Guyanatimes november 17, 2017

Security a top priority – G Division Commander assures Essequibo residents P16 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, November 17, 2017

Issue No. 3395

East Berbice residents demand potable water

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

P15 Two 5-year-olds allegedly raped by older boys Row over slippers

P14 Brother P16 jailed for ...block roadway, prevent Minister, Police from passing 21 years …found guilty of killing sister, injuring niece

Cops receive ‘refresher’ training P17 on using roadways Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is currently attending the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) high-level Caribbean Forum, which is being held under the theme ‘Unleashing Growth and Strengthening Resilience in the Caribbean’ in Jamaica. Jagdeo is one of the panelists dealing with the issue of ‘Fiscal Policy and Political Cycles’, which is one of several discussion sessions on the agenda. The forum is expected to focus on unique issues that the Caribbean region is facing and the opportunities that can be found to cope with the changing global landscape. In photo: Head of the International Monetary Fund, Christine Lagarde (4th from left); Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness; Prime Minister of Grenada Keith Mitchell; Premier of Nevis Vance Amory and former President and Opposition Leader of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo

Unpaid salaries

Recommendations can insulate P17 region’s economies – President

“Saga” execution

Implicated Cop turns self in P5

“No money, no work” – City Hall employees

…professes innocence, claims he was “set up”

Page 9

GECOM’s unilateral appoint

CFATF 46th Plenary Meeting

Page 3

Challenge hearing set for January

…as judge reprimands AG, Nandlall for media discussions on case

Rose Hall Estate P7 closure pushed to 2018

2

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

news

3

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

GECOM’s unilateral appointment

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

Friday, November 17 – a night time retraction at 04:00h and a daytime retraction at 14:30h-16:00h and Saturday, November 18 – 04:30h and a daytime retraction at 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, November 17 – 15:50h-17:20h and Saturday, November 18 – 16:20h-17:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery to heavy rain showers can be expected in the morning, while light rain showers are expected to give way to sunny weather in the late afternoon. Partly cloudy conditions can be expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Ranging between Easterly to East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 03:33h and 15:45h reaching maximum heights of 2.56 metres and 2.67 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:21h and 21:43h reaching minimum heights of 0.65 metre and 0.53 metre respectively.

Challenge hearing set for January …as judge reprimands AG, Nandlall for media discussions on case

T

hree weeks after being filed in the High Court, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party’s challenge to rescind President David Granger’s appointment of retired Justice James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) came up for hearing before acting Chief Justice Roxane George on Thursday.

Both the applicant’s attorney, Anil Nandall, and the respondent, Attorney General (AG) Basil Williams, were given dates to make submissions and to reply, before the matter returns to court on January 5 for clarification and arguments.

In a full courtroom on Thursday, Justice George reprimanded the AG as well as his predecessor, Nandlall, for mak-

GECOM Chairman, Justice (retired) James Patterson

Speaking outside of court, both Nandall and Williams observed the court’s admonition in regard to public disclosures about the case, and each indicated that he would limit what he has to say.

Nevertheless, Nandall ex-

wednesDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2017

18

19 21

22 23 27

visions of Article 161-2 of the Constitution of Guyana.

Justice Patterson, who was an advisor attached to the Legal Affairs Ministry, was sworn in a few hours after President Granger had met briefly with the Opposition Leader in October. President Granger has said his decision

5 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS 05 07 20 21 23 LUCKY 3 8 5 5 Afternoon Draw

Government supporters outside of court

4

3

3

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

05 08

09 10 11 12 14

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

Acting Chief Justice Roxane George, SC

to select a GECOM Chairman was made in accordance with Article 161 of the Constitution for the appointment of a GECOM Chairman.

The Head of State’s contention is that all three lists provided by the Opposition Leader were unacceptable. These lists

Attorney-at-law Anil Nandlall and PPP Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha filed the injunction on October 23

LOTTERY NUMBERS D

against Nandlall.

After court was adjourned, the protesters greeted the Attorney General with open arms, as he urged for calm in a bid to ease tensions.

The PPP’s motion, filed in the name of the party’s Executive Secretary and Member of Parliament (MP) Zulfikar Mustapha, is seeking to revoke and quash Justice Patterson’s appointment, and to secure an order to remove him from office. It is also seeking to direct the President to choose a person from the 18 names submitted to him by Leader of the Opposition, or for the court to make an appropriate order that it deems fit.

Nandlall had said that the PPP is also seeking a declaration that Justice Patterson is not qualified to be appointed, in accordance with the pro-

ing public statements ahead of court proceedings. Both were armed with countenances of humility at Thursday’s court appearance, and they were both warned that a gag order could be imposed if the practice continues.

The Acting Chief Justice observed that there were several newspaper headlines in which the two – Williams and Nandlall -- were making open statements about the case.

“Both sides have been trying this case in the court of public opinion...I’m cautioning both sides to be very careful of what you say in the media and public,” remarked the Chief Justice in an atmosphere of some tension, as persons present in the courtroom showed eagerness to hear her comments.

Chief Justice George related that while one is “free to comment”, the comment made should not be contemptuous.

Meanwhile, Attorney-atlaw Nandlall solicited the court’s leave to reply to the Attorney General’s submissions on the injunction. This was granted, and the judge further set out the timetable for legal submissions.

pressed confidence that the decision to appoint Justice Patterson will be rescinded.

Meantime, a small group of Government-backed protestors gathered at the court’s Charlotte Street entrance, and were heard shouting comments in favour of AG Williams and

had a total of 18 nominees.

The President’s decision was met with much criticism from the Opposition, civil society groups, trade unions, the business community, and other observers, many of whom contend that the retired judge’s appointment could threaten the tenets of democracy.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

FriDAY, november 17, 2017

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

The President must speak out

T

he crime situation in the country as a whole, but most especially in the urban spread of Georgetown, has been growing in a frightening crescendo. We are not referring to crimes such as spousal abuse or crimes of passion or white-collar crimes such as embezzlement, but to those crimes where citizens are molested or attacked daily as they go about their normal business. Such crimes occur not merely at nightfall but in broad daylight.

The growth of such crimes has deeply affected the social and economic life of the country; for example, educational lectures which used to be held in the evenings for the public have had to be curtailed and children going to evening lessons have been known to be robbed, especially of their cellphones. Many have to attend using taxis thus burdening parents with additional expenses.

Attendances at mandirs, churches and masjids have been greatly affected since congregations are afraid to be caught on the roads after 18:00h (6pm). Early morning services are also similarly affected. The Novena Services in the Catholic Church are now sparsely attended when compared to in the past. Domestic workers turning out to work in the morning or leaving in the afternoon have been victims of such armed robbers pouncing upon them and stealing their handbags. Persons going home are attacked at their gates or on exiting their cars. In many cases, the bandits rob the victims of their belongings, their cars and even physically hurt them. Many of these victims are senior citizens or women.

The economic life of the country is also deeply affected: Small shops which kept their doors open until the late hours, offering a good service to the public, now have to close before dark. And workers going to night-shifts sometimes find it very unsafe to turn out to work.

Of recent months, there are numerous examples of such crimes, many of which go unreported since victims do not have confidence in the Police's ability to apprehend the criminals.

These criminals now operate on motorcycles and they scour the streets looking for victims. Sometimes they study the movements of their victims and follow them from their places of work to their homes. In similar fashion, there are bandits in motor cars with dark tinted windows who attack victims. These bandits are all armed with lethal firearms which they are prepared to use on victims to kill or injure them.

These motorcycle bandits are comparatively few in numbers, and the Police, with the help of intelligence, should be able to apprehend them or break the back of such gangs. The motor car bandits with their dark tinted windows could easily be apprehended since they would be breaking the law in the first place by having tinted windows without the necessary permission.

More frequent motorised patrols within the urban spread would also help to bring this form of criminality under control. The courts also, when such alleged criminals are brought before them, should act with promptitude and fair severity.

Persons accused of receiving stolen property, especially cars and car parts, should be dealt with condignly. If these receivers of stolen property are made examples, this would help to cut the root of such crimes.

The Police are planning their usual strengthening of their Christmas patrols and having Police outposts in various parts of downtown Georgetown. This is of course, a very desirable activity to protect Christmas shoppers and businesses but the Police also need to take into their urgent focus the motorcar and motorcycle bandits.

That said, this responsibility should not be left solely to the Police. All sections of society must lend their support.

Most important and effective would be if His Excellency; the President were to publicly and repeatedly speak out against such crimes. If the President were to speak out, the criminal gangs would realise that the Government is determined to eradicate crimes of this type and protect citizens and their property. All citizens are looking forward to His Excellency doing his part in this anti-crime drive.

The crime situation is so ubiquitous and dangerous that it is worthwhile trying all solutions.

Ice sculptor Darren Jackson puts the finishing touches to an ice sculpture of two stags which make up part of a forthcoming exhibition, “The Ice Adventure: A journey through frozen Scotland,” in Edinburgh, Scotland (Andy Buchanan, AFP photo)

Our nation’s electricity supply greatly improved under Jagan, PPP/C (Part 2) Dear Editor, I write this letter responding to the editorial entitled “GPL” in the Sunday Stabroek of November 12th.

It seems to me that the Editor set out not wanting to appear to be on either side -- neither the PPP/C nor the PNC/APNU&AFC Coalition -- thus he used a broad brush, which obscured significant details with the risk that we would miss some important lessons, much of which we have paid for and continue to pay for in adverse experiences and in much frustration.

Mr Editor, I hope that you have been persuaded that Cheddi could hardly have given more useful time to the problems, challenges and hopes for GEC. And please allow me to add that the time he spent (much later) on developing and formalising his ‘New Global Human Order’ was all to the same end: all part of seeking and justifying debt forgiveness, to allow us Guyanese a real chance for a better life.

Mr Editor, we, the PPP/C, would be among the first to admit that, over our period in office, we did not reach where we aimed for GPL (and for many other as-

pects in our Guyana); but we steadily and greatly improved the supply of electricity across our country, improving average supply time from about 60% to about 95%, at the same time increasing the number of customers from about 75,000 to 175,000.

After Cheddi’s passing, we added a further 60MW in generation in two new plants, one at Kingston and the other at a new site at Vreed-en Hoop. It was timely then to turn to major upgrades of the transmission system, installing almost 100 kM of new 69kV transmission lines, which completed at long last the Demerara-Berbice Interconnection.

Eight new substations were installed at calculated locations in the network, enabling 27 additional distribution circuits, allowing shorter runs and greater isolation of local problems. Three existing substations at Sophia and the two main generating stations were upgraded.

A new Control Centre was built at Sophia, with a new Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System linking all substations to the Control Centre.

Mr Editor, after some delay, the Coalition Government is getting the new generating stations required for Anna Regina and Bartica. We paid on average US$ 1.0 million per MW over 1993 to 1997, and US$ 1.1 million per MW over 2009 to 2014 for complete power plants, inclusive of cost over-runs but excluding any cost for land.

Recalling all their allegations of hundreds of billions of dollars of annual corruption, may I be wicked and enquire what is their total plant cost per MW? If they are without corruption, it shouldn’t be more than ours!

We greatly regret not being allowed to proceed with the construction of Amaila, which was contemplated even in the Burnham years of the mid-1970s. By now we would have started receiving electricity (165MW) from Amaila at a sustainable, lifetime average price still much less than the current prices lowered by low oil prices, and our Coalition Government could have claimed Guyana’s first big step to a ‘Green’ Guyana and effecting half of its commitment towards making Guyana a Green State.

Natural gas may not be much cheaper than HFO. It would be low carbon, but not ‘Green’.

We neither forgot nor ignored our interior. We reached nearly every home.

We provided an initiating degree of electrification across our hinterland with the provision and installation of nearly 20,000 photo-voltaic solar home electrification systems in spread-out communities, and a number of mini-grids with 24x7 electrification at their cores and across denser communities, an essential plank for their subsequent proclamation as towns.

Mr Editor even as I acknowledge that I am partisan and personally involved, I nonetheless urge you to reconsider your painting of our 1992 to 2015 period in office with the same broad brush as you paint the preceding and subsequent periods.

Samuel AA Hinds Former Prime Minister, Former President, and Former Minister Responsible for Energy and Electricity

Something has to be wrong at M&CC Dear Editor, Something has to be seriously wrong with the workers of the Georgetown Municipality. They allow the City Council to abuse them month after month by leaving them hungry, without money to pay rent, to pay for electricity, to pay

their hire purchase companies, or to send their children to school, whilst the Mayor and an entourage spend millions flying from continent to continent for no good reason.

Something has to be wrong with the Councillors who, except for a few, sit

meekly around the horseshoe table and are disrespected by the Mayor and the other members of the grouping of four, who prevent them from seeing the notorious parking meter and other contracts, who refuse to give them details about the overseas trips, in-

cluding who are the members of the delegation.

