Guyana Times Daily 15th Dec 2013

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INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1983 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

December 15, 2013

Private sector fumes as blacklisting bites See story on page 10

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

$8.4M health centre with doctor’s P7 quarters commissioned on Essequibo Coast P8 180 passengers arrive on TravelSpan

Three P9 nabbed in operation to curb illegal hunting These children had a whale of a time with Santa Claus when the National Library hosted its annual Christmas party on Saturday

Small businesses Opposition MP fume after massive exposes Essequibo Coast Kaieteur News' misrepresentation blackout See story on page 2

See story on page 3

Unlicensed teenage driver perishes P15 in Mon Repos accident

2 news

SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Opposition MP exposes Kaieteur News' misrepresentation T he Kaieteur News has come in for more criticism for reckless reporting, with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Basil Williams slamming the news outfit for misrepresenting him.

Addressing the House on Thursday, Williams said contrary to the newspaper’s screaming front page headline on

November 8, “APNU Basil Williams makes case for rejecting the amendments”, the impression conveyed was far from the truth.

The opposition MP, who had sued the Kaieteur News for $100 million on a different issue, was referring to comments he made that were inaccurately reported on the Antimoney Laundering and Countering the Financing

Kaieteur News publisher Glenn Lall

of Terrorism Bill.

“It’s really a misrepresentation… I moved the motion on the day, to save the bill and ask this honorable House to send the bill back to the special select committee, that could not be the same thing as arguing to reject the bill and Sir, it’s a complete misrepresentation… but very important, Your Honour, it’s very important Your Honor be-

cause these statements end up in Wikipedia, if they are not contested,” he explained as he tried to make clear his name and position on the matter.

Based on reports carried by the Kaieteur News, it appears as though the newspaper has scant regard for facts, and sees nothing wrong in raking in profits from false, misleading and sensational reporting and an open personal vendetta against persons who are not aligned to its owner and publisher Glenn Lall.

Much of Lall’s baseless and almost daily rantings have been concentrated on former President Bharrat Jagdeo and members of the business community.

Lall was linked to various dishonest and illegal practices, notably human smuggling, which was highlighted by the U.S. embassy in Geogetown.

From the daily outpouring in the newspaper, it is not difficult to discern that Kaiteur News is not interested in honest and accurate reporting, apparently because it knows that many people are easily misled by its sensational headlines and stories.

It also appears that the principals at Kaieteur News do not view it as a requirement to tell readers the truth in its reports.

As recent as Saturday,

Kaieteur News editor Adam Harris

the Kaieteur New was forced to apologise for several errors in a story it published concerning a city magistrate.

The newspaper’s recent front page photo of a house it claims is owned

by Jagdeo is another example of the news outfit’s disrespect to readers.

It was found out that the house was owned by another individual, and the man was devastated on seeing his home splashed on the front page of the Kaieteur News.

It was no surprise when Kaieteur News’ Editor Adam Harris earlier this year was fined for contempt of court, because the newspaper is not in the business of verification based journalism, but rather journalism based on allegations and fiction. Such reporting clearly suits its muckraking agenda as well.

NEWS

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 15 from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 15 from 14:45h-16:15h.

WEATHER TODAY Countrywide: Thundery showers are expected to prevail during the day, with light rain showers in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East north-easterly at 6.26 metres per second.

High Tide: 15:25h reaching a maximum height of 2.54 metres.

Low Tide: 08:41h and 21:09h reaching minimum heights of 0.82 metre and 0.67 metre respectively.

saturday, December 7, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS I

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03 05 06 13 15 17 19 DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Small businesses fume after massive Essequibo Coast blackout

T

he massive blackout that hit the Essequibo Coast on Monday has left many small businessmen counting their losses as they try to come to grips with reality.

Since the restoration of power on Wednesday, residents have complained of intermittent power outages, and are calling on the power company to look into the situation.

On Monday and Tuesday, many small businesses, including salons, tailor shops and shopping outlets, were out of operation and the Essequibo Coast was resigned to an atmosphere of uneasy calm.

Sanjay Persaud, a fisherman from Cotton Field Village, told Guyana Times that he lost about $100,000 due to the blackout as he was unable to go to sea since there was no ice available.

Persaud supplies fish to vendors on the Essequibo Coast, and due to the power outage, he was left without a cold storage and had to dump spoilt stock in the Atlantic Ocean.

He contended that the situation was the worst in his 20 years as a fisherman,

Businessman Kasim Bacchus holds up a container of ice cream that spoilt during the blackout

and power fluctuation is only frustrating the situation.

Kasim Bacchus, who operates a small grocery store at Cotton Field, said he was forced to dump sausages, ice cream, fishes and chicken which were spoilt during the blackout.

Bacchus, who also does tailoring to make ends meet, said several children were left disappointed as he was unable to finish their clothing on time for their Christmas parties.

Sharada Persaud, a cosmetologist from Reliance Village was forced to cancel her appointments with a number of clients due to the power failure.

She described the power fluctuation as “terrible”, noting that it could damage the appliances in her salon, which she acquired through years of saving.

Mechanic shops were also closed, and apart from

the small business owners, several large businesses also complained about the money they had to invest in fuel to keep their business opened during the prolonged power outage.

Some gas stations were also closed on the first day of the blackout.

GPL in a release had said the blackout was caused by electrical problems that developed within the high voltage switchgear at the company’s Anna Regina power plant.

With only two megawatts of the generating capacity available for distribution, consumers would have experienced prolonged periods without electricity as GPL resorted to loadshedding.

Even though power has been restored, residents are discontented with the power fluctuation, and are calling on GPL to fix the problem so that their lives can return to normalcy.

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sunday, december 15, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

Views Sunday Times Editor: Tajeram Mohabir Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231.

Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Ignoring suicide

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n September 10, the world, including Guyana, observed World Suicide Prevention Day and in our editorial, “Fighting Suicide”, we noted that “suicide is the major cause of death in our 15-24 age cohort: to not stamp it out, is to blight the future of our country”.

It would appear that those who have been elected to deal with the challenges that our nation confront have no problem with perpetuating that “blight”.

In each month, following the sensitisation of suicide prevention, on the Essequibo Coast alone, one teenager committed suicide, continuing the trend in that part of the country which appears to be competing with Region Six as the “suicide nest” of Guyana.

Our country already has the dubious honour of being one of the countries in the world with the highest rates of suicide and ever since firm statistics were collected from the beginning of the millennium, the average of 200 suicides annually has fluctuated but not shown any sustained decline.

In 2001, a National Suicide Prevention Strategy had been drafted and several “counselling centres” were launched in Region Six. Six years later, a National Suicide Prevention Committee was launched and this was followed two years later, in conjunction with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), with a concrete initiative – the “Gatekeepers Programme” (GP).

By this time, suicide had been labelled a “public health problem” within the “mental health” area. The GP broadened the suicide prevention effort beyond the counselling centres which presumed the potential victim would reach out and seek help. Individuals in the community were to be trained by qualified Health Ministry personnel as “gatekeepers” who could recognise signs of individuals contemplating ending their lives. The gatekeepers would be known in the community.

Studies have shown that once potential suicide victims have been persuaded away from the act, most of them do not attempt to repeat it. The “secret” of dealing with suicidal behaviour then, is to have the institutional capacity to counsel those that may be contemplating taking their lives, to desist.

Statistics in the immediate years following the introduction of the programmes suggest that they may be having a salutary effect. In the last few years, however, the interventionary programmes appeared to have died on the vine.

We have not heard anything from the National Committee on Suicide Prevention for years and wonder if it is still in existence. While there was news of another counselling centre being opened in Region Six recently, there has been no sustained programme to keep the others going or to inform the communities of their existence.

For instance, there was the suggestion of “lifelines” being manned 24/7 so that potential victims could reach out for help via the now ubiquitous cellphone, through which the suicidal youths leave “final messages”.

The funding for the GP was always tenuous and appeared to have been appendages to, and parasitic on, other heavily funded efforts such as HIV/AIDS prevention. This was a shame since as a public health problem, it ought to have been given equal priority.

In our September editorial, we pointed out: “The major opposition party has recently suggested that suicide prevention should be higher on the agenda of health priorities in Guyana. We suggest that the bipartisan Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services convene an urgent meeting to craft proposals on how to fund and extend the GP.” Sadly, this suggestion was not taken up and the opposition has rather conspired to keep the government on the backfoot as far as executing its programmes. Politics and politicking now dominate the agendas of both the government and the opposition as the latter wages a “scorched earth” approach to governmental initiatives. We once again suggest that at least in this area of suicide prevention, political oneupmanship be abjured.

The incidence of suicide in our country can be reduced. All we need are sustenance and extension of the programmes that have been initiated.

President Donald Ramotar serving senior citizens of the Better Hope/Vryheid’s Lust/Montrose Community Group during their annual Christmas party on Saturday (see story on page 13)

Penalties for sexual predators

Dear Editor, I feel a satisfying sense of justice after hearing that a local judge sentenced a man to 20 years imprisonment after he was found guilty of carnal knowledge.

At the said time of the act, the victim was only 13 years old.

The accused man is a father which makes the act that he committed even more despicable. When it

comes to sexual molestation and rape, I am strongly of the opinion that individuals found guilty of such crimes should suffer severe consequences for their actions.

Rape is a criminal act like no other. It causes everlasting emotional trauma to a woman. Additionally, in some countries, women who have been raped are scorned and are often seen as unfit for marriage.

They become outcasts in their society and struggle to survive.

Rape is more than an assault on the body. It is an assault on the soul and it is usually accompanied by fear and guilt.

Date rape is even more devastating because it comes from a person who has been trusted.

Women who become victims of this brutal crime of-

ten require counselling. For many years, support groups have been used to render comfort and assistance to those who have suffered such an attack.

It allows individuals to know that they are not alone, while helping them to regain some form of control of their life.

Sincerely, Vishal Dhaniram

Qualities of childcare workers Dear Editor, The recent case involving the arresting and sentencing of three orphan girls who ran away from the Corentyne Orphanage, commonly known as Camal International Home, must not be dismissed.

The orphans are accusing the wardens of exploiting them and it is therefore necessary that the controversies surrounding this situation be further examined. Moreover, we must not condemn the wardens who were involved.

In the past, students or young children who were asked to run errands for their

teachers were commonly referred to as a teacher’s pet or as their favourite. During that era, children often embraced such conditions; however, students of today’s society are much more sensitised and are offended by such requests.

The circumstances of this situation in Berbice are yet to be understood. The situation may have been blown out of proportion, but nevertheless we should see it as a lesson learnt.

I know of some teachers who penalise students simply because they refused to acknowledge and accept ma-

nipulative proposals. On this note, I must inform adults that the refusal by students or children to undertake a task outside of their jurisdiction should not be seen as a sign of rebellion and should therefore not be acted against.

