Guyana Times, Friday December 13, 2019.

Caribbean agencies working to build climate change resilience Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4136

P17

THE BEACON OF TRUTH friday, december 13, 2019

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Opposition suspicious over APNU’s push for sample survey

Arrest warrant P16 issued for Police Detective

Page 3

Sections of Essequibo Coast inundated after heavy rainfall hits Guyana’s coastline

P7 EBD community “under siege” from constant robberies

“Hot Skull” P7 on the run after stabbing WBD resident

Page 7 The roadways along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) were underwater, thus, making them impassable to vehicular traffic. Residents battled to stay dry in their homes even though the water level continued to rise late Thursday afternoon

Schoolboy loses life Murder accused after motorcycle attacks, stabs inmate with knife crashes ꟷ suspect alleges victim, other

Duo get life sentence for murdering security P10 officer

Page 7

See story on page 7

ꟷ pillion rider flees scene inmates plotted to kill him New Republic Bank system

82% Point-of-Sale terminals …Bank promises to now operable compensate customers

Page 17

Albouystown man found P16 dead in apartment

2 NEWS

friday, DECEMBER 13, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Sections of Essequibo Coast inundated after heavy rainfall hits Guyana’s coastline

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everal villages along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) were underwater following a heavy downpour between Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.

Residents were awakened to high levels of water in their homes and surroundings.

The heavy downpours have forced residents to seek higher grounds as the water continued to rise during the course of Thursday. Residents have since blamed the poor drainage systems in the region.

Since there was no place for the water to recede, homes, schools, businesses and others were affected.

Due to the flooding, Anna Regina Mayor Rajendra Prabhulall, along with his deputy, Rudolph Williams, Town Clerk,

Superintendent of Works, Councillors and the Public Health Inspector, was on

the ground assessing the situation.

The Mayor, while meet-

ing with residents, noted that while some of the pumps are in operation, one in Walton HallDevonshire Castle is down, thus, causing the entire area to be flooded.

He explained that as a result of the flash flooding, residents have lost millions of dollars and as such, would need immediate assistance from the Government.

Due to the level of the floodwaters, families who live in flat houses will have to be relocated to a dry area. In addition, businesses have also suffered tremendously, especially vendors in the Anna Regina and Cotton Field Markets.

Rice farmers are also counting their losses as the water has completely flooded their crops. The Mayor has made an emergency call for the installation of more pumps to assist in getting the water off the

land in a timely manner.

Up to press time, the water continues to rise with no sign of it receding soon.

Meanwhile, Head of the Civil Defence Commission, Kester Craig, stated that they have received re-

their Regional Disaster Management Systems and to commence immediate response.

The Commission is monitoring the situation through its 24-hour National Emergency

ports of flooding in Region 2 (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and as such, he has advised the Regional Democratic Councils to activate

Monitoring System (NEMS) and is on standby to support the Regional Administration.

However, a team from the Commission was deployed to the affected area.

Attempted murder accused found hanging in Suddie lock-ups

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prisoner who is on remand pending a High Court trial for attempted murder and wounding with intent was on Thursday found dead in the lock-ups of the Suddie Police Station in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Dead is 25-year-old Steffon Smith, called “Blacka” or “Blackboy”, of Lot 23 Vryman’s Erven, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

The prisoner was found hanging by the neck from a multi-coloured sheet that was tied to the grill window in the lockups. The discovery was made sometime around 10:40h after Police ranks went to get another prisoner whom Smith was sharing the cell with.

The lock-up has two holding cells with one main door in and out. Smith had moved into the other section away from the other, where he reportedly took his life.

Smith was being held at the Suddie lock-ups ever since his case was called up in the Essequibo High Court late November. He was on remand for the attempted murder and wounding

with intent committed on 28-year-old Michael Marco, which occurred at Kanawak Backdam, Potaro, Region Eight, on January 26, 2016.

According to Police reports, Smith was seen by a psychiatrist on Monday to ascertain whether he was mentally fit to stand trial in the High Court.

He then made a court appearance on Wednesday and was further remanded until January 8, 2020. He was being kept at the Suddie lockups while waiting to be taken back to the Georgetown Prison.

Guyana Times understands that the young man was expected to undergo an evaluation to determine whether he was mentally fit to stand trial in the High Court.

This newspaper was told that Smith had previously undergone a mental evaluation but the trial Judge ordered a new examination, which was scheduled for today (Friday).

Smith’s body is currently at Suddie Hospital Mortuary awaiting a PostMortem Examination.

news

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friday, DECEMBER 13, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, December 13 – 05:00h – 06:30h and Saturday, December 14 – 05:30h – 07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, December 13 – 16:35h – 18:05h and Saturday, December 14 – 05:50h – 07:20h.

H2H data

Opposition suspicious over APNU’s push for sample survey

FERRY SCHEDULE Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Cloudy conditions with a few showers are expected during the day. There will be light rain showers and cloudy skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 05:03h and 17:14h reaching a maximum height of 2.62 metres and 2.76 metres.

Low Tide: 10:48h and 23:17h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.44 metre.

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Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Opposition is concerned over a move by the Government through its Commissioner on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to conduct a sample survey to further verify the data obtained during the Houseto-House Registration data that was sent to Jamaica for cross-matching.

At his weekly press conference on Thursday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo told reporters that after filtering out the duplicates by cross-matching the H2H data with the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRD), international digital security company, Gemalto, indicated that some 37,300 were new registrants who are eligible for voting, that is, they are above the age of 18.

However, an internal check conducted by GECOM showed that approximately 17,000 of those “new registrants” were already on the voters’ list and some even voted in the past.

The remaining 20,000 “new names” are now to be re-verified and the Government-nominated Commissioners are now pushing to have a sample survey done to verify these names before they go on the voters’ list.

In fact, Commissioner Vincent Alexander on Wednesday noted that a survey will be conducted through random house-tohouse visits across the country by GECOM staff and scrutineers from a sample size of 10 per cent.

But, according to Jagdeo, who is also the PPP General Secretary, they will not accept the survey.

“They want to do a sample of the 20,000, not to check a sample of the 20,000 names but do a sample. We will never accept that because if you sample the 20,000… and a 10 per cent sample they want to do. So you’ll have over 18,000 people who can get on the [voters’] list and will not be verified,” he noted.

The Opposition Leader further refuted claims

by Alexander that a de-

cision was taken by the seven-member GECOM Commission to conduct to sample survey. He pointed out that it does not make sense to use a sample process when they can go out and verify the entire data within a week’s time.

“This, we will never accept because it means contamination of the database… So we said you can refine [20,000 new registrants] further or let us go out and check the 20,000 people. Now, this could be done in a week and that’s leisurely. We could’ve completed this already, and leisurely check all the names,” he noted.

the time there, sitting on the 20,000 and pushing the timeline now, because soon we will have to put out the new revised voters’ list and now we’re at a stage, where they’re arguing a new position now [for the conduct of the sample survey],” Jagdeo stated.

Moreover, the PPP General Secretary outlined that his Party has been compromising with GECOM to allow the merging of the verified H2H data so that new registrants from that exercise are not disenfranchised.

However, he noted that the Party will return to its earlier position if the Government Commissioners

Referencing claims that 20,000 registrants were processed for a day during the scrapped H2H exercise, Jagdeo said it would be easier for the Commission’s staff along with the two parties to make checks to ensure the verification of these new registrants.

“We could’ve done that but they’re dilly-dallying all

continue to push the sample survey.

“If they want to do that then we will go back to our original position that none of the House-to-House data should be used because it means you’re gonna use it in an unverified fashion… And this indecent position pushed by Vincent Alexander and the others

Government-nominated Commissioner Vincent Alexander

to use this unverified data makes me very suspicious because you could very well have people here who might be in the ‘18-year’ category when they should have been in the ‘14-year’ category or multiple registrations,” he contended.

The Opposition Leader further posited that “…this is something we’re paying close attention to. But I hope that the Chair of GECOM (Retired Justice Claudette Singh) understands that although we argued that the H2H data was not put to the Claims and Objections period – through the statutory process – we are prepared to accept all the new registrants once they’re verified from the House-to-House exercise but not a sampling of the new registrants”.

Nevertheless, the Opposition Leader noted that they will continue to be vigilant of these efforts by the Government-nominated Commissioners going forward.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, DECEMBER 13, 2019

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Risk of using Guyana’s roadways

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here is always an element of risk whenever someone uses the roadways, be it a motorist, passenger, cyclist or pedestrian.

This is somewhat inherent since it is believed that accidents will happen. Often, the fault is not with the one being cautious.

The risks may manifest in various forms such as a lack of street lighting while driving at nights, potholes— which, when swerved from, could place a vehicle in the direct path of another— absence of or non-functioning traffic lights, which can create uncertainty among drivers; roaming animals; speeding; drinking and driving; narrow streets and lack of traffic signage. In addition, disobedience of basic traffic etiquette and other rules exacerbate the risks.

Seemingly common now is the disrespect for designated major roads. Many drivers, including some within the public transportation system, refuse to adhere to what is mandatory.

As a result, a number of accidents occur frequently at some of those points. Similarly, the practice of running red lights and the green signal that allows pedestrians to cross continues unabated, predominantly by minibus drivers. The danger that poses needs no explanation.

While there are a plethora of traffic violations on a daily basis, some appear more prominent. Undertaking and cutting in front of a vehicle and the sticking out of a minibus conductor’s arm to do likewise from the other side, seem the new norm of driving. Aside from the obvious danger, especially to young and inexperienced drivers and being an irritant, it is blatant bullyism and a potent source for road rage.

It appears that those who engage in such practices do not see themselves as being errant or what they do as a traffic violation.

Lanes that allow for turning-on-red are abused and used as if it’s the right-of-way. In the city, many roads, other than what is authorised for minibus routes, are used as thoroughfares.

Speeding is foremost causing areas that are supposed to be free of minibuses to become dangerous.

In addition, some drivers seemingly take pride in having an alcoholic beverage in their possession while transporting passengers. Adding to the woes of those who abide by traffic rules, they are verbally abused when trying to stave off a potential transgressor. These practices are not unknown to the Police and while they cannot be at all points where violations occur, there is the expectation for more and sustained intervention in the interest of safety to all road users.

This does not take away from the valiant efforts of a few dedicated traffic officers who do their best to curb the situation; one which has reached alarming proportions. Reportedly, many minibuses are owned by some Police ranks and the drivers are of the view that they have a free pass to break traffic rules. It is believed that traffic ranks turn a blind eye when they see violations first-hand by minibuses owned by members of the Force.

That obviously empowers those errant drivers and causes others to do likewise. Some time ago, a senior traffic officer, speaking a road safety fair, boldly proclaimed that no one is above the law when asked specifically about reports of violation by police ranks. That is heartening to hear and he must be commended.

However, the follow-up question should have been how effective his action could be in the context of minibuses being owned by some of his colleagues.

In fairness to the Police, it did clamp down on tinted vehicles owned by some ranks. That shows that the Force seems willing to hold its own responsible. While that offers some level of optimism, it begs the question of why the unbridled traffic violations by some minibuses continue unchecked.

From all reposts, some traffic ranks can easily pinpoint a particular minibus based upon design and route when a complaint is lodged. That probably suggests that traffic violation is not unique to that vehicle. Again, it must be asked, how is it allowed to continue? One can assume that alleged pressure from within is responsible. Seemingly gone is the expectation of the example being set by those entrusted to ensure safety on the roadways.

What is desperately needed is a sustained national campaign to reduce traffic violations and let the law take its course on the errant ones regardless of who they are. The carelessness exhibited puts all road users at risk. This is where the National Road Safety Council would need to be supported and probably empowered to have a more visible presence and increased influence all year round.

It must be noted that drivers are not the only violators of traffic rules for some pedestrians are equally guilty. Aside from the common jaywalking, they cross busy intersections when not authorised and refuse to use the overhead pedestrian walkways, thereby, bringing danger to themselves and others. Like errant drivers, they seem empowered to not observe basic traffic rules.

This will only change when there is a constant stream of violators up the stairs of the courts across the country.

The outstanding companies and individuals who were recognised for their contributions to the tourism sector by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG). They were honoured at the first cobranded Tourism Awards held at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel to culminate Tourism Awareness Month

GAWU responds to APNU/AFC supporter Dear Editor, Known APNU/AFC supporter, Mr Abel Seetaram, in a letter appearing in the December 12 Guyana Chronicle, was allowed to use that newspaper’s letter columns to pursue a maligned and falsehood-filled attack on our Union. It appears that the letter signer has friends in high places.

But that is entirely another story.

The GAWU, when considering the utterances written under Mr Seetaram’s hand, debated whether it really should take the time to offer a response. The individual, who is known for his escapades, cannot be even deemed a political featherweight. We, nevertheless, decided to pen this response though knowing that the individual is really no more than a mere hanger-on but his sentiments will likely be read by the Chronicle’s readership and his fiction may well be deemed as the truth.

The ‘letter writer’ begins his missive by denouncing the recent protests by sugar workers which, in his little mind, he contends have been politically influenced. Maybe the individual, who may not have even signed his letter, should have prefaced his letter with “once upon a time”.

We hate to burst the bubble he lives in but the actions by sugar workers were only fuelled by the atrocious treatment they have received at the hands of the coalition government. Certainly, any rational human being would react in the same manner.

