Guyana Times International

INTERNATIONAL

US hurdler visits Guyana’s synthetic track Page 53

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

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You can also read Guyana Times daily edition online at www.guyanatimesgy.com ISSUE NO. 216

- Showdown over No-confidence Vote set for Monday - President threatens fresh elections See stories on pages 9, 14 & 22

week ending November 9, 2014

President Donald Ramotar

Opposition Leader David Granger

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

Tourism Ministry’s ‘homecoming’ seeking to attract 100,000 Guyanese migrants Page 4

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NEWS

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Kaieteur News gets severe blows for engaging in “gutter journalism” K

aieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall continues to be denounced for his alleged illegal recording of a conversation between one of his reporters and Attorney General Anil Nandlall.

Already several persons and organisation have condemned the recent act by Lall, who admitted that he tapes the conversation of his reporters.

The Attorney General has since filed court actions against Lall and also sued him, his Editor Adam Harris and his newspaper outfit for libellous publications arising from the tape.

Since the surreptitious recording of the Attorney General, several public officials have expressed concerns about the privacy of conversations they might have had with staff of the newspaper and some have been refusing to take calls from reporters of the news outfit.

One letter writer Faruk Mohamed commenting generally on the illegal taping, said:

“It is… unquestionably obvious, that the kind of journalism the Kaieteur News subscribes to is devoid of any fairness or balance.”

He said within the course of one year, 50 lawsuits have been filed against this newspaper, and it is internationally recognised that the Kaieteur News is the most sued news outlet in the world.

“Is this not an indication of the type of journalism being practiced by this news outfit?” he asked.

The union said there was the disgusting and illegal nature of the taping of a private conversation by two persons, in this case, school chums.

“It is scary to know that in our midst are persons who will not hesitate to violate our right to privacy, in this instance, that of our AG. It may be germane to ask: If the Attorney General of our country can be so easily targeted and illegally taped, who else within the higher echelons of our state apparatus – Government and/or security forces – are being targeted at this time and so on?” FITUG said it found it instructive that the voices shunning intrusion of privacy were not as strong as “one should expect”.

Alarmed

Only on Tuesday, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) had said that it was alarmed at the illegal recording.

FITUG said it has been following, in a general way, the public brouhaha which have stemmed from the taping of the conversation and many of those views focused on the content of the purported tape, which, seemingly, is providing a grand opportu-

Unprofessional journalism

Kaieteur News Publisher Glenn Lall

nity for essentially the politically-inclined to do some personal bashing.

“But those who are hastening to take a passing advantage at this turn of events should

not be short-sighted nor should they allow any exultation at this act obscure to its graver implications.”

For FITUG, certain concerns have come up.

Before FITUG’s statement, Government on Sunday said Kaieteur News has been engaged in an unwavering and institutionalised policy of unprofessional journalism, which has deteriorated to such levels

that the newspaper is now “making up” stories.

Noting that the newspaper lacks professional and ethical tenets, Government said the media house is “steeped in fabrications, distortions, character assassination and homophobia”.

It said its prime targets have been the Government, Government Ministers, senior functionaries of the State, sections of the business community, religious organisations, sections of the labour movement and sections of the civil society supportive of the Government “and indeed anyone with whom the newspaper Publisher has a personal grievance”.

According to the Government, headlines are frequently enlarged and inaccurately sensationalised to scandalise issues and persons and are often times not borne out by the stories to which they relate, even as distorted and inaccurate as those stories themselves are. continued on page 10

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Posing with a champion!

INTERNATIONAL To contact: Guyana Times International

New York Office 106-15 Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica NY 11435 Email: guyanatimesnyint@gmail.com Tel no: 718-658-6804 Preferred method of contact via EMAIL Guyana Office Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana.

Tel no: (592) 227-0704, 227-0709.

Fax (592) 225-8696, 227-0685 Email: guyanatimesint@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

An evolving UN

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he United Nations (UN) was formed as WWII drew to a close, and its declaration emphasised the concerns of the time: “We ,The Peoples Of the United Nations, determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war…to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human persons, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small… and for these ends to practice tolerance…to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security…”

The focus on preventing wars was understandable and while there has been any number of conflagrations since 1945, none were allowed to escalate into another “world war”. In a world populated by states that still hone to the maxim of “big fishes eating little fishes”, war avoidance or containment alone convinced UN sceptics that the institution was necessary.

For smaller states like Guyana, the UN provided the forum in which they can at least articulate their concerns. And through lobbying to the best of their abilities – and their vote in the General Assembly – even be in a position to influence events.

The Guyana-Venezuela Border controversy was an issue that was taken to this forum and is still being addressed through the Good Officer process of the UN Secretary General. The eight Millennium Development Goals (MDG’) that were established in 2000 to be achieved by 2015, focused the disbursal of aid to less fortunate counties, and were also a significant achievement of the UN system.

But there have been widespread and long-standing calls for the UN, which now has 193 members, to be “reformed”. Moves in this direction, such as shifts in the sanctity of the “sovereignty” of states, which in the beginning was defined as inviolable, followed.

For instance, there is now an evolving “Right to Protect” (R2P) doctrine in which the UN can sanction interventions into states if there are domestic humanitarian imperatives such as genocide, etc. The Rwandan genocide in 1994 helped convince sceptical states that the status quo could not continue.

The UN’s necessary role in addressing emergencies that involve more than one state has recently been highlighted by the Ebola epidemic engulfing several West African states. But that intervention once again exposed one of the major weaknesses of the institution – bureaucratic layers that are removed from ground realities and which inhibit rapid responses. Another reason for the UN becoming somewhat out of step with present realities is that the ultimate decision-making apparatus – the Security Council – is still dominated by the victors of WWII – especially the US. For a while between 1945 and 1989, smaller countries such as Guyana could manoeuvre within the system by playing off the two competing superpowers in the Security Council – the US and the USSR. But with the collapse of the latter in 1989, there were justified fears that living in a unipolar world would simply mean rubber-stamping decisions of the last superpower standing.

However, the financial crisis that hit the latter and its allies in 2008, and from which they have been unable to extricate themselves, has created hope that the UN itself will now be reformed to deal with the growing inequalities that had always characterised the world state-system. The inequalities had now percolated even within the developed countries and could not be avoided.

Another factor pushing fundamental structural changes in the UN are the rapid shifting in the relative economic strengths of the organisation’s members. As countries such as China and the rest of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) become more powerful, they will certainly challenge what they dubbed “American hegemony” of the UN and its institutions.

The UN Group of 77 in which the BRICS (as well as Guyana) are members have already proposed the contours of what a new economically driven UN would look like. Welcome to a brave, new UN.

US hurdler Kristi Castlin (in black top) surrounded by Guyanese students at the Synthetic Athletic Track currently being constructed at Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

Tourism Ministry’s ‘homecoming’ seeking to attract 100,000 Guyanese migrants

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ourism Awareness Month 2014 was launched Friday evening with the aim of raising awareness of the country’s tourism potential, as the Government continues to promote tourism as a sector that has potential for significant economic growth.

The 20th Tourism Awareness Month was launched under the theme: “Tourism entrepreneur and ambassadors mobilised”.

The tourism ambassador programme is not unique to Guyana, but is patterned after a Trinidad model.

Speaking during the launch at the Amerindian Village located in the Sophia Exhibition Complex, Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali stressed on the need for Guyanese to be reminded of the importance of the sector in Guyana’s future. “The growth of this sector cannot be achieved alone, we need partners in order to move forward,” the Minister said.

He stated that the Ministry has a vision that is critical for the development of the sector. Minister Ali said that the industry is in its developmental stage, where protocols and guidelines are being established.

The need for sport fishing and its potential was reiterated by the Minister as he went on to state that the Ministry has implemented incentives to aid in reduced cost for local travellers to explore the beauty of Guyana.

The need for infrastructure and an environment which meet international standards to attract tourists was highlighted while the Private Sector was urged to become members of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) since it will open opportunities for the enjoyment of the income expected from the 100,000 Guyanese who are anticipated to return to Guyana in 2015 as ‘Guyana Homecoming 2015’ takes off.

The Ministry is working with THAG and various airlines to design a marketing strategy for the homecoming campaign. Extensive social media marketing is an aspect of the strategy. Better yet, with Guyana adopting a booking engine, designed by an international company, bookings for trips to Guyana will be done easily and simultaneously, which will increase tourists and income.

This feature will be added to the tourism website and is expected to be up and running by the end of November.

Newly appointed THAG Chairman/ President Shaun McGrath, said, “As a hotelier in Guyana for the past 25 years, I have heard people say tourism is not going to happen in Guyana. They say they have to clean up the place first, but the truth is, tourism is well and alive in Guyana.”

Hotels in the interior are filled, McGrath said. He talked of the fact that Guyanese

need to be made aware of the tourism potential of Guyana.

Caribbean countries such as Barbados, Jamaica and others have implemented programmes in schools to start tourism awareness in the minds of children. This is an initiative which Guyana has now taken up.

"Guyana, South America undiscovered"

THAG has, for Tourism Month, organised a school essay competition and the winning essay will be featured in the Guyana 2014 Magazine.

Among other activities to raise tourism awareness are the launch of Restaurant Week – November 10 to 16; World Travel Market on November 3 to 6 in London, which will include the launch of the Explore Guyana magazine; school talks, and customer service and servers training. It was stated that part of the funding from the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) will go towards the development of tourism.

Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh said Tourism Month is a time when the achievements of the sector are celebrated and the challenges are reflected upon. He said it is one of the most important multi-functional sectors since it creates employment, attracts investments, and contributes to economic growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

5 Hypocrisy and double standards of lawyers’ associations in Guyana You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times International, Industrial Site Ruimveldt Georgetown, Guyana or guyanatimesint@gmail.com

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Dear Editor, The Guyana Bar Association/Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GBA/GAWL) never fail to amaze me.

True to form, they have called for the resignation of the Attorney General (AG) over an illegal recording of a private conversation which, according to the AG, was manipulated and distorted.

However, what I find

to be extraordinary is the fact that none of these self-anointed paragons will ever be able to the face the public if some of their private conversations were ever made public without their permission.

I am not a lawyer, but I do know that persons must be able to speak freely in their private conversations and are not publicly answerable for those private conver-

sations, if they are made public, unless of course a crime is committed in those conversations.

The current matter is with the Police. As far as I am aware the GBA/ GAWL never sought an audience with the AG. Also, the very matter is before the Court by proceedings filed by the AG. The AG in on record as saying that the conversation was distorted and manipulated.

In those circumstances, by what legal principle did the GBA/GAWL make its findings and draw its conclusions.

This mad rush to judgment without any due process is not only wrong, but reeks of an ulterior design. This can easily be discerned if a few incidents are recalled.

The public witnessed no reaction when an explosive recording between Member

of Parliament Basil Williams and then Commissioner of Police Winston Felix was aired. Based upon that recording, the then Commissioner of Police was heard to be planning, to commit, serious offences.

No resignation was called for by the GBA/ GAWL either from the Commissioner or Mr Williams, a lawyer.

There was also silence to

the numerous legal and ethical dilemmas that Nigel Hughes found himself in.

I believe that when the GBA/GAWL was called upon to issue a statement in the latter matter the very President of the Bar Association response was, “That’s not our business”.

Yours faithfully, Richard Mendoza

Navin Chandarpal was a popular PPP/C figure Attorney General should stand strong

Dear Editor, The Guyanese community in New York who know Navin Chandarpal, friends in Trinidad where he visited frequently and interacted with the large Guyanese community, and myself are saddened by the news of the passing of this remarkable person.

Those of us who worked with him during the anti-dictatorial struggle will not forget his role and his contribution to the liberation of Guyana.

He was a terrific guy with a broad smile never to hold spite against anyone.

He has made sterling contributions to various fields of endeavour in the nation, including serving as Minister. His contribution to the PPP cannot be measured. He served his country with dedication and honour.

For his hard work and commitment to the party and nation, he deserves the highest honours and accolades. It is unfortunate that the country has not formally recognised him for his work.

I know this gentleman very well having interacted with him for well over 25 years in several countries. I met him several times in NY, Trinidad and Guyana; Navin was present at several fundraisers in Trinidad including in October 2011 and in NY. It was only last July at an academic conference in Trinidad that friends enquired about his health.

I had hoped to see him during my three trips to Guyana this year, but he was away receiving medical treatment and he was in no condition for visitors when I was there the weekend before Diwali.

Friends cannot believe that Navin is no more.

Everywhere, they spoke fondly of and reminisced about him.

I met Navin, as friends fondly called him, for the first time during the late 1980s prior to which I read his articles and learnt about his activism

The late Navin Chandarpal

as a freedom fighter in the then Opposition PPP/C. I bounced up with him at various social events in Guyana and in Trinidad (at weddings, Jhandis, cocktail receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, fundraisers, funerals, book launches, etc).

We had lengthy exchanges at the height of the anti-dictatorial struggle during the late 1980s and through the early 1990s when he was made Presidential Adviser on Science to Dr Jagan.

He was very familiar with the activism of a handful of us (Mel Carpen, Chuck Mohan, Baytoram Ramharack, Ravi Dev, Vishnu Bisram, Arjune Karshan, etc) in America to restore democratic governance. He lauded our contributions to free and fair elections and he showered glowing praise for my reporting on the Guyanese diaspora and my numerous commentaries on varied issues.

Navin had a professional approach to everything, and I remember him fondly visiting his Freedom House office numerous times to acquire political literature during the 1980s through 1992.

And at times I would also meet my friend Moses Nagamootoo. What brilliant and articulate minds they were, the latter more intellectually gifted especially in writing and social analyses! The two were bosom friends who contributed significantly, like other stalwarts including Clement Rohee, Feroze Mohammed,

Donald Ramotar, etc, to the growth of the PPP/C and restoration of democratic rule.

I assessed Navin as a battle-hardened freedom fighter, like some of my peers in New York, who gave much of his life to struggle against the dictatorship. And like his colleagues and those of us who were activists against the dictatorship, he suffered tremendously at the hands of thugs and goons put up by the dictatorship.

Navin, as he was popularly called in Trinidad, Guyana and in North America, was a very terrific guy. He always found time for an exchange and never shied away from a debate defending the PPP/C even when critiqued by commentators like myself.

I recall his smiling pleasant face at many events and locations I visited in Guyana during my numerous trips to the homeland over the last 25 years. He was never one to be angry with people.

He was a down-to-earth, grassroots individual. On a few occasions, he provided me with a lift to my hotel after social events late in the evenings.

Several professionals told me he would have made an excellent President though he showed no interest in that office and he avoided the subject when I broached it with him in 2010 and again in early 2011.

Navin’s passing leaves a void in the PPP/C that will not be easily filled, for few commands the kind of respect people (including from the AFC’s Moses and Khemraj Ramjattan) have had for him.

Navin’s life, as foes and friends would attest, remains an outstanding testimony to professionalism and selfless service to community and country.

My sympathies go out to his widow Indra and two children and all those who mourn his passing.

May he rest in peace!

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Dear Editor, The political Pharisees opposed to the Government of Guyana are dancing in a circle of hypocrisy.

Thanks to Guyana’s new political dispensation which has unveiled the mask of those who want to be in control of Guyana’s Governance by trying all sorts of dirty machinations, which have, so far, failed and will continue to miserably fail.

And in this regard, the people of Guyana are saying that they will not forget the past which is prior to October 1992, because they do not want poverty, misery and darkness to return to Guyana which they endured painfully under the past and illegal PNC Government.

I read the comments by the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA); Guyana Bar Association (GBA); and the Guyana Women Lawyers’ Association (GWLA) in relation to the

cellphone-manipulated conversation between the Attorney General (AG) and a Senior Kaieteur News Reporter where they are calling unjustifiably for the AG to resign.

They are inclined towards the political Opposition which is crumbling. But in like fashion the GHRA, GBA and GWLA must also strongly call on the Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) to resign from the GBA and the AFC for the usage of vulgar expletives when a reporter tried to interview him.

It seems, therefore, that when anyone in the political Opposition makes a public blunder, it is definitely not a problem, but when a Government functionary is alleged to have made a mistake, the anti-Government sections of the media and the political Opposition blow it out of proportion.

Yours sincerely, Peter Persaud

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Rodney CoI hears…

Sugar workers were victimised under PNC Govt A

s the sixth session of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry winds down, evidence continues to surface about the dictatorial leadership in every facet of society under of the People’s National Congress (PNC) Government of former Prime Minister Forbes Burnham.

Standing before the three-member Commission on Wednesday was Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul, who was head of the National Agricultural and Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) during the 1978-1980 era, the period under investigation by the tribunal tasked with probing the circumstances surrounding Dr Rodney’s death.

The team, comprising Barbadian Queens Counsel, Sir Richard Cheltenham; Jamaican Queens counsel Jacqueline SamuelsBrown; and Guyaneseborn Trinidadian Senior Counsel Seenath Jairam, is tasked with, among other things, examining the political, social and economic atmosphere

during that period.

Dr Gopaul’s testimony covered a range of events highlighting the suppression experienced by the working class, particularly sugar workers, whom it was reported had made up the largest percentage of workers in any sector at the time.

Led into evidence by Commission’s Counsel Latchmi Rahamat, Dr Gopaul used excerpts from his book “Resistance and Change: The struggles of Guyanese workers”, a publication which chronicles the hardships faced by field, factory and clerical commercial workers.

He told the Commission that Executive Members of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) had signed an agreement with Government on the Gy$14 minimum wage requirement.

It was agreed upon too that by January 1979, workers would be entitled to a merit increment. This, he explained was dependent on sugar workers’ performance over the previous year.

According to the leader, January had come and

Labour Minister, Dr Nanda Gopaul testifying before the Walter Rodney Commission on Wednesday

the Government had not honoured its obligation.

Workers had looked forward for their incentives but in vain.

This, he explained had become a huge problem after a while since the agreements enter into were not honoured.

He said NAACIE challenged the decision, filing several lawsuits with over 250 members making petitions in the court, claiming that the agreement had been breached.

He recorded that several cases had come up in the courts with the unions being victorious. Although these cases were appealed by the Government, the unions and representatives were still successful.

Tyrannical rule

Government then introduced the Labour (Amendment) Act of 1994, which nullified the decision of the court to legitimise the withdrawal of the increment.

Several senior lawyers had also intervened in the matter, making representation for the workers.

Guyana was said to be at the hub of tyrannical rule under Prime

Minister Burnham, who had ruled since before the country’s Independence from Great Britain in 1966.

Trade unions in Guyana were said to be a part of the fight to restore democracy and favourable conditions for the working class. Dr Gopaul reported that workers during that period were represented by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), which alongside the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) and NAACIE, fell under the umbrella of the GTUC. Since 1974, when the Government had instituted a tax on sugar exports, the Guyanese sugar workers represented by the GAWU had been negotiating with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on whether the tax should be taken on the workers’ income or only on the profits after compensation had been paid to the workers.

Since Government had taken the tax before workers had received their compensation, GAWU had claimed that the Corporation owed the workers some US$85 million.

GAWU sent a letter to GuySuCo and the Prime Minister threatening an indefinite

strike if the sugar company did not agree to pay the workers the US$85 million they were owed, based on the agreement.

GuySuCo did not agree to pay the workers that money and so three days later, most of the 21,000 GAWU members went on strike This massive strike action, which lasted for some 135 days, was held in front of the then Guyana Stores. During those exercises, sugar workers were beaten and harassed by Police as well as members of the House of Israel.

He noted that the ruling party of the day did not hesitate to victimise workers, pointing out that numerous charges were laid against the 100-odd activists.

The unions, which included NAACIE, CCWU, the Guyana Headman’s Union, and the University of Guyana Workers’ Union, agreed to support the strike.

They also made a call to the GTUC to begin negotiations so that the strike would end quickly and in the sugar workers’ favour.

The workers were severely victimised. Many within the sugar industry had their appointment revoked; persons who had not completed their probationary period were fired; others received warning letters.

Govt should set specific date for Local Govt Elections – Blue CAPS

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ocial change advocate Blue CAPS said while it is pleased with the announcement made

by President Donald Ramotar that a date would be set for Local Government Elections (LGE) in the second quarter of 2015, a specific date should be made known.

According to the group in a release, the President should go a step further and instruct Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker to announce a specific date for the hosting of these elections.

“Only a specific date, and not a generalised and vague promise, will activate GECOM’s internal processes to effectuate and administer the successful hosting of LGE. “We also urge the President to resume dialogue with the parliamen-

tary Opposition to discuss the hosting of these elections. This is crucial if the Executive wants to avert a successful NoConfidence Motion from the Legislature. Any attempts to impose on the design of the agenda of the Parliament will be met with resistance by the combined parliamentary Opposition and this would only add to the dysfunctional, and nonproductive, political environment that currently prevails,” Blue CAPS said.

The group led by former Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Clinton Urling said it is time the political policy-makers look for solutions that unite rather than divide the country and work together in a bi-partisan manner for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Just days after declar-

President of Blue CAPS Clinton Urling

ing that it would be “foolish” of him to call Local Government Elections, President Donald Ramotar Tuesday night declared his intention to hold those polls “in the second quarter of next year”.

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Phillips predicts economic turnaround for Jamaica

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EW YORK, USA — Jamaica's Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Peter Phillips is expressing confidence that, over the next five years, "the country will see the most sustained period of economic growth and job creation since the 1960s."

This confidence, he said, is predicated on the fact that the last two years represent a period of the most sustained and comprehensive set of economic reforms that have been implemented in Jamaica's history.

Phillips, who was the keynote presenter at the 10th Caribbean International Network (CIN) lecture series last Wednesday, argued that

Jamaica's Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Peter Phillips (Jamaica Observer photo)

the economy "is already showing signs of improvements as a result of these reforms."

Addressing the topic 'Jamaica's Path To Prosperity', the finance

minister repeatedly acknowledged that the reforms initiated under the current agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), "were painful but necessary".

"Negotiating support for the programme from the IMF and other multilateral partners was a difficult task, and we should not forget the tremendous sacrifices made by critical stakeholders to meet prior conditions that were placed on us," he said.

"I am referring here to public sector workers, domestic creditors including pensioners, and taxpayers in general," he added.

He listed a number of

legislative reforms which have been undertaken to strengthen the economy and attract more investors.

"The net effect of the combined economic, financial, legislative and administrative adjustments have been recognised by the global community,and has resulted in an improvement in Jamaica's ranking in the overall global competitive index as reported by the World Bank just today (last Wednesday)," Phillips said, noting that he expects more Jamaicans in the Diaspora to take advantage of the opportunities that the new economic environment will present. (Jamaica Observer)

Dominica celebrates 36 years of political independence

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O S E A U , DOMINICA: Dominica is observing the 36th anniversary of its political independence from Britain with the traditional military parade, honour of nationals and a message from Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit that the anniversary provides the opportunity to highlight and showcase the many attributes that define their character as Dominicans.

“It is an occasion to recapture and project our folklore, our song, dance, music, dress cuisine, and many of the other traditions that make us unique. But it is also a time to pause, to reflect on the progress we have made, to assess where we are, where we want to get to and determine how we can get there, remaining united, peaceful and strong,” Skerrit said in his Independence message to the nation.

The celebration is being held under the theme “Our Nation, Our Responsibility”, and Prime Minister Skerrit said it also provides for citizens to question whether or not “we have been faithful in discharging our responsibilities to ourselves, our families, our communities and to our country”.

Skerrit said as leader of the country while his administration had laid the groundwork for cre-

ating opportunities for the socio-economic development of Dominica, there is still a lot to be accomplished.

“One of the characteristics of a truly independent nation, is to be found in the recognition it gives to citizens who have blazed a trail of excellence and who have made profound sacrifice in service to the country and to the global community,” he said. (Jamaica Observer)

13-year-old St Lucian emerges top CXC Math performer

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13-year-old St Lucian – Dion Recal has emerged as the top performer in Mathematics at the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) level, sharing the distinction with five other Caribbean students.

Recal, of St Mary’s College (SMC), who is also the National Schools’ Chess Champion, wrote Mathematics and English in May according to Principal of SMC, Rowan Seon.

“He did the Math paper so well as a third former that he is among the very best in the entire Caribbean, bearing in mind that Math is written by about 90,000 students around the region, most of whom are fifth formers.”

The SMC Principal disclosed that the school tries its best to encourage the development of individual students.

“No boy coming into this school is like any other boy,” he told reporters.

Dion Recal

Seon noted that although SMC has a system in place that an individual may write eight CXC subjects, there is no stipulation that it must apply to everyone.

He said the system whereby students are only supposed to write a particular number of subjects is designed to achieve an expected overall average.

“But that is not our concern,” Seon asserted, adding that SMC’s objective is to encourage every student to do his best and to provide them with the needed support and encouragement.

(Caribbean360)

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US calls on Guyana Govt to get tough with drug traffickers, money launderers T

he United States (US) Embassy is calling on the Government of Guyana to implement measures that will ensure persons who pose security threats are convicted and their assets confiscated in order to prevent the continuation of criminal activities.

This call was made by the Embassy’s Charge d’ Affaires Bryan Hunt at a reception held in honour of US Commander Southern Command, General John F Kelly, who is visiting Guyana to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.

Hunt is urging that stricter actions to be taken against drug traffickers and money launderers.

“Security forces actions must be complemented by a robust programme of investigative and prosecutorial activities which result in the successful conviction and imprisonment of criminal elements. Moreover, increased collaborative efforts must be undertaken to seize the financial assets of criminal organisation and dismantle their sophistication money laundering networks,”

A section of the gathering at the reception held for General John F Kelly

he stated.

