts Store in New Amsterdam at Main and St Ann’s Street and proceed into the town. The riders will then turn left into Philadelphian Street, left into Republic Road (Back dam), left into Vryhied Road, then left into Main Road where they will pass the starting point 20 times. The veterans will cover 10 laps, the juvenile’s five laps. The 12-14 cyclist and the females will ride for two laps. The BMX cyclists will begin the day’s proceeding with a one mile ride from the Alphonso Square at Tacama Turn to the finishing line at Courts. Starting time is 09:00 hrs and the cyclists are expected
to be sent on their way by Regional Chairman David Armogan and Courts Berbice Branch Manager Stanley McKenzie. There will be prizes for the first six finishers, five veterans, four juveniles, the first three females, first three U12-14 riders. The first three BMX 1214 and 9-12 riders and riders to cross the finishing line will receive prizes. There will also be eight sprint point prizes up for grabs. The event is organized by the Flying Ace Cycle club and coordinated by Coach Randolph Roberts. Orville Hinds is the defending champion. Cyclists are reminded that they must ride in their club colours.
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Tuesday February 21, 2017
Motorsports take centre Colts tame Ravens twice in one night stage twice this week -G/ town Grand Prix Launch on today It is the new craze in motor sports and competitors and fans will have another opportunity to see most of the local stars in the sport compete twice this week when GT Motorsports stages its Endurance Karting Competition tomorrow evening, at the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club, starting from 18:30hrs. However, before that, there will be the Launch today of what is the most anticipated showdown for Te a m a n d I n d i v i d u a l supremacy in the Georgetown Grand Prix on Friday, at the same venue. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport yesterday, a source from the Organising Committee said that the
Friday event is currently the talk of the town and a big crowd is anticipated to flock the spanking new venue to witness the best karters and drivers in local motor racing battle each other for outright dominance. Among the teams that have already confirmed participation are Team Gizmos & Gadgets, Team Heineken, Top Power, Team E-Racing, Team Nexus and Team Adrenaline Junkies. In the inaugural event which was held last month a mammoth crowd turned up at the facility to witness some exciting races with Team Gizmos & Gadgets / G u i n n e s s a n d Te a m Hieneken dominating the 500 and 600 lbs classes respectively.
Drivers such as Matthew Phang and Brian Ten Pow, who recorded the fastest lap times in the previous event will once again be aiming to go even faster this time, but the opposition has vowed to take them on with full [power. Kevin and Kristian Jeffrey, Elliott Vieira, Matthew Vieira, Emmn Vieira (the lone female so far), Kamal Seebarran and Stefon Jeffrey are among those who will be hunting them down. This segment of racing is an exciting one and the organisers are pulling out all the stops to make it an unforgettable one for fans and families. The Launch today starts at 16:00hrs.
National Champions, Bounty Colts clipped the offensive wings of Dyna’s Ravens to win Game 1 of the best-of-three Final Saturday night in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) ‘League of Champions’ at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Colts won 66-55 in a rare offensive meltdown for Ravens that had obliterated teams on their way to the Finals. Point guard Shelroy Thomas scored 18 points for Colts with Shane Webster adding had 13 points and Stanton Rose nine points. Dave Causway and Jermaine Slater had eight points each for Colts as well. For the Ravens, Ryan Stephney had 16 points with Dominic Vincente, whose last scores were 54 and 30 respectively, scoring just 12
Shelroy Thomas points. In the Under-23 category, Colts tamed Ravens again with 58-45 win. Mikhail Broomes scored 15 points while double-double machine, Timothy Thompson added 10 points and 14 rebounds for the
Shane Webster young Colts. Murtland Ward was the only player in double figures for Ravens with 16 points. Ward also grabbed 10 rebounds. The Finals continue tonight at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from 7pm.