Something has to be wrong with the Legal Affairs Committee, which agrees to re-engage with the sordid ‘Sex and the City’ case after the King and Queen of the City deliberated perverted justice. TURN TO PAGE 5

news

5

FriDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

“Saga” execution

Implicated Cop turns self in …professes innocence, claims he was “set up”

O

ne day after being implicated in the execution of Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”, Police intelligence rank, Corporal Derwin Eastman has surrendered to detectives at the Brickdam Police Station.

This was confirmed by A Division (GeorgetownEast Bank Demerara) Commander, Marlon Chapman.

His name was reportedly called by Aubrey Bobb, 26, of Kitty, Georgetown, who was arraigned for the murder.

Bobb claimed that Corporal Eastman had loaned him the firearm to shoot the businessman as he was leaving a Kitty hotel in the company of a female last month.

After making the allegation, Eastman was contacted via mobile phone to visit

the Criminal Investigations Department. On Wednesday last, another rank was taken into custody since his name was also called during investigations into the execution.

However, Eastman is of the view that he was set up since he was not in any way connected to the fatal shooting which occurred on October 12. He told reporters on Thursday that he was “set up” by members of the Guyana Police Force.

Nevertheless, he noted that he would have arrested the accused on several occasions for armed robbery and feels that the suspect is implicating him in the murder as “payback”.

Eastman is also holding out that after Scipio was killed, he along with oth-

er investigating ranks reviewed the CCTV footage and he was able to identify and name Bobb as the shooter. In light of the recent allegations, Eastman is requesting a confrontation between him and the suspect.

A senior Police rank when contacted, told Guyana Times that Eastman is being questioned based on a statement given to the Police by the suspect who is already incarcerated for the murder.

He however noted that the bullet that killed Scipio did not match that the gun belonging to Eastman.

“We are however looking at all angles since we have reports that Eastman might have been involved in activities that are not consistent with policing duties.” With this in mind, the senior rank

noted that investigations are continuing.

Corporal Derwin Eastman, who joined the Guyana Police Force in 2012, was commended for his exemplary work in the Force in 2015 and was awarded the Best Cop prize at the Force’s annual prize giving ceremony. On the night of the fatal shooting, the wellknown businessman was reportedly leaving the hotel in the company of a female and as he approached his motorcar, he was accosted by the lone gunman who arrived on a motorcycle. Initially, the incident seemed as though it was a robbery since the gunman relieved the businessman, who is also called “Saga” of the gold chain he was wearing, but Police are now working on a theory

Implicated Cop: Corporal Eastman receiving his award as Best Cop in A Division in 2015

that Scipio’s death might have been a hit.

After relieving the man of his jewellery and other valuables, the perpetrator reportedly fled the scene but not before shooting the businessman to the rightside of his abdomen. Scipio fell to the ground and was picked up and taken to a pri-

vate medical facility where he subsequently died. From reports received, he died as a result of severe damage to his intestines. In April 2011, the businessman was shot at Cummings Lodge during a shootout after four armed men discharged rounds during a robbery.

Outright wicked, lawless and deceptive move by Communities Ministry Dear Editor, The Local Government Commission (LGC) is now in place, and, hopefully, this Commission would be able to carry out its function.

Our nation has witnessed the recent intrusion by the President, when he attempted to influence the Police Service Commission (PSC). Mr Granger instructed the Commission not to proceed with the Guyana Police Force promotions.

His encroachment not only violates the sanctity of the PSC Act, as enshrined in the Constitution, but also tramples on every decent measure of independence from the biased politicisation intended.

It is hoped that the factions of Government which seek to so interfere by following the President’s lead are suppressed and rejected in every way, to realise the constitutional intent.

Attempts in this respect have been openly flaunted by the Minister of Communities.

The clandestine move by the APNU/AFC through Minister Bulkan’s picking

and approval of Mr Marlon Williams of the Alliance For Change leadership as one of the Commissioners, was done without any consultation with the Local Government organs. It is a flagrant approach used to obtain a political imbalance on the Commission, which is considered illegal; and that would be engaging the Courts.

It is of significant note that the minister has publicly stated that he would be using the REO and Overseers to get control of the regions and Local Authority Areas (LAAs). The act is outright wicked, lawless and deceptive, as it leads to the undermining of elected representatives of the LAAs. With the PPP/C controlling 49 of the 71 Local Authority Areas, and with six being tied, the APNU/ AFC and independent groups have control of only just over 22 % of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Municipalities put together. This indicates their bleak performance at the 2016

Something has to be...

Something has to be wrong with the Government, which is apparently contemplating bailing out again a municipality as reckless as Georgetown, which fail to have their books audited or accounts qualified.

Something has to be wrong with the private sector, who allow themselves to be harassed by the Council to pay special refuse collection fees, shipping container charges, increased licence fees, whilst the dog food, bottled water and rat poison sellers are given a free rein to ply their trade without paying a cent to the city.

Something has to be

from page 4

wrong with the citizens of Georgetown, who live among garbage heaps; move along unlit, pot-holed roads, with an increase in vagrancy, with rat infested markets, with pickpockets and robbers everywhere, whilst quietly paying increases in property rates, fines and municipal fees, most of which is used to fund the gallivanting by the grouping of four, travelling from Europe to Asia to South, Central and North America.

Something is wrong with the City Council.

Sincerely, Shanta Singh

Local Government Elections.

As such, the move is recognized to be one towards having a back-door control of areas lost, in some cases, to the sacrifice of citizens.

With another Local Government Election due

by December 2018, the Government would be working assiduously to maintain grounds and better their performance this time around. Apparently, the best way the Coalition touts to have this done is through manipulation of the Local Government Commission to make decisions in their favour. However, it is against the ilk of decency to accept such clandestine and lawless approaches in any democra-

cy, and these approaches we must reject.

Rather, the Ministry of Communities should embark on an informative and sensitization programme in all the Regions. The Ministry must complement and bring awareness to the elected leaders of the Regional Democratic Councils; the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils; the Municipalities and the Amerindian Village Councils as well as all other stakeholders.

Likewise, the responsibilities of the Commission and the requirements of the Local Democratic Organs, including the Amerindian Village Councils, as pronounced in the Act 18 of

2013, must be augmented through the Ministry. The Councils must be able to rely on each other, and recognize whenever something sinister is occurring. It is of importance to note that Section 33 of the Local Government Commission Act 18 of 2013 repealed Sections 97 to 117 of the Municipal and District Council Act, Chapter 28:01. Regional Democratic Councils and Municipalities should pay close attention to this authority given through the Section, and work to implement structures responsive to the LGC in working to forge progressive development of LAAs without biased political manipulation.

The incisive undercur-

rents being advanced by President Granger and his APNU/AFC cohorts typifies, and can be likened to, many of the failed pre-1992 application and approaches of the PNC government. Granger has made several non-apologetic decisions against the full constitutional intent, and with total dis- regard of the Judiciary.

Citizens must not be fooled by the unterminated subtleties on display, the APNU/AFC means no good, and only act in favour of those in the Government, who will be the only ones enjoying the Good life.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

6

friDAY, november 17, 2017

Page

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

Giving good instructions to children

Listen up! Get kids to listen P

oor listening, or “noncompliance,” is one of the most common concerns expressed by parents of toddlers and schoolaged children. Parents often comment that they need to repeat requests or raise their voice to gain their child’s attention. A few simple changes in the way parents manage their child’s behaviour can make a big difference.

Was that light yellow or red?

D

oes getting your child to do something feel like an impossible task? One of the reasons may be the way in which you are asking. Children are not necessarily receptive to the types of verbal instruction that we use with our spouse, colleagues or other adults.

Instructions for children must be given in a way that they understand. Below are some helpful hints on how to give children instructions that will make both you and your child more successful.

Get your child’s attention – Make sure that you have your child’s attention before you give a direction.

You should be within three feet of your child so you can talk in a normal or calm voice. This helps your child know that you are talking to him/her. You can get your child’s attention by calling his/her name, making eye contact, or turning off the

lights.

Be clear and concise – Instructions should be short and to the point. The fewer words the better. A good guide is one word per year of life. (examples Instruction for a two-year-old might be “shoes on”; where a fiveyear-old might be “go get your shoes on”). If there are too many words, it becomes more difficult for the child to know what is expected. The instruction should also be free of vague words.

Give one instruction at a time – Do not give your child a long list of instructions. When you give more than one instruction at one time, your child may forget, not understand, or feel overwhelmed.

Be realistic – Give your child instructions that you know he/she can follow. For example, do not expect a three-year-old to get completely dressed by him/her-

self.

Be positive – Let your child know what you want them to do rather than not to do. When we only describe the negative behavior “don’t run” we still leave many other options available (skipping, hopping, etc). Telling the child what we want them to do “walk, please”, does not allow for any other options.

Don’t ask, tell – Do not ask your child to do something. Instead, tell your child in a firm but pleasant voice what you want them to do. Do not say “will you go brush your teeth?” To the child this implies that they have a choice. Instead, say “go brush your teeth.”

Reward compliance – let your child know that he/ she did a good job following the instruction. Praise your child. The more you praise your child the better the chances that he/she will follow directions in the future.

Examples of good in-

structions: John, give me the truck.

Lindsey, go wash your hands.

Dylan, look at the book.

Taylor, put three blocks in the bucket.

Jessie, walk next to me.

Examples of Bad Instructions: Why it’s a bad instruction:

Be careful Too vague.

Can you put your toys away? Don’t ask, tell.

Go upstairs, wash your face, brush your teeth and go to bed.

Too many instructions.

Okay, I think it is time for you to go to bed Too many words Don’t run in here.

Negative and too vague Stop horsing around!

Negative and too vague Can you give the toy to your sister?

Don’t ask, tell It is time for you to go upstairs to go to sleep.

Too many words (boystown.org)

You are the messagesender, the traffic light for your child. Real traffic lights go predictably from green to yellow to red. Imagine if traffic lights changed at random. You wouldn’t know when to stop or go! As a parent, the more predictable your signals are, the more predictable your child’s behaviour will be. When your light is green, children can play and go about their business. But you turn the light yellow when you make a request. If your child doesn’t listen (or comply), your light goes to red, warning of an upcoming consequence: “If you don’t do this, then this will happen.” The more predictably you show your children that non-compliance brings a warning followed by a negative consequence, or that compliance is followed by positive consequences, the more compliant and predictable your child’s behaviour will eventually become.

Children love having fun; they want to keep doing it. Once a parent makes a request that ends or prevents fun, children may respond with behaviours ranging from whining to complaining to hurricane force tantrums. If children know that these behaviours can change their parents’ “signals”, they are likely to continue to use them to get what they want, until they no longer work.

Green to yellow to red...

When a traffic light works properly, traffic flow tends to be predictable. If children view their parents as being predictable and consistent, they know their light will predictably turn from green “go” “to yellow”, an instruction, “to red”, a consequence”.

They know that they can decide whether to stop or go and that their choices will lead to predictable consequences.

Flashing yellow...

Some parents make numerous requests and/or threats followed by numerous warnings, with consequences occurring unpredictably, late or never. Once a child knows that a parent’s light stays yellow for a long period of time, and may never turn red, there is little reason to stop. Unpredictability encourages children to ignore their parents or become defiant. Parents who become stuck at “flashing yellow” often

become frustrated and blow up, imposing more punitive consequences than necessary.

Meanwhile, children’s negative behaviours escalate with the hope of changing their parents’ minds. If you impose lengthy consequences that you are not able to enforce, such as grounding a child for weeks at a time, not following through will teach your child that you don’t mean what you say.

Green to red...

Sometimes, a parent can carry predictability and authority too far. Jumping right to punishment may cause the behaviours to decrease temporarily. However, when this happens, a child is often responding out of fear and may resent the parents because the punishment feels so unfair. Giving a warning allows children the chance to think about the decision they will make, knowing that a specific consequence will happen with whatever decision they make.

Improving listening

Applying the following steps predictably and consistently will help promote your child’s positive listening skills.

Keep calm. This is easier said than done. Think about your past teachers, coaches, etc. Those whom you respected most in your childhood likely were the ones who had clear rules and were fair and consistent in their enforcement. They likely did not yell, use physical punishment or offer multiple warnings. Why? Because students respected their predictable rules and the consequences they applied in a caring manner. Remember, you can be calm and firm at the same time. And I don’t know about you, but I seem to have more difficulty learning something, or anything for that matter, when someone is yelling at me.

Praise your child when they follow your directions. Positive, appropriate behaviour should not be taken for granted. Look frequently for opportunities to praise good listening as well as all other responsible, appropriate behaviours. Children respond better to parents who “teach” them by responding to both positive and negative behaviour.

Be specific. Tell your child specifically the behaviour you would like to see and your time frame for completing the request. For example, “please pick up your blocks and put them in the plastic container” is much better than “it’s time to pick up”.

Be direct. Direct requests are more likely to be followed.

Avoid asking questions, especially when you are not offering a choice. For example, don’t say, “Can you pick up your toys” (the answer is obviously no) when you mean “please pick up your toys”. (Excerpt from Boystown.org)

news

7

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Rose Hall Estate closure pushed to 2018

Sugar workers protesting the closure of the Rose Hall Estate shortly after the announcement was made earlier this year

W

orkers of the Rose Hall Estate in East Canje Berbice (Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne) have been given temporary reprieve as Government is postponing closure of the estate to sometime next year.

