Guyana could tap US$2.6M new FAO agri initiative
Shot down Amaila a lost opportunity
Lesbeholden man beaten to death during argument
Three held for alleged abduction of Berbice teen
Increase in drug trafficking in Caribbean – DEA
21st anniversary is victory for the people – President Ramotar
Guyanese charged in NY bikers’ beat down case GLU membership base growing gradually – Duncan
Miss Limacol Katherina Roshana beams as she is crowned Miss Guyana Universe 2013 by her predecessor Ruqayyah Boyer on Sunday at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown (Carl Croker photo)
No link between Marriott and potential oil industry – acting tourism minister
Acting Tourism Minister
Irfaan Ali has slammed recent comments in the media linking the construction of the Marriott Hotel with that of the potential oil and gas industry here.
Ali told this newspaper that he read a recent letter from a technician, which was published in the media and sought to link the two.
The minister said “it is utter nonsense” and takes away from the real picture that the project is being developed for, which is to help boost Guyana’s tourism capacity and not specifically for the potential oil sector.
According to him, while it will help with accommodating foreign nationals once such an industry is developed here, that is not the main focus.
He said the Marriott has an integral and important role to play in the tourism sector and tourism is going to benefit tremendously from the project.
“We are going to work to ensure this occurs. The Marriott is an asset for the tourism sector and we see a lot of other developments taking place,” Ali added.
He reiterated the benefits that could be derived from the
project, even through there continues to be much controversy surrounding the project in its entirety.
President Donald Ramotar also said the construction of the Marriott Hotel is necessary for the nation, given the country’s potential for tourism.
According to the president, there has been a concentrated effort by the opposition aligned media which have been trying continuously to mislead the nation about the benefits of the Marriott Hotel.
He stated that in Barbados and Trinidad, there are hotels
which are being run by the state, and in both cases, the hotels are the classiest ones.
The Hyatt and Hilton hotels were pointed out as having been built by the governments in those countries and are attracting tourists, although none of the two countries have the tourism potential like Guyana.
Ramotar had also stated that once oil is discovered on these shores, Guyana may not even have the capacity to accommodate the number of persons who will flock here.
He said the construction of the five star hotel will indeed help in this area, but noted that it is not being specifically built for that purpose.
The Marriott is set to be ready by August next year and will help to boost employment, creating about 250 jobs. It will also create business opportunities here and serve as a stimulant to attract more tourists and further develop and expand Guyana's emerging and fast-growing tourism sector.
The hotel is part of the Marriott International which is a leading global hospitality company with over 3,500 hotels internationally.
Lesbeholden man beaten to death during argument
Aman was on Saturday evening beaten to death by a group of men during an argument at Lesbeholden South, Black Bush Polder Public Road Berbice. The act was committed between 22:15h and 22:35h.
The dead man has been identified as Jewanlall Deonarine, also called “Bingle”, 50, of Lot 12 Lesbeholden, South Black Bush Polder.
One man identified as Stanley Singh, 30, a rice farmer of Lot 7 Johanna, South Black Bush Polder, was arrested and is assisting with investigations.
According to information received, on the fateful night, Deonarine and his son-in-law, Totoram Dhanraj left Lesbeholden, Black Bush Polder and went to a friend’s farewell celebration at Pitt Street, New Amsterdam.
About 22:00h, Dhanraj and his father-in-law, along with other friends left the celebration in motorcar PFF 8720 owned and driven by
Dedendra Bridgelall and ended up at a Chinese restaurant at the Lesbeholden Public Road, where they stopped.
On arrival, they reportedly saw a dark-coloured motor car parked on the opposite side of the public road with several men around it hanging out.
Dhanraj and Deonarine, reportedly went towards the said car, while the others went into the Chinese restaurant.
As they approached the men, one of them reportedly attacked Dhanraj and dealt him one blow to the face.
This led to a heated argument. Further information received, revealed that Dhanraj rushed back to his car and ordered Bridgelall to drive away, leaving Deonarine behind.
The man then parked his car in a nearby street where they exited the vehicle and hid in a clump of bushes after they became fearful that the men might follow them.
During this period, Dhanraj reportedly contacted the Mibicuri Police Station and related the ordeal. Guyana
Times understands that about 22:35h, police ranks went to Lesbeholden South, Black Bush Polder and questioned Dhanraj and others about the incident.
As a result of the report, the area was searched and they recognised the said car along with the men, but upon looking closer, they saw Deonarine lying on the roadway some distance away.
He was lying on his back and head tilted in the direction where his friends drove off as if he was looking back for them. He was clad in a blue long pants and black belt. He was examined and it was discovered that he had a gaping wound to the back of his head and blood was oozing from his nose and face.
Deonarine was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body was transferred to the Ramoo’s Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination. Singh was later arrested and taken into custody.
Relatives deeply saddened over loss of nine-year-old in tractor accident
Relatives of nine-yearold Charran "Rocky" Hanoman of Lot 96, Number 64 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, who met his demise after falling off a tractor on Saturday afternoon, are deeply saddened as they make funeral preparations.
His grandfather, Manichand Hanoman, 54, who was taken into custody following the accident, was released by investigators late Saturday evening.
It was the lad's ninth birthday and he had accompanied his grandfather to plough a plot of land at Number 64 Village Backland, Corentyne when the accident occurred.
According to information received, about 11:30h on Saturday, Honoman and his grandson left home for his rice farm at Number 64 Village Squatting Area, Corentyne, which is about two miles from
the public road.
However, while using his John Deere 6403 motor tractor, the lad was reportedly standing on top of the left side, and as the tractor was in motion. Manichand attempted to stop it, resulting in a little jerk.
As a result of the suddenly jerk, the lad fell forward and landed on the ground, under
the tractor, causing the left side back wheel to run over his neck while the plough ran over his left hand, resulting in him receiving several wounds.
He was taken to the Skeldon Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.
At the home of the child on Sunday morning, relatives were gathered and are still trying to come to grips with reality. His grandfather, who was arrested after the accident, was seen with a worried and grieving look on his face.
Birthday Yadoo Hanoman, the father of the dead child, stated that he last saw his son on Saturday morning when he left to go with his grandfather. “Is like every time 'Rocky' birthday come around, we go remember how he get he dead,” the father cried.
He went on to say that his son would normally go with his grandfather to harvest rice, but it was the first time he went with his grandfather to plough the land. Hanoman said that they had planned that since it was his birthday, they would do a “lil thing” for him when he comes out, but instead, he noted they are now planning a funeral.
The father explained that after he learnt of the accident, he went into the backdam, and when he arrived, he saw his son’s motionless body with several gaping wound to his hands, feet and face. His face, he added, had the print of the tire. He already appeared dead, but was still rushed to the Skeldon Hospital where he was examined and pronounced dead on arrival. In tears, he added that Rocky was his only child, describing him as adventurous and quiet.
He was a student of New Market Street Primary School, Number 64 Village, and was described as a bright child. A postmortem examination is expected to be performed today.
Acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali
Dead: Charran Hanoman
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, October 7 from 05:00h to 06:30h.
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Monday, October 7 from 05:25h to 06:55h.
WEATHER TODAY
Countrywide: Heavy showers are expected during the day, with cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to east north-easterly at 4.02 metres per second.
High Tide: 05:42h and 17:54h reaching maximum heights of 2.79 metres and 2.85 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 11:30h and 23:54h reaching minimum heights of 0.48 metre and 0.35 metre respectively.
Shot down Amaila a lost opportunity – Jagdeo
By Samuel Sukhnandan
Former President
Bharrat Jagdeo said the Amaila Falls project is a lost opportunity that Guyana could regret, if it does not materialise.
Jagdeo expressed the sentiment while noting the economic benefits that would have been derived out of that major investment.
He was at the time addressing a forum at the International Conference Centre on Friday where stakeholders from the private sector gathered to discuss critical economic issues.
Guarantee
Jagdeo debunked claims that the project is not feasible, stating that the contingent liability for the project was just a guarantee, just in case the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) could not make their payments. The move not to approve this, he said, killed the project.
“We can’t keep shooting ourselves in the foot, this project should have been above politics, because we tried a long time from the fifty’s and the sixty’s since Tiger Falls and Burnham promised the hydro in 1978,” he explained.
When the project was promised in 1978, the decision was split on wheth-
er to approve a minimum wage of $14 or to develop the hydro project. Neither came through, but Guyana spent then US$300 million and had to pay it back.
The value of that money would have been over $2 billion in today’s Guyana dollars. The former Guyanese leader said Guyana paid back the loan without getting a single kilowatt of power, but noted that Amaila was the closest to realising the hydro dream.
No debt
“There is not a single cent of debt outside of that money we are spending on the road and the equity that we are taking that will accrued to this country and yet we heard that it is the debt that we are worried about, higher debt and that is why we didn’t approve the project.”
Jagdeo stressed that this project would have been ideal for taking Guyana into the 21st century, as it tries to meet the challenges of the global economy and the rapid economic changes that are taking place.
The world, he said is changing rapidly and many times policy makers, not particularly those from the executive, but the three branches of government are “happy in oblivion” to what is going on in the rest of the world.
He pointed to the move by the U.S. government to develop a policy which is aimed at having the Federal Reserve stop purchasing or intervening in the global market in the near future.
He noted that the Federal Reserve currently buys $85 billion in government papers and this is likely to affect huge economies such as Brazil, India and Russia.
He stated that money for investment will not always be available and government has recognised the need for foreign capital to create growth, income and employment, hence, the reason for foreign investment here.
“What pains me is over
the past weeks, we have made through ignorance and partisanship a decision that has impacted on the largest private investment in the country – hydro power,” he said.
Change
On that note, Jagdeo said there is a need for a change in the nature of politics here and said economic development will never take place in the hostile political environment that exists now.
The US$840 million hydro project involves the construction of a hydropower plant in the area of westcentral Guyana, where the Amaila and Kuribrong rivers meet. Electricity produced at the plant would have been delivered to Georgetown, and Linden, by transmission lines.
The project, once completed, will result in significant foreign exchange savings and a regular supply of inexpensive, reliable electricity for Guyanese.
The project is a fundamental component of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, and will significantly lower the nation’s carbon footprint while reducing its longterm energy costs and exposure to imported oil price volatility. (samuelsukhnandan@guyanatimesgy.com)
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com
Editorial
Global partnerships
At a special event on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) last week in New York, member states expressed their determination to accelerate achievement of the MDGs and build on the foundations they set to craft a post-2015 development agenda, which completes unfinished business and responds to new challenges. They agreed that the eradication of poverty and hunger worldwide should be at the core of the new agenda.
Leaders made it clear that the agenda should integrate “in a balanced manner the three dimensions of sustainable development”, and agreed that this involved “working towards a single framework and set of goals – universal in nature and applicable to all countries”, while taking into account national contexts, policies, and priorities.
Member states have acknowledged that reducing poverty, protecting the planet, growing our economies, and achieving social justice are shared and inter-liked objectives. Green and inclusive economies and societies are needed to deliver on these multiple objectives, and so are strong and innovative partnerships.
Achieving these objectives set out by the various leaders will be no small task. In fact, it will take serious commitments by all development partners, governments and civil society actors to pool their talents and resources and work diligently to make this a reality.
During a recent presentation on global partnerships for development in a post-2015 world, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark gave some very interesting and useful suggestions on the kind of action that is needed to ensure that a more sustainable future is created for citizens of the world.
Clark points to the fact that a number of global partnerships have emerged in recent years around specific goals and issues. Examples which have attracted significant funding and helped the achievement of the health MDGs include the Global Alliance on Vaccination and Immunisation (GAVI), and the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis.
There was also some progress in access to affordable and essential drugs in developing countries, even though far more could be done to enable developing countries to extend vital treatment to the poor.
Clark mentions that while delivery on MDG Eight on partnership is often criticised, there have been some successes, noting that there are new opportunities which can be pursued. For example, the rollout of new technologies, especially information and communication technologies is significant – with a great deal of private sector and social entrepreneur innovation. She cites the Broadband Commission, which has also brought a broad partnership together to promote broadband for development and urges that the reach of these technologies extend to those who are considered poor and disadvantaged.
Certainly, the global development assistance landscape has changed substantially – going far beyond North-South, donorrecipient relationships. The fast-moving emerging economies have lifted very large numbers of people out of poverty, and are establishing innovative social protection systems. They have many experiences to share with others seeking similar success and global partnerships of the future will be shaped by these significant trends.
There can be no doubt that our world’s sustainable development challenge requires all countries to act accordingly. In this regard, Clark notes that the shift to sustainable production and consumption patterns requires significant action from the developed world – to cut carbon emissions, address food waste, and adopt cleaner ways to generate energy and to farm, manufacture, and travel.
Further, innovative sources of financing for development could also play a bigger role. For example, levies on air tickets are now contributing to funds for the fight against AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis through the UNITAID initiative, which is supported by 28 countries and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Member states are currently discussing the possibility of convening a high-level meeting on financing the post-2015 development agenda. As suggested by Clark, such a meeting would be important and should take into consideration the full spectrum of financing for development and identify opportunities for new partnerships.
Granger voted to kill jobcreating initiatives
Dear Editor,
In response to a letter, “Listen carefully, Mr Gill, Listen!” (Kaieteur News September 24), the author Mr Aubry James insisted that my opinion on Opposition Leader David Granger is wrong. Well, as suggested, I not only listened, but I read his letter twice hoping to find something, anything of consequence that the People’s National Congress (PNC)/A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) leader has done for the people who voted for him last election. Mr James did not list one item.
Then he made the following erroneous statement, “I am forced to ask if Mr Gill voted for Mr Granger because, if he did, then he has a legitimate right to voice his concerns. If he did not, then he has some other interest.” Using this same yardstick, those in the opposition who criticise the president and his ministers have no “legitimate right” to do so.
In a democracy, we all have that right. I am proud to have served my country, and I continue to do so. But the truth hurts! All the ministries I’ve visited in Region Four have a much higher percentage of persons who traditionally voted PNC/APNU. Development in Guyana is not limited to constituencies won by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), but can be seen throughout every region, including those that still support APNU.
More Guyanese have been made first time home-owners than any other period in our history, and a PPP/C party-card was not the criterion used to award house lots to PNC/APNU supporters. New schools and health care facilities are built in every region, and some are being vandalised
by supporters of PNC/APNU to make the government look bad. There are equal opportunities for all who want to work, but some feel it is their birth right to take from those who have sacrificed and now enjoy a better standard of living.
I do not hear Granger condemn those actions, but he calls for the removal of Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee. There has not been one single infrastructural initiative in any PNC/APNU constituency that Granger can take credit for. These were all done by the same PPP/C administration he opposes. And I am confident that had PNC/ APNU not bent on impeding progress under this government, much more would have been done for his people, and all Guyanese.
Granger wants the government to create jobs, but votes to kill job-creating initiatives like the Amalia Falls Hydro Electric Project, the Marriott Hotel, the Specialty Hospital, and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Extension Project. He can’t have it both ways. Indeed, Granger has served his country well. With the exception of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) seizure of ballot boxes in the 1973 General Elections, for which he has yet to explain his involvement or lack thereof, he has had an unblemished, distinguished military career. I believe Granger truly wants Guyana to develop. He just doesn’t want the PPP/C to be the party that does it.
Mr James should know that Granger does not need me “to find the opposition leader wanting and to dissuade and discourage multitudes of people from supporting him”. He is doing a pretty good job of that all by himself.
Last March, I attended the Bartica Regatta. My brother, a die-hard PNC supporter, who has contributed immensely to that party for many years, called to ascertain whether I was comfortable as accommodations there were limited for such a big event. I assured him that I was, as Granger was staying at the same hotel. He then confessed his disappointment with the APNU leader in ways I had never heard before.