Childcare professionals play a very crucial role in the growth and development of a child, especially in a foster setting. This very influential and powerful position requires individuals to be knowledgeable, mature, patient and understanding.

Regardless of the various child personalities and situa-

tions that a childcare worker may encounter, he or she must have a deep sense of understanding for children.

Additionally, they should have proper listening skills and the ability to display empathy.

Lastly, childcare workers should desist from taking a child’s physical or emotional outburst personally. They should never feel that these children owe them anything.

It is their responsibility to provide guidance and assistance to the less fortunate.

Yours, Annalisa Ally

Heavy downpour did not affect the OLPF programme Dear Editor, Despite the heavy downpour recently, residents of Buxton and other nearby communities made their way to the Tipperary Hall where they were greeted by employees who made themselves available for the ongoing distribution of laptops from the One Laptop Per Family (OLPF) programme.

I must commend the OLPF staff for the efforts that they made to be present despite the inclement weather. It was also admirable of them to make arrangements

to accommodate those individuals who had issues commuting, taking time off from work and who generally were pressed for time.

Factually, many of the elderly folks who are receiving laptops may not be au fait with the general use and operation of the instrument.

Also, it is highly unlikely that they will attend the five day training session that is also built in to the OLPF programme.

With that said, it may be wise to redirect training in such a way, where the target

group focuses more on the younger generations. This can be done through schools or as a community project and will surely allow individuals the opportunity to learn basic computer knowledge.

The OLPF programme was initiated in 2011 with aims of equipping approximately 90,000 families with laptops with further intentions of expanding and enhancing the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT).

The programme has so far been considered as a suc-

cessful venture. Additionally, just recently, praise was given by a member of the blind society for the programme's ability to facilitate blind students in undertaking various Caribbean Secondary Examinations Council (CSEC) subjects.

As beneficiaries of this remarkable venture, I opine that we show appreciation for this project by ensuring that we care and make full use of the laptops.

Sincerely yours, Joanne Robertson

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sunday, december 15, 2013

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

Josiah was one of those Community policing is a extraordinary people who disciplined voluntary movement will never be forgotten Dear Editor, On behalf of the board of directors, executives and members of the Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Inc, its Guyana and Toronto Chapters, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family, his fellow law enforcement comrades on the passing of Assistant Commissioner Derrick Josiah.

News of his demise was received with great sadness.

However, all is not lost. I had the opportunity to meet with him while he was stationed in Berbice as commander.

There isn’t much we can say or do to ease the pain of separation from his dear family members, his law enforcement comrades and all those whom he had a relationship with. However, please take comfort in knowing that our prayers and thoughts are with his entire family and friends during this very difficult time.

We recognise that there is much pain involved in letting go of someone so dear to them and so loved by them all, we encourage them to surrender their pains to the feet of God Almighty, knowing that God is capable of and will remove the pain of separation. So let’s celebrate his life and legacy in a meaningful way. He has touched the lives of many with his profession, kindness and compassion.

Additionally, be assured in knowing that God loves them, He is holding out His arms to comfort each one of them at this critical juncture of the life, and that our collective prayers to God will strengthen their heart to find the solace truly deserved for him being such a compassionate and caring person especially to his family,

friends and all those whom he has touched with his genuine love. “Not how did he die, but how did he live; not what did he gain, but what did he give.”

He was one of those extraordinary people who will never be forgotten in a lifetime.

His life was like a sunbeam that lit up the world around him, his family and friends.

Now that he is not physically here with us, we can bask in the rainbow of his loving memories that will live forever in our hearts. “Death ends a relationship, but not love.”

No, it won’t be the same without him, by any means, but we will go on as best as we can and look forward to the day we will meet him again in eternity. We shower all his family, friends and his law enforcement comrades with our prayers and trust each of them will draw strength from God, their many spiritual friends and family who want to help them through this very difficult time.

We may not ever understand why he died. For many years he took good care of everyone. It was so tough to stay so strong, the road he travelled hard and long. But now he has gone to walk a beat on some gold-paved heaven street.

The angels will rest well forever and we will take comfort together. Lay down your burdens one by one – the time for healing has begun. In memory, we love you still and you know that we always will, Derrick.

Sincerely, Pandit Suresh Sugrim Humanitarian Mission New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Inc

Dear Editor, The Public Relations Department of the National Community Policing Executives (NCPE) takes note of the negatively tainted story published in the Kaieteur News on December 10 under the headline, “Businessman accuses Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) of corruption”.

The article seeks to scapegoat the integrity of this noble and patriotic organisation of community policing within its parody plot on a platform of negatively twisted personality issues.

We, therefore, now would enlighten the general public on certain valued operational principles of community policing away from such personal chagrins.

Community policing in general is a disciplined voluntary subordinated movement, where the majority of equipment being made available is obtained from the Home Affairs Ministry, while operational financing for the various groups comes through organised fundraising activities where there is an organisational accountability system in place.

However, it must be made known that the due legitimate procedural system process for permission to temporarily place a security hut on the said Best Road location was adhered to, and likewise engaged away from any illegitimate autocratic means with the said NDC, or any of its councillors as insinuated in the parody of selfish personality issues.

In this story’s plot, the wheels of the parody cart also fell off glaringly, in public view, undone, when

mention was made that one person is expressing displeasure of a community project that all stands to benefit from, on the enhanced security measures that are now in place, that also includes indirect security benefits even to the said speculative aggrieved proponent.

However, the project is already making a positive impact in lifting the security level benefit of the said community targeted to date where community policing activities are effectively administered and coordinated from this said location conveniently from Wednesdays to Saturdays.

While all of this is happening, the NCPE would like it to be made publicly known that we respect the court that is addressing the personality contentions so derived indirectly from this community project.

Sincerely, Edward A Persaud Public Relations Officer NCPE

Motorcyclists put their lives at risk on a daily basis Dear Editor, I am not on the road as much as our police officers are and yet I see things that bother me very deeply. Several times I have made reports to the police of such incidents, but the outcome is often futile.

Just recently, a motorcyclist was hurled off his bike and subsequently collided with a utility pole.

He is now clinging to life in the High Dependency Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital. If he was under the influence of alcohol is still to be confirmed.

I have noticed how irresponsible motorcyclists can generally be. Many of them have the urge to speed and perform all kinds of stunts on our road ways and I must say that I find their behaviour extremely infantile and inane.

Additionally, many of them, inclusive of pil-

lion passengers, refuse to ride with a helmet which is meant to provide some form of protection to them in the event of an accident.

It is also a requirement by law.

There are so many incidents of law breaching on the roadway on a daily basis and yet nothing is being done to address the matter. I refuse to believe that our police are not witnessing these offences. In due time, many of them end up suffering the consequences for their recklessness.

I wish for a speedy recovery for the man currently recuperating, but I also hope that other motorcyclists can use this unfortunate situation as an example where safety on the roadway is concerned.

With regards, Winifred Thom

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sunday, december 15, 2013

Page

Foundation

New perspectives “Men make their own history, but they do not make it just as they please...” Karl Marx

Anu Dev

W

hen I was doing my CXC’s and chose to write 16 subjects, many persons thought that there was no point in doing subjects like history, for instance, since I’d already pretty much settled on going into medicine. But I’d found the subjects interesting and just enjoyed history especially, since it allowed me to get a glimpse of how our societies have become what it has, in the Caribbean.

I also agreed with Marx’s point that the present can only be understood historically: everything is the consequence of something that has preceded it. While that may seem quite obvious, most of us seem to not follow its corollary. That if we act in the present in ways that we believe to be the better way, we can actually “influence” the future. Sort of like creating the future.

But in my first year in med school, I had to chuckle a bit when I saw that

guyanatimesgy.com

one of the required classes (they’re all “required” incidentally) was “Caribbean Civilisation”. Quite a lot of my new friends found the going quite strenuous and unfamiliar...but to me it was quite familiar territory. The professor, Dr John Campbell, chose as his foundational text, a book he’d written: Beyond Massa.

This deals with running of the sugar plantation Golden Grove in eastern Jamaica during the years 1770-1834. The setting and timeframe are both significant since at the time, Jamaica was the most profitable British colony in the Caribbean and yet there were pressures developing in England for the abolition of slavery, the “peculiar institution” from which the wealth from sugar was generated.

Most interestingly, Campbell used as his primary source of data the correspondence from the manager of the plantation, Simon Taylor and the absentee owner Chaloner Arcedeckne. These letters are on the web...and they are fascinating. But what made the work interesting was his use of ide-

as from the contemporary Human Resource Model (HRM) of managing workers. He placed emphasis on the social interactions between the enslaved and the managers rather than the now conventional historiographical focus on the economic aspects of plantation society.

He emphasises that there was a two-way negotiated space where the enslaved people had more ‘agency’ than previous studies had accredited to them: they were subjects and not just objects.

The study also contended that the differences between the West African form of slavery, from which the slaves were brought and Caribbean chattel slavery were crucial in the new dyadic master-slave relationship. In the West African form, the slave was still considered a person while under the chattel slavery system; the slave was completely dehumanised and considered “property”.

And it is because the enslaved people were accustomed to this more benign concept of slavery that HRM techniques could work. There could be op-

portunities for bargaining and negotiation. Taking the logic to its denouement, the author posits a third and controversial thesis – that the enslaved people did not want to end slavery itself, they simply “wanted to change the tone of British West Indian slavery”.

The historiography on the institution of West Indian slavery was initially dominated by British writers who focused on the “civilising” mission of the enterprise for the African slaves who were not considered fully human. This is our textbooks.

This perspective was challenged by historians such as Eric Williams, who later became the first PM of TT. He proposed a more Marxian, economic based approach which stressed the role of slavery in laying the material foundation of Britain’s industrial revolution. We don’t hear much of this. Now Campbell offers another perspective. It’s worth checking out.

Look how I’m running on about that “boring and irrelevant” subject – history. But trust me; it’s as important to your health (mental) as medicine.

Advice for parents of children with diabetes conclusion

Insulin reactions Insulin reactions occur when the amount of sugar in the blood is too low. This is caused by an imbalance of insulin, too much exercise, or too little food. Under these circumstances the body sends out numerous warning signs. If these signs are recognised early, reactions may be promptly terminated by giving some form of sugar. If a reaction is not treated, unconsciousness and convulsions may result. The child may recognise some of the following warning signs of low blood sugar and should be encouraged to report them.

Warning signs of an insulin reaction * Excessive hunger * Blurred vision * Poor coordination * Perspiration * Irritability * Abdominal pain or nausea * Pallor * Crying * Dizziness * Inability to concentrate * Inappropriate actions/responses * Nervousness or trembling * Drowsiness or fatigue Treatment At the first sign of any of the above warning signs, give sugar immediately in one of the following forms: * Glucose tablets or gel * Fruit juice, ½ to 2/3 cup * Carbonated beverage (not diet or sugarless soda), 6 oz * Candy, ie, two to three “Chuckles”, 10 jelly beans * A sugar the parent has provided.