The estate was scheduled to be closed on December 31, 2017, but Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, told reporters at this week’s post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday that this closure will be pushed back to 2018.

He explained that the Special Purposes Unit (SPU), which was established under the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to manage the privatisation/divestment process of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is yet to carry out works at the Rose Hall Estate to determine the way forward with the factory. As such, the decision was taken to push back the closure until those works are completed. “…(with) the Special Purposes Unit, there is work to be done, and therefore you cannot just bring something to an end and you don’t have something to take it up. So that might very well see a roll over into 2018,” the State Minister detailed.

Back in May, Government announced plans to close the Enmore and Rose Hall Sugar Estates, sell the Skeldon Sugar Factory, reduce the annual production of sugar, and take on the responsibility of managing the drainage and irrigation services offered by GuySuCo. Ever since that announcement, workers attached to the various estates, backed by their unions -- GAWU (Guyana Agriculture and General Workers Union) and NAACIE (National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees) -- have taken to the streets in several protest demonstrations to signal to Government the negative impact the closure will have on workers and the economy as a whole.

In fact, only last week, Rose Hall Estate workers

said it was not too late for Government to reconsider closing the entity at the end of the crop. One of the workers’ representatives, Glen McCloud, had said the workers were hopeful there would have been a re-look at the intention, having recognised the obvious hardship that would result from the estate's closure.

“For us of Rose Hall, closure can be seen as a death knell for so many hardworking people and their families.

For us of Rose Hall, closure means that our plans for life, our dreams for a better tomorrow, and our aspirations for our children and grandchildren have all but been dashed.

For us of Rose Hall, closure will bring about uncertain times and many difficult, misery-filled days ahead.

“For us of Rose Hall, closure brings about real questions, like: Where would our next meal come from? How would our children and grandchildren go to school? And how would we earn and meet our obligations? For us of Rose Hall, closure means difficult choices have to be made: would we eat, or would we pay the electricity bills? Would we send the children to school, or would we buy clothes? Would we starve, or do we have to do something not necessarily right to put food on the table?” he had expressed.

Last month, GuySuCo announced plans to retrench 2,500 workers by the end of this year. GAWU says the downsizing and subsequent closure of sugar estates would lead to the loss of more than 15,000 jobs, and the potential threat of poverty for between 50,000 and 100,000 people.

Touching on provisions made by Government for those workers who would be displaced, McCloud believes that there are no such plans.

With regard to the Skeldon and Enmore Estates, the State Minister explained that the SPU will have to conduct evaluations, surveys and inventory assessments before any steps are taken to actually sell.

It was recently report-

ed that the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has submitted a proposal for the acquisition of the East Coast Demerara estate.

A statement from Head of the Special Purpose Unit, Colvin Heath-London, last month detailed that an international accounting firm would be recruited to evaluate

GuySuCo’s assets for privatisation and divestment.

Selected tenders were invited from Price Water House Coopers, Ernst & Young, Deloitte, and KPMG to provide the services to the SPU, as international financial services provider. The selected firm would be conducting the valuation of all assets under

the control of GuySuCo, in addition to other advisory and financial services.

After the winning firm has been identified -- which should be anytime -- work would commence in regard to the valuation of the assets. The preparation of a prospectus is expected to be completed by the end of January 2018.

8 NEWS

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

‘Fake’ kidnapping

Trinidadian further remanded “ I

t seems to me that he was charged and now you are looking for the evidence!” were the reprimanding words of Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to the investigating rank in the case where a Trinidadian was charged for faking his own kidnapping.

The statement from the Magistrate came after the Prosecution, led by Arvin Moore, failed to show any substantial progress in the case since it was brought before the courts over two weeks ago.

This was part of Thursday’s session at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts when Sawak Maraj, the 33-year-old, made his return before the Chief Magistrate. Thursday’s session was scheduled for submission of statements by the Prosecution. However, when

the matter was called before the Chief Magistrate, Prosecutor Moore indicated to the court that he had no statements and was not ready to proceed to trial, as there are “a few more points to clear up”. According to Moore, the case has to be sent to the DPP for an Early Case Assessment Programme (ECAP) prosecutor to be assigned. This, he said, has to be done before statements can be filed.

The court also heard that the prosecution sought advice of the Police Legal Advisor (PLA) who directed that the parents of the accused be contacted.

However, the Police were unable to so do.

Responding to the Prosecutor, defence lawyer Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos bashed the prosecution for impeding the pro-

Further remanded: Sawak Maraj

cess of a fair and timely trial for the accused, who is not only a foreign national but is also incarcerated.

“They (the parents) are not only here; they’ve been here for two weeks now,” De Santos informed the court.

The lawyer, in a renewed application for bail, informed the court that it is unfair to incarcerate his client in the inhumane conditions of the Lusignan prison.

In addition, De Santos said that Maraj does not pose any flight risk, as the Police are in possession of his travel documents and his parents have also entered into a contract to rent accommodation pending the outcome of trial.

Nonetheless, the prosecutor maintained a strong objection to bail being granted on the basis that the lodging of a travel document does not provide assurance that the accused will not flee the jurisdiction.

In strengthening his submissions, the Prosecutor informed the court that the defendant had previously been involved in a

case of a similar nature, in which the INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organisation) had become involved.

Maraj was further remanded to prison. The case will continue on November 21, when another bail application will be considered if the Prosecution fails to present the statements.

The Prosecution’s case is that on October 27, 2017, at Madewini Resort, Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), Maraj allegedly gave false information to the Police that he had been kidnapped and US$700,000 was demanded for his release. The Police, upon investigating, reportedly realised that the claim was false.

It is also alleged that on the same day at the same location, Maraj conspired with others to commit a felony, that is to say, he knowingly conspired to obtain US$700,000. Maraj maintains his innocence.

Reports indicate that Maraj arrived in Guyana and was scheduled to check in at the Ramada Hotel at Providence, but never showed. Maraj’s parents back in Trinidad were contacted by an unknown person, who revealed that their son was in unlawful custody in Guyana while demanding a large sum of money for his release. A photograph of the shirtless man with a cutlass to his neck was sent to his parents as evidence.

However, police investigators, acting on intelligence received, swooped down on the Madewini Resort and found the man vacationing with his alleged accomplices.

The tangled web…

Y

…keeps on growing

esterday, your Eyewitness expatiated on the distinction between ‘small legs’ lies and “long nose lies”. With the latter, the lie’s so obvious everyone sees it and it just makes the liar look ridiculous! Like with the PNCites insisting they never rigged elections!

All that elicits are rolling of the eyes and “Yeah! Right!!”

Today’s latest revelations about (Chief) Justice Patterson by the GHRA and his role in the infamous trial of the Grenada 17 is a “small leg” lie. You may think you’ve gotten away with the lie - but it’ll eventually catch up with you!! And when it does, the doo-doo will hit the fan! Now some of you young’uns out there mightn’t remember the invasion of Grenada in 1983 (pop 96,000 then). It was invaded by the US - population 233,000,000!

You heard that right! The leader of the free world, under the leadership of ex-cowboy movie star Ronald Reagan (and you thought Donald Trump was the first US leader out of left field??!!) invaded one of the tiniest nations on planet Earth! Why? Well, because Reagan claimed the Grenadian communist leadership (whom the US had denounced as destabilising the western hemisphere and cosying up with the Commie Cubans) had been overthrown and killed by an even more radical bunch.

And as the clincher, to convince Americans they weren’t invading because Reagan just wanted to show how tough he was (remind you of someone today?) he claimed he was protecting US students at the offshore St George’s Medical School. School authorities frantically insisted they weren’t in any danger; and in fact the US invasion might pose a danger! But Reagan knew the cowboy HAS to save the damsel in distress, doesn’t he?

Anyhow, after the invasion, the US insisted “justice” must be done; and against all domestic law and international conventions, cobbled together - and paid for - what has since been widely condemned as a “cowboy court” that promptly sentenced the Grenada 17, as the defendants were known, to be hung until they were dead!! So what if statements were elicited through torture; the jury was handpicked by a former member of the prosecutor’s team, and the one “witness” who claimed the 17 had given the order to kill was promised immunity?! It’d been the “Grenada 18!!

Eventually, all the defendants were freed after protests by the English Courts, TI, the US Congress and human rights group. The process had been THAT screwed up, and the records are sealed by the US even now!

The GHRA revealed, however, that one of the “hired” judges was no other than our newly appointed (Chief) Justice Patterson!!

Look at the doo-doo hitting the fan!!

…of benign dictators

It’s possible the WPA, the AFC and other collaborators of the PNC, who’re giving them cover as “APNU” and APNU/AFC Coalition”, don’t realise what they are aiding and abetting. After all, Burnham, passed away since 1985; Rodney was killed since 1980; everyone’s getting on in years, and senility could be creeping in! Then there is, of course, the selective amnesia induced by mega salaries and extravagant perks!! But the recent house arrest of Mugabe by the Zimbabwean Armed Forces should be a wake-up call.

Like Burnham, who was his contemporary, Mugabe was excused by his followers for having “revolutionary ideas”. Never mind ideas aren’t worth a bucket of warm spit if they don’t translate into positive actions! As Mugabe’s ideas plunged Zimbabwe from being one of the most productive countries in Africa to one that’s now starving after wild land transfers and hyperinflation, he -- like Burnham - increasingly became dictatorial. The clincher was the obscene extravagances of his wife.

And Pressie promises to follow the Burnhamite stride? Oi vey!!

…at City Hall

Returning from China, where they probably flew for Chinese “take-out” -- and we know what’s “taken out”!! -- the City Hall triumvirate remain recalcitrant.

And why not? Everyone in the Government obviously also likes Chinese take-out!!

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

News

9

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Unpaid salaries

“No money, no work” – City Hall employees

A section of the protesters calling for their salaries in front of City Hall

W

orkers attached to City Hall on Thursday staged another public demonstration to air their concerns regarding unpaid salaries and other benefits by the Mayor and City Council.

“No money, no work!” and “We fed up of the same thing over and over!” were the cries of the employees as they demanded their salaries.

This is in light of the constant excuses offered by the Georgetown Municipality, which has said that as a result of the delay in a number of projects, sums of money which were meant for the payment of salaries are yet to materialize.

According to the protesters, City Hall workers expect to be paid by the 26th of every month, but despite November being well underway, they are still awaiting their salaries for October.

“This is not right. We are working month to month. We cannot be getting October salary late in November.

This is not right. What will happen to December?” dis-

gruntled workers relayed.

City Hall on Thursday promised immediate action to remedy the situation; but despite such assurances, the workers were not convinced.

Another protester lashed out at the City Hall administration, saying, “They might say that yeah, but tomorrow they will come and you gone hear, ‘Oh continue working, continue working’.”

Enraged by empty promises, the woman further contended, “I got Courts to pay.

Courts ringing down me phone…When you gat to pay late fee, Council ain’t giving you that extra late fee money.”

Meanwhile, others commenting on the deplorable situation argued that, “This is unfair. We working whole month. You gotta be sweating, collecting cuss from them stall owners in the market to collect Council rates, and you still can’t get you money. Them thing this could be fair?”

Adding to that, the workers are calling for other financial benefits, such as deductions for payments to the

National Insurance Scheme (NIS) as well as installments to their credit unions.

At the forefront of the public protest early Thursday morning was the former Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, Sherod Duncan.

Duncan underlined that City Hall and its workers are constantly under distress, and he had no hesitation in pinning the blame on the poor leadership of Town Clerk Royston King.

“We owing our solid waste contractors over $400 million is a direct result of the Town Clerk’s stewardship of the City’s finances.

How much more can we go along with the Town Clerk like that? When you have an organization that is failing, you don’t fire the employees, you fire the management; and the Town Clerk is the head of the management of the City and the Town Clerk must go,” he went on to say, calling for King’s head.

The protest on Thursday marked the second time for the week that the City Hall workers have downed their tools and taken to the street to demand the payments of their salaries along with their hard-earned benefits.

Given that this issue continues to persist almost on a monthly basis, the workers have pledged to prolong their public demonstrations until their concerns have been addressed.

10 News Harmon defends Patterson on ‘Grenada 17’ case friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

A

s criticisms continue to mount over the appointment of retired Judge, Justice James Patterson as the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the Guyana Government is unfazed with Minister of State Joseph Harmon on Thursday dismissing recent attacks on the Chairman.

Harmon at a post-Cabinet press briefing dismissed suggestions that Patterson had a heavy hand in the infamous “Grenada 17” trial, while serving in the judicial system on that island.

The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) in a statement on Wednesday brought to light Justice Patterson’s alleged involvement in the proceedings. The case stemmed from the United States’ (US) invasion of Grenada in 1983, which led to a trial of the surviving 17 alleged ringleaders – known as the “Grenada 17”.