My brother worked his butt off to win votes and financial contribution for Granger during the 2011 election campaign, and Granger has never met him, thanked him, or even knew he existed. Shortly thereafter, I met Granger in the lobby and told him how disappointed my brother was. Although he served as a councillor for years and is almost a household name in Region Three. My brother was right… Granger had never heard of him.
During my conversation with Granger, I explained that as a military expert, he ought to know the importance of boosting the moral of his lieutenants in the field, even in the face of defeat. He asked for my brother’s information, and I gave it to him. He promised to see my brother and to thank him for his support. Six months later, my brother is still waiting for that call.
Let me dispel a myth that Mr James is perpetrating in his letter. He wrote:
How ludicrous this statement is. This is nothing more than a shameless misrepresentation of the facts. All of the talking points used by both PNC/APNU and Alliance For Change (AFC) on major issues, are those expressed days before in the pages of Kaieteur News. Both APNU and AFC are known to piggyback on the issues published in Kaieteur News.
Finally, James should know that although issues like the local government bills, the Public Procurement Commission and the Office of Ombudsman are important constitutional matters, the ultimate concerns of most Guyanese are good paying jobs, healthcare, education for their children, and a safe environment to live and raise a family.
Granger will best serve Guyana’s interest in achieving these necessities by being less confrontational, more constructive and more responsible in executing his duties as the leader of the opposition, and as a lawmaker.
Guyana will never be able to progress if the opposition continues to behave like crabs in a bucket, pulling the government down at every opportunity they get. We all need to work together to achieve more for our people, and to make Guyana more competitive and respected in the region. I’m still hopeful that the needs of our people prevail over the personal ambitions of politicians.
Sincerely, Harry Gill
“Granger has demonstrated nothing but astute leadership, deep intellect, and sheer determination in the face of the daunting challenges posed by the PPP/C government against his efforts to represent all Guyanese. He has stood up to the PPP/C and many of them are coming in line with a culture that is characterised by transparency and accountability. He has consistently been exposing the lies of the PPP/C government in and out of Parliament.”
An employee of the NEW GPC INC enlightens patrons on the benefits of the various products on display by the company at GuyExpo (Carl Croker photo)
You
your
The Al Shabaab and unholy jihadists
Dear Editor,
The slaughter of the innocents in the shopping mall murder/melee in Kenya by the Al Shabaab is another curse on the head of the great Religion of Islam, the Religion of Peace.
The atrocities by these kinds of militants, disguising themselves as Jihadists and Muslims at war with the world bring shame and great pains and miseries on the lives of the vast majority of decent, loving, respectful Muslims world over. Muslims are not at war with the world, except the hard core fanatics, and the few of them who misconstrue the meaning of Jihad, and in their campaigns will slaughter only not soldiers in combat, but they get their insane message across by killing innocent civilians, men, women, and children.
Usually they time their targets where innocent populace gather for marketing, praying, eating and drinking, where they could get maximum damage with drama, and they, after the murderous splurge of devilish maniacal orgy, will wipe their hands and faces, do ablution and pray to God. What a sick scene to behold. They think if you kill them they go to heaven and if they kill you they go to heaven.
The sad thing is that some Muslims here in Guyana and elsewhere believe that all these incidents are false, though they see the carnage on screen and in the print media. Shame!
In Afghanistan, the warlords will plunder, rape, even the travellers passing their territories have to pay demand toll, at times killed, raping their wives and
daughters, and then they go and wash their hands, beards and do ablution and worship their God. It cannot be the same God I worship. I cannot fathom the minds of these shaitaeens (human devils). They will kill themselves thinking they will go to heaven, and in their madness, the lack of understanding of the international perspective and love of Islam, and teaching of the Holy Prophet of Islam, the idiots, the misguided souls take the innocents’ lives in macabre blasts and sensational murders, killing in homes, in markets, in stores and malls, in mosques and churches, thinking that Paradise is open for them with their virgins waiting. This is total diabolical and nonsensical interpretation of the scriptures of God. Even if mentioned one has to look at the context. Their place is Hell! Jihad is not to create war, but it is a righteous struggle to defend, or educate or propagate. They have conceptualised Jihad in a most evil conception. Why they love to cut necks or behead people? I cannot understand. In Syria, where the Christians and Jews were protected for centuries, today, the infidels, the murderous hordes have moved into Syria, with the cutting off of heads and slicing of necks. I postulate that because they are accustomed to cutting animals’ heads so much, and slicing animals’ throats, it is easy to slice the throats of humans, and they seem to enjoy slicing throats and cutting heads of humans. They have to be agents of the devil, not of God or Islam.
America and the Europeans should not be duped in bringing down the strong leaders of the Arab
nations, thinking they are doing good. Their intention is to bring democracy. These people do not want democracy nor do they understand it. But they will use the good intention of the USA and Europeans to cause anarchy or warlord rule.
In Iraq for centuries, the Christians and Jews who were citizens were protected. No infidel or fanatic could have touched a Christian or Jew. Saddam gave them protection, and the governments before for thousands of years. Look today, the churches are burned, same in Syria, ancient historical churches and destroyed, looted and destroyed. This pains my heart greatly for the Quran says: The Christians and Jews are closest in faith to Muslims.” Places of worship, or places of conscience are sacrosanct in Islam.
The Religion of Islam, commands Muslims: “Protect mosques, churches, synagogues, and sanctuaries where God’s name is remembered or recited, and to protect them even with their lives.” This is the Islam I know and preach. Prophet Muhammad has visited a Roman Catholic Church on top of a mountain in Egypt, and promised them protection forever, though he and his religion disagreed with the concept of being a monk or nun. But because they thought they worshipped God in earnesty, he gave them official protection. He said so.
In Iraq, if someone during Saddam’s time, fired a gun three hundred miles away, in 30 minutes they would be caught, and dealt with. Look at the countless blasts and an average of one hundred people dying daily in Iraq, yet
The AFC tsunami
Dear Editor,
As I said in my first letter to the press, I voted for the Alliance For Change (AFC).
The recent revelations by Mr Haseef Yusuf, now former member of the AFC, has created a tsunami for the AFC party. These revelations have left AFC members and supporters in shock. They are asking themselves how this could be.
After all, it is the exact opposite of what the AFC declared to the nation. They are asking themselves if this is the same party that is preaching to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), the government and the nation about high morals, integrity, corruption, good governance and conflict of interest, to name a few.
It is unbelievable that Mr Khemraj Ramjattan, leader of the AFC, continues to accuse the government of lack of accountability and good governance, but sees nothing wrong with the AFC practicing the opposite to what they preach to all and sundry.
The AFC has taken lack of accountability to another level. According to Mr Yusuf, the AFC’s “audited” accounts are not signed by anyone. They have introduced new principles
into accounting. What does Mr Christopher Ram have to say about this phantom auditing?
Is he aware of these new principles in the accounting field? After all accountability is his favourite topic. His silence on the issue of accountability in the AFC would definitely confirm that he is a hypocrite. It is therefore the duty of Mr Christopher Ram to prove he is not. We await you Lallbachan!
This level of lack of accountability in the AFC can be judged from the horse's own mouth. Mr Ramjattan publicly declared that Mr Yusuf is not a financial member of the AFC. Mr Yusuf on the other hand is claiming that he has a receipt that proves otherwise.
Mr Yusuf has exposed yet another conflict of interest situation among leaders of the AFC. A company owned by Catty Hughes, wife of the now discredited Nigel Hughes, provided services to the AFC to the tune of some $7 million. Was the price a fair one or was it inflated? Was this contract advertised internally? Was other party members offered an opportunity to bid? Isn’t the AFC the one that always accuse the government and PPP/C of cronyism and conflict of interest?
The message of Mr Yusuf’s letter and of course the recent high profile resignations from the AFC are clear. Don’t believe the AFC leaders and stick your head out for them, you will get it cut off. The AFC leadership is losing whatever little credibility they have by the day. It is only a matter of time before they completely destroy themselves. The head of the fish is already rotten.
Yours sincerely, Reaz Holladar
the infidels, who kill innocent people while praying in churches or mosques or shopping in the markets cannot be found. Today Al Qaida is in Iraq, same for Egypt and Syria. During Saddam’s time, Al-Quaida was never in Iraq, could not have been.
The western nations in supporting what is termed the Arab Spring to my opinion erred, as in that support the fanatical hordes, the murderous sectarian specialists walked into the nations. In Saddam, Gadaffi or Mubarak times, no on could have killed innocent people with blasts or destroyed a church.
So many saintly Christians were killed in Iraq that it is a downright shame, a disgrace to Islam. It pains my heart as a lover of religions and humanity. In the times of these leaders, we never heard of an embassy in Libya being attacked or an
ambassador killed? As they had the thought, the intelligence network of Gadaffi would have found out and the planners dealt with. This is the language these people understand! Study their history! The Arabs always need strongman leadership, benevolent dictators.
The Holy Quran 2:262 says: Be you a Muslim, a Jew, a Christian or Sabian (any other religion), once you believe in God Almighty. Do good and believe in the judgement, you shall have your reward from God Almighty.
Quran: Fight! Fight! Those who fight again you, but do not exceed the limits.
Quran: If they incline to peace, incline thou to it., and trust in Allah.
By this and so much other examples, the right and proper thing is that Muslims cannot be aggressors. But they can be great defenders.
They must fight with all their might if attacked.
Those fanatical agents of death: The Al Qaida, the Al-Shabaab, the Pakastani Insurgents; the Somalia killers, hijackers and pirates; the numerous killers in Iraq, too numerous to mention; those in Nigeria; those in the Philipines, and elsewhere, all they do is bring disgrace to God’s religion of Islam, and shame upon the decent Muslims world over, and cause unnecessary hurt and inconvenience. I am ashamed of them.
Had I not the true knowledge of Islam as the absolute religion of peace, harmony and universal love, I would have been the first to terminate it from my life.
Sincerely, Roshan Khan
The Electric Mosque’s Teachings of Islam
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Page Foundation
Parenting For Success
Child Protection
– ChildLink’s vision is a Guyanese society where every child enjoys the right to a childhood in a safe and caring family, free from poverty, violence, and exploitation
Child protection means preventing and responding to violence, exploitation, and abuse against children – including commercial sexual exploitation, trafficking, child labour and harmful traditional practices, such as child marriage. Children who are at risk of losing or have lost parental care are at an especially high risk of violence, exploitation and abuse – and therefore have a special need for protection. Child protection is about protecting the human rights of the world’s most vulnerable people. The Convention on the Rights of the Child outlines the basic rights of children, including the right to be protected from economic exploitation and harmful work, all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse, and physical or mental violence, as well as ensuring that children are not separated from their family against their will.
Lasting scars
Child abuse is more than bruises and broken bones. While physical abuse might be the most visible, other types of abuse, such as emotional abuse and neglect, also leave deep, lasting scars. The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle – rather than perpetuate it. By learning about common signs of abuse and what you can do to intervene, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life.
Effects of child abuse and neglect
All types of child abuse and neglect leave lasting scars. Some of these scars might be physical, but emotional scarring has long-lasting effects throughout life, damaging a child’s sense of self,
ability to have healthy relationships, and ability to function at home, at work and at school. Some effects include:
* Lack of trust, and relationship difficulties. If you can’t trust your parents, who can you trust? Abuse by a primary caregiver damages the most fundamental relationship as a child – that you will safely and reliably get your
physical and emotional needs met by the person who is responsible for your care. Without this base, it is very difficult to learn to trust people or know who is trustworthy. This can lead to difficulty maintaining relationships due to fear of being controlled or abused. It can also lead to unhealthy relationships because the now adult child doesn’t know what a good relationship is.
* Core feelings of being “worthless” or “damaged” . If you’ve been told over and over again as a child that you are stupid or no good, it is very difficult to overcome these core feelings. You may experience them as reality. Children may not strive for more education, or settle for less than enough, because they don’t believe they can do it or are worth more. Sexual abuse survivors, with the stigma and shame surrounding the abuse, often especially struggle with a feeling of being damaged.
* Trouble regulating emotions. Abused children cannot express emotions safely. As a result, the emotions get suppressed, coming out in unexpected ways. Survivors of child abuse can struggle with unexplained anxiety, depression, or anger. They may turn to substances or promiscuous lifestyles to numb out the painful feelings.
There are several types of child abuse, but the core element that ties them together is the emotional effect on the child. Children need predictability, structure, clear boundaries, and the knowledge that their parents are looking out for their safety. Abused children cannot predict how their parents will act. Their world is an unpredictable, frightening place with no rules. Whether the abuse is a slap, a harsh comment, stony silence, or not knowing if there will be dinner on the table tonight, the end result is a child that feels unsafe, uncared for, and alone.
Please contact us on telephone number 231-7174 or email us at programmes. childlink@networksgy.com for any support you may need on parenting and other challenges you are experiencing with your children.
Signs of abuse
Recognising child abuse is not easy. It is not your responsibility to decide whether or not child abuse has taken place or if a child is at significant risk of harm from someone. You do, however, have both a responsibility and duty, to act in order that the appropriate agencies can investigate and take any necessary action to protect a child.
The following information should help you to be more alert to the signs of possible abuse.
Physical abuse
Most children will collect cuts and bruises as part of the rough-and-tumble of daily life. Injuries should always be interpreted in light of the child’s medical and social history, developmental stage and the explanation given. Most accidental bruises are seen over bony parts of the body, for example, elbows, knees, shins, and are often on the front of the body. Some children, however, will have bruising that is more than likely inflicted rather than accidental.
Important indicators of physical abuse are bruises or injuries that are either unexplained or inconsistent with the explanation given, or visible on the ‘soft’ parts of the body where accidental injuries are unlikely, for example, cheeks, abdomen, back and buttocks. A delay in seeking medical treatment when it is obviously necessary is also a cause for concern, although this can be more complicated with burns, as these are often delayed in presentation due to blistering taking place some
time later.
The physical signs of abuse may include; unexplained bruising, marks or injuries on any part of the body multiple bruises – in clusters, often on the upper arm, outside of the thigh; cigarette burns; human bite marks; broken bones; scalds, with upward splash marks; and multiple burns with a clearly demarcated edge.
Changes in behaviour that can also indicate physical abuse: fear of parents being approached for an explanation; aggressive behaviour or severe temper outbursts; flinching when approached or touched; reluctance to get changed, for example in hot weather; depression; withdrawn behaviour; and running away from home.
Emotional abuse
Emotional abuse can be difficult to measure, as there are often no outward physical signs. There may be a developmental delay due to a failure to thrive and grow, although this will usually only be evident if the child puts on weight in other circumstances, for example when hospitalised or away from their parents’ care. Even so, children who appear wellcared for may nevertheless be emotionally abused by being taunted, put down, or belittled. They may receive little or no love, affection or attention from their parents or carers. Emotional abuse can also take the form of children not being allowed to mix or play with other children
Changes in behaviour which can indicate emotional abuse include: neurotic behaviour, for example, sulking, hair twisting, rocking; being unable to play; fear of making mistakes; sudden speech disorders; selfharm; fear of parent being approached regarding their behaviour; and developmental delay in terms of emotional progress
Sexual abuse
Adults who use children to meet their own sexual needs abuse both girls and boys of all ages, including infants and toddlers. Usually, in cases of sexual abuse it is the child’s behaviour that may cause you to become concerned, although physical signs can also be present. In all cases, children who tell about sexual abuse do so because they want it to stop. It is important, therefore, that they are listened to and taken seriously.
It is also important to remember that it is not just adult men who sexually abuse children – there are increasing numbers of allegations of sexual abuse of children against women and sexual abuse can also be perpetrated by other children or young people.