We wonder how Mr Seetaram would react were he in the shoes of a sugar

worker. How would he feel that he could not afford to buy something nice for his house or to even just add a fresh coat of paint to brighten up the home for the holidays? How would he feel that he could not afford to buy a nice meal for his family or not even a little gift for his children? These, Mr Seetaram, or whoever is the real author, are feelings of the sugar workers at this time. It is now the fifth Christmas they are enduring since their rates-of-pay have remained unchanged.

This is their new reality and is apparently is the ‘good life’ they were promised.

It is next said that GAWU lost its voice during the PPP/C Administration.

It seems like the RDC Councillor has the tendencies of an ostrich and he has probably hidden his head in the ground all that time.

The GAWU has never ever lost its voice. Our advocacy on behalf of our membership had never ceased. Of course, when it comes to sugar, we did not have to contend with a heartless bunch as we have now. But our voice allowed workers’ pay and conditions-of-work to be improved. Our voice saw many workers becoming homeowners and sending their children to high school and beyond, a cherished dream for many. Our voice saw justice and fairness prevailing and our voice spoke up on behalf of the industry. So, no Mr Seetaram, we haven’t ever lost our voice but it is because of our voice that you and your ilk are upset that we continue to speak up and

speak out?

We are told that our voice was not heard when two estates were closed supposedly under the PPP/C Administration. Of course, we have addressed this matter on several occasions, and given what we know of Mr Seetaram, we believe, our time can be better spent than re-hashing what we have explained before.

On the NIS, Mr Seetaram, sugar workers know too of our advocacy. Over the years, we have probably represented thousands of workers in regards to the different problems they encounter with the Scheme. At this very time, we are pursuing many matters with the NIS’ local and central offices. Just recently, the NIS agreed with our request to have central engagements with a view to addressing matters more quickly. Similarly, we have continued to actively represent workers’ grievances. Our representation has been successful on several occasions. As a responsible Union, we cannot ignore the workers’ matters which are so germane to our work.

Mr Seetaram next criticises, without any foundation, our Union’s leadership.

We want to say that the election of the GAWU leadership is done by the Union’s membership through delegates present at our Congresses— which are held in keeping with our Constitution.

Certainly, we want to believe the Councillor understands this process. Not too long ago, Mr Seetaram’s own party had elections where certain persons were elect-

ed. Of course, we did see concerns being expressed about whether the process was really democratic. We want to tell the letter writer that our Union upholds genuine democratic practices, unlike what Mr Seetaram may be accustomed to.

Mr Seetaram, in the letter, also referred to promises to Guyanese. But while he talks about commitments, he apparently does not remember what his colleagues told sugar workers. He does not remember that they said sugar is too big to fail. He fails to recollect that workers were told that the coalition “will not, in any way, close the sugar industry”.

We are sure he has forgotten about the twenty per cent pay rise promised. So he should not even be talking about promises.

It is clear as day Mr Seetaram and his political colleagues are upset by our reminder of their commitments and our consistent advocacy on behalf of the nation’s sugar workers. The reality is that the shabby and discriminatory treatment that has been meted out to this group of Guyanese cannot be condoned. Did Mr Seetaram and company really expect us to remain silent by these anti-worker practices? Of course, no doubt, our regularly raised voice is what irks them so much.

They want to be seen without damnable records when really, they are wolves in sheep clothing.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, DECEMBER 13, 2019

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Change Guyana again Why depressed Dear Editor, In 2018, I wrote that the lure for power and pecuniary gains will always rule paramount for third parties which were evidenced in 1964 and again in 2015 by both the UF and the AFC. The pretenders and the pretensions of these third parties are well documented. In fact, those in the AFC have squandered the opportunity to be patriots who can bring about the necessary changes to propel this country towards socio-economic growth.

In fact, they have joined not only hands but heart and soul with the PNC to bring destruction to the socio-fabric of this country.

Without an iota of doubt, they have been utterly consumed by the PNC because of their greed and lust for power. Another third party just dissipated!

A few days ago, a new party desperately tried to woo me to join them in their quest to change Guyana. I listened attentively as the leader regurgitated the same principles which were exhaustively proclaimed by the AFC in its Action Plan launched in 2005 and amended in 2011. But this leader of this new Party was the financier of the AFC. It must also be recalled that at its formation, the founding

leaders, Ramjattan and Trotman, had vowed never to coalesce with either the PPP or the PNC since they claimed that both had destroyed this country.

They had vowed to remain independent. This man told me exactly the same thing and I pointed out to him the similarity of his utterances but he said that he wanted to get rid of the PNC since they have taken the country on the road to destruction. I reminded him that he was instrumental in putting the PNC in power even though he is cognizant of the history of the PNC and the fact that it still comprises the same old die-hard PNC players.

After admitting that the main purpose of his involvement was to get rid of the PPP, I told him that he should, as an atonement for his misdeeds, now join hands with the PPP to get rid of the PNC since he cannot do it alone. Mr Badal should understand that when the focus is just to get rid of a Government for the sake of power and not because of socioeconomic policies then that effort is bound to fail.

Furthermore, Mr Badal is of the opinion that the re-opening of the closed estates will never happen and branded the proposal by the PPP as not practicable but

just ‘foolishness’ and an impossibility. Was it not ‘foolishness’ when they were closed? It is a pity that Badal is so late in addressing the current state of GuySuCo, it would seem that it is only when a man becomes a Presidential Candidate, he sees the sufferings of his fellowmen.

Badal stood by the coalition when it destroyed the livelihood of 7000 workers and their families and he said and did absolutely nothing. Now he is “deeply disturbed at the level of poverty and unemployment” and described the closure as the “most uncaring and unpatriotic act of the Granger Administration”.

Where were you Badal?

How can you travel the length of Region 6 since 2016 and not be appalled by the destruction you have supported? But alas! Now you need the votes of the sugar workers so you have experienced an epiphany of gigantic proportion! Sugar workers are not fools.

Moreover, what have you contributed to the struggle for democracy in this country? You were absolutely silent about the many corrupt acts of this coalition government, about their humongous salary increases, about the squandering of the reserves, about the harsh taxation increases, about the

spiralling crime rate, about the closure of GuySuCo and the dismissal of thousands of workers and the list goes on ad infinitum.

Then, since the unilateral and illegal appointment of Patterson as the GECOM Chairperson, you never uttered a word against it. Then, from December 21, 2019, the Granger Administration trampled on our Constitution and continued as though the CCJ’s rulings were in their favour, yet, you made no public statement but now you seem to have found your vocal cords!

In conclusion, any leader worth their salt must be willing to engage in the struggle for a free and fair election and a return to democracy in this country. The PPP has always been in the forefront of that struggle and instead of lambasting Jagdeo, you should thank him for his relentless fight against the new and worse PNC which you helped to install in Government and which you by your very action wants to remain there.

Guyanese will never forgive those who destroyed the socioeconomic development made from 1992 until 2015!

‘Change’ is now a cuss word, ask the Alliance for Change!

Dear Editor, The title says it all. Due to a shortfall of beet sugar in the USA, which was caused by weather and other factors beyond the control of growers in the USA, there is now a need to increase the level of cane sugar being imported. This will be either a missed opportunity for GuySuCo or an opportunity to reopen key facilities such as Enmore and Skeldon with the others to follow.

Lack of good inventory planning and supply & de-

mand considerations have led to poor foresight in our sugar industry. There is no reason why we have a current shortfall in production with excess planting capacity versus the production capacity currently online.

Hopefully, a two/threeyear long-term agreement (LTA) will be negotiated with the refineries in the USA at a profitable price to allow for bringing our dormant capacity back online.

If this is not done quickly, the Brazilians and Mexicans

will take the business and continue to develop their sugar industry.

The call to our laid-off sugar workers in the sugar

belt should be “great news, time to get back to work!”

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

4 million tonnes of sugar Best regards, Jamil Changlee

individuals don’t open up?

Dear Editor, There are probably thousands of studies in psychology and sociology about self-disclosure. From time to time, most people would want to discuss important or troubling matters with other people.

The people named in that statement are considered to be the “people closest to us”; however, this is also a difficult task to execute as well.

Depression doesn’t have an age limit, the colour of skin, religious belief, etc.

Reality

Even though we have systems, organisations, and all of these things to apprehend individuals suffering from depression, our numbers in this nation are increasingly high. Why is this so? Some individuals are willing to confide in someone; however, is very much afraid that this “friend” would be “blabbing” or spreading the information shared with others, which, in turn, makes the situation worse or may have simply just given the person the push over the cliff to commit suicide.

They are more alone than ever. Think about it, confiding only to find out you are being laughed at, being judged, looked down upon, only to name a few.

What can we do?

Be more observant, notice that boy lashing out for no reason at all? The possibility

exists he’s being abused at home. That girl crying? She may be a victim of bullying.

The boy you called poor? He works every night to support his family. These are merely a few of what is going on daily and we are caught up with responsibilities focusing on family, career among others.

Be more confidential.

Does a friend tell you about problems? Be the shoulder to lean on, the ear to listen, not to have an upper hand on that individual’s hurting but to help make a difference, become a success story, lead by example. Depending on the situation and circumstance, get the relevant authorities involved.

Always remember no matter how hard it is, “IT ALWAYS GETS BETTER”.

And there are people here who care, understand and will stand with you when you need it or even when you don’t!

Teachers, parents, friends, strangers, loved ones (BFs/GFs) we need to get this in control, we are better individuals and stronger together than alone.

I tried to make this piece as short as possible to create more awareness of what goes on whether we choose to turn a blind eye to it and be selfish; for one life lost is little too many. I cannot stand by and not say anything on this.

Sincerely, Julius Seunarine

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friday, DECEMBER 13, 2019

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Foundation

Greta Thunberg is the face of a global youth-led climate movement and TIME 2019 Person of the Year

G

reta Thunberg sits in silence in the cabin of the boat that will take her across the Atlantic Ocean. Inside, there’s a cow skull hanging on the wall, a faded globe, a child’s yellow raincoat.

Outside, it’s a tempest: rain pelts the boat, ice coats the decks, and the sea batters the vessel that will take this slight girl, her father and a few companions from Virginia to Portugal. For a moment, it’s as if Thunberg were the eye of a hurricane, a pool of resolve at the centre of swirling chaos. In here, she speaks quietly. Out there, the entire natural world seems to amplify her small voice, screaming along with her.

“We can’t just continue living as if there was no tomorrow, because there is a tomorrow,” she says, tugging on the sleeve of her blue sweatshirt. “That is all we are saying.”

It’s a simple truth, delivered by a teenage girl in a fateful moment. The sailboat, La Vagabonde, will shepherd Thunberg to the Port of Lisbon, and from there she will travel to Madrid, where the United Nations is hosting this year’s climate conference. It is the last such summit before nations commit to new plans to meet a major deadline set by the Paris Agreement. Unless they agree on transformative action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the world’s temperature rise since the Industrial Revolution will hit the 1.5°C mark—an eventuality that scientists warn will expose some 350 million additional people to drought and push roughly 120 million people into extreme poverty by 2030. For every fraction of a degree that temperatures increase, these problems will worsen. This is not fearmongering; this is science. For decades, researchers and activists have struggled to get world leaders to take the climate threat seriously. But this year, an unlikely teenager somehow got the world’s attention.

Thunberg began a global movement by skipping school: starting in August 2018, she spent her days camped out in front of the Swedish Parliament, holding a sign painted in black letters on a white background that read Skolstrejk för klimatet: “School Strike for Climate.” In the 16 months since, she has addressed Heads of State at the UN, met with the Pope, sparred with the President of the United States and inspired four million people to join the global climate

strike on September 20, 2019, in what was the largest climate demonstration in human history. Her image has been celebrated in murals and Halloween costumes, and her name has been attached to everything from bike shares to beetles. Margaret Atwood compared her to Joan of Arc. After noticing a hundredfold increase in its usage, lexicographers at Collins Dictionary named Thunberg’s pioneering idea, climate strike, the word of the year.

The politics of climate action are as entrenched and complex as the phenomenon itself, and Thunberg has no magic solution.

But she has succeeded in creating a global attitudinal shift, transforming millions of vague, middle-of-the-night anxieties into a worldwide movement calling for urgent change. She has offered a moral clarion call to those who are willing to act, and hurled shame on those who are not. She has persuaded leaders, from Mayors to Presidents, to make commitments where they had previously fumbled: after she spoke to Parliament and demonstrated with the British environmental group Extinction Rebellion, the UK passed a law requiring that the country eliminate its carbon footprint.

She has focused the world’s attention on environmental injustices that young Indigenous activists have been protesting for years. Because of her, hundreds of

thousands of teenage “Gretas”, from Lebanon to Liberia, have skipped school to lead their peers in climate strikes around the world.

“This moment does feel different,” former Vice President Al Gore, who won the Nobel Peace Prize for his decades of climate advocacy work, tells TIME. “Throughout history, many great morally based movements have gained traction at the very moment when young people decided to make that movement their cause.”

Thunberg is 16 but looks 12. She usually wears her light brown hair pulled into two braids, parted in the middle. She has Asperger’s syndrome, which means she doesn’t operate on the same emotional register as many of the people she meets.

She dislikes crowds; ignores small talk; and speaks in direct, uncomplicated sentences.

She cannot be flattered or distracted. She is not impressed by other people’s celebrity, nor does she seem to have interest in her own growing fame. But these very qualities have helped make her a global sensation.