Port Mourant Training Centre 1 starts 2017 volleyball Athletes warm-up at Age Group Competition season on winning note
Compton Caesar on his way to winning the 100m on Saturday. C A R I F TA G a m e s double bronze medalist, Chantoba Bright, C o m m o n w e a l t h Yo u t h finalist, Compton Caesar and prodigy Kenisha Phillips were impressive on Saturday at an Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Age Group competition at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora. Bright leaped to 5.84m to win the Girls’ 15–17 long jump. The Linden-based athlete, who also won a bronze medal at the South A m e r i c a n Yo u t h Championship, also sprang to 11.79m to win the triple jump event. Phillips was also unmatched in the 15-17 age category with a sprint
double. Phillips sprinted to 12.23 seconds in the 100m ahead of Christianburg’s Onasha Rogers (12.29s) and Super Upcoming Runner’s, Cassie Small (12.30s) respectively. The sprint prodigy ran 24.73 seconds in the 200m to turn the table on Linden’s Deshanya Skeete (25.08s, who had upset her at the National Schools’ Championships. However, Skeete won the 400m in 59.39 seconds. C a e s a r, a l s o f r o m Linden, crossed the finish line in 10.52 seconds to win the Boys’ 18 and over 100m ahead of Police Progressive Yo u t h C l u b ’s , K e v i n Abbensetts, who ran 10.92s. Caesar had 21.65 seconds to win the 200m ahead of
Winston Dummett (22.33). South American Youth Championship silver medalist, Linden’s Daniel Williams dominated the Boys’ 15–17 400m in 50.41 seconds. Williams also showed his versatility when he won the High Jump, clearing 1.90m. Dummett won the Boys’ 18 and over 400m in 50.02 seconds. Joanna Archer claimed the 800m in a time of 2:25.10s with Kezra Murray (2:26.40s) second. Claudrice McKoy won the 1500m in 4:50.52s. Anfernee Headecker took home the Boys’ 18 and over 800m title in a time of 1:55.70s. National Men’s javelin record holder, Leslain Baird won that event with 66.30m.
Top Berbice Volleyball team Port Mourant Training Center 1(PMTC1) continued where their left off in 2016 when their won the first tournament of the 2017 Berbice Volleyball season. Playing in the Aswell “Pumpkin” Mohabir Volleyball competition which was held at the Blairmont No2 Ground, West Bank Berbice, the PMTC1 team which is one of the top teams in Guyana won a hard fought four setter against their PMTC2 counterparts by a 3-1 margin. The results showed PMTC1 win the opening set 25-18, before PMTC2 turned the tides to take the second 25-18. Realizing that their opponents will not be a walkover, the PMTC 1 dug deep to stave off the challenge of the PMTC 2 team to win the next two games by close margins, 2522 and 25-23. Earlier, the PMTC 1 won from GTCPM 25-18, P M T C 2 d e f e a t e d Ta i n Humanitarian 25-20, PMTC won from GTCPM 25-19, PMTC1 edge past the i m p r o v i n g Ta i n Humanitarian 26-24, while PMTC 2 won a close encounter against Tain Humanitarian 25-23. In the female tournament the up and coming Port Mourant Females upset Corriverton Jets 25-23 and 25-21. The junior category saw three teams participating
namely Kennard’s Memorial, United and Black Beatles. United 29 vs Black Beatles 30, Black Beatles won the finals. Earlier, Black Beatles began their campaign by w h i p p i n g K e n n a r d ’s Memorial 30-13. United then entered the fray and won from Kennard’s Memorial 30-24, to set up the final with Black Beatles. At the presentation ceremony which followed immediately after. The top teams and outstanding performers were presented with their accolades by the sponsors and officials of the BVA. The PMTC connection made a clean sweep of the prizes in the senior category with PMTC 1 taking home the first place trophy, PMTC2 the second place trophy, while close associate GTCPM carried home the
third prize. The individual category saw the PMTC players sweeping the trophy stand the best spiker prize went to Ronaldo Bobb-PMTC 2, best setter on show was Jason Seelochan-PMTC 1. The Most Valuable player trophy went to Adriel Moore PMTC 1. In the female department, Port Mourant females were awarded the winning trophy with Corriverton Jets copping the second place, while the MVP accolade went to Candacy Mentore of Port Mourant Females. The first place trophy in the junior category was presented to Black Beatles, while United received another trophy for placing second. The MVP in that category was Hellond Singh of Black Beatles. The coordinator was Levi Nedd. (Samuel Whyte)
Mohamed ton hands Everest CC comprehensive win Saheed Mohamed struck a robust century to hand Everest Cricket Club a comprehensive victory over East Coast Masters when the teams collided in a 30-over fixture recently. Mohamed slammed 11 fours and four sixes in scoring 109 as host Everest posted 213-5, batting first. Dwayne Adams made 46 while U15 batsman Ursherdev Balgobin got 23. East Coast Masters were bowled out for 121 in reply. Ramo Malone made 28 as another U15 player Ronaldo Mohamed grabbed 3-14 while Javed Rasheed had 2-23 to hand Everest, who fielded eight U15 players, victory by 90 runs.