The physical signs of sexual abuse may include: pain or itching in the genital area; bruising or bleeding near genital area; sexually transmitted disease; vaginal discharge or infection; stomach pains; discomfort when walking or sitting down; pregnancy Excerpt from nspcc.org.uk)
Three held for alleged abduction of Berbice teen
Three men are in police custody after they were accused of abducting a teenage girl on Saturday evening at Number 78 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.
The victim, a 19-year-old a sales clerk of Corentyne, Berbice, was reportedly abducted in front of her place of work about 17:15h.
Those in custody are Akash Jaikarran, also called “Amar”, 22, of Lot 37, B Grant 1805 Crabwood Creek; Ganesh Narine, 22, of Lot 108, Grant 1805 Crabwood Creek and Sudesh Munsammy, also called “Subeer”, 39, of Lot 88, Grant 1805 Crabwood Creek.
Based on reports received, the 19-year-old and Jaikarran shared a friendly relationship for the past three months, but she reportedly started to see someone else.
As a result, about two weeks ago, Jaikarran allegedly threatened the teenager and informed her that if “he cannot get her, nobody will”.
About 17:45h on Saturday, the victim came out from her place of employment and recognised a white Toyota motorcar bearing registration number HC 2735, with the three men inside.
Soon after she saw Jaikarran and attempted to go back into her workplace, but was reportedly grabbed and pulled into the said car which sped away. The matter was reported to the police and the motor car with the suspects and victim were found on the Number 62 Public Road.
When questioned, the teenager told ranks that she was forced to go with the suspect, but claimed that she was not harmed in any way.
They were all taken to Springlands Police Station where the suspects were placed in custody and the motor car was impounded. The police are continuing their investigations.
Guyanese charged in NY bikers’ beat down case
AU.S.-based Guyanese has been charged in connection with the beat down of a New York motorist in a road rage case that has made international headlines.
The man who police say launched last week’s vicious biker-gang beat down of a West Side motorist was awaiting arraignment Sunday after being busted in the caught-on-camera incident.
Guyanese-born, Reginald Chance, 38, of Brooklyn – who sources say has a rap sheet with 21 prior arrests – is allegedly the violent “motor-psycho” who used his chrome helmet to smash open a window of victim Alexian Lien’s Range Rover on September 29.
Lien, an Internet executive from Lower Manhattan, was then dragged from the SUV and stomped in front of his horrified wife and two-year-old daughter.
Gang assault
Chance spent Saturday in lineups at the 33rd Precinct in Washington Heights before being charged with first-degree gang assault, assault and criminal mischief.
On Saturday night, prosecutors said as many as six bikers preyed on Lien, kicking him in the head even as he tried to crawl to safety.
The chilling details emerged during the Manhattan Criminal Court arraignment of Robert Sims, 35, of Brooklyn, the first of the alleged assailants nabbed in the attack. He is charged with gang assault and felony assault.
Sims was identified on video
and photographs by his distinctive black leather jacket, grey backpack, his helmet, which featured the number, 78, and his grey and white sneakers – which prosecutors say Sims used to kick the cowering dad’s head and body.
“The defendant is clearly seen stomping on [Lien’s] head,” Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass told Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Diana Boyar, who set a whopping US$100,000 cash bail.
Sims – whose rap sheet includes a 2002 bust for car theft, gun, drug and samauri sword possessions in 1998, according to sources – has admitted being caught on camera, the prosecutor said.
"Innocent"
His lawyer, Luther Williams, insisted his client is innocent and said the bikers only went after Lien to prevent him from leaving the scene after striking one of the other bikers with his Rover.
Sims is also charged with weapons possession. Prosecutors did not name the weapon, but Williams speculated that officials mean his client’s helmet. “What weapon? Unless they are suggesting the helmets are weapons,” Williams said.
Meanwhile, a source close to the case told The Post that the off-duty New York Police Department (NYPD) undercover detective, who stood by Lien, was attacked – and who only came forward Wednesday – is insisting that the violence broke with blinding speed, and that he be-
lieved blowing his cover could endanger his own life.
“It all happened so fast,” said the source, who talked directly to the undercover detective and spoke to The Post on the condition of anonymity. “It wasn’t apparent what was happening till the very end – then it was a feeding frenzy.”
Detectives Endowment
Association President Michael Palladino said, “Leading a double life is not easy for undercovers.”
Palladino pointed to the case of Detective Gescard Isnora, the undercover cop who blew his own cover and fired the first shot in the 50-bullet fusillade that killed Sean Bell outside a Queens strip club in 2006.
“Detective Isnora was on-duty and got fired for stepping out of his undercover role,” Palladino said. “This undercover was offduty and has every reason to expect the same if something goes wrong.”
The motorcycle-loving undercover – whose work is being described as dangerous and “deep undercover” – had joined last Sunday’s 300-rider rally, and admits watching and doing nothing as Lien was attacked in front of his wife and two-year-old daughter near 178th Street.
The undercover has had his badge and gun yanked and remains under departmental investigation after only coming forward as a witness on Wednesday night.
A second cop was along for the ride, multiple sources have said, and is also under departmental investigation after coming forward only days after the incident.
The biker who shot the viral video that first captured the motorcyclists’ gang pursuit, Kevin Bresloff, 37, of Bellport, Long Island, also visited the 33rd Precinct Saturday – as a witness, said his lawyer, Andrew Vecere. (NY POST)
Reginald Chance
monday, october 7, 2013| guyanatimesgy.com
Increase in drug trafficking in Caribbean – DEA
The United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has warned about increased drug trafficking in the Caribbean, saying that more cocaine is being smuggled into the U.S. after passing through the region.
The DEA said the height-
ened trafficking represents a major shift in the route after the region was largely abandoned decades ago.
The agency said 14 per cent of cocaine bound for the U.S. was trafficked through the Caribbean in the first half of this year, doubling the sev-
en per cent that came through the region during the corresponding period last year.
“What we’re seeing is that traffickers are increasing the amount of cocaine in each shipment”, said DEA Caribbean Division special agent Vito S Guarino.
“This is a shift toward the Caribbean,” he told reporters. “And the picture we’re looking at right now will be the picture for the next few years.”
In this light, the FBI said it had dismantled one of the most powerful gangs. (CMC)
Eyew tness
Selective
...on Cubana Flight 455
Adam Harris is one of the older journalists in Guyana. He’s been around the block...and then some. He recently boasted (in a cussdown with his old colleague Kit Nascimento) that he pens the “Dem Boys Seh” in the MuckrakerKN. What a comedown for a fella who once headed Forbes Burnham’s New Nation and Guyana Chronicle.
Maybe its incipient senility, but the piece he wrote on the anniversary of the Cubana Air disaster – in which 11 Guyanese perished (among 78 overall) – was a real farce. And imagine it was supposed to be a tribute to some of his friends who’d been on board.
How do you write almost a thousand words on what was the most horrific act of terrorism in the Western Hemisphere (until 9/11) and not mention the role of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in the event? Even Burnham wouldn’t have closed his eyes...though his bread had been buttered by the same CIA.
And this is not any wild-eyed conspiracy theory. Even the vanilla-vapid Wikipedia announces: “CIA documents released in 2005 indicate that the agency “had concrete advance intelligence, as early as June 1976 on plans by Cuban exile terrorist groups to bomb a Cubana airliner”. The person who was the mastermind of the entire terrorist act was Luis Posada Carriles, who was fingered by the two men who admitted placing the bombs on the plane.
Posada had been on the CIA payroll for years...coming off only in 1974 – “but there remained ‘occasional contact’ until June 1976, a few months before the bombing.” A declassified CIA document dated October 12, 1976, a few days after the bombing, quotes Posada as saying, around September 15, “We are going to hit a Cuban airliner... Orlando has the details”.
His CIA contacts served him well after he fled to Miami from Venezuela where he had been arrested. For years, the U.S. government refused to extradite him for trial in Venezuela...especially after Hugo Chávez came to power. Posada’s co-conspirator was arrested and jailed in the U.S. but was pardoned by George Bush.
Harris’ selective memory, even when it involves his friends, signals his willingness to tack and turn to serve his own narrow interests. He has been travelling with increasing frequency to the U.S. and it’s quite clear that he doesn’t want to jeopardise his visa.
But his stance is ultimately insulting to Americans and American values: they do not believe in sanitising history – and would prefer to have eggs on their faces rather than silencing the truth for a visa.
...on teachers
It’s rather extraordinary how quickly most of us forget the immense role teachers played in our early – and not so early – development. I mean, how the heck would we know anything if we weren’t taught by someone? It’s not like we’re pre-programmed and born with instincts like the “lower” animals, are we? When we were in school, we were blank slates on which were written that which was transmitted by our teachers.
Part of the problem with our amnesia on teachers is that what they too have been reduced to just a monetary transaction. They get paid, they teach, the kids learn if they want to, and there’s no thought about what was once a “vocation”.
Sure teachers have to earn a living – sure they must be paid a “living wage”, but unless they represent what they do as more than a job, their efforts and the substance of what they transmit will both be devalued. So please, teachers, if you want to regain the status the profession once had in our society – treat yourself with dignity. Respect is earned, not demanded.
...on development
There are renewed calls by the opposition for bringing back the Guyana National Service to “absorb excess youths”. What happened to their commitment to making the private sector creating jobs to do just this? But with dignity and not a handout?
Ramotar explains veto of opposition bills
Guyana, Barbados to implement student, teacher exchange programme
President Donald Ramotar on Saturday defended vetoing several pieces of opposition-piloted legislation, deeming them unconstitutional and counter-productive to democracy.
The head of state was at the time speaking to a gathering of Berbicians at the University of Guyana, Tain Campus during the first of several events to commemorate the 21st anniversary of the return to democracy, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported.
Legislations that are passed by the Parliament are sent to the president for assent, but without consensus from both government and opposition in the Parliament, President Ramotar had stated his refusal to sign any into law.
This decision had sparked outrage from opposition politicians and their allies, but President Ramotar explained that it was as a result of the opposition’s “unconstitutional acts” in the Parliament.
“What are they using the Parliament for? They are using the Parliament to undermine our Constitution… the budget cuts that they made have been proven in court to be unconstitutional and every single bill that they bring in Parliament… most of the resolutions that they want to pass in the National Assembly have to do with undermining our democracy,” President Ramotar said.
Historic
On October 5, 1992, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) was returned to government after 28 years of opposition rule, marking a historic turn of events for the country and its people.
The Former President’s Benefits Bill that significantly reduced the scale of endowments a president receives upon demitting office and the Fiscal Management and Accountability (Amendment) Bill that
seeks to transfer certain functional responsibilities from the finance minister to the clerk of the National Assembly are among those that have not been signed into law. “When I refuse to sign them it’s because I’m defending your rights; the rights of the people of this country, to protect our Constitution,” President Ramotar said.
The political opposition combined, holds a one-seat majority in the Parliament, and has been using it against the government as a way of offsetting executive powers they wish they had, President Ramotar argued.
“They want power for the sake of having power.
That is why you see in the Parliament now they are preventing us from having either the Speaker or the deputy speaker… they want to control all the committees… they want to remove the authority of the Cabinet to give a no-objection on projects,” President Ramotar said.
The president said the opposition’s call for the establishment of a Public Procurement Commission (PPC) is to negate the role of the government to offer no objections to contracts.
He insisted, however, that the government needs to maintain this power if it is to be accountable to the people who are the immediate beneficiaries of contracts and deserve value for
money.
At a time when corruption has become a buzz word and fingers are often pointed at the government, President Ramotar said the current procurement system is the most transparent and can withstand scrutiny.
"We are not weak"
Similar sentiments were expressed by speakers before him, like former President Bharrat Jagdeo who fired up the crowd with his address.
“We’re not weak. No matter what they (opposition) think they have (one seat majority in the Parliament) we’re a strong party. We are Cheddi Jagan’s party,” Jagdeo said.
The former president made reference to several developmental projects that have been shot down like the Specialty Hospital and the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP).
“There is a struggle in this country… and unless all of us are aware of what that struggle is, it will creep up on us… and before we know it, all that we stand for and stood for, all that we have achieved and are trying to achieve in this country will be lost,” Jagdeo said.
The gathering was held in the compound of an institution that is regarded as one of many PPP/C landmarks in the ancient county. The others are the Berbice River Bridge and the Skeldon Sugar Factory.
Hydropower is the next major undertaking that will add to the party’s legacy and even in the face of strong opposition, Presidential Advisor on Governance Gail Teixeira, who was one of the speakers, said the project will become a reality.
Other speakers like Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and PPP/C General Secretary, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, called on supporters to maintain loyalty even in the difficult periods.
Guyana and Barbados are expected to sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the areas of fisheries, education, investment, civil aviation, transport, tourism/hospitality and agriculture in the next few months.
One of the agreements being finalised by the two countries will see the issuance of a joint fisheries licence for fishers of the two countries operating in the area that overlap their maritime boundaries.
This was disclosed by Barbados Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Maxine McClean and Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn RodriguesBirkett after the completion of the second session of the Guyana-Barbados Joint Commission meeting on Friday.
Scholarships
With regard to education, five Barbadian students will benefit from scholarships to the Guyana School of Agriculture while Guyana will receive help from Barbados in pork production and rearing of Black Belly sheep.
Guyanese hydromet officers will be attached to the Barbados Hydromet Office since Rodrigues-Birkett noted that Barbados has more experience in this area.
The two countries will also move to twin schools in Barbados and Guyana by offering exchange programmes for both teachers and stu-
dents.
“We will like from a very young age our student learning more about the Caribbean, Caricom, and their neighbours… within the next year, we are hoping to have our first visit,” she said. Guyana will soon employ a flight operation inspector who will receive addition training in Barbados.
Meanwhile, with respect to tourism and hospitality, Senator Maxine McClean noted that given her country’s long involvement in the sector, there are a number of areas where collaborations are possible.
“There is the intention to conclude a Memorandum of Understand (MoU) which should give an indication of how we can collaborate between our countries,” McClean said.
She said too that the two
countries will so be twinning their destinations for prospective and repeat visitors.
On this note, McClean stated that Barbados has air connections, and Guyana can tap into this area.
Barbados will be offering training in the tourism sector, and being aware that Guyana is seeking to establish a hospitality institute, McClean said her country can also share it experiences in this regard.
“We will negotiate the attachment of service providers to hotels in Barbados,” she said.
The two countries are also looking to foster cooperation in the areas of investments and exports.
This will see the conclusion of a MoU between Go-Invest and the Barbados Investment and Development Cooperation.
Foreign Affairs Minister
Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
Barbados Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Maxine McClean
A section of the gathering at the rally to mark the PPP/C’s 21st anniversary in power
President Donald Ramotar
Local sleuths to probe double murder at Venezuelan border
BY BHISHAM MOHAMED
Days after Orlando Fitzpatrick, 52, also called “Jim”, and his son, 17-year-old Jesse Fitzpatrick, also called “Jes”, of Lot 160 3rd Street, Grove, East Bank Demerara were brutally murdered close to the Venezuelan border, local law enforcement officers have left for the area to carry out their investigations.
The shooting incident is beieved to have occurred on Thursday evening.
A team of police ranks left Georgetown on Sunday morning for a place called “Curisina”, located a few miles from the Venezuela/Guyana border, but on the Guyanese side.
The bodies of the teenager and his father are still with Venezuelan authorities, but relatives are completing all necessary legal paper work to have the bodies return to Guyana.
Futile
Attempts to make contact with Janice Fitzpatrick, a sister of Orlando, who resides in Venezuela, proved futile.
Nevertheless, at the home of the dead man, his wife Marlyn Allick stated that she last spoke with him on Thursday evening about 18:30h, when he telephoned to inform her that he and his son were on their way home.
