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INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1996 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

December 29, 2013

6000 houselots to be distributed in 2014 See story on page 3

Linden businessman plunges to death in Demerara River See story on page 17

Dead: Collis “Tom” Mentis

The white Toyota Tundra belonging to Collis “Tom” Mentis being lifted out of the Demerara River from the Mackenzie-Wismar bridge

Pegasus taxi driver Berbice rice mill at risk murdered, dumped of being among garbage blacklisted See story on page 8

See story on page 16

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

“Ice Cream man” P7 wants to expand business OgleP7 Industry Senior Citizens’ Group committed to serving the elderly Man survives after gun P10 to head malfunctions

Toddler P12 remains in critical condition after puma attack Veteran broadcaster Oswald Singh laid to rest P13

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NEWS

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 29 from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 29 from 13:50h-15:20h.

WEATHER TODAY

– more turnkey homes to be built, thousands of jobs to be created

Winds: East north-easterly between 4.47 and 3.57 metres per second.

he Housing Ministry will be allocating some 6000 house lots and will work to see the completion of a highway into Parfaite Harmonie in 2014.

This apart, the ministry will be building more turnkey homes and developing new housing schemes including Silica City, thereby providing jobs for thousands of workers in the construction sector.

These projects were outlined by Housing Minister Irfaan Ali on Friday at an end-of-year press conference at his ministry, Brickdam, Georgetown.

The ministry is targeting in 2014, the construction of 500 turnkey homes, Minister Ali said, as a lot of applicants now are requesting to be part of the project, the young professional homes, the clerical workers’ homes and the lower high income homes.

Low Tide: 07:25h and 20:02h reaching minimum heights of 0.81 metre and 0.62 metre respectively.

saturday, December 28, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS I

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FREE TICKET

Daily Millions

05 16 19 20 25 LUCKY 3

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6000 houselots to be distributed in 2014

Countrywide: Thundery showers are expected during the day, with partly cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius.

High Tide: 13:56h reaching a maximum height of 2.56 metres.

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Trickledown effect

He pointed out that the acquisition of one of the homes as against constructing one works out far cheaper for the applicant. The minister also pointed to the ‘real trickledown effect’ the construction of the homes is having on the economies of the neighbouring communities where they are being constructed.

He said that in the Eccles, to construct turnkey homes, the ministry in 2013 employed more than 400 persons from nearby communities, inclusive of Agricola and Mocha.

This housing development which is to be developed on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway would be one of the ministry’s signature projects as it would be a prime housing, commercial, tour-

ism, and industrial development for Guyana, Minister Ali said.

The concept was launched at Building Expo 2013 and the ministry was hoping to have the conceptual designs, and outlay and outlook of the area available early in 2014.

The ministry has already publicly asked for anyone who wants to be part of grand idea to submit their thoughts.

“Flooding, climate change, land availability infrastructure upgrade, infrastructure expansion, future plans of a deep water port that will necessitate the expansion of our highway all the way to Linden, all of this makes Silica City a viable mid-town, mid-point area of development and opportunity for Guyanese people and we are going to pursue this dream, we are going to pursue this ambition with vigour because we at the Ministry of Housing believe strongly in the accomplishment of this dream,” he said.

Land allocation

The minister also pointed out that land allocation in Region Four has become an issue because of the lack of availability and has created challenges for the ministry’s planners.

“From a planning perspective it is becoming increasingly more difficult for us to find plots of land on the East Coast. Matter fact, we cannot locate lands on the East Coast now that can be used for housing development, because GuySuCo as you know is still the largest owner of land on the East Coast, and they are basically not ready to divest themselves of any portion of land in that area,” he said.

Housing Minister Irfaan Ali

He said too, that the ministry is in its penultimate tier of development with regards to the East Bank.

Employment

The Housing Ministry will advertise very shortly for masons, carpenters, labourers and other skilled persons to work within the ministry.

This will be sustained employment for a period of a year or two that will see the workers being formed into small contracting groups and given the responsibility of constructing the different types of homes that are made available under the ministry’s housing programmes.

“We are going to train them to became contractors, to become owners of companies… they will be supervised by a competent team of engineers and planners here,” Minister Ali explained.

In 2014, the ministry is hoping to complete a few new schemes, among which are Zeeburg and the expansion of Zeelugt in Region Three, towards the creation of 1500 more lots.

There will also be the continued development of

the East Bank corridor to bring about another 3000 lots. Focus will be placed on opening up the Little Diamond area to have commercial, and industrial development.

The ministry will also focus on completing the new highway into Parfaite Harmonie that would realise a new access road almost to the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

To be completed as well in 2014 is the asphaltic concrete paving of four collector roads between Eccles to Little Diamond.

These are designed to create the link between the existing East Bank highway and proposed alignment that would link the East Coast and East Bank. Minister Ali said that the ministry has already completed a preliminary design for the proposed link, and is hoping to complete the designs and start work soon. Continued focus will also be on some of the main arteries into Sophia.

Hinterland

Given the successful implementation of the Housing Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority and the Inter-American Development Bank’s Second Income Settlement Programme-LIS-2 that addresses housing in the hinterland with the construction in eight communities in Regions One and Nine, of 122 houses and refurbishing of 86 roofs, Minister Ali said that there have been calls by the hinterland residents for more such programmes.

“They are seeing the benefits of being structured, in being a network, made far easier to access infrastructure,” Minister Ali said.

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Views

Veteran broadcaster Oswald Singh laid to rest Sunday Times Editor: Tajeram Mohabir 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

False equivalencies

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debate has been precipitated in Guyana on whether it is appropriate for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government to reject the USAID (meaning the U.S. government)-funded “democratisation” project, when in fact it had solicited that government’s help for “free and fair” elections in the lead-up to 1992.

We believe that the debate is based on several misguided premises, including that of “false equivalency”.

False equivalence is a logical fallacy where there appears to be a logical equivalence between two opposing arguments, when‚ in fact ‚there is none. In this case, the false equivalence begins with the key word being bandied about – “democracy”.

From its earliest forays into the international scene, the U.S. has made the export of its “democratic” institutions one of the cornerstones of its foreign policy. Latin America and the Caribbean know this to their cost.

The point, of course, is that “democracy” is such an omnibus term that reasonable persons can differ on the entire spectrum of values that is encompassed under its ambit. Take for instance, the common American assumption that a communist ideology and governance structures are antithetical to democracy and a “free enterprise” system.

In 1961, U.S. President John F Kennedy decided that “democracy” would not survive under a “communist” Dr Cheddi Jagan and the PPP and proceeded to oust that legally elected, democratic government using the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the American Institute for Free Labour Development (AIFLD).

The operation precipitated the first “race war” in Guyana, and the “proportional representation” electoral system introduced, hardened the ethnic divide to this day. However, three decades later, the same U.S. ignored the communist ideology and governmental structures of China and assisted them in building the most rapidly growing economy in the world.

Based on capitalist premises, the experiment ironically disproved the U.S. thesis that its form of “democracy” was necessary for a successful capitalist economy. As an aside, the PPP/C under Jagan was permitted to win the elections of 1992 in Guyana, because the USSR “fell” in 1989.

In 2005, the George Bush regime once again reiterated that the foundation stone of U.S. foreign policy was to be the “export of democracy” and this was to be achieved through “whatever means necessary”. Wars were launched in Iraq and Afghanistan to achieve this aim, and though more than a trillion dollars have been expended without the “democratic” outcome posited, the U.S. seems determined to see it commitment through.

We in Guyana are now the beneficiaries of having a fundamentally different version of democracy being exported to the one prevalent in the 1960s. For one, in those days, there was a host of regulatory mechanisms in place that prevented the financial sector from prospering and the rest of the economy collapsed.

Certainly, it is not too presumptuous of the Guyana government, puny as it might be versus the U.S., to ask to be consulted as to what might be the substance of the democracy the U.S. wants to export here. Even though we know that in international affairs, some countries are more equal than others, surely the U.S. cannot expect the present PPP/C government to have developed collective amnesia on the history of its country and party?

The second false equivalence flows from the first. To wit, that the PPP/C could not possibly have asked any other country but the U.S. to have free and fair elections returned to Guyana in 1992, since it was that country – and that country only – that had assisted the People’s National Congress (PNC) with the rigging of elections and had turned a blind eye to its human rights abuses between 1964 and 1992.

And this was true even though the said abuses were duly reported in the U.S. annual Human Rights Report.

In the present, we have come full circle. The PPP/C is back in office democratically and its government has the right to insist that the content of “democracy” sought to be exported by the U.S. have its approval. Let us have no false equivalencies.

A section of the gathering, including family members, at the funeral service for late broadcaster, the “Man with the Golden Voice” Oswald Singh (inset) at the St Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara (Carl Croker photo) See story on page 13

Dr Jagan made sincere efforts to unite opposition in 1992 Dear Editor, This is in reference to letters by Eusi Kwayana, Ralph Ramkarran and others relating to the effort of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to field a consensus candidate against the People’s National Congress (PNC) in 1992 and the offers to the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) for a Cabinet berth.

Several of us from New York involved in the liberation movement (Vishnu Bisram, Ravi Dev, Dr Baytoram Ramharack, and Vassan Ramracha, among others) made trips to Guyana and met the political figures to help fashion a united opposition. We even met in Trinidad and Tobago with some of the Guyanese political figures regarding this noble cause.

Dr Fenton Ramsahoye was also quietly figured in the discussions. Based on recollection of information provided to me by various individuals, the PPP/C went out of its way to accommodate the WPA that was opposed to him for ethnic reasons (he won’t attract African voters). As Ramkarran stated, it was well known that the WPA was adamantly opposed to Dr Jagan as the presidential candidate, arguing that he would not be able to bring African voters on board to support an electoral alliance to defeat the PNC. The WPA proposed Ashton Chase, among others, as a consensus presidential candidate.

Dr Clive Thomas may also have been proposed (I stand to be corrected). The PPP/C initially insisted on Dr Jagan being the consensus candidate (with Dr Thomas as the prime ministerial candidate), but later yielded and offered Dr Roger Luncheon and/or Bishop Randolph George as consensus candidates.

The PPP/C wanted a united slate to contest the election. In my meeting with him at Freedom House, Dr Jagan told me he and his party were prepared to yield on the issue of a presidential candidate, but insisted that the PPP/C be given a majority of seats. His preference for the post was Bishop George, whom he thought would attract a lot of African

support.

The PPP/C was offered an unrealistic 20 per cent or 25 per cent of the seats – WPA officials told me that number approximated the political support of the PPP/C, although the Turkeyen Research and Polling Institute (TRPI) poll showed the PPP/C with about 45 per cent support (PPP/C ended with 53 per cent in the election).

There were also sticking points about the number two and number three positions in the consensus ticket. Paul Tennassee of the Democratic Labour Movement (DLM) was offered a vice president (or deputy prime ministerial) position.

Some PPP/C stalwarts were opposed to such a prominent position for Tennassee.

Other offers were made to the United Republican Party (URP) and other constituents of the People’s Coalition for Democracy (PCD) to keep them on board. According to Cheddi, the main sticking point was over seat distribution, as he told me he was prepared to bury his political ambition of being president.

The WPA, I was told by lesser PPP/C officials, wanted an unrealistic 20 per cent of seats, equal to the PPP/C, although the TRPI opinion poll showed it having only three per cent support (ending up with two per cent in the election).

Bisram, Dev and others, separately or together, held back and forth meetings (serving as unofficial intermediaries) with the political leaders (Kwayana, Dr Thomas, Rupert Roopnaraine, Tennassee, Vishnu Bandhu, Dr Leslie Ramsammy and Llewelyn John, among others) of the parties, but could not convince them to compromise on seat allocations and positions.

The late Doodnauth Singh (who was close WPA figures) also was approached by Bandhu, Dev, myself and others to help broker a deal. He also threw up his hands in frustration. The idea of a dream consensus coalition collapsed.

Subsequently, I met Cheddi and he told me he was still pre-

pared to accept Clive as his number two. But the WPA turned it down. Kwayana, in an interview with me for an article, told me the position was offered to Clive and not the WPA. It was for me a petty distinction.

Some time later, I met Dr Thomas at his University of Guyana (UG) office and revealed to him Dr Jagan’s offer. Clive was praiseworthy of Cheddi and thanked him for his generous offer‚ but said he was not interested in the prime ministerial position and instead suggested Dr Luncheon’s name, noting that "Roger" was far more deserving because of his unswerving loyalty to the PPP/C. Jagan and the PPP/C, wanting to expand their ethnic base, opted for Sam Hinds, who was with the Guyana Action for Reform and Democracy (GUARD), as his number two, as well as other prominent individuals under the “Civic” component. All this time, abroad, our liberation forces were waging an unrelenting campaign for free and fair elections, especially America.

The U.S. had sounded a warning to the Desmond Hoyte regime to stage a free election.

As it became clear a free election would be held, the PPP/C hardened its position on an alliance, recognising it would win on its own. The WPA and other members of the PCD failed to read the ground reality of their political support once free and fair elections were held.

I went back to Cheddi urging him to find a way to bring in Dr Thomas, recognising his importance in an alliance and as a way to unite the races. He told me he and his party had already committed to Sam and could not go back on his word.

The WPA decided to contest the elections on its own with Clive as the presidential candidate and Rupert as the number two. At the polls, the electorate voted along ethnic lines and the WPA was humiliated‚ just barely winning one national seat with Clive and Rupert serving half a term each.

After the election, I went

to Cheddi and asked him to offer cabinet berths and other positions to the WPA. He said he could not offer the Finance Ministry to Clive because he had already committed it to Asgar Ally, who was serving in the position. Instead, he offered the Planning and Development Ministry to Dr Thomas and had left the position vacant for him and asked if I can have a conversation with Clive to accept it. I faintly recall meeting Clive and his gently refusing the position, suggesting other names.

I also discussed the matter with Eusi at Rodney House, suggesting the WPA accept Cheddi’s offer. Eusi made a fine distinction of a ministry being offered to Dr Thomas and not to the WPA. It was clear to me that the WPA was not interested in joining the government with this petty distinction. However, I was told several WPA figures did serve on state boards.

As the above illustrates, Dr Jagan did make consistent efforts to unite the opposition to contest the 1992 election as well as to offer it positions in order to create national ethnic unity. But he did not find much cooperation from the WPA and should not be faulted for lack of ethnic unity and the kind of governance that followed his demise.

As Ramkarran noted, the political situation in Guyana would have been far different if Clive had accepted the prime ministerial position. The WPA and other parties paid a heavy price for not being pragmatic and the nation has become victims of those who were unwilling to accept Cheddi as the rightful presidential candidate.

Neither the URP nor the DLM were opposed to Cheddi being the presidential candidate.

Lionel Peters, Moses Nagamootoo, Tennassee, Wazir Mohammed and Nigel Westmaas among other outstanding revolutionaries are far more familiar with the discussions on the consensus candidate and may wish to add to the issue.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, december 29, 2013

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Information request for a fourth edition Those who of “Bibliography of Guyana and contribute to road Guyanese Writers” fatalities must be Dear Editor, I am a Toronto-based Guyanese author specialising in compiling reference books.

One such book of mine titled, “Bibliography of Guyana and Guyanese Writers”, with a “Foreword” by the late Professor Jan Carew was first published in 2002 and revised in 2005 and 2009.

Professor Carew insisted that his “Foreword” be used in future editions as he found the book to be “an invaluable literary reference covering a full spectrum of scholarship – from novels, poetry, and other literary anthologies, to scientific work”.

Over 5000 copies have been sold worldwide ever since the first edition.

This last edition contains 2000 titles and 1100 authors with the titles categorised into 73 subject areas as follows: Afro-Guyanese; A g r i c u l t u r e ; Amerindians; Amerindian Languages; Archaeology; Architecture; Art; Bibliography; Biography; Border Issues; Botany; Business; Caribbean; Cattle Ranching; Cheddi Jagan; Children; ChineseGuyanese; Church History; Conservation; Cooking; Country Profile; Cultural Issues; Economic Development; Ecosystem; Education; El Dorado; Environment;

Espionage; Family Life; Folk Tales; Foreign Interference; Geography; Geology; Global Issues; Healthcare; History; Ichthyology; Immigration Issues; Indo-Guyanese; Jonestown; Language Studies; Legal History and Cases; Literature; Local Government; Media; Memoirs; Military Affairs; Mind, Body, and Spirit; Mining; Missionary Work; Music; Natural History; Novel; Ornithology; Philately; Photographic Scenes; Poetry; Political History; Politics; Pork Knockers; PortugueseGuyanese; Prose; Race Relations; Religion; Research; Social Studies; Sports; Trade Unions; Travel and Exploration; Walter Rodney; Women’s Issues; and Zoology.