Tuesday February 21, 2017
Windies name squad for England ODIs ST JOHN’S, Antigua, C M C — We s t I n d i e s selectors have announced a 15-man squad to face England in the three-match One-Day International series starting here next month. As expected, Jason Holder will lead the unit which sees the return of lefthander Kieran Powell following a two-year break. West Indies take on England from March 3-9, with the first two games
scheduled for the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium here and the third set for Kensington Oval in Barbados. SQUAD — Jason Holder (captain), Kraigg Brathwaite, Kieran Powell, Shai Hope, Jonathan Carter, Rovman Powell, Shane Dowrich, Carlos Brathwaite, Shannon Gabriel, Miguel Cummins, Devendra Bishoo, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis.
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Milo Schools Football Competition
North Georgetown clobbers Central High 10-0 -St. George’s, School of Nations, Tutorial also win
Stokes bought by Pune for $2.16 million Darren Bravo, Pooran bag IPL deals ESPNCRICINFO - England allrounder Ben Stokes has become the most expensive overseas player ever bought at an IPL auction, going for INR 14.5 crore (USD 2.16 million approx) to Rising Pune Supergiants. He is also the second highest paid player among those currently active in the IPL, behind Virat Kohli, who is paid Rs 15 crore by Royal Challengers Bangalore per season. England fast bowler Tymal Mills also set a new record price for a specialist bowler: he was the second most expensive sale at the tenth player auction, in Bangalore yesterday, and bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for INR 12 crore (USD 1.8 million approx). Allrounder Chris Woakes was the third England player to get a hefty payday; he was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 4.2 crore (USD 625,000 approx). Three other England players bought - all at base price were: batsman Eoin Morgan for INR 2 crore (USD 300,000 approx) to Kings XI Punjab, batsman Jason Roy for INR 1 crore (USD 150,000) to Gujarat Lions, and allrounder Chris Jordan for INR 50 lakhs (USD 74,000) to Sunrisers Hyderabad. While demand for England players was expected, Afghanistan allrounder Mohammad Nabi, 18-year-old legspinner Rashid Khan, and UAE batsman Chirag Suri became the first Associate players after Netherlands’ Ryan ten Doeschate to get an IPL bid. The Afghanistan players were bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad - Rashid for INR 4 crore (USD 595,000 approx) and Nabi for INR 30 lakh (USD 44,000 approx) - while Suri went to Gujarat for INR 10 lakh (USD 14,000). Delhi Daredevils were the most active team in the early bidding. Their purchases of Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews for INR 2 crore (USD 300,000 approx), New Zealand allrounder Corey Anderson for INR 1 crore (USD 150,000 approx), South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada for INR 5 crore (USD 750,000 approx) and Australia fast bowler Pat Cummins for INR 4.5 crore, (USD 670,000 approx) exhausted their quota of nine overseas players in the first 90 minutes of the auction. Kolkata Knight Riders, on the other hand, did not bid for any of the first 22 players up for sale despite having a squad of only 13 available players before the auction. They were successful in the first player they bid for, buying New Zealand fast bowler Trent Boult for INR 5 crore (USD 750,000 approx). West Indies players Nicholas Pooran and Darren Bravo were among those bought. Darren Sammy was also sold. Nicholas Pooran (Base price INR 30 lakh) - Sold to Mumbai Indians for INR 30 lakh, Darren Bravo (Base price INR 50 lakh) - Sold to Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 50 lakh (third round) and Darren Sammy (Base price INR 30 lakh) - Sold to Kings XI Punjab for INR 30 lakh. Of the first 108 players that went on sale in the main draw of the auction, only 33 were bought and among them only two from Australia: Mitchell Johnson to Mumbai Indians at his base price of INR 2 crore (USD 300,000 approx), and (Continued on page 25)
Part of the action in this year’s Milo Schools Football Competition. North Georgetown clobbered Central High 10-0 to register the largest margin of victory in this year’s Milo Schools Football Competition which continued on Sunday, at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. Nehemiah Gomes was the chief destroyer after hitting the target in the 9th, 21st, 28th, 56th and 58th minutes to lead the rout, while Rueben Miller fired in a brace in the 36th and 62nd