Where others smile to cut the tension, Thunberg is withering. Where others speak the language of hope, Thunberg repeats the unassailable science: Oceans will rise. Cities will flood. Millions of people will suffer.

“I want you to panic,” she told the annual convention of CEOs and world leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January. “I want you to feel the fear I feel every day. And then I want you to act.”

Thunberg is not a leader of any political party or advocacy group. She is neither the first to sound the alarm about the climate crisis nor the most qualified to fix it. She is not a scientist or a politician. She has no access to traditional levers of influence: she’s not a billionaire or a princess, a pop star or even an adult. She is an ordinary teenage girl who, in summoning the courage to speak truth to power, became the icon of a generation. By clarifying an abstract danger with piercing outrage, Thunberg became the most compelling voice on the most important issue facing the planet.

Along the way, she emerged as a standard bearer in a generational battle, an avatar of youth activists across the globe fighting for everything from gun control to democratic representation. (Excerpt from TIME)

By Chelsey X

S

mall world scenes are such a great way to encourage imaginative play in children. This snowy Christmas tree small world would make a great addition to all your Christmas activities for kids.

Just gather a few materials from around your home, and you’ll inspire all kinds of pretend play!

Materials for Christmas Tree Small World These are the materials I had around my house and chose to use for this small world. Don’t feel the need to go out and buy lots of stuff look around your house for materials that you already have.

White craft paper Tape Brown paper (I cut some off a brown paper bag.)

Poster Putty Green felt Scraps of felt in assorted colors Felt Christmas trees (optional – We had them already from a few weeks ago so I thought they’d be the perfect addition!)

Cotton balls Clear glass gems Miniature gifts (I made mine with plain wood blocks, glue dots, and a mini bow.)

Little critters or people (We used our small wooden animals.)

White play dough (I whipped up half a batch of our favourite play dough.)

Setting up the Small World 1. I decided to set up the small world on the children’s small table since it’s the perfect height for them. I covered the table with white craft paper, and then taped some scrunched-up craft paper around the sides to form a border to keep all the

small parts from falling.

2. Next it was time to create the felt tree on the wall. I cut out a triangle from green felt and a trunk from brown paper.

To attach them to the wall I used poster tack. It’s super easy to remove and doesn’t peel off paint or leave marks. (And you

can reuse it!)

3. I scattered some cotton balls around the play area to represent snow. The cotton balls actually worked really well. The kids were able to push them into big snow piles!

4. I also scattered small felt circle ornaments around in the cotton balls. The kids were able to use them to decorate the felt trees since they stick right on.

5. I added our felt Christmas trees made from cones to the play scene along with a couple of little animals.

6. I thought it’d be fun to add a few gifts to put under the tree. I used small wooden blocks and glued a mini bow on top of each block with a glue dot.

7. I had some clear glass gems that made a perfect icy pond for the play scene!

8. And for the final touch, I added a small lump of play dough perfect for creating things or sticking things together.

Playing with the small world I think my favourite part of small worlds is sitting back and observing all the imaginative play. They come up with ideas I wouldn’t have even thought of, and I often learn more about their interests as I’m watching.

For instance, Theo immediately went and got his school bus toy to add to the small world. He created a road for it with the glass gems and drove the school bus back and forth.

He also enjoyed having the bunny and deer give gifts to each other. He would have one animal give a gift and then say,” Happy!”.

Lucy first decided to decorate the trees with the felt ornaments. She then went straight to the play dough.

(Excerpt from buggyandbuddy. com)

NEWS

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Schoolboy loses life after motorcycle crashes – pillion rider flees scene

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16-year-old student of Bina Hill Secondary School, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is now dead after he lost control of the motorcycle he was riding along the Annai main access road on Wednesday.

Dead is Danillo Allicock of Surama Village, North Rupununi, Region Nine.

After the accident, the pillion rider, whose identity remains unknown, fled the scene with the motorcycle leaving Allicock’s body on the roadway.

Reports are that around 12:45h on the day in question, Allicock was riding along the roadway at a fast pace while another vehicle was travelling in the opposite direction.

Owing to the narrowness of the roadway, the now dead teenager attempted to take evasive action by pulling to the right side of the road to avoid a collision, but the clay, loam and gravel surface caused him to lost control of the motorcycle and run off the road into thick vegetation.

As a result, he and the pillion rider fell to the ground and sustained injuries. Preliminary Police reports stated that Allicock received severe injuries to his head while his pillion rider sped away from the scene.

The injured youth was discovered by a passer-by who immediately contacted the Annai Police Station to notify ranks of the incident. An ambulance was dispatched to the location and Allicock was transported to the Lethem Regional Hospital where he was pro-

nounced dead.

Allicock’s body was taken to the hospital’s mortuary for storage and a post-mortem.

Meanwhile, the Police are hunting for the pillion rider and the motorcycle that was involved in the accident. At present, the identity of Allicock’s pillion rider and the licence plate number of the motorcycle remain unknown to law enforcement.

Allicock is the third motorcyclist to lose his life on the roadways in Guyana in the month of December.

Murder accused attacks, stabs inmate with knife

– suspect alleges victim, other inmates plotted to kill him during breakfast

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prisoner who is on remand for murder at the Mazaruni Prison, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) took matters into his own hands and stabbed a fellow inmate several times after overhearing that there was a plot to kill him during breakfast.

Twenty-seven-year-old Wayne Gilbert reportedly told prison officials that he retaliated after another prisoner, who was also on remand for murder, attacked him on Wednesday morning.

Reports are that around 07:10h on the day in question, the cells in the “B

Watch” section of the Mazaruni Prison were opened and it was then that a 28-year-old inmate, Rickford Jones, allegedly attacked Gilbert, stabbing him to his right hand.

A scuffle then ensued between the two men which resulted in Jones receiving two stab wounds to his right elbow, one stab to his left shoulder, and another to a left rib.

It was at this point that prison officers on duty became aware of the brutal fight and intervened. They then transported Jones to the Bartica Regional Hospital where he was ad-

mitted for treatment.

Meanwhile, Gilbert was escorted to the Bartica Police Station, where the knife used in the attack was handed over to the Police. During a caution statement, Gilbert admitted to stabbing Jones, but explained that he acted in self-defence.

He reportedly told Police that on Tuesday, he overheard a discussion among Jones and two other inmates making plans to kill him the following morning.

An investigation has been launched into the alleged plot.

Less than six months

ago, Samuel Little, 23, of Stewartville, West Coast Demerara, who was on remand at the Lusignan Prison Holding Bay, died as a result of injuries he received during an altercation with another inmate.

It was reported that the now dead man was struck with a piece of wood to his head several times.

Given the serious injuries sustained, Little had been taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital for emergency medical treatment and was admitted. However, he died shortly after while receiving treatment for his injuries.

“Hot Skull” on the run after stabbing WBD resident

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he Police are on the hunt for an alleged drug addict popularly known as “Hot Skull” after he stabbed a Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD) resident on Thursday morning during an argument.

The injured man has been identified as 41-yearold Paul Richard of Middle Street, Pouderoyen, WBD. Based on information re-

ceived, at about 6:00h on Thursday morning, an argument broke out between Richard and the suspect.

The argument escalated and it was then “Hot Skull” picked up an ice pick and attacked Richard.

Richard was stabbed to his abdomen and back, causing him to collapse onto the ground while the suspect made good his escape by foot.

Eyewitnesses notified the Police and Emergency Medical Technicians quickly arrived at the scene and rushed the injured Richard to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted and remain in stable condition.

Police are continuing their hunt for the suspect as investigations continue.

EBD community “under siege” from constant robberies

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he community of Hutsonville on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) has faced constant robberies in recent times, and residents have now called out law enforcement officials for turning a blind eye to the situation.

One resident, Randolph Jackman contacted Guyana Times on Wednesday, stating that there have been over six robberies in the gated community in recent times. Hutsonville, which is located a stone’s throw away from Craig, was a quiet community until recently.

According to him, the mode of operation for the bandits is to rob houses whose owners are overseas.

During each robbery, mostly electrical appliances are stolen.

“We are under siege, more or less. We have six houses that have been robbed. Everyone that left to go overseas, their house is being robbed and the Police is doing literally nothing.

Maybe if they passed and they see the house is locked up, eventually they’re in the house. They even went into one home twice,” Jackman relayed.

He added, “They carry away flat-screen TVs, any electrical equipment, microwaves, mixers, blenders, PlayStations, DVDs and every single thing. Once it is electrical, it is gone.”

The man recalled that his wife was also a victim of the serial robbers back in September. She was held at gunpoint while their home was ransacked and valuables taken. It is unknown how many perpetrators are involved.

“My wife was robbed at gunpoint here in broad daylight. It was 11 o’clock in the day. I had the footage. I gave it to the Police and to date, we’ve got no understanding.

She’s frustrated,” he said.

They are calling for patrols and for the Police to investigate the incident with the aim of putting an end to the situation. This, he added, will put the residents at ease knowing that their homes would not be broken into and robbed.

“We have not seen a single patrol here for God knows how long. No patrols.

One person was at Grove Police Station and he was waiting for hours [because] there was no transportation.

He left that day.”

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Convicted rapist to spend 25 years behind bars

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orty-eight-year-old Jegede Hodge of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara was on Thursday sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment for four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16 years old. He was found guilty of the offences by a jury in November but the sentencing was deferred to Thursday.

The man was found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a child between May 1 and 31, 2014.

The child was 13 at the time.

However, in 2015, he committed the act twice between

Convicted rapist Jegede Hodge

January 21 and December 31. She was 14 at the time.

As the child turned 16, he again raped her between September 1 and 30, 2017.

For the first charge, Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall sentenced Hodge to 18 years’ imprisonment and another 20 years for the second.

She further imposed a 22-year sentence for the third charge and 25 for the last. The sentences will run concurrently, hence, he will only serve 25 years. During his address to the court, he begged for forgiveness.

The victim, in a statement to the court, said she is still traumatised by the incidents and at times thought

about ending her life. She also stated that she was disappointed that her mother did not believe her when she confided in her.

The young lady noted that the convicted rapist collected her from school and took her to various locations where he would commit the act. The statement also revealed that the victim had pleaded with the man to use a condom to prevent her from getting pregnant. The State was represented by Prosecutors Teriq Mohamed and Nafeeza Baig, while Ravindra Mohabir represented the accused.

Cleaning…

F

…up (GECOM) loose ends rom the word go, your Eyewitness maintained that the then newly-appointed GECOM Chair, Claudette Singh blundered when she tried to do a “Solomon” on the H2H registration – sneakily ordered by her illegallyappointed predecessor to check Granger’s 200,000 “inflated” charge… Knowing fully-well the PPP had principledly not participated in the exercise – therefore making the collected data suspect – rather throwing out the latter and using the Claims and Objections (C&O) to compile the Official List of Electors (OLE), she halted the exercise in mid-stream, but kept the 370,000 names collected. And simultaneously ordered the C&O of a Preliminary List of Electors (PLE) drawn from the extant National Register of Registrants (NRR) – as the PPP had been insisting all along.

Now what sense did this make - -save to tell the PNC they got their (truncated H2H) and the PPP that they got their C&O??!! This was tantamount to cutting the (electoral list) baby in two – which confirmed that the PNC really didn’t care for the baby, having mangled it from 1968 to 1990!! At the time, the PPP, trying to be polite, said that at best, the H2H with 370,000 names might’ve captured a couple of thousands of voters who’d never registered. A wasted $4 billion exercise.

So, we ended up with two lists – the one coming out from the legally mandated C&O and the one from the aborted H2H foetus. The GECOM Chair now made another head-scratching executive decision. (With the Commission divided down the middle, every decision taken is hers, with her casting vote.) She ordered a billion-dollar exercise to a Jamaican firm to “cross match” the H2H data with those on the NRR – including fingerprints. But before that the H2H data had to be laboriously encoded. More money, more time!!

So, months later, the H2H came back with 60,000 names unmatched. Now this showed that the exercise was worth it, no? Even though this would further inflate Granger’s 200,000! But not so fast!! GECOM itself did a manual check and found 17,000 of the 60,000 names on the NRR!! So much for the Jamaican “cross matching”!!

Then they found that 23,000 were under 18…and shouldn’t be on the OLE! What to do with the remaining 20,000?

The Opposition Leader magnanimously suggested that these be checked by GECOM and political scrutineers in a field exercise. Weeks later, your Eyewitness now reads in the Chronicle that they do what the Opp Leader suggested but on a 10 per cent sample!

Meaning 2000 names to be checked after spending billions and billions!! Oh Judgement…! …corruption Over in TT, their law allowing folks to be charged if their assets are out of whack with their income was put to the test for the first time earlier this week. It was passed only last April, and generated some controversy, but eventually both the Government and Opposition were in agreement!!

Now if you live in Guyana, you know we ABSOLUTELY need such a law!!

Just look around you – doesn’t matter where you live in Guyana, village or town – and you KNOW that something’s not right with some big house, or big car or fancy lifestyle of some folks. Over in TT, the Police, acting upon their own recognisance or upon information given, investigate then apply to a Judge for review. If she feels the evidence is sufficient – as in the TT case – she grants an ex-parte order.

The accused then has 28 days to show that the assets weren’t obtained criminally.