The Charge d’ Affaires reaffirmed the US’s support to work with the Government and other agencies in order to ensure that the Special Organised Crime Unit (SUCO) has the necessary training and assistance needed for it to function effectively.

On another note, Hunt pointed out that the US Southern Command has played a critical role in helping Caribbean countries, including Guyana increase their capacity to address many joint challenges such as combating narcotics, weapons smuggling and human

trafficking.

According to Hunt, the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) has provided a platform for cooperation among the countries to tackle those issues; however, he noted that achieving the goals of the initiative is far more complex.

Partnership and coordination

“(Its) requires ongoing partnership and coordination at all levels of our Governments, as we seek to disrupt and dismantle well-established and well-financed criminal organisations,” he said.

Moreover, he explained that as it relates to Guyana, capacity-building within the country’s security forces is critical, but not sufficient to achieve the goals set out under the CBSI. Hunt disclosed that the US’ partnership with Guyana has resulted in substantial joint work between the two countries’ militaries.

He went on to highlight that Guyana has benefitted immensely from this partnership, referring to the donation of the three metal-shark aluminum vessels, communication devices and maintenance equipment

to the Guyana Defence Force.

“In an effort to ensure that the potential of this investment is realised, the United States Southern Command continues to provide ongoing, advanced training in the successful use and maintenance of these vessels through its Technical Assistance Field Team,” Hunt explained, while adding that there are joint training opportunities in several professional development fields.

In addition, he remarked that social justice is a key element for reducing criminality and

increasing opportunities, which the US has been doing through the work of its Humanitarian Assistance Programme.

These works include donation of First Aid kits, medical supplies, clothing and shoes, along with building of domestic violence shelters, rehabilitate sports facilities and supporting skills training centres.

Meanwhile, General Kelly in a brief address stated that the US, Caribbean and Latin America share common threats such as human rights violations, human trafficking, drug-trafficking and infectious diseases, among others. On this note, the member of the US Marine Corps pointed out that it is important that the countries work in partnership to address the issues.

He expressed excitement at working with his Guyanese counterparts to tackle these issues, particularly drugtrafficking, which he said is a cancer to any society.

GDF Chief-of-staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips also conveyed his gratitude to General Kelly for the work the Southern Command has been doing for the local military.

10-yr old Jamaican saves his pregnant mother, unborn sibling from tragedy

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: A woman who was six months pregnant when she had a seizure behind the steering wheel of her Toyota Corolla motor car two weeks ago is hailing her

10-year-old son, Ronaldo Hendricks, as a hero.

Tennielle Green, who spent 10 days at the Cornwall Regional Hospital, delivered a premature baby girl weighing a mere two pounds, is now out of danger,

while her baby remains in intensive care.

Green, who is having her first daughter and second child, says the pregnancy was a few days shy of seven months.

Young Ronaldo, re-

calling the incident that could have seen him losing both his mother and sibling, said it was approximately 6:30 p.m. two Fridays ago that his mother was driving him to his grandmother's house in Norwood, St

Ronaldo and his mother, Tennielle Green

James, when he noticed she seemed disoriented.

"She first started shaking, then it seemed like she was having a seizure and the car was pulling to both sides of the road," said Ronaldo, a grade-five student of Supreme Preparatory.

"I realised something was wrong, as she wasn't seeing where she was going, so I jumped in front of the steering wheel, pulled up the handbrake and switched off the engine and called for help," Ronaldo told the Jamaican media.

Green said the baby is doing fine, but will remain in hospital for the next month.

"Her lungs have ma-

tured, and the doctors are trying to wean her from the oxygen she was on," said Green.

Today, Green says she has no idea what happened and feels she was in a daze even before she went into the car.

She had never had a seizure before.

Green said doctors indicated it was caused by her blood pressure going above normal.

She said there are no words to describe what her son had done for her.

"It proves to me the importance of teaching your children everything, preparing them for any eventualities."

(Jamaica Gleaner)

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Packed agenda for Parliamentary sitting W

ith President D o n a l d Ramotar setting Monday, November 10 for the first post-recess sitting, the Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaac on Wednesday moved to notify the 65-Member Parliament, supplying each with the Order Paper.

A packed agenda has been set for the 89th Sitting of the National Assembly but on the 33page Order Paper, the No-Confidence Motion against the Government of Guyana has found itself down at the bottom of Page 23.

In addition to the presentation of 21 papers and reports by Members of the House, the A

Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) are slated to ask 19 questions with subquestions on issues ranging from the University of Guyana Student Loan Fund, the Broadcasting of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) press conferences on the National Communications Network (NCN) to the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry and Land Allocation.

In addition to the trail of questions, the Government will be presenting the Food Safety Bill and the Motor Vehicles Insurance Amendment Bill for their first readings while the Education Bill and the Land Surveyors Bill

AFC's Moses Nagamootoo

will be read for a second time. Additionally, a motion would be put by Government for the consideration of Financial Paper Number 1/2014-

Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman

Statement of Excess on the Current and Capital Estimates.

Notably, the

Telecommunications Bill and the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill though listed, will not be dealt with during this upcoming sitting.

Following all these items, the No-Confidence Motion tabled by the Alliance For Change (AFC) would surface.

The AFC had signalled its intention to suspend the Standing Order, paving the way for the NoConfidence Motion to be given priority.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan told Guyana Times International that his party will be proceeding with the motion during the first sitting.

“It will be the first and

only sitting,” he said, noting that the Opposition would be moving ahead “full force”.

Though the PPP/C would want the 65-member of the National Assembly to debate the historic motion, Ramjattan said this would not be permitted, explaining that only a percentage of the members would debate.

The mover of the motion, Moses Nagamootoo will be leading the debate with support from Cathy Hughes, Ramjattan said.

“We will prove that the Opposition is united on this motion,” the AFC Leader declared, as he said the smile on Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee’s face would be transformed into a frown.

Health Ministry launches 6-year disability, rehab plan

T

he Health Ministry in Guyana has launched its sixyear disability and rehabilitation strategy with the aim of bettering the lives of persons living with disabilities in Guyana.

The plan was launched at the Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday under the theme: “Towards improved health partnerships and inclusiveness for all persons with disabilities”.

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran said that along with mental health, disability is another health area that has been placed on the back burner in Guyana.

However, he added that the Ministry has been working vigorously for quite a number of years to ensure these two areas become priority.

“We are now seeing some degree of progress in these two areas.”

The amount of money allocated in the national budget towards these two areas has been increasing annually, the Minister said. At present, a new facility has been established at the Mahaicony Hospital to care for disabled persons.

“We approach people with disabilities as a social problem. Several ministries are on board and we are working together for this cause,” Minister Ramsaran said.

Dr William Adu-Krow of the World Health Organisation (WHO) said approximately one billion people worldwide suffer from some degree of disability and they do not receive the required help.

He added that people with disability are four times more likely to be treated badly. The strategic action plan adopted by the World Health Assembly, Dr Adu-Krow said will provide a major boost to WHO and other closely related organisations, towards the efforts to improve the quality of lives for persons living with disabilities across the world.

Remove barriers

The plan will also remove barriers and increase access to care for persons with disabilities.

The plan is expected to strengthen community-based rehabilitation, rehabilitation assistive technology, assistance and support services among others.

Dr Adu-Krow said

A section of the audience consisting of persons in the related field gathered for the launch of the disability plan

very few (25 per cent) children living with disabilities have access to education and only five per cent finish primary school.

Some three per cent of newborns have impairments that must be detected and treated as they can lead to lifelong disability complications.

Recent surveys show that in Latin America 12.4 per cent and 5.4 per cent of Caribbean population live with at least one disability.

“PAHO Guyana is pleased to participate in this official launch of the national strategy in the rehabilitative services, which is as a result of many months of work. This strategy takes in consideration the global agenda for health and disability, allowing partnership at all levels, whether through Government or non-Governmental agencies. This strategy was built on the principles and values of Health Vision 20/20,” Dr

Adu-Krow explained.

Rehabilitation Services Director Debita Harripersaud in presenting the National Rehabilitation Services Strategic Plan, relating to a 2002 survey, said that at that time 6.4 per cent of Guyanese are living with disabilities.

It was projected by the 2002 survey that by 2014, Guyana would have just over 50,000 disable persons. However, Harripersaud said at the time the 2002 sur-

vey was done, a number of situations (institutionalised persons and persons with temporary disabilities) were not taken into consideration, and as such, it is calculated that approximately 200,000 persons are currently living with a disability in Guyana.

Most persons who are affected by disabilities mainly fall into the category of people who are uneducated, impoverished elderly and unemployed.

10

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Accounting body yet to World’s hottest pepper produced, sold by CARDI confirm if Sattaur is under investigation

C

lose to two weeks after Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur had written the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana (ICAG) “demanding” that it confirms whether he is under investigation, the institute is yet to respond.

In the letter sent

by Attorney Mahendra Satram on behalf of Sattaur, the head of the tax regulatory body is asking the institute to confirm whether an investigation is indeed ongoing into his conduct.

The Commissioner General had also requested the ICAG to state if it has communicated with the Kaieteur News based on contents published in an article on October 22.

Additionally, Sattaur wants the institute to issue a “clear and unequivocal” statement condemning what he calls “unsubstantiated and malicious attacks” that are designed to smear his character as head of GRA and at the same time

GRA Commissioner General Khurshid Sattaur

avert the execution of statutory duty and mandate.

The letter further calls for the ICAG to publicly articulate their position on the illegally obtained taxpayer information, that is, emails purporting to show that Sattaur had sent tax details of several private media entities to former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Sattaur, who is also a member of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants for over 31 years, had expressed disgust and concerns at reports in the media that suggest the ICAG or its representatives have commenced investigations into his con-

duct and may have already formed opinions on the matter.

The GRA head pointed out that he has caused criminal charges to be instituted against Publisher of Kaieteur News Glenn Lall, and others for defrauding the authority.

These charges, he said, carry significant penalties including the forfeiting of the two Lexus luxury vehicles, along with fines and imprisonment.

Sattaur explained to the ICAG that subsequent to and as a consequence of those charges, Lall commenced a campaign in his daily newspaper to smear and blemish his character.

The Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) has been supplying Caribbean farmers with quality hot pepper seeds for the past 20 years

T

he Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI) has been supplying Caribbean farmers with quality hot pepper seeds for the past 20 years.

Currently, four main varieties are produced

by CARDI and supplied through its distributor, Caribbean Chemicals and Agencies Limited, to agro-retail outlets from Belize in Central America; Cayman Islands and Jamaica in the North-Caribbean through the Windward and Leeward Islands; Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago in the Southern Caribbean; and Guyana and Suriname in the South American Continent under the CARDI Quality Seed and Cari Seed Brand.

This activity is led

by CARDI’s Revenue Generating Unit, which was established in 2013 to supplement the institute’s operating cost.

The unit has since established 11 revenue centres in its first phase.

Four revenue centres have been generating revenue from authentic and purified hot pepper seed production through

sale of the CARDI varieties: Scorpion, Moruga Red, Yellow Scotch Bonnet and West Indies Red from its seed production centres in Antigua and Barbuda, Belize and Trinidad and Tobago, in over 2000 acres.

In February 2014, CARDI launched the sale of purified and authentic Scorpion Hot Pepper seed, the world’s second hottest pepper recorded at 2,000 000 Scoville units through its distributor.

CARDI Quality Seeds are produced in the most isolated and protected areas of Antigua and Barbuda and Belize, where selection of seeds by breeders is done through a rigorous selection process to keep out Gemini viruses, phytophthora root rot, anthracnose and other pepper diseases.

Rigorous rogueing is done to get seeds only from true to type mother plants. Rapid extraction and seed processing methods ensure high germination rates and viability. In addition, seeds are treated against viral particles, fungi and pests and all micro-organisms.

The world-renowned improved yellow Scotch

Bonnet variety (300,000 (SHU) Scoville Heat Units) with parent lines bred in Jamaica for higher tolerance to Gemini and Poty Viruse, is a super-hot quality Caribbean Scotch Bonnet type pepper that has a bright yellow berry colour when mature and can also be marketed as a smooth skin dark green pepper.

The fruit has a distinct bonnet shape and is suited for fresh fruit export and hot sauce production; the flavour is mild, but pungent and is also hotter than Habaneros. It is an ideal variety for yellow pepper mash production, drying into flakes, roasting, and production of jelly, chutneys, jerk seasonings, or fresh chops.

The Revenue Generating Unit expects to assist CARDI in achieving its mandate, primarily by increasing the availability and usage of Caricom’s member states’ indigenous planting material to the wider Caribbean farming community; and providing sustainable technology, technical support and monitoring systems developed by CARDI to the region’s agribusiness sector.

Kaieteur News gets...

“A column within the newspaper which is supposedly satirical, bearing the colloquial caption ‘Dem boys seh’ has been used as an instrument to publish the vilest, most libellous and homophobic sentiments of and concerning hapless citizens.” Government said attempts by those aggrieved by these offensive publications to solicit apologies, retractions or clarifications are met with further abuse and sometimes with greater intensity in subsequent publications.

Observers have charged that Lall was in

breach of the Interception of Communications Act. The Act of 2008 prohibits the interception of communications unless a warrant is issued by a judge based on an application.

The law is also clear that any recording or tapping of citizens’ private communications must be authorised by the Chiefof-Staff of the Army, the Commissioner of Police, and the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). However, these officers would first have to apply to a judge for a 90-day warrant to inter-

from page 3

cept communications.

Only under these conditions does the Act allow the monitoring and recording of transmissions conveyed by fibre-optic cable or any other form of wire line, by wireless telegraphy, Voice Over Internet Protocol, Internet satellite and all other forms of electromagnetic or electrochemical communication.

According to the law, anyone found guilty of illegal wiretapping would be liable to a fine of Gy$5 million and a jail term not exceeding three years.

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Guyana Govt still to clear Dynamic Airways' return … Gouveia says airline better prepared

By Jomo Paul

D

ynamic Airways is set to return to the Guyanese market – this time reportedly better prepared than its disastrous first attempt. However, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) is yet to give the clearance despite the US-based airline submitting all of the requisite documentation.

When the airline was launched back in June, it was immediately hit by a spate of issues including lengthy flight delays, the unavailability of a ground handler at the John F Kennedy (JFK) International Airport in New York, and shuttling of passengers from one airport to another.

The false start was due to operational dif-

ficulties with securing time slots at the JFK Airport for the month of July. This had led to Dynamic Airways suspending flights until August 8. In mid-August, the US aviation authority, the Department of Transportation (DoT) published its list of public charters for 2014 and Dynamic Airways’ operation on the Georgetown/ New York route was listed as cancelled, effective August 6, two days before it was scheduled to re-enter the Guyanese market. This cancellation has since been lifted.

Local representative Captain Gerry Gouveia on Tuesday told Guyana Times International that the airline was now awaiting approval from local authorities, includ-

ing the GCAA, before restarting operations out of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

“In July, the Civil Aviation Authority wrote very clear instructions to Dynamic; when you want to return, when you want to resume your operations, you have to produce these documents: the contract with the ground handler, the contract with the airport and so on …. make sure they have all the approval. Civil Aviation was not prepared to take another chance,” Captain Gouveia said.

He went on to indicate that no official date has been approved for Dynamic Airways to return to Guyana by the Government, “but as I sit here now Dynamic

Captain Gerry Gouveia

has submitted all the required documents to Civil Aviation…and the documents are being processed”.

However, Gouveia said despite the lack of approval as yet, the airline is gearing up for a November month-

end restart.

Asked how the collapse affected his reputation as a successful local aviator, Gouveia said he was “proud and honoured to be the Guyanese partner for Dynamic Airways”, adding that “we can make all sorts of excuses, it doesn’t matter. It was a service failure (the false start)”.

Gouveia said as a result of the past failure, he and his wife are now “embedded in the operations” of Dynamic Airways and all of this is being done in a genuine effort to add some Guyanese flavour to the air service.

Gouveia also spoke of plans for Dynamic to become a major cargo carrier whereby the company would commence transporting fresh agricultural produce such as fruits

and vegetables to the US. He also said that he was pleased that TravelSpan and Dynamic Airways were now working together.

TravelSpan recently announced that a Block Seat Agreement to serve Guyanese travelling to and from the United States has been reached with Dynamic Airways.

TravelSpan Chief Executive Officer Nohar Singh said: “The Block Agreement will give the company the additional seats for the holidays, and Air and Hotel Packages for its valued customers. With over 19 years in business, TravelSpan has always fought to secure affordable travel options for the travelling public and for the people of Guyana, Singh said.

GECOM employee killed on birthday in early morning crash

By Vahnu Manikchand

S

ome three hours after turning 26, an East Coast Demerara (ECD) man was tragically killed after his vehicle slammed into the roadside guardrail along the Rupert Craig Highway.

Dead is Gavin Bachan, an Assistant Registration Officer at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), of Lot 181 Hope-West Enmore, ECD. Bachan was reportedly on his way home when he allegedly lost control of his Altezza motor car, bearing registration number PNN 7981, and crashed into the rail at the Kitty Seawall, a short distance away from the Celina Resort.

The accident occurred around 03:45h on Tuesday morning.

According to a nearby resident, Tyron Seaforth, he was awakened by a loud crash and went outside to investigate.

Seaforth told Guyana Times International that when he went outside, his friend was already there and they found the wrecked car which they examined, but no one was inside.

“I told him to check in the gutter and he went for a light and checked, that is when he see the boy. He called another man, they take the boy out and put him to lie on the corner of the road,” he recalled. Seaforth added that Bachan was still alive at the time, but his breathing was very faint.

The man noted that

Dead: Gavin Bachan

they immediately called the Police and for the ambulance; however, no one answered at the ambulance service. Seaforth said that his friend then went to the Kitty Police Station, but upon arrival was told that an officer had already left for the scene.

Seaforth estimated that the Police arrived on the scene about 30 minutes after they made the report, but, by then, the young man had died.

The ambulance subsequently came and one of its personnel examined the injured man, confirming his death.

The Kitty resident said that Bachan was the lone occupant of the vehicle at the time of the accident. Based on his observations, the car was badly damaged and it appeared as though Bachan went through the back windshield.

“From his one side (driver side) it was good, but the passenger side tear off…the two doors rip off. It looked like he hit the rail and the car spin around and that one side rip off from the rail cause the back of the car was down in the drain and the front was on the road,” Seaforth said.

He noted that the impact of the crash was so severe that fragments from the car flew through the air and broke the glass of a window in the upper flat of his house.

At the scene of the accident, fragments of the dark blue motor car were on the ground, although the wreckage had been removed to the Kitty Police Station.

Meanwhile, Police issued a release stating that “investigations have revealed that Gavin Bachan was allegedly driving a motor car at a fast rate, when he lost control of the vehicle and collided with a metal guardrail along the road-

way.”

Contrary to Seaforth’s account, the Police said that the injured Bachan was rushed to the Georgetown Public

Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Bachan leaves to mourn his parents, two brothers, and three sis-

ters. The body of the young man is at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The wrecked motor car at the Kitty Police Station

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana creating waves at World Travel Market in London

GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh

‘G

uyana, South A m e r i c a Undiscovered’, the country’s new destination brand was unveiled at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London during a cocktail reception at the Guyana booth on Monday.

The WTM is being held from November 3-6.

According to Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranauth Haralsingh, the first day was a tremendous success.

Haralsingh is heading the delegation to WTM, which also includes Senior Tourism Development Officer

Sanchia Persaud and Research and Planning Analyst Tosheika Logan.

“Day one was an excellent day for Guyana.

Everyone likes the brand and logo, the launch was a tremendous success if you take into account the massive reach that this event has,” he said.

While there, the team will attend key meetings with several tour operators, travel agents, media and publications.

As to the benefits of Guyana’s continued participation in the event, the GTA Director explained that the “WTM is the perfect opportunity for us to continue our outreach to international tourists, not only will we reach the UK market, but also buyers from countries all over the world”.

Guyana is also being represented by Wilderness Explorers, Rupununi Trails and Iwokrama at WTM, which is one of the leading travel and trade shows, attracting influential figures in and around the travel industry who offer the latest

insights, trends and invaluable knowledge to all who visit.

Guyana’s booth will host a number of events and meetings, including the launching of the “Guyana, South America Undiscovered” destination brand, hosting of the ATLAS travel group and the launching of the Explore Guyana

Magazine 2015.

The GTA recognises this trade show as a very important aspect of its marketing strategy and has continued to attend over the last 13 years.

This has resulted in placing Guyana’s tourism product on the world map in the eyes of consumers and internation-

al travel operators.

The main purpose of the destination’s rebranding and the accompanying marketing strategy is to help Guyana meet its aspiration of becoming a leading sustainable tourism destination in the region.

Acting Tourism, Industry and Commerce

Minister Irfaan Ali has noted that Guyana offers the opportunity to travel to an ‘off the beaten path’, conservationminded destination, to see exceptional nature, experience wildlife and birds in a remote and pristine environment with thriving indigenous and multi-ethnic communities.

Visitors at the Guyana booth at the expo in London

GDF kicks off 49th anniversary celebrations with church service defence and security sector and contribute to the development of Guyana as well as collaborate on diplomatic initiatives, since diplomacy remains Guyana’s first line of defence.

He further added that the professionalism and compliance of the ranks will definitely enhance the service of the nation.

Similarly, he said, offi-

I

GDF personnel and other guests during the church service

n observance of its 49th Anniversary, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Tuesday held a church service at Base Camp Ayanganna headquarters.

The event was attended by Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips and hundreds of senior and junior GDF officers.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief-of-Staff encouraged the soldiers to commit themselves to safeguarding the democracy of Guyana.

This year’s celebration is being held under the theme, “Towards greater operation readiness for national defence and security”. Phillips said the theme was appropriate as the Force prepared to usher in its 50th anniversary which is expected to be launched next month.

“We have completed

49 years with a mission statement which reads, “To defend the territorial integrity of Guyana, to assist the civil power in the maintenance of law and order, and to contribute to the economic development of this country,” he added.

The Chief-of-Staff explained that despite the many challenges faced by the Force, officers must work to earn the respect of Guyana.

“As we serve, we must uphold and live the values and standards of the Guyana Defence Force, since discipline is the mark of intelligent living. Our performance, our professionalism, and compliance with our Standing Operating Procedures will enhance our service,” Phillips said.

He said too that the Force must lead in the

cers must be responsible and accountable when performing their duties.

The Chief-of-Staff, in his closing remarks, reiterated that as a Force they must continue to improve their operational readiness, noting that the Army Headquarters will continue to facilitate improvements to health services and facilities as well as the well-being,

welfare and quality of life on all bases and locations.

He added that special attention will be placed on the training and professional development of all ranks, including civilians. And for the 50th year of service, the Army is expecting to renew its focus on the empowerment of female soldiers and civilians.

14 news President threatens early polls in face of No-Confidence Vote WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

- Parliament to reconvene on Monday

J

ust days after declaring that it would be “foolish” of him to call Local Government Elections, President Donald Ramotar Tuesday night declared his intention to hold those polls “in the second quarter of next year.”

However, he said this is contingent on whether the opposition rams through its No-Confidence Motion against his administration. In that eventuality, he would use his powers to prorogue or dissolve Parliament, paving the way for fresh General Elections. While both options would precipitate General Elections, in proroguing Parliament the President would be avoiding his party be the first to fall on an Opposition No-Confidence Motion.

Ramotar made the comments during an address to the nation aired on State broadcaster, National Communications Network (NCN) Tuesday evening.

Government had up to then been resisting holding Local

Government Elections, citing a range of reasons why it was not feasible.

The main Opposition-A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), however, which is currently engaged in countrywide protest actions, had demanded that the Head of State set a date for the poll.

In fact APNU had made the local government election issue the centrepiece of its struggle; giving lip service to the Alliance For Changesponsored No-Confidence Vote. The President would appear to be calling APNU’s bluff and would be forcing the latter to take a stand. Observers say APNU would be in a “most uncomfortable” place when Parliament reconvenes on Monday as the President effectively gives it two options: one of going ahead with the AFC-sponsored No-Confidence Motion and face fresh General Elections or supporting its own agenda, which would see its hard fought campaign for local government elections being realised. Opposition

Leader, David Granger in reacting to the President’s statement said that the opposition will not be threatened or intimidated.

“A Partnership for National Unity –APNU is extremely disappointed by the views expressed

by President Donald Ramotar in his address to the nation… It is clear that President Ramotar is trying to intimidate the opposition by threatening General and Regional Elections and putting Local Government Elections far into the future. APNU will not be threatened or intimidated,” Granger said.

He said after deliberately delaying the post–recess sitting of the National Assembly by several weeks, “APNU feels strongly that the President’s new found urgency to bring to the floor of the National Assembly “urgent matters…in the interest of the people of Guyana” to be disingenuous. He said APNU views the President’s ‘threat’ to prorogue or dissolve the Parliament as cowardly. “The Parliament

President Donald Ramotar and Opposition Leader David Granger during one of their meetings at the Office of the President

is intended to be a place for debate. President Ramotar is choosing to dissolve Parliament instead of facing up to a debate on the PPP/C’s abysmal record in office,” Granger charged.

Importance of Parliament

Meanwhile, stressing the importance for the National Assembly to recommence following the end of recess on October 10, President Ramotar said both sides of the House should use the opportunity to address critical matters that were on the Order Paper prior to recess. These mat-

ters include: the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, the Telecommunications Legislation, the Education Bill and Financial Papers. “These matters will allow us, all our people, to build a better society and a more resilient economy.”

