Caribbean Star #27 vol.4

Caribbean First Interfaith Newspaper, Serving The Community

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbeanstarnews@gmail.com

Star

President Ramotar

Miller replaces NARINE for West Indies

PPP/C ready to face electorate on proven track record

See More on Page 39

See More on Page 15

Fire service gets $139m training complex The Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) $139m training complex at Leonora was launched on Monday.

See More on Page 26

STUDENT PEPPER SPRAYED SCHOOL violence took a new and irritating turn yesterday as eight students were sent to hospital following a pepper spray attack.

See More on Page 6

PARIKA STELLING GOPIO

United States offer Caribbean new oil deal

receiving $36M expels

The United States Monday rolled out a new initiative for Caribbean countries to ensure energy security in a move widely seen as distancing the Caribbean from Venezuela for their oil and energy needs.

overall upgrading of Essequibo stellings

GuySuCo confirms…

NIS will be honouring Ramsaran; facelift -part of $62M workers’ claims elects Lord Rana as new president

See More on Page 29 See More on Page 17

See More on Page 34

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THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) yesterday issued a statement saying that the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) yesterday instructed all its local offices to honour all legitimate claims for benefits submitted by sugar workers.

See More on Page 9

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

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DPP advises: Charge Reyes

ssistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Reyes is set to be charged with three criminal charges related to his alleged conduct aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight from Tobago last month.

The T&T Guardian understands that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard, SC, advised investigating police to lay the charges under the Civil Aviation Act, after a meeting with lead investigator DCP Glenn Hackett at his offices at Richmond Street,

Port-of-Spain, yesterday.

Hours later, Hackett reportedly met with his team of investigators from the Professional Standards Bureau to discuss how to proceed with the investigation.

A source close to the investigation said the team was considering charging Reyes via summons in lieu of issuing a traditional warrant for his arrest.

Under this process, the information related to the charges will be laid in the Arima Magistrates Court, with Reyes,

who is currently on sick leave, being notified of a pre-fixed date of hearing of the case.

On that day, Reyes will have to appear in court to answer the charge and depending on his plea, will then be issued bail until a trial.

Several calls to Hackett’s cellphone yesterday went unanswered and he did not return voice messages.

The charges, which fall under Section 60 (1) of the legislation, are for threatening the safety of the aircraft and pasAssistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Reyes sengers on board; using abusive and insulting language towards a crew member and for intentionally interfering with crew members in the execution of their duties. All three carry a maximum fine of $25,000 and up to a year imprisonment.

Incident on flight According to reports, around 5 pm on December 18, Reyes, who had only just been assigned as ACP for Tobago at the time, boarded the Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) flight at the Piarco International Airport.

While the plane was taxiing on the runway, Reyes reportedly got into an argument with flight attendants over their request that he switch off his cellphone.

The pilot returned the plane to the terminal and Reyes was escorted off the plane to speak to security personnel of the Airports Authority of T&T (AATT).

He was then allowed to leave and completed his journey to Tobago on a flight the following day.

After they completed their shift that night, CAL crew members reported the incident to the Piarco Police Station.

The flight crew also pointed Reyes out in an identification parade earlier this month.

In an interview which followed, Reyes claimed that he had difficulties switching off the cellphone which was issued to him by the T&T Police Service as part of his promotion.

Suspension looms​ According to an AATT report on the incident, which has been made public, Reyes reportedly told security officials at the airport that he felt the airline staff were victimising him because of his ethnicity.

AATT security officials conducted their own investigation into the incident but they determined that no charges could be brought against the senior cop.

The incident and corresponding media reports caused a massive public outcry and was condemned by the executive of the Police Social and Welfare Association and even by acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams.

In an almost immediate response, Williams transfered Reyes from the Tobago Division to T&T Police Service (TTPS) community relations department. Once charged, Williams will have the option of suspending Reyes and deducting his pay during the period of suspension.

Williams did not answer his cellphone when contacted yesterday evening.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Guyana called upon to Log output, forest exports continue to surge decriminalize same-sex relations Log production rose last year by January 30 - February 5, 2015

21%, amounting to 530,000 cubic metres compared to the 2013 figures of 437,000 cubic metres, while exports of forest produce in 2014 were worth US$54 million, an increase of 38% over the 2013 value of US$38 million.

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his disclosure was made

by Commissioner of Forests James Singh during a meeting on Thursday with large-scale forest stakeholders, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported. There was no mention of how much of the exports were in the form of logs.

Up to August last year, Guyana’s logs exports were double the figure for the same period in 2013, while exports of value-added products were marginal. Concern has been raised before that despite the higher returns that can be realised from the value-added processing of logs locally, government has not moved with alacrity to compel major logging firms, such as China’s Baishanlin and India’s Vaitarna Holdings Private Inc (VHPI), to do so and as the companies continue to export huge quantities of logs annually, Guyana has been foregoing millions of dollars.

Exporting logs rather than processing the timber locally has long been a concern, since numerous promises have been made by the government and foreign investors about value-added operations.

The promise of value-added processing has been seen as sugar coating to enable the ex-

port of large quantities of logs, particularly to China and India, even though there is little job creation here or value enhancement.

Firms such as Vaitarna and Baishanlin have been exporting logs on a large scale even though government officials and the companies themselves have committed to processing wood here.

Some of these exports have been ongoing for years, with the companies failing to set up promised wood processing facilities. Earlier this month, Stabroek News reported that Vaitarna is still to complete its long-delayed wood processing facility.

At the meeting on Thursday, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud called on the large scale forest companies/ operators to increase value added production and harvesting as most forest operations are not fully utilising their allowable cuts. GINA reported that the meeting was to review the performance of the forest sector and to strategically place the sector to be more competitive in 2015.

According to Persaud, specific emphasis will be placed on improving the operations of the

Forestry Training and Development Centre and simultaneously that of the Forest Product Development Marketing Council.

GINA reported that Persaud congratulated operators/ companies within the sector on their compliance efforts which saw Guyana maintaining its low level of deforestation as verified by independent international external audits. In moving forward, the minister stated that government is open to suggestions and initiatives from stakeholders within the sector to improve on the sustainable management of Guyana’s forest resources.

In this respect, stakeholders expressed the view that they should have similar benefits as other sectors, particularly for the processing of raw material for value added production, GINA reported.

According to Persaud, the GFC and his Ministry would be willing to make representation following the submission of worthwhile proposals from the sector, outlining support requests.

Meanwhile, concession holders were reminded by Singh of their sustainable forest management obligations and were called upon to increase the submission of forest inventories and implementable investment plans to sustain the robust and effective compliance system of the Commission. GINA reported that the GFC will be reviewing the national log export policy through a consultative process with the members of the Forest Products Association and other stakeholders, to develop a new policy for implementation in 2016.

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aced with a slew of recommendations urging decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett yesterday told a United Nations (UN) human rights body that while discussion of the issue has increased, the society remains divided.

The United States, the United Kingdom, Norway, Canada, the Netherlands, and a number of other countries urged Guyana to abolish the death penalty, decriminalise same sex relations and halt corporal punishment as Guyana’s human rights record was reviewed by the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group in Geneva.

In response, Rodrigues-Birkett, on the issue of the abolition of the death penalty or establishing a moratorium, referred to Guyana’s submission and her opening remarks during which she mentioned measures taken such as amending the law to commute some of the sentences to life imprisonment and “so while we have not gotten to the point of abolishing the death penalty, those discussions are continuing.”

She said that when the National Assembly was suspended, the work of the special select committee was not completed where this issue along with the decriminalization of same sex relations of adult males and other matters relating to lesbians, gays, bisexual and transgender persons (LGBT) persons as well as corporal punishment were to be considered.

“But let me say on those three issues, in my opinion…compared to 2010, in 2014 and of course this year, there has been an increase in the discussion on these issues and I think that is a very good sign that people are discussing it. Of course the society is very divided on this and sometimes it can be a challenge speaking to citizens about abolishing the death penalty when in the neighbourhood of countries we see because of the high crime rate, some countries seeking to actually activate the death penalty. However, we continue those discussions in our country,” the minister said.

US representative Divya Khosia had welcomed Guyana’s voluntary commitment to hold national consultations on issues from Guyana’s first UPR session, including whether to repeal laws that criminalize consensual sexual activity between adults of the same sex.

“We note, however, the outcome of these consultations remains pending. In addition, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community con-

tinue to face targeted acts of societal violence and harassment.

Some members reported that they were ridiculed by public officials when attempting to access medical care or file reports with the police. We also note no one has yet been brought to justice in several high-profile crimes committed against members of the LGBT community, including the murders of transgender individuals,” she said.

The diplomat recommended that in consultation with civil society, Guyana should develop and pass legislation that decriminalizes consensual same-sex sexual conduct and take measures to ensure that hate crimes and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity are vigorously investigated and appropriately prosecuted.

UK representative Anne Jahren also recommended that Guyana repeals all legal provisions that discriminate against persons on the grounds of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Oslo’s representative Sigri Stokke Nilsen also recommended that the government of Guyana abolishes discriminatory laws against LGBT persons and also amends its national legislation in order to include sexual orientation and gender identity as grounds for discrimination.

The representative of the Netherlands, Paul Peters recalled that in 2012, the government of Guyana announced it would hold consultations on decriminalizing consensual same-sex conduct.

“The Netherlands welcomes these steps, and recommends the government of Guyana to bring its legislation in line with international standards by removing the relevant sections that criminalize consensual same-sex conduct from the Criminal Law (Offences) Act,” he said.

Canadian representative Leigh McCumber recommended that Guyana amend Article 149 of the Guyana Constitution to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and repeal Sections 351 to 353 of the Criminal Law Offenses Act, which criminalizes sexual activities between consenting adults of the same sex. Ireland’s representative Breda Lee said that her country is gravely concerned that consensual adult samesex relations are criminalised in Guyana. “Ireland recommends that Guyana repeal all provisions that discriminate against persons on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity, particularly those which criminalise consensual adult samesex relations,” she said.

Italy, Brazil, Slovenia were among several other countries that made similar recommendations.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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Gold Medal of Achievement Ceremony Calvary Assembly of God and Outpost 234 would like to congratulate Christopher Chan, Robert Lakhan, Joel Madray, Christopher Ramrup and Matthew Singh on achieving Royal Rangers highest award, the Gold Medal of Achievement. These Royal Rangers are some of our outstanding young men at Outpost 234. We are proud to be awarding them the Gold Medal of Achievement on Saturday January 31, 2015 at 10:00 am. These boys have exemplified in character and conduct what it means to “live by the Ranger’s Code”. Their achievements are of such that the entire community can feel a part of. We encourage our youths to strive for excellence and to uphold morals that would benefit not only them but our society.

We would like to cordially invite you to join us in this special Gold Medal of Achievement Ceremony.

Royal Rangers is a Bible based mentoring program for future men. We provide Christlike character formation and servant leadership for boys grades K-12.

For more information on the ceremony and on how to enlist your boys in Royal Rangers feel free to contact the church office using the information below.

Calvary Assembly of God 102-07 Rockaway Blvd. Ozone Park, NY 11417 718.659.4500 - www.calvaryozone.org

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Caribbean Star Newspaper STUDENT PEPPER SPRAYED Teacher charged with raping underage girl

January 30 - February 5, 2015

CHOOL violence took a new and irritating turn yesterday as eight students were sent to hospital following a pepper spray attack. The action elicited an immediate and very stern warning from Education Minister Dr Tim Goopeesingh and a strong reaction from his Cabinet colleague, Minister of National Security Gary Griffith, who alluded to the illegality of the substance inflicted on the students yesterday.

The incident occurred at the Morvant/ Laventille Secondary school in Morvant where eight students were yesterday attacked in their classroom by a group of students using what is believed to be pepper spray.

The victims - aged between 15 and 16 had to seek medical attention at the Morvant Health Centre, Lady Young Road. The students complained of belly pains, headaches, nausea and burning in their eyes.

Three were rushed via ambulance to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mt Hope, for additional treatment while referral letters were issued to other students to be taken to the hospital later on.

In an immediate reaction, Dr Gopeesingh issued a stern warning to students and parents, saying wanton student misconduct will not be tolerated, while Minister of National Security Griffith warned if pepper spray was indeed used, this was illegal.

At 1.30 pm, Newsday was told by one of the affected student that she and other stu-

dents were sitting in a classroom when other students outside the room sprayed something into the classroom.

At 2.30 pm, parents of the affected students were seen hustling to the Morvant health centre to find out what was going on with their children. One of the students was put on oxygen as she was having difficulty breathing while another two were hooked up to intravenous (IV) lines.

Analee Williams, parent of Form Three student Janna Williams said her daughter was, “having problems to breath, belly pain and headaches” and was “placed on oxygen.”

“I am really upset because my daughter was in school and for something like this to happen to her... there are security guards at the school and I can’t understand how something like this could happen,” she said.

Another student who did not want to give her name told Newsday she thought it was perfume being sprayed into the classroom.

“At first I thought it was perfume and I did not take it on. But a little while after I felt my eyes burning and I started to feel sick in my stomach like if I wanted to vomit,” the student said.

She added that the rest of the students began complaining of belly pains, headaches, burning eyes and some began to vomit.

Contacted for comment, president of National Parent Teacher Association (NPTA) Zena Ramatali said she was unaware of the incident and insisted the situation would be investigated.

“We need an investigation into what is happening at that school and all other schools, where we have a level of acts of violence towards other students. We need to find out exactly what is going on there, where were the security officers.” Up to press time, no student was held and no pepper spray seized.

“I have never heard of any student engaging in that kind of activity with pepper spay, this is the first time I have heard of a situation as this,” Ramatali said. She also said there must be an investigation into how students were able to take an illegal item into the school compound.

“We need to look at a proper security system for schools especially in the so- called high risk areas. We need to have better security and cameras to look at what is happening on a daily basis.

We hope that it can be investigated by the Ministry of Education, the police and the Ministry of National Security should also play a part into the investigation,” she said.

Ramatali noted that some people would want to claim pepper spay was a form of protection but pointed out that it is against the laws in this country.

“If students have this in their possession, it means the law is being broken and we need to find out what was the reason they were carrying it. How did they get it pass the security to have it on the school compound,” she said.

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38-year-old teacher accused of having sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl was yesterday granted bail in the sum of $300,000 when he appeared before Magis-trate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The allegation against Andre Hetsberger of Lot 263 17th Street, Dazzel Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, is that on October 15, 2014 at Georgetown, he sexually penetrated a child.

The teacher was also accused of sexually penetrating the child on October 17, three days after the first alleged incident.

The man was not required to plead to the two charges when they were read to him. He was placed on $150,000 bail for each charge and was ordered to return to court on February 2.

Hetsberger is being represented by Attorney-at-law Basil Williams.

The proceedings were held in-camera.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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The Sacred Texts of the Hindus The Basics of Hinduism Hinduism Expert

By Subhamoy Das

According to Swami Vivekananda, "the accumulated treasury of spiritual laws discovered by different persons in different times" constitutes the sacred Hindu texts.

Collectively referred to as the Shastras, there are two types of sacred writings in the Hindu scriptures: Shruti (heard) and Smriti (memorized).

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ruti literature refers to the habit of ancient Hindu saints who led a solitary life in the woods, where they developed a consciousness that enabled

them to 'hear' or cognize the truths of the universe. Sruti literatures are of two parts: the Vedas and the Upanishads.

There are 108 extant Upanishads , of

which 10 are most important: Isa, Kena, Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Mandukya, Taitiriya, Aitareya, Chandogya, Brihadaranyaka.There are four Vedas: • • • •

The Rig Veda -"Royal Knowledge" The Sama Veda - "Knowledge of Chants" The Yajur Veda - "Knowledge of Sacrificial Rituals" The Atharva Veda - "Knowledge of Incarnations"

Smriti Literature refers to 'memorized' or 'remembered' poetry and epics. They are more popular with Hindus, because they are easy to understand, explains universal truths through symbolism and mythology, and contain some of the most beautiful and exciting stories in the history of religion world literature. The three most important of Smriti literature are: The Bhagavad Gita - The most well known of the Hindu scriptures, called the "Song of the Adorable One", written about the 2nd century BC and forms the sixth part of Mahabharata. It contains

some of the most brilliant theological lessons about the nature of God and of life ever written.