It is indeed astonishing that a small country like ours can produce so many authors on such a wide range of subject matters. No other Caribbean country has come close to this literary accomplishment.

I am now collecting information for a fourth edition to be out in mid2014. Through this letter, I am asking readers to send me any information on books on Guyana or by Guyanese (regardless of where they live) on any subject published since 2009 or about to be published some time in

the future.

It does not matter whether the book is selfpublished or co-published or whether the author or publisher is obscure. It is literature that needs to be captured and showcased.

Books that contain a few pages or whole sections on Guyana are also welcomed, for example, Arthur A Schlesinger, Jr’s A Thousand Days: John F Kennedy in the White House (Houghton Mifflin: New York, 1965), which has a few pages dealing with the role of Kennedy and the White House in undermining the democratically-elected government of Dr Cheddi Jagan in the early 1960s.

All I need is the full title of the book, publisher’s name, city where the publisher is located, and year the work was published. The category of the subject matter should also be submitted, for example, novel, poetry, autobiography, politics and mining, among others.

Examples are as follows: Jagan, Dr. C.B. The West on Trial: My Fight for Guyana’s Freedom (Hansib: London, 1997) [Politics and Autobiography] [First published by Michael Joseph Limited: London,

1966. Revised editions in 1972, 1975 and 1980

by Seven Seas Books.

Revised edition with subtitle With Reflections on my Father by Nadira Jagan-Brancier: Harpy: Milton, 1998].

Melville, Pauline The Ventriloquist’s Tale (Bloomsbury: London, 1997) [Novel] Rabe, Stephen G. U.S. Intervention in British Guiana (The University of North Carolina Press: Chapel Hill: 2005) [Politics and Espionage] Rodney, Walter A History of the Guyanese Working People, Vol.1. 1881-1905 (Johns Hopkins University: Baltimore, 1981). [Politics and Trade Unions]

Preserving such rich literary heritage for all Guyanese to be proud of and showcasing it for the world to see are two good reasons to keep this project updated periodically.

Sincerely, Lal Balkaran Author

lalbalkaran@rogers.com www.lalbalkaran.com

held accountable

Dear Editor, An 18-year-old unlicensed teen recently lost his life when the vehicle he was driving met with an accident in the vicinity of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. There are several factors about this particular incident that greatly upset me. Aside from him being an unlicensed driver, I am curious to know whose vehicle was being driven and if permission was in fact granted for the young man to use the car.

Additionally, the young man was said to be driving a hire car at that and was also seemingly under the influence of alcohol. These four factors surely describe the highest levels of irresponsibility and the urgent need to ensure that this matter is further addressed.

A few months ago, a teen managed to find himself caught up in a hit-and-run accident and after realising that his number plate was left at the scene of the accident, he subsequently surrendered himself to the police.

The death of the driver in the recent road fatality should not be an excuse to turn a blind eye to this inci-

dent.

In fact, the parents of the young man should be questioned since the details leading up to the accident need to be further verified.

An aunt of the deceased stated that he was drinking with friends and ended up behind the wheel of one of his friends' car. However, the friend is claiming that he had no control over the situation.

When irresponsible behaviour is the reason for unwarranted fatality, we must take the necessary measures to address the situation from all angles.

Individuals need to play a more responsible and cognisant role when it comes to the decisions that are made by them and also by the people around them.

If we are aware that someone close to us is drinking and has intentions of driving, it is the responsibility of each and every one of us to not allow it.

This simple act could save a life and could in fact benefit society in its entirety.

Sincerely, Xavier Connelly

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Foundation

Prepare your children for

Holiday musings Anu Dev

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ell 2013 is finally coming to an end.

The year is wrapping up and we’re being propelled towards January 1st, 2014. Our thoughts inevitably become a bit reflective as we think about what the past year has been like. We can’t do much about the process, since as humans we’re driven to create narratives.

The point is: what kind of narrative are we going to create?

For me, the past year’s been one of my most momentous – graduating from high school, moving to a different country and starting med school all within the space of a few months. It feels like it’s been years since I was last strolling through the halls of QC – so much has happened since then. But then I realise it was just a few months ago that I was wearing the old school tie.

Time, as I’m constantly reminded, is truly relative.

But I do love New Year’s Day. For some in-

explicable reason I get insanely happy when thinking about New Year’s Day. For example, after my last exam, the minute I realised that I was now free from school-work and the holidays had officially begun, I immediately started wishing everyone Happy New Year’s – never mind that we hadn’t even gotten past Christmas yet.

It’s hard to be unhappy on New Year’s Day. For

our family, it’s a “big day” as we celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day all rolled together. There’s (tons of) good food, lots of laughter from good-natured ribbing and just that all-round ‘good feeling’.

Cooking with my mom is special! And after being away for four months, I’m looking forward to that fa-

miliar feeling of ushering in the New Year with my family even more than I usually do.

It’s true you shouldn’t wait until a specific date like January 1 to decide to make changes in your life.

What’s that cliché? “Today is the first day of the rest of your life...” So you should be continuously striving to improve things. But New Year’s Day is a nice time to make a conscious effort to

think about what you want the New Year to be like.

We all have things that we would’ve liked to have done differently in 2013 and we all have goals and expectations of the way we want our lives to turn out.

But the thing is, if we’re not making the decisions to improve our lives, to bring ourselves closer to our

goals, thing won’t magically work out in the end without us putting any effort in. Unfortunately, real life doesn’t equip us with personal Fairy Godmothers.

Every alcoholic mightn’t decide to give up drinking, every smoker mightn’t decide to quit smoking and every parent mightn’t decide to make more of an effort to spend time with their kids, but hopefully many will. It doesn’t have to be “big things”... But the “little things” we change can also make a world of difference.

I love fresh starts, new beginnings. And for many of us, especially students, we do get a fresh start after the New Year – it’s a whole new term, a new semester. We get a chance to improve this semester in comparison to the last.

It’s going to be a New Year! I don’t know what exactly 2014 holds for me, but I do know some of the things that I want from 2014, and hopefully I can make the choices to bring me closer to my goals. And in the meantime, I’ll enjoy what’s left of 2013 and savour the time I get to spend at home, right here in my homeland.

after the holidays

BY Mariela Dabbah

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eing out of school for a couple of weeks during the holidays is plenty of time to get your children completely off schedule. With shopping, holiday family get-togethers and the late night on New Year’s Eve, your children have likely forgotten what it means to get up on time and get ready in a timely fashion. The good news is that getting your children back on track isn’t as stressful as doing the same after the much longer summer break.

Here are a few tricks t h a t can help smooth the transition from school to home and back to school over the holiday break.

Wake up early: Start waking the children up at their normal school time several days before they go back, even if they stayed up late the night before. They will likely have no trouble going to bed on time on days when they woke up early.

Talk about school: Keep school at the forefront of your children's minds by talking about it each day of the holiday break. Ask them which friends they are looking forward to seeing when they go back and which classes are their favourites.

Read books off your children’s reading lists then ask them questions about the books. If your children bring their lunch to school, make a calendar with different food options for the first week when they go back.

Keep the brain working: There’s an awesome series of books called Summer Fit Learning which is in-

tended to help children maintain over the summer what they learned during the year. The website offers lots of games for a “fit brain,” along with reading lists, book reports and entertaining activities. Even though it’s not summer, you will still find lots of things to keep your children engaged.

Set goals: As part of New Year’s resolutions, encourage your children to set some school-related goals, such as raising a math grade by five points or making one new friend each month. Set your own goals as well — mayb e

getting up a few minutes earlier each morning to have lunches packed before waking the children or to give yourself a half hour to exercise or medi-

tate.

Start off new: Earmark one of your child’s Christmas presents as a special one for the first day back to school.

It may be a new shirt, new shoes, a new backpack, zipper pull or locker decoration. Your child will be eager to get back to school to show the new item to his or her friends.

Getting back to school after the extended holiday break doesn’t have to be as stressful as taking a test.

Remember to stick as close as you can to the normal wake-up and bedtime routine during the break, but don’t worry about the times when the holiday keeps you out late — just get back on schedule the next day.

Routinely engage the children in positive conversations about the return to school while they’re still enjoying their break. (Mamiverse)

news

Ogle-Industry Senior Citizens’ Group committed to serving the elderly

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SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

“Ice Cream man” wants to expand business

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Brian Ramsarran next to his ice cream bus

Representatives of the eight families who received plaques for their long-standing support to the Ogle-Industry Senior Citizens’ Group. Former Chief Education Officer (CEO) Ed Caesar was also honoured

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fter 60 years of serving the people of Ogle, Industry and Cummings Lodge on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), the Ogle-Industry Senior Citizens’ Group is now in the process of being registered.

The executive members have commenced the process of registration for the agedold group to become a nongovernmental organisation.

It is anticipated that the group will be fully constitionalised by mid-2014.

For the past 60 years, the organisation that has been hosting its annual Christmas cheer for the elderly and needy; and this year is no different.

The charitable organisation has moved from recognising six retired workers who were attached to the Ogle Sugar Estate to meeting the needs of 250 residents from Ogle, Industry

and the Karticks.

Former Chief Education Officer (CEO) Ed Caesar was also honoured. Ceasar, who is not a resident of the community, has been attending the Christmas celebrations for the past 25 years, throwing in his support.

Remembering the humble beginnings, one of the longest serving members and coordinator of the charity, Andrew Kartick said in 1954, six workers who retired from the Ogle Sugar Estate were honoured in recognition of their years of service.

By 1959, the event had moved to the Ogle General Workers’ Club where 20 persons were treated to food and drink.

However, by 1993, the event had moved to the Cummings Lodge Secondary School to facilitate the 200 beneficiaries who not only received food and drinks, but

Kartick said preference is given to those who have lived longer in‚ and have made contributions to‚ the development of their communities.

Individuals are placed on the list after the entire committee reviews their nomination and agrees that they fall into the old or needy category.

He, however, said the annual Christmas cheer would not be possible without the support of the commercial sector, the diaspora and residents of the communities who pledge their support in cash and kind.

Food hampers and items donated are estimated at $15,000 per person, in addition to the $7000 they get as spending money.

Throughout the years, the charity has attracted numerous influential persons including former President Janet Jagan, late Education Minister, Dr Dale Bisnauth,

A section of the audience during the staging of the 60th Christmas party

and Cummings Lodge.

In observance of its 60th anniversary, the organisation recently held its Annual Old and Needy Folks Christmas Cheer in grant style at the Cummings Lodge Secondary School.

Before receiving their food hampers and monetary funds, the 250 beneficiaries who were all seated in the auditorium were blown away by a cultural extravaganza staged by members of religious societies in keeping with the Christmas celebration.

In addition to the 250 recipients, the organisation recognised eight families, along with an individual who would have offered unwavering support to the event over the years.

These include the Rampersauds, the Tewaris, the Appanas, the Ramroops, the Boodhoos, the Singhs

hampers as well. In addition, they each received $7000 to aid in their Christmas shopping.

Kartick told Guyana Times that “if they don’t get assistance then Christmas would just be another day for them”. At the time, he was responding to a question posed on the motive behind the yearly event.

It was pointed out that residents from the three communities are selected after careful scrutiny.

From as early as September each year, the executive body starts to compile the beneficiary list with attention given to those who received hampers the previous years.

However, members are often given the opportunity to identify persons in their communities who are needy or elderly and require assistance.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and former Chief Education Officer Ed Caesar.

When the event was held this year on December 22 at the Cummings Lodge Secondary School, junior Finance Minister Bishop Juan Edghill was in attendance.

He stressed that the organisation remains impartial, noting that it belongs to no political organisation.

“This is the people’s organisation carrying through.

When politicians attend the event they are reminded that they come as residents of the respective communities or as supporters of the initiative; not as politicians.

"Likewise, all religious denominations within the communities are invited to contribute to the stage show performance component of the event,” he explained.

rian Ramsarran is known around New Amsterdam and in East Canje as the “Ice Cream Man”.

Ramsarran, who started the business some four years ago, said it has grown as more and more persons are rushing to sample his product.

He told Guyana Times that he makes cups of the craved product and leaves‚ it in a freezer to harden for two days before delivering it to friends who would order on the weekend.

The ice cream man sells his product driving around in a bus‚ but also operates a small outlet at Pitt Street, New Amsterdam.

According to him, he got the recipe from his mother, pointing out that the English ice cream recipe is

over 100 years old.

Ramsarran said he wants to expand the business, but the business climate in Berbice is not too conducive.

He said the economic situation in Berbice is not bright and raw material is not readily available.

The small businessman noted that one of the immediate challenges is not being able to get quality churners.

“The only ones that you see is the Chinese and they are not of the quality that I need. It is costing me to replace those machines very often.”

His goal is to set up an ice cream factory in Berbice, but the challenges are great, among them is acquiring the needed investment, which Ramsarran said amounts to several million dollars.

Small manufacturers are not given the push, he told Guyana Times.

“They don’t promote a food fair with food manufacturers from Berbice. If they do that people will be able to come and compare what the small man is doing.” He said this is something both the Berbice chamber and government can do.

He feels also that government needs to put mechanisms in place for small manufacturers to obtain loans at low interest rates.

“I will like to see the small businesses that have been there for a long time to be exposed and be given the opportunity to expand. For me to get my ice cream into the supermarkets, I have to get machines and have to get the cups labelled, it is very costly,” he said.

8 news

SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Berbice rice mill at risk of being blacklisted

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Popular Corentyne Rice milling company is at risk of being cut off from the Venezuela agreement and sued, as plans have been made by rice farmers to move to the court to have the issue of non-payment addressed.

Scores of angry farmers flocked the entrance of the Ancient County Investment Inc situated at Tarlogie Farm, Corentyne on Friday with the hope that an explanation would be given to them as to why they did not receive payment for their paddy.

Some of the cheques that were issued to farmers by the company could not be changed (bounced) at the bank.

Strict orders

But instead of meeting with someone in authority, the farmers were told by the company’s security that strict orders were given to them not to open the gate as “no business transaction would be conducted today”.

The farmers, disgusted by the situation, said they have been running to the mill “almost every day of every week” only to be told on each occasion that their money was not available.

Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) went as far as to seek the intervention of the Central Bank to “speed up the transaction process”.

The RPA general secretary said apparently “they did something else with that money”.

Seeraj, who is also vice chairman of the GRDB, said he plans to put forth a recommendation to the rice board.

Rice farmers protesting in front of the Ancient County Investment Inc on Friday

The distressed farmers complained that the issue is compounded with the high price they are required to pay for manure. They said that the current rice crop has almost come to an end, and they have not even received payment for paddy supplied for the last crop, which ended in October.

Sharing the farmers’ frustration was Rice Producers Association (RPA) General Secretary Dharamkumar Seeraj.

He noted that at a recent meeting held with the board and management of the rice mill, it was disclosed that over $300 million is owed to farmers.

Apparently, the company did not have that mon-

ey available. Seeraj pointed out that in an attempt to assist the farmers, the RPA had credited some $167 million to the mill’s account.

He is now gravely upset as all assurances were given to him by the company’s manager that the farmers would receive payment.

“I understand they paid only $16 million. But they received $167 million and we were thinking about giving $50 million, but they got three times what we were initially giving. The $167 million was transferred from the rice board account to this company and we had expected them to raise another $20 million for payment of farmers in Region Six,” he said.

Seeraj noted that the

Blacklist

“I, as vice chairman of the rice board and as the general secretary of the RPA, will be recommending to cut them off of the Venezuela arrangement because you can’t breach your promise. So this company will be put on the blacklist,” he said The RPA representative assured farmers that their move to the court would be fully supported by the organisation.

Legal action is expected to commence on Monday.

There are more than half a dozen of rice mills in Regions Six, all lining the Corentyne Coast. Generally, farmers are offered between $2000 to $3000 per bag of paddy.

The price may fluctuate, depending on the service of the mill.

Rajan Zed nominated as “Global Person of the Year”

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ace2News, a tri-lingual (English, Hindi and Punjabi) Internet newspaper from Chandigarh (India), has selected distinguished religious statesman Rajan Zed as “Global Person of the Year” for 2013.