However, the President warned against opposing forces that may seek to disrupt the current standing order. “I also wish to declare that were this not to be so, and I am provided

with reasons to believe that the Parliamentary Opposition intends to disrupt Government’s business by forcing a debate on their NoConfidence Motion, I resolve to respond immediately by exercising my Constitutional options to either Prorogue or Dissolve Parliament paving the way for holding of General Elections.”

Nevertheless, he said if the No-Confidence Motion against his Administration is passed, it will lead to General Elections.

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014| guyanatimeSinternational.com

The Caribbean Children Foundation celebrates 14th anniversary

T

O R O N T O , C A N A D A : The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCCF) celebrated their 14th year of helping critically ill kids from the Caribbean get life saving and life altering medical help at the Elite Banquet Hall in Toronto.

After a brief introduction by Ms. Sayeeda Hosein-Silochan, president of TCCF Mr. Jay Brijpaul addressed the audience and thanked the numerous individual and corporate supporters of the foundation. These included the Festival Management Committee (FMC) Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto, The Brij Team REMAX WEST, INKARAMA, Mc Masters Association of West Indian Students and others.

Since its inception in 2000, 68 Angels, as they are lovingly called, have received worldclass medical care. This

President of TCCF Jay Brijpaul presenting an appreciation pin to Dr. Martin A. Koyle of SickKids hospital

was not possible in their country of birth. The ongoing fund raising effort and support from volunteers made this possible, Jay as he is popularly known continued.

To date TCCF has raised and paid out over Cdn$1.3 million dollars towards the treatment and care of these angels.

All of the funds raised go directly towards the treatment and care of The Angels thus making it one of the most suc-

cessful Caribbean charities.

Dr. Martin A. Koyle, Professor of Surgery at The University of Toronto and Head of Division of Urology at Sick Kids Children Hospital, in his address to the supporters and volunteers of TCCF expressed his admiration for the work being done

by TCCF. Dr. Koyle said that it is events like this where he can actually interact with the support-

ers of TCCF that provides him with added encouragement and a sense of purpose for the life saving work that is being done by him and his colleagues at SickKids.

Also addressing the gathering were Gina and Paul Godfrey, founders of the Herbie Fund.

Paul and Gina established the Herbie Fund at SickKids in 1979 and since then the fund has helped 684 children from

102 countries that needed specialized medical and surgical assistance.

The Herbie fund has been especially generous in helping TCCF. This fund steps in to make up any financial shortfall that TCCF might have with their Angels.

Over the years the fund has helped almost every single kid that passed through TCCF. This year Ms. Gina Godfrey will be retiring after selflessly helping less fortunate children throughout the world for 35 years.

Ms. Jankie Dolaram, vice president TCCF and hospital liaison thanked all the supporters of the charity and conveyed the gratitude of the recipients who have been helped over the years. This year is special for TCCF in that 18 Angels has so far have been helped. In addition to the kids being helped at SickKids, 13 received surgical care at hospitals in the

Dominican Republic and Honduras. This effort was coordinated by Dr. Narendra Singh, Chief of Pediatrics at Humber River Hospital. A strategic alliance between TCCF and Guyana Help The Kids (GHTK) that allow for the more efficient use of donations was instrumental in the success of this endeavor.

Team Leader of the recently founded Inspire2Act, the youth division of TCCF, Ms. Subhashini Ramsamujh spoke of her organisation’s work in helping twenty and thirty something years old engage with the rest of their community in further helping TCCF with their charitable work The evening included the presentations of various certificates of appreciation, door prizes and raffle. The event concluded early in the morning with the guests dancing to music by DJ Arjune and D.A.G.

Motivational speaker inspires Linden students valuable, hence, they indulge in self-limiting activities,” he said.

T

Astell Collins talking with parents and teachers of Linden

he Linden Foundation Secondary School was packed with teachers and parents as inspirational speaker Astell Collins and his twin brother Allistor Collins, from BD1 Leadership Development, delivered significant messages about leadership, particularly pertaining to raising children.

“I have to admit that I was overwhelmed with emotions when upon my arrival I witnessed a long line of Lindeners eagerly awaiting my BD1 Leadership Seminar. It was Mr Brian Claxton from Linden Foundation Secondary, who after attending my seminar at St Rose’s High was impressed to have it in Linden,” said Astell in a release.

Astell echoed his recommendations of forging a sacred moral bond between parents and teachers to cultivate and

nurture positively contributing citizens of this nation.

He took the participants on a journey of selfdiscovery as he created an environment and an atmosphere of self-analysis which inspired everyone to do more, go further and be better.

He also cautioned leaders to work on their characters because what they say is backed by the life they live, and people observe their action more than what they say.

“This is especially true with children. As a parent, it is your crucial responsibility to lead your children down a path where values and morals still exist. If you preach on your children not to smoke, then you should not smoke either.

If you are yelling at your daughter to act like a lady, then why are you not? A true leader leads by example, and as a parent, it is your duty to

lead.”

Astell, alongside his brother, is on a journey to instill self-development approaches in Guyanese of all ages so they too can be used as advocates for change and promote a vision for a better Guyana; and in turn, a better world.

Prior to his seminar in Linden, Astell visited many schools throughout Guyana, including St Roses High, Christ Church Secondary, Central High, Diamond Secondary School and the Essequibo Technical Institute, to mention a few.

His interactions with countless teenagers led to his conclusion that youth go through a severe identity crisis at this precarious time in their life, and often need mentors to guide them through.

“They don’t know who they are and as a result they don’t know their value or that they are

His mission involves helping them realise their worth, their tal-

ents, abilities, gifts and strength through his leadership seminars.

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Guyanese boy thrives after life-saving surgery in the US H

e takes long, hot showers, has developed a sweet tooth, calls his American hosts “Mom” and “Dad”, wrestles with the boy who sleeps below him in their bunk beds and plays on a trampoline with the other children who live in their spacious home on Springfield’s south side.

Satchian Basdeo also has gained 45 pounds and grown six inches in the almost nine months he has lived in Springfield.

Most important, Satchian, pronounced “SACH-yen”, can see and feel a completely sealed roof of his mouth, which allows him to eat, drink and talk like any other 11-year-old boy.

Satchian is talking much more these days in his Creole accent. He has become more outgoing.

And though his speech is not perfect, it is easier to understand him since the procedures at Memorial Medical Centre in April and August to fix an unsuccessful cleft-palate repair that took place in his home country of

Satchian Basdeo rushes down the stairs on his way to play catch Monday at the home of Kristen Ferguson and Lucas Gebhardt

Guyana.

With more procedures in his future, Satchian, who arrived in Springfield in February, said he is starting to miss his family in South America. But he is enjoying himself at the home of the American family that brought him there after meeting him during a church mission trip in a suburb of Georgetown.

When asked if he

was glad he came to Springfield for the lifealtering surgeries, Satchian nodded several times. “It’s nice over here,” he said simply.

Kristen Ferguson, the Springfield clinic doctor whom Satchian considers his adopted mother, estimated that the boy will have received US$300,000 or more worth of donated services from memorial and

an array of local medical and dental professionals by the time his care is complete.

“There’s absolutely no way I could have afforded all of this,” said Ferguson, an EmergencyMedicine Specialist who now treats occupational injuries. “A whole team of people have pitched in with Satchian and my journey.”

Ferguson met

Satchian, then 10, when she was among about a dozen members of the Springfield First Church of the Nazarene who traveled to Guyana earlier this year to perform repairs at the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Centre.

The charity provides after-school educational enrichment and food, among other services, to low-income children in West Ruimveldt.

Ferguson, 39, who conducted health screenings while there, met Satchian and learned about the cleft-palate surgery that had been attempted on him two years earlier by a visiting Cuban doctor.

A cleft palate occurs when tissues in the roof of the mouth do not grow together properly, leaving a gap and an opening into the nasal passages.

The situation hampers a person’s ability to eat foods and make sounds.

Life-threatening

A life-threatening infection following Satchian’s original surgery in Guyana resulted in a golf ball-sized hole

reopening in the roof of his mouth.

In addition to the effects of infection, he developed dental problems because his cleft palate went unrepaired for so long. In the United States and other developed countries, most cleft palates are repaired within a year after birth.

Unable to arrange for another surgery in Guyana, Ferguson said she felt led by her faith to bring Satchian to Springfield, where she could attempt to use some of her connections in the medical community to assist him.

She worked with the US Embassy in Georgetown to secure a temporary US visa for Satchian and arranged for him to be flown back to central Illinois with the rest of the Nazarene Church members.

Her persistence was greeted with generosity. Surgery performed in April by two plastic surgeons from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine – Drs Michael Neumeister continued on page 18

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US Congressman asked to apologise – for Ebola blunder on Guyana

H

e set out to firmly question the Federal Government’s response to Ebola at an October 24 hearing, but the credibility of Republican Darrell Issa, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, was called into question.

He had stated that a recent African outbreak of Ebola took place in “Guyana” – an Ebolafree South American nation.

The New York-based Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID) sent a letter to Issa seeking an apology for erroneous statements

about Guyana that could stigmatise that nation and more than one million Guyanese living in North America.

New York City is home to a sizable and vibrant Guyanese community.

“Taxpayers want to know that our Government is prepared,” Issa said in his opening statements at the highly-publicised hearing, before promptly showing he was unprepared to say Guinea, when referring to the West African nation where an Ebola outbreak had actually occurred.

Instead, he mistakenly said the outbreak took place in Guyana. And it

was not a one-time flub.

Bloomberg News reported that Issa made the error three times during the session, which was watched anxiously by millions of Americans concerned about the possibility of the virus spreading in the US. “The first time could have been interpreted as a flustered fluke.

Issa had stumbled on the word “nation” when saying that ‘in the West African nation of Guyana, the world first learned about yet another new outbreak of the Ebola virus several months ago,’ ” reported Bloomberg’s Alison Elkin. “But then it hap-

Republican Congressman Darrell Issa

pened again. And again.”

Other news outlets – including Guyana’s stabroeknews.com, New York-based NewsAmericasNow.

com, dailykos.com, and www.politicususa.com – reported on Issa’s “Guyana” errors, and numerous Twitter users noted his repeated mistaken use of “Eboli” for Ebola.

And Issa was apparently also not prepared to say he is sorry.

“No response (from Issa). I’ve received several calls and emails from Caribbean-Americans supporting our call for an apology, including from some very prominent folks,” said CGID President Rickford Burke, who sent copies of the letter to House Speaker John Boehner, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and New York-area

Guyanese boy thrives after life-saving surgery in... and Reuben Bueno Jr – repaired the hole in Satchian’s soft palate.

Surgery in August by Neumeister and Oral Surgeons Jordan Williams and Louis Scannura transferred bone from Satchian’s hip to his upper jaw to promote the growth of healthy tissue and sustain his upper teeth.

Several longstand-

ing cavities were filled last week by Dentist Brandon Maddox. And to realign his teeth, Satchian will be fitted in mid-November with braces by Orthodontist C William Groesch.

Satchian will need to wear braces for three years as part of US$40,000 worth of treatment that Groesch is donating, Ferguson

said.

In the end, Ferguson estimated she will pay US$2000 to US$3000 out of pocket for Pathology and Radiology services that were not donated. She cannot get any of Satchian’s medical care covered through her own insurance because he is not legally part of Ferguson’s family.

But it is obvious that

Satchian has been welcomed into the home Ferguson and her husband – heating and airconditioning technician Lucas Gebhardt – share with their three children.

“He’s a full-fledged sibling,” Ferguson said.

“He’s a very happy kid.

He’s a very hard worker.”

Added her mother, Bobella Glatz, “It’s just

Representative Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn) and Republican Yvette Clarke (D-Brooklyn).

“CGID therefore calls on you to immediately, and in person, retract your comments and render an unqualified apology to the people of Guyana and the Guyanese-American community. I am confident that given your well-publicised criticisms of several US Government officials for ‘alleged’ mistakes, you as a man of principle and Chairman of a powerful committee of the United States House of Representatives would not allow such a colossal mistake to contend without correction.” (Daily News)

from page 17

magnificent how he has fit in.”

Glatz, 67, who lives nearby, supervises the homeschooling of Ferguson and Gebhardt’s children, Brenden, 12, Elizabeth, 10, and Emily, 8, all of whom also participate in online classes as part of a curriculum the family pays for from Freedom Project Education.

Satchian, who has joined in the online curriculum, uses his own study area, complete with personal computer and printer, in a corner of the living room. So far, he is doing first-grade work. In the United States, he would be in fourth or fifth grade, but his education in Guyana was limited. (The State Journal-Register)

feature

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Stellpan art helped bring Guyanese to Pittsburgh A t Leigh Solomon’s wedding in Pittsburgh, cultures clashed and came together. That day 12 years ago, Leigh, a native of Guyana, married an Italian David Pugliano, whose parents emigrated from southern Italy and settled in Pittsburgh.

“At my wedding, the Italians were dancing to soca and reggae as the Caribbean folks were doing the tarantella,” she said. People staffing the celebration were peeking in and wondering, “What’s going on in there?”

Lots of remarkable things. Music was provided by a band composed of Solomon, in wedding dress, and her sisters. Each played a steelpan, also known as a steel drum, a popular Caribbean musical instrument that has been an integral part of Leigh’s family story.

Solomon’s family moved to the Steel City in 1984. Leigh was five years old when her parents decided to settle here after moving to the Bronx in New York City from Georgetown, Guyana, on the northern coast of South America.

Her uncle was study-

From left, Sofia Pugliano, Leigh Solomon Pugliano, Cecelia Pugliano and Stella Pugliano model looks for the Fashion AFRICANA runway show

ing at the University of Pittsburgh at the time.

He told her parents that New York was too busy and Pittsburgh would be more to their liking as a place to raise four girls and build their lives.

It was not a hard sell, so they moved.

Language was not a barrier for the girls, but little things created challenges. Since Guyana was once under British rule, the girls spoke what their mother called “Queen’s

English”, with accents that other children had difficulty understanding.

“Our food that we brought for lunch looked odd to others,” Leigh said. “I remember hiding my lunch. I brought rice and beans and tea, and that was something other kids have not been used to.”

Two things made the transition easier. First was the family. No matter what barriers the outside world presented, the

Solomons’ Pittsburgh home was a safe haven.

It was “Guyana all the time,” Solomon said.

“There were four of us, so it meant that it’s a group of friends, when we got home we could play in the backyard and have fun and we were not so focused on making friends at school, although we did so eventually.”

Second was her father’s passion — a steelpan. It bound the family together. Solomon was a

known steelpan maker in Guyana, and the instrument helped the family build ties to Pittsburgh because the girls were performers.

Audiences clapped and that helped Solomon and her sisters build confidence.

A steelpan was also an ice-breaker. When people in Pittsburgh would learn that the girls were performers, they would ask, “So do you sing?”

That question motivated Solomon and her sisters to talk about steelpans, Guyana, their family and their culture. “No”, they would say, “we play the steelpan”.

“Having something and knowing something that other people were not familiar with was also a strength because you could become a teacher,” she said.

“In a way, I have been a lifelong teacher, because I was so young talking about the steelpan and showing adults something they have never seen before.”

Solomon and her family have always advocated for Pittsburgh.

“I’d say we believed in Pittsburgh when it wasn’t cool, when it was not really cool to be from Pittsburgh. We were

huge advocates of the city. Why do it there?

Let’s do it in Pittsburgh.

Why does that festival have to be there? Let’s do it in Pittsburgh.”

These days, Pittsburgh is the base for the business of Leigh’s father, who makes instruments for people from all over the world.

“People often ask him, ‘Where is your factory?’ and he would say in Pittsburgh. ‘Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a steelpan factory?’ ” she said.

As a mother of three and a person with a multicultural family, she said that although Pittsburgh praises and aspires for more diversity, it could do more.

“I want more children to be raised in the world that I was raised in, where it’s open to other cultures,” she said.

“I was walking with my girls through Brooklyn and they are not scared or asking why is that woman wearing that thing on her head. It’s not only about being curious but also accepting and knowing that the world is much more than their city or the country you live in. I knew that when I was five.”

(Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)

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Burnham Govt forced judicial officers to carry out orders against their will - Justice Ramson tells COI

F

ormer Attorney General Charles Ramson said the Forbes Burnhamled People’s National Congress Administration had encroached on the Judiciary, as Judges and Magistrates were manipulated and forced to carry out orders against their will.

Failure to comply would incur dire consequences, Ramson told the three-member Commission of Inquiry investigating the killing of Working People’s Alliance Co-Leader, Dr Walter Rodney. Among the objectives of the Inquiry is the examination of the social, political and economic atmosphere during the period 1978 and 1980. Before the panel of investigators, Ramson spoke of the citizens themselves being fearful of approaching the courts for recourse on mistreatment by any member of the State, since they dreaded the possible consequences such actions could have on them or family members.

Ramson, who obtained his Bachelor of Law Degree in 1973, told the Commission that upon his return, he had served in the capacity of Parliamentary Counsel for just over a year, before going into private practice. He explained that he was offered a position within the ruling Government to become the first Minister of Energy; however, he declined. He said although, his father was a “right hand” man of President Burnham, and although he admired some of the philosophies of Burnham, he was not interested in becoming a “political animal” but was more concerned about growing as a young attorney.

Interference

Ramson cited several incidents when the Government had forced itself into the judicial system, trying to stymie the smooth flow of law and order. Those included the situation where the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), through the Government,

had refused to pay sugar workers their incentives and merit increments owed to them, based on the contractual agreement.

He said he, along with another attorney, fought that case and won. The case was won on the merit that the agreement was contractual, and, therefore, legally binding.

The former Attorney General said Government had gone to the very highest level when in 1978 it moved to have the colonial 1966 constitution change, so as to impose its own sanctions. The PNC Government was seeking to have an extension of its ruler and was changing the referendum to facilitate this. According to him, elections were constitutionally due in 1980.

The Government was seeking to have a further extension of two years.

He noted that this decision was not approved by the general public, pointing out that although it was promulgated, no one had turned

up at the polling stations to vote. Ramson told the Commission that some senior lawyers had vented their distaste over the move and were severely physically abused by organs of the hierarchy.

He related to the Commission that he himself was severely beaten

by Police officers. And this was not just because he did not support the PNC Government, but because, as was told to him, he was targeted by the Government to be made an example of.

He recalled visiting a WPA meeting, along with now Chief Justice Ian Chang. Standing approximately 500 yards away from the gathering in Sheriff Street, Ramson noted that he quickly identified members of the then riot squad, along with persons from the House of Israel group. According to him, while the officers approached him and Justice Chang, he was the only one that was thumped and beaten by the officers. He said he later learnt that

Former Attorney General Charles Ramson

his name had come up at a PNC Congress meeting where a decision was taken to make him an example.

He said the interference continued over time, as he reflected on the roles members of the House of Israel and the riot squad played in upsetting the public meetings held by the WPA and to some extent the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

During Ramson’s testimony on Monday, it was admitted by the Commission’s Chairman that evidence of a

National Guard Service was brought to the fore.

This organisation of approximately 40 security officers was established immediately after the alleged arson attack on the Ministry of National Development and mobilisation in 1979. The body, which included senior officers like former Police Commissioner Laurie Lewis, was tasked with keeping tabs on all Opposition parties, including the PPP. Justice Ramson said it was phased out sometime after the death of Dr. Walter Rodney.

NEWS

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TT doctors threaten protest over $$

TT’s Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan

P

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Some type of protest action by doctors may be in the offing, according to a statement from the Medical Professionals Association (MPATT).

Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan is questioning the timing of the action, as he is preparing to make some changes to the regional health authorities. The MPATT Reformers group said in a release doctors were becoming increasingly

upset and frustrated because of poor conditions and the fact there had been no salary negotiations since 2008.

The release said: “While we cannot take industrial action we will have to use other ways to show our displeasure with the current situation.” The group is also agitated over reports that negotiations were concluded last Friday, saying to date no doctor has received any salary increase or backpay. But Khan said he found it “fishy” that MPATT was raising a fuss now just as he was preparing to change senior members of the RHA boards across the country. He believes this information was leaked and that is why the issue of salary negotiations has come up.

Khan also denied negotiations had not been held since 2008, saying his ministry was near to concluding a competitive package for the doctors.

(TT Guardian)

Culture Ministry to host indigenous song festival

T

he Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport will host the indigenous song festival with the aim of preserving indigenous languages and raising awareness.

Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony at a press conference on Monday, stressed that it is important to preserve indigenous languages. “The language speakers are dwindling, and if we do not do something we will lose these languages and some of these languages are unique to the world and if we lose them, the world will be short on languages.”

He added that the ministry has been looking at bringing forth an event such as the language festival because it noticed that the indigenous languages are being overlooked. In keeping with the aim of preserving the indigenous languages, the ministry has

Guyana’s Culture Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Coordinator of the Indigenous Song Festival Ovid Williams and Administrator of the National School of Music Andrew Tyndal

also published seven dictionaries and is currently working on similar publications for the other two languages.

In addition, Grammar books for the indigenous languages are also being worked on.

The minister said the initiative is a start, but in order for the festival to blossom, partnerships are needed. Festival Coordinator, Ovid Williams, a Patamona, who gave a taste of an indigenous song said for Region One (BarimaWaini) performanc-

es, will come from the Arawaks and Warraus.

From Region 7 (CuyuniMazaruni) the Arecunas will provide religious gospel, as well as a rapper to show their awareness of popular culture. From Region 9 (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), performances can be expected from the Macushis and Wapishanas and from Region 6 (East Berbice-Corentyne), the Warraus from Orealla and Siparuta.

The North Pakaraimas festival, to be held on 22 and 23

November by Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, will be used to judge the Patamonas’ performances so they can take part in the festival. The Lokono tribe from St. Cuthbert’s Mission will also perform. Andrew Tyndal, Administrator, National School of Music said indigenous language is being threatened by extinction.

He added that music being a universal language is thought to be the most effective way to showcase the varying indigenous languages.

CDB helping Guyana strengthen Miss Earth Guyana pays road safety education courtesy call on President

T

he Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, through the Public Works and Education Ministries, has commissioned an international consultancy firm – TRL, to strengthen road safety in the curriculum and increase knowledge, skills and understanding among children and

young people.

TRL, the UK’s Transport Research Laboratory commissioned to undertake the programme, has conducted a review of existing road safety delivery in schools and created a baseline of data by which to monitor performance over the next two years.

According to an Education Ministry release, following the completion of the review, TRL has commenced two one-day interactive training workshops for road safety education stakeholders along the West Coast Demerara

Road Improvement Corridor. These training sessions are being held at the Leonora Secondary School, West Coast Demerara. The focus of the workshops is to build capacity among all road safety education stakeholders in preparation for a pilot project that will conclude in April 2016. If successful, the school road safety education programme will

be implemented across the country.

The release stated that the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) currently leads road safety education in schools.

Activities usually focus on ‘Back-to-School’ media campaigns and the training of students and teachers through the school safety patrol programme.

Best practice recommends that road safety topics should be provided on a regular basis in the curriculum for the duration of a child’s academic tenure. Teaching should, therefore, rein-

force existing concepts and introduce new skills as children develop. Good quality teaching materials and resources should be used to support the curriculum and ensure a standardised approach across the country.

While TRL will advise on road safety good practices, the training workshops allow teachers, Traffic Police, GNRSC and stakeholders within the Education Ministry, to play an active role in the development of a road safety education programme that is appropriate for schools in Guyana. Participants will assist in identifying where road safety can be integrated into existing curriculum subjects.

Once this is established, participants will begin the process of developing materials and resources that can be used to effectively raise awareness among students of the most prevalent safety issues affecting their age group.

Further training will be provided in March 2015 before the implementation of the pilot programme. TRL will monitor changes in the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of students towards road safety as a measure of the success of the pilot programme before making any necessary amendments to support national implementation.

Cameraman Saajid Husseni, Makeup artist, Tenisha Garnett, Miss Earth Guyana, Stacy Ramcharan and President Donald Ramotar

President Donald Ramotar and Miss Earth Guyana, Stacy Ramcharan during her courtesy call on the President

G

uyana’s representative to the International Miss Earth Pageant, Stacy Ramcharan on Monday paid a courtesy visit to President Donald Ramotar, at the Presidential Complex.

The 23-year-old Ms Ramcharan has had a very busy reign since she was selected to represent Guyana on April 22 also celebrated as Earth Day internationally. She said that in keeping with this

year’s theme, she has participated in weekly clean-up campaigns and activities such as the ‘Get creative fun shop’ which targeted children and taught them how to use recycled materials to make toys. She said that her most recent move was to join the “New Foundation Initiative”, a group comprising disabled persons, involved in making items from recycled materials.

Miss Earth Guyana’s

message to other Guyanese is “Take care of the environment”.

She was accompanied on her visit to the President by makeup artist, Tenisha Garnett and Cameraman Saajid Husseni.

Miss Earth 2014 will be the 14th edition of the Pageant to be held on November 29, 2014 at the University of the Philippines Theater in Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines. Alyz Henrich from Venezuela will crown her successor at the end of the event in which 80 contestants from all over the world will be competing. The pageant´s theme this year is promoting ecotourism which aims to raise tourists and travellers’ awareness regarding ecological conservation in order to directly benefit economic development and to foster respect for different cultures and for human rights

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AFC, APNU advance coalition talks A

Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has approached the Alliance For Change (AFC) to form a broad coalition, but a response from the small party is still pending.

The proposal was renewed during a meeting held last week between the two Opposition parties.