The trial was held by

a group of Attorneys and Judges appointed and paid for by the US, and according the GHRA, aspects of the proceedings were dominated by the US Administration, which generated widespread international condemnation.

The human rights watchdog asked whether a person who has never disassociated himself from being at the centre of an episode which tarnished the reputation of the Caribbean judicial community for a generation, is truly ‘fit and proper’ to be elevated to one of the most sensitive posts and constitutional offices in Guyana. “…National elections in Guyana are the subject of intense interest and require frequent inter-action between the Commissioner, contending parties and the diplomatic community. The extracts from the official documents quoted above encourage the conclusion that when confronted with the interests of a foreign power, Justice Patterson could

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

not be relied on to keep his own counsel or maintain the impartiality or discretion required in a Chairman of GECOM,” the GHRA said on Wednesday.

However, in response to this most recent criticism, Minister Harmon pointed out on Thursday that Justice Patterson’s ability to head the Elections Commission should not be determined by his involvement in the con-

troversial case.

“There are many decisions that are being made by jurists all around the world.

Some of the best Judges in the United Kingdom, you’ll find some judgments that they make are so way out but that don’t say that they are not good Judges… So I’m saying that it is difficult for some people in retrospect to look at decisions that were made by Judges and then deem them to be inappropriate for the job which they are holding now because of the decisions which they made then,” the Minister of State posited.

Moreover, Harmon further outlined that he does not believe that the mounting criticisms of the new GECOM Chairman would diminish the public’s confidence in the local electoral system.

The Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had filed a challenge in the High Court to rescind Patterson’s appointment on the grounds

of unconstitutionality after he was unilaterally appointed by President David Granger, who had rejected 18 nominees on the three lists submitted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

The injunction is seeking a declaration that Justice Patterson is not qualified to be appointed in provision with Article 161-2 of the Constitution of Guyana.

The PPP had raised concerns about Patterson’s alleged alignment with the

major party in the coalition Government, the People’s National Congress (PNC).

The Opposition claimed that he is an active member of a PNC-related website and was also a pallbearer at the funeral of former President Desmond Hoyte.

However, Justice Patterson a few weeks ago denied any affiliation with any political party, telling reporters that he was merely friends with the former President as they had studied together in Grenada.

Overcoming limitations, defying expectations – GTT Brand Warrior Drew Thoven

L

imitations are set points or levels beyond which someone or something does not or may not be expected to extend, pass or exceed.

Expectations, on the other hand, speaks of strong belief that something will happen in a particular manner or that someone will or should achieve something in a specific way or take a particular route. In either case, expectations and limitations have time and again proven to be tools by which others seek to define us. However, there are those who stand in opposition to the imposition of limitations and expectations by overcoming limitations, defy expectations, and in so doing set a new standard – one that their predecessors perhaps thought improbable. It is the courage, resilience and strength of these types of warriors that GTT celebrates; those who, in pursuit of their dreams, face opposition and overcome.

GTT is honoured to celebrate such an individual as they introduce you to Andrew King, also known as “Drew Thoven” or “Drew”.

The 21-year-old Music Producer/DJ, award winning film composer, song writer and multi-instrumentalist was born on August, 18, 1996, in Georgetown, Guyana, to parents, Pastor Timothy and Deborah King.

Growing up, he recalls having a “sheltered life”, nonetheless falling in love with music at a young age through immense exposure to the art in church. Among the instruments the youngster plays – most of which were self-taught, Drew is most passionate about the drum set. Drew acknowledges the importance of laying a strong foundation if one expects to build something of great magnitude as he reflected on his primary school days at the New Guyana School.

He pursued his second-

ary education at Queen’s College and intends to further pursue studies at the Berklee College of Music in the USA. However, the unorthodox musician is doing things differently; rather than studying music in order to earn a living from it, he’s earning a living from music so that he may formally study it in the near future.

His alias Drew Thoven, is a reflection of countless limitations he faced initially as a budding musician and producer – not being particularly versed musically; not owning proper equipment – not even a personal laptop for starters; receiving little support, if any, for his dream due to the unstable state of affairs of the music industry locally.

Though he has come a long way in his musical journey, Drew Thoven agrees that he has a mighty long way to go. Drew and a group of other artistic minds, created Kindred Republic, a record label and recording studio that offers production, management and sound engineering services that has been taking the music industry in Guyana to another level.

He has worked with a plethora of local and international artistes, including Shawn English, Don Gialiani, Jumo Primo, Shal Marshall and of late, he’s formed quite a bond with the Queen of Bacchanal, Destra Garcia. Drew’s philosophy as a warrior is that in order to do “great things” we must “believe in ourselves” and remain “focused” – not allowing the views of anyone, whether family or friends, to deter us from the course that will lead to the fulfilment of our dreams. GTT looks forward to the journey that lies ahead as this young warrior, Drew Thoven, makes his mark on the fabric of Guyanese, Caribbean and world history.

S RAIGHT One year to Local Government Elections

G

uyana is now one year out on the Local Government Elections. It is hard to imagine things looking much better for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in reality. Based on the feedback I have received from many on the ground and at least the conclusion from one sample poll that I saw, voters are showing cause that today they prefer the PPP over the People’s National Congress (PNC) dominated coalition by an average of 10 points. The PNC dominated coalition is sampling at an average of 36 per cent today compared to 50 per cent in May 2017. If you are following the statements being made by the PNC appointees in the Government, like the REO of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), who has just declared in the newspapers that “I am in charge of this region, you tell anybody I say so…” then logic dictates that there is only one natural political path – further electoral degradation for the PNC. In a year’s time, all the local government bodies are up for reelection and the only guarantee for success the PNC dominated coalition seems to have is the urban centres. But even in these urban centres, they are expected to lose significant political ground. But when it comes to the villages, it appears that there will be licks like peas for the PNC dominated coalition.

Notwithstanding this astonishing political recovery of the PPP compared to May 2015, that party still has major political challenges. If a context is given to the biggest problem I see today facing the PPP, it must be deliberated upon from a societal perspective. Today, the nation has some geriatrics that cannot accept the reality that many of them are past their “public office shelf life date”. These septuagenarians continue to cling onto power by marginalising young people. No nation, or for that matter, no organisation can grow unless room is deliberately created for the younger people.

As a retired politician, who still loves observing the local politics, I occasionally read both the PPP’s Weekend Mirror and PNC’s New Nation. I was extremely mortified by an article written by former President Donald Ramotar in the Weekend Mirror of November 11-12, 2017 captioned “The Great October Socialist Revolution reverberates today”. This writer went on to say that “the idea of freedom that sparks the October Revolution is still alive.” Am I being told that the rule of Joseph Stalin was freedom? Are you serious?

With such language from a former President still in the PPP Central Committee, coupled with a PNC dominated Government that worships gerontocracy, the youths of Guyana will be hardpressed to come in from the cold. The PPP leadership has to take total control of that newspaper and purge it of such unbalanced and unhinged messages. Here we have a nation struggling for its very political survival because of some fixated septuagenarians and octogenarians in Team Granger and the readers of the Mirror have to settle for a second dose of colourful propaganda from the likes of Ramotar. How can a country advance when a former President is given front seat to discharge delusions of grandeur with headlines that preach the Russian October Revolution was associated with freedom when in reality it was not? In a period that requires a closer alliance with the ABC countries, how would such toxic political discourse fly in Washington, DC and London?

Why is more room not being made for the youths to drive the national political conversation in a more purposeful and rational manner? It is imperative that the General Secretary of that party act to ensure that there is more room in that party for the voice of the youths. Why are the youths of Guyana not hearing the views of the under 55-year-old MPs in Parliament from the PPP in the Mirror? And likewise in the New Nation.

Why is the nation not being given more of a chance to hear what Dr Vindya Persaud is thinking? And likewise, Collin Croal, Alister Charlie, Adrian Anamayah, Africo Selman, Nigel Dharamlall and Jermaine Figueira?

Noticed, I picked the younger MP’s and the PPP dominates that scene by 5:1. This one fact clarifies that the political environment is statistically advantageous to the PPP in the 2020 elections, at least historically, but until they deal seriously with their own geriatric problem, they will face some serious tailwind from the under 40 population.

Do not get me wrong, I am a strong believer in my elders but when they are mucking up progress like Ramotar and Mr Granger are doing, the younger generation must act swiftly, decisively and methodologically to move them along towards full retirement. The situation is even worse in the PNC, where both their General Secretary and their party leader are both persons steeped in oligarchical gerontocracy. It was these officials who told the youths of the PNC that they have to wait their turn. I am however expecting Jagdeo who is a much younger and more able leader to act and make the Mirror newspaper more reflective of the demographic makeup of the nation. Anything else will be disadvantageous to the PPP.

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

11

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

12

friday, november 17, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

I

t is crunch time for 12 delegates who are vying for the title of the first ever “I’m a Big Deal” beauty pageant set for this Saturday at the Albion Community Centre, Berbice. The delegates have been making final preparations for the pageant with the hope of winning the title.

The promoters, RD Production and

Tracey Khan promise a show packed of entertainment and fun.

The 12 delegates are Atasha Pantilitz, Chelcia Gobin, Clendolita Lashley, Denica Henry, Farah Valentina Bates, Jinnela Walker, Kelisha Ramotar, Lottia Williamson, Seeta Dalloo, Shaquilla Sharpe, Tatiana Lancaster and Tracy Griffith.

They will clash head-on in several segments including introduction, costume presentation, swimwear, talent, evening and intelligence. Apart from the delegates heating up the stage, there will be performances by Bunty Singh, B3 Dance Crew, Unity Boyz, Union Empire, F l e x - o f f body builders, Central Delight, and

Little Manny from West Coast Berbice.

Tickets for the event cost $1000 and are available at the Sparkle Supermarket, Ulverston Village Corentyne; Shav’eh Restaurant and Lounge and Office Express/Ram’s, Portuguese Quarter, Port Mourant; Poonai’s Pharmacy and Animal Health Care, Rose Hall; and Candy Shop, Pitt Street, New Amsterdam.

GTT Smile Guyana Concert for this Saturday

I

n about three weeks, the most popular dance group in Guyana – The Ishara Dance Troupe – will host its dance production entitled Ishara 5 “Raja Rani – The Eternal Love” at the Theatre Guild on December 2.

This year’s production entails a story line that promises to entertain, celebrate friendship, love, respect, life and one that will take you back in time.

The story is being narrated by “Maya” who is played by Malisha Bharat-Latchman. Maya tells the story to her daughter who was curious to know about their family history.

This year’s production will be very different from the other musical drama produced by the troupe, chief chorographer of the Dance Troupe, Shivanie Latchman told Guyana Times Entertainment.

She further stated that the production

is to let the students live their dreams on stage. Being shy, classic and expressive is a big part of this year’s theme, she added.

“It gives me great pleasure to do what I do and I am glad that this platform has been maintained and this mainly because of the support from my team, their families and the patrons that support us yearly. I am a big believer in giving back to society”.

She added that the proceeds from the event will go towards a humanitarian cause. General admission tickets cost $1000 while reserve seating is $2000.

Tickets for children cost $500.

Tickets are available at MTV Head office Oronoque Street, Georgetown; Sankars Auto Works, Lot 1 Campbellville; and any of the cast members. Also those interested can contact the troupe leader on telephone number 622-0601.

J

amaican reggae superstar, Jamar McNaughton, more popularly known as “Chronixx” is set to headline the GTT “Smile Guyana” Concert

Alabama

billed for the Guyana National Stadium this Saturday evening.

The artiste is known for his signature tune “Smile Jamaica” has several other hits under his name, such as “Here Comes Trouble”, “Capture Land” and “Big Bad Sound” among others.

Sharing the same stage as Chonixx will be the Heatwaves Band featuring some of the best Guyanese artistes including, Tenicia Defreitas and Mark Batson among others. Also performing will be Alabama, who is known for his versatile singing skills.

The show is one of the most talked about and most promoted event to be held here. In fact, two persons who would have purchased tickets for the show were lucky winners of $1 million each.

On the night of the show, one patron will also become a millionaire as the telephone company will be giving away another million dollars.

GTT customers can purchase general admission tickets at any of their main locations at a cost of $2000.

General admission tickets for persons using the red network have to pay $3000 in advance and $3500 at the gate.

Stage front tickets will cost $10,000 and VVIP tickets cost $15,000. Tickets will also be available at the venue.

Tenicia Defreitas

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 17, 2017

F

or one night only, Guyana’s number on satire “Best of Nothing to Laugh About” will be held at the Giftland Mall on Sunday evening.

The show will comprise some of the best skits the show has produced over the past 10 years in the entertainment business. Earlier this year, the tenth edition of the show rocked the National Cultural Centre with four sold-out shows, but by popular demand, the theatrical presentation was taken to several locations out of Georgetown.

The show is as serious as it is funny and brings to the

G

u y a n a ’ s representative to the Miss World Pageant, Vena Mookram, has participated in several preliminary competitions leading up to the grand finale on Saturday evening in Sanya, China, but has so far been unsuccessful in winning any of them.