Bear in mind, that bribes are illegal and so if we had the law here, a whole lotta cops (owning buses?), customs officers, GL&SC employees and Ministers of the Government would have a whole lot to show!!

Starting with the ex-JUNIOR Minister of Public Infrastructure who decided she’d prioritise her out-ofwhack PRIVATE Infrastructure!! …up the morganatic marriage In “The Crown”, a gauche American asks the Duke of Edinburgh how come if a King marries, his wife becomes a “Queen”, but the husband of the Queen doesn’t become the “King”.

Maybe, Khemraj Ramjattan can better answer the question??

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

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Duo get life sentence for murdering security officer W

eeks after Alvin Kissoon and Calvin King were found guilty by a jury for the 2013 murder of John Friday during the commissioning of a robbery at the Lethem Post Office, the duo were given life sentences by Justice Sandil Kissoon on Thursday.

The two men will have to serve a minimum of 32 years before becoming eligible for parole. However, although being found guilty for the mur-

Alvin Kissoon and Calvin King at the High Court

der, King maintained his innocence and asked the court to be lenient since he has a family to help.

The State was represented

by Abigail Gibbs and Mandel Moore, who both proved that Kissoon and King left Georgetown for Lethem where they carried out a robbery on the Lethem Post Office on January 18, 2013.

It was reported that the men entered the post office and bounded the two security offi-

cers after beating them. Friday would have died on the spot as a result of the beating he received.

The armed men then broke into the safe and carted off with a huge sum of cash.

Another guard on duty reportedly raised an alarm and the Police were summoned.

However, Police at the Mabura checkpoint stopped and searched a motor car during which over $4M was found hidden under the rear

seat. They also found other articles linked to the robbery.

The two men had pleaded not guilty when the case was called at the Magistrate’s Court. During the Preliminary Injury (PI), the prosecutor provided sufficient evidence for the matter to be called at the High Court.

The two men were represented by Attorneys Adrian Thompson and Lyndon Amsterdam.

Youth slapped with rape charge

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20-year-old farmer was on Thursday remanded to prison for allegedly raping an 11-year-old child who was on her way home from school.

Vladimir Lawrence, of Yupukari Village, Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the indictable charge when it was read to him.

Police stated that between December 4 and December 6, 2019 at Yupukari Village, he engaged in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.

The matter was heard in-camera. According to information, the victim and the defendant are known to each other since they live in the same neighbourhood.

It was reported that during

the period mentioned in the charge, the child was riding her bicycle going home from school when the accused stopped her and requested sex.

The court heard that the child refused and the accused then pulled her off the bicycle, dragged her into the bushes and allegedly raped her.

After committing the act, the accused placed the child back on the bicycle and was taking her home when the child’s father saw them on the bicycle and questioned his daughter, who related what had occurred.

The matter was reported to the Lethem Police Station and the accused was later arrested and charged for the offence.

Lawrence was remanded to prison until December 17, 2019 and was slated to appear in the Lethem Magistrate’s Court.

Couple remanded for stabbing neighbour during argument

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couple were on Thursday arraigned and remanded to prison for stabbing their neighbour during a misunderstanding.

Kenese Bobb, 24, and Kemo Harlequin, 28, of D’Urban Backlands, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and were not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated on December 10, 2019, they unlawfully and maliciously wounded Jermaine Sampson with intent to maim, disable, disfigure or cause grievous bodily harm.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that on the day in question, Harlequin and the Virtual Complainant had a misunderstanding and Bobb intervened.

It was then the couple went into the man’s home and hurled glass bottles at him.

The court further heard that the man was then dragged down his stairway and into the yard, during which he was stabbed about his body with kitchen knives by the couple.

The injured man was later picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he remains a patient.

The matter was reported and the couple were arrested and charged for the offence.

The Prosecutor objected to bail being granted to the couple on the grounds of the serious nature of the allegation and the fact that the VC was still hospitalised in critical condition.

The couple will return to court on January 2, 2020.

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Make a list and a budget

If you’ve made a list of gifts to buy, you’ll have a good idea of how much money you’ll spend in total, although you still need to plan for unforeseen purchases and price variations!

If you’re a very organised person, you already have the expected amount in your bank account and will be able to pay cash for everything. Otherwise, you might wince at the list... In this case, calculate the amount that you know you can realistically spend on gifts without affecting your family’s current expenses. This amount is your Christmas budget. Avoid putting impulse purchases on a credit card that you know you won’t be able to pay for a long time. It is always possible to make good buys without spending a fortune.

Plan with the Internet

Instead of going on a long and exhausting tour of the stores, do some screen shopping! Almost all stores have a website, some of them even allowing you to check an item’s availability in a store near you. It’s a very practical way to save some time and avoid going across town to find a specific gift. And you can shop whenever you want, night and day!

Visit many websites, take notes, compare and add pages to your “Favourites” bookmarks to give yourself some time to think about it. Your purchase will be well thought-over and even more appreciated, especially since you'll probably h a v e saved time and money!

Look for deals!

In recent years, Christmas deals start several weeks before Christmas. Businesses compete to attract us with more and more deals. For once, keep store flyers instead of recycling them and compare items in the stores’ printed and electronic publications. Some articles are sometimes at a 50 per cent discount to attract customers. It’s up to you to take advantage of these great offers, without buying too much of course!

As for online shopping, ask about the refund and exchange policies.

Choose your battles!

Shopping in the middle of the holidays is exhausting! On the weekends and some weeknights, malls are so packed that we get discouraged before we even complete our purchases. If you can, try to go shopping at the beginning of the week. Monday and Tuesday nights are ideal to shop in relative peace! Otherwise, go early in the day on the weekends, which should give you enough time to do your shopping before the stores are full of customers. Avoid dressing too warmly, take a coffee break to rest a little, do whatever it takes to make your outing fun and not painful. (Extracted from motherforlife.com)

news

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GTA recognises outstanding contributions to tourism

Members of Wilderness Explorers as they receive the award for Best in Tours

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he Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on Tuesday evening hosted its first co-branded Tourism Awards at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The award ceremony brought Tourism Awareness Month activities to an end—

which was held under the theme “Tourism is a force for good in Guyana”.

With cultural presentations and speeches from the President of THAG, the Director of the GTA and a feature address by Business Minister Haimraj Rajkumar, the event was dubbed a success.

The highlight of the evening was recognising the contributions and accom-

plishments of the tourism partners in Guyana over the past year.

There were fifteen awardees ranging from guides, accommodation, restaurants and supporting services among others.

These awardees were selected based on categories: People’s Choice Awards for Hotel of the Year, Interior Lodge or Resort of the Year and Restaurant of the Year.

These awards were given based on the total number of votes derived from the public. The Industry Awards were twelve categories and were based on public nominations and justifications and the strength and volume of the justifications.

These were all selected by the GTA-THAG judging panel. Featured speaker Russian Dorrick, Toshao of Yupukari Village, North Rupununi, echoed the ongoing sentiments that Tourism is indeed a force for good in Guyana.

Nevertheless, the Hotel of the Year award went to Cara Lodge Hotel while the prize for Interior Lodge or Resort of the Year was awarded to ArrowPoint Nature Resort. Restaurant of the Year went to Bistro Café & Bar. The award for Best Emerging Tour Guide was given to John Christian with honorary mention, Asaph Wilson.

The Best Senior Tour Guide award went to Leroy Ignacio while the Emerging Tourism Destination or

Guyana Tourism Authority Director Brian Mullis addressing the gathering

Community of the Year was awarded to Karasabai Village. The New Tourism Product or Experience of the Year went to Wichabai Ranch. Tourism Supporting Services Award was given to REEL Guyana and Visit Guyana. Most Outstanding Contribution to Tourism by an NGO/Volunteer group went to South Rupununi Conservation Society.

Wilderness Explorers was awarded as Tour Operator/Outfitter/ Destination Management Company of the Year with

Bistro Café & Bar, the Best in Service Excellence and Hospitality. The Tourism Investment of the Year award was handed over to Wichabai Ranch Honourable Mention: Watooka Guest House.

The award for Best in Sustainable Tourism went to Karanambu Trust and Lodge. The 2019 Leader in Tourism award was given to Donald Sinclair while the Guyana Tourism Hall of Fame Inductee was Paul Stephenson.

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MoFA shake-up has nothing to do with professionalising Foreign Service – Jagdeo

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has rubbished claims that the recent shakeup in the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MoFA) was to professionalise the Foreign Service.

Ambassadors Hamley Case, posted in the United Kingdom; Bishwaishwar Ramsaroop, stationed in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago; Clarissa Riehl, who was posted in Canada; Bayney Karran in China, Cheryl Miles in Venezuela, and JR Deep Ford in Switzerland have all been recalled and fired.

On Wednesday, President David Granger told reporters that this was “just a planned change” to professionalise the Foreign Service by reducing or removing political appointees and make way for new appointments.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

In addition to recalling the diplomats, DirectorGeneral of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Audrey Waddell was also replaced by a Permanent Secretary.

She is cited as one of the newest recruits for a dip-

lomatic position outside of Guyana.

However, Jagdeo, at his weekly press conference on Thursday, rubbished the Granger-led caretaker administration’s explanation for these actions.

“This entire shakeup has nothing to do with professionalising the Ministry. It has to do with a bunch of people who are incompetent, as far as I’m concerned, and who’d sell out national interests for perks…,” he asserted.

According to the Opposition Leader, it is just a reaction to the disastrous decision of removing Ambassador Waddell from the Ministry.

“It came out of, from all I’ve been hearing, a ton of internal disagreements on policy, particularly policy relating to our sovereignty where that should be un-

President David Granger

compromising, and they’re a few people who stood up against that and they’re suffering the consequences now,” he posited.

This, Jagdeo went on to say, has nothing to do with professionalising the Foreign Ministry, especial-

ly since there are still politically-appointed diplomats in the same age group as those fired who are still within Foreign Service.

“So to give an explanation like [the President did] shows you’re aloof… They believe that we would believe this nonsense,” the Opposition Leader stated.

During an interview on Wednesday, President Granger told reporters that since the beginning of his term, he had made it clear that Guyanese diplomats would be appointed for only three years – something which the Ambassadors were aware of.

“It so happened that the contracts of many of the Ambassadors and High Commissioners expired during the time there was some uncertainty about when elections would be

held and as a result of that uncertainty, some of the changes were not made. But when it became certain that elections wouldn’t be held until March 2020, a decision was taken to proceed with those changes.

So it is not a shakeup.

It is a planned change and the Ambassadors and High Commissioners knew that the intention of the Government has always been to professionalise the service,” the Head of State noted.

After news of the recall spread last week, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall had contended that Government is a caretaker mode, and, therefore, has no authority to make such decisions.

But President Granger said on Wednesday that this will have no negative impact on Guyana.

Wanted: Detective Constable Richard Persaud

Huge issued a warrant for his arrest.

The matter has been adjourned until January 8, 2020.

Persaud was charged under section 337 (2) (a) of the Criminal Law Offences Act Chapter 8:01. The owners of a SuperBet location in East Canje had reported to the Police that he had video evidence of the Detective rank planting the illegal drug on his premises.

Following that report, other persons came forward claiming that the rank had also placed marijuana at their premises during a Police search and then accused them of being in possession of the illicit substance.

Albouystown man found Arrest warrant issued for Police Detective dead in apartment

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n arrest warrant was issued on Wednesday for Detective Constable Richard Persaud after he failed to show up in court on a charge of corrupt transactions with agents.

Persaud was in July 2019 accused of planting cannabis on the premises of an East Canje businessman.

It is alleged that on July 18, Persaud, while conducting official Police business, Persaud allegedly found a quantity of the illegal plant at a SuperBet Shop in East Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

When the matter was called on Wednesday at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court, Persaud was absent and as such, Magistrate Peter

The body of 37-year-old Neville Anthony Haynes being taken out of the apartment he was found dead in on Thursday afternoon

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he motionless body of a 37-year-old man was found in his rented apartment on Thursday at Albouystown, Georgetown.

Neville Anthony Haynes was discovered hanging in the bedroom by his neighbour after an unpleasant smell began emanating.

Haynes, who lived alone, had last been seen by persons in the area on Wednesday afternoon. Although persons were shocked to learn that the man might have committed suicide, a few believe that he was murdered.

However, according to persons who were present at the scene, the man

had locked his door from the inside and it had to be broken in order to gain access. There was no other entrance or exit to his apartment.

Investigations into the matter are currently ongoing.

Just Monday, 17-yearold Cynthia Seth of Vryheid Village, West Canje Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) took her own life after a misunderstanding with boyfriend.

She was a teacher at the St Theresa Primary School.

It was reported that prior to her taking her life, she and her boyfriend had a heated

argument.

Her lifeless body was discovered in the family’s home by her younger brother on Monday evening.

Statistics show that young people between the ages of 20 and 29-years-old accounted for the most suicide deaths during 2017 and 2018, where the majority of them were a result of pesticide use, followed by persons hanging themselves.

According to the National Suicide Plan 2015-2020, Guyana ranked at the top worldwide with an estimated suicide rate of 44.2 per 100,000.

Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

The Police stated that on December 8, 2019, at

North Ruimveldt, with intent to commit murder, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Akela Roger, his wife.

Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers, in presenting the case, stated that on the day

Former Deputy DPP appointed new Police Legal Advisor

P

ublic Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan confirmed the appointment of Attorneyat-Law Sonia Joseph as the new Legal Advisor to the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

The post became vacant after Retired Justice Claudette Singh was appointed the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) back in July.