The student experiencing a reaction may need coaxing to eat. If improvement does not occur within 15-20 minutes, repeat the feeding.

If the child does not improve after administration of the second feeding containing sugar, the parents or a physician should be called. When the child improves, he should be given a small feeding of 1/2 sandwich and a glass of milk. He should then resume normal school activities and the parents advised of the incident.

Children with diabetes follow a prescribed diet and may select their foods from the school lunch menu or bring their own lunch. Lunchroom managers should be made aware of the child’s dietary needs, which may include mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks to help avoid insulin reactions. Adequate time should be provided for finishing meals.

Blood sugar testing may need to be done during the school day. This information is needed to determine an appropriate diet/ insulin/exercise plan. It may also be helpful to get a blood sugar test if the child becomes ill during the day.

General advice The child with diabetes should be carefully observed in class, particularly before lunch.

It is best not to schedule physical education just before lunch; and if possible the child should not be assigned to a late lunch period. Many children require nourishment before strenuous exercise. Teachers and nurses should have sugar available at all times.

The child with diabetes should also carry a sugar supply and be permitted to treat a reaction when it occurs.

Diabetic coma, a serious complication of the disease, results from uncontrolled diabetes. This does NOT come on suddenly and generally need not be a concern to school personnel. (umassmed.edu)

news

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Businesses urged to convert $8.4M health centre with waste into innovativive products doctor’s quarters commissioned on Essequibo Coast

A section of the rapidly filling Haags Bosch Landfill Site

H

An example of a pitch made from recycled tyres

ead of the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Progamme (GSWMP) Gordon Gilkes is encouraging Guyanese businesses and entrepreneurs to look at new and innovative ways to utilise some of the waste materials taken to the Haags Bosch Landfill Site, so as to generate income and ultimately extend the life of the landfill.

Gilkes was at the time addressing corporate entities at a workshop hosted by Guyenterprise as part of its efforts to create public awareness about the GSWMP. Among the waste that can be reused for other purposes include plastic bottles and tyres.

“We had several visitors from Europe and Brazil and they’ve indicated to us that we have valuable material go-

ing into the landfill; so entrepreneurs need to get onboard and start using this waste to make new products,” Gilkes pointed out.

He made reference to the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), which uses plastic bottles to make roof tiles.

The landfill site was designed in 2003 but waste produce has grown significantly from the 70,000 tonnes per year previously projected.

The landfill site was initially designed to last 26 years, however, based on the magnitude of waste going into the landfill, contractors are now projecting a lifespan of only 19 years.

To encourage maximum usage of the land-fill site, innovative measures of reducing, reusing and recycling waste are being encouraged.

Rubber tyres are said to be a particularly problematic waste product that does not readily disintegrate and therefore takes up landfill space.

According to recent surveys, considering the millions of tyres disposed of every year in all countries, significant recycling opportunities exist for investors to earn dividends consistently. Land filling and burning tyres now have limited prospects, as environmental authorities are acknowledging the need for greener alternatives for what can become valuable waste products.

Recycling tyres is not a new practice, but many countries have been failing to put them to use. In 2007, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that the owners of Tyre Genics at Baglan, Neath Port Talbot, would reprocess over 30,000 tonnes of used tyres each year into rubber crumb. The company uses liquid nitrogen to freeze tyres until brittle, then smashes them into tiny pieces for use as sports pitches and rubber flooring.

Guyanese entrepreneurs are therefore being urged to explore ways and means of how tyres, PET bottles, plastic bags and other products can expand the economy, and the long-standing capacity of the Haags Bosch Landfill site.

The recently-commissioned health centre with attached doctor’s living quarters

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he Health Ministry has recently commissioned a modern $8.4 million health centre with a doctor’s living quarters at Good Hope on the Essequibo Coast.

Local Government Minister Ganga Persaud said the facilities were built following a request from residents, and government was honoured to fulfil their call.

Through the health centre, Persaud said residents of Good Hope and surrounding communities will have the services of a residential doctor.

Region Two has 20 doctors, most of whom have been trained in Cuba.

On that note, the minister lauded the government and people of Cuba for their con-

tinued assistance in helping Guyana to develop its human resources in the medical field.

Persaud said the government has invested heavily in the Region Two heath sector and is pleased with the gains made thus far.

Supporting his point, the minister pointed out that the government was able to raise the life expectancy in the region from 47 years 22 years ago, to 69 today, and is proud of this achievement.

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud said the new health centre with a living quarters for a resident doctor is a testimony of the government’s drive to improve quality and efficient health care to residents of the region.

Regional Health Officer, Dr Allison Brown said the community was integrally involved in the project, and praised residents for their support.

Residents, who attended the commissioning, expressed gratitude for the health centre and doctor in their community.

One resident, Sally Narine, said she is thankful for the good gesture as she would not have to travel to the Suddie Public Hospital to access health service.

Also present at the commissioning were Regional Executive Officer Sunil Singh and Local Government Ministry Permanent Secretary Colin Croal.

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

180 passengers arrive on TravelSpan

Passengers disembarking the Boeing 767 aircraft at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Saturday

A

fter closing operations in Guyana in 2008, TravelSpan Incorporated returned here with a flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Saturday morning.

According to the CJIA, the Boeing 767 aircraft landed with 180 passengers onboard, along with 10 crew members.

“We are all about providing quality service, untimed performance and excellent prices,” David Gooberdhan,

a top TravelSpan official was quoted as saying shortly after disembarking the plane.

TravelSpan and Venezuelan CONVIASA are the most recent airlines to enter Guyana’s aviation market, and according to Transport Minister Robeson Benn, these movements are accelerating the aviation sector.

“We are making inroads, hence the need for a new terminal building. With all the airlines I envision

that will be touching down at CJIA, the passenger flow will be boosted significantly,” Minister Benn stated.

Meanwhile, CJIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ramesh Ghir expressed his appreciation to the airline’s officials for their confidence in returning to Guyana.

TravelSpan will be offering direct flights from Guyana to New York and vice versa.

Through the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the air service was granted permission to operate in Guyana’s airspace.

Now it will be offering two flights per week on the New York/Guyana route.

Round trip tickets between New York and Guyana cost US$647, while one-way tickets are US$349, both prices are tax inclusive.

The 18-year-old company is headquartered in the U.S.

BBCI treats National Psychiatric Hospital patients

Some of the items donated to the National Psychiatric Hospital

T

he Berbice Bridge Company Inc (BBCI) presented sweets, fruits and gifts on Thursday to some 170 patients at the National Psychiatric Hospital as part of activities to celebrate its fifth anniversary.

The company in a release said it was privileged to have

the opportunity to make the donation, which was also in keeping with the spirit of the festive season.

The BBCI does not only play the role of collecting tolls and facilitating vehicles crossing the Berbice River Bridge and vessels transiting through the retractor span and under the high span, but

also discharges its corporate responsibilities.

In the past, the company has sponsored many events that benefited communities on both the eastern and western sides of the bridge, and many other regions such as Georgetown, Linden, Parika and the hinterland.

Eyew tness

Oh, what a tangled web...

...in AFC n truth, the truth really hurts. Especially when you’ve been caught with your pants down, and more so when you’re been holding yourself out as the local George Washington, who never told a lie.

Khemraj Ramjattan had displayed his endemic ignorance of parliamentary practice when he accused Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh of misspending monies for public servants’ salaries. Ramjattan, of course, has been assiduously sucking up to public servants since he can’t shake his habit of poaching on A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) turf.

So the finance minister, who’s obviously had it with the sleazy ambulance-chasing lawyer, bitch-slapped him about ignoring his party Chairman Nigel Hughes’ hiding his conflict-of-interest relationship with the Amaila Falls Hydro Inc (AFHI).

Now Hughes has been hiding under a rock since the scandal broke, but now his wife – who was the public relations flak for AFHI’s affiliate Sithe Global Inc, jumps to his defence.

Unfortunately, she’s landed him smack into the old doo-doo he hoped would’ve washed off.

This is what the self-proclaimed public relations guru proclaimed: “Ramjattan, on the day of the publication of the news of my husband’s position as company secretary of Sithe Global, stated that he knew of Hughes’ relationship with the company.

“That Hughes had disclosed this relationship to the party and that he, Ramjattan, saw no conflict of interest, as Hughes did not participate in any Alliance For Change (AFC) meetings, discussions or decisions taken in relation to the Amaila Falls Hydro Electricity Project (AFHEP).”

Lies! Lies! And more lies! That is exactly what DID NOT happen. At the time, Ramjattan confessed that while he knew of some “association” between Hughes and AFHI, his chairman hadn’t shared with him the news that the “association” was actually that of company secretary.

Now this is not an inconsequential difference. And in her assertion, Hughes’ better half shows that she’s just as contemptuous of the intelligence of the average Guyanese.

Does she really believe that in this day of the

I

retrieval capabilities of the Internet, we can’t check what was really said? ...versus the truth As we wrote then, “A ‘company secretary’ isn’t someone in short skirts who takes notes in shorthand. Hughes is basically the legal officer of AFHI and in that capacity would have advised, for instance, on the entity getting the best deal – that is making the maximum profits from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) – from the deal.

Now Ramjattan said, as a professional lawyer, Hughes can sell his services to whomever he wants. We have no problem with this. What we have a problem with is that Hughes has been less than “professional” in not revealing his employment in a company that has been in the centre of a controversy precipitated by his party’s position.

Ramjattan assured us that Hughes recused himself when matters involving the Amaila Falls hydro project were being discussed by the AFC. But if Ramjattan and other party members didn’t know of how key a position Hughes held in the SPV, how the heck can we be sure that in informal contexts Hughes mightn’t have influenced others? Or even the gullible Ramjattan himself?

In our highly-charged political atmosphere of accusations and counter accusations of “conflict of interests” and “self-interested parties”, shouldn’t Hughes, at least, have revealed the true nature of his involvement?

Like when, for instance, on June 21, he articulated his party’s position on AFHEP at a press conference?”

We hope the AFC wankers realise that “the truth will set us free”! ... in APNU Imagine that APNU’s leader David Granger will “investigate” Volda Lawrence because the poor woman ran out of the House before she puked on her colleagues. Seems that the brigadier feels his members of parliament must remain at their post, come hell or high water – or vomit.

We just hope he doesn’t muster up a firing squad for Lawrence for “desertion”.

NEWS

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Republic Bank honours young scholars

Republic Bank General and Management Service General Manager Denise Hobbs, CSEC awardee Yogeeta Persaud, CAPE awardee Jonelle James, NGSA awardee Salma Majeed and General Manager of Credit Patricia Plummer

R

epublic Bank Limited on Thursday honoured the top performers at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and the Caribbean Advanced

Proficiency Examination (CAPE) at its annual Academic Achievement Awards ceremony.

The simple presentation was made at the bank’s head office on New Market Street, Georgetown, where the awardees received mon-

etary gifts and plaques.