Face2News, which aims at “stimulating the public discourse in the right direction”, said that its team headed by Chief Editor Dharam Loona and Editor Roshan Lal Goyal and consisted of experts from various fields, picked U.S.based Zed after long and passionate discussions out of a lengthy list of wonderful achievers. It was a difficult task, it adds.

Zed has been selected as “Global Person of the Year” for his efforts at building bridges among various religious communities of the world and helping the helpless, Face2News noted.

During 2013, Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, took up issues in various parts of Europe, raising his voice against apart-

Rajan Zed

heid conditions faced by about 15-million Roma (Gypsies) in Sweden, France, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Norway and Ireland; his being the only prominent religious voice on this issue.

Zed engaged in dialogue with Christian (various denominations), Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jewish, Baha’i, Jain and Zoroastrian leaders. He took up Hindu issues in Australia, Cook Islands, the U.S. and other

parts of the world. He led a faith forum, an interfaith dialogue on religion at a Gannett publication, now in its third year.

Zed opened a few dozen California City councils with Hindu invocation, many of those for the first time.

He was warmly welcomed

by Greek Orthodox, Jewish, Hindu, Jain, Zoroastrian and Mormon leaders during his September Southern California visit.

Zed raised the issue of racism and discrimination in football with FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association); helped organise multi-faith blessings of a new Jewish synagogue; joined Muslims in Eid celebrations; addressed a Pentecostal convocation; had intimate dialogue with His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios, Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, head of worldwide Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and youngest Roman Catholic Cardinal; and organised a one-of-itskind-in-the-world Hindu

Baccalaureate Service at the University of Nevada-Reno for the sixth continuous year.

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval recognised Zed on his “remarkable achievements”. City of Santee near San Diego in California became the ninth city to declare October 25 as “Rajan Zed Day”.

The centre for Spiritual Living Reno honoured him for his interfaith work. He was also honoured by Green Business Chamber in Nevada, Northern Nevada Muslim Community, Reno Police Chief, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Reno Buddhist Centre.

He received recognition from Nevada Lieutenant Governor Brian K Krolicki and U.S. senators Harry Reid and Dean Heller; besides commendation

by City of Sparks for his commitment to interfaith community.

Northern Nevada clergy belonging to various religions and denominations organised a reception in Zed’s honour.

Devonshire Castle residents call for increased police patrol

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esidents of Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast are calling on the Guyana Police Force G Division to conduct frequent patrols to curb incidents of larceny in their community.

The latest victim is Satwattie Lall.

Lall’s house was vandalised on Christmas Eve night.

Relating her story to

Guyana Times, the woman said the thieves used an empty plastic bucket to reach and remove louvres panes from a window at the back of the one-story concrete and wooden building.

She said before the thieves could have gained entry into her house, she was awakened by a loud noise. The mother of seven said she thought the noise

The window through which the bandits sought to gain entry into Satwattie Lall’s house

was made by her cat “scraping” at the window and she shouted for it to get down.

The thieves heard the shout and escaped.

Another resident Totaram Persaud also lost a sheep during the holiday season.

Residents say this trend must stop and the police must intensify patrols in their community.

Eyew tness

Coming out...

Y

...in politics our Eyewitness knew it was only a matter of time.

When a person’s ego expanded to announce he knows more than anybody else – on any matter under the sun – how would you keep him from direct politics? We’re talking about the Mook...Mohan “Glenn” Lall. He’s gotten tired of putting words into the mouths of his two favourite “house politicians” – Joseph Harmon and Khemraj Ramjattan, and we hear he’ll be entering the hustings come next year.

This move was inevitable even since CN Sharma quit the political scene. Think about it. Both these fellas crave the limelight. Some think it’s because they’re both short. Compensation, and all that. Both think they’re full of wit and wisdom: Sharma exhibited it on his “Voice of the People” and the Mook on “Dem Boys seh”.

Both announced that education’s an impediment to getting things done. That they both have no education doesn’t mean they’re making a virtue out of their deficit.

We could go on and on – like they both have a way with (wrong) words – but you get the idea.

From what the Eyewitness heard, there are two major reasons as to why the decision was made now.

The first has to do with the Prezzie. The Mook thought because the Prezzie’s a modest fellow and used to give him a hearing, he would’ve been controlling Prezzie from behind the scenes. He confused politeness for acquiescence and he’s beyond himself.

Because Prezzie’s continuing the policies that make Guyana practically the only economy in Caricom that’s growing, the Mook fumes Prezzie’s being “controlled by Bharrat Jagdeo”.

Even though it’s clear he’s been in close communication with the American Embassy (as we know from WikiLeaks; the International Republican Institute [IRI] also?), the Mook doesn’t seem to be familiar with the American folk wisdom: “If it ain’t broken...don’t fix it!” But we all know how his hatred for the former president has unbalanced the Mook.

So the Mook’s going to take on his old friend Prezzie in the political arena. Hence his increasingly hostile salvos against the Prezzie in his “Dem Boys Seh” column. The other reason for coming out of the closet and into the political ring is that in the Mook’s mind, the opposition just isn’t listening to him enough. Which means they’re not doing and saying everything he tells them. The Mook just can’t understand how people, to whom he’s given unlimited money and column inches, wouldn’t recognise the wisdom that flows uninterruptedly from his lips.

The only unanswered question is whether he’ll join one of the opposition parties. Or go it alone. Most likely the latter. There can’t be two man crabs in one hole. ...in writing Well so much for ex-Speaker Ralph Ramkarran’s cover of writing innocuously on his “private” blog, only to have the Stabber News pick up the pearls of wisdom dropped therein. The Stabber referred to him yesterday as their “columnist” when they regurgitated his Sunday Column as a “news” article. They’re all coming out of the closets nowadays, aren’t they?

We’d actually wondered whether the Stabber would do the honours this time, since in an amazing volte face, Ramkarran had actually sided with the position of Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud on the prospecting licence awarded to Muri Brazil. This was diametrically opposed to the scorched earth campaign waged by the Stabber against Persaud.

To his credit, Ramkarran did disclose he was the lawyer for Muri Brazil. So his defence of the project wasn’t on behalf of Persaud but of his lawyer’s (fat) fee.

Ahhh...isn’t it great to be a lawyer and ride two horses at the same time.

Mr Ralph Ramkarran, meet Mr Nigel Hughes! ...against press freedom The Inter American Press Association (IAPA) equated Venezuela and the U.S. when it came to press freedom.

Seems the U.S. government secretly confiscated the files from 21 telephone lines from Associated Press (AP) reporters. Say it ain’t so, oh bastion of (press) freedom!

NEWS

9

SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Moonlighting Region Five contractors will be terminated – Whittaker warns

Junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker (fourth left), Region Five Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth (fifth left) and Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ashford Ambedkar (third left) engaging Quacey Amsterdam (left), the contractor at the Novar Primary School, Region Five

J

unior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker has warned contractors in Region Five that failure to deliver their projects on time will result in termination of their contracts.

“The region is in favour that the contract be terminated‚ which I think is a fair way to go because the regional administration has been assisting and engaging the contractors to find out the difficulties, but to this end, it was discovered that no one will be able to deliver,” Minister Whittaker pointed out.

Junior Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker‚ accompanied by Region Five

January, but the contractors are not on schedule and from all reports, the works would not be completed within the given time.

In the case of Novar, Minister Whittaker said that the contractor continued to extend the completion date; however, he has promised that the work will be completed by January 6.

“The slow pace of implementation has been a challenge and with schools scheduled to be opened within another week is a concern for the region, the ministry and the government at large,” Minister Whittaker added.

He highlighted that the region has completed 100

Work in progress at the Fairfield Community Centre

Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth and Regional Executive Officer (REO) Ashford Ambedkar on Friday visited and inspected work ongoing at the Novar primary and secondary schools, the Mahaicony Secondary School and the Fairfield Community Centre, Region Five.

At Novar, $15.67 million was invested for an extension which is expected to accommodate 180 students. This contract was awarded to SA Associates and was expected to be completed during a six-month period. At Mahaicony, a new wing is being built at a cost of $20.97 million to accommodate 200 students and that contract was awarded to TB Construction.

Both projects were expected to be completed before the new school term in

per cent of its other programmes and commended the regional administration for monitoring those works and ensuring that they are successful.

“We would not wish that those two projects under the education programme take away from the success that they have achieved under the other programmes,” he stated.

Bisnauth, who also expressed disappointment that the works are not yet completed, said that the regional administration made several attempts to assist the contractors, and they were given the assurance that the projects will be completed within the scheduled period.

Notwithstanding the two projects, he said that all the other 2013 capital projects were successfully completed.

Meanwhile, Fairfield Community Centre was rehabilitated under the President’s Youth Choice initiative to the tune of $4.5

The extension at the Mahaicony Primary School, Region Five

million. The works include three sanitary blocks.

Ambedkar said that particular contractor was delivering and he was sat-

isfied with the work that has been done thus far.

Once completed, he said that the centre will benefit hundreds of youths in com-

puter training, home economics and sewing classes.

Similar programmes are also on stream in two other areas.

10 news Housing sector sees boom in 2013 SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

cent on paints.

With the successful takeoff of the housing sector, the Housing Ministry initiated the Building and Construction Expo with the aim of responding to the housing and building needs of Guyanese, and to foster home ownership.

The fourth such event in 2013 highlighted the theme “Consolidating partnerships for sustainable development” and attracted over 80 booths.

White Water, Region One residents with the keys to their new homes It was this venue at which ments at Providence Phase 3, Silica City, the new housing he year 2013 has been year.

The latest move in the where the sum of $731 mil- venture earmarked for the another very busy one for the Housing turnkey concept also saw the lion was expended for the cre- Soesdyke-Linden Highway, Ministry and its executing Perseverance Scheme on the ation of 558 new lots; at Farm, was unveiled. arm, the Central Housing and East Bank Demerara ear- where $1.4 billion was investThe ministry proposed the Planning Authority (CH&PA), marked for the development ed for 1695 lots; Plantation latter, new housing developas they led the government’s of 1000 homes valued $4.7 mil- Perseverance, where for 200 ment as a viable solution to lots, $90 million was spent; the country’s housing needs, grand strategy of providing lion each. and at Plantation Eccles, $40 taking into consideration envihousing, especially for low inmillion was utilised for 70 lots. ronmental consequences, and come Guyanese, and other catOne Stop Shop Also included, was $680 technological changes, incluegories.

The ministry’s 2013 work Obviously, the demand is programme had projected the million spent on the Farm sive of rising sea levels and the still great as measured by the allocation of over 6000 house to Diamond Access Road, availability of land number of one stop shops held, lots, and distribution of over $450 million on the construcIn September, while on a tion of 120 single flat homes visit to Guyana, and after beand the quantum of lots allot- 4000 land titles. ted at each of these strategic In this regard, the inno- at Providence; $154 million ing taken on tour of a few of engagements. vative mechanism of the One that has resulted in levels Guyana’s housing schemes, Thus, with a budgetary Stop Shop system was emallocation of $3.1 billion, the ployed at 10 different locations stage was again set for one of across the country for the fulthe critical needs, that is cen- filment of this goal.A total of tral to any human being’s dai- 8500 lots were allocated and ly life – acquisition of a shelter. 7000 titles distributed during 2013.

New initiatives Among the locales visSeveral new initiatives ited by this unique process were announced and imple- were Farm on the East Bank mented in keeping with the Demerara, where 1600 lots visionary plan of making af- were allocated;1200 for Lustfordable housing available to en-Rust, Region Three; 775 at Guyanese, even as there was Kilcoy/Chesney, Region Six; 85 continued focus on the distri- lots for Zeelugt Phase 2; 840 The newly-built Mocha Arcadia road bution of lots, the development lots for Zeelugt Phase; and of new sustainable housing 360 at Onderneeming, on the of upgrade to roads at Great Prime Minister of St Vincent Diamond and Golden Grove, and the Grenadines, Dr Ralph schemes, increased provision Essequibo Coast. of turnkey housing, and exSince its introduction in benefitting 1000 lots in these Gonsalves, said that the govpansion of the core houses con- 2009, there have been 53 one schemes; and $544 million ernment’s housing programme cept. stop shops, and government spent to upgrade to asphal- was extraordinary, describing Beginning with the key has been subsidising these tic surface, the Cacique and it as unlike any other in the initiative introduced in 2013 house lot allocations by more Greenfield Park Entrances.

Caribbean, including that of St It must be emphasised Vincent and the Grenadines, to boost home ownership, this than 40 per cent. intervention, a significant tax In November, Housing that from 2000 to 2012, in- which reputedly have the best. relief‚ will cost the government

$580 million annually, and 2014 and onwards will benefit tens of thousands With great vision, governof first time owners. ment’s housing programme Named the Mortgage will continue, where all Income Relief (MIR), it allows Guyanese will be given a fair for first time homeowners who chance to fulfil one of life’s have been granted mortgages greatest achievements: to own of up to $30 million by coma home. The ministry is targetmercial banks or building sociing in 2014, the construction of eties, mortgage interest relief.

500 turnkey homes and the exThis measure has since been ecution of the design for Silica A section of the turnkey homes on the East Bank Demerara signed into law, thereby estabCity. lishing the regulatory foundaThe Housing Ministry will tion for this process.

Minister Irfaan Ali had in- vestments on the East Bank advertise and provide susdicated that the ministry’s by the CH&PA have totalled tained employment for maHinterland staff had completed all the $17 billion. This huge sum has sons, skilled men, carpenters The hinterland segment 2013 proposed programmes, created 13,000 new lots in ar- and labourers to work with the of the national housing drive among which were construc- eas including Great Diamond, ministry on the construction received a tremendous boost tion of over 200 core homes, 50 Golden Grove, Little Diamond, of the different types of homes as a result of a collaborative turnkey homes, and the distri- Mocha, Eccles, Herstelling and that are made available under effort between the govern- bution of 200 home improve- Kaneville, benefitting more the ministry’s programmes.

It will complete a few new ment of Guyana and the Inter- ment subsidies for families on than 54,000 people. schemes including Zeeburg American Development Bank the coastland and 125 hinterand the expansion of Zeelugt to address housing needs in land families.

Private sector the hinterland. Under the secAlso completed were 200 Several successful part- in Region Three, the continond Low Income Settlement community roads under the nerships with the private sec- ued expansion of the East (LIS-2) Programme, roof re- US$18.7 million Community tor were fostered yet again Bank corridor to bring about placements will be done for 86 Road Improvement Project towards the provision of rea- another 3000 lots, complethouses, while 122 new homes (CRIP). sonably priced home home- ing the new highway into Parfait Harmonie that would will be built. ownership.

Twenty-three households East Bank corridor Included in this initiative realise a new access road in White Water, Region One The East Bank corridor, were: discussions with Courts almost to the Demerara received keys to their new now a transformed geographi- Furniture Store to have a spe- Harbour Bridge, completing homes on October 31, while cal area of astounding moder- cial line of furniture made for the asphaltic concrete pav27 others had their roofs re- nity, has continued to attract low and middle income home- ing of four collectors’ roads furbished. On November 1, exponential sums for its con- owners; a memorandum of between Eccles to Little the beneficiaries in Region tinued socio-economic develop- understanding (MoU) signed Diamond, and will work Nine communities‚ which in- ment. with Harris Paints, Guyana on some main arteries into clude Kwatamang, Central For 2013, a grand total of Limited to allow low and low- Sophia.

Focus will also be on workAnnai, Massara, Katoka and $5.8 billion was invested on middle income earners, staff of Apoteri received their keys to its continued development, the ministry, and contractors ing with the Finance Ministry their homes. Beneficiaries in the Government Information who are working on the turn- to find resources to expand Manawarin, Region One, re- Agency (GINA) reported. key houses, to benefit from the hinterland housing proceived theirs earlier in the This catered for invest- a price discount of seven per gramme.

T

Haul yuh ass!

S

atiricus was agog. Not that he was “fast” or a “pot salt” or anything like that but as a fella always eager to know what’s going on, Satiricus was frequently “agog”. This time he was all agog about the wonderful way the Leader of the KFC party, Rum Jhaat, had with words. And how misunderstood he also was.

The thing was...in Guyana...ordinary people didn’t know how important words were to a highly trained senior lawyer like Rum Jhaat.

Just as how a cutlass was the tool of a cane cutter, words were the tools of a lawyer. And Rum Jhaat could wield his tool as good as any cane cutter. In the matter at hand, Rum Jhaat had announced that the housing minister was practically giving away prime real estate on the East Bank to every Tom, Dick and Harilall who called themselves “developer”.

