LOOK ! INSIDE Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 1990 guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

December 22, 2013

PRICE

Dr Luncheon knocks Kaieteur News' article

WHAT'S INSIDE:

See story on page 5

– says report on Jagdeo’s position on New River Triangle matter a journalistic travesty

$100 vat included

Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

Sarwan weds

Miss P3 Guyana Universe fetes Linden children

Expanded Stretch P8 D Dollar Supermarket opens in New Amsterdam Remittances drastically P9 reduced as blacklisting takes toll

West Indies batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan on Saturday entered a new level of his innings, marrying the beautiful Nirmala Cindy at a private function held at Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice. The management and staff of Guyana Times/TVG/RGI salute the 2013 Guyana Amazon Warriors captain on this special occasion and wish him a long and successful marriage (John Greene photo)

Essequibians Millions lost as three vehicles soaking up the mysteriously Christmas spirit set alight See story on page 14

See story on page 16

Man gets 16 years P10 for slaying sodomite P16 Josiah remembered as man of dignity Guyanese P20 in New York gear up for end-of-year holidays

2

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

NEWS

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 22 from 08:30h-10:00h. The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on Sunday, December 22 from 07:10h-08:40h.

WEATHER TODAY

3

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Miss Guyana Universe fetes Linden children Roshana, Guyana’s celebrated beauty queen, who is popularly referred to as “Guyana’s Diamond Girl”, decided to use her personal money to treat the children of the charitable home. The beauty queen said she wished she could have met more people and the leaders of Linden. She learned that Linden is a family and Lindeners look out for each other, a philosophy she cherishes. Roshana is also an in-

Countrywide: Heavy rain showers are expected during the day, with clear skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 27 degrees Celsius. Winds: North-easterly at 4.02 metres per second.

High Tide: 07:17h and 19:33h reaching maximum heights of 2.43 metres and 2.48 metres respectively. Low Tide: 12:51h reaching a minimum height of 0.69 metre.

were excited to see the Miss Guyana Universe, who is sponsored by the NEW GPC/ Limacol, decked in her sash and crown. She told them stories, played and danced with them. Many songs were sung, but two were specifically dedicated to Roshana by Teshawn Rodney, 17. He sang for her “Christmas Holiday”, and his own favourite “Gallery”, which caused the Miss Universe Guyana to shed tears of joy. She was

Miss Guyana Universe 2013/2014 Katherina Roshana with the children of the Cheshire Home-Young Voices in Linden

M saturday, December 21, 2013

LOTTERY NUMBERS L

04 15 18 20 22 25 26

FREE TICKET

Daily Millions

13 14 16 21 25 LUCKY 3

0

0

5

Draw De Line

02 13 15 16 17 20 21 DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

Miner beaten to death at Baramita

T

he body of a miner was on Saturday morning discovered with several marks of violence to the head along the roadway at Baramita, North West District (NWD). The dead man was identified as Clement David of Baramita, NWD. He was believed to have been in his 40s. The discovery was reportedly made by a group of people who were traversing the area about 07:30h on Saturday. According to information received, the now dead man was seen late Friday evening consuming alcohol at a popular shop in the neighbourhood. He reportedly left alone after midnight. Investigators are working on the theory that David was robbed, then beaten to

death. A piece of wood was reportedly found in proximity of his body, which was taken to the Port Kaituma mortuary to await a postmortem examination. The police have launched an investigation into the matter, but are yet to make an arrest. Earlier in the month, miner Terrance France of Oronoque, Port Kaituma, was found by his colleagues in a mining pit at Eight Miles, Port Kaituma, with several chop wounds about the body. In yet another murder in the interior, the decomposed body of Andre Hercules was found in a mining pit at Long Island, Middle Mazaruni, Region Seven. His feet and hands were bound.

iss Guyana Universe 2013/2014 Katherina Roshana has described her recent outreach to children of the Cheshire Home-Young Voices in Linden, Region 10, as an exhilarating and exciting experience. Roshana said on receiving the invitation to contribute to the Christmas Fund of the Cheshire Homes-Young Voices, she felt she wished to do more than making a mere monetary contribution or of some article. Miss Guyana Universe, who is also Miss India Guyana 2013 and the Miss India Worldwide 2013 Most Beautiful Skin awardee, said she decided to treat the children, as she is the spokesperson for The Step by Step School, where children who suffer from autism (a neurological disorder) are educated. Roshana has been speaking locally and internationally to make people aware of the need to love these chil-

dren, and to give them a sound education. She said disabled children need more love and attention than normal children. Speaking about the children at the Cheshire Home, Roshana said despite their disabilities which include sight impairment and blindness, cerebral palsy and voice impairment, among others, the beautiful children are “bubbling with ambition and full of zest for life”, and many wish also one day to serve humanity, and be useful members of society. Roshana became extremely emotional, especially when it was time for her to return to Atlantic Gardens. The children held on to her and asked why she was leaving. She promised one day to return to them again, and told them that this memory of their love; their drive for life and beautiful personalities will linger forever in her heart and mind.

Miss Guyana Universe 2013/2014 Katherina Roshana gives special attention to one of the children

ternational ambassador of world peace and firmly believes in the oneness of mankind. The children were fed a wholesome and delicious meal, drinks and juices, and snacks. They played games, sang songs and were very jubilant. But most of all, they

thanked by Shewan (only name given), one of the students and a facilitator of the event.

4

sunday, december 22, 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

Steady progress

T

he International Monetary Fund (IMF) offers a report card, so to speak, on the economic performance of its members towards the end of the year. It does this even if the country is not participating in one of its adjustment programmes, such as those Barbados and Jamaica are presently executing, to stabilise their economies. Its report for Guyana is extremely encouraging and should bring cheer to the citizenry for the Christmas season. According to the figures, Guyana continues to make steady progress on the economic front. Most citizens would have known this from their own experience, but very sadly because of the opposition’s constant “doom and gloom” reportage through the media they control, their eyes are directed at the “half-empty” cup, not the “half-full” identical one. For instance, the IMF has confirmed that the economy has grown continuously for the last seven years at an average rate of over four per cent. One could compare this to the almost nine per cent achieved by China over the same period – as the opposition parties have done – but they do not point out that this is an exceptional – and unique – achievement. It could be better compared to the less than one per cent growth rate achieved by Barbados in the last few years, or the 1.5 per cent for Trinidad and Tobago this year, with no relief in sight. But what does this “economic growth” rate mean for the average person? Most pertinently, it has implications for citizens to be gainfully employed and to determine the contours of their living conditions. As the Labour Ministry reported, almost everyone who is willing to work and is willing to be trained for the available jobs can find employment. In every growing economy, there will never be a perfect fit between the jobs created and the skills demanded for those jobs. It is up to individuals to be retrained for the available jobs. Right now, for instance, the public servants are marching for a 15 per cent salary increase as opposed to the five per cent the government granted them. This can be contrasted to the layoff of 3000 public servants in Barbados to address the challenge of their slumping economy. Historically, the public service was seen as a sinecure for individuals that imbibed the traditional academic education. Our public service became additionally bloated during the People’s National Congress (PNC) cooperative experiment of 1970-1988. With the ignominious collapse of that experiment, the IMF had initiated downsizing of the public service and the PNC under Desmond Hoyte made large “retrenchment” cuts between 1989 and 1992 This was intended to rationalise the staffing of the public service to match the needs of the new, free-market economy. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, under Dr Cheddi Jagan, however, halted the downsizing effort on attaining office in 1992. Consequently, rationalisation of the public service has never been consummated.  The government’s five per cent grant exceeds the 3.4 per cent inflation rate announced by the IMF for Guyana in 2013 and therefore, the opposition is being irresponsible and provocative in claiming the living standards of public servants have deteriorated. The IMF also called for the efficiency of “public enterprises” to be increased and this call can also include the public service. If wages are increased out of step with productivity, then inflationary pressures would be created, which should wipe out the effects of salary increases.  If it were not for the political opportunism of the opposition and its affiliated Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), our public service would have been downsized and simultaneously upgraded in the skills demanded in the modern economy. Rather than accepting this reality and dealing with it frontally with the GPSU, the government has had to employ skilled “contract workers” to fill the gap. The GPSU, which wants to have its cake and eat it too, has not surprisingly been very critical.  To achieve higher growth rates and higher standards of living, all Guyanese workers will have to increase their productivity.  

Grand winners in the Lucozade Caps for Cash promotion receiving their cheques from ANSA McAL representatives at the head office, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara.

Love is patient and kind! What hurts is being hurt by someone you love Dear Editor, It’s Christmas, give love and respectability to your partners as a gift. Don’t hurt them. Love is patient and kind, love does not envy or boast, it is not arrogant or rude. It does not cause suffering and death. It does not insist on its own way, it is not irritable or resentful, it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices only with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never ends. The more you water it, with the water of love, the more it blossoms. Love is not found in just saying three words, “I love you”. It is found in the way you show that you care for one another. Love is kind. Love doesn’t hurt! What hurts is being hurt by someone you love. Love is joy. Love is happiness. Love is caring and sharing for each other. Love doesn’t mean hurting or killing each other. Don’t convince yourself that suffering is a part of it. This is so beautiful and so true. I have been noticing a lot of unnecessary suffering around in the area of relationships, from friends whose physical bodies become affected by dys-

functional relationships to friends who seem to be complaining about the same issues over and over again in their relationships. Suffering can be avoided, or at least short lived, with a shift in perception and understanding that yes, pain is inevitable in life, but the suffering part is truly optional and the power to end it is in our own hands. Taking responsibility for our part in the dysfunction gives us back the power to change our lives. Usually no one does anything to us or takes advantage of us without our permission. If you are in a relationship with someone who is causing you suffering, it may be time to stop and ask yourself what it is that is really causing you to suffer. Hint – it’s not love. Because love is not needy. Love is not insecure. Love is not jealous. Love is not angry. Love is not mean. Love is not vengeful. Love is not lonely. Love doesn’t lie or cheat. Love doesn’t leave us feeling neglected, used or like second best. Yet these feelings often get confused with love, hence the expression, “Love hurts”. It’s not love that hurts. It’s the loss of love or the fear of losing it that really hurts.