The post was advertised a few months ago where suitable persons had applied.

The Legal Advisor will

New Guyana Police Force Legal Advisor, Sonia Joseph

in question, the defendant went home and began to accuse his wife of infidelity.

The court heard that the angry man collected a pot of boiling water from the stove and threw it on her. He then choked and stabbed her.

The woman attempted to escape, but she collapsed some distance away and was rescued by neighbours who rushed to her assistance. She was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she remains a pa-

be tasked with advising the GPF on all matters regarding evidence gathering, the supervision of case preparation for prosecution, and the taking of caution statements for criminal investigations.

She will also give support to the GPF with the training of staff in various areas inclusive of legal, research, and the execution of criminal investigations and prosecutions.

Sonia Joseph was the former acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Bus conductor who attempted to kill wife remanded

A

minibus conductor who attempted to kill his wife by pouring hot water over her and stabbing her was on Thursday remanded to prison.

Forty-seven-year-old Rawle Thomas, of North

tient.

The matter was then reported and the defendant was arrested and charged for the offence.

Thomas is scheduled to make his next court appearance on January 3, 2020.

news

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friday, december 13, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

New Republic Bank system

82% Point-of-Sale terminals now operable …Bank promises to compensate customers

R

epublic Bank (Guyana) Limited has announced that 82 per cent of its point-of-sale terminals are now operable, thus, customers can conduct their transactions.

It was also stated that the private institution is working to ensure that consumers are compensated for the inconvenience they would have experienced after a new banking system was launched a few weeks ago.

“Eighty-two per cent of our point-of-sale terminals are now operable, facilitating customers’ payments at merchants, while we continue to address those outstanding for earliest availability,” the Bank said in a release.

According to the banking institution, with improved services at their Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), consumers can make larger withdrawals through an increased transaction limit of $100,000.

The introduction of the “swipe card” feature will greatly reduce the need for the completion of vouchers for some withdrawals and deposits.

Meanwhile, payrolls received to date have been pro-

One of the RBL branches

cessed, so that customers can access their salaries on time.

The Bank is currently utilising four processing options to ensure that this completed.

This announcement comes hours after the central bank vowed to go after the Bank with penalties.

Governor of the Bank, Dr Gobind Ganga had stated, “There are a number of persons who have been disappointed as to their conduct when it comes to this new platform they’re trying to put in place. The central bank is also very disappointed. We’ve been in contact with Republic Bank to ensure they have the nec-

essary structure in place but I should tell you they have been very, very slow”.

He added that at the last meeting that was held with the Bank’s CEO, Amral Khan, it was conveyed that the Bank was trying its best to rectify the issue.

“But that very best is still not what we are accepting. So we are ensuring that they are continuously addressing this issue to make it more acceptable to the public. We are hoping that when this platform is put in place, they’ll be able to compensate the customer some way or the other”.

It was pointed out by

Today, Friday 13

Deadline for submission of party symbols for elections

T

he Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) has advised that political parties intending to contest the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections have up to today (Friday) to submit their party symbols.

It is customary that parties contesting the elections are required to submit a symbol for approval

by GECOM before nominations day which is set for January 10.

As such, GECOM, in a notice published in the dailies, is requesting that applications for the approval of symbols be submitted

no later than today’s date to facilitate timely consideration by the Commission and provide a response to the respective applicants.

Party symbols in both printed and electronic versions should be submitted to the Office of the Chief Election Officer, Keith Lowenfield, at Lot 31 Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

While the two main political parties, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) and the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) coalition have been gearing up

for next year’s polls, there have been the formation of several new and small parties over the past months.

These include: A New and United Party (ANUG), Federal United Party (FED UP), Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), Citizenship Initiative (CI) and Change Guyana.

At a press conference last month, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of GECOM, Yolanda Ward, had disclosed that some 15 political parties are likely to contest the upcoming General and Regional Elections.

DJ arraigned for fracturing man’s jaw

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22-year-old Disc jockey (DJ) was on Thursday remanded to prison when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for fracturing a man’s jaw during an argument.

Kenal Jennings, of Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden, Region 10 Region (Upper Demerara-Berbice), appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the charge which stated that on December 8, 2019, at Four Corner, Wismar, Linden, he unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm on

Devon Anthony Williams.

Facts presented by the court prosecutor stated that on the day in question, the victim and his friends were at the “Four Corner” consuming alcohol when he and the defendant had an exchange of words.

The court was further told that the defendant became annoyed, took out a firearm from his waist and dealt the victim several lashes to his face.

The injured man was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex where he was treated before being referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

(GPHC) where he remains a patient.

Jennings, on the other hand, made good his escape.

The prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds of the serious nature of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts.

The prosecutor also highlighted the fact that the firearm was not recovered and the victim is still hospitalised with a fractured jaw are also grounds for bail not to be granted.

Jennings is slated for court on December 30, 2019, at the Linden Magistrate’s Courts.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan that the Bank of Guyana does have the authority to issue circulars reprimanding banks. Dr Ganga also noted that the central bank will be meeting with the Guyana Association of Bankers on Friday to discuss its concerns.

The Bank’s Governor noted that when they do move towards sanctions, it’s going to be a substantial one.

When asked, however, Dr Ganga shied away from singling out Republic Bank for sanctions.

“Republic Bank is forcing us in that direction, not just with their current conduct but future conduct…this will be across the banking system. This is not something for one individual…We are not threatening anybody. We want to put things out in the open. We will say this is what is expected of you, and if you are not going to do what you are required to do, then this will be the penalty”.

Since the November 4 transition into a newer system, many persons have complained about the long waiting time to conduct transactions. Shortly after, RBL said the system was displaying some challenges –which would be rectified at the soonest.

This came little over a month after the Central Bank of Guyana denied Republic Financial Holdings Limited, the parent company of Republic Bank (Guyana), permission for the purchase/ acquisition of the operations of Scotiabank in Guyana.

First Lady launches Anira Foundation

F

irst Lady Sandra Granger on Thursday officially launched the Anira Foundation, a non-profit organisation which is focused on the education and empowerment of vulnerable groups.

The foundation seeks to increase efforts to advocate for the health and well-being of Guyanese youth, particularly young women, through strategic initiatives.

The Anira Foundation was conceptualised in 2017 and has already executed a number of projects.

The First Lady, in her feature address, told the gathering that it was her passion to establish the foundation which will empower youths, especially young women.

“The name Anira is based on my sentiment about the street on which I grew up, which was full of children… my memories of Anira Street, like my memories of St Joseph High School, are very fond ones and full of positive memories…I recognise that my husband’s period in office is finite and I began thinking two years ago about what I would do to continue the work I had begun…,” the First Lady stated.

The First Lady also told the gathering that work has already commenced at the foundation since its initial stages.

“We have already begun our work under the Anira Foundation umbrella and those of you who would have been following the news, will know that one of the first donations was to our STEM Guyana team which enabled

First Lady Sandra Granger, Founder of Anira Foundation

them to purchase their competition robot and prepare for the recently concluded first global robotics competition in Dubai…,” she noted.

The Anira Foundation consists of a Board of Directors made up mainly professional women in various fields, who have all come together to combine their skills, thoughts and ideas in order to achieve the objectives of the organisation.

Also present at the launch was Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan, who gave his commitment to partner with the organisation to help achieve its objectives.

The Anira Foundation will facilitate projects in various regions across the country with more focus on remedial education, education assistance, ICT workshops for adolescents, and out of school youth, self-reliance and success in business workshops among others.

Caribbean agencies meet to build climate change resilience

T

he University of the West Indies and other Caribbean agencies on Thursday joined hands to tackle climate change, focusing on the ways in which countries can build resilience.

Officials from the University of Guyana, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the Natural Disaster Risk Management were involved in the process of equipping the region to handle the effects of climate change.

Climate change is defined as a change in global or regional climate patterns, attributed largely to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels.

Professor at the UWI, Michael Taylor, explained that this resilience is also for faster recovery from natural disasters. In many cases, hurricanes prove deadly for the region during the warmer periods. Presently, the expected seasonal climates are changing drastically.

“Much of the world is becoming increasingly hotter so we get hot days and we get hot nights. In the span of

Professor Michael Taylor

a year, we are seeing more really hot days and really hot nights. Our whole rainfall regime is changing and rain is not falling like how it used to fall. What we think is supposed to be our wet season, we don’t get it and then suddenly it reappears,” he explained.

The Professor added, “When you have wind events or storm events, there is intense flooding. In parts of the Caribbean, that is manifested by more hurricanes…

An extreme is also some-

thing like drought and what we have seen is that in five of the last 10 years, the region has been in severe region-wide drought”.

He also outlined some cases where climate change severely affects various sectors, adding that it might have a ripple effect on other dependable industries.

“There is a significant immediate devastating effect of a hurricane or a flood and that has effects right across our society in terms of damage to infrastructure including health infrastructure, security infrastructure, roadways and that kind of thing. It cost your economy quite a lot,” he furthered.

With assistance from the CDB, the Caribbean Climate Report which will be released shortly. It was birthed to provide persons with information about the climate in their zone.

“Here is a first stop where you can go and get the information that you need. We’re not saying that it is the only report but it will point you to other places where you can find other information”.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 13, 2019

Around the World

UK Conservatives on course US House committee nears to win majority – exit poll vote on impeachment

T

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

he Tories have taken former Labour strongholds in Wales and the north of England, as an exit poll suggests they are on course to win the election.

Blyth Valley, Workington and Vale of Clwyd – all areas that voted Leave in the European Union referendum – now have Tory MPs. The results point to the BBC/ITV/Sky exit poll suggesting a Tory majority of 86 as being broadly accurate, although most seats have yet to declare.

Labour is on course to lose 71 seats, the exit poll suggests.

The Scottish National Party have made their first gains of the night, taking Rutherglen and Hamilton West from Labour and Angus from the Conservatives.

But Labour took Putney, in south-west London, from the Tories.

Labour’s vote is predicted to be about eight per cent down on the 2017 general election, with the Conservatives up slightly and the smaller parties having a better night.

The exit poll taken at 144 polling stations,

with 22,790 interviews, suggests the Tories will get 368 MPs – 50 more than at the 2017 election – when all the results have been counted.

Labour would get 191, the SNP 55, the Lib Dems 13, Plaid Cymru three, the Greens one, and the Brexit Party none.

It would be the biggest Conservative victory since 1987 and Labour’s worst result since 1935, the poll suggests.

The pound surged against the dollar after the exit poll figures were announced as polls closed at 22:00 GMT, with sterling gaining three per cent to US$1.35 – its highest level since May last year.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Government would move quickly to “get Brexit done” before Christmas by introducing legislation in Parliament, if it is returned to power.

A row has already broken out at the top of the Labour Party over who is to blame for what is expected to be the party’s worst election result in decades.

Leave-supporting Labour Chairman Ian Lavery, who held his seat with a reduced majority, said he was “desperately disappointed”, adding that voters in Labour’s “heartlands” were “aggrieved” at the party’s Brexit stance.

Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell told the BBC the exit poll was “extremely disappointing” for Labour if it was correct.

“I thought it would be closer,” he said, and he blamed what he called a “Brexit election,” when Labour had been hoping “other issues could cut through”.

He told the BBC’s Andrew Neil decisions would be made about party leader Jeremy Corbyn’s future when the actual results were in. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Trinidad: ‘Barber’ goes to bank with over TT$1M cash

A

man walked into the bank with over $1 million dollars and when asked about the source of funds, he says he is a barber.

Others are walking in with as much as $2 million in cash.

Some are attempting to buy up to a million dollars in jewellery and to buy cars with hundreds of thousands of dollars.

These are some of the transactions the banks and law enforcement officers are seeing as the transition from the old to new $100 bills takes place.

One bank has told the Government that it has pushed out $150 million in the

last two days. another, $120 million.

“Some of the examples will shock any law-abiding officer with persons turning up with large amounts of cash and can’t explain where they got it,” National Security Minister Stuart Young told today’s post-Cabinet news conference.

He continued: “We’ve had quite a few instances of persons turning up and claiming to be part of some professions that you will be surprised to be carrying more than $1 million in cash.”

Finance Minister Colm Imbert later added: “Some are finding it difficult to fill

out a source of funds declaration and that’s a challenge for the banks. If they say they got it from savings, it’s proving a challenge. In cases like that persons will be advised to go to the Central Bank to change the notes.”

However, National Security Minister Stuart Young made it clear that even if they go to the Central Bank, they will still have to explain their source of funds.

But those who conduct suspicious transactions, will not be told that their transactions are being monitored.

(Excerpt form T&T Guardian)

US offers China tariff rate cut; announcement possibly “imminent”

T

he United States has offered to cut existing tariffs on Chinese goods by as much as 50% and suspend new tariffs scheduled to go into effect on Sunday in an attempt to secure a “Phase One” trade deal.

US negotiators have offered to reduce tariffs on about $375 billion in Chinese goods by 50% across the board, two people familiar with the negotiations said on Thursday, and suspend tariffs on $160 billion in goods scheduled for Dec. 15.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told senators during a briefing that

announcements were possibly “imminent” on US tariffs, Senator John Cornyn told reporters.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have been embroiled in a 17-month trade war that has slowed global growth and dampened profits and investment for companies around the world.

Dec 15 is a crucial date.