The visibly shaken woman stated that she averaged that they would arrive in Georgetown around midnight on Thursday, but this was not the case.
She said after she did not hear from him the following morning, she attempted to call, but the phone rang out.
She tried several times, but was unsuccessful, and decided to call her mother-in-law to inquire, but her phone rang out as well. Later in the day, she noted that her mother-in-law informed her via telephone that she heard of a shooting in the area where the men were last seen.
Frustrated
The frustrated woman stated that it did not cross her mind that it was her son and husband who were shot. She called back the same number that her husband called from the previ-
ous night and inquired about their whereabouts.
The person who answered, reportedly a shopkeeper, told her that her husband and son had left in a boat with the captain and another passenger, noting that he too heard about the shooting. By then, she added that her sister-in-law called and informed her of the shooting.
News spread that the dead men were being brought out of the creek, so the sister-inlaw waited and was confronted with her worst fears.
As the bodies were taken out of the boat, they were discovered to be Orlando and his son.
Allick went on to say that the woman called back and related the horrific news.
“I want to know if four of them went in this boat, how only my son and his father get shot and they nah get shoot... it look like they were robbed and
then killed but we can’t know what really happen because dead man carry no tales,” she cried.
She is still puzzled as to why the bodies were not brought to Georgetown, but rather went back to Venezuela, noting that this is a bit suspicious.
In addition, she noted that the two other men are in the custody of Venezuelan authorities and are assisting with investigations.
While she noted that information remains sketchy, she said she believes that the incident was a set up.
“When my husband called, he tell me that he had gold. Now they rob me of everything, especially meh son and husband, who was the main breadwinner in the family,” she told Guyana Times.
Aggrieved
The aggrieved widow stated that her family is renting a house and had all intentions to get a plot of land to build their own home. “I got rent to pay… I got not one but two funerals to do… I got bills… I got a child still in school… what can I do now?” she asked.
The woman has no one else, except her three other children, who are still in a state of shock. Her son “Jes” reportedly left school to get into the business with his father so that they can work together to make life better.
The last time the woman saw her son was in June, the day after Father’s Day, but she recently saw her husband in August after he came out of the interior to undergo medical treatment. They were heading out and would have returned after the holiday.
The family is formerly of Wauna Village, North West District, but moved to the city a few years ago. (bisham@guyanatimesgy.com)
When de fox can’t get de grapes
De old people seh when de fox can’t get de grapes, dem does seh it sour. Nowadays, if any body decide to explain that statement some more, it gon mean that, when de fox can’t get de grapes, de fox does cuss de grapes, or de fox does pick de grapes and don’t eat dem because of pride, or de fox does hide and eat de grapes and wipe he mouth clean, and pretend that he nevah eat de grapes.
Mook Lall is a man like that…or at least dem people who still tink he is man. Some people call he mud paper man, some people call he Kocheur man, some people call he thief-from-G-PEE-Hell man, some people call he backtrack man, some people call he cash-in-suitcase man, and some people don’t ever call he man.
But whether or not de Mook is a real man, or he does just dress like man, every body know bout de fox part. And is not only from the looks, but also from de deeds. So dem not sure if he is a fox man or a fox sissy. But is fox all de same.
And de fox got plenty time now since he get ban from Regent Street…nevah mind he still does gotta sign de cheques and pay de credit card bills whah he don’t know bout. After all, that is one set of grapes whah de fox want real bad and he can’t get.
But de fox so smart, he aint’ call de Regent Street grapes sour yet. He callin de other foxes whah pickin de grapes sour. That is whah does happen to dem fox who tink that dem more smart than other foxes. Dem does always meet another fox whah smarter and bigger and better.
Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! Is no wonder de fox got he tail between he legs like dem dog puppy and he growlin. That is how dem fox whah can’t get de grapes does behave. And now he can’t even see de grapes whah he want, much less eat de grapes…so look out fuh more growlin from de fox!
Businessmen on bail for fatal accident involving child
The two businessmen who were allegedly involved in a vehicular accident which claimed the life of four-year-old Varshanie Seelall, were placed before the Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court on Friday and were jointly charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
Tazim Gafoor, 40, a businessman of Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara and Hardat Singh, 45, a businessman of Rosignol, West Bank Berbice, were each granted bail in the sum of $300,000 by Magistrate Rhondel Weaver. They were not required to plead to the charge which stated that on September 22 at Cotton Tree Public Road, they drove their motor vehicles in a dangerous manner, causing the death Varshanie Seelall of Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice.
Ever since the accident, Seelall remained in coma at the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital, but succumbed a few days later. Gafoor and Singh were re-
leased on bail, but after Seelall passed away, the charges were instituted after the file was sent to the director of public prosecution.
Seelall was a back seat passenger of motor car PMM 8599, along with her mother, Shamwattie Singh, and as a result of the collision, she received severe head injuries. She was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital, but due to her condition, she was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for further
treatment.
Apart from Seelall, the driver of the car, Hardat Singh and Shemwattie Singh, also underwent surgery for injuries incurred.
Gafoor was taken into police custody, but was released on bail. He also received injuries and was seen and examined by a doctor at the Fort Wellington Hospital.
According to reports, motor pick-up GKK 8838 was travelling at a fast rate while motor car PMM 8599 was travelling in the opposite direction, and in the process of passing each other, it was alleged the driver of the pickup swayed on the roadway and ended up in the path of the motor car, resulting in a collision.
The driver of the pickup reportedly lost control and spun several times before coming to a stop.
The child reportedly received most of the impact and was rendered unconscious. While at the GPH, she never regained consciousness.
Gafoor and Singh will return to court on October 28.
Dead: Varshanie Seelall
Orlando Fitzpatrick and his son Jesse Fitzpatrick in happier times
Times Notebook
The Cuban embargo
Times Notebook in a column on February 7 this year called for an end to the U.S. embargo on Cuba and reiterates this call. It’s been more than 50 years since this unholy and cruel embargo was put into place by the U.S. on the people of Cuba. Indeed, the Cuban embargo remains as one of the injustices of the 20th century and the U.S. must do the right thing – end the embargo now.
President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Denzil Douglas of St Kitts and Nevis, and other Caribbean leaders made calls for the end to this injustice recently at the United Nations (UN). These leaders have repeatedly urged the U.S.A. to end the embargo.
Obama's promise Barack Obama had indicated before he was elected as president of the U.S.A. that he would move to end the embargo. He has not kept his promise and continues the embargo. This would remain an ugly blot on his record.
Less than two weeks ago ,the Chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Richard E Pates, wrote to the American Secretary of State, Susan Rice, and urged her to take steps to end the Cuban embargo.
The bishop informed Rice that on September 15, the Cuban Bishops’ Conference issued an important pastoral letter, “Hope Does Not Disappoint.” This visionary statement courageously challenges the U.S. government to lift the embargo on Cuba.
The bishop’s letter reminded the U.S. government of the words of Pope John Paul II, who had stated that “the isolation has caused indiscriminate impact on the population, increasing the difficulties of the weakest concerning basics such as food, health and education”. The bishop concluded by calling for the elimination of “the measures imposed from outside the country that are unjust and ethically unacceptable”.
In the end, the bishop urged the U.S. government to lift the embargo against Cuba so that greater support and assistance can flow to ordinary Cubans.
The bishop also urged the American government to remove the designation of Cuba as a sponsor of state terrorism and argued that such an obsolete classification prevents engagement between America and Cuba and peoples of the two countries.
Engagement
He rightfully posited that engagement will do more than isolation to advance human rights and alleviate human suffering. It will also recognise Cuba’s constructive role in mediating Colombian peace negotiations and cooperating with the U.S. Coast Guard in drug interdiction activities.
Times Notebook, like the U.S. Catholic bishops and the Caribbean leaders, thinks it's long past due that the U.S. establishes full diplomatic relations with Cuba, withdraws all restrictions on travel to Cuba, and rescinds terrorist designations aimed at Cuba.
We encourage trade that will benefit both nations and facilitate cooperation in the areas of environmental protection, drug interdiction and scientific exchanges.
More engagement will help the people of Cuba achieve greater freedom, human rights and religious liberty.
Stubborn
Not only is the U.S. being stubborn and a bully in perpetuating this position, officials of the U.S. government have the temerity sometimes to tell us that America does not have an embargo and that we use the word embargo wrongly when we call on the U.S. government to end the embargo.
If they are embarrassed by the fact that the world sees them as a bully in this instance, then end the embargo. Times Notebook ends by quoting from the proclamation made by President John Kennedy in February 1962:
“Whereas the Eighth Meeting of Consultation of Ministers of Foreign
Impact of Snowden case to be topic at IAPA general assembly
ournalist Glenn
JGreenwald, who contributed to revealing the story of former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor Edward Snowden on telephone and electronic communication spying carried out by the U.S. government, will be participating in the General Assembly of the Inter American Press Association (IAPA) to be held from October 18 to 22 in Denver, Colorado.
Greenwald, a columnist for the U.S. edition of the British newspaper The Guardian, will speak in a teleconference from Brazil on October 21 about how journalistic responsibility can challenge government’s interference and what were the effects of the Snowden case on the public’s confidence in the press and within the context of freedom of expression.
On October 20, professionals will present a panel discussion about the U.S. government’s spying techniques and their impact on press freedom, and a special presentation will
feature the issue of leaks in the Justice Department.
The extensive programme of the IAPA’s General Assembly in Denver includes panel discussions on press freedom issues that will enrich country-by-country reports, which the organisation reviews twice a year.
“Gag law”
Among these panels is included a discussion on the implications of Ecuador’s Organic Communication Law, known as the “gag law”, led by the former chairman of the National Telecommunications Council of Ecuador, Juan Carlos Solines, and former legislator and professor of the Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar in Quito, César Montúfar.
Another special report will be given by Yoani Sánchez, creator of the blog Generación Y, vice chair for Cuba of the IAPA’s Committee on Freedom of the Press and Information. Argentina,
Colombia, Honduras, Mexico and Venezuela will also be topics of the debate due to press freedom problems concerning financial restrictions on the media – government propaganda, discrimination in the placement of official advertising and obstacles to the importation of production supplies –– as well as crimes against journalists.
During the General Assembly, the IAPA will recognise reporters, photographers, cartoonists, columnists and editors of newspapers and digital media in the Americas and will honour with the Press Freedom Grand Prize Argentine journalist Magdalena Ruiz Guiñazú and Diego Cornejo Menacho of Ecuador.
In addition to the reports, debates and panel discussions, those attending will also be able to take part in a number of seminars on successful business models for the newspaper industry. (www.sipiapa.org)
Affairs, Serving as Organ of Consultation in Application of the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance, in its Final Act resolved that the present government of Cuba is incompatible with the principles and objectives of the InterAmerican system; and, in light of the subversive offensive of Sino-Soviet Communism with which the government of Cuba
is publicly aligned, urged the member states to take those steps that they may consider appropriate for their individual and collective self-defence;
“Whereas the Congress of the United States, in section 620 (a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (75 Stat. 445), as amended, has authorised the president to establish and maintain an embargo upon all trade between the United States and Cuba; and
“Whereas the United States, in accordance with its international obligations, is prepared to take all necessary actions to promote national and hemispheric security by isolating the present government of Cuba and thereby reducing the threat posed by its alignment with the communist powers:
“Now, therefore, I, John F Kennedy, President of the United States of America, acting under the authority of
section 620 (a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (75 Stat. 445), as amended, do “1. Hereby proclaim an embargo upon trade between the United States and Cuba in accordance with paragraphs 2 and 3 of this proclamation.”
The U.S. must understand that it stands alone on this matter. Indeed, once again, as it has done in the recent past, the UN will pass a resolution calling on the U.S. government to end the embargo.
The U.S. must not allow itself to undergo another humiliation at the UN. It cannot continue to believe it stands on the side of righteousness and that all other nations stand on the side of evil.
America must understand that its stubbornness on the Cuban embargo issue leaves it standing as the world’s bully.
Readers are invited to comment on this article via email (times.notebook@gmail.com) and on Facebook.
President John Kennedy
President Donald Ramotar
Curtains come down
Carl Croker photos
Guyanese stream into the Sophia Exhibition Centre on Sunday to view the latest product offerings and innovations by local and overseas companies
A member of the NAMILCO team offers a sample of one of the many delights made from the local line of flour products The
When sleep is important, Comfort Sleep is there. Potential customers explore their options at GuyExpo
Guyana Amazon Warriors team members Christopher Barnwell and Trevon Griffith entertain visitors of the Windsor Estates' booth
Patrons flock the Office of Climate Change booth to learn more about the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and climate change
Have a Busta! No, a Fruta! seems to be the enticing message of these exhibitors
The children had even more fun than the adults at a specially-designated Children's Play Park
A Digicel representative inserting a SIM card into a customer’s phone
Qualfon staff take a little timeout to pose near the logo of the call centre, one of Guyana’s largest and rapidly growing companies
One of Guyana's leading manufacturers of hardware and building materials, National Hardware Limited gave patrons a wide array of products to view
A familiar sight. The Sunburst can was a fixture at GuyExpo that was not passed up
Caribbean International Distributors Inc gave visitors a thirst quenching experience as they visited its booth at GuyExpo
21st anniversary is victory for the people – President Ramotar
… says govt has transformed Guyana during its tenure
Hundreds of People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) supporters on Sunday flocked the Lusignan Market tarmac, East Coast Demerara to be part of a rally to celebrate the party’s 21st anniversary in government.
Addressing the gathering, President Donald Ramotar said the party is celebrating one of the most important victories of the Guyanese people.
“For a long time, our people struggle against all kinds of oppression and when we got independence, we thought that that was the time when we would move forward in our country but then again we had to start another struggle for freedom against the dictatorship that existed in Guyana, and therefore, we only had freedom in the last 21 years in this country, despite the fact that we have 47 years of independence,” said the president.
Massive developments
He said with the massive developments in the country, there is still a lot more to be done, but the party will need the support of all its supporters for this to happen.
“I want to ask you to stand with us because damager lurks at the door and we, therefore, must stand together… we have to continue on the forward march to make Guyana a developed country, we need your support not only to win the elections, we need your support to build the country,” Ramotar urged.
Former President Bharrat Jagdeo said the country has been significantly transformed under the PPP/C government, pointing
to commendable strides in the education, health, public and economic sectors.
He described the People’s National Congress (PNC) tenure in government as woeful and said Guyana must not return to those “dark days”.
“In that period, the country was deteriorating but with US$4.1 billion that this government, the PPP/C government over the past 20 years had to pay back, we could have fixed every school in this country, every hospital, widen all the roads, build the hydro, built bridges not only across the Berbice River but the Essequibo too, fixed the cost of living issues, address information communication technology and still had money remaining,” Jagdeo said.
He called on the present generation to learn the country’s past and history so that they can better understand the struggles of the
current government for the development of Guyana.
“If we allow small things in our communities, the drainage, the roads, couple potholes, some neighbour you don’t like, the NDC man… the people who went to school with me couldn’t dream of a life here, about raising a family here, about prospering here; the moth-
ers, fathers and grandparents, you have to ensure that your children have a future where they can live in freedom and dignity and only the PPP/C can ensure that happens,” Jagdeo told the gathering.
Govt of the people Prime Minister Samuel
Hinds, who also addressed the gathering, said the party is proud to remain attuned to the needs of the people as it celebrates another year in government.
Sacrifice
“We, of the PPP/C, are the people who put our mouth and who do the work and make the sacrifice for Guyana as a whole… we have had a good 21 years and I want us all here to commit to an even better 21 years into the future… we are not a party of the past, but we speak of the past so that we can make sure that we have a good future,” Hinds noted.