They were commended for their hard work and dedication to academic excellence.

Those awarded were Salma Majeed (NSGA), Yogeeta Persaud (CSEC) and Jonelle James (CAPE).

The bank’s General Manager for Credit Patricia Plummer said Guyana’s youths “continues to be an area of focus for Republic Bank”, noting that each awardee exemplified the “power to learn and the power to succeed”.

They were all encouraged to continue to live with a guiding vision and a purpose that “generates passion for greater accomplishment”.

Three nabbed in operation to curb illegal hunting

and Export Bill of 2013 to be enforced by the Wildlife Management Authority and signed the Wild Management and Conservation Regulation of 2013 to be enforced by the EPA.

The three hunters nabbed in the operation

A

joint operation to curb illegal hunting and fishing has been successful with three hunters nabbed and wild meat confiscated during a river patrol at Burro-burro, Region Eight.

The joint operation was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Iwokrama, the Fisheries Department and the Guyana Police Force on Thursday at the mouth of the Burroburro River, Iwokrama Rainforest Conservation.

The team’s objective was to observe any fishing and hunting activity and to investigate and ascertain if it was commercial. Upon investigation, a small aluminium boat was discovered on the right bank of the Burroburro River with a small generator powering a small freezer Further investigation revealed a significant quantity of wild meat in the freezer with evidence of powis being cleaned (plucked/gutted) in the immediate vicinity.

The team subsequently detained three individuals and discovered several rounds of ammunition, which one of the individuals was apparently attempting to hide.

The police rank informed the three young men that they were hunting illegally for which they would be charged and were accompanied to Kurupukari Police Outpost.

The team made an inventory of all seized assets and stored them appropriately. Approximately 13 labbas (170lbs) and six powis (30lbs) were found to be in the confiscated freezer.

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry said it will continue to collaborate with the various agencies to continue similar operations to protect endangered animals and indigenous communities that depend on hunting for a livelihood. To this effect, last Thursday, subject minister Robert Persaud submitted to the National Assembly the Wildlife Import

Overseas-based Guyanese donates computers to CLC

Wilson Shervington handing over the computers to CLC Principal Ivor English

T

he Critchlow Labour College (CLC) has received several computers from an overseas-based Guyanese, as the college moves to improve its quality of education by upgrading its educational facilitates.

London-based Guyanese Wilson Alexander Shervington presented CLC with several desktop computers to upgrade its information technology laboratory. The presentation was done at the institution on Monday.

According to Shervington,

he observed in the media that the school is in dire need of equipment, and as such, he took the initiative to assist the school. Shervington said he was pleased to have donated the computers, noting that he has endeavoured to help local schools over the years.

“I like what I heard you are doing with your school and so I will endeavour to help this school to redress the situation,” he said.

Shervington promised the school that this will not be the end of his contributions

and that they should look forward to more computers from him in the future.

CLC Director Rawle Lucas expressed his gratitude at the initiative undertaken by the philanthropist, who recognised the school’s needs and decided to do something about it. He noted that the equipment will not only benefit students but will go a long way to benefit the staff as well.

“We intend to ensure our staff enjoys some of the capacity that you are now adding to the resources of our organisation,” Lucas stated.

He told Shervington that the school looks forward to his continuous support.

Principal of the college, Ivor English, also welcomed the initiative which he said will foster the modernisation of the information technology laboratory.

“I must say our laboratory has become deficient, that’s why we see this as a welcomed initiative, one which the school critically needs.”

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Private sector fumes as blacklisting bites For the people L

ess than a month after Guyana was blacklisted by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), businesses are already feeling the squeeze.

Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ronald Webster in a recent interview told Guyana Times that the commission is doing everything in its power to ensure Guyana fulfils its February deadline to CFATF, to avoid further scrutiny .

He noted that the blacklisting by CFATF is beginning to create a negative impact on the economic front for Guyana.

Webster also pointed out that if Guyana is blacklisted internationally, the impact will be far worst and there will be no returning for the country. According to the PSC chairman, local businesses are already beginning to complain about the extra paperwork that has to be done now when conducting international and even regional transactions.

However, he noted that the full backlash of these things takes time and would not be felt overnight.

Republic Bank Chief

as bankers are going to be far more difficult and ultimately costly for customers because of the to and fro in getting matters sorted out… in the longer run, it will make the whole transfer of payments more difficult,” he added.

PSC Chairman Ronald Webster

Executive Officer John Alves, in an interview with this newspaper, had said the situation has placed the banking sector at a loss, and there will be great difficulties for both incoming and outgoing foreign exchange activities with corresponding banks.

Onerous “Guyana being blacklisted… means it would be much more onerous for foreign exchanges,” he said.

According to Alves, already there are a number of difficulties and challenges in processing transactions, and this is not good for Guyana.

“Clearly, now our task

Dissatisfaction Georgetown Chamber of Commerce (GCCI) President Clinton Urling had expressed dissatisfaction at the situation. He said the severity of the implications will not bode well for Guyana. “… this would have economic consequences which could not only affect businesses, but private sector as a whole,” he stated.

CFATF had ordered Guyana to get the necessary legislation in place to be compliant with the sweeping reforms taking place regionally and internationally to fight money laundering and terrorism.

However, it was only earlier this year, in April, that the bill made its way to Parliament, where the opposition political parties voted to send it to the special select committee.

The bill was returned and the combined opposi-

tion withheld their support for the legislation for the second time, despite threats of serious sanctions.

The opposition claimed that the committee’s work was incomplete and wanted the bill to be re-sent for completion, but the government refused and when the matter was put to a vote, the combined opposition used its one-seat majority to defeat the government.

Then came the November deadline which was given to Guyana by CFATF to get its affairs in order; however, due to deadlock and lack of compromise in the National Assembly among the parties, Guyana was formally blacklisted by CFATF, who warned its members against the implications of doing business with Guyana.

With Guyana now blacklisted, transactions and payments in areas such as remittances, oil and goods and services, among other things, will likely face severe consequences.

The country, nevertheless, has a chance to change its fate when the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) holds its next plenary meeting in February 2014.

S

atiricus was very upset. The judiciary was supposed to be the upholder of law and order, wasn’t it? The guardian of the rule of law, no? Now, Satiricus thought, when the judiciary started throwing its weight around, then you knew the country was heading for trouble. Big trouble. We’re talking about the seeds of totalitarianism here, fretted Satiricus.

He’d just finished scanning the MuckrakerKN to get his daily dose of mudslinging. His heart sank when he saw Mook Lall had to issue another apology. This time it was to some judge...who, the Muckraker reported, had “forced” people out of her court...when she hadn’t. And had “handed down a decision” when she hadn’t.

What got Satiricus’ goat was how clear it was that outsiders just didn’t understand the nature and importance of the Muckraking business. As a card-carrying member of the Muckraking Union, Mook Lall, just couldn’t have his reporters just report the news as it happened. What the hell did these people think? They keep on complaining that people didn’t read. Well the Mook was performing a public service by getting people to read.

So what if he had to make up stuff about people and ruin their businesses and reputations? You have to crack some shells to make fried eggs, no? It had nothing to do with selling newspapers as some wicked people claimed. Or that the backtracking business was slow since America was having problems.

Every newspaper start out their new reporters in reporting what goes on in the courts. People like to hear about other people’s troubles, So Mook Lall sent out plenty reporters to the courts.

But when they came back, the Mook had to check their stories...these young reporters thought that reporting was about the “facts”! So Mook would sex up the facts...to make it more exciting. He had a duty to improve literacy!

Take the latest case where the Mook had to apologise.

Who would read the story if it just said the magistrate wanted to protect the privacy of the female magistrate who might have been assaulted? Especially if the reporter used the correct word “in camera” which means “in private”.

Isn’t it more appealing if you said the judged “forced” people to leave the room? Heck!! The Mook must’ve have been slacking that day. Normally he would’ve claimed the judge “chased” people from the courtroom!

Satiricus was so upset that he decided to amble over to the back street bar to calm his nerves.

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SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

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sunDAY, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Land dispute at Annandale boils amid authorities' silence

A

n age-old land dispute in Marshon, Annandale, East Coast Demerara, continues even as the relevant authorities remain silent.

Annandale North Community Development Group Chairman Rajkumar Outar is contending that a plot of land situated at Marshon, Annandale North, East Coast Demerara was used as a recreational facility for decades.

Now, he is expressing concerns that the plot of land will be soon dominated by squatters while the housing and sport ministries turn a blind eye. However, one person has thus far stepped forward, indicating that a section of the disputed area has been leased.

Standing on a section of the disputed land, Outar told Guyana Times that since 1965, the “ground” was used for sporting activities, inclusive of cricket, football and circle tennis for both male and female.

With frequent games played on the land, it was dubbed Marshon Cricket Ground.

However, in the early 2000s, Outar had reportedly hired men from the community to rehabilitate the land, which was trenched in water for an extensive period after it was abandoned.

According to the popular businessman, hundreds of thousands of dollars was pumped into the rehabilitation, with the primary objective of providing a safe haven for youths.

The ground was once again used for sports and staging non-alocholic cultural shows, bringing the communities of Annandale and Buxton together. They were free of charge and were aimed at bringing people together across religion, culture, race and community.

“Sometimes, it has been inundated and men over the years have done backfilling with their bare hands and donkey carts to avoid the flooding of the ground. A humongous effort was made to make it into playable condition for youths and even those who are not so youthful,” he explained.

Application

In 2003, Outar on behalf of the Annandale North Community Development Group, surveyed the area and subsequently applied for the plot of land. However, the quest to have legal ownership of the land has been stalled. “Progress has been pretty slow. I have been to Lands and Survey on quite a few occasions but progress has been pretty slow.”

Annandale North Community Development Group Chairman Rajkumar Outar

But while Outar and team awaited legal ownership of the land, squatters reportedly invaded the premises by 2005. Today, 10 years after Outar applied for the plot of land, it is now being occupied by two persons, with potential squatters demarking the area.

“Today, it is a great hurt to me and to other residents alike to see two fixed squatters on the land who are continuously grabbing more and more land, and to witness the pickets placed all over the ground by so many other potential squatters. How can we stand with folded arms and see our efforts, our resources and those of our fathers simply go to waste because of the reluctance of those in authority to resolve these issues for the benefit of so many youths who now gamble and indulge in ungainly activities?”

squatting on the area could have been prevented had the housing and culture, youth and sport ministries stepped in.

“We would appreciate it very much if this area can be developed. If some funds can be injected to develop it, this place would be a beautiful place.”

But a family that was pointed out by Outar as one of the main squatters said the business man is on a quest to fulfill his own objective as they overturn allegations of squatting. The businesswoman and her husband operate a small salt fish establishment on a small portion of the disputed land.

Upset over the allegations peddled by Outar, the businesswoman said she has been occupying the area since 1992.