The Mahabharata - The world's longest epic poem written about 9th century BC, and deals with the power struggle between the Pandava and the Kaurava families, with an intertwining of numerous episodes that make up life.

The Ramayana - The most popular of Hindu epics, composed by Valmiki around 4th or 2nd centuries BC with later additions up to about 300 CE. It depicts the story of the royal couple of Ayodha - Ram and Sita and a host of other characters and their exploits.

By Subhamoy Das Hinduism Expert

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Businessman charged with theft from clients’ bank accounts

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businessman is being accused of stealing over US$800 from the accounts of two Republic Bank customers.

Kirk Adrian Clark, 40, of 107, Second Street Alberttown, was yesterday released on $50,000 bail after he denied two larceny charges at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

It is alleged that between March 22nd, 2012, and Friday June 2nd, 2012, in Georgetown Clark stole US$400, equivalent to G$82,800, from Gregory Fraser’s Republic Bank account.

Additionally, it is alleged that between March 14th, 2013 and June 25th, 2013, Clark stole US$402.78, equivalent to G$83,960.84, from Sharon Fraser’s Republic Bank account.

The court heard that the

Kirk Adrian Clark matter was reported about two years ago and the file was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), from where advice was only received recently.

Attorney Adrian Thompson represented Clark, who is involved in a sales and importation business and also does television and video production. He said Clark was involved in a business arraignment with the Frasers, whom he supplies with products. The attor-

ney further contended that his client attempted to contact them but they were unavailable. Thompson also said that the complainants owe money to Clark and he said this could be confirmed by statements taken by the police. Nonetheless, he suggested the matter would be resolved.

Thompson pleaded with the magistrate to grant his client a bail release at a reasonable sum, while saying that the man has an unblemished record and does not pose a flight risk. The charge, he added, has nothing to do with fraud or theft. There was no objection to bail by the prosecution, which Magistrate Ann McLennan set at $25,000 on each charge.

The matter was transferred on Court 5 and was adjourned to February 4.

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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GuySuCo confirms… NIS will be honouring workers’ claims

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HE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) yesterday issued a statement saying that the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) yesterday instructed all its local offices to honour all legitimate claims for benefits submitted by sugar workers. The statement comes in the wake of a report in the Sunday, January 25, 2015 edition of the Kaieteur News, saying that sugar workers’ benefits could be “endangered” because of the “non-remittance of NIS payments”.

According to GuySuCo, it met last Friday with NIS’ Deputy General Manager (Operations), and submitted a payment

schedule for all outstanding contributions. It says that as a result of this commitment to honour the schedule for outstanding payments and remittance for current, NIS decided yesterday to honour all workers’ claims.

GuySuCo further said in its statement, “The Corporation wishes to place on record that not only is it the largest contributor to NIS, but it has sustained a close working relationship with NIS, and at no time has any employee’s legitimate claim for benefits endangered or jeopardised as a result of any late remittance of either employee or employer’s contribution.”

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Guyana grilled on police abuse ...at UN rights review

January 30 - February 5, 2015

everal countries expressed concern about human rights violations by local police and the failure to hold perpetrators to account and called on government to take action as Guyana’s human rights record was reviewed yesterday by the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

“We remain deeply concerned by continued and widespread reports of excessive violence by police officers. Instances of police brutality, especially against those held in custody, and the slow pace of investigations and judicial proceedings foster a perception of impunity and a lack of accountability,” US representative Divya Khosia said at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group meeting in Switzerland. The recording of the session posted online said that she recommended that Guyana increase the capacity of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) to undertake prompt and impartial investigations of police abuse so the PCA can transfer cases to the justice system for prosecution as warranted.

The questions come just days after Stabroek News reported on the promotion of two policemen who

were found culpable of the torture of a youth in a police stations.

Italy also called on Guyana to ensure thorough investigation of all allegations of extrajudicial killings and the use of excessive force by the police. The country’s representative urged Guyana to strengthen the independence of the PCA and provide it with adequate funding and resources.

In response, Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett said that government has decided that the PCA will establish its own investigative arm. She said that it is recognised that in the past the police was responsible for investigating and “yes one can conclude that if the police investigates the police you might not have the impartiality that you would like to have and this is why this independent investigative arm would prove to be a boost to the PCA.” The need for more resources would have to be considered within the context of how the national economy is doing, she said but added that the amount of resources allocated has been increased throughout the years. The need for the PCA to have its own investigative arm has been on the agenda for more

than 20 years but ignored by the government until last year. It appears that the recent move in this direction requires the Minister of Home Affairs to approve the hiring of investigators.

The Canadian representative Leigh McCumber also expressed concern about police excesses.

“Canada observes with concern continuing and serious reports of police brutality. These reports, together with limited investigations and slow judicial proceedings, erode accountability. Canada regrets that the 2010 UPR recommendation for the establishment of an independent framework for oversight and accountability for human rights within law enforcement agencies has largely not been implemented,” she said.

Norway, which is involved in a major forest protection programme with Guyana, urged that perpetrators be brought before the courts. “Norway is concerned by the reported excessive use of force by the Guyana Police and Defence Forces as well as complaints of mistreatment and extra judicial killings carried out by state officials. Norway therefore recommends that Guyanese author-

ities investigate all complaints of human rights violations committed by state security agencies and ensure that cases of violation are brought before the courts. These are absolute requirements in order to restore the credibility of the judiciary and to break the cycle of impunity,” Oslo’s representative Sigri Stokke Nilsen said.

In response to Norway’s assertions, Rodrigues-Birkett said that reports of extra-judicial killings have declined. “I am not aware of extra-judicial killings in this reported period. I think there has been one such report in 2011,” she said while recalling that when she appeared before the UPR in 2010, there has been nine such reports at the time so this was a reduction. She said that Guyana’s report states clearly what government has been doing in terms of reported excesses by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and work will continue in this regard.

“Norway also spoke about the absolute requirements in order to restore the credibility of the judiciary and I think that speaks to the judiciary not being credible.

I would not sit here before you and tell you that our judiciary is

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not credible. I think that we have a credible judiciary, we have to continue as always to strengthen all of the branches of government” including the judiciary, the minister added.

Germany had previously submitted a question on whether the Government of Guyana would consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and how is independent monitoring currently assured in detention and prison facilities.

The United Kingdom too had asked what progress government has made with the extension of an invitation to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, as well as an open invitation to UN Special Procedures Mandate holders to visit Guyana.

Rodrigues-Birkett said that Guyana is always open to have officials from the UN system visit and this has happened in the past.

“I don’t see this as an issue at all in the future,” she said while adding that government would like to get over the general election period first.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

11

Grove woman who jumped from DHB had earlier visited hospital

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ATRICIA Theresa Lowton, 58, a mother of four who resided at lot 366 Section ‘C’, Block ‘Y’, Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara has been identified as the woman who committed suicide by jumping from the Demerara Harbour Bridge on Tuesday afternoon.

The woman’s daughter, Simone Lowton, confirmed to this publication yesterday that she along with her niece and mother left their Grove home together at approximately 08.30 hrs on Tuesday.

She said that she had to take her niece to school while her mother was going to the Georgetown Public Hospital to have a blood test. The young lady explained that later in the day her brother and sister-in-law began looking for Mrs. Low-

Eccles man cleared in drive-by shooting of sex workers

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evar Kissoon, on trial for assaulting two sex workers in drive-by shootings, had the charges against him dismissed yesterday.

Kissoon, 28, of Lot 41 Almond Street, Eccles, was charged with assaulting Seon Persaud, also known as ‘Isabella,’ and Micron Bennons, in two separate attacks in which they were shot at with a pellet gun.

It was alleged that Kissoon assaulted Isabella, causing actual bodily harm, on April 7, 2014, at King Street and North Road, and that on the same day he assaulted Bennons to cause actual bodily harm at King and Charlotte streets.

In handing down her decision at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Mag-istrate Geeta Chandan-Edmond explained that Isabella gave conflicting accounts of her ability to positively identify Kissoon as the person who shot at her. Prosecutor Renetta Bentham emphasised that Isabella was unable to say definitively that it was the defendant who had inflicted injuries on him. In relation to Bennons, the charges were dismissed because of Bennons’ failure to attend court to testify against the defendant, as well as the absence of some police witnesses to give evidence.

Kissoon had denied the charges at his arraignment on June 3rd, last year, before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. He was admitted to $50,000 bail on each charge.

It was the prosecution’s case that Kissoon, on April 7 at 8 pm, saw Isabella among friends at King Street and North Road, and Bennons at King and Charlotte Streets and allegedly shot them with a pellet gun.

In presenting the facts of the case, Police Prosecutor Jomo Nichols had stated that the defendant was driving a minivan, with licence plate number, GMM 5810, when he stopped at both locations and allegedly committed the assaults.

The attacks were reported, Nichols said, and investigations led to the arrest of Kissoon. Kissoon was represented by attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat. Four witnesses testified in the case.

ton who had failed to return home, as that is not usual.

The couple searched at various places for the woman, including at police stations, but there was no sighting of her. Although they heard that a woman had jumped from the Demerara Harbour Bridge they paid little attention to the report since the woman had never indicated that she had suicidal tendencies.

However, after hearing what the woman was wearing when she approached the bridge, they became somewhat suspicious and were allowed to see some amount of footage captured by surveillance cameras.

The young lady said that her mother left home wearing a brown skirt, striped top with a black shoulder bag and matching

The woman (extreme right) can be seen making her way onto the Demerara Harbour Bridge before jumping to her death in the river on Tuesday. shoes. The woman’s body was identified yesterday at the Lyken Funeral Parlour.

A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted on the body tomorrow.

Mrs. Lowton had not been working for

some time but she was a cleaner at a primary school in her community.

Her daughter recalled that the woman’s husband who was in the Guyana Defence Force was fatally stabbed by a colleague during a fracas twenty-three years ago.

Sources have indicated to this newspaper that since the death of her husband, the woman was receiving psychiatric treatment from Dr. Bhiro Harry and unconfirmed reports also suggested that the woman was also a patient of Dr. Frank Beckles.

When the Chronicle visited the woman’s home yesterday, relatives and friends were placing calls to the woman’s children to offer their condolences.

THE FAMILY & FRIENDS ORGANIZATION Proudly invite the General Public to a fund-raising

Valentine DINNER & DANCE

On Saturday Feb14th 2015 From 7:30pm until???

At the Golden Palace 123-08 Jamaica Ave.

Music by Popular DJ Special Artistes, Door Price, Raffle and much more Donation: $25 per person including Buffet, soft drink Reasonable Cash Bar All proceeds from this event go to The Children Orphanages of

ALBION & PORT MOURANT, Berbice, Guyana

Please Support this Fund-Raising Event For Information, Tickets, Assisting & Donations please call: 718-736-4124; 917-207-3562; 646-703-2253 or 917-703-0646

12

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

13

Guyana’s rights record for detailed UN scrutiny

G

uyana’s human rights record will today be reviewed before the United Nations in Geneva and questions on a number of issues including the death penalty, abolition of corporal punishment in schools, decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations and inviting the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture to visit, will be raised.

“What progress has the Government of Guyana made with the extension of an invitation to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, as well as an open invitation to UN Special Procedures Mandate holders to visit Guyana,” is one of the questions submitted by the United Kingdom. The UK will also ask Guyana to provide an update on the status of national consultations on the abolition of the death penalty, abolition of corporal punishment in schools, decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations and discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) persons, all of which the Government of Guyana announced it would pursue following the last Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

Guyana is one of the 14 States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during this session.

This is Guyana’s second review.

Guyana’s first UPR review took place on 11 May 2010. Under the UPR, the human rights record of each state is extensively reviewed every four years.

Guyana’s delegation will be headed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett. The three country representatives serving as rapporteurs for the review of Guyana are Ethiopia, Portugal and Venezuela.

The documents on which the reviews are based are a national report which contains information provided by the State under review; information contained in the reports of independent human rights experts and groups, known as the Special Procedures, human rights treaty bodies, and other UN entities; and information provided by other stakeholders including national human rights institutions, regional organizations and civil society groups.

According to a statement from the UN office, among the issues raised in the documents are addressing negative stereotypes against women; addressing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity; decriminalising same-sex consensual relations; tackling violence against LGBT persons; addressing alleged police abuses, including unlawful killings, torture and ill-treatment; combatting all acts of violence against

women and girls and supporting victims; abolishing the death penalty; prohibiting corporal punishment; access to clean water and sanitation; reducing maternal and infant mortality rates; access by women and girls to reproductive and HIV health services; reducing school dropout rates among girls; improving literacy rates; and Amerindian land rights and mining activities in indigenous traditional territories.

The UPR is a unique process which involves a periodic review of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. Since its first meeting was held in April 2008, all 193 UN member States have been reviewed during the first UPR cycle and 112 thus far during the second cycle.

The second review of States aims to highlight human rights developments in the country since its first review and provides an opportunity for States under review to spell out steps taken to implement recommendations posed during their first reviews.

The UK will also ask what steps the Government of Guyana has taken to increase the capacity of the Police Complaints Authority to investigate allegations of extrajudicial killings and the excessive use of force by police in prompt and impartial proceedings.

The UK has also submitted questions on what progress the Government of Guyana has made in order to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and what steps government has taken to ensure the full implementation of the Sexual Offences Act and the National Domestic Violence Policy, including the establishment of a Sexual Offences Unit and ensuring reasonable access to temporary refuges for survivors.

National human rights institution Germany has observed that despite having accepted the recommendation made during its UPR in 2010, Guyana has not established an independent national human rights institution yet and will question what steps and measures Guyana is taking to establish an independent national human rights institution in accordance with the principles relating to the status of national institutions for the promotion and protection of human rights (Paris Principles). Germany has also submitted a question on whether the Government of Guyana would consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and how is independent monitoring currently assured in detention and prison facilities.

The Netherlands has also submitted several questions including which steps will the Government take to abolish capital punishment, when will the government of Guyana complete the abolishment of corporal punishment at schools, the progress made by the government of Guyana regarding its plans to simplify the legal process concerning gender and domestic violence and to facilitate a “one-stop shop” for victims of abuse and what measures will be taken to improve prison conditions.

On LGBT, the Netherlands will ask which steps the Government will take to improve the rights of members of the LGBT community and would the government of Guyana consider removing section 352-354 of Chapter 8.01 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act which criminalises same sex relationships. It will also ask if the government of Guyana would consider amending Article 149 of the Guyana Constitution to include sexual orientation and gender identity as grounds for non-discrimination in order to provide legal protection for LGBT people’s right to equality and non-discrimination and would the government of Guyana consider repealing section 153 (1) (xlvii) of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act Chapter 8:02 which sanctions cross-dressing thereby facilitating arbitrary arrests, police harassment and abuse, targeted violence and other forms of discrimination against transgender people.

In its report, government said that Guyana has made significant efforts to meet most of the commitments it made to the UNHRC in 2010. “Although Guyana has a strong constitutional, legal and policy framework for the promotion and protection of human rights, supported by an independent judiciary, it faces many challenges internally and at the regional and international levels.

These continue to relate to available human, financial and technical resources in order to more effectively and efficiently implement the many initiatives, policies, statutes and programmes,” government said.

“In the face of serious threats at the time of reporting to Guyana’s parliamentary democracy, Guyana will continue to make efforts to support the role of the UN human rights system, including the UPR, within available means and prevailing conditions,” it added.

Five–time National Chutney King, Haresh Singh, performing at last year’s competition

Thousands expected for Chutney final at Anna Regina – 19 contestants to compete for national crown

T

HOUSANDS of Essequibians are expected to flock the Anna Regina Community Centre ground Saturday night to watch the final of the National Chutney Competition, organised and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with the Region 2 Administration.A release from the regional administration said preparation of the venue and stage is almost complete for the competition, which is expected to attract several thousands from across the region and country. Region 2 Chairman, Mr. Parmanand Persaud said he is very happy that the administration is hosting the final of the competition. He said every arrangement will be in place so the competition could be run off smoothly without any hiccups.