I believe, as I often say, that relationships are containers for growth, especially our most challenging ones. It’s the most challenging, earth shattering relationships which bring us to our knees that have the potential to propel us to our greatest heights. The most challenging ones will put our biggest insecurities and weaknesses under a microscope and show us where we need to grow. It’s only when we finally become aware of these weaknesses and learn what we need to learn that we can move on to a better, more fulfilling relationship – sometimes it’s with the same person and sometimes it’s not. But when we don’t learn, we get caught up in the same unhealthy patterns over and over that cause more suffering and even our death at times. Before we rush into relationships with other people, it’s important to nurture our most important relationship of all, which is the one with ourselves. Our relationships with other people are a direct reflection of how we feel about ourselves. Fall in love with yourself and you won’t settle for a fraction of love from someone else. You will find yourself less tolerant of

bad behaviour. Neediness and loneliness will transform to self-fulfilment. If you are in a relationship that does not bring you joy, I invite you today to examine the role you have played in your current situation. How have you participated? What have you tolerated and continue to tolerate? And how can you change? Situations don’t get better by choices, but with changes. Because, by now, you know you can’t change anyone’s behaviour but your own, and sometimes that means, after doing all you can do, walking away. And that’s ok because the experience, self-knowledge and wisdom you have gained are priceless and will take you to places you may never have dreamt. However, you first need to be willing to walk the dark unseen parts of your path alone, but I assure you there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Respectfully submitted, Pandit Suresh Sugrim Humanitarian Mission New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir Inc

I highly recommend Fly Jamaica Airways

Dear Editor, I just experienced the distinct pleasure of travelling to Guyana on a direct and nonstop flight, from Toronto’s Lester B Pearson Airport to Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport. This new direct service

started on December 17 by Fly Jamaica Airways and will run bi-weekly (every other Tuesday) for now. However, plans are in the making for a weekly flight to Guyana by February 2014 and twice weekly starting in May 2014. The crew and staff of Fly

Jamaica Airways are extremely welcoming, courteous and friendly to all passengers on flight. And best of all, their prices are the lowest in the industry and you are in Guyana in just under six hours. I was very impressed with the entire service and opera-

tion of Fly Jamaica Airways. Hence, I highly recommend Fly Jamaica Airways for your next trip to the Motherland, Guyana. Note: next flight to Guyana is December 31. Sincerely, Mani Singh

news

5

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Dr Luncheon knocks Kaieteur News' article – says report on Jagdeo’s position on New River Triangle matter a journalistic travesty

C

abinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon has dismissed the lead story of the Kaieteur News published on Thursday about former President Bharrat Jagdeo's position on the New River Triangle matter as a journalistic travesty. The article in question headlined “Jagdeo pressed for mining in disputed area” reported Dr Luncheon as saying that Jagdeo began the pursuit to explore and mine in the disputed New River

Kaieteur News publisher Glenn Lall

Kaieteur News editor Adam Harris

Triangle area, during his last term in office, despite the fact that several of the members of the Cabinet at the time did not agree with the move. Dr Luncheon, in a letter to Kaieteur News Editor Adam Harris on Saturday, said he is not at all surprised about the continued breaches of journalistic ethics by the newspaper. “I defy your reporter to publish the verbatim account of my December 19, 2013 comments on former

Dr Luncheon blasts U.S. ambassador for proceeding with governance project

C

abinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon has sharply criticised the decision by U.S. Ambassador D Brent Hardt to implement a governance project or aspects of it, under the auspices of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), despite strong objections by Cabinet. Addressing the issue during a television interview, Dr Luncheon said that the matter was engaging the highest levels of government in no uncertain terms. “This issue is an affront to Guyana’s sovereignty,” the cabinet secretary said. He said it is essentially a challenge by the U.S. ambassador to ignore Cabinet’s disapproval, and implement elements of the project, not in any guise of having a discourse on the matter, but just to inform the government through the media of

what position has been adopted by the American authorities. “That is what at this point occupies the minds of the presidency and Cabinet,” said Dr Luncheon. He said the U.S. ambassador’s resort to the media, in this case the Stabroek News, to declare his intentions of pursuing the project despite government’s position, borders on the “grossest disrespect and abuse of his diplomatic presence”. Dr Luncheon said that all other “antecedent events” about the project can now be considered moot. “The issue is, the Cabinet of this nation, a sovereign country, indicated to the American ambassador its definitive position on this matter, and according to the reports in the Stabroek News of December 19, the ambassador in an article, has essentially said, ‘I am

going ahead with what I want to go ahead with, and this decision of Cabinet, disapproving this project, I will ignore, I will disregard’, indeed he has effectively challenged state power,” Dr Luncheon stated. He insisted that the views by some sections of society that the governance project should be entertained and even implemented due to its perceived importance are not the main issue. “Cabinet made a decision, a definitive decision, that is where the matter ought to have ended,” said Dr Luncheon. The USAID project was not approved by Cabinet and this was formally indicated to the relevant authorities on October 26, formally. Unconfirmed reports later indicated that the USAID project activities were being implemented and Cabinet

wrote to the U.S. ambassador, requesting clarity on the matter, reported the Government Information Agency (GINA). On December 19, a meeting was convened among President Donald Ramotar, Dr Luncheon and Ambassador Hardt. It was noted by Dr Luncheon that, “The ambassador was not categorical in affirming to the president and myself that yes, indeed, I have received confirmation of Cabinet’s disapproval, not withstanding which the American authorities have indeed continued to implement elements of the project.” Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett has been mandated by Cabinet to ascertain if indeed the statements made by the U.S. ambassador are true as have been attributed to him.

President Jagdeo’s stance on mining in the New River Triangle area. To insert in your headlines such an obviously inaccurate position is difficult to comprehend, particularly if it claimed to be based on my actual presentation on December 19th, 2013.” He said, much worse is the claim that cabinet, the mining sector and Guyanese are all aware what the fundamental position of the former president was. “I would be surprised

if the editor of Kaieteur News were to deny knowledge of former President Jagdeo’s position, adumbrated during his 20062011 term in office. So essentially, I insist that the headline is totally inaccurate and inconsistent with my remarks. Additionally, and the position attributed to the president in the headline is known to all to be inconsistent with the truth. Perhaps the editor of Kaieteur News can explain to readers this gross travesty,” he said.

6

sunday, december 22, 2013

Page

Foundation

Home

at Last

“I’m coming home... I’m coming home... Tell the world I’m coming home” – I’m coming home by J Cole featuring Skylar Grey

Anu Dev

W

ell, the deed is done! I can finally say (shout?) that I’ve survived my first semester at med school. I’ve persevered through their gruelling exams – which are obviously designed to test one’s endurance more than anything – and lived to tell about it. It hasn’t been easy, I’ll tell you. But I got through it by keeping my eyes on the prize. The prize being of course, homecooked meals straight from mom’s kitchen, back in good, old Guyana. But now that the semester’s all over, I can look back and reflect on what the last four months have been like. What hits me first is it really doesn’t feel like an entire four months has gone by. Einstein was right and time is relative. Four months loomed ahead like an eternity at the beginning of the semester. But now, I think that I can amend the saying “Time flies when you’re having fun” to something more along the lines of, “Time flies when you’re having mountains of arcane medical minutiae continuously flung into your face for four months straight”. It’s less catchy I know, but it has

guyanatimesgy.com

that lovely jaded ring to it, which I think I’ve earned. The Hallmark people probably won’t be calling me up anytime soon, though! But it hasn’t been all “burning the midnight oil” and having our noses “pressed to the grindstone”. They have proper lighting in our dorms and there are more devious torture methods here than grindstones. Like sitting though PowerPoint presentations with over 150 slides. The

mind wanders, I’ll tell you. But in all seriousness, the semester has had its fun moments as well. It’s been incredible. From attending the spectacular Diwali play by students to spending hours in the kitchen (I cook to relax) with my flat-mates just talking, I’ve enjoyed everything immensely.

And so, I’ve managed to settle into a routine. A campus that seemed so large and strange in the beginning is now home to me. I have different routes I take to class depending on my mood or the weather. If I’m running late and I can’t make my coffee run before classes, I’ve perfected the art of making a quick dash to Rituals in the little break we get in the middle of a lecture to ‘stretch our legs’.

And I can tell you, I tend to take the act of ‘stretching my legs’ a bit more literally than I’m sure my lecturers intended – I’ve clocked in some of my best sprint times on those quick dashes for coffee. See, there are ways of keeping fit in med school! But it was a strange feeling on Friday, locking up

not only my dorm room, but the entire flat as well, since my flatmates from the other Caribbean islands had all decamped. Checking to make sure the lights were switched off, the windows were locked and that nothing was left plugged in. It felt very adult, actually. And then, while driving away, while my mind was frantically checking and rechecking to figure out whether there was something I had forgotten to do or to pack, I finally understood why my mother gets so anxious about leaving the house unattended when we go off on vacation. I can see I have nine gruelling semesters ahead of me, but this is where I want to be: exactly what I want to be doing with my life at this point in time. I did get those moments, even in the height of my pre-exam tensions, where I was just so enthralled by how complex and intricate (and delicately balanced) the human body is. They were the moments where I was truly happy to be learning the things I was learning. And I hope to have more of those moments – with increasing frequency and duration. It’s those moment, I guess, that make it worth going through the grind med school is shaping up to be – those moments of clarity where I remember all of the reasons why I chose to do medicine.

On the holidays: Teaching children compassion and altruism By Dr Kristin Seaborg

A

s the holidays approach with gusto every year, I struggle with how to teach my children to climb down from Santa’s lap and think about others for a change. Don’t get me wrong; I think the holidays are wonderful. It’s magical to see the glint in my fouryear-old’s eyes as we light up the Christmas tree. My seven-year-old giggles with excitement as he methodically writes his wish list to Santa each year. So I did a little research on what the developmental and behavioural psychologists had to say on how to teach a child altruism and compassion. It turns out that our role as parents is vital in nurturing these important traits from the moment a child is born. Bowlby wrote in 1969 that humans are evolutionarily equipped with the ability to create attachment bonds with caretakers who offer protection, guidance, and relief from distress. If an infant learns that he can depend on his caregivers to provide for his needs, he will learn to provide for the needs of others. Humans are born with an innate sense of altruism and benevolence and naturally enjoy helping others. Often the challenge is protecting our children from the selfish influences of a retail economy and preserving the altruistic tendencies bred in their DNA.