L

inden Town Week is set for April 22 to May 1, 2018, and it is expected to be bigger and better, with several new features and parties planned.

Nevertheless, the organising committing is leaving no stone unturned and is already making plans for the grand launch on November 25.

With an early launch, the committee feels there will be enough time to plan for the grand event. On launch day, the committee will be turning the sod for the erec-

tion of a “I love Linden” billboard at the Dyke opposite Kara Kara.

A f t e r the formal sod turning ceremony, the action will start with some spectacular live performances at the Linden/Georgetown Bus Park Tarmac. Performing live will be Lil Colwin, Dave Marley and Diana Chapman out of the mining town; as well as Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson and Michelle

fore, issues that are of critical importance to the country. As always, the show will spare no one, there is no vindictiveness but just taking funny potshots at everyone.

The cast for this onenight production is headed by Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones and will comprise Michael Ignatius, Kirwyn Mars, Chris Gopaul, Clemencio Goddette, Leza “Radika” Singh, Mark “Chine man” Kazim, Marisa Morgan, Gerard Gilkes, Simone Persaud, Alana Craigen, Leon Cummings, Johann David, Mark Luke Edwards and Brian Goodman.

The stage manager is the competent, Sonia Yarde.

Despite this, the Guyanese beauty ambassador remains focused and confident in making it to the top 20 on pageant night. In a recent post, Mookram thanked the Guyanese populace for their support thus far and hopes that the support continues to flow as she

“Big Red” King among others. The Fame Band is expected to make an appearance as well.

Also gracing the stage with his energetic performance will be former Carib Soca Monarch, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo.

Without a doubt, he will entertain to the fullest.

13

On the night of the show, the franchise will also launch its DVDs with all the shows that group has done thus far and those dvds will be available at a cost of $1000.

Meanwhile, patrons are advised to be on time as the show will begin at 20:00h (8pm) sharp. Tickets cost $1500 for general admission and $3000 for the VIP seating.

Children will pay $500.

The tickets can be uplifted at Payless Variety Store, Gizmos & Gadgets, Nigel’s Supermarket, Giftland, Igloo outlet (Providence) and Sir Kirwyn Mars. NO dress code will be in effect.

takes on 100 odd delegates from around the world.

With less than 72 hours to go, Mookram is focused in making it to the top 20. However, Guyana has always done well with the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ project and this aspect will take centre stage in the next few hours.

Remember to mark the date, its two Saturdays from today and the event is expected to be grand.

The launching ceremony is sponsored by Banks DIH, GTT, the Tourism Ministry, the Linden Mayor and Town Council, BK International and Digicel, among others.

Meanwhile, one of the biggest pageant prediction organisations, Global Beauties, has France as a front runner for the coveted title with India coming in closely behind.

Mexico, Russia, and the United States have been in top five since the commencement of the competition and this is unchanged.

In addition, following her

Top Model victory, Nigeria has now jumped into sixth place and Brazil has moved up another spot. El Salvador is still holding steady in the top 10, while The Dominican Republic and China seem to be two girls we should keep an eye on.

Other countries to look out for are Venezuela, Poland, Spain, Italy, Philippines, Kenya and Argentina.

14 news

fridAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

2 homeless as fire destroys Brother jailed for 21 years Corentyne buildings Row over slippers

…found guilty of torching sister, injuring niece

B

rian Haywood has been sentenced to serve 21 years in prison for killing his own sister and for injuring his niece, almost four years after the November 21, 2013 incident that occurred at Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

He pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, and the sentence was handed down by Justice James Bovell-Drakes at the High Court in Georgetown on Thursday.

Reports are that on that fateful day of November 21, 2013, Haywood accused Samantha Schwartz, his sibling, of stealing a pair of slippers from his shop. He then threw on his sister a flammable substance, said to be gasoline, and used his cigarette lighter to set the mother of four alight.

His niece Stephanie Felix, who was present during the time Haywood had attacked his sister, was also injured in the ordeal. Moments before he had lit Schwartz on fire, she had pleaded: “Uncle Bryan, don’t do that!”

Deceased: Samantha Schwartz

He had fled the scene, but was captured by Police.

Schwartz, a Corentyne, East Berbice and Sophia, Greater Georgetown resident, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where she had remained a patient for several days before succumbing on December 7 of that year.

At one point during Thursday’s court proceedings, when Justice BovellDrakes was recapping the

facts of the case prior to handing down sentence, Haywood blurted out: “Objection there, sir!” This angered the judge, who disallowed the admitted killer’s attempt at a tirade.

Earlier Thursday, a doctor testified that Haywood was medically fit to be sentenced. Police had observed Haywood confessing to the crime whilst in custody: “She thief me slippers, that’s why I do she that!” he had said.

The judge started the sentence at 65 years, and made subtractions of 44 years for mitigating factors, which took into account his guilty plea and time spent on remand.

Haywood directed remarks at the judge after his sentence was imposed, but his statements were unclear.

He was originally indicted for the murder of Schwartz and for inflicting grievous bodily harm on his niece Stephanie.

Haywood was represented by attorney Mark Conway, while the State was represented by Prosecutors Mandell Moore and Orinthia Schmidt.

Residents looked on helplessly as fire engulfed the three buildings

F

ire of unknown origin on Wednesday evening destroyed three buildings in Number 70 Village, Upper Corentyne East Berbice, leaving two persons homeless as a consequence.

The fire reportedly started at about 20:00h on Wednesday in the distribution warehouse belonging to the Ramish Supermarket, before spreading to the Silver Valley Liquor Restaurant, Parlour and Beer Garden next door, prior to demolishing a dwelling house.

This newspaper was told that smoke was first seen emanating from the Ramish bond, and residents attempted to fight the fire by forming themselves into a bucket brigade, but this proved futile, because Ramish Khemraj, the owner of Ramish Supermarket, was on a business trip to neighbouring Suriname, and villagers say breaking into the building seemed almost impossible because of its security features.

According to the 50-year-

old Ramish Khemraj, before he left on Wednesday morning on a business trip, he had turned off all of the lights in his establishment, but a freezer was left working.

Khemraj Ramghan, operator of the liquor restaurant – situated at Lot 27 Number 70 Village -- said there was the smell of something burning, and he went outside to investigate.

“When I go outside I see the smoke coming from the bond, and we sent and call the fire ambulance,” he explained. At the time there were several customers at the liquor restaurant.

Ramish Khemraj’s brother, Khelaree Roopnarine, said that when he arrived from Crabwood Creek further up the Corentyne, there was nothing that could have been done to save the buildings. “All two builds were on fire, they couldn’t do anything; and they did not have water. They had to go till up the road and get water from the drain and run the hose

till back here. While they doing that, the small house at the back start to catch (afire), but nobody could go to it because these two buildings had big fire,” he explained.

Ramish Khemraj estimates his losses in excess of $100 million. He said there were four containers with biodegradable food boxes and drinking straws in the warehouse, and the building was also stocked with thousands of bales of pot scrubbers. He said the stocks, which were all damaged, are estimated at $60 million. The bond was 34 feet by 120 feet in dimension, and Khemraj said it was fully stocked at the time.

With tears rolling down his cheeks, Khemraj disclosed on Thursday morning that he also had $4 million cash in the building, and he had gone to see if it was still there, but was disappointed, since everything was burnt.

The Silver Valley Liquor Restaurant was totally destroyed. Damages are estimated at $40 million.

15 Two 5-year-olds allegedly raped by school boys T News

fridAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

he Police have launched an investigation into the alleged rape of two five-yearold girls who attend a school along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Reports are the accusation surfaced on Wednesday afternoon after the two children cried out for abdominal pains. The parents of one of the girls thought it was just a normal tummy ache but

upon a closer inspection, realised something was amiss.

As such, the child was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where the girl was examined and proved that she was sexually molested.

The Police were called in as well as the welfare department and upon enquiring, the child reportedly told the Police that boys from her school interfered

with her and her friend. As such, the other child was taken for a medical examination and the results were the same.

A Division (GeorgetownEast Bank Demerara) Commander Marlon Chapman confirmed that the matter was reported and an investigation is underway.

Attempts to contact Head of the Child Care and

Protection Agency (CCPA), Ann Greene proved futile.

Only recently, two teenage girls were allegedly drugged and raped by two men at Number 64 Village, Corentyne.

Reports are the girls left

their school and travelled eight miles to Number 63 Beach, where they were followed by two boys who later invited them to go for a drink.

Hours later, the two teenagers woke up and re-

alised what had happened.

Both of them were picked up while walking on the roadway.

They were medically examined, and it confirmed that they were sexually active.

16 news

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

East Berbice residents Security a top priority – G Division demand potable water Commander assures Essequibo residents

...blocks road, prevents minister, Police from passing

Commander of G Division, Khali Pareshram (right), along with Head of the Traffic Department–Essequibo Alfred Parks (centre) and officer Fazal Mohammed

A

team of high level officials, led by Public Affairs Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams, was intercepted by protesting residents on the East Bank of Berbice, demanding access to potable water.

The team, which included Managing Director of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Dr Richard Van West Charles, was on its way to re-commission a water system in Mara, EBB, on Thursday.

However, from Hiburry and Light Town, residents used barrels and water tanks to block the roadway. The residents, which included uniformed children, held up placards and demanded a solution from the relevant authorities.

The Police Force was called in to address the situation, but the protesters were resolute in their

C stance and wanted assurances from the officials.

In doing so, Minister Hastings-Williams committed to the residents that she would ensure they received potable water as soon as practicable. She pointed out to the crowd that they are not alone their in plight since many other communities across the country are facing the same situation.

On this note, she asserted that the administration is working on ensuring that that all Guyanese have access to potable in their homes.

Meanwhile, the GWI head also gave assurances to the protestors that he will do everything he can so that they can get potable water in those villages. He explained that the water company is currently looking at the Well at

Sisters Village, EBB, as well as other Wells that are down. He added, however, this would require them to transport the necessary equipment to carry out these rehabilitative works, which takes time.

Moreover, Van WestCharles told the angry residents that in the meantime, GWI will continue to take in water into the area via trucks.

The residents, however, complained to the officials that the truck would usually provide one barrel of water to each household once per month.

Nevertheless, the GWI boss assured that a solution will be in place by the first quarter of next year, further disclosing that he will engage the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) to decide on the location of a new Well for the area.

ommander of G Division (Essequibo Coast, Essequibo Islands) Khali Pareshram has assured residents and the business community living in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and the neighboring islands that security will be top priority for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) during the festive season. Pareshram was at the time giving a presentation on the Division’s Christmas plans and how ranks intend to safeguard the region for the Christmas holidays.

Addressing ranks, representatives from the Region Two administration, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and other stakeholders during the unveiling of the Division's Christmas plans, Pareshram said it is the Police’s intention to minimise the activities of criminal elements hence ensuring safer neighbourhoods.

In this regard, he said the Division also intends to reduce traffic congestion and road accidents, create a crime free atmosphere as

well as to continue with the Social Crime Prevention Plan and Team Policing.

With that in mind, he said ranks within the division will remain vigilant for the season.

"We need to work together to reduce traffic congestion, reduce accidents, create a crime-free environment and foster a high degree of public confidence,” the Commander said.

He said during the season, statistics have shown that there is usually a high influx of visitors returning to Guyana from various foreign destinations; and as such, assurance is given that they will be well protected. He further explained that systems and methods will be put in place to ensure that ranks placed at various communities display a high sense of professionalism. There will also be the monitoring of activities at all the port of entries along the Essequibo Coast.

Pareshram during his presentation gave a synopsis of the Police work in the region, adding that the

Division recovered one firearm and arrested 61 persons for the offences of trafficking in narcotics. He said this was a direct result of intelligence-led policing, continuous roadblocks, increased stop and searches, execution of search warrants at suspected drugs houses, social crime prevention programmes, the introduction to team policing and bicycle patrol.

Residents, he assured, can also feel safe when conducting their shopping, especially in the nights, since there will be an increase in mobile and marine patrols, roadblocks and raids and heightened of vigilance and intelligence gathering.

Ranks will also be dispatched to all banks and post offices to ensure tighter security. Foot patrol will be deployed at strategic areas, such as Charity, Suddie, Anna Regina and Supenaam. Assuring the smooth flow of traffic, Head of the Traffic Department– Essequibo Alfred Parks said ranks within the department will ensure that there is a reduction of congestion by promoting good road safety habits. In doing so, Parks said there will also be rigid traffic enforcement and traffic education. In relation to crime, officer in charge of that department Fazal Mohammed said CID will effectively manage the Division using necessary strategies, ensuring the business community and residence are safe and at ease during the festive season. (Indrawattie Natram)

Family of burnt infant seeks public assistance

T

he family of 20-monthold Ranveer Oselmo is seeking public assistance for the infant because he has suffered severe burn injuries that have left him in dire need of medical attention not available in Guyana.

The infant was, on Monday last, rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) after his body was accidentally set on fire at home. Reports are that he had somehow found his way next to a kerosene stove, which toppled over, causing fuel to be spilt on his body, thereby resulting in the blaze.