The National Chutney Competition which is an annual event and a part of Mashramani activities will showcase Guyana’s rich chutney music and talents of gifted singers. Reports said this year’s competition has attracted contestants from the United States and Canada and is expected to be a very hot chutney showdown for the crown. The winner of the competition, who will wear

the chutney crown will receive a sum of $600,000 and a trophy, while the second runner-up will get $420,000 and a trophy also. The third runner-up will receive $265,000 and a trophy. According to reports, the best newcomers will each get $115,000.

At this year’s final, Region 2 will be represented by fivetime Chutney King Haresh Singh. According to reports, the former King is looking to win the crown for the sixth time with his song: “Me dulahin run away.” Haresh said the song was written and composed by him and will be a hit at the final on Saturday night.

Another contestant representing the region is Dennis Thatpaul. He will be performing his own song, “Naomi gal.” Dennis, who has appeared at several previous chutney finals, said he is confident of winning the crown this time with his song.

First-time contestant, Ravi D will also be representing the region this year along with newcomer Dennis Damar Singh. The overseas contestants are Anant Hansraj of Miami, Florida; Chris Ken of New York; Bowtie of Canada; Jaylall of Florida, USA; and Sexy Merissa of New York. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

14

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

ISLAM Peace / submission to the will of our creator.

The Quran

When society indulges in disobedience and dark deeds, a Muslim turns to his creator and gains closeness by performing acts of obedience. He seeks out guidance and direction to the straight path. Allah (S.W.T) has informed us that the highest form of guidance is found in the Quraan, for those who will be fearful of their lord.

H

ere are some of the many virtues of acquiring knowledge of the Quraan: Uthman (Radhiyallaho anha] narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) said: “The best amongst you is he who learns the Qur’an and teaches it.” In most of the books, this hadith is quoted with the word ‘and’ between ‘learns’ and ‘teaches’ as above.

Thus the greatest reward would be for him who learns the Holy Qur’an and thereafter teaches it to others. But in some of the books this ‘hadith’s is narrated with the word ‘or’, in which case the meaning would be: “The best amongst you is he who learns the Qur’an or-teaches it.”

According to this version, the reward is general, i.e., equally great whether one learns himself or teaches to others.

Thus there would be equal virtue for both.

The Qur’an is the basis of the religion of Islam, and on the preservation and propagation of the Qur’an depends the very existence of this faith. Hence the virtue of learning and teaching the Qur’an is self-evident and does not need further elucidation.

There are, however, various degrees of excellence. The highest is to learn the Qur’an along with its meanings and purport, and the least is to learn its words only.

The hadith mentioned above is supported also by another saying of Rasulullah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) as report-

ed by Sa’eed ibn Saleem (Radhiyallaho anho): “If a person who has acquired knowledge of the Holy Qur’an considers another person who has been gifted with something else to be more fortunate than himself, he has shown disrespect to the blessings of Allah bestowed on him on account of his learning the Qur’an.”

It is evident that since the Qur’an, being the Word of Allah, is superior to all other discourses. Its reading and teaching must be superior to everything else.

Mulla Alt Qari quotes from another hadith that whoever acquires the knowledge of Holy Qur’an stores the knowledge of Prophethood in his forehead.

Sahl Tastari (Rahmatullah alaih) says that the proof of love for Allah is the existence of love for the Word of Allah in one’s heart. In ‘Sharhul Ihya, the list of people who will be given shelter in the shade of the Arsh (Throne of Allah) on the fearful Day of Judgment includes those persons who teach the Qur’an to the children of Muslims and also those who learn the Holy Qur’an in their childhood and are devoted to its recitation when grown up.

Abu Sa’eed (Radhiyallaho anho) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) said: “Almighty Allah says; “If anybody finds no time for My remembrance and for begging favors of Me, because of his remaining busy with the Holy Qur’an, I shall give him more than what I give to all those who beg favors of Me.

The superiority of the Word of Allah over all other words is like the superiority of Allah over the entire creation.”

In other words, compared to those who are begging favors of Allah, He will surely confer some better reward on a person who remains so occupied with committing the Qur’an to memory or learning and understanding it that he hardly gets time for du’a (prayer).

‘Aa’ishah (Radhiyallaho anha) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallaho alaihe wasallam) once said, “One who is well versed in the Qur’an will be in the company of those angels who are scribes, noble and righteous; and one who falters in reading the Qur’an, and has to exert hard for learning, gets double the reward.”

“One who is well versed in the Qur’an” means one who is proficient in memorizing as well as in reciting it. It is highly praiseworthy if one masters its meaning and significance as well. “To be with the angels” means that, like the angels who transferred the Qur’an from the, Protected Tablet in the Heavens, he also conveys it to others through its recitation and, therefore, both have the same occupation; or that he will join the company of such angels on the Day of Judgment. One who falters will get double reward—one for his reading and the other for his effort in reading the Qur’an, in spite of faltering again and again.

It does not mean that his reward will exceed that of a well-versed person. The reward that is mentioned for a well-versed person is far greater, so much so that he will be in the company of special angels.

The explanation is that the labor involved in faltering and the difficulties in the reading of the Qur’an carry an independent reward. As such, reading of the Qur’an should not be given up, even though faltering may be an excuse.

Mulla ‘Ali Qari has reproduced that one who cannot memorize the Qur’an well and yet persists in learning it by heart gets double reward. Similarly, one who cherishes a longing for memorizing it and does not possess the ability to do so, but does not give up his efforts, will be reckoned by

Almighty Allah among the huffaaz (Plural of hafiz—one who has learnt the whole Qur’an by heart) on the Day of Resurrection.

The Glorious Qur’an will avail the good believers on the Day of Judgment. This is clear in the following ahaadith: 1. “Read the Qur’an. For verily it will come forth on the Day of Resurrection as an intercessor for its readers.” (Muslim) 2. “The Qur’an is an intercessor (which

by Allah’s permission) intercedes, and an opponent (which is) truthful. He who appoints it as his leader, (then it) will lead him to paradise. And he who puts it behind him, (then it) will lead him to the Fire.”

3. “Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede for the person on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say: ‘O My Lord (God)! I prevented him from food and desires, so accept my intercession for him.’

And the Qur’an will say: ‘I prevented him from sleep during the night, so accept my intercession for him.’ He (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘And they will (be allowed to) intercede. “It will be said to the beholder of the Qur’an: ‘Recite, ascend and rattil(recite slowly and distinctly) as you used to make tarteel in the life of this world, for verily your level (in paradise) is at the last verse you read.”

The Glorious Qur’an has its good effects on the believers in this world as well. The Prophet says: “Verily Allah raises nations by this Book (the Qur’an) and puts down (i.e., destroys) others by it.” (Muslim) The Qur’an is not a book of entertainment or a story book. It provides valuable lessons and instructions in how we can improve our character and behavior.

Qur’anic characters like Taqwa, Truthfulness, Justice, Kindness and forgiveness, mercy, being faithful to our trusts and promises, sincerity and devotion, humility and lack of arrogance, holding our souls accountable, controlling our anger, hastening in all good deeds, all these characteristics are meant to be implemented in order that we may become better human beings.

With such great virtues there for the taking, what is keeping us from taking part in these rewards and blessing except our own weakness of faith compounded by laziness and love of material gain.

It is time we wake up and realize the true reason for our existence; to worship our creator and prepare for the life hereafter. It is time we start making the time for the word of Allah and stop waiting to find the suitable time. Let us put aside our comforts and desires and dedicate a portion of our day to reading and learning something of this great book.

Shayk Abdullah Khan Al-Ihsan Academy Abdullah.khan@ihsanacademy.org

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

15

President Ramotar… PPP/C ready to face electorate on proven track record

P

RESIDENT Donald Ramotar having signed the formal proclamation declaring May 11, 2015 as the date for General and Regional elections in Guyana, it will be soon gazetted as stipulated by the Constitution.

In an invited comment, the Head of State told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that the date was chosen, based on the available dates that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) provided, by which time it would be ready to conduct the polls.

“And all the dates that they gave me,” he said, “fell within the exams

period; so I chose one … Unavoidably, we have this (brouhaha over the date).”

Continuing his reference to the comments about the polling date clashing with CSEC and CAPE examinations, President Ramotar said he is pleased with the preparations and alternative arrangements put in place by the Ministry of Education.

The Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), scheduled for May 11 and 16, 2015, have been shifted to June 15

and 16 respectively.

‘Even though the last three years were very constrictive because of the fact that the Joint Opposition got a one-seat majority in Parliament, I’m still very proud of what we were able to achieve, in the circumstances. So, I think I’m running on solid ground’ –President Donald Ramotar The new dates were set after consultations with the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other stakeholders about what might be best for candidates.

“The main thing is that it will not put our students at a disadvantage.

And in fact, I think it will give them some more time to study,” President Ramotar stated.

Meanwhile, the President has emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) will base its elections campaign on its track record of development.

“Even though the last three years were very constrictive because of the fact that the Joint Opposition got a one-seat majority in Parliament,” the President said, “I’m still very proud of what we were able to achieve, in the circumstances.”

He added that he is also proud of the PPP/C’s record in office, par-

ticularly since it is they who have transformed the country. “So, I think I’m running on solid ground,” President Ramotar said.

With regards to the political opposition, President Ramotar said he wasn’t too sure about what they wanted, “because sometimes they want elections, then when you call elections, they don’t want elections, but they have to face the music anyhow. We all have to face it”. The President will be leading his party’s campaign as it seeks another term in office in an effort to continue Guyana’s developmental progress. (GINA)

Twenty-seven children nabbed during truancy campaign in Pomeroon

T

HE Department of Education in Region 2 recently conducted a series of truancy campaigns in the Pomeroon River in its drive to ensure children attend school.According to senior schools welfare officer of Region 2, Mr Haimraj Hamandeo, 25 children were nabbed during the truancy campaign conducted in the Lower and Upper Pomeroon River.The officer said the objective of the campaign was to ensure that children attend school regularly and increase school attendance at nursery, primary and secondary levels in the Upper and Lower Pomeroon River.

He said the areas targeted were Marlborough, Hackney, Kayamuri creek and Kabakaburi. According to the senior schools welfare officer, several officers from the Department of Education who visited the areas had talks with parents on the importance of children having an education and attending school regularly.

Measures were put in place to encourage children to attend school.

The officer said the Department of Education schools welfare section issued letters to parents whose children were not attending school.He said parents were also warned about the consequences if they continue to neglect their duties as parents.

Mr Hamandeo said some of the reasons why children did not attend school in the Pomeroon areas were lack of transportation and financial difficulties.He said parents were advised to visit the Department of Education so that referrals could be made to different agencies for financial assistance.

The officer said the department is very concerned over the high number of children that are not attending school in the Pomeroon and added that the truancy campaign will continue in the coming weeks.

16

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

Call 347-759-3934 OR 347-661-9930

January 30 - February 5, 2015 17 Caribbean Star Newspaper GOPIO expels Ramsaran; elects Lord Rana as new president

L

ord Diljit Rana, a noted philanthropist and a leading Indian business tycoon in the UK, was elected as the interim President of the GOPIO International following the impeachment and expulsion of Ashook Ramsaran at the Diaspora body’s general council meeting held in Ahmedabad on 6th January 2015. Out of 45 members attended 42 have unanimously voted for the impeachment and expulsion.

The general council meeting of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin, presided over by Sunny Kulathakal, GOPIO Executive Vice President, also accepted the resignation of Dr. Piyush Agrawal from his position as Senior Vice President.

The council meeting, attended by 45 Life members and Chapter representatives of the voluntary and not-for-profit organisation, including former presidents and other senior founding members, declared the formation of the Executive Council of GOPIO null and void as it violated constitutional norms, and elected an

GLOBAL ORGANIZATION OF PEOPLE OF INDIAN ORIGIN

Adhoc Executive Committee.

Lord Rana, a leading hotelier and businessman from Northern Ireland, had served as GOPIO President for two terms.

Following the General Council meeting, the newly formed Adhoc Executive council met under Lord Rana and decided to remove Munish Gupta from the position of GOIPO International Coordinator and from his role as Liaison officer with the Government of India. The move was in consideration of a letter from Founding Chairman Dr Thomas Abraham advising to keep the K.N. Gupta family members away from the organisation’s activities due to their alleged involvement in Saradha Chit Fund scandal involving cores of

rupees.

The general council meeting, traditionally held every year immediately before the opening of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, also decided to reinstate the Toronto Chapter of GOPIO International, which was hastily dismissed in violation of the bye law stipulation of a minimum 30-day notice. The meeting also entrusted the newly formed executive council to regularly monitor the compliance status and operations of all chapters of the organisation that was founded in 1989 as the foremost global networking of more than 28 million Indian Diaspora.

In consideration of an impeachment notice served against Ramsaran on 28th October 2014, the council members deliberated at length the various acts of commissions and omissions of Ramasaran, including

his various acts of non-compliance with GOPIO Charter and lack of transparency and non-accountability in financial management during his tenure before voting (42-3) to oust him from the position of president with immediate effect.

The meeting decided to inform all government institutions and authorities about Ramsaran’s expulsion to ensure that he does not represent GOPIO in any official capacity. Since Dr. Agrawal had resigned, a similar impeachment notice served against him was not considered. It was also decided that the next International Council meeting to be held in one of the Gulf countries in November 2015.

The meeting proposed the formation of an International Finance Committee and the post of a Honorary Treasurer with immediate effect to ensure compliance with all existing US, EU and International Financial requirements, regulations and laws as well as all regulations on transfer of money from registered charity accounts. The meeting also entrusted the Fi-

Dr. Ravideen Ramsamooj. Ph.D. Trained music teacher.

Ashook Ramsaran Impeached. nance Committee to investigate and report any such regulatory violation that might have occurred recently or in the past to the appropriate authorities in respective countries without any delay.

For further details, please contact SUNNY KULATHAKAL Executive Vice President, GOPIO International P.O. Box 2688, Bahrain +973-39441956 Email: kulathakal49@gmail.com Tel: +91-9845756692 (until 14-02-2015)

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18

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

19

WHAT IF CHRISTIANS BECOME RADICAL? The word radical has gained prominence in recent times. A radical presents a strong belief system resulting in behavior that is sure to attract attention, may be contrary to the norms of a society, or bring about change in culture whether good or bad.

In simple terms, this is a person who takes his beliefs seriously.

A radical person could seem different, but does not necessarily produce fear or rebellion. Whilst some radical behaviors could be destructive, there are good sides of radical.

JESUS WAS A RADICAL. In His earthly life in New Testament times, Jesus lived a lifestyle quite contrary to religious or political expectations. His preaching and teaching ran counter to what the world expected then. His lifestyle raised eyebrows and provoked varying reactions among the people. The common people found comfort and hope in Him. He forgave sinners, healed the sick and restored the rejected. The upper echelon thought He was a threat to their position. The religious rulers insisted on the letter of the Law whilst Jesus lived and taught the Spirit of the Law. He had no favorites, offered love and compassion to all, was not afraid to rebuke the self-righteous and those who made themselves lords over God’s people. Jesus preached eternal words in the renowned Sermon on the Mount. There could be no greater exhortation to living a life that pleases our Heavenly Father. The entire Sermon on the Mount is found in Matthew’s Gospel chapters 5 through 7.

Here is an excerpt: Matthew 5:1-16: “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the

earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Early Christians followed the compassion of Jesus Christ.

Eusebius, bishop of Caesarea in the

4th Century, recorded in “The Church History” that during the plague, “All day long some of them [the Christians] tended to the dying and to their burial, countless numbers with no one to care for them. Others gathered together from all parts of the city a multitude of those withered from famine and distributed bread to them all.” Eusebius goes on to state that because of their compassion in the midst of the plague, the Christians’ “deeds were on everyone’s lips, and they glorified the God of the Christians. Such actions convinced them that they alone were pious and truly reverent to God.” A few decades after Eusebius, the last pagan emperor, Julian the Apostate, recognized that the Christian practice of compassion was one cause behind the transformation of the faith from a small movement on the edge of the empire, to cultural ascendancy. Writing to a pagan priest he said: “when it came about that the poor were neglected and overlooked by the [pagan] priests, then I think the impious Galileans [i.e., Christians] observed this fact and devoted themselves to philanthropy. [They] support not only their poor, but ours as well, all men see that our people lack aid from us.” In fact, Julian proposed that pagan priests imitate the Christians’ charity. (http://biblemesh.com/blog/the-compassion-of-early-christians/) Christians live as if people matter.