If the United States does not suspend the new tariffs, Beijing officials will apply more tariffs on US goods and may suspend talks until after the US presidential election in November 2020, many trade experts believe.

Trump is expected to meet top trade advisers at 14:30h on Thursday afternoon to discuss trade negotiations.

The final percentage of tariff rate reduction the United States might offer Beijing has not been set and will be proportional to the amount of the Section 301 trade war issues addressed

by Chinese concessions, one source said.

Trump said on Thursday the United States was “very close” to nailing down a deal. “Getting VERY close to a BIG DEAL with China,” Trump posted on Twitter.

“They want it, and so do we.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

articles against Trump

U

S lawmakers moved closer on Thursday to impeach Republican President Donald Trump, as members of a House of Representatives committee debated formal charges that are likely to be sent to the full House for a final vote next week.

The House Judiciary Committee is expected to approve two articles of impeachment later on Thursday, setting up a vote by the Democraticcontrolled House next week that is expected to make Trump the third president in US history to be impeached.

If the House impeaches Trump, who is charged with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, he would then go on trial in the

Senate. The Republican-led chamber is unlikely to vote to find the President guilty and remove him from office.

Republicans on the Judiciary panel repeatedly complained about the procedures followed by Democrats in the impeachment inquiry and said Democrats had overplayed their hand in a desperate attempt to overturn the results of the 2016 election.

Republicans requested another hearing and said their rights had been trampled in the inquiry but were voted down by the panel’s Democratic majority.

Republicans also moved to strike the first charge of abuse of power but the committee rejected it on a party-line vote.

“Rules have just been thrown out the win-

dow in this process,” said Republican US Representative Debbie Lesko. “It continues to amaze me how corrupt, how unfair this process has been from the start.”

Democrats accuse Trump of abusing his power by trying to force Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden and of obstructing Congress when lawmakers tried to look into the matter. Former Vice President Biden is a leading contender for the Democratic nomination to run against Trump next year.

Republicans on the committee said there were no crimes alleged in the impeachment articles and “abuse of power” had become a catch-all for Democratic complaints about Trump.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Haiti Govt denies misuse of PetroCaribe funds

F

oreign Minister Edmond Bocchit says no PetroCaribe funds have been used by the Jovenel Moïse administration since coming to office in 2017 as he responded to a lawmaker who said he is concerned about government’s theft of public resources through the PetroCaribe initiative.

“Under the Jovenel Moïse administration, no PetroCaribe funds were used.

That programme was ended before Jovenel Moïse took office. But we want the truth on the misuse of those funds and we urge the judiciary to take its responsibility to shed light, and the truth shall be known,” Bocchit said in a statement.

Haitians have been taking to the streets to demand the resignation of President Moïse amid allegations he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars of government funds earmarked for badly needed social programmes.

A damning 600-page re-

Demonstrators protest against fuel shortages and to demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moise, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

port on government corruption, delivered to the Haitian senate by official auditors on May 31, had named the PetroCaribe initiative as one of the programmes that have suffered as a result of the corruption.

The Venezuela-funded PetroCaribe oil initiative allows Caracas to provide oil and other petroleum products to Haiti under a preferential agreement.

Moïse, who came to power in 2017, has denied any wrongdoing and has defend-

ed himself against the report of the Superior Court of Accounts and Administrative Litigation (CSA/CA) into programmes and projects funded

by PetroCaribe.

In his statement, Bocchit said that “strong democracies are built on the principles of respect for human rights”, adding, “the Jovenel Moïse administration is guided by this principle, and we will continue working to make Haiti a safer, more equal and more just nation for all.”

(CMC)

Bid rejected to impeach Chile’s Pinera over protest handling

C

hile’s lower house rejected on Thursday a move to impeach President Sebastian Pinera over allegations he failed to safeguard human rights during weeks of rioting.

Small-scale protests that began in October over an increase in metro fares had quickly mushroomed into large-scale protests over growing inequality. At least 26 people have died as a result of the unrest, which has also caused billions of dollars in damage and resulted

in widespread allegations of abuses by security forces.

The centre-right Pinera, a billionaire businessman, has borne the brunt of the blame.

His approval rating at the end of November plunged to just 10 per cent, the lowest for a president since Chile’s return to democracy in 1990.

The odds of impeachment were considered low before legislators tossed the motion out on grounds that it did not meet the Constitutional threshold for removing a sitting president.

Even if a vote in the lower house had reached the simple majority needed to move the debate to the Senate, the governing coalition legislators were expected to handily block the two-thirds vote needed for his removal.

Maria Luisa Puig, a Latin American specialist with Eurasia Group, told Reuters news agency before the bid was rejected that “efforts to remove Pinera are not likely to succeed due to the composition of Congress”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

guyanatimesgy.com

A

ll roads will lead to the XS Lounge at Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara, on Saturday evening as Team MMR presents its penultimate party for 2019.

The party is titled “CSI” and it’s basically partyholics jamming to the vibes of the latest Chutney, Soca and Indian music.

The party is expected to be off the hook and one that will set the tone for the final party of the year. The last party for the year is called “Last Wine” and will be held on December 28 at XS Lounge.

For the first time ever, the CSI concept party will have live performances, which will add to the variety and versatility of Team MMR. On Saturday evening, live performances will be done by Guyana Chutney Monarch finalist Vicadi Singh and AW Lyrical. Both

U

nited States-based Guyanese Joel Pharous, popularly known as “Prince JP”, has recently launched his newest single titled “Looking fa Gyal” in the US. The song was written by him and was recorded at RicksterMuzik Studio. It was produced, mixed and mastered by Maha Studious in Trinidad and Tobago.

The song, which has a flirtatious flow, is not intended in any way to portray a negative message in relationships with respect to being unfaithful. It is about the vibes and the guys having a grandeur but at the same time, respecting women in society.

The song, the Guyanese artiste told the Guyana Times Entertainment, is basically him reflecting on his single life which entailed going to parties, having a grand time and enjoying himself with lots of girls around.

A lot of guys, he added, can

artistes are known for their energetic performances and will undoubtedly have the fans begging for more.

Apart from the live performances, several deejays will be in the house.

They will be setting the tone for a fantastic evening.

The line-up of deejays includes Sheik and Danny alongside Selector Chino and Andy. The Party Boss, WR Reaz, will also take control of the console during the evening.

In addition, members of the “Sonic Tassa Troupe” and “Feel the Beat the Beat” Tassa Group will be in the house. Patrons are sure to have a grand welcome at the event with the sounds of tassa drumming. The event is made possible

by Bacardi as its exclusive sponsors, Chand Printing, Pulse Rentals.

relate to the song but after marriage, it is a completely different world. The music video is expected to be released shortly.

Although Prince JP has been residing in the US for a number of years now and having a challenging job and family, he never gave up on his music. In fact, he has his own equipment at home which he uses to perfect himself. He intends to make more music, and more so to keep his Guyanese fans update on his plans for the new year. He would like to personally thank his family for their overwhelming support, Maha Studios, RicksterMuzik YouTube Channel, Deejay Rahaman, Chutneymusic. com Trinidad, Natural Vibes Entertainment and Sashri from Limenation.

All Prince JP music is available on his Instagram Page as well as his Facebook.

friDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2019

M

iss World Guyana 2019, Joylyn Anita Conway, is proudly representing Guyana at the 69th edition of the Miss World competition which commenced on November 20 and the grand finale on Saturday, December 14 in London.

She will be competing with representatives from 130 countries for the coveted Miss World title.

Conway arrived in London two weeks ahead of the commencement of Miss World 2019 competition where she completed her media tour and final training/preparation with top trainers in the UK. Prior to her EU media tour, Joylyn was humbled to have started her training in Guyana and grateful to have met and trained with some of Guyana’s best.

She departed Guyana on October 18 and would have spent about a week in New York as part of her USA media tour where she met with members of the diaspora, made several appearances, conducted interviews and continued some preparation to enhance her media/ training skills for the international competition.

The Guyanese representative is prepared, overjoyed and excited to represent Guyana on

M

ango Lane, East Ruimveldt was a buzz on Sunday, December 1, 2019, as Empire Media Inc (EMI) launched Armageddon Clash 2020.

Giving remarks on behalf of EMI, Coordinator for Armageddon Clash 2020, Keston Tyrell stated that Empire Media Inc was excited to host the biggest Clash in the world.

It will be held on January 25, 2020, at the National Park tarmac.

He noted that the large attendance at its Clashes was a testimony to the transformation that had taken place in the industry. He added that Armageddon 2020 was dubbed the War of all Wars because of the calibre of sounds that will be participating.

Tyrell explained that the Clash will feature 6 champion Sounds, 1 night on 1 stage competing for $1 million.

Competing will be Notorious International Sound, Armageddon 2018 & 2019 Champion Dynamq Sound (from South Sudan Africa), 2018 US Rumble and 2019 War in the East Champion Trinity Sound, Destination Badda Dan Guyana Champion Kanabis Sound (from Antigua), Pain & Sorrow 2019 Champion Exodus Nuclear, Turbo Sounds of Steel Champion and Firehouse Int, and Art of War 2019 Champion.

the international stage where she presented her Beauty with a Purpose project, STEM GIRL GLOW. This unique project reflects Joylyn’s passion for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“GLOW” was created by upcoming artist, Chelsea Ramotar. For the Top Model competition, Miss Guyana wore STEM-inspired gown, titled “CIRCUITRY” designed by Guyana’s own, Randy Madray.

One of the highlights of the STEMinspired theme was Guyana’s national dress, dubbed the fabric of the Guyanese people and is the first of its kind in Guyana and the Caribbean.

This fully customised and digitally printed dress was printed by Impressions Inc, Guyana’s top marketing/promotions company and designed by Randy Madray.

In keeping with the STEM theme, Guyana’s talent performance was a contemporary dance to Leona Lewis’s Footprints in the Sand. In addition to this, it touched on our Guyanese culture in reaching unity, economic growth and transformation.

With all the preliminaries on the back burner, all eyes will be on the grand finals on Saturday evening.

According to Tyrell, Empire Media Inc was pleased to have onboard again the Guyana Beverages Inc, whose Turbo Brand will be the official Energy Drink of Armageddon Clash 2020. He remarked that EMI sees it as a good move and thanked them for their partnership.

Speaking on behalf of the Guyana Beverages Inc, Brand Manager Raymond Govinda stated that the company recognised the importance of supporting cultural values within Guyana and providing a platform for local talents to grow and develop. He noted that Armageddon provides the perfect platform for this to happen and to further the growth of the brand among the audience.

Other businesses that have committed to sponsoring the event thus far include 6Vibes, Coles Screen Printing and Maad FM. Armageddon Clash 2020 goes down on January 25, 2020, at the National Park tarmac.

Tickets for the Clash will go on sale soon.

Early bird tickets cost $1,500 and if you buy two you will get 1 free (while stocks last).

Empire Media Inc can be reached on Instagram and Facebook using the business name, on WhatsApp at 862-233-0494, email on empiremediainc1@gmail.com or you can call 680-6720.

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friday, DECember 13, 2019

round-up: Clippers’ Leonard

wins in return to Toronto Kawhi Leonard scored 23 points and added six assists and five rebounds on his return to Toronto, and the visiting Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Raptors 11292 Wednesday night.

Leonard, who led the Raptors to the NBA title last season before leaving as a free agent, was presented with his championship ring in a ceremony before the game.

There also was a video tribute. He was greeted with a loud, prolonged ovation.

Lou Williams scored 18 points and had eight assists off the bench for the Clippers, who have won five of their past six games.

Clippers guard Patrick Beverley left the game with a concussion during the third quarter.

Pascal Siakam scored 24 points for the Raptors, who have lost four of their past five games. Norman Powell added 22 points.

Milwaukee Bucks 127 - New Orleans Pelicans 112

Eric Bledsoe scored 29 points as host Milwaukee won its 16th consecutive game despite the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, routing New Orleans.

Antetokounmpo, the reigning NBA MVP, sat out the game because of a sore quad tendon, but three teammates joined Bledsoe in double figures. Khris Middleton scored 24, Ersan Ilyasova added 18 and George Hill had 13. The Bucks matched their longest winning streak since winning 16 in a row over two seasons in 1973.

JJ Redick scored 31, Brandon Ingram had 25 points and 10 rebounds, Jrue Holiday scored 21 and rookie Jaxson Hayes had 12 points to lead the Pelicans, who lost their 10th game in a row.

Sacramento Kings 94 - Oklahoma City Thunder 93

Bogdan Bogdanovic drained a 3-pointer with 17.3 seconds left to give Sacramento a victory over visiting Oklahoma City.

Buddy Hield recorded 23 points, six rebounds and six assists as Sacramento won its third straight contest. Bogdanovic scored 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting.

Marvin Bagley III had 11 points and six rebounds in 23 minutes in his return after fracturing his right thumb in the season opener and missing the next 22 games.

Chris Paul missed a 15-foot step-back jumper with 1.6 seconds left as Oklahoma City’s season-high, three-game winning streak ended.

Houston Rockets 116 - Cleveland Cavaliers 110

James Harden scored 55 points to lead Houston to a victory at Cleveland. Harden finished 20 of 34 from the floor and drilled 10 of 18 3-point attempts to help the Rockets overcome a 24-0 Cleveland run that bridged the final two periods.