The prime minister said Guyanese must not be oblivious of the developments in the country even as the opposition tries to paint a different picture.
“We gave them (our people) hope when they did not have hope before so they could focus and they could
save and they could work and they could realise their dreams; that is what we have been doing, that is how we have been running our country by making the best we could with what we have and with the people we have and as time has passed and we could do better, we did better,” said the prime minister.
Struggles
PPP/C General Secretary and Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said the party was persecuted in opposition, but remained united as he paid tribute to the victims of the struggles for a better Guyana.
“The battle was long and hard for us to arrive where we are today; how did we arrive where we are today? Many struggles, many fights, many of our comrades were jailed and imprisoned and we must pay homage to each and every one of those comrades that stood up in the past solidly behind this party,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Priya Manickchand said that the celebration is not just for the party, but for every Guyanese since everyone has been touched by the developments in the country.
“Every single person in this audience here could point to things that have happened in their lives that have made them better people, that have made them provide for their children, that has made them better able to provide for their wives, that have made single mothers better able to provide for their offspring and this is all because of the kind of management by the PPP/C,” she declared.
Cubana remembered Rio de Janeiro favelas occupied after major operation
Sunday marked the 37th anniversary of the crash of Cubana Flight CU 455 off the west coast of Barbados.
To commemorate the tragic terrorist act, the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Barbados, government officials, members of the Barbadian Solidarity Movement to Cuba, and Cubans living in Barbados gathered at the Cubana Monument at Paynes Bay, St James, to pay tribute to the 73 innocent persons who lost their lives.
Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Barbados, Lisette Perez Perez pointed out that what happened to the Cubana passenger plane on
October 6, 1976 was not an isolated incident.
“The cruelty of a 50year war of terror against Cuba is abhorrent. Since the triumph of the Cuban Revolution, terrorists have murdered 3478 Cubans and incapacitated 2099 others.”
She went on to acknowledge that the masterminds behind the attack, Orlando Bosch and Luis Posada Carriles, were never convicted for this criminal act.
“Bosch passed away peacefully in Miami, where he lived in complete freedom [and] impunity, after being granted presidential pardon by George Bush, which was negotiated by the Cuban far-right wing. A similar treatment
was given to the other perpetrator of this abominable crime. Carriles was neither charged nor prosecuted in the United States,” she recalled.
Ambassador Perez also took the opportunity to thank the people and government of Barbados for their support.
“There is a history of injustice in the waters of Paradise Beach in Barbados. The cold-blooded murder of the people on board that passenger plane was a crime against them, their families, and their countries. It was also a crime against Barbados and its people,” she stressed. (Excerpt from Barbados Advocate)
Hundreds of Brazilian security officers, backed by armoured vehicles and helicopters, have occupied 12 shanty towns in Rio de Janeiro.
The major operation is part of an ongoing drive by authorities to push drug gangs away from poor areas.
Two new police pacification units (UPP) will be set up in Lins de Vasconcellos, home to about 15,000 people.
Since 2008, another 34 UPPs have been set up across the state, but there have also been reports of police brutality.
Rio will host the 2016 Olympics and matches of
next year’s football World Cup.
Hundreds of police officers backed by at least two armoured vehicles and three helicopters moved into the slums at dawn on Sunday.
There has been no resistance from gangs on Sunday’s operation, authorities say.
“This is another step towards peace,” Rio state governor Sergio Cabral Filho told reporters.
He said the government would now invest US$225 million in public works to improve the living conditions in the area.
At least one man was arrested, and guns and drugs were confiscated, police said.
Governor Cabral Filho said the pacification programme should reach the Mare area – a series of interlinked shanty towns that are home to more than 130,000 people – until early next year.
The occupation of the Mare slums is seen as one of the most challenging yet by Rio authorities.
Earlier this year, police also occupied the shanty towns of Complexo do Caju and Barreira do Vasco without trouble.
But 10 police officers of a UPP in one of Rio’s largest slums, Rocinha, were accused of torturing and killing a resident. (Excerpt from BBC News)
President Donald Ramotar with supports at the party’s 21st anniversary celebration at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara
The gathering of PPP/C supporters at the Lusignan Market tarmac, East Coast Demerara on Sunday
Fresh clashes in Egypt leave 44 dead
At least 44 people have been killed and scores hurt in Egypt in clashes between police and supporters of the deposed Islamist President Mohammed Morsi.
More than 200 members of the Muslim Brotherhood were arrested in Cairo, where 40 of the deaths were reported.
Supporters of Morsi marched in several cities, as the military-backed government marked the 40th anniversary of the 1973 ArabIsraeli war.
Morsi supporters say he was deposed in a military coup in July.
Hundreds of people had gathered in Cairo’s Tahrir Square to celebrate the anniversary.
Jets and Apache helicopters flew overhead in formation, as part of a grand display of military hardware by the government.
The crowd cheered the flypasts, a number of people carrying portraits of defence chief General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Some want him to stand as Egypt’s next president.
Supporters of Morsi also took to the streets in their thousands, trying to make their way to the square and calling General Sisi a murderer. Security forces used tear gas and fired into the air to stop them.
In the upmarket Dokki district, a number of protesters were hit by live rounds,
some by birdshot. In return they threw rocks at police and soldiers.
The street battles raged for hours, with small fires burning and black smoke rising in several parts of the capital.
But the military succeeded in keeping the rival supporters apart.
The Interior Ministry earlier warned it would confront any “attempts that may disturb the October 6 celebrations”, the Mena state news agency reported.
In a televised address, Prime Minister Hazem Beblawi described it as a “critical time” for the country and urged Egyptians to “stand together, be optimistic about the future”. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Around
Syrian chemical arms removal begins
The destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons has begun, international monitors have said.
The operation is being overseen by a team from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
The mission was established under a United Nations resolution, which was passed after agreement between Russia and the United States.
The resolution followed international outrage at a chemical weapons attack near Damascus in August.
In an interim report,
UN chemical weapons inspectors confirmed that the nerve agent sarin had been used in the attack in Ghouta on the outskirts of the city on August 21.
It was estimated to have killed hundreds of people and was blamed by the U.S. and other Western powers on the regime of Bashar al-Assad. But he accuses Syrian rebels of being behind it.
It was not clear at which of the chemical weapons sites declared by the government, thought to number about 20, that Sunday’s operation took place.
An official on the joint OPCW-UN delegation lat-
er said: “The first day of destruction and disabling is over, and missile warheads, aerial bombs, along with mobile and static mixing and filling units, were dealt with. Work continues tomorrow and in the next few days.”
The destruction of the stockpile, being carried out by the Syrians, is not expected to be straightforward, as some sites are in combat zones.
It is the first time the OPCW – based in The Hague – has been asked to oversee the destruction of a chemical weapons armoury during a conflict. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Typhoon Fitow hits eastern China after mass evacuation
Powerful Typhoon Fitow has made landfall in eastern China after triggering the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people.
With winds up to 151km/h (93mph), the storm landed in Fujian province early today, bringing heavy rains and causing widespread power cuts. Some homes are said to have collapsed in neighbouring Zhejiang province and two port workers are missing.
The authorities earlier issued the highest alert – red –for the area. Typhoon Fitow
– named after a flower –made landfall at 01:15 local time (17:15 GMT Sunday) in the city of Fuding, Chinese meteorologists said.
They warned that some areas in Fujian and Zhejiang could see more than 200mm (8 in) of rain in the coming hours.
In Fujian, 177,000 people were evacuated before the storm hit the coast, the state-run Xinhua news agency said. In Zhejiang, some 574,000 people had to leave their homes. Some 35,000 boats in Zhejiang and 30,000 in Fujian were ordered to return to harbour for shelter.
“We must not leave anybody in danger,” Zhejiang Governor Li Qiang was quoted as saying. The typhoon also caused suspension of bullet trains and coach services in several cities in the area. Dozens of flights to and from Wenzhou airport in Zhejiang were cancelled. The storm is now moving north-west and is expected to weaken quickly. It comes just weeks after Typhoon Usagi killed at least 25 people in southern Guangdong province. (BBC News)
TAfghan presidential candidates decided Libya wants answers over raid by U.S. commandos
wo men considered front-runners in Afghanistan’s presidential election were the last to file their nominations, beating a deadline for candidates by only hours.
By the closure of nominations on Sunday, about 20 presidential candidates had registered for the April 5 elections, the first independent vote organised by Afghanistan without direct foreign assistance.
In chaotic scenes outside the Independent Election Commission in Kabul, Qayum Karzai, the older brother of incumbent Hamid Karzai, submitted his papers with only moments to spare with police barring his supporters due to overcrowding.
He was the last of the major candidates to register, arriving hours after another leading candidate, Ashraf Ghani, had filed his papers.
Election nominees are a mix of Afghanistan’s past and current power players, warlords with a tainted history, technocrats, and
some political outsiders.
Abdullah Abdullah, a former foreign minister and runner-up to Karzai in the 2009 elections, is also among the early favourites.
Karzai is not entitled to run for a third consecutive term. He is, however, expected to back Rasoul over his brother.
To run, candidates must have at least 100,000 signatures backing their nomination, and their candidacy will be reviewed by the Independent Electoral Commission before final approval on November 11.
Candidates were also required to declare two vice-presidents.
All the candidates have tried to shape tickets that attempt to unify an ethnically fractious political scene marked by patronage and alliances among the elite, which can marshal votes among the country’s various ethnic groups.
The Taliban has told Afghans not to vote and said does not recognise the election process. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Libya has called for an explanation after the U.S. snatched a man it alleges is an al-Qaeda leader during a raid in Tripoli.
Ali Zeidan, Libya’s prime minister, suggested on Sunday that his government was not informed of the plan before U.S. commandos seized Nazih Abdul-Hamed al-Ruqai, known by his alias Anas al-Liby, in the Libyan capital on Saturday.
“The Libyan government is following the news of the kidnapping of a Libyan citizen who is wanted by U.S. authorities,” Zeidan said in a statement. “The Libyan government has contacted to U.S. authorities to ask them to provide an explanation.”
Liby is wanted by the U.S. for his alleged role in the East Africa embassy bombings that killed 224 people in 1998. The U.S. had offered US$5 million for information leading to his capture.
Mohammed El-Hadi, Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Tripoli, quoted Liby’s wife as saying that he was seized as he headed to morning prayer by eight to 10 masked men.
“His wife saw the men getting out of two cars in front of the house … she added that the masked men immediately attacked him before he could get out of his car,” our correspondent said.
“She said she was listening to them and heard some of them speaking in a Libyan dialect ... and some information indicated they were Libyan special forces.”
George Little, a spokesman for the U.S. Defence Department, said that Liby was being “lawfully detained by the U.S. military in a secure location outside of Libya”.
The raid in Libya coincided with a failed attempt in Somalia to seize Ahmed Godane, a leader of the alQaeda-linked group alShabab. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Yemen: Attackers try to kidnap German diplomat
Gunmen shot dead a German security guard employed by the German embassy in Yemen’s capital on Sunday as he was leaving a supermarket, Yemeni security officials said, in an attack that bore the hallmarks of al Qaeda.
Pan-Arab news channel al-Arabiya reported that the guard had been shot dead as the assailants tried to kidnap the German ambassador Carola MuellerHoltkemper, who escaped.
Two Yemeni officials said they were unable to confirm the report of the attempted kidnap. Embassy employees in Sanaa and the German Foreign Ministry in Berlin declined to comment.
Mueller-Holtkemper had only recently arrived in Yemen and presented her credentials to Yemeni authorities less than a week ago, a statement on the embassy’s website showed.
The man was gunned down in Sanaa’s Hadda
district, where the embassy is located. It was the latest in a series of attacks on foreign and local officials in the U.S.-allied state, which is battling one of the most active branches of al Qaeda.
“We believe that al Qaeda was behind the killing,” a Yemeni police source said. Another source said that the guard was killed as he was leaving the store to go to his car.
In a separate attack on Sunday, kidnappers seized an African employee of the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF as he was travelling from Sanaa to the Red Sea coastal town of Hudaidah, a UNICEF official in Sanaa said.
Yemen-based al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has attacked several Western targets, including airliners, and is believed to have been behind a series of killings of foreign and local officials in the country since 2011. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Egypt’s deep divisions were exposed in the clash
International Financial and Economic Report
Chairman, Guyana Americas Merchant Bank
The importance of what is happening in Washington is beginning to be reflected on Wall Street as the relatively modest economic issues surrounding the U.S. government shutdown are being seriously compounded.
This is led by fears that arguments over the debt limit discussions probably starting about October 17 could lead to a U.S. debt default. No one has any in-
Department of Labour and is released the first Friday of each month at 8:30h. The general view is that about 180,000 jobs were created in the month with no change in the unemployment rate.
The fact that economists are inconvenienced by the shutdown is trivial, but thousands of people are much more than inconvenienced starting with children from poorer backgrounds (Head Start) and ill
Table I
decision of the Department of Labour not to publish the employment number. Still, there were plenty of other reports starting Monday with the Chicago Purchasing Manager Index (PMI) business barometer which rose to 55.7 in September from 53 in August.
In overseas news, the euro strengthened the most in two weeks on Tuesday after Dr Draghi took the view that no new measures
BY GEOFFREY BELL
kling about how long the government shutdown will last with neither the Democrats nor Republicans giving ground.
The impact on the stock markets of the emerging world has been relatively marginal (see Table 1) except for India which is up, but the effect on the issuance of debt from these countries has been significant.
One casualty of the government shutdown is the September payrolls report, which is without question the most important economic release of the month. This is published by the U.S.
children and others because the National Institutes of Health are closed.
On Tuesday last week, Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe pledged to increase the national sales tax from five per cent to eight per cent next April. According to President of the European Central Bank, Dr Mario Draghi, the European recovery is “weak, fragile and uneven” and inflation is expected to remain on the “very low” side of two per cent over the medium term.
The U.S. economic numbers this week were overshadowed by the inevitable
were needed to boost the European economy despite the weak assessment.
China’s non-manufacturing purchasing managers’ index rose to 55.4 in September from 53.9 in August, a sixmonth high. On Thursday, Moody’s lowered Brazil’s sovereign rating to stable from positive at Baa2 while the Philippine’s upgraded to investment grade following earlier moves by S&P and Fitch. Brazil’s industrial production unexpectedly stalled in August after falling 2.4 per cent in July.
Despite the government shutdown and forthcom-
ing debt ceiling row, interest rates have risen a little since last Friday. In the last week, 10-year U.S. treasury yields have risen marginally from 2.62 per cent to 2.64 per cent, but 30-year bonds have moved from 3.68 per cent to 3.73 per cent. This is presumably because investors were less tempted to buy longer-dated issues because of an aversion to risk.
In the foreign currency markets, the euro has risen to US$1.36 from US$1.35, the yen from 98.3 to 97.1 and the Australian dollar from 0.92 to 0.94. As can be seen in Table II only the Brazilian real and the
Indian rupee have moved up in the emerging markets.
Oil prices have stayed basically unchanged at US$104 a barrel – West Texas Intermediate (WTI) –while gold prices have fallen from US$1324 an ounce at the end of last Friday to $1309 Thursday morning. The Dow Jones is hovering around 15,000 and is down 1.5 per cent for the week.
The received wisdom is that the entire mess in Washington will be resolved soon ending the shutdown and averting a debt ceiling debacle. Yet, these antics on Capitol Hill are not only juvenile but danger-
ous because of their impact on confidence. This is a one reason why growth in the United States continues to be around two per cent and it is unlikely that this will change. The combination of modest growth in the United States and generally in industrial markets (except perhaps for Japan) will keep growth restrained in the world economy. If the emerging markets slow down (as seems likely), the world economy is not likely to grow much more than three per cent. It’s not bad, but certainly no cigar five years after the 2008 crisis!