“I made an application, to and fro, all these people around here come and squat here, nobody ever tell them nothing, my husband born and grow here. Eight children born in this village and now you hear me squatting.”

Claim

While declining to produce documents, the businesswoman and her husband said earlier in the year, they released legal

The single mother with her wheelbarrow in which she sells fish to Annandale residents

documents, indicating that the land has been leased to them. “We have been living here since 1992, you hear me, we start this lil fish business about three years ago, and so the fight down starts again, but I want him to know now that we have our documents,” the businesswoman said.

She is contending that Outar in the past used the ground to rake in money to fulfil his desires. “Many occasions, they keep cricket and tek the money and put it into their pocket, they want y’all highlight the matter to bring in money for them,” she said

Letters

A section of the disputed land

Outar produced two letters addressed to the Culture, Youth and Sport minister and the Sport Director Neil Kumar dated April 11, 2002 and March 18, 2009, in which the Annandale North Community Development Group sought assistance to rehabilitate the ground.

Outar is contending that

The two houses that occupy one section of the disputed land

Meanwhile, her neighbour, who sells fish for a living, said she has been living on a small portion of the plot of land for the past 12 years. Initially, the Housing Ministry through the Central Housing and Planning Authority had instructed her to clear the land.

“I know I am squatting but after they came, I went bout three times applying, trying for get meh papers for this land and nothing, I just stop going after a while.”

In a wheelbarrow, she sells small portions of fish around her community. The single parent mother said, “if them ain’t get a heart them could come and move me”.

She too contended that Outar is only showing interesting in the huge stretch of land (ground) for personal gain. “Is nuff, nuff money he does get when he use to host thing on the ground, now go to him and ask he way de money deh, way dem do with the money.” The woman also identifies herself as a relative of the popular businessman.

Attempts to ascertain the owners of the house from Lands and Survey, the Central Housing and Planning Authority and by extension the Housing Ministry proved futile.

13 Georgetown will continue to flood without council’s support – Sooba news

SUNDAY, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

H

Town Clerk Carol Sooba

eavy downpour early Saturday morning has resulted in flash floods in various parts of the city, and Town Clerk Carol Sooba is blaming the City Council’s non-support of her for the problem.

Businesses and residents in the capital rushed to take the necessary precautions to safeguard their stock and property. They lashed out at City Hall for doing nothing to alleviate the problem even though they collect taxes every year.

With a lot of garbage piled up at various locations in the city, concerns are being raised about the need for persons to also take the necessary health precautions to guard against infections.

Recently appointed Town Clerk Carol Sooba is blaming the constant flooding in Georgetown on the many disgusting garbage pile ups in the capital city’s drains and trenches.

Speaking to Guyana

Times, Sooba said the regular unhealthy practice of dumping garbage about the city is the root cause of the city’s floods. The town clerk noted that the situation is beyond her control as she does not have the support of the mayor and city councillors.

“The garbage is the main reason for all these floods… they want to keep these people on the road and so they keep dumping about the place all the time… as fast as we clean the place up, the people dump their garbage so there is only so much we can do on our own,” the town clerk said.

spond to the expected rainfall, dispatched a team of engineers and technical staffers to assess the situation.

Water accumulation has been recorded in Regions Two, Three and Four.

It was recorded at Cotton Field, Bush Lot, Anna Regina, La Bell Alliance and Three Friends in Region Two. Thus far, all sluices and outfall channels are operable as works has been completed at Anna Regina, Andrews, Lima, Hampton Court and Windsor Castle outfall channels.

Koker working

While works have been completed in several areas, others are yet to be completed.

In Region Three, low lying residential areas such as Parfait Harmony, Bagotsville, Good Hope and Tennis Farm in Canal Number One were all affected by the above nor-

Sooba, nevertheless, assured that all the kokers and pumps are working well and teams were clearing blocked drains, allowing for free flow of the heavy water accumulation.

“Everybody is working to get the garbage cleaned… they are clogging up, all the main drainage areas causing floods every time we have rainfalls but we are working on getting the place cleaned… all the systems working though so there are no problems there,” she stated.

Only recently, the entire Georgetown City and coastlands experienced a flash flood which caused many businesses and residents to suffer losses.

Meanwhile, the Agriculture Ministry said the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), having been prepared to re-

President serves senior citizens at Christmas party

S

enior citizens of the Better Hope/ Vryheid’s Lust/ Montrose Community Group were in for a treat when the group hosted its annual Senior Citizens Lunch and Social at the Better Hope Community Centre, East Coast Demerara on Saturday.

The event saw hundreds of elderly folks and the less fortunate from villages on the East Coast Demerara being served by President Donald Ramotar; Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony; Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall; and Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee.

The programme began just before 13:00h and saw activities such as singing of carols and dancing. As two young men began entertaining the gathering with the sound of tassa drums, the elderly ladies in the audience stood up and started to dance as the beat moved through their bodies. They made their way to the stage where they too took part in the entertainment before the government officials took their seats.

President Ramotar and his ministers were all welcomed by the sounds of the

tassa as they made their way to the stage where Ramotar and Rohee were garlanded.

Community group Chairman Jagnarine Singh told the audience that the event is the group’s way of giving back to senior citizens.

Minister Rohee said the very people in the audience were the ones who played a part in the development of Guyana.

President Donald Ramotar spoke of the progress the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has made since it has been in office, pointing out that many young people now own their own homes because the government has given out over 10,000 house lots.

Ramotar also asked the gathering to not follow the “propaganda” printed in the opposition media, stating that there are some who dislike the government because of the work it has been doing to improve the lives of Guyanese people.

After the programme, the government officials helped distribute food and hampers to the audience. The residents thanked the president and his ministers for the kind gesture.

Works completed

The state of James Street, Albouystown on Saturday

mal weather pattern.

While works are apace to have the situation rectified, all sluices and pumps in the said areas are functional as the NDIA continues its monthly maintenance of drainage structures, especially in areas prone to flash flooding.

Several communities in Region Four were affected, including Buxton and

Vigilance. The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), also suffered from the above normal weather pattern as agricultural lands from Ogle to Haslington were inundated, resulting in a halt to operation.

Since the above normal rainy period commenced, the Agriculture Ministry has commenced a number of emergency interventions

which has seen outfall channels excavated and desilted.

Thus far, waters are receding satisfactorily.

The Agriculture Ministry would like to remind residents that while interventions have been taken by the NDIA to remedy the situation, precautionary measures must be taken at the community level to assist the situation.

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SUNday, december 15, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

News

Some 200 young Buxtonians feted at annual Christmas party

M

ore than 200 children from Vigilance, Buxton, Friendship and other communities braved the inclement weather on Saturday to be a part of the annual Christmas fete hosted by mother of People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) parliamentarian Odinga Lumumba.

Children decked in fancy clothes were seen dancing to a variety of music selections, and were treated to lots of food, drinks and other goodies.

The children were also presented with fabulous gifts by Elaine Mc Neal. Mc Neal, 90, said she was happy to continue the tradition that has been ongoing for

decades. Dressed in a colourful outfit with a headwrap made from the Golden Arrowhead, she explained that the fete has become an event that the children look forward to every year.

With a little grin, the woman stated that as soon as September reaches, the children would come to her gate and enquire about the party. She thanked God for keeping her healthy so that she can continue to do good for the children in the community.

The party was organised with the help of several persons under the direction of Mc Neal.

Some of the staff members were seen busy getting the names and ages of the

children as they arrived at the venue. Some were also seen distributing the goodies and beverages to the children who were having a grand time.

However, Mc Neal charged her relatives present to continue the good work when she passes on Meanwhile, a niece of Mc Neal, who travelled from the U.S. to be part of the party, said the Mc Neal family has brought a lot of cheers and smiles to the children of Buxton.

“It is indeed a beautiful sight to see the children coming out in their numbers to be a part of the activity…

Moreover, they have came out despite the rains,” the woman added.

Elaine Mc Neal with some of the children at the annual fete in Buxton

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNday, december 15, 2013

15

News

Unlicensed teenage driver perishes IRO extends Christmas greetings in Mon Repos accident

L

ess than two weeks shy of his 18th birth anniversary, Ryan Britton of Da Silva Street, Kitty, Georgetown succumbed to his injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Friday evening after he lost control of the car he was driving and slammed into an iron bridge at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara.

Based on information received, the teenager was alone in the motor car bearing registration number HC 1619 and was proceeding along the railway embankment on Friday morning when he attempted to overtake another vehicle and lost control of his car.

The young man, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, slammed into the bridge causing the entire left side of the car to be damaged.

He was also pinned in the driver’s seat for some time before public-spirited citizens broke the back window of the car to retrieve him from the wreckage. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital by persons in the area in an unconscious state.

Police in a release stated that they are investigating the fatal accident which occurred on Friday morning about 06:00h, which resulted in the death of Britton.

The police also confirmed that the teenager was not

home and so...”

However, after time elapsed, relatives began to feel “uneasy” and decided to make contact with the young man, but numerous attempts proved futile. His mobile phone was off but still the relatives did not suspect anything had happen to him since he would normally take off his phone when he wants his space.

“He was supposed to go and buy cooking gas for the house, so we thought that he went on the road to buy same and hadn’t return… he spent most times at his cousin’s place at Light Street, Alberttown.”

Dead teen: Ryan Britton

licensed to drive a hire car.

Geeta Muniram, an aunt of the dead teenager related that he left home on Thursday evening with a friend and went to a birthday party. During the celebration, from reports, he collected a friend’s car unknown to the friend and went for a drive and in the process, he met with the accident. He was reportedly under the influence of alcohol.

Not aware

The aunt explained that they were not aware of the accident until they realised that he was missing. “He is a responsible person, so we really don’t call he and find out what time he coming

Worst fears

After some time, the owner of the car contacted the family after making a few calls and informed them that Britton was involved in an accident and was in the Intensive Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital. The woman added that after receiving the news, the entire family went to the medical facility and searched all the departments, but did not find him.

This, she explained prompted them to visit the front desk where they made further enquiries.

Upon doing so, they found out that two persons were taken to the facility in an unconscious state following separate accidents.

By this time, a police rank approached them and showed them a few photos of the young man and asked to return on Saturday morning to identify the body. When they did, they were confronted with their worst fears.

The young man used to work with his aunt at her store, but earlier last week, he took a few days off claiming that he wanted to look after some personal issues.

The aunt stated that his grandparents live in Mon Repos, but she was not sure if he was going to meet them at that hour in the morning.

She also suggested that he might have been going to see his girlfriend, who reportedly lives in the same area. “These are all just speculations, we don’t know where he was heading and where he was going nor do we know where the party was held.”

Muniram disclosed that Britton is the only child for his parents here in Guyana as his sister resides in the U.S. The police are continuing their investigation.