minutes to go with solitary strikes from Marcos DeLima and Brandon Solomon in the 38th and 39th minute respectively. An own goal in the fifth minute accounted for North Georgetown’s other goal. Earlier, School of the Nations eased to a comfortable 3-0 win over Dolphin Secondary with Benjonel Parkes hitting in a pair in the 55th and 67th minutes, while Andy Parkes added the other goal in the
64th minute. Former champion St. George’s got their campaign off to a positive start, albeit a hard fough 3-2 triumph over Mae’s. Anthony Pierre was their leading marksman, hitting in a brace in the 7th and 67th minutes, while Oren Williams’ 45th minute strike completed their tally Diego Britton and Darshan Persaud were the goalscorers for Mae’s with their goals coming in the
34th and 56th minutes respectively. In the final encounter of the day, Tutorial High outlasted a stubborn Queen’s College side, edging them 21 through a pair of goals off the boots of Zion Gray, who netted in the 29th and 35th minutes. On target for QC was Gaven Houston whose goal came in the 25th minute. Play in the competition resumes on Saturday and Sunday, at the same venue.
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Tuesday February 21, 2017
Semi-finalists decided for Limacol football Tigers vs. Santos promises to be a sizzler
Joshua Britton
Rene Gibbons
A capacity crowd that included large home support for Mahaica Determinators were left gutted after witnessing their team squander an early lead, conceding two goals to be booted out of this year’s Limacol Round Robin / Knockout Football Competition by Santos on Sunday, at the Victoria ground. After taking the lead in magnificent fashion through the nippy and stockily built E i o n A b e l , t h e Determinators were outhustled by the youthful Santos unit that fired in two goals on either side of the half to secure a well deserved 2-1 victory amd more importanly a place in Friday’s semi-final when they will face Western Tigers in an all-Georgetown
affair. Abel gave the Determinators the lead after four minutes when he leaped high in the air, beating the advancing Santos custodian in the process to head into an empty goal. He had raced on to a long bouncing ball that was delivered from inside their half, before finishing clinically. Santos gained the equaliser through the diminutive Dominique Bobb, who poked in on the near post following a ball that was headed in his direction from a corner. That goal came three minutes into injury time in the opening period. Coming out in the final period, both teams increased the tempo, but clearly the momentum was with the
CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship
visitors as they continously created chances, but good goalkeeping kept Santos at bay and the game on a knife’s edge. Determinators’ main weapon Delroy Deen was effectively kept quiet up to that point and praise must go to the strategy employed by the Santos coaching staff. Abel was a constant threat, while Bobb and Orin Yarde were doing yeoman service for their team and the packed arena was a place of noise as supporters shouted instructions to their respective teams. Yarde it was who would break the deadlock when he reached on to a cross from just outside the penalty area to deliver a fierce header p a s t a s t u n n e d Determinators backline and goalkeeper. That goal came in the 77th minute and it evidently opened up the game even more, but in the end, Santos’ toughness at the back was enough to keep them ahead when the final whistle sounded. Earlier, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) led by goals from Captain Dwain Jacobs in the 5th and Quincy Holder in the 12th repelled a fierce second half onslaught to handcuff Den Amstel and
earn a place in the semis following a 2-1 win. Kester Jacobs was the lone respondent for Den Amstel, who also had a player (Colin Benn) suffer a broken leg in the first half. Over at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden, defending champion Milerock will not have the opportunioty to defend their title after being edged 1-0 by Tigers in the first game, while the experience of Winners Connection prevailed in their clash against the youthful Eagles United who lost 1-0, being condemed by a strike from the veteran Rene Gibbons. The Tigers were led to victory through a goal from Joshua Britton in the 57th minute, while Gibbons goal for Winners was recorded in the 62nd minute. The semi-final matchups are: Western Tigers versus S a n t o s a n d Wi n n e r s Connection vs. GPF at the GHFC ground. In the night’s full results: MSC Ground Game-1 Western Tigers-1 vs Milerock-0 Joshua Britton-57th Game-2 Winners Connection-1
Guyana Police Force goalscorers (From left)- Dwain Jacobs and Quincy Holder pose for a photo op.