Caution reigns in Asia as U.S. shutdown drags on,
Asian markets look set for a cautious start to the week today, with U.S. stock futures and the dollar coming under pressure as politicians in Washington showed no signs of making progress over the weekend in resolving the U.S. budget standoff.
Democrats and Republicans remained far apart in ending the first government shutdown in 17 years, let alone reaching a deal on the U.S. borrowing limit by October 17 to avoid an unprecedented debt default.
Republican House Speaker John Boehner vowed on Sunday not to raise the U.S. debt ceiling
without a “serious conversation” about what is driving the debt, while Democrats said it was irresponsible and reckless to raise the possibility of a default. The comments appeared to mark a hardening stance since late last week when Boehner was reported to have told Republicans privately that he would work to avoid default, even if it meant relying on the votes of Democrats, as he did in August 2011.
The U.S. Standard & Poor’s 500 e-mini futures shed 0.5 per cent in early Asian trade today. The S&P 500 index .SPX ended down 0.1 per cent last week. U.S. Treasury futures added 5-1/2
dollar falls
ticks.
Selling in risky assets has been orderly so far, but investors see volatility rising if the shutdown continues as the October 17 deadline gets closer. “As the days tick by and the U.S. government’s cash gradually starts to run out, the stakes will rise considerably,” analysts at ANZ said in a note.
Asian shares were likely to face another testing week after Japan’s Nikkei share average .N225 tumbled five per cent last week to mark its worst weekly decline since early August. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 index .AXJO was flat in a tentative start to the session. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Curtains pulled on GuyExpo 2013
The curtains came down Sunday night on the annual Guyana Exposition and Trade Fair (GuyExpo) with exhibitors lauding organisers for a more focussed business-oriented event.
The trade fair was held at the Sophia Exhibition Site under the theme “Advancing Productivity through Innovation, Modernisation and Expansion”.
According to the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), more than 400 international and local exhibitors converged on the Sophia Exhibition Complex over the last four days for this massive event heralded as the country’s premier trade and investment exposition.
Benefits
Most of the exhibitors pointed to the numerous benefits of attending this event over the years, including the fact that they are able to consolidate the purchasing process down from a timeline of weeks to a single day.
For online shopping and shipping company, Zoon, GuyExpo 2013 marked the second year of participation; just 12 months ago, they were first time exhibitors, testing the proverbial waters at the massive trade fair.
“We were here as first time exhibitors last year and we started with one booth; now we have taken three booths. The main reason we came back was because of the response last year and we signed up hundreds and hundreds of customers,” Zoon’s Manager Leon Ramkirpaul explained.
Alluding to the addi-
tional highlights of participation, he continued, “They all came in and from GuyExpo, they wanted to ship with us, from last year, with that overwhelming response that we got, we saw it as another opportunity at GuyExpo this year to come bigger and better,” he said.
He noted too that the company invested heavily in this year’s exposition, since it was confident of consumers’ response to the marketing reach of the event. Meanwhile, Sterling Products, a longstanding GuyExpo exhibitor, used the event to introduce a new product, YoGreat, to the Guyanese market.
The company’s Manufacturing and Business Unit Assistant Manager Sharlene Roberts took the time to explain the success of this move.
“We are here showcasing our local fruit flavoured yogurt and we are focusing this year on health products and we are encouraging everyone to try it.
Opportunity
"We have been coming to GuyExpo over the years because we love that we are the local manufacturers and GuyExpo gives us the opportunity to showcase what is done locally,” she stated.
Roberts said too that Sterling Products remains a steadfast supporter of the event as it has recognised that GuyExpo has always paid homage to the businesses in the manufacturing sector.
Warren Douglas of Pandama Wines shared similar sentiments. “This is our fourth year and we have seen a progressive increase in the amount of
GLU membership base growing gradually – general secretary
BY SAMUEL SUKHNANDAN
As the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) gears up to host its Seventh Triennial Delegates Congress later this month, General Secretary Carvil Duncan said the union has seen a slight increase in its membership.
Duncan said while there is much concern about the longevity of the movement, the GLU seems to be on track with its membership, despite the challenges that faces the labour movement across the Caribbean.
The union’s general secretary told Guyana Times that the increase in membership is an indication that many public servants still have hope in the trade union movement, and more so, is confident about the representation they are likely to receive under the GLU.
people that have been attending GuyExpo over the years we have been here,” he said.
Douglas revealed that the flow of persons through the pavilions was a bit “slower” than last year, despite this, persons who did visit the booth made purchases.
Coming back
“I suppose the financial equivalent is still there. We keep coming back to GuyExpo because we love the products that we create and we love to see the reaction of the people when they taste it for the first time,” Douglas noted.
Yet another new company, MGV Rental Service saw the benefits of participating in the trade fair and chose to launch their product at GuyExpo 2013.
The entity provides rental service for cutlery and flat ware, of high quality standard, for the hosting of any event in the country.
“It is the dream of my wife, she always wanted to get into this type of business so she decided to invest, and as a result, GuyExpo came around and we decided to take a booth,” MGV part owner George Vyphuis.
As to the advantages of this move, he explained that thousands of persons passed through the annex, where their booth was located, and many have expressed interest in other products and have now prompted the business owners to expand their product line.
“A lot of persons have showed interested and have taken our contact information to form partnerships,” he explained.
and also match the gender or age group of the concerned workers, are sent to deal with the concerns.
This, he said was made possible through the GLU’s work to extend its organising team, and by bringing in new persons to help in moving the work of the union forward. Duncan said the GLU has taken a different approach in addressing the concerns of its members.
Unique approach
He explained that in cases where there is a group of workers that have issues to be resolved and they might all be women or youth, then representatives from the union who have background knowledge in these areas
He said women will be better able to relate to the issues women face and so it would be for the other groups, therefore, the most appropriate persons are sent to deal with the issues at hand. This approach, he noted has been successful and is a new model being used by the GLU in executing its ground work.
New methods
Duncan asserted that this and other new methods being used by the GLU are helping the union to do a better job representing the working class.
“We do not sweep anything under the carpet and whether you are from our trade union or not and we can help you, we do exactly that,” Duncan added.
All treated equally
He said the GLU has an approach whereby each matter is treated equally and the work carried out by the union is done in a way that each member is satisfied. Even if a member does not get the desired outcome, the GLU, he explained, works hard to ensure that person understands and appreciates the energy and dedication the GLU team puts into fighting their case. Currently, some 300 sea defence employees are members of the GLU and this number continues to increase. He noted that the GLU’s overall membership is somewhere over 10,000 strong and there are chances that this number could further increase.
The GLU is the second largest trade union movement in Guyana, with a large portion of its members being public sector employees. The union is the oldest trade union movement in Guyana. The union’s Seventh Triennial Congress is slated for October 24 and is expected to be declared open by President Donald Ramotar. (samuelsukhnandan@guyanatimesgy.com)
He added that every member receives special treatment and there matters are dealt with expeditiously. One of the factors that have influenced the increase in membership, Duncan said is the fact that the GLU treats every person’s grievance as an important task.
Guyana could tap US$2.6M new FAO agri initiative
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) have launched a new joint project to help developing countries, particularly fragile states, manage public investments in small-scale agriculture more effectively.
The UN food agencies will co-finance the US$2.6 million initiative focusing on countries where a lack of strong national governance means development projects can face serious challenges in delivering results.
Up to 15 projects in 10 countries will be targeted over a two-year period, with priority given to projects that are already under way, but are encountering difficulties. FAO’s Investment Centre Division, which leads the organisation’s efforts to generate increased investment in agriculture and rural development, will
work with countries to improve their ability to plan and implement investment programmes funded by IFAD.
IFAD Associate VicePresident Kevin Cleaver said: “Fragile states host the greatest proportion of poorly performing agriculture projects and IFAD has found that the major problems consist of weak local institutions and weak local management.
This co-financed project will address both the capacity-building and institution-building requirements of these poorly performing projects.”
FAO Assistant Director General, Technical Cooperation Department, Laurent Thomas said: “This initiative presents a more strategic approach to collaboration which will enable both UN agencies to better plan and significantly enhance the effectiveness and quality of their services to member countries.
"It will lead to better results and, ultimately, to a greater impact on the livelihoods of those targeted by the programmes,” he added.
IFAD’s executive board approved a US$2 million grant for the project in September, while FAO and participating countries will each add another US$300,000 to the initiative. FAO regularly works with its sister agency through the FAO-IFAD Cooperative Programme, which has seen over 300 joint operations worth almost US$9 billion between 1977 and 2012.
GLU General Secretary Carvil Duncan
GBTI employees explaining to potential customers some of the services offered by the bank
IFAD Associate Vice President Kevin Cleaver
SUDOKU
Take a serious approach to your work, and you will be given an opportunity to show your worth. An interesting offer may not bring high returns. Weigh the pros and cons carefully.
By Bernice Bede Osol
(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)
Listen carefully, but don’t be too eager to act on the information you are given. Back away from responsibilities that don’t belong to you. Protect your assets and your heart.
Jump up and be a participant, take on a challenge and show everyone how entertaining and creative you can be. Take time to socialise, but be sure to keep the peace if you encounter controversy. Step back and review your situation before you proceed. You will meet with opposition, demands and added responsibilities that must be handled with care. Protect your assets.
(Aug. 23Sept. 22)
(July 23Aug. 22) (Feb. 20-March 20)
Money matters will surface, allowing you to make extra cash, sign a lucrative deal or win a settlement. It’s a good day to broaden your interests and explore new possibilities.
(March 21-April 19)
You’ll have greater insight into business or personal relationships. Follow your heart and proceed with a low-key approach. Listen carefully and respond with honesty and precision.
(April 20-May 20)
Follow simple rules and you will excel. Nurture important relationships by showing patience and tolerance. Positive alterations to the way you live will improve your emotional outlook.
(May 21June 20)
Pretending to be able to do something that’s out of your range will backfire. Honesty will lead to solutions and the chance to learn something valuable. Plan to put in extra hours.
Speak up, and you will capture the attention of someone interested in your concerns. Jealousy will surface among your peers and must be handled with caution.
(Sept. 23Oct. 23)
Put greater emphasis on money matters and making good use of old ideas, skills and connections that could come in handy now. Opportunity knocks – but you have to open the door.
(Oct. 24Nov. 22)
Find ways to add to your comfort and peace of mind at home. Dealing with people who can offer knowledge and insight will lead to a lifestyle change. You’ll be amazed at all the helpful ideas out there.
(Nov. 23Dec. 21)
Do what you can to improve your surroundings and community as well as help those in need. This will not only make you feel good, it will attract the interest of people who can help you advance.
Peanuts
Calvin and Hobbes
arCHie
dilbert
Tourist villa apartments 1, 2 & 3 bedroom, long & short term, and car rental service. Phone: 227-2199, 227-2186
Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034
Electronics course - hands-on training, starting October 2, Abdul Electronics. Phone: 226-6551, 225-0391.
Learn to play the guitar, keyboard, drums, and train your voice at Foundation 7. Phone: 225-1151 or 617-4200.
Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315
3114, 692-0126
One 320CL Excavator located at Mahdia; excellent working condition. Owner migrating, call 6820365 or 614-1669
Gold Land, excellent investment. Priced to sell, call 682-0365, 6141669
Wine vessel (jue) Shang dynasty, old Chinese painting, old Ming prints, Ming dynasty Chinese painting on bamboo, Qi Baishi orginal painting, rare bowls and pots, all Chinese antiques. Phone: 592-623-7029
Pure bred American Akita puppies for sale $200,000. Phone: 639-8924, 227-4674
Mercury in large quantities 99.9999% purity. Call: 679-1985, 219-4535, 693-5004
1 Canon copier (Image Runner 6020) with finisher. Call 647-5150, 694-5738
Cheap earth. Delivery to spot, ECD and EBD. Phone: 627-9977
Clean garden earth & builders waste. Also bobcat rental, excavating, clearing & leveling done. Phone: 6160617, 663-3285.
Cellphone accessories and spares for all smart phones: Blackberry, Samsung, Nokia, Motorola, HTC, iPhone, Sony Ericsson, LG at Halema’s Fashion 104 Regent Street, next door to the Multiplex Mall. Call 622-7740/696-4008
One music set with three power amps with a total of 5,500 watts, etc. for more information please call, 682-3481. Price negotiable.
Healthworld Holistic Centre: Psychotherapy available for all types of abnormal behaviors – addictions, emotional, suicidal, anger, relationships and sexual problems. Treatment of stress disorders, depression, fear, low self-esteem, insomnia, trauma, psychosomatic sicknesses and children's disorders. We also conduct IQ evaluations and behavioral assessments. By appointment only. Clinic hours: 11:00 - 17:00h. Tel: 592-621-0552. Email:healthworldhc@gmail.com
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for all chronic genetic/none genetic diseases, including HIV, Cancer, diabetic, pregnancy, sexual (weakness), etc. Phone: 685- 3220.
Are you pouring on pounds? Then call Raul /Carol Wilson: 660-6818, 641-5923, 216-3016, 216-3601 for your healthy eating package.
Stay healthy and flexible with yoga. Phone: 693-2233
Immigration & Visa Services
We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 2251540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca
U.S. Green Card Lottery 2013. We are now accepting entries for the Annual Green Card Lottery sponsored by the U.S. Government. Enter now for a chance to become a permanent resident of the USA. Closing date November 2, 2013. Contact Balwant Persaud Immigration and Visa Services 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings and Light Sts.) Tel: 2251540, 655-3105, 622-8308
Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 6213249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today.
L AND FOR SALE
Parfaite Harmonie $1M and $1.2M phone: 675-7292
46 houselots in residential area between Charles & Peter Streets, Parika, EBE. Phone: 622-6971/6612289
Learn transcendental meditation and reduce stress and anxiety, develop full brain potential, increase focus and memory, be healthier & happier, increase energy, vitality and longevity, enjoy more success in life, improve relationships and develop higher states of consciousness. A technique that works for everyone. For next introductory lecture on October 10, contact Ashoke (certified TM teacher) Phone: 233-6921, 609-3701. Email kashokejp_68 2yahoo.com askgeneration
Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 339-3536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 943-1515 for the perfect trendy touch.
Retired Engineer aged 66 would like to know a single female over the age of 50. Phone: 604-7022
One business property, Lamaha Street. Phone: 669-3313, 231-4586, 695-4382. Properties for sale. Phone: 642-2116 2-storey
Gas station land. Size: over one acre Phone Ms Liverpool on 625-7582, 681-9293.
Gas station. Phone: 625-7582, 6445128, 681-9293
Cellphone repairs, unlocking & spares of all smart phones: Blackberry, Samsung, Nokia, Motorola, HTC, iPhone, Sony Ericsson, LG & any brand you own. Installation of BBM on Samsung and iPhone. Halema’s Fashion 104 Regent Street, next door to the Multiplex Mall. Call 622-7740/696-4008
Tattoo & body piercing by professional artist with best prices; visit Halema’s Fashion 104 Regent Street, next door to the Multiplex Mall. Call 622-7740/6964008
Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 6621247.
J Eastman & Associates Financial Services: Taxation, VAT Compliance, Accounting & Consultancy, and Cash Flow Projection. Address: 190 Church St, S/Cburg (East of Austin’s Book Store) Phone: 662-7467, 223-2105
Lethem – Rupununi Heritage Month event September 27-29. Visit: Iwokrama, Rock View Resort, Bonfim - Brazil, Moco Moco & Kumu Falls, St Ignatius - Lethem. Package $150,000. Phone: 662-3665
House plans starting at $9,000 Phone: 674-0725, 266-2154.