Russell Westbrook added 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists for Houston, which has won five of its past seven games.

Rookie Kevin Porter Jr. scored a career-high 24 points to pace the Cavaliers, while Collin Sexton chipped in 18. Kevin Love and Clarkson scored 17 apiece, with Love adding 11 rebounds. The Cavaliers have dropped 14 of 15 games.

Los Angeles Lakers 96 - Orlando Magic 87

LeBron James collected 25 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists for his sixth triple-double of the season as visiting Los Angeles posted a victory over Orlando.

Reigning Western Conference Player of the Week Anthony Davis added 16 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers, who have won 15 of 16 overall and 12 in a row on the road.

LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) controls a ball as Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (USA Today Sports)

Aaron Gordon collected 14 points and 14 rebounds for his fifth double-double of the season, but the Magic dropped their second in a row following a season-high four-game winning streak.

Charlotte Hornets 113 - Brooklyn Nets 108

Devonte’ Graham scored 27 of his career-high 40 points after halftime as Charlotte overcame a 20-point deficit and recorded a victory over Brooklyn in New York.

Graham shot 12 of 21 from the field and hit 7 of 12 3-point attempts. He became the first Hornet other than Kemba Walker to get a 40-point game since Al Jefferson on Jan. 31, 2014, against the Los Angeles Lakers. Miles Bridges added 14 points for Charlotte.

Spencer Dinwiddie scored 24 points for the Nets, who fell to 9-4 without Kyrie Irving (right shoulder impingement).

Jarrett Allen added 21 points and 10 rebounds for Brooklyn.

Indiana Pacers 122 - Boston Celtics 117

Domantas Sabonis recorded 15 points and 14 rebounds, and the Indiana bench came up big in the fourth quarter to produce a win over Boston in Indianapolis.

The Pacers handed the Celtics just their second loss in the past eight games, but Indiana needed to rally in the fourth quarter to do it. The Celtics outscored the Pacers 37-23 in the third quarter to take a 10-point lead into the final period.

Kemba Walker scored a season-high 44 points for the Celtics, but his potential game-tying 3-point attempt in the closing seconds came up short. Malcolm Brogdon led the Pacers with 29 points, including the final four free throws to put the game away.

Jackson Jr. had 24 and three 3-pointers as Memphis built a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter and held on to knock off host Phoenix.

Brandon Clarke had 15 points and seven rebounds off the bench and Ja Morant had 13 points — four in the final 43 seconds — and six assists for the Grizzlies, who won their second straight game after losing nine of 10.

Frank Kaminsky had season highs with 24 points and four 3-pointers, Ricky Rubio had 22 points and eight assists and Kelly Oubre Jr. had 14 points and 13 rebounds for the Suns, who were trying to get back to .500 for the first time in three weeks.

New York Knicks 124 - Golden State Warriors 112 (OT

Julius Randle capped a double-double performance with a tiebreaking 3-pointer

in the second minute of overtime, helping New York give interim coach Mike Miller his first NBA win while snapping a 10game losing streak in an entertaining victory over Golden State in San Francisco.

Randle finished with 24 points and a team-high 13 rebounds, and Marcus Morris scored 36 points, his most since joining the Knicks as a free agent in the offseason.

New York rebounded from a 28-point shellacking on Tuesday in Portland to deliver Miller a win in his third game since replacing David Fizdale.

In a duel between 20-game losers and two of the lowest-scoring teams in the league, Draymond Green recorded a triple-double (14 points, 10 rebounds and 12 assists), while D’Angelo Russell scored 32 points for Golden State. The Warriors forced the extra session by outscoring the Knicks 9-3 in the final 40.3 seconds of regulation.

Chicago Bulls 136 - Atlanta Hawks 102

Zach LaVine scored a game-high 35 points on 12-for-16 shooting, including 7 of 7 from beyond the arc, and host Chicago snapped a three-game losing streak by beating Atlanta.

Lauri Markkanen added 22 points on 8-for-9 shooting for Chicago, which recorded a season high in points. Coby White scored 19 points to lead the Bulls’ reserves, while Wendell Carter Jr. notched his 13th double-double in 26 games with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Alex Len scored 17 points off the bench to lead Atlanta, which lost its second game in as many nights. Cam Reddish added 16 points off the bench, and Trae Young recorded 15 points and 13 assists despite shooting only 4 of 14 from the field and 1 of 6 from beyond the arc. (Reuters)

Minamino of Red Bull Salzburg in Jurgen Klopp’s sights

Utah Jazz 127 - Minnesota Timberwolves 116

Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points, dished out six assists and collected five rebounds to lift Utah over Minnesota in Minneapolis.

Rudy Gobert finished with 20 points and 16 rebounds to help the Jazz win for just the third time in nine games. Joe Ingles added 23 points, five rebounds and five assists. The Jazz shot 56.6 percent from the field and 45.7 percent from 3-point range.

Jeff Teague scored 32 points and dished out six assists to lead the Timberwolves.

Andrew Wiggins added 26 points while Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Minnesota lost its sixth straight game and gave up at least 120 points for the fifth consecutive contest.

Memphis Grizzlies 115 - Phoenix Suns 108

Dillon Brooks had 27 points and Jaren

Takumi Minamino impressed in both Champions League group games against Liverpool (Getty Images)

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iverpool are planning to make a move for Red Bull Salzburg winger Takumi Minamino in January.

Minamino, who is believed to have a release clause of £7.25m, played in both his side’s Champions League group games against the Reds this season.

The Japan international has scored nine goals in 22 appearances for Salzburg this season and provided 11 assists.

Red Bull Salzburg sporting director Christoph Freund confirmed talks between the two clubs are taking place.

One of Minamino’s two Champions League goals this season came in Salzburg’s 4-3 group stage defeat by

Jurgen Klopp’s side at Anfield in October.

In the return on Tuesday, the Austrian side lost 2-0 but Minamino was a constant threat in the first half and Liverpool are keen to do a deal as they believe he is worth more than treble his release clause.

Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of the 24-year-old because interest in the Japan forward is increasing.

Despite playing against Liverpool in this season’s Champions League, the forward would be eligible to play for the holders in the competition if he does move following a rule change by Uefa last year.

(BBC Sport)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, DECember 13, 2019

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Tiger Rentals aboard KFC Goodwill series

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ocally based Tiger Rentals is the latest company to join the 2019 edition of the KFC Goodwill Football series set to commence this weekend.

The company, with roots in Trinidad under the Tiger Tanks brand will support the Trinidad based side, Shiva Boys Hindu College that will participate in the tournament.

Operations manager of the local arm Shane Singh, told the media, “We want to express our heartfelt gratitude. We are pleased to be on board and we love being implicated in the nurturing of young talent.”

Singh continued, “Tournaments like the KFC

Petra’s Troy Mendonca (right) collecting a sponsorship cheque from Tiger Tanks Operations Manager Shane Singh

goodwill tournament have enabled the company to understand the importance of team work.”

In a message to the team, he

expressed the company’s best wishes to all participating, adding that the support that is behind the tournament is community rooted.

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West Indies eventually lost by 67 runs, after which headlinehungry reporters questioned Pollard on what went wrong for them at the post-match press conference. While Pollard put the defeat in the decider down to the execution - or the lack of it he was particularly pleased with how West Indies’ youngsters had dug deep into their reserves and challenged a strong India side at various points during the T20I series.

Pollard was even asked if a revamped West Indies ODI side might find it difficult to pick themselves up after conceding the T20I series. He swatted all of those questions - and doubts - aside and urged the youngsters to learn the lessons from the T20Is and perform better in the ODIs. “Not difficult [to pick ourselves up]. Again, there is [are] a lot of positives coming out of this series,” Pollard said.

“You’re talking about it being difficult and I’m talking about

positivity. But, no, it’s a different format altogether and a couple of different guys - six guys I think - coming in who have been here since the start of November, I think. So, they’ve been working hard to get an opportunity to see how the Indian team goes about things and hopefully we can plan and execute it better.

“It’s not going to be difficult at all - we’ve brought the series into a final game here, which I’m sure a lot of you guys didn’t think it wouldn’t happen, if I’m being honest. But, it has happened for us, which means guys are doing the right thing and we’re going to continue our way how we prepare.”

Among the major positives for West Indies has been Kesrick Williams, who has carried his CPL 2019 form into the T20Is against India. On Wednesday evening, even as the rest of the West Indies bowlers travelled for runs, Williams held his own with his deceptive cutters and variations in length.

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Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca in opening remarks said, “The Petra organization is very ambitious with this tournament. The tournament is in its embryo stages and in a few years from now, we want to see a plethora of teams from across the region to participate.”

Meanwhile, the French Guiana team that had previously been scheduled to participate in the tournament indicated that they will not be able to make it.

According to an email from the organizers PETRA Organization, the, “USL Montjoly has withdrawn from the competition due to the unavailability of managerial

personnel.”

They will be replaced by the TradeWind Tankers GUYOIL third place team which is Marian Academy.

Mendonca said, “We understand that there were difficulty in getting a manager and we are going to facilitate them but there are parents who aren’t willing to send their children without a manager.”

In the interim, the inclement weather has forced a change in the venue for the first four playing from the Ministry of Education Ground Carifesta Avenue to the Guyana Football Federation’s Training Centre in Providence.

Williams was the only bowler to pin down Virat Kohli, giving up just nine runs off seven balls to the India captain. All of this, after he had leaked 14 runs off his first three balls. Williams ended with 1 for 37 in his four overs, the most economical figures by a West Indies bowler in the decider.

Pollard, who has also captained Williams at St Lucia in the CPL, was happy with how the seamer hit back after opener KL Rahul had taken him on.

Legspinner Hayden Walsh Jr. also did well in patches, returning 0 for 38 in his four overs on a flat track.

“You see his stats in T20 cricket, it’s up there in terms of being able to do well,” Pollard said of Williams. “Again, it’s a positive for us. And him bouncing back after that first game as well and coming and showing his mettle I think that was well done. There’s still room for improvement for him and each and every one of us. But again, yes, that’s a positive he can take out of this series.

“Even young Walshy. He bowled very well in the last couple of games. I think it was a very good track here and a couple of bad balls and you are going to

get that. He’s finding his feet now in international cricket. All in all, yes we lost 2-1, but I thought the guys stood up for themselves this series and that was very, very well done in that aspect.”

Pollard also said the IPL auction, which will be held next week, hasn’t been a distraction for West Indies’ stars from the CPL. Walsh Jr., the top wickettaker in CPL 2019, had echoed Pollard’s comments after playing his part in West Indies’ serieslevelling triumph in the second T20I in Thiruvananthapuram.

“To be honest you guys will be thinking more about the IPL more than our guys would have in the dressing room,” Pollard said. “You can’t control whether you are selected or not. I have seen a guy score a hundred against India and not get picked in the IPL either. So, again, one score gets you in and one doesn’t get you in.

“One of the conversations was control what you can control: that is, go out and learn this series and the rest takes care of itself. How many franchises are there, eight? The owners will decide what they want to do at the end of the day.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

Not difficult to pick ourselves up again – Kieron Pollard fter Rohit Sharma pulled left-arm fingerspinner Khary Pierre against the turn, the ball seemed destined to soar over the midwicket boundary. Until Evin Lewis’ athletic intervention. Lewis literally plucked out the ball out of thin air with his right hand, but lost his balance and tumbled over the boundary. But, before that, he had the presence of mind to toss the ball back into play.

His captain Kieron Pollard was so impressed that he sprinted all the way from the infield to deep midwicket to congratulate Lewis for his outstanding piece of fielding.

Soon after, though, Lewis injured his right knee and was stretchered off the field. He was later sent to the hospital for scans and didn’t bat in West Indies’ chase of 241. Pollard, though, led West Indies’ fight with a 39-ball 68, which included some trademark, towering sixes, while Shimron Hetmyer pitched in with 41 off 24 balls.

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

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Anderson Sports Hall will be the place to be, with the already launched Titan Bowl X seeing some of Guyana’s top basketball student-athletes battling for supremacy in their respective age categories.

This event is the final school tournament of the year, and will include eight U18 male teams, eight U16 male teams, and four female teams.

Team rosters for Titan Bowl X shall consist of ten (10) players, one (1) in each division.

The event, which began on Thursday and runs until Sunday, features three divisions. In the male U18 section, the competing teams are President’s College, Kwakwani, NATI, Marian Academy, St. Stanislaus College, the Bishops’ High, GTI and Christ Church Secondary.

The male U16 section features President’s College, Kwakwani, St. Roses High, Marian Academy, the Bishops’ High, St. Stanislaus College, Plaisance Secondary and Arima Secondary.

In the female U18 section, the teams will be Marian Academy, Kwakwani, Queen’s College and St. Stanislaus

Lindeners asked to respect synthetic track site – incidents of theft reported

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YBG’s Co-Director Ryad Boyce presenting the winner’s trophy to MVP and Marian Academy’s Captain Jada Mohan

College.

In 2018, an MVPperformance from Jada Mohan was all it took for Marian Academy to sink Kwakwani Secondary 58–19 and take home the female Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) Titan Bowl title.

In the male category, the Government Technical Institute (GTI) had the better of the Linden Technical Institute (LTI) in a ten-point thriller (83–73), to keep the trophy in Georgetown.

The male division(s) will be played in a knockout format, while the females will each

play two games, the second of which will be an elimination.

The winners will contest the finals.