This was confirmed

by Opposition Leader David Granger on Friday during his weekly press conference at his Hadfield Street Office.

“The matter was raised… and I would say the ball is now in the AFC’s court,” Granger told reporters, noting that the AFC has not given any clear indication whether it will buy into the proposal.

But earlier this week, AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan denied that such discussions were held. According to him, there are no plans in the pipeline to have the two Opposition parties merged.

When contacted by Guyana Times International, Ramjattan yelled “It is nothing of the sort!” before disconnecting the call. A second attempt to clarify his statement, the hostile political lead-

Opposition Leader David Granger

er said, “Tell (newspaper name) to haul its *ss.”

He was alluding to an article carried in a local newspaper under the headline, “APNU/AFC in advanced coalition talks — Roopnarine makes way for Nagamootoo as MP Candidate.”

Greater chance

Critics say they have a greater chance of winning the elections as a coalition, but failure to do so can result in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) returning with a majority in the National Assembly.

The People’s National Congress (PNC) which forms part of APNU has not won an election in 22 years. After ruling the country for 28 years, the PNC suffered a ma-

jor defeat in the 1992 General Elections.

But even with the PNCR joining with the Guyana Action Party (GAP), the National Front Alliance (NFA), the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) and the Justice for All Party (JFA) in 2011 to form APNU, it was still unable to defeat the PPP/C. The coalition has 26 seats in the National Assembly.

On the flip side, the AFC has never won an election. Since it was formed in 2005, the AFC has only managed to win 10.3 per cent of the votes, gaining a mere seven of the 65 seats in the National Assembly.

Individually, the Opposition parties are powerless in the National

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

Assembly, but as a combined Opposition, it has proven to be a force to reckon with.

With the AFC pushing to have the NoConfidence Motion debated and pass in the National Assembly, it is critical for the Opposition to form an alliance.

Many challenges

Since the 2011 General Elections, there have been many changes; changes that can negatively impact all of the political parties during the next General Elections; hence, their decisions during this period are critical.

Regions Five (Mahaica-Betbice) and Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) have experienced a sharp decline

in their populations by 16,969 persons.

According to Guyana Population and Housing Census 2012 Preliminary Report, the regions’ population fell from 176,123 persons in 2002 to 159,154 in 2012.

Regions Five and Six form part of the coastland regions, which also include Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (West DemeraraEssequibo Islands), Four (DemeraraMahaica) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Collectively, the six regions have a population of 666,261 persons when the last census was conducted on September 15, 2012 while the overall population was recorded at 747,884. Regions Five and Six are PPP/C

strongholds.

Additionally, the advent of a majority Opposition in the National Assembly has resulted in major protestations from all sections of society when key issues were being dealt with.

The joint Opposition have been greatly criticised for the cuts effected to the 2012, 2013 and 2014 budgets, which have negatively affected key developmental projects, including the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, the Specialty Hospital and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Expansion Project.

But this is just a tip of the iceberg for APNU. The leadership of the partnership is battling to keep the party’s spirit alive in one of its stronghold, Linden, Region 10.

Since mid-year, the mining town has been plagued with a major division since the leadership moved to appoint Sandra Adams as the party’s Regional Coordinator.

This appointment was opposed by Region 10 Chairman Sharma Solomon and the region’s APNU representative in the National Assembly Vanessa Kissoon.

Seventh Annual Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme launched

T

h i r t y - t w o young individuals joined the Republic Bank’s Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme on Monday and they will be the first batch to benefit from the newly -introduced Competency Based Education (CBE) Programme.

Republic Bank is currently registered with the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), making them able to offer and deliver the CBE. At the end of the seven month programme, successful apprentices will receive a National Vocational Qualification Certificate as a Certified Bank Clerk issued by CTVET. The certificate

The apprentices along with Republic Bank and Education Ministry officials

can be used when seeking employment for certain entry level jobs.

Throughout their seven months, the apprentices will be provided the necessary tools, training, coaching and guidance through practical and theoretical aspects of banking.

They will be taught basic marketing skills required to improve their career options, and

have some experience in the world of work.

Apprentices will also be included in Republic Bank’s community care services.

“We strive to improve the lives of others and the Youth Link CareA-Van; our community outreach activity for our apprentices was designed to foster social awareness, empathy, respect and care for the

less fortunate,” Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited Managing Director John Alves said at a simple ceremony held in honour of the apprentices.

Delivering the feature address, Chief Education Officer Olato Sam urged the students to appreciate the opportunity as it will be a great life lesson for them and charged that it should be a great opportunity for them to

develop their skills.

The Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme was introduced in Guyana in 2008 and since then has proved to be successful in transforming the lives of the young participants.

The programme, which commenced over a decade ago at Republic Bank Limited in Trinidad and Tobago, sought to bridge the gap

between the end of the participants’ school life and the start of their career.

The programme is geared to guide the apprentices through a process of personal and professional growth and includes facets that when combined, will teach the youths valuable skills for their professional and social development.

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Rich tributes paid to Navin Chandarpal

BY SVETLANA MARSHALL

T

op Government officials, friends and relatives paid tribute to late Presidential Advisor on Science and Technology, and stalwart of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Navin Chandarpal at a moving funeral service held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown on Sunday.

Hailed not only as a Political Scientist and Physicist, but also as a grassroots individual who championed the cause of the working class, Chandarpal died last week after losing a battle with stomach cancer.

Just before the funeral service commenced, his casket draped with the PPP/C flag was in full view in front of Freedom House, Red House and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) Headquarters.

Before hundreds of mourners, President Donald Ramotar re-

flected on the life of Chandarpal. According to him, “Comrade Navin was a product of the times”. He explained that Chandarpal was born at a time when Guyana was experiencing significant changes with the emergence of the PPP, led by former President, the late Dr Cheddi Jagan. It was a time when the party had placed Independence high on its agenda, having gained majority support.

P r e s i d e n t Ramotar recalled that Chandarpal’s father was a part of the “struggle for Independence and freedom”. It is believed that Chandarpal at a tender age built on the foundation that was laid by his father. At an early age, he became a student activist and by 1974 led the University of Guyana Student Society UGSS).

Describing him as a “political thinker” and a “strategist”, the President recalled that Chandarpal shifted the protest from only demonstrations against the Government’s refusal to hire Dr Walter Rodney as a Professor at UG to

PPP/C leaders and supporters giving Navin Chandarpal his final send off in front of the party’s headquarters

public lecture sessions.

The PPP/C stalwart was also remembered for the role he played in the development of the Community for the Defense of Democracy (CDD), the 1980 debate on whether the PPP should contest in the elections and GAWU’s 1977 strike.

Though Chandarpal has lost the battle to cancer, President Ramotar said he has left a long trail of examples worthy of emulation. Though he did not agree with all the decisions taken in the party, Ramotar said

APNU MPs Amna Ally and Winston Felix signing the book of condolences for the late Navin Chandarpal

Chandarpal was always discipline and stood by the party through the most difficult of times.

Optimist

Describing him as a Scientist, Mathematician and Physicist, PPP/C General Secretary Clement Rohee said Chandarpal never allowed himself to fall victim to “pessimistic nor fatalistic thinking”.

As a “complex thinker”, Rohee said his comrade could have laboured in any area of scientific endeavour. “In other words, while he played an integral role in a historically dynamic revolutionary force… he closely followed development in the fields of the environment, climate change and challenges facing small island developing states,” he said.

Similarly, he placed major emphasis on the development of curriculum for both secondary and tertiary institutions in the fields of Mathematics and Physics.

“But Navin was above all of the revolutionaries, he contributed actively and passionately to all the critical policy-making debates,

these include transforming our party from a loose mass party to a more discipline type of party, the debates on whether the party should contest in rigged elections, boycott or not to boycott Parliament, the debates on whether

the party on the issues of governance, elections and parliamentary strategies.

Additionally, he penned several articles for the Mirror Newspaper and completed an “impressive” historical review of the

Mrs Yvonne Hinds, wife of Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds embraces widow of Navin Chandarpal, Indranie Chandarpal at the funeral service

we should extend critical support or unconditional support to the PNC regime, the debates on the establishment of a National Patriotic Front and a National Front Government,” Rohee recalled.

Shortly before his death, Chandarpal, despite his illness, actively participated in discussions at the leadership of

refusal by the People’s National Congress (PNC) to appoint Dr Rodney as a Professor at UG. His death, the PPP/C General Secretary said, is a great loss to the working people of Guyana and the ruling party.

“Navin embodied all that is good,

be in a state of hibernation when it comes to GECOM’s affairs… is it that they are privy to privileged information that is restricted from the PPP or are they huffing and puffing without oxygen.”

He also reaffirmed call for GECOM to fire its recently appointed Public Relations Officer Richard Francois.

Rohee said: “Our information indicates Mr Francois as being openly supportive and sympathetic to the Opposition, this is premised on statements and views published by Mr Francois in the run

up to the 2011 General Elections.”

According to Rohee, while his party respects the right and freedom of employment, he is of the view that Francois’ background and political allegiance will compromise the professionalism of GECOM and may very well lead to biasness in the discharge of his duties. The party made references to several letters published mostly in the Kaieteur News that were written by Francois and posts on social media, some of which he had been critical of the PPP Government.

continued on page 25

PPP/C reminds GECOM of promised OLE

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he Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) said that it is still awaiting the publication of the Official List of Electors (OLE) from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) as was promised.

The Commission had given October 30 for the date when the OLE would have been published. The party’s General Secretary Clement Rohee on Monday told reporters at a press conference at Freedom House on Robb Street that the management of GECOM is yet to inform the par-

ty of any developments or setbacks as it relates to the publication of the list.

“The PPP/C is still awaiting their copy or a definitive word from GECOM” as relates to the list being released, Rohee said.

He also said that “the PPP/C notes with concern GECOM’s haste in the recruitment and training of polling day staff”.

According to Rohee, the training and recruitment of the staff without the involvement of any of the political stakeholders show a total disregard for the political

parties in Guyana.

He called on GECOM to immediately make public the list of persons selected for training, the general areas of training undergone and the selection criteria that was used to hire the staff.

“The Guyanese people are curious to know, whether the persons selected demonstrate proper and adequate representation of all our people. The PPP is curious to know the contents of GECOM’s training, be it for Local or General Elections and how it is this decision was taken considering the AFC’s No-Confidence

Motion and the APNU sponsored countrywide damp protest for Local Government Elections,” Rohee said.

He contended too that the populace and the PPP are now left to wonder what training was conducted with these persons, taking into consideration the “dilemma” that the political sphere and by extension the country is placed in by the recent actions of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and A Partnership For National Unity (APNU).

Hibernation

The Opposition, Rohee said “seems to

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Govt honours top academic performers for 2014

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mid much fanfare at the National Cultural Centre, more than 34 students and four schools from across Guyana were given due recognition for their outstanding performance in 15 categories.

In the presence of President Donald Ramotar, Education Minister Priya Manickchand, Chief Education Officer Olato Sam and a packed audience, New Guyana School’s Jorrel De Santos, Aliah Mohamed of School of the Nations, and Ravi Singh from Westfield Prep were presented with trophies for outperforming their colleagues in the 2014 National Grade Six Assessment.

In the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) – Best Junior Secondary Performers Category, Bharti Bhoge who graduated with 17 grade ones from the Skeldon

Linepath Secondary School received the top prize. Three other students received awards in this category.

But it was Queen’s College student Elisa Hamilton who stole the spotlight.

Hamilton gained 19 grade ones and one grade two in this year’s CSEC examinations. She led the batch of six students who were honoured as the country’s Best Senior Secondary School Performers.

Additionally, she was deemed the Best CSEC Performer and the most outstanding performer.

Her colleague, Larissa Wiltshire, who was also among the best senior CSEC performers, was praised for being the best science performer.

In addition to Hamilton, Special Awards went to Ryhand Chand of Queen’s College who gained 13 subjects in Business Education; Aliyyah Abdul Kadir who copped 15 subjects in the

All Smiles! Guyana and the Region’s CSEC topper, Elisa Hamilton receiving her award from President Donald Ramotar at the National Cultural Centre in Georgetown

area of Humanities; and Kishan Crichlow of New Amsterdam Secondary with 12 subjects in the area of Technical–

Vocational Education.

In the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) Best Performers

Category, Deowattie Narine, Cecil Cox, Andy Sattan, Prashat Shivdas, Keleshwar Singh and Benedict Sukra, all of Queen’s College, were presented with trophies.

However, it was Narine who received the Best CAPE Performer Award, after gaining six grade ones and one grade two.

Six students from the Carnegie School of Home Economics received awards. In the area of Garment Construction, Latonya Andrews walked away with the top prize. She was followed by Nashayia Bovell (Commercial Food Preparation); Royden Wilson (Catering and Hospitality); Leonna Kissoon (General Cosmetology); Kamalita Heralall (Garment Construction – Craft Production Design Division) and Makebia Thomas (Visual Arts – Craft Production and Design Division).

Another batch of six was

honoured for their outstanding performance in the Guyana Technical Education Examination at the Government Technical Institute (GTI) while Sean Davis from the Linden Technical Institute copped the top spot at the regional level.

The Best Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) Award went to Duviena Badray from the Anna Regina Centre (Primary); while a special prize went to Rosemarie Ramitt who despite her blindness copped five grade ones.

Meanwhile, Rama Krishna Primary was identified as the most improved Primary School, while East Ruimveldt Secondary and Zeeburg Secondary received awards for being the most improved junior secondary schools. President’s College was deemed the most improved Senior Secondary School.

Essequibo triplets celebrate 20th birthday in grand style

By Indrawattie Natram

E

ssequibo triplets Radha, Rajshri and Reenica Mansaram of Land of Plenty, Essequibo Coast turned 20 on Monday, celebrating the milestone days before in grand style.

The beautiful young ladies who believe in charitable work were recently afforded a trip to the majestic Kaieteur Falls, compliments of their parents Devica Persaud and foster father Godfrey George.

Radha, Rajshri and Reenica spent a day in

the dense forest of the majestic Kaieteur Falls, exploring the adventures of life with their mother.

They also fed the children of Joshua House as part of their birthday celebrations. Born to Persaud on November 2, 1994 at the Woodlands Hospital in Georgetown,

Essequibo triplets Radha, Rajshri and Reenica Mansaram of Land of Plenty, Essequibo Coast turned 20 this week and celebrated the milestone days before in grand style

the girls were described as very obedient, bright, helpful and co-operative to their mother.

Their mother said although she struggles working tirelessly as a security guard to maintain her daughters, she never regretted a single day they were born. The mother said she is proud and her daughters bring immense joy and happiness to her life.

Persaud said when she went into labour, the doctors did not know they were about to deliver three babies, instead of one.

She said she remembered the “hot” labour pains; however, she managed and today she

is reaping the benefits.

Her three daughters received nursery, primary and secondary education on the Essequibo Coast. Today, she said all of them are working and she is anticipating sending them to further their studies at the University of Guyana (UG).

“I was living with their father in Georgetown… and I couldn’t take his attitude so we separated and I came to live in Essequibo. All of their schooling was right here in Essequibo and by God’s grace, we made it through.”

The mother said she always instills positive values in her children

and taught them to always keep the poor and needy at heart.

She said on every birthday celebration, she makes sure the girls make charitable donations to the less fortunate and elders.

The dedicated mother also said her daughters are very religious, noting that they attend mandir regularly.

The young ladies thanked God for giving them health and strength to reach 20, and are hoping that the blessings continue. The triplets also have another sister, Kavita Mansaram, who is equally loved by her mother.

News

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

APNU MP calls for better pay for police officers

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Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament (MP) Winston Felix is calling for a more attractive remuneration package for Police officers, contending that their current salaries are small.

Felix was at the time speaking at a press briefing where he once again lashed out at the Government over the critical state of crime in the country, noting that enough is not being done

to curb the situation.

He said the crime situation is as a result of the Police Force lacking capacity as well as resources to effectively combat crime and criminality.

The former Police Commissioner pointed out that one way to bring the Force up to a full complement is to examine the recruitment and training programmes.

He explained that attractive remuneration packages should be of-

Rich tributes paid to... healthy and positive in the PPP/C.” In moving ahead, Rohee said PPP/C leaders and supporters should follow in the footsteps of Chandarpal by upholding the party’s Constitution.

Similar tributes flowed from GAWU’s President Komal Chand.

“The workers have loss a friend and a champion. For the progressive forces, a place among the frontline activists has now become vacant.”

According to Chand, Chandarpal has left a memorable record of personal involvement; a record worthy of emulation. “His life’s record shows that he was

a comrade with multidimensional interests which ranged from being a graduate in Physics to a youth leader, to a Government Minister and lots of other responsibilities,” said Chand.

His friend and colleague Andrew Bishop, sisters Salo Bishop, Vijaya Chandarpal and Jilly Sookhdeo also paid tribute to him, in addition to his children Gitanjali and Rabindranauth Chandarpal. He was the husband of Indranie Chandarpal.

In 1975, Chandarpal successfully read for a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics and Mathematics from the University

APNU MP Winston Felix

fered to Police officers in order to retain manpower.

“We need to deal with the issue of manpower; young people do not want to work for a measly sum of Gy$57,000 per month. We need to up the level, we need a Policeman who has been so well prepared at school that he can absorbed the training programme so that when they get out there, they can effectively do their job. You just don’t want

to recruit today and they go tomorrow,” he stressed.

Felix further said that not only Policemen, but public servants should also get an increase.

Another area where the shortage of manpower in the Force is evident is in the number of patrols in the streets, Felix said. He noted that there is a definite decrease in patrols frequenting the roadways to prevent and detect crime.

The former Police Commissioner pointed out that crimes are committed based on opportunities available. On this note, he referred to the incident on Sunday when the congregation of the St Philip’s Anglican Church was robbed by three armed young men.

Felix emphasised the need for increased Police patrols in the streets to deter criminals from committing heinous acts such as the one carried out on Sunday.

from page 23

of Guyana. In 1978, he married Indranie Dhanraj and their union produced two children.

In his early years, he lectured in Mathematics at the Cyril Potter College of Education and Physics at the University of Guyana.

At the same time, he nurtured his political career, becoming a member of the Central Committee and Executive Committee of the PPP in 1979. He pioneered numerous national initiatives on sustainable development through his post as Advisor to the President on Energy, Natural Resources, Science, Technology and

Pallbearers removing the body of Chandarpal from the International Conference Centre where a service was held for him

Environment from 19922001.

During the period 2001-2003, he served as

Agriculture Minister and a Member of Parliament.

Over the last 10 years, he reassumed the

role of Advisor to the President on Sustainable Development, Science and Technology.

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NEWS

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Canadian investor buys East Coast biker killed in collision Tower Hotel for US$8M A - exploring other investment opportunities in Guyana on the hotel, which he said seemed as something that could be advantageous.

By Alexis Rodney

A

fter being closed for over five months, Canadian businessman Mike Mosgrove last Thursday announced that he is the new owner of the Hotel Tower.

The hotel, located on Main Street, Georgetown was in a state of disrepute sometime in May of this year, when former employees mounted several protests in objection of not being paid.

The employees had taken to the streets in front of the establishment protesting the decision by the company to abruptly close its operations, and not paying them.

Those employees, it is reported have still not been paid. Mosgrove, who is also President of the Panther Recycling Corporation, said he is hoping to have the hotel reopened by December of this year.

At a press conference on Thursday to announce the new ownership, Mosgrove said

Other investment

although the initiative is his personal investment, it will soon be transferred to the Panther Recycling Corporation.

“With an investment of more than US$8 million of my money and an additional $1 million to $2 million of refurbishing, we can have one of the nicest hotels in downtown Georgetown,” Mosgrove told reporters in the boardroom of the Sleep-in Hotel, Brickdam.

He said his company is interested in the proj-

ect for several reasons.

Among them is the fact that “it is a nice asset for us to have and provides jobs and gives a clean atmosphere to the downtown quarter which we like”.

The financers behind the project, Mosgrove said include Scotia Bank and Lenders Direct, Toronto, Canada.

Mosgrove, who has been active in Guyana over the last couple of years working on the recycling project, said he has always had an eye

Over the last two days, he said he had been making arrangements for the purchase of the hotel as well as 200 acres of land on the Linden- Soesdyke Highway that the group could use to create a resort.

“It is a gorgeous area, its back into the wooded area and offers something to people that is coming, other than the demographic between the younger people and the older visitors who may want to come here to relax, we can make this more of a destination place for people, more than what exists.”

The company has also hooked up with three other hotels that it is working on in Ontario, Canada. All those things combined, he noted fall under the Panther Recycling Group, which has been separated in order to keep its assets in various groups.

motorcyclist was killed when his bike collided with a truck on the Mon Repos Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Monday morning.

Dead is 54-yearold Bennett Beveney, a welder of Lot 37 Plantain Walk, Triumph, (ECD).

The accident occurred around 02:15h. A pillion rider, Alicia Penheiro, was also on the motorcycle at the time of the accident.

According to the Police, Beveney and Penheiro, of Enterprise, ECD, were proceeding along the Railway Embankment, when a motor lorry proceeding in the opposite direction swerved into their path causing a collision. The two injured persons were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where Beveney was pronounced dead on arrival and the pillion rider was admitted to seek medical attention.

When Guyana Times International visited the man’s home, his reputed wife of 20 years, Dawn Cadogan, said that the last time she saw her husband was on Sunday

Dead Bennett Beveney

around 23:00h, just before he left home. The woman said that she did not know where he was heading and it was until Monday morning that she got the news of his death.

The man’s stepson, Shaka Kendall, related to this newspaper that around 05:00h on Monday morning, two of Beveney’s nephews came to the house and asked if the man slept at home the night before.

The young man said after checking he found that Beveney’s motorcycle was not there and informed the men, who then told him that they received a call saying that their uncle died in an accident.

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NEWS

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

US medical team to conduct over 20 major surgeries in Guyana

T

he George Washington medical team arrived in Guyana on Sunday and was welcomed by Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran.

At a reception in their honour at Grand Coastal hotel, Minister Ramsaran said he hopes this time around, the team will able to interact with Guyanese people, especially in the clinical field to share their skills with Guyanese medical personnel.

He pointed out to the team, the improvements at the West Demerara

Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, Chief Executive Officer, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Michael Khan and Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud along with members of the medical team

Regional Hospital from their first visit last year and said he hopes that members of the team can identify other weaknesses in whichever hospital they work at. He also invited the team to explore the medical school at the University of Guyana.

Minister Ramsaran encouraged the team to take the opportunity to explore Guyana’s beauty during their time in the country. He said Guyana is a good tourist destination, “so I am hoping you will be able to see a bit of Guyana without disrupting your academic and

clinical work so when you get back you will be able to promote us as a good destination for families to come and see nature.”

Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud also expressed the hope that the team will have a fruitful and pleasant stay. “Patients here are looking forward for your services and I know they will appreciate everything that you do. I hope this mission is executed to its fullest,” he said.

Prem Singh, a Guyanese who migrated over 30 years ago and one

of the key personnel behind the initiative, said the team is in Guyana to perform surgeries on those who are on a waiting list. He said through friendships, the linkage was made and he initiated the team’s visit to Guyana.

On the first mission, there were 23 sur-

geons and specialists and on this second trip, the team is approximately the same size. One of three urologists on the team said he is delighted to be back in Guyana for a second time. He described his first visit as a life changing experience and he hopes to do it annually. The group antici-

pates doing about 20 major surgeries in addition to other smaller surgeries. Last year, there were about 45 surgeries done.

The group will also be performing gynaecology surgeries such as for fibroid and ovarian masses and others for kidney stones and enlarged prostate.

Beheaded Jiffi Lubes owner family wins Gy$200M insurance claim …Clico granted stay of execution

T

he High Court on Monday ordered Clico to pay Nariman Kalamadeen, the wife of murdered Jiffi Lubes owner, Mohamed Kalamadeen, the sum of Gy$200 million – a claim she had made on the company following the beheading of her husband.

The judgement was made by Justice Rishi Persaud, sitting in the Commercial Division of the High Court. The action was instituted on February 20, 2009 by Nariman Kalamadeen, in her capacity as the Administrator of the estate of Mohamed Farouk Kalamadeen.

At the time of his death, Mohamed Farouk Kalamadeen held a life insurance policy with CLICO Life and General Insurance Co (SA) Ltd, and the company refused, without explanation, to honour the claim made by the estate of Kalamadeen, despite all the requirements of the company being complied with.

Nariman was represented by Senior Counsel Edward Luckhoo and Attorney Sase Gunraj, while Clico was represented by Senior Counsel Ashton Chase. Several witnesses, including a representative of CLICO Trinidad and the former local Chief Executive

Mohamed Farouk Kalamadeen

Officer Geeta SinghKnight, testified on behalf of the company.

According to Gunraj, the judge found, among other things, that: the evidence led by the company fell short of establishing material non-disclosure and fraud, as was alleged; that there was no proof of materiality; that the issue of non-disclosure on the part of the deceased was not pleaded by the defendant and that the defendant never rescinded the policy or returned premiums, but instead affirmed same.

As a consequence, judgment was granted to the plaintiff in the sum of Gy$200,000,000 with costs in the sum of Gy$500,187. However, upon an application by the defendant, execution of the judgment was stayed for four weeks.

Back in 2009, the collapse of Clico Guyana had caused a holdup in the case just over a

month after the company challenged an attempt to collect on the policy. Clico had filed court proceedings to bar the Insurance Arbitration Board from arbitrating a complaint

by Kalamadeen’s family in January and was granted an interim order

by Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang that restrained the Board from hearing the case.

Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire then heard the case when it was called and was informed of Clico’s financial troubles and of the High Court order placing the company under judicial management. As a result, the case was put on hold.

Court documents revealed that the Jiffy Lubes owner had taken out the Gy$200 million policy of insurance with Clico payable on his demise. His estate was named as beneficiary under the policy and he was also entitled to an accidental death benefit of Gy$1.2 million at the time of his death.

Kalamadeen’s beheaded body appeared on Cowan Street, Kingston on the morning of April 30, 2008 and almost a month later the family attorney, Bibi Shaddick had written to Clico informing of his demise and provided a copy of the death certificate.

feature

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Gospel sensation, Aaron Daniels

A

law abiding citizen, a law enforcer and a gospel singer are the titles attributed to Aaron Daniels.

Inspired by a scriptural text found in the Bible book of John, Daniels released his debut album, ‘A Voice’.

“I basically wanted it to be a voice, because I wanted to show the world I am a voice being used for something greater than I am. It’s just not me writing music, I am writing for a higher purpose,” Daniels declared in an interview with the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

The gospel singer, known by his moniker Mr Daniels, stated that he grew up around music. “[In] my mother’s family, almost everyone can sing…I guess I picked it up from them.”

He added that he has a famous uncle, on his mother’s side, who has performed with several famous regional acts.

“I had many opportunities to sing in church, that is where my singing career actually began, but my big break came when I joined the Guyana Police Force in 2011,” Daniels mentioned.

Daniels recalled when he joined the police force, sometime after his performance in the GT&T Jingle Competition, someone referred him to his now producer, Adrian Johnson.

Johnson encouraged Daniels to compose a music album, resulting in ‘A Voice’ - a CD with seven inspirational, “unique songs”.

Although life was not easy growing up, Daniels did not allow his chal-

lenges to deter him from his goals.

“I joined the Police Force because I wanted to maintain the family. I grew up in a single parent household; my mom took care of us.

“I just wanted something better, being raised in Sophia was tough because of the stigma attached to the area. I joined to better the family but unfortunately I wasn’t able to give back to my mom because she died, that was two years ago,” Daniels stated.

Principles such as being mannerly, always being polite and holding a professional demeanour, smiling often and remaining calm in intense confrontations, were instilled at a young age by his mother. This makes him an effective law enforcer and an overall outstanding individual.

“I always set myself apart to be so professional that people will give the Guyana Police Force credit. I am not saying that I avoid challenges, but I combat them with the principles I learnt from my mother and 'A Voice' album cover

the church. My mother’s teachings I never forget it, and I complement that with godly teachings,” Daniels noted.

The singer credits his spirituality for being an effective police officer. “I believe it would help others as well. I believe that life should be balanced… if you balance it [life] then you realise that you can do nothing without God.” Daniels said that he enjoys expressing him through music. In a wistful voice, he said: “It was always my dream to sing. One morning, I remembered waking up after a dream where I was performing for a large crowd. The song was authentic, but I can only remember it in my dream.”

A young man in his early 20s, the artist hopes that persons who listen to his music ponder on the words, rather than the rhythm since he is writing for “a higher purpose”.

‘A Voice’ features seven gospel songs. It was done in collaboration with four other Guyanese artistes: Valan, Adrian Johnson, Mark, and Sister Gayle from Freedom Life Ministries on William and Main Streets.

Daniels’ advice to young people is to always remember that “perseverance is key and that there will always be challenges, but when you love something you persevere. It is funny how things fell into place, you may not know where it is coming from but it is coming”.

Currently, the gospel singer is working on his next album, with the hope of releasing it soon.

To contact Daniels, call 695-1063.

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G

enerally persons diagnosed with a life threatening illness require much love and support from family and friends, sometimes they even require professional help for the emotional and psychological strain bought on by their condition. That’s where Donna’s Room at the Periwinkle Club comes in.

Donna’s Room is a place where those who require professional help and support can go to deal with the emotional and psychological strain of their condition or that of their loved ones.

“It is a place where those persons can come and receive counselling, a source of comfort where they can come to relax,” the Operations Officer of the Periwinkle Club described.

A collaborative effort between Periwinkle Club and the Association of Guyanese Nurses and Allied Professional (AGNAP), Donna’s Room was established on the behest of the late

Plaque in memory of Donna Sage found on the room's door Donna Sage to provide counselling and complementary therapy to cancer sufferers, their caretakers and family.

“Donna had died from breast cancer; she was my mother’s godchild. While living in London, she received treatment for her condition and was impressed by the support and medical attention offered, as a result she wanted similar treatment provided in Guyana,” Penelope Layne, a nurse and the Director of the Welfare Section at Periwinkle,

told the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

Donna’s mother, Norma Sage, upon losing her daughter to cancer, executed Donna’s wish by approaching the organisation, AGNAP, she was aligned with to form Donna’s room in 2009 in a vacant office at the Periwinkle Club.

After benefitting from the support and counselling services in the UK, Donna’s mother approached AGNAP to help establish a similar service in Guyana.

“Donna willed mon-

ey to the club to transform the vacant office into a counselling room and to make it as comfortable as possible,” Layne recalled.

Donna’s Room is a cosy room found on the second floor of the Periwinkle Club. It is furnished with a sofa set, a Berbice chair, a television, a carpet and coffee table.

According to Layne, the money was enough to furnish the room and maintain it over the years. Nonetheless, the Periwinkle Club continues to receive support from AGNAP on an annual basis, which enables them to do more, such as training for nurses, counselling and education in cancer prevention and outreach palliative care.

The Periwinkle Club, located at 148C Albertown, Georgetown, is a cancer support group focused on raising awareness on the disease among cancer survivors and members of the public, and offering advice on coping with it.

The Club provides

Donna Sage will always be remembered for her infectious smile

cancer survivors with support for diagnosis and treatment, nutritional and emotional wellbeing, counselling services, and also facilitates breast self-examination and cervical cancer screening.

The Periwinkle Club was first introduced on 17 October 2006 as a women's forum for breast and cervical cancer survivors and persons with an interest in supporting cancer patients, to meet and free-

ly discuss their health and related experiences. After about five months of meeting and interacting quietly, it was decided to present the club to the wider community.

The Club welcomes, as members, all persons interested in working to eradicate the stigma of cancer and create equality of treatment of cancer patients in Guyana.

For more information, call (592) 223-8320 or (592) 226-7152.

The Shaping of Guyanese Literature

feature

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

By Petamber Persaud

I

n the pantheon of Guyanese literature, you could find a whole lot of good writing alongside some poor quality writing. Of course, you could also find writings on subjects that are delightful and on subjects that are gruesome, both types could have you thirsting for more depending on your particular taste or mood at a particular time. (Books could suit your varied tastes and varying inclinations.)

A recently acquired book, “True True Story” written by Stephanie Bowry, got me thinking about Halloween, a time for the telling of scary tales, among other features associated with the event. For related reading, I unearthed in my library, “Tales of the Spirits” by Tony Kissoon.

Both books are retelling of stories already public and of credit to both writers; both books lure the reader in a manner that the reader gets the feeling that the stories are true.

Not even the ‘Foreword’ of Bowry’s book could dismantle that feeling of reality.

Stephanie Bowry displays 'True True Story' “This book is designed for those who are curious, who like surprises and suspense as well as those who wish to relive the experience and delight of stories told to them by their grandparents and parents during moonlight nights sitting on the stairs.” (My italics.)

There are 17 stories in “True True Story”, mostly set in the county of Berbice – the birthplace of the book’s author who confesses ‘From the writer’s desk’ that “the stories are true! All of them are the experiences of

real people in real places”. The ‘real places’ in the stories are historical backdrops like the sugar plantation where inhuman treatment of workers had left a stain upon the atmosphere, humble homes where horror visits with explosive consequences and innocuous shortcuts where packs with the devil are sealed.

The book “Tales of the Spirits”, as retold by Tony Kissoon, was written with Alfred Hitchcock’s flair. It is a collection of seven stories with ominous footnotes, a tone set by the

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'Tales of the Spirits' retold by Tony Kissoon introduction, wherein Kissoon quoted Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, “The boundary between life and death is so narrow, for no-one knows where one ends and the other begins.”

“Tales of the Spirits” are retelling of tales from the rich and varied folklore of Guyana including

the Massacuraman, the Water Baby, Ole Higue, Bacoo, the Moongazer, the living dead and the White Man. “First, the Amerindian speaks of the Massacuraman and the Water Baby.

“Secondly, the AfroGuyanese describes the Old Higue and the Bacoo. Thirdly, the Indo-

Guyanese talks of the Moon Gazer and the Living Dead. Fourthly, the old sugar plantation owners and managers relate tales of past dead European managers who would return to overlook the sugar domain.”

After the retelling of each gruesome tale, there is a comment like this one following the Massacuraman, “Careful! You may wish to take a journey into the jungle with a porkknocker sometime. You may be ‘fortunate’ to see for yourself one of these creatures. Or you may be unfortunate. Remember, curiosity killed the cat but it may be that a massacuraman may kill you. One thing is certain, you will not be able to confirm its existence.

You will be either dead or deemed crazy. Either way, you lose!”

Both writers seem well-read in this particular area of the macabre, drawing on qualified authorities like Edgar Allan Poe and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Safe reading!

Responses to this author: telephone (592) 226-0065 or email: oraltradition2002@yahoo. com

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W

hen visiting the Dharm Shala, it is difficult to miss the colonial wooden structure on the opposite side of the road.

A quaint Folk Victorian style house, characterised by its two and onehalf storeys, shuttered stained glass windows, gothic carpentry details and square symmetrical shape, it is a white and brown residential property that has been standing for more than 80 years.

Built in 1932 by humanitarian Pandit Ramsaroop Maraj, the building has been in the family for three generations and counting; it has remained the same with no structural alterations during its 82 years of existence.

However, planks of wood have been replaced over the years for the maintenance and preservation of the structure, Stella Ramsaroop, Maraj’s granddaughter who currently resides on the property, explained to the Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

“Because it’s a wooden building, ever so often you find wood ants and such and we would have

The late humanitarian, Pandit Ramsaroop Maraj

St Francis Chapel next to the house to replace the wood, but the structure is just the same, it hasn’t changed and we wouldn’t change it,” she declared.

According to Ramsaroop, they have had good luck over the years because renovations were not “necessary very often” due to the building being built with “excellent wood cured for many years”.

Built with planks of Mora, the family sprays the house quarterly for wood-destroying pests

and regularly cleans it to keep it in the best shape possible.

“It is a family house, but we use it for Dharm Shala as well; we use it as a reception area and for meeting purposes,” stated Ramsaroop. She added that her grandfather built the house to keep “nearby” to his work, that is, his charity work at Dharm Shala, located opposite the house, which he founded in the early 1920s.

With what is de-

scribed as ‘two and onehalf’ storeys by modern architecture, the first two floors have a square symmetrical shape, while the smaller top flat, found just above an eave (an edge roof projecting beyond the building for both practical and decorative functions), has a front gable (a triangular formed sloping roof) with carpenter gothic details (gingerbread trim/intricate wooden designs).

Such houses, Folk Victorian, are often char-

acterised by aligned horizontally and vertically symmetrical windows in rows, which can also be clearly seen on the house along with the added colonial features of stained glass and wooden shutters.

After Ramsaroop’s grandfather died in 1950, the house was passed on to her late father, Harisaran Ramsaroop, who dutifully cared for it for 63 years until he died in 2013, passing it on to his children.

“My father was very efficient and conscious of things around him, he was an extraordinary person, so he kept repairing and repainting it,” Ramsaroop recalled.

With the bottom floor used mainly as a store room and the very top as living quarters (mostly bedrooms), the middle flat is generally used as a reception area, a boardroom for volunteer meetings, and the operations office of the Dharm Shala.

Even around the yard one can find antiquities. There is a towering tank, presumably a vacuum pan acquired by Maraj from a sugar estate (used as a water tank to this day), a small Lord Shiva mandir, and the St Francis Chapel (an old Anglican church); all fixtures present since the construction of the building.

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana: Beautiful, happy and free

Simply the Truth

Terror in Canada I

I

By Anu Dev

n Guyana, November’s set aside as “Tourism Month”. (See I still remember my “months” from Primary School.) While in Guyana, I guess I wasn’t as appreciative of all the natural beauty and fantastic sights that we have, as I probably should’ve been.

But then, it’s a little hard to walk around in perpetual awe over the beauty of your surroundings when the person walking right in front of you just dropped their empty Doritos bag right onto the street. Or empty water bottles are thrown through car windows. We really need to cut down on littering – it’s just so lazy and disgusting.

And ugly.

Our Government has identified tourism as one of the sources of generating revenue for our national development and the themes highlight various aspects that we need to work on. This year, I read, they’re hoping for 100,000 returning Guyanese.

We’re assured our tourist numbers are inching ever upwards. So while we’re not exactly being overrun by tourists in downtown Georgetown, maybe that’s because our main product –- eco-tourism –- is far from the madding crowd. You’d be surprised how many folks are traipsing around our interior!

And why shouldn’t they? Guyana has so many beautiful sights to see and places to be – the land itself has done half of the work – all we Guyanese have to do is to market the beauty! That’s not to say it’ll be a cinch.

But I’m always floored by the fact that so many Guyanese haven’t even explored the coast. We don’t see ourselves as tourists. When planning family vacations, Guyanese mostly seem to leave out Guyana as a possible option. My family and I have toured the entire coast from end-to-end and we revelled in every moment.

I remember our fifth form Geography trip down to Lethem. All of us were awestruck by the mountains, the freshness of the air, and the all-round good feeling we had just being there.

If the Kanuku Mountains left me speechless, then the sunrise in Lethem took my breath away completely.

Sure we had to ‘rough it’ and toughen up a bit, but it was worthwhile- I couldn’t ask for a better set of people to endure the 18-hour trip with!

And whenever I’m flying back home, looking out of the window, I’m always awed by how Guyana looks just spread out below us, with its rivers just winding through the forested land. And also by how fragile the coast is, protected as it was from the tumultuous Atlantic just by mangroves and that sliver of sea wall.

Why would anyone want to hop on a plane to New York instead of to Kaieteur Falls –- at least once? I mean, we locals get to visit the place at a discount – never mind the grumbles of the overseas Guyanese!

I implore all Guyanese reading this, to visit Fort Zeelandia, take a trip down to Lethem, the Orealla Regatta set for November 13 or just take a swim in Lake Mainstay. It’s your land to enjoy. Experience your country, experience the beauty, experience the magic!

We can be tourists too, you know!

Also, being abroad has given me a greater appreciation for Guyanese cooking. We really do have some of the best food in Guyana. And that’s something we really need to emphasise when persons visit Guyana.

I do think we should stress our local foods much more – but surely our chefs can be a bit more creative.

We might have to pander a bit to some unadventurous taste buds, but I’m sure most tourists really want to experience authentic Guyanese culture. Then, of course, we’d be perking up our local farmers.

Being away from home has made me miss it of course, and it’s also allowed me to view Guyana through new eyes when I visit. I’m looking for the changes, for the improvements; I’m more appreciative of this country that I grew up in.

We have a glorious country, full of rich heritage and wonder. So let’s remember that this November, and this Tourism Month, maybe we can do a bit of touring and visit parts of our country that we’ve never visited before.

was forced to return to Canada in April. For months on end, I felt that I was wasting away, but still felt good about writing this column. For several months, I looked at my family members looking at TV. They would be very upset that I had the TV on the classical music channel. Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner, and so on were to them almost insulting and foolish.

Or I would be watching CNN or some international news channel. It was as if it was all so much rubbish! Watching the Toronto Blue Jays (a baseball team) was much more important.

At one point, I was cussed down for watching “that American nonsense on CNN! Why do you look at that American garbage!

You live in Canada!!” This is what it is like, being a relatively new “Canadian”.

There was “deep” discussion about some chap named Rob Ford, seemingly caught on video smoking crack, uttering nasty things about women, and being generally obnoxious. It seemed to me to be criminal behaviour, but my family raged in support of this fellow.

I have enough respect for law and order to refuse to support in any way that which I think or know to be criminal behaviour, especially not from a community leader.

But the worst crime I could commit was to speak of Guyana!

The anger is raw from members of my family. The sheer rage against my care and love for this country always surprises me.

It was as if Mother Guyana expunged them as still-born Canadians. For all my psychology

and such, I could not fathom this rage against Guyana and this anger at my mere mention of what is my country.

I speak of the development that has taken place and the work that is left to be done. Rage!

I speak of the great law enforcement officers that I was honoured to meet and engage. More rage!

I speak of the land and the kids and/or cricket. More rage!

It is true that there were times when I was provocative, saying truths like this: Baseball is a combination of cricket and rounders, and the first written mention

Professor Daizal Samad

of cricket was in the early 1700s, long before the sport of baseball was spawned.

I also say that baseball is an important sport only because it is an American sport. Canada has one baseball team. More importantly, baseball is great because of this fabulous American ability to weave mythologies. Great civilisations do that, and America is great.

There is more writing on baseball than there is on any other sport. Great stuff, greater than the game itself. But I get provocative and say things like: “What is ‘amazing’ about that catch? The man has a big glove, bigger than a wicket-keeper’s glove! Cricketers do better with their bare hands!”

People get very vexed indeed.

I was bold enough to warn that all this terrorism stuff that

plagues this planet is just around the corner of these baseballwatching folk, these people that get their ideas from people in pubs in Toronto.

It seemed that for me to claim Guyana was almost a criminal act. And it seemed that when I warn against this new-immigrant complacency about Canada, it was another crime. There are very few Canadians that I have met who understand what it is to be Canadian. None of them live in Ontario! No one has done the work.

And I have met very few

Guyanese who can tell you what it means to be Guyanese or West Indian. To analyse ourselves as a society and as individuals within that society takes a lot of work! A lifetime of work. People make sentimental statements on Facebook and such things that have no meaning. It is an embarrassing display of vacuity.

And after all the talk and the insults, we have a Canadian soldier murdered by what is called a “recent convert”. Then we have the Canadian Parliament itself invaded by a gunman, endangering imminently the lives of Federal Canadian political leaders! Yet another “recent convert” we are told.

This is all very dangerous stuff, and the horror gets ever closer. The beheadings, the kidnappings, the rapes, the rapes in the name of marriage! And we refuse to take a stand in the name of political correctness.

The crimes will continue because we refuse to stand up and speak what is the Truth.

We want to turn away and pretend it all never happened.

Watching baseball or cricket or so is an act of turning away! Not thinking and not acting and not speaking out against evil only serves to embolden evil.

I have said this very clearly before and will say it again. No religion brings goodness into the heart of a human being! None!

It is the good human being that brings goodness into religions.

When I came back home to Guyana in October of this year, I met some really good people, including the great Imam Moses of New Amsterdam Mosque.

He brings goodness to Islam, as

Pastor Geer and Father Edwin bring to Christianity, as Pundit Dinish brings to Hinduism.

Brother Moses hugged me, and I felt blessed. He pointed to the grave in the compound of the mosque and reminded me of my roots. The grave of my great grandfather.

My roots are there indeed, but they are also in the Khali Ma temple at Albion foreshore, also in the Anglican Church in Port Mourant, and also in Batu Caves in Malaysia, and also in the Taoist and Buddhist Temples of Asia and Southeast Asia.

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

International Development and Relief Foundation

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inston Kassim, CM, ICD.D, Chairman of IDRF (International Development and Relief Foundation) says the Canadianbased charity will continue to invest US thousands of dollars in improving access to education and medical care for needy people in Guyana.

Speaking at IDRF’s 30th Anniversary Celebration Gala on 18 October 2014, Kassim told the capacity crowd of 500 supporters in Toronto that IDRF has helped millions of people in 35 countries plus Canada, over the past three decades.

A native of Guyana and the first Guyanese Order of Canada recipient, Kassim has visited a number of IDRF-sponsored projects, including in Guyana, during the past three years and has come away impressed with how much was being done to support needy people.

“As a Canadian of Guyanese heritage, I am always proud to see how the generosity of our Canadian donors is being put to such good use for the benefit of needy people in Guyana. We take great pride in measuring the performance of our partner organisations, and the strong results they have produced in Guyana made it clear to our board that they deserved our continued support,” he told Guyana Times Sunday Magazine.

IDRF supports a variety of projects in Guyana as there is a growing need for health services and access to education in Guyana. He said this need will be addressed by continuing IDRF’s strong and longstanding partnerships with a number of non-profit groups in Guyana, particularly the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) and the Doobay Medical Centre.

IDRF partners with CIOG in providing educational assistance, ensuring that children with limited access to schools – due to the absence of transportation over long distances – are picked up and dropped off each school day.

Winston Kassim, CM The Chair of IDRF Winston Kassim, CM (left) and Dr Fuad Sahin, IDRF founder, presenting a Sponsor Award to Gaiytri Persaud for the Canadian Museum of Hindu Civilization

The Doobay Medical Centre is another beneficiary of IDRF’s support. This centre provides medical services for the poor and underprivileged in Guyana, and recently opened the Doobay Renal Centre in 2012, the first pro-poor dialysis facility in the country, offering subsidized dialysis services to the poor and less fortunate. Dr Budhendra Doobay, the leader of the clinic, was in attendance at the Toronto gala, and praised IDRF for its support which he said his helping to save the lives of many people.

Kassim, who is a VicePresident with Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), thanked his employer for sponsoring the past 10 galas and for giving him the opportunity to serve as a director of IDRF, and take the necessary time to serve as its chairman for the past four years. He also acknowledged the founders of IDRF, Dr Fuad Sahin, Ebrahim Sayed and the late Muin Muninuddin and their wives.

“Thanks to these visionary leaders, we and our partner organisations have been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of needy people in Canada and around the world,” thanked Kassim.

Dignitaries attending the

gala included the Consul General of South Africa, Nyameko Goso; the Consul General of Pakistan, Asghar Ali Golo; Sheherazade Hirji, President of the Ismaili Council of Ontario; and, International journalist and author, Sally Armstrong, who delivered a keynote speech to the gala about the need to support the education of young girls in poor countries.

In describing IDRF’s work over the past year, Kassim highlighted the Islamic principles of human dignity, self-reliance and social justice for all without discrimination, which form the foundation of IDRF’s mission.

He said these principles were worth thinking about in light of the barbaric atrocities being committed by terrorist groups in Iraq and Syria purportedly in the name of Islam.

“From beheadings of aid workers, to enslavement of defenseless women, to the mass slaughter of innocent people fleeing the conflict, these atrocities are diametrically opposed to the teachings of Islam and every other major religion. As an international aid organisation dedicated to doing good, we at IDRF must stand tall in condemning these heinous acts and the terrorist groups that carry them out,” he

noted.

In contrast, Kassim concluded his remarks by pointing to the inspiring example of Malala Yousafzai, the young Pakistani woman who was recently awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for her courageous and unwavering support of education for girls.

After recovering from a Taliban bullet to the head for wanting nothing more than an education, he said that Malala would have been forgiven for going into hiding. But instead she responded with these courageous words: “The terrorists thought they would change my aims and stop my ambitions, but nothing changed in my life, except this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage was born.”

Kassim said it is important to realise that Malala is not alone in her courage. Many young Muslim girls continue to go to school every day despite the dangers surrounding them.

“If they have the courage to fight for what they believe is right, then surely we have the courage to support them,” he told his audience. “And with your support, we can and will help them get an education, and build the type of world of which we can all be truly proud.”

Kassim concluded by saying that one of the mainstays of our society is the common understanding that the stronger must

‘Victoria’s Secret’

A passionate story of love, freedom A play about facing challenges, overcoming adversity and pioneering a Code of Conduct for civilised living, ‘Victoria’s Secret’ is about the Guyanese village that spearheaded the birth of the Village Movement and the Local Government System.

“Victoria’s Secret is unfortunately not about lingerie; I used the name for marketing purposes. It is applicable to the village of Victoria, the first economic enterprise undertaken by free Africans in the New World,” Ras Leon Saul, writer of the play, said.

Described as “a dramatic historical re-enactment, with a pinch of romance and a dab of comedy”, Victoria’s Secret operates on three levels: it is the story of the village, Victoria; it incorporates tales of the British Queen Victoria; and it follows a lead character, Victoria.

Victoria, known as the Northbrook Plantation 14 years before its purchase, was bought by 83 newly emancipated Africans on 7 November, 1939.

“It follows the establishment of the village from its acquisition, taking on a six-year timeline from 1839 to 1845, the time of its purchase to the implementation of the Local Government code of regulations,” explained Saul.

The play tells a story involving 20 characters including the village fathers and village mothers (the eight women who participated in the purchase) and the legend of Aunt Berlinda Hopkinson, the village martyr who was strangled in her own scarf to protect the village from flooding.

The village was renamed to Victoria after the emancipated slaves who purchased it, applied and received the approval of the then reigning monarch of England, Queen Victoria. This was done because the villagers felt the Queen was responsible for their freedom.

The play includes a spin-off tale of Queen Victoria, the longest reigning British Monarch; the queen responsible for the Victorian era, who, according to Saul, “has secrets of her own”.

Lastly, the play takes place on a personal level, following a lead character Victoria, played by Dorset Europe, who is caught in a triangular love affair.

“Victoria personifies the village, as she is caught in a triangular love affair where she is in love with colonialism, represented by a white man magistrate Thomas Porter, but recognises her African roots by marrying a free African, the jealous Samuel Burke,” outlined Saul.

share their strength with the weaker.

For instance, it is a maxim of Hinduism that “he does not live in vain who employs his wealth, his thought, and his speech to advance the good of others”.