A post-mortem examination is scheduled to be performed on the teen’s body on Monday.

to all Guyanese

The IRO has extended Christmas greetings to all Guyanese

T

he members of the The members of the IRO Inter Religious work to foster and maintain Organisation of the peace and religious tolGuyana (IRO) have extend- erance that is obtained in ed best wishes to the na- Guyana. It is our desire to tion at this Christmas and follow God’s guidance and to Kwanza season. do our part in strengthening The IRO in a release the inter-religious cohesion said that as families gath- among all Guyanese. er over this holiday season, “So as you pause to reit prays that God’s blessings flect on the reason for this of protection, prosperity and season – Christ and brothpeace will engulf their every erly fellowship, make a peractivity. sonal pledge to do your part “Just as Guyana is a in working towards the land of many harmonious peace, harmony and develraces, it is also a land of opment of this our beautiful many harmonious religions; land of Guyana. Season’s and nowhere is that inte- greetings from the executive grated religious tolerance and members of the Intermore vividly displayed than Religious Organisation of within the Inter Religious Guyana,” the religious body Organisation of Guyana. concluded.

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News

SUNday, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Nelson Mandela’s body arrives home

About 1000 members of the ANC, which Mandela once led, attended the special celebration at Waterkloof airbase

N

elson Mandela’s coffin has arrived in his childhood home in Qunu in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa, the final leg of its journey.

Large numbers of people lined the roads in the rural region to pay their respects as the cortège passed by.

A state funeral will be held today for Mandela, who died on December 5.

At least 100,000 people saw the former South African president’s body lying in state in Pretoria over

the last three days, but some had to be turned away.

The coffin was flown from Waterkloof airbase in Pretoria on a C130 military aircraft, escorted by two fighter jets.

In line with tribal custom, Nelson Mandela’s grandson Mandla accompanied him on the journey, speaking to his coffin to tell him he was on his way home to rest.

It arrived in Mthatha, 700 km (450 miles) away, shortly before 14:00h local

time (12:00 GMT).

To solemn music, the coffin draped in a South African flag was moved by a military guard of honour and placed in a hearse to begin the 32km journey to Qunu, where Mandela had wanted to spend his final days and where he will be buried.

People waving flags and cheering and singing ― in places 10 to 12 deep ― lined the route taken by the cortège through Mthatha town to pay their last respects.

Tears and smiles

Tears as well as smiles could be seen on the faces of onlookers.

“He is finally coming home to rest, I can’t even begin to describe the feeling I have inside,” 31-year-old Bongani Zibi told AFP news agency.

“Part of me is sad but I’m also happy that he has found peace.”

However, some people expressed their frustra-

His funeral will be conducted according to the traditions of the Xhosa people, into which he was born

tion that the convoy did not stop, so they had no chance to view the coffin as people in Pretoria had. The cortege then drove through the gates of the Mandela homestead in Qunu, where it will rest overnight in the grounds of the royal house of Thembu.

The BBC’s Milton Nkosi in Qunu said it was a powerful moment for the local community to see their liberator coming home.

The Thembu community will conduct a traditional Xhosa ceremony ― including songs and poems about Mandela’s life and his achievements ― in a giant white marquee that has been specially erected.

Some 4000 people ― in-

cluding presidents from Africa, several prime ministers, the Iranian vice president, and the Prince of Wales ― are expected to attend.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a long-time friend of Nelson Mandela, has now confirmed he will attend the funeral, having earlier said he had cancelled his flight as he had not received an invitation.

The South African government had earlier said the archbishop was accredited, but that no formal invitations had been sent out.

Ahead of the flight to the Eastern Cape, members of the African National Congress (ANC) paid final tributes to Nelson Mandela

at a ceremony in Pretoria.

President Jacob Zuma, other ANC leaders and more than 1000 members of the organisation which Mandela once led, attended the event at the Waterkloof air base.

It included a multi-faith service and a musical tribute.

Mourners heard President Zuma pay his own tribute to Nelson Mandela, calling him a “towering figure”, “a man of action” and a “democrat who understood the world”.

“Yes, we will miss him...

He was our father, he was our guardian. He was something special.”

“We’ll always keep you in our hearts,” Zuma said.

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news

sundAy, december 15, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

India was at the forefront in Mandela’s apartheid struggle the most popular political figure in India as I found in my surveys, associates Mandela with Mahatma Gandhi as Manmohan also did. Modi tweeted in the social media, “Mandela’s struggle against apartheid featured several South Africans of Indian origin; he later appointed several South African Indians to his cabinet after becoming president in 1994.”

By Vishnu Bisram

A

s in Guyana, the Indian media have been carrying glowing tributes on the anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela from Indian politicians as well as intellectuals at the universities (I spoke at Indira Gandhi University), and the common man. India declared five days of mourning as a mark of respect to the South African leader’s legacy. The Indian president, leader of the ruling alliance, the opposition leader, and the head of the left went to the state funeral.

The relationship between India and Mandela has been long and enduring. Mandela maintained contacts with India while he was in prison for 27 years and after he was freed. Apartheid was abolished in 1990, and a postapartheid nation held its first multiracial elections in 1994, overwhelmingly voting for Mandela as the country’s first black president.

In gleaming through the Indian media, Mandela is referred to as a giant and the politicians call him a great friend. Indian intellectuals I interacted with view him as a source of inspiration for future generations. These glowing tributes came in because Mandela touched the lives of the Indian people in deep personal ways as no other Black leader did in any part of the globe.

He deeply admired and respected Indians worldwide for standing with the antiapartheid movement.

Many recall Mandela with fondness the few times he visited India before, during and after he became president. Commoners know him as the first elected black president, expressing respect for his role in fighting racism and for also opposing and condemning those who organised attacks on Indians in South Africa.

Lifelong contributions

Nelson Mandela

Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in honour of his contribution to the friendship between South Africa and India.

When Mandela was freed from prison, India was the first foreign country he visited as a gesture for India’s unswerving support to the anti-apartheid struggle and the financial contributions to the movement. India gave tens of millions of dollars to the anti-apartheid movement and the frontline countries threatened by the racist White government.

When other African governments failed to back India for a UN Security Council seat in 1997, supporting Japan instead because of the greater financial assistance they obtained from Japan, then President Mandela rallied with India out of principle, expressing gratitude to India for its consistent support.

Great inspiration

In his condolence message on Mandela’s passing, President Pranab Mukherjee, who was foreign Indian victims minister when Mandela was There are over one milpresident, said, “Mandela lion people of Indian dewas a statesman, world scent in South Africa and leader and icon of inspiraMandela rallied to their protion of humanity. He was a tection when their homes great friend of India and his were invaded and they contribution for strengthenwere beaten and robbed. ing the close ties between Mandela reminded the anour two countries will be alti-Indian racist attackers ways remembered.” that Indians were also vicThe India media quottims of the apartheid sysed Vice President Hamid tem and that many Indians Ansari, as describing fought apartheid alongside Mandela as the “greatest him and many went to jail, personalities of our times serving lengthy jail sentencwho represented the best es as him. of human spirit values”. He Mandela’s lawyers were added: “While his courage, Indians and his attorney determination and sacrifice general after winning the inspired millions of people presidency was his Indian during the anti-apartheid lawyer who served time in movement, his message of jail fighting apartheid. It peace, forgiveness and recwas not surprising, thereonciliation thereafter, unitfore, that all the Indian ed them and led the rainnewspapers carried editoribow nation on the path to als and op-eds saluting the peace and progress. His iconic figure. life and message of courage Mandela is only one and goodness would continof two foreigners (Mother ue to inspire and guide all of Theresa the other one but us around the world in the she had acquired Indian years ahead.” citizenship and was given Prime Minister a state funeral when she Manmohan Singh statdied) who was awarded the

ed that Mandela’s passing was “as much India’s loss as South Africa’s. He was a true Gandhian. His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for gen-

erations to come. I join all those who are praying for his soul”.

The opposition prime ministerial candidate for the BJP, Narendra Modi,

Modi said he deeply admired Mandela “for his remarkable lifelong contributions to the promotion of freedom, democracy, justice, human rights and reconciliation.” He added: “Many of us are not fortunate to see Gandhiji alive.

We are blessed to see the life of Nelson Mandela, who embodied his values and ideals.”

N e w l y - e l e c t e d Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, said “in Mandela’s passing, the world has lost a great lead-

er, but most importantly, a beautiful soul”.

The Indian parliament suspended business last Friday to allow members to pay tribute to the great leader. Many recalled meeting the South African leader and visiting the prison where Mandela served time. Senior BJP leader LK Advani referred to Mandela as a great leader and the father of a free South Africa, who inspired his nation.

Many members of parliament compared Mandela in the mould of Gandhi, who had supported inclusive governance. Mandela was a great admirer of Gandhi and even delivered a feature at a conference on the great Mahatma in Durban when he was president.

As the India media, politicians and people asserted, Mandela would long be an inspiration to all of humanity because of his selfless struggle for racial equality and freedom.

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guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, december 15, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

By Bernice Bede Osol

archie

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) Completing projects in a timely manner will be key to your peace of mind today. Avoid anyone holding you back. Don’t invite change if you don’t want it. Have patience with others, but don’t let them slow you down.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) You’ll need to keep a close watch over your wallet today. Spend less and get more by taking the time to look for bargains. Your goals can be met if you use your head.

A change will do you good.

PISCES (Feb.20March 20)

dilbert

You’ll face opposition and argumentative individuals who will try to manipulate your emotions. Take care of personal and financial paperwork that needs to be dealt with before the year comes to a close.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

Don’t slack off when action is the order of the day. Physical activity will motivate you to get cracking when it comes to your professional affairs as well. Stick to a set budget.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) It’s a good day to update your look or expand your interests. Get involved in something that will give you more personal, spiritual or professional options. End your day in a romantic way.

Peanuts

GEMINI (May 21June 20) Try to address a troublesome situation before you take action. Once you find a solution, you will have no trouble following through. Use your head and the lessons of past experience.

CANCER (June 21July 22) Don’t question someone in a position of authority. Listen carefully and assess the situation before making a decision that could prove costly.

Don’t be afraid of ideas that some think unusual -- get the facts and trust your gut.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Welcome any change or challenge that comes your way. You are up for any competition you face, and Lady Luck is in your corner. A friendly get-together will help you make an important decision.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) Don’t let emotional issues spin out of control.

Be careful what you say, or you may have regrets.

Stick to your plans, but don’t push your agenda on others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23) You should closely examine some personal problems and discuss your concerns with the people affected by them. A change is in order, and your inclination to procrastinate must not stop you from making a decision.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) A joint financial deal could have underlying problems. Don’t take a risk when you can do better acting independently.

Conservative steps will keep you out of trouble.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) Make a point to visit destinations that promise excitement and adventure. Trips or projects that you’ve been considering should be further explored. The winds are shifting in your favour, so let out your sails.