Satiricus became livid when he heard that. Imagine selling land to private developers when only 200,000 house lots had been given to ordinary folks. Since when private developers had any rights? Or money meant anything? Lucky for the ordinary folks that Rum Jhaat and his communist sympathies were on their side.

The minister then tried to weasel out by calling a press conference to announce the developers had paid millions of dollars for the land. As if this mattered!!!

And to top it off, had his secretary invite Rum Jhaat to the press conference!

Now, this was really taking this democracy business too far. Who the heck was this minister to think he could defend his ministry and rebut a party leader (KFC party) – and a presidential candidate at that – to his face?? “The nerve!!!” fumed Satiricus.

But being the great leader he was, the newspaper reported that Rum Jhaat very maturely told the minister’s secretary to have the minister “haul his ass”.

Satiricus immediately knew that the report was incorrect and concocted. Rum Jhaat would never speak like that. As a trained lawyer Rum Jhaat would always speak with the correct syntax. Rum Jhaat would never say “haul his ass”.

Satiricus knew that Rum Jhaat had said “tell the minister to haul ‘e ass”. How could Rum Jhaat say otherwise? Hadn’t even his junior partner – the Nagga Man, entering the legal profession in his dotage – parsed his words ever so carefully when he announced in Parliament, he’d told his grandson: “Shut yuh so-and-so mouth!!”? Ah.... What class!

If a junior could exhibit such an erudite command of the language, how could the party leader do less?

So, to all who would condemn such a senior lawyer like Rum Jhaat, Satiricus says: “Haul yuh ass!”

Man survives after gun to head malfunctions

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n Essequibo Coast dredge owner is thankful for his life after a gun malfunctioned during a confrontation with two bandits along a trail at Sulphur Road, Cuyuni River, Region Seven. The gun belonged to the bandits.

According to information received‚ on Thursday about 10:00h, the dredge owner was driving an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) along a trail at Sulphur Road, Cuyuni River, when he was confronted by two men, one of whom was armed with a handgun.

The two men reportedly took away a quantity of raw

gold from the victim and demanded the ATV. The dredge owner did not give in easily and put up a fight, resulting in one of the bandits pointing the firearm to his head and pulling the trigger.

Luckily, the firearm jammed and the victim managed to take away the gun from the perpetrators, who made good their escape. The .32 pistol with one round of ammunition was handed over to the police.

Investigators have launched a probe into the matter. Several persons including the dredge owner were questioned, but no arrest was made.

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SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

12 nEWS

sunDAY, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Truth Gender-based violence Simply the

(Part I)

I F

n Guyana we observe these various “days”.

International day for this or that. You name it, we observe it. or a day. We trot out the “experts” and the “scholars” and the “social scientists” and the “leaders” from inside and outside this nation. They talk. They do power points and videos.

And they all use the almighty microphone. Volume is power.

Noise is righteousness.

At the very best, we have one or two victims who are reduced to giving “testimonies”.

We sympathise; we even cry.

And our emotional reaction is genuine. But as Jose Marti said: “We can only talk about pain if we have felt the slap on our own faces.”

Violence

The Education Ministry has taken an initiative to reach out to schools on “gender-based violence”. This is an admirable initiative, and one hopes that the outcome will be positive: a lessening of genderbased violence.

Gender-based violence is a scourge. It is evil. And that evil has almost consumed this country. Men beat, maim, rape, and kill women; and this has almost become ordinary.

We are starting to read about it and see it as if we were reading and seeing a cartoon or comic strip.

Professor Daizal Samad Gender based violence takes many forms. Physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse, verbal abuse. If a man beats a woman, she may recover after a few months or years. A child raped never recovers — ever! If it happens within a family, that family often shrouds the rape in secrecy in the name of family pride.

Rape

The raped child is sold off to the cheapest bidder in what passes for marriage. She is damaged goods, like a piece of rotting meat. And her life is one long misery. This is often how it shakes down!

So the raped girl is sold off as quickly as possible to any idiot that comes along. And more often than not, she is

subject to more and more emotional abuse. She becomes a slave to cook, clean, bear children, provide sex, and serve.

The sexual violence continues, over and over. There is no relief, no escape. A life-time of horror. Gradually she begins to believe that this horror is normal.

There are forms of genderbased violence that we hardly recognise to be violent. There are many forms of violation. A woman or girl gets into a taxi and is made to suffer any form of violation: groping, touching, sexual advances by action or words. This too is genderbased violence. It is violation.

Humiliation

But where do women go to make things right? She got into a taxi, did not note the licence number (who does?), it is dark. She takes her humiliation and violation and lives with it. It becomes normal.

Even if she goes home and tells her partner, he will almost instinctively think that she “looked for it” or she would be told some foolishness like: “These things happen. Get over it!”

Someone is sent by some phone company to fix a phone.

Male, of course — we don’t have an abundance of technicians who are female. The fellow walks into someone’s home. The woman is there in the place where she should

be most safe and comfortable.

And, without hesitation or provocation, she is subject to sexual advances by the “technician”. Violation! Violence!

Does she now take her time and go complain to whichever company sent that beast to her home? Even if they fire the beast, how does the company make up for the dishonour to the woman, the dishonour to her done in her house?

There is much violence in our language! “I will kill yuh so and so!” is now ordinary speech. And there is no price to pay. None! It is rarely reported to the police because it has become a way of life. And these monsters are to be found in every single profession in this country!

We as a nation do seem to know that gender-based violence is much, much more than cuffs and kicks and beatings. Those are horrible enough. But it goes much deeper.

So yes. Let us have these outreaches to our children.

Let us have these conferences, workshops, seminars, and vigils. But in the name of all things holy, let us have action.

This may sound regressive and simplistic, but maybe it would be a good thing for those who subject others to violence and violation be made to suffer greater violence and violation — in public! Make examples of them!

Toddler remains in critical condition after puma attack

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wo-year-old Jasmine Joseph of Isseneru Village, Mazaruni, Region Seven, remains in a critical state at the intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) following an attack by a puma on Friday.

Officials at the GPH on Saturday described the child’s condition as critical but stable, noting that she is being frequently monitored by doctors and nurses. The official stated that the child has lost a lot of blood and would have also sustained internal injuries as a result of the attack.

Joseph was taken to the medical facility just after 15:00h and a CT scan was performed on her to determine the extent of the injuries she received to the head.

So far, there are conflicting reports of what really transpired on the day the animal carried out the vicious attack on the child. Initially, it was reported that the child was in her yard while her mother and another relative were attending to household chores when they heard the child screaming.

As they looked out, they saw the animal dragging the child into the bushes.

Another version stated the child was left with her aunt by her grandmother so that she could attend a church service close by.

While at the church service, Agatha Joseph, the grandmother of the child reportedly heard loud screams coming from across her daughter’s home and thought that the children might have been playing and fell into the water; thus, she sent someone to check.

After a few minutes, the person returned with the badly injured child who was rushed to the Isseneru Health Centre where she was treated and medivaced to Georgetown.

Guyana Times was told that the child was also attacked by a jaguar sometime ago. The house where the child lives is surrounded by bushes which might be the main reason for the attacks.

Nevertheless, this newspaper was informed that the puma was killed by an uncle who went to the child’s rescue.

Two remanded for Shamdas Kirpalani robbery

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our persons were brought before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Friday after they were charged in connection with the Shamdas Kirpilani robbery.

Three men and one woman appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where they were not required to plead to the indictable charges.

Howard Rambarose of 6 Meadow Bank, Greater Georgetown, Rajesh Singh of 216 Layne Avenue, and Alistair Naughton of Guyhop Park, were all charged for robbery under arms. They all stood silently as Chief Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry read the charge which stated that on December 20 at Georgetown, being armed with a gun, they

robbed Mahesh Chetranie $17,250,000 property of Shamdas Kirpilani.

Joan Persaud, however, was charged with receiving the sum of $370,000 knowing the same to be stolen money.

Persaud was also not required to plead.

Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru told the court that Singh is employed at Kirpilani on Regent Street and is en-

trusted with the responsibility of depositing money in the Bank of Baroda.

On the day in question, he and manager of the store, Chetranie, uplifted the money and boarded the company vehicle to make the deposit at the bank. While in the vicinity of Avenue of the Republic, they were “stuck up” by Rambarose and Naughton, who relieved them of the

money and made good their escape.

Rambarose was represented by Attorney Clyde Ford while Attorney Nigel Hughes entered an appearance on behalf of Singh.

Attorney Hughes stated that his client has been an employee at Kirpilani for the past six years and there has never been a complaint against him. On the day of the incident, Singh was taken to Brickdam where he signed a statement, his cellphone was taken away and he was released.

The attorney went on to say that on Christmas eve, ranks went to his place of work and arrested him, taking him to Eve Leary headquarters.

Beaten

There, he was told to sign a statement and was then beaten with a police baton. He further stated that when he visited Singh on Christmas morning, there were visible marks of violence on his body.

Hughes then proceeded to show the court pictures of the accused's battered body.

Hughes pointed out that he heard no mention of conspiracy to commit a felony and was perplexed at what the prosecution has put forward.

He said that his client was one of the victims robbed at gunpoint and he cannot seem to understand how is it that Singh is being slapped with a

robbery charge, slapped with “robbing himself?” and stated that the prosecution cannot point to any solid evidence other than the confession statement that implicates his client.

Attorney Ford made a bail application for Rambarose stating that his client has an alibi. On the day in question, the attorney said that his client was on his way to court to appear before the Chief Magistrate for a matter which was dismissed on Monday last.

Bail

Prosecutor Mangru objected to bail, citing the seriousness, prevalence and the fact that the suspects might try to evade the law.

When asked by the Chief Magistrate if any of the suspects were identified by means of an identification parade, the response was negative. Prosecutor Mangru said that money was recovered from Rambarose and Naughton but stated that the bills were not marked prior to the robbery when asked about it by Beharry.

Chief Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry overruled the objections in regards to Singh and Persaud granting bail in the sum of $500,000 and $100,000 respectively.

However, the other two men were remanded to prison. The matters were adjourned to January 14

news

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SUNDAY, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Veteran broadcaster Oswald Singh laid to rest

Guyana Times/TVG/RGI General Manager Daniel Singh reflects on his experience with the late veteran broadcaster Oswald Singh

Pall-bearers carry the casket to Oswald Singh's final resting place

swald Joseph Chetram Singh, the “Man with the Golden Voice”, was on Saturday evening laid to rest at the Good Hope Cemetery after a three-hour-long emotional funeral service at the St Andrew's Lutheran Church, Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerera.

His work and life were praised by his colleagues in both the radio and television fraternity, as they paid their last respects to him.

Hundreds poured into the small concrete and wooden church and were greeted to a well-decorated pulpit, the scent of burning candles and perfume, and gospel music.

Queen’s College and his name “Singh” means “Lion”.

“When the lion roars, it roars… that was Oswald Singh.” After graduating, he started his first job as a sales clerk at the then Booker’s

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Ayube Hamid, Bertie Chancellor and Pancho Carew, among others.

Robinson recalled Singh as a humble and friendly person, who was also a mentor for those who sought his advise. He added that Singh gave advise even to those who did not necessarily seek it.

Good son

Singh was also a man who was always smiling and in good spirit, and more so, he had the appropriate words to make people around him feel comfortable. He was also someone who always open for criticism, said Robinson.

ing at RGI, and one of them was Oswald Singh.

“As I recall, it was a weekday morning, and as I passed the front desk area of the Guyana Times/TVG/RGI building on the way to the room where the interview was to be held, I saw this individual seated, in a cellphone conversation.”

At the time, Singh added that he was not speaking but just briefly as he passed, he responded to something obviously being said to him from the other end.

Immediately, and without being introduced, he knew that the person before him was Oswald Singh.

“I haven’t known Oswald for a long period, but for me, Oswald’s simplicity, humility, warmth, sense of humour and immense knowledge of Indian music (especially the older ones) stood out for me.

This, in addition to his very distinct and powerful voice, resonated with many listeners,” Singh said, quoting one of Oswald's colleagues at RGI.

Void

Oswald Singh’s nieces and nephews pay tribute to him in song

Lying in a brown, wooden casket draped with white lace and lilac flowers was Singh, with a pleasant face.

His relatives with tears settled in their eyes were seated in the first rows of the church. Many were seen standing as they listened to the various speakers reflect on the life of this great son of the soil.

God's radio station

The first to take to the pulpit was another veteran radio broadcaster Ron Robinson, who said that Singh has gone to join the highest team of broadcasters who preceded him to God’s "radio station". He said these include Sunny Mohamed, Pat Cameron, Christopher Deen, Alita Anthony, Matthew Allen,

The veteran broadcaster reiterated that Guyana has lost a good son and a passionate broadcaster, who possessed enviable attributes.

“He will be missed but his memories will linger for many years to come,” Robinson noted.

Guyana Times/ Television Guyana (TVG)/ Radio Guyana Inc (RGI) General Manager Daniel Singh stated that he grew up hearing Oswald’s voice on radio and at the time, he never thought he would have had the opportunity of working with him.

He said having returned to Guyana about 15 months ago, and being employed with the media group, there was an interview scheduled for persons desirous of work-

He said a void has been created at RGI and in radio in Guyana; one that will be difficult to fill.

Soon after Singh’s tribute, there was a touching tribute to Oswald Singh by his three sisters who sang, “On The Wings Of A Snow White Dove”.

Also reflecting on the time spent with Oswald Singh was Priya Singh of RGI, who reminisced on their time in the office.

She recalled him being a father figure to her, someone who was not too busy to give words of advise and encouragement. She said that he has moulded her to be the person she is today, despite knowing him for only a short time.

She disclosed that after Singh’s passing, tributes poured in at the radio station from the young and the old, and everyone had something good to say about the broadcaster.

Presenting the eulogy, Singh’s sister Pat Hazell revealed that he was the second child born to Sheila and Yogindra Singh at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. He was at the time of his death, 55 years old.

He was a graduate of

His sister said Singh left the sales job and joined the teaching profession and became a trained teacher. After some years, he branched out into broadcasting and took up an offer in Suriname where

The three sisters of Singh render a song at the funeral service

Store.

There he came into contact with a lot of foreigners who would go to shop, but the language barrier was not an issue, since he was versed in various languages. He was called upon many times to deal with customers and his boss grew fond of him.

he satisfied his English and Hindi listeners.

Due to family commitment, he returned to Guyana and joined the then Guyana Broadcasting Corporation, (GBC) and was asked by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to produce a programme for them.

He composed the lyrics “Sugar in the morning; sugar in the evening; sugar at supper time”, which became popular in Guyana.

Singh subsequently took some time off and rejoined the broadcasting team at The National Communications Network (NCN) some 10 years ago, where he hosted the “Breakfast Show”.

At the time of his passing, he was employed at RGI 89.3/89.5/89.7 FM. Hazell recalled him as someone who wanted everything to be done to perfection and he believed that one should be the very best in their field.

"He was one of those persons who strove for excellence and more so chose to be the best he can be," she said.

His nephews and nieces tearfully performed a song, “Yes, Jesus Loved Him”.

Many other songs were sung and scriptures read as part of the service.

The sermon was delivered by Pastor Joseph Gobin, with Wayne Melville serving as organist and Davy Ram as liturgist.

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SUNday, december 29, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

St Vincent and the Grenadines Rescue mission on for declared a disaster zone Barbadian workers

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t Vincent and the Grenadines has been declared a level two disaster zone, following the heavy rainfall resulting from a low level trough system on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.

Level two disaster means that the government is managing locally with the restoration process, but will require external assistance.

The torrential rains caused severe flooding and landslides on mainland St Vincent that left 17 reported deaths and others still missing. The storm caused extensive damage to the infrastructure, including flooding of the only major hospital, the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, and damaging the ET Joshua Airport, as well as severe damage to roads and bridg-

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Members of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Service along with volunteers in the Cane Grove-Buccament Bay area after extensive flooding in the area

es around the islands.

According to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who returned on Thursday night after cutting short a Christmas vacation in Europe, it will need “millions of dollars”

to rebuild the country.

Gonsalves said the briefing he received on his return indicated “a disaster of a proportion the likes of which we have not seen in living memory”.

“Over the next few days,

we will get a clearer picture as to the full extent,” he said. He noted that getting to Kingstown from some areas of the country would be difficult because of the condition of the road network.