The tournament shall be guided using a modified version of general basketball rules.

All games will be twenty (20) minutes’ running time per half, with stoppage for timeouts, and the last two minutes of the game, and last minute of extra time. Under 18 male finals (only) will be played in four quarters of 10 minutes’ stoppage time.

There will be no third-place playoffs.

onstruction works continue to progress on the eight-lane synthetic track at Bayroc Community Centre Ground in Wismar, Linden, Region 10, but contractors have been reporting multiple incidents of theft occurring at the site.

These disappointing reports have been coming in since construction began in January 2019, but the project, now in the third of its four phases, has been minimally hindered by the loss of a quantity of building materials.

These materials include drainage pipes, sand, security fencing, crusher-run, stone, steel rods, fuel, truck batteries, and even security lights.

The Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport of the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP) remains disappointed by the actions of some residents, as those actions reflect poorly on the

Bayroc community, Linden, and Guyana as a whole.

The MoTP wishes to remind Lindeners that the synthetic track project is a massive multi-milliondollar investment geared at enhancing the performance of the community’s athletes; and once operational, this state-of-the-art facility will undoubtedly attract multiple developments for Linden and its people.

The MoTP accordingly expects residents to respect and treasure this facility.

The matter has been reported to the Police, and security reinforcements have been installed. Regrettably, as a precautionary measure, residents of Linden are asked to desist from traversing the site. This restriction is being implemented as a means of maintaining the integrity of ongoing works, the MoTP has said.

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friday, DECember 13, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation closes 2019 season L

– McKinnon, Dharry excel in final shoot

ocal practical shooters, defying last Saturday’s rainy weather, headed to the Timehri Rifle Ranges to participate in what would be Guyana’s last Practical Shooting Match for 2019.

Sponsored by Woodpecker Products of 40 Fourth Street, Alberttown Georgetown, Saturday’s match consisted of 5 (five) exciting stages that sought to measure the shooters’ ability in all three elements, and the tournament was coordinated under strict safety guidelines.

The competition included one Classifier Stage, which consisted of 6 paper targets and 3 no-shoots. Competitors were required to stand relaxed in a demarcated box facing downrange with the handgun loaded and holstered. After the audible timer beeped, competitors engaged the targets with one round each from within the shooting box, then had to make a mandatory reload before engaging all targets again with another round each from within the shooting box.

Usually all scoring on practical shooting stages is by Comstock method. H o w e v e r , the second stage, named “ R a w Deal”, w a s

Group photo of some of the participants of the 2019 Woodpecker Products-sponsored GSSF Practical Shooting Match

deemed the most interesting stage of the afternoon, as it was the first stage to be hosted in a competition using the Virginia Count scoring method. This stage even saw seasoned shooters registering so many misses that it was commented that it was not only raining cats and dogs, but mikes.

Competitors were required to start seated in a chair at a table holding two standard playing cards, one in each hand, being held by the thumb and index finger with the handgun loaded and holstered. Upon the start signal, competitors had to engage either the first 3 targets on the left or the right, with only two rounds per target. Then the competitor had to perform a mandatory reload and engage the three remaining targets with only two rounds per target.

Competitors had to remain the designated box for all shots fired, but did not have to remain seated.

The third stage, designed by Ryan McKinnon, was a long stage that was adjudged the favourite stage of the day. It tested competitors’ fitness as they navigated a course engaging 13 classic targets and 2 poppers. This stage, “RM-28”, required participants to stand reDavid Dharry receiving the trophy from Range laxed in Area A which was not within the fault lines. Upon the start signal being given, targets Master Dallas Thomas had to be engaged from within fault lines.

The fourth stage, called “Down Low” and

designed by David Dharry, required shooters to stand with their palms touching identified XX marks on a screen, with firearm loaded and holstered. On start signal, competitors had to engage targets as they became visible, with the mandatory requirement that 3 paper targets and 2 poppers must be engaged from below the screen/simulated wall.

Needless to say, there were several variations as to how shooters chose to go down low to complete this stage.

The fifth stage, “Horsing Around”, comprised 2 classic targets and 4 poppers. Start position was hands touching barricade, handgun loaded and holstered. On start signal, shooters had to engage all targets. However, the steel poppers could only be shot while holding onto a rope on the ground. The way the rope was positioned required shooters to go to the ground and hold with one hand.

The GSSF hereby extends its sincerest gratitude to Mrs Luana Fernandes and the management and staff of Woodpecker Products for the kind match sponsorship and support of the GSSF’s activities and events. The Foundation also wishes to thank the Guyana Defence Force, Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West, Commissioner of Police Leslie James, OC TSU Guy Nurse, the ranks of TSU and the GPF Armoury and the Guyana Police Force, the Media and GSSF

members for their support in promoting practical shooting locally.

Gratitude is also extended to Marva Johnson of Ultimate Catering for the Christmas cheer of adorning the festive blackcake pieces. Thanks also go out to Harold Hopkinson for the use of his personal props, steel plates, poppers and target stands for some of the stages.

More information on the GSSF is available on its website www.GuyanaSportShooting. com Scores were computed on the go, thanks to the use of electronic scoring methods by way of a special application called Practiscore.

Match results were announced as follows: Limited Division: 1st Place – Ryan McKinnon (342.7725 points) 2nd Place – John Phang (292.2822 points) 3rd Place – Pravesh Harry (272.1620 points) Production Division: 1st Place – David Dharry (345.9295 points) 2nd Place – Andrew Phang (313.4308 points) 3rd Place – Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon (279.5950 points)

Ryan McKinnon (left) receiving the trophy from Match Director David Dharry

4th GAICO Chess Tournament at Rising Stars Cricket Club aim National Stadium this weekend for First-Division status

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Flashback! Winners and top participants of the previous GAICO Chess tournament

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t’s chess, known to many as the gymnasium of the mind, instead of cricket at the National Stadium this weekend.

All chess players are invited to the fourth GAICO Construction Grand Prix chess tournament at the Providence venue on Saturday from 2:30PM (14:30hrs).

Registration begins at 12:30hrs in the tournament hall at the venue for the seven-round event. Junior players are free while seniors are required to pay $500 each.

The time control per player for each round is 90 minutes plus 30 seconds increment after every move.

The intense battles over the chess board will resume once again as seasoned chess players compete to accumulate Grand Prix points to make the Guyana team for the 2020 Chess Olympiad in Russia.

The accumulated scores from the four GAICO tournaments would be tallied with the scores of two remaining tournaments, the Senior Championship Qualifier and the National Senior Chess Championship scheduled for the first quarter of 2020.

Players with the best scores at the climax of the six rigorous tournaments will then be selected for the Guyana team.

he Rising Stars cricket club have copped the runners-up spot in the Cyril Bonar Memorial T20 Cricket Tournament played in Suriname; and captain Elroy Fernandes, pleased with his team’s performance, has said that 2019 has been the most dominant year for his side.

Asked about his team’s performance in 2019, Fernandes told Guyana Times Sport: “For us, it’s a great opportunity. We have played against players that (have) played for Guyana, and even those that are currently selected to play franchise cricket. For a team (resident) on the West Demerara, (whose) selector or chairman has never (been) called to a franchise, and to see the amount of talent that we have, we feel we have been victimised.

“Nevertheless, it was a tremendous feeling competing in the finals and (getting) to see what we can accomplish as a team. I am positive that the mistakes that we made this year, we will not be making (them) next year, as we will be coming for the trophy.

“I know that, for a team that isn’t recognized in Guyana, we have lots of talent; and I’m confident that we will soon produce players that are worthy to represent Guyana at all levels of cricket.”

Fernandes explained that his desire is to showcase this team to Guyana by having the team travel to various commu-

Captain of the Rising Stars cricket team, Elroy Fernandes

nities to participate in competitions. He declared it his intention that, through recognition, players would be able to play cricket at a higher level and provide for their families.

He also said that, besides playing cricket, the club assists in providing employment for its players, and he believes that he should be able to use his platform to invest in the lives of the club’s players.

His fervent desire, he said, is to be able to upgrade this team to First Division status and continue the off-field work currently ongoing by investing in the lives of its players.

Fernandes is optimistic that his side would do exceptionally well come 2020.

UDFA GT Beer Christmas Football Tourney…

7th edition kicks off tonight – Eagles United, Blueberry Hill pull out

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he 7th edition of the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA’s) GT Beer Christmas Football Tourney kicks off tonight (Friday) at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden.

The UDFA have, however, been unable to confirm the prizes on offer in a meeting with the participating teams, as they were still awaiting word from beverage giants Banks DIH in regard to what is on offer for this eagerly awaited football spectacle.

This uncertainty has led to reigning champions Eagles United pulling out of the tournament, as have Blueberry Hill; nevertheless, the tournament kicks off with a double-header, wherein Topp XX and Botafago clash from 19:00hrs, and Coomacka Mines face Net Rockers thereafter.

A UDFA official has said that body had, on Thursday, expected to hear from Banks DIH on its contribution to this year's championship tournament.

The ten teams participating in this tournament have been placed into

Eagles United were the champions of the 6th edition of the event

groups as follows: ‘Group A’, comprised of Coomacka, Net Rockers and Silver Shattas; ‘Group B’, comprised of Hi Stars, Winners Connection and Capital FC; and ‘Group C’, comprised of Topp XX, Amelia’s Ward, Aroaima and Botafago.

The dates on which this tourney would be played are December 13, 15, 18, 20, 23, 26; the semifinals will be played on December 29 and the final will be played on January 1, New Year’s Day.

Dragon Stout ‘Community Cup’ Championship launches today

I

t has been revealed by Dragon Stout Brand Coordinator Jamal Baird, via an official media statement, that the Dragon Stout “Community Cup” Championship tournament is being launched today.

According to that statement, “The event was initially rescheduled from its November start due to logistical reasons, but will now commence with even more anticipation, excitement and vigour. The complete tournament details, inclusive of the tournament fixtures and rules, will be revealed at the launch, which is expected to feature team representatives and the Director of Sport, who has given his blessing to the championship.”

The release added, “The teams have been selected from various environs and several regions, (and selection) provides a national flavour and true representation of the growing street-ball culture. It is the start of an exciting project which has the capacity to become a staple of the local street-ball and community landscape,

23 GCA/NBS 2nd Division guyanatimesgy.com

FRIday, DECember 13, 2019

and attract a mass following.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for the brand to establish and foster a relationship with the respective communities through the common denominator of sport.”

Baird’s release also stated, “Presently, systems and structures are being fine-tuned to ensure a mem-

orable event that will leave a lasting impression in the minds of the spectators and, more importantly, the players. There is a buzz within the respective communities about the tournament, which bodes well for its success, as players are excited to compete. I am excited for the tournament and the festivities to commence.”

This three-day knockout event will kick off on December 17th at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue, venue for the tournament’s duration. The other playing dates are December 19th and December 28th, with the latter night slated to stage both the semi-final and grand finale.

Confirmed to participate are the following notable giants and perennial contenders: Gold is Money, Back Circle, Sparta Boss, Bent St, North East La Penitence, Rio All-Stars, Albouystown, Leopold St, Broad St, Sophia, Alexander Village, Future Stars, Festival City, ANSA McAL AllStars, Showstoppers and Mocha.

40-Over Competition…

Massiah hoping rain does not hamper 2020 season

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GCA’s Competitions Committee Chairman Shaun Massiah

he cricket season is set for resumption on January 18-19, 2020 with commencement of the GCA/NBS 2nd Division 40-Over competition, and Chairman of the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA’s) Competitions Committee, Shaun Massiah, is hoping that rain does not hamper this impending season.

Inclement weather has forced a halt to this season, leaving vital matches to be played upon its resumption.

Massiah told Guyana Times Sport. “What I can expect is what I know for sure -- that teams will be coming harder in the competition. They all will be vying for the semifinals and the final, which will be played under lights. From the (level of the) winner and runner-up of that final, the teams have a chance to compete in ‘the Clash of the Champions’. This competition will see the winner and runner-up (teams) from Georgetown battling the winner and runner-up teams from Berbice.

“I expect that the Georgetown teams will be more competitive, and we will see emerging players coming out of this competition so they can move on to the next level.”

Massiah said each team has experienced players, and those are expected to lead from the front, since the younger ones would be looking up to them for guidance.

He noted that senior players would be expected to employ their best efforts to win games, since they would want to advance in the rankings, and even be selected for franchise cricket.

Massiah reminded that the most points a team may garner from a complete game is 20. Ten points are guaranteed for a win, five are guaranteed for scoring in excess of 200 runs, and five for taking all ten wickets in a match.

Teams in ‘Zone A’ are as follows: Muslim Youth Organisation, University of Guyana, Third Class, Guyana Defence Force, Diplomats, Gandhi Youth Organisation, Malteenoes, and the GCC. Teams in ‘Zone B’ are: Sophia, Police, Everest, Ace Warriors, Transport, Demerara Cricket Club and GNIC.

friday, DECember 13, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Tiger Rentals aboard KFC Goodwill

Page 23

Page 21

Series

UDFA GT Beer Christmas Football Tourney…

7th edition kicks off tonight –Eagles United, Blueberry Hill pull out of participation

Youth Basketball Guyana launched as Titan Bowl X Page 21

4th GAICO Chess Tournament on at National Stadium this weekend

Page 22

Lodge Secondary receive their championship trophy while flanked by Petra representatives and supporters

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