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President Donald Ramotar comforting the wife of the late Assistant Police Commissioner Derrick Josiah

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Ramotar comforts relatives of late assistant police commissioner

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resident Donald Ramotar on Saturday visited the relatives of the late Assistant Police Commissioner Derrick Josiah, who passed away on Friday at the Woodlands Hospital where he was taken to have a scheduled routine check, weeks after he was involved in an accident.

President Ramotar met with the family at their Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara home, where he comforted the wife, mother and children of the late assistant commissioner, and expressed his sympathy for their loss. President Ramotar was accompanied

by Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, Crime Chief Seelall Persaud, Assistant Commissioner George Vyphuis, and other top officers of the Guyana Police

Force.

The circumstances surrounding Josiah’s death are still not clear, but according to the private hospital, he suffered a heart attack about 15:30h and could not have been resuscitated.

According to reports, Josiah was taken to the hospital for a scheduled routine check-up and suffered a seizure while being looked at by the doctor.

He was immediately taken to the Intensive Care Unit where he died shortly after.

Prior to this, he had no previous seizures. Described as a stalwart in the force, Josiah was involved in an accident about three weeks ago after his car slammed into a utility police at Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara.

After sustaining a fractured left shoulder, he

was required to attend the Woodlands Hospital for a check-up on a weekly basis.

As he did every time, he contacted Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell, requesting the police’s ambulance to collect him from his home and take him to the hospital.

All arrangements were made through Assistant Commissioner George Vyphius and as recommended, he was collected on Friday at a particular time and dropped off at the private hospital.

Commissioner Brumell had stated that he was in his his office when he received a called informing him Josiah was dropped off but after a few minutes, he received another telephone call from a senior rank relating the devastating news.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport now has a yoga room

H

indus have applauded the launching of “Yoga Room” at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, calling it a “step in the right direction”.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, San Francisco International Airport and Burlington International Airport Vermont – all in U.S.A., already offer yoga facilities.

“Yoga Room” at O’Hare International Airport, located on Terminal three Rotunda and opened on December 10, “provides a space for yoga practice as well as a place to relax or meditate”, a release said.

This free facility features a sustainable bamboo wood floor, floor to ceiling mirror, exercise mats, frosted windows, video monitor displaying yoga exercise techniques, soothing sounds, plants lining outside windows and a clothes changing facility nearby.

There are reportedly plans to open a similar facility at Chicago Midway International Airport in the near future.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada, U.S.A. on Saturday, urged other top world airports – Singapore Changi, Incheon (South Korea)

Universal Society of Hinduism President Rajan Zed

International, Amsterdam, Hong Kong International, Beijing Capital International, Munich, Zurich, Vancouver International, Tokyo (Haneda) International, London Heathrow — to provide yoga facilities for the passengers if they wanted to help reduce their stress levels and be “world-class” airports.

Welcoming the gesture of Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco and Burlington airports for availability of yoga for passengers, Zed, who is president of the Universal Society of Hinduism, said that although introduced and nourished by Hinduism, yoga was a world heritage and liberation powerhouse to be utilised by all.

Zed further said that yoga, referred as “a liv-

ing fossil”, traces go back to around 2000 BCE in the Indus Valley civilisation, and was a mental and physical discipline handed down from one guru to next, for everybody to share and benefit from. According to Patanjali, who codified it in Yoga Sutra, yoga was a methodical effort to attain perfection, through the control of the different elements of human nature, physical and psychical, Zed added.

No-charge San Francisco International Airport Yoga Room is described as “space devoted to relaxation, selfreflection and practising yoga”. No-charge Dallas/ Fort Worth International Airport Yoga Studio is fully equipped with yoga mats and urges all to “take a minute to relax and stretch between flights”. Burlington International Airport’s yoga space invites passengers to “stretch out and relax before or between flights and enjoy a calm, quiet space”.

According to U.S. National Institutes of Health, yoga may help one to feel more relaxed, be more flexible, improve posture, breathe deeply, and get rid of stress. According to an estimate, about 21 million Americans, including many celebrities, now practise yoga.

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december 15, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Seven-year-old stars at GWKA final grading

S

even-year-old Sadelle Britton of Mae’s Primary School were among five students who were successful in the Shodan (First Degree Black Belt) when the Guyana Wado Ryu Karate Association (GWKA) held its final grading exercises for 2013 at Mae’s Primary School Dojo and Banks DIH Sports Club Dojo recently.

Sixty students were examined by Fifth Dan Sensei Winston Dunbar, who is the Technical Advisor/Chief Instructor of Wado Ryu Karate in Guyana.

The four other students who secured First Degree Black Belt were Imran Khan, Simeon Campbell, Daren Bobb, Alfred Hescott and Sierra Evans.

The remaining students were graded in the ranks of seventh Kyu to first Kyu. Britton is the youngest Black Belt student in the Association. She has been training in the art since she was four years old and has been diligent and committed to her craft. Her diminutive stature is misleading since

FIFA World Cup 2014…

Worker dies in stadium fall

Sensei Winston Dunbar with the successful students. Sadelle Britton is at extreme right

she is never afraid to mix it up with the older and taller students, Darren Nurse, president of the GWKA said.

Almost half of the examined students attend the Mae’s School Dojo, which has had Wado Ryu Karate being practiced there for a period of approximately six years. The school has opened its arms to the GWKA with an

extremely supportive administrative staff, who are interested in seeing the club continue to blossom.

Sensei Dunbar said he was extremely pleased with the performance of the young students who have showed dedication and commitment which could open many doors for them.

The stadium will host England’s opening game of the 2014 World Cup

A

worker has been killed after falling from the roof of the Amazon stadium in Manaus, which is due to host games in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Marcleudo de Melo Ferreira, 22, died in hospital in Manaus after falling nearly 35m (115ft) when a cable broke.

The stadium is behind schedule and work is under way day and night to complete it by FIFA’s end of year deadline.

It is the latest of several deaths during construction of Brazil’s World Cup stadiums.

Two workers were killed in an accident on November 27 when a crane fell and destroyed parts of Sao Paulo’s Arena Corinthians, which will host the opening game on June 12.

That accident delayed the stadium’s completion

date by several months.

Andrade Gutierrez, the company building the Amazon stadium, said the dead worker had been employed by a company subcontracted to construct the stadium’s cover.

It said work had been halted until Sunday.

The stadium in the Amazonian jungle city is where the England team will open their 2014 World Cup campaign.

Brazil has admitted it is struggling to have all 12 venues completed on time.

The country’s preparations for the World Cup have also been hit by cost overruns and public protests over what is seen as wasted resources.

Last week FIFA’s General Secretary Jerome Valcke appealed to Brazilians to support the contest saying it was the “wrong time” to protest. (BBC Sport)

Fourth Hugh Ross Classic...

The respective male category winners will then via for the title of Mr Hugh Ross Classic.

For the female athletes, Ross said the organising committee has decided to have a Miss Bodybuilding, Figure and Bikini competition.

The 2010 Mr Universe Over-50 Champion, who is also a former Guyana Defence Force Special Forces Captain, said at the launch that the competition over the years has benefitted local athletes tremendously and at the same time has been very entertaining to the audience.

“As customary we want to have an event that is pleasing to both to our viewing audience as well as the athletes who will be participating,” Ross said, adding that the committee is working to have an IFBB male professional as the evening’s guest poser.

Registrations forms are available and can be uplifted from any member of the Hugh Ross Classic Committee. The deadline for submission of forms is February month-end, 2014.

Prizes and trophies will be presented to the top three finishers in all six categories, as well as the win-

from back page

ner of the overall competition.

Meanwhile, president of the Guyana Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GABBFF) Kevon Bess was on hand at the launch and confirmed his federation’s sanctioning of the fourth Hugh Ross Classic.

Bess said he believed that 2014 will be yet another exciting year for bodybuilding in Guyana.

He noted that the Hugh Ross Classic is a competition of high standard and prepares athletes for competition overseas, as well as on the local scene.

Bess said sport in general is evolving daily and applauded the Hugh Ross Classic Committee for investing its time and energies to lift the sport of bodybuilding even higher.

Linden’s Mark “Uno” Perry won the inaugural title in 2008, while Royston Booker took the title two years later. Kerwin Clarke is the defending champion, having won the overall title in 2012.

On the distaff side, Alisha Fortune, known more for her athletics prowess, has romped away with the female title on all three occasions.

december 15, 2013

Ashes 2013-2014…

guyanatimesGY.com

21

International Six crowned ASRS domino champs

England falter I after good start

nternational Six erased a three-game deficit to emerge winners of the All Seasons Racing Service (ASRS) sponsored three-way aggregate domino tournament, which ended in spectacular fashion at Ernest Shop, Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara, recently.

Entering the final leg, three games adrift of frontrunners ASRS with the scores reading 159 -156 and Canal Six lagging behind on 140, the game lived up to its pre-game hype with the eventual winners decided in the final sitting.

So intense was the battle between the two top contenders, International Six entered the final sitting a mere one game ahead of ASRS and the overall results still hanging in the balance. Both teams however, scored 13 games in the decider much to the delight of International Six and their supporters.

In the end, International

Alastair Cook made a gritty half-century

E

ngland’s grip on the Ashes slipped further as Australia refused to relinquish control of the third Test in Perth.

Setting out to overhaul Australia’s first innings 385, they lost the key wickets of Alastair Cook and Kevin Pietersen in a dramatic three-over spell late in the day to close on 180-4, still 205 runs adrift.

And with the WACA pitch showing sign of wear and Australia’s attack offering a threat with both pace and spin, England face a struggle to achieve parity, let alone a position where they can push for more.

In contrast to the unhappy collapses in the first two Tests in Brisbane and Adelaide, the tourists’ batsmen showed better application and discipline for much of another blisteringly hot day.

Yet relentlessly tight bowling brought its reward as Australia chased the victory that would win them back the Ashes for the first

time in seven years.

England had prospered in the first half of the day until a significant chunk of those foundations came crashing down in the gripping exchanges that followed in an enthralling afternoon and evening.

While much of the damage was done by Australia’s probing five-man attack, there was also controversy in the pivotal moments.

With the score on 90-1 10 minutes before tea, umpire Marais Erasmus initially gave Joe Root out caught behind off Shane Watson, and although the review requested by the batsman produced no clear evidence of an edge, third umpire Tony Hill decided that neither had he seen enough to overturn the decision, and Root was gone for four.