(Excerpt from Caribbean News Now)

reduction of the Value Added Tax to 15 per cent, the reintroduction of bus fares for school children and a 30 per cent cut in ministers’ allowances are just some of the proposals being put forward by the National Union of Public Workers’ to help save the jobs of 3000 government workers.

Expressing his organisation’s belief that there was no need to downsize the public sector, General Secretary Dennis Clarke stressed that since the problem was the deficit of Bds$400 million, government must seek to create a number of revenue-earning measures, while adjusting the Wages and Salaries Bill.

Outlining 10 proposals generated by its staff and membership, Clarke noted that these would also include the introduction of a five per cent tax on computers and computer parts which will help raise some Bds$2.8 million, a five per cent tax on cellphones and a slight increase in petroleum products by 10 cents per litre.

In addition, he said that public servants would be asked to give up one week’s pay in the first quarter of the year, a move which could save some Bds$8 million.

“This would not be done in one fell swoop, but maybe two days in January, two days in February and one day in March,” he illustrated. (Excerpt from Barbados Advocate)

Trinidad: Two teens in court Gang war in Brazil’s Pedrinhas Deadly Brazil floods leave jail kills 59 in 2013 for Beetham maxi murder thousands homeless

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wo teenagers aged 17 and 14 on Friday appeared in the Port of Spain Magistrates Court charged with murder, along with three other serious offences. The teens appeared around 13:00h before Chief Magistrate Marcia Ayers-Caesar in the Eighth Magistrate Court, St Vincent Street, charged with killing Kendell Thomas on a date unknown between December 10 and December 13.

The two are also charged with kidnapping Thomas on December 11, robbing his sister, Sheena Charles, of a gold chain and robbing Charles’ friend Celia Lyons of a chain and pendant. In the courtroom, the 14-yearold had his mother standing

at his side in the prisoners’ dock while the 17-year-old’s sister stood behind him outside the dock.

The teens’ attorney Fareed Ali raised concerns about their time in police custody from December 11 to Friday. The older teen was kept at Belmont Police Station and the younger at Woodbrook Police Station.

Ali said the police are fully aware of the treatment that suspects ought to be given while in their care, yet they fail to do so.

Ali was referring to what he called the “Rolls Royce treatment” of the 14-yearold, who, while at the police station, was allowed to bathe every day and brush his teeth. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

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ifty-nine inmates have been killed in a single northern Brazilian prison this year, according to a judicial report. Video taken inside the Pedrinhas prison in Sao Luis also shows the torture of one inmate at the hands of others – and cases of beheadings.

The district judge who wrote the report said the video was the “most barbarous scene” he had ever witnessed.

Brazil has the world’s fourth largest prison population with half a million inmates occupying spaces for 300,000. The report contains details of sexual relations

between prisoners taking place in open spaces, horrific scenes of torture and at least 59 deaths, including the beheading of three prisoners, in the last year.

Across the country, many poorly resourced jails are, in effect, run by powerful crime gangs and the government is looking again at a greater role for privately run prisons, says the BBC’s Wyre Davies in Rio de Janeiro.

A judicial report into a prison in the northern Brazilian state of Maranhao has exposed some shocking conditions of torture, sexual abuse and murder. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

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t least 41 people have died and nearly 70,000 have been left homeless following torrential rain in south-east Brazil over the past few weeks, officials have said.

In Espirito Santo state, Civil Defence officials on Thursday reported a total of 27 fatalities, including eight on Thursday, in what they described as the worst rains in 90 years. They said 61,379 people were forced to leave their homes. President Dilma Rousseff interrupted her year-end holidays on Friday to tour flood-hit areas of Espirito Santo.

“We are going to have to rebuild the state,” said Governor Renato

Casagrande amid extensive flooding and damage to bridges and roads.

In neighbouring Minas Gerais state, where the downpours began in October and have worsened in the past few days, have authorities reported 17 deaths and said 4150 people were forced to evacuate their homes. A 56-year-old woman died on Wednesday in a landslide that buried her house in Juiz de Fora, 278 kilometres from Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais.

Last week, a family of six, including a seven-yearold child, died when a mudslide swept away their home in Sardoa, in the eastern part of the state. (Excerpt from Al

Jazeera)

Boy, nine, climbs South America’s tallest mountain Germany assists Caricom water and wastewater projects, marine protected areas

Prime Minister of St Lucia, Dr Kenny Anthony (L) and Ambassador Stefan Schlüter on the occasion of the launch of the Vieux Fort and Dennery Water Supply Redevelopment Project in St Lucia, part of the programme “Caribbean Aqua-Terrestrial Solutions” (CATS)

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he German-funded Caribbean AquaTerrestrial Solutions (CATS) programme is active in eight Caribbean Community (Caricom) member states – Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

In its first year, it has

provided essential material goods worth 850,000 euros (US$1.167 million) to the marine protected areas (MPA) of Oracabasa, Montego Bay, Negril and Nepa in Jamaica and funded six water and wastewater projects in Belize and St Lucia with almost 2.4 million euros. These are: * Design of the Vieux Fort Water Supply Redevelopment

Project, St Lucia, * Feasibility study on the Rehabilitation of the John Compton Dam, St Lucia * Implementation of the St Jude Hospital Water and Wastewater Project, St Lucia, * Design of the Placencia Peninsula Integrated Water and Wastewater Project in Belize, * Design of the Expansion of Water and Sewerage Facilities at Ambergris Caye in Belize, and * Building capacity for community-based wildfire management and freshwater quality monitoring in rural Belize.

In 2014, CATS will assist developing detailed plans of operation for the climate change component in the above eight Caricom member states. This will be done in close coordination with the aquatic component for which CATS completed the particular participatory process in late 2013. (Excerpt from Caribbean News

Now)

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nine-year-old boy from southern California has become the youngest person in history to reach the summit of Argentina’s Aconcagua mountain, which at 22,841 feet (6962 metres) is the tallest peak in the western and southern hemispheres.

Tyler Armstrong of Yorba Linda reached the summit on Christmas Eve with his father Kevin and a Tibetan sherpa, Lhawang Dhondup, who has climbed Everest multiple times. They were in fine spirits Friday as they left Aconcagua, whose precipices and bitter cold have claimed more than 100 lives.

“You can really see the world’s atmosphere up there. All the clouds are under you, and it’s really cold,” Tyler said, describing the summit.

“It doesn’t look anything like a kid’s drawing of a mountain. It’s probably as big as a house at the summit, and then it’s a sheer drop.”

Tyler and Kevin Armstrong at the summit of Aconcagua

Only 30 per cent of the 7000 people who obtain permits to climb Aconcagua each year make the summit, said Nicolas Garcia, who handled their logistics from down below. No one under 14 is usually allowed, so the family had to persuade an Argentinian judge that Tyler could safely accomplish the feat. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Antiguan politician offers to drop voter registration appeal

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eader of the opposition Antigua Labour Party, Gaston Browne, is seeking victory in the registration matter using a new tactic. Browne’s revised position is to drop the appeal of the registration case on condition the electoral commission merge the old voters list with the list of registrants created

between September 30 and November 4 of this year.

Browne’s suggestion follows his recent defeat in the High Court. He was claiming that the registration exercise resulted in numerous people being disenfranchised.

The exercise done between September and November this year was to create a completely new voters list.

A source close to the commission describes Browne’s suggestion to merge the old and new lists as ridiculous.

The source said it would be a time-wasting exercise of cross-referencing the June register with the names collected between September and November to ensure there’s no duplication of voting records. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNday, december 29, 2013

15

Around the world

Cairo al-Azhar campus torched China formally eases amid Egyptian protests one-child policy

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student has been killed in Egypt as supporters of the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood clashed with police and university buildings were set on fire. State TV blamed protesters for the fire at al-Azhar University’s business faculty, where exams had to be postponed, and the agriculture faculty.

The Brotherhood said police were “fabricating” the charges.

The crackdown on the group began when President Mohammed Morsi, who belongs to it, was deposed by the army in July. The campus fires had been brought under control by Saturday afternoon, and some 60 peo-

The BBC’s Bethany Bell says there have been repeated clashes at the university in recent months

ple had been arrested, reports said.

The Brotherhood, which

Ex-Stasi staff remain employed at archives of Germany’s former secret police

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he Federal Commission for the Stasi Archives – the East German secret police – was born shortly after German reunification.

The agency’s employment of ex-Stasi members is fuelling fear that records of its wrongs will be lost in the annals of history. The commissioner in charge of the agency admitted in a recent interview that 37 ex-Stasi staffers remain.

“There are still 37 of them here. Five [out of an original 48] have been moved on, five have left for age reasons, and one of them has died,” former dissident journalist and current commissioner Roland Jahn told Germany’s Tagesspiegel newspaper on Friday.

He admitted that the issue was harder to resolve than originally anticipated. Under German employment law, public servants can only be moved to “comparable” posts in other state agencies.

“Only alternative jobs are organised in other federal administrations,” he said.

“But many employees say, ‘I do not think about changing.’

And so the whole affair is delayed.” The agency has some 1600 members of staff. The Federal Commission for the Stasi Archives (BStU) was established by the German government in 1991. Joachim Gauck – now President of Germany – became Federal Commissioner for the agency in 1990, heading up the new service. (Excerpt from RT News)

had been banned since September from all activity, was declared a terror-

ist group on Wednesday following a suicide bombing of a police headquarters in the Nile Delta. The government said the Brotherhood was behind the attack – a charge it strongly denied.

It is the latest measure taken against the group, which is being targeted by the military-backed interim government. Thousands of Brotherhood members, including its leadership, have been arrested and many put on trial. Members were rounded up on Thursday after a bomb hit a bus in Cairo, injuring five people. Three people died on Friday as police fought Brotherhood supporters in Cairo, southern Minya and the Nile Delta.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

South Sudan: Thousands of pro-rebel youths march on Bor

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housands of youths loyal to South Sudanese rebel leader Riek Machar are marching on the strategic town of Bor. Government troops are currently in control of Bor, the capital of Jonglei state they had taken from the rebels. The government has offered to cease hostilities, but an army spokesman told the BBC that his forces were still battling over oilfields in the north.

More than 121,600 have fled their homes and at least 1000 people killed since fighting broke out earlier this month.

What began as a power struggle between Machar and President Salva Kiir has taken on overtones of

a tribal conflict, with the Dinka, to which Kiir belongs, pitted against the Nuer, from which Machar hails.

Tens of thousands of civilians have sought refuge in UN camps and reinforcements have been arriving to give them extra protection.

The youths now marching on the town are part of an ethnic Nuer militia known as the White Army, because of the white ash they put on their skin to protect them from insects.

Machar was deputy president until Kiir sacked him in July.

Earlier this month fighting broke out between rival army factions after Kiir accused Machar of trying to unseat him in a coup. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

Syria: barrel bomb dropped on Aleppo market kills at least 25

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large bomb dropped from a helicopter on a crowded market has killed at least 25 people in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo.

A video posted on the Internet by local activist group Insaan Rights Watch showed residents pulling mangled corpses out of scorched and twisted car frames on Saturday. One road hit by the blast was covered with debris from nearby buildings and was lined with bodies, as young men shouted for cars to help transport the wounded.

Hundreds of people have been killed by air raids around Aleppo in recent weeks, scores of them women and children, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a pro-opposition monitoring group based in Britain.

On Saturday, the

of Aleppo in recent weeks and have made gains in suburbs around the capital, Damascus, as well. The move is likely an attempt to strengthen Assad’s position against the opposition ahead of planned peace negotiations in Geneva next month. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

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hina on Saturday formally approved the easing of its longstanding one-child policy, allowing couples to have a second child if one parent is an only child, official news agency Xinhua reported.

Previously, a couple could generally only have a second child if both parents were only children, or if the first born to a rural couple was a girl.

It is the first major reform to the policy since it was implemented three decades ago with the aim of keeping China’s population growth in check. The plan was envisioned by the ruling Communist Party about five years ago, with officials worried that the strict controls were undermining econom-

ic growth and contributing to a rapidly ageing population China had no hope of supporting financially.

On Saturday China’s largely rubber-stamp parliament approved a resolution to formalise the law change, with responsibility for its implementation to be delegated to local legislatures, Xinhua said.

A second major reform was also formalised Saturday, with parliament approving the abolition of a controversial labour camp system.

The “re-education through labour” system, in place since 1957, allows police to sentence petty criminals to up to four years’ confinement in labour camps without going through the courts. (Excerpt from France24)

Taking power in New Delhi, "common man" leader talks of revolution

Arvind Kejriwal, leader of Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party (AAP), shouts slogans after taking the oath as the new chief minister of Delhi, during a swearing-in ceremony at Ramlila grounds in New Delhi December 28

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here was no motorcade, and none of the traditional trappings of power: the leader of India’s upstart “common man party” arrived on a crowded metro train on Saturday to be sworn in as chief minister of Delhi, India’s capital.

Tens of thousands of jubilant supporters watched as Arvind Kejriwal, a mildmannered former tax official, was anointed after a stunning electoral debut that has jolted the country’s two main parties just months before a general election.

The emergence of Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party, or AAP, as a force to be reck-

oned with barely a year since it was created on the back of an anti-corruption movement could give it a springboard to challenge the mainstream parties in other urban areas in the election due by next May. That could be a threat to the front-runner for Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who is counting on strong support from urban, middle-class voters.

“Today, the common man has won,” Kejriwal said in a triumphant speech at Delhi’s Ramlila grounds, the very place where huge protests over corruption erupted in 2011, opening the way for the birth of the AAP. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Python kills security guard in Bali

A Aleppo residents search for survivors in a neighbourhood hit by barrel bomb

Observatory said 25 people, at least four of them children, were killed by barrel bombs – explosive-filled cylinders or oil barrels, often dropped indiscriminately from helicopters – that also

destroyed part of a hospital. It said the death toll was likely to rise as dozens more were wounded in the attack.

President Bashar alAssad’s forces have been regaining territory south-east

python has killed a security guard near a luxury hotel in Bali, Indonesia. A doctor told CNN that a man’s corpse was brought to the RSUP Sanglah Denpasar Hospital in Bali on Friday. A large snake appears to have suffocated the man, said the doctor, who did not wish to be identified.

The body has been released to the family, the doc-

tor said. The python remains on the loose after strangling the guard, who was trying to capture the large snake, according to Agence FrancePresse.

Another security guard, at the Bali Hyatt, saw the attack, which took place “on the roadway outside of the hotel’s property,” Jamie Zimmerman Rothfeld, a spokeswoman for the Bali Hyatt, told CNN. “The

management team and hotel associates of Bali Hyatt express their sincere condolences to the family of the victim of the python attack,” she said.

Rothfeld declined further comment, saying the hotel is under renovation and closed until 2015. She referred more details on the attack and search for the snake to local authorities, who could not be reached for comment.

(CNN)

16

News

SUNday, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Drug rehabilitation APSARA gives financial programme must cater for assistance to autism school women – finance minister

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh speaking at the Guyana Salvation Army dinner and social event on Friday evening

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inance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, is calling for more involvement by civil society to foster and promote social programmes aimed at developing Guyana.

He made the call at a Guyana Salvation Army dinner and social event on Friday evening.

“Nowhere in the world can government alone confront and overcome all of the challenges faced by a country,” he said, adding: “Responsible social partners and responsible citizens are an absolutely critical pre-requisite if our country is to achieve what we want of it.”

The minister noted that the work of the drug rehabilitation centre is one to be applauded for reforming persons affected with drug addiction and re-integrating them back into their communities and societies where they are able to contribute to the development of their country.

“We want to ensure that each and every one of you get a fair chance to make an optimal contribution to the growth and development of our country,” the finance minister said to current and former clients of the rehabilitation centre.

A section of the gathering at the dinner and social event on Friday evening

Minister Singh, having noted the contributions and benefits of the programme, pledged government’s continued support once it continues to achieve its goals.

Last year, the government gave $16 million in capital funding to expand the drug rehabilitation programme in its effort to accommodate more clients.

Give equal opportunity “At that stage, we were looking to attract female clients too,” explained the minister. He noted that drug addiction affects both men and women and therefore the facility should also cater to the needs of female clients.

“I wish to urge the Salvation Army to replicate the outstanding success that has been achieved with male clients, to extend the programme to include female clients,” he said.

Minister Singh also urged the participants to stay with the programme and to maximise the resources and facilities as part of their recovery.

“I believe substance abuse has distracted you from your intended calling,” said Minister Singh, pointing out

that “We need you badly to return to the path on which you have been put on this earth to walk.”