SPiRituALity
Suriname astrology palmist and Djuka healer. The most powerful spiritualist in the world. Are you suffering from the following problems? (any religions) love, marriage, family, health, business, husband and wife relationships, property, court, children, promotion, visa, pregnancy, education, depression, job, sexual, jealousy, enemy, money, drinking, also you can have all evil forces destroyed such as black magic, witchcraft, voodoo, obeyah, etc, and gives powerful protection. Private and confidential. Phone: 6742112.
Dutch Spiritual work. Unite lovers, get rid of evil, enhance prosperity, good luck baths and charm bowu guards, etc. Phone: 220-0708, 612-6417, 6875653
Divinations and cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá and Khemetian spiritual guards, pendants, crystals and rune stones to help you overcome problems with love, relationships, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money and many more. Call 10:00-16:00h on: +592-690-1824. Email: anew-life@live.com
Cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá protection against evil. Get help to overcome problems with love, relationship, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money. Call 10AM4PM. Tel: 592-690-1824. Email:anewlife@live.com
Are you suffering from abnormal behaviors, addictions, stresses, or psychosomatic sickness? Feeling suicidal, low self-esteem, loneliness, unloved, anger, conflicts and relationship problems? For appointments call 592 621 0552. 12:00PM –6:00PM Email: healthworldhc@gmail.com
3 bedroom bottom flat for rental situated on the ECD. Phone: 669-9384, available for
One customs clerk with at least three subjects CXC including English Language, mathematics. Applicant must be computer literate. Please submit application before the October 11, 2013 to email: windsortechhomes@ gmail.com or call 669-6874 or 682-3481
One Honda Cappa (Yellow) ideal for taxi or private use. Leather seats and roof, alarm, reverse camera, DVD/TV/CD player, mag rims. Also Motorola Base Radio with Antennae. HC series; immaculate condition; give away price $1M. Call 647-2491.
One new Yamaha R1 Motorcycle 1000cc (candy red & black) recently registered 2013. Latest double exhaust, bug lights, immaculate condition. Give away price, call 647-2491
Titan (hardly driven) $3.5M neg. Phone: 691-9984
JUST ARRIVED: TOP QUALITY RECONDITIONED VEHICLES; TOYOTA PREMIO; TOYOTA SPACIO; TOYOTA VITZ (NEW SHAPE); TOYOTA NOAH; SUZUKI SWIFT; MERCEDES BENZ C200 COMPRESSOR; BMW 318i; COROLLA AE100 WAGON; LAND CRUISER (FULLY LOADED); MAZDA PROCEED; TOYOTA HILUX 4WD EXTRA CAB PICKUPS - 3RZ, 5L, SOLID DIFFERENTIAL; MITSUBISHI CANTER TRUCKS 3, 3.5 TONS OPEN TRAY; 2 TONS 4WD; 3 TON DUMP TRUCK. PRE-ORDER YOUR UNITS EARLY AND GET THE BEST PRICES. FULL AFTER SALES SERVICE AND FINANCING AVAILABLE. DEO MARAJ AUTO SALES, 2 CHIMNEY ROAD, CHATEAU MARGOT, ECD. 624-0762, 220-5177. A NAME AND A SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST.
1 Bedford truck. Phone: 616:0617, 663-3285.
Civil society readies its voice ahead of annual CFS meeting
Over 240 civil society representatives hailing from 175 countries across the world met last week at the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s (FAO) headquarters to begin their annual Committee on World Food Security (CSM) Forum.
During the next two days, these representatives will work to find consensus on key issues to be discussed in next week’s plenary meeting of the CFS.
“Social movements and civil society organisations played a key role in driving the reform of the Committee on World Food Security to make it into the main and most inclusive international and intergovernmental platform for policymaking on food security and nutrition within the United Nations,” FAO Director José General Graziano da Silva said.
Reform
He continued, “Because of this, the reform of the CFS is considered a highly successful experience, and it can and should show the way forward for replicating and deepening inclusive processes for multistakeholder dialogue in other United Nations fora”.
One of the most important achievements, Graziano da Silva said, was the inclusive process of drafting and adopting FAO’s Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security.
Ángel Strapazzon, representative from La Via Campesina, said “It has taken us 20 years to get here. Before 2009, only a small number of NGOs could participate in the CFS. Today, we are achieving change.”
CFS Chair Yaya Olaniran and Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to FAO, said, “Thank you all for the achievements since the CFS Reform. Let’s continue
wANtED
One Bedford truck Phone: 6279977
Vacancy exists for two cashiers/ office clerks and two porters, cashiers/clerks must be literate, apply in person with written application to May’s Shopping Centre, 98 Regent Street, Georgetown. Urgently needed! One plot of land in Parfaite Harmonie, Herstelling and Eccles. Phone: 675-7292
BROOK GARDENS, MR NARAINE. PHONE: 696-8230
working as one, in respect of each other’s opinions and let us never lose our focus.”
This marks the second year in which the Annual Civil Society Mechanism Forum meets at FAO headquarters. The aim of this weekend’s discussions is to bring a clear and unified voice of civil society to the week-long CFS.
Elections
The work of Civil Society Mechanism (CSM) members is facilitated by its Coordination Committee which consists of 41 focal points representing 11 different constituencies and 17 sub-regions. This session will be particularly important as elections will be held for the new members of the Coordination Committee.
Topics of discussion for this year’s meeting of the Civil Society Mechanism include: responsible agricultural investment, protracted crises, biofuels, coordination and linkages with the CFS and global strategic framework. The CFS meets annually to take stock of progress on reducing food insecurity in the world, and to map out key policy objectives over the course of the year, and these annual plenary sessions complement its inter-sessional work yearround.
The CFS reports annually to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC).
Brothers injured in drinking spree
One man is now nursing injuries about the body at the New Amsterdam Hospital while another was treated and sent away after they were reportedly beaten at Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice.
Hemdat Bhola, also called “Sunil”, 43, and Baldat Bhola, 42, both of Free Yard, Port Mourant were attacked by “Sam” and “Bojan” of Free Yard, Port Mourant about 15:00h on Saturday.
According to reports, Baldat and the two suspects were hanging out when an argument broke out, during which the suspects allegedly armed themselves with a cutlass and a piece of wood and dealt him several lashes about the body.
Upon seeing this, Hemdat went to his brother’s aid and he too was severely beaten by the two men before they made good their escape. Baldat received injuries to the nose and other parts of the body while his brother received injuries to the left hand.
They were both taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where they were seen, examined and treated by a doctor. Hemdat was sent home while Baldat was referred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted a patient. The matter was reported but the two suspects were not apprehended. Baldat’s condition is regarded as stable.
VACANCiES
mEDitAtiON
FAO Director General José Graziano da Silva
Albouystown/Charlestown retain Inter-ward title
By Treiston Joseph
Defending champions Albouystown/ Charlestown swept Wortmanville/Werk-en-Rust
87-82 in the best-of-three series to win the Trinity Grid Hold (TGH) Pacesetters Inter-ward basketball tournament on Saturday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Wortmanville/Werk-enRust came out playing aggressive basketball as they penetrated the lanes before passing out to their shooters who were on fire from beyond the arc in the early going. They opened a 21-9 lead on the defending champs in the first period to end the quarter ahead, 21-14.
The challengers continued their hot shooting from beyond the arc while dominating both the offensive and defensive glass in the second period as they increased their lead to 14 points early in the quarter.
However, Albouystown/ Charlestown, who had a tough time finding their range around the basket
and from the outside, slowly started to catch a fire in the closing minutes of second quarter as their ball movement started to look crisp as the first half of the game finished 41-35 in favour of Wortmanville/Werken-Rust.
The second half was an entirely different tale as the defending champs gave up good shots for great shots as they took the lead in midway through the third period, playing impressive defense along with a fast break game that seemed unstoppable at times.
Albouystown/ Charlestown also started to find their range, capitalising on a number of wide open mid-range jumpers from 15 feet out that allowed them to go into the final period with a 64-59 lead.
The final period became tense when guard Sheldon Thomas sunk a dagger of a three ball, while being fouled hard for a four-point play that Thomas converted.
The foul call was a flagrant which allowed the defending champs two added free
throws that were converted to give them a 10-point lead.
Thomas then converted a two-pointer to make it a 12-point game with 4:16s left before Wortmanville/Werken-Rust’s forward Joslyn Crawford scored eight consecutive points, that included a three-point play to cut
the lead down to four points (84-80), with 51.3s left in the game.
With the defending champions up by two with 17.2s left, Wortmanville/ Werk-en-Rust committed two turnovers that would eventually cause them the game and allow the defend-
Female prisoners defeat male counterparts at domino
Female prisoners outplayed their male counterparts at domino when the New Amsterdam Prison week of activities came to an end last weekend.
The females chalked up 76 games to leave Male Convicted Prisoners on 73 games and Remands Without Bail in the cellar on 52 games.
The top markers were Shatese Valentine for the females and Leroy McCoy for the Male Convicted Prisoners, both with 17 games each.
The competition was held within the New Amsterdam Prison.
Windies Women lose by one run to NZ
Kingston, Jamaica – West Indies Women lost the first One-Day International by one run to New Zealand in a close finish at Sabina Park on Sunday.
New Zealand won the toss, batted first and made 225-8 off their 50 overs. Experienced opener Suzie Bates topscored with 110 off 133 balls – her fifth century in her 57th match. Off-spinner Stafanie Taylor was the leading bowler with 4-19 off seven overs, which triggered a lower-order collapse as five wickets fell for 15 runs.
West Indies were bowled out for 224 in the final over. They also suffered a lower-order slide as the last five wickets fell for just 10 runs in four overs. This was after Deandra Dottin topscored with a blistering 66 – her 11th half-century in this format. She added a valuable 74 for the fifth wicket with captain Merissa Aguilleira, who made 43 from 63 balls with two fours.
Earlier, Taylor, the leading all-
rounder in the world, made 38 off 49 balls with four boundaries and a six to complete an impressive performance in her first international match on home soil.
Speaking after the match coach, Sherwin Campbell said:
“This was a game we should have won. New Zealand won the toss and batted well, but we also batted well, but just could not finish the job. We will look to come back on Tuesday and rebound. Still two matches to go and we know we are capable of winning the series.”
Before the match, West Indies suffered a setback when new ball bowler Shakera Selman sustained an injury to her left hand in the warm-ups. The damage was not major and she is expected to remain with the squad for the threematch series.
The teams return to Sabina Park for the second ODI on Tuesday. First ball is 09:00 hours (10:00 hours Eastern Caribbean Time).
and seven rebounds to lead Albouystown/Charlestown in the win, while Marvis Hilliman also had 19 points.
Randy Richardson dominated the paint with a game-high 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while German Hamilton also had 25 points to lead the challengers in the loss. Crawford ended with 11 points after scoring eight in the final period while grabbing seven rebounds.
Blowout win
Meanwhile, in the third place game, Plaisance/ Vryheid’s Lust easily ran away with the game, defeating Alberttown/Bourda 8550.
ing champions to celebrate back-to-back titles.
Neiko Fraser finished with a team-high 21 points for the defending champions. He was also named the Most Valuable Player and the prize was sponsored by Giftland Office Max.
Thomas had 20 points
Ryan Gullen was a beast in the paint, scoring a gamehigh 22 points and grabbing a game-high 19 rebounds in the win for the East Coast team, while Ron Campbell had 17 points and Hugh Arthur 13 to help out with the win.
Olatunde Griffith had the highest score with 11 points for the Alberttown/ Bourda.
Stoby storms to victory in HLSCC series
Guyanese Reuben J. A. Stoby clocked 11 minutes, 28 seconds (11:28) to take victory over defending champion Maxford Pipe when the second race of the HLSCC/ Highland Spring Race Series was held in Virgin Gorda on Saturday last.
Stoby sprinted unchallenged to the finish line ahead of Pipe (11:59.97), while T.R. Robinson (12:12.22) was third, Emrol Amsterdam (12:26.08) fourth, Jermain Abrams (12:38.57) fifth and Corwin Andrew (12:41.36) sixth.
Kathleen Brownsden won in the women’s division in 12:50.47 and was seventh overall. She was followed by Vivian Toro (15:46.72) and Christina Yates (27:08.29).
Veteran distance run-
ner Amsterdam suffered a hamstring injury early in the race as he attempted to go hard from the get go, but was still able to finish the race. With Amsterdam having to fall behind early, the breakaway crew included Stoby, Robinson and Pipe with Robinson acting as a pace setter for Pipe. Stoby made his move at the turnaround with Pipe in hot pursuit, but the defending champion could not keep up with the pace as Stoby chopped off some 48 seconds off his two-mile time recorded at the last race at Paraquita Bay on September 21 this year. The next race in the series on Virgin Gorda is October 19, while Race Two on Tortola is slated for October 12. (www.virginnewsonline.com)
Neiko Fraser of Albouystown/Charlestown goes up for a mid-range jumper during the final of the Inter-ward tournament on Saturday (Treiston Joseph photo)
The females pose with their plaque for winning the competition
Reuben Stoby clocked 11 minutes, 28 seconds to take victory over defending champion Maxford Pipe when the second race of the HLSCC/Highland Spring Race Series was held in Virgin Gorda on Saturday
Suzie Bates
Harbhajan gives Mumbai the double
Afurious finish from Mumbai Indians’ middle-order propelled them to a monumental total before a chase-breaking over from Harbhajan Singh snuffed out the last of Rajasthan Royals’ spirit, driving Mumbai to their second major title of the year, as they won the Champions League final by 33 runs.
The Royals bowlers had been disciplined in their first 12 overs, which only cost them less than seven an over, but a Rohit Sharma onslaught unseamed their resolve and the remaining batsmen took maximum toll on a waning attack. Glenn Maxwell provided the most frenzied death-over innings, mauling 37 from 14, but Sharma, Dinesh Karthik and even Harbhajan struck at over 200 to help plunder 120 runs from the last eight overs of the innings.
Eighteen-year old Sanju Samson was imperious in Royals’ response, and he led Ajinkya Rahane in a 109run second-wicket stand that provided a fine base for the chase.
But even as Rahane completed his fourth fifty on the trot, the Royals’ scoring slowed, and Harbhajan eventually sunk the opposition in a 17th over that claimed three wickets and cost only four.
Before that over Royals had needed 48 runs from four overs, and with seven wickets still remaining,
a successful chase was conceivable, particularly as Rahane remained in the middle. But it was Rahane who made the first mistake, advancing to swat a full toss straight to deep midwicket, when it seemed he could quite easily have muscled it over the Feroz Shah Kotla’s short boundary. Two balls later Stuart Binny was undone by some extra bounce and had his leg stump removed, before Kevon Cooper missed the last ball and overbalanced, and a sharp Karthik did not miss his chance.
The most disheartening sight of the match followed in the next over when, having demoted himself to No. 8, Rahul Dravid’s final act on a professional cricket field was having his leg stump flattened by a prosaic yorker from Nathan Coulter-Nile. Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar had fared little better, when he missed a Shane Watson inducker by a distance to have his own off stump uprooted.
Two days shy of his 42nd birthday, Pravin Tambe delivered another remarkable spell, and he might wonder how his team-mates could have indulged the opposition so meekly when he had conceded only 19 from his four overs, while taking the two wickets that placed him atop the tournament wickettakers’ list.
Halfway through Mumbai’s innings, Royals
might have thought they would have to bowl poorly to concede 170. Smith had been effective at the top of the innings again, but by his standards, his 44 had come at a relatively humdrum pace - off 39 balls.