(from left)- Dominique Bobb and Orin Yarde vs Eagles-0 Rene Gibbons-62nd Victoria Ground Game-1 Den Amstel-1 vs Guyana Police Force (GPF)-2 Police Scorers Dwain Jacobs-5th Quincy Holder-12th Den Amstel scorer
Kester Jacobs-3rd Game-2 Mahaica Determinators1 vs Santos-2 Santos Dominique Bobb45th+3 Orin Yarde-77th Mahaica Eion Abel-4th
Home team Bahamas down Guyana as Belize upset Jamaica
By Franklin Wilson in the Bahamas with the compliments of Ringbang, Crown Mining Supplies, Fazia’s Collection, Fitness E x p r e s s , G e r m a n ’s Restaurant and Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club. Home team Bahamas already gaining a spot to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup which would be held at the brand new BFA Soccer Stadium at Malcolm Park, opened its account on a high when they downed Guyana 4-1 in the feature match of six last night. Leading Bahamas, which was backed up by good fan support, was the skillful Lesly Stfleur who netted a hat-trick. Guyana started well with custodian Ethan Sparman saving a Gary Joseph free kick just outside the box about two minutes into the match - No player is allowed to interfere
with any player attempting an over-head kick or bicycle k i c k . Soon after though, Stfleur scored the first goal from a powerful free kick after the Guyanese were again penalized for trying to stop another overhead kick almost in a same position, this time Sparman had no chance as Stfleur blasted home into the roof of the nets. He was again on the scoresheets as Bahamas increased their which they held up to the end of the first period. The home team was on top as the Guyanese still were settling down. In the second period the Guyanese played more composed and settled creating numerous chances but not able to score. Guyana’s nemesis, Stefleur was again to strike and he did early in the final period finishing a long throw by goalkeeper Ivan Rolle two minutes into the period. The
home players were more energetic and looked more organised in offence and d e f e n c e . The first goal for Guyana was scored by Captain Deshawn Joseph, he took on the field himself to blast home a left foot shot past goalie Rolle. The home side put the preverbal icing on the cake with just over four minutes to go when Stfleur crossed the ball into the area for Kyle Williams to calmly head the ball past Sparman to make it 4-1. In the main supporting match, which was a high octane tussle, saw Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz battling back against Belize to draw the match at 5-5 coming from 40 down. Belize opened very aggressive racing to a 2-0 advantage within the first six minutes and were 4-0 up by the 9th minute against the hapless looking Jamaicans in the main supporting match.
Mexico, USA, Canada & T&T post wins But the Jamaicans pulled one back before the 11th minute after a well-executed free k i c k . That goal was the turning point in the match for the lads from Reggae land. The second period saw the Jamaicans drilling in three unanswered goals as the Belizians went into a shell. The Jamaican supporters waving flags added some life to their fellow countrymen as they clawed back to tie the game at 4-4 after two periods. With 4’ 58" to game time, Daemion nailed the go ahead goal but almost immediately after, Raymond Brenton Ramos scored his second goal after the ball bounced past Jamaican goalie Kirk Porter to tie the match 5-5 and when the final whistle sounded the scores were u n c h a n g e d . Based on the rules of the
competition the teams then switched around to play 3 minutes of extra time. Belize’s style of play which was more defensive allowed the Jamaicans to keep on attacking as they created numerous opportunities but they were able to score which meant that the match had to be decided via kicks from the penalty mark. Jamaica’s Phillip Peddie hit the upright with the first shot; Belize’Marlon Meza who scored a brace during regulation time then put his nation ahead. Andre Reid was then saved by goalkeeper Rugerri Trejo after which Jermaine Jones nailed his shot past Porter to seal a memorable win for Belize, 2-0 on kicks. The Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago raced to a 3-1 lead by the end of the first period against Antigua and Barbuda and doubled