Chief counsellor at the rehabilitation centre Amarnauth Parsad noted that the year has been one of the most successful for the organisation as all of their clients have remained in the programme compared to previous years where a number of them would have left.

He attributed these developments to a combination of factors, including government support, stronger leadership and the ability of the organisation to hire more qualified staff.

“The fact that successfully rehabilitated clients who remain clean and sober maintain contact is a distinct motivation [that] got us to continue our mandate,” Parsad said.

The chief counsellor is also looking forward to next year with plans to expand the organisation’s building and programme, the launch of a prison drug rehabilitation programme and the continuation of a work and skills training programme for persons who successfully complete the drug rehabilitation programme.

Pegasus taxi driver murdered, dumped among garbage

A

taxi operator attached to the Pegasus Taxi Service was on Saturday morning discovered dead in a heap of garbage at Cane View Avenue, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, with several injuries to the head.

The discovery was made about 07:00h by residents in the area.

The dead man was subsequently identified as Rudranauth Jeeboo, 49, of Lot 25 Craig Street, Campbellville, Georgetown.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of the man. It is suspected that Jeeboo was murdered and his body was dumped among the garbage.

His motor car, a Toyota Allion was later found abandoned at Guyhoc Park, South Ruimveldt. When contacts were made with the relatives of the dead man, his sister declined to speak to the media.

Nevertheless, based on

reports received, the man had been working with the Pegasus Hotel for the past 23 years.

According to information received, Jeeboo recently bought a new car and would leave it at the base and use the old one to go home. His colleagues told Guyana Times that the man reported for work about 20:00h on Friday evening and switched cars as he normally does.

Surveillance footage

They could not have confirmed if the man left with anyone from the hotel, but the hotel’s management up to late Saturday afternoon was reviewing the surveillance footage.

A friend of the dead man stated that after time elapsed and they did not see him return to the base, they thought that he went home; hence, they did not raise an alarm.

It was until his sister con-

tacted the base to enquire about her brother’s whereabouts that they got worried.

She told the office that she attempted to make contact with him, but his phone rang out and then it went to voicemail.

After several attempts, she reported that the phone was turned off. She then sought the assistance of the base to make contact with Jeeboo which also proved futile. This prompted his colleagues to establish a search party to find him.

During the search, the police received a report that a man’s body was found and was unidentified. The sister along with other relatives of the dead man went to Lyken’s Funeral Home where they positively identified the body.

Guyana Times understands that the man’s mother passed away in September.

Jeeboo was not married and did not have any children.

APSARA Entertainment Chief Executive Officer Chandini Rambalak hands over the cheque to a representative of Step-by-Step Guyana on behalf of Miss India Guyana 2013 Katherina Roshana in the presence of the children and a teacher of the school

A

P S A R A Entertainment in collaboration with the Miss India Guyana Organisation generously donated a cheque to the Step

by Step Guyana, school for autistic children.

The presentation was done by the chief executive officer of both organisations, Chandini Rambalak two weeks ago on behalf of Miss India Guyana Katharina Roshana.

The monies donated were profits from a charity event held at the Pegasus

Hotel before Roshana had departed to Russia to take part in the Miss Universe pageant.

The “Charity Night” was a multi-culture event which saw performances from the APSARA dance group as well as a live performance from local rock band, “Feed the Flames”.

Two auctions took place, one of which saw persons bidding on an item donated

by King’s Jewellery World and a piece designed by fashion designer Sonia Noel.

Rambalak thanked Body

Max Gym, which was a part of the bidding on Charity Night, Go-Invest and Gems Diamond Trading, both of whom made generous contributions.

She also thanked every other person who contributed even in the smallest way.

The CEO urged the public to visit the school and meet the children, stating that there is a difference between hearing about the school and actually visiting and understanding the hardships these youths go through.

Discriminating against gays, lesbians is wrong – religious community

L

eaders of three religious communities have contended that while they view homosexual behaviour as unacceptable, it is wrong for persons to discriminate against them.

According to the religious leaders, beating and verbally abusing someone who is gay can be seen as an attack against an innocent citizen.

They expressed these sentiments following a comment made by Artistes in Direct Support (AIDS) Executive Director Desiree Edghill, who said the religious community is not doing enough to stop discrimination against gays.

This statement, they say, does not reflect the view of all the members of the religious community.

Imam Shazim Muhammad of the Stanleytown Masjid in New Amsterdam said the Quran teaches not to condone homosexuality.

“There was a prophet by the name of Looth, who was a homosexual and God Almighty turned over the earth and destroyed every one of them,” he said.

He added that the Quran teaches that the curse of Allah is on all homosexuals. “We don’t accept homo-

Father Michael Traher

sexual and we don’t accept AIDS,” he said. Muhammad contended that the deadly virus is spread primarily because of homosexual activities.

However, Father Michael Traher of the Roman Catholic Church of New Amsterdam said the church’s position is that anyone who has a disease has a right to receive care.

He said that more than 70 per cent of persons who are infected with the virus are cared for by the church.

Father Traher also pointed out that the church makes a distinction between a person and his action.

“What the church does not agree with is some of the sexual activity related to

these particular life styles.”

Meanwhile, Pandit Deodat Persaud of the Reliance Mandir said the mandir has been offering programmes for persons infected with HIV/AIDS and does not discriminate, regardless of the sexual orientation of the victim.

While these religious leaders have their different views, those in the gay community do feel that the church discriminates.

One lesbian who spoke with Guyana Times said the church is no place for rescue.

“If you are gay or bisexual and you went into the church, sometimes the pastor would start preaching about the kind of life that you are living and make you not want to even go back into the church to seek your faith,” she said.

Winston Cossaih, an open homosexual, said faith-based leaders refer to HIV/AIDS as a homosexual disease “and they chastise homosexuals”.

“If I had to say something to the faith-based leaders, I will tell them to respect and embrace each and everyone who is living this life. We did not choose it. We are all God’s children,” he claimed.

17

news

sundAy, december 29, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Linden businessman PYO slams U.S. plunges to death in ambassador’s position Demerara River on democracy project diver went down and found the vehicle. He tied a rope around one of its wheels with the hope of pulling it out with a boat but that didn’t work out,” he said.

Tappin related that the first diver went back underwater with the hope of retrieving Mentis’ body, but said that proved to be a difficult task as it was pinned down inside the vehicle, and the diver received some cuts to his hand from the windshield of the Tundra.

The Toyota Tundra air borne after being lifted out of the Demerara River

T

he Linden community was on Saturday morning left in a state of shock and mourning when popular businessman Collis “Tom” Mentis, 37, plunged to his death after careening his vehicle off the MackenzieWismar Bridge.

The incident occurred about 08:15h. Mentis, who sold beverages prior to his death, was at the time driving a white Tundra pick-up GRR 4634, which crashed head-on into the centre of the bridge railing, before ending up in the Demerara River.

Reports are that Mentis was at the time of the accident returning to his home at Fairs’ Rust, Mackenzie, after attending an “All White” glow party on Friday evening held at the Christianburg Community Centre Ground, Wismar, Linden.

fly over the bridge then we run and look in the river, but all we see is a set of bubbles coming up in the river, nothing more,” the eyewitness said.

Public-spirited effort Soon after the incident, hundreds gathered at the scene as a rescue team made up of several persons, including two public-spirited divers identified only as “Chucky” and “Nally”, began a frantic search for Mentis and his vehicle in the river, which were hours later recovered only a short distance from the place on the bridge where it went down.

Another eyewitness,

Finally discovered Members of the Linden Fire Service also showed up at the scene but were unsuccessful in the recovery efforts.

Mentis’ body was first discovered by the divers approximately three hours after being submerged in the river and was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival. At approximately 11:10h, the vehicle was lifted from the centre of the bridge by persons operating a Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI) crane, after a rope was tied to the vehicle, which was underwater, by the divers.

After it was hoisted unto the bridge, the vehicle’s front, back and top were visibly damaged, while the windscreens were broken and the airbags were seen floating out. Family members and staff of the businessman gathered and wept at the scene, along with scores of persons from the community who came out to witness the after effects of the tragedy and also to lend support to the rescue team. Members of the Mentis family were too distraught to speak as they wept and comforted each other.

Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon, who was at the scene, related that the in-

Eyewitness

An eyewitness who worked at the bridge, which connects Mackenzie to the Wismar shore, related that Mentis was speeding at the time that he approached the western end of the bridge and had proceeded to cross; however, the eyewitness reportedly did not observe when the vehicle crashed and made its way downward into the river.

Staff at the bridge noted that they did not notice that anything was amiss until a few minutes later when someone observed that the rail along the bridge was dislocated. The toll booth where the staff operates is located on the eastern end of the bridge (Mackenzie), in the direction where Mentis was heading.

“We didn’t even hear nor see anything that happened, the boy who was working the (bridge) barriers said he noticed this vehicle coming with a speed, but he take he eye off of it for some time but he said when he looked back he couldn’t believe that the vehicle made it across the bridge so fast. Is till when somebody come and tell we the man just

The vehicle on the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge

Stefan Tappin, related that he, along with some other persons, started the search after learning that Mentis’ vehicle was underwater.

According to him, they arrived approximately 20 minutes after the accident.

“When we got there, no one was in the water searching, myself and another guy started the search, then an Amerindian guy with a boat soon joined in. A diver came with his oxygen equipment but he was getting trouble going down inside the river as the (water) current was very strong. We got some pieces of scrap metal from some Bosai workers to strap unto the diver... after a few failed attempts; a second

cident was an “unfortunate” one while he made a call for a proper first response unit and emergency response system to be put in place at the Linden community.

He said Mentis was an enterprising businessman and offered condolences to the grieving family.

“It’s a good opportunity for us to identify a number of deficiencies we could rectify so that in the future, even if such things could not be prevented, we could at least respond appropriately. At the level of the RDC, these are lessons which we have to take note of, and put measures in place to improve on services that would ensure that lives are saved,” he said.

T

he Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) said it is disheartened at the position taken by the U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt as it relates to the implementation of a United States Agency for International Development (USAID) project that has not been acceded to by the government.

The PYO in a statement said it views the position taken by the ambassador as very offensive and directly ignores the principles of sovereignty and national self-determination that is publicly espoused by the American State Department.

“It is a violation of all aspects of independence and non-interference when the chief diplomat of a foreign nation chooses to ignore the executive power of the host nation. It is a direct challenge to Guyana’s autonomy and seeks to impose the will of a single person over that of an en-

tire people.

“The ambassador must know that he has overstepped his ambit by pursuing a project that has not met the approval of his host country. The ambassador must know that he has challenged, in a very public manner, the sovereignty of a nation. The ambassador must know that by ignoring diplomatic norms and decency he has managed to sour, what have been friendly relations between the U.S.A. and Guyana,” the PYO said.

It also recognised that the American organisation, International Republican Institute (IRI), which has been tasked with the implementation of the LEAD project has a reputation of interference in the internal politics of a country.

“They have been implicated in the overthrow of Aristide in Haiti, have supported the 2009 coup in Honduras, and have cre-

ated political coalitions in Poland. These activities have been in direct violation of the principles of self-governance and selfdetermination. The use of such an organisation and the public stance of the ambassador can only lead to the conclusion that there is an active attempt by the ambassador to usurp democracy in Guyana,” the PYO said.

The youth arm of the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is calling on all independent minded Guyanese and organisations to condemn in the strongest possible terms the public stance of the U.S. ambassador.

“We note that while the U.S.A. has had over 200 years in shaping its democracy and did not suffer interference of foreign powers, likewise Guyana too has a right to pursue its democratic development without interference,” the PYO concluded.

Linden policemen come in for high praise

R

anks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are often criticised for making unreasonable requests, but on Saturday, a truck driver for more than 40 years shared a different story.

Stranded on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway after his truck suffered a blowout six days before Christmas, Wainwright Marshall said he was pondering his next move.

He had contacted his employer; Sarwan Trucking Service since 10:00h that day.

“They promised me to send someone to replace the tyre, but up until 20:00h, no one came.”

It was while studying

his next move; Marshall was approached by a traffic rank. “About eight ‘0’ clock the night, a trafficking officer came and he saw that I had systems in place where lighting is concerned.”

According to the driver, after inquiring about the problems experienced by the truck, the police left his contact number. “He said call me if anything goes wrong.”

The following day, December 21, Marshall was still without help and after he secured the container truck with logs, he journeyed to the nearby Highway Police Outpost.

“I asked them if I could use the facility to have a bath and they allowed me to

do same, and they even offer me lunch at that time it was like 11 ‘0’ clock.”

By this time, Marshall’s employer advised him to secure the truck and return home until assistance could be sought. “So the police men there, they arrange for me to catch a vehicle for me to return to Linden the said day, and the truck was never removed until the Monday night.”

Realising that police are often bashed, Marshall said thanks to those who offered him assistance, noting that they are still many kind-hearted ranks in the force, who are determined to serve, protect and assist civilians when the need arises.

Detective jokingly shot by colleague

D

etective constable Andel Doris was on Saturday afternoon being treated at the Fort Wellington Hospital after he was reportedly jokingly shot to the leg by one of his colleagues at the Fort Wellington Police Station.

According to information received, about 14:15h on Saturday afternoon, a police constable was on duty at the enquiries office the Fort Wellington Police Station and was armed with a service .38 revolver.

He was taking off the firearm when he and Doris reportedly started to “fool around”.

In the process, he reportedly said “you want a shoot you” and pointed the gun at Doris and it went off.

The bullet struck the detective in one leg and grazed the other. He was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was treated and later discharged. The constable has been placed under close arrest as investigations into the matter continue.

Earlier in the year, another police constable attached to the Tactical Services Unit, Eve Leary, Georgetown was accidentally shot in the lower ab-

domen by one of his colleagues.

Constable Christopher Albert, 20, of Corentyne, Berbice was accidently shot by another rank as he was loading his .38 revolver. It was reported that the two policemen had assumed duty about 07:00h and shortly after the incident occurred.

After the gunshot was heard, other ranks ran to the gunroom where they saw Albert lying on the ground with blood oozing from his lower abdomen.

He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, december 29, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

By Bernice Bede Osol

archie

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Jump on any opportunities that arise. Solving a problem or closing a deal will determine how far you will advance. Success now will allow you to enjoy the rest of the year.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Anger must be defused peacefully. Don’t overreact. Identify what is required for progress.

Romance is highlighted, but a healthy mindset is imperative.

PISCES (Feb.20March 20)

dilbert

Move quickly to take care of tax breaks and other financial concerns before the year’s end. An emotional connection will make your life unexpectedly easier.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

(June 21July 22) Try something new or incorporate something you already do well into a different milieu. If you diversify your skills, it will be easier to develop a successful strategy. Greater stability is within reach.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Try something new or spend time with people whose backgrounds are different from your own.

New perspectives will make it easier for you to implement changes suitable to the opportunities that will be offered.

Variety is the key.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Before you head out to party with friends, take care of lingering responsibilities. Neglecting someone who depends on you will cause problems.

Offering kindness and empathy will enhance relationships.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Hit the shops or sign up for a physical or social activity. Concentrate on friendships, entertainment and destinations that inspire you.

Aggressive action will result in exciting personal changes.

Share your knowledge and make suggestions.

Don’t allow the inanity of domestic chores to frustrate you – get them done and then have a good laugh with friends. Love is in the stars.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

SCORPIO

Get organised at home in preparation for the New Year. Rearrange things to meet your needs. If you want some motivation, visit a location connected to an activity you want to add to your routine.

Peanuts

CANCER

GEMINI (May 21June 20) Look to alternative traditions to help you find a new perspective – one that will encourage you to pursue your dreams. Love is in the stars and a new partnership will be fortuitous.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22) Don’t let anger get the best of you. Concentrate on what is possible. Move forward with honesty. Let go of whatever holds you back.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Not everyone will be honest with you. Ask direct questions to glean enough information to make a decision. Sudden changes will be to your advantage. Love is highlighted.

19

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Two killed in Canal Polder accident

sunday, december 29, 2013

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A

employee of BK International along with his friend were on Saturday evening killed after the car in which they were travelling slammed into a trailer along the Canal Number Two Polder Public Road.

Shameer Haniff, 19, of Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara and Roy (only name given) of Canal Number Two Polder reportedly died on the spot after the collision.

According to information received, the two men

were hanging out in the area on Saturday evening and left at about 19:30h with the intention of going to Georgetown.

Haniff was the driver of the motor car at the time of the accident.