He was admitted to the GPHC, but doctors at that medical institution discovered that he had sustained deep second degree burns over 35 per cent of his body, necessitating priority treatment to save his life which is offered only in the United States. This is as he has no usable skin remaining to graft burnt parts of his body.

Family members of

Burnt infant Ranveer Oselmo

the young burn victim have reached out to the Saving Hands Emergency Aid (SHEA) organization, which has quickly adopted his cause as its most recent charity.

SHEA is appealing to the public to lend a helping hand to young Ranveer’s cause by making donations towards offsetting the expenses to be incurred in transferring Ranveer to the US for urgent care. These expenses include airfare for the transport of the infant and his caregivers, as well as the

cost to undergo the necessary medical procedures.

Persons willing to make a donation can do so through the organization’s online platform via the link: http:// savinghandsemergencyaid. org/ranveeroselmo SHEA would like to assure potential donors that the organization is a publicly funded charity which is managed by volunteers, and that 100 percent of all contributions will be directed towards the mission of saving the life of young Ranveer.

fridAY, november 17, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

17

NEWS

Cevons, Puran to be Recommendations can insulate paid shortly – Harmon CFATF 46th Plenary Meeting

region’s economies – President

I

n light of the Caribbean’s attractiveness to drug traffickers, money launderers, tax evaders and transnational criminal cartels, countries that form part of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) have been warned to take the necessary steps to secure the region from this becoming a major issue, as these crimes have the potential to disrupt local economies.

This was President David Granger’s message as he delivered the feature address at the opening ceremony of the 46th Plenary and Working Group Meeting of the CFATF at the Marriott Hotel on Wednesday.

He also reminded the attendees that these activities could corrupt officials, subvert institutions, pervert youth, and spawn frightening levels of crime and violence in society.

The Head of State said the CFATF recommendations are therefore necessary to insulate the region’s financial sector from the crimes of money-laundering and the financing of terrorism. “The task force’s recommendations can help to insulate the region’s economies from contamination by ‘dirty’ money, and by protecting the integrity of our financial sector from the risks associated with ill-gotten gains…,” he remarked.

Granger believes that the recommendations would also help to cultivate a stable financial sector that would allow for the facilitation of international trade and investment, and enhance the “interconnectedness” between the region’s financial sector and the global banking system, in order to prevent Caribbean banks from being blacklisted.

Speaking in a local context, the President said Guyana is not only part of the regional fight against money laundering and terrorist fi-

A section of the participants at the 46th Plenary of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force at the Marriott Hotel, Guyana

nancing, but is prepared to fight.

“Guyana is fit to fight. It embarked on the path of passing robust regulations and legislation to protect its financial system from financing unlawful activities seventeen years ago,” he declared, citing several pieces of legislation.

The President said agencies like the Bank of Guyana, the Financial Intelligence Unit, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions have all been empowered with the requisite authority and autonomy, and equipped with the technical and institutional means, to discharge their functions under Guyana’s anti-money laundering and the countering of the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) legislation.

Turning his attention to the region, the President said the Caribbean, due to its location and fragmented jurisdictions, is a veritable “paradise” for money launderers, tax evaders and assorted transnational criminal cartels.

Meanwhile, Attorney General

and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, in his remarks, said that hosting of the conference is an auspicious achievement for Guyana, since it puts the country in the position to lead the regional drive in the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The CFATF Plenary of November 2016 had agreed that Guyana be removed from the CFATF/ICRG process. Guyana is therefore no longer subject to monitoring by CFATF/ ICRG, which means the country has been removed from the backlisted CFATF/ICRG status.

CFATF is an organisation of 27 states and territories of the Caribbean Basin which have agreed to implement common counter-measures against money laundering and terrorism financing.

Over 150 participants from 26 member countries are participating in the CFATF conference. The meeting began on Sunday, November 12, and ended on Thursday.

A

fter months of impasse, Cevons Waste Management and Puran Brothers Disposal will soon be paid a sum in excess of $300 million that is owed to them by the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) for garbage collection services provided across the capital city.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon told media operatives on Thursday that Cabinet recently approved a proposal made by the Communities Ministry for the outstanding payments to be made to the two companies.

In fact, he noted that the Finance Minister is currently engaging the two companies to determine how the payments would be made.

“I am aware that the Minister of Finance is now engaged with these parties to at least make a payment in whole or in parts very shortly,” the State Minister told media operatives.

The disposal service providers pulled their services from Georgetown back in August over the M&CC’s failure to pay them more than $300 million owed since 2015. This forced the Council to employ two other contractors to perform the garbage collection services, in addition to deploying their own garbage trucks to assist in clearing the commercial district.

Following months of impasse, with the M&CC failing to work out a strategy to settle their debts, a bailout of some $475,635,245 was requested from Central Government through the Ministry of Communities, to pay the two garbage collectors as well as another company, Dartmouth Skips Rental.

Georgetown Mayor Patricia Chase Green had only Tuesday last said during a special meeting

at City Hall that she is prepared to beg and bargain for the two companies to recommence their garbage collection services in the city.

Moreover, the Mayor rejected assurances from Solid Waste Director Walter Narine and Town Clerk Royston King that the garbage situation was under control.

The Solid Waste Director had attempted to assure the Council that his department was handling the garbage situation, while the Town Clerk had cautioned against turning to Central Government for bailouts or financial contributions on a regular basis, saying it would dilute council’s authority.

However, the Mayor had said she was being told one thing and is seeing another. She noted that the situation is not under control, since there is garbage piling up in the city. “…well, I going and beg for a bailout, because these small contractors ain’t got the capacity… they don’t have the right trucks.

Look at those open back trucks they are using; the city shouldn’t be allowing that,” Chase-Green had asserted.

Meanwhile, the Municipality will be seeking to broker new deals with the companies for garbage collection in the city going forward. The new arrangement is expected to cost City Hall four times less than the previous contract.

City Hall’s Solid Waste Director, Walter Narine, told reporters on Tuesday that once the payment is made to the contractors by Central Government, the companies would recommence collection.

Narine said the new arrangement would see each contractor being paid $10 million per month for their services.

Municipal Association calls Cops receive ‘refresher’ training on using roadways for urgent Govt bail out

I

n light of the multiple accidents in which junior Police ranks have been involved -- over 20 ranks were involved in accidents wherein police vehicles were damaged --the Guyana Police Force disclosed earlier this week that subordinates have been trained to effectively operate the Force’s fleet of vehicles.

“The ranks who were involved in accidents [involving police vehicles] were given a refresher course. Some of them were inexperienced, and we recognised that there was need for some of them to have refresher training,” Traffic Chief Deon Moore noted.

He added that there was training on operating 4-wheel-drive motor vehicles, especially for patrols on the highways.

“The 4-wheel driving course lasted for six weeks.

Having recognized that we have a lot of drivers who would have had… In the past, some of them were not

Traffic Chief Deon Moore

fully equipped for driving manual vehicles. The Force has taken a decision to train all of our drivers to have (them) equipped to drive manual and automatic vehicles,” Moore pointed out.

He also disclosed that there was another traffic course wherein 25 ranks were trained to serve in the Traffic Department.

“With the new Chinese grant, we recognized the need for more drivers, so we have embarked on a reme-

dial training of 190 ranks within a short period. (And this) will continue until (there are) enough ranks for the Force’s vehicles,” he remarked.

This training comes against the backdrop of Acting Police Commissioner David Ramnarine’s revelation that some nine junior ranks have been dismissed so far this year for their involvement in various traffic accidents in which persons lost their lives; and some drivers were found to be driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI). However, in those instances when fatal accidents occurred, the Police ranks were operating their private motor cars.

Earlier this month, the Guyana Police Force received from the Chinese Government a hefty donation of vehicles and equipment worth US$2.6 million.

Added to the existing Police fleet were 56 pickup trucks, 44 motorcycles, 35 ATVs and five buses.

T

he Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM) is calling on Government to bail out the various cash-strapped municipalities, particularly Georgetown and Linden, to assist them in bringing better financial management to these local organs.

This is despite the work being done to strengthen municipalities across the country. But according to GAM, financial stability remains one of the most threatening issues that continue to face these local organisations.

As such, President of GAM, Carwyn Holland, called on Government to assist the various municipalities in helping repay their debts and return financial stability to their daily operations.

“We’re only getting $16 million as subvention from the Government, so I hope you can understand that there is significant development going on in Linden and I am just hoping that we can

get our share of the bailout.

Linden needs help,” he related, during a press conference on Thursday.

He added that if Government needs to bail out Georgetown, “I do believe Government needs to bail out Linden. But these bailouts must come with some kind of management to ensure that there is proper spending and responsible financial management. As President of GAM, I do realise that there is a struggle for effective financial management across municipalities.”

On that note, the GAM President stressed the need for proper financial management at municipalities – something he admitted is lacking.

Holland noted that some organisations and the Communities Ministry have been working to strengthen the financial arm of these local bodies. Questioned further about reasons why he feels that these municipalities are faced with bad finan-

cial management, the GAM President said the reasons vary.

“All across the municipalities, you have deficient staffing. You see the municipalities cannot afford, in some ways, to hire the best. The municipalities cannot afford to sometimes fully staff these departments.”

The Guyana Association of Municipalities was officially re-activated earlier this year. The body came into being on May 20, 2017.

The role of GAM and local government as a whole is seen as an important platform in the national development of the nation, with the potential to unlock resources, and create economic opportunities at the local level.

GAM has a crucial role to play in strengthening municipal governance and management structure for national development. The umbrella body has been working on several important initiatives which it plans to introduce in the coming year.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, november 17, 2017

ARCHIE

A relationship will take a turn.

Listen to what’s be(March 21ing offered and consider your April 19) options. The alternatives you come up with will spark interest.

ARIES

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

dilbert

Get together with the people you find mentally stimulating or participate in an activity that gives you the chance to blow off steam.

An emotional relationship will take a unique turn.

Take care of your responGEMINI (May 21- sibilities, whether work-reJune 20) lated or involving a pet, friend in need or health issues. Don’t slack off when something should be done.

Get out with friends, do a little shopping or spend time (June 21- on personal maintenance.

July 22) Expanding self-awareness will give you a new perspective on life, love and happiness. Romance is in the stars.

CANCER

Peanuts

Look over your assets and LEO anything else you need to (July 23- protect. Be creative regardAug. 22) ing money, legal matters and your health. Curb bad habits.

Taking a short trip or VIRGO spending time with friends (Aug. 23or relatives will be insightSept. 22) ful. Greater self-awareness will help you relate better to a partner.

Calvin and Hobbes

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Look for a unique way to solve a professional problem.

Incorporate your skill and knowledge into something that can help you boost your income.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Express your feelings and share your thoughts about how you want to move forward personally. An opportunity to change your life will come from an unusual source.

If you get together with SAGITTARIUS someone you have worked (Nov. 23- with in the past, new ideas Dec. 21) and options will sprout. A chance to be a part of something that interests you will be enticing.

If you take it upon yourself to put in extra time and effort, you will reap the rewards. A chance to do something different will be enlightening. Personal change will lead to professional benefits.

Throw your time into a AQUARIUS creative project or hide away (Jan. 20- and rejuvenate. You need Feb. 19) time to digest what’s going on before you strike out against someone or something you don’t agree with.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

solution for LAST PUBLISHED Puzzle

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

A joint venture with somePISCES (Feb. 20- one special will improve your March 20) current position, attitude and prospects. Discuss the possibilities and celebrate your good fortune with someone you love.

friDAY, november 17, 2017

19

Minister Norton presents Trisha Woodroffe with a plaque as some of her teammates look on

Norton pledges ‘full support’ for hockey following CAC qualifying success

By Michelangelo Jacobus

S

till basking in the glow of winning Gold and Silver at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games Qualifiers in Jamaica just last Sunday, the Men and Women’s National Hockey teams met with Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton on Thursday.

They (both teams) have qualified for the CAC Games in Barranquilla, Colombia next year slated for July 19-August 3.

They came in for high praise from the Minister

who is now responsible for sport; he congratulated them on their success at the qualifiers but warned of complacency.

He warned, “While it brings you closer to manifesting the true champions that you really are, it is now that the hard work begins.”

Following the Guyana Hockey Board’s (GHB) success this year in hosting the Indoor Pan American Championships (IPAC) for the first time coupled with their qualification for the CAC Games, Minister Norton pledged his “full support” and encouraged them

(GHB) to ask for anything that is needed.

Meanwhile President of the GHB, Philip Fernandes thanked the Minister and the Director of Sport, Christopher Jones for affording the athletes the opportunity to be center stage and enjoying their success.

Speaking exclusively to Guyana Times Sport Fernandes noted that the teams will be working hard in the eight months leading up to the CAC Games. He explained that an overseas based coach has reached out to GHB with the intention of working with the male

and female teams; he maintained that if that coach does come to Guyana, the local coaches will work along with the newcomer as they seek to further develop and strengthen the Guyanese teams.