that advantage by the end of the second period without the Antiguans being able to s c o r e . The Soca Warriors went on to wrap up the match 8-1 on account of David Mc Dougall’s helmet-trick and Kevon Woodley’s hat-trick. The Mexico / Guadeloupe clash started with both sides being cagy until Guadeloupe on the end of a well taken header from a corner took the lead just after 8 minutes, the tall Sebastien Hell heading past Diego Villasenor Franco. Less than a minute later, another header this time from Mexico’s Jose Ramon Maldonado Alonso cancelled cut short Guadeloupe’s celebrations as he tied the score at 1-1. But the lead was quickly retaken by Guadeloupe, 2-1 which they held at the end of the first period. (Continued on page 25)
Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 21, 2017
PAGE 33
Guyanese boxers dominate Suriname foes in night of fistic action
Guyana’s Chris Moore knocks Fitzgerald King of Suriname out of the ring. (Photos by Sean Devers) Guyanese boxers enforced their status as the best around the Caribbean territory when they totally dominated their Surinamese counterparts when the curtains came down on the BrisMac Promotions, night of fistic fury at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, on Sunday evening. It was a disappointing crowd but those pundits that witnessed the action could attest to an action packed card where Guyanese pugilists carted off all the spoils. The Surinamese were ambitious and to a certain extent, determined contenders but found the might of their counterparts too much to overcome. Richard Subratte commenced the Guyanese trek to top honours when he forced Surinamese, Stefon Van Ommeren’s handlers to throw in the towel at the end of the 2nd stanza of their 49kgs bout. A slim, diminutive b o x e r, t h e s o u t h p a w
Subratee confidently attacked from the onset with long right jabs and crosses. Van Ommeren stayed in contention with some rounded punches but it was clear that the Guyanese was the superior. Subratee stepped up the pace in the second stanza with crisp crosses that forced his man to cover up. It was indeed a torrid round and when the bell rang the Surinamese looked the worse for wear. Fans settled down for an entertaining t h i r d r o u n d b u t Va n Ommeren’s handlers felt that he had had enough and wisely refused to send their charge into the fire once again. Caribbean best boxer, Christopher Moore, next pounded Surinamese, Fitzgerald King, in the 60kgs division, and forced the referee to call a halt at 2:50secs of the 3rd round. In between, Moore unleashed a wicked two fisted assault on his man and had him either
Guyana’s Jason Barker on the attack against Marlon Leming before knocking him out.
on the retreat or seeking refuge behind high guards for most of the first round. Midway into the second round, Moore landed a wicked combination and sent his man through the ropes. The Surinamese reentered the fray but by the end of the round, was sent reeling on three other occasions that forced the referee to repeatedly administer the mandatory 8 count. Moore attacked early in the 3rd round and once again belted the Surinamese through the ropes but the referee ruled a slip and refused to count. It really was of little consequence as on resumption, Moore upped the ante and forced his opponent to cover up. All this time the referee observed the proceedings without interrupting but when Moore slammed home a right uppercut to King’s body, the ‘third man’ jumped in, instituted the count and wisely waved the bout off.
Narayan Ramdhani turns in good performance in Vancouver, Canada G u y a n a ’s N a t i o n a l Badminton Champion, 18year old Narayan Ramdhani, playing for Shuttlesport Badminton Academy won two - 3rd places in the Open Men Singles and the Under-23 Men Doubles and also won one 1st place in the Under23 Mix-Doubles Consolation Draw at the: BC Senior Circuit 2 2017 Shuttlesport Senior Open/Under 23 tournament played at Badminton BC, Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada February 18 & 19, 2017. In the Open men singles: Narayan Ramdhani (Continued on page 25)
Narayan Ramdhani and his Men’s Doubles Partner Zach Lu-Ming Fan.