As your child reaches the toddler years, you can hone their empathetic and altruistic tendencies in the way you respond to conflict. Martin Hoffman described the “inductive discipline technique” in 1975. In a disagreement, if a parent calls attention to the other child’s distress and encourages her child to imagine himself in his playmate’s place, he will learn compassion and empathy. The “authoritarian parenting” technique, where a child is punished harshly for transgressions, will not promote development of these crucial life skills. Finally, if you are a compassionate parent, your children will learn by your example. It isn’t always enough, however, to do a good deed. You should tell your children the importance of the coats you donate or the food you serve to others. Lickona wrote in 1983, “our children need to see us lead good lives, but they also need to know why we do it. We need to practise what we preach, but we also need to preach what we practise.” So during this holiday season, take time to ring the bells for the Salvation Army or shop for gifts for underprivileged children with your little ones in tow. Who knows? Maybe their wish list will be a little bit shorter as they learn to give to others. (wkbw.com)

news

7

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Ganesh Parts donates $2M to Doobay Medical Centre year round, they offer dialysis at very affordable prices and in some cases totally free of cost, and they provide for young or old, strong or weak, rich or poor, any race or religion.” The directors of the

Doobay Medical Centre directors Dawn Oditt and Ameena Gafoor receive the $2 million cheque from Adeetie Persaud of Ganesh Parts and General Store. Also in the photograph are staff of the Doobay Medical Centre and Ganesh Parts and General Store

G

anesh Parts and General Store on Saturday donated $2 million to the Doobay Medical Centre. The timely donation will aid in the expansion of the services provided by the medical centre. Management of Ganesh Parts and General Store said they are embracing the spirit of Christmas, and as such, are pleased to give back to the community and those in need. “We would like to encourage them (Doobay Medical Centre) to expand in the

medical field here,” said Adeetie Persaud of Ganesh Parts and General Store. The Doobay Medical Centre, a non-profit organisation that was opened in 2011, was praised for pro-

viding dialysis in accordance with international standards while maintaining affordable prices. Persaud added that “The centre provides ‘Christmas like’ service all

Doobay Medical Centre thanked Ganesh Parts and General Store for their recognition and support of the clinic’s efforts. “Generous donations like these allow us to expand and help people who

are really in need and cannot afford,” Doobay Medical Centre Chief Executive Officer Vickram Oditt said. The cheque was handed over at Ganesh Parts and General Store located on Robb Street, Georgetown.

8 news

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Expanded Stretch D Dollar Supermarket opens in New Amsterdam

T

he Stretch D Dollar Supermarket at Pitt Street, New Amsterdam, which has been expanded, doubling its previous size, recently opened its doors to Berbicians, giving them a wide variety of goods to choose from. Proprietor of the market, Randolph Blair said he was inspired to expand, given the scope for business in New Amsterdam. “What we offer now is a wider variety which presents customers with choice. We have the same produce in many different brands,” he said, noting that customers are afforded the opportunity to shop in a “Customer-friendly environment”. The New Amsterdam store, remodelled and expanded to the tune of $83 million, was initially opened on Main Street in

Season of goodwill?

The newly-opened Stretch D Dollar Supermarket in New Amsterdam

2005. Currently, Stretch D Dollar has locations in East Canje which was established in 2002 and another at Rosignol, West Bank Berbice which opened in 2010. The new location offers customers frozen foods,

vegetables, small and large electrical appliances, kitchen utensils and home furnishing. The store also provides employment for 27 persons. A total of 67 persons are employed at all its branches.

Remains of man found at Bath Settlement

T

he remains of a man were on Friday discovered in a clump of bushes at Waterloo, Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice by villagers who immediately summoned police at Fort Wellington. According to reports received, police ranks visited the scene where they saw a human skull, two thigh bones, two leg bones, one rib bone and one jaw bone suspected to be that of Sookram Ragabir called “Baayun”, 51, of Bath Settlement. These bones were re-

Eyew tness

portedly scattered in a clump of bushes about 300 feet south of Waterloo Bath Public Road. Further checks were made in the area and a black three quarter pants with black belt were found in a shallow trench about 20 feet from where the body was discovered. The pair of pants was fished out and searched, resulting in the discovery of a black gent’s wallet containing $24,000. The remains were escorted to Anthony’s Funeral Parlour for storage while the wallet containing

the cash was lodged at Fort Wellington Police Station. Several persons were contacted and questioned, including one Rohanie Deokarran of Lot 43 ‘C’ Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, who indicated that she suspected the remains to be that of her brother, Sookram Ragabir, who was a destitute. He went missing about six months ago, but she did not make any report to the police about him being missing since he would normally roam the streets and had no fixed place of abode.

...in the capital So here was your Eyewitness all ready for a nice, juicy show-and-tell drama in Parliament, and all that took place was the basic humdrum name-calling and aspersion-casting exercise we call “parliamentary sittings”. We’re referring, of course, to the People’s National Congress (PNC), now A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) faithful, Volda Lawrence, clearing the mud and innuendoes that’ve been cast on her good name. You remember? The poor woman took ill during the previous “sitting”. Now if you’ve ever been exposed to the parliamentary rigmarole you’ll appreciate it's almost impossible not to get sick there. In fact, most visitors, like your Eyewitness, leave the chamber, sick to their stomachs for what passes for “debate”. They make your average fourth form debate team look like the Oxford Union in full flow. After Volda took sick, she evidently became disoriented and couldn’t signal her votes properly. As a result, she didn’t toe the line along with the rest of her colleagues on a number of votes. Like the Specialty Hospital, on which APNU is doing some collegial back-scratching for the Alliance For Change (AFC). Most PNC and APNU people would like to have the Specialty Hospital. They remember well when Comrade Robert Corbin had to be medivacked out of Guyana some time ago with a heart condition. They’re all getting on in years, and know that the bell may roll for them anytime. But Khemraj Ramjattan’s client had lost out on the bid to build the hospital and you know you don’t become a “client” until money has changed hands. In some cases, we’re talking suitcases of money. So it’s not surprising that APNU’s horse-trading and backscratching mightn’t have gone down well with all the old heads...who remember the PNC is supposed to talk development also. But David Granger, ever determined to maintain discipline, insisted that Volda be “investigated”. He was in so many words saying Volda had been bought. Not by the AFC – they’d already bought APNU’s support as explained – but by the PPP/C. Your Eyewitness had wondered how the

heck Granger’s “investigation” would proceed. The doctor in the house – a PNC one at that – had already affirmed that Volda’d been sick. Were they going to pull her (manicured) nails out? Administer a truth serum, like in the Jason Bourne saga? Anyhow, Granger backed down and the official line was to ask the clerk to clarify why one of Volda’s silences had been interpreted as “yes”. On her hospital vote, all, including Granger,were silent. ...in natural resources In the wake of the public hounding he’s been subjected to by the opposition and its media handmaidens – Stabber and Muckraker mainly – on the survey permit extended to Muri Brazil, Natural Resources Minister Robert Persaud has come out swinging. Literally. He threw out an open challenge to “any group, be it the media, environmental group or be it any political party...to enter into a public debate and let them set it up any place, any time with any one, on all the issues raised...” Now if there are any takers, with all the red herrings dragged into the issue, that’s going to be a long debate. There are the environmental claims. Seems that in addition to former President Bharrat Jagdeo offering to have a fixed, minimal programme of deforestation – which is monitored by satellites – and the granting of Iwokrama, the largest forest reserve in the world by former President Desmond Hoyte, there are folks out there who believe we must leave the entire New River Triangle untouched! Then there’s the “security” concern...the imperative not to get big, bad Suriname riled up and of course, the elephant in the forest – claims that the minister lied to the parliamentary committee. ...by public servants Public servants are the only ones who’ve demonstrated any appreciation for the Christmas spirit. For the protest march called by their union, less than 100 showed up, including officials. The others were busy making their black cakes and ginger beer. 

NEWS

9

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

Remittances drastically reduced as blacklisting takes toll A ttorney General and Legal Affairs Anil Minister Nandlall said there has been a drastic reduction of remittances since the opposition’s nonsupport of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill caused Guyana to be blacklisted. The Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) in November blacklisted Guyana after it failed to pass several amendments to the principal Anti-Money Laundering Act. According to Nandlall, the repercussions of the opposition-inspired measure against Guyana are still being assessed.

Deadline

Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ronald Webster in a recent interview had told Guyana Times that the commission is doing everything in its power to ensure Guyana fulfils its February 2014 deadline to CFATF, to avoid further scrutiny. Webster pointed out that if Guyana is blacklisted internationally, the impact will be far worst and there will be no returning for the

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

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 will take time and would not be felt overnight. Republic Bank (Trinidad and Tobago) executive director Nigel Baptiste responding to questions on the impact of the counter measures on trade and payments between TT and the affected countries, said: “These measures will undoubtedly negatively affect trade and payments between the countries as the

enhanced monitoring will result in longer turnaround time, higher costs and possibly the refusal of accepting payments where information requirements are not met. “Where correspondent and other banks or parties restrict the types of business being done, this will negatively affect trade income and payments and may lead to investors withdrawing from Guyana...” Republic Bank has a significant subsidiary in Guyana, having acquired 51 per cent of the shareholding in the National Bank of Industry and Commerce Limited on November 1997. The subsidiary was officially rebranded as Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited on June 2, 2006.

Select committee

The Parliament’s committee of selection on Friday appointed a new special select committee which will be dealing with the retabled anti-money laundering bill. The bill, which came up for a second reading, for the second time, was again referred to a committee. Addressing the House on Thursday, Nandlall re-

position and are calling on their constituent members to protect themselves from whatever risks are emanating from Guyana. The amendments can be placed in two categories: administrative (which was addressed at the level of the government) and legislative. In fact, 98 per cent of the recommendations are legislative in nature.

Condition for support

APNU parliamentarian Carl Greenidge

minded that the contents of the amendments of the proposed legislation are reflective of the recommendations made by the CFATF, which Guyana should have passed since November. As a result of missing that deadline, the CFATF issued an adverse public statement, calling on member states which fall under its jurisdiction to take the necessary measures to protect themselves from the risks that Guyana poses as a money laundering and terrorism state. Several central banks in the Caribbean have issued advisories, advising their respective commercial sectors of Guyana’s current

The Alliance for Change (AFC) has expressed the same position it previously held when the bill was initially tabled in the House; that is, to have the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) in exchange for support for the bill. On the other hand, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) parliamentarian Carl Greenidge has accused the government of employing “scaremongering tactics” to force them to support the bill. He said that it does not matter if CFATF has approved the amendments, the House must have the scope to make its own amendments where it sees fit. Finance Minister, Dr

AFC parliamentarian Khemraj Ramjattan

Ashni Singh reminded that for the greater part of this year, the House has had the bill; however, to date, neither political party has indicated any amendments they wish to make. He recounted what transpired at the level of the select committee, which shows members of the opposition side deliberately stymieing the conclusion of the committee’s work. The minister said that the delaying tactics continued and is evident in all 17 meetings of the committee, and can be corroborated by verbatim transcripts and minutes of those meetings.