The car was believed to be travelling at a fast rate and the driver might have lost control of the vehicle after the driver of vehicle which was travelling in the opposite direction reportedly failed to dim his high beam lights.

As a result, the car re-

portedly slammed into the low-bed trailer, resulting in the two men receiving severe injuries.

According to eyewitnesses, the car was damaged beyond repair.

Additional information reaching this newspaper suggested that Roy recently returned from the interior earlier in the year. He was reportedly wanted by police in connection with a carnal knowledge case.

The men were taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where

they were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies were subsequently taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Home.

The father of Haniff was too distraught to talk to the media, and would only say that he was at home when his son left the house with the car, claiming that he was going out with some friends to have fun. He said that after a few hours, he received the dreadful news.

Eyewitnesses said one of the victim’s head was severed, but they could not say whose it was.

Brazilian miner and wife found dead

A

Brazilian miner and his wife were on Saturday found dead near an abandoned checkpoint on the Arimu trail, Region Seven.

Joao Veloso do Nascimento, 42, and his wife Edilene Fernandes dos Santos, 52, left their camp at the Sand Hill area, Cuyuni, Region Seven last Sunday on an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) around 15:00h for Bartica to purchase mining supplies with the intention

of working through the holidays.

However, they never arrived in Bartica, but they were seen at various intervals on their journey to Bartica by passersby on Sunday last.

Their fellow miners became concerned after observing that day passed and they did not return, and decided to launch a search for them.

Their bodies were discovered in a decomposed

state Saturday just after midday with no sign of their ATV. According to reports, an armed gang of six bandits is in the area and the members are known for robbing and terrorising many miners.

A team of policemen will leave Bartica today to conduct an investigation into the deaths.

The police team will report on its findings after returning.

Joao Veloso do Nascimento

Ocean currents may solve eel mystery

A

new analysis of winddriven Atlantic currents may help scientists solve a mysterious decline in eel numbers.

These secretive creatures are born in the Sargasso sea but migrate to Europe where they spend most of their lives.

But unexplained fluctuations in the numbers of those traversing the ocean have thwarted efforts to save the species.

Now researchers believe they have built a computer model that will accurately predict the level of migration.

The research is published in the journal, Current Biology.

Smoke, fried or boiled, eels remain a popular dish in many parts of Europe, particularly at Christmas.

Newspaper reports in the UK have indicated an upsurge in their consumption due to the recession as the fish are cheap and nutritious.

But numbers of European eels have declined rapidly in

Eels have been declining across Europe for several decades

recent decades and scientists have struggled to explain the reasons behind the drop.

Complicating matters is the creature’s complex life cycle. They are born in the Sargasso sea, in the middle of the Atlantic ocean.

The young, called elvers, are sometimes known as glass eels, as you can literally see through them.

Carried by the Gulf stream, they end up in European rivers where they can spend 20 years before embarking on the return voyage to spawn.

A team of scientists has now managed to simulate these journeys on a mass scale, using a computer model that followed eight million tiny drifting particles that represented the eel larvae. This model simulation covered the years between 1960 and 2005.

The researchers found that small scale, wind-driven ocean currents strongly determined fluctuations in eel populations in Europe.

The numbers were big when favourable currents made for a short trip. But when the currents changed

and the journeys were much longer, fewer elvers survived.

“There is a clear link,” Dr Christophe Eizaguirre from Queen Mary, University of London told BBC News.

“If the weather changes then there is a clear risk for the eel population.”

The destruction of river habitats and infections with a parasite have also impacted the eel numbers. But researchers believe that, if they can’t figure out the scale of returning young, they won’t be able to save this endangered species.

“Between the moment the eels are born and when they arrive on the European coast takes two years,” said Dr Eizaguirre.

“So we can look at the currents and predict the number successfully arriving on the European coast so we have time to adjust management programmes.”

This would mean that, if numbers were low, eel fishing quotas could be lowered until stocks recovered. (Excerpt

from BBC)

Film posters withdrawn over race bias

A

n Italian film distributor has apologised after releasing unauthorised posters which promoted white actors over black actors in “12 Years A Slave”.

Unofficial posters for the film gave prominence to white stars Michael Fassbender and Brad Pitt over the film’s leading man, Chiwetel Ejiofor.

BiM Distribuzione apologised for the “inappropriate” promotional material.

“We are very proud of the film and regret any distraction this incident may have caused,” a statement said.

“We apologise for creating and releasing unauthorised posters for “12 Years A Slave” in Italy featuring Brad Pitt and Michael Fassbender in a manner inconsistent with approved advertising materials,” said BiM on Friday.

“All inappropriate materials have now been withdrawn.” The film tells the true story of New Yorker Solomon Northup who was kidnapped and sold into the slave trade in 1841.

Protagonist Northup is played by British actor Ejiofor, earning him a

Golden Globe nomination earlier this month.

Fassbender, who has attracted strong notices for his supporting role, plays a sadistic plantation owner, while Pitt – who is a producer on the film – has a minor role as a labourer.

The posters, which appeared across Italy earlier this week, prompted a widespread criticism on social media, for their focus on Fassbender and Pitt.

Responding to criticism, sales agent Lionsgate’s Summit said, earlier in the week, that the posters in

Italy were not authorised or approved by the producers of the film.

A statement said the company was “investigating and taking immediate action to stop the distribution of any unauthorised posters and to have those posters currently in the marketplace recalled”.

Directed by Britain’s Steve McQueen, “12 Years A Slave” is the frontrunner at this year’s Golden Globe awards with seven nominations, including best film drama, best actor in a drama and best director. (BBC News)

20

december 29, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

England face defeat in fourth Ashes Test A

ustralia need 201 more runs with all 10 wickets still in hand to win the fourth Test and move within a match of a series whitewash after another horrible day for England.

Looking to build on a first-innings lead of 51, England twice lost three wickets for one run and tossed away their last five for just six runs in a lame batting display.

Only Alastair Cook (51) and Kevin Pietersen (49) made significant contributions as four batsmen fell for ducks in a total of just 179, leaving Australia to make 231 for their fourth win of this one-sided Ashes series.

By the close David Warner and Chris Rogers had added an unbeaten 30

Nathan Lyon took a five-wicket haul for the first time on home soil

with minimal discomfort to further dampen English expectations that had been so

SCORE BOARD England 1st innings 255 Australia 1st innings 204 England 2nd innings Cook lbw b Johnson Carberry lbw b Siddle Root run out (Johnson) Pietersen c Harris b Lyon Bell c Johnson b Lyon Stokes c Smith b Lyon Bairstow c Haddin b Johnson Bresnan b Lyon Broad c Clarke b Lyon Anderson not out Panesar lbw b Johnson Extras: (5-b, 6-lb)

51 12 15 49 0 19 21 0 0 1 0 11

Total: (all out; 61 overs) 179 Bowling: Harris 10-1-340, Johnson 15-5-25-3, Lyon 17-3-50-5, Siddle 15-646-1, Watson 4-2-13-0 Fall of wickets: 65 (Cook), 86 (Carberry), 86 (Root), 87 (Bell), 131 (Stokes), 173 (Bairstow), 174 (Bresnan), 174 (Broad), 179 (Pietersen), 179 (Panesar) Australia 2nd innings Rogers not out 18 Warner not out 12 Extras: (0) Total: (for no wicket; 8 overs) 30 Bowling: Anderson 3-1-50, Broad 3-0-16-0, Panesar 1-0-4-0, Stokes 1-0-5-0

high after Friday’s second day.

No team has ever successfully chased more than 183 in the fourth innings to win a Test at the MCG since drop-in pitches - a term describing a pitch that is prepared away from the ground and slotted in for the match - were introduced 17 years ago.

But the pitch remains good and England will have to bowl better than they have all winter if they are to snatch their first victory since August.

Given the match situation this may have been the most wasteful day of the sorry series as Nathan Lyon took 5-50 with minimal turn

and Mitchell Johnson made it 31 wickets in the series.

Australia had added a brisk 40 runs for the last wicket to take their first innings to 204, Brad Haddin the last man out for another invaluable rearguard, this time of 65, to give him a series average of exactly the same.

No wicketkeeper has ever scored more runs in an Ashes series, and with Lyon’s unbeaten 18 it threatened to do more than merely irritate England.

Cook set off at a clip, driving and cutting nicely to race along at almost a run a ball as he became the youngest man in history to pass 8,000 Test runs. (BBC Sport)

Weakened West Indies look for more success F or the second time in about a month, West Indies pulled off a two-wicket win with Darren Sammy as the common denominator. But where the chase against India was powered by fluent fifties from Kieran Powell, Darren Bravo, Lendl Simmons and Sammy, Thursday’s win in Auckland was the result of the two factors - Sammy’s cameo and New Zealand’s profligacy with the ball.

New Zealand’s bowling, despite lacking in discipline, almost induced West Indies to hand over on a platter the advantage their pace bowlers had gained. When calm batting was all that was needed, a few too many West Indies batsmen fell to shots that should have been shelved, until Sammy’s lastgasp act took them to victory.

Both teams didn’t have too much knowledge of how the drop-in track would play out, but Jason Holder and Ravi Rampaul bowled tight opening spells that induced errors from an experienced New Zealand line-up. The advantage of dismissing the hosts’ top four within the first 12 overs is an immense confidence boost for a side that has struggled to contain the home batsmen through the Tests. West Indies, however, have suffered another setback on the batting front - they will play the rest of the series without Darren Bravo, who returned home on Saturday due to personal reasons.

For New Zealand, the opening partnership is a big concern - they have had just one fifty-plus opening stand in 2013, against Bangladesh in Fatullah, and only two stands worth more than 20

runs. Martin Guptill and Jesse Ryder were both returning from long lay-offs and so it is likely there was some rustiness in the first ODI, but the lack of runs and constant changes at the top put additional pressure on the middle order.

Mitchell McClenaghan’s dream year continued as the left-arm pacer took his maiden five-for in ODI cricket in Auckland. While he has had his share of injuries, in 15 matches, McClenaghan already has 40 wickets and is a contender for breaking Ajantha Mendis’ record for fastest to 50 wickets in ODIs. Ravi Rampaul doesn’t have McClenaghan’s impressive record but whenever the bowler has done well, West Indies have invariably found themselves in a winning position. His first over to Guptill in Auckland, where he extracted swing and hit an enticing line immediately, was evidence of why West Indies rely so heavily on him in ODIs.

Team news The failure of the top order in the first ODI - just 13 runs between Guptill, Ryder, Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor - was a serious blow for New Zealand, but it is unlikely to change. It will be interesting to see if New Zealand make a choice to bring in Adam Milne to bolster the bowling, possibly at the expense of James Neesham.

New Zealand (probable) 1 Martin Guptill, 2 Jesse Ryder, 3 Kane Williamson, 4 Ross Taylor, 5 Brendon McCullum (capt) 6 Corey Anderson 7 Luke Ronchi (wk), 8 James Neesham,

Mitchell McClenaghan in 2013: 15 ODIs, 40 wickets and an average of 19.02

9 Nathan McCullum, 10 Mitchell McClenaghan, 11 Kyle Mills West Indies have two possible replacements for Bravo - Kirk Edwards and Chadwick Walton. While Edwards hasn’t played an ODI since mid-2011, the last of Walton’s two one-dayers was in September 2009.

Edwards’ recent form for West Indies A on the tour of India - he scored 159 runs in three List A games, including one century - may tilt the decision in his favour. The bowling line-up is likely to remain the same.

West Indies (probable) 1 Johnson Charles, 2 Kieran Powell, 3 Kirk Edwards, 4 Lendl Simmons, 5 Dwayne Bravo (capt), 6 Denesh Ramdin (wk), 7 Narsingh Deonarine, 8 Darren Sammy, 9 Sunil Narine, 10 Jason Holder 11 Ravi Rampaul (Cricinfo)

BCCI to wait for Supreme Court clarification on Modi’s ban

T

he BCCI has decided to seek clarification from the Supreme Court regarding its resolution to ban former IPL chairman Lalit Modi for life. The decision was taken at a working committee meeting on Saturday, in the wake of Modi’s expected return to cricket administration as the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) president.

“The members decided that the BCCI must intervene in the SLP (special leave petition) filed by Mr. Rungta in the Supreme Court challenging the Rajasthan Sports Act and get clarified the position of BCCI to enable the enforcement of its resolution passed on September 25, 2013 expelling Mr. Lalit Modi,” BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel said in a statement.

While expelling Modi on multiple charges of misconduct, the BCCI had said, “he shall not in future be entitled to hold any position or office, or be admitted in any Committee or any member or associate member of the Board”. Modi, however, got his candidature for the RCA presidency approved by the Supreme Court by exploiting a technicality that the RCA was governed by the Rajasthan Sports Act. The BCCI is likely to file an application in the ongoing case, filed by former RCA chief Kishore Rungta, in the Supreme Court before the next hearing on January 6.

In the lead-up to the RCA election on December 19, the BCCI had warned its affiliate of severe consequences if they allowed Modi to return as an administrator. At Saturday’s meeting the working committee decided to take severe action against the RCA, pending the Supreme Court’s decision, but in a manner that would not harm the state association’s cricketers.

The issue over Lalit Modi’s return to cricket administration despite his ban rumbles on

“It was further decided that subject to the decision of the Supreme Court, strict disciplinary action should be taken against the delinquent member while protecting the interest of the game in the state of Rajasthan,” Patel said.

According to a member who attended the meeting, while it was agreed the association had to be “taught a lesson”, the board also agreed that it “shouldn’t harm the players who are at no fault”.

Minutes before the working committee meeting was about to begin, Mehmood Abdi, Modi’s attorney and RCA’s deputy presidentin-waiting, was prevented from attending. Following an RCA executive committee’s decision to make a case before the BCCI, Abdi had flown to Chennai for the meeting.

However, because the RCA isn’t a member of the working committee and Abdi was not a special invitee, his request to attend was refused. (Cricinfo)

Welbeck hands Man Utd fourth consecutive win

S

ubstitute Danny Welbeck scored the winner as Manchester United beat a determined Norwich City 1-0 to secure a fourth consecutive Premier League win.

The Canaries had shots from Russell Martin and Gary Hooper saved prior to the visitors, who were without the injured Wayne Rooney, taking the lead.

A series of ricochets put Welbeck through on goal and he rounded keeper John Ruddy before slotting in.

Norwich struggled to re-

spond and are now without a win in four league games.

United had Rooney sidelined because of a groin problem and, despite missing their inspirational striker, they overcame his absence to secure a hardfought three points courtesy of Welbeck’s fourth goal in five games.

The victory moves them up to sixth and two points off the top four, although that gap and placing could change with several of their rivals in action on Sunday.

(BBC Sport)

december 29, 2013

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wins in Kallis close to century Mountainous thrilling finish at Chepstow in final Test match

J

acques Kallis hit an unbeaten 78 to help South Africa reach 2995 against India in Durban on the third day of his final Test match.

The 38-year-old allrounder was given a guard of honour by India as he went out to bat and hit 10 boundaries in a 224-ball knock before rain curtailed play.

Kallis and AB de Villiers (74) put on a fourth-wicket stand of 127 to lift South Africa from 113-3.

They trail India, who scored 334 in their first innings, by 35 runs.

South Africa openers Graeme Smith (47) and Alviro Petersen (62) added 21 runs to their overnight score of 82 without loss, before skipper Smith was well caught by Shikhar Dhawan running back from cover

M

Mountainous (centre) beat Hawkes Point and crowd favourite Tidal Bay in a tight three-way finish

SCOREBOARD India 1st innings 334 South Africa 1st innings Smith c Dhawan b Jadeja 47 Petersen c Vijay b Jadeja 62 Amla b Shami 3 Kallis not out 78 AB de Villiers c Kohli b Jadeja 74 Duminy lbw b Jadeja 28 Steyn not out 0 Extras: (1-w, 6-lb) 7 Total: (for 5 wickets; 104.5 overs) 299 Bowling: Zaheer Khan 16-2-460, Shami 19-2-62-1, I Sharma 23-7-76-0, Jadeja 37-9-874, Ro Sharma 9.5-1-22-0 Fall of wickets: 103 (Smith), 113 (Amla), 113 (Petersen), 240 (AB de Villiers), 298 (Duminy)

Jacques Kallis remained unbeaten on 78 at the close

off the bowling of spinner Ravindra Jadeja.

Mohammed Shami then bowled Hashim Amla (3) to bring Kallis to the crease.