Jason Barker (Guy) needed just 1:59secs to dispose of Surinamese, Marlon Leming (Sur) in the 91kgs category. Sporting a muscular and imposing figure, Barker dwarfed his opponent and then went on to punch him senseless in a fight where the Surinamese offered little resistance. Barker caused the referee to institute the 8 count early in the first stanza after sending his man to port canvass with a wicked right cross. Leming never suggested permanence and when Barker unleashed a one two combination to his head, the Surinamese slunk to the canvass where he opted to stay for the full count. Several all local bouts added to the excitement and Colin ‘Superman’ Lewis (GDF) endorsed his sobriquet when he rebounded from a testing first round to claim a point’s verdict over Joel Williamson (RHJ). A lanky boxer, Lewis unwisely chose to mix with Williamson in the first round and suffered the consequences. The Berbician jolted Lewis with several telling blows that had him reeling for most of the first stanza. Apparently advised by his handlers, Lewis changed his approach in the second round and stayed on the outside where he landed telling blows to the body and head of an advancing Williamson. The lanky Lewis continued to employ punch and move tactics in the third round while Williamson pursued his man with wicked salvoes. This round was a gem as both boxers attempted to seize the i n i t i a t i v e . Wi l l i a m s o n attacked with vicious body and head blows but Lewis kept his cool and retaliated with crunching punches of his own. In the end Lewis
Guyana’s Richard Subratte (left) connects with a straight right to Stefon Van Ommeren of Suriname. managed to convince the judges who awarded him the bout. Lewis was later adjudged the best boxer on show and carted off a beautiful trophy as well as a US$200 voucher donated by American based Guyanese, Samuel Gittens. Desmond Amsterdam (G.D.F) turned back the challenge of policeman, Dennis Thomas and after a no holds barred slugfest between the two warriors, was adjudged the winner of their bout. Thomas had scored a victory over Amsterdam in an earlier tournament and oozed confidence as he attempted to replicate the feat. He was obviously surprised as the soldier attacked from the first bell, landing some telling blows while Thomas attempted to assert himself. The two exchanged bombs mid-ring much to the enjoyment of a screaming, jubilant crowd. Amsterdam began to show the toll of the grueling affair and his mouth hung open as he gasped for breath in the second round. Thomas capitalized with some crunching long ranged blows and the bout appeared even at the end of the second stanza. The two gladiators went after each other in the third round and had the crowd on its feet. Fortunes swayed during vicious exchanges but as the seconds wound down, Amsterdam upped the ante, pushing his man backwards with telling blows. Thomas opted for long shots to the head and body and when the bell rang, both pugilists were pounding away at each other. It was a tough one to call but in the end the judges were impressed by Amsterdam’s resilience and late comeback thus awarding him a close point’s verdict.
The fans were also entertained with several other bouts and the decisions follow; Sean Graham (FYF) defeated Oxford Moses (HE) moments before Travis Inverary (FYF) triumphed over Shane Collins (HE). Isaiah Moore (FYF) proved too much for Junior Hyman (ESSQ). Shaquille Wright (ESSE) won from Omar Pollard after he forced the referee to halt the contest at the end of round one. Julius Kesney (RHJ) battled furiously but just could not get past Deshon Elcock (ESSE) and lost on points. One fight later, Joshua Corbin (Carryl) gained a walkover from Richard Lanferman (ESSE). Akeel Mounter (ESSE) turned in a good display to overcome Duel Augustine (PRBG) moments before Romano Clarke (G.D.F) prevailed over Kelon Isaacs (PRBG). Meanwhile, promoters, Seon Bristol and Alford McDonald have assured that the event will be a yearly feature on the boxing calendar. They said that it was a costly venture but both veterans experienced a feeling of satisfaction that they are giving back to their b e l o v e d s p o r t . M r. McDonald admitted that the bulk of sponsorship was garnered from his business friend in North America and other parts of the Caribbean. He is, therefore, grateful to those individuals and firms appearing below; Norman Shipping, Water Spirit Shipping, Brian Kalam, all out of Puerto Rico. Turnbul Sand, Junior Higgins Ice Cream and Eleven Construction, of St Thomas, Out of St Croix there were Vivot Equipment Corps and Dynamic Innovative Corps. Other support emanated from Tortola and included such businesses as Warren’s Pride shipping, Star ’s Shipping and Lazarus Shipping Ltd.
t r o Sp CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship
Home team Bahamas down Guyana as Belize upset Jamaica Mexico, USA, Canada & T&T post wins
Guyana’s Captain Deshawn in control against the Bahamas.
Motorsports take centre stage twice this week -G/ town Grand Prix Launch on today
Karts line up at the starting line for one of the races at the inaugural event last month.
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