No doubt the name of Jesus has been misused for ulterior purposes.

The Christian banner was carried for unchristian events. We must keep our source of doctrine and practice in focus. The Bible and the life of Jesus Christ is our foundation. We may be inspired by followers of Christ, but never be influenced by anything contrary to His words even if it calls itself Christian. Carlton Hayes wrote, “From the wellspring of Christian compassion, our Western civilization has drawn its inspiration, and its sense of duty, for feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, looking after the homeless, clothing the naked, tending the sick and visiting the prisoner.” As one writer put it, missionaries and other Christians lived as if people mattered. Nursing and medical care in many countries can be traced back to the actions of Christians.

Schools and hospitals, as well as care of orphans, elderly and disabled have roots in Christianity.

Sometimes it could be difficult to maintain Christian composure.

The Apostle Peter addressed the

early church at a time when they were persecuted. Many were martyred for their faith. In spite of the torture and suffering they experienced, Christians demonstrated love for one another and strangers in the name of Jesus Christ.

Peter exhorted them “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. … For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit.” (1 Peter 3:8-18) The key is “that He might bring us to God.” This is about receiving forgiveness, living for Christ and keeping our eyes on eternity. We may suffer loss down here, but we are assured of a wonderful hope of an eternal inheritance in Jesus Christ. Esther Kerr wrote an old song that says, “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus, Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ; One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase, So bravely run the race till we see Christ.” We can get radical about Christ-like living. Show love to your enemies; love your family; love people – it’s what God wants us to do!

Take your family to church this weekend.

Pastor Haniff Bacchus Calvary Assembly

of God

102-07 Rockaway Blvd, Ozone Park, NY 11417 Tel. 718-659-4500 www.calvaryozone.org

20

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

My husband has vanished

...wife pleads for help in finding Alan Vernette

A

33-YEAR-old San Fernando construction worker has gone missing since Saturday and his wife is appealing to the public for help in finding him.

Alan Ako Vernette, of Circular Left, Pleasantville, was last seen at his home at around 4.30 a.m.

His wife, Sandra Sankar, told the Express that he got up from his bed to go the washroom but was not seen again.

Sankar said: “I thought something was funny about him since the day before. He hardly ate and drank, and was talking all kinds of things. I just want to know where

he is and that he is okay”.

She said all of his belongings were at home and nothing was missing.

The wife said : “He got up at around 4.30 in the morning and said he was going to the toilet. He was just wearing a boxer shorts and an old pair of slippers. After two minutes I went to check on him and I did not see him there. I went looking for him around the house, in the street, and by the shop but he was nowhere. I thought he might have come back by daylight, but he never came back”.

Sankar said Vernette had been depressed

over the loss of his brother and cousin who were shot dead some two years ago.

She said they had been together for the last five years and they “had quarrels but would always make up”.

Vernette was described as 180 centimetres tall, with dark brown complexion and brown eyes. He is a father of one.

Sankar made a report to the police, but she is asking the public to come forward with any information on his whereabouts.

Members of the public are asked to contact Sankar at 342-3524, or 385-8090, or the San Fernando Police Station at 652-

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Family feud leads to theft, stripping of minibus

A

ROUTE 41 minibus was discovered in a lonely street in ‘E’ Field (red road) Sophia partly stripped of its parts. The bus was reported stolen on Monday morning after the person to whom it was entrusted woke up to discover the vehicle missing from his yard.

Wilbert Archer told the Guyana Chronicle that he parked the bus in the yard at approximately 03:00hrs on Monday morning at South Ruimveldt, but later discovered it missing when he woke up to pray and found the gates to his property wide open.

He related that the bus was the last of three vehicles to be parked in the yard.

The man said that he immediately contacted the owner of the vehicle and they visited the East La Penitence Police Station where the matter was reported.

The vehicle, BRR 2860, is registered to one Weston Mervyn Pickering of Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara. However, his mother is said to be the person taking care of that and other vehicles which the family owns.

When this newspaper visited the Turkeyen Police Station where the bus was taken after it was discovered, it was observed that several fixtures including its headlamps, mirrors and other items from inside were missing. Those parts however are said to be engraved with the registration number of the vehicle.

One woman from ‘E’ Field Sophia, reported to this newspaper that she saw the minibus in her street on Tuesday and thought that it belonged to someone in the area until she began hearing rumours that the vehicle was stolen. The woman said that the bus was parked in front of the home of another resident and persons were stripping it of its parts.

The police were then informed and before they could have arrived at the location, persons had already made off with some of the items they removed from the vehicle and the police immediately moved to have it transported to the station and the owners were informed.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

25

In retirement, guarantees matter.

A recent study revealed that 70% of Americans plan to continue working once they’re “retired”.1 Why do so many expect to postpone a typical, leisure-filled retirement? One theory points to the decline of pensions and the need to replace the income stream that used to come – guaranteed – from a past-employer. Today, nearly half of all American workers are not covered by a pension plan2 and only 11% of Fortune 100 firms offer a traditional defined benefit.

W

ith private pensions becoming more rare, guarantees in retire-

ment may be far and few between, but it doesn’t make them any less important.

For starters, guarantees might make you happier. Research suggests that retirees get more satisfaction from each dollar of Social Security and pension income than they do from any other source of income. 4 That’s because you’re more likely to be confident spending money when you know another check is right around the corner.

Guarantees can also help you be a more confident investor through market ups and downs. Guarantees can be the guardrails you need to stay the course when investing, knowing that you have some protection built into your portfolio. And, with Americans living longer than ever before, guarantees in your overall retirement plan may help you make sure your money lasts as long as you do.

Just like no two retirements are alike, not all guarantees are

alike, so it’s important to understand the options available to you and to identify what, in your own retirement, you want to guarantee.

StreetAuthority.com, “15 Reasons the U.S. Retirement Crisis Is Even Worse Than You Think”, Nov 2012 Towers Watson, 2012.

AARP.org, “Boomers Report No Savings At All”, Feb 2011 “What Makes a Successful Retirement?” Research Magazine. Feb 2014 This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Indra Puran, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company.

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Seven soldiers hurt in accident

T

Caribbean Star Newspaper Narrow escape for 11 after truck slams bus into trench

January 30 - February 5, 2015

he Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) today said that seven Guyana Defence Force (GDF) members who were injured this morning in a collision between a truck and a bus on the Garden of Eden Public Road, East Bank Demerara are being treated at the GPHC. The hospital said that the victim, who sustained the most severe injuries, dislocated his left hip and has a fractured left tibia. Another victim fractured his left forearm and will undergo elective surgical reduction. A victim who is experiencing neck pains has been sent for x-rays to rule out c-spine injury. The others have been sent for x-rays.

A few persons were also referred from the GDF’s medical core for x-rays.

Eleven persons escaped with their lives after a minibus was knocked into a trench at Friendship, East Bank Demerara on Monday morning.

T

he accident occurred at about 10:30 AM as driver of the Route 42 (Georgetown-Timehri) minibus, Troy Boyer, was travelling from the city.

Boyer said he spotted a truck that was moving very recklessly and he decided to stop his minibus. Nevertheless, the bus was bumped into a nearby trench but not before flipping three times and going over a rail.

Boyer, who was in intense pain at the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was taken after the accident on Monday, was being comforted by his wife and a relative. The relative reminded him that he had God to thank because the accident could have been deadly. Boyer broke a hand and one of his feet. He is also due to undergo surgery next week.

Traffic Chief Ian Amsterdam yesterday said the truck driver is currently in custody and the police are currently conducting their investigations. Amsterdam said once the investigations are completed and the police figure out who was at fault, someone will be charged.

A passenger, Odetta Nelson, was in a

wheelchair at the hospital on Monday.

The woman said the minibus stopped to allow the truck to pass but this did not prevent the crash.

Nelson said she was three months pregnant and the doctor told her an ultrasound was to be conducted.

At the hospital, victims of the accident were being x-rayed to determine the extent of the damage. A mother was waiting outside nervously. She had three daughters and a granddaughter in the minibus.

She was unable to speak to this newspaper and her granddaughter, who was outside of the bus at the time, was visibly shaken up by the almost deadly accident.

“I can’t really remember. All I remember is the bus skate and ended up in the trench,” she said, with tears in her eyes.

Susan Raphael, one of the woman’s daughters, was released from the hospital yesterday. Raphael said, “I can’t really remember anything. All I remember the truck was coming out from a street unto the main road and I get black out. I ketch meself when I reach to the hospital.” Raphael suffered a broken hand and

a cut to her head. Raphael said her two sisters, Elvina and Debbie Balgobin, are still at the hospital. Raphael said Elvina was showing signs of improvement.

“Debbie still ain’t ketch she self,” she, however, added.

A doctor told this newspaper that none of the injuries looked alarming.

So far there have been five fatal accidents for the year, compared with 10 fatalities for the same period last year.

Amsterdam said the police will be paying close attention to the critical groups.

These include pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. He cautioned drivers to adhere to the five Cs: care, courtesy, consideration, caution and common-sense.

Amsterdam said patience is also a critical element that can prevent road accidents. He said in 2014 10,000 vehicles, of which 1,000 were trucks, were added to Guyana’s roadways.

Last year, there were 146 road fatalities from 135 accidents, in comparison to 112 fatalities from 103 accidents for the same period in 2013, representing a 30% increase in fatalities. In response, police have since said the Police Traffic Department will be intensifying its enforcement activities, with special focus on speeding and driving under the influence, in addition to other offences such as using motorcycles without safety helmets and using cell phones while driving.

The Guyana Fire Service training complex at Leonora, Region Three (GINA photo)

Fire service gets $139m training complex

T

he Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS) $139m training complex at Leonora was launched on Monday.

Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee said the facility in the Leonora Fire Service compound is testimony to the Government’s commitment to modernise the GFS, GINA reported.

GINA said that Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle expressed gratitude to the Government for this initiative, saying that it will be developed into the only state-of-the-art fire training complex in the Caribbean. He said that the complex has received great re-

views from its partners and will be willing to facilitate other smaller states interested in using it. Officers are currently undergoing training in the United Kingdom, and Gentle said that they will be returning to assist in manning the facility.

Gentle also said that this facility is another step in the modernisation of the fire service into a fire and rescue one since it will also be facilitating remedial training for emergency ambulance workers.

He noted that a fire station is currently being constructed at La Grange and will become operational soon.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

World News Highlights

demanding to go on air.

BUENOS AIRES – The Argentine prosecutor who died under mysterious circumstances the day before he was to testify in Congress about allegations against the president regarding an investigation into a 1994 bombing was buried on Thursday amid calls for justice.

CAIRO – Six people were killed and an office of Egypt’s state newspaper al Ahram was destroyed in an attack by suspected Islamist militants in the restive North Sinai province, state television and al Ahram said on Thursday.

AMSTERDAM – Dutch news agencies reported on Thursday that a man with a gun had entered the offices of the national broadcaster NOS and was

ATHENS – This week’s visit to Athens by the head of the euro zone finance ministers’ group will mark the start of Greece’s negotiations on changing the conditions of its international bailout accord, the finance ministry said in a statement.

MOSCOW – Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov said on Thursday Russia would consider extending financial aid to debt-strapped Greece if Athens were to make a request.

ATHENS – Greece’s tourism minister promised on Thursday Athens had no plans to curb all-inclusive resorts on its sun-drenched islands, after suggestions new Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras had declared war on the popular packages.

BRUSSELS/KIEV – European Union foreign ministers agreed on Thursday to extend existing sanctions against Russia by six months but were still debating whether to impose new measures, with the new government in Greece sowing uncertainty that exasperated its allies.

BRUSSELS – The European Union would have to send a clear message if pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine staged a full-blown military offensive there, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said on Thursday after talks with EU counterparts.

LONDON (Thomson Reuters Foundation) – While wars in Syria, Iraq and Ukraine make headlines in the West, around 30 other conflicts receive little press coverage, and the resulting lack of pressure for change could

have serious implications for millions of people, experts say.

and leaving many others missing, officials said.

LONDON (Thomson Reuters Foundation) – The wars in Syria, Iraq and Ukraine are getting wide coverage in Western media, but there are at least 30 other conflicts in the world that are likely to go largely unnoticed this year and keep millions of people in crisis.

JERUSALEM/BEIRUT – Israel and Hezbollah signaled on Thursday their rare flare-up in fighting across the Israel-Lebanon border was over, after the Lebanese guerrillas killed two Israeli troops in retaliation for a deadly air strike in Syria last week.

BRUSSELS – European Union foreign ministers proposed on Thursday that the bloc extend asset freezes and travel bans to further individuals deemed responsible for hostilities in eastern Ukraine.

UNITED NATIONS – Israel told the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday it will take all necessary measures to defend itself after an exchange of fire between Hezbollah militants and Israel that has raised the threat of a fullblown conflict.

MEXICO CITY – A gas truck explosion decimated large parts of a maternity hospital on the western edge of Mexico City on Thursday, killing at least seven people including three children,

JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said attackers who killed two Israeli soldiers near the Israeli-Lebanese frontier would be held responsible.

Billionaire at center of Caribbean casino fraud accusations

O

NTARIO, Canada, Monday January 26, 2015, CMC – One of Canada’s richest men, is locked in an international battle over Caribbean casinos with links to one of Canada’s most feared mafia clans.

Michael G. DeGrotte, 81, a philanthropist and an officer of the Order of Canada, reportedly lent millions of dollars to three men to create a chain of gaming facilities in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

According to reports stemming from a year long investigation carried out by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and the Globe and Mail, there is no evidence that at the time DeGroote knew of the men’s “underworld connections”.

It’s reported that 2010, DeGroote, 81, who built Hamilton-based Laidlaw Transport into one of North America’s biggest waste-haulage firms before selling his stake in 1988, ran into an old friend, a businessman named Andrew Pajak.

CBC News said Pajak told DeGroote that he was working with two brothers, Antonio and Francesco Carbone of Vaughan, Ontario, on a company manufacturing electronic slot machines and they had plans to install them at a nightclub casino in Jamaica.

DeGroote initially agreed to put up US$5 million in December 2010 and by May 2012, the billionaire’s total underwriting of the Caribbean operations stood at US$111.9 million.

The Dream Group was making good on its loans, but in May 2012, the payments to DeGroote stopped.

In October of that year, DeGroote sued to get access to the company’s books alleging the Carbones and Pajak had misappropriated portions of the funds.

A Canadian judge in November 2013 that DeGroote had established “a strong case” for fraud.

While DeGroote’s legal battles with the Carbones progressed in the first half of 2013, “other characters with a dubious past entered the fray”, CBC News said. In May of that year, it said DeGroote was visited by two men at his family’s luxury condo in downtown Toronto.

One of them was Peter Shoniker, an outgoing former Crown attorney “who had been convicted of money laundering in 2006”.

It said the other was a “large, broad-chinned man” introduced as Alexander Visser.

“Unbeknownst to DeGroote, Visser had a long criminal history, amounting to more than 40 convictions in Canada for fraud,

Michael G. DeGrotte, 81, a philanthropist and an officer of the Order of Canada, reportedly lent millions of dollars to three men to create a chain of gaming facilities in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. uttering threats and assault,” the report said.

At the meeting, CBC News said Visser made a “stunning offer”, saying he could get Dream employees in the Dominican Republic to sign affidavits claiming the Carbones had massively defrauded DeGroote, but for a price. Initially, DeGroote objected, but eventually, he began ne-

gotiating over the asking price,” and told Visser he would send him US$150,000 with “no strings attached” for possible future help. DeGroote declined to be interviewed by CBC and the Globe and Mail, but through his lawyers, he said the secret recordings were manipulation, created by “individuals with a long history of practicing deceit.”