Fernandes also bemoaned the lack of an outdoor artificial turf as he

pointed out that at various tournaments overseas, the Guyanese players usually struggle in their first few games as they get accustomed to the playing surfaces.

This was vindicated by the Guyanese players who had a chance to train for the very first time last month

Marian Academy wraps up school badminton tourney

Badree graduates with Executive Masters in Sport Management

W

est Indies leg-spinner Samuel Badree graduated last week with an Executive Masters in Sport Management from the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

Badree now joins another active player, Chadwick Walton, who last October, earned a Sports Science and Marketing Masters degree, jointly run by Canada’s University of New Brunswick and the University of West Indies campus at Cave Hill in Barbados.

Badree, who is currently employed by the Ministry of Education as a Curriculum Officer, Physical Education and Sport, was very pleased to have completed the programme.

“I have always seen both sport and education as vehicles that can be used for upward social mobility and I have been able to use both to

accomplish some of my life’s dreams. I have always advocated the complementary relationship between sport and education and today I am proud that I have been able to strike a balance between the two.”

Badree, who is currently competing in the Bangladesh Premier League, was unable to attend the Graduation Ceremony held at the UTT O’Meara Campus. adree runs a cricket academy that caters for children between the ages of five to 15 in South Trinidad, having completed the Cricket Australia Level 3 Coaching Certificate.

He emphasized that he wanted to show young cricketers that it is also important to focus on their education and that with proper time management, family support and discipline, you can be successful at both. “I treasure this degree just as much as I treasure my two

Samuel Badree

World Cup Championships,” Badree said.

He also took the time to encourage parents to get their children actively involved in sports or some other pursuit where they can learn social and life skills that seem to be lacking in the youth of today.

Additionally, he noted “with all the violence in schools, bullying, crime and drug use, sport has an integral role to play in reversing what obtains today.”

At the Ministry of Education, the Physical Education Unit, of which Badree is a part, is working towards ensuring that all students are exposed to a quality Physical Education Programmes in schools.

(Sportsmax)

on the same playing surface that they competed in the Indoor Pan-American Championships where the difference showed in performance.

The CAC Games will witness 37 countries from Central America, the Caribbean and South America participating.

Secondary School boy’s finalists Vikash Mootoo and Daniel Beharry

M

arian Academy concluded their B a d m i n t o n Primary and Secondary school’s tournament on

Tuesday which was played at the School’s Auditorium.

The tournament which started on November 7 continued with the outstand-

ing matches leading up to the Semi-Finals and Finals.

The young players all played their best and putting their all into the games trying to reach the finals.

In the Secondary School Boys Singles Quarter-finals, Pumshotam Balgobin defeated Rasheed January 2118, Shemroy Holder defeated Shaquain Sawh 22-20 And Matthew Beharry defeated John Wang 21-7.

Vikash Mootoo defeated Pumshotam Balgobin 21-5 while Matthew Beharry beat Shemroy Holder 21-10 in the Secondary School Boys Singles semis before going onto win the finals 21-18 after overcoming Matthew Beharry 21-18.

Playing in the Secondary School Girls Singles semis, Sacha Parmanand overwhelmed Elesa Sangster 21-8 while Reba Ramlall defeated Amelia Balram 216. Ramlall then whipped Parmanand 21-15 to win the finals.

Meanwhile, in the Primary School Boys Singles semi-finals, Nikhil Sookraj crushed Rahul Balram 11-1 as Ruel Rambiriche did the same to Tejasvarun Kandavel, who he trounced 11-3.

Rambiriche then stormed to a win after beating Sookraj 11-6 in the finals.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, november 17, 2017

Squash players battle for crown in – teams asked to send a representative Lucozade tourney O

T

he Guyana Squash Association (GSA) commenced its 2017 Ansa Mc Al/Lucozade Handicap Tournament at the Georgetown Club on Wednesday night with a number of sizzling matches.

Played in two classes; Open and Category A, some 40 participating players began their quest to capture the vacated Open title left by defending champ Deje Dias who is currently out of the country. Ryan Rahaman +7 beat Talia Fiedtkou +13 two sets (15 - 9, 15 – 10) in the Open category.

Category A saw encounters between; Lucas Jonas 0 beat Noah Rahaman +11 (15 -

Abosaide Cadogan

11, 15 – 12), defending champ Abosaide Cadogan 0 beating Nicholas Verwey +7 (15 - 13, 15 – 11), Ethan Jonas -2 getting the better of Grant Fernandes +13 (15 - 13, 15 – 13).

Kirsten Gomes 0 defeating Osmond Mack +10 (15 13, 15 – 10), Louis Da Silva + 7 trumping Brenno Da Silva +12 (15 - 5, 15 – 5) and Demetrius De Abreu -2 getting one over on Mohryan Baksh +5 (15 - 14, 7 - 15, 15 – 11), to cap off the set matches played thus far.

All matches are best of three and action starts each evening from 18:00 pm.

The finals of all the categories are set for November 19 starting at 11:00 hrs.

rganisers of the inaugural Magnum ‘Tek Charge and Win’ Futsal Christmas Classic will launch the event today at the Windjammer International Hotel & Cuisine located on Queen Street, Kitty, starting at 11:00 hrs.

According to a release from the Organisers, thirty-two of the top futsal teams have been invited to participate in the competition which will see over $900,000 in prize monies and trophies being distributed to the winners, along with prizes for outstanding individual performances.

The tournament will commence on December 1 and run until December 23, at the National Gymnasium.

The winning team will receive $500,000 + Trophy, runner-up $200,000 + Trophy, third place $100,000 + Trophy and fourth place $50,000.

The Most Valuable Player will walk away with US$100, while every night fans will enjoy giveaways such as head phones, pop sockets, tee shirts, and speakers.

Meanwhile, the full schedule of playing days are as follows: Friday December 1, Sunday December 3, Tuesday December 5, Sunday December 10, Tuesday December 12, Thursday December 14, Tuesday December 19 and Saturday December 23, 2017.

More Futsal action returns to the National Gymnasium

According to the Organisers, fans could expect eight action packed nights of exciting football and lots of giveaways as a special give back for the Christmas season.

The teams invited are: Sparta Boss, Gold is Money, Back Circle, Future Stars, Leopold Street, Sophia, Tucville, North Ruimveldt, Queen Street Tiger Bay, 10.Albouystown-B, Albouystown-A, Ol Skool

Ballers, North East La Penitence, Alexander Village, Channel Nine Warriors, Broad Street, Kitty Hustlers, New Market Street, National rugby squad, Mike Stars, Campbellville, Festival City, African Team, Buxton, Diamond, Pike Street,

Sophia, Champion Boys, Brazilian Team, Mocha, Swag Entertainment, Silver Bullets, Showstoppers and MBK All Stars.

Teams are being asked to send a representative to today’s Launch.

Former West Indies spinners Roger Harper and Clyde Butts are among the coaches on show during Saturday’s clinic

T

he Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) will be conducting a Youth Spin Bowling and Wicketkeeping clinic for Under-17 players; starting at 9:00h Saturday on the St. Stanislaus College Tarmac, Brickdam.

GCA Clubs are invited to send three spin bowlers and a wicket keeper to the clinic which is facilitated by former Guyana and West Indies players; Roger Harper, Clyde Butts, Garvin Nedd and Mark Harper.

The objective of the program is to help to develop the ability of spinners and wicket keepers and will target areas which include; basic grips, actions, spinning the ball, flight, tactics and accuracy, glove and foot-work standing up/ back as well as stumping.

Also, players are required to wear whites or track pants with white tops, socks, sneakers and the personal water bottle.

While wicket-keepers are required to bring the abs guard, wicket keeping gear including helmet.

friDAY, november 17, 2017 | www.guyanatimesgy.com

CLASSIFIED ADS ACCOMMODATIONS Conferences and retreats – full service: Hotel, Catering & Facilities.

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne Weddings and anniversaries: Rental or full service: Banquet Hall & Catering. Aracari Resort 264-2946 Alex Wayne

EDUCATION Jean offers courses in dress-making, curtain designs, floral arrangement, cake decorating 670-2653/ 638-8449

JOB OPENING Administrative Assistant for Pro business Builders, we are looking for a highly motivated person to assist a corporate executive and be a part of our team.

Your spoken and written English are superb. Send resume to jannessa.kalloo@probusinessbuilders.com

property for sale Two-storey concrete, 4-bedroom, one self-contained, two bathrooms, toilet. 2320 Tuschen, E.B.E. $20M, price negotiable.

Phone 664-9310 or 626-8190.

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 2257878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

WANTED

sports

Exciting cricket commentator recognised

Onkar Singh F

ollowing the successful hosting of the inaugural Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup, the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc (GSCL Inc) has recognized the services of international softball commentator Onkar Singh at a simple ceremony held on Tuesday at GNIC SC. According to a media release for the GSCL Inc., a commemorative plaque was presented to Singh for his long standing commitment to the sport of softball cricket. Singh, a Guyanese by birth who currently resides in New York is the President of the Schenectady Softball Cricket Association in the USA. In response, Singh expressed gratitude to the GSCL Inc and lauded them on a well-organized Prime

Onkar Singh (third from right) gladly accepts the plaque from GSCL Inc President Ian John in the presence of members of the GSCL Inc and friends

Minister’s T20 Softball Cup. He began his commentary career in the Florida Cup in 2000, and attends all softball tour-

naments around the world and acknowledged that the Prime Minister’s T20 Softball Cup was second to none and it gave him great

pleasure to see players and fans alike enjoying the game to the maximum. The 54-year old Singh was born in Campbellville and grew

up in Tinin Cup Street, the release further stated.

President of the GSCL Inc Ian John said that Singh’s contribution to the game as a commentator should not go unnoticed and the GSCL Inc is looking forward to his continued support.

John indicated that the Prime Minister’s T20 Cup will be an annual tournament and they will continue to work together for the growth of the sport, with bigger prizes expected in the 2018 edition.

He expressed gratitude the Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Sport Dr. George Norton and sponsors for their input the release ended.

Inter-Jamaat softball continues at 2 venues

Maid Needed. Contact Tony: 218-0167 Waitress for bar 612-2522

spiritualist

T

he Muslim Youth Organization (MYO) of Guyana Inter-Jamaat 10/10 softball cricket competition in Memory of the late Br. Amanat Baksh of Queenstown Jama Masjid continues this Sunday November 19, 2017 at two venues.

In all there will be 10 matches and in addition to the MYO ground, the GNIC ground also on Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, Georgetown will host matches.

Lalita Mahadevi Spiritualist Center.

Baba is specialised in name and date of birth reading, patra reading and book opening. He is an expert in removing black magic, enmity, bad luck and gives permanent protections. Solutions will be given to love, health, marriage, business, sexual problems and much more. Call him on 660-1938 or 618-6569. Take that number again: 660-1938 or 618-6569

Business upliftment, marriage problems, pregnancy, remove blockage impotent and many more. Tel: 6121608, 683-5228 Surinamese spiritualist. Resolving all problems. Money, love, blockage etc. Call 651-9663/600-7719.

Classified Ads

21

At the MYO Ground

Adventure vs Wakenaam at 09:00h Wakenaam vs New Amsterdam at 10:30h Adventure vs MYO at 12:00h MYO vs Wakenaam at 13:30h Queenstown vs Enmore at 15:00h

GNIC Ground

Farm vs Land of Canaan at 09:00h Farm vs Grove at 10:30h New Amsterdam vs Diamond/ Grove at 12:00h Grove vs Queenstown at 13:30h

MYO vs Diamond/Ground at 15:00h In the opening round last weekend, Adventure registered two wins while there was one a-piece for Queenstown, MYO and Grove and will be looking to extend their streaks this week. While Diamond/Grove, Land of Canaan and Enmore who lost one each and New Amsterdam who gave away two games will be looking to get on the points table.

The final is set for December 3 when a grand BBQ will also be held at the MYO ground.

GSRFC/ Say Yes to Football, No to Drugs U-23 Tournaments

Saints beat Snatchers on opening night

$5+VAT per word

Call:

223-7230 G Ext 50

uyana Rush Saints Football Club (GRSFC) kicked off their under-23 male and female football tournaments under the theme “Say Yes to Football, No to Drugs”, on Wednesday November 15, 2017 at the St Ignatius Village, Central Rupununi, Region 9.

Teams line up before the official kick off at the St Ignatius ground

The tournament has attracted five clubs; Kanuku Harpies FC, Gladiators FC, Snatchers FC, Tabatinga FC and Guyana Rush Saints FC. On the opening night, football fans were treated to some trilling display of skills and pace as Guyana Rush FC and Gladiators

FC females could not get the ball at the back of the nets. The match eventually ended in a battling draw giving both teams one point each.

In the male category, Guyana Rush Saints FC beat Snatchers FC 2-0. Saints FC held on to their lead and kept Snatchers FC out for the full 80 minutes to come out with

the maximum three points.

The tournaments will continue tonight with one game when Tabatinga FC will get their first taste of the action when they come up against Gladiators FC males from 18:30h.