The match and thus the series hung in the balance, and Cook reacted with characteristic determination even as Pietersen was forced to play with unusual defensiveness. (BBC Sport)

SCOREBOARD Australia 1st innings Rogers run out (Anderson) 11 Warner c Carberry b Swann 60 Watson c Swann b Broad 18 Clarke c Cook b Swann 24 Smith c Prior b Anderson 111 Bailey c Pietersen b Broad 7 Haddin c Anderson b Stokes 55 Johnson c Prior b Broad 39 Siddle c Prior b Bresnan 21 Harris c Root b Anderson 12 Lyon not out 17 Extras: (1-nb, 3-w, 6-lb) 10 Total: (all out; 103.3 overs) 385 Bowling: Anderson 23-5-602, Broad 22-2-100-3, Bresnan 23.3-4-81-1, Stokes 17-3-63-1, Swann 17-0-71-2, Root 1-0-4-0 Fall of wickets: 13 (Rogers), 52 (Watson), 106 (Clarke),

129 (Warner), 143 (Bailey), 267 (Haddin), 326 (Johnson), 338 (Smith), 354 (Harris), 385 (Siddle) England 1st innings Cook c Warner b Lyon 72 Carberry b Harris 43 Root c Haddin b Watson 4 Pietersen c Johnson b Siddle 19 Bell not out 9 Stokes not out 14 Extras: (1-nb, 5-w, 10-b, 3-lb) 19 Total: (for 4 wickets; 68 overs) 180 Bowling: Harris 15-7-261, Johnson 15-6-43-0, Watson 9-2-32-1, Siddle 135-27-1, Lyon 16-6-39-1 Fall of wickets: 85 (Carberry), 90 (Root), 136 (Cook), 146 (Pietersen)

Sponsor Raymond Ali (left) of All Seasons Racing Service hands over the winner’s trophy to International Six skipper Manniram Shew, while other members of the victorious team look on

Six won with 76 games with Canal Six behind on 74 and ASRS on 72; the overall scores being International Six 232, ASRS 231 and Canal Six 214.

The top players for International Six were Intikab “Corbie” Ali with 15 games, Martin Permaul 14 and Prem Basant 13. For Canal Six, there were 15 games for Scotty Ramroop, 14 each for Chibar Seopaul and Ramroop Sukhai and 13 for Basdeo Persaud.

John Freeman with 15 games and Frankie Seaforth 13 were ASRS top markers, while Avie Persaud of Canal Six was the lone lovebird.

Trophies were presented to the winning and runner-up teams, the three best players on the winning team, the two top players on the second and the leading player in the third placed team.

The prize winners for International Six were Edmund Sammy and Intikab

Ali with 41 games each, while Prem Basant made 30 games in two matches to end with the impressive average of 15 games per match.

ASRS’s John Freeman topped for his side with 45 games, while other prize went to Frankie Seaforth, who ended with 43, the same as Hazim Hack. Seaforth however, gave away 73 games to Hack’s 75.

Chibar Seopaul was the main player for Canal Six, registering 43 games.

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december 15, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Bishops High topples defending champions in Titan Bowl opener

By Treiston Joseph

T

he Bishops High School boys were percolating in the first half as they opened up a daunting 14-point lead on a young Marian Academy team that was definitely out of rhythm and lacking on court chemistry as Youth Basketball Guyana’s Titan Bowl opened on Friday evening at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Defending champions Marian Academy made an early run on the start of the second half to pull ahead 40-38 with little over three minutes remaining.

However, Daniel Ramlagan ignited a 6-0 run scoring four points to recapture the lead for good in the game.

Marian Academy had their chances in the closing two minutes to pull ahead with the game tied at 44 with 1:50 remaining, but threw away the ball once while taking heavily contested shots that resulted in air balls as they fell to Bishops High 49-47.

Ramlagan ended with 11 points, while Marvin Durant added a game-high 13 points. Daniel Haynes, who got “banged up” early in the game, later returned

Terron Welch drops in a lay-up during his 17-point output for LTI on Friday evening

and empathically ended the game with block shots that echoed through the arena, drawing cheers from the fans as he bowed in appreciation of his work. The Inter Guiana Games forward ended with six points and 12 rebounds.

In the final game of the evening, basketball was at its best as Linden Technical Institute (LTI) dismantled the Government Technical Institute (GTI) with crisp passing and expert cutting for a 65-33 win.

LTI played off the pick and roll, back door cuts and displayed a smooth midrange game that is heavily missing from first division basketball as the assumingly hit close to 45 percent of their shots from the field.

The only bright spots for the GTI team was the finishing skill of their guard Darrol Williams, who ended with 19 points, and the defense of Lasar Richards, who was the blocking machine, swatting away five shots with authority while altering many more in the paint.

Dennis Niles finished with a game-high 22 points for LTI, while Terron Welch was a defensive fiend, swiping away 10 steals while having 17 points along with eight rebounds.

Earlier, Kwakwani Secondary wasted little time in disposing of St

Dennis Niles finishes a smooth finger-roll on his way to a game-high 22 points to lead LTI pass GTI

Roses High School, routing the team 58-27.

Shafeeq Thomas was the leading scorer with 13 points, while Orwin Samuels was a rebounding beast with 15 boards.

Damair Gladston and Troy David also contributed 11 and 10 points respectively to the win.

The University of Guyana was also in action, blowing out President’s College 66-44 for an easy start to their campaign.

Guard Jonathan Pooran led the way for the university with 13 points, while Shaka Codrington had 12 points in the win. Fonsie James and Orin Thomas each had 10 points apiece to contribute to the blow out.

Shakeel Adonis was the only player in double fig-

ures for President’s College with 10 points in a disap-

pointing showing by the team.

Lasar Richards (# 13) climbs for one of his five blocks during his team’s loss to LTI

Ramdhani re-elected GBA president

G

okarn Ramdhani was re-elected to serve another term as president of the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) after the association held its biennial general meeting on Wednesday last at the Queen’s College Badminton Courts.

Ramdhani, who is also the national badminton coach, will serve for the period 2014-2016.

Dr Nicholas Waldron has been elected to serve as Vice-president, while Emelia Ramdhani has been elected as Secretary.

Ernesto Choo-A-Fat

(Assistant Secretary), Darrell Carpenay (Treasurer) and Gillian Mangra (Assistant Treasurer) have also been elected to serve on the executive.

The Committee Members are Marlon Chung, Ryan Chang and Paul Braam.

GBA president Gokarn Ramdhani (sitting centre) with some members of the executive. Absent are Dr Nicholas Waldron and Marlon Chung

dECEMBER 15, 2013

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23

West Indies in New Zealand 2013-14…

Gibson asks West Indies to "man up" as well, of course you expect better from your attack when you win the toss and put the opposition in. You don’t expect them to make 441,” Gibson said. “What it’s teaching us is a certain set of skills we have to acquire, which we haven’t

O

Ottis Gibson

ttis Gibson, the West Indies coach, has revealed that some harsh words were spoken in the dressing room after his team’s innings-and-73-run drubbing in Wellington and called on his players to “man up” as they aim to level the Test series next week.

Phrases such as “embarrassed” and “lack of fight” were at the forefront of some home truths after the Test had finished shortly after tea on the third day, with 16 wickets falling on Friday. West Indies had a behind-closed-doors training session back at Basin Reserve on Saturday, which included middle practice between the squad, as Gibson tried to repair some confidence before travelling to Hamilton on Monday. “’Embarrassed’ was mentioned. ‘Lack of fight’ was mentioned. Those are things you don’t want to be hearing too often in your dressing room,” Gibson said. “We haven’t heard those things too often in our dressing room recently. We have played some pretty good cricket. India was tough for us, but we are making it tough for ourselves here.

“New Zealand are playing very well but we’re not standing up to what they’re offering. That’s the disappointing thing. When you play away from home you expect it to be tough and we just have to man up and face up to the challenge that New Zealand present to us.”

Normally coaches and captains try to “take the positives” even in defeat, but there was little that

Gibson could cling to. The die was cast early when they shelled Ross Taylor at slip before he had scored.

He went onto make 129 in New Zealand’s 441, a dominant total on a well-grassed surface that Darren Sammy had been able to give his bowlers first use of.

“Sometimes when things are going wrong, everything goes wrong at the same time,” Gibson said. “When things are going well, everything goes well together.

We’ve always been a nation of fighters, our backs are against the wall here and we just have to ride it out.”

Gibson accepted that his pace bowlers - Tino Best and Shannon Gabriel - had let their chance slip away on the opening day after taking out the New Zealand openers cheaply - albeit noting the impact of the Taylor drop - but he was not ready to lose faith in the ones at his disposal on this trip.

In truth, though, he can’t do much else. His options are limited with Sheldon Cottrell, the left-armer, the only other frontline quick in the squad.

Spin approach

West Indies were keen to play Sunil Narine in Wellington but the pitch was so green as to halt that move, and although Sammy had indicated it may be the only route left for West Indies, Gibson was more reticent to throw his lot in with a spin approach for Hamilton.

“Any time you see a wicket with grass on like we have here, especially this one where the ball swung

nailed down yet. In the Caribbean the ball swings for two overs then you have to make it move off the surface.

In New Zealand it swings for much longer. It’s evident from what you see on the TV that we aren’t

getting it to swing.

“Looking at New Zealand, if I was in their camp, it would probably be another green seamer which nullifies the two spin option.

The pitches haven’t spun, New Zealand’s spinner [Ish Sodhi] bowled three overs

in the match here. They’ve got three seamers who are swinging it and causing us problems so I don’t see why they’d change the format.

Two spinners is a consideration, but we’ll have to look at what is the best format to win the Test.” (Cricinfo)

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

december 15, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com TOP SCORES

CRICKET (ASHES): AUSTRALIA 385 V ENGLAND 180-4; BASKETBALL (YBG TITAN BOWL): BISHOPS HIGH SCHOOL 49-47 V MARIAN ACADEMY

Bishops High topples defending champions in Titan Bowl opener See story on page

22

Tahquille Johnson sinks a floater during Marian Academy’s defeat to Bishops High

Marvin Durant skies for an easy finger roll lay-up to lead the way for Bishops High (Photos: Treiston Joseph)

Fourth Hugh Ross Classic set for March 29

West Indies in New Zealand 2013-14…

See story on page

23

Members of the Huge Ross Classic Committee, including Hugh Ross (second right) at Saturday’s launch (Photo: Rajiv Bisnauth)

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

he fourth edition of Guyana’s premier bodybuilding show, the Malta Supreme/Hugh Ross Classic Body Building and Fitness championships is set for the National Cultural Centre on March 29, and Guyana’s most dec-

orated male bodybuilder Hugh Ross has promised that the event will be bigger this time around.

Initiated in 2008, the event, intended to pay tribute to Ross, one of this country’s most decorated bodybuilder, has received an overwhelming response from athletes and support-

ers to date.

The championships, which is held every two years was launched on Saturday at the Water Chris Hotel, where Ross give assurances that the group responsible for the fourth edition is more equipped at a delivering a huge programme.

Local bodybuilders will compete in the male categories at Bantamweight up to 65kg (143lb), Lightweight 70kg (144154lb), Welterweight 75kg (155-165lb), Light Middleweight 80kg (166176lb) and Heavyweight 177lb and over categories. turn to page 20

Gibson asks West Indies to "man up" West Indies’ batsmen struggled in both innings at Basin Reserve, after their bowlers had failed to exploit a green pitch

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