In his only on-the-record statement about the Dream fiasco, issued through his lawyers, DeGroote said: “Frankly, I sincerely regret that I ever agreed to invest in this venture. Indeed, I am embarrassed by it.”

His lawyers later added: “Mr. DeGroote is someone who has been wronged, rather than a wrongdoer.”

Caribbean Star Newspaper Self Confidence - The Key to Success

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

By: Kristine Heeralall

ita Ram. My name is Kristine Heeralall and I am a blessed member of the Naujavaan Mandalee Youth Group of the Shaanti Bhavan Mandir. Today, I would like to share some thoughts on self-confidence and the key to achieving success.

This world is a “do or die” place. We have to face the facts. Unless you work very hard and learn something that can help you make a career, you won’t survive in this world.

However, a career is just a leaf in the vast tree of one’s life. You might say, “Wait a minute, a career should be the trunk of a tree when compared to someone’s life.” We have to remember however, that going to school and getting a career is not enough to achieve success. We need to stay motivated. So what keeps us motivated? What is the drive behind our ambitions? It’s our self-confidence.

Without self-confidence we cannot achieve our goals in life. Self-confidence comes with hard work. My brother once read me a quote. It says “An important key to success is self-confidence, and self-confidence comes from preparation.” We can’t just say “Okay, I have confidence,” and expect to become the CEO of a company. It takes hard work and dedication. Mastery comes with total self-sacrifice.

In addition, our self-confidence is also powered by our environment and its people.

As we grow, we need to ensure that we associate ourselves with the right company. We should avoid being around negative people and places. Without the proper guidance, we will experience many failures in life. We need to follow the teachings of our parents and mentors. They can unlock the brilliance within us. For example, my group, “The Naujaavan Mandalee Youth Group” has forev-

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er changed my life. My mentors are Pandit Manoj, Aunty Ravina, and Aunty Rita. They have unlocked qualities in me I never knew I had. They have taught me public speaking, singing, and the importance of serving the less fortunate. But more so, they have taught me that with faith, dedication, and hard work, the impossible can become possible.

You have realized your potentials; you can master your goals. However, on the trail of success you will encounter many obstacles.

This is where your self-confidence will be tested. If you fail once, you cannot give up.

If you are determined, nothing will stop you.

This world is filled with quitters. It is sad, but it’s the truth. You must have the desire to do something great in your life and let it be the foundation towards your success. No matter what obstacles may come your way, do not give up until success is achieved!

Jai ho!

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Parika stelling receiving $36M facelift -part of $62M overall upgrading of Essequibo stellings

HE Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) stelling at Parika, Region 3 (West Demerara/Essequibo Islands) is being given a facelift worth $36M, General Manager of T&H.D, Ms.Marclene Merchant has disclosed.The facelift is part of a wider programme of upgrading of T&HD stellings in the Essequibo being done at a total cost of $62M allocated to the T&H.D by the Government of Guyana.

Ms. Merchant disclosed that about seventy percent (70%) of the repair works at the Parika Stelling, Essequibo River have been completed.

These include installation of cluster piles and fenders at the waterside front to prevent ships from making contact with the stelling; maintenance works on the main carriageway at the entrance and the painting and replacing of dilapidated beams and deck planks.

She said that throughout the duration of the

Repairs and upgrading of the T&HD stelling at Parika in progress. project, access to the stelling by passengers, vehicles, speedboats and the department’s ferry vessels remained unimpeded.

Despite this, she said, the department is pleased that the works have been progressing at a fast pace and is expected to be completed in another two weeks.

The project commenced in November 2014.

Merchant disclosed that the T&HD also intended to complete the upgrading of the Parika stelling this year with the construction of passenger accommodation there, since there is none in place at the moment.

Commenting on the other stellings, she disclosed that works to

the tune of $10M were executed at the Leguan Stelling, where fender/ mooring systems were put in place and there was replacement of dilapidated decking, beams and piles.

A total of $6M was spent on the Wakenaam stelling, where a fender/ mooring system was put in place and the changing of decking and beams and passenger accommodation was also addressed.

As regards the Supenaam stelling, repairs to the tune of $10M have been effected to the mooring system and catwalk at the roll on / roll off facility and the fender/mooring system for the side loading and rails along the driveway.

High-speed wireless can help ganja farmers protect legal crops - Sinclair

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arfield Sinclair, LIME Jamaica chief executive, indicates that ganja farmers can utilise Internet connectivity to remotely monitor their crops.

Concurrently, Sinclair downplayed the prospect of job cuts and reduced capital spend arising from the regional acquisition of Columbus Communications by Cable & Wireless (CWC) Plc -the parent of LIME Jamaica.

LIME's acquisition of Dekal Wireless' Wi-Fi technology would allow farmers and other entrepreneurs in rural Jamaica to have a "better opportunity to participate in more modern methods of selling and settling their commercial transactions", he stated in his presentation at the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) President's Forum yesterday at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.

"Plus, as we hopefully move closer to regulating the cultivation and sale of marijuana -- notice I said hopefully -- farmers can rest assured that this high-speed wireless Internet will be able to

facilitate the remote monitoring for the security of their precious crops," he said to chuckles from the audience. "All kinds of uses."

It's the latest instance of a large corporate company making public pronouncements on the drug set for imminent decriminalisation.

In December LIME announced that it had acquired the parent company of Dekal Wireless Jamaica for an undisclosed sum.

The acquisition obviates the need for LIME to invest in providing Wi-Fi access within certain remote rural areas currently serviced by Dekal.

"I do not subscribe to that view that mergers result in a winner-loser situation. I believe that it's a win-win situation. While there will clearly be change, I think the situation and environment will dramatically improve," said Sinclair about the regional merger in response to a query in time allowed for questions following his address.

"This consolidation is going to improve the technology future

for Jamaica. It's going to extend and expand the competition that exists now between a combined entity and the other large player in the market [Digicel]. That will only intensify [value] not just for advertisers but consumers. While it is common parlance to talk about, in every merger there are winners and losers I truly believe this is a win-win situation."

When pressed on job cuts he reasoned that LIME was already engaged in the right-sizing of its staff. He, however, did not speak on the implication for Flow's staff complement.

"A growing thriving economy is one that is adding jobs. At LIME we are in the process of right-sizing right now after spending years of just not being the opti-

mal size. So we are putting that behind us now so that we will be in a position to start hiring the best and brightest coming out of our universities."

CWC announced last November that it would purchase 100 per cent of the equity of Flow Jamaica parent company, Columbus Communications, which operates regionally, for US$1.85 billion. The acquisition of Columbus would be "earnings neutral" in the first full year post-completion but become earnings positive in subsequent years, according to initial statements on the merger. In fact, the acquisition is expected to create cost-saving of US$145 million in capital expenditure in the first three years for CWC PLC. On the flip side, the acquisition will result in CWC assuming Columbus's US$1.17 billion in existing net debt as at June 2014. CWC will pay US$707 million cash and issue 1.5 billion new ordinary shares in CWC to entities that control Columbus, according to a 59-page docu-

ment on the takeover. These include entities ultimately held

by Columbus co-founder John Risley, co-founder and president Brendan Paddick and significant shareholder John Malone.

Sinclair indicated at the President's Forum that the precise look of the LIME and Flow merger "on the ground" remains to be seen.

"We are in the middle of a fairly intense integration process. I am particularly interested in integrating the services where we have an overlapping of services. A lot of the details of what the final entity will look like has not been finalised," he said, adding that the CWC PLC board will meet in Jamaica by the latest next month to discuss the matter. "So the final look of the Jamaican entity, although not currently defined, we are going to be obviously looking to integrate our operations for maximum efficiency, because our investors made these investments and are obviously looking for a return pretty quick."

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. — Confucius.

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

The most important relationship in your life is the one you have with yourself, and that becomes clear at the start of the week – especially if you find yourself projecting disowned parts of your own life onto the people around you. Just remember that taking responsibility isn’t the same as taking on blame or taking immediate action. Use the middle of the week to figure out what you want. By Friday, you’ll start to see ways to achieve those goals, but don’t decide on one path just yet. Over the weekend, some of your true feelings start to emerge, and they need space in order to become apparent.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22)

You can get what you want ... but first you have to figure out what you really want on Monday and Tuesday. That’s not as easy as it sounds, especially when you try and disentangle what others want for you and what you think you should want from your heart’s true desire. Wednesday and Thursday give you a better sense of stability to help you figure out your way, but beware of jumping to conclusions on Friday and Saturday, where the phrase ‘too much information’ is far too apt. On Sunday, listen to your higher instincts – they’ll steer you in the correct direction.

The weekly horoscopes are updated on every week to gives you an in-depth insight into your family, your love life, any career opportunities, friends and money issues.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Looking for answers isn’t nearly as important as making sure you’re asking the right questions, especially on Monday or Tuesday. When you really go beyond the superficial, you find that the issues at hand have very little to do with what you originally assumed were important. Wednesday and Thursday are good times to consolidate the discoveries you made earlier in the week, while on Friday and Saturday, you’ll find a myriad of ways to address them. Wait until Sunday, however, before you try to make any decisions about which way to move.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

No matter how well you plan, you can never be totally sure of the outcome – which is why it’s helpful to pay attention to matters in front of you, big or small. At the week’s beginning, a small opportunity could turn out to be much, much bigger than you had envisioned, while by Wednesday or Thursday, it’s clear that something you had high hopes for turns out to be less expansive than you would have liked. Use Friday and Saturday to gather information – when you’re in the flow, the right stuff just seems to come to you. Sunday is a good time to get in touch with family.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

On Monday and Tuesday, you excel at starting projects; finishing them, however, is best left to Wednesday and Thursday. Just remember that the excitement of starting something can be exhilarating, but true satisfaction comes from seeing it through all the way to the end.

Friday and Saturday are good times to think about all your possibilities and the various ways you can find to complete them, but hold off on going down one path or another. On Sunday, you’ll receive a piece of information that will tell you which way is truly the most beneficial for you.

You have some very specific wishes you’d like fulfilled at the start of the week. That’s a special kind of pleasure, when you know just what it is that you want. Be careful during the middle of the week as you pursue these goals – remember you can’t control all the elements in your life. Friday and Saturday, listen to the signals the universe is sending you. They may come in the most ordinary, workaday forms, but that doesn’t mean what they’re trying to convey doesn’t relate to all parts of your life. On Sunday, if you let yourself, you understand the meaning (and beauty) of ‘go with the flow.’

SCORPIO

SAGITTARIUS

‘Integration’ is the key word for this week, especially as you explore all the oppositions and polarities within yourself. Walt Whitman was right: We all contain multitudes.

On Monday and Tuesday, let your assertive, take-charge side come forward. You have more leadership skills than you suspected. Wednesday and Thursday are good days to be practical, business-like and detail-oriented. Friday and Saturday, let your inner flirt come to the fore. It’s fun being the belle of the ball. Why don’t you do this more often? Sunday, romance, connection, inner truths – those are all on the menu and more.

Smooth, charismatic, in control – these are all adjectives that can be accurately applied to you. But how attached are you to this image? During the first part of the week, let yourself go with the awkward pauses, false starts and all those bumpy parts of life. You can’t control them, and acknowledging that frees up a huge part of your energy. The middle part of the week is all about practical matters. The more you get done, the more time you have for fun on Friday and Saturday. Your heart expands in an unusual fashion on Sunday.

Getting your inner critic out of the way during the first half of the week helps you feel more relaxed and creative. You may find this easier on Monday and Tuesday, but on Wednesday and Thursday, this task might prove to be more difficult. On Friday and Saturday, your methods prove to be almost too effective as you find ideas and concepts simply flying out of your mouth. (Carry a pad and paper so none of this potential genius gets lost.) On Sunday, take a page from the Italians and ‘bel far niente’ – have a great time doing absolutely nothing.

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

Having someone tell you that you need to relax is one of the most stress-inducing statements ever. So you don’t need to relax, but you do need to have more fun. Let yourself be spontaneous and irreverent at the start of the week. It’s business time during the middle of the week – take care of all the practical matters that keep your life moving forward. On Friday and Saturday, being silly helps you blow off some steam, so gather some of your closest friends and cut loose. On Sunday, you have the sudden realization that taking care of your spirit is the most practical thing you can do.

It’s easy to see that you’re creative in one area of your life, but other channels may not be as freely flowing. On Monday and Tuesday, identify the areas where you’d like to have more energy, flexibility and inspiration. Then on Wednesday and Thursday, make a plan of attack and figure out how you can borrow from one aspect of your life and apply it to the others. On Friday and Saturday, participate in activities that are fun, whether that means rock climbing or hanging out at a community center. Use the last day of the week to enjoy some peaceful time at home.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20)

Have you been letting someone in your life get away with far too much?

At the week’s start, it’s time to see the truth. You may not need to have a talk with them, but you need to be honest with yourself. On Wednesday and Thursday, set new standards of behavior for yourself and others. Just remember that all change starts with small steps, and it’s the process, not the final outcome, that counts. Let yourself have fun on Friday and Saturday.

Frivolity is a necessity, not an indulgence. On Sunday, remember that your feelings have as much weight and relevance as rationality and logic.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

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Entertainment News

US Prez Obama quotes SRK during Paresh Rawal: It’s a pity that there address at Siri Fort are only four good theatres in Gujarat

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here may be only a few things that Shah Rukh Khan would be surprised about. After all the Baadshah of Bollywood is above all this.

But when a US president quotes a line from your movie, you can't help but beam with pride and SRK is no exception.

During an address to a gathering on his visit to India, when Barack Obama quoted SRK's famous 'Senorita... Bade bade deshon mein...' line from Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (DDLJ), there were claps and cheers from the audience. SRK took to his micro blogging page and tweeted, "Proud 2 b part of the gender & religion equality speech of Pres, Obama. Sad he couldn't do the Bhangra... next time 'Chaiyya Chaiyya' for sure." [sic] Within minutes of Obama saying the words 'Senorita... Bade bade shehron mein.. You know how it is', the Twitterati went berserk and the phrase SRK Pride of India started trending on Twitter.

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A Obama hit all the right chords as he interspersed many Hindi terms and references in his address at the Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi. Interestingly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to youngsters in New York during his US visit last year, had quoted from the cult Star Wars franchisee when he ended his speech with 'May the force be with you.'

Well, while Modi, Obama and SRK discuss bhangra plans and involve in filmy talk, we hope the US president's visit strengthens Indo-American ties.

Keira Knightley was to be named 'Kiera'

ctress Keira Knightley says her mother's awful spellings ruined it all when it came time to registering the former's name.

"I was meant to be named 'Kiera' after a Russian ice skater who was on the TV one day," people.com quoted "The Imitation Game" actress as saying. "My dad fancied her and nicked her name for me. But it was my mum who went to register my birth, and she accidentally spelled 'ei' instead of 'ie' because my mum's crap at spelling.

"Apparently, when she came back he said: 'What the f**k? You've spelt her name wrong!' What were they going to do, though? Once it's on the piece of paper, it's on the piece of paper. And that's me. A spelling error," added the actress, who has graced the March cover of Elle Britain.

Mission Impossible V' to release in summer

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ctor Tom Cruise's highly-anticipated film " Mission Impossible V" will release in US July 31 instead of Dec 25, Paramount has announced. Other movies released on that date include Jake Gyllen-

haal-starer "Southpaw", "Point Break" and Ryan Reynolds' drama film "Selfless".

The studio has further announced that the previous slot occupied by the action film would be taken by "Monster Trucks".

The animated movie which features voices from Lucas Till, Jane Levy and Rob Lowe among others, was originally set to release in US theaters May 29. The follow-up to 2011's "Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol", is directed by Christopher McQuarrie and started filming last year. Cruise was seen filming a scene in London Monday night with Simon Pegg. In a photograph taken from the set, Cruise is seen sporting a white shirt and a suit.

witty statement or two is never far away when Paresh Rawal is around. The actor turned MP, who was in town to perform for his much acclaimed play Kishan vs Kanhaiya (a part of the mega art and culture festival held in Vadodara), talked to the media moments before his performance. On being requested to get down from the stage so that one could hear him properly, Rawal quipped, "Let me answer your questions from the stage itself. Kalakaar toh stage uparaj shobhe chhe!"