It was Rohit though, who got low to wallop a Stuart Binny slower ball high into
Wismar Pistons pick up first win in Trophy Stall tourney
Wismar Pistons won their first game in the Trophy Stall Open Basketball Championships, defeating the Amelia’s Ward Jets 58-48 on Friday evening at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Courts in Linden.
The Pistons, after being down throughout the first half, used a 16-0 run mid-way into the third period to take the lead and end the period ahead by 10 points with the score 4636.
In the final period, Mark Louis and Dwight Cooper put the paint on lockdown with their tight defense to hold off the number two seeded Jets to take the win.
Cooper had a game-high 17 points, while Louis scored 15 to help with the win. Allister Bynoe had 10 points as well.
Shane Webster was the highpoint man for the Jets with 14 points, while his older brother Allister Webster had 13 points in the loss.
Meanwhile, in the second game of the evening, Half Mile Bulls blew out Block 22 Flames with a comfortable 69-43 victory.
The Bulls were on point from the get go an opened the game with a 16-2 run and never relinquished the lead to easily win the encounter.
Terron Welch shot home a gamehigh 18 points, while Keon Cameron (17) and Kevin Easton (11) also contributed to the blowout win.
Meanwhile, the tournament will continue on Wednesday as the Kashif and Shanghai Kings will be in action against the Half Mile Bulls in the only game of the night at the same venue.
the night in the 13th over, that began the sequence that beat the wind out of Royals’ attack.
Two more fours off Binny took the over-tally to 16, before Sharma shuffled around the crease and manipulated the field to score heavily in the next two overs as well.
He had some help from
SCOREBOARD
Mumbai Indians innings (20 overs maximum)
DR Smith b Tambe 44
SR Tendulkar b Watson 15
AT Rayudu b Tambe 29
RG Sharma* c Faulkner
b Shukla 33
KA Pollard b Faulkner 15
GJ Maxwell run out (Tambe/†Yagnik) 37
KD Karthik† not out 15
Harbhajan Singh not out 7
Extras (lb-2, w-4, nb-1) 7
Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 202
Fall of wickets: 1-35 (Tendulkar, 4.3 ov), 2-77 (Smith, 11.3 ov), 3-104 (Rayudu, 13.4 ov), 4-140 (Pollard, 16.2 ov), 5-152 (Sharma, 17.1 ov), 6-193 (Maxwell, 19.3 ov)
Bowling: JP Faulkner 4-046-1 (1-w), SR Watson 3-030-1 (1-w), R Shukla 4-049-1 (1-nb, 1-w), K Cooper 4-0-40-0 (1-w), PV Tambe 4-019-2, STR Binny 1-0-16-0 Rajasthan Royals innings (target: 203 runs from 20 overs) MDKJ Perera run out (Smith/†Karthik) 8
Kieron Pollard as they punished Cooper’s errant lengths in the 16th over, which cost 20 and featured a monster pull and a towering slog over wide long-on, and the breathless pace was only heightened when Maxwell arrived next over.
He clipped his first ball to square leg for four, before sending the next ball - an almost identical delivery - into the stands on the leg side
AM Rahane c Smith
b Harbhajan Singh 65
SV Samson c Harbhajan Singh
b Ojha 60
SR Watson c Pollard
b Harbhajan Singh 8
STR Binny b Harbhajan Singh 10
DH Yagnik† c †Karthik b Pollard 6 K Cooper st †Karthik
b Harbhajan Singh 4 R Dravid* b Coulter-Nile 1
JP Faulkner
1-8 (Perera, 0.4 ov), 2-117 (Samson, 11.5 ov), 3-137 (Watson, 14.3 ov), 4-155 (Rahane, 16.1 ov), 5-155 (Binny, 16.4 ov), 6-159 (Cooper,
with a more powerful pickup stroke.
A straight six, a glanced four and an improvised reverse-scoop over short third man followed, and with Karthik and later Harbhajan also going big at the other end, Mumbai laid down a daunting challenge in the space of twenty minutes. Courageous though their reply was, Royals could not match them. (Cricinfo)
Albion, RHTG&G through to semi-finals
Albion Community Centre and Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets (RHTG&G) both won their final Group A preliminary matches on Saturday to end up as winners and runners-up respectively of that group, thereby earning their places in the semi-finals of the 2013 Universal DVD first division T20 cricket competition.
Albion chalked up the maximum 20 points, while RHTG&G ended on 16.
At Albion, the home team defeated D’Edward by 10 wickets. D’Edward, winning the toss and choosing to bat first, were restricted to 117-6 from their 20 overs with Lakeram Sukra doing well to score 52, which included two fours and four sixes, while Heeralall Bridgelall made 22.
Bowling for Albion, West Indies player, Devendra Bishoo took 3-17 from four overs and fellow leg-spinner, Avinash Wajib 3-20 from four overs.
In reply, Albion Community Centre romped to 120 without loss in just 15.2 overs, thanks to former West Indies opening batsman, Sewnarine Chattergoon, who finished on 63 not out (7x4s)
and former Guyana Under-19 opening batsman, Kandasammy Surujnarine, with 56 not out (5x4s).
Over at the Blairmont ground, RHTG&G beat Blairmont Community Centre by 43 runs. RHTG&G, losing the toss and asked to take first strike, were under early pressure from Blairmont who did well to restrict them to 114-8 with former Berbice cricketer, Jason Sinclair, top-scoring with 39 and former Guyana wicket-keeper-batsman, Delbert Hicks, 18. Bowling well for Blairmont
were Demerara’s Robin Bacchus, who took 3-29 from four overs, and leg-spinner Kevon Jawahir, with 2-24 from four overs.
However, when Blairmont replied, they fared even worse, soon finding themselves at 55-5, a position from which they never recovered, ending on 71 all out in 17.3 overs. Karamdat Bissoondial topscored with 15. Bowling for RHTG&G, leftarm spinner Ravi Narine took 4-18 from four overs, off-spinner Rajiv Ivan 2-for 9 from 2.3 overs and medium-pacer Renwick Batson 2-18 from four overs.
Harbhajan Singh turned the match around in the space of an over to pick up the Man-of-the-Match award
Dwight Cooper
Mark Louis
Devendra Bishoo
Sewnarine Chattergoon
Who’s who on the IGG male basketball team
The Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) organisation, after naming its women’s team last week, released its 12-man rotation on Saturday for the Inter Guiana Games (IGG) later this month in Suriname.
The team will consist of six guards, three forwards and three versatile ‘big men’ who can play either center or forward. Lugard Mohan will coach the team, while Chris Bowman will perform managerial duties.
Below are mini-profiles of the team members.
Leonard Primo (Captain)
Age: 18
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 182lbs
Position: Forward/Center
School: Kwakwani
Secondary
IGG Experience: three years
Lorenzo Bethune
Age: 19
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 180lbs
Position: Forward/Center
IGG Experience: Nil
Daniel Haynes
Age: 17
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 170lbs
Position: Forward School: Bishops High
IGG Experience: Nil
Aubrey Campbell
Age: 18
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 174lbs
Position: Forward
School: Wisburg
Secondary
IGG Experience: Nil
Jonathan Pooran
Age: 19
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 154lbs
Position: Guard
School: University of Guyana
IGG Experience: Nil
Shafeeq Thomas
Age: 17
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 151lbs
Position: Guard
School: Kwakwani
Secondary IGG Experience: Nil
Nathan Saul Age: 15
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 134lbs
Position: Guard
School: St Roses High
IGG Experience: Nil
Emmanuel Archibald
Age: 19
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 150
Position: Guard
School: University of Guyana IGG Experience: Nil
Lugard Mohan (Coach)
Georgetown Experience: Former national player and captain. Lugard previously served as the assistant coach for the senior men’s national team and is the current coach of the YBG Elite programme. This is Lugard’s third year as coach for the IGG boys team.
Travin Drydan
Age: 18
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 175lbs
Position: Forward School: Wismar
Christianburg
Multilateral
IGG Experience: two years
Taquille Johnson
Age: 14
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 146lbs
Position: Guard
School: Marain Academy IGG Experience: Nil
Neil Wills Age: 16
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 173lbs
Position: Forward/Center
School: Business School (New Amsterdam) IGG Experience: Nil
Dennis Niles Age: 18
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 145lbs
Position: Guard
School: Linden Foundation IGG Experience: Nil
Haifeng Su tops Diamond Mineral Water chess qualifiers
Former national junior champion
Haifeng Su is heading the list of the top seven junior chess medalists who have qualified to enter and challenge reigning national junior champion Anthony Drayton for the title.
Drayton holds a FIDE rating of 1801. Su defeated joint tournament leader Omar Britton Grant during their anticipated fourth round encounter to assume a comfortable lead on the final day on Saturday at the Carifesta Sports Complex.
The others heading into the 2013 National Junior Chess Championship later this month are: Davion Mars, Roberto Neto, Saeed Ali, lone female Sheriffa Ali, Omar Britton Grant and Rashad Hussain. The lone female player also received an extra medal for representing the distaff side.
The point standings at the end of the seven-round tournament read: Su (six),
Mars (five), Neto (4.5), Saeed Ali, Sheriffa Ali and Britton Grant (four each), and Rashad Hussain (3.5). One point was given for a win, half for a drawn game and zero for a loss.
Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony attended the brief presentation ceremony at the end of the tournament, and while congratulating all the players for their efforts, challenged them to spread the game among their friends.
He reiterated his ministry’s support towards the growth of chess and referred to the importance of thinking which the game demands.
The tournament was sponsored by Demerara Distillers Limited under the Diamond Mineral Water brand. The Guyana Chess Federation extends its gratitude to the company yet again for its support.
President of the Guyana Chess Federation, Shiv Nandalall (left), and Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony (second right) pose with the top performers after Saturday’s games
Score’s Even wins feature at PPP/C, RSTC race meet
By Rajiv Bisnauth
Score’s Even of the Simply Royal Stable was in a category all by itself when it whipped a top-class field to score a big win and take top honours in the feature A and Lower class event when the People’s Progressive Party /Civic (PPP/C), staged its grand horse race meet at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Arima Park, West Coast Berbice, on Sunday.
The feature event saw nine animals leaving the gate in an even break, but as the race proceeded around the first turn, Grande Roja of the Jumbo Jet Stables surged ahead before Score’s Even picked its stride in the bunch afterwards.
With jockey Richmond on mount he decided to let Score’s Even go, giving it full rein as it set a searing pace down the back stretch. By then, the field was wide open in the one mile race.
Coming into the homestretch, Score’s Even was still gathering speed, and with jockey Richmond showing his brilliance in the stirrups, the animal was able
to romp home by about one length. The win was worth $1.5 million and the President’s Cup.
Grande Roja held off the field for a well deserved second, with Got to Go finishing third.
The experienced jockey Ajai displayed all his class and ability ahead of his colleagues to pilot She is so Special of the Jumbo Jet Stables to a comfortable win in the Three-year-old West Indies Bred Madian and Open Guyana (Special Weight). The animal took the $600,000 first prize over a distance of 1600m.
The Two-year-old race for Guyana bred horses was won by Baby Kerry of the B. Singh Stable, while Today is my Day out of the Jumbo Jet Stable won the race for Twoyear-old West Indies bred horses. Both races were run at a distance of 1100m and the winning stables walked away with $300,000 and $400,000 respectively.
The E and Lower showdown saw the brilliance of Jamaican jockey Blakes, who guided his charge, Swing Easy of the Shariff Racing Stable to a close victory that
was worth $600,000 and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Trophy over a distance of 1100m.
The other two 1100m races were for the G3 and Lower and J1 and Lower animals. Those races were won by Rosetta of the Jumbo Jet Stable and Dream Boy of the C. Singh Stable respectively. The winning prizes were $300,000 and $140,000 respectively.
The I and Lower event over 1400m was won by Easy to Win out of the M. Dookis Stable. That win was worth $200,000.
The final race for the day for animals classified F and Lower covered a distance of 1400m was won by Treacle out of the M. Dookie Stable for the $400,000 first prize. Jumbo Jet Stable took the best stable award.
A fair-sized crowd attended the day’s event. The day’s proceedings saw over 83 horses competing for top honours.
The meet was held in collaboration with the Rising Sun Turf Club and was part of the ruling administration’s celebration to mark 21 years in power.
DCC crowned GCA/Brain Street Cup champions
The
Hosts Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) defeated GNIC by four wickets on Saturday to be crowned champions of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Brain Street Cup Under-15 cricket competition at the DCC ground, Queenstown.
Batting first, GNIC mustered a meagre 81 all out in 33 overs with only Stephon Campbell (18), Tavin Singh (13) and Andrew Clifford (10) getting into double-figures.
Bowling for DCC, Sagar Hetheramani was the pick of the bowlers with 3-9 from seven overs, with Ronnell Brandis (2-7) and Ashmead Nedd (2-12) offering support.
In reply, DCC coasted to victory at 83-6 in 30 overs with Man-of-theMatch Raymond Perez topscoring with 32. Nedd made 12 not out. Clifford and Bashkar Yadram were the top bowlers for GNIC with 2-20 and 2-25 respectively.
GOA shows appreciation to SA Youth, Islamic Games teams
The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) on Sunday held an appreciation ceremony for the athletes who participated in the inaugural South American Youth Championships in Peru and the third edition of the Islamic Games, which was held in Indonesia.
The athletes and officials from both games received certificates for their performances, while the athletes who finished on the podium received monetary prizes. They were later treated to a cocktail.
The South American Youth Games, held from September 20-29, saw Guyana finishing on the
medal stand nine times with athletics taking three; boxing four and badminton two.
Andrea Foster brought home the only gold for Guyana at the Games in the mixed relays, while sprinter Jason Yaw took two bronze medals in the 200m and 400m. Badminton players Narayan Ramdhani and Ambika Ramraj also had two bronze.
Boxer Travis Fraser was the only silver medalist, while his counterparts Michael April, Tefon Green and Joel Williamson won bronze medals. Meanwhile, Olympian Winston George was the only medalist at the Islamic
Games with two silver medals in the men’s 200m and 400m.
President of the GOA, K.A, Juman Yassin, noted that event was held to reward the athletes for their efforts while encouraging the others who missed the podium and those unable to go, to train harder for future events.
Ramjeet Ramphal, Chefde-Mission of the Islamic team, and Dr. Karen Pilgrim who was the Chef-de-Mission of the South American Youth Championships, spoke of the athletes’ sportsmanlike mannerisms, along with them being excellent ambassadors for Guyana.
GOA comes to the aid of cycling and rugby
The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), in its quest to improve local sport, extended a helping hand to the disciplines of rugby and cycling on Sunday evening.
According to president of the GOA, K.A. Juman Yassin, the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) is the recipient of a cheque worth $400,000, while the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has received one million dollars.
President Peter Green received the donation on behalf of the GRFU, noting that the funding will be used to help acquire the services
of Canadian coach, Spencer Robinson.
Robinson will be the new head coach of the Guyana’s North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) championship team that will be heading to the Cayman Islands in November for the championships.
GCF president Cheryl Thompson said the federation will be using the funds to offset expenses for the cyclists heading to Curacao for the Caribbean Cycling Championships, set to pedal off from October 19.
Green and Thompson thanked the GOA for the funding and followed Yassin in encouraging private entities and the government to support local athletes.
DCC lads pose with members of the GCA and Brain Street
Raymond Perez
Athletes from the South American Youth team display their certificates and prizes at the conclusion of the ceremony on Sunday evening
GCF president Cheryl Thompson (right) was on hand to receive the cheque from General Secretary of the GOA Hector Edwards
GRFU president Peter Green (left) receives the cheque from GOA presiden K A Juman Yassin on Sunday evening
Five Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth and Banks DIH Events and Outdoor Manager Mortimer
(Rajiv Bisnauth photos)