The finals will be played on December 9, 2017.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, november 17, 2017

Alimohamed grateful for Quest for Windies u-19 exposure ‘Greatness’

Guinness Street Football

– has hopes of making World Cup squad

Ronaldo Alimohamed (second from right) is hoping his performances at the camp are good enough to make the World Cup squad

By Akeem Greene

N

ational under-19 captain Ronaldo Alimohamed is still embracing the experiences of training with the West Indies under-19 squad in preparation for the January 2018 Youth World Cup in New Zealand.

Alimohamed attended a camp held in Grenada from November 9-13 and gave the player who was not initially named in the training squad a shot at showcasing his immense potential.

“I was home a night when I got a text message from the coach [Graeme

West] saying congratulations you have be selected for the camp and it was a great feeling to be in the camp”, he told Guyana Times Sport on Thursday.

During the 2017 Cricket West Indies (CWI) under-19 tournament, the all-rounder led Guyana to both the three-day and 50over titles. His performers were exemplary for a cricketer who has donned national colours throughout all age-group cricket.

In the three-day leg, his medium-pace collected 18 wickets while he scored 153 runs inclusive of one half-century.

With the white ball he snared six wickets and with his limit-

ed exposure with bat made 59 runs.

“The coach said I am a good player since my performances in the regional under-19 tournament were good but I was just unlucky not to make the initial squad”.

Regarding the camp which would have tested him on all facets of the sport, the Georgetown Cricket Club player was adamant he could have done better.

“It was a good chance for me to make the World Cup squad and my performance was not so good I would say. Not being harsh on myself, I think I would

rate it five out of ten. I fell down with my batting since I did not score as much runs as I would want but the coach told me to just keep working on both my batting and bowling”.

The powerful right-handed batsman would have entered the camp high in confidence since he was adjudged the Most Promising Player of the Jaguars’ Franchise League, with an aggregate of 447 runs and 13 wickets playing for West Demerara.

He credited the improvement to training with the Cricket Guyana Inc (CGI) Academy. “It was a confident boost of being one the most leading players in the league. The academy training has been helping me a lot since I am learning great insights from the coaches”.

With an additional support base from club coach and former England cricketer Monty Lynch, the 19-year old plans on working overtime to make his mark in the senior national team and the West Indies.

The West Indies camp was also attended by fellow national teammates, Raymond Perez, Ashmead Nedd, Joshua Persaud and Bhaskar Yadram. Another camp is expected to be held in December for the defending champions who are installed in Group of A of the alongside Kenya, South Africa and the hosts.

begins tonight

Who will make it? Who will go home? Those questions will be answered tonight at California Square

A

ll roads will lead to the East Ruimveldt Community Centre, commonly known as California Square tonight, when the playoff round in the 2017 Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Football Championship commences from 18:00hrs.

According to an official release from coordinators Three Peat Promotions, “A record 52 teams will compete in the playoff round, battling over the course of three days in an elimination format for a coveted berth in the 32 team group round.”

The correspondence added, “16 teams will emerge from the 52 teams, so it is expected to be very competitive tournament. Everyone wants to be a part of the tournament which is noth-

ing short of a phenomenon due to its community driven roots.”

The document declared, “We are asking for all the competing teams in the playoffs to be at the venue for 18:00hrs so that we can have a prompt start.

This is important due to the amount of games that are expected to be played on the night. Tardiness will not be tolerated”.

Winner of the overall event will walk-away with $500,000 and the championship trophy along with automatic qualification for the National Playoffs.

The runner-up, third and fourth placed finishers will receive $250,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively.

The event is also sponsored

by Colours Boutique.

18th Diamond Mineral Water 60-Miler Road Race

New champion to be crowned on Sunday

T

Jamual John will be gunning for the 18th Diamond Mineral Water 60-Miler Road Race title

he crème de la crème of Guyana’s cyclists will converge on Sunday for the 18th Diamond Mineral Water 60-mile Cycling road race.

This year the event will see a new champion being crowned as last year’s winner, Alonzo Greaves is currently serving a World AntiDoping Association (WADA) two-year ban.

Among the front runners for the title will be Jamual John whose rivalry with Geron Williams is sure to continue; this particular rivalry has afforded cycling enthusiasts thrilling entertainment, so far John has

triumphed over the last couple of meets, more recently at last Saturday’s “Dash for Cash” where he executed a perfect bike-throw to edge Williams at the finish line.

Aside from John and Williams, other cyclists who can turn up on any given day to dangerous effect are Paul DeNobrega and Alanzo Ambrose who will surely be looking to topple the John, Williams’ monopoly that has been imposed of recent.

The race will pedal off at 07:30h from the Ocean View Hotel on the East Coast of Demerara, Rupert Craig Highway head up to Halfway Tree at Perseverance, Mahaicony and then head back to the point of origin for the finish.

Geron Williams will be looking to beat Jamual John this Sunday as their rivalry continues

With the senior category open for a new winner, Christopher Cornelius will be looking to defend his Junior title while Junior Niles will be looking for a repeat in the Veteran’s race.

Hosea McAulay will be the man to beat in the mountain bike category having won last year’s edition.

The top six finishers in the senior category will cop prizes as will the top three juniors, veterans and mountain bikers.

Along the route of the race, eight sprint prizes will be up for grabs, Larry Wills brand manager of Diamond Mineral Water will be on hand to hand over the prizes on Sunday. (Michelangelo Jacobus)

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, november 17, 2017

CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day Championship 2017-18

23

Johnson, Chanderpaul record partnership suppresses T&T

Johnson was solid in defence throughout his chanceless knock

By John Ramsingh in Tarouba

A

record second wicket partnership between Leon Johnson and Tagenarine Chanderpaul put the Guyana Jaguars in the ascendency at the end of day one in their Cricket West Indies Digicel Regional 4-Day Tournament fourth round match against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Thursday.

The left-handed pair put on 174 runs for the second wicket which surpasses the previous record of 165 against Trinidad and Tobago

Tagenarine Chanderpaul was a model of concentration for his 84

between Roy Fredericks and Alvin Kallicharran at the Queen’s Park Oval in 1972.

The partnership was a built on a mixture of solid defence, good rotation of the strike and exceptional concentration for all of the 371 balls.

Along the way Tagenarine scored his fourth First Class half century in his career best knock passing his previous best of 81. After his dismissal in the final session, skipper Johnson brought up his fifth First Class century to see the Jaguars to the end on a commanding 245 for 2 from 90 overs.

Hamilton Green Knockout Cup 2017

Semi-finals on tonight at Victoria

T

he 2017 edition of the Hamilton Green Knock-out Cup will resume tonight with the semi-final fixtures being played at the Victoria ground, East Coast Demerara.

Action will begin at 19:00hrs with Soesdyke Falcons taking on Linden based Winners Connection.

The tournament began with 24 teams from across Guyana.

The second clash of the night will pit the in-form Police FC against Milerock in what is sure to be a gigh octane game.

The final of the competition is set for the final day of this month which is also a national holiday. The winners of the tournament will pocket $500,000 while the runner up team will receive $250,000, 3rd place $150,000 while loser of the third place playoff will receive $100,000 to round off the $1 Million total prize winnings.

Meanwhile in honour of former Prime Minister of Guyana, Hamilton Green’s 83rd birthday which, the organizer of the competition

will be kick off a nine-a-side, no offside, 15 minutes-perhalf knockout tournament.

In addition to the $70,000 first prize and $30,000 for second place, the winners of the nine-a-side competition will receive hampers from Ricks and Sari company, Blankets from Food for the Poor, while the top scorer will receive a Dinette Suite from China Trading company.

The first games of this nine-a-side tournament will be contested between Buxton Youth and Plaisance at 17:00hrs before next Friday’s Hamilton Green Knockout tournament’s semi-finals.

The second game will be contested by Lima Dam and Buxton Stars a t

17:30h w h i l e Mahaica play Golden Grove at 18:00h, Ann’s Grove will take on Kuru Kururu at 18:30h. These games will serve as great entertainment before the bigger semi-finals.

In his 20th match at this level, Tagenarine brought up his half from 163 balls with four fours and when he was dismissed in the 76th over he had faced 235 balls with eight fours. On the other hand, Johnson was a bit more free-flowing bringing up his 32nd half century from 102 balls with six boundaries. He later converted to three figures from 201 balls with 10 charming boundaries.

When stumps were drawn, Vishaul Singh who hit two fours so far was on 22 while Johnson was on 106 in a nice little partnership of 38

Jason Mohammed was one of seven bowlers used

in relatively quick time.

Earlier, Johnson won the toss and opted to bat on the very placid track rid of life including grass. After the first hour of play, the visitors were 29 without loss from 13 steady overs from the Red Force seamers and one from Bryan Charles.

Immediately after the break, Hemraj pulled Primus for his fourth boundary before he was outfoxed three balls later. The Barbadosborn Primus hit a similar length but angled the ball away from the left-hander who got a healthy edge

through to wicketkeeper Amir Jangoo. It was the only wicket across two sessions and the Red Force bowlers were made to work hard.

For most part of the day’s ply they were without captain Denish Ramdin who pulled a hamstring while attempting to stop a ball on the third-man boundary. Kyle Hope took charge of operation and in all; seven bowlers were used with seamers Primus and Daniel St. Clair picking up the wickets.

Play resumes today at 14:00h.

SCOREBOARD Stumps Day 1 Jaguars 1st Innings T Chanderpaul c wkpr Jangoo b St Clair 84 C Hemraj c wkpr Jangoo b Primus 22 L Johnson*not out 106 V Singh not out 22 Extras (b-5, nb-6) 11 Total (For 2 wickets; 90 Overs) 245 FOW: 1-33, 2-207 Did not bat: S Chanderpaul, A Bramble+, K Paul, S Rutherford, V Permaul, G Motie, K Joseph

Bowling: Cottrell 14-4-370, St. Clair 16-5-48-1, Primus 12-1-46-1, Charles 22-7-47-0, Webster 3-1-7-0, Mohammed 11-3-20-0, Khan 12-0-35-0 Red Force: Denesh Ramdin*, Yannic Cariah, Bryan Charles, Sheldon Cottrell, Kyle Hope, Amir Jangoo+, Imran Khan, Jason Mohammed, Roshon Primus, Daniel St Clair, Tion Webster Position: Jaguars bat all day

“Working on batting for long hours” – Bramble

By Clifton Ross

I

n-form Guyana Jaguars wicket-keeper Anthony Bramble said he is out to make amends in this year’s Cricket West Indies /Digicel 4-Day Championship following last season’s dismal performance with the bat.

After the third round ended, he right-hander was the team’s second leading run-scorer with 235 runs at an average of 58.75 with three fifties; 62, 90 and 57*. Compare it to last season’s 213 runs from 10 matches, averaging 15.21 with a highest of 42, it reflects tremendous improvement from the 26 year-old.

Prior to Thursday’s 4th round match versus the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Bramble told Guyana Times Sport that he was working diligently on batting for long hours out in the middle and is seeing the results.

“Comparing this season to last season, so far this season I’ve spent a lot of time at the crease look to bat long hours for my runs and it has been good so far”, said Bramble.

Bramble admitted that while some of his success has been credited towards his desire to spend long hours batting, he is also been enjoying the conditions, saying “For me, batting has been going ok so far. The pitches are good for batting but some of them are keeping a bit low”.

Up until the third round, Guyana had beaten off the likes of Jamaica Scorpions and Windward Hurricanes comfortably before running into their new-found nemesis; Leewards Hurricanes who almost handed the de-

Guyana Jaguars wicket-keeper/batsman Anthony Bramble has played some match winning innings for his team this season

fending champs their third loss in two seasons were it not for the efforts of Bramble and Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

The 43 year-old ex-West Indies skipper rescued his team with a century sharing a resurgent 122-run partnership with the wicket-keeper who dogged the Hurricanes with his unbeaten half-century to help Guyana maintain their unbeaten run.

Regarding his match-saving partnership with the veteran Chanderpaul, the ex-Guyana Under -19 player admitted, “Well we had to bat out the day to save the game and batting with Shiv you will learn a lot of things in terms of batting and during our partnership

He just told me to play the way I would normally play”.

With six rounds to go in this year’s Regional 4-Day fixtures, the composed middle-order batsman said he has not set aside any personal goals; rather he is backing himself and team to continue their good run, especially against the Red Force who is jostling them for the number one spot.

“I don’t have any personal goals, I just want to bat and score runs for me and my team. We are on top of the points table and the teams as well as I are pretty confident about doing well this round against Trinidad”, ended Bramble.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2017

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

guyanatimesgy.com

CWI/Digicel Regional 4-Day Championship 2017-18

Johnson, Chanderpaul record partnership suppresses T&T Pg 23

Jaguars skipper, Leon Johnson (left) and Tagenarine Chanderpaul combined for a new Guyana record against Trinidad and Tobago on day one at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy

Norton pledges ‘full support’ for hockey following CAC qualifying success Pg 19

Minister George wNorton presents an honorary plaque to Men’s captain Robert France as his teammates look on

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Sport: sport@guyanatimesgy.com Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.