However, Rawal minced no words while talking about the state of theatres in Gujarat. He said, "I love doing plays and there was a phase when I would be staying in Gujarat for six months at a stretch just to do plays. Today, I was shocked when I learnt that this place (a well-known auditorium in Akota) doesn't even have a canteen! It really saddens me to see that in a state like Gujarat, which hosts around 1500 to 2000 shows in a year, there are only three or four good theatres, including one each in Gandhinagar, Surat and Rajkot. There are certain theatres where I have seen big rats moving around inside!

I was told that one of the theatres (located at Jubilee Baug) in Vadodara had been renovated, but I wasn't quite convinced about the same when I performed there recently. Gujarat needs far better theatres for staging plays."

On being asked about whether the roaring success of the film OMG-Oh My God! had affected the popularity of the play, Rawal said, "Not really. The play has completely different USPs and unlike the film, we can incorporate fresh instances in it."

The Censor Board has been in news for all the wrong reasons of late and talking about it, Rawal said, "Personally, I feel that once a movie has been passed by the Censor Board, it should not be opposed.

Also, those who demand for the inclusion of more people from the film fraternity in the Censor Board have a valid point."

At the same time, talking about freedom of expression in movies, he added, "Just like I don't support those who vandalize theatres to show their opposition, I also don't support hurting anyone's sentiments. Both these things are wrong."

The witty side of Rawal came to the fore again when he was asked about the recently released blockbuster PK and OMG being similar films, "Arre yaar, by that logic, every second Hindi film's story shows a boy and girl being in love. Does that make them similar films?"

On a parting note, when Rawal was asked about how he manages to find time for doing theatre and films after becoming a member of the Parliament, Rawal says, "Actually I find it quite easy to handle. When the Parliament is in session, I make it a point to try and remain present as much as possible. Technology has made lives easier and so, managing different things isn't that difficult anymore.

I take my role as an elected MP very seriously and consider myself blessed that people have loved me both as an actor and an MP."

Kate Hudson bares bottom

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ctress Kate Hudson exposed her bottom in a Versace gown at Paris Fashion Week.

The 35-year-old star wore a revealing, crimson Donatella Versace gown, which featured several cut-out panels, to the designer's haute couture show Jan 25 Sunday, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

She completed her look with more low-key accessories, opting for a simple pair of nude Christian Louboutin pumps.

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Pamela Anderson never deemed herself as 'pretty enough to be Model'

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amela Anderson has admitted that she never ranked herself pretty enough to be a model and instead has always provoked the feeling with how she looks.

The Playboy cover girl, who took almost decades to believe that she is beautiful told a magazine that she has always been a tomboy, and as a child had inherited that beauty comes from within, E! Online reported.

The 47-year-old actress said that apart from the fact that she works in an industry that has a lot of fear of getting older and losing good looks, she never wanted to chase youth, and instead wishes to get old to "taste every season of life."

Check out Ranbir Kapoor's street-fighter look in Bombay Velvet

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Khamoshiyan makers create Kashmir in South Africa

January 30 - February 5, 2015

he makers of Bombay Velvet unveiled the teaser image of Ranbir Kapoor from the movie. The young heartthrob plays the street fighter Johnny Balraj in the movie that is set in the Bombay of the 1950s through the 1970s. Ranbir, we hear will be flaunting his six-pack abs in the movie in a couple of action sequences, some of which are cage-fighting action pieces. The actor underwent intensive training in boxing for this part, before and during the shoot of the film in Sri Lanka.

The actor's character, Johnny Balraj is a

risk-taking dare-devil who rises from the underbelly of Bombay to become a big shot.

Incidentally, the character mouths the line conveying his ambition : 'Bigshot banna hai', says a source. While Anushka Sharma plays Johnny's love interest, the aspiring jazz singer Rosie, Karan Johar makes his full-fledged debut as the villainous businessman, Kaizad Khambatta. Interestingly, one of the sublots of the movie is a love triangle and KJo's Kaizad Khambatta will also be seen romancing Rosie in the movie that is scheduled to release May 15 this year.

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he floods in Kashmir that wrecked havoc in the lives of thousands in the state, dashed the hopes of the makers of Khamoshiyan who wanted to shoot for the film there.

As a contingency plan, the makers decided to recreate Kashmir in South Africa as they had to stick to the deadline to finish the film.

Mahesh Bhatt says, "Yes, this is true.

We were at a loss and there was no desire to shoot hearing what had happened in Kashmir but there were deadlines and our crew figured out a place in South Africa that had the look and feel of Kashmir and we decided to shift base and shoot in South Africa."

Almost 40 per cent of the film has been shot in South Africa which has given the film breath-taking visuals. All the songs of the film have also been shot in South Africa.

Khamoshiyan releases on Jan 30.

Brad Pitt in talks for Angelina Jolie's 'Africa'

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ctor Brad Pitt is reportedly in talks to play Richard Leakey in his wife Angelina Jolie's drama film "Africa". The duo, who were first seen together on-screen in 2005 romantic comedy "Mr. & Mrs. Smith", have wrapped up filming Jolie's third directorial venture "By The Sea".

According to The Wrap, Brad is in negotiations to star in Jolie's latest directorial biopic film "Africa", which tells the story of "Leakey, the famed archaeologist who became a staunch defender of elephants against poachers in Kenya in the late 1980's. The biopic is written by Oscar winner Eric Roth, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Jolie will re-team with her "Unbroken" cinematographer Roger Deakins for "Africa". "I've felt a deep connection

to Africa and its culture for much of my life, and was taken with Eric's beautiful script about a man drawn into the violent conflict with elephant poachers who emerged with a deeper understanding of man's footprint and a profound sense of responsibility for the world around him," Jolie said in a statement in September last year.

Starstruck Eddie Redmayne 'literally stalked' Jennifer Aniston

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hy Eddie Redmayne had nine months of sleepless nights?Jennifer Aniston finds Justin Theroux 'quite special'Jennifer Aniston eyes Oscar for 'Cake''Insomniac' Jennifer Aniston afraid of dying youngJennifer Aniston to renovate Justin Theroux's house Eddie Redmayne has revealed that he got starstruck when he crossed paths recently with Jennifer Aniston. The 33-year-old actor said that he and his wife love 'Friends' series and so when they saw Aniston at a party, they were just "incredible inappropriate," the CBS News reported.

'The Theory of Everything' star added that they just literally stalked about four meters behind her for the entire evening and eventually Aniston was like, "Okay."

Redmayne, who was glad Aniston was gracious about it, continued that when the couple got to meet her, she was as beautiful and wonderful as one would expect her to be. He said that Aniston could have turned around and slapped them for stalking her like that and added that she would certainly be within her legal rights to do that.

January 30 - February 5, 2015 33 Caribbean Star Newspaper Sherlyn Chopra: Documentary says Tom Cruise had Nicole Kidman's phone tapped

When it comes to soul sex, I prefer women

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herlyn Chopra is a master seductress with her words, eyes and voice. Here is a sample. To know more, go to www. follo.co.in/sherlyn You have this bad girl image. What is Sherlyn Chopra actually like?

The real Sherlyn Chopra is BAD... Bold And Daring. I guess a part of me is very shy. I don't know if the viewers would believe it or not, but the truth is, I am a shy girl.

You've gone on record to say that you are more attracted to women than men...

I choose to believe that most women have a higher EQ (emotional quotient) than men.

I find it easy to bare my heart and soul to women. Most of the men whom I have met to date have been very judgmental, shallow and they have just one thing on their mind.

And that is overrated. I would rather have soul sex - taste one's thoughts, ideas, notions, temperament, sentiments than have mechanical or meaningless sex. When it comes to soul sex, I prefer women. Cheers to womanhood.

Tell us one thing about you that most people don't know.

I write. I love to write short stories and poetry. I like to use them as the story fabric for my singles and music videos. I am working on a single, which I believe has the potential to be the anthem for women empowerment.

It's soulful, entertaining and it's about my life, my journey so far.

You're quite open about nudity in an industry where most aren't...

To me, nudity is the most unadulterated form of art.

What do you think is your best asset?

My best asset are my innocent eyes.

Umm, no. My wicked mind. I guess it's all in the mind. I could be very gorgeous, breathtaking, smoking hot and have a very boring approach to life or I could be the girl-nextdoor with a wicked mind.

What attracts you in a man?

His ability to embrace me with my strengths and weaknesses. And not feel insecure around me. Embrace my dreams as his dreams that would be a very a selfless thing to do. If a man ever does that for me, I would consider him my 'pati parmeshwar'!

You're the first Indian to feature on Playboy. How did it happen?

I took the initiative by writing to Hugh Hefner and he replied in the affirmative.

The rest is history. Every time I talk about Playboy, I am reminded of the irony of my life that it took me something as risky as Playboy to discover myself, to have my consciousness raised.

Tell us the secret behind your figure.

I just burn calories more or less the same way anyone does.

Tell us about your upcoming films.

I play the protagonist in a Tamil-Malayalam bilingual film, which will release by the end of this year. I'm glad this film has come my way because the journey of the protagonist has the potential to cater to a majority of youth. Her experiences, yearning, mistakes and vulnerability will resonate with the youth. There's another movie about which I have not spoken till date. I have a dual role in it. I'm praying that by the end of this year, both films hit screens here and overseas.

Your message for your follo'ers? You are the master of your reality. You are the magic, you are the magician. Let nobody bring you down. Say, I am who I am.

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former top official of the Church of Scientology says he ordered Nicole Kidman's phones to be tapped at the suggestion of Tom Cruise and church head David Miscavige.

Former Scientologist Mark 'Marty' Rathbun, a member of the church for many years and a key aide to Miscavige, makes the allegations in an explosive new documentary, 'Going Clear: Scientology & The Prison of Belief', which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival. Kidman, 47, and 52-year-old superstar's relationship, which began after they met on the set of the 1990 film 'Days of Thunder', was looked upon with disfavor by Scientology officials from the start, according to the

documentary, directed by Oscar winner Alex Gibney.

Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard disliked and distrusted psychiatrists and psychologists, according to the documentary.

Kidman's father Dr Anthony Kidman, who

died last year, was a prominent psychologist in Australia. The church, according to the documentary, wanted to break up Kidman and Cruise so that the actor would more enthusiastically embrace the church and help publicise its mission.

Around that time, Rathbun says in the film, Cruise said he was worried about Kidman and suggested her phones be tapped. Rathbun said he related this idea disdainfully to Scientology Chairman Miscavige, who swore, 'Goddamn it', and ordered Rathbun to get it done. Rathbun says in the film that he ordered the phones tapped, but it's unclear what information, if any, might have been uncovered by the process.

34

January 30 - February 5, 2015

Caribbean Star Newspaper

Caribbean Connections

United States offer Caribbean new oil deal

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ASHINGTON D.C., United States, Tuesday January 27, 2015, CMC – The United States Monday rolled out a new initiative for Caribbean countries to ensure energy security in a move widely seen as distancing the Caribbean from Venezuela for their oil and energy needs.

United States Vice President Joe Biden, addressing the first ever Caribbean Energy Security Summit here, told Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries that there are more options at their disposal now for natural gas delivery than they have ever been.

“You can now purchase gas on the open market from many countries including your neighbor Trinidad and Tobago right now. There is also LNG exporters in the United States with licences to export to any of your countries whether you have a free trade agreement or not. If you want gas go talk to them.

“Meanwhile we are in the midst of a seismic shift in the global economy, the ascendancy of the Americas as the epicenter of the center of energy production in the world.

“We have more oil and gas… than all the states in the world combined. Mexico Canada the United States is the new epicenter of energy,” Biden said.

Regional countries have in the past relied on Caracas for oil and petroleum products under the PetroCaribe initiative, an oil alliance of many Caribbean states with Venezuela to purchase oil on conditions of preferential payment.

But Biden told the summit an integrated North America working to promote energy security beyond its borders “can be a major asset for the entire hemisphere and its profoundly in the self interest of the United States to see

UNITED STATES VICE PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN the Caribbean countries succeed as prosperous, secure and energy independent neighbours, not a world apart but an integral part of the hemisphere where every nation is middle class, democratic and secure”.

Biden told the summit that it is the first time in history such a vision can be accomplished.

“You can see it if we make the right decisions. So taken together these changes create a moment of energy opportunity that hasn’t existed. Progress is possible and it is possible to begin now,” he said, insisting “not a decade from now”.

He said that was among the issues discussed with the regional leaders, adding “some people think it can’t be done in the Caribbean they are dead wrong.

“Not only can it be done, it is being done right now with some of your neighbours, look at what the US Virgin Islands is doing they are combining renewable energy with propane to lower costs…”.

Biden said St. Lucia is breaking down the barriers to develop new investments in geothermal energy, it is creating new legislation to

create a national regulatory body for energy to “stabilize the rules of the game and make investments more attractive for those of you who are energy suppliers”.

He said Barbados “has long been the leader of solar technology (and) is posed to make major new investments in renewables.

“Progress is practical, it is possible and it is profitable,” Biden said, adding that significant improvements are within reach for every Caribbean country.

But he told the CARICOM leaders that they needed to summon the political will to ensure success “because as we learn real and lasting progress for energy security everywhere in the world depends on more than just spending money”.

He said over the last 10 years tens of millions of dollars had been pledged and invested “but we don’t have nearly enough to show for it”.

He said the primary goal of the summit is “not to put up another solar panel or sign another gas contract (but) it is to help you create the conditions where you countries can attract private sector investment and it is there”.

He said the Caribbean now has an opportunity” for a supply of energy that is more resilient, more sustainable, cleaner, more affordable than you will ever ever had.

“You have a chance to reduce the number of oil spills, protect your waters, pout the money you are saving into schools, hospitals, jobs, infrastructure, manufacturing,” he said, acknowledging “ a lot of work lies ahead”.

“But we have a chance …and the single biggest burden that can be lifted upon you right now, economically is the cost of energy and the dependence that you still have on single suppliers,” Biden said.

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Curry could be used in treatment of psychological disorders

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EW YORK, United States, Monday January 26, 2015 – While the culinary merits of Trinidad vs Guyana curry continue to be hot topics for debate by their respective nationals, evidence is mounting in the wider scientific community that the dish could convey significant health benefits.

Studies have already indicated that curcumin, one of the compounds in the curry spice turmeric, could reduce inflammation in the body and have cancer-fighting properties.

Previous studies have also found that the spice may be useful in the treatment of heart disease and arthritis, as well as having an anti-depressant effect and boosting brain repair in stroke and Alzheimer’s patients.

Now, a new study conducted by psychologists from the City University of New York suggests that the spice could help erase bad memories.

Researchers found that curcumin not only prevented new fear memories being stored in the brain, but also removed pre-existing fear memories.

Scientists hope that these findings will assist in the development of treatments for people suffering with certain psychological disorders.

For the study, the researchers triggered fear in rats with a particular sound.

The team assumed the rodents were afraid when they froze.

Later, when the rats were subjected to the sound again, those who had been given regular food froze.

Rats that had been fed a curcumin-rich diet did not freeze, however, suggesting that their fearful memories had been erased.

“This suggests that people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychological disorders that are characterised by fearful memories may benefit substantially from a curcumin-enriched diet,” said lead researcher Professor Glenn Schafe.

Professor Schafe went on to explain that curcumin is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, and this may account for the way it works on fearful memories.

“Inflammatory processes have been implicated in a wide range of diseases ranging from allergies to cardiovascular disease to Alzheimer’s,” he said.

“Inflammation has also been implicated in psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Some of these same inflammatory pathways have also been implicated in memory formation, so it all fits.

While noting that it is not yet fully understood how curcumin impairs fear memories while sparing other types of memories, Professor Schafe said that it is known that different types of memory systems encode different types of memories.

The memory of the event could therefore still be there, but without the memory of the fear associated with it.

Memories, formed in the brain as new connections between neurons, are initially fragile, but gradually stabilise in the brain as they are put into long-term storage – a process known as consolidation.