The Taoist philosophy says: “The way to heaven is to benefit others.”

The Old Testament tells us: “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” And according to the Prophet Mohammed, may the peace and blessings of God be upon him, “A man’s true wealth hereafter is the good he does in this world to his fellow man.”

“Together,” Kassim concluded, “we can fulfil the teachings of these great religions and make the world a better place.”

Founded in 1984, IDRF is a Canadian registered charitable organisation that provides humanitarian aid and sustainable development assistance around the world to the poor and disadvantaged, and to those who have been displaced by natural disasters and conflict.

The types of initiatives supported by IDRF include the provision basic necessities such as food, water, clothing, shelter, hygiene kits, trauma counselling, and medical assistance to people affected by floods, cyclones, famines and earthquakes. In addition, IDRF has opened clinics, built homes, created clean water facilities, provided job skills, helped erect waste management facilities, and much more for hundreds of needy communities. Projects have been conducted in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Americas. In Canada, IDRF has provided development assistance to First Nations people and to new immigrant communities.

People wishing to support the work of IDRF in Guyana and elsewhere can make a donation online at www.idrf.com.

Donations can be directed to specific IDRF projects in various countries.

An image depicting the style of dress during the Victorian Era, which will be depicted in the play

Victoria’s Secret opens on 21 November at the National Cultural Centre; however, there will be a play reading/stage performance of a few scenes next Thursday at the village itself.

“I am hoping to keep the play running into Black History Month (February). This January begins the International Decade for People of African Descent, so this play is hoped to be the flag bearer of the decade,” noted Leon Saul.

Saul stated his intention to make the play an international one and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, which he said has recognised the “national significance of the story line”.

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Victoria Village celebrates 175th anniversary

The case of… O …Missing Mace? he Parliament’s being reduced to a “Theatre of the Absurd” by an Opposition hell-bent on grabbing power. The term originated back in the post-war 1950s to describe some plays in which logic and common sense were replaced by irrational outpourings that end finally in silence.

Faced with ignorance and empty posturings, what can you say?? The plays were supposed to be commentaries on the meaninglessness of life.

Here we have the meaninglessness of Parliament!!

Right now, we’re in the middle of a battle between the Speaker and Clerk of the National Assembly over the Parliamentary Mace!! The Speaker wakes up one morning and suddenly announces to the press that the Mace has been stolen!! Now the Mace isn’t just some ordinary bulbous object you used to bop people over the head with, back in the Dark Ages.

In Parliament, it represents the authority of the State…represented in England by the Queen and here by the President.

Being a former MP, Speaker Trotman would know the importance of the Mace and be alarmed at its disappearance. But being a lawyer also, one would suspect he’d have SOME inkling that in a case of suspected larceny or any other crime, he should call in the Police first, no?? By rushing to the media, wouldn’t the thieves be alerted that the purloined Mace has to be either melted down or spirited away?? Getting rid of the evidence and all that??

But then we find out that the Mace and all the other property of Parliament are actually the responsibility of the Clerk – even though it is stored in the Speaker’s office. Turns out that when the Clerk learnt about the Speaker’s raising of the alarm, he revealed that he’d sent the Mace out for cleaning!!! The Speaker hadn’t even asked him about the Mace, even though they both have their offices in the Public Buildings!!

The Clerk dubbed the hue and cry raised by the Speaker to the media “nonsense”. We call it an instance of the Theatre of the Absurd. So what’s really going on?? Well, one of the Opposition apologists (now looking for “wuk” as the “Cultural Adviser to the AFC) has a “conspiracy theory”.

The Government had conspired with the Clerk to “disappear” the Mace!! More Theatre of the Absurd!!

The question is why didn’t the Speaker just cross the hall and enquire of the Clerk the whereabouts of the Mace?? If we were going along with the Theatre of the Absurd theme, we’d say he’s been distracted by the Sword of Welshman hanging over his head.

But we’ll just retire into silence!! …the $30 million bribe claim The Muckraker’s Mook Lall’s throwing up all kinds of smokescreens and red herrings over the taped conversation he and his reporter entrapped the AG into. They’ve taken what’s a regular caution – “even a cornered rat will attack” – and used it as a directed death threat for which the AG must resign!! But while they can run – they can’t hide forever. We wonder if they’ll see this observation as a “death threat” also!!

But what makes the pappy-show even more grotesque is that Lall’s being represented by AFC’s leader-by-default (Trotman resigned and Holder passed away) Ramjattan!! This is the same fella who claimed he had evidence the PPP/C had “bribed three Opposition APNU MPs” to not vote for his no-confidence vote. But can’t produce squat up to now!

Isn’t Lall concerned at this desecration of the reputations of at least APNU’s MPs, if he doesn’t give a hoot for the PPP/C’s??

Why the silence?? Don’t Granger and his troops also bleed??

T

n 7 November 1839, 175 years ago, eighty three newly emancipated African slaves in British Guiana purchased Plantation Northbrook, a rundown former cotton plantation and renamed it, ‘Victoria Village’.

Of these former slaves, hailing from Douchfour, Ann’s Grove, Hope, Paradise and Enmore, six were women, all of which contributed by pooling their resources with 77 men to purchase the 500-acre plantation for 30,000 guilders.

With nothing of any value except two or three dilapidated houses, the land was purchased from the executors of Hugh Rogers. Prior to that, the Plantation was a cotton estate with 285 slaves, all the property of James Stewart.

After Victoria’s purchase, the freed Africans utilised the north of the village for residential purposes while the remaining was used for farming. Victoria launched a fishing industry, developed pig and poultry farms and other agricultural produce. It also became one of the leading exporters

The villagers also established the first indigenous governance structure, a code of conduct for a local government body established in 1845; the administration of Victoria, operating under a village council included a strict disciplinary code.

In celebration of this phenomenal village’s 175th anniversary, the Victoria Reconstruction Trust, and the Foundation of Real Christian Education (the FORCE), with the support of the Government of Guyana and several private entities, have planned a week of events.

The week of events will begin with an opening ceremony on 2 November 2014, which will consist of a talk and address on the significance of the Victoria in Guyanese history.

The events calendar also includes a masquerade performance and a soccer match.

The masquerade performance will entail a ‘sparing of sorts’ between a few bands conducting the best rendition of redemption songs and see the participation of the Buxton Steel Orchestra.

President of the Victoria Reconstruction Trust, Desmond Saul, at the FORCE building in Victoria

During the fair, there will be a stage reading of a few scenes from the anticipated play, ‘Victoria’s Secret’ (a play centred on the establishment of the village), as well as a cook off competition where monetary prizes will be offered for the three best dishes.

According to Desmond Saul, the president of the Victoria Reconstruction Trust, “it is hoped that the 175th commemorative coin and stamp will be revealed on the last day of the fair along with The dilapidated 'Victoria Christian Brethren Church'

of products made from coconuts and cassava.

Victoria spearheaded Guyana's widespread village movement and flourished in the areas of culture, economy and education and fostered the cooperative spirit in its people. The successful purchase and establishment of the village hence led to the Village Movement in Guyana and across the world.

According to Carl B Greenidge’s Empowering a Peasantry in a Caribbean Context, “The village movement was estimated to result in the acquisition of some $2.5 million worth of property between 1838 and 1850 by Africans”.

The soccer match, expected to become an annual one after this year, will be a full blown competition between several teams for the ‘Victoria Anniversary Cup’.

On 6 November, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in collaboration with the Reconstruction Trust and the FORCE, will launch a two-day fair at the Lady Sendally Park. The fair will be in commemoration of the first Agriculture Fair to be held at the park in 1898 - when the park was established for such purposes and named after the governor’s wife at the time.

a flag with the Victoria logo”, a picture depicting the community mothers and fathers with a wheel barrow full of guilders to purchase the village.

On 8 November, the week of event comes to a close with a camp fire and a folk night in the heart of the village, featuring the Mighty Jaggae. “It will be a night of storytelling, folk songs and impromptu contributions,” explained Saul.

The final event of the commemorative year will be the presentation of the play Victoria’s Secret at the National Culture Centre on 24 November.

He also took the opportunity to note that the week of events is a

“one shot deal”, however it is by no means the last of commemorative celebrations as exemplified by the 170th celebrations and the book on the history of the village launched in that year (2009).

The book, The History of Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara, by William N Arno and a commemorative magazine, ‘A New Victoria’ launched on the 170th anniversary, will once be on sale at the Village Fair.

All the events except for the camp fire and folk night will be held at the Lady Sendally Park from 3pm and is opened to the general public for a small admission fee of GY$100 for children and GY$200 for anyone above 12 years. The Reconstruction Trust has also made pass cards for all events that admits one child and an adult for just GY$1000.

“It is our hope to raise awareness on the history of the village and its importance to the Guyanese society. We want people to understand the many struggles that the slaves endured to leave the heritage we have. I hope that people will remember the history and teach it to the kids so that they can celebrate in the future…I also hope to kick start people becoming more independent,” Saul noted.

The Victoria Reconstruction Trust was formed in the 90s with the objective of being an umbrella organisation for the Victoria village, to guide those organisations that seek to help and develop the village from being repetitive and redundant.

It also works to reclaim and rebuild the village to its “once pristine image”.

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

This week's Crossword

J k es

Army nurse training

During basic training for the Army Nurse Corps, we were required to spend one week in the field roughing it. It rained the entire week.

We arose daily in our swampy tent, took a coldwater beauty bath from our helmets, donned our pistol belts and ponchos, and trudged through the mud to set up field hospitals. Obviously, our personal appearance frequently left much to be desired.

The final blow to our feminine pride occurred while we waited in the mess line in the mud and rain. A young private came by with a camera and asked to take our picture. "It will prove to my girlfriend," he said, "that she has NO reason to be jealous!"

Anaesthesia

An oral surgeon was scheduled to extract four wisdom teeth from Jim, a high-school football player, who had opted to be sedated for the procedure.

As the intravenous anaesthesia was being administered, the doctor asked Jim how he was feeling.

"Man," he replied, struggling to keep his eyes open, "I feel like I'm in English class."

A-hiking we will go...

This week's Puzzle

Last summer, my husband, took me camping for the first time. At every opportunity, he passed along outdoor-survival lore. One day we got lost hiking in the deep woods. He tried the usual tactics to determine direction -- moss on the trees (there was none), direction of the sun (it was an overcast day), etc., etc.

Just as I was beginning to panic, he spotted a small cabin off in the distance. He pulled out his binoculars, studied the cabin, turned and led us right back to our camp.

"That was terrific," I said. "How did you do it?"

"Simple," he replied. "In this part of the country all the TV satellite dishes point south."

Abstract noun

"An abstract noun," the teacher said, "is something you can think of, but you can't touch it. Can you give me an example of one?"

"Sure," a teenage boy replied. "My father's new car."

Adopted?

Checking out of the grocery store, I noticed that the bag boy was eyeing my two adopted children curiously. They often draw scrutiny, since my son is a blond Russian, while my daughter has shiny black Haitian skin.

The boy continued staring as he carried our groceries to the car.

Finally, he asked. "Those your kids?"

"Yes, they are!" I answered proudly.

"They adopted?" he asked.

"Yes," I replied.

"I thought so," he concluded. "I figured you're too old to have kids that small."

After-Thanksgiving poem

I ate too much turkey; I ate too much corn, I ate too much pudding and pie.

I'm stuffed up with muffins and too much stuffin' I'm probably going to die.

I piled up my plate and I ate and I ate.

But I wish I had known when to stop, For I'm so crammed with yams, sauces, gravies, and jams That my buttons are starting to pop!

see solution on page 47

I'm full of tomatoes and French fried potatoes My stomach is swollen and sore, But there's still some dessert so I guess it won't hurt if I eat just a little bit more!

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Young Professionals

Star of the week

Buddy Singh

– Freelance Photographer in NYC

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uddy Singh was born in Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Guyana, but migrated to the US at a very tender age. He was raised in New York City where he became qualified in the areas of arts and information technology.

For him, photography is a hobby as he has been involved in the field for over a decade. He captures events and places in his photography which could be considered highly-rated. He credits his success in the field to his wife Priya.

If you would like to view his work, please check out his website at www.digitalphotobuddy.com.

B

orn and raised in Industry, on the East Coast of Demerara, Alicia Kirton attended Cummings Lodge Secondary School and attained her tertiary education at Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).

She loves to challenge herself and chases after anything that would give her the opportunity for self-development. After successfully graduating from CPCE, Kirton was placed at Ketley Primary School. There, she has been the Grade One class teacher for two years. The loving teacher views her profession as a “blessing” and a chance to “wake up every day to mould the minds of children, to be a role model, and to provide them with opportunities”. Always fond of the pageantry world, Kirton, while studying at CPCE, participated in the Miss CPCE pageant, in which she placed second runner up.

Given the platform via pageantry, Kirton has highlighted numerous social issues. The one which she hopes to always give a spotlight to is children on the streets begging. Kirton believes that people in leadership positions and humanitarian groups should take their responsibilities seriously and target people in need. Concerning the pageantry world, one of Kirton’s greatest achievements in life was participating in the recently concluded Miss Guyana Universe pageant. According to her, it is proof of how dignified she is to present herself to the public. One of the many things the beauty said she learnt during her journey vying for the crown is to be courageous, and she is truly grateful for that. Not winning the crown does not mean she lost. Kirton found herself and loves the woman she has become because of the experience she gained via the pageant. Although she was faced with challenges in her pageantry journey, Kirton did not give up. “I am always told that I’m too short to be in a pageant, but that didn’t stop me. I am an ambitious 23-year-old qualified teacher who lives and work consistently with my personal values and standards. My advice to youths is believe in yourself. Look for the positives and never turn down an opportunity given.

Regarding pageantry, it will allow any young girl to realise their strengths and teach them how to use it.” A determined individual, Kirton now eyes the Miss India Guyana pageant. A desire to develop herself academically, Kirton’s future plan is to pursue a Degree in Education and hopes to one day build her own school, which will cater to the needs of children suffering from learning disabilities. In order to wind down, Kirton enjoys swimming – her number one hobby. On weekends, she would unplug from her day-to-day routine and “float free from any worries and discomfort”.

38 news Guyana becoming more recognised for its export oriented, agro-processing industries

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

- Minister Ramsammy

W

hile agricultural produce of a high quality will go a far way in reinstating Guyana with the coveted title as the “Caribbean’s bread basket”, the development of infrastructure is equally important as it will ensure that the country surmounts the challenges of non-tariff barriers that prevent it from competitively penetrating the export market.

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy said that it is precisely for this reason that the Government invested in the state-of-theart laboratories at Mon Repos; essentially taking agriculture to another level.

A few months ago three multi-million dollar laboratories were commissioned: the Veterinary Services Lab, and the Biological Control and Tissue Culture Labs.

“We have to make sure that we are able to test for pesticides and other chemical residues; we have to able to show the nutritional content of our

food… we spend Gy$250M on importing food into the country. Can we eliminate every cent of that? No, but we can reduce it by exporting some of what we grow,” the Minister said.

Transforming agriculture from the level of subsistence livelihood to wealth generation is pegged as one of the major successes of the sector and in fact, of the country and while many challenges still exist, the evolution process that the sector has gone through thus far, has brought with it tremendous improvements for those involved in it.

Minister Ramsammy said that, “you go into the agriculture communities people work hard, people do struggle but they are living better. It is the farmer’s children who are now our doctors and lawyers and our accountants and our engineers and that is because we have transformed agriculture from one where farmers were only able to put food on the table to now where they are generating wealth.”

Not only is Guyana now seen as an export oriented industry outside of sugar, but its agro-processing industry has developed and increased by 1000 percent; both in terms of packaging as well as the quantity and quality of local products in supermarket shelves across the country.

The Agriculture Minister spoke of the overwhelming demands of virgin coconut oil and coconut water and Guyana is looking at making these investments with the support of large conglomerates such as Banks DIH and Sterling Products Limited. However, for this to really take off, the coconut industry has to be fully resuscitated.

The present level of cultivation of about 25,000 acres has to be increased and varieties have to be improved. Minister Ramsammy explained that most of the coconut trees are 40-50 years old and as such, the industry has to be reinvigorated by planting new ones.

“Thankfully there are

Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy inspecting local agro processed products

many local investors who are looking to double the cultivation… by 2020 Guyana will have a packing industry for coconut that is of international quality,” he said.

What is now required is the financial investments and technical capacity to drive this industry.

The Ministry’s Agriculture Strategy 2013-2020 provides a road map for the sector as a whole, on the way forward. It entails the F5 approach: food security; fiber and nutrition secu-

rity; fuel (energy) security; fashion, cosmetics and medicine; and furniture, crafts and green commodities.

“We know where we are going, and where we are going will change the aspiration and the potential of being the bread basket of the Caribbean into reality,” the Agriculture Minister said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry is also working to modernise its legislation; ensuring that it remains relevant as the sector transforms. The Food Safety Bill, the Animal

Welfare Bill and regulations targeting the fisheries sector are all slated for Parliament soon.

As the issue of food security becomes more crucial for the region and the rest of the world, Guyana must position itself to capitalise on the benefits of being not only food secure, but a net exporter of food, as well, and with local impetus in agriculture ever on the increase and this being backed by increasing modern infrastructure, Guyana has reasons to be optimistic.

feature

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Pan movie to premiere in TT

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ORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD: Pan! Our Music Odyssey opens at cinemas across TT on November 5.

It can be seen at Cinemas 8 Trincity, MovieTowne, Digicel IMAX and Empire Cinema, San Fernando.

This 90-minute docudrama tells two stories, a fictionalised account of the birth of the steelpan 70 years ago and a story about musicians who have come to Trinidad from all over the world to participate in the annual Panorama competition.

Some of TT’s best known actors appear in the film, including Errol Fabien, Penelope Spencer,

Che Rodriguez, and Conrad Parris. The film’s hero is Goldteeth, played by emerging young talent Renaldo Frederick.

The film weaves vignettes of pivotal moments in the pre-history and history of pan from 1820 to 1963, from the banning of slave drum dances, to the steelband battles, with today’s narrative of the Panorama competition, in which various pan players from TT and abroad join the bands to prepare for the big stage.

Jevanni, a ten-yearold boy from east Port-ofSpain, struggles to qualify to play in Trinidad All Stars, the band founded

by his grandfather. Eva, a footloose 27-year-old Frenchwoman in Trinidad for the first time, hopes to play on the big night— the Panorama finals, the dream of her recently-deceased father. There is also the story of the Japanese players who love the pan but can barely speak English and hope to play with Phase II Pan Groove in Panorama finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah.

“The feedback was extremely positive and we are in negotiations to screen the film in Paris, South Africa and Miami for 2015,” Gibert said.

He also hopes the film will be able to partner with

A scene from the movie Pan! Our Music Odyssey which opens in Trinidad

Odyssey Steel Orchestra, featuring Ray Holman, next summer in France.

“We are very proud to start our mission to

feature steelband abroad and we hope that when it premieres on November 5, people will turn out in their numbers. In this

way, they will be able to help us tremendously to give credibility abroad for the film,” Gibert said. (TT Guardian)

Guyana-born businessman wins 2014 BusinessPerson-of-the-Year award in Canada

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O R O N T O , CANADA: The Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade marked 20 years of celebrating business excellence, with the announcement of its 2014 Business-Person-of-theYear award honouring businessman Ashmeed Khan.

Just fewer than 200 guests were at the Ajax Convention Centre in October for the milestone anniversary of the awards, which recognized businesses for excellence, community support, leadership and sustainability as well as individual business achievements.

“The Board of Trade is proud to be able to recognize the achievements of such an exceptional field of nominees and we applaud tonight’s winners,” said 2014 Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade President Paul Przybylo of Walker Head Lawyers. “There are so many outstanding businesses and business people represented here, including many past BEA winners, and it is wonderful to celebrate members of our community who epitomize excellence.”

At the young age of 23 Ashmeed singlehandedly established his 1st successful print shop in Guyana. He adventurously decided to move to Canada in 2002, where in 2006, he opened his first Minuteman Press franchise store on Harwood Avenue in Ajax.

He continued his success by acquiring two more successful Minuteman Press stores in Oshawa and Kingston within the next 3 years.

The three stores were then amalgamated to

one large facility, after he purchased a property on McPherson Court in Pickering, where clients from all areas are being served by a team of expertly trained employees.

Ash still maintains that the smartest move he made when opening his business in Ajax was immediately becoming a member of the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, active for the past 8 years and is a recipient of their 2010 Business Excellence Award and then in October 2014 was awarded Business Person of the Year!

He is now currently a Director of the APBOT and Chairman of the Diversity Committee.

He has also served for 4 years as Ambassador of the Whitby Chamber of Commerce and was an advisor to the Recreation and Culture Committee for the Town of Ajax. The most recent appointment is his serving alongside several high profile colleagues on the Ajax Community Fund Grants Task Force.

He worked very closely for the past 8 years with the YMCA and the John Howard Society, employing many challenged candidates and personally teaching them his trade skills in the print industry to help prepare them for a better future.

Residing in the Nottingham community in north Ajax, with his wife of 19 years, Shelly and his 5 children by his side, he enjoys life to its fullest. His 2 daughters are 16 & 2 years old.

Ash and his 3 sons aged 15, 12 and 8 are all active in combat sports and he currently trains in Kickboxing.

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news

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Former TV personality Maia Chung is embarking on her latest initiative: a fashion line.

Dubbed Maia Sez 'Holy Ghost', the designer said the line is "for the lady on a budget who wants to look fly".

"In the 'insta' world we living, both men and women want pieces that are standout and different for each time they go out. Social media has impacted fashion. There is a growing demand for affordable, excellent looks that people can change for their various events, take their social media pics, and not look the same every time," Chung told the Jamaican media.

The line comprises 14 signature pieces.

The former TV host

Encouraging… …treason e’re not surprised by the ignorant and uninformed intervention into the issue of the convening of Parliament by Tony Vieira.

Some people carry on about the “backwardness” of cane-cutters in this country. But from the mouthings of Tony Vieira, you’d understand that any ignorance they exhibit comes from “fighting fire with fire” with their managers.

For most of his life, Vieira was a manager on his father’s sugar estate in Versailles, dumbing down the poor cane-cutters with his ignorance. Now he seems hell-bent on inflicting the same on the rest of us via the Opposition rags’ letters pages.

In the case of the “convening conundrum”, Vieira, who obviously attended school in August, blithely jumps into the fray that’s already bloodied former Speaker Ramkarran, present Speaker Trotman, and several previous Speakers and Clerks. Truer words were never uttered when it was said that “fools rush in where angels fear to thread”!!

Vieira claims to be quoting some individual who, he further claims, the Clerk “quoted” when he flatly refused to follow Speaker Trotman’s self-serving instruction. Well, we know the Clerk sought the opinions of some Speakers from the Caribbean. And the one from Jamaica – the most populated Caricom state, agreed it’s the Government that sets the date for the convening of Parliament. If Vieira says he spoke to this man, he’s lying through his teeth!

What fool, much less a Speaker – who’d have more than a passing acquaintance with the Constitution – would advise that “if the 33 members of Parliament of both APNU and AFC” meet anywhere – even in a bottom house, we presume – they can ask the GDF “to restore and defend the Constitution”!! Have you ever heard such nonsense? This is nonsense on stilts!!

So the Courts, the arbiter of the Constitution, are to be cast aside and the Legislative one-seat majority can now take over the command of the armed forces??

This is even beyond nonsense on stilts – this is bloody treason!! There’s a clear-cut demarcation of the lines of authority over our armed forces – for very good reason. The state itself is defined by that authority – which flows through the President of the Republic.

He’s the Head of State as well as Commander in Chief of the Disciplined Forces.

We know from his days of giving those foamingat-the-mouth tirades he called “commentaries”, that Vieira has a few marbles loose. But his loose mouth and pen might just make him join Glenn Lall at 12 Camp Street if he continues advocating treason. …illegality Now while some may excuse Tony Vieira’s utterances (“he head na good!”), what can they say about Speaker Trotman’s insistence that the Clerk obey his “order” to convene Parliament – just because he says so!! The irony – which escapes these power-drunk fellas – is that the “Speaker”, MPs and the entire edifice of “Parliament” were invented to circumscribe the powers of absolute Monarchs who could bark – “Do this …or else!!!” The “or else”, of course, meant being separated from one’s head. It could be that Trotman confuses his Speaker’s seat with a throne??

But it’s not just monarchs …there’s no absolutes even in bureaucracies or armies where it used to prevail. Today a soldier can’t get away with saying his superior “ordered” him to “do it”. If the “it” is illegal, he’s going to be held responsible. Even as far back as the Nuremberg Trials, the Nazis couldn’t get away with that line.

The Clerk has given cogent reasons why he thinks the Speaker’s instruction is illegal. He must hold his ground. …suicide Nagamootoo likes to use “fancy words” to show he’s “educated”. He says he reviewed the illegal taping of the AG by Lall and Gildharie. He concluded the AG “caricatured the hara-kiri” that would happen at Lall’s place. “Hara-kiri” is “suicide”. Is this why the Mook cried like a girl??

W Maia Chung models her creations

said she got the idea from a T-shirt line she started in order to raise funds for her foundation.

Currently, her design team comprises tailors "who go to their clients anywhere in the coun-

try" to ensure the garment is well fitted. She said she has orders from California, Texas and New York.

"People love the easiness of the designs. I deliberately use materi-

als hand-picked for the working person ... not too much ironing or preparation," she said.

Next year, she plans to roll out a men's version of the line. (Jamaica Observer)

news

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Nandlall clears air on audio recording - calls it an “unexpected betrayal”

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ttorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall on Tuesday before professional staff of the Advice, Litigation and Drafting Departments and members of the senior management of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, clarified a number of issues in relation to the much-talked about audio recording.

In his address he maintained that the audio that was leaked by publisher of the Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall was selected portions of a private conversation which was recorded unknowing to him and which was manipulated, distorted and made public.

The AG has since filed a Gy$30M lawsuit against Lall for libel. He expressed the hope that the proceedings will examine and determine the legality and authenticity of the recording, as well as the liabilities, if any.

“I have no doubt that the appropriate authorities would send the recording for proper forensic analysis…This entire episode has caused me and my family great embarrassment, personal distress and tremendous pain. I am truly sorry that you, my political colleagues, and the general public had to endure this highly regrettable ordeal,” he said.

Attorney General, Anil Nandlall and a section of the staff as he delivered the statement

This “unexpected betrayal” he said has served as a distraction for Guyana at a time when there are significant and substantial issues that require citizens’ collective focused attention The Legal Affairs Minister said that while the State has the sacred responsibility for creating and nurturing an enabling environment for a free press, the free press has an equally sacred responsibility to the highest ethical standards as they operate in that free environment.

He noted that he, like many other members of the public,

has fallen victim of an unethical journalist and an unprincipled newspaper operating in a free environment.

“Our Government has from the inception recognised, embraced, cherished and actively promoted press freedom in all its forms and facets. We regard press freedom as a fundamental freedom and right which is enshrined in the Constitution of Guyana. We view freedom of the press as the cornerstone of our democracy,” the AG said.

With regards to claims of threats to the publisher and staff of the Kaieteur News, he said that, “I am unaware of

any planned violence or extrajudicial sanction against any individual journalist or any newspaper… Our Government does not condone or promote violence in any form or at any level.”

He reminded of the Government’s work in developing legislation to tackle violence in all forms and at every level including the protection of women and children from domestic violence.

As it relates to his reference to a certain female in the recording he said that, “I wish to assure all women in Guyana of my highest respect and to

promise that I will continue to struggle for their rights and respect wherever there remain gaps in the treatment of women in our society.”

The disclosure of a financial transaction in the audio recording was also clarified.

“The reference relates to the reimbursement I received for monies I expended on medical treatment. This reimbursement was approved by Cabinet in a written Cabinet decision dated 20 June 2013.

This is, and historically has been, an entitlement of every member of Cabinet long before my appointment.”

42

arts & culture

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

“A

rt makes life, makes importance, and [there is] no other substitute for the force of beauty and its process.”

These are the words by prolific artist Collette Jones-Chin, who holds a Diploma in Painting and Graphic Arts from the Burrowes School of Art, a BA in Art Education and Fine Art from the University of Guyana, and a Certificate in Fine Art from the Mount Allison University, New Brunswick, Canada.

She also possesses several other certificates in Management and Strategic Planning.

Jones-Chin has mounted several solo exhibitions in Barbados, St Lucia, Carriacou, Trinidad and Tobago,

Suriname, Grenanda, Anguilla, St Kitts, St Maarten, Canada, USA, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, where she resided for 15 years. She has also been an exhibitor with the Caribbean Gift and Craft Show for seven years and served as an Examiner for the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate in Barbados for five years.

While in St Vincent, Jones-Chin worked as a consultant on the development of the Visual and Theatre Arts Curriculum and was the recipient of many awards in the arts. In 2002, she won the award for the Most Outstanding Artist in St Vincent, and in 2012 she won the award for

Artist Collette Jones-Chin

'Kaleidoscopic Journey' 2014

the St Vincent National Olympic Sport Art Competition and represented St Vincent in London. She served as president of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Visual Arts Society.

The artist resided in Anguilla for four years and while there was contracted as an Art Consultant/Therapist, Educator and Costume Designer. In 2009 she won the award for Most Outstanding Designer.

In Canada, JonesChin served as a volunteer in New Brunswick, working as an Art Therapist with the mentally challenged.

She is a member of the Canadian Crossroads

International.

Four years ago, upon her return to Guyana, Jones-Chin founded ‘Young @ Art’. This is an annual programme, held in July and August, through which she works with orphans across Guyana.

Jones-Chin currently serves as Director of the Guyana National Drama Festival 2014 and is a lecturer in Design and Production Management at the National School of Theatre Arts and Drama, Guyana. (Artist profile from the 26th Annual Exhibition of the Guyana Women Artists’ Association brochure done by the National Gallery)

'Tied to the Edge of Time' 2014

travel & tourism

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Rupununi Savannah

One of the world’s largest untouched open ranges of savannah lands

Aerial view of the savannah

Scenic view of a mountain in Rupununi (Photo by Hannes Rada)

T

he Rupununi Savannah, which is characterised by flat grasslands and mountainous terrains, is located in Guyana, between the Rupununi River and the Brazilian border, in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region.

The savannah, an extraordinary natural area in southern Guyana, is teeming with wildlife, including 500 bird species; 1,500 different plant species; more than 400 species of fish; 120 species of snakes, lizards and frogs; 105 mammal species including the elusive jaguar, which roams the hills and mountains while the Harpy Eagle flies overhead.

Three of Guyana’s Amerindian tribes, Wapishana, Wai Wai and the Macushi, inhabit the Rupununi Savannah areas in several Amerindian villages dotted throughout, as well as many ranches worked by vaqueros (cowboys), some of whom are descendants of 19th century Scottish settlers.

The main town is Lethem, located beside the Takutu River, the border with Brazil.

North Rupununi wetland is the largest wetland found in Guyana. This wetland covers 22,000 hectares of flooded savannah and forest. The North Rupununi wetland is dominated by the Rupununi, Rewa and Essequibo Rivers. The wetland includes over 750 lakes, ponds and water inlets. More than 400 species of fish, the highest diversity of fishes in the world for areas of similar size, are found in the Rupununi wetlands. This area is also home to some of the world’s endangered giants - the arapaima (largest fresh water fish), the giant river otter ( largest of the 13 otter species), the black caiman (world’s largest of subfamily Alligatorinae), giant river turtles, the harpy eagle ( largest bird of prey), the jaguar (largest cat in South America) and hundreds of other flora and fauna.

The Rupununi Wetlands plays a very important role in the lives of more than 5,000 indigenous people of Guyana. The rivers and waterways found in the wetlands act as a source of drinking water and a main transportation route for the people living in the Rupununi.

The vegetation found in the wetlands are used by the indigenous tribes to make crafts, traditional medicine, houses, and sometimes food. (www.guyana-tourism.com)

The wetland on the Rupununi Savannah teems with a vast variety of birds

44

NEWS

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Stalled cardiac centre for children in Jamaica gets Ja $2.4m donation

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I N G S T O N , JAMAICA: The stalled construction of the cardiac centre being built on the Bustamante Hospital for Children is expected to get a much-needed push-start with a donation of US$20,000 (Ja$2.4 million) by the United Statesbased Allegheny Petroleum Products Company.

That is merely a drop in the bucket, as the project had reportedly incurred cost overruns of just under Ja$50 million.

The Jamaican media reported last month that the muchanticipated centre scheduled to

be opened in March 2014 is yet to be completed.

Indications are that it will not be opened before the end of the first quarter of 2015, contrary to promises by chairman of the board of the hospital, Kenny Benjamin, and head of the Digicel Foundation, Samantha Chantrelle.

Taneisha Lewis, the public relations officer of the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), has signalled in a media advisory that this morning, Jim Kudis, president of Allegheny Petroleum Products in Pittsburgh,

Pennsylvania, will be handing over the cheque to Chain of Hope Jamaica for the purchase of equipment for the Cardiac Unit at the Bustamante Hospital for Children.

Allegheny Petroleum Products Company manufactures industrial, automotive and fleet lubricants.

Blame has been exchanged among government, donors and stakeholders why funds including Ja$100 million donated

by Digicel Jamaica on the occasion of its 10th anniversary were depleted before the structure was completed.

Acting chairman of SERHA, Dr Andrei Cooke, has sought to distance his organisation and, by extension, the government, from administration of the construction phase of the centre.

He said the project was totally off limits to all board members of SERHA and, by extension, the government.

Cooke stressed that donors have been exercising autonomy over the project until it is handed over to SERHA. The donors include the Digicel Foundation, Sagicor Limited, Chain of Hope and the Shaggy Foundation.

Between 300 and 400 children afflicted with heart conditions are awaiting the completion of the cardiac unit, expected to be the first of its kind in the Region.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller broke ground for the cardiac centre two years ago.

Reports surfaced that some donors were not satisfied with aspects of the construction. Cooke declined to ascribe blame to any specific group or organisation involved in the exercise for the three-month delay. (Jamaica Gleaner)

news

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Crime down in TT’s Trinidad: Getting the Ultimate service capital city …DOMA

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O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Reports of a reduction in crime in Port of Spain are coming from business people in the capital city.

During the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s launch of its annual Safe City crime initiative for the Christmas season on Monday, Downtown Owners and Merchants Association (DOMA) president Gregory Aboud said businesses had noticed the reduction which, he believed, was due to a heightened police presence in and around the city.

Port of Spain Mayor Raymond Tim Kee accompanied Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams and other members of the Police Service top brass on a short tour of the capital .

Speaking to the media, Williams said he believes that the presence of uniformed police officers was a major deterrent to criminal acts being committed and therefore for yet another year, additional police officers will man the streets of Port of Spain

for the hectic Christmas season as part of the TTPS’s Safe city initiative.

“We intend to make sure the city is safe by our continuous presence of positive action enforcement of the law and also by creating a balance so that citizens can readily appreciate the police and other partner agencies and their responsibility,” Williams said.

A s s i s t a n t Commissioner of Police (North West) Stephen Ramsubhag also urged members of the public to be on their guard in Port of Spain.

“To the shoppers I advise you to be careful in displaying expensive jewelry ,large amounts of cash , be alert be vigilant especially at ATM machines,” Ramsubhag said.

Aboud praised the efforts of the acting Police Commissioner and his executive team.

“To the credit of you Mr Commissioner ,Mr Ramsubhag and your team , we are seeing a reduced number with respect to day time assault with respect to the question of robbery and so on,” Aboud said. (TT Express)

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O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: With the Christmas and Carnival seasons fast approaching plans will soon be afoot for company dinners, corporate fetes and other events. And with corporate and social organisations over recent years continually cutting back on expenditure for such celebrations one must go hunting for the best event production services available at the most economic costs.

Although cost cutting is essential in these tough economic times receiving value for whatever money is invested in an event remains fundamental. The key to selecting the right event production company is looking at the service packages they have available and selecting the one that best suits your budget as well as the members of your organisation.

An events production company that can tailor make its service packages to fit your unique tastes is the best choice as they will go to great lengths to ensure your guests have the most enjoyable time possible, while staying within and even below your budget.

Ultimate Events,

Ultimate Events Team (TT Guardian file photo)

since they began operations in 2007 has been delivering quality service to corporate, State and other organisations and has produced a number of memorable events over the years. The company is a spinoff of the Tribe Carnival mas band and prior 2007 was simply a team from the band that produced its annual launches, fetes and also oversaw operations on the road for Carnival.

The main factors in Ultimate Event’s survival and continued success are its ability to evolve, diversify and be innovative. Led by events manager, Krista Clarke and Kendal Latchman as operations manager the company focuses on delivering first-class

service to all its clients be they conglomerates, State institutions, small businesses or individuals.

“We provide services from general event planning, management and production to brand promotions, concert production, private parties and ambassadorial functions. People believe Ultimate Events only caters to large scale events for major corporate and governmental clients, but we work with anyone wanting a professional production regardless of how small or intimate that event may be,” Clarke said in an interview with the TT media.

Although the economic situation has led to people scaling down con-

siderably as far as concert, party and cocktail events are concerned, there are still enough events taking place each year to allow the more reputable event production companies to stay afloat. They just have to remain at the top of their game and provide more than production services to keep the doors open and clients walking through them.

Ultimate Events has special packages for the coming Christmas and Carnival seasons. These are for not only for large scale events, but also for private parties at people’s homes. For more information you can contact them at info@ultimateeventstt.com. (TT Express)

46

feature

Cumberland Open Air Mosque WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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ith a historic past coloured by conquest, colonisation and settlement, our cultural heritage is undoubtedly diverse; which is made manifest in several aspects of our day to day lives including places of worship.

The Open Air Mosque located at Cumberland, Canje, Berbice is a typical representation of traditional Indian Islamic Architecture. Built during the latter half of the 1800s by Muslim immigrants who had come to British Guiana as indentured labourers, it was constructed originally of bricks donated by the Bookers’ Sugar Estate; the land too was a gift from the estate. Believed to be oldest structure of Muslim worship in Guyana, it remained until 1932 when it was demolished and rebuilt of reinforced concrete.

Constructed to provide Muslims with a place to worship, especially for the celebration of Eid– ul – Fitr and Eid-

Open Air Mosque, Cumberland, Berbice

ul-Adha, it is unlike other later constructions. As the name suggests, it is open air. That is to say, there is no separation between the internal and external space nor are there any full length walls covered by a roof.

While it is not an exact replica of mosques native to India, some features reflect Indian Islamic Architecture.

These include the courtyard, minarets and mihrab. The courtyard, entered from the west,

boasts an arched gateway decorated with bosses and bulbous widgets at the top of the arch.

Opposite the courtyard’s entrance, the mihrab is located in the eastern section. The worshippers face the mihrab to ensure

they face Mecca when praying, and the Imam or leader in the prayers would stand nearby.

The minarets complement the structure at the four corners and are approximately 30 feet high, slender and square in shape which is finished by a half moon and star structure, while the

O

Court House circa 1800s

Hotel Tower, Main Street, Georgetown, in 1962

western wall is decorated by various diamond shaped accentuations.

These unique features make this mosque one which helps us to trace and retain our cultural heritage as it features elements of traditional Islamic Architecture, although without the grandeur associated with it.

Today, this mosque remains and is a testament to the diversity of culture that has shaped Guyanese tradition.

While the National Trust strives to promote and safeguard the nation’s heritage, the organisation wishes to highlight that places of worship are paramount as they form part of and are remarkable reminders of our nation’s history.

National Trust believes that preservation is a task which requires the cooperation of all and urges Guyanese to take an active role in ensuring the long term survival of Guyana’s patrimony by exercising care and respect at all times when visiting monuments and heritage sites. (National Trust of Guyana)

Moon does run till day ketch up

ld people seh too much of one ting does always be a problem. And old people seh some times people does want some ting so bad that when dem get it, dem does suddenly find out dem ain’t want it no more.

That is why old people also seh belly does full before eye get full. Well, that is whah happenin nowadays in this country. It got people like paper man who desperate to get whah other people got, so dem goin after people just fuh whah dem got.

Some people like Lalloo just desperate to be like other people who he can never become fuh all he life. Lalloo so desperate that he one time offer he lawyer service fuh free and still fuh a long time, no body was tekkin he on.

Is a good ting paper man like free tings, or when dem not free it musbe duty free. So at least Lalloo finally get some lawyer wuk whah de people who he wanna be like ain’t want.

Paper man had want a Chiney man fuh he wood business. When de Chiney man show paper man real wood business, paper man back down, just like how Joe de Harmouth back from a debate bout de same type of wood wid a man who know good bout wood business.

It also got people like de same paper man who does wanna tear down other people just because dem jealous of de same people. No matter if paper man got to break de law, which is nutten new to he anyway, he gon do it just to tear down good people.

Paper man even run to de Pullice to report a matter bout how some body threaten he in a phone call. But it turn out that paper man do he usual wickedness again, so de Pullice lookin fuh he and he reporter pardna.

Ting-a-ling-a-ling…friend tell friend…mattie tell mattie! But wid de way paper man runnin from de Pullice, it look like he fuhget that moon does run till day ketch up.

news

47

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

World a better place because of USAID, says Jamaican PM

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has hailed the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for its more than five decades of service to people globally and said the world is a better place today because of the agency's contribution.

Simpson Miller's commendations come on the 53rd anniversary of USAID's creation by executive order after then US President John F Kennedy signed the Foreign Assistance Act into law in 1961.

Following is an excerpt of Prime Minister

Simpson Miller’s message.

On behalf of the government and people of Jamaica, I am delighted to offer sincere congratulations to the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Team on the significant achievement of 53 years of outstanding service to helping to improve the lives of people around the world. The 53 years of service in the areas of health, education, trade, agriculture and food security, poverty eradication, nutrition support, water and sanitation, climate change, democracy, governance and human rights, conflict resolution and peace

Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller

building among others, translates into millions of lives saved, and enormous amounts of human and financial resources invested in the provision of vital development assistance.

Jamaica has been a grateful recipient of USAID interventions and contributions for 52 years. Over these years, the bonds of cooperation and friendship between our governments

and people have grown significantly. The United States remains a vital development partner for Jamaica and a trusted ally of our people.

Whether it has been in the field of improving education infrastructure and delivery, reducing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, promoting economic prosperity, reducing vulnerability to climate change, capacity building for civil society groups, or promoting good governance practices, USAID has been a consistent and reliable force for positive global and local change.

Jamaica has, over the years, been the thankful beneficiary of several

helpful programmes under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, the President’s Emergency Plan for HIV/AIDS and the Global Climate Change Initiative.

As we continue to collaborate in a framework of mutual respect, Jamaica commits to being a dependable ally as we work together with governments and agencies like USAID to improve the standard of living of our people.

Please accept my very warm regards and best wishes for many more years of quality lifechanging service to the countries and peoples of the world. (Jamaica Observer)

Orchid Explosion delivers array of beauty, splendor in TT ting the government to allocate land space for them in order to construct a private club for exhibitions, administrative work and even for growing orchids.

“The event is growing and we need to expand. We are trying to get more land to grow orchids because it is not only good for export but there is also a growing local market,” said Lutchman.

P

Curtis Lutchman of Fantasy Weddings & Exotic orchids talks to a patron about caring for orchids at the Orchid Society’s annual show at Ambassador Hotel, Long Circular Road, St James

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Whether they were dendrobium, moth, slipper, vandal, cymbidium or vanilla orchids, they were laid out in all their splendour and beauty at the 57th TT Orchid Society exhibition titled Orchid Explosion, on Sunday at the Ambassador Hotel, Long Circular, St James.

The event, which

opened on October 23, is the premiere occasion for orchid growers and lovers to celebrate this diverse and widespread family of flowering plants.

Orchid Society executive member, Curtis Lutchman, the winner of several international awards as an orchid grower and exhibitor, said members of the Society and public bring

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

in their plants to put together a presentation to be judged by judges from the American Orchid Society. These judges look for best presentation, flower count, colour, size, quality of plant, etc.

Asked what other purpose the event served, Lutchman, who has been an orchid grower and horticulturist for more than 20 years, said the exhibition was more than just a showing of flowers and plants and it also brings about awareness of how to care for orchids and other plants and flowers in general. He said during the event, lectures were also given on growing and caring for plants and flowers.

The TT Orchid Society, a non-profit organisation, does not have a permanent home just yet. At the moment it moves from place to place to host its meetings and showings. Lutchman said one of the Society’s biggest projects currently is get-

The advocate for less cutting and more growing is a firm believer in protecting the rain forest. It is even his slogan that appears on his winning presentation. And according to Lutchman, though growing orchids started out as a hobby, caring for plants is really deeply rooted in his bones as his father Mano Lutchman was a gardener from Maraval who took care of the garden

at Stollmeyer’s Castle, at the Queen’s Park Savannah.

“There is so much beauty in plants and flowers and for most growers they will tell you how relaxing it can be. What the Society wants is to really spread that awareness about the importance of preserving and conserving our natural flora,” said Lutchman. (TT Guardian)

48

hollywood

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Angelina Jolie backs campaign to give basic rights to refugees

H

H

ollywood superstar Robert Downey Jr and wife Susan have welcomed their second child, a baby girl. Susan gave birth to the baby in LA this week. The couple are already parents to two-year-old son, Exton.

Downey has 21-year-old son Indio from a previous marriage, reported People magazine. Last week, Downey, 49, paid a tribute to his wife and their soon-to-be-born daughter as he accepted an award at the BAFTA Los Angeles Jaguar Britannia Awards for excellence in film.

He revealed in July that the couple were expecting a baby girl. (Indian Express)

Jessie J confirms romance with Luke James

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op star Jessie J has confirmed that she is dating R&B singer Luke James.

Earlier this year, the 'Bang Bang' hitmaker sparked speculation that she was dating James following a series of flirty posts on Twitter, reported Contactmusic.

The 26-year-old singer posted a selfie earlier this week alongside James, and in the accompanying caption, she wrote, "My first ever official #mcm. My man. My crush. My Monday morning.

So it's only right."

James, a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter who was recently an opening act for Beyonce, followed suit and shared shots of himself and Jessie on his blog, in a post titled "A New

Feel".

Last month, Jessie even invited James to share the stage with her for a sold out gig in Los Angeles. (TOI)

T

by making it possible to draw on their energy and talents. It is both an obligation and an opportunity for governments everywhere to put an end to this exclusion,” the letter reads. (Indian Express)

I

ggy Azalea, who will also appear in the latest series 'Fast and Furious', has said that she was stunned and frightened to discover that she had lines in 'Furious 7'.

The 24-year-old rapper asserted that at first she thought that she would just be waving a flag like Rita Ora did in the last movie, News.com.au reported.

The Australian rapper continued that she got some lines and then her character was friends with Vin Diesel's character.

Azalea admitted that she was way out of her comfort zone on the set of the movie, and now realized that acting was not easy. (TOI)

Simon Cowell, Howard Stern named top-earning personalities by Forbes Assayas and was originally developed by Charles Gillibert who was also producing the film with CG Cinema,

Bluegrass Films' Scott Stuber, Film 360's Scott Lambert, Alexandra Milchan and Michael Benaroya.

Tom Hanks to pen typewriterinspired short stories

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vote, and few or no opportunities to get an education. Ending statelessness would right these terrible wrongs.

“But it would also strengthen society in countries where stateless people are found,

'Shocked' Iggy Azalea was frightened by role in 'Furious 7'

Robert De Niro, Robert Pattinson starrer 'Idol's Eye shuts' down he upcoming thriller project starring Robert De Niro, Robert Pattinson, and Rachel Weisz titled 'Idol's Eye' has been shut down.

The production company said in a statement that due to Benaroya Pictures' officially closing the finance, the film, which was commence filming in Toronto, has been stopped, Deadline.com reported.

The project was to be helmed by Olivier

ollywood star Angelina Jolie, who is a special envoy for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, is campaigning for provision of basic rights to displaced citizens in their adopted countries.

Jolie, 39, is supporting the organisation’s I Belong drive and has signed an open letter which addresses the problem, reported Contactmusic.

“Statelessness can mean a life without education, without medical care or legal employment… a life without the ability to move freely, without prospects or hope.

Statelessness is inhuman. We believe it is time to end this injustice…

“Being stateless means you and your children having no legal identity, no passport, no

om Hanks will be penning a collection of short stories revolving around his collection of typewriters, it has been revealed.

In a statement released by publisher Knopf Doubleday, the 58-year-old actor said that he has been collecting typewriters for no particular reason since 1978, both manual and portable machines dating from the thirties to the nineties, Deadline.com reported.

The 'Forest Gump' star, who has been published in the New Yorker as a fiction writer, added that the stories are not about the typewriters themselves, but rather, the stories are something that might have been written on one of them. (TOI)

S

imon Cowell and Howard Stern ,who rake-in US$95 million annually, have been named as world's highest earning personalities in the entertainment industry.

According to Forbes magazine, music producer and the radio jockey have raked in US$95 million in the past 12

months, the New York Post reported.

The financial magazine defined both the "personalities" as TV and radio stars, who did not act, sing or played sports to make their money.

Other top-earning personalities also included Glenn Beck with 90 million dollars, Oprah Winfrey with 82 million

dollars, Phil McGraw with 77 million dollars , Ellen DeGeneres with 70 million dollars, Rush Limbaugh with 66 million dollars, Ryan Seacrest with 65 million dollars, Gordon Ramsay with 47 million dollars and Judge Judy Sheindlin with 47 million dollars. (TOI)

Jake Gyllenhaal discusses ‘Brokeback Mountain’ and lack of sex scenes in new film ‘Nightcrawler’

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eminiscing about one of his unforgettable films, Brokeback Mountain, Jake Gyllenhaal said that the movie had become something beyond what any one could imagine.

He said that the film lived in its own

space, adding it was one of those films that was no longer his, but everyone's.

Gyllenhaal also discussed about the lack of sex scenes in his new movie Nightcrawler during his appearance on Monday, U.S. Magazine reports.

The film's director

Dan Gilroy said there were many financiers who were willing to put up money if the movie included sex scenes in it.

Gilroy however refused because he believed that nothing could match the imagination behind closed doors.

bollywood Kamaal R Khan: Minissha Lamba has zero fan following

T

he man, who has almost become an expert on all things related to Colors' reality show 'Bigg Boss', is in his element once again. In a telechat the actor-director-producer Kamaal K Khan makes some forthright comments, which leave you gasping for breath...