However, India’s tribute to Kallis may have affected Petersen’s concentration because he gloved the next ball to Murali Vijay at slip off the bowling of Jadeja, who later accounted for De Villiers and JP Duminy (28) to end the day with figures of 4-87.

South Africa vice-captain De Villiers, who passed 50 in an innings for the 10th consecutive Test match, feels

that his side will struggle to chase down a big total batting fourth on a deteriorating pitch.

“The game is very much in the balance. Keeping in mind that we are batting last on the wicket, we need a lead of 100,” he said.

“The wicket is doing a bit which will make it difficult for us to get that lead.”

The first Test of the twomatch series ended in a draw after South Africa fell eight runs short of a world-record run chase in Johannesburg.

(BBC Sport)

ountainous beat Hawkes Point and crowd favourite Tidal Bay in a tight threeway finish to win the Welsh National.

The 20-1 shot, ridden by Paul Moloney and trained

by Herefordshire’s Richard Lee, held off the challenges of 14-1 shot Hawkes Point and 12-year-old Tidal Bay, who went off at 10-1.

Highland Lodge, the 13-2 favourite, led for the majority of the race but faded on Chepstow’s heavy ground.

One in a Milan (50-1) was fourth, while Merry King was fifth (9-1).

Mountainous battled on bravely in the hands of Moloney to give Lee his second Welsh National success in three years after Le Beau

Bai in 2011.

The winner’s stablemate Knock A Hand set the pace with Highland Lodge before the more than three-and-ahalf-mile marathon began in earnest over the final five fences.

“I couldn’t believe how well he was going. Paul gave him an intelligent ride and got a breather into him. I was also delighted with the way my other horse, Knock A Hand, ran,” Lee told Channel Four Racing.

“Mountainous has always been a nice horse.

From the moment he came into our yard as a five-yearold, I said he was a Welsh National horse.”

Mountainous did not have it his own way going over the last two fenc-

es as the Paul Nichollstrained Tidal Bay - who won Sandown’s bet365 Gold Cup in 2012 and proved he could mix it with the best when he won the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown last Christmas - came up the outside to force a late charge.

Going over the last it was Hawkes Bay who led, but one final push from Moloney saw Mountainous cross the line a head clear.

The winning horse’s owner James Potter said: “I’m chuffed to bits, we’re Welsh and it’s brilliant to win the Welsh Grand National. It’s an unbelievable day for us.

“Just the stamina he has, it’s just been a brilliant day.

I’m absolutely speechless.”

(BBC Sport)

"Fragile" England hurt by schedule – Pietersen K

evin Pietersen has blamed England’s schedule for the side’s disappointing performance in Australia.

As well as losing the first three Tests of the series, and with them the Ashes, England have seen two senior players, Jonathan Trott and Graeme Swann, leave the tour. Pietersen, who has not made a century in the series, suggested the demands of back-to-back Ashes series had left England jaded and “a bit fragile.”

“I think people shouldn’t forget, and it’s never been done before, that guys have got to go and endure 10 back-to-back Ashes Test matches,” Pietersen told Sky Sports.

“I’ve been told that a number of Olympic athletes go into some sort of post-Olympic depression or a negative frame of mind -

and I’m not saying we’re in a depression or a negative frame of mind - but after you’ve competed at such a level, post that competition, mentally you’re a bit fragile.

To play an Ashes then another Ashes, and for us being away from home, it’s a tough gig.

“It’s been an incredibly pressurised situation.

Playing back-to-back Ashes series and being away for the second leg, and not starting in the manner that we are accustomed to ... it’s been incredibly difficult.”

Pietersen also dismissed criticism he had received for the manner of his dismissals in the series. Pietersen has twice being caught pulling, twice flicking into a trap set for him at midwicket, once on the long-on boundary and, in the first innings in Melbourne, bowled attempting a slog across the

line. Geoff Boycott, the former England opener whose Test run tally Pietersen has overtaken during this match, labelled him “a mug” and called for him to be dropped.

But Pietersen defended his dismissal in the first innings in Melbourne, insisting he was batting with the tail and perished in a desire to boost the “team cause”.

“This game is a great leveller,” Pietersen said. “If you start believing people when they say you’re great it’s going to hurt you. If you start believing people when they call you a mug that’s also going to hurt you.

“I know it [his first-innings dismissal at the MCG] is a bit of a talking point. I don’t know what the numbers are on our tail, but as soon as [Tim] Bresnan got out, I was under the impression that I had to do all

the scoring and take all the strike.

“Look, I get out for nought, I get nailed. I get out for 70 ... I was playing for the team’s cause to try and score as many runs as possible as quick as possible because I knew I was going to have to do it.

“Australia have bowled incredibly well with great plans and sometimes you’ve just got to say ‘well done’. I was a bit fortunate on a couple of occasions, but that’s what happens. I’ve been unfortunate on a couple of occasions on this trip as well.

But I call it the cycle of life.

These things happen. You win some and you lose some.

If you take all the good days you’ve got to take the bad days with it as well.

“We just want to try and salvage some pride. We want to try and turn things around.” (Cricinfo)

Kevin Pietersen: “I get out for nought, I get nailed. I get out for 70 ... I was playing for the team’s cause to try and score as many runs as possible as quick as possible”

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Table tennis breaking out of its cocoon

Holder predicts strong WI bowling show

By Treiston Joseph

T

able tennis, viewed mostly as a recreational activity for most persons rather than a highly competitive sport, is beginning to put Guyana on notice that it is turning into one of the better sport in the nation.

Why such a proclamation? The Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) has been hitting more at development and giving their players a chance to improve internationally and locally. The sport has also had a host of competitions during the year 2013.

To be more specific, the GTTA held nine competitions locally, while attending 11 international table tennis events, two of which was hosted in Guyana.

Further, the association in February held a coaching clinic in Berbice focusing on younger players while having a “teach them young” training camp in August that targetted chil-

Chelsea Edghill

Christopher Franklin

Trenace Lowe

dren 18 and under.

In addition, there was also training periods for some of the top players that focused on new techniques and skills that allowed the players to reach the highest level as possible which showed the association’s dedication to the sport.

One of the bright spots for the association that goes unnoticed is that unlike some of the top disciplines such as cricket and football there is no inside bickering known to the

public as the GTTA functions and operates professionally which is a plus in their book.

With the association now having players that are world ranked in Chelsea Edghill, Idi Lewis, Trenace Lowe, Christopher Franklin and Paul David due to their experience at the World Table Tennis Championships in France during the month of May, it is a clear indication of the growth of the association and its willingness to

expose players despite the limited resources available to the sport.

The GTTA was arguably the most developing sport and association in the country for 2013 as it continues to produce excellent players at all levels.

Overall, the association has done a lot of developmental work in terms of spreading its wings to the Ancient County and Linden during the past year, setting the future of the sport on a solid foundation.

Lucrative Jumbo Jet horse race meet on today

By Rajiv Bisnauth

O

ver $11 million in cash and trophies will be at stake when the Jumbo Jet Business Enterprise stages its grand day of horse racing today at the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC).

The D1 and Lower class will be the marque event of the day with the winner pocketing $1.5 million.

Competitors will go head-tohead over a distance of 1600 metres.

With entries reaching appoximately 80, the organisers have put together an impressive seven-race programme for the meet. All the big names are set to be on show for what is expected to be a competitive day of racing.

The Three-Year-old race for horses bred and born in Guyana and the West Indies has a winning tag of $1 million over 1600 meters.

The Two-Year-Old Guyana and West Indies bred horses will gallop over 1200 metres for the $700,000

A day of competitive racing is anticipated today at PMTC

first prize on offer.

The G1 Class horses will run also over 1200 metres and will see the champion horse taking home a winner’s purse of $500,000.

The race for Guyana bred Three-Year-Old horses has a winning purse of $400,000, also over 1200 metres.

The I and Lower 1200 meters event has a winning prize of $250,000, while the

other event is for animals classified J, K and L and Lower, which is also a 1200 metres affair for a winner’s pocket of $200,000.

Meanwhile, in an invited comment on Saturday, coordinator Chattergoon Ramnauth said that the track at PMTC remains in an excellent condition, despite some rainfall during the past week.

He further indicated that all systems are in place for the race meet and with all the big names set to be on show, a competitive day of racing is definitely in the making.

The race will be run under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA). Race time is 12:30 hours and admission to the venue is $1000 per person.

Darren Bravo returns home from NZ tour D

arren Bravo, the West Indies batsman, will miss the rest of the ODI series and the Twenty20s against New Zealand after returning home due to personal reasons.

Bravo, one of West

Indies’ more successful performers on the New Zealand tour, left for Trinidad from Auckland on Saturday, according to a West Indies Cricket Board release.

Bravo was the highest run-getter for West Indies in the three-match Test se-

ries, scoring 262 runs from four innings at an average of 65.50, including a double-hundred in the first Test at Dunedin that helped the side avoid an innings defeat.

In the first ODI in Auckland, Bravo scored 12 runs.

West Indies have chosen

not to add a replacement for Bravo, reducing the strength of their ODI squad to 14 for the remaining four games in the series. Earlier, Marlon Samuels had returned home from the tour following the recurrence of a chronic wrist injury. (Cricinfo)

Jason Holder credited former fast bowler Curtly Ambrose for shaping his bowling as a youngster

J

ason Holder, the West Indies fast bowler, believes his newball partnership with Ravi Rampaul can pose a threat to New Zealand’s batting line-up ahead of the second ODI in Napier on Sunday.

Holder and Rampaul had opened the bowling in the first ODI in Auckland, which West Indies won by two wickets, and their impressive early charge reduced New Zealand to 15-3 in eight overs. The pair finished with two wickets apiece and conceded only around three runs an over in the innings, and Holder said he wanted to extend that form into the second match.

“Winning the opening ODI was a good start. We’re right where we want to be and we’re looking to carry that momentum through,” he said.

“The spirits are lifted and the mood has changed.

We’re more positive. I enjoyed bowling with Ravi as we both know how crucial those early overs are.

“Just like the Auckland pitch in the first ODI, I’m eager to make full use of the pitch (in Napier). Ravi got two early in the last game and it was my job to keep it tight. I came back for my second spell and got a couple wickets so I’m enjoying the dynamic between Ravi and myself. The Christmas bonding as a team has us all in the right frame of mind and we’re looking to keep going.”

Holder suggested that the track at Napier was flatter compared to the Auckland pitch, and the size of the ground would also be a challenge: “I’ll have to adjust here. I can see that and I’ll be factoring in that this

is a smaller ground. I’ll have to utilise the conditions wisely.”

On his first tour to New Zealand, Holder is keen to use the series to cement his place in the ODI side as West Indies look to build squad for the 2015 World Cup. Holder was also keen for the exposure in this series given his ambitions of playing Tests as an allrounder, rather than only a bowler.

“Test cricket is a big ambition and hopefully I’ll be selected for it soon.

Exposure here is a good test right now and I’m improving game by game,” Holder said. “I’m an allrounder so I want to make my way up the order and spend more time at the crease and batting in the middle. I want to be more consistent and help win some games.”

Holder brushed off the banter with the New Zealand batsmen as friendly and said he wanted to focus on building his speed and using more swing variations to extend his form. Holder credited former West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose for shaping his career.

“Some of the legends I want to be like are Courtney Walsh and Curtly Ambrose, but I also learnt a lot from watching Andrew Flintoff in the 2005 Ashes - one of the best ever,” Holder said.

“Ambrose was a disciplinarian and he got me to be as precise as I am by stressing on the finer things.

Ambrose taught me a lot in my tenure at Combined Colleges and Campuses back in Barbados and I think with more matches under my belt, starting in New Zealand, I’ll be able to develop better.” (Cricinfo)

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National cricketers undergo rigorous fitness tests – head coach impressed

Players from the provisional squad during Saturday’s fitness session

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

hirty-three (33) members of the provisional squad of 37 players named by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) underwent their first day of fitness training at the Guyana National Stadium on Saturday, as selectors began to explore for players who will comprise the touring squads for next year’s West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional Four-day and NAGICO Super50 tournaments.

The sessions were conducted under the watchful eyes of Head Coach Esaun Crandon, Chairman of the Senior Selection Panel of the GCB, Rayon Griffith, and coach Julian Moore.

Saturday’s sessions focused mainly on the physical aspect of the players’ training. The squad, minus all-rounder Narsingh Deonarine, veteran middleorder batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and all-rounder Steven Jacobs, began the session by testing their stamina and oxygen uptake by virtue of a beep test.

Beep exam

The players then ran 20mile shuttles back and forth for a designated period of time and after completion of the beep exam; they then free-ran 50-mile shuttles with the use of cones.

The players then sought to impress the GCB officials by completing a series of drills and simulations in a bid to secure a spot in the national senior team.

After the beep trails were concluded, the players were engaged in the cardiovascular aspect of fitness as they were drilled on push-ups and sit-ups, followed by “military boot-camp” simulated drills, with the use of chairs and cones.

In an invited comment at

the conclusion of the first day, Crandon told Guyana Times Sport that he’s impressed with the players’ fitness level.

“A lot of the players have shown that high level of fitness, which is very encouraging,” Crandon said.

Crandon, who played 38 First-Class matches for Guyana, added that some players “still have a little way to go, but some of them are at a level where they just need to maintain it.”

Turf practice

He further indicated that the players will have some turf practice over the next two days which will be used to give the cricketers an opportunity to spend some time in the middle and apply themselves in the respective areas such as batting and bowling which will further aid in getting the players prepared.

The players shortlisted for possible selections on the Guyana team for the upcoming NAGICO Super50 and Regional Fourday tournaments commencing next month in Trinidad and Tobago are: Leon Johnson, Devendra Bishoo, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Bramble, Robin Bacchus, Assad Fudadin, Zaheer Mohamed, Royston Crandon, Christopher Barnwell, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Vishal Singh, Ronsford Beaton, Rajiv Ivan, Amir Khan, Trevon Griffith, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Chanderpaul Hemraj, Shaquille Williams, Jonathan Foo, Narsingh Deonarine, Steven Jacobs, Keon Joseph, Raun Johnson, Jason Sinclair, Paul Wintz, Anthony Adams, Rajendra Chandrika, Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai, Shimron Hetmyer, Andre Stoll, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Ryan Ramdass, Chris Pattadin, Royan Fredricks, Totaram Bishun and Collis Butts.

Assad Fudadin goes through the paces

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

december 29, 2013

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CRICKET: ENGLAND 255 AND 179 V AUSTRALIA 204 AND 30-0; INDIA 334 V SOUTH AFRICA 299-5

National cricketers undergo rigorous fitness tests See full story on page

23

– head coach impressed Sewanrine Chattergoon assists Ronsford Beaton in doing his portion of sit-ups (Photos: Rajiv Bisnauth)

Vishal Singh and Trevon Griffith during their rounds of push-ups

Man City rise to top Darren Bravo returns of Premier League home from NZ tour M

anchester City moved to the top of the Premier League table after Edin Dzeko’s 50th goal for the club defeated Crystal Palace 1-0 at Etihad Stadium.

City dominated a first half which saw their England keeper Joe Hart play on after suffering a badly cut eye.

Palace threatened via Jason Puncheon and Mile Jedinak, but Dzeko turned in a Jesus Navas cross to put City ahead.

Joel Ward drew a fine save from Hart and missed the target with a header as City went two points clear of Arsenal.

Manuel Pellegrini’s side extended their 100% home league record, with the Gunners facing a tough trip to seventh-placed Newcastle on Sunday.

But after averaging more than four goals a game at Etihad Stadium, City were frustrated by a fine defensive effort from Palace, who limited the hosts to their first 1-0 home

See story on page

22

Edin Dzeko scored his 50th goal for Man City to lead his team to victory

victory this term.

Although Tony Pulis’s Palace remain a place above the relegation zone on goal difference, that margin did increase after Fulham suffered a 6-0 defeat by Hull.

And following their victory over Aston Villa on Boxing Day, Saturday’s performance will certainly give the Eagles further confidence with a vital home game at Selhurst Park against Norwich to come on New Year’s Day. Ward’s efforts imme-

diately after Dzeko’s goal showed that Pulis has instilled a steely side to his team, though they were perhaps fortunate that City only found the target twice in a first half where they registered 15 shots.

With this encounter coming less than 48 hours after the 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Boxing Day, manager Pellegrini made six changes to the side but Fernandinho and David Silva - who both played in that game - had the biggest impact before the break.

(BBC Sport)

Darren Bravo has been one of the main performers for West Indies on the New Zealand tour

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