When established memories are recalled, they also temporarily destabilise in the brain, briefly becoming like new memories.

“If nothing happens, those destabilised fear memories get put back into long-term storage. In other words, they restabilise, or reconsolidate,” Professor Schafe explained.

“But we’ve learned that we can go into the brain during that destabilisation window and prevent those fear memories from reconsolidating.

“Effectively, we can erase them. And that appears to be what we’ve done with a curcumin-enriched diet,” he said.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

35

St Vincent health officials say reports of Ebola case are ‘untrue’

K Murder trial of five police officers delayed, again

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OSEAU, Dominica, Monday January 26, 2015, CMC – Five police officers, who are facing charges in relation to the death of a man in custody, are to re-appear in court in March after their lawyers were on Monday successful in getting an adjournment.

Attorney Joffre Letang, who is among the team of defence lawyers, said there were certain matters that had to be dealt with.

“You have heard of noncompliance of both sides in relation to previous court order and also there is a change of solicitor. So it is basically to get things in place and we move forward from there.

“I think we are getting there…we will reach a resolution very soon,” he said, adding “and this matter should proceed one way or the other”.

The five officers, whose names have not been disclosed, were detained after an autopsy was done on the body of Joshua Etienne, who had been arrested on August 4, last year for the alleged possession of ammunition.

Etienne’s body was found in his cell at a police station in Portsmouth, north of here, on August 5.

Defence attorneys have objected to having the charges read to the officers saying it was “unlawful” and “irregular”.

Attorney General Levi Peter, speaking after Monday’s court proceedings said “we intend to proceed in the manner that we have been proceeding or intend to proceed from the outset, which is that the charges against the accused persons should be read to them…and that the legal process will take its course.

“We have assiduously dealt with this matter from day one, including the charging of the suspects, the claimants in this matter are exercising their legal rights…we say we are a country of law and we respect the rule of law.

“Sometimes the rule of law is inconvenient …we can’t dispense of it… however frustrated we may be,” he said, adding “we were prepared to go with this matter if the court was ready to do so”.

The matter will now be heard on March 25-26.

INGSTOWN, St. Vincent, Tuesday January 27, 2015, CMC – The Minister of Health has described as “untrue” reports being circulated on social media about a possible case of Ebola in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Ministry, however, confirmed that it was treating a Nigerian student who has had a relapse of malaria.

“It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment that information is being circulated about a possible case of Ebola in St Vincent and the Grenadines. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment assures the nation that this is untrue. Chief Medical Of-

ficer Dr. Simone Keizer- Beache says that there is no Ebola case being treated at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital,” Neeka Anderson Isaacs, communications officer in the Ministry of Health said in a press statement.

“The Ministry can confirm that a Nigerian Medical Student who has a history of Malaria is being treated for a malaria relapse at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

“The Chief Medical Officer, however, emphasises that because of the current surveillance system for Ebola, the Ministry was able to quickly determine that this person does not meet the criteria to be considered as a suspect case.

“Nevertheless, out of an abundance of caution, the Accident and Emergency Department at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital was temporarily cleared of all ambulant patients for a brief period,” the statement said.

“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is working closely with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in the management of this patient who is currently being treated in the Isolation Unit at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, as is required for any malaria patient.”

Isaacs said the Ministry and the relevant stakeholders continue to remain vigilant in this regard.

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Caribbean Star Newspaper Lotto Closes In On Record Jackpot, US measles outbreak grows to 87 cases Advisers Urge Winners To Invest

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

ive years ago, a farmer from Manchester won the record Lotto jackpot of $240 million. Today, with the jackpot at $215 million and climbing, financial advisers are urging potential winners to think hard about investing.

"If you were to get a windfall like winning the Lotto, for example, the first thing I would do is to sit down with a financial adviser," said Maria Beyna, executive wealth adviser at NCB Capital Markets.

When you sit down with an adviser, questions that need answering are, 'What are your long-term and shortterm goals?"

Talking specifically about the options the wealth and asset management arm of NCB offers, Beyna explained that there were many choices, depending on whether someone is looking for shortor long-term returns.

"Winnings from the Lotto can definitely create income in the short and long terms," Beyna said. "For the short term, there are options like unit trusts. These products offer liquidity and accessibility to funds. For the long term, bonds and structured products like corporate notes are available, and these can provide quarterly and annual incomes."

DON'T ACT ON IMPULSE The seasoned wealth adviser also urged persons not to run on impulse and "splurge" their winnings.

Similar sentiments were found at JN Funds when The Gleaner spoke with Delories Jones, vice-president of sales and business development.

"I have worked with Lotto winnings in the past, and I have seen where in the space of no time, the money disappears," she said.

"If you win the Lotto, first ensure the money is protected in an interest-bearing account and pay off all your debts," Jones advised. "Once you've cleared off debts, sit with a financial adviser."

When asked about specific investment opportunities, Jones highlighted real estate as a "good area of investment".

Taking it one step further, Marian Ross, assistant vice-president of business development at Sterling Asset Management, suggested that winners purchase real estate overseas.

Supreme Ventures was not able to comment on the demand for their products at this time due to auditing rules.

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OS ANGELES, United States (AP) — A measles outbreak that originated at Disneyland has grown to 87 cases.

The California Department of Public Health said Monday, most of the infections — 73 — are in California. The rest are in Arizona, Utah, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Nebraska, and Mexico.

Measles has been spreading since an outbreak linked to visits to California Disney parks last month. Most of those infected were not vaccinated, and health officials have urged people to get the measles shot.

Measles is a contagious illness spread through the air by coughing and sneezing.

It was largely eliminated in the US in 2000,

Mumps–measles–rubella, or MMR, vaccine being drawn. but it can enter the country from abroad.

The US experienced a record number of measles cases last year, with 644 infections reported from 27 states.

Jamaican national kills supervisor, commits suicide inside Home Depot

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EW YORK, United States, Tuesday January 27, 2015, CMC – Police say a Jamaican-born Home Depot employee shot and killed a supervisor Sunday before turning the gun on himself.

Police said Calvin Esdaile Jr., 31, shot the 38-year-old lighting department supervisor three times in the stomach and chest. in the store’s aisle 12 in Manhattan and then shot himself in the head.

Police said Esdaile was found dead at the scene with one gunshot wound. His .38-caliber revolver was beside him.

Esdaile’s victim, identified as Moctar Sy

by a co-worker, was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.

“Unfortunately, both persons are deceased,” police detective Steven Wren told reporters.

Esdaile’s father, Calvin Esdaile Sr., 52, said his son had arrived in the United States from Jamaica in 2006 and lived in Brooklyn, He was the father of a six-yearold boy.

“If it’s him, I’m sorry about this thing, and I’m sorry someone has to die by his hand,” the disbelieving father told the New York Daily News, adding “it’s a shock to me. I don’t know of him having a violent history?

Alex Pereira, 32, a former employee of the hardware store, said Esdaile had worked at the store since at least 2011.

A Home Deport spokesman called the shooting an “isolated incident.

“We’re deeply saddened by this tragedy. We are fully cooperating with the authorities on their investigation,” the spokesman said.

CEO: Kevin Mohabir Chief Editor: Rhoda Mohabir Head Of Distribution: Shevin Mohabir Director/Sales Manager: Kevin Mohabir Distribution: William Despot, Sham Mohabir, & Shevin Mohabir Sports Editor: Darshan Chikery Layout & Design: Michelle Disclaimer: Caribbean Star Newspaper Inc. & Advertisers are not responsible for typographical errors on the published Ads. We accept articles, artwork, and photography which are in accordance with our Mission. We reserve the right to accept, reject, or edit any material we receive but do our best to honor the integrity of the author/artist. We do not endorse any particular writer or advertiser. We simply offer our readers information on various subject matters. It is expected that all material is submitted in “Good Faith” with no intent to mislead or harm others.

It is the readers responsibility to make intuitive decisions that are right for themselves.

January 30 - February 5, 2015 37 Caribbean Star Newspaper PM thanks US Congress Rihanna wins multimillion pound legal battle for supporting Ja's IMF against British chain Topshop programme, encourages

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investment

INGSTON, Jamaica - Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has thanked members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in the United States House of Representatives for their support when Jamaica sought to secure funding under an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2012.

Noting that the country was now focused on achieving higher levels of growth and job creation under the IMF-supported economic reform programme, she enlisted the help of the CBC in encouraging more US investors to invest in Jamaica.

“Your support to the Government and people of Jamaica has spanned a long time and extends over a range of issues, causes and interests,” the prime minister said as she addressed member of the CBC, other leaders in Congress and the officials of the IMF and the US Department of State at Capitol Hill, in Washington DC, on Monday, a news release from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) stated.

Acknowledging that their confidence and support were well placed, Simpson Miller said since assuming office three years ago, the Government had embarked on an economic growth agenda anchored in a sustainable debt reduction plan.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to the reform programme for the benefit of all Jamaicans and we continue to be grateful for the critical support of the IMF and other multilaterals for the programme,” she added.

Simpson Miller reported that Jamaica was consistently meeting the targets agreed with the IMF and had so far passed all of the six quarterly reviews by the Fund.

She also stated that the visit during 2014 of the heads of both the IMF and the Inter-American Development Bank, signalled the international community’s respect and growing support for Jamaica’s discipline and success in implementing the "painful but necessary economic reforms".

“We are making steady progress, but we are not yet at the economic and social destination where we want to be,” the Simpson Miller pointed out, adding that the people of Jamaica have made many sacrifices in the national interest, and that the country’s success under the economic reform programme was in large measure due to the support of the Jamaican people.

Highlighting that Jamaica was attracting major investments from as far as China, she said the conditions were being created for American investors to take up opportunities in the country.

“The Government commits to developing and implementing the right mix of policies to create the environment for business and commerce to flourish,” she said.

Opportunities for investment, she said, existed in many areas such as physical and economic infrastructure, including the further privatization and expansion of sea and air ports. She added that the Government would continue to support private capital investments for more hotel and other construction activities.

The Prime Minister added that the startup and conversion of more efficient, less expensive energy production plants to boost growth potential and jobs, was high on the national agenda and was an area ripe for US investments, such as the recently announced injection of US$90 from the United States Overseas Private Investment Corporation for a clean energy wind project being undertaken in Jamaica. The project, Blue Mountain Renewables, will see a 34 megawatt wind facility built and operated in Jamaica by BMR Limited with construction set to start in June this year.

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ONDON, England, Monday January 26, 2015 – Barbados’ pop princess Rihanna has emerged triumphant after a two-year legal battle with British high street fashion chain Topshop, which used the singer’s image on a line of T-shirts without her permission.

The Grammy Award-winner sued Topshop’s parent company Arcadia for £3.3million (about US$5.

5million) over the garments, which featured an unauthorised photograph taken during the filming of a video for her hit song “We Found Love” in 2011.

Back in 2013, the 26-yearold superstar’s legal team successfully argued that her fans would have incorrectly assumed that she had endorsed the line of sleeveless T-shirts sold by Topshop.

The courts consequently banned the chain from selling Rihanna tank T-shirts without her permission, but Topshop moved to overturn the ruling.

The case was finally put to rest on Thursday when the Court of Appeal upheld the ban, agreeing that marketing the clothing without the Barbadian singer’s approval

Rihanna arrives at the “Battleship” LA Pr amounted to “passing off,” a term used to enforce unregistered trademark rights.

The court also found that the image of the singer was similar to the one used on her 2011 “Talk that Talk” album and fans could be misled.

The star, who is perceived to be a fashion icon by many of her fans, had, moreover, signed a deal worth a rumoured £800,000 to design a range with High Street fashion rival River Island in 2012.

In the appeal, heard at the Royal Courts of Justice in November, Topshop lawyer Geoffrey Hobbs QC argued that there was a tradition of merchandising star images, including those of Elvis Pres-

ley, Jimi Hendrix and Prince.

Rihanna’s legal team countered that the image was from an unauthorised photograph and Topshop should be banned from exploiting it.

This view was endorsed

by Thursday’s judgement, in which Lord Justice David Kitchin noted: “In the present case I am entirely satisfied that the judge did have a proper regard to the distinction between endorsement and general character merchandising.

“The judge considered the use of this image would, in all the circumstances of the case, indicate that the T-shirt had been authorised and approved by Rihanna; many of

her fans regard her endorsement as important for she is their style icon, and would buy the T-shirt thinking she had approved and authorised it.

“In short the judge found that the sale of the T-shirt bearing this image amounted to a representation that Rihanna had endorsed it. In my judgement the reasoning of the judge discloses no error of principle.”

He added that although Rihanna knew she had no right in English law to prevent any use of her image, this did not rule out the judge finding Topshop had been guilty of “misrepresentation.”

“The vice in the impugned activities lay not in the use of Rihanna’s image but in using it in such a way as to cause misrepresentation,” he said.

The judge was right to find Topshop was “recognizing and seeking to take advantage” of Rihanna’s public perception as a style icon, he added.

Legal expert have commented that the ruling should serve as a warning to businesses who use celebrities’ images without permission, as it will pave the way for similar cases to go to court.

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38

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

CRICKET & Sports

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ave Cameron, the president of the West Indies Cricket Board, has told the BCCI that the WICB cannot be dragged into the Indian courts for damages related to West Indies’ pullout from the India tour midway into the series in October last year. Cameron urged the BCCI to sort the issue through a bilateral discussion or a third-party mediation over the next two months. The WICB also said that it had sought the intervention of the ICC in the matter.

Cameron sent this proposal through an e-mail to BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel on Tuesday, the last day of the week-long deadline set by BCCI in its ultimatum to the WICB sent on January 20. In that letter, which was also addressed to inter-governmental community (CARICOM) secretary-general Irwin LaRocque, Patel had said the BCCI would press legal proceedings in the Indian courts if the WICB failed to propose how it would pay the $41.97 million claimed as damages.

“We reiterate our position that Indian courts lack jurisdiction in this matter given the parties’ agreement to submit disputes of this nature to binding arbitration,” Cameron told Patel in the e-mailed letter, a copy of which was made avail-

WICB seeks mediation with BCCI able to ESPNcricinfo.

Cameron also expressed surprise about Patel insisting, in his letter on January 20, that the BCCI had received no constructive response from the WICB. Patel had pointed out that the BCCI had been lenient and even allowed a 40-day grace period at the request of CARICOM, and stated that there had been no progress in finding a solution acceptable to the BCCI. Cameron, however, did not agree and cited various “informal discussions” between the boards. “We are surprised that your letter makes no reference to our letter dated 7 November 2014 or the matters to which it refers, including our formal written proposal for progressing matters. Your letter also makes no reference to the numerous earnest but informal discussions, which have taken place between our respective Boards exploring possible solutions, including various ‘cricketing solutions’ that are practical and fair to the BCCI and all stakeholders,” he said.

Outlining the proposal set in the November 7 letter once again, Cameron said the WICB was happy to sit with the BCCI to find an appropriate solution.

“Our position in law remains as set out in our letter dated 7 November 2014,” Cam-

DAVE CAMERON eron said. “Without admitting any liability to the BCCI, we reiterate our willingness to participate in bi-lateral or multi-lateral discussions, or in mediation or such other suitable form of ADR as may be appropriate, as the alternatives would be of no benefit to either Board or the larger cricketing community.

“We would like to propose that we (WICB and BCCI) meet at the earliest available opportunity but in any event within the next 60 days, as we remain of the view that the issues between us may best be resolved through dialogue, facilitated or otherwise, with the aim of jointly coming up with ap-

propriate ‘cricketing solutions’ that will meet the legitimate interests of all stakeholders including the BCCI.” Cameron’s response to an annoyed and indignant BCCI could come as a surprise for many as India has cancelled all bilateral tours pending a resolution to the matter.

Yet Cameron and WICB remain positive. In a separate media release, WICB said that Cameron had met “some of the directors of ICC” in Dubai this week and sought their intervention. The release also said the WICB was “hopeful of finding a workable solution and to this end will send a delegation to meet with the BCCI in the coming weeks.”

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ast week, ESPN Insider David Thorpe wondered aloud: Could the NBA have Deflategate?