Minissha was a big bore! Just check what he has to say about Minissha Lamba, the latest candidate to be evicted from the reality show hosted by superstar Salman Khan. "Minissha had to come out because she was a big bore in the show. She was not doing anything interesting other than eating food. Nor was she giving any TRP. And she had great misconceptions about her own fan following. Now it's clear that she has zero fan following," says KRK. Producers not ready to choke his

thoughts, he goes on to add: "All those people who are in the show, understand that there is nothing real out there. It is all about TRP. Producers have invested a lot of green bucks, so whosoever earns money for them via TRP, will stay put; others will be thrown out! I hope Minissha has just realized this!"

(TOI)

Akshay Kumar: Want to do films that my son can enjoy

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rom action to comedy to drama, Akshay Kumar has done everything in his over two decade long acting career. And now his desire is to work on projects that his son Aarav can enjoy.

Asked about his choices while signing films, he said: "I want to do some good films. I don't want to do a film just because it will make Rs.100 crore or Rs.200 crore.

"I want to do films that my son can enjoy. If he doesn't like my film, he comes to me and tells me that he didn't understand the film at all."

In a time when stars are sticking to

one or two films in a year rule, Akshay is still doing more than that and for him managing multiple projects is a child's play.

"People accuse me of doing four films in a year, but it's not impossible," said the actor who already had two releases this year - "Holiday -A Soldier Is Never Off Duty" and "It's Entertainment".

Akshay's co-stars in Abhishek Sharma directed fun filled drama ‘The Shaukeens’ is Anupam Kher, Annu Kapoor, and Piyush Mishra. Lisa Haydon too features in the film.

He is a star, but his journey had been dotted with ups and downs. He says that those filmmakers who refused to work him when he was going through the flop phase, now makes a beeline outside his house.

But now the tables have turned and Akshay wants to work on his terms and condition.

"It's not their mistake that they didn't cast me when I was a flop artist, and I feel you should take it positively and work hard. Not once or twice, thrice the filmmakers have come back to me.

Now when they come back, I quote my price," said the 47-year-old. (TOI)

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

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ctress Nandana Sen has gone bold on the screen to play renowned painter Raja Ravi Varma’s muse in forthcoming ‘Rang Rasiya’. She admits doing nude scenes is a huge responsibility and she had talked it out with her parents before giving her nod.

After remaining in the cans for more than five years, the period drama, based on Ranjit Desai’s novel titled ‘Raja Ravi Varma’, will unfold riots of colours and passion on the screen on Nov 7 with Randeep Hood in the role of the father of modern Indian art, and Nandana as his creative inspiration.

The film is set to revisit an era that was revolutionised by the painter who not only gave faces to gods and goddesses in his work, but also painted nudes.

As the muse, Nandana have done some bold scenes in the intense love story and she says that “nudity is a complicated issue.”

“It is something one needs to think about a lot. I spent a lot of time discussing it with my patents, family before

making the decision to do the part. The reason is not that I was afraid. When an artist decides to embrace nudity, it is a big responsibility. If nudity is portrayed with beauty and aesthetically, then it’s fine,” added the actress.

Talking about her character in the film she said: “I am playing Sugandha who is a combination of strength and softness and this is what makes her Ravi Varma’s muse.” (Indian Express)

Sonakshi Sinha pledges to donate her eyes

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hat is common to the names like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, R. Madhavan, Aamir Khan

and Kiran Rao, besides the fact that they are famous Bollywood celebrities? Well, all of them have pledged to donate their eyes.

Well, today’s ‘it’ girl Sonakshi Sinha has joined the likes of the above by pledging to donate her eyes to a Haryana-based foundation which works towards the eradication of corneal blindness. Speaking about the same, Sonakshi said that she is extremely proud and humbled to be associated with the foundation’s cause.

She also appealed to her fans and friends to pledge to donate their eyes too and give somebody the gift of sight.

(Indian Express)

Rajkumar Hirani confirms Sanjay Dutt’s biopic with Ranbir Kapoor in the lead

No campaign can change fate of bad film says Amitabh Bachchan

I

n his over four decade-old film career, Amitabh Bachchan has seen days when promotions and marketing were almost nil, as well as those days, where movies get lost in the 'crowd' if not promoted well. But he says the fate of a movie only lies in its quality.

The actor is in Kolata to shoot for

Shoojit Sircar's ‘Piku’, and has been regularly sharing some snapshots from the schedule for his 'extended family' on social networking platforms -whether the movie's makers like it or not.

"They wonder and send alarms to not publicise the pictures of the film PIKU...yet...for they jeopardise the marketing of the other projects I work on...which shall be released much ahead of this one," Big B posted on his blog srbachchan.tumblr.com.

His ‘Shamitabh’ releases Feb 6, 2015.

"There shall be marketing for that aggressively during December and January coming months," he said.

The 72-year-old's other film ‘Wazir’ will release April 2015, and he says "that publicity can wait...or do they wish it were to come."

It's tough to hide "anything" these days, he feels.

Meanwhile, his fans are enjoying every bit of the glimpses he's sharing from ‘Piku’, in which he will be seen with Irrfan Khan and Deepika Padukone. (TOI)

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he recent times have seen an array of biopics being made on the celluloid, like Mary Kom, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Paan Singh Tomar, Shahid, The Dirty Picture etc… to name a few. If there’s one person whose biopic features on everyone’s wish list, then, it has to be on none other than Bollywood’s favourite ‘baba’ Sanjay Dutt.

It seems that all these prayers are soon going to be answered in the form of Rajkumar Hirani’s biopic on Dutt, which will star Ranbir Kapoor in the lead.

After months of spec-

ulations, Raju Hirani has finally opened up to say that he is indeed making a biopic on Sanjay Dutt and that the film may go on floors before Sanjay Dutt is released from prison. Speaking about it, he said that he has received lots of inputs from Sanjay’s family, which includes his sisters Priya, Namrata, his brother-in-law Kumar Gaurav, and a very close friend Paresh, (who is based in US). He added that the idea of a biopic germinated in his mind when Sanjay was casually conversing about his life with him. The duo of Hirani and Dutt have

decided that they won’t withhold any information from the cinegoers.

They will be telling the story in a very aesthetic manner without hurting anybody’s sentiments.

Like Rajkumar Hirani’s previous films, this film too (though untitled) will be written by Abhijat Joshi.

Hirani, who has earlier worked with Sanjay Dutt, said that it’s only a one tenth of Dutt’s life which the world knows.

In the same breath he also added that, despite everything he has gone through, there is an honest child inside Sanjay Dutt. (Indian Express)

50

Sport

WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Urling calls for united Persaud, Hutson comfortable with FIFA’s Normalisation Committee approach to repair Guyana’s football M B y A venash R amzan

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hairman of the Normalisation Committee installed to run the affairs of Guyana’s football, Clinton Urling, has underlined the importance of having a united and collaborative approach in helping to restore the game to some semblance of stability.

Speaking at the Committee’s first media briefing last Friday, Urling, in the presence of a few representatives of the five-member unit, outlined the vision of the FIFA appointed body.

The articulate businessman and former president of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry said the mandate of the N o r m a l i s a t i o n Committee can only be accomplished with the full involvement of all stakeholders.

“We have to try to work with all the players, grassroots specialists, associations, referees, coach-

es, business leaders, sponsors, FIFA, CFU, CONCACAF and every stakeholder everywhere and develop a system and support structure to ensure that sporting excellence in football is achieved,” Urling said.

He added, “I look forward, and I think I can speak for the entire Normalisation Committee, for a bright future for football in Guyana.”

Urling added that the Normalisation Committee will be guided only by the world governing body, FIFA, to which it is mandated to report to. As he puts it, the Committee is answerable to FIFA only.

“We’re the temporary custodians; our mandate though derives from FIFA. We’re only answerable to FIFA, because this is not a normal situation,” he explained.

Urling went on, “The normal situation is the associations were going to Congress and electing their executive, which

is answerable back to them. In this scenario, we’re answerable to FIFA. If we’re not clear on any issue, we will seek guidance from FIFA. FIFA will write us and inform us of the most appropriate strategy if we can’t decide on any issue; if we could we don’t need to. But I think in the early stages we will seek enormous guidance from FIFA and also seek guidance again from member associations and all the stakeholders involved.”

The Normalisation Committee was appointed by football’s world governing body, FIFA, to lead the process of revitalisation of Guyana’s football after two failed Congresses by the Guyana Football Federation, led by Christopher Matthias.

The five-members had no previous involvement in the game.

Urling apart, the others are Dr Karen Pilgrim, Stuart May, Robin Chandarpal and Tariq Williams.

embers of the Guyana F o o t b a l l Federation that led the no-confidence vote against former president of the federation Christopher Matthias feels comfortable with the decision made by the world governing body of football in to install a Normalisation Committee.

Ivan Persaud the former Vice-President of the federation, highlighted that FIFA’s decision should be respected.

“Whatever decision they (FIFA) make is what we will have to work with and I just hope that the decision they have made works out for football.

“I wish the N o r m a l i s a t i o n Committee the best and hope that they follow the mandate of FIFA… FIFA made a decision and we should respect.

They (FIFA) are doing

Ivan Persaud

Aubrey Hutson

probably based on experience and it might have worked before so I wish the best for football in Guyana,” Persaud stated.

Meanwhile, Aubrey Hutson who is the President of the East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) and led the no-confidence vote against Matthias shared his views on FIFA’s decision.

“I was at first a little concerned about the persons selected in terms of them not

having background in football but after careful thought I thought it best that it is better that the committee is made of persons for a want of a better word not tainted.

The Normalisation Committee was put in place by FIFA to take over Guyana’s football as well as reforming the constitution in a last ditch effort to solve the many issues after two failed congresses that ended in walkouts.

(Treiston Joseph)

MACORP’S golf tournament tees off Saturday

Lusignan Golf Club President, David Mohamed (centre), receives the winner's trophy from MACORP’s Chief Executive Officer, Jorge Medina. Sharing the moment is Mining Major Accounts Manager, Angel Amaris (Photo: Avenash Ramzan)

By Avenash Ramzan

T

op local golfers will challenge their overseas counterparts on Saturday when the annual MACORP golf tournament is hosted at the Lusignan Golf Course, East Coast Demerara.

The company on Wednesday morning unveiled its sponsorship of the Medal Play tournament at its Providence outlet, where top officials were on hand to showcase the prizes on offer.

Delivering remarks at the launch, President of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC), David Mohamad, said he was enthused to once again have MACORP onboard for another year. He pointed out that the tour-

nament has grown to become one of the country’s leading competitions, attracting a mixture of local and overseas competitors.

“Members and overseas guests even set their schedules to accommodate the MACORP tournament. Last weekend we had the Guyana Open and there are players who have stayed back to participate in the MACORP tournament so we’re expecting a large turnout and a very competitive tournament,” the LGC head said.

Mohamed further stated that the MACORP tournament has had a significant and positive influence on the growth and development of the sport.

“Over the years, golf has risen in Guyana and it’s the support of companies such as MACORP that has led to such expansion and allow us to make so much improvement at the Lusignan Golf Club. MACORP has always been willing to support us, and support us in big ways; they’re corporate members, they sponsor big tournaments and we’re very appreciative of that,” Mohamad explained.

Chief Executive Officer of MACORP, Jorge Medina, an ardent golfer, expressed his company’s elation at being part of the event for another year, noting that they are satisfied with the progress made over the years.

SPort

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WEEK ENDING November 9, 2014 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

J'cans ready to Fernandes breaks ROC Barbados into World Top 20

By Avenash Ramzan

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K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: Local motorsport icons Doug Gore and Jeffrey Panton have been confirmed this week to represent Jamaica at December's Race of Champions (ROC) 2014 to be held at the recently renovated Bushy Park Circuit, Barbados.

The two-day event will run from December 13 to 14.

Gore summed up the occasion in one word: "Awesome".

Panton described it as an honour.

"It is an honour to be chosen to represent Jamaica. I will do my best at any or every stage to bring the trophy home for Jamaica," Panton told Auto.

The two drivers were part of the four names submitted to the Barbados Motoring Federation (BMF) by the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club (JMMC).

The other two were Kyle Gregg and David

Doug Gore’s Audi TT-R DTM.

Summerbell Jr. The BMF, who made the final decision, required submissions from Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago to have won Championship titles, in more than one discipline if possible and have competed in regional competitions.

"I think an excellent pair of drivers have been chosen by the ROC promoters. Gore excels at circuit racing, while Jeffrey adds his rally skills to the Jamaican team," said Peter Clarke, JMMC president.

The four countries will participate in what the BMF has termed the ROC Caribbean on the Saturday using a similar system to the ROC, which will take place the Sunday. There will be a group race to decide the ROC Caribbean Champion nation and decide the fastest individual driver. That driver will be paired with the fastest Bajan driver and move to the ROC individual con-

test to battle against the top drivers in the world.

Having already managed to bring the Top Gear Festival to the Caribbean and having a major FIA championship launched on its shores, Barbados continues to punch above its weight, nabbing the 2014 staging of the Race of Champions.

This is the first time the ROC is being held in the western hemisphere. It began in 1988 and was cancelled in 2013 due to political unrest in then host country Thailand.

The last event in 2012 saw F1 driver Romain Grosjean win the ROC driver's title while Germany took home the Nation's Cup with Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel.

Currently listed to compete on the ROC site are FIA World Rallycross champion Petter Solberg, Australian V8 Supercars star Jamie Whincup and ex-DTM driver Susie Wolff. (Jamaica Observer)

uyana’s squash queen, Nicolette Fernandes, has jumped two places up the world rankings in the latest graph released by the Women Squash Association (WSA).

In the November update, Fernandes improved from 22 to 20 and is now getting closer to a career-best ranking.

Fernandes has been consistent in 2014, moving between a career-best 19 and 22 during the year.

With four more events planned for the rest of 2014, including the World Championship in Egypt in December, Fernandes is expected to rise further in the rankings, and no doubt she would aim to improve of her career-best 19.

Despite a climb up the ladder, the 31-yearold Fernandes recently suffered defeat, losing to WSA veteran Aisling Blake in the WSA Silver 25 event at Stade Louis II in Monaco. Fernandes lost 11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 2-11, 5-11 in the one hour contest.

The constant rise up the ranking is a remarkable turnaround for Fernandes, who only at the start of 2009 was rated a lowly 249 after a recurring knee injury had kept her out of competition for a protracted period of time.

Since returning from injury however, Guyana’s most decorated squash player has been on the rise, significantly moving up the ranking

Nicolette Fernandes

with each passing competition.

Such was her outstanding performance that at the end of 2009, Fernandes, who is based in England and is under the expert guidance of award-winning coach Carl Ince, had taken her

ranking below 100, ending the year at 88.

Ever since then, it has been a steady climb up the ladder for the multiple Sportswomanof-the-Year, consistently racking up points and making her way up the WSA leaderboard.

Courts Pee Wee heats up in Georgetown this weekend

By Avenash Ramzan

I

f the quarter-final games are to be used as a possible yardstick, then Teachers, Students and Parents who usually gather at the Thirst Park ground on Saturdays are in for a sizzling day of football from Georgetown’s next crop of stars.

In what is the penultimate day of action in the annual Courts Pee Wee competition, there is little to separate the schools, four of which have remained in the hunt for overall championship honours.

Defending champions St Pius, who started the competition with two drawn encounters, have quietly slipped into the knockout round, but they would boast that their

The competition has produced some exciting plays at the Banks DIH Ground, Thirst Park

chances are as good as the other three teams.

Indeed, what has transpired over the past weeks is documented in history and it’s now down to who handles the pressure better in a ‘do or die’ situation.

Both semi-finals will start simultaneously at 13:00h, with St Pius throwing down the gauntlet to a determined Tucville side and Stella Maris trading skills with South Ruimveldt.

The teams gained entry to the semis after hard-fought victories at last Saturday’s quarterfinal games.

St Pius and Stella Maris both won 4-3 on penalties after regulation and extra time produced 1-1 stalemates against F.E. Pollard and St Margaret’s respectively,

while South Ruimveldt gained a 1-0 result against West Ruimveldt and Tucville stitched together a similar scoreline against St Angela’s.

Six other games are carded for Saturday as the other schools battle for positions 5-16.

Action will kick off at 10:00 hours with Enterprise against Ketley, Smith’s Memorial against Marian Academy, East La Penitence against St Stephen’s, Green Acres against North Georgetown, F.E. Pollard against St Angela’s and St Margaret’s against West Ruimveldt.

The competition, which will conclude on November 15, is a collaborative effort of Courts (Guyana) Inc., the Petra Organisation and Banks DIH Limited.

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GFSCA/Guyana Softball Cup 4…

Wolf’s Warriors, Floodlights are softball kings

By Avenash Ramzan

P

layed in front of arguably the largest crowd to witness a sport event at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association’s (GFSCA) Guyana Softball Cup 4 ended in exhilarating fashion on Sunday night with Wolf’s Warriors copping the Open title and Floodlights lifting the Masters trophy.

While the West Demerara-based Wolf’s Warriors were pushed to the limits by Regal XI, winning by a mere five runs, Floodlights had a comparatively easier time against Savage Masters, prevailing by 18 runs.

In a riveting Open final, former GT&T 10/10 champions Wolf’s Warriors batted first and posted 166-6, a total which would prove just enough about 90 min-

Wolf’s Warriors’ players, officials and supporters surround the trophy and cheque following their victory on Sunday night (Photo: Carl Croker)

utes later.

Former national Under-19 left-hander, Ricardo Adams, batted through the innings for a topscore of 53 in Wolf’s Warriors innings. The Essequibian and eventual Man-of-the-Match received solid support from Safraz Karim, who stroked 37, and skipper Amrit Rai, who chipped

in with 31.

Adams and Rai had laid the foundation for Wolf’s Warriors win with a century partnership for the first wicket.

Chasing a challenging 167 with the white ball on the night sky, Regal came agonisingly close, ending on 161 off 19.5 overs. Patrick Rooplall made 30 and

Navin Singh 21 as Narine Bailey and Amir Nizamudeen claimed two wickets each.

For the win, Wolf’s Warriors became Gy$800,000 richer, while Regal had to settle for Gy$200,000.

In the Masters final played earlier in the day, eventual Most Valuable Player and Man-of-the-

Match, Uniss Yusuf, cracked 62 and Imtiaz Mohamed made 45 as Floodlights posted 180-4 with R. Samaroo claiming three wickets.

Despite a fighting 64 from Robert Comacho, Savage fell short, managing 162 in 19.2 overs with Yusuf retuning to bag two wickets. Floodlights pocketed Gy$600,000 for their winning effort, while Savage took home Gy$150,000.

The final of the female exhibition segment was controversially aborted in the seventh over when the batting team, Mike’s Wellwoman, complained about the uniform of Trophy Stall Angels distracting them.

At the presentation ceremony which followed, Yusuf was joined

by Lennox Marks of Farm XI on the podium as the competition’s two MVPs. Both batsmen scored centuries in the three-day tournament,

and their efforts were rewarded by Steve’s Jewellery, who provided two 18-karat gold softball bracelets, accentuated with diamond studs.

President of the GFSCA, Ramchand Ragbeer, congratulated the two champion teams, reserving special mention for the Floodlights veterans who had tried unsuccessfully to cop the title for the last three years.

He commended the sponsors for staying the course with the Guyana Softball Cup and expressed gratitude to the hundreds of spectators who turned out at the venue to witness the conclusion of the country’s premier softball tournament.

The competition, which started on Friday last with the traditional photo shoot, attracted teams from Guyana and North America battling for softball’s ultimate prize in Guyana.

Response from players regarding first-class retainer contract favourable – Stuart – most players sign

By Rajiv Bisnauth

T

he majority of the fifteen contracted players attached to the Guyana Jaguars have signed their retainer first-class contract, and according to GCB Territorial Developmental Officer, who is now attached to Cricket Guy Inc, Colin Stuart, the response from the players regarding the contract is favourable.

Stuart insisted on Monday that apart from Devendra Bishoo, Assad Fudadin and Ronsford Beaton (West Indies ‘A’ team duties), the remaining contracts will be signed by Friday.

“As we speak the contracts were handed out to the twelve available players for them to peruse the document. A number

of them have already signed, and I am confident those who are available here will do so by Friday,” Stuart stressed.

The former Guyana and West Indies fast bowler also noted that none of the players available have raised any issues about the contracts stating: “There has been no indication from anybody that they don’t want to sign or any issue was raised regarding the contract”.

The Professional Cricket League (PCL) guarantees a player an annual income of between US$15,600 and US$36,000. This is in addition to match fees and prize monies.

In addition to the annual income, players can earn up to US$13,000 in match fees if they play in all ten Regional four-

day matches and up US$4,900 in fees for the full season of the NAGICO Super50 (seven matches).

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has rolled out a full Professional First Class Franchise System in which a cadre of 90 players will be engaged in a professional cricket structure on a day-to-day basis, year round.

Each franchise has retained fifteen players who will work as a unit on a day-to-day basis in each territory under a Head Coach and support staff.

The six franchises will be based in Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Trinidad and Tobago and Windward Islands. Each franchise will receive a monthly stipend of US$45,000.

Veerasammy Permaul

Ronsford Beaton

The contract players for Guyana are: Veerasammy Permaul, Christopher Barnwell, Anthony Bramble, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Ronsford Beaton, Narsingh

Deonarine, Trevon Griffith, Leon Johnson, Assad Fudadin, Devendra Bishoo, Keon Joseph, Rajendra Chandrika, Paul Wintz, Vishaul Singh and Raymod Reifer.

Jamaica Badminton Association selects team for CAC Games

K

INGSTON, JAMAICA: J a m a i c a Badmin-ton Association (JBA) has selected a strong six-member team to represent Jamaica at the 22nd staging of the 2014 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, to be held in Veracruz, Mexico, from November 23 to 28.

Jamaica's number one mixed doubles pair of siblings Geordine and Gareth Henry will headline three men and as many women going into the Games, which will see a total of 31 countries competing in 14 sporting disciplines.

Siblings Geordine and Gareth Henry will play in the mixed doubles.

Selection for the team was based on the players' current overall JBA ranking both in the sin-

gles and doubles.

Local badminton queen Geordine Henry said although she had

some setbacks she was happy to have been selected to represent her country at the Games.

"I am happy and relieved that I have made the team. I have been facing some challenges which I had no control over and I am just grateful to the Lord and my family for giving me the strength and motivation to still push myself to train and compete at an acceptable level in order to be selected for these Games. It is always an honour to represent my country," the 27-yearold Geordine told the Jamaican media.

She also said that

she has one thing in mind and that is to win as many medals as possible.

"The plan for the tournament is simply to win medals. I have been getting a lot of exposure in international tournaments and so I am familiar with this level of play and what it takes to do well," she said.

"My form at this moment is sadly not at its best as I am recovering from the Chikungunya virus which has put my body and physical condition at square one.

However, the technical aspect is still in tune, but I am seeking imme-

diate help in recovering as soon as possible," the soft-spoken Geordine added.

Henry will compete in the women's singles and doubles and also with her brother in the mixed doubles.

Meanwhile, president of the JBA, Robert Richards, said that his players had to play qualifying games in order to book their spots at the Games.

Full squad: Men -Gareth Henry, Samuel Ricketts and Garron Palmer.

Women -- Katherine Wynter, Geordine Henry and Mikaylia Haldane.

(Jamaica Observer)

53 Top American track star visits Guyana’s synthetic track Sport

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Castlin also shared that the transition to becoming a hurdler is not very easy but calls for dedication and hard work especially due to the technicality of the event.

A

Kristi Castlin shares a moment with the Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony during the courtesy call

merican track star in the women’s 100 metres hurdles Kristi Castlin is in Guyana and made a courtesy call on the Minister of Sport as well as a visit to Guyana’s lone synthetic track still under construction on Wednesday.

Stopping at the Ministry of Sport around 09:00h, Castlin was

briefed by the Minister of Sport Dr Frank Anthony on the development of the track as well as its hopeful uses.

However, at the Leonora track where the stands are yet to be completed, the 26 year old hurdler addressed a number of students from neigbouring schools, motivating them to reach for their dreams espe-

cially in sport.

Further, Castlin highlighted reasons why athletes who have never hurdled before should try the event.

“It makes you very dynamic, when you are hurdling there is a lot you put into it and a lot you can do, you can run the 100, the 200…it just makes you dynamic,” Castlin stressed.

TT Women Warriors leave for Ecuador

Head coach Randy Waldrum speaking with Warriors

P

O R T - O F S P A I N , TRINIDAD: Days before TT faces Ecuador away from home in the first leg of a two-match 2015 Fifa Women’s World Cup playoff, the country’s players and staff will arrive in Guayaquil, a city at sea level. This comes after six days of high-altitude training in Mexico City, Mexico, where head coach Randy Waldrum and several support staff members, including a conditioning coach, team doctor, trainer and a massage therapist pooled their skills together to prepare the players for competition in Quito, Ecuador’s capital.

The match will be played at the Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa a 40,000-plus seater stadium, in the world’s

highest official capital city. “We need to be at sea level for two days and then go back up to altitude, as this is what the science of altitude preparations tells us,” Waldrum explained in correspondence from Mexico, on Tuesday.

“The science we are using with our conditioning coach is next level. We are monitoring each player with heart rate monitors and such so we can keep an eye on each individual and how they are coping.

The programme we have also tells us how many calories we are burning per session so our nutritionist can better refuel our athletes individually and collectively. We are leaving no stones unturned,” the Houston Dash and former TT Under-17 women’s coach added. (TT Guardian)

In addition, Castlin mentioned that her focal points on her talks will be a bit more general with regards to sprinting and technique, “go things that you can do to improve every day”.

Castlin urged the coaches and athletes to come out on Friday in order to pick her brain with any questions they might have. (Treiston Joseph)

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