10 news

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Man gets 16 years for slaying sodomite

A

n Angoys Avenue man was on Friday sentenced to 16 years in prison for killing a man who he claimed sodomised him. Wayne Wright Courtney Telford received the sentence from Justice Dawn Gregory-Barnes in the Berbice Assizes after he had earlier pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter. Telford, 48, unlawfully killed Michael Kissoon, also called “Prickle” and “Red Man”, 37, also of Angoys Avenue on April 11, 2011. State Prosecutor Renee Singh told the court that, three weeks prior to the incident, the accused would frequently notice blood around his anus every morning when he wakes up. She said the accused and the deceased would normally sleep on a sponge under a shed at a house in Angoys Avenue, New Amsterdam. On the day in question, the accused got up around 06:00h and felt pain in his behind and when he wiped it, he noticed there was blood. She said about one hour later while soaking his clothes to wash, he overheard the deceased telling a man who is referred to as “Junkie”, that he had violated the accused the previous night.

Caution statement

This information, she said, was in a caution statement that the accused gave to the police. Singh said Telford waited until Kissoon was asleep later that morning, armed himself with a cutlass and dealt him several chops. A post-mortem (PM) performed on the remains of Kissoon by government pathologist, Dr Vivakanand

pressed deep regret for the embarrassment caused, especially to his three children,” the report stated. Justice Gregory-Barnes noted that she wanted to hear more about Telford’s personality prior to the incident. Psychiatrist, Dr Mayda Creajah said Telford displayed some abnormal behaviour, which is typical of a prisoner awaiting trial. Defence Attorney Charlyn Artiga begged the court to show leniency for her client, contending that he is not a man with a terrible past. “He told two officers that he was molested and the officers did not send him for a medical. The system failed the accused,” the attorney said

Embarrassment

Wayne Wright Courtney Telford

Bridgemohan revealed that Kissoon died from shock, haemorrhage and multiple incise wounds. A probation report on Telford, otherwise known “Papa”, indicated that he was forced to terminate formal schooling at a tender age after his mother died, as he had to support his other siblings financially. He started working at age 13 and six years later, he joined the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) where he remained for the next five years. The report said he was involved in two relationships; each lasted for three years, and from which he has three children. “He is recognised by the chief prison officer as well behaved and well respected. The accused has ex-

She said the accused had to suffer the embarrassment of being taunted and laughed at, not only by members of the public but by the very officers he reported the matter to. The attorney also pointed out that the accused had made reports to the police prior to the incident. “The accused should not bear substantial responsibility for the act. The accused exercised great restraints until that time and he did what any normal person will do.” Justice Gregory-Barnes in response said although there was some amount of provocation, excessive force and violence were unleashed on Kissoon. The judge reduced the 25-yearsentence by six years for the fact that the accused pleaded guilty and did not waste the court’s time and a further three years which is equivalent to the time he had already spent in jail.

Patriotic marchers

S

atiricus was confused. As a news hack, he’d been assigned to cover the march. The big march by the servants of the people (SOP). All week long, the editors had been gathering around in a huddle to plan their strategy on how to cover the event. Everybody agreed it was going to be “massive”. And why not? After all, the SOP had faithfully served the people of this country through rain and sun, water and mud, thick and thin all year long and look what the government was giving them – a measly five per cent! Well, they actually worked in air conditioned offices, but Satiricus’ blood was really boiling. So here he was...out in the sun looking for the multitudes of SOPs gathered in righteous indignation to gather the citizens of Georgetown in support of their just cause. All he spied were a bunch of persons gathered under umbrellas with some small hand-crafted placards held sheepishly in front of their faces. Was this the march? Then it dawned on Satiricus: the other thousands and thousands of SOPs were too tied up dealing with the problems of the people to leave their air conditioned rooms and stroll around in the boiling sun. Tears came to Satiricus’ eyes. These SOPs were the only people who thought only about Guyana. Whenever the ordinary folk had a problem and went to the SOPs’ air conditioned offices, they didn’t have to wait more than a few hours in the not-air conditioned waiting area. And as soon as they were seen, the SOPs would spend at least two minutes with them – even though they had so much to do. Like taking their coffee breaks and lunch hours. The geriatric president of the SOPs demanded to know why there were so many policemen. There were at least three times more policemen than marchers. The geriatric president of the SOPs had every right to be livid, thought Satiricus. It was obvious the policemen didn’t know how patriotic the SOPs were and that they would sacrifice the opportunity to stroll down scenic, aromatic Georgetown and remain toiling away at their desks in air-conditioned offices. Some more tears rolled down Satiricus cheeks. And a little sniffle. Satiricus hadn’t received any salary increase this year because his editor had pointed out the newspaper still hadn’t increased its profits. So Satiricus didn’t raise any fuss. But the SOPs were a different story. Why should gold miners, for instance, get so much money? Didn’t they know it was because the SOPs were in their air-conditioned offices, they could take in the big bucks. So what if they could get malaria or whatever? SOPs could get paper cuts, no? As Satiricus trudged back to file his story, he hoped the government would come to its senses and wake up to the heroic sacrifices made by the SOPs.  Or else they might just leave their jobs and take up cane cutting. Cane cutters had received four per cent for their cushy jobs.

11

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

12 Feature

Truth More constructive suggestions

sunDAY, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Simply the

By Professor Daizal Samad

I

n the last column, we explored two constructive suggestions: 1. A new source of electrical power and potential spin-off. 2. A Special Victims Unit in the Guyana Police Force that would identify, prosecute, analyse, and prevent domestic violence and child abuse. Let us add to that list. Thanks to a few thinking senior law enforcement officers, we put together a new training regimen for police trainees at the Felix Austin Police College in B Division (Adventure). The University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) implemented immediately. New cops were trained in new areas: oral communication and mannerly conduct, written communication, police report writing, the fundamentals of law, first arrival medical treatment, conflict resolution and domestic violence, information technology, and so on.

Professor Daizal Samad

This was a week-long intensive training at UGBC. Our several good lecturers, former police trainers, lawyers, magistrates, civic and religious leaders volunteered their time and expertise. Free! We should continue this and expand it. It would be relatively easy to have a fully computerised system connecting all police stations and outposts with a consolidated database of crimes,

criminal activity, convicted criminals, and potential perpetrators. Where, when, who, how! Crime happens in Skeldon, Anna Regina knows promptly. This too can be expanded. Let us have a rotation system for active ranks to re-train and refresh them. With measureable excellence upon completion, they are rewarded with bonuses and promotion. Importantly, the best and brightest could be granted scholarships for higher education with higher promotions in sight. Let us implement a tracking system for law enforcement officers. We then know who are serving where, in what capacities, and how well. We design Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that would assist in the tracking. They do wellbonuses and promotion. And then we have a full degree programme in Senior Police Management at UG. This has been designed already at UGBC, but UGBC cannot implement this – yet.

Any rank from sergeant up, would be eligible for entry into the degree programme. This would not have to take the old UG (well, 1800s UK) system which would spend four years to complete. There will be credit hour rewards for experience, other training locally and internationally, rank seniority, and other certification. The degree could be done in as little as two years. We could ask for assistance from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), and other proven international law enforcement agencies. No need for this old semester-long system. Let us use the spring- andextended-session system. It is back-breaking and intensive, but good. The greatest gainers would be law-abiding citizens. The only losers would be criminals or potential criminals. Another constructive suggestion from this small

column. In Rose Hall Town, there are horses. Five or six at a time. They are geldings or wasted mares, bay and one grey. Around the clock, they graze on an empty patch of land. While they wait for death, they are tormented by bored children, pelted by care-takers, and beaten with sticks. They trot away from it all, and resume their grazing, wasting away. Their coats are spotted with sores, their eyes clotted with puss, their heads hung down with defeat. And yet, they are gentle. And yet, there is old musculature that seems to remind them that they were once useful and admired. They have more beauty and remembered power and present grace than those two-legged things around them. It is (or should be) well known that animals are good company for children. Just to be around these noble creatures brings joy and relief to children. All children, but especially the handicapped.

How about this crazy idea? We go to the owner of these horses and to these important chaps that own all these abandoned race horses. These fine things are not even lead ponies (we still do not have those in Guyana, to my knowledge). At best, they get sold away as dray cart things, as beasts of burden. So let us create a riding school. Someone donates a small piece of land, the community builds simple paddocks, the children and parents pay a small sum to ride, and the kids have the sheer pleasure of taking care of the horses. Under supervision, they bath them, dry them off, feed them, brush them, and love them. It is truly fabulous therapy for children, parents, and the animals. In this simple way, we can re-build families, heal children, and learn to care for each other as we care for animals. I am confident that these many ministries will come on board.

13

SUNDAY, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

14

SUNday, december 22, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com

News Essequibians soaking up the Christmas spirit BY INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

T

he hustle and bustle has begun. The county of Essequibo is alive and filled with the evident energy and zest that come with the Christmas season. Not only for housewives and taxi drivers, but also market vendors; many of whom are trying to cash-in on the boom in business during the festive season. Earlier in the week, vendors had begun to line the street leading to the old Anna Regina Market, selling flowers, curtains, household items, Christmas trees and even apples and grapes. One flower vendor Mala Danpat told Guyana Times that she made a makeshift stall to sell flowers she purchased in Georgetown. Danpat said the extra money she earns help to provide a better meal for her family on Christmas day.

Danpat, who is a single mother, said apart from the peak vending season, she works with persons cleaning their homes. Another vendor Totoram Sasenaryan, who sells vegetables, said even through prices have increased during the past week, sales remain robust. He sells celery, sweet pepper, tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage and esshallot, among other garnish items. Sasenaryan said he enjoyed hearty sales during the schools’ Christmas parties. Commercial side Christmas is one of the most auspicious holidays that is celebrated the world over and the county of Essequibo has made its mark in contributing to the life-long tradition and memories of what it really means to celebrate Christmas in style and comfort. No Christmas on the Essequibo Coast is complete

A child receives a gift from Santa during a party held in a Pomeroon River community

one or more of these dishes. The housewives' culinary skills are practically second to none in the Caribbean, and the Christmas season is the best time to “tek a taste”.

Season

A vendor at her makeshift flower stall

without shopping on the busy streets of the town of Anna Regina. The hustling and bustling of the town, the Christmas songs, the promotional marketing, the smells of new products and new recipes, all add to the one-of-a-kind experience. At the height of the bustle, the now old Anna Regina Market and Ganesh Jaigobin Supermarket junction can be easily called the local Times Square on the Essequibo Coast. The Christmas season never ceases and is one that is filled with the amazement of how commercialised Christmas has become. For many businessmen and women, Christmas is typically a peak selling season and a time to widen their profit margin. Sales of flowers, decorations, cheese, eggs, pasta, curtains, chicken and turkey increase drastically as people rush to embrace the Christmas spirit. It is estimated that a quarter of all personal spending happens dur-

A fruit vendor at the Anna Regina Market

ing the Christmas/holiday shopping season. Grocery shopping by housewives has also drastically increased with families buying more than usual. Shopping for Christmas is like a tradition for most on the Essequibo Coast. Many families will make their way to the supermarkets and fill their baskets with lots of goodies for the season. Many supermarkets, namely Bacchus, Safeway, Alfro Alphonso and Jaigobin on the Essequibo Coast are offering great promotions and a variety of new items. December has come and with it all the joys of Christmas; the gifts under the tree; the lights in the windows; the cards in the mail; turkey dinners with family and friends; stockings hanging in the living room; and of course the shouts of “Merry Christmas” to those who pass us in the streets. The Christmas season is one that is second to none. It is the most anticipated time of

year for all, young and old, individuals and families from all religions and races have deemed Christmas the most wonderful time of the year. Preparation As is customary, housewives, husbands and all family members; both young and old, are seen cleaning and preparing their homes for the season. Some have repainted their homes; many are seen scrubbing their floors and polishing, hanging garlands and wreaths on their doors; all in aid of being actively involved and enjoying the mellow heart of the Christmas season and its celebrations. Pepperpot, roast beef, garlic pork, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, baked chicken, black cake, roast pork and ginger beer are some of the delicacies in the kitchen of most housewives. No Christmas in the quiet county of Essequibo would be well-spent without a taste of

As the season approaches, many cakes are being baked in the kitchen for Christmas parties and work socials. Cakes and more cakes were offered by many which foster the true meaning of Christmas, which is sharing. Many of the old folks are also soaking their ginger in preparation of making the popular “ginger beer”. A sip of a “ginger beer” does not hurt the taste buds during this time and so too a few “shots” with friends cannot be considered out of order. The season, apart from its commercial side, fosters togetherness among staff, children and families. It is that time of the year that families, friends and even long lost loved ones rekindle their friendship. Many parties are held with the aim of fostering that spirit of togetherness and unity. Masquerade has always been a fun time for children and it continues to be on the Essequibo Coast. Many children after the closure of school, spend their time meaningfully occupied constructing “bad cows”, “boom, bam sally”, “stick lady” and other characters that make this season such a festive and enjoyable one.

guyanatimesgy.com

SUNday, december 22, 2013

15

News

Man in hiding after allegedly Pepsi Dream prize winner wings out for Beyoncé concert stripping rented car W

P

olice are hunting for an employee of a car rental service at Line Path, Corentyne, Berbice after the car he rented was discovered stripped of its parts. An estimated $1.1 million in parts was removed from the vehicle. According to reports, the owner of the car, Viafee Veersammy called “Sammy” of Lot 90 Line Path, Corentyne, Berbice, rented the vehicle to one of his employees, Mukesh Persaud, 30, of Line Path on Thursday. Persaud uplifted the Toyota Primo Motorcar bearing registration number PPP 3412 and was supposed to return it on Friday but he did not. Several calls were made to Persaud but there were no answers. A search for the man was launched and the said car was seen parked at Back Street, Line Path, Corentyne, Berbice, with the light, trunk and other parts missing. The matter was reported to the police who in turn attempted to contact Persaud but failed. Several persons in the area were contacted and questioned but no useful information was received. The police are continuing their investigations. Meanwhile, the police are also investigating an alleged burglary committed on the house of Ashwannie Harripersaud called “Ruby”,

a teacher of Lot 97 Gangaram Settlement, East Canje Berbice. Harripersaud also operates a grocery store. The act was committed between 20:00h on Wednesday and 05:30h on Thursday.   The perpetrators, according to reports, carted off $300,000 in cash and a quantity of groceries. Investigations revealed that Harripersaud and her mother Kousila Harripersaud live in a two-storey concrete house. The lower flat has a grocery shop, a storeroom, a kitchen and a washroom. On the day in question, Ashwannie and her mother secured their home by all means provided and retired to bed.  She later awoke and saw three louvre panes missing from a window and realised that the storeroom and shop were ransacked. Upon making further checks, the woman discovered the cash and articles mentioned missing.  The perpetrator(s) might have gained entry into the home through a window on the upper flat of the building. A black long sleeve shirt was later discovered under the stairway while the three missing louvre panes were found under a pipe in the yard.   Several persons were questioned and based on information received; one man has been arrested and is assisting with investigations.

inner of the Pepsi Dream Prize Promotion Brian Persaud of Berbice and a guest have left for the all expenses paid VIP experience trip/ concert in New York City to witness the world renowned musician Beyoncé, live in concert. The Pepsi Dream Prize Promotion, which commenced on August 16 and concluded on the September 26, saw one lucky Pepsi consumer and a guest being given the opportunity to see Beyoncé perform live at the final show of the “Mrs Carter World Tour” held over the weekend in New York City. Persaud turned out the eventual winner at the final draw of the promotion which was held on September 28 at DSL Cash and Carry, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown. The winner, Brian Persaud, who submitted more than 300 entries, and a guest have received an all inclusive trip for the music VIP experience which includes two

Brian Persaud and a guest at the John F Kennedy Airport upon arrived in the U.S.

VIP concert tickets, a recording studio experience, accommodation at the Marriott

Marquis Hotel Times Square for four days and three nights, airfare and spending money. In December 2012, Pepsi announced a wide-ranging global collaboration with Beyoncé. Pepsi in a release at that time explained that the collaboration would include the development of new content and innovative ways to engage fans, consumers and retailers to benefit both the Pepsi brand and Beyoncé. As a brand ambassador, Beyoncé has appeared in print and out-of-home advertisements for Pepsi. She has also been visible in-store through materials such as shelf promotions, in-store displays and instore advertising. Pepsi has had a relationship with Beyoncé for more than a decade, first serving as a spokesperson in 2002. The Beyoncé partnership is a leading example of how Pepsi is pioneering a new way for brands to engage with musical artistes, moving from sponsorship to partnership.

Quick Impact Programme, Giftland treat Region 10 children

I

t is once again that time of the year for giving and sharing and doing exactly that is the Quick Impact Programme in collaboration with Giftland OfficeMax in bringing joy and happiness to young children in the mining town of Linden. Recently, former parliamentarian, Dr Faith Harding met with residents of West Watooka and Long Creek on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, distributing gifts and words of encouragement. Dr Harding, who is now the president of the Quick Impact Programme, sincerely thanked Giftland OfficeMax for the years of support and

commitment to the programme. Giftland OfficeMax continues its 12 Charitable Donation Project as last year. Previously, their neighbouring family Tiger Bay, the Red Cross Convalescent Home, the Mark Benschop Foundation, Cornelia Ida, the Ruimveldt Children Home and the Care Centre received Christmas cheer. Meanwhile, the Hauraruni Girls Home, the Joshua House, the St Ann’s Girl Orphanage, the Dropin-Centre and the Shaheed Boys and Girls Orphanages can soon look forward to their Christmas treats.

Giftland’s Public Relations Officer Compton Babb hands over the gifts to Quick Impact Programme president, Dr Faith Harding

16

News

SUNday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Josiah remembered as a man of dignity his passing, and was told that he was recuperating well. “I was surprised to have heard about the sudden passing of our colleague,” Ramotar said. Opposition Leader David Granger, while expressing deep sympathy to the bereaved family, called on the Guyana Police to sternly address the issue of road deaths. Josiah was a victim of a road accident.

President Donald Ramotar addressing the huge gathering at the funeral service of the late Derrick Josiah at the Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground

A

ssistant Police Commissioner and A Division Commander Derrick Josiah was described as a man of dignity who served his country without fear and prejudice as he was laid to rest on Saturday afternoon. As thousands flocked the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground to pay their last respects to the fallen lawman, President Donald Ramotar,

reflecting on the life of Josiah, said he served his country well. Ramotar remembered the former commander as a very organised individual, who was always willing to serve above and beyond the call of duty. He spoke about his interactions with Josiah, recalling that he inquired from Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell about his health a day before

Lesson “I can hope and pray that the Guyana Police Force can understand that too many people are dying on Guyana’s roads and if there are any lessons from the life of Derrick Josiah, should be determination to drastically reduce the number of deaths on the roads.” Granger posited that he has heard very heart rendering tributes about the former commander and he too, without any hesitation, can relate to them, describing Josiah as a brave man, a man who has served his community and country well.

At left: President Donald Ramotar, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, Guyana Defence Force Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips, Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell and Opposition Leader David Granger (right) were among those who attended the funeral of the late Derrick Josiah

He also called on the youths in the various communities to emulate the life of the great man. Brumell said the police force has lost an icon, pointing to Josiah’s body as it laid in the casket draped with the flag of the force. “The body of the man who is in front of us was tight to us like the links of a fallen chain that cannot be broken… how can we say that Josiah is gone… How can we say that he will not walk the green earth again… how can we say that he is dead… he is not dead, he is with us to eter-

nity.” He said Josiah participated in a number of overseas training and engagements on behalf of the Guyana Police Force, representing Guyana with distinction. He climbed the ladder with speed and had a very bright future ahead of him, Brumell said of the former commander, who served the police for 28 years. A true professional Guyana Defence Force Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips praised Josiah for his professionalism and more so for being a family man.

He said Josiah will be remembered not only for his intellect, but also for his warmth as a human being. “The Guyana Police Force has lost a great individual.” There were other tributes done by persons that were close to the former police commander in the form of songs, poems and dances. Josiah joined the Guyana Police Force on August 22, 1985 as a constable and served in various capacities with distinction, the last being as commander of A Division. He was laid to rest at the Uitvlugt Burial Ground.

Millions lost as three vehicles mysteriously set alight

The RX8 that was set alight

A

sound engineer believes that he was a target of envy as three vehicles were mysteriously set alight in his yard in the wee hours of Saturday, leaving millions in damage. Prince Junior Forde of Lot 309 Section A Block X, Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara was in a in a state of disbelief after a RX 8, a Suzuki Van and a Carina AT 212 were set on fire. Forde, who operates “Junior Tech” at his house, said it was the first time something of this nature has happened to him, contending that it is the work of envy and hared since he has proven to be one of the best sound engineers in the area. The man explained that about 02:30h on Saturday morning, he was awakened by a commotion in his yard and when he looked out, he saw small spots of fire on the bonnets of the three vehicles. The fires rapidly engulfed the vehicles since the arsonists dowsed them with gasoline. He said there was little that he could have done, and when he attempted to throw water on two of the vehicles, it was too late. However, the sound engineer added that the fire tenders arrived promptly on

the scene and extinguished the fire. He later retrieved two plastic buckets and a cloth wrapped with a piece of brick in his yard. Forde disclosed that there are a lot of envious people in the area who want to ruin his life just because he is one of the best sound engineers. He said that he might have to stand the responsibility of repairing the vehicles, but is hoping that they are insured. When asked about the suspects, Forde tersely said “there are so many”. He said he regularly participates in the Car and Bike Shows in the music category, pointing out that he won in the category the last time the competition was held. Since he won the competition, it has spurred some enemies resulting in his friends cautioning him to be very careful. The sound engineer said he was in the process of installing another set in a bus that was expected to take part in a competition there. Forde said he owns the Carina 212 bearing registration number PMM 5549 while the Mazda with plates number PLL 9200 and the van, PJJ 3827 belong to clients. The destruction, he said will cost some $13 million to repair.

17

sundAy, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimesGY.com

18

guyanatimesgy.com

sunday, december 22, 2013

thursDAY, march 11, 2010 | guyanatimesGY.com

By Bernice Bede Osol

archie

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19) A need to make sweeping changes may shock those close to you. Your heart will lead you in the right direction. If you are open and honest about your actions, your actions will be met with understanding.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19) Children or romantic partners may be especially needy. Don’t give in too readily if doing so will compromise other commitments. It is important to look after your own needs as well.

PISCES (Feb.20March 20)

dilbert

Nurture your health and general well-being. Taking sufficient time to rest is important. Enjoy the comforts of home and spending quiet time with loved ones.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Calvin and Hobbes

Now is a good time to become better acquainted with potential partners, whether for business, romance or friendship. Be careful not to get caught up in the revelry and overspend on entertainment.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) Personal financial setbacks will cause you stress. Make a clear game plan for coping with fiscal uncertainty. You will be low on energy, so be sure to get lots of rest.

Peanuts

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Your conscious and subconscious minds may be in conflict. Meditate very carefully on which path to take. Solitude will be useful for you at this time.

CANCER (June 21July 22) Avoid any large financial venture for the time being. Children or friends may go to great lengths to get your attention. Make an effort to understand their motivations. Offer time, not money, to organisations looking for a donation.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) Disruptions and delays will throw a wrench in your routine. Be prepared to go with the flow. Vigorous exercise will help alleviate your stress. Time for romance is recommended.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) You may be irritated by friends and relatives. Ignore what they have to say, and focus your attention on something productive. You are capable of great things.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23) Hollow promises are likely. Do not quit your job unless you have a new one lined up. Contracts will not turn out to be as lucrative as projected.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22) Avoid the spotlight. Someone may be gossiping about you, trying to damage your reputation. Consider who your true friends really are. Seek out the information that you need to advance.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21) If a friend or relative is meddling in your affairs, tell them to mind their own business. You must respect your own needs and not brook interference.

YELLOW PAGES sunday, december 22, 2013

Dentures provided in 72 hours from as low as $4500. Contact Dr B Stuart, 209B Charlotte St, Lacytown. Tel: 225-5034

flowers Available: Fresh long-stemmed roses, fresh dried and silk floral arrangements, gift items, bridal boutiques and wreaths. Nesha’s Flowerland. 78 Church Street (opposite St George’s Cathedral). Tel: 227-3553/225-3315

FOR SALE

health

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word Call: 226-9921

Are you suffering from abnormal behaviors, addictions, stresses, or psychosomatic sickness? Feeling suicidal, low self-esteem, loneliness, unloved, anger, conflicts and relationship problems? For appointments call 592-621-0552. 12:00pm -6:00pm, Email: healthworldhc@ gmail.com

immigration Immigration & Visa Services We handle all Canadian, USA and UK immigration and visa matters. Self sponsorships, holiday/visitor’s visas, work permits, students visas, family, class, immigration forms, embassy enquiries, appeals for refused cases, US green card lottery, business class waivers, pardons, etc. Get your visa approved. High success rate. Balwant Persaud & Associates. Certified Immigration Consultants, 68 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown (Between Cummings & Lights Sts) Tel: 2251540, 622-8308, 655-3105. Email: balwantpersaud@yahoo.ca

KEY CUTTing Professional Key Shop, 125 Carmichael Street, Georgetown. Phone: 225-3923, mobile: 6213249. We cut any type of key, service and repair all types of locks. Get your extra key today. optician

Da Silva’s Optical. For Your Eyes Only, Look Better See Better. Phillip A Da Silva OD, Shannon L Da Silva OD, Natalie Da Silva OD. 248 South Road, Bourda. Phone: 227-3529, Linden: 444-6376, Corriverton: 3393536, Meten-Meer-Zorg: 275-0322, Grand Cayman Islands: (345) 9431515 for the perfect trendy touch.

services Dutch healing and upliftment, for clearing of land, dredging and ground work (strictly interior operation). Phone: 662-1247.

spirituality Cleansing of spiritual problems of all kinds. Powerful Ifá protection against evil. Get help to overcome problems with love, relationship, legal, sexual, pregnancy, business, sickness, jobs, enemies, work, money. Call 10am - 4pm. Tel: 592-690-1824. Email: anew-life@live.com Dutch Spiritual work. Unite lovers, get rid of evil, enhance prosperity, good luck baths and charm bowu guards, etc. Phone: 220-0708, 612-6417, 687-5653

Prominent dentist in Berbice passes on B

dentistry

60FT Antenna (Mass) for Radio, TV, Cellular, with cables, brackets, sky light $400,000 227-3939, 621-4000

19

Classified Ads $5+VAT per word

Call: 226-9921

erbice’s longest serving non-national doctor has died. Dr Benoit Langlois, 73, popularly known as “Dr Ben”, who arrived in Guyana as a dental surgeon from Haiti in 1977 and worked exclusively in Berbice, passed away on Tuesday morning at the New Amsterdam Hospital. In March of 1977, he was sent to the New Amsterdam Hospital which had been without a dentist for two years. However, three months after, there were attempts to move him to Linden but he refused, saying that

Dead: Dr Benoit Langlois

if he had to leave New Amsterdam, he will go

back to Haiti. In June 2012, he retired from the government service but continued practising privately from his Stanleytown clinic. During the 35 years he served the government, Dr Ben conducted clinics at Fort Wellington, Port Mourant, Mibikuri and Skeldon hospitals. These hospitals did not have a dental surgeon and offered dental clinics once per month. Dr Langlois also partnered with the Lions and Rotary clubs and served on their frequent medical outreaches; he also worked

with the Berbice Mining Enterprise (Bermine). Long-time staff member Ella Thompson said Dr Langlois remained in Guyana because he hated travelling. “It was difficult to get him to cross the Berbice River when the ferry was in operation and when the Berbice Bridge came into operation he would not cross it if he did not have on his life jacket.” Dr Ben leaves to mourn his wife and three children, who reside in Canada. His body will be taken to Haiti for burial.

Joint Services get one-month tax-free bonus

A

s is customary, all members of the Joint Services, in addition to receiving their five per cent increase, will also benefit from a onemonth tax-free Christmas bonus. The announcement was made by commander-inchief of the armed forces, President Donald Ramotar on Friday at Camp Ayanganna, when he and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds joined members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for their annual Christmas luncheon. The announcement was received with loud cheers, more so, when the president said that he had advised the finance minister to make the payment before Christmas Day. President Ramotar said that he was hopeful that the bonus will contribute to the officers enjoying the holidays, and that they can begin the new year fully refreshed and hopefully reinvigorated to carry out their work. He noted that serving in the Joint Services is a “noble way” to serve the country, and for that, all Guyanese are grateful. The president also expressed the view that greater emphasis must be placed on training and professionalism in the army. Changing world “The world is changing scientifically,... and therefore it becomes imperative that we train our force to make it even more disciplined and professional and with all the other disciplines that are necessary to create a modern army,” he said. He advised that the training not be limited to military life but must also to support life after the army. “So when our soldiers would have left the army, they can continue to make a valuable contribution to development of the country, by acquiring skills and by lifting their educational standards within the Guyana Defence Force,” he

President Donald Ramotar addressing officers of the Guyana Defence Force at their Christmas luncheon at Camp Ayanganna

President Donald Ramotar and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds greet soldiers at the GDF Christmas luncheon

said. Investment President Ramotar also called on the soldiers to take care with the equipment supplied to the army. He pointed out that government spends millions on the equipment to ensure the army remains efficient and effective, and damaging these only places greater demand on the finite resources available to government that could have been expended elsewhere, bringing greater service to the people. “We still have to fight poverty in our country, we still have to create more jobs for our people, and we still have to provide quality education and quality health care to all our people and therefore, if we can care our equipment that we have so that we can have longer service from them, at a very high level and have value for money. Then indirectly, you will

President Donald Ramotar serving soldiers at the Christmas luncheon at Base Camp Ayanganna

be making another form of contribution to the development of Guyana,” he said. Army Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips noted that 2013 was a good year for the army. He described it as one where the officers and ranks continue to serve Guyana, defend and maintain law and or-

der, the Constitution and the way of life, and protect the national interest. This is Brigadier Phillip’s first luncheon as chief-of-staff with the soldiers, having been appointed to the position in September. He said the change has been seamless and the force remains a professional organisation.

20 news

sunday, december 22, 2013 | guyanatimeSGY.com

Guyanese in New York gear up for end-of-year holidays By Vishnu Bisram

C

hristmas is the most celebrated of all festivals and GuyaneseAmericans have been making elaborate preparation to welcome the joyous season. New York-based Guyanese are gearing up for the holiday season by doing a lot of shopping and decorating. Businesses are hoping to close the year on a high, having experienced a lacklustre financial year while shoppers are enjoying bargains as they shop for gifts and for sprucing up the home environment and purchasing foods. One can feel the Christmas spirit in other Guyanese communities as well. Homes are well lit on the outside and decorated with Christmas paraphernalia. An aura of the holiday spirit is in the air in the greater Richmond Hill area as well as in Flatbush and other locales where Guyanese are settled. Liberty Avenue, the hub of Caribbean commercial activities, has been teem-

ber of Guyanese are employed, parties were also held and traditional Guyanese food is very popular, such as dhal puri and curry duck and good old Guyana liquor. On Saturday, senior citizens were treated to a luncheon. Schools in Guyanese communities also held parties for lower level students; balloons, candies, cakes and soft drinks were distributed.

ing with shoppers. The stores on the avenue and the avenue itself are well decorated comparable to other shopping districts. There is even a crescent and deya lit up – the work of community organisers. Christmas music, at full blast, emanates from many of the stores. One can purchase virtually everything related to the holiday at any Guyanese and other Caribbean stores that line Liberty Avenue. Some mainstream supermarkets also carry Guyanese line of products. All-embracing The commercial districts on Liberty, Flatbush, Jamaica, Cypress, and Westchester Avenues are busy. Huge numbers of multicoloured lights and other paraphernalia are on display in front of stores. These brightly coloured lights, trimmings, buntings and other decorations everywhere are reminiscent of Regent Street of yesteryear. The Christmas holiday

Guyanese in New York are in party made as they gear up for the end-of-year celebrations

festival transcends religions. Virtually everyone partakes in the Christmas spirit. Even Hindus and Muslims partake in the festivities in New York as they do in Guyana preparing that special Christmas meal and holiday beverages and join in the “Christmas spirit” with the rest of the other Guyanese and Americans. And almost every family makes the annual trek to see

the huge 73 foot Christmas tree with some 30,000 bulbs at Rockefeller Centre. It is spectacular. The season is usually one of expectancy among the large New York Guyanese population. They have been making preparations to welcome the holiday and the New Year. Going around the neighbourhoods, one can see an abundance of flickering

multi-coloured lights with a variety of designs which line the windows and entrance to the home and even on trees outside on the lawn; as in Guyana, houses engage in an unofficial competition for the best decorated and most lit title. And as in Guyana, there are bands in the streets in the commercial districts, especially in Flatbush as one would encounter in the streets of Georgetown. Party mood Everyone seems to be in a party mood. In fact, there were several parties and merry making especially by the real estate offices. At businesses where a large num-

Streets On the streets in Richmond Hill, men are engaged in drinking just as they do in the streets in Guyana in the evenings after work. Guyanese bars and night clubs have been doing brisk business. Christmas in New York is not the same as being in Guyana. Many wish to celebrate Christmas “at home”. And for many, the yearly pilgrimage to Guyana is now a tradition; flights are sold out, unable to accommodate passengers who want to go home for Christmas or the New Year. The churches where Guyanese worship plan nativity plays and candle light services. People are expected to go for mid-night mass at the churches on Christmas eve. Christmas eve excitement will be at a fever pitch on Tuesday night and on Christmas Day. Merry Christmas all!

Public Works Ministry bids farewell to veteran staffer

Public Works Minister Robeson Benn gives Phyllis Rahaman a token on behalf of his office

P

hyllis Rahaman has been with the Public Works Ministry for over four decades and has been a “tower of strength” to four ministers during her dedicated years of service. On Wednesday, subject minister Robeson Benn and staff held a simple ceremony at the ministry’s boardroom to express their gratitude to Rahaman, who worked her way up the chain of command from a typist clerk one to confidential secretary. Her outstanding credentials included her adaptability, charisma, promptness and endearing attitude towards work. The ministry’s Permanent Secretary Balraj Balram, in his glowing tribute to the veteran staff, said

Rahaman’s departure “has left a vacuum” in the lives of those she interacted with. Meanwhile, her former boss, Minister Benn, challenged the two young ladies who now man his office to fill the “big shoes left by Phyllis”. “She is an extraordinary resource to assist in your development,” he added. Rahaman joined the then Works and Housing Ministry in September 1972 as a typist clerk one, and following several promotions, she was elevated to the position of confidential secretary in 1993 to then Minister Harry Persaud Nokta. Over the ensuing years, she has served ministers Benn, Anthony Xavier and Harry Narine Nawbatt.

december 22, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

21

South Africa positive in huge chase Bayern Munich win S

outh Africa scored 138 runs and India took two wickets by close of play on fourth day to set up an absolute potboiler of a last day with the hosts needing 320 runs to win the first Test at Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. After bowling India out for 421 runs in the post lunch session, South Africa built a strong first wicket partnership of 109 runs between captain Graeme Smith (44) and Alviro Petersen (76*).

Alviro Petersen remained unbeaten on 76 at the close

SCOREBOARD India 1st innings 280 South Africa 1st innings 244 India 2nd innings S Dhawan c Kallis b Philander 15 M Vijay c †de Villiers b Kallis 39 CA Pujara c †de Villiers b Kallis 153 V Kohli c †de Villiers b Duminy 96 RG Sharma b Kallis 6 AM Rahane c Smith b Duminy 15 MS Dhoni*† c sub (D Elgar) b Philander 29 R Ashwin c du Plessis b Philander 7 Z Khan not out 29 I Sharma lbw b Imran Tahir 4 Mohammed Shami b Imran Tahir 4 Extras: (b-9, lb-7, w-8) 24 Total: (all out; 120.4 overs) 421 Fall of wickets: 1-23 (Dhawan, 7.3 ov), 2-93 (Vijay, 33.5 ov), 3-315 (Pujara, 93.1 ov), 4-325 (RG Sharma, 97.5 ov),

5-327 (Kohli, 98.4 ov), 6-358 (Rahane, 106.2 ov), 7-369 (Ashwin, 109.2 ov), 8-384 (Dhoni, 113.5 ov), 9-405 (I Sharma, 118.6 ov), 10-421 (Mohammed Shami, 120.4 ov) Bowling: DW Steyn 30-5-1040 (2-w), VD Philander 28-1068-3 (1-w), M Morkel 2-1-4-0, JH Kallis 20-5-68-3, Imran Tahir 15.4-1-69-2, AB de Villiers 1-05-0 (1-w), JP Duminy 24-0-87-2 South Africa 2nd innings (target: 458 runs) AN Petersen not out 76 GC Smith* run out (Rahane) 44 HM Amla b Mohammed Shami 4 F du Plessis not out 10 Extras (lb-2, w-1, nb-1) 4 Total (for two wickets; 45 overs) 138 Fall of wickets: 1-108 (Smith, 30.4 ov), 2-118 (Amla, 36.2 ov) Bowling: Z Khan 9-0-290, I Sharma 9-2-28-0 (1-nb), Mohammed Shami 8-1-30-1 (1-w), R Ashwin 16-2-42-0, M Vijay 1-0-3-0, MS Dhoni 2-0-4-0

The Indians did not seem to have an answer to the duo as the Proteas threatened to take the game away from the visitors. But then, Smith fell trying to take a tight single, thanks to a stunning direct hit from Ajinkya Rahane. Hasim Amla (4), the next man in, seemed to have been hounded by bad luck in the second inning too. He was bowled out in a bizarre fashion while trying to duck after misjudging the bounce on the pitch. Not rising as much as Amla expected it to, the ball crashed into the off stump. Faf du Plessis was playing unbeaten at 10 at the end of day’s play. Before they came out to bat, South Africa kept a tight grip on the match, with none of the Indian batsmen being able to cut loose on the fourth day. Jacques Kallis bowled a fantastic spell of swing bowling to give the Proteas a crucial toehold. Kallis got rid of Cheteshwar Pujara (153) first, breaking a huge partnership of 222 between him and Virat Kohli (96) in the process. With the cracks on the pitch getting bigger and the bounce increasingly becoming unpredictable, the last day of play will be interesting.

Club World Cup

B

ayern Munich capped a memorable calendar year by lifting the Club World Cup after a routine 2-0 victory over Raja Casablanca in Marrakech. The German side added the trophy to the Champions League, Bundesliga, German Cup and Uefa Super Cup titles won in a silverware-laden 2013. Raja hoped to become the first African side to win the tournament, but were bushed aside by Pep Guardiola’s side. Dante and Thiago Alcantara both scored before half-time to seal Bayern’s win. (BBC Sport)

It was a comfortable win for Bayern Munich

Bresnan expects England fightback

E

ngland bowler Tim Bresnan says the tourists will use the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne as a springboard to bounce back from their “lowest point” after losing the Ashes to Australia. England’s 150-run defeat in Perth meant the hosts regained the urn by taking a 3-0 lead in the five-Test series. But the 28-year-old said: “I don’t think it’s a dead Test match. We’re still looking to make it 3-2. “How you bounce back

from the lowest point is how you’re judged as a team.” He added: “The Ashes are gone but we are still playing for pride. “It’s Boxing Day, it’s Melbourne and you don’t get much bigger than that - there’s certainly no bigger crowd in world cricket, so I think the boys will be up for it.” But the Yorkshireman admitted that morale around the team is very different from three years ago, when England retained the Ashes with victory at the

MCG. “There’s been a strange atmosphere around the place,” he said. “There’s a feeling of huge disappointment and what might have been, if we’d have got runs here or runs there. But at the end of the day we weren’t good enough.” Bresnan also rejected calls for some members of England’s Ashes side - notably Graeme Swann and Matt Prior - to be dropped after disappointing series down under. (BBC Sport)

22

december 22, 2013

guyanatimesGY.com

Woodpecker Products annual Christmas badminton…

Ramdhanis dominate final day T

The leading category performers pose with their winnings at the conclusion of the competition on Friday evening

he Woodpecker Products annual Christmas Singles badminton tournament concluded on Friday evening with siblings Priyanna and Narayan Ramdhani winning titles on the final day at the Queens College courts. Priyanna, a Caribbean gold medallist, defeated Ambika Ramraj 21-16, 21-9 in the Under-19 Girls final

to add to her Under-15 title, while Narayan, a Caribbean and South American bronze medallist, got the better of Nicholas Ali in the final of the Open Men’s category, 20-22, 21-18, 21-15. The presentation of prizes to the top three finishers in each category was done immediately after the finals by Lance Sanford and Marlyn Sanford, senior bad-

minton players from London visiting Guyana. Below are the overall results of the tournament: Under-15 Boys’ Singles: (1) Jonathan Mangra (2) Hemraj Beharry (3) Armand Ramdhani and Ransell Ramsaroop; Under-15 Girls’ Singles: (1) Priyanna Ramdhani, (2) Ambika Ramraj (3) Abosaide Cadogan and Siya Persaud;

Under-19 Boys’ Singles: (1) Narayan Ramdhani (2) Noel Shewjattan (3) Jonathan Mangra and Sachin Ramdhani; Under-19 Girls Singles: (1) Priyanna Ramdhani (2) Ambika Ramraj (3) Althea McDavid; Open Men’s Singles: (1) Narayan Ramdhani (2) Nicholas Ali (3) Christopher Persaud and Noel Shewjattan.

Suarez double leads Liverpool to victory

L

uis Suarez helped Liverpool move top of the league with a 3-1 win over Cardiff, as doubts remain over the future of Bluebirds manager Malky Mackay. Mackay is in conflict with owner Vincent Tan and saw his side go behind through an 18-yard Luis Suarez volley. Suarez, who signed a contract extension on Friday, set up Raheem Sterling for a tap-in and curled in a shot before Jordon Mutch headed in for Cardiff.

Luis Suarez was on target twice

The visiting fans stayed after the game to chant their support for Mackay. The Bluebirds boss stood

on the Anfield pitch for some time after the final whistle and applauded his side’s supporters, many of

whom were holding up banners against Tan. There had been doubts as to whether Mackay would be in the dug-out for the game after being told in the week to resign or face being sacked by Tan, who was at the match. But despite the owner discussing his manager’s future with chairman Mehmet Dalman at a meeting on Friday night, Mackay was in charge for a game which resulted in Cardiff’s eighth defeat of the campaign. (BBC Sport)

Millions at stake in PMTC/Shariff horse race meet

A day of top notch racing is anticipated today at the Port Mourant Turf Club (File photo)

By Rajiv Bisnauth

A

bumper crowd is expected to throng the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) in Corentyne, Berbice, today when that entity stages its final horse race meet for the year. The meet was originally scheduled for last Sunday, but persistent rainfall, which swept most of the coastal plain the previous week, left the facility under water, giving the authorities no alternative but postpone the event. However, chief coordinator, Kris Jagdeo told this publication on Saturday that all arrangements are in place for today’s race meet. He said that while the weather on the Corentyne has not been very favourable, the track is in an “excellent” condition, adding that race meet is expected to be an entertaining one. The meet will be staged in collaboration with the Shariff Business Enterprise and Racing Stable. Over 80 horses have been registered for what is being dubbed another day of top notch racing. It is estimated that over $8 million will be at stake at the eight-event meet. The feature race is classified for A and Lower al-

lotted weight horses. The race will run over 1200 meters for the top prize of $1.2 million. In the cofeature, for Three-yearold West Indies bred horses, the winner will receive $500,000 and a trophy over 1200 meters. Other events on the day’s card are the D3 median and E and Lower and Two-yearold West Indies median and Guyana Open. Both races carry a winning purse of $400,000 and will run over 1200 meters. Both the Three-year-old Guyana Open and the G1 and Lower races will run over 1200 meters with the animals running for a winning purse of $300,000. The I and Lower contest has a winning purse of $200,000, while the G and Lower class match-up will see the winner pocketing $150,000. The day’s event will be run under the auspices of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) and therefore owners, groomsmen, and trainers were asked to have their animals properly registered before today. Further, if this requirement is not met horses will not be allowed to participate in the day’s proceedings. Race time is 12:30 hours.

TTCB reappoints Williams as head coach

T

rinidad and Tobago coach Kelvin Williams has reclaimed his place in charge of the senior men’s national cricket team and is currently overseeing their preparation for next year’s Super50, which will take place in T&T from January 30 to February 16. Kelvin Williams served as David Williams’ assistant for the 2013 season, but will now assume the reins once more. This was confirmed by TTCB general secretary Arjune Ramlal on Wednesday, who said David Williams will still have a key role to play in T&T cricket,

serving as the TTCB technical director overseeing all T&T national teams. Last year, the former West Indies assistant coach came back into the TTCB coaching set up as technical director with direct responsibility as coach of the national senior team. Third-vice president of the TTCB Patrick Rampersad explained that now David Williams has been assigned to work with all the coaches of the various national teams. David Williams will also be chairing the newly formed TTCB Talent Identification Committee with Kelvin as secretary. (www.windiescricket.com)

23

SUNday, december 22, 2011 | guyanatimesGY.com

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

december 22, 2013

guyanatimesgy.com TOP SCORES

CRICKET: INDIA 280 AND 421 V SOUTH AFRICA 244 AND 138-2; FOOTBALL: LIVERPOOL 3-1 V CARDIFF; BAYERN MUNICH 2-0 V RAJA CASABLANCA

New Zealand romp to series victory over Windies far friendlier conditions for batting than Basin Reserve, their entire second innings lasted less than a session. It began after tea, and ended so swiftly that New Zealand had time left to face a couple of overs in their second small chase of the series. It was supposed to be a test by spin for New Zealand, and Sunil Narine did as well he could, bowling 42.3 overs, 36 of them on the trot, to take 6-91. Ross Taylor batted through that examination to make his third hundred of the series and cut New Zealand’s first-innings deficit to 18. Both feats, outstanding as they were, were consigned to the sidelines by the depressingly familiar drama that West Indies

Kane Williamson played confidently in New Zealand’s chase

N

ew Zealand suffered few alarms as they eased to an eightwicket victory in Hamilton to claim the series 2-0. It was their first series victory over a top-eight nation since they beat the same opposition in 2006. Kane Williamson provided the main contribution, with an elegant 56, while Hamish Rutherford was unbeaten on 48, having been required to fight a little harder. The winning runs came at 13:45 hours when Rutherford drove Narsingh Deonarine through the covers, meaning Ross Taylor could not quite score enough in the second innings to become New Zealand’s leading scorer in a calendar year after Williamson had been bowled with six runs required.

The only chance West Indies had of conjuring something remarkable after Friday’s post-tea demise, where they lost 10 wickets in a session, was to grab a couple of quick breakthroughs to create some nerves in the home camp. However, Rutherford and Peter Fulton saw through the initial stages, and although Fulton chipped a return catch back to Darren Sammy - the West Indies captain’s fourth sharp take of the match - the visitors could not strike in quick succession. West Indies had lost 16 wickets on the third day in Wellington to lose by an innings. If one thought their standards couldn’t plummet any further, one was to be proved wrong on the third day in Hamilton. In

served up after tea. Granted New Zealand’s four-man pace attack, three of them left-armers, were relentless with their tight lines and fuller lengths. Granted there was a bit of cloud cover that afforded some swing. Granted New Zealand came back from their sloppy catching in the first innings with some outstanding grabs. But the pitch was still the same slow one on which the sides had scored 367 and 349. After such scores, it was effectively a second-innings shootout. West Indies shot themselves in the foot instead. It was the same weakness again, an inability to tackle the inswing the leftarmers were generating. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD West Indies 1st innings 367 New Zealand 1st innings 349 West Indies 2nd innings KC Brathwaite b Boult 7 KA Edwards c †Watling b Boult 1 KOA Powell c Southee b Boult 0 MN Samuels c †Watling b Anderson 8 S Chanderpaul c Williamson b Wagner 20 N Deonarine c Taylor b Wagner 13 D Ramdin† lbw b Boult 18 DJG Sammy* c †Watling b Southee 24 SP Narine not out 0 V Permaul lbw b Southee 0 TL Best lbw b Southee 0 Extras (lb-12) 12 Total (all out; 31.5 overs) 103 Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Brathwaite, 4.1 ov), 2-12 (Powell, 4.6 ov), 3-13 (Edwards, 8.1 ov), 4-40 (Samuels, 16.3 ov), 5-46 (Chanderpaul, 17.5 ov), 6-75 (Deonarine, 25.2 ov), 7-91 (Ramdin, 28.5 ov),

8-103 (Sammy, 31.1 ov), 9-103 (Permaul, 31.3 ov), 10-103 (Best, 31.5 ov) Bowling: TA Boult 10-4-234, TG Southee 8.5-5-12-3, Corey J Anderson 6-0-221, N Wagner 7-1-34-2 New Zealand 2nd innings (target: 122 runs) PG Fulton c & b Sammy 10 HD Rutherford not out 48 KS Williamson b Permaul 56 LRPL Taylor not out 2 Extras (b-7, nb-1) 8 Total (2 wickets; 40.4 overs) 124 Fall of wickets: 1-33 (Fulton, 12.4 ov), 2-116 (Williamson, 37.6 ov) Bowling: TL Best 7-3-22-0, SP Narine 16-6-39-0, DJG Sammy 9-3-21-1 (1-nb), V Permaul 7-129-1, N Deonarine 1.4-0-6-0

Swann announces retirement

E

Graeme Swann

ngland and Nottinghamshire off-spinner Graeme Swann has announced his immediate retirement from cricket. The 34-year-old has taken only seven wickets during this winter’s Ashes series defeat and has ruled himself out of the rest of the tour in Australia. Swann took 255 wickets in 60 Tests - the sixth highest for England. “This decision has been very difficult seeing as the England team has been my family for seven years now, but I feel it is the right time,” he said. “I don’t regret a single day of my career. Every high has been celebrated with verve and vigour and every low painfully accepted as a chance to learn and improve.” Swann’s shock decision comes a week after England lost the Ashes to Australia following a heavy defeat in Perth to give the home side an unassailable 3-0 series lead with two Tests to play. His retirement means he will be unavailable for the fourth Test, starting in Melbourne on Boxing Day (Thursday), and further unsettles the England team following the departure of batsman Jonathan Trott with a stress-related illness earlier in the tour. “I know I’m making the decision for the right reasons,” added Swann. “My body doesn’t like playing five-

day cricket any more, and I don’t feel I can justify my spot in the team in the latter stages of a game, and as a spinner, that’s when you need to come into your own. “With two games to go in Australia and then a fiercely competitive summer against Sri Lanka and India I feel that it is a great time for someone else to strap themselves in and hopefully enjoy the ride as much as I have,” he added. Swann, who was first named in an England squad back in 1999-2000, finally made his Test debut in 2008 and took four wickets against India in Chennai. He made a reputation for taking wickets in the first over of a spell and went on to become the sixth-highest wicket-taker in his country’s history during this Ashes series. Despite struggling with elbow problems in recent years, Swann played in three Ashes series victories and helped England become the number one ranked side in the world in 2011. He also took 104 wickets in 79 one-day internationals after making his debut against South Africa in Bloemfontein in 2000 at the age of 20 and spent a spell as the top ranked ODI bowler in 2011. In addition, he helped England clinch their first major global world title at the 2010 World Twenty20 in the Caribbean. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, Tel: 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230, 223-7231, Fax: 227-0685 - SALES AND MARKETING - sales@guyanatimesgy.com PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.