Is it possible a team could get away with shady tactics to gain a competitive edge?

The answer to that question comes from Phil Jackson, nearly 20 years after the fact.

Todd Radom, the graphic designer behind some of sports’ more recognizable logos, tweeted a screenshot Wednesday of a December 1986 article by Sam Smith of the Chicago Tribune. In it, Jackson details how the famed 1970s Knicks teams he played for used to strategically deflate the basketball.

Less air pressure slowed down fastbreak teams, helped the Knicks clear the boards -- since the ball wouldn’t carom as far off the rim -- and didn’t hinder the flow of New York’s offense, which relied more on passing than dribbling.

Jackson, who is now president of the Knicks, said the team carried around inflation needles to let air out of the ball.

As Radom’s tweet found traction on social media, Jackson clarified that the Knicks’ pressure alteration was legal.

Caribbean Star Newspaper

January 30 - February 5, 2015

39

Miller replaces Narine for West Indies

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ikita Miller, the left-arm spinner, has the task of filling Sunil Narine’s shoes at the World Cup after he was chosen as the replacement in West Indies’ squad. Narine withdrew from the tournament on Tuesday, little more than 48 hours after taking 6 for 9 in the Nagico Super50 final against Guyana, saying that his action still required more work after it was reported during last year’s Champions League T20.

Miller, 32, has played 45 ODIs, the last of which came against England in March 2014 and has taken 40 wickets at 36.52.

He is the second left-arm spinner in West Indies’ squad alongside Sulieman Benn.

His call-up was approved by the ICC’s event technical committee, which has to rule on all replacement players which normally happen due to injury, and it was termed an “exceptional circumstance.”

In the Nagico Super50, Miller claimed six wickets in four matches, along with a frugal economy rate of 2.32 across his 40 overs, but there were other spin options above him in the wicket-taker’s list which was topped by Narine. Veerasammy Permaul, another left-armer, claimed 11 wickets at 13.36 with an outstanding economy rate of 3.12.

West Indies completed their tour of South Africa on Wednesday when they were heavily beaten in the final ODI at Supersport Park. Their opening World Cup match is against Ireland in Nelson on February 16.

Nikita Miller finds himself bound for Australia and New Zealand

Hapless West loose lost again Amir allowed to return Rossouw and Amla tons set up 4-1 series to Pakistan domestic cricket South Africa 361 for 5 (Amla 133, Rossouw 132) beat West Indies 230 (Samuels 50, Parnell 4-42) by 131 runs performance of all-round quality to match their huge win at the Wanderers ensured South Africa ended their season on a high with a 131-run win in Centurion in their final international before the World Cup. Rilee Rossouw’s 83-ball hundred provided him the highest peak of an undulating start at ODI level and he joined forces with the peerless Hashim Amla, who played with rare abandon during his occasionally brutal 133, as the pair added a record 247 for the third wicket.

South Africa piled up a gargantuan 361 for 5 and the carnage in the second half of the innings brought back memories of the Wanderers as West Indies’ bowlers were flayed, powerless to stop the onslaught. At the 20-over mark the score was 105 for 2, a modest run-rate of just over five-an-over, but the last 22 overs of the innings brought 256. The innings concluded in a fitting manner as JP Duminy smote a straight six, the 17th of the innings. A full innings, and 439 would have been threatened.

Chris Gayle’s miserable series then concluded with a first-ball duck and though West Indies flung the bat the effect was never going to be enough. Wayne Parnell, one of South Africa’s squad bowlers who could yet make-or-break the World Cup campaign if injuries come along, then

A

earned himself a valuable confidence boost with 4 for 42 during a spell of eye-catching pace. As evidence around the world is showing, a left-arm quick can be priceless.

Still, Parnell is likely to start the World Cup as a reserve. It will be fascinating to see if the same is true of Rossouw after a series including two hundreds. He would probably like to play all his cricket on the Highveld and his second ODI ton followed the one he made in Johannesburg which was subsequently overshadowed by AB de Villiers’ record-breaking hundred. Then he was opening, this time he was No. 4 after a reshuffle of the order to accommodate the returning Amla - who had been rested for the Port Elizabeth match - and the fit-again Quinton de Kock.

West Indies fined for slow over-rate Jason Holder and West Indies have been fined by the ICC for maintaining a slow over-rate in the fifth ODI against South Africa in Centurion on Wednesday. Holder has been fined 40% of his match fees, while his players have been docked 20% after West Indies were ruled to be two overs short when time allowances were taken into consideration.

The ICC Code of Conduct stipulates that in minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10% of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount.

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akistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has been allowed to return to domestic cricket under the auspices of the PCB with immediate effect. Amir’s five-year ban for his role in spot-fixing during Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010 was due to end on September 2.

The ICC said after its board meeting in Dubai: “The ACSU Chairman [Ronnie Flanagan] had exercised the powers vested in him under Article 6.8 of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code after he was satisfied that Amir had cooperated with the ACSU by fully disclosing his part in the matters that led to his disqualification, admitting his guilt, showing remorse and cooperating with the Unit’s ongoing investigations and by recording messages for the ACSU education sessions.”

Soon after the news of his re-admittance, Amir said it would not take him long to get match ready. “I have been playing some unregistered club cricket but the sort of body I have I think it won’t take much time to get the momentum. I think a month and half will be enough for me to stand up. Being a fast bowler, I have all the varieties and ability to bowl both inswing and outswing, so what I need now is to work hard.”

Confirmation that Amir’s return is limited to cricket overseen by the PCA ends

any intention by Amir, or his representatives, to seek a deal in English cricket - a prospect, in any case, that might have run foul of visa problems.

The PCB had written a letter to the ICC in November, requesting the governing body to review the conditions of Amir’s ban. As per the new anti-corruption code, banned players could be allowed to return to domestic cricket before the end of their penalty if they meet certain criteria. The ICC later interviewed Amir to determine if they could find any difference in the player.

In the last four years, Amir had completed an Anti Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) education program with PCB, showed a high degree of remorse, and disclosed relevant information to the PCB as well as the anti-corruption units.

With the Pakistan domestic season about to finish before starting again in October, Amir’s only chance of competitive cricket would be a possible return in the Super Eight T20 Cup in Pakistan after the World Cup. However, a few Grade 1 teams had already shown a keen interest to sign the player for next season. National Bank of Pakistan, who had revoked Amir’s contract after his ban, later offered to retain the bowler upon his return.

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Sangakkara 113 seals Sri Lanka win Sri Lanka 287 for 6 (Sangakkara 113, Dilshan 81, Anderson 3-59) beat New Zealand 253 (Williamson 54, Ronchi 47, Eranga 2-31) by 34 runs

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umar Sangakkara mounted a sleek 21st ODI hundred on Tillakaratne Dilshan’s foundation, to shepherd Sri Lanka toward a consolation victory in Wellington. The visitors were hampered by their own wheezing middle order, and managed only 287 for 5 when a total well over 300 had seemed a possibility for much of the innings. Nonetheless, that total proved 34 runs too many for New Zealand, whose lower middle order was characteristically spirited, after the innings had sustained early setbacks. Kane Williamson was their top-scorer with an 83-ball 54.

Sangakkara was flowing from the outset, sending Anderson through the

covers on bended knee fifth ball, before settling into a rhythm of steady singles punctuated by legside boundaries off the wayward deliveries. He first set himself a foundation, then pursued a more aggressive tempo, advancing to hammer Kyle Mills over midwicket in the 27th over, before swinging him onto the legside fence again a few balls later.

Dilshan, who had had a 71-run opening stand with Lahiru Thirimanne, was largely content to take runs into the field, instead of attempting the more ambitious strokes. Dilshan and Sangakkara mustered a healthy scoring rate, with Dilshan adding a half-century to the two hundreds he has already hit in the series.

Sangakkara reached his own fifty with a tickle to the fine leg fence off Daniel Vettori. The hundred stand came up in the 34th over, but Dilshan was out edging behind for 81 a few balls later, leaving

Sri Lanka at 185 for 2.

Mahela Jayawardene was out attempting a cute shot behind the wicket off Tim Southee, before Seekkuge Prasanna and Dinesh Chandimal’s cheap dismissals stole further momentum from the innings. Chandimal’s 15-ball 5 had been a particularly pained stay, and Sangakkara’s scoring also slowed, just as the death overs approached.

New Zealand’s response began poorly when a Kulasekara indipper trapped Martin Guptill in front of the wickets first ball, before Shaminda Eranga dismissed Tom Latham three overs later. Latham had played in place of Brendon McCullum, who was rested for the dead rubber.

Kane Williamson attempted to rebuild, but Ross Taylor departed chopping on a 146kph delivery in Chameera’s first international over, before Grant Elliott helped out in a 59-run stand. William-

son progressed smoothly, if more dourly than he has for much of the series. He made his third 50-plus score in four innings, but was out top-edging Dilshan to short fine leg in the 28th over.

The score was 121 for 5, but where Sri Lanka have fallen away after achieving similar situations in matches gone by, they continued to probe for wickets. Corey Anderson’s caught behind off Eranga gave Sangakkara his 473rd wicketkeeping dismissal, making him the most prolific gloveman in ODIs. Though Daniel Vettori and Luke Ronchi raised hopes of a New Zealand victory with a 74-run stand as dew began to set in, Sri Lanka regained the ascendancy by dismissing them in quick succession. A few late blows from Mills thinned the deficit, but he was run out for 30 by Kulasekara, and New Zealand were all out by the 46th over.

Scorchers defend BBL title in gripping final Perth Scorchers 6 for 148 (Marsh 73, Lee 3-25) beat Sydney Sixers 5 for 147 (Henriques 77) by four wickets

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he fourth season of the Big Bash League got the final it deserved at the Manuka Oval in Canberra as Perth Scorchers sealed their second consecutive BBL title in one of the most thrilling T20 matches you could ever wish to see.

In the end, 35 matches came down to one over, and then just one ball and one run as Scorchers scrambled a single off the last delivery of the match to complete their chase of Sydney Sixers’ 5 for 147 with four wickets standing.

Scorchers required eight off the final over, bowled by Brett Lee who was playing his last professional match. An outrageous scoop-shovel four from Michael Carberry off the first ball of the over halved the equation before a two and a one off the following balls left Scorchers just one short with three balls remaining.

An amazing match still had one final twist left in it as Lee bowled Nathan CoulterNile and Sam Whiteman with two searing yorkers, followed by his vein-throbbing chainsaw celebration one final time.

The two wickets left the Scorchers requiring one run off one ball. Sporting theatre has rarely seen better. The ball, full and fast, was squeezed out onto the leg side by Yasir Arafat who hurtled towards the other end. The ball was pinged in from midwicket on the bounce where Moises Henriques stood over the stumps.

As Arafat stretched for the crease the ball crashed into the palms of Henriques and out the other side, spilling away behind him as his hands, with no ball in them, broke the stumps even as Arafat bolted past him and the Scorchers players and staff charged onto the ground.

They are the first team to defend their BBL title, and with four final appearances and four Champions League T20 appearances they are becoming one of the most

Yasir Arafat scrambled the single needed for the win off the final ball successful T20 teams in history.

The Scorchers chase had been on a far more serene course earlier with an opening partnership of 70 between Michael Klinger and Shaun Marsh putting the Scorchers well on track for victory.

However, the required run-rate, which began at 7.4 never once fell below 7.5 for the entire innings. Klinger and Marsh had provided a platform but they had left their team with work to do. The partnership was ended in the twelfth over when Klinger was caught by Sean Abbott off Lee. Adam Voges then joined Marsh and added 43 runs before he fell for a 13-ball 20. Again, it was a useful partnership but there was still work to be done. As long as Marsh was there, though, you sensed

Scorchers would be okay.

Henriques’ decision to throw the ball to Nathan Lyon in the penultimate over was a bold one, but it was justified by the first ball when he ended Marsh’s anchoring innings, a 59-ball 73, the batsman holing out on the midwicket boundary.

Two balls later the Scorchers chase was pegged back further when Ashton Turner was also caught on the midwicket boundary. The new man Coulter-Nile thumped a huge six off the final ball of the over to set up the jaw-dropping final over.

It was Henriques who in the end made the mistake that cost Sixers a tie and a Super Over, but earlier it was his wonderfully paced 77 off 57 that was to thank for them setting as many as they did.

Sixers, having chose to bat, got off to a terrible start when they were 2 for 7 after three overs, and then 4 for 49 after 9.2.

Michael Lumb, Riki Wessels, Nic Maddinson and Jordan Silk the men to fall.

However, Henriques, who scored 35 from his first 38 deliveries, rebuilt the innings alongside Ryan Carters, who finished 35 not out off 25.

Scorchers, a strong and well-practiced bowling side, yet again bowled brilliantly, but Henriques’ patience was rewarded when he accelerated to score 42 from his final 19 deliveries including two sixes and three fours. He was dismissed off the final ball of the innings. Sixers, having scored 4 for 53 off the first ten overs, managed 1 for 94 off their final ten overs to set up the Scorchers pulsating chase.

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

Super Over in place for World Cup final

he ICC has reverted to using the Super Over to determine a winner in case of a tie in the 2015 World Cup final, a playing condition that was in place for the 2011 final but had been scrapped in the lead up to the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

At its board meeting in Dubai, the ICC also approved an amendment to its Code of Conduct application, providing relief to captains who are carrying minor overrate offences leading into the World Cup. All captains will enter the World Cup with a clean slate, and this application has been extended to include all ICC events in the future.

“They [captains] will only be suspended from playing in an ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 match if over-rate offences are committed during the event,” the ICC said. “Any over-rate ‘strikes’ incurred prior to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 will be carried forward to the first bilateral series after the event.”

The ICC also said there were no reports of drug violations in 2014. “Of the 1,210 drug tests conducted across domestic and international cricket in the year 2014, none resulted in any violation. While two violations were reported in 2014, these resulted from domestic tests conducted in late 2013.”

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Caribbean Star Newspaper

The World Cup will be decided by a Super Over if there is a tie in the final

Yanks to contest ‘milestone HR’

EW YORK -- The New York Yankees are devising legal arguments so Alex Rodriguez won’t be able to collect any of the bonuses he is owed per the $30 million “milestone home run” marketing agreement he signed in 2007, sources confirmed to ESPNNewYork. com.

Rodriguez hits six more homers, which would tie him with Willie Mays for fourth all time, he will be eligible for a $6 million bonus as part of his 10-year, $275 million contract with the Yankees. Rodriguez has hit 654 home runs in his career.

The Yankees plan on contesting the validity of the marketing deal because of Rodriguez’s steroids revelations and yearlong suspension, a source with knowledge of the situation told ESPNNewYork.com.

Rodriguez, along with the MLB Players Association, would have the right to file a grievance that could return the ugliness from the Biogenesis investigation. This could reopen Rodriguez to questions about when and where he has done PEDs. Even so, it is unclear how strong of a case the Yankees would have.

The Yankees’ interest in trying to claim back some of the money they owe Rodriguez has been known for a long time. As far back as January 2013, shortly after the Miami New Times initially reported the Biogenesis story, a source told ESPNNewYork.com that the Yankees were “looking at about 20 different things” in regard to A-Rod’s deal. The bonuses were part of that equation.

The New York Daily News reported earlier Monday that the Yankees would

If Alex Rodriguez hits six more homers, which would tie him with Willie Mays for fourth all time, he will be eligible for a $6 million bonus as part of his 10–year, $275 million contract with the Yankees. go after the bonuses.

In a future grievance, the Yankees likely would argue that Rodriguez basically voided the marketing agreement by making it worthless because of his PED use and the way he has acted. The deal calls for Rodriguez to receive the flat $6 mil-

lion fee in return for the Yankees’ gaining exclusive rights to market the milestone achievements.

Rodriguez, who will turn 39 in July, would also pocket $6 million apiece if he tied Babe Ruth (714 homers), Hank Aaron (755), Barry Bonds (762) and besting

Bonds’ record.

As it stands, the Yankees owe Rodriguez $61 million over the next three seasons to complete the 10-year deal. The Yankees had discussed internally trying to void that contract, but that is not in the plans right now.

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January 30 - February